Second Snow of the Season

This is the second snow fall of the season. This much fell in 2 hours. But in the last 30 minutes it has been HUGE flakes. They are about 2 1/2 to 3 inch flakes. Not seen those size ever. So I thought I would take a picture and share cause I love the snow.

"Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future."
---------------------Paul Boese

Second weekend in Utah

Our second weekend in Utah we spent time with both Ryan and Ashlee. At Ashlee's suggestion we went to Temple Square to see the 8' open replica of the Salt Lake Temple. It was amazing to see how exact the details are, down to the chairs and art work on the walls. Then we made a trip to the Hogle Zoo. Who knew that you can have as much fun with adult kids and small kids at the zoo. Here are a few pictures.

In this picture is the oldest elephant in North America and Nick. They both celebrate their 50th birthday this month. Nick's June 17th and the elephant June 26th. Just had to take this shot. As the zoo attendant said Nick is older than all of the elephants in North America.

This is actually only one turtle. I thought it was really cool.

The baby elephant is 10 months old and was really playful. We really enjoyed watching him. The zoo keeper sprayed him with water and just after she put the hose away he went and rolled in the mud puddle. Reminded us of how kids are just after they have been cleaned up.



Second weekend in Utah

The three of us watching the baby elephant.

Ryan and Ashlee being themselves!


Angel Moroni (replica)

The north side of the temple (replica)



East side of the temple (replica)










Visit with Ryan and Ashlee

Over Memorial Day weekend Ryan was able to come to Utah and spend sometime. Memorial Day weekend and the following weekend he spent his time with me. He also had the opportunity to met Nick. The first weekend we took some hikes. Our first one was Sunday evening to Antelope Island. Then Monday we went into Little Cottonwood Canyon and did two little hikes. One was the Sandy City trail which led to a small reservoir. Then we went to show Nick the Temple Quarry. The Temple Quarry is where there extracted the granite for the Salt Lake Temple. Here are a few of the pictures that Nick took on this first weekend.
Ryan on a huge piece of Granite Rock at the Temple Quarry in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

Nick, I and Ryan with the Great Salt Lake shores behind us.

Ryan and I at Antelope Island, Utah


Meeting Ryan at the SLC Airport




Reflection

Fourteen years ago today I married Elwood. Since that time a lot has changed in my life. Eight years ago I filed for divorce and two months later I became a widow instead.

I have learned that no matter what life throws at me I can handle it with the Lord's help. As I reflect on the last eight years since Elwood's passing I find that I have struggled with loneliness, finances, and at times with my spirituality. But as I look back to what has gotten me through all my struggles it has been my Heavenly Father, family and friends.

Heavenly Father and all of my family have stood by and continued to love me no matter how stupid some of my decisions were. Friends have come and gone but I have a few that have stuck with me over those years. One of these friends stood beside me the day Elwood was found dead in his motel room and has been there whenever I needed a listening ear. We have had some great conversations in a wide range of topics and at any time of day or night.

I have grown in the gospel and in my day-to-day life. I even took a huge leap of faith and moved to Idaho Falls not knowing a soul up here. But I found a new life on my own. For the very first time in my life I lived totally by myself. I found that I could do it. I started really getting into the singles program. I have built several close friendships here and wouldn't trade this experience for anything.

I also have found that I am able to move forward with life. Tonight, I will share with the new love of my life, Nick, the good parts of my marriage to Elwood.

On this day I am also remembering my Aunt Rene. I will miss her but know that she is reunited with her parents and Granddad Al and Grandma Maxie. She was always full of love and caring for anyone who walked into her life. She taught by that example.

Love you both, Elwood and Aunt Rene, for all you have taught me in my life.
Much to my surprise the Friday before Mother's Day I got a text message from my roommate which said, "You got flowers!" I sent back "What?" Because I don't ever get flowers delivered unless it is in person from anyone. Ryan sent me flowers for Mother's Day! What a wonderful and beautiful gift.

I received just as thought and wonderful gifts from both of my daughters. Megan and Jeff sent a card with a beautiful message. Ashlee called and left me a message wishing me a Happy Mother's Day.

Mother's Day for me was a wonderful day. I spent it attending my church meetings and serving other mothers in a care center. A few of the choir members went to a Care Center and sang for Mother's Day. I felt like I was one of those primary children in sacrament meeting singing to their mothers. Then Nick made a wonderful meal for both Marilyn and I.

Hope all Mother's (Mom, sisters, aunts, cousins and friends) in my life had a wonderful Mother's Day.