Stop-over At Dixie

Jean and I and our oldest granddaughter, Aleck outside of her dorm at Dixie College in St.George Utah where she is a freshmen. We were on our way to Salt Lake where we were going to house our bikes/trailer with our riding companions, (the Nielsons) while are on our journey. The Harley is in the bed of the pickup, (notice the Polish decal on the windshield) and the Goldwing is in the Motorcycle trailer. Aleck is the daughter of our son Matt and we love her and are very proud of who she is. We look forward to hearing of her wonderful college experiences and accomplishments while we are away.

The Last Ride Until 2012

After relocating our bikes and trailer to our friends, (also by the name Nielson, David & Judith, pictured above) home in SLC we went on our last overnight ride to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. We enjoyed nearly perfect riding weather both ways, had a comfortable room, soaked in some really warm spring-fed pools and ate rather marginal food at the local Thai restaurant. Riding on a motorcycle opens up a whole new world for you and I can truthfully say that we have never had a bad ride; some interesting ones, such as the time in the Utah mountains when the deer jumped though the windshield causing us to go down, resulting in a shattered leg. But even that trip had been wonderful......until then! We have a trip planned already upon our return when we will bike to Victoria, Canada, tour the San Juan Islands and eat lots of seafood as we celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary.

Grandaughters Farewell Feed!

Three of our granddaughters, Shaun (from left to right), who is in her first year at the LV Academy of Performing Arts where she is continuing her training on the violin, (which Jean and Jean's mother Marion also played), Aleck, in her 'rookie' year at Dixie College possibly looking for a career in nursing and Maggie, an 8th grader, who sings and plays the piano, all joined Jean and I for an early farewell dinner at Fuddruckers and a sleepover during our farewell weekend. We would have loved for our other three to have joined us, Austen, who was playing football for Dixie, Ayden and his sister Adisyn both in Arizona, but it wasn't going to happen this time. Oh well, maybe upon our return. Still, we want all of our children and grandchildren to know how much we love them and despite our excitement for our upcoming mission we will be thinking and praying for them individually as we serve the Lord in HIS Church.

Groomed Puppies!

Our good doggies went to the 'groom doctor' to ready themselves for their (our) farewell photo. Roxy, our golden retriever and Shiloh, part German Shepperd/part Chow, both age 5 pose at the 'Freedom Park' which is across the street and so named because anytime the dogs go out they think they have the right and freedom to run to it without lease or human control. We will miss them as only one who has had a loyal dog can appreciate. Remember, you are suspose to bark when someone enters the house, not lick them. We will see you both in about 356 days.

FAREWELL & OPEN HOUSE

IT WAS A GREAT SUNDAY! Jean and I spoke in Sacrament service and told of the different paths our conversions took. Jean bore a powerful testimony of how and why she joined the Church which she had been searching for after the unexpected passing of her mother. Although I had heard this story a number of times I am still moved by the many marvelous events that took place as she finally found the Church which could answer her questions; where did I come from, why am I here and where am I going after this life is over?
We felt blessed to have of our family there including our oldest son Kent and three of our grandchildren including our deceased son Colin's daughters, Shaun and Maggie. In addition, a friend of mine dating back to 1953 and six of my co-workers came, having not been in our Church before let alone sitting in a Sacrament and farewell.

Later that evening, David and Margit Gaffin open their beautiful home to all who could attend to enjoy some light food and to say their goodbyes. It was a warm and meaningful experience to enjoy for 2 hours the company of so many good friends both from our Ward and the Stake. The picture of the fruit-in-vase is a replica of a Harley Davidson fuel tank which was altogether proper and perfect for the occasion. Thanks to the Gaffins and to all who came, who provided the food and who wished us well on our upcoming journey.