Sept 11, 2013

Labor Day weekend sent campers galore headed up to our canyons and beyond.  Besides the RVs, the 4 wheelers and motorcycles there were plenty of boats.  That translates into hours spent on Bear Lake and its shores, just over the mountains east of Mink Creek.  These recreation enthusiasts had Friday, Saturday and Sunday to enjoy sunny weather.  Labor Day itself started raining with gusto early on, and stayed gloomy with persistent moisture coming down most of the day.

            Our ground has been so dry that it was most welcomed, but there is no doubt that all that dampness put an end to many celebrations.  It is continually amazing how dry the terrain can be, nearly to the crackling point, and a good storm paints the surroundings with green once again.

Bryan and Shannon Erickson and sons came up from Woodland Hills, UT and split their weekend between his parent’s place, Layne and Karen Erickson, and  the beachfront home they have in Bear Lake.  It made for a nice combination.

Ella Jepsen, daughter of Kerry and Melinda Jepsen, turned eight years old before the closing days of August and was baptized and confirmed the newest member of Mink Creek’s LDS Ward.  Friends and relatives were here to witness this occasion.

Sharon Moran has returned from a late summer water trip.  She has been kayaking in the Puget Sound in Washington with her son Willie Moran and friends.   Willie is now employed in that area of our country, growing organic produce, and loving it.

Jody and Laural Janke and their family took a quick drive to Pleasant Grove, UT, to witness the wedding of a friend who has moved there recently.

Fall plowing is part of the work to be done for those of us here that are still in the business of farming.  That recent rain was certainly sent at the perfect time for this necessary task.

It is bow hunting season.  Camouflage clothing, silent steps, good equipment and tools required, have all made it a good hunt for the bow enthusiasts.   I have heard some success stories already this fall.

            Canning season is underway in most homes.  Some apples are ready, zucchini abounds,  cucumbers are turned to pickles, the fall raspberries are on….and there are plans for more as the weeks pass and harvests increase.  Garden tomatoes grace the tables, but they are also being turned into many variety of tomato recipes:  salsa, chili sauce, chili, spaghetti sauce,  plain old tomatoes, and the list goes on.