Last one for June, 2017

           Those freezing nights a week or so ago appear to have an affect on the possibilities of a good fruit harvest later this year. The low temperatures occurred just when the trees were in blossom and the result is that very few fruits are forming in our orchards or the wild trees in our village.

           Layne and Karen Erickson drove down to Payson, UT, to attend the wedding of their grandson, Kylan Erickson, son of Bryan and Shannon Erickson of Mt. Sterling, UT. His bride is Karlee Jo Hales of Salem, UT. Other family members attending were Paul an Terrie McKay and children, Morgan and Andy. Connie and Adam Westenskow drove down from Woods Cross, UT, to be with the family group. Wedding celebrations continued in Salem following the ceremony in Payson.

           Eric and Lisa Hickman are having an extended visit with our community. They brought his father, Van Hickman, to his summer home in Mink Creek. Van is a summer resident of many years. Eric shares his memories of his own first summer here 40 years ago. All this time,and we still claim him.

            Our Naomi Wilde has celebrated yet another birthday. She turned 102 this past month. She is now living in Pocatello but continues to be part of the Mink Creek scene with her vibrant comments and sense of humor.

            The annual Mink Creek School Reunion was a resounding success this year. It was very well attended, to the point that an extra table needed to be added for the meal. Potluck menu filled plates to overflowing. Mike and MaryAnn Jepsen were in charge this year and their committee was kept busy having things ready. Reminiscing is high on the list of entertainment and both Glade Larsen and Richard Westerberg shared stories for all to hear. Karen Olson Tribbett presented a series of photos from the past when her father John Olson was the principal of the Mink Creek School, beginning in 1949. Many related to those years: the plays, the baton corp, the dances, snowshoeing. Several people donated items for door prizes and there were many pleased faces on the recipients. Ladies over the age of 90, Arda Keller Smith and June Wilde Austin got first pick of the prizes. Names that have been part of the community since its early days were present: Keller, Crane, Jensen, Wilde, Rasmussen, Erickson, Westerberg, Christensen, Olson, Moosman, Larsen, Oliverson, Jepsen, Hansen---a mix of Danes, Norwegians, Swedes and a few Brits. Next year's reunion will be under the direction of Jimmie and AnnaBeth Olson.

           The days are sweltering, the nights are cool, still a great place to live. Plenty of wildlife around this summer, including skunks and cougars. Neither of these are too welcome. The creeks are still high, but not quite as high as a month ago. The weeds continue to grow and the vegetable gardens are trying to keep up the pace. It is summer and we have had lots of visitors, per usual.

           I have found a great little story from my archive searching about a Silas Hansen of Mink Creek, about 1917.  Is he related to any of you?  If I could just find out I might print up that experience for the paper, or for whoever would like.