GRANDMAW

Walk to Spanish Fork and Mapleton

2012-02-12T15:08:00.001-08:00

It was a very gray day on Saturday when I walked from my house to Michelle's and then east to Mapleton and back home.

I was glad I had my camera with me.

This poem worked its way into my mind as I walked.

Gray

Quiet, softer glory gathers

when the world is gray—

soothing comforter that muffles

garish, hectic day.

Solemn, silent harmony

spreads over lonely space,

murmurs in receptive ear

whisperings of grace.

Becky Rosenlof
February 11, 2012

Walk to Slate Canyon Feb. 6, 2012

2012-02-06T14:02:00.002-08:00

It was a beautiful day for a walk. I started with my coat and gloves on, but soon had to put them in my backpack.

The sky was that incredible deep blue that makes you feel like singing.

I love these views of Slate Canyon and Little Rock Canyon.

The trail was a bit damp in places.

I don't know why my "just before I left" picture ended up at the bottom of the page. I never know how to fix these blog shots.

The Summer of 2011

2011-08-15T17:10:00.001-07:00

I've had a really nice summer this year.

The family met in Park City for rock climbing, playing in the park, and just hanging out and enjoying life together.

Don and I went to the Vernal temple where I caught some exciting sunset and sunrise images.

I was able to spend a weekend at Kirsten and Richard's and see the house they have made an offer on.

There have been many changes, chances to be with loved ones I don't see very often, hiking on Maple Mountain on a beautiful trail, and generally basking in a cooler-than-usual summer. Yum.

"Can ______ come out and play?"

2010-12-20T10:26:00.000-08:00

Let it snow!

I had a marvelous morning--enjoying walking
in the snow!
It was a warm-air--slushy-street--fluffy-tree wonderland.

I

was

able

to get

some

photos

with

some

of my

friends--

a true

holiday

treat.

I'm also including a picture I took a week or so ago when there was about a half-inch of snow on the ground. I couldn't believe it when I came upon a set of these tracks and followed them for THREE BLOCKS until they disappeared in the plowed sections of roads.

I wasn't eager to catch up to the owner!

My Bike and I

2010-09-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

I love my bike. I feel happy every time I go somewhere on it.

2010-08-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures from this summer. It's been a lovely one. (The one of me was taken by Shaunalei on a Monday Fun Day outing with her and her children. It's rare that I get a picture taken that I like, so I thought I'd include it.)

Picture May 13

2010-05-13T17:21:00.001-07:00

Picture May 12

2010-05-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

I can see I will not keep up a picture a day, so these will be haphazard.

Picture May 7

2010-05-07T09:51:00.001-07:00

Picture May 6

2010-05-06T17:52:00.001-07:00

Picture May 5

2010-05-05T14:52:00.001-07:00

Just a reminder of winter and why we love spring so much!

Picture May 4

2010-05-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

I love when the lilacs are in bloom.

Picture May 3

2010-05-03T08:11:00.000-07:00

This was taken early this morning. It's not spectacular, but I like being able to distinguish the camel at the top of Camel's Back mountain.

Picture April 30

2010-04-30T06:54:00.000-07:00

Though this is last year's Snowy April Surprise, I am watching a slushy rain/snow fall this morning. Spring--you've gotta love it.

Picture April 29

2010-04-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

"Though April showers may come your way . . . ."

Picture April 28

2010-04-28T07:35:00.001-07:00

Sumsion's gorgeous tree--taken last week.

My BB Bike

2010-04-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

I think this is the best bike I ever had. It reminds me of my childhood.

Picture April 27

2010-04-27T05:54:00.000-07:00

I love gray skies, too, sometimes, especially when a hopeful kite is flying by the ocean side.

Heather's suggestion

2010-04-26T06:58:00.000-07:00

Heather, a soon-to-be-published author (Wahoo), suggested I use my blog to post some of the beautiful pictures I have taken. I think I will take her up on that suggestion. I will try for a one-a-day post, but don't know if I will keep that up for very long. Anyway, here's the first one. It was taken in December of 2008.

My 2010 trip to Jenae's

2010-03-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

My only adventure so far this year has been my trip to California in February. Here are some of my favorite shots. (Some are repeats from Jenae's blog, as I sent her these, too.) The week was one pure joy for me. Favorite moments? Going to the Mormon Battalion memorial and Old Town, playing with the grandkids, asking "What?" every time Kaleb said, "You know what?," reading a scripture and having family prayer together every night, doing the Treasure Hunt, seeing the kids at school, digging weeds with Kaleb and Becky, making quiche and pies, getting great Emily hugs (and Becky and Kaleb ones, too), just relaxing and talking with Jenae, going to the San Diego Temple with her, and going to church and the beach together as a family. They are a joy to me.

Christmas at Our House

2009-12-26T10:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas was cold this year. A slight sifting of snow fell, but as the skies cleared the temperature dropped. Still, the white mantle on the mountains was most welcome.

Don's yearly "adjustments" of our manger scene brightened my life and brought many smiles.

The wise man on the roof was a masterly touch. This magi wanted to get an uncluttered glimpse of baby Jesus, even if it was upside down as well.

The animals found a way up the ramp so they could see, but the stubborn cow decided to sit down where it was, so the donkey and sheep had to wait patiently for their turn.

It was truly an unusual (one might even say "unique") arrangement, as the group crowded elbow to elbow to watch.

Our little wooden reindeer stood proudly as he has done for so many, many years.

The stuffed animals made things cozy beneath the television set.

I couldnt' resist including all three pictures of the Christmas tree. First as it is in daylight (with a flash).

The second view is a little blurrier as the flash was turned off and the lights on the tree gave the only illumination.

And the last is the blurriest of all, when I included the star. The feeling of the blurry tree captures some of the "magic" feeling that I love about having a Christmas tree. Who needs sharp reality?

Of course, the holiday isn't complete until I get out a puzzle on Christmas day.

For me, one of the highlights of this year's Christmas was the gift my children gave us of an LCD picture frame pre-programmed with pictures from all six of my children and their families and loved ones. It is a delight to turn it on and just sit and watch.

And I once again read the four gospels and the book of Acts from the Bible, starting just after Thanksgiving and reading every day up until Christmas. It keeps me focused on the Savior, who is truly the gift to us all from a loving Heavenly Father. Jesus's love for us brings light and hope and joy into our lives.
I hope your Christmas was as nice as ours was.

A Colorful Autumn

2009-11-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful autumn time we had!

Lots of variety and stunning scenes.

This is my favorite time of year--crisp cool mornings and evenings, crunchy leaves to walk through, brilliant colors against a deep blue sky--yum.

Golfing with my Friend

2009-10-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Dianne Carr and I played our once-a-year golf game Tuesday on a gorgeous day. Thanks to Sonny for supplying me with clubs, tees, balls etc. We had a great time even though her back started acting up so she had to stop trying long drives and I spent a great deal of time in the sand or in the creek. We had to just laugh at ourselves, but it was certainly wonderfully beautiful and fun. Thanks, Dianne

Summer Memories

2009-09-24T19:43:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about what a nice summer this was--some hot days but nothing like long stretches of over-100 degrees that we have had some years. I'm posting a few of my favorite memories this summer.

Backyard barbecues--

Hike up Round Peak with Shaunalei--

Devi and Ken's visit--

Watching the Civic Center be built--

Visiting the Art Museum's sculpture garden with Don--

Visits from Jenae and Kirsten's families--

Gorgeous sunrises--

Trip to Salt Lake with Kirsten and kids--

Art City Days balloon launch--

My cute insect-avoiding reading space--

Misty rainy days in June--

Don's edging project--

The house we almost bought--

A big hug from Michelle--

June's gorgeous flowers--

It was a great summer.

A Visit from the Torgersens

2009-08-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

It has been a delightful few days with chances to visit with Jenae and her children: Becky, Emily and Kaleb. We went to see Michelle and her children: Patrick and Daniel, and had a wonderful time. After some supper, we went to watch Michelle practice with the rest of the cast for "The Wizard of Oz," a play which will be performed toward the end of August in Payson.
Kirsten and Rebecca were here in Utah County for a couple of days, too, and Michelle and the kids' grandma Carolyn joined the rest of us for a trip to the Oquirrh Temple Open House, supper at Wendy's (where Grandpa Jorgen joined us) and a concert by the group Voice Male. On Saturday, all the girls got to visit with many cousins and aunts and uncles at the Boyer reunion, and that evening some of us went to the Springville Folkfest to watch dancers from six different countries.
While at my house, Jenae's kids had fun trying on Grandma's hats. Grandpa Don was included in a game of Chicken Feet, which he won. Rebecca played Rubix Cube and showed Kaleb how it was done. Kirsten and Jenae were glad to see each other. (This paragraph goes with the pictures.)
The trip to the temple open house was spiritual, and fun, too. After the tour of the temple, we all got to ride back to our cars in an extended golf cart thingamajig because Jenae's broken foot was paining her after all the walking.
At supper and after the concert, Michelle entertained us with her great ability to talk with Scottish and Indian accents. She's hilarious! It's too bad I didn't take my camera with me on that trip. Our cheeks hurt from all the laughter. If any of you get the chance to see Voice Male in concert, I'm guessing you will truly enjoy it. We sure did. The group started when these men got to know each other while students in college, and now, more than 13 years later, they are still singing a cappella songs and cracking people up with their funny joking between numbers. They got off on jokes about "Porch Geese" when they were talking about the Portuguese language. You had to be there, but I have rarely been more thoroughly entertained.
I've been happy as a ladybug having these family visits this week. I'm so blessed.

Being a Happy Person

2009-07-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

I've been reading A Circle of Light by Madeleine L'Engle. Here is a part that touched my soul: "Once, when I was very unhappy, Hugh [her husband] and I had to go to a large cocktail party. There was nothing I wanted to do less than get dressed up and have to radiate charm to swarms of people. But we went, and I tried. There was a woman at the party who very quickly had too much to drink because she was lost; she had been widowed; she had not been able to find a new life which was valuable, or in which she felt she had any value. She talked to me and cried into her drink and suddenly she said, "You're a very happy person, aren't you?
"I had, at that point, legitimate reason to be miserable. But her question stopped me in my tracks. I looked at her in surprise and gratitude and said, 'Yes, I am.'
"This was ten years ago. But the answer is still the same. The better word, of course, is joy, because it doesn't have anything to do with pain, physical or spiritual. . . . Joy is what has made the pain bearable and, in the end, creative rather than destructive.
"To be fifty-one in the world of today and to be able to say, 'I am a happy person,' may seem irresponsible. But it is not. It is what keeps me capable of making a response. I do not understand it, or need to.
"Meanwhile, I am grateful.'

Her words have rolled around in my mind and I've tasted them in my heart and believe that I can say that I, too, am a happy person. Joy is what makes "pain bearable." And joy is frequently a verb--looking at things in a certain way--doing things from a distinct perspective--making a choice to be happy. I can "joy" in life.
I don't believe that means going around with a sappy grin in the midst of trouble. To me it means acknowledging the misery and darkness that abound, but refusing to feast on them and not letting them become who I am. There is glory and beauty in abundance, and I choose to let them be the feast that I internalize.
Naivete has its benefits, and I prefer filling up on trust and faith and hope. Like Ms. L'Engle, 'I do not understand it, or need to.' And I, too, "am grateful."

Glory Comes

Glory came, this morning,
in a little spurt
from Aurora's rose-tipped fingers--
so beautiful it hurt.

Glory comes in moments
that quickly melt away,
yet leave a hallowed memory
to echo through the day.

Glory comes in moments
so keen they take the breath--
as keen, almost, as resurrection
after solemn death.

Sunshine Scripture 17

2009-07-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind. Psalms 18:10

Most people dream of someday being able to fly.
Of all possible modes of transportation, self-flight seems the most exciting. To lift off on your own, like a bird--wonderful!

But how equally thrilling it would be to fly on the back of an angel, or to let the wings of the wind carry you like a kite.

Feel the joy of the power of God lift you.

Soar.

Salt Lake with the Webers

2009-07-02T11:07:00.001-07:00

I had a great time with Kirsten, Rebecca and Spencer in Salt Lake on Tuesday. Here are a few of the photos I took until my camera stopped working. (A temporary malfunction, thank goodness.)

We walked around Temple Square (where I caught a shot of Spencer mid-sneeze in front of the Temple). We also saw where Jorgen and Carolyn were serving their mission at the Family History building.

I have always loved the Salt Lake Temple. The workmanship is amazing and I love the uplift it gives my spirits.

Rebecca and I climbed down to the Memorial Gardens (I'm not sure of the exact name) while Spencer and Kirsten went to see the state Capitol Building. Of course the first thing I ran into on the trail down was a rustling in the weeds that turned out to be a snake. That added a bit of adrenalin to the occasion for me.

The park at the bottom was beautiful. I was reminded again of all who gave their lives to serve their country. A breeze came up and I took a bunch of pictures of the flag which you can see in my blog about the 4th of July.

We went to Gateway Mall and ate supper at the Olive Garden before going swimming at the Ramada Inn, where we stayed the night. It was a nice trip for me! Rebecca is off for two weeks in Texas to visit Mackenzie and Zoe and, of course, Uncle Brent.

First Barbecue of the Season

2009-06-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

You're going to have to imagine the wonderful aroma that filled my back patio.

When I had gone visiting teaching on Friday, one lady we visited told of a truly delicious way to grill steak. It made my mouth water, so I decided to try it for myself.

Yesterday, I followed her directions and she was right! It was so juicy and tasty.

The weather was perfect. It had rained and cooled things down earlier in the week, but now the sun was shining and the world sparkled. Did I mention "perfect"?

Wish you could have been there to enjoy it with us!

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

2009-06-21T06:46:00.001-07:00

Dad,
My earliest memories involve you.

When I was just a toddler, I loved to lean my ear against your chest and hear the deep rumble of your voice. Even at that young age, I felt protected in your arms.

Your strength was legendary, and I remember the reassurance it was to hold onto your hand.

Your eyes were always alight with enthusiasm and joy in embracing the world.
You taught my eyes to see beauty, my mind to open itself to wonders, my heart to reach out to others, my conscience to know right from wrong.

I still feel enfolded in your arms and protected by your strength.

Thank you, Dad.

Proof Positive

2009-06-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

I had felt that this has been an extraordinary spring for flowers, but I wasn't sure, and then our flower I had planted last year blossomed and GREW and proved I was right! What a monster! I hope you can see the difference. The plant this year grew so tall I had to tie it to a post to keep it from tipping over. (Last year's picture shows that I had small white flowers around the base of the larger blue one, but they didn't come back this spring--must have been annuals.)

Fun Projects

2009-06-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

We've been having fun with projects this week. First Don cut some of the grass away from the side of the house, laid new straight edging and filled in with white rocks. It's going to be much easier to mow the lawn now.
Today we bought a kids' gazebo with netting so I can sit on the back patio and not be so bothered with insects. I'm sorry the picture I took of Don working was blurred. I'm including it anyway because it shows his cute smile. Isn't it adorable! (The gazebo is cute, too.)

A lovely Spring

2009-06-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

As I've taken my early morning walks around town, I have relished the amazing flowers this spring.

Sunshine Scripture 16

2009-05-24T05:28:00.000-07:00

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.
Philippians 1:3

Think of all those people in your life that you can remember with thankfulness: childhood friends, family, fellow workers, teachers—the many whose remembrance is sweet to you. Who are they? Thank God for those specific people in your life; thank him for those who bring joy into your heart every time you think of them.

(I think of YOU with joy!)

My Favorite Pictures of Myself (and Don)

2009-05-04T10:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks, Bex! (I can't remember who did the one of Don and me, but thanks to whichever grandchild it was.)

More Surprises/Mysteries

2009-05-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

On our walk last Friday, Mary Lou Jensen and I "discovered" (think "saw") a set of footprints across the park. The mystery is that we have no idea what caustic substance could get on someone's shoes and kill the grass in footprints that go clear across the park. It's quite amazing.
The second mystery occurred the next day when we walked during a rainstorm. I carried an umbrella the whole time, but when I took off my gloves (which I have worn many times previously without any problems), I found my hands "tatooed" in interesting patterns. It wouldn't come off with soap, even, but eventually gave way to multiple scrubbings.

April Surprises

2009-04-16T08:46:00.000-07:00

Look what we woke up to today!

Day After Easter Hike

2009-04-14T10:58:00.001-07:00

Easter Hiking

As a young child I eagerly looked forward to the annual Easter hike to the top of Round Peak. This year I felt a compulsive desire to recreate that experience for myself. So I bought an orange Crush drink (I think we drank Nehi orange soda in my childhood), a package of Twinkies, and some bologna for my sandwich (not because I like it but to be true to my little-girl lunches). I boiled an Easter egg and spotted it with food coloring dots, made my sandwich, and put everything in a back pack. (It took a while to find an old bottle opener that would work.)

Shaunalei agreed to go with me, so I gathered her up and we started up the road at 10:30 in the morning. I brought along a jacket because there were some cool breezes blowing for awhile. (I didn't need it, though.)
At the top of the paved road, we asked the owner of the corner property for permission to cross the edge of his lot to get onto the trail. And then we began to climb--first past the rocky "King's Chair" where I needed to rest a bit and take a picture of Shaunalei on the trail and another of Springville spread out below us.

She took a picture of me when we reached "The Flats," a misnomer as the grassy slope is actually quite steep, and another photo when we reached the Fire Road and the beginning of the true trail around the north side of the hill. I don't think I made many pauses when I was a kid, but this year I needed them several times to slow down my pounding heart. Shaunalei was very patient with me. I took a couple of pictures as we neared the top of the trail, and then we were up! We walked back to the tip of the hill to eat our lunch and had a wonderful time discussing God and salvation and what is meant by the Kingdom of God. (I'm sure those were not talked of all those years ago.) I'd like to say I felt like a kid again, but the truth of it is that I felt like a very grateful grandma-ish age--still filled with joy at the blessings of beauty and nature (we saw a glimpse of golden brown deer on the way up)--and thrilled to get a top-of-the-hill perspective of my town again.

Going down proved to be the bigger challenge as my knees shook uncontrollably at times so that I had to stop and settle them down and eventually found that walking sidestep down the trail didn't affect them quite so much.
A day later my thigh muscles above my knees are still stiff and sore, but I'm glad I went and am eager to do it again soon. Anyone want to join me?

Daffodils

2009-04-09T13:43:00.001-07:00

I don't get much luck with our small group of daffodils. Here is a picture story of what happened this year.

A Different Kind of March Madness

2009-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Usually I try to just get March over with. It's such a tease. This year I decided to document why I feel the way I do.
Do you see what I mean?
All of these pictures
were taken in my front
yard this month!
And it's only the 18th.
It's crazy.

Trip to Jenae's 31st Birthday

2009-02-27T10:58:00.000-08:00

I flew in on Wednesday Feb. 18 and stayed eight days. It was a marvelous time. Here are a few of my favorite shots.

My Sweetheart

2009-02-14T10:27:00.001-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, I decided to include one of my silly love poems to Don.

Hooray, hurrah! Let's shout and sing.
A husband is a glorious thing--
at least it is when it is you,
and has your luscious eyes, it's true!
You melt my sinews, make me smile,
Give me giggles once in awhile.
I love you more today, my Sweet,
than mints or chocolates or any treat.
Three years is just a tiny smidgen
of the eternity I'll be your pigeon.

Mmmmm

2009-02-11T07:55:00.000-08:00

Gray and moist and marvelous,
early morning mist
leaves upon my chilly cheek
a soft and silent kiss.

2009-02-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

Don discovered this fairly unusual egg. It has a real point to it!

Winter Wonderland

2009-01-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

There is a cold and fiery beauty in winter, where the stiff black bareness of trees is iced in puffy piles of pure white snow--

where springtime promises of bursting blossoms hibernate, hide as mere memories, beneath frozen foam--

where the slow drops from crystal columns of ice whisper "soon," "someday," "shhhh."

Sunshine Scripture 15

2009-01-25T08:01:00.000-08:00

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20
What a wonderful promise! The next time you bow in prayer with another, or sit down to read scriptures together, or meet in a congregation of faith to worship, pause a minute and look around. God is in your midst. Scoot over; make room for him.

Sunshine Scripture 14

2009-01-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long- suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. Galatians 5:22
Did you ever pick a ripe peach from a tree and enjoy its juicy freshness? Remember how yummy it was? If that was good, sink your teeth into the fruit of the spirit. Take a deep bite of love, joy, peace and goodness, and all the other fruits on God's list. Let the delicious juice roll down your chin.

Sunshine Scripture 13

2009-01-03T06:12:00.000-08:00

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Psalms 8:3-5

Consider the heavens. Step outside and look up into the night sky. The stars are scattered over the darkness of deep space. Feel the immensity of the universe that surrounds you. Know that in all the vast never-ending reaches of creation, you are important, crowned with glory and honor.

Christmas Visit

2008-12-26T12:30:00.000-08:00

I went to Shaunalei and Michelle's homes on Christmas morning and took a couple of pictures of happy (and tired) kids. I'm sorry I missed taking a shot of Daniel. He was on the floor enjoying his big toy truck and playing gas station. I got a kick out of the Andersen kids following their strings of yarn to find their "big" presents. I even got in on the action with Ashleigh after we had to undo all the yarn she had wrapped around her wrist when it became too hard to fit through some narrow places. I hope everyone had a wonderful time this Christmas!

Richard's Graduation

2008-12-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

I was glad that Kirsten and her kids were willing to let me tag along on their stay in Salt Lake so I could go to the graduation, too. I had a great time and was so proud of Richard.

2008-12-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

It's early A.M. and there on the hearth are our shoes getting warm so they'll snuggle our feet.

When I see out my window the sky's getting pink, I run out the door and into the street.

The lens on my camera fogs up from the cold; I'm grateful the sky is not full of sleet.

I dash to the churchyard; the darkening pink makes the silhouette limbs a sunrise "complete."

My toes are all nippy, my nose has turned red, but this morning's glow has been such a treat!

Richfield Visit

2008-11-25T17:30:00.000-08:00

Hi! That's me waving hello from the top of a weathered red rock to the west of Richfield. In spite of having to come home a bit early because of my "swimming" head (thanks, Jorgen, for getting me back safely), I had a great time visiting at Kirsten's while Jenae was in town from California. Some of us had an early morning walk in the ravine and Kirsten knew how to set the self-timer so we all could be in the shot. Julie and her kids and Jennifer came to play games with Jenae and her kids and her friend Ryan and his wife and Kirsten and Rebecca and Michelle and her family and Tom and his family and (whew! You get the picture! The house was pretty crowded. Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures while everyone was there.) Julie had a good time doing hula hoops on Spencer's WI(Is that how you spell it?)and it gave the rest a good laugh. There was lots of laughter and good food, too. Isn't it great to have friends and family?!

Skies

2008-11-09T05:49:00.000-08:00

Don't

you

love

a

lively

sky

where

tattered

bits

of clouds

rush

by

and

frantic

dancing

leaves

leap

high?

A feast

for heart

and soul

and eye.

Halloween

2008-11-03T06:17:00.000-08:00

Strange creatures showed up at our house on Friday night. They were our only trick or treaters as we participated in the Trunk or Treat at the church earlier. I took my decorated wheelbarrow over and won a prize. Lorraine Steffens wanted to take a picture that included the contents of the wheelbarrow, so I bent down but unfortunately lost my footing and fell right over on my side and rolled onto my back with my feet in the air. It was hilarious. No harm done, not even a bruise. Just a lot of laughter.

A Sunrise to Savor

2008-11-01T11:35:00.001-07:00

Nearing November

2008-11-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

My feet move, scuff, through crunchy gold--

through rusty-orange, bright, bold--

through brilliant yellow,

richest red--

as old October paths I tread.

Glorious beauty--

fading
fast.

I
cannot
make
my
autumn
last.

2008-10-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

There are some mornings when getting out of bed early brings great returns. This sunrise was one of those. I feel privileged when I see such moments of glory.

Sunshine Scripture 12

2008-10-12T06:06:00.000-07:00

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Romans 15:13

Be fully supplied, filled completely, teeming with hope—for you can do amazing things when you are full of joy and peace. Hope that whispers to your heart from the Holy Ghost can bring you all you need. Believe. It's that simple. Let your hope abound.

A Lovely Week

2008-10-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

This has been a week of beauty with many moments of joy.
Don and I went to Kelly's Grove up the canyon and sat by the stream enjoying the perfect temperature, the soft sound of the water rolling over the rocks, and the shimmer of sunlight behind the golden autumn leaves. It was a delight, indeed. Don tried out the swings and we both laughed at the funny-shaped little pine tree.
I was able to have fun reading with Jessika and Micah, and then have additional fun playing with Peter and Ashleigh.
This week I was contacted by Melissa, my young friend and organizer of the writing group at BYU who helped me greatly with my Grig novel. I was so happy to find that the group are still meeting, and I am going to join them again. Hurrah! I can hardly wait until Wednesday.
I was blessed that Erik was willing to help out when my computer went kaput for a time. He backed up all my systems, got a mouse to work that refused to do anything when I tried to connect it, took care of checking all the systems and making my start up time shorter. In short, he was generous and restored my peace of mind so I can connect with so many of my family members. Thanks, Erik!
Also, I got the chance to help a little with Michelle's move and enjoyed walking with Daniel around a large section of blocks just after the sun had gone down and before the dark of night was complete. I forgot my camera, so I didn't get pictures, but I think the twin home they are renting now is really nice!
To top off a great week, we watched general conference and I was uplifted and made joyous again listening to the talks. What goodness and kindness. I am rejuvenated. (Oh, and it has rained softly for two days now. Just what we needed!) Life is good; thank you, God.

Sunshine Scripture 11

2008-09-24T06:18:00.000-07:00

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
James 1:17

A perfect gift. What would it be like? Gifts are always exciting— wrapped in bright paper— full of expectations of delight. But a perfect gift, from the Father of lights, would be beyond our imagination. All that is good and right and uplifting comes to us as a gift from our Father. He has the perfect gift for you. Open it.

2008-09-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

Ashleigh and Peter and I walked this afternoon to see what beautiful things we could find. We found tiny flowers that looked like sego lilies, and hollyhocks that were twice as tall as Ashleigh, and thistle heads and cattails by the old mill pond. It was a lovely day, but the things I found to be the most beautiful and amazing were the two little grandchildren I was with.

How Blessed I Am!

2008-09-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday I had such a wonderful walk! The day was perfect: a lively sky of deep blue with dancing white clouds, just enough wind to keep from overheating, a great gray promise of rain that only delivered a few drops but enough to steep the world in the scent of fresh water before clearing away. Marvelous.

Bird Power

2008-09-21T06:33:00.000-07:00

This shows what can happen when a whole bunch of individually weak creatures get together with a greedy purpose! A covey of quail really went to work on our planter that sits underneath the bird feeder. They wanted every tiny seed, and they were willing to move mountains (well, nearly every pebble) in order to get them all. The second shot I took standing by one of the bits of rock that had been flung out of the planter. Amazing. And so funny. It has brought me loads of smiles to see this.

My Life

2008-09-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

My life is not very exciting, but it's full of wonderful things. The first picture is the gorgeous full moon rising above the church to the east of us. Isn't it amazing how big the moon can look until you try to take a picture of it? It was glorious, though.

The second is our fun bird feeder. Tired of the mess of scattered seed that was flung across our patio, Don concocted the tray from a clear plastic cover that came with a large platter from BYU catering. He fastened the tray with screws to the bottom of the feeder and painted the edge white so the birds could see it better. It has been fun to watch them. He saw a small sparrow-like bird perch on the thin edge of plastic for a moment before flying off. Today the quail were pecking up the tiny seeds from the ground and planter below the feeder. They made an even bigger mess by flinging our small reddish lava pebbles out of the planter to try and find more seeds. They are so cute it is pitiful.

The third picture is the tree that grows on the northeast corner of our yard. In spring it has lovely delicate flowers, and now there are large clumps of orange berries of some sort that hang like upside down bouquets.

How blessed I am!

Sunshine Scripture 10

2008-09-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

And God saw everything that he had made,
and behold, it was very good.
Genesis 1:31

Everything that God made is good. Think of the array of things he has created. It includes mountains, sky, rivers, trees, oceans, flowers, rainbows, stars, universes. It includes every living thing: both creeping bug and fluttering butterfly. And it includes you.
Begin the day by knowing you are good because God made you. Be good.

Sunshine Scripture 9

2008-09-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
Psalms 33:2

What joy it will be to play musical instruments in praise of the Lord, even ones with ten strings! I hope we all get to sing and play a vast variety of music makers we have never even heard of. In the meantime, right now, praise Him with whatever means you have, even if it's only a croaky off-tune voice. He will love it.

2008-09-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Shaunalei and Jennifer, we did have a Turner reunion on Saturday Sept. 6. It was nice to have a chance to sit around, eat, and visit a bit. Holding it at the Holdaway Park was convenient to those of us who live in Springville. Although there were many who weren't able to be there, I am glad we had it.

Sunshine Scripture 8

2008-08-31T16:41:00.000-07:00

And God called the dry land Earth: and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
Genesis 1:10

How joyous it is to stand on the shore of the "great waters" and watch as the endless roll of waves meets the dry land.
Experience the crash and murmur, the tumble, the tumult, the ebb and flow. Feel the life force of the moving waters. Smell the salty air. And thank God for both the sturdy dry land under your feet and the gathering of the waters. Know that it is good.

Our Trip to Richfield

2008-08-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

Don and I went to Richfield to Kirsten and Richard's so we could see them and meet Sarah for the first time. We had a wonderful time. Kirsten is always so warm and welcoming that we love to be around her. Rebecca's bubbly fun way of expressing herself (with lots of hand movements involved) made me smile. Spencer was away at play practice for some of the evening so we didn't get to hear as much from him. He plans to be an actor some day and will make a good one. Richard made a scrumptious pasta dinner with noodles alfredo, wonderful vegetable dishes and a fruit lasagna for dessert. It was a joy to hear Sarah's fun laugh. Her eyes sparkle and she is full of enthusiasm. Ken and Devi entertained us, too--it was especially funny to see Ken growl and scare Devi who ran to the bedroom to hide. (Devi is the dog, in case you didn't know that.) Don and I also found the Mystic Springs (hot mineral water formations and pools) fascinating. My family records say that my great, great-grandfather, Abraham Washburn, helped found Monroe, Utah and was most likely the first white man ever to soak in those HOT waters. We stopped at the Monroe cemetery to view the grave sites of several of my ancestors. We capped the trip off by attending a session of the Manti temple, my favorite temple in many ways. All in all it was a good trip!

Sunshine Scripture 7

2008-08-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God,
and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Temples are built to be a place on earth where God can dwell. We make them of the very best materials, and fill them with beauty so we can find peace there and feel Him near us.
You are a temple, built by God of the most marvelous materials, shining with His spiritual inheritance. Keep your temple clean and pure. Only let what is worthy enter.

Teri and Kids Come to Visit

2008-08-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

It was wonderful to have some time to visit with Teri and her two youngest, McKay and Jaycie. South Carolina is a long way away, so we are thankful for any time we get to spend together. McKay enjoyed playing with the little magnet rods and balls and using them to make the letters of his name. Jaycie liked wearing her brother's shoes. How blessed we are to have family.

Sunshine scripture 6

2008-08-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

. . . [H]e did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

The Acts 14:17

Rain is such a refreshment to the world. It brings the aroma of life and living to dry and dusty days. Rain brings hope of green abundance—a promise of fruitful harvests to come. Let your heart rejoice in rain, food, and God's gift of gladness.

Remembering Michelle

2008-08-10T14:48:00.001-07:00

Our flag is at half-mast. The wind last night loosened our flag so that this morning it was nearly at half-mast. I went out to fix it, but somehow it seemed right to me to that we should announce publicly the mourning we are experiencing inside us. So, rather than raise it, I lowered it all the way to the half-way point.
Don's young daughter, only 36 years of age, took her life last Wednesday night. For years she has struggled with physical and emotional pain that has been overwhelming in its intensity. I guess she finally reached the limit of what she could endure.
Don's heart is broken. We both struggle with waves of sorrow that rise and fall. We talk a lot about how beautiful Michelle is, and remember her sense of humor and adventure, her love of riding horses, her love for her children. We are glad that she is released from the burden of her pains, but it is hard to accept that she is gone from this sphere of life. How grateful we are for our knowledge and testimony of God's love. I can picture her snuggled in his arms. We love you, Michelle.
Our flag is at half-mast.

While Emily and Mom are at the Movie

2008-08-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

Becky tried on my shoes. They weren't quite the right size. We raised the flag. (Don't worry, it didn't touch the ground.) And Kaleb and Becky were curious about the peeling bark on our white birch tree. It was great to "explore" the yard together. (If you want to see a picture of Emily letting a tarantula climb over her hand, go to the internet site below:
http:www.heraldextra.com/content/view/274843/17/)
It has been a joy having them all visit for a while.

Sunshine Scripture 5

2008-08-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

I Peter 1:3

Picture a wiggly, active, “lively hope," like a little child who can't sit still: eager, full of curiosity, skipping, running, turning, peering into crevasses, wide awake. That sounds so much better than a lazy slug of hope that droops on its bed, listless, weak, and apathetic. Shake your hope awake. Get it moving.

Camping

2008-07-27T15:19:00.001-07:00

What a lot of family fun I had Friday night as I camped for the first time in years. Jenae is here from California, and she brought her tent so that I got to stay with her, Becky, Emily, and Kaleb. Julie, my niece and Jenae's cousin, came up with her tent, too, and she and her four children camped at the same site with us. The children got along great and could entertain themselves (spending a long time making an open "coffin" in the sand of the volleyball court near the lodge--we stayed at Mutual Dell up American Fork Canyon). Shaunalei came up to visit and bring Jenae's kids to stay (they had spent some time with their cousins earlier in the day). And although the weather was hot, and carrying all the gear can be less than joyous, we managed to enjoy ourselves a lot, playing games, chatting, and enjoying pine trees. I highly recommend it to anyone.

Sunshine Scripture 4

2008-07-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

The night is far spent, the day is at hand; let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

Romans 13:12

Let today be a morning, a new start, a chance to cast off darkness. Let the Light of Christ be upon you as a strong suit of shining armor. Feel the protection and confidence that comes from wearing powerful armor. It truly seems like the slaying of dragons of discouragement is possible if you are clothed in light.

Who's Right

2008-07-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

The skies looked just a teensy gray

today when Grandma walked.

“An umbrella?” Grandpa asked,

but Grandma merely squawked.

“I know best,” she smugly said,

“It isn't going to rain.”

And she was only slightly wet

When she got home again.

Sunshine Scripture 3

2008-07-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.

Isaiah 58:11

How joyful it sounds to have fat bones. Doesn't that seem solid and healthy? To be a watered garden or an unfailing spring of water would be wonderful. You could be a source of nourishment and refreshment to everyone around you. Walk this life with your fat bones looking for those who are hungry and thirsty. Fill them from your soul.

A True Story

2008-07-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

A True Story (I watched it happen)

A little fledgling bird, one day,

Sat on a pine tree limb,

And chirped and waited patiently

For mom to come feed him.

The mama bird came flying down.

She had a cherry, red.

The baby opened wide its beak

And then threw back its head.

The cherry was a bit too big.

The bird's mouth was too small.

Mom pushed to force the fruit inside.

It caused her babe to fall.

With fluttering wings, it tried to grip

A lower trembling limb.

The mother dropped the cherry down

And loudly chirped at him.

The baby's struggles were in vain

It fell and hit the dirt.

But since the limb was near the ground,

The baby wasn't hurt.

It flapped its wings to dust them off,

And flew beneath the tree.

Then chirped at mom with mournful sound,

“Please give some food to me.”

The mother found the cherry, red

And pecked the fruit in half.

If you had seen that baby eat,

I know you would have laughed.

It opened up its little beak,

Its cheeks were puffed out wide.

Its eyes shone bright when mama bird

Just stuffed each half inside.

Patio Poetry July 13, 2008

Sunshine Scripture 2

2008-07-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

Psalms 19:1

Where better can you feel the presence of God than in the midst of his handiwork? Look around you. Sunrises, cloud patterns, tall maples and slender aspen trees with leaves like silver dollars that shimmer and dance in the breezes, quiet brooks that flow through stony beds: all the beauty of the earth shows the hand of the creator. Join with the heavens and declare his glory.

2008-07-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

I have spent many mornings this summer out on my back patio enjoying my private "forest" while I watch the birds or work on my latest story. It has been cool, and soothing to my soul at the same time. This picture is not a current one. We have added two bird feeders and have had a couple of greedy gray-breasted jays come to visit. They peck out the seeds they want and scatter the rejects far and wide around the feeder with their beaks. Very finicky, indeed.
This is one of those small joys that I get on nearly a daily basis. I hope you have a place of serenity where you can slow down and breathe deeply in peace.

2008-07-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

I'm experimenting with blogging again. I feel very much out of my comfort zone. I may make mistakes and haven't found a way to edit my blog once I have posted something, so realize that I'm an old dog trying to learn new tricks.
The GRANDMAW idea is one I had a long time ago. I hoped my grandchildren and children could have an outlet for their original Music, Art or Writing. It would be GRAND for me to see what they had created. The result would be a GRANDMAW site. I have no idea if a blog can be used for that purpose. I know now (somewhat) how to post my own writings (and may even try to add a picture) but I would love to see their work, too. If any of you have any suggestions, please let me know.
I had a picture here, but it has disappeared, so I will try to find it again. There it is; it shows me staring fixedly at the computer screen with the self-made halo from the overhead light slightly off kilter to the left. I think this may be fun after all.

2008-07-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Sunshine Scriptures and Meditations

to start the day off right

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.

Romans 9:16

Doesn't it tingle the top of your head to think about this verse? We are the children of God. How in the world can we allow ourselves to live in denial of our true heritage? Feel within you the strength of that spirit child of God which you are. Rejoice.

2006-02-07T09:40:00.001-08:00

Today is the gift I hold in my hands.