December 29, 2020

 

The Mink Creek community gathered for its annual celebration of Christmas season. This year things were a bit different, as has been all things since March 2020. Keeping in mind the limitations, the social distancing and the wearing of masks, the program was televised into three rooms at the LDS Meetinghouse. It was a showing of videos centered on the birth and life of Christ, with narration by Michael Jepsen and the prompting to follow Him, to Hear Him, to try to do as He does. Following the program the group adjourned to the rec hall for a reading of an original Christmas story written and read by Marty Mickelson, a friend from Lewiston, UT. The book was large on a screen and all ages could enjoy the story telling of a moose family who helped out at Christmas time. Social distancing could be practiced, but it was great to see one another. A treat of cheesecake all packaged prettily and a cup of hot spiced cider were ready to be taken home as the evening closed down. The Relief Society presidency was there to pass out a gift of a hand towel and poem to each sister, attached to it a metal ornament of Christ’s story.

Jimmie and Anna Beth Olson traveled to Richfield, UT, this month for a chance to watch twin granddaughters, play in a volleyball game. Their parents are Jerry and Christine Olson of St. George and Jimmie and Anna Beth took advantage of the game in Richfield as being the closest they would get to Preston in their games this year.

Neil Lemon, Juli Egley’s father, is with us for these winter months. It gives a warm feeling to the whole community to see the lights on in the Bryce Egley home where he is staying, within a stone’s throw of Juli and Jared Egley’s home.

The Christmas Star was very visible from our valley. The lack of street lights simply added to the beauty of it. The local coyotes have been pretty vocal lately, can’t help but wonder if these critters noticed this phenomenon.

Along with the coyotes we have the owl conversations during the moonlight hours. I love going out in the dark to hear their talking. Somehow it carries so clearly in cold crisp temperatures.

The turning over of the calendar in just a couple of days will reveal 2021. After the last nine months of uncertainty and restrictions it causes some questions as to what the next 12 will bring into our lives. Change is always a part of life and we can be hopeful there will be some good changes during this time. “Old acquaintances should not be forgot, and Happy New Year.”

Christmas week, 2020

 

Three storms have moved in during the past week, depositing several inches. Every piece of land in our village is on a slope so it is a bit of a challenge to claim we have so many inches. It might be 4 inches on our lower levels and twice that or more as one gets closer to the entrance of Strawberry Canyon. We are happy to have it, the fall has been super dry. The snowmobiling crowd can hardly wait to visit and play.

With the recent storms that effectively cover portions of the highway surfaces we are grateful for those road crews who painted the center and fog lines of the state/county roadways. Those yellow lines help keep us safe if everyone would heed their meaning. The lines makes staying where one belongs a little easier as we maneuver the slush and possible ice. So far only a little fog, but it will increase in the future.

The Young Women of our community have accomplished another service project. This time they made homemade soup and delivered soup baskets , plus some suitable additions, to the adults who are widows, widowers, or single and on their own.

Charles Iverson, son of Dr. Kurt and Margret Iverson, and a junior at Preston High, earned special recognition for his football talents in being named to the 4A District All conference team, the First Team offense. Congratulations, Charles, on a job well done.

This feat has seemed like an impossibility but it has finally happened. Members of the Mink Creek ward Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been able to participate in ZOOM meetings. Our hills and mountains have caused various barriers to this type of activity, but recently there has been at least three of such gatherings that were proclaimed “successful.” Almost beyond imagination, but true!

I hope you all had skies clear enough to see the "Christmas Star." From the valley of Mink Creek it was beautiful and the night was perfect for this once-in-a-lifetime event, clear and cold.  The planets were visible when the sun went down leaving a lovely streaked blue color on the horizon reaching up to the darkening sky and the 'star'. A wonderful time of this strange year for this to happen.  I consider it an extra gift for the 2020 season.  A positive memory.  Merry Christmas, everyone.

December 15, 2020

 

Ken and Lauren Nash were up from their home in Santa Ynez, CA. Hoping for a taste of winter, it is still a nice time of year to be in Idaho at the Haws family dwelling, soaking up the peaceful sound of Mink Creek as it flows in the back yard.

Ron and Mary Norris spent the recent holidays in Bluffdale, UT, with their daughter, some grandchildren and several more happy faces around that table of feasting.

Laural and Jody Janke and children spent a fall vacation of four days in Mink Creek with her parents, Bob and Claudia Erickson. Coming up from Richfield, UT, they were hoping we might have some snow, but still found plenty of entertainment. One goal achieved was that of harvesting their annual Christmas tree and getting it back to Utah with the evergreen needles still attached. Abigail Janke, their daughter, was just finishing the at-home MTC training and left the next week to begin her service in the Washington, Everett, Mission.

The family of Bishop Paul and Terrie McKay gathered at their home on Station Creek for the holiday. Andy McKay and Morgan and Eli Curtis came up from Logan. Only Cody and Kevyn Mckay who now live in the southwest were missing. Terrie’s parents, Karen and Layne Erickson shared in the bounty of the day.

Chad and Dawnell Greene are missing a son due to long distance. Travis Greene has moved to Florida. Two of the Greene sons, Josh and Robbie, and their families live here in Mink Creek, Heston’s family is in Preston and Izac is in Cache Valley. Only daughter Hannah now fills the Greene nest.

Tracy and Joni Hilliard-Crane came up from Vernal, UT, to do some visiting within the area. They headquartered in Grace, ID, but as Mink Creek is Tracy’s family’s roots there were several stops here. Memories and the Crane and Keller cemetery plots make this a comfortable place for these two. Seeing Tracy it was like having his father, Keith Crane, back in town.

 Depending on your perspective, our weather has improved. Since the last post of the blog two storms have moved through on their way east. The first dropped an inch or two of snow, enough to warrant shoveling the walkway. The second brought in about 4 inches more. When the fall season has been as dry as this past one has been every bit of moisture is welcomed. I had a reader comment that I often write about the weather. I am a farmer’s wife and weather with its ups and downs has always played a very important role in our lives. In this village we pay attention to the weather, 24/7, year round.   

December 8, 2020

 

We were grateful that the last power outage was of a relatively short duration. It served as a reminder to keep our alternate lighting systems handy because there is no warning for the unplanned situations.

A new grand child has arrived for family of Phee and Robert Crosland. Marco and Christina Crosland have a new little girl down there in Texas. She is named Arienna Rae Crosland, weighed 8 lb. 8 oz, and was 21 inches in height. They live in Pilot Point, north of Dallas.

Juliana and Blaine Packer and their children Cedar, Kimber and Casen have been home for a visit with her parents, LaRon and Liesa Baird. They were able to see her brother Dallon in the high school musical. Juliana, who lives in Jackson, ID, came to join her grandmother, Lana McCracken, in watching over her siblings while mom Liesa was able to go on a sisters’ retreat in Park City, UT. Liesa’s sisters and sisters-in-law, joined efforts to create a wedding dress for one of their daughters while having fun just being together. Some came from a considerable distance: Germany, Louisiana, and Oregon.

Some of the Young Women of the community took one of their Saturdays and ventured forth into our nearby forests in the quest for Christmas trees for several residents of our village. The girls were Jyllian Christensen and Emma Rasmussen, assisted by their leaders, YW President Jody Rasmussen, her husband Brett, and ReNae Egley.

Jim and Debbie Harrison left the warmer days of St George, UT, for a cool weekend in Mink Creek at their home here. It is always good to batten down the hatches in preparation for this season’s change.

Ben and Molly Collins Seamons were able to participate in their temple sealing at the Logan Temple. They were married last spring in North Carolina, Molly’s home state. Ben is the son of Jeff and Jennifer Seamons. The following evening family and friends celebrated this event with a “meet and greet” time at the Mink Creek church house. Ben and Molly have spent their summer month in the northwest with summer employment..

We are still dealing with an occasional case of the COVID-19 among our residents. Ivan McCracken got past his quarantine time, but continued having to deal with some after effects for several more weeks. It is good to see him out and about a bit more.

The holiday spirit is spreading with lighted decorations seen in the darkness as one drives through the village. Even with only snow in patches here and there, the time of year helps that isolation in this year of craziness.

December1, 2020, Already!

 

Stetson Ostler was injured in the last Preston High School football game with a complete ACL tear and a complex tear of medial meniscus. He is the son of Stuart and Alona Olstler. Another senior from Mink Creek, Emily Longhurst has had similar injuries playing volleyball for Preston High. Her parents are Candy and the late Sheldon Longhurst. Both Emily and Stetson have had surgery to repair these wounds recently. It is amazing that they have been able to even be walking in these last few weeks, with smiles through the pain.

During the month of November there have been two ordinations in the Aaronic Priesthood of the Mink Creek Ward, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. First was Morgan Keller, the son of Jared and Hollie Keller, to the office of a deacon. Later Challis Jensen, son of Kalee and Russell Bair and the late Shawn Jensen, was ordained to the office of a priest.

Bryce Egley ended the 2020 bike racing season in St. George at Green Valley. He had a win in the Varsity class and the season overall win. He was awarded a very nice beer stein for all of his hard work. Bryce’s dad, Jared, did some racing too and “survived well.” They are looking forward to season 2021.

The road sides of Highway 34 have been the object of a cleanup program. There have been the customary orange bags all up Riverdale Hill and beyond perched on the side of the highway, awaiting pickup by those authorized in this activity.

“Over the River and through the woods” is an annual tradition for many families during the days before and after Thanksgiving. The River is the Bear River at the mouth of Mink Creek. The woods are those that fill the various canyons of the Caribou National Forest that is on the eastern border of the village of Mink Creek. They come to find the tree to grace their homes during the Christmas season and they are successful in their quest.

Have you already turned your calendar over to this last month of 2020? I did, and couldn’t help wondering what unexpected thing might happen before 2021 comes rushing in. It is nearly impossible to not wonder and pretend than life is going along at what we consider normal---because it isn’t.

During the month of November the Family Search site showed me that I have quite a few Puritan ancestors that came over on the Mayflower and quite a few of them died that first horrible winter. If any of your genealogical lines go back to 1620 in the New World we very likely are related. I am ok with that. Merry December as you get ready for your Christmas and being thankful for His birthday.

November 24, 2020, two days until

 Happy Thanksgiving, readers.  May gratitude fill your hearts this week and beyond. 

Four of our residents traveled down to North Ogden to spend the day donating time and effort at the Cannery of the LDS Church. They were Jeff Olson, Clare and Linda Christensen, and Jonia Carlson. The product of the day was beef stew for the cannery. The group did manage a stop at Maddox in Brigham City on their way home, with a change of the menu.

The members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mink Creek Ward, were able to meet together this past Sunday after several weeks of canceled meetings. They have been looking forward to once again greeting each other with elbow and knuckle bumps rather than the handshake, smiling eyes above the face masks, and safe-distance conversations. Two auxiliary organizations have had a shift in their leadership positions since the last meeting. The new officers of the Young Women are Jody Rasmussen as President, Amy Baldwin as 1^st Counselor and Lacey Christensen as 2^nd Counselor. The secretary is ReNae Egley. The Primary organization will be staffed with Brittnee Phillips, President, Wendy Westerberg, 1^st Counselor, April Rasmussen, 2^nd Counselor and Hollie Keller, the Secretary.

This being the month of November when we honor our veterans the Citizen is recognizing those who live in the county at this time and have served in the military at some time during their lives. Mink Creek has two past members of the National Guard: Layne Erickson and Charles Swann. In the US Army were Clare Christensen, Royce Christensen, Bob Erickson, Richard Free, Glade Larsen, and Michael Jepsen. We have two who served in the Navy, Warren Wilde and Ted Mainini. Several were part of the Air Force: Glen Jepsen and his son Dr. Kerry Jepsen, Nate Olson, Raphael Arnsworth, and Ernest York. Ernie’s wife, Sherry York is also military, in the Naval Reserves. Dr. Jepsen’s son Clay Jepsen is currently serving in the Air Force and is stationed at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. These individuals are recognized annually in this community at our July Fourth festivities. If any of our residents have been missed I apologize and would appreciate your letting me know.

Families  here are getting ready for Thanksgiving. Feeling the warmth within, even when there is such cold without. Feelings of gratitude are always uplifting.

We have had a steady stream of Christmas trees being harvested from our canyons and it has been going on for over a week. For many families it is their tradition to come here, looking for that ‘perfect’ tree, and what is perfect to one is not to another. Hope these evergreens bring happiness to their destinations.

November 17, 2020

 

Julie and Jeff Workman were happy to have another weekend getting their home ready for the coming of winter. They live with one foot in Mink Creek and the other in Stansbury Park, UT.

The Relief Society planned a reaching out activity for the women of the village. It was strictly a drive-up affair and ‘come as you are’ since there was no need to leave your vehicle. Organizers Lacey Christensen and Jonia Carlson, aided by the Relief Society Presidency members, Kim Christensen and Phee Crosland, handed out a bag of chocolatey treats and a gratitude journal to start off the month of November to each lady who participated. Brief conversations accompanied the gift to start the month off with feeling of gratitude for blessings. It reminded us that we are all still neighbors and friends, even though safe distancing.

Our first snow has arrived and laid a light white blanket down the length of our village, increasing in depth from south to north. The mountain tops are feeling well covered, but there is still hope that the snow isn’t here to stay for the next several months.

A power outage hit us in the middle of a Saturday night, after we had gone to bed with most dreaming of being able to meet the following morning at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for Sunday worship services which has been interrupted so often in the last 8 months. No power, it didn’t happen, the power being out until nearly 10:30am, meeting hour being at 9am.

As the season has progressed so has the amount of box elder bugs multiplied. Skunks are moseying around, perhaps searching for a suitable winter home. Both deer and turkeys are down from their summer retreats in the high country, back to being problems for driving through our community. Our wildlife know that cold days are ahead.

We were able to have our church meeting this week, it has been several weeks since we were able to meet together. There has been some changes in both the Primary and Young Women organization. The details will be in next week’s issue of the Citizen. The rise of COVID-19 cases all over the western US has had its affect on even our little village. With Governors in state around us, as well as our own making decisions and tightening restrictions again it is hard to plan ahead more than a day or two for any thing beyond our home boundaries and even those get changed when a new announcement hits the news. Hang in there, in the long run, it will be all right.  Have faith, not fear. Not saying it will be easy.

Tomorrow, Veteran's Day, 2020

 Tomorrow is a remembering day, and if we are too young to remember any of the major conflicts  we should consider what might have been  and be grateful.

The huge, beautiful moon was perfect for Halloween night. However the virus limitations surely caused this holiday to be one to remember, perhaps because of what did not happen. Our community celebration of soup and visiting, getting to view the fun costumes of the youth and even whole families did not take place. A few individuals did go out trick‘r treating. Some families gathered for a traditional meal and just to be together. Some drove down the highway to partake of the few available activities in Preston.

There were a few hours of excitement when a small control burn took off and became a large grass fire. The area locally known as Badger Hole Basin, between Bear Creek and Station Creek, quickly became filled with flames on the march, devouring dried grass, weeds and sagebrush. Nearby neighbors met the situation with Kent Egley on his bulldozer and Jeff Olson and Terry Westerberg manning tractors pulling discs. The Franklin County Fire Department responded. It was estimated to have burnt about 100 acres before the final clouds of smoke ceased.

Voting kept Mink Creeks poll workers busy this year. Voters were greeted by three ladies, all wearing patriotic face masks designed with the stars and stripes. They were Kim Christensen, Vickie Free and Danita Wilcox. Safe distancing was the rule of the day. It was a good turnout and there were quite a few people newly registering. A lot of citizens had voted early and there were a number of absentee ballots to be counted. It was a long day for the workers and now there is the waiting for the national results. A lesson in patience, perhaps?

Paul and Lisa Auger are new residents in our community. They come to us from Tremonton, UT, but have roots and relatives that go back in Franklin County history. The last name of Auger is a familiar one and they are related to Dave and Marge and Bill and Deon. Paul and Lisa retired, packed up their Utah bags and purchased the home built by Brad and Zona Palmer in Valley View Heights subdivision. More recently the home has belonged to Kent and Evelyn Mortenson of South Jordan.

I wouldn’t say we welcomed winter, but it arrieved without any red carpet. It gave a hint that it was on its way two days ago and managed to turn our mountains into white. Today has been the real deal. White sticking down to the valley floor, not that we have much of a ‘floor,’ more like the point of a V. The snowfall hasn’t been constant, just off and on, but so cold that one set of flakes simlpy waited for the next batch to cover them up.

We had a power outage during the night on Saturday and our hopes for being able to meet once again at the LDS meetinghouse were crushed when it didn’t come back on until around 10:30. More details of that for next week’s blogging so that the paper readers can share.

This is that special month for counting blessings, also a bit more publicly with social media, etc. It is a good thing to raise our awareness. The blackout certainly made me appreciate a lot of things daily that I take for granted.

Election Day, Nov 3, 2020

 

McKinley Longhurst, daughter of Candy and Sheldon Longhurst, has made a big decision and is now engaged to Skylar Stevens, son of Steve and Jamie Stevens. This decision has been a long time in coming because McKinley is very determined about her educational goals.

One of Mink Creek’s young ladies participated on the PHS girls soccer team that recently became the 4A State Champions. Ella Jepsen is the daughter of Melinda an Kerry Jepsen.

The LDS Ward Relief Society has done some changing in the presidency. Counselors responsibilities are now Cindy Hanson with education and technology, Phee Crosland with activities. An activity is in the works at the present time. Kim Christensen is the President.

Mink Creek has a new baby! Annavelyn and Jesse Wilcox are happy to announce the arrival of a healthy little boy on Oct 23, weighing in at 7lb. 4 oz, with a thatch of hair. He is the first child for the Wilcox’s. The trio is home in Mink Creek and making the adjustments that come with parenthood and families. According to Jesse all are doing "spectacular.”

Russell Westerberg was here for a visit with his brother, Terry and Wendy Westerberg. His mode of arrival was a little unusual in these sloping side-hills. He flew in, landing in one of the fields near the Westerberg home in what they laughingly  called the Station Creek Air service.

Our countryside provides for crunching hikes. It is dry and the leaves have been sailing down in the winds. We have a mixture of oranges, yellows, browns, greens, even some purple to trod underfoot whatever direction might be chosen.

Due to the strange restrictions that the world is enduring in 2020 our village canceled its usual Fall closing social and the costume parade that takes place on that evening. This is one more reminder that each little glitch that happens in our lives must be dealt with separately. So many things we take for granted.

Election Day, hope everyone reading this has voted—whether by absentee, or by mail or in person. It is a privilege we need to use, then no matter the outcome, do what we can to unify our nation, not cause more chaos and grief. The polls in our village were open at 8am and just now are wrapping it up, nearly 8 pm. It is a long day for those poll workers, I write from experience, having done it for years. Giving that service is one of responsibility that the laws are followed, that all who want the opportunity are given that chance. They go home tired, but satisfied.

October 27, 2020, pre Halloween

 

Mario and Amanda Crosland and Rico Crosland headed to east coast to spend a few days with their brother Armando Crosland. Armando works in Washington DC. This was great timing for the fall beauty of the New England states to add to the many worthwhile places to search in the nation’s capitol.

Brigham Wilcox and three of his children came down for a great visit with his parents, Eldon and Danita Wilcox. This younger Wilcox family live in Idaho Falls and enjoyed some time in the country.

Matt Egley has wrapped up another season of racing, much of it done at the Magic Valley Speedway. This year he has piloted a bright yellow car that was easy to spot among the other entries. Matt was awarded the Division 1 NASCAR Rookie of the year. Racing is his passion and has been so since his youth. When he isn’t racing he hauls heavy loads of hay with a semi for Egley Farms.

David Seamons, son of Jeff and Jennifer Seamons, has received a call to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The call is to the Argentina, Cordoba, Mission and his departure date is in January.

Lorraine Christensen was doing a grandmother-babysitting visit with her daughter Carrie Melton in Layton, UT. While in that area Lorraine was able to attend the viewing for Verdell Pace Call, a past Mink Creek resident who recently passed away unexpectedly. Verdell’s children: Wynette, Paula and Preston were pleased to reconnect with friends from their childhood. Their sister, Jodi, who now lives in North Carolina, was unable to attend her mother’s funeral due to illness in her family and current travel restrictions. .

The deer seem to be in danger on the highway as much as from the hunting season. Three spots on the highway indicating accidents over a couple of days within just a six miles stretch.

The big freeze left no question as to whether there was a lingering flower blossom or a surviving, well covered, tomato. Gone! No complaints, it is the end of October.

We have had Mink Creek girls participating in winning teams with their high school teams. PHS took District Champs in volleyball and now have state competition ahead of them. PHS girls soccer team came home as State Champions. Of course the Citizen will cover all of this but I had to mention that Mink Creekers were part of the gang.

Happy Halloween, however limited it may be with current restrictions, the happy part is all up to ourselves!

October 20, 2020

 

Wally and Kim Christensen are happy to announce a new grandchild in their family. A little girl was was born to Rebekah and James Juhasz of Newton, UT. Due to the restrictions of COVID-19, their family celebrations of this event have had to be limited. Smiles on faces and happiness in hearts are allowed.

Danalee and Gene Abernethy of Alpine, UT, spent a few hours in Mink Creek with her parents, Bob and Claudia Erickson. Gene had been riding in the bicycle race around Bear Lake and the near proximity of the event placed them in a perfect spot for some down time with family before returning to Utah County. Fifty-two miles around the lake results in some time for relaxing.

The Harley Jepsen farm was a busy place recently. Harley’s son, Mike and Mary Ann Jepsen are year-round residents of Mink Creek and this time of year with fall colors, possible hunting and plain old fun they attracted their son Joe and Kate Jepsen and their three boys for a weekend. Mike’s brother, Jonathan and Portia Jepsen also have a house on the premises and were part of the family doings. A break from the Salt Lake City hustle and bustle is most welcome.

Justin and Cynthia Longhurst and their tiny Ellie Bea are pulling up stakes and moving back to Logan, UT. Justin is employed at Young Honda auto dealership.

At this point Mink Creek is still full of trees with the colors of fall. We anticipate them becoming more muted, and dry, in coming days. Mornings at this time of year often show frost across the fields, even icicles where water has been active during the night.

A cattle drive going up Highway 34 northward, must have been headed to winter ranges at this time of year. There were cowboys on horses directing things and animals, but one item to take away the flavor of the old days was the presence of law enforcement vehicles with flashing lights to help at intersections, etc. Glad they were there, in such situations all help is good. One could follow the poop residue trail for quite a distance on the pavement. A joy of living in the country.

Our Mink Creek Haunted House story seems to be getting additional publications lately. I have seen several versions on FaceBook, claiming to be the Mink Creek tale – slightly different from the one I first became acquainted with nearly 60 years ago. Same theme, different names, different locations. It must be the approaching date of Halloween stirring things to the front of thoughts. COVID-19 may restrict parties and trick r’ treating but ghost stories can still get passed around. We still have 11 days before the event. Hope everyone has their pumpkins ready for carving. 

October 13, 2020

 

Alexis and Scott Strong, of Ventura, CA, have presented the first grandchild for Dr. Kurt and Margret Iverson. Margret was able to be in Ventura for this date. The baby boy arrived the last day of September. The name Alexis and Scott have chosen is Fletcher Owen Strong. He is another great grandson in the full quiver of Johnny and Jeannine Iverson.

Lorraine Christensen is home recovering from surgery on her left knee of a week past. She is in that enduring phase of much physical therapy and the pain that goes with it. Her stitches have been removed and she is on the mend.

Food preservation, always part of this pioneer community, has kitchens ’putting up’ a variety of pickles, applesauce, pears, jams and jellies, tomatoes. Some residents take their produce to the county canning center, particularly for specialty items. It is time to clear off the vines, dig up those root vegetables, and put the garden spaces back into shape to wait out the winter months for the encouraging announcement of spring.

Kent & ReNae Egley celebrated the end of their last crop of hay with a road trip. They took in parts of Idaho, Wyoming , Montana and South Dakota, not necessarily in that order. Going north first to Bozeman, MT, they did some wandering around, visiting the Valley of the Little Big Horn and the site of Custer’s Last Stand. South Dakota held the beauties of the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Monument, the Needles. Devil’s Tower is tucked into an upper corner of Wyoming.

The land about is so dry, tinder-box dry. A storm will be welcome to reduce fire hazards.

However, we can’t claim to be ready for winter to descend just yet and are hoping for a pleasant fall.

Still no storm, but some wind and cooler temperatures. The first paragraphs of this blog are written on Thursdays, the deadline day at the Preston Citizen. That being said, there are four days gone when I write this tidbit on Tues night or Wed. Lots of things can happen in four days. Some of it I need to save because it is expected to be there in the printed form of the Mink Creek rural news.

 But there are others. One of them is that we now have at least 3 active cases of the COVID-19, sprinkled about. There was another who tested positive one day and negative the next. Not sure how that works, but it is agreeable. As far as I know none of these have been hospitalized, but are isolating and doing their suffering at home. We are not left out, and have done our bit to contribute to the rising numbers reported in southeast Idaho.

October 7, 2020

 I love October, though not sure why.  Anyway, welcome to October in Mink Creek.

Eldon and Danita Wilcox managed an autumn vacation driving to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Other popular sites they saw were Devil’s Tower, the Needles and the beautiful county en route. Eldon commented that he didn’t realize Wyoming had such beautiful scenery. They stopped in Lovell, WY, hoping to have a visit with a neighbor of a few years past, Bill Despain, but found he had gone fishing for the day.

The DUP camp of Mink Creek, the Syringa camp, enjoyed an outdoors meeting this month. They gathered at the Rasmussen Park on the banks of the creek for a luncheon. Mary Ann Jepsen was in charge.

Maria and Devin Flake and son Jude came to her mother’s place, Lana and Ivan McCracken. Their object was to share some of their puppies with friends in Pocatello while putting in some Idaho time with Maria’s memories of growing up here.

David Scott Seamons, son of Jeff and Jennifer Seamons, was ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood, the office of an Elder. Brothers, younger and older, were present to witness the event along with his grandparents Scott and Cathy Seamons and Joe and Kathy Jarvis.

Even though the skies looked like there might be rain, the community gathered at the Rasmussen Park on a chilly afternoon to enjoy an ATV ride. This year’s guide was Bret Rasmussen and the trail took the riders to the northwest side of our valley. Around thirty vehicles participated, with close to 80 people involved. Some historical information about the building of the Twin Lakes Canal through that area was shared along with the titles of some of our surrounding mountains. The finale was returning to the park’s pavilion for a welcome feed of hot soup and rolls, root beer and ice cream sandwiches.

Bob and Claudia Erickson are spreading the word that their granddaughter, Abigail Janke, formerly of Mink Creek, has received a call to serve in the Washington, Everett, Mission, English speaking. That area is north of Seattle. The current departure date is November 11^th. Abi is the daughter of Laural and Jody Janke now living in Richfield, UT.

It has been reported there have been sheep on the loose in the lower part of our village. Those critters can escape through a hole no bigger than a mouse hole, and once one makes it to the other side of the fence the rest are “sure to follow.”

Hope you have enjoyed that beautiful harvest moon this past week. Living where there is limited night-time lighting has some advantages for that sort of thing.

Thirty days hath September, 2020

 

In this neck of the woods when the colors of the leaves are telling us it is fall the Relief Society gathers to share recipes for harvested foods from their gardens or food storage. It was still possible with the restrictions of this time and the ladies of the village brought their fragrant dishes to the Mink Creek Ballpark for a sampling social. Casseroles, side dishes, salads of a big variety were enjoyed. Local deer are also aware of the harvest time and take it upon themselves to sample from our gardens and fruit trees.

We have had another wedding. Lauryn Hawkes, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Hawkes, was married to Zach Robb on Sept. 19, 2020. Zach is from Gooding, ID, and his parents are Brad and Lorri Robb. A reception was held in their honor at the Mink Creek ballpark the following evening. Lauryn and Zach will make their first home in Gooding.

Mink Creek has three young men participating on the Preston High School football squad. They are Stetson Ostler, son of Stuart and Alona Ostler, Charles Iverson, son of Kurt and Margret Iverson, and Jonathan Seamons, son of Jeff and Jennifer Seamons. There had been some concern earlier in the year as to the likelihood of various sports programs in the county with current restrictions for both players and spectators. Thus far the team is going forward and is having a good season.

Reed Swann and daughter Penny have been entertaining company. Reed’s nephew David Hale from California came this way, with two granddaughters along. He was delivering one of them, Alexandrea, to BYU/I in Rexburg and her sister Olivia came for the ride.

Another young equestrian enthusiast of Mink Creek participated at the Eastern Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot. Jancey Henderson, daughter of Shoni and Brady Henderson, placed fourth at the horse show in the walk-trot division. Hats off to Jancey!

The hillsides that surround us have taken on that seasonal change of color. We have yellows, oranges, reds, lime greens; sometimes just as a splash of color among our perennial evergreen. Other places, such as Evans Hill on our south end is awash with the reds of maples.

Our hillsides are so dry, looking parched and a bit on the brittle side. But it is the time of year for that. We would not complain for a nice gentle rain that helps erase the cracks that run through the fields. The weather has cooled sufficiently that I haven’t noticed any river runners going down the Bear. There are times during the hotter months when it looks like a flotilla of rafts and kayaks going down. I love living with the changing seasons. The work that goes with the changes, well, not so much.

September 22, 2020

 

McKenna Jepsen, daughter of Dr. Kerry and Melinda Jepsen, became the bride of Landon Johnson at the Jepsen home in Mink Creek. He is the son of Dr. Brian and Elizabeth Johnson of Jefferson City, SD. McKenna and Landon met at Utah State University. The new Mr. and Mrs. Johnson will begin their together lives in San Diego, CA, but have plans to move to Utah.

Another daughter in the Jepsen family, Tara, was scheduled to leave on her mission to New Zealand. As is often the case with the COVID-19 situation there has been some changes in that announcement of last week’s Citizen. At the present time Tara is not certain of her place of service, but she will begin the two weeks of Missionary Training at her home this week.

The LOTOJA commanded our highway for several hours over the weekend with its annual presence. After some rather chilly days the day of the race was ‘just right’ with the participants being able to take care of their layered outfits to suit the temperatures. Mink Creek residents recall the year that the summit of our canyon greeted the bikers with snow and the need of extra care, even with ambulances waiting if needed.

Wynn and Cecelie Costley are again serving in a mission capacity. The first call was to be in Russia, but with the twists and turns of 2020, they are now part of the Utah Salt Lake City Temple Square Mission.

Jyllian Christensen, daughter of Kerry and Lacey Christensen, received awards at the Eastern Idaho State Fair for her work with the Working Ranch Horses program. Austin Corbett, son of Sherrie and Shane Corbett, took second in quality at the sheep showing at the Fair. Congratulations on their accomplishments.

Emily Longhurst surprised us with a new event. She had appendicitis and was hospitalized for some surgery. Now she is getting back in shape to play volleyball for PHS.

One can both see and feel the days getting shorter in length. Summer visitors are all but disappearing with schools across the country beginning in some form or another, whether in the classroom, masked, or online with a ZOOM class. One young man is ‘attending’ school in Texas, while sitting in the comforts of his grandparents house in Franklin County, ID. This is something beyond the imagination not too many years ago. The current school year is an experiment for many families, and with children of all ages. Online kindergarten?

September 15, 2020

 Life has been a little crazy lately.  I have had my husband in the hospital.  He is home now, but we are in quarantine and that presents several challenges just by itself.  My friends and neighbors have been so good to us,  I am always finding  treats on my doorstep:  food, jigsaw puzzles, books, and more food. Offers to pick up anything I might need in town.  

Last night my dishwasher decided to quit, in the middle of a cycle.  So that is one more item, and, being out of contact, no repairman.  Good thing I still  know how to wash dishes by hand. 

The big winds that tore things up to the south of us did come through, but with less damage.  Some of the apples from our orchard were flung to the opposite side of the house. A few tree branches littered the yard. That advance warning, and tucking things in prior to the hit was most helpful.   

Tara Jepsen, daughter of Kerry and Melinda Jepsen, has received a mission call from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She will be serving in the New Zealand, Hamilton, Mission and receive her training at that Training center. Her departure date is September 24^th.

Bob and Claudia Erickson and two daughters, Carla Nielsen and Laural Janke made a road trip to Wyoming with two goals in mind. One was to pursue some genealogy information on Claudia’s lines and the other was to donate a vintage dress belonging to an early Wyoming settler to the Carbon County Museum in Rawlins, WY. After trudging through two cemeteries the needed info was retrieved and the dress delivered the following day. They took advantage of their location, taking the Snowy Range highway through the Medicine Bow National Forest.

The wedding of Conner Nielson and Harley Carlisle took place at the Egley Park in Mink Creek. The son of Tara and Jeff Nielson, Conner’s grandparents are Kent and ReNae Egley. The new couple will be making their home in Pocatello and pursuing studies at Idaho State.

Elder Walter Iverson, formerly assigned to the Dominican Republic Mission, is now serving in the Alabama, Burlington, Mission and is currently part of the mission home staff in that city.  He is keeping busy. Kurt and Margret Iverson now have two sons in the missionfield. Elder Andrew has just started in Texas.

Henry Wayne Phillips, oldest son of Brint and Brittnee Phillips, was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All of his grandparents were there to witness this occasion, Jonia Carlson of Mink Creek, and Dick and Babette Phllips of Glendale, ID. Other family members came from Oregon, Utah and Hawaii. Later that day family and friends enjoyed a watermelon bust in celebration at the Mink Creek Ballpark.

Kim and Joe Tracy of Star, ID, brought their children Perry, Kayla and Krystal for some grandparent time with Lorraine and Royce Christensen. Two sisters joined the group for a family cookout, Carrie Melton and her sons, Kenny and Thomas coming from Layton, UT, and Colleen Carter and her daughters Melanie and Addilee from Preston.

August 25, 2020

 Thanks for tuning back in after my extended electronic silence. I feel better seeing that you are still "out there."  I had about decided maybe it was about time I just bagged it since you are why I do this.

Eldon and Danita Wilcox have had a constant run of family visitors this summer, often arriving to help with work on the finishing touches of the Wilcox’ new home. About half of their children now live in Utah. Elise and Jeff Hardy and their children live in North Ogden. Ami and Tom Fenton’s bunch are in Tooele. Brittany Durant and her youngsters claim Salt Lake City. Idaho Falls became home for Brigham and Jennipher Wilcox’s family when Brigham became a pharmacist there. MaKenzie and Tyson Gunter have come back from Utah and are in Arimo, ID. It is nice for Eldon and Danita to have most of their family within easy driving distance. Only Lesli lives in Texas.

Mink Creek has a new family in town. Joe and Pearl Loyd have moved here from Weston. Their home is located on the hill with the Valley View road looping through the increasing number of homes.

We were sorry to see Chet Jensen find himself a house and move to Weston. Our loss is Weston’s gain.

A group of siblings and a cousin or two from the Wm. Crane family gathered at the Mink Creek home of Bruce and Shauna Crane for an annual reunion and lots of reminiscing. Bruce, Sheryl, Linda and Lynn kept the memories rolling, especially when they visited the local cemetery and took stock of all their old family and neighbors that are gathered there.

The community embarked on a river ride, with the Bear River situated handily in our back yard. Around 35 people enjoyed the wetness in kayaks and tubes, with no mishaps. After this cooling down the riders met with the rest of the village at our Mink Creek Ballpark for a dinner of hamburgers (3 varieties offered) with all the fixings, corn on the cob, potluck salads and desserts provided by the families in attendance. The event was well attended and included several of the summer-time visitors. We are fortunate to have the space for safe distancing

It has been a week of smokey, haze filled skies. When a person knows they live among mountains and yet they aren’t visible there is a strong feeling of being isolated. Add that to the restrictions we are living with the COVID-19, and it isn’t good.

Our kids started school this week and most seem to have an optimistic view, hoping for the best as the days pass. That goes for the parents as well as the students. There is no choice but to wait and see, we have never been in this situation before.

August 5 &12, 2020

 Trying to play catch up  now that things are up and running.  Computer went down, and then out.  It took some time to purchase and get things functioning again.  In the meantime the home phone also decided to go on vacation and since cell phones don't work all that well here---I have to remind myself that sometimes "no news is good news."  

We have missed two weeks worth of  local news.  The base of the blog was printed in our local paper, but I had to create that at the Citizen office so I can't easily share it here.  

Summer with its intense heat, storms that zip in and out, difficult animals and humans--al are present and affect the 24/7 lifestyle of the residents of this little community.  The very best thing about this place is its people, and second is the beauty of our surroundings nearly 12 months of the year.

Anyway, here we are again, and of course I can't use the phrase "back to normal" because nothing has been normal since the arrival of COVID-19.  Still we will strive for as near normal as possible and hope you will continue reading. 

August 19, 2020

 

Two gentlemen of our community lost their wallets, within just a few days of one another. One was fairly certain it had fallen out of a pocket as he was in the middle of checking a problem with a hay baler. Family members crisscrossed the big field, up and down, back and forth, on a Mink Creek slope, all to no avail. It was what it was, and likely some cow critter would end up chomping on a wallet when that particular hay bale was opened sometime next winter. The ‘start all over’ process of canceling, renewing, saying farewell to a few irreplaceables was accomplished and the owner of the wallet had started his new identity. Life does go on. The other lost wallet was in the waters of the Glendale Reservoir, with searching pretty impossible, so it was accepted as well and the new beginning took place.

Fast forward several weeks, some rainstorms and irrigation later. When some friends were hauling hay bales off of a different field that first wallet popped up, in a rather soggy, bedraggled state but with everything intact and returnable. Unlikely, unbelievable, but there it was, just needed some drying out and its sentimental value was still well preserved.

Sam and Sylvia Stanger are enjoying some Mink Creek time. It is nice to see their lights on and have an occasional chat.

The Haws house is busy with family visitors. Summertime brings the Haws siblings in and out of the residence, often with overlapping visits. Ken and Lauren Nash of Sol Vang, CA brought extended family to enjoy the relative coolness of Idaho, plus the green beauty that is still present in our community.

This has been the week of the heaviest meteor showers at night. It has been a great time for amateur observations of our heavens with the absence of city lights. Another one of those advantages of country living.

Learning new processes on a new computer, please bear with me, readers of this blog.  I have not given up but having been without computer and phone access at the same time has surely put me behind on my sending out information and news.  I was hoping to backtrack over the 'no contact' posting, but find I had better just forge ahead instead. 

As with the rest of you the days have been very hot.  We aren't accustomed to three digit temperatures in this little corner of our state.  Everything is wanting to wilt, including the human population.  Having to force ourselves to be out harvesting hay and now grain takes a very solid willpower. 

End of July, 2020, and a bit beyond

 I hope no one has given up on me.  My computer checked out and it has taken this long to get running again from home.  The news has still gone out from the Preston Citizen, but I haven't had access to personal stuff  for a bit.  I will endeavor to fill you in on what you have missed.

Not only has my computer taken a dive but the phone system in this mountain valley is busy throwing a fit and taking its sweet time to recover.   At this residence it feels a little like the early settlers when one had to climb on a horse to reach out to anyone, only my horse has 4 wheels.  A little different type of isolation to go with teh COVID-19 variety. 

Justin and Cynthia Longhurst gathered their extended family together in Smithfield to participate in the blessing of their baby girl. She was named Ellie Bea Longhurst. The couple chose Smithfield as the location because Justin's big brother, Jake, has an occupation as a pilot where he was on call that Sabbath day. Longhurst, Craythorn and Zilles relative were able to attend.

Wynn and Cecelie Costley have been excited about their prospects of serving in Russia as LDS missionaries for a few months. Due to the COVID-19 those hopes and plans have come crashing down. These two are known for their resiliency and are considering this change just a different turn in the road.

David and Judy Wilde had two of their sons at home earlier this month. Christopher and Heidi Wilde now live in Logan. Spencer and Paige Wilde are in Rigby, ID, while Spencer continues with studies at BYU/I in Rexburg.

Kassidy Christensen, daughter of Kerry and Lacey Christensen, was baptized and confirmed the newest member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Mink Creek Ward. Even with restrictions family and friends were able to share this milestone in her life.

Charles and Sarah Swann and their children have moved to Mink Creek. They have been in Lewiston, UT. , put their home on the market and it sold quicker than anticipated. The young Swann family is 'camping' with his father, Reed Swann and sister Penny. Those four children will find all sorts of adventures in their new surroundings.

Johnny and Jeannine Iverson have enjoyed some family visitors during the past few months as the restrictions in other states varied. Their daughter Rebekah Jones and her family came from Washougal, WA, for a lengthy stay and one of their grandsons from Ogden managed to spend some time in between limitations.

The youth of the community were able to get together for a Pancake Supper. They did this at the home of Bret and Jody Rasmussen and as their home is sufficiently spacious there was room to spare. Pancakes are a fitting menu item for any hour of the day.

That takes readers to the beginning of August that will be the next entry in a day or two.  I am up to my ears in making apricot jam and picking black currants right now, these things have to be top priorities. 

July 21, 2020

        Kerry and Lacey Christensen and their children have been touring Idaho and beyond. This family are good campers and could take in lots of beautiful scenery. They spent some time at Stanley Lake and even in some chilly moments donned water suits and gear for some exploring. They connected with the Bear Valley Rafting Company on another day. All sorts of activities: the Route of Hiawatha, Fish Lake, Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald, and more After soaking up the outdoor life they are back home and pleased with a great vacation.

         The Bob and Claudia Erickson household has had ongoing family guests for a few weeks. So glad these grown children still consider Mink Creek as 'home.' Claudine and LaMar McKague of Vancouver, WA, gathered all of their family here from Utah and Idaho to do a family photoshoot. Then the family of Jay and Kristin Collins of Lakeview, OR, arrived. Lots of work and fun were accomplished, besides just enjoyment of being together. Carla and Mark Nielsen and sons came up from American Fork, UT, to finish off the July 4^th holiday. The visits overlapped and, as it worked out, there was room space for all as it was needed.

        Sherrie, Shane and Austin Corbett did some camping out recently. This was a quick overnight session at White Pine Lake. Just a break from the usual routine gives a feeling of freedom much needed in these days of restriction.

         Matt Egley is on the road again, in more ways than one. He gets behind the wheel of a big semi to haul hay for the Egley Farms. As a race car driver he has been itching to get on a race car track during this shut down summer. The first race this year was at the Magic Valley Speedway near Twin Falls with the intermountain outlaw modified series. There were eleven cars in the field. Matt said," it was our first time running in division 1 Nascar series and we ended up 6^th out of ll, so not so bad.” They had a few mechanical issues but fought through it.

         We are relishing the cool nights. It is such a respite from the hot days when the evening breezes come in for comfort. There are many reports of seeing the comet above our northwestern horizon.

          It is the inevitable season of earwigs. They seem to invade every crack and cranny. When it is time to haul hay, it is time for the bugs to arrive. The boxelder bugs are still around, but not in quantities yet. I feel grateful for the mosquito abatement program and smile each time I hear them making the rounds.

July 14, 2020

        We have a new baby in town, always a reason for rejoicing. Roxi and Mack DeVries had a little boy, to be named Kayson James. He is a healthy chunk, weighing in at 10 lbs 2 oz. And 22 inches in height. Welcome to our cray world, little one.

         The Mink Creek annual July 4^th celebrations did happen, with the limitations of COVID-19 in place. Around 230 people participated, spaced in family groups throughout the Mink Creek Ballpark. Having shaded areas is a plus at this location. Naturally some changes had to be made but on the whole it was a good day. The flag ceremony was under the direction of Warren Wilde. A brief program was offered and Sheri Scott and Brittnee Phillips performed a beautiful violin duet of appropriate songs. There were some old-fashioned games for the children and the favorite water slide down the slope was available to all ages. The food committee also had to consider the limitations and so the menu consisted of a hamburger on a bun with all the fixings, a bag of potato chips, a drink, watermelon and an ice cream bar. The 'chefs' were Patti and Forest Christensen, Phee and Robert Croslandand Jesse and Annavelyn Wilcox. We were able to get an airplane candy drop, one of the highlights of July 4 for the kids.

           A severe windstorm that swept up our valley had ripped off some limbs from the Ballpark trees prior to this event. There was a crew of residents with chainsaws and muscle who gathered to clean things  up and haul the wood away so that the park would be ready for company.

         We are sad to report the deaths of two of our residents. Myrna Despain has been in a Sr. Living facility in Lovell, WY, for several months. Her husband Bill had made a quick visit to Mink Creek the last weekend in June before her passing and he was welcomed here with open arms. The couple have been missed. Myrna and Bill both grew up in the Lovell area and moved to Mink Creek from Wyoming years ago.

         After a long siege with illness, Betty Jo Jepsen, wife of Glen Jepsen, passed away on July 4. Her funeral was July 11 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mink Creek, for family members only with the COVID 19 restrictions. After being raised in Mink Creek, marrying her sweetheart Glen, the Jepsens' lives have been in many places throughout the world with his military assignments and church service. Retirement brought them back home to Mink Creek. Her obituary was carried in local papers last week.

         Second crop hay is doing well. AT this point weather is cooperating. The waters spraying over the fields in the early morning sunlight has a sparkling beauty all its own, and that swishing sound provides a musical background for the scene.

         This season I had a new thief in our cherry trees, challenging the horde of robins that flock there when the fruit is barely pink. A raccoon got his fill and no one could argue about who was the biggest in this case.

July 7, 2020

         The Young Women of the Preston North Stake had fun with their Summer Girls' Camp this year, held at the Mink Creek Ballpark. COVID 19 precautions were observed and there was still fun to be had. No one stayed overnight, the stake was divided in half, each group attending for only one day. Each ward had their own designated area. Activities were based on team building, learning to work together to accomplish desired goals. Stake President Richard Swainston had the opportunity of speaking with each group. Mink Creek girls attending were Emma Rasmussen, Jyllian Christensen, Ella Jepsen, Tia Hatch and Shalee Forbush.

        The twisted weather we have had over the last week has had farmers shifting their schedules with day jobs and night work. When dark clouds threaten and even the TV forecasts are foreboding the farmers may be hauling bales off their fields in the dark of the night. Trucks and tractors keep rolling until all is safely gathered in. Only then does the exhausted man call his day done.

        Candy Longhurst, who happens to be one of the head 'lunch ladies' for the Preston School District, reports that the service is well received. Lately patrons have been picking up the lunches at the High School cafeteria, with tables laden with individual sacks just waiting to be retrieved. The service will continue, four days a week, until the end of July.

       The presidency of our local Relief Society provided a fun evening for ministering sister interviews with a tune-up theme. It took place at our ballpark with a turnaround driveway set up for those driving in for a 'tune up.' Distancing was observed. Once the driver of a car (or motorcycle) was in the designated spot, masked members of the presidency approached to hand a clipboard interview questionnaire for completion. While the form was being filled out the car windows were washed. Each participant received a Ministering Maintenance Kit made of snacks representing such things as pressure, fuel, oil, and the spark to get moving. It was so cleverly done.

         At the end of June we had our share of snow capped mountains. A couple of strong wind storms blew through, breaking tree limbs, shaking loose anything not securely attached. Lightning shook things up a bit. Yards were full of debris the following morning and the following day promised to be more of the same. We are hoping the 4^th of July will allow us to celebrate without our winter snow attire.

         Our Mink Cree Ballpark took a hit from that angry wind that swept up the valley. Some big limbs came crashing down and it required a crew of men with chainsaws to tidy things up and haul off the chunks of wood in order to have the place ready for the July 4^th events just a few days away. We do live in an area where such equipment is readily available, and that is generally a plus.

        Our summer sunsets have been beautiful to behold and a group of cedar waxwing birds have put in some visiting time. Some of our fruit and garden crops seem to be a little ahead of the usual this year. June has been a wet month, good for some things, not so good for others.