"Even though our journey may be fraught with tribulation, the destination is truly glorious." -- Elder Quentin L. Cook
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Our Father's Plan
"Even though our journey may be fraught with tribulation, the destination is truly glorious." -- Elder Quentin L. Cook
Friday, January 28, 2011
Island Park Cabin Adventures
Warning: long, heavy picture-laden post ahead!
Thanks to the great generosity of mom and dad (grandma and grandpa), every year between Christmas and New Year's, our extended family goes to a cabin in Island Park (near West Yellowstone). We have so much fun! We always have memorable experiences and lots of great, family bonding time. This year we had so much snow. This is a picture of Savanna in front of the main office.
Our stay there would not be complete without a snowmobile ride to Warm River - where we feed the fish. However, it's usually the ducks who benefit the most. We took some leftover buns we had to share with them. It's such a pretty ride and the river is always beautiful. We usually see some wildlife. Last year we saw moose hanging out in the middle of the water! 
Here we are on one of our rides. There are not enough snowmobiles for the whole group to go at once, so we take turns. It's so beautiful! 
Here is Savanna driving a snowmobile. Those hills are fun to climb up and back down. 
Savanna again. We stopped for a bit and let people take turns just driving around in a big meadow. 
We end up having to cross the river more than once during our rides. You can't see it very well in this picture, but I loved the fence posts with several inches of snow on each one! Usually it's quite a bumpy ride crossing over the bridge, but with so much snow and not many riders out yet, it was quite pleasant. 
Here are some of the snowmobilers sitting down at a picnic table. Can you believe that snow?
This is a little overhang and some signs at the entrance to a campground - just to give you an idea of how deep the snow was. On this ride, we were able to see some elk walking down the river. It was pretty cool! 
We take turns as family cooking the meals. Each family is usually assigned 2 and then there are others in the extended family who are assigned to help (prepare, set-up and cleanup). It works well. For the last few years, the boys have been assigned to cook the tortillas. I think they enjoy it!
One evening, a few of us went outside to enjoy the new, falling snow. During the course of 24 hours, it snowed 2 feet! It was a major amount of snow. We're used to wind in Lehi, so that the snow doesn't stay pretty on things. However, it was calm and peaceful and the snow just piles up - on trees, buildings, structures, vehicles, etc. So gorgeous! 
Julisa and Kennedy wanted to make snow angels in all the snow. However, they sank back into a snowbank and almost disappeared! Didn't work quite like planned, but was an adventure. Pretty tough to make snow angels in that much snow - and they were freezing. 
As we were headed out of our cabin one evening, I stopped Savanna and Julisa to get a picture. Unbeknownst to them, Kendal, Kennedy and Kayden were just above them and brushed some snow off right onto Savanna's head! They couldn't have timed it better. I didn't know it was going to happen, but got a great picture. 
Even after having snow dumped over her head and down her neck and back, Savanna is still smiling! 
Paul and Kennedy just chilling out and taking a quick nap. Have to get it in when you can. We stay in what is called a "bunkhouse." Lots of togetherness! There is basically one big room - with couches, chairs and a tv, and then several beds. There is a partition that divides most of the beds from the rest of the living space. But, pretty much we all go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time! Actually, that's not quite true. There are some early birds who arise and try their best to be quiet and let the kids/teenagers sleep in. We pull the curtain and it's still dark for them. The eating area is quite large with two big tables, and a bar with several stools. It sleeps 30 people! 
We play lots of games - and we're usually not very quiet! We enjoyed playing Clue, (live, charades-type version) where you have a murder set up: who did it, where and with what. One person is given the clues and has to act it out. There are three people who go out. One at a time, they come in and see the charades and then they have to do it for the next person. The third person has to guess who it is. Lots of laughs - by the end it's usually pretty unrecognizable, although we do have a mean Elvis impersonator, and Richard Nixon (aka the Statue of Liberty) has shown up more than once. We laugh until we cry. We also like to play another sleuthing game (Mission: Impossible), which involves keeping your eyes closed and trying to guess who is the mafia and who are the detectives. Lots of card games are also played and there is a puzzle on. This year the swimming pool/hot tub were closed, so we didn't get to do that as much as usual. They were able to go across the street a couple of times and go to the swimming pool at the clubhouse where Paul and Julie have a membership. 
A few relaxing around the fireplace towards the end of the first day. When we arrived, it was freezing! Seriously - in the 50s. We started the fire, and the management brought us several space heaters, but it wasn't warming up very fast. It's a long story, but they had a problem the night before with carbon monoxide. The family who was in the unit that night had to be moved. When we heard this, we were pretty worried. They didn't have a carbon monoxide detector, but had one installed by that evening. They assured us it wouldn't happen again - something about so much snow on the roof and clogging up vents. Well, with all the space heaters, the power kept getting overloaded and then we'd lose all power. We had to go keep flipping the breaker. That night, we discovered that the fan on the fireplace hadn't been on. It's the only source of heat for the cabin (other than the space heaters) and it should have warmed it up quickly. Once we got the fan working, it got bearable. All part of the adventure! 
We had a fantastic three days, two nights and are so grateful for loving parents who make this happen every year. One of the highlights of our Christmas! Thanks, mom and dad, we love you!!
Thanks to the great generosity of mom and dad (grandma and grandpa), every year between Christmas and New Year's, our extended family goes to a cabin in Island Park (near West Yellowstone). We have so much fun! We always have memorable experiences and lots of great, family bonding time. This year we had so much snow. This is a picture of Savanna in front of the main office.
Our stay there would not be complete without a snowmobile ride to Warm River - where we feed the fish. However, it's usually the ducks who benefit the most. We took some leftover buns we had to share with them. It's such a pretty ride and the river is always beautiful. We usually see some wildlife. Last year we saw moose hanging out in the middle of the water! 
Here we are on one of our rides. There are not enough snowmobiles for the whole group to go at once, so we take turns. It's so beautiful! 
Here is Savanna driving a snowmobile. Those hills are fun to climb up and back down. 
Savanna again. We stopped for a bit and let people take turns just driving around in a big meadow. 
We end up having to cross the river more than once during our rides. You can't see it very well in this picture, but I loved the fence posts with several inches of snow on each one! Usually it's quite a bumpy ride crossing over the bridge, but with so much snow and not many riders out yet, it was quite pleasant. 
Here are some of the snowmobilers sitting down at a picnic table. Can you believe that snow?
This is a little overhang and some signs at the entrance to a campground - just to give you an idea of how deep the snow was. On this ride, we were able to see some elk walking down the river. It was pretty cool! 
We take turns as family cooking the meals. Each family is usually assigned 2 and then there are others in the extended family who are assigned to help (prepare, set-up and cleanup). It works well. For the last few years, the boys have been assigned to cook the tortillas. I think they enjoy it!
One evening, a few of us went outside to enjoy the new, falling snow. During the course of 24 hours, it snowed 2 feet! It was a major amount of snow. We're used to wind in Lehi, so that the snow doesn't stay pretty on things. However, it was calm and peaceful and the snow just piles up - on trees, buildings, structures, vehicles, etc. So gorgeous! 
Julisa and Kennedy wanted to make snow angels in all the snow. However, they sank back into a snowbank and almost disappeared! Didn't work quite like planned, but was an adventure. Pretty tough to make snow angels in that much snow - and they were freezing. 
As we were headed out of our cabin one evening, I stopped Savanna and Julisa to get a picture. Unbeknownst to them, Kendal, Kennedy and Kayden were just above them and brushed some snow off right onto Savanna's head! They couldn't have timed it better. I didn't know it was going to happen, but got a great picture. 
Even after having snow dumped over her head and down her neck and back, Savanna is still smiling! 
Paul and Kennedy just chilling out and taking a quick nap. Have to get it in when you can. We stay in what is called a "bunkhouse." Lots of togetherness! There is basically one big room - with couches, chairs and a tv, and then several beds. There is a partition that divides most of the beds from the rest of the living space. But, pretty much we all go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time! Actually, that's not quite true. There are some early birds who arise and try their best to be quiet and let the kids/teenagers sleep in. We pull the curtain and it's still dark for them. The eating area is quite large with two big tables, and a bar with several stools. It sleeps 30 people! 
We play lots of games - and we're usually not very quiet! We enjoyed playing Clue, (live, charades-type version) where you have a murder set up: who did it, where and with what. One person is given the clues and has to act it out. There are three people who go out. One at a time, they come in and see the charades and then they have to do it for the next person. The third person has to guess who it is. Lots of laughs - by the end it's usually pretty unrecognizable, although we do have a mean Elvis impersonator, and Richard Nixon (aka the Statue of Liberty) has shown up more than once. We laugh until we cry. We also like to play another sleuthing game (Mission: Impossible), which involves keeping your eyes closed and trying to guess who is the mafia and who are the detectives. Lots of card games are also played and there is a puzzle on. This year the swimming pool/hot tub were closed, so we didn't get to do that as much as usual. They were able to go across the street a couple of times and go to the swimming pool at the clubhouse where Paul and Julie have a membership. 
A few relaxing around the fireplace towards the end of the first day. When we arrived, it was freezing! Seriously - in the 50s. We started the fire, and the management brought us several space heaters, but it wasn't warming up very fast. It's a long story, but they had a problem the night before with carbon monoxide. The family who was in the unit that night had to be moved. When we heard this, we were pretty worried. They didn't have a carbon monoxide detector, but had one installed by that evening. They assured us it wouldn't happen again - something about so much snow on the roof and clogging up vents. Well, with all the space heaters, the power kept getting overloaded and then we'd lose all power. We had to go keep flipping the breaker. That night, we discovered that the fan on the fireplace hadn't been on. It's the only source of heat for the cabin (other than the space heaters) and it should have warmed it up quickly. Once we got the fan working, it got bearable. All part of the adventure! 
We had a fantastic three days, two nights and are so grateful for loving parents who make this happen every year. One of the highlights of our Christmas! Thanks, mom and dad, we love you!!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Trials
A gem is not polished without rubbing; nor a man made perfect without trials.--Chinese Proverb
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Bowling Fun
To celebrate Savanna and Kayden's birthdays, we went bowling. Kendal and Jared were also able to join us, and we had lots of fun! There is a new (to us!) bowling center in Lehi, and we were impressed. Very clean and modern.We hadn't been in a while, so it took longer for some to get in the groove. Some of us used bumpers, others didn't want the help. There was some good-natured teasing during gutter balls, or low scores, but all in good fun. No one cared who had the best score - just cheered each other on. We forgot how fun it was - we'll have to go more often!
We also let the birthday child pick their favorite restaurant for their birthday dinner. Kayden chose Chuck-a-Rama. He loves their fried chicken and french fries. That might have been all he ate! We still haven't gone for Savanna's meal yet. A combination of sickness, busy time, and birthdays back-to-back! However, we will be going to Cafe Rio soon.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Fifteen
Savanna turned 15 on the 5th of January. It's a busy week of birthdays in our home. She's a little "obsessed" with Justin Bieber right now. She also received money, and a few of her favorite treats. One of her favorite gifts was tickets to see the Jazz vs. the Bulls in February. She's a big Paul Millsap fan, but she also loves Kyle Korver, who used to be with the Jazz and is now with the Bulls. I think he even takes precedence over Bieber! She got a Millsap jersey for Christmas, so she'll be all set for the game.
We are so lucky to have Savanna in our family. Being the oldest comes with a lot of responsibility, and she is such an example. She's a hard worker, takes care of her siblings, and excels in school. She's played volleyball for several years and loves it - and we love watching her! She has a kind, tender heart and has always been drawn to those with disabilities, or going through troubled times. She has many talents and works to improve upon them. Thanks, Savanna, for all you add to our home. We love you!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Newest Teenager
We have a new teenager in the house! Kayden turned 13 on the 4th of January. He was pretty excited. He wanted money so that he could buy a new longboard. (However, he later changed his mind and bought an airsoft gun, since he realized he couldn't get much use out of the longboard for a few months!) He also received a new acoustic/electric guitar. He has been taking lessons for a while, but on a three-quarter size. It's time he got a full-size!
Notice the one sock on, one sock off? I don't know why he does this, but it's a frequent occurrence. I tease him about it all the time because it would drive me nuts! He says it's no big deal. Whatever.
We are grateful for Kayden in our family. He's obedient, a peacemaker, and such a calming influence in our home. He's been working hard in Scouts and on his Duty to God goals. He gets good grades in school and enjoys sports. He perseveres. We love you, Kayden!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Merry Home
The Chinese New Year is coming soon, and it's the year of the Rabbit. In honor of that, I may be posting a few bits of wisdom!
Better the cottage where one is merry, than the palace where one weeps. --Chinese Proverb
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Best Day Ever
It's the best day of the year! Oh, how our family loves Christmas Eve. It's a special, sacred day spent together with the ones we love.
Must get a picture of everyone. First the red group - then the green. We're missing a few, whom we dearly wished were there, but don't we look festive?
We begin the day around lunchtime at the Kotter's, eating bread and soup. Then we play a few games, maybe watch a short Christmas video. Mid-afternoon it's back to grandma and grandpa's for the talent show. And wow - do we have a lot of talent in this family! Kennedy sang a primary song, which she practiced lots for. It was really cute. Savanna sang a song with Julisa. Julie and I sang a song with the other Julie. Kayden wasn't prepared with his guitar, but for sure next year he will!
We then have the first course - hors'douvres. So much yummy food and we have learned to not partake too much as to be ready for the next course! We also have learned that Kayden loves shrimp, and everyone loves bacon-wrapped-chestnuts!
One of the very best moments of the day is when we gather around the table with our individual candles lit and clipped to our plates. One by one, we go around as each shares a "tender mercy" they've experienced in the last year. What a special time this is for all as we learn something about each one and maybe a trial they've gone through, or something else that was meaningful to them. We laugh, we cry, we share our joys and sorrows and our love for the Savior - who brings us daily tender mercies. We are so grateful for this opportunity to think about how blessed we are and look for tender mercies in our lives every day. Savanna, Kayden and Kennedy each did an excellent job of sharing - something not always easy to do in front of others. It was such a delightful time.
After the sharing of our tender mercies, it's on to our main course. Grandma has learned not to change many things about the dinner - can't mess with tradition! We have had Christmas Eve potatoes for as long as I can remember. Some people call them funeral potatoes, but not in our family. We had them on this day long before they became popular for funerals! We also have homemade rolls, a couple different kinds of meats, salad, veggies, fresh fruit. Dessert is saved until later. Everyone in the family has a job, so getting things on the table, and getting it cleaned up, goes very smoothly. We all know our job and get right to it. Sometimes our water boy complains a bit about how much we drink, but he's always good to keep our glasses filled up. Thanks, Paul! Santa also made a timely visit this year - and all of the "kids" got to take a turn sitting on his lap.
After dinner, and cleanup, it's time to start the program. Each family has come prepared with a skit, poem, story, etc. to share. We've laughed at the many antics of the "Ant" family for many years now - even though they were missing a couple of ants this year. (And we all missed them - hope you can make it next year!) We also get many laughs when the Fielding's perform - and hope we get to hear Paul sing. Not his favorite, but he's a good sport. We added three new links to our eternal family chain (welcome Alvin, Cahlin and McKinley) and listened as the nativity was acted out. We end with family prayer and then on to dessert. Seriously - the best day of the year! We really treasure this day and are so grateful for loving, inspired parents who have made this day so spiritual and wonderful for us. It takes many hours of preparation and thought, and it truly is treasured by all.
The kids all go to sleep in the same bedroom. They say they're waking up at 6:00 but we have our doubts. They are not morning people! However, they set their alarms (three different ones) and woke us up at 6 am on the dot. Oh what excitement filled the air. They could hardly wait to open gifts! We gathered around and looked through our stockings, and then took turns as each one opened a gift and shared what they got. It takes a while when there are 7 people opening, but we were done about 7:30. Our breakfast had been cooking in the oven while we opened, so we then got to sit down to a warm breakfast casserole. The perfect morning! The kids all loved what they received and were grateful for everything.
Christmas is a special time of year. How grateful we are for our Savior and his love and sacrifice for us. He is the reason for the season, and we are so grateful to have him in our hearts and thoughts this time of year. It's our goal to keep that spirit all year long.
Must get a picture of everyone. First the red group - then the green. We're missing a few, whom we dearly wished were there, but don't we look festive?
We begin the day around lunchtime at the Kotter's, eating bread and soup. Then we play a few games, maybe watch a short Christmas video. Mid-afternoon it's back to grandma and grandpa's for the talent show. And wow - do we have a lot of talent in this family! Kennedy sang a primary song, which she practiced lots for. It was really cute. Savanna sang a song with Julisa. Julie and I sang a song with the other Julie. Kayden wasn't prepared with his guitar, but for sure next year he will!
We then have the first course - hors'douvres. So much yummy food and we have learned to not partake too much as to be ready for the next course! We also have learned that Kayden loves shrimp, and everyone loves bacon-wrapped-chestnuts!One of the very best moments of the day is when we gather around the table with our individual candles lit and clipped to our plates. One by one, we go around as each shares a "tender mercy" they've experienced in the last year. What a special time this is for all as we learn something about each one and maybe a trial they've gone through, or something else that was meaningful to them. We laugh, we cry, we share our joys and sorrows and our love for the Savior - who brings us daily tender mercies. We are so grateful for this opportunity to think about how blessed we are and look for tender mercies in our lives every day. Savanna, Kayden and Kennedy each did an excellent job of sharing - something not always easy to do in front of others. It was such a delightful time.
After the sharing of our tender mercies, it's on to our main course. Grandma has learned not to change many things about the dinner - can't mess with tradition! We have had Christmas Eve potatoes for as long as I can remember. Some people call them funeral potatoes, but not in our family. We had them on this day long before they became popular for funerals! We also have homemade rolls, a couple different kinds of meats, salad, veggies, fresh fruit. Dessert is saved until later. Everyone in the family has a job, so getting things on the table, and getting it cleaned up, goes very smoothly. We all know our job and get right to it. Sometimes our water boy complains a bit about how much we drink, but he's always good to keep our glasses filled up. Thanks, Paul! Santa also made a timely visit this year - and all of the "kids" got to take a turn sitting on his lap.
After dinner, and cleanup, it's time to start the program. Each family has come prepared with a skit, poem, story, etc. to share. We've laughed at the many antics of the "Ant" family for many years now - even though they were missing a couple of ants this year. (And we all missed them - hope you can make it next year!) We also get many laughs when the Fielding's perform - and hope we get to hear Paul sing. Not his favorite, but he's a good sport. We added three new links to our eternal family chain (welcome Alvin, Cahlin and McKinley) and listened as the nativity was acted out. We end with family prayer and then on to dessert. Seriously - the best day of the year! We really treasure this day and are so grateful for loving, inspired parents who have made this day so spiritual and wonderful for us. It takes many hours of preparation and thought, and it truly is treasured by all.
The kids all go to sleep in the same bedroom. They say they're waking up at 6:00 but we have our doubts. They are not morning people! However, they set their alarms (three different ones) and woke us up at 6 am on the dot. Oh what excitement filled the air. They could hardly wait to open gifts! We gathered around and looked through our stockings, and then took turns as each one opened a gift and shared what they got. It takes a while when there are 7 people opening, but we were done about 7:30. Our breakfast had been cooking in the oven while we opened, so we then got to sit down to a warm breakfast casserole. The perfect morning! The kids all loved what they received and were grateful for everything.
Christmas is a special time of year. How grateful we are for our Savior and his love and sacrifice for us. He is the reason for the season, and we are so grateful to have him in our hearts and thoughts this time of year. It's our goal to keep that spirit all year long.
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