A Bit Like Bethlehem

For a change of pace we decided to journey to Bethlehem for the Crane Christmas party. Leaving the candy, Santa & games for another year, the children enjoyed making Driedels, Stars of David, scrolls and tried wood carving. We ate flat bread, olives and citrus peel.

It was definitely a different atmosphere. Everyone wore robs, head scarfs and more. Many pictures were taken enjoy seeing a few of them.

Officially Old Man Winter

Old Man Winter officially arrived December 21st or 22nd. I never can tell the correct date, but know it is here. The weather has proven to be true to its calling, with storm after storm hitting the Wasatch Front. A nearby city had spent 75% of its snow removal budget before this cold season even took over.

Some people hate winter, complaining non-stop about the cold, wet and dreariness. Why not take advantage of all the fun activities such as ice skating, snow shoeing or skiing. Instead of looking at the plainness of each day, focus on the beauty of the barren trees, white-washed mountains or the frozen roadside ice shapes left over from snow removal taking on interesting designs.

Take a walk breathe in the cold fresh air while bundled up in many layers of jackets, gloves and pants. The quiet solitude reminds one of peace. Make note of what is still green, fowl wintering over and watch for signs of interest.

My beef is seeing people coatless racing from heated car into school or a store, headless of the dangers if they were stranded. I say, always carry a blanket, snacks, gloves and water in your car in case of emergencies. Keep a small shovel, flares and ice scrapers on hand. We will make it through another season, in about ninety days give or take a few.

Officially Old Man Winter

Classic Cars Conditional on Creating the Dream

A friend of ours had a classic 1955 Chevy he had restored. We caught the bug and bought a 1932 Ford for much more money than we should have. It was fun to attend car shows, consider paint color, design and stop to watch others in their restored cars get noticed on the road. Many years later, the antique still sits in our garage waiting for its new life. Hundreds of hours spent in trade labor, broken commitments and dreams of owning one, too, have been reduced to a junk heap desire.

How many people have been there, and done that as well? No matter how much we visualized it happening, imagine ourselves driving, wearing or enjoying the dream unless we actually see it through, it never happens. Many a person dies never seeing the fulfillment of their goals.

Are they too lofty or is it we don't have the drive to get the job done? Who knows! If we really want to make it happen, we must make a plan, work it out and "Do it!"

I like to travel, therefore, I make it happen by setting my sites on a location. Next I set a realistic date. Then I save, save, save by passing up all the extras and nonessential purchases. Seeing myself in the dream location helps keep it alive and real. Too often its easy to say, I never get to do or have anything. Who decides this result in the end is really us.

May we set priorities and see the dream happen. If that is what we really want it isn't easy but will be worth all the effort.

Wedding Bells in Rexburg

The Ides of October is the perfect time to get married. Brian Welch and Leah Rasmussen tied the knot in the Rexburg Temple with family and friends in tow.
Married by the Temple President, who performed a thought inspiring ceremony.
He chose to unite this couple, because they were both from out of state. Pictures of all were taken. Many lucky ones sported classy green outfits made by Paula, Brian's mom.

The luncheon and reception were held at a new double chapel on 2nd and 7th Street. Everyone joined in to help set up, decorate, prepare the food, entertain the kids and make memories that will last a lifetime. Tiny lights were strung up around the hall with photos of the love birds hung from the wires. A string quartet played while the rest of us ate, talked and the couple greeted their guests.

Many of us came from Nebraska, Colorado, Utah and points beyond. Several trips back and forth from the new apartment to the Super 8 to the store to the church were made. In the end it turned out to be a magical evening for all. The poor students that willingly helped hauled home the leftovers to sustain them for another week at college. The couple left for a star studded honeymoon around town & elsewhere.

One Hundred Days Until 2010 is Gone

With only 100 days until 2010 expires, enjoy it while you can. Take a hike, bike, walk or run. Look for the first signs of leaves changing or watch for the bird migrations south.

Today, September 23, 2010, is the first official day of autumn. The full Harvest Moon accompanied by a very bright star looking Jupiter matched the fall equinox by rising at yesterdays sunset and setting as the rising sun shone on the tops of our Oquirrh Mountains this morning about 7:20 a.m. I had to check both planet and moon out several times during the night to see if they were still together. The two coincide (full moon and fall equinox) on the same date every twenty years or so.
Take a look this week to see the pair keeping company.

What a blessing it is to be alive at this time. Although the world's people are experiencing many joys and tragedys, we can do our best to help make it a better place by giving generously and serving others.

When the Baby Weds

It can be a bit tough for the mom when the youngest in the family gets married. If they have chosen well, he treats her right and passes the 'Mother-in-law test', we have no other choice than to see the many blessings. When our children are in love, we as parents are happy and glad to have been a part of their lives.

Allyson and Steven Daniels married on Sept 4th in the Jordan River Temple. It was an enjoyable day with good weather, happy smiles and for the family to be together for the blessed event. Orange and red made a colorful splash on the dresses, vests, table decorations and more at the classy reception. Allyson's favorite, oatmeal cookies, cream cheese chicken rolls, mints and apple juice made a yummy treat to share with the many friends and family that attended.