Another Pet!

We have another pet. Not a dog....you know Dad's thoughts on that subject...but a frog. His name is Mr. Peepers and he lives in the fish pond. He has gotten huge since we discovered him there in the spring, and keeps the bug population under control in his little domain. Actually, he wanders (or rather, hops) around quite a bit. I have been startled to have him jump out of the nearby plants when I was weeding, and sometimes he visits the neighboring birdbath. We enjoy looking out in the evening and seeing him on the coping of the pond - during the day he often pretends he's a lily pad and hangs out in the water. A truly fun and carefree animal "friend."

...And Waited.

While the guys waited I walked all around the gardens and fountains, capturing scenes like this one. The temple is beautiful in every season - each providing a different setting for its graceful spires. Our family members (in various combinations) have enjoyed the delicate spring tulips and daffodils, the intense colors of summer blooms, the rusty palette of autumn leaves and flowers, and the sparkling lights and snowy blanket of winter. This is a place to enjoy the beauty of the world around us and to savour time together.

...And Waited...

The colors are fantastic in every garden!

While Jeff and Harold Waited...

I had to take some pictures of the gardens!

A Devoted Couple

I love this sculpture of Joseph and Emma Smith. It speaks volumes without words! This kind of love and devotion is an example for all of us to emulate.

Temple Square

I think this is a beautiful view of the Salt Lake temple, taken on a perfect summer day. Yesterday was the 34th anniversary of our sealing in this temple. Being here on Temple Square 34 years later has prompted me to think about all that has happened since that special day...how our family has grown from 3 people to 14...and to look forward to all that is yet to come. The sealing ordinances of the temple are a blessing now and through eternity.

Mighty Hunters

Jeff and Dad hung out a yellow jacket trap to lure the "beasts" away from Eddie's food dish.
As you can see, the yellow jackets found their final home right away and business was brisk.

The Utah Branch of the Family

Here are Jeff, Leah and Eddie in their backyard. Eddie loves to play fetch with his tennis balls and other toys, and also enjoys playing with his special green bucket. It was supposed to be a source of water for him during the day, but he decided right away to make it a toy. He throws it up in the air and catches it on his head...very funny! Jeff has taught him to come to a special whistle and he's doing well at finding Jeff, who hides in different spots in the yard. The only place that gave him trouble was when Jeff hid up in a tree :)

Dad and Eddie

Dad plays ball with our new granddog Eddie.

At Cecret Lake

Proof that M.A. made it to the top!

Albion Basin Stress Test

On the trail to Cecret Lake...a steeper climb than anticipated, but with a few rest stops we made it!
The sun was out when we started - wild flowers in the meadows so pretty - but it started to pour and hail as we made the hike down. We were soaked, but happy to have passed this "stress test" on our first day in Utah.

Winston Takes the Office Max Challenge!

Office Max promises a 15% discount on everything you can fit in this bag. Winston has taken the challenge, but he's having a little trouble squeezing in. Will Office Max honor their promise?

Winston - King of the Castle

Winston, a Blue British Shorthair, joined our family in January 2007. He was born in New Hampshire, surrounded by numerous cats, but quickly decided that life as an "only cat" is a good thing. He has a great personality and is a loyal and loving companion...our shadow.