Celebrating the 4th of July

It's been a 4th of July tradition for many, many years to attend the Kaysville parade and then go to Elynn and Norman's for a barbecue.  This year, the family really turned out.  Kendall and DeNae had most of their family there.  Carol and John had the biggest number of people - no one can beat their numbers especially when Joe Walker Jr. (who is moving back to Utah) and six children are there along with Anita, Joe, Brent, Clare and wow, I can't even remember how many others.  Our family was there in full -- we are now 13 strong!  We have finally multiplied and replenished.  Of course, Neala and Louis were there - we miss their kids, but Karen Ann is moving back to the States in August.  Elynn and Norman's Lisa, Leslie and Kerry families were there and it's always so good to see them all.

                          In the picture -- L to R:  Norm, Elynn, Adrian, Todd, Carol and John

The kids waiting for candy -- Mason is by Brittney, then Ali, Cameron and in front Taylor

It's always fun to talk with the cousins for a few minutes at the barbecue and renew acquaintances.  Perhaps one of these times we will think to take a group picture - duh, don't think about those things at the time.

The parade is fun watching the kids run to the streets and catch various types of candy that is thrown.  Everyone walks away with enough to eat and lots of memories, we hope.

I love America - Happy 4th of July!!!!!!  

Opening the Wedding Presents

The newlyweds are home from Hawaii and the honeymoon - they are still looking and acting very much in love.  On July 3, the two families, Melanee's and Curt's, gathered at our house for a potluck dinner and gift opening.

Who would guess you could get so excited over a toaster!

 Yep, Cameron is totally excited!

The McLeans are a great family and very good cooks.  The grandkids got a little bored but it was fun watching the gifts that were given -- lots of salad bowls and even two large electric griddles.  Melanee's comments throughout -- "Where are we going to put all of this, the house is full."

Eventually, everyone wanted to get into the present unwrapping.

As is normally the case, the smaller grandchildren gravitated to the ponds until the parents finally relented and took the shoes, socks, and some other clothing off so that they could get wet.

A Sacred Experience - June 15, 2013

June 15, 2013, was a bright sunny Saturday.  We all worked diligently at Curt's house in preparation for the wedding reception that would be held there the next week.  However, all work stopped about 5:00 p.m. so we could prepare to attend the Temple.

This day, Melanee, would receive her Temple endowment.  We all attended the 7:00 p.m. session at the Bountiful Temple.

The first time you attend the Temple there is always some nervousness about what to expect.  Melanee and I had talked about the Temple as we presented the Temple lessons to her, but you still can't explain what is going to happen and how the Holy Ghost teaches.  Melanee was no exception, but she had prepared herself as best she could.

The endowment session was filled with people not only from our group but from others who were being endowed.  Grandma Spendlove, Adrian, Carol Padilla, Brittney and I were sitting about 4 or 5 rows back from the front where Melanee and her mother were seated.  Never anticipating what would happen, I enjoyed the session and when it was time presented myself at the veil - standing next to Melanee.  I could hardly contain my emotions.

Then the most sacred experience I have had in the Temple occurred.  Standing in the Celestial Room next to Theron we saw all of our children and their spouses come through the doorway and we were all able to hug, talk, and stand together in the Celestial Room.  This was the crowning blessing that we could receive -- to joy and rejoice in our posterity.  My heart was full!!!!

To our children and their spouses we are grateful that you are keeping yourselves worthy to attend the Temple and receive the covenant blessings.  We love you!!!  

Mom and Dad.