Another Beautiful Temple & Families Are Forever

It's always a wonderful thing when a temple is ready to be dedicated and all are invited to attend and see the inside, and walk through every room.  The Brigham City Temple is beautiful.  We especially loved the way they put in so many elements of peaches inside in the art work, the beautiful stain glass windows that are peach blossoms and even the carpet has blossoms cut into it in the gorgeous Celestial Room.  We went during the day and so we walked right in and as the missionaries introduced themselves the sweet sister was from San Pedro Sula Honduras.  Another witness of a tender mercy to let us feel as if a part of Bridger was with us.  We then went to lunch at Maddox which was an hour wait.  It is totally worth it, and no one seemed to mind.  Oh my the fresh peach pie...delish!  I will definitely have to work harder in the morning to work off this meal...oh well.

It was the perfect day.  Love spending time with the boys.  And a wonderful time to think and remember the blessings and promises in the temple.  Families are Forever and it all begins in the House of the Lord.

Waiting patiently for them to call our name.  Thank heavens we have an IPhone to entertain.  Phase 10 is a great way to pass the time.  

Paydays & Remembering 9-11-01

 He posed, just like Bridger did in pics he has shown Elder Johnson

 Ready to ride...

 This is the Honduras jersey he sent for Stetson.  And the sunset is amazing!

Yesterday was a wonderful day.  My dad calls them paydays.  Here's why.  I love Mondays  Emails from our missionary are always so welcome.  It always fills my cup if you will to know that he is safe, well and happy.  This particular day was a bonus.  Bridger's last companion is from California but will be attending school here at LDS Business College.  So, Bridger sent his phone number and I called him yesterday.  He was as excited to see us as we were him.  He knew all about each of us and called everyone by name.  We already feel like he is part of our family.  Funny thing Bridger told him about Zoie, and especially the scooter.  So, we took a few pics with him on the scooter and he took it for a ride.  He also came bearing gifts, letters from our boy, a jersey for Stetson, wallet for Caleb a sweet knife for his dad and a bracelet made from coconut shells for me.  I truly felt like we witnessed another tender mercy of a loving Father in Heaven that has assured me how happy he is as he is serving.  Elder Johnson told us how much he loves Bridger and what an awesome missionary he is and how he can't wait for him to return.  I totally agree.  Welcome to the family Elder Jake Johnson, you already feel like one of our own.

Then also how can we ever forget where we were when the tragedies of 9-11-01 happened.  I remember watching the Today show and seeing the 2nd tower hit.  Wayne was in Chicago and doing work in the temple and had not seen what was going on.  As I was talking to him, more news was coming in.  I remember dropping to my knees and praying.  That is all I knew how to do.  That all these people who were affected by these terrible things would be protected and held in His arms.  What a different world we now live in.  So many things have happened and changed.  Each September 11th flags are placed to remind us of the sacrifices of so many who make us safe and who very innocently left their homes to go to a regular day at work, or wherever only to never be "normal" again.  I know I view things much differently now, too.  I was the driver today as Caleb and Wayne put up the flags on their route.  I was touched that Caleb didn't even say one compliant as he diligently went out and did his duty.  I think the events of that day have touched and affected all of our lives.  May we never forget...

First Day of School for only 1

I can hardly believe that I have only one to take a first day of school picture of this year.  Where in the world does the time go.  Caleb is starting 8th grade and was excited to be going back.  With the change of the schedule our year didn't start until after Labor Day which to be honest is how it should have been all along.  But, it's been a good summer and he has been able to go to Bear Lake with his grandparents, Scout camp and also Lake Powell.  Not too shabby if you ask me.  Stetson started college at Salt Lake Community and is doing well.  He has decided to go two semesters and his papers will be able to be completed and submitted for his mission after the first of the year.  He really wants to wait until Bridger gets home and I don't blame him.  He was made an Elder today by his dad and that was a great thing.  However, it really made me realize just how close he is to leaving, too.  Oh man, I do miss the days of them all being within walking distance.  But, we are so blessed to have such wonderful young men.  They all are so kind and responsible.

 A long day, and plum tuckered out.

 Pretty quiet around here most days.

Seems like we always take a first day of school picture of me, too.  One day I may need an updated photo.  This was almost the first day, and it's squinty and not very clear.  But, I hate being the subject so it's the best it will be,

I love this time of year.  The weather changes, sweaters come out of the closet and routines and schedules are back.  I do so much better with a schedule.  Perhaps I have a little ADHD.  Not sure, never been diagnosed but I need and do much better when I'm busy and organized.

In fact, I'm out on the patio typing and loving the cool breeze.  If forever had a season it would have to be Fall.  I've heard that somewhere.

Here's to a great 2012-13 year for all of us.