April 17, 2019

            Paul and Terrie McKay headed to the northwest during spring break to spend a few days with Kristin and Jay Collins of Lakeview, OR. They had a good time at the McKenzie Riverside Cottages. Golf was available, but not compulsory. They loved having some 'cousin time' that comes too seldom. Games, reading, lots of relaxing and just catching up, filled some days.

          Candy Longhurst and her daughter Emily enjoyed a few days hanging out with another daughter, Tiffany, and Spencer Wheeler and their son Hudson, also known as “Hutch.” They were at Canyon, ID, and soaked up the beauties of Jump Creek Falls and the warmer weather. Crazy costumes were adapted to participate in a fun spring activity labeled 'Adventure Hunt.'

         The family of Shawn and Callie Beardall of Spanish Fork, UT, finished off a spring weekend with a trip to Mink Creek and time spent with his parents, Kent and Tammy Beardall. Cousins arrived, they made cookies with Aunt Heather, cut some trees with Grandpa Kent, played “school” with Grandma Tammy. A good time was had by all, and then it was time to go home, where it is still fun, just a different variety. At Shawn and Callie's variety is the order of the day.

        Eldon and Danita Wilcox and Wynn and Cecelie Costley have returned from a trip abroad. It was wonderful, so many things to see and do. They went to Amman, Jordan, to various archaeological sites, to Jerusalem, touring the many sacred spots pertaining to the life of Christ. The olive groves of Israel were impressive. Egypt was another destination with its allure of ancient times and civilizations. It was a time to dress in some of the robes of the cultures, a fun feature. Just think of the different foods there were for sampling. Of course, it is nice to be home.

          The Ostlers, all of them, Alona and Stuart and four children, had the best time in San Carlos, Mexico. They flew to Tucson, AZ, then drove the rest of the distance. Their days were filled with activities: zip-lining thru the trees, swimming with dolphins, shopping, kayaking, the beach and the Pacific Ocean. The nearest market was one less touristy so it provided some true culture as well. Kayaks were rented at the Sea of Cortez, where they went to a pearl farm. Alona and Davanie made it home in time for Davanie's cheer team competition taking place in Salt Lake City.

           In spite of the “on again, off again” weather around here, the hibernating wildlife are becoming active. There are multiple skunk fatalities along the highway and back roads. They are hard to avoid, both in contact and scent. It carries through the air quite a distance.

           Sooo much water! If our fields or yards are of the flat variety, and, yes, there are a few of those in this mountainous community, water is sitting upon the surface, wondering where to go. Saturated is a fitting description of those areas. All waterways are full and flowing speedily.

          The high school prom has come and gone. The fancy attire was a joy to see, along with the nervous and happy faces.

           Greening up is taking place, but it needs some sunshine to offset the drenched appearance. The early daffodils and narcissus look a bit weather-beaten.