Happy New Year!

2008 – As we ponder it’s events, we’re amazed at how much it was a year of transition: from a threesome to a foursome, from a cramped basement to a beautiful new living space, from carefree living to tightening the belt in an economic downturn. And what does the future hold? Hmmm…we can not tell. We have a feeling it’s going to be good, though. Hard times maybe. We might have to part with a little of this earthly treasure and pleasure. But the blessings will far outway the sacrifices when we keep our lives in His hand. And with that, we wish you all a very Happy New Year!

Winter Is Here

The Magic of Winter

Winter and snow is a child's delight - things dreamed of in July;
Sleds and hills, squeals and spills, waving, as the world rushes by.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
Angels they make in the blanket of white, and tomorrow will remember how
Snowflakes felt on their tiny tongues - like magic to them now.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
Snow-people are made and all decked out with colours and a happy smile;
Forts are built with utmost care so they will last awhile.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
Snowballs rolled and piled with glee; tots laughing merrily;
Adults watch, remembering - secrets bubbling free.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
Skiers fly the well-packed slopes, independence lighting their eyes;
Blending with snow as they descend like magic from the skies.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
The ice is cleared so skaters glide and maybe spin a dream
Of triple loops and a sharp edge and costumes of gold and cream
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow everywhere.
At the end of the day all tucked away, they dream of flakes of white
Floating from heaven, in a musical dance - an innocent child's insight.
There is snow on the ground, snow in the air, snow, snow, EVERYWHERE!
~ Joan Adams Burchell

Marilynn Echo Benjamin

Our thoughts are with Dale and Kari as they stand by their Little Baby Marilynn.  She was born Thur. Dec. 4th at a gestational age of only 24 weeks and 4 days.  She weighed in at 1lb. 7oz. and measured 13" long.  Of course this is very premature, and each day she survives is no small victory.  Our hearts are already filled with so much love for her and we hope that all goes well for her in the next few weeks and months.

Jackson Special Meeting

It was truly a special time!

Quite a few came from Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, Pocitello and some from Lander - 32 all told gathered into this little house. We had a potluck before the meeting and, oh my, we had food coming out of our ears! Then we cleaned up, set up chairs in the living/dining room and enjoyed some wonderful messages from Shawna, Sue, and Jim. Jim has been laboring in the Philippines and had so many neat stories from there. Jim spent the night here, so we enjoyed even more visiting over breakfast. Anyway, so awesome to feel our spirits lifted again!

Moments of Blessing

As I reflect on recent privileges and look forward to more in the near future, an image similar to the one below comes to mind as well as the words of this hymn:

"Rich are the moments of blessing, Lovely and hallowed and sweet....."

Wishing you all could be with us Thursday evening. Hope this finds you safe and warm in your winter abodes.

An Arizona Thanksgiving

Here is a little glimpse into Arizona and our time with some good friends.

We left Jackson Wed. morning and headed south through Star Valley, Bear Lake, and over into Logan and Salt Lake City, Utah. We stopped for the night in Cedar City. The boys did well and here is a picture taken the next morning on a high plateau looking down into northern Arizona. It was gray, cold, and rainy, but beautiful none-the-less.
A rare moment, when the boys decided to nap simultaneously!


We arrived in Flagstaff Thur. afternoon and met for Thanksgiving dinner at this lovely couples home - absolutely wonderful to meet each one there. The workers from Las Vagas were staying there, and with Virginia's help, a delicious gourmet feast was served and enjoyed by all - complete with pecan and cherry pie, and pumkin cake roll! Needless to say, we "rolled" out of there, stopped to visit some more friends, and then headed to Brad and Virginia's for the night.

Friday morning we drove up to catch some views of "The Other Grand." These pictures don't begin to do it justice as it was truly breath-taking. I can't imagine the first explorers coming across this high dessert country and stumbling upon this gaping expanse of canyon.

Our wonderful hosts and tour guides!


There is a south rim and a north rim to The Grand Canyon. We were only able to make it to several lookout points on the south rim. The north rim is actually closed in the winter as it is 1000ft higher and recieves more wintery weather. There are several popular trails leading down into the canyon. At the bottom, you can cross a foot bridge and spend the night at Phantom Ranch at the mouth of Bright Angel Canyon. There is a camp area, guest cabins and food. You best make reservations a year in advance though. It is a very popular place.

There is a huge difference in climate between the top and bottom of the canyon. This was my first time to see real cactus growing in the wild. The bottom of the canyon is about 30 degrees warmer than the top, so the leaves on the trees were just starting to change color down there.

Here's a little mountain lion cup we found climbing around in the rocks!

We took a short hike down the Bright Angel trail - one would go on this trail if they were headed down into Phantom Ranch.

One tired little hiker.

Sunset on The Grand Canyon.

Then, we spent Sat. relaxing, playing, hiking, napping, and visiting. Keith visited Brad at the hanger. Then he took a drive down to Sadona, which is similar to Jackson, but very southwestern in style. He took pictures on a disposable camera, so maybe I can post those later.

These are views of rural Flagstaff taken from a hill we hiked up.

Saying good-bye. Thank you, Brad, Virginia and family for sharing your Thanksgiving weekend with us, for your warm hospitality, and for all the delicous meals!

Pointed back north again. The long road out of Flagstaff.

And here are some scenes from the trip home.