DUP Did It All - Historical Marker

I belong to the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. These, our ancestors have been here for years. From 1847 to 1867 they came here in tears. Let's give these great DUP women ten cheers!!!

On a trip to East Carbon, Utah, I saw this beehive looking historical marker. We stopped to take a close-up look. How fun to discover it was a Daughters of Utah Pioneers monument. There are hundreds through out the Inter-state Region, built years ago by enterprising women to honor their ancestors. These must have taken years to design, build and pay for.

As a girl when we went on road trips, my parents always wanted to stop and see the historical markers. We often grew tired of it, but know the work these recent ancestors did was remarkable. Now seldom does anyone even notice them. In fact, many have been defaced and damaged. Thanks to these great folks for keeping the memory of our forefathers alive.

Gentleman Biker

He's a gentleman biker off to work. Leaving the car for his wife, a nice perk! Whether he's a chemist, accountant or clerk, He'll take the bike, so she doesn't go berserk!!

My brother, Jim, rode his bike to work for years to accommodate his wife. Sometimes only one car is the option, but they make ways to get around that. One time while I was driving in a nearby city, I saw a guy on a bike. It was my awesome brother! A fellow here a work rides to the Trax or the Front Runner, then from the closest station to work. He keeps his bike in the office right next to the plant and name plate. Way to go men!! You **rock!!

Dad's Birthday 91

Dad would be 91 today. He left us years ago in such array! Couldn't wait another day We love him still, come what may.

Yep, every year in August I think of my dad, on or around his birthday. He was only sixty three. It had just been six months since he retired. Mom didn't have much time to enjoy him at home. He was always working on the farm or at Kennecott. She waited forty one years after they were married to be with him, and twenty three more alone.

They are together now and don't have to be apart any more. Love you Dad & Mom.

Pretending to Be Pioneers in the Days of '47 Parade

We were in the Days of '47 parade, Representing our ancestors and how they made, The desert blossom as a rose. They weren't afraid, To leave their homelands, come to Utah and then they stayed!

I'm a direct decendant of the pioneers that came here. Some were in the first company on July 23rd, others came in 1857 and the last relations arrived from England in 1911. I love, honor and appreciate all of them. Most were in wagon trains or rode on trains. I don't know if any pushed handcarts. Doesn't matter, we are proud them all. What a delight to sit down with them and hear their amazing stories of courage, sickness, heart ache and rejoicing.

We walked two miles waving and representing the ten hand cart companies. Ours was the Ellsworth cart. The Sons of Utah Pioneers have done this for many years. With Allan being the president of our Jordan Temple chapter, we wanted to do it. How often do you get a chance to be in one of the largest parades in the nation? A bucket list check is completed. There was plenty of shade and we were at the very front of the parade.

We were tired after it was over and my arms hurt during the night from all that waving. But was a blast to see thousands of people honoring the holiday by coming to see the parade. Thanks to You beloved ancestors for making the Desert Blossom as the Rose!

Christmas Choir Catchy & Creative

Who loves to hear the many Christmas choirs. The beloved songs remind us of church spires. Makes us feel cozy and warm like at campfires, Pinching our hearts like a pair of pliars.

I had the privilege of attending some parties where two choirs performed. Riverton Madrigals in their lovely lavender vests, ties and dresses were full of energy and smiles. I loved the catchy songs and choreography. The exact number of men and women. These kids are destined to bring joy to the world with their talents for years to come.

The Mountain Chorale had gorgeous selections and many distinct parts. One of my favorites was Do You Hear What I Hear. Their voices blended and floated me along as on a peaceful plane. The clarinet, violin and recorder added a lovely sound.

See Schmidt Happenings

Oops! I made a mistake and posted the birthday wishes for Grandma Great Crane on the Schmidt Happenings blog at schmidthappenings.blogspot.com. Please go there to read it and see our newest great grand children added this year.

Celebrating 1776 and Freedom

Thanks to those men in 1776, This U.S. of A is the greatest mix, Of Americans who are free to fix, Any ole' dish, spot, thing or choose to nix.

Last night we went to the '1776' musical play at Murray Outdoor Amphitheater. It was wonderful to see these great men doing there best to create a free country. As the play unfolded, with song, dance and drama, it reminded me of the book I read '1776' a few years ago. To read or understand about the miracles that took place and realize that we came out victorious. The Lord's guiding hand was there helping us succeed against all odds. Without Him we would still be under the rule of Great Britain. Many Americans believe our own abilities overcame the enemy, but this nation is not great without the Almighty God who created us and we worship.

It makes your heart swell with pride, that our ancestors came over to enjoy the freedoms we take for granted. Every Independence Day is a gift to remember and be grateful for.