August 29, 2017

               As with all roadways heading to Idaho Falls the traffic on Highway 36 through Mink Creek increased in the days surrounding the solar eclipse. Jackson Hole held its usual allure as a bonus for those on this road. The solar eclipse was felt here in Mink Creek, but not at 100% as it was further north. We felt the temperature dip considerably, thinking a jacket might be in order. The sky darkened a bit, not quite dusk, but with that feel. At least one group took advantage of having family living near Idaho Falls. The Robert Crosland family, plus some extensions, went up for a visit with their daughter Malia and Jason Kunde in Rigby, ID.

             That heavenly event postponed the arrival of our school buses to start the new year. The very next day those yellow carriers were on schedule for the excited youth of the community. And so the more regular routine for the residents of our villagae has begun, again. The time for Fair princesses, Rodeo Royalty and beautiful modeling of clothes by those seamstresses has closed out and the volleyballs, soccer balls and footballs are claiming priority of 'leisure time.'

              Orin Baird, son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, was recently baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. With this he becomes officially the newest member of the local LDS Ward.

             Joshua and Lizzy Greene and their sons, recent members of our community have moved to North Dakota. They are now living in Williston, where Josh is employed.

           The family of Jeannine and Johnny Iverson has had numerous visitors lately. With nine children of theirs, plus the children of those children, it seems their doors are open much of the summer months. They have had some from as far away as Virginia and Texas, others closer to home. Not long ago a group of Iversons participated in their annual camp trip, hiking to the Wind River mountains of Wyoming. Kurt Iverson reported that there were no injuries of a serious nature.

Jim and Debbie Harrison have been up from St. George. It is always great to see lights in their Mink Creek home.

            Imogene Stein dropped in for a visit with her brothers, Bob Erickson and Layne Erickson, while she was up this way attending a Class Reunion. Emmie currently lives in Saratoga Springs, UT close to a couple of her children.

             The community got together for a shared outdoor movie night at the Mink Creek Ballpark. All attenders were encouraged to bring comfort in the form of blankets, lawn chairs, to enjoy the evening. Popcorn, brownies and homemade rootbeer filled in the concessions offered. This was a first time event and the weather was a bit threatening, but held off for the evening.

            When the thought comes that rain would be welcome here, the immediate impression is that of all the rain that friends in Texas are experiencing, their concerns and problems. Our hillsides are dry, brittle growth, so grateful for the water here to keep crops and gardens green and growing.

            Our summer folk ares sparse as fall approaches, school and cooler routines take them back to the winter destinations. Now it will be just occasional visits to their Mink Creek oasis.