Handcart Pioneers

This monument is at This is the Place State Park and commemorates the Handcart Companies who came across the plains to the Salt Lake Valley from 1856 to 1860. There were ten companies and my Great Grandmother, Susan Olds Turner, came in the Stoddard Company with her sister and brother and her mother, Elizabeth Uren Olds, who joined the Church in 1853 in South Africa. Before they started their trek in Florence, Nebraska on July 7, 1860, they were told that if they were obedient and faithful no one in the company would die en route. They arrived in the Salt Lake Valley on September 24, 1860, and this promise was fulfilled. I am so grateful for Elizabeth and her little family for their courage and sacrifice. They have had a profound influence on my life.

Photo Op

Great Times with Visitors from Wales

Let's Back Up - Ciera's Bridal Shower

26 JULY 2011

 Ciera, the cute bride, and Chantel, the cute Mom

Lauren, Julie, Emily and Melissa were all there. 

And of course, Ellie, the star of every show.

I think Ciera really liked this gift from her Mom.

I love it when all of my girls are together - Kim, Julie, Chantel, Cherie

All but Lyndsey of the girl cousins were together.

Ellie, Melissa, Katelyn, Ciera, Emily Lauren, Hayley and Paige

They bring me a lot of joy.

Tanner's Baptism

Even though the trip was short, it was great to see everyone.

It was especially nice that Dave was here, and so important for him to be here too. 

I love this family photo. It may be one of the last before Chase leaves for his mission
and before Ciera and Seth are married.
We will be back next weekend to hear Chase speak.

We love the things the people in this family are doing.

Visitors and More Celebrations

It is always the best of times when family is together.

While visiting here, Brett walked all the way from

This is the Place Monument to Bountiful.

On the 25th, Ciera and Seth dropped by to see us and to have brownies and milk.
I loved seeing them and it meant a lot to me that they would
come to see us when they are so busy.

Then we were off to BYU, one of my most favorite places in the world.
We were taking Austin to Lacrosse Camp but had other things in mind too.
We were so excited to go to the Bookstore, but it was closed in
celebration of the 24th of July--again. Bummer!

So we went to University Mall and found
wonderful things we wanted to buy. 

One more addition to my "visitors" post. Kristy and Tyler came from Virginia for

Tyler's 20th Class Reunion.

It was great to see them and enjoy dinner at Mike & Jen's.

Come Listen to a Prophet's Voice

Cody was wondering what he should be doing with his life now that he is home from his mission and is well again - concentrating on his college education, working hard and saving money, or pursuing his courtship of Emily. He listened at General Conference and knew when the prophet spoke that he should get married. President Monson said, "Brethren, there is a point at which it's time to think seriously about marriage and to seek a companion with whom you want to spend eternity. If you choose wisely and if you are committed to the success of your marriage, there is nothing in this life which will bring you greater happiness." So Cody listened, so Cody obeyed. He is also working and going to college, just not quite at the pace he previously planned. I know it will all work out in the end because it always does when we do as the prophet advises.