Cache Valley Color

3. Snow shoeing to and stay the night at a yurt

2012-01-22T21:24:00.000-08:00

Thursday night (1.19.12) I got this one done. It turned out to be a little more dramatic than I would have liked. I had 11 people interested in joining us in a yurt that sleeps 12 but on the day before all but 4 dropped out! Then on the day of, another girl joined us so in the end there were 5 of us up there. The first mile of the trail up Green Canyon in Cache Valley we had rain and we were hiking on ice. But we were glad to be out! Finally we got to some snow and strapped out snow shoes on for the rest of the hike. Needless to say, when we finally got to the yurt we were kinda wet. The yurt was fully equipped with cooking supplies and a wood stove that quickly heated the space and begin to dry our wet clothes. The rest of our party (Will and Supe) joined us a little later and we enjoyed dinner and played games before hitting the sack. We each had our pick of several mattresses so we all were pretty comfortable despite the unexpected noise of the snow sliding off the yurt roof all night. Ear plugs fixed that about 2am and we slept better. We got about 6 inches in the night and made the first snowman of the season in the morning before packing up and hiking back down.

So the weather could have been better and it would have been nice to have snow for the whole trail so we could x-country ski in but it was a good experience all the same. Thank you to Josie, Kathy, Supe, and Will who were willing to roll with the punches and make it fun despite it all! I'm excited I have done it so now I know what to expect next time. And there definitely will be a next time, just with more snow!!!

Supe all warm and toasty!

Kathy

Josie

The infamous snowman! The snow was perfect for snowmen!

The yurt is well equipped with kitchen stuff and sleeping pads. Means you don't have to pack quite as much. Pretty nice!

Thanks for another awesome adventure!

20. Redo personal filing system

2012-01-22T21:20:00.000-08:00

This was a big one! I had a stack of papers on my desk about 10 inches high and it was time to finally clean this all up. So, last weekend I spent Friday night well into the night, watching movies and going through all my files and throwing out what was old or no longer needed. I created files for new stuff and got rid of old bank statements, etc. Now, there still is a box of papers in my room waiting to be shredded but we are going to call this done! It is so nice to have a space for everything and now be able to find the things I need. Plus it helps to have a desk top again! In addition to this I cleaned my room to get ready for a new semester and then bought myself flowers to reward myself. The lilies are still blooming on my bed stand and I love it! Yeah for bucket lists!

21. Write and illustrate a children's book

2012-01-22T21:15:00.000-08:00

I'm going to have to post pictures for this one! Back in October when my best friend was in town, we went and spent some time with my sister and her cute girls. While there, we got them to tell us a story! Naturally it was about cowboys and indians and my friend carefully typed up their creative narrative. Well, for Christmas this year I did just a little bit of editing and then illustrated their story for Christmas gifts for all the girls! It turned out to be a zinger when they all opened their books and we sat down and read the story together. I left the pictures un-colored so they can have some fun with that adding their own imagination to the pictures of "The Indian Princesses." I'll have to post some of the pics.

18. Go GEO caching-DONE

2012-01-22T21:10:00.000-08:00

Here I am playing catch up again! Well this is just to let you know that I am making progress on my bucket list. Back in November I told a good friend, Supe, about wanting to go GEO caching. So, one late night (11.10.11) with a full moon we went to try our hand at it. We tried for two difference caches. The first we found okay. It was carefully hidden up in a street sign! The second was a little more tricky. We actually never found it and it snowed the following week. We'll have to try again in the Spring. Anyway, as soon as I get an iPhone I think I'll have to try it again. The GPS ap for GEO caching is pretty cool!

13. Bake a French cake DONE

2011-10-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well since my brother Jon has moved back home, we have had the chance to experience some wonderful cuisine. Jon is quite the cook from Julia Childs French cooking to the sushi of the orient. Today we worked together to make my first French cake! It was a Gâteau a L'orange (Orange Spongecake) and surprisingly easier to make than I suspected. We make a Glaçage a la Créme (Butter-cream Icing) that was really good too! So now I can say I have made a French cake! Check!

12. Hold a mystery dinner party DONE!

2011-10-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am slowly working through these bucket list items. I have just under 9 months to work on this list so I need to get going! But I have a lot of them that are in the works or half way done so I'm still hoping to get 'em done before my 30th birthday.

So, I finally had a mystery dinner! It was so much fun! Finally got the photos uploaded!

Josie Jenson as the simple dressmaker, Belinda Screete

Dave Cook as the impeccably dressed Khover T. Ageante

Shannon Harris as Princess Idelle Chattre/Fiona

Supe Lillywhite as Wayland Awfcorce a skill-less pilot

Jeanette Wallentine as the extravagant Barbra Z. Enhussie

Jenn Weiss as world famous reporter Mary K. Trairie

The whole crew, including amazing chef and assistant!

30s Bucket List Update: 16. Get a pedicure-DONE

2011-09-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. Some of you girls out there are shocked but until this month, I had never received a pedicure. My sister Red and I went together as a treat for her birthday in the beginning of September.

Turns out, a pedicure is totally worth every cent! It was a fun, relaxing hour but I think the best part was walking out in our stylish saddles!

25. Watch a show on Broadway AND 27. Take a nap in Central Park, NY AND 29. Go to China Town, NY

2011-09-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

BEAUTIFUL NEW YORK!

Okay I'm playing catch up again but I have to get these photos up here about the rest of my adventure on the East Coast. After WA DC I drove up to New York with a great friend who dropped me off in the big city on her way further North.

As soon as we got on the island I could begin to feel the energy of the Big Apple and I loved it! My adventure started off great as I checked my luggage at a storage place for the day and ran into a man from Germany named Ludvig. He was super nice and we started talking. He too was just visiting New York for the day and out for an adventure. I should have been more adventurous and asked him to join me. Next time!

I tried the lottery to see Wicked on Broadway three times but never won. Instead I went to the Broadway showing of Memphis, a story about the roots of rock 'n' roll in African American blues and jazz. It was a great show and I was glad I went to see it.

Afterwards I went for some dinner at Junior's and got to experience a little of the night life. It was great! Because I was alone, the host sat me at the bar and I had a great conversation with Wig, my bartender and Bobby, a man who sat down and enjoyed some dessert with me. It was right out of the movies, meet a cute, tall guy at a bar, enjoy great conversation and then... Well actually I let it stop right there but it was fun to be a part of the night life.

I also went to the Metropolitan Museum, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Ellis Island, Liberty Island, the New York Temple, Natural History Museum, China Town and Central Park.

I ran into some great street musicians at the Metropolitan Museum and again at the Natural History Museum. Stopped and ate lunch while I was listening. Some good music in this town! Oh and the food wasn't half bad either. I enjoyed eating off the street vendors a few times. Just was fun to act like a local I guess! :)

Ellis Island

After Ellis Island I spent the whole afternoon wandering around the financial district and lower Manhattan trying to find China Town. Well not quite the whole afternoon but I was so happy when I started seeing those familiar characters on the building and store signs!

I picked up some of my favorite Chinese fruits and the stopped for lunch and really enjoyed myself. Just as I stepped into the restaurant it started pouring! I was glad I missed that part of things and could just admire the downpour from inside enjoying my authentic Chinese food and chatting in Chinese with some locals who I'm sure thought this tall, Chinese-speaking, blonde was crazy!

My last day after I enjoyed a few quiet and wonderful hours in the Manhattan Temple, I headed to Central Park.

I could have spent well over a day here! I should have! Next time that is on my list. I did walk around a bit and just enjoyed people watching. I watched a volleyball game and yes, I laid down and took a nap on the grass. Well I didn't actually ever get to sleep but I think it is going to count for this one!

The Chrysler Building

Anyway, the whole adventure was great. I've always wanted to experience the big city and now I feel like I could navigate the place with some amount of confidence. So, if you ever get the chance, go to NY! I highly recommend the big city!

7. Go to an East coast city for at least a day AND 28. Visit the Smithsonian/Memorials in WA DC-Both DONE!

2011-07-05T10:59:00.001-07:00

Well I am currently in WA DC visiting some dear friends and taking this opportunity to knock off some of my 20s Bucket List! Monday, July 4th I spent the WHOLE day in WA DC! It was an amazing day. With the guidance of Sterling and Bren Larsen and Becky Perry we started at the Washington Monument and then walked out to the Jefferson Monument. We then watched the Independence Day Parade and then went to the East Wing of the National Art Gallery. I then continued on to the Air and Space Museum and that evening, after staking out our spot for the fireworks, I also went to Lincoln Memorial and the War Memorials. It was a wonderful full day. The best part was finishing the day watching the biggest fireworks I have ever seen go off above the Washington Monument in our great Nation's Capital. One great day! And two bucket list items crossed off!

1. Get my concealed firearms permit-DONE

2011-07-03T20:21:00.000-07:00

Just reporting on my Bucket List! I forgot to do this earlier but I did, in fact, take the CFP class in May and get my permit. About that time I also went toe to toe shotgun shooting clays with a local butcher and it came out pretty close! Okay, so I like knowing that I know how to use a gun.

Winter Report

2011-03-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

Today is officially the first day of Spring. I sang today in church "All Creatures Of Our God and King" to welcome in the new season and remind Mother Earth that we do not need any more snow. With the change in seasons, I thought it might be a good idea to simply report on some of the fun things I did over the winter.
Thanksgiving was really the first decent snow. Here's Sam doing a snow angel. I remember he was amazed how a year after returning home from Brazil, he has adjusted to the cold temperatures here in Logan.
We also played a lot of Volleyball since the outdoors weren't quite as available. Will and Joe have got really good at playing and every once in a while I would join them. Here is the family playing some basketball at Thanksgiving. Also fun but not really my sport to play.

In January, my dear friend Alexandra received her mission call to serve in New Zealand. The funny thing is that she is from New Zealand originally! She finished HS here and attended USU being in Logan for a total of six years. Now she gets to go back and preach the gospel to her own people. Pretty exciting!
I also went snowboarding a few times this winter. I remembered what I had learned last winter and picked it up a lot faster this time. I also got to go twice and experience what it is to snowboard in nice powder! Up to this point I didn't know I had been dealing with unfavorable conditions but after experiencing the fun of powder I don't ever want to go back to chopped up snow and ice. I now understand why skiers freak out after a night of snow.

Between work and homework I have squeezed in a few USU sporting events as well. Went to a volleyball game, a gymnastics meet and a few basketball games. Here are some pictures of the last home game before the USU basketball team went to tournament play.

Also tried to keep the artsy side of me alive be attending a few performances, etc. I performed in the American Festival Chorus Christmas concert series again this year and got a group from the ward together to go caroling during the Christmas season. We even got a trailer and drove around the neighborhood singing to our neighbors! Went to a production of Music Man at the Ellen Eccles and also saw Brian Reagan there live. Also went to a BYU Men's Chorus concert here in Logan. It was great to see Sister Hall again and just experience the BYU music department again. I miss that sometimes.
So its been a fun winter but I am excited for spring! I have 5 more weeks in the semester and a lot to do. Sunday nights I sometimes get a little stressed by everything that must be accomplished in a week but Monday comes all the same! So that's my winter report!

20s Bucket List

2011-02-27T22:15:00.000-08:00

Over a month ago I was speaking with my best friend and she told me that she had decided to create a 20s Bucket List with all the things she wanted to do before she turned 30. I thought it was a brilliant idea and we stayed up late one night brainstorming together our separate lists. Here's what I came up with. I'm doing 30 items and so far I've already done one! I was a secret admirer. But I can't tell you any more or else it wouldn't be much of a secret any more! Enjoy!

1. Get my concealed firearms permit

2. Go snowmobiling

3. Snow shoeing/x-country skiing to and stay the night at a yurt

4. Dance with someone under the stars

5. Read the Lord of the Rings trilogy

6. Record a CD-Even just for me and friends

7. Go to an East coast city for at least a day

8. Test drive a new car

9. Own a car

10. New hair color for at least a day

11. Subscribe to a professional association/journal

12. Hold a mystery dinner party

13. Bake a French cake

14. Have a country picnic

15. Overnight camping on horseback

16. Get a pedicure

17. Be a secret admirer

18. Go GEO caching

19. Develop my own speciality dish

20. Redo personal filing system

21. Write and illustrate a children's book

22. Go to karaoke bar

23. Compose a piece of music and share it

24. Sing at an open mic night

25. Watch a show on Broadway

26. Kiss someone on New Years at midnight

27. Take a nap in Central Park, NY

28. Visit the Smithsonian/Memorials in WA DC

29. Go to China Town, NY

30. Learn to sail a boat

Color again in Cache Valley

2011-02-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

Okay friends. I just finished reading some blogs of some dear friends and I thought it was high time I got back to blogging. Now I'm not going to set some outlandish goal because I just don't have very much time to devote to this. But there is something about sharing a record of your life. And it just feels good to share and throw it out there for the world to see. I think it is part of the joy of creativity. I have set a goal to create something beautiful each week. Maybe this blog can be that every once in a while.

Anyway, I'm back and life has changed a bit. I'm still in Cache Valley but now I am working at an Assisted Living facility in the valley as the Administrative Assistant. I really love my job and it keeps me really busy and sometimes stressed. The other big thing that changed is that I went back to school. I decided to pursue a masters at USU in Family Relations. So far it has proved to be a very rewarding experience. I really enjoy the members of my cohort and my professors as well. The best part is learning! I'm doing my thesis on marriage preparation which is only slightly ironic because I am still not married. But maybe this will be the ticket for me! I do research on marriage preparation and then I'll finally figure out how to get married!

So let me just share a fun adventure from tonight and then I need to get to bed. Tonight my dear friend Adee invited me to join her for a Pickleville Playhouse Production of Bandito Rides Again. It was hilarious! I was laughing all night and then as we drove home and even now I continue to chuckle when I think of some of the great scenes and one liners! If you ever have the chance to see Pickleville when you are in Cache Valley, DO IT! Check out this short video. Just a clip of the fun that awaits at Pickleville!

October-Come and Gone

2009-10-31T22:23:00.001-07:00

I'm going to report on the last month. Wait for it...

Sisters Reunion in Chicago 8/19-8/24

2009-09-13T19:10:00.000-07:00

This summer all us sisters have been saving our pennies to fly out to Chicago to visit Allison and have a sisters reunion! It was a great week with a lot of feminine emotion in one place and too much tourism. But we had fun doing it! I can't give you the minute by minute run down so I'm going to do a picture overview of the trip.

On the way there we all got the exit row seats. Our plane got diverted to St. Louis because of a tornado warning but we finally touched down in Chicago on Wednesday night.
First stop was the famous Chicago deep-dish pizza at Giordano's Restaurant. We were all so tired and hungry. It was a late night. We got to our awesome hotel and crashed.
Deb and I trying to act the model.
Got up the next morning and began our touristy adventures. First stop was the Shedd Aquarium. We got to know the bus system pretty well and it made time for talking which was nice.
Some famous Chicago sights.
Yellow submarine.

After the Shedd we had lunch at the Alder Planetarium and got some pictures of the great Chicago sky line.
Next stop was the Field Museum. We experienced a tour underground, Egypt, American heritage and so many other exhibits. My favorite was a picture exhibit of the civil rights movement. It was pretty powerful.
Here is Sue, the dinosaur. She is the famous dino in "Night at the Museum."
We had dinner and then headed to the Art Institute of Chicago. We were running out of energy but we met up with Allison and she gave us our second wind. We finished the evening at Navy Pier where we rode the famous Ferris Wheel. It gave us a great night view of the city.
We stayed up late talking and crashed again. It was the end of a long day!
We got up on Friday and had breakfast. A big part of our conversation all weekend long had to do with Carol Tuttle's Energy Profiling. Here is Deborah with her color card. Doesn't she just beam!
We did the Adler Planetarium this morning and then came back and did the John Hancock tower observatory. It was yet another amazing view of the city and lake. We were glad for a clear day.
After Hancock we got our stuff from the hotel and headed down to Hyde Park. We rented our van for the weekend and Allison showed us around her old stomping grounds before we headed South to Normal/Bloomington.
We got in late and watched a movie before hitting the sack. Another exhausting day.
Got up Saturday and Allison took us for a walk up the canal near her house. Fun walk to start the day. We came home and had crepes for breakfast and lazed around the morning.
In the afternoon we went shopping for our energy "type" clothing. It was an interesting adventure together and Launna turned out to be quite the shopper!
Sunday we went to church in the AM and then Allison showed us around her new University campus. She is a college professor! It was a cool campus.
Just an artsy shot of the girls on the library steps. Just having fun with black and white.

Monday we got up and packed the car and dropped Allison off at her first day of classes. We then traveled back up to Hyde Park where we went to the Museum of Science and Industry. I really liked the U-505 exhibit of an old WWII U-Boat. We had lunch at this great Chinese restaurant and then headed back to the airport and Utah. It was a fun trip all together. Great to get out of Utah and enjoy a big city. Next time I think we'll do less touring and just more times for sisters. Maybe a cabin would do the trick. Any ideas?

Backpacking White Pine Lake

2009-08-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to go backpacking all summer long but at first it was finding the people that would want to go with me and then my shoulder happened. Well, Alex and I decided it had to happen before school started and this week was it! Mike from country dancing and Nate also joined us. Ryker came along as well and did a great job packing his own pack!

Here we are all fresh and ready to go.

At first Ryker didn't know what to do with his pack! He was moving awkwardly and slow. But about 200 yards into it he caught on and from then on out was great.
The hike is only about 3.8 miles and very easy. It was about all I could do with my shoulder however. Towards the end of the hike I could feel my shoulder/arm throbbing and I was glad to be rid of my pack. I'll just have to do the longer ones I want to do in the fall when my shoulder is completely healed.
We got to White Pine Lake around 2pm and had plenty of time to set up camp and enjoy the afternoon. The boys took to fishing and Alex and I went swimming! The water was cold but manageable. Ryker figured out that he could swim and had fun doing laps out to us in the water and then back to shore. We enjoyed the sun and just talking. Mike went for a hike up to the ridges above the lake. He said he could have kept on going higher but it was getting late.
We had foil dinners and some fish for dinner. They turned out great and the fish was great until Ryker got a lick at it and then none of us wanted much more. Ryker was dead tired a the end of the day. He had done great all day at staying close and coming when called. I think he is going to be coming with me on more hikes now that he can pack his own water, etc.

I slept okay. There were a few interruptions including Ryker gone missing. Next time I think I'll do that a little different. But the sun rose to find us ready for another day of fun. Alex and I decided to build our own raft to take us across the lake. Mike helped us gather the right sized wood and we got all the rope we had in camp to lash it together. The finished product was beautiful on shore.
Getting it into the water was another task and once it was in it floated like a buoy. But then we got on and it sunk! We could sit on it and were suspended about a foot under the water. So it worked in theory but next time we're going to need bigger logs! About the same time Nate had been fishing on the other side of the lake and found a big raft that had already been built and was floating there. He and Ryker boarded the raft and got it out into the middle of the lake where Nate enjoyed the fishing. Alex and I swam around, I fished a little with Nate and then got Ryker off the raft so he wouldn't destroy it or hurt himself between the loose logs.

We had lunch, packed up camp and got out of there right around 2pm. The first part of the hike back was switch-backs but once we got over that it was a nice walk back to the car.

It was fun to be in that beautiful wilderness and just take some time off. I'm thankful my shoulder lasted the adventure. In the fall I want to do a bigger hike with Ben. Only fun things to come!

Another RODEO-Ode to Badger

2009-08-16T19:05:00.001-07:00

Well the Cache County Rodeo and Fair came to town at the beginning of August. Some friends and I planned a trip and I managed to convince my city slicker brothers to join me for a new experience. Their favorite part was cowboy poker where four cowboys sat at a table in the arena while they let a bull lose. The last cowboy sitting at the card table won! Fun way to start out the evening!

Our clown was pretty good and kept us laughing all night. We had one true country boy in our group and it was almost more fun to see him react to the jokes!

It was just a great night out with friends. I really love spending time with this group of quality friends. To be totally honest, the rodeo wasn't the best I've been to. No one made a qualifying time on the bulls and there were only a few really good rides on the broncs. But a rodeo's a rodeo and fun any which way!

There was one part that was pretty cool. This guy came with his show team of Percherons. He drove a team of six behind a wagon and then came out later standing on the back two. One of the team is the largest registered Percheron in the US standing at 19.2 3/4 hands at the withers. That is a big horse! It made me miss my old friend Badger from Ensign Ranch. He was a part Percheron/Shire and a great gentle giant. I remember just going back into his pen or pasture and getting him to step over to a fence so we could swing up on him and just ride him around the pasture. There was another time I was frustrated with something going on a the ranch. I went into his pen to just think and he came over and gave me a hug with his massive head! He was one of the only horses E and I could take out in the winter with three feet of snow on the ground. We would just throw a wool blanket on him and jump on and he would keep us warm and take care of us. I've been blessed to know some great horses and he was the best! So the rodeo was fun. I'm sure I'll be back next year!

Five deer, a skunk and a mouse

2009-08-16T18:37:00.001-07:00

I feel like I end up going up to Tony Grove for one thing or the other almost every week! A few weeks ago it was for the BLAZING HOLLOW HOORAH! This was a ward activity where we got to celebrate our pioneer ancestry since it was the week of Pioneer Day. We did a service project where we got to clear a mountain biking trail and we made dutch oven dinners and did a short devotional program around the fire. The activity turned out pretty good but we were up there way too late! On the way home we almost ran into all kinds of wildlife. The worst was a skunk we almost hit! Then there were several deer and in the end it was a mouse that somehow we failed to miss! Oops!

While we were waiting for dinner to cook we did some hiking. It was fun. I probably went too high for only having one free arm but the view was beautiful and I got back down safely.

Another big highlight of my summer was Celeste and Carson Fenimore's wedding. I got to play a small role in the story of these two wonderful individuals coming together and now they are married! The ceremony in the SLC temple was beautiful and it was great to see friends and family. Sarah Murray came down from WA for the event and ended up coming home with me for the weekend after the reception was over. I was so happy for Celeste. She looked beautiful and so happy!

I'm so thankful for good friends in my life. Sarah and Celeste have been some of the best. Sarah got married in January, Celeste in July and now I'm the only one left! We'll see when that happens.

Other fun ward adventures include FHE at Brother Roundy's house in Paradise. He has this huge water slide set up to go into his pond. I wasn't going to get in because of my arm but then Matt W. got a few of us girls wet while we were in the paddle boat and at that point I figured I'd might as well go the whole way! The slide was super fun and I'm determined to go back when my arm is healed.

As soon as I went back to my Dr. and he gave me the okay, I was back on horseback. I went for a long ride one Wednesday and found the Hyrum reservoir. It was a beautiful, long ride that was very needed. The next week I took Alexandra out and it was super fun. She used to ride when she was younger and it came back pretty fast. Horses are my passion and I will always love anything to do with them but riding is so much more fun when you can do it with someone!
So, despite my shoulder, I'm still staying busy and having fun. There's no way you could keep fun from me!

Luau and other bits of fun!

2009-08-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

July 13th was my 27th birthday. It happened to fall on a Ward FHE night and we had a luau at my house. The party turned out great after a few hours of worry getting the food, decorations, etc. together and up. The food was great, limbo was a hit and tons of people showed up. I have to say the yard looked pretty great too. This was the first party in our new house and it proved to be the perfect party house! :)

The next day on Tuesday I went to ultimate frisbee just like always. But I was having a harder time getting into the game. There were two throws that I probably could have caught if I just would have dove for them but something was holding me back. Well in the midst of my frustration at missing those two throws, I got another perfect one that came my way. It was just a little two far to the left but I dove anyway and ended up landing right on my right shoulder. I heard two loud pops and when I rolled over to get up I knew I was in trouble. Then came the pain. We called mom to take me to the ER and friends got me a good, big bag of ice that saved me until they could see me in the ER. The saddest part of the whole story is that I failed to catch the frisbee!
Mom was excited when we got checked into the ER, got X-rays, saw a doctor and checked out all in two hours. She said it was a record! The diagnoses: I had separated my shoulder. I learned that this is when you damage all the tendons and ligaments that hold your shoulder together. My goods friends from Ultimate Frisbee came down to the ER to check on me and that was kind. I got fitted with a wonderful sling that kept my arm from moving at all. That first night was pretty painful and the next day was my day off work and I was out of it the whole day. I've since seen my specialist twice and I was really lucky. Often this kind of an injury results in surgery but mine was a mild case and I just needed to stay off of it for about six weeks.
I've still managed to stay pretty active despite it all. We went up to Tony Grove to ride the Mtn. bike trail down. I have wanted to do it all summer but it has always been one thing or the other. This time the boys went down and Alexandra, Lindy and I went for a short hike. It was nice. The flowers where right in there glory and it was nice to get my mind off of the pain.

That weekend we cleaned out the garage as a family. We de-junked a bunch of stuff and took a load or two to a storage unit. This house is a lot smaller and we still haven't managed to get rid of all our junk but we are getting closer! I helped where I could but there wasn't much I could do.
At the end of the hot day we all went for a float down the canal and that was super fun. It was cold but it helped my shoulder. Anyway, I just like spending time with my family. This last picture has got to be one of my favorites this summer. I love my family!

Happy Independence Day!

2009-07-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

After getting in so late from the AFC tour I was so glad to have a bank holiday where I didn't have to get up and work on a Saturday! I slept in and it felt great. Christine was in town for the weekend and Mom wanted to go up the canyon and see the wild flowers so when I finally did get up, we took off.
Tony Grove has become a family favorite. It is a beautiful lake with lots of fun trails. Christine, of course, took the chance to do Yoga in the beautiful scenery. I think she should do a Yoga video: Yoga with Christine at Tony Grove.

This is me and my awesome dog Ryker! He is becoming quite the hiker! I found our dog pack the other night and I'm going to start working him on that. It I do it right, I might not have to carry a pack. Just kidding, I'm not sure he can carry that much!

And I consented and joined Christine in some Yoga. I almost fell off the rock on this move!

When we got back from Tony Grove, Christine and I decided to float the canal. The boys have been playing in it over the last few weeks. It was a great float and very refreshing. We felt like little girls with our inner tubes. Lots of fun!

After dinner, Christine had an old friend who had invited her out on a date tonight and he set me up with his roommate! So the four of us took off and had a fun evening. We started it by watching the "Drive In" parade. There was a huge car thing going on at the fair grounds this weekend and part of it was this parade showing off all kinds of cars. It was pretty fun. There were a few that were coolers than others. It was a relaxing way to get to know our dates. I'm glad we got to spend the evening together. But what came next was the best part. We went to a rodeo! Christine had never been to a rodeo before and I think we got her hooked!

Plymouth is this little town with a little rodeo but that is how I like them best! It was a perfect night for a rodeo and I couldn't resist pulling out my camera and taking some pictures. It is moments like this when I really wish I had a better camera and could really capture what I am seeing. The sunset made a few of these shots really cool. Oh, and the horses were fun to watch too! :) There was one wrangler I was really impressed with. His horse was CONSTANTLY bent at the poll. For those of you who are horse people, you can appreciate a horse that will give you their head like that. And if you don't know horses, don't worry about it. It just means the horse was really well trained. It was fun to watch him work. I think I'd like to be a rodeo wrangler some day. That would be fun. The whole day was the best way I could have spent my 4th, even though I didn't see any fireworks! Oh well, I have Pioneer Day in Utah right!?

American Festival Chorus Tour

2009-07-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Being part of the American Festival Chorus has been a really rewarding part of living in Logan. Dr. Craig Jessop is amazing and even when I don't feel like going to our long Wednesday night rehearsals, but the time 9:30pm rolls around, I'm glad I choose to be a part of it all. This was our opening season and every concert we had in Logan was sold out. Pretty sweet record if you ask me and we love singing to a sold out crowd! Well we went on tour this summer with Maureen McGovern. We started in Logan, then on to Idaho Falls and finishing in Sun Valley. It was a cool experience.
Our Idaho Falls concert was not well attended and that was disappointing but my good friend Sarah Murray came up to watch the concert and knowing she was in the audience made all the difference for me. After the concert I went back to her house and we stayed up late talking and catching up since our last meeting.
In the morning I got up earlier than Sarah and her husband Ben so I spent some time in their beautiful backyard. I had fun playing with my camera.

Sarah and her husband Ben drove me back up to Idaho Falls to catch my bus with the choir. The drive to Sun Valley was pretty. I was able to sleep a bit and catch up on the lost sleep from the night before. When we got into Sun Valley the storm clouds were threatening and within minutes we had a all-out down pour! My plans for walking around the small town and maybe hiking part of a mountain were washed away with the rain. I had some lunch and then spent more than an hour watching some ice skaters in an indoor ice arena. It made me want to get back on the ice and had I not been wearing a skirt, I may have rented some skates!
The Sun Valley Pavilion is a beautiful performance hall with great acoustics! It was by far my favorite concert on the tour.

After sound check and before the concert we had some time to eat dinner and get ready for the performance. Maria joined me on a quick hike up the mountains since the rain had stopped. It was wet but so refreshing! We got back and combining our packed dinners with a few others, had quite the feast for dinner.
Here are the beautiful Soprano ladies. The concert was great but the drive back down to Logan afterwards was LONG! I was so glad to be back in my own bed! But now I've been to Sun Valley, ID! Probably the furthest I'm going to go this summer! No I take that back, Chicago in August will be further!

Friends, More Fishing and Climbing!

2009-07-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here's some more catch up. Went out to dinner with some friends in the ward and it was really nice. I don't know very many of the girls super well so that was nice to get to know them better. This crowd I especially love.
I went down to Provo for a Saturday to hit two friends' wedding receptions. One of the weddings was two friends from Jerusalem who got married. It was great to see all the JC folk and catch up. The other was an old friend that was in the RS presidency with me. I love to see friends get married!
Sunday four of us from the ward drove up to Bear Lake. Morgan Hall, Doug Hunsaker, Stephanie Talbot and I. Stephanie is just visiting and Morgan is new in the ward so it was fun to get to know them better.
Here's my hand at cemetery shots again. I haven't been walking in there for a while and I just couldn't find a good angle this time but it was relaxing being there.
I went fishing again up Temple Fork with Nathan and Mike. These boys are crazy fishermen! We hiked pretty far up the canyon to find some Beaver Dams. I was glad in the end I caught one and then we hiked back in the dark and got home way to late. Always fun fishing though.

I got this picture while I was off fishing by myself. Look close and you'll see something cool. You don't see hummingbirds land very often. It just sat there while I took the picture and then flew off!
Here's the little fish I caught. We tried to release him but I guess the shock of being caught was just too much and he went belly-up. So we took him home!
Went climbing again with friends. I seem to take someone new each time I go but I enjoy it every time. I feel like I am getting better. So that's the run down!

Moab!

2009-07-07T22:42:00.001-07:00

When I first moved to Utah four years ago I remember hearing about all the amazing National Parks Utah had to offer. During my stay at BYU friends would come back and tell me about the great time they had down in Moab, or Zions or in the St. George area. For some reason I chose to travel elsewhere and until this summer had yet to experience the wonder of Southern Utah. Well I made it a goal to get down there this summer and excited when Deborah agreed to join me on this adventure! The drive down was long but fun. We found out all too late that the heat in the Passat would not turn off so we had the windows down the whole time in an effort to stay cool in the 95-100 degree weather. We had tunes and plenty to keep us occupied. I only wish Deb would learn how to drive a stick so I didn't have to drive the whole way!
We finally pulled into Arches National park around 1pm on a Tuesday afternoon. We explored the visitors center and planned out attack route! There was so much to do in the park and we only had a limited amount of time. There is no way to really describe what we saw. Some of the rock formations and arches are simply amazing! Its pretty humbling to see what nature can do.

Balanced Rock
Shade!
The rock in this area is made up of several layers of different kinds of rock. In these pictures you can see it clearly. The bottom layers are composed of a sand stone while the top layers, while still sand stone are much harder. For this reason, the bottom layers ware away much faster, creating the arches and rock formations that you see today! (I sound like the informaitional video at the visitors center!)
We made the three mile hike up to the Delicate Arch and that was fun. It was SOOOO hot though! We were dying half way up this huge rock face that we had to climb. When we got near the top we found this cave/arch that was in full shade at that time! It was so nice to chill in there and cool down with the wind blowing through the arch. From there we had a straight shot view of Delicate Arch that was pretty sweet.

Here's our attempt at taking a picture with the Arch directly behind us. Oh well, we tried!
View from the shaded cave/arch.
Delicate Arch

We ran into a professional photographer up by Delicate Arch and he took our picture for us but it was on Deborah's camera so I don't have the shot. It was fun playing up there and seeing something in person that I had only seen on posters everywhere in Utah!

After Arches we headed into Moab city to gas up and check out the town. It was a cute, happening place. I was dying of thirst and a giant lemonade was the highlight of my Moab visit! :) We then headed to Horse Theives Campground located on the road to Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Here's our fearless car!

We made the best foil dinners in history! I had BBQ chicken and Deb did Hawaiian chicken. While they were cooking we biked down to the ridge and tried to catch the last of sunset. It was beautiful.

Dinner was filling and dessert was great too. We got to bed around 10pm because we wanted to get up early to try and do sunrise down in Canyonlands. After we got comfortable in the tent it was quickly apparent early sleep was not going to happen! It was just too hot! Then it sounded like a storm was blowing in so we put the rain flap on but then it was even more hot and when the storm did hit it turned out to just be a wind storm that almost blew our tent in! I think the storm blew down and we finally fell asleep around 12:30am. Needless to say, we did not get up in time for sunrise but enjoyed a relaxing morning in camp and then headed out.
While driving into Canyonlands we find out that there is no water in the National Park. So we detoured to Dead Horse State Park where we could replenish our water supply and do some mountain biking. We got about 5 min down the trail when my bike broke! :( It was the same problem I had just got repaired and I was not happy. I packed the bike back up the trail to the parking lot and waited til Deb did a shorter loop then I did it on her bike. Sadly that was all the biking we got to do on this trip! But we look hot in helmets. At least we had that goin' for us!
We played around Dead Horse for an hour or so more and saw some pretty amazing views down into Canyonlands.

Early afternoon we were done with hot Moab and headed home. We pulled out the map and found the biggest body of water near or route home! It turned out to be a reservoir just past Price. It was the break we needed. The water was freezing but refreshing!

The perfect end to a disastrous yet fun trip. I dropped Deb off in Provo, jumped in the pool to survive the drive home and then made the 2 hour drive up to Logan in time to stop and play some ultimate frisbee with friends. So now I can say I have been to Moab!

Game Night/Fishing/Wind Caves

2009-07-07T21:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, I just went through my pictures for the last month and I have so much to catch up on but I didn't want to just pass up all the fun things that have been going on! While Tam was visiting we had a great game night with SimplyFun games. The games are really creative and fun to play. I need to get around to buying the really fun ones like the one pictured here. This is like Twister for your hands! It was fun playing with friends!

Last month we had an exceptional amount of rain in Cache Valley! When it wasn't raining I got to go fishing with my friend Nathan. Once I remembered how to cast it was quite relaxing and I could understand why so many find this sport so alluring. Nate had caught two and I was just practicing my casting when the moment came. I felt a bite and yanked on my pole, I had a fish! In my excitement I yelled accross the river where Nate was fishing "I've got a fish! Nate I got a fish!" I was pretty excited to reel it in. Turns out my fish was bigger than the two Nate had caught! Pretty fun to out-fish a pro! It was a beautiful 12 inch brown trout. I even remembered how to gut my own fish! We took it home and ate it for dinner! Yum! Since this first adventure I have been fishing one more time. I want to go more. It is a great way to finish a day and relax!

Mom loves to go hiking but we never have the same schedule to go together. Finally one Friday I decided not to go horseback riding and instead to go hiking with Mom. Neither of us had done the infamous Wind Caves hike so that became our goal. It was a beautiful, easy hike with great views! We got a chance to talk and enjoy the scenery. The caves themselves were pretty amazing at the top. Over hundreds of years, the wind has carved out these caves high on the mountain side.

You can't see it very well from the picture but there were arches and stone bridges. It was fun to climb around. Ryker was pretty nimble as well but he refused to go out on the rock bridges. Smart dog. I was glad the rain had stopped I that I got a chance to get out and do some hiking. There are 17-18 big, popular trails up Logan Canyon and my goal is to hit them all. I'd better sit down and write up a game plan so I can't get them done before the cold weather comes again! The summer is going fast and there is still so much to do!

Kiss the Rain

2009-06-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, so its been a few weeks and I'm determined to get back into this. I'm going to try and actually post the pictures around the day I actually take them! I uploaded the pictures backward into blogger and I'm too tired to fix them so we are going to do things from most recent back. This weekend the family went up to Rexburg for my neice's baptism. Joseph drove home with me through the rain and we had way too much fun with the rain in an effort to stay away on the drive. It got funny when we heard a song on the radio "Kiss the Rain." So that became the theme of our drive and the name of the game. The rules were you had to keep your hand (and in Joseph's case, face or leg) out the window for the longest before the stinging rain started to feel like needles. Sounds silly, I know, but it kept me awake!

Tam and her girls came into town last week and it has been so much fun to have these girls around! I miss having children around the house and I've enjoyed every minute so far, even the ones full of high pitched screams and crying. These girls are precious!
Rachel's baptism was great! It amazes me how simple the gospel is to an 8 year old. I want to have the faith that Rachel does to keep baptismal covenants. I'm so proud of her for her choice!
Last week I went riding twice. I'm trying to ride bareback more in an effort to get my riding seat back. I rode Jack this day and he spooked at a back hoe but I stayed on so that must mean I'm getting some of those old muscles back!
More horses! I'll try and take more pictures next time.
My brother William has been working on his Eagle Scout project and last Saturday we helped him assemble and oil these wooden cars. It was quite the fun activity in the end. I'm thinking of repeating it for my ward's Relief Society. I think we would have lots of fun doing it. We simply added the wheels and then dipped the cars in mineral oil. The oil brings out the beautiful natural color of the wood and isn't dangerous in any way if it happen to find it's way to a child's mouth. The toys all go to children in less-privileged countries.
Memorial Day I was part of a huge concert with the American Festival Chorus and Donny Osmond! It cut into my three day weekend but the show in the end was pretty amazing. I love celebrating and honoring the fallen through music. Of all the great works we have done in choir so far, the patriotic songs remain some of my favorites. Donny brought up his band and four of his dancers from he Las Vegas show and it was a pleasure to share the stage with this performer! In July the American Festival Chorus will be touring in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming with Maureen McGovern. Another amazing opportunity with a great performer. I'm excited.
And finally, I've been trying to get out hiking again. Mom and I went up the first part of the Old Juniper trail in Logan Canyon. We didn't have much time and I'm excited to get back and get all the way up to the century-old tree. Maybe I'll mountain bike it next time.
So that's the color from Cache Valley. Sorry I'm not more consistent. I'm getting back into taking pictures again so you should be seeing more!

Shooting Weddings and Climbing

2009-05-20T17:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was wedding weekend! First on Friday I had my MTC companion get married in the Logan Temple. It was wonderful to attend and remember those covenants. I ran into friends from the mission and our mission president and that was fun. Then Saturday a girl from my ward was married. Then Monday I drove down to Provo so I could be there for my old roommate's wedding on Tuesday morning in the Provo Temple.
That was the most amazing experience I've had at a wedding yet. It was so great to see these two wonderful people make it to the Temple and make sacred covenants there. It was a beautiful day for a wedding and I loved every minute of it. Between the Temple, luncheon and reception I went and explored parts of Provo that I have been wanting to see since I moved there. I walked around the historic court house and the library.
I ended up curling up with a book for most of the afternoon. It was great!

The next day I caught up with friends and went to the Provo Temple for a session.
In the afternoon we went rock climbing up Rock Canyon and had lots of fun. It was a great two day break from Logan and work. The Friday before I went shooting with my brother and his friend Mike. I haven't been shooting for a while so it was super fun even though I didn't do the best. Then a week later I got set up on a date and we went shooting as well. This time I did much better and the shooting part of the date was super fun. So that's the quick update. I need to get back into the habit of this blogging thing.

Hiking and Horses

2009-04-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

Despite the freak snow storm we had on Saturday and Sunday, I hope I can safely say that it is now Spring in Logan. I have a feeling the sky is snowed out. I may be wrong but I hope not, I'm ready for Spring to be here. Regardless, I have been getting out of the house again and it feels great! Last Friday I got up early with a friend from the ward and went up Logan Canyon. We stuck to a lower trail because I have a feeling the higher ones still have snow. Ryker got to join us as well and it was really fun. The hike was simple enough that I had a blast getting to know my friend C better. It was a great first hike of Spring.

Then today I went back up the canyon with L, my x-country skiing friend. We took the high road this time and after too many switch backs found our selves on the side of the mountain without a way down! The map showed the trail to be a loop that would safely return us to the car, however, we did not expect the loop to be quite so long. We could have turned around at any point I suppose, but each time we passed one ridge and then worked our way around to another outcropping we expected to see the trail down. We even considered booney crashing down the mountain. Eventually we did find the right trail and made it back safe and tired.

The other thing I have been doing to get out is horseback riding! I set a goal when I moved to Cache Valley that I would get back in the saddle. But without a horse, this becomes somewhat of a challenge. I finally made the right connections and I am working the Human Society rescue horses. Yes it is true, people are abandoning their horses. Whether for illness or simply the expense, several people are deciding retire as horse owners. My friend T does the rescuing and she has way too many horses to handle. That is where I come in! We are working on getting the horses back into shape to be adopted in the Spring/Summer. So I have been out there working the horses and loving every minute of it. I'm excited to make it a weekly routine.

So, the world is turning green in Logan and Cache Valley is awakening its beautiful color. I'm excited to be out in it and start capturing it again!

Stuck on the ridge!

If we only had a rope!

Salt Lake with Sarah

2009-04-27T19:55:00.001-07:00

I have been blessed with such great friends in my life! Last Tuesday I got to spend the day with one of them. She was in SLC for the day and I drove down to discover the city I have been living next to for the last 3+ years. There are all kinds of things I have wanted to do in SLC. We only hit a few of them. Hope you enjoy the pictures of our day!

We met at the Stake Capital building. I have been wanting to tour it since it was re-dedicated. We ditched the touring group and spent some time just wondering on our own. Those of you who know me, know that is how I prefer to tour. We wondered and enjoyed the beauty of that building and tried to stay out of trouble! :)

Next stop was Temple Square. We met up with Christine for lunch on the top floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, also something we had never done. Lunch was delicious and the view was perfect. Then Christine headed back to work and Sarah and I did some temple work in the Salt Lake Temple. Nothing is better than being in the temple with friends! We finished the day in the Beehive House and the Lion House, both of which Sarah had never visited. Everything we saw and did was wonderful but mostly it was just great to spend the day with a wonderful friend!

The White Witch of Logan

2009-04-05T21:04:00.000-07:00

It seems the White Witch has made a visit to Logan, UT and decreed a never-ending winter. For the last month we have had random wonderful warm days that have filled us with a hope of spring only to be followed by a snow day and several more inches of snow! The snow has been beautiful and enjoyable in its own right but it is time for spring. The perennial flowers are peaking their green heads above the cold earth testing the air for spring and their grand entrance into the world this year. While the cold and snow have been slightly frustrating, I have still managed to have some fun with the snow. Frosty the Snowman visited our yard during one of those snow days and brought a smile to my face for a week as he greeted me each time I arrived home. However, I hope the following pictures are the last of this snowy winter.

X-Country Skiing up Green Canyon

2009-03-22T11:47:00.001-07:00

When I moved to Logan I told myself this was the perfect opportunity to get involved in the winter sports I had never participated in up in Washington. I'm here in the mountains so I better get into the mountain sports right? Plus, winter is just too long and I get stir crazy and have to be outside doing something. I've been X-country skiing twice before in my life and have been dying to go since the first flake of snow fell. But being new to the area it is unwise to tramp around the mountains alone and I couldn't find anyone who had the free time to join me. Two weeks ago Wednesday I finally harpooned my buddy L into joining me and it turned into quite the adventure.

We started up Green Canyon (just north of Logan Canyon) about 9:30am and the long but gradual incline gave me the chance to re-learn the movement and get into a rhythm. We went for several hours until the road we were skiing on ended and then the path we were skiing on ended and we still went a little further! It was then when we finally turned around and headed back down the mountain. I

thought going down was going to be easier but it was then when the real work began! By the time we got back down to the car we were both pretty dead. But I feel like I was finally getting the hang of it and skiing like a pro!

When we got home we pulled out a map of Green Canyon and discovered we had gone about 10 miles round trip! It was quite

the accomplishment and I felt it for the next day and a half in my legs! So, now I know Green Canyon and I'm anxious to get one more good run in before the snow melts. Come next winter I'll be ready with at least this snow sport under my belt!

Gymnastics with Red!

2009-03-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

When I was younger my sisters Tamarah, Christine and I did gymnastics for a while. Christine and I were on the Jr. High team together and then I did it for half the season my sophomore year and then I just didn't have the time to continue. I really enjoyed it while it lasted. A little over a month ago the Logan Institute rented the Sports Academy in Logan for a Friday evening and they have a gymnastics room. I played around in there for a few hours and things started coming back! By the end of the evening I even threw a round off back tuck! On my drive home I called Tam and Christine to share the news! They could really appreciate that after a ten year absence from Gymnastics.

Since then I have been dying to go back. I finally convinced Christine to come with me this weekend while she was up in Logan for family things. We both realized we were terribly out of shape and not as flexible as we used to be. But we had a lot of fun doing it. Here are some videos and pictures of the evening. Please keep in mind that we took these at the end of the night and we were already tired. Our tricks had all been worn out. Next time we will remember to get video when we are fresh!

Winter Hike

2009-03-03T12:16:00.001-08:00

Looking West, down the canyon and over Cache Valley

I'm feeling like I have something to blog about again so here goes. Last fall I didn't really get to fully appreciate the hiking that is available here in Logan before the snow set in. Since October I have been dying to get out and do something! I am still on the hunt for a cross-country skiing partner that would go out with me once a week but today it was too much to bear! I could wait no longer. So, I took Ryker and headed up Dry Canyon. Dry Canyon is a tiny canyon just to the south of Logan Canyon and it is not so full of snow that we couldn't hike a bit. Plus it was still in cell phone range so I could go alone. Ryker did a great job off-leash. He is learning his place in the family pack and recognizes that nothing changes even when we are off hiking. The sun was out and the air refreshing. It was just what I needed. I love the snow but I have to say, its March, and I'm ready for the Spring and more great hiking!

One beautiful dog!

Looking east, up the canyon

Tour of Room and Ryker!

2009-02-22T18:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a tour of my new room. I got it all clean for the Sabbath so I thought I'd better get a video while it stayed that way! Its nice to have my own space and its quiet down in the basement. The only downside was it was pretty cold down there. But now I have this great space heater and I'm sleeping like a baby at night.

And here's a short clip of our new dog Ryker! He's a chocolate lab/golden retriever mix and doing a great job for being in a new home with a new pack for only two weeks. He's learning all the rules and some new ones. I think he's going to be a great addition to the family.

Happy Valentine's Day Weekend!

2009-02-18T16:27:00.000-08:00

This last weekend I went to Provo. My friend Amber was flying in from OK and photographing a wedding and she invited me to come assist her. It was super fun to spend my Valentine's day with her!

The wedding was at the Jordan River temple

We had a lot of fun visiting and catching up. Amber and I served in Taiwan together and although we never were companions, we somehow just clicked. We laughed and talked and got Jamba Juice and made books!
Deborah is taking this bookbinding class at BYU and has been so excited about the paper she has been making and the things she has been learning. We got to go into the special building on campus and see all the materials and tools they use to make books. We made coptic bound books and they turned out quite well! I'm going to use mine for a special affirmation journal. It was just fun to be creative!

It was great to see all the old friends from the ward but the best part of Sunday was the cousins dinner at Joseph's! The theme was Chinese food and we had quite the spread. I laughed so hard I left with both my cheeks and stomach sore. I am so lucky to have such wonderful cousins. I miss spending time with them. The conversation ranged from pregnancy to dating to spotlights. Lots of laughs. There were some important cousins missing-namely Mitchell. We called him on the phone so he could be a part of it. Good times.

Monday morning I went shopping with Deb and roommate. It was great to have girls to go shopping with again! Here in Logan I have learned to go without anyone to affirm my chosen outfit or provide important opinions when shopping! :) Monday afternoon I made the easy drive back to Logan. So that was my weekend! Fun to have a day off and time with great friends! Happy President's Day!

Moving and Farewell to Dixie

2009-02-18T15:55:00.000-08:00

So here I am playing catch up once again. I thought I'd better put some pictures up of the moving process. Packing in Vancouver was pretty amazing but everything got here to Logan safely and we are in the process of de-junking and getting it all into a much smaller house.

Ben was our expert packer

Lunch break with all the crew. We had wonderful help from family and friends in Vancouver. It was great! Thank you everyone!

Here's the shed still full of all our stuff!

And our amazing back yard. Joseph got up early and took advantage of the warmer weather for one last juggle with the soccer ball. We are really going to miss that space! We were blessed.

We made the long trip home with Dixie who was finally going to enjoy life with the family again. We were so excited to have her back! She spent a few nights with a friend and then we signed on the house and we all started the move in process. Mom and I went and picked up Dixie at our friend's house and she was so excited to be going home. She explored the house and spent one great night on a new dog pillow. The next day, while I was at work and the family was moving stuff in, Dixie got out somehow and got hit by a car and died. It was a huge damper on the move. We were so happy to finally have a home and have her back. I think we all realized just how much she meant to all of us. We will miss her. We have since adopted a new dog from the pound. Pictures will follow.

Here's the new home!

Some painting had to occur first. We spent two days painting the whole interior! Goodbye white walls, hello color! It looks beautiful.

So there's the new home. We have now been living here almost three weeks and it feels like home. We still have a garage full of boxes to sort but it will happen and in the mean time we are in awe at God's hand in this family's life. We are so blessed!

We're moving!

2009-01-24T18:56:00.000-08:00

Well its time to play a little catch up! I'm surprised at myself. Here it is January 24th and a lot has gone on. January 3rd I went to my friend Sarah's wedding were I was a bridesmaid. Super fun and she was beautiful. It was a great reminder in the temple about what is really important.

Also in January, I started going country dancing on Wednesday nights! I used to know all that stuff but it's been a few years now but is is all coming back. I look forward to it each week!

Last Saturday, Dad and the boys and I took of for beautiful Washington. We have finally leased our house there which puts us in a position to buy one here in Logan! So we went up to Vancouver to pack all our stuff into ABF trailers. It was three days of hard work but it was wonderful to be in the NW again! I woke up the first morning there and enjoyed every breath I took during my quick walk around the yard. I will miss that beautiful home and all the memories of Vancouver. I visited the Clark Singles Ward and of course, hung with my best friend E.

Tuesday we went to the Portland temple and enjoyed an endowment session together. I sure miss that temple. Afterward we went out for dessert for E's birthday. Just good times together.

Last night I went to the Sports Academy here in Logan. They have a gymnastics room where I spent the whole night. It was crazy! After ten plus years away from gymnastics I managed a round-off back tuck! It was exhilarating! I came home dead tired and sore though. I can't believe I used to do that everyday!

So, its been a busy month and its almost over already. But I have enjoyed most every minute! I have yet to go snow shoeing or cross country skiing so look forward to those posts. For now, here's me signing out from Cache Valley.

Welcoming 2009!

2009-01-01T01:21:00.000-08:00

Just like Christmas, this New Years has been different from any other. Most of my siblings are back at school, home, etc. The boys and dad are up in WA at the house and Mom decided to spend the evening with her mother and sister down in Perry. Usually we play games and eat all kinds of food but this year I was home alone so I went out seeking adventure. I went to a friend's party for a few hours and then to the Institute dance and finished at another friend's house playing card games. The music at the Institute dance was kinda lame so we didn't stick around on the dance floor very long. We tried the speed dating and that turned out to just be long. Some of the guys were interesting but lets face it, it's speed dating. :)

When we got to my friends house it was 15 minutes to midnight. I got my sparklers and little fire works from my car and we got things all ready. I've had these fireworks since July 4th and I was excited to use them! I was even more excited when I discovered that my friend likes to run and dance with sparklers just like me! Here are some fun shots of us dancing the new year in!

So, it was a different New Years eve but still a good one. This last year has been an amazing one. I remember it was last January when I found out I was accepted to the Jerusalem study abroad program. Then I finished my last semester at BYU and spent the summer in Jerusalem and then playing in Provo. Then in September I moved to Logan and it has been a wonderful thing to be here. I'm still adjusting but learning so much. I have my goals all ready for the new year I'm just going to take a little time tomorrow and put together some statements of faith to see my goals through. I'm excited for a new year to live and see what blessings Father in Heaven has in store for me! I am so blessed to know that whatever it brings, I understand the important things in life and will see it all through with a smile! So Happy New Year! Hope this year is the best yet!

Christmas on Temple Square

2008-12-26T11:36:00.000-08:00

What a great season! Its been wonderful to prepare for Christmas. The whole family has been busy with their gift giving and having family near has been the best part. Last Saturday the family went down to Salt Lake to meet up with old family friends and pick up Allison, who had flown in on Thursday night and spent Friday with the students in Provo. We watched the Joseph Smith movie, had lunch at the Gateway, did some Christmas shopping, enjoyed the lights on Temple Square and sang as a family. I just love being with my family. Here are some pictures of the day.

My brothers are always doing something exciting. I'm not sure that they could simply walk from point A to point B without finding some fun in the surroundings. This time they were slipping around on the snow and leap frogging over each other!

Christmas Glow

2008-12-17T21:35:00.000-08:00

Last night I was placing some Christmas gift under the tree and I found a whole stash of Christmas lights that were just sitting there, begging to be used. Back in Vancouver the task of putting up the Christmas lights always fell to me. Partly because I was the only one who really enjoyed the task. There is just something about Christmas lights. My eyes are drawn to them and somehow the light seems to penetrate and warm my soul. In Vancouver we had thousands of lights that covered the house and yard. Here in Logan we don't have the luxury of a home right now but when I found those lights I went right to work and put them up in the living room and kitchen windows. Then I found a strand and put them up in my room. I feel asleep to the colorful glow of Christmas lights and something was finally right. I had put up the Christmas lights for another year of Christmas and today my heart is aglow with Christmas.

Communication Montage

2008-11-30T22:31:00.000-08:00

Sunday evening was supposed to be this relaxing quiet night full of meaningful activities. But with one phone call that all changed. I was already planning on calling my best friend E and catching up with her but then my brother and his family stopped by with his four children and any hopes for quiet were gone. I didn't mind because I always love having the family over but I still wanted to talk to E so I sat down at the computer in the living room and opened up iChat. Well that got the ball rolling and soon I was caught up in several forms of communication. Not only was I chatting with E on iChat but I was also chatting with another friend on Facebook and then on Gmail and then my sister Tam wanted to do a video chat on iChat as well. I was also texting a friend on my cell phone. All this while I was quietly listening to the conversation going on behind me between brother, sister-in-law, and father! Talk about multi-tasking! The result, I got all kinds of communicating done! Now I don't want any of you to feel like I wasn't paying attention to you! I love you all. I just find it slightly humorous how many ways the rising generation has discovered to communicate without actually talking with someone face to face!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T15:47:00.001-08:00

Its been a great past week. Last weekend I went down to Provo and had an amazing time. Friday night was the 83rd Ward Oscars Night. It was an amazing event. Deborah's movie Deb in Real Life won three Academy Awards including Best Movie, Best Actress and Best Director. It was cool to see that event continue. Last year when Shane and I were the activity co-chairs we started that event and I think it will continue on. This year they had eight movies entered and had a program written for the voting. That made every win official and every vote really counted. Anyway, it was fun to see friends again and get all dolled up for the event.

Saturday was the Utah/BYU football game that I don't really want to talk about. It was a sad loss for BYU but we look forward to next year. Saturday night Deb and I happened on some tickets to the Coldplay concert! We went with Christine and her boyfriend Matt. I've always wanted to go to a rock concert and there couldn't possibly be a better concert to go to. I was impressed with the whole production and those men are amazing musicians! We had sweet seats and a lot of fun.

I got home from Provo on Monday and this week has gone so fast. For Thanksgiving yesterday we went down to Grandma's and met up with three other families of relatives. All in all there were around 38 people there and it was an amazing meal! It was just fun to play with everyone. The boys and I played some football and then someone brought a Wii and Rock Band soon became the event of the afternoon. In the end we even got the adults to join in. We came back to Logan and the playing didn't stop! The dorm was empty and so Ben rode his bike down the stairs and we played Nerf gun war on all 5 levels! It was pretty intense. This morning Matt joined us and the war continued. We have mastered the art and never grow tired of another round.

It has been so much fun to have family home. I'm so thankful for family and the simple joy of being home for the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving to all you readers! Thank you for the part you play in my wonderful life.

Jumpin' through life

2008-11-20T21:58:00.000-08:00

The last week has flown by! Here are the highlights:

Last Tuesday American Festival Chorus had its debut concert in a Veteran's Day tribute concert. It went off amazingly and then again on Saturday AFC performed Mozart's Requiem. Both performances were great. Check out our upcoming schedule at our website.

After the performance we went to fill up on gas and were excited to see gas under $2! With our Smith's discount we ended up paying $1.84! Pretty funny how exciting that was to us!

I had two interviews this week and both went really well. I now just have to wait to see what happens. Also got a few "regret" letters from other places I have applied to. I hope something comes soon. I'm getting restless!

Wednesday mom and I watched The Guys. It is an very well-written movie about 9/11. Both mom and I were in tears. It is sometimes still hard to believe that actually happened to us. I am thankful for the service men who gave their lives that day and those still willing to fight today for the freedoms of us all.

Today the maintenance guys came through the dorm and replaced all the single sofas with newer ones. We took the opportunity to play on the old once left stacked outside on the grass. It was pretty fun jumping around and then just laying there. The days are still beautiful here but today it has been windy. I think the cold weather is finally coming. The weatherman boast of snow for Thanksgiving. We'll just have to see. In the mean time, still jumpin' through life.

Memory...what was that?

2008-11-14T22:42:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to blog all week long but quite honestly, I can't think of anything super fun to tell you about. There was something I remember thinking I must blog about but now the thought is lost to me and I can't remember what it was. I must be getting old. It has been an average week with not much excitement. I just thought you might enjoy some of the pictures I have been taking of beautiful Cache Valley.

I had this amazing idea to get a shot of the full moon over Aggie's "Old Main" building but the moon was too slow in rising and Joseph and I got frozen out! Here's the best shot we got!

"Piping hot"

2008-11-06T15:45:00.000-08:00

I love to bake. My mother is always accusing me of being the person at fault when it comes to dentist bills because of the sugar I introduce to the family in all forms and fashions. :) It all started with this cookbook back when I was probably 8 or 9 years old. My mother's copy was covered in duck tape and had been well used. I learned fractions and to bake bread and cookies with this Canadian Purity Cookbook of choice. Then while on my mission my mom threw it away! When I came home to find it gone forever I was quite "put out."

However, two weeks ago mom came home from a visit to Grandma's all excited about a book she had brought back for me. It wasn't until a few minutes later when I casually started flipping through the cookbook on the counter that I instantly recognized its pages! I had never seen the cover before since to me it had always been the silver of duck tape but I'd recognize those recipes anywhere! So, I've had a nostalgic two weeks revisiting the old recipes of my youth. Having since had a bit more experience with cookbooks and recipes I can really appreciate a well-written book like this especially when the Canadian instructions include phrases like "piping hot!"

Fast and Fun Weekend

2008-10-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

So I'm playing a little catch up. Last Friday a group of friends from my ward went to haunt a corn maze in Paradise, UT. It was super fun. We went out to pizza first and then got down there and got to know the maze a little bit before it got dark. It was fun to know the maze in stead of always being lost in it! We got a few really good scares and then there were the groups that were lame and weren't scarred at all. I was the joker face and would sneak up behind a group and join them without them knowing. Then I would get really close to the back two people until they would sense something there and turn around to find me! It was super fun. The maze was really cool and they had a graveyard and all kinds of really fun stuff. We had a lot of fun together and it beats having to pay to go through a maze!

I drove down to Provo after the maze and Saturday was a game day! I have to admit, football games at BYU are so much fun! The energy is in the air and you can't help but be excited! Cosmo is doing his tricks and of course a football game isn't the same without cousins! I think we have sat together for three years now and it is a tradition. I love my cousins! We won the game even though our defense was rather frustrating. Something is up with the team these last few weeks and I just hope they fix it soon.

Sunday it was great to see old friends. I felt right back at home in my old ward with old friends. But I'm okay that I'm not down

there right now. I know Logan is the place to be right now and I am loving making new friends. Us sisters went to our cousin Daniel Ostler's farewell talk in the morning and then in the afternoon we went over to the Ostler's to visit. Again, it was great to be with family. Derek and Daniel were both over in

Jerusalem in the Winter semester so it was fun to remember things from the Holy Land. Derek pulled out some clothes he got in Egypt and we started playing dress up! He is going to use this outfit for Halloween. Well, he's not going to use it but he is going to have a female friend use it and he will dress up in the traditional male garb for Egypt. The clothes there really are beautiful. I wish I would have thought to get myself an outfit like this. I still haven't decided what to be for Halloween.

The drive back to Logan went fast and after ward prayer I went over to a friend's to play games. It was fun to continue to get to know more people in my ward. So there's my fast and fun weekend!

More exploring and Bear Lake

2008-10-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday of last week mom and I took off in the Expedition to find Millville Canyon. Not knowing the area very well, the directions I received proved of little help and although we did find a canyon, it was not Millville Canyon. However, our trip was still lots of fun. We ended up in Providence Canyon and got to play with the Expedition's 4-wheel drive. I think mom is not used to having a car that can handle a mountain road. We got pretty far up the canyon when we hit a gravel slide and decided we didn't want to get stuck and turned around. At this point I think mom started to really enjoy the beautiful scenery. Both of us were taking pictures trying to capture the last of the fall colors. So many of the trees are already bare. I did get another fun shot of the temple on our way back into Logan though.

Friday night I headed up Logan Canyon to Bear Lake for my first time. A friend of mine has a family cabin up there and it was just what I needed. When we got up there it was already dark so I couldn't really see anything. We talked and ate and tried to take pictures of the moon and watched a movie. The

moon light was beautiful over the lake but in the morning I got to see just why so many people boast of this place. The warm rays of the sunrise were inviting to say the least. I think it is so interesting how a vista like this can feed the soul. Going through my pictures I realized I took way to many pictures of the same thing but I couldn't stop! Every image was breathtaking and something I wanted to preserve. Sometimes I think I take too many pictures. I miss out on enjoying the real moment when I'm focused on preserving it in a digital picture. A thought I want to remember for the future. There are some things that will never be captured properly in a picture. But if we take the time, our eyes are able to view God's creations in a fulfilling and grateful way. That is probably how God intended it in the first place. Don't worry, I'm not going to stop taking pictures! I just think I'm will do it a little slower now.

Rexburg-The Work of a Child is Play

2008-10-15T22:41:00.000-07:00

Monday morning mom and I drove up to Rexburg, ID to babysit the grandkids for a couple of days. It was an adventure from day one! We left in the morning under the Logan haze. I guess Logan is known for its terrible inversions and we experienced it first hand for the first time. It was worse than a heavy fog but as we were crossing the valley on Hwy. 30 things begin to clear and turned into a beautiful morning for a drive.

We got to Rexburg and relieved the neighbor who had been watching the children. Then the games began! It is always a wonderful adventure with Grandma. She knows all the good games and how to be creative with just a piece of paper. The kids were entertained all morning making "creatures" out of pipe cleaner and crowns out of squares of paper. In no

time at all, Rachel became the "Queen of Egypt" with her impressive headdress. We also went out back and harvested the last of the garden vegtables. Most of them had been ruined for eating by the weekend frost but they were perfect for fall decorations and we had fun adorning the front door. The kids were so proud of their achievement.

Next was the park of course. I was glad I kept my camera ready to catch some of these candid shots. I love my niece and nephews! Mikael was especially photogenic and

these shots just make me smile! This one taken through the play set floor is currently the desktop

picture on my computer and brings

a smile to my face every time I open my computer!

It turns out Grant is an amazing soccer player in the making. He

kicks left and loves running after the ball. His current most valuable possessions are his cleated tennis shoes which he must wear everywhere. When we were all tired from running around we played the laughing game and the kids all attacked Aunt Jenn. I must admit defeat as I was most often found on the bottom of the pig pile.

Day two brought cold weather but nothing that would keep us indoors. We all took a dip in the hot tub before the morning frost melted and then after some reading headed back outside and

to the famous Porter Park. The ice on the trees bore witness to the temperature but we were not deterred. We had a lot of fun playing tag and enjoying the play ground. I just liked

following the kids around listening to their stories of how this play set was a castle or a jet or a boat. There are no limits to a child creativity and it was refreshing to be around that again. I think too often I get caught up in the worries of adults. We stress about so many things, especially now, with all the currents events effecting our nation. But two days with these children reminded me that there is joy to be found in color paper and pipe cleaners and that dreams are for everyone. Lets learn a lesson from the children, who the Savior commanded us all to be more like, and learn to find joy in the small things and play hard everyday.

Fast Week and First Snow

2008-10-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

This week went super fast! I worked half days all week leaving my afternoons open to get other things done. I got to go to the temple several times and that was definitely a highlight of the week. On Friday, I played soccer with my brothers. Up to this point I have avoided playing with them because they are really good and I don't really play soccer...yet. But they are kind souls and invited me to play with them. It turned out to be super fun and I even made a goal! I'm excited to get better under their tutelage. Will in an amazing goalie and Joe knows every rule of the game. The other boys always ask him about the ref calls when we watch soccer games. And we are always watching soccer games. :) Will and Joe come home from school every day and spend at least an hour outside practicing soccer. They have targets, cones and everything but the real fun is when the boys get some friends together and go play. I hope I can get better and actually contribute some to these team events. I also attended a pretty fun Paul Simon tribute concert on Friday. Just a bunch of local fans and musicians who know how to jam it on the guitar. It was some really good music and tons of fun.

Saturday there was more soccer and the first snow of the season! I really love the snow and I am excited to play in it with my brothers. Joe and I ran out to capture a few shots just moments ago. I can already tell this is going to be a fun winter!

General Conference Weekend #2

2008-10-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

After the morning session today and Pres. Monson's advice that we take pictures twice a year, we ran to the Logan temple to take family pictures. It was wet but a beautiful day for pictures. Here's some of the good ones:

The Family

My Handsome Brothers and the valley

The boys again, minus Sam.

Rachel in her beautiful red dress. She loves this dress like nothing else! It is her formal dress and she wears all her sparkling jewlery with it!

Jon and Deb playing around

Christine had to try it out too!

Then Joe got comfortable as well!

Later after the afternoon session the little nephews were admiring Ben's amazing strength. A few weeks ago Ben and the boys started climbing the back side of the stairs. Ben is the only one who can get up to the top. When asked why the stairs Ben said it was the only thing he could find to climb! My little monkey brothers!

Conference was great. It was great to be with family, it was great to hear the inspiring talks, it was great to discuss them with family and plan for change. I'm excited to get my quarterly planning done and implement what I've heard this weekend. It has been a feast.

General Conference Weekend #1

2008-10-05T19:33:00.000-07:00

Friday night the David Weiss family drove down for the weekend. David and Launna were able to join us for the last half of the football game and then Christine drove up with a friend from Provo. We all went out to dinner after the game and then went to bed full. Saturday morning Conference began. It was a great weekend and the children made it especially fun. We watched a session and then we played! Little David was especially photogenic. He loved the big screen tv and found other things to entertain as well. At one point we found him stuck in the crockpot that had been stored on the floor. The other kids loved the ping pong table and the bouncy couches in the rec. room. After the afternoon session we took off up the

canyon for a walk with the kids while the boys drove down to Salt Lake for priesthood session. They had managed to get tickets for all the boys. It had been raining all morning so the trail was wet but the kids loved it! They ran hard and were super tired when we got back, which was the point. :)

I found some pretty fun shots up the canyon this time. The rain put a different haze on the mountain walls and that was fun to see. I miss the rain of WA. There is something about the clean, fresh smell of rain that is so energizing. I have to admit I am falling in love with this place. I told someone just Friday that it was a different beautiful than the green of WA but I am beginning to feel that it is a beautiful that I will come to love just as much as the emerald state.

Little Grant is super aggressive and loves to be active. Rachel is always asking questions and learning with Grandma.

David is just cute! His waterproof space suit made him the perfect candidate for the wet bench.

Sporting the BYU gear!

Mikael is always the caring one. Here he is trying to feed the bird of course.

And at the water. Nothing beats throwing rocks into a stream!

When we got back the kids were all tired so we watched "Little Women." Never thought that a movie like that would need so much explanation for a little child's mind. I love being around these little ones. They remind me of everything that is good and pure.

"Suffer the little ones, to come unto me, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven"

BYU v. USU/Mission Reunion

2008-10-05T19:19:00.001-07:00

A week and a half ago I got hired for a temporary job helping out with the BYU tailgate party for the BYU vs. USU game 10/3/08. It has been fun to be event planning but there was a lot to do and it took more time then I anticipated. Friday, all the plans came together. We had the BYU Cheerleaders and Cosmo there along with the BYU Bookstore and Tom Holmoe, the Athletic Director of BYU. We had a big blow up for the football toss and a great DJ who was a big BYU fan. The whole thing was catered by Hamilton's Steak and Seafood. The only thing that didn't really word was the cotton candy machine. We were going to sell the cotton candy and drinks. I'm not sure how that turned out in the end because I left to go to my mission reunion.

It was so much fun to see everyone again. I thought it would be a quick stop-by visit but once I got there it was hard to leave. It was great catching up with friends. It was especially fun to see some of the missionaries I taught in the MTC back from their missions as well. Time goes fast and missionary work has been a big part of my life for the last five years. I hope that will never change. I had to leave just as some of my sister friends were coming but I was already late for the game.

I got there right at half time and the rivalry was on. I sat with mom and dad in their Aggie gear while I was decked out in BYU blue. BYU had come out strong in the first quarter that I missed. The rest of the game was a surprising rally for USU. They got two touchdowns and would have had another two more were it not for penalties. In the end BYU won as expected but it was fun to have the rivalry right there in the family. I forgot how much I love watching football!

Hike #2-Mt. Naomi

2008-09-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

Friday, 9/26, Ben, Joseph and I took off up the canyon. William wanted to come but he had his Homecoming Dance and Date. I got back from work and grabbed some meat at Walmart. Mom helped us with our foil dinners and we packed the car. We decided it wasn't the best time for back packing because Joseph didn't have his pack (at Grandma's in Perry, UT) and we hadn't had the time to really plan it out together. So this time it was car camping and that turned out to be an adventure of its own. Logan canyon is pretty cool for a lot of reasons. One, is that the walls of the canyon are covered in rock climbing spots. We packed the climbing gear and started by finding an empty wall. We pulled off the highway and started climbing. It was a fun climb. Ben got up once to set our anchor and then when coming down discovered the rope was 5-10 feet short! So he had to go up again with the longer rope. It was a good climb for him even. Joseph and I both did pretty well. I'm getting better the more I climb and I love it. I think swimming has strengthened my upper body. We were climbing until it was dark and then we headed off to make camp.

The other reason Logan Canyon is cool is because there are very few camping restrictions. I called the ranger and there were only two small spots that had a fire ban and you can pull off and camp anywhere. So we went up Right Fork Canyon Rd and

found a spot we liked. It was right near a

creek and it wasn't until the morning when we realized just how beautiful a spot it was. We had the most amazing foil dinners (thanks to mom) and then we decided to watch a move in the car. Yup, this is car camping at its

very best! We can plug in a converter that allows us to run my computer and then we plug the sound into the car stereo and we have surround

sound! Pretty sweet. But there was a problem. The back window on the Expedition wasn't closing and so the interior lights wouldn't go off. We worried about it at first, thinking we might drain the battery but then we decided that dad runs his sleep machine off the car all night, it should be able to handle this right? Well with about 30 minutes left in 'Italian Job' the car lights began turning on and off. I checked the gage and sure enough, we had drained the battery. We tried to start the car and nothing. We quickly turned off the movie, rigged the

back window so the lights would go off

and then did the only thing we could do...we went to bed. I had a fitful sleep worrying about how we were going to get the car to start in the morning. We were in the middle of nowhere and better yet, the car was parked in such a way to make it very difficult for another car to get close enough to help. I had dreams all night about different solutions and it was never helpful. In the morning I woke up to Ben starting the car and said a prayer of thanks.

I then finally slept for a few minutes before we had to get up and make breakfast and break camp.

Next we were off to Tony Grove and the trail head for Naomi Peak. It is 3.3 miles to the top with just under a 2000 feet elevation gain. It was a pretty good hike. The boys are in much better shape than I and would have scrabbled up the

mountain were it not for my need of occasional rest and water. We got up in 2 hours and back down in just over an hour. The views were beautiful but we discovered something about being from the NW.

As beautiful as the grays and browns may be, it is hard to find beauty in them when you are used to continual green. But there was some amazing color up there this time of year and that was fun to capture.

We made it back down without incident and we were hungry! Mom had met us up at Tony Grove but we were ready to be off

down the canyon to get home. I'm sure the hike barely phased the boys but I paid for it on Sunday with a little soreness. I'm sure it didn't help that I had ran every day last week.

Anyway, it was a great first big hike. I'm excited to get out into that wilderness and experience more of it! Be expecting more of this! And when winter comes it will just change to snow shoeing and cross country skiing! I'm excited, can you tell?

From the top Logan is right behind Ben's head :) Look hard and you can see it!

View of Mt. Magog from the top of Naomi

You can see Tony Grove Lake in the right hand corner.

The Old Tabernacle

2008-09-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, 9/23 we went and visited the Logan Tabernacle. It is a beautiful building and full of heritage. Its fun to get to know this place. There is history here and it always feels good to be connected with history. We also went downstairs which houses a big family history library. I'm hoping to get to know that place pretty well for my new calling as Family History and Temple Co-coordinator.

We live across the street from the Logan Cemetery and that has become one of my favorite places. I'll try and post pictures later. I always forget to bring my camera when I go there!

Where the Savior Walked

2008-09-21T21:37:00.000-07:00

Since I got back from Jerusalem in June, my mind has been constantly taken back to the Holy Land. I have revisited sights in my mind over and over again and it has been wonderful. I, like many of my classmates, wrote the dates we visited different sites in my scriptures and hymnbook. It has been wonderful to be taken back at the sight of a simple notation.

I have also been reading Gerald N. Lund's series Kingdom and the Crown. I love his style of writing and his dedication to historical accuracy. Where story telling is required for the flow of the novel, he explains history in the chapter notes. It has been amazing to revisit the scripture stories through these novels.

Anyway, I begin reading them in Provo, checking them out from the BYU library. I finished the second book when I was visiting family in CA and died of anticipation waiting to get back to the library to check out the 3rd book. Finally, I checked it out and was only 50 or so pages into the book when I moved up to Logan and had to leave the book behind with instructions for my sister to return it to the library. The Friday after I got to Logan I found myself at the Institute Building once again seeking the book! Checking in with the Librarian I became eligible for check outs and eagerly took the book home. I spent the next week of late nights working through the book.

I finished last Wednesday late at night. I just want to say that again I know my Savior lives. I didn't need to visit Bethlehem, Galilee, the Garden tomb or read these books to know it, but the Spirit I have felt witnesses to me that He lives and did what He says He did. I am so grateful for that knowledge. So take a moment, open your New Testament, or check out a book, and let your mind take you to the Holy Land and the places the Savior walked.

Logan Temple

2008-09-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love how the temple draws your eye? This is one thing I just love about Logan. The temple is beautifully situated on the top of a little hill and thus can be seen sticking out above the trees from locations all over Logan. This is a shot from my favorite vantage point so far. Make sure you plan some time to go to the temple this next week!

Hike #1

2008-09-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

It finally happened! After living here a week I finally took off up the canyon for a hike this past Wednesday. On Sunday I had been up the road about a mile to just enjoy the scenery but this time I was going to be a part of it and explore! Mom and I both took off in the afternoon and the weather was perfect! It was a short hike since we didn't have a lot of time but it was just the taste I needed to be totally hooked! I have since been studying several hiking guides on the area and have already mapped out several hikes for the near future. I'm so excited to be living right at the mouth of this beautiful canyon. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

The fearless hikers!

This is what you see just as you enter the canyon

At the start of our hike

Can you find the ducks!? I wasn't fast enough to zoom in and really get them. Oh well.

Kinda wish I was fishin'! That's going to be something else I take up while I'm here. Supposedly Logan area has some of the best fishing in the nation!

I thought i was computer literate...

2008-09-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've just spent almost an hour trying to get this blog to look decent and it isn't working. I have much yet to learn about blogging I guess but hey, that's what this is for! Expect more editing in the future. As I begin these chronicles I must thank all who have influenced me to this point and especially my dear friend, who's own blog has inspired me to strike out on this digital adventure! I hope to post lots of pictures and fun stories about the going ons in Logan. Lets hope mine is half as interesting as hers! :)

So, I moved up to Logan last Wednesday and not a lot has happened since then. Wednesday nights I have my rehearsals for the American Festival Chorus.

Our conductor is Dr. Craig Jessop, previous conductor for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir! It is amazing to work with him and I am really lucky to have a choir again so soon. Those of you who know me know I can't go long with out a choir.

It has been really fun to be back with family and to have my only little room. Enjoy your own special tour of my little hovel!

Through a series of events, we are temporarily living on the first floor of an on-campus freshman dorm!

That has already proven to be an adventure as we are next door to the rec room can hear the freshman soundtrack at all hours of the day! However we are still the proud residents of San Juan Hall which is uniquely fitting seeing as we are from the North West. We live on a 9-hole golf course.

Frisbee golf, that is. But its still fun to claim living on a golf course. I'm sure I'll only get that once in my life!

Lastly we are in the center of Aggieville. Logan is the home of Utah State University and the Aggies.

Half of my wardrobe has been eliminated since being seen in BYU gear is rather dangerous. I am learning to be careful in my disclosure of past education and residence. I've discovered it is better to simply say "my family is from Washington" rather than, "I just moved here from Provo, UT."

Sunday I attended my new ward and it was a hard thing to be the outsider. I have found some sense of identity for the last three years in my BYU ward and I was always the one to welcome and get to know the new people.

Now I find that I am a "new people" and I lack an insider to show me the ropes. I'm sure I will make friends quickly however, and hope to have a calling soon. So that's the news from Cache Valley. I hope to be going on some hikes this week when I'm not looking for a job so expect some beautiful pictures soon!