December 10, 2025

 

Two babies, cousins, girls, were blessed and named in the same Sabbath meeting of the Mink Creek LDS Ward. The girls were so beautiful in their white blessing dresses. They were born about a month apart. The first was Ida Nielson, infant of Corey and Savannah Nielson. The second was Jackie Salem Jackson, daughter of Justin and Kaytlin Jackson. Both girls have siblings to welcome them and they share the grandparents of Per and Cassie Danfors and the rest of the Danfors family. Other family members were there to witness this special event.

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering for food, fun and reflections on the many blessings we have. Some residents traveled away, other invited and shared the magic of Mink Creek. Robert and Phee Crosland and other family members drove to the home of their daughter Malia and Jason Kunde in Rigby. Claudine and LaMar hosted an Erickson Thanksgiving with siblings and expanded branches spending several nights: Carla and Mark Nielsen of American Fork, UT, Kristin and Jay Collins of Mink Creek with three of their children, a brother of LaMar's, plus a friend, add Bob and Claudia Erickson, equals a houseful. Another Erickson family, that of Karen and Layne Erickson gathered in Station Creek at Paul and Terrie McKay' home.

End of fall and the holiday brought a Haws group together. Kasey and Julia Haws of Mink Creek, Ken and Lauren Nash and family of Glendale, ID, and California, plus Adam and Camene Haws and family of Sol Vang, CA.

Doug and Kathey Wilcox were up from Utah to their new Mink Creek home that is still full of newness from the days of construction. Julie Workman kept a couple of her grandchildren for an extended stay.

Eldon and Danita Wilcox were able to be up for a mission break. Jesse and Annavelynn Wilcox and son Desmond added to the family festivities. Brad and RaOne Stuart, Danita's sister, journeyed from Utah.

Although the canyon drivers are reporting snow and ice, generally speaking we don't have much staying snow. It continues to surprise us. Mink Creek residents plan on winters with snow. Those in the process of home construction are pushing to make the leak-proof.

December 3, 2025

 Already December?  With the warmth of this fall and no staying snow in our village, only on the mountains the change to December is almost a surprise that greeted as we turned the calendar at the end of the November.

There are some residents still managing to get in some hiking time before the weather makes it nearly impossible. Candy Longhurst and Jamie Stevens report on beautiful crisp mornings, sometimes mingled with wisps of fog, but still worth the effort and uplift of spirit.

Wynn and Cecelie Costley are home after a trip to Brazil. Cecelie had lived in Brazil as an exchange student during her teen years and she wanted to reconnect with her host family. She reported that it was so good to do, the mother of the family had passed away, but the siblings recalled the days with gladness.

The teachers and other workers of the Primary organization were honored with a Primary appreciation dinner recently. The place was the multi-purpose area of the Latter-day Saint meetinghouse. The food was prepared and served by the ward Bishopric members and their wives. There are challenges for those who fill callings with the primary age group that often get overlooked and this was a small way to express thanks..

Christmas thoughts came early for the women of the Relief Society. They gathered to share some ideas on keeping Christ as the important theme of our holiday. Some shared traditions from their past experiences, some ideas were new and original. There were displays of various Nativities, others of Christmas music, holiday themed quilts and personal traditions. The group had a selection of suitable appetizers that might be included in family gatherings, without taking days of preparation and allowing more time for being together with family and friends. Each lady that attended was given a quantity of baking clay with directions to sculpt their own personal nativity, bake it and enjoy the season.

November 26, 2025

 

There was much preparation and practicing for the annual program from the Primary children of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the children in charge, assisted by Primary officers Kristin Collins, Anna Beth Olson, Laurel Wilde and Lindsey Ross and the Primary teachers, all went well. The Primary choir was under the direction of chorister Terrie McKay and Corey Nielson with ReNae Egley on the piano. It was both a delightful and spiritual program that bore witness of the love of Jesus Christ for all.

The Mink Creek community gathered at the Ballpark the evening of Halloween for their Trunk N Treat. The evening's events were under the direction of Lacey Christensen. Those attending brought a pot of soup or chili, to share. There were games for all ages, a costume parade, a carving pumpkin contest, Car Trunks were decorated and treats gathered from the parking lot. It could be called a “Spooky Good time,” best had for Halloween. The weather cooperated, adding to the fun of the evening.

There is a need to remember that our neighbor wildlife is also getting ready for the coming winter. One that is pretty noticeable is the presence of skunks out and about, whether a person is out for a late evening walk or a drive. Noted have been some fatalities on our highway with skunks and raccoons. The deer are taking on their winter coats, a slight color change. Late birds heading for warmer climates take to the skies.

The Syringa Camp of the DUP met this month in Preston at the home of Virginia Flippence. Virginia and Mary Ann Jepsen were the hostesses for November and eleven members were able to attend. Julie Westerberg presented a lesson discussing the last ten handcarts that crossed the plains coming into Utah in the pioneer days. Imagine being part of that group of ten carts and the welcome they received!

It is hard to believe that December is just days away and we have yet to get any staying snow for this year. The mountain tops stay white, the canyon road to Bear Lake is receiving frequent trips from the State Snow Plow crew to keep it open and hopefully safe. But our valley floor, the length of the village, is clear. Cold, but clear.

November 19, 2025

 

The season for finding the perfect Christmas tree has arrived. It is always amazing to witness the huge numbers of evergreens that are harvested from the canyons near Mink Creek each year, a great many of them headed for homes across the border into Utah.

Elder Eldon Wilcox and Sister Danita Wilcox are home in Mink Creek on a temporary leave from their mission activities in Bluff Fort, UT. Eldon has injured his shoulder and they are here for medical advice and treatment. Their plans are to return to the missionfield once the injury is healed. In the meantime it will be nice to have them amongst us again.

Bennett and Lori Keller were up from Hyrum, UT, for a short visit checking on their recent purchase of his grandmother's home, that of Mildred Keller. Things are improving at the site, a step at a time.

The Young Men's group have been learning about shooting, gun safety and hunting safety. In this area of the country this is essential information for all ages, particularly beginners.

Mink Creek has been a near perfect place for observing the northern lights that have brightened the night skies recently. The few yard lights throughout the community haven't dimmed the light show on our northern rim of our mountains.

The leaves that have been full of crunchiness, bunching up in any welcoming cavity are now very soggy. We had a day and a night of rain and more rain that left anything that was outdoors in a state of saturation. Most tree branches are bare and naked. It is amazing that there are still dry leaves clinging to branches, being stubborn.

November 11, 2025

 

October is the month for the program from the Primary children of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the children in charge, assisted by Primary officers Kristin Collins, Anna Beth Olson, Laurel Wilde and Lindsey Ross and the Primary teachers, all went well. The Primary choir was under the direction of chorister Terrie McKay and Corey Nielson with ReNae Egley on the piano. It was both a delightful and spiritual program that bore witness of the love of Jesus Christ for all.

The Mink Creek community gathered at the Ballpark the evening of Halloween for their Trunk N Trest. The evening's events were under the direction of Lacey Christensen. Those attending brought a pot of soup or chili, to share. There were games for all ages, a costume parade, a carving pumpkin contest, Car Trunks were decorated and treats gathered from the parking lot. It could be called a “Spooky Good time,” best had for Halloween. The weather cooperated, adding to the fun of the evening.

A Family History class at the LDS Meetinghouse is offered twice a month for anyone who is interested. Kent and Tammy Beardall are the consultants who can help with instructions or field questions and challenging problems of ancestor research.

Sounds of sirens of ambulance and fire trucks headed up Highway 36 always cause concern for possible traffic accidents in our canyons or one of our residents needing to deal with an emergency of some kind. It makes for gratitude for the services that are provided when the need arises.

Remember Veterans' Day, even if you are reading this and it comes as a day late reminder. Most people have someone in their family who has “fought in the war.” It doesn't matter which war, there are plenty that have called soldiers, sailors, marines from their families to deal with conflicts across the globe. Many sacrifices' that deserve respect and remembrance.

November 5, 2025

 

Jay and Kristin Collins and their son Davis recently drove to Jay's hometown, Lakeview, OR, for the funeral services of Jay's mother. They picked up their daughter Clair in Boise where she is an elementary school teacher and their other daughter, Bailey, drove to Oregon from her home in Salt Lake City. A most fitting occasion to be together.

Mike and MaryAnn Jepsen have had family up for hunting. There is always excitement for these adventures and fun provided for both those doing the hunting and the rest being together for games and fun. This get-togethr was a success on all points.

Oh the Places she goes! My neighbor, ReNae Egley is back from another jaunt taken with her traveling friends, Jill Hobbs and Lelan Daines. This time they went to Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Lieturve and likely more. The architecture was fascinating: onion tops, steep slanted roofs, towers with skyward spires. Medieval castles and palaces are not the same thing. Of course there was lots of interesting food and one intriguing spot was called the Mountain of the Witches---with carved wooden witches in the forest. Always these trips mean meeting new friends and new cultures.

Mink Creek has welcomed another tiny baby to the village. She weighed in at 6 pounds but is a good eater and gaining. This little girl was born to Justin and Kaytlin Jackson and joins the Jackson sibling ranks of sisters Sloan and Murphy and brother Moab.

The weather held and the community Trunk n Treat was able to happen at the Ballpark. Best description of the outdoor temperature would be lukewarm, because it couldn't qualify as warm, just tolerable and costumes make for extra layers. Lots of fun for a variety of ages.

October 28, 2025

 Hazen Baird, son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, has begun his service as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Extended family gathered in a show of support, among them his grandparents, Terry and LeAnn Orton of Whitney and Lana Baird Swainston and her husband Paul Swainston of Preston. Siblings were Julianna and Blaine Packer and family of Weston, ID, James Baird and his children and Dallon Baird of Burley, ID, plus aunts and uncles. Hazen will be serving in the Chile, Vina del Mar, Mission, speaking Spanish. After his time at the Home MTC he will be transferred to the Mission Training Center for language training in Mexico City for a month.

We regret the recent death of Joseph McPherson Jarvis on October 21, 2025. He was hospitalized at the time, suffering from an inoperable brain tumor. He is the husband of Kathy Jarvis. Their family who ghave lived in this area are their daughter Jennifer and her husband Jeff Seamons and their sons: Joseph, Samuel, David, Benjamin, Jacob and Jonathan who is curreently serving an LDS mission in Brazil. Funeral services were in the Mink Creek Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 26, 2025.

The community held their annual Apple Press Party at the Workshop of Clare and Linda Christensen. It is always a fun night. The Elders Quorum are in charge and invite people to bring apples from their orchards. This is not a requirement to attend and it is suggested to bring empty containers to hold the juice. All who so desire can take home a jug or two of apple juice. Several people share the use of their apple presses and the party begins. Along with the activity there are hot dogs and plenty of snacks to brighten up the evening.

It is Box Elder bug invasion time, along with various other creatures that are seeking an indoor housing arrangement for the coming winter months. We've had a little bit of snow, but nothing of the staying variety, barely a flake formed before it hit the ground, turning into just a raindrop.

October 21, 2025

 

The Syringa Camp of the DUP met this month at the LDS Meetinghouse in Mink Creek. Lorraine Christensen and Mary Jean Rasmussen were the hostesses. Eleven members of the camp attended and the DUP county representative was Beverly Cox. Julie Westerberg gave a beautiful lesson about a pioneer artist, Frederick Piercy. Born in Great Britain, his art depicted the migration of the members of the church as they croseds the nation to the valley of the Great Salt Lake.

Hunting season has been successful for many this year. Living in 'deer country' has lots of disadvantages as they rob our gardens and orchards all during the growing season, they pop out onto the roadways with no warning often causing collisions. Still, when the season of deer harvesting comes around there is no need to travel great distances in order to find some likely specimens of venison for winter freezing.

College getting underway has taken several of our residents northward to BYU/Idaho. Elsie McKague, daughter of Claudine and LaMar McKague enjoyed a class that took her to Europe earlier this year. Erik, Kalle, and Krister Danfors, sons of Per and Cassie Danfors, are all attending school in Rexburg, ID.

Claudine and LaMar McKague took a week's break to go to Vancouver, WA, for fun and help. The help was in a building project, a shed in the backyard of their son Samuel and Sierra McKague. The fun was visiting and playing with Sierra and their year-old son Henry, who is now mobile and into everything.

Janet Olson Bergera, of Payson, UT, passed away on October 11, after a long siege of illness. Janet grew up in Mink Creek, the daughter of John and Edith Olson. John taught biology at Preston High.  Janet's surviving sisters are Margaret Wright, Karen Tribett, Nancy Puente, Mary Carter, and Emily Johnson. The Olson sisters have kept in close contact with Mink Creek with frequent visits throughout their adult years, it will always be part of “home.”

This is a fall to make you wish you were here. It has been beautiful, and still is, with colors muted. Our hunters were happy for the most part. Fields plowed and ready for the deposit of rain and snow to soak deep the earth rather than running down the slopes on frozen ground. The air is crisp, great for breathing, and a jacket can take care of the accompanying chill.

October 15, 2025

 

Four homes are under various stages of construction in Mink Creek as the signs of cooler weather arrive. Logan and Emma Shurtz and their son Guy are located at the top of Capitol Hill Road. Darron and Tracee Pulsipher are building a home off of 5600 East, and have been living in a trailer on the site during much of the building process. The Crosland home is literally rising from the ashes after the fire that wiped them out this past winter. After making numerous decisions the couple decided that Mink Creek is still the place that is “Home.” The home of Stuart and Alona Ostler and family has been getting a huge remodel, with a totally new look, designed by themselves.

Additional building has been going on all year at the Matt and Chelsea Rhees ranch on Birch Creek Road. New ranch outbuildings and yards, plus more yards of gravel, fences, are transforming their place.

In spite of the very soggy rain-filled day of October 4 the wedding of Stetson Ostler and Abby Lyon was bright and radiant. It took place at the Mountain Maple Ranch, in beautiful surroundings. Due to the situation umbrellas simply became part of the décor. It was a day of rejoicing for their friends and family.

The Mink Creek Makers, a title for ladies of all ages that choose to get together, getting to know each other. The time could be called a “Crafternoon” as they bring their own choice of craft to work on, be it crocheting, knitting, embroidery, etc., or nothing, just for the sociability. It takes place at the Per Danfors home. There is no “stated membership” just fun and interest. It is a throwback to Mink Creek's early days when a chance to visit was sought and distances rather far between homes, and no phones, electricity. It brings joy and friendship. The day and time may vary.

Our first day of snow was beautiful and cold. It turned the upper reaches of our surrounding mountains into clean, white sparkling splendor for the morning hours. We are glad it didn't stay, but expect its return visits, up and down the slopes until our yards and gardens are also white.

October 8, 2025

 

Several residents have spread the word that they have pears, peaches, garden produce to share, all ready for picking. Pumpkins and gourds are starting to show up on decorative entryways. The milk-weed pods are bursting with clouds of seeded puff. Some home owners have the large sunflowers still following the sun, but the wild small sunflowers are past their best season, ready to bow out and turn to seed.

The community held an Emergency Preparedness Evening with workshops for both youth and adults. Kim Christensen was in charge. Childcare was provided so parents of youngsters could attend and take advantage of ideas that were featured in several areas.

Robert and Phee Crosland and various parts of their family, plus Richard and Vickie Free, have been on an early fall ocean cruise. Fun in Florida, fun on the water, glitches taken care of. The whole point was being together, relaxing and having fun and that was accomplished for all ages.

Jimmie and Anna Beth Olson were able to attend a farewell meeting in Brigham City for their granddaughter who is leaving to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is the daughter of Michael and Anna Olson.

This past weekend was the date for the wedding of Stetson Ostler, son of Stuart and Alona Ostler of Mink Creek, and Abby Lyon. Congratulations are in order.  Yes, it was a rainy day, but umbrellas and cooperation from all involved in any way made it an absolutely beautiful day for the starting of this new Ostler family.

There has been a young bull moose doing some wandering around in our Birch Creek area. He is given a wide berth by the neighbors most of the time. One of the residents' fences suffered from an encounter with this guy.

There are still turkeys  feeding on spilled grain from trucks driving through.  They can have a big impact on passing vehicles and they always think they have the right of way.

30 days hath September, and then it is October. 2025

 

The Mink Creek Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its annual Ward Conference. Along with President Michael Romney and his Counselors, Nathan Hess and David Larsen, other officers of the Preston East Stake were in attendance and offered instruction in each of the auxiliary organizations. The speakers in the main session were Bishop Jared Keller of Mink Creek and President Michael Romney. Following the second instructional session the ward provided a Linger Longer luncheon of nachos with multiple toppings then a dessert of brownies and ice cream.

The Young Women's group of the ward was recently reorganized. The new presidency is Cassie Danfors, President, Julia Haws, First Counselor and Jenny Christensen, Second Counselor with Shalayla Christensen, the secretary. The new advisor is Jillian Iverson Those released from these callings were Claudine McKague, President, Casey Christensen and Kaitlyn Jackson, counselors and Kalee Bair, secretary, and April Rasmussen, advisor.

The Mink Creek Ward building has gotten a new rooftop. The roof has received a new set of shingles and is looking prepared for the changing season.

Julie Kunz was down from her home in Idaho Falls for a weekend visit with her parents, Layne and Karen Erickson. It was a family weekend for Julie, attending a bridal shower for Kunz family in Bear Lake while she was in the area.

Fall colors decorate our surroundings. Strawberry Canyon is full of Fall reminders. Golden aspen and lime greens. Evans Hill on our south is showing maple reds. Throw in the deep greens of the many evergreens, then just enjoy. It is “come and see” time.

This last day of September has been rainy and cold, reminding us that Fall truly is here and this is not a temporary situation. But it is a welcome season, particularly after some of the blistering days of this past summer. Other reminders this time of year are the case lot sales at the nearest grocery store, potatoes and onions being sold in 50 pound bags, the occasional boast of a bow-hunter announcing that he “got his elk”, the school homecoming football game and dance. All signs of the changing season.

September 23, 2025

 

Brandi and Jake Allred and family have been down from Idaho Falls to spend some time with her parents, Jody and Bret Rasmussen. It is a good time to visit because there are lots of chores/work and fun to be had at this time of year. It is a harvest in many different areas.

Eldon and Danita Wilcox, who are now serving a mission in Bluff Fort, UT, were pleased to have a visit from Cliff and Teresa Keller, Preston friends. The Kellers are a part of the Mink Creek Ward this past year, serving as stake counselors.

It is time for a birth announcement. Corey and Savannah Nielson greeted their newest child, Ida, on September 6, a few days earlier than expected. She weighed in at 8 lb. 14 oz., and is welcomed by sister Astrid and brother Bjorn.

With the arrival of Fall season Mink Creek community tends to get less visitors than during the summer months. Matt Westerberg was here for a few days with his parents, Terry and Wendy Westerberg. Dean and Michelle Wilde of Pocatello have visited off and on during the last three month. Alex Huxford, nephew of Richard Free, came down to see what challenges his uncle might have brewed up. Adam Haws brought some family from California for a last taste of Mink Creek water before their lives took off in studious efforts with school underway.

Paul and Bobbi Debonis are the new owners of the home formerly occupied by ReNea Haddock and Raphael Arnsworth. They come to us from Colorado and it will take some time for them to make the total transition. They discovered the village of Mink Creek and its surroundings while looking for real estate and felt the pull to settle here. Welcome to beautiful Idaho.

And suddenly it feels fall. Leaves changing, most more muted than in a year with more moisture. Trails of smoke rising from piles of weeds, etc that accumulate as garden spaces are cleared of producing plants. Zucchini appearing on doorsteps. Everyone checking out the dates of the big potato harvests around Grace to lay in a winter's supply. This is Idaho and we must have our potatoes

September 17, 2026

 This is not the usual news from the Mink Creek rural column, because the column that was submitted did not make print this week.  What you are going to get is a little shifting around because some of what was submitted still should be in the printed version. Now you get my meanderings.

Mink Creek survived another LOTOJA bicycle race, that is Logan to Jackson. The racers going through our village have improved so much over the years. A number of bikers have been practicing on Highway 36 prior to the Big Day when they come in all sizes of groups: a bunch, just a few, one or two, all working to ascend the canyon road to the best of their ability.  It isn't an easy climb up to Copenhagen Basin and then down the other side of the canyon to Ovid, Montpelier and on into Wyoming to Jackson.

Jacket weather is here, especially for night activities.  No frozen gardens as of yet, but peaches and pears are high on the harvest and preservation tasks.   We are still hoping to stretch out the reasonable weather so that our tomatoes can keep producing and the  winter squash  and pumpkins need more time.  The local deer are well aware of our apple orchards and are quite adept at picking their own choice from the trees. 

September 10, 2025

 

The Eldon Wilcox home had a bustling Labor Day weekend. Wilcox daughter, Elise and her husband Jeff Hardy, plus family, plus some families of their friends enjoyed the freedoms of “life in the country” for these few days. The friendship group lives in the North Ogden area of Utah.

Callie and Shawn Beardall and their children of Spanish Fork, UT, got in a last few days before the changing of schedules with a visit to Kent and Tammy Beardall on the Mink Creek side of the canyon and Dallene Rigby, Callie's mother on the Montpelier side.

Wynn and Cecelie Costley are home after a short trip to Europe. Some years ago the Costley family hosted a Preston High exchange student from Germany, named Phillip. This visit was a re-connection of sorts and an opportunity to see this now adult 'son' with his wife, family and the surroundings he has chosen for his life. It was a wonderful visit.

ReNea Haddock and Raphael Arnsworth have sold their home in Mink Creek, plus Arnsworth's business in Utah. This is a “lock, stock and barrel” type of change and the yardsale took place a few weeks ago. They are moving on to a new chapter in their lives, planned with adventures in new places. They will be missed by the community.

The recent rains brought some life to the wild sunflowers. Those drooping heads of gold took on a new burst of life when the moisture fell. It is chokecherry season in Mink Creek, both wild and domestic. That just makes me think of chokecherry syrup on a short stack of hotcakes,  worth the work of harvesting the berries. 

I hope you are feeling the hint of Fall that is waiting in the weather wings. It has been so many days of oven-type temperatures, day in and day out, that every little bit of lower temperature feels like a magnificent reprieve.

September 3, 2025

 Labor Day already,  impossible.  But it came anyway.  Hope yours was one of relaxation as we swing into those changing months.

Mink Creek has received some rain and it is miraculous how all living things have perked up because of this gift. It has been a long, hot, dry summer and without irrigation we would have blown away. The hot southern winds have arrived every afternoon and one could feel the moisture leaving our environment on a daily basis.

Ben Keller had some knee surgery. He is at home recuperating from the procedure and one sees him out walking and endeavoring to follow the doctor's orders.

Four of the Crosland brothers managed to get together for their own summer high adventure. Rico and Armando went hiking in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. Then they were met by brothers Mario and Angelo and the four hiked the Gros Ventre Range. This took some planning and scheduling of travel and jobs since they all now reside considerable distances apart.

Family and friends gathered to hear remarks from Elder Erick-Niklas Danfors in the Mink Creek ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He spoke about his mission experiences in the Tanzania Dar es Slaam Mission of Africa. The Danfors family of Per and Cassie Danfors moved to Mink Creek during his absence. Elder Danfors has been speaking in Swahili during his mission and part of his program as he reported was a musical number by men of the Danfors family, sung in three languages: Swedish, Swahili and English.

Candy Longhurst and her family have been enjoying an extended visit from daughter Tiffany and Spencer Wheeler and their children.

Bruce Jepsen and his family were in Mink Creek checking on favorite spots from growing years on Bear Creek. He now lives in Washington state. He was bringing family members going to attend BYU/Provo and another for the Mission Training Center.

With this first slight hint of Fall arriving there has been some garden harvesting. Corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, summer squash, summer apples. Living in a sharing community is a wonderful way of life.

August 27, 2025

 

Wedding bells will be ringing for Chalis Jensen and Vanessa Griffeth on September 13. Chalis is the son of Kalee Jensen Bair and the late Shawn Jensen. Vanessa is the daughter of Debbie Griffeth and the late Kent Griffeth. The wedding will take place at the Eagles Landing in Smithfield, UT. Let the celebration moments begin!

A trio of Abernethys from far away came to Mink Creek for a quick overnighter among family. Danalee Erickson and Gene Abernthy and their son Daniel were in the Salt Lake City area for the funeral of Gene's mother and postponed their return to their homes to reconnect for just a few hours to Danalee's home in this valley. They stayed with a sister, Kristin and Jay Collins, visited with another sister, Claudine and LaMar McKague and Danalee's parents, Bob and Claudia Erickson. The senior Abernethys live in Prescott, AZ and Daniel Abernethy has a home in Massachusetts.

Our final ballpark party for the year, that we think of as “End of Summer,” was more structured and very well attended, people filling up the complete pavilion space and overflowing to chairs in the park. The complete dinner was furnished---chicken, tri tip, pork chops or lamb chops, Dutch-oven potatoes, tossed salad and rolls, chased by ice cream sandwiches for dessert. The lamb chops are a throwback to Mink Creek early celebrations where members of the community would donate a lamb from their flocks for the menu of a celebration. The program for this evening was live music from Carter Junction---a man and wife duo, Clint on guitar, Sarah on harp and hand drum. Their selections were varied: old-time country, Johnny Cash, some original, Irish ballads. It was a wonderful evening, a new resident commented that “This place is always doing 'something' together.” It has always been this way and is oft referred to as “the magic of Mink Creek.”

A last a good overall rain that lasted in a gentle continual dripping. Music to the land, our wildlife, our residents. Already there is a boosting for all things live that need this moisture. Gardens are being shared throughout the community with many smiles accompanying having some surplus to share.

August 19, 2025

 

4H leaders and kids have wrapped up their summer projects for the Franklin County Fair. It is show time no matter the project, be it an animal that has become a pet, a hand crafted project, cooking, sewing or just learning a new skill. This also means that school days are just around the corner.

The youth of Mink Creek took advantage of having the Bear River flowing down their backyard and had an evening of floating the river. Life jackets were required, in addition to their tubes and floating devices. Food is always a part if these activities, this time it was pizza and milkshakes.

The Young Women group drove over to the Paris Ice Caves near Bear Lake for a learning adventure. Paul McKay instructed and helped them with rappelling. It is an experience to learn “I can do hard thing.” Fourteen people participated in this activity and had a great time.

Charles and Sarah Swann and their children came down from Donnelly, ID, to give some assistance to his father Reed and sister Penny while they have been dealing with some health issues.

Recently Kristina and John Gore and their children Joseph, George and Siena were able to spend some time with her parents, Clifford and LaDawn Jensen at their place perched on the hillside above Station Creek. Besides Mink Creek they managed some time at beautiful Bear Lake. The Gores live in Vienna, VA and were checking some colleges in the west for the futures of their children.

The first day of school in the Preston School District has arrived. First day pictures being taken, some with happy smiles, others a bit more disgruntled, that may only last until they meet their friends in the school halls or on the playground. There is even the possibility of making new friends. It is a time to adjust schedules, mentally and physically. Even with this overly hot season this year, it is a welcome change in most homes.

August 13, 2025

 

It is that time of year when aspiring pedal bikers are practicing for the upcoming LOTOJA race that takes place annually in the fall. A portion of the race takes place on East Highway 36 as it climbs the canyon here in Mink Creek and drops into Montpelier. Even these hot afternoons do not discourage these athletes as they pedal their way through Mink Creek.

Rodeo weekend is another “come home” event. Dean and Michelle Wilde and family were down from Pocatello. Daughters of John and Edith Olsen came up from their various homes in Utah, so glad they still consider Mink Creek 'home.' Peggy and Jon Flinders and children of Rigby, and Dana and Charles Peterson's family of Meridian were spending this time with their parents, Jimmie and Anna Beth Olson.

Elder Erik-Niklas Danfors is home with his parents, Per and Cassie Danfors, after spending two years of missionary service in Tanzania, Africa. The Danfors family have moved to Mink Creek while Erik has been gone so he is becoming acquainted with new territory even on his return.

The infant son of Walter and Jillian Iverson was given his name and a blessing while the Iverson family gathered at the home of grandparents, Kurt and Margret Iverson. The baby was named Wells Walter Iverson. All of the Iverson siblings shared this day: Johnny and Gabby Iverson and children from Texas, Andrew and Annalise Iverson and Charles and Taylor Iverson of Provo, UT, Alexis and David Strong and children now of Colorado, plus Conner, now a senior at PHS. Great grandparents, Johnny and Jeannine Iverson were excited for the joy of this day.

Our community has had some dog problems lately. Some canine, or canines , on the loose during night hours, have gotten into a couple of flocks of chickens and killed them all. Hopefully the culprit(s) will soon be located and taken care of.

August 6, 2025

 

With the approach of school days once again, the leaders of the Young Women and Young Men organizations combined efforts to have a career panel to present a variety of future employment possibilities. In addition to job descriptions there was ample time for questions and answers. Most of those participating on the panel are currently residents of the Mink Creek community. Occupations included were: diesel mechanic, doctor, nurse, military, teacher, farmer, geotechnical engineer, retired FBI agent, commercial real estate and therapist. This activity was well attended and was a time of expanded learning for all connected. There were refreshments of homemade carrot cake to top off the evening.

Hazen Baird, son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, was ordained an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints this past week. Friends and family witnessed this occasion, among them were grandparents Terry and LeAnn Orton and Lana Baird and her husband Paul Swainston. The new Elder Baird will begin his missionary service in October.

There has been a recent change in the Sunday School Presidency of the Mink Creek LDS Ward. The new president is Kasey Haws with Wynn Costley as his First Counselor and Walter Iverson as the Second Counselor. Released after years of service in these positions were Terry Westerberg, president and Kim Bullock and Paul Auger, counselors. Robert Crosland was released as the First Counselor in the Stake Sunday School for the Preston East Stake organization.

Our highway 36 is looking spiffy, thanks to the state crew with the new paint up, fix up business this past month. The summer traffic is heavy this year, day and night. One of our resident deer was taken out the other night and I think that will leave 2 fawns orphans.

July 30, 2025

 

JoAnn and Kevin Auger came home to Preston to take part in the celebration of the 100^th birthday of DeOne Auger, Kevin's grandmother. JoAnn and Kevin now live in Woodland Hills, UT.  JoAnn grew up in Mink Creek, daughter of Freemon and Ada Jepsen and she always tries for a visit here when they are up this way.

Ben and Arianna Hostetter and their children have spent a week with her parents, Robert and Phee Crosland. The original plan was to be of assistance with the roof of the Crosland home now under construction. When the ordered trusses did not arrive other projects took over with much fun thrown in before the Hostetters returned to their home in Falcon, CO.

After spending more time in the Portneuf Regional Hospital in Pocatello than she would have preferred, Penny Swann is now home in Mink Creek, working at following her doctor's orders. The first stop was at the Franklin County Medical Center prior to the transfer to Pocatello. The doctors are still unsure as to the cause of her suffering. She has a number of restrictions: in diet, in strength, breathing. She is limited on visitors. Penny appreciates your concerns and welcomes prayers in her behalf.

The Kent and Tammy Beardall family gathered for a family reunion at the Mink Creek Ballpark recently. The plan was for a four-days of togetherness, memories and fun. Siblings able to attend were Michelle and Gary Wall and family of Grand Junction, CO, Shawn and Callie Beardall and children of Spanish Fork, UT, Mikel and Rebecca Beardall and son of Preston, Heather Tuttle of Garland, UT, and Nicole and Nate Denny and their girls of Rexburg. A nephew, Trevor Williams and his family of Downey, ID, joined the reunion. A highlight of these four days was the birth of a second son to Rebecca and Mikel Beardall at the Portneuf Regional Hospital in Pocatello. He will be named Ethan William Beardall.

The July Community Family Night at the Ballpark was well attended. It was good – good food, good company, good fun, a time of getting to know your neighbor. There were a few game groups and before the evening finished there were enough people interested to get up a game of softball.  We will miss this monthly get-together when schedules and weather changes.

July 23, 2025

 

Darron and Tracee Pulsipher have moved to Mink Creek. At first they had difficulties with building permits, but once solved their new home began to take shape. When the trusses arrived recently suddenly their efforts took off with a new house on the hillside.

Steve and Terry Mainini have returned to the heat of this summer. They took a five-week extended tour of Alaska and their only extra passenger was their housecat, Trouble. It started with a motorhome drive to Washington state, boarding a ferry there three days later, 1000 miles to the north, which carried them up to Skagway, AK. The adventure provided a mix of views and experiences: The Yukon, Jasper, beautiful scenery, wildlife, landslides, glaciers. Some areas were burnt after wildfires. It was smoky around Denali. The motorhome indicated a trip of 6500 miles. Steve said they traveled the Alaskan Highway, in reverse. It was great, it was fun, and the three of them are glad to be home in Mink Creek.

Katharine and Leon Noorda are at their summer apartment in the Keller Apartments for the next few weeks. This is a family tradition and more guests are expected.

Carol and Richard Wall are summering at the home of her parents, Larry and Lillian Hansen on Bear Creek. This place once belonged to Larry's ancestors.

Members of the congregation of the Mink Creek Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints volunteered for giving their meeting place a thorough deep cleaning. There were some interesting discoveries along the way in various closets and each nook and cranny is now dusted and polished, ready for more use in the future.

One of those quick storms that brought little moisture but lots of wind recently passed through. Windrows of hay in the fields were scattered, stalks of growing corn bent over, and gardens left in various styles of survival. Mink Creek's green is gone, now our hillsides are looking crisp and dry. A stroll outdoors is apt to bring you back with burrs and cheat grass attached to your hems and socks. We are grateful for every drop of water for both farms and yards.

July 16, 2025

 

Even the outdoor temperature for Mink Creek's annual Fourth of July celebration was great. The ballpark was full to the brim with people and activities. The day commenced with a softball game played by volunteers. Even with some light rain clouds the airplane candy drop made a couple of rounds. A patriotic program was under the direction of Capt. Michael Jepsen with assistance from other veterans. Games spread all over the park: a slack line, a barrel bull, doughnuts on a string, volleyball, dodgeball, face painting, a tipsy table, roping a longhorn(wooden), puck-it, a bounce house, and possibly even more. No could complain about lack of opportunity for fun. John Dahle provided his special brand of music throughout the day. Clare Christensen's crew and the Ostler's Dutch-oven potatoes rolled out a very satisfying meal, topped off with a piece of celebratory cake created by Leah Costley Gilbert. It was decorated with the Declaration of Independence. The hill hosting the water slide was kept busy most of the day.

Kent and Tammy Beardall drove to Spanish Fork, UT, to hear their grandson Braxton Beardall speak prior to leaving for his missionary training. He will be speaking Spanish and laboring in the Columbia, Medellin Mission. His parents are Shawn and Callie Beardall.

Robert and Phee Crosland and some of their children were able to attend a tradition titled Crosland Cousins' Reunion. The location depends on the residency of the host, this year it was held in Farmington, UT.

Mink Creek's population increased by three in the last few weeks, all babies arriving this summer. Emma and Logan Shurtz with their first, Leigha and Cade Nicholls, with their third, and Marissa and Cole Jepsen for two.

Carson Christensen was ordained an Elder of the Melchizedek Priesthood in the Mink Creek Ward, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.. Family and friends gathered to witness this occasion.

Another crop of hay is in the middle of harvest, various stages as the weather is very drying, unless it decides to send a cloudburst. As for gardens-- some items seem to be thriving in the heat, others fighting for life with voracious insects. One of those kinds of summers.

July 9, 2025

 

The family of Karl Haws brought him to Mink Creek from California to celebrate Fathers' Day. The perfect gift in this case. All of his children were able to be here except Max who had scheduled a cruise long before. It was so fun to have them all here. For now Kasey lives in Mink Creek, Lauren in the area, but the rest did some traveling: Peter, Adam, Aaron, Andrea. Mink Creek is second home to the whole bunch.

Hazen Baird, the son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, has received a mission call to serve in the Chile, Vin`a del Mar Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He will begin the home mission training program in October. Hazen will be speaking Spanish and will later go to the MTC in Mexico City.

The first Family Night at the Ballpark for the summer of 2025 was attended by around 60 people, all ages. Sloppy Joes were provided for dinner and it was potluck for side dishes and desserts. There are always interesting choices to be made with the offerings, salads, chips, pickles, etc. Cookies, cakes, sometimes even a pie. Some had brought board games, others games that could be played in the grassy areas of the park. It was a great night and there is anticipation for the next one. We like being together.

Summer goes with family reunions. The Harley and Lima Jepsen family gathered at the Mink Creek Ballpark for this family event. Eighty-four Jepsens were able to be in attendance. The group later met at the family farm, now home to Michael and MaryAnn Jepsen. The children of Harley and Lima are Eleanor, Carolyn, Lee Ann, Michael, Jonathan and Susan. Activities were plentiful, one many tried was that of climbing “Harley's Hill”, eastward, at least to the banks of the canal. Family heritage stories and lessons were shared.

The amazing July 4^th celebration is a wrap and already it feels like it is mid-July with everyone talking about the coming Preston's Famous Night Rodeo. Summer seems to just go scooting at a fast pace.

July 2, 2025

 

The family of Karl Haws brought him to Mink Creek from California to celebrate Fathers' Day. The perfect gift in this case. All of his children were able to be here except Max who had scheduled a cruise long before. It was so fun to have them all here. For now Kasey lives in Mink Creek, Lauren in the area, but the rest did some traveling: Peter, Adam, Aaron, Andrea. Mink Creek is second home to the whole bunch.

LaMar and Claudine McKague flew to Vancouver, WA, for a special occasion. Their son, Sam, was being called to serve as a counselor in his local bishopric and an ordination was needed. LaMar was honored to be able to perform that for Sam. Getting to spend time with Sam's wife, Sierra and little boy Henry was the icing on the cake.

With county roads getting the chip and seal work done now our village has been full of gravel trucks and all the equipment intended to improve our traveling. Thank you, Franklin County Road Department. The State Highway Department is also working on Highway 36.

Hazen Baird, the son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, has received a mission call to serve in the Chile, Vin`a del Mar Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He will begin the home mission training program in October. Hazen will be speaking Spanish and will later go to the MTC in Mexico City.

The first Family Night at the Ballpark for the summer of 2025 was attended by around 60 people, all ages. Sloppy Joes were provided for dinner and it was potluck for side dishes and desserts. There are always interesting choices to be made with the offerings, salads, chips, pickles, etc. Cookies, cakes, sometimes even a pie. Some had brought board games, others games that could be played in the grassy areas of the park. It was a great night and there is anticipation for the next one. We like being together.

Things are gearing up for the annual Mink Creek July 4th celebration, this is a long-standing event.  There have been changes over the many years---no longer a ranch rodeo, the menu is different, the grandstand is gone.  It still brings many ex-residents home for the holiday along with guests to enjoy the fun. 

June 25, 2025

 

The newest members of the Mink Creek LDS Ward are Logan and Emma Shurtz. They are building a home at the top of Capitol Hill Road. The couple come from the Tremonton, UT, area by way of Cupertino, CA, where Logan's line of work had them living previously.

Phee and Robert Crosland went up to Archer, ID, to participate in the blessing and naming of a new granddaughter. She has been named Jaycie June Crosland, daughter of Angelo and Karissa Crosland.. While there they celebrated the second birthday of Angelo's oldest daughter Elsie. Several of the Crosland family gathered at the cabin of Malia and Jason Kunde in Island Park, an unplanned reunion.

Dan and Casey Christensen had all their family home for Fathers' Day. That includes three married daughters, Sydney, Ellie, and Annie, plus husbands and two grandsons, and daughter Josie still at home. It was a wonderful day of memory sharing.

Candy Longhurst took some days for a trip to Hawaii to be with daughter Tiffany and Spencer Wheeler and their children. It was a plus for Candy when her pilot on the flight was her son Jake Longhurst. Coincidence?, or not.

Forrest and Patti Christensen have returned to Mink Creek for their summer break from their present home in Florida. While the temperatures here lately have been very warm it does lack the humidity that is hard to escape near the ocean.

Yes, it is mid June, but the temperatures have dropped now for several days, to the point that it is wisdom to cover what garden growth there is as night approaches. Some residents have reported frost on their windshields in the morning as they got to work. The weather reports that the 90 plus degree days will shortly return. A confusing start for hopeful gardeners.

June 17, 2025

 

Local farmers in the hay business have been taking advantage of the warm dry days, mowing the crop into windrows for drying. Waiting for the next step of baling before the first hauling of the season. A newcomer to Mink Creek asked why more round bales were not used, until they gave it some thought, realizing that round bales on a sloping field would present problems of rolling in various directions and causing one more challenge to harvesting the crop and removing it for the next growth.

School out, good weather, both tend to bring summer folk of Mink Creek to their homes for extended periods. Sam and Sylvia Stanger have the lights on in their perch above the Mink Creek Ballpark. Jim and Debbie Harrison are at home more often, escaping the St. George summer heat.

The first week of June was on the schedule for the annual Girls' Camp for the Young Women organization. This years it was organized at the Stake level for all girls in the Preston East Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their camp was in Heber Valley Camp in Utah. Four girls were able to attend and their leaders were Claudine McKague, Jonia Jackson, Kaytlin Jackson (not related) with Kerry Christensen as a priesthood leader for the group and Paul McKay serving on the stake food committee. They all came home, grateful for these few days of being together, learning and having fun and enriching experiences.

The new lambs, calves and goats are enjoying this weather. They get exhausted from too much play.

Our yards are full of birds that have returned and the turkeys have gone to higher ground for a season. The frequent hot winds have a way of drying things quickly and we are enjoying the green landscape for as long as nature allows.

Some days our Highway 36 sounds like it could be a part of a freeway. This two lane road is one route to Yellowstone Park and the Tetons which may add to the traffic. Heavy trucks, semis, motorcycles individual and in packs. At all hours day and night. Of course, there is also farm equipment as befits the growing and harvesting season, and can slow down some of the rest.

June 10, 2025

 

Garth and Robin Stevenson went south to Bluff, UT. They spent some time with friends, Eldon and Danita Wilcox, who are presently serving a mission in that area. There are all sorts of things to learn about the “Hole In The Rock” site from it's history, as well as pioneer crafts and skills.

Jesse and Annavelyn Wilcox and their son Desmond have returned from a long vacation to Annavelyn's family in the Philippines. They soaked up the closeness of the ocean, did some trekking through the jungle, visited places where Jesse had served when he was a missionary in the Philippines.

Royce and Lorraine Christensen celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary recently with a dinner at Maddox in Brigham City. All of their children were able to meet them there and share memories. Kevin came up from Arizona, Kim from Boise, Fred from Provo, UT, Carrie now in Layton and Colleen from Riverdale, ID.

Nate and Dana Olson of Station Creek enjoyed a visit from his daughter, Mary Lou, who drove down from Boise.

The Primary children and leaders, plus some extra volunteers, headed to the Mink Creek Cemetery with the beginning of June to clear the grounds of the leftovers from Memorial Day. Using gloves was the order of the day and the task was accomplished fairly quickly. Those youngsters could move up and down the slope with ease and agility. It was a deed well done.

Kent and Tammy Beardall were in Spanish Fork, UT, to celebrate the graduation of their grandson, Braxton Beardall from Spanish Fork High School. He is the son of Shawn and Callie Beardall. The graduation program was held at the UCCU Center in Orem, UT.

Graduations are in full swing. Bob and Claudia Erickson attended ceremonies for their granddaughter, Sophia Janke, graduating from Sugar-Salem High School. This program took place in the BYU/I Center in Rexburg, ID. Sophia's parents are Laural and Jody Janke of Teton, ID.

With the better weather showing some consistency  there are at least three new houses under construction at this time.  Small acreage, homes away from the city that seems fast encroaching.

June 4, 2025

 

The Lewis & Clark Volunteers, a Mountain Men group based in Soda Springs, have held their annual Memorial Day Rendezvous spread out over some of the Vernon Keller farm on the shores of Mink Creek. The weather held good this year for them to enjoy their activities and target practice.

It was certainly a “Come Home” weekend in Mink Creek during the Memorial Day holiday. The chief meeting place was the cemetery, beautiful with flowers, decorations and pictures of those now resting there. A new bench has been installed at the top.

Two Crane families gathered for the holiday. All of the children of Keith and Ramona Crane were able to come along with their spouses. They had several days together at a local Air BnB, that just happens to be the former home of their uncle Basil and Molly Crane. RoZann now lives in Salt Lake City, Lisa is in St. George, UT. Dr. Gilbert is well known in the Burley, ID, area. Tracy calls Vernal, UT, home, and Kelly is in Laramie, WY. , connected with University of Wyoming. It has been a great time to share memories in a place well loved.

The children of Rex and Brucia Crane came together at the Crane House of Bruce and Shauna Crane with sisters Linda Shewmaker of Jerome and Sheryl May of Rupert and their husbands. It has been quite awhile for such a concentrated Crane assembly.

The Hansen House was full of Hansen family. Siblings: Pat and Dirk Bowles of Fairview, Wes and Heather Hansen of Ogden, UT, Sandra and Earl Kemp of Farmington, UT, Roxanne and Wes Beutler of Dayton. This group built a retreat on the farm where they grew up and it has been perfect for family gatherings.

Colleen Pearson Hawkes came home to the Pearson property with her daughter Melanie and Greg Evans of Lehi, UT. Colleen still lives in Kaysville. Her son, Chad and Denise Hawkes of Morgan, UT, joined the family group this year.

Warm days, cool nights, a perfect time of year for those who choose to live here.  And those warm days, this year, are warmer than usual.

May 27, 2025

 

Mink Creek is happy to announce that we have three young people graduating from high school this spring. They are Tia Hatch, daughter of Sam and Katie Hatch, Hazen Baird, son of LaRon and Liesa Baird, and Krister Danfors, son of Per and Cassie Danfors. Of course they are excited and considering their futures and the whole village congratulates them on this accomplishment.

Our slopes are full of bluebells, curly flowers and buttercups. Curly flowers make it certain that nature has sent spring. The tame and wild choke cherry bushes are loaded with hanging clusters of blossoms, making it hopeful for a good harvest if the wind and temperatures will give them a chance. Visions of syrup and jelly to anticipate.

Nature's irrigation system has been providing rain in goodly quantities, and then bringing warmer days to wake up the sleeping seeds and dormant plants. Green in various shades is a favorite color. With the low hanging clouds filled with wetness it is Mink Creek's Ireland Season.

With Memorial Day weekend coming up the cemetery board members are preparing the cemetery for the many visitors that always come. Just the view from this site is worth stopping by. The sacred spot was chosen as the final earthly resting place within only a few years of the founding of the village of Mink Creek.

It is  hard to believe that this month is nearly gone.  Our population is growing, two more families are in the process of building  homes on land they have purchased. These are young families with lots of growth ahead of them.  We have had lots of visitors with the holiday and it always feels like "old home week"  which it should because they are so welcome and we love the memories they bring.

May 21, 2025

 

The Syringa Camp of the DUP met for their May gathering at the Chop Sticks Cafe. This was a special celebration of the 100^th organization of this particular camp. It has been an active camp in Franklin county during this time, contributing historical information and cementing ties to ancestors that chose the pioneer path.

Mike and Mary Ann Jepsen recently returned from a trip back east. They were in Raleigh, North Carolina to witness the graduation of their granddaughter Sydney Earl from the University of North Carolina. Sydney got her PHD in Psychology and all of her immediate family was there to celebrate. Mike and Mary Ann stayed with the family group for five days enjoying the country around Raleigh.

Mother's Day was uplifting in the Mink Creek Ward. Three spoke in the Sunday meeting: Morgan Keller, Wally Christensen, and Justin Jackson, all mentioned spiritual teachings they had received from their mothers. The musical number was from the Pop-Up Choir, this time led by Corey Nielsen, as he held his son Bjorn in one arm and directed with the other. The song was “I am a Child of God”, and Corey included the congregation in a verse. A beautiful hymn for the day and many voices participated. The ward gift for the women of the community was a long stemmed rose and two special cookies from Leah's Bakery. Leah is the daughter of Wynn and Cecelie Costley, now married with children and living in Fairview, a bakery business from her own home.

Jimmie and Anna Beth Olson took a break to the northwest. They vacationed a few days on the Oregon Coast, staying at Seaside. How the ocean can bring peace and calm is a gift. Even the sand on bare feet feels restoring. As they traveled there they stopped at the home of their daughter Dana and Charles Peterson and family in Meridian for an extra bonus, and rest, from the travel time.

This time of year is a busy one for all.  Families with graduating seniors are making celebratory plans.  With younger children, they are antsy to have school wrapped up for a few months.  Farmers are out in their fields, gardens are being planted or dreamed of, all the time hoping we don't get a freezing night that wipes out any plant or flower that is at the mercy of temperatures.  It is not a time of boredom.

May 14, 2025

 

The spring roadside cleanup for the community started out early with volunteers meeting at the Mink Creek Ballpark at 7:30 a.m the morning of May 3. The weather was agreeable. About 45 helpers picked up the orange trash bags and set out for their assigned area of Highway 36. Besides the satisfaction of a job well done they received breakfast around 9 a.m., back at the ballpark with the eggs, bacon, sausage and flapjacks plus orange juice or bottled water, that Clare Christensen and his cooking crew had prepared. It is a job well done, and always needed.

Carla and Mark Nielsen spent a couple of days at her parents' home, Bob and Claudia Erickson. They were attending the graduation festivities of their son Collin Nielsen, graduating Cum Laud in Agriculture this spring. Collin has recently returned from a teaching assignment in Italy.

As spring work is underway there is opportunity all around. Alex Huxford, a nephew, came to help out at the Richard Free ranch. Doug and Kathy Wilcox are in and out at their Mink Creek home. Nancy and Kevin Alder are getting in some time at their place in the Glencoe end of the valley.

Three young residents took part in the Dancing With the Stars, ballroom fundraising event. Jyllian and Greenlee Christensen are daughters of Lacey and Kerry Christensen and Hazen Baird is the son of LaRon and Liesa Baird. Greenlee's partner in this performance was our own Dr. Kerry Jepsen.

Joe and Kate Jepsen and their children spent a weekend with his parents, Mike and Mary Ann Jepsen. This is a fun time of year for a visit to the country. They live in Utah.

This is a wonderful time of year.  It has been warm enough for comfortable fishing, for teaching kids who might be interested in learning the basics.  Foster Reservoir is a popular spot right now.  The sky is spring blue, a bit different from the chill blue of winter, both nice, but this one speaks of newness, life ahead.   There are young people preparing for graduation, excited and yet a bit wary of the future.

May 7, 2025

 Sorry for the lateness.  I have had some unplanned for aches and pains and totally forgot I had a blog.

Bret and Jody Rasmussen had a fun visit from their daughter Brandi Allred, her husband and children for a weekend. The Allreds live in Idaho Falls.

Easter brought Andy and Brittany McKay and Crew of Preston, Connie and Adam Westenskow and Emma of Logan, Morgan and Eli Curtis of Bountiful, UT, and Layne and Karen Erickson of Mink Creek all together. The family group enjoyed dinner at the home of Paul and Terrie McKay on Station Creek.

Aaron Haws and his son came down from Meridian, ID, for a little guy time at the Haws place. Mink Creek is a second home for most of the Haws clan, descendants of Louis and Eleanor Engel.

Kurt and Margret Iverson are listing several joyous occasions in their family lately. Their son Walter just graduated from BYU, and Walter and his wife, Jillian have brought their first baby into the world this past week. All causes for celebration! With the break from college studies at the “Y” two other Iverson sons, Charles and Andrew, and their wives came home to soak up some down time for just a little bit before their summer life chapter opens up.

Tractors are busy pulling various pieces of cultivation machinery — turning ground, harrowing fields, whatever is called for. On a smaller scale home gardens are in the process, shovels, rototillers, etc. hoping to time sprouting seeds against possible freezing night temperatures.

The whole valley of Mink Creek is filled with flowering trees. Wild and domestic. Some with spikey thorns, some without.  Every day lately has been beautiful--in temperature, in scenery, in people.  There are even extra sounds this time of year---the flow of our wonderful Mink Creek now when it is high, birds finding nesting places.   Hope you are enjoying your spring wherever you are.

April 30, 2025

 

An Easter Egg Hunt provided some egg-citing fun on the Saturday before Easter Sunday. Eggs were hidden all around the Mink Creek Church grounds, sponsored by the Young Women, it was for the children ages 11 and under. The young ladies had the extra fun of assembling the treats and doing the hiding. There were lots of plastic eggs filled with treats and all who participated had fun in the hunting and the excitement of the “find.” Containers went home full.

Jonia Jackson is home after enjoying a vacation time in Florida. She was visiting her son John and his family and the warmth made it all the more inviting.

Kim and Sam Daines were up from Lehi, UT, spending time in Mink Creek. Kim's mother, Judy Clark now lives in Preston and other family is scattered around the county.

With the “Mamma Mia” play two McKague siblings arrived to support sister Elsie McKague and their mother Claudine in the performances. Sage and Nathan Ricks were down from Idaho Falls, Ethan and Caitlin McKague drove up from Lehi, UT., This visit added even more fun for an Easter family gathering.

ReNea and Raphael Arnsworth enjoyed the Easter holiday at the home of her parents. Steve and Charlotte Haddock live in Pocatello.

David and Melanie Law were up from Kaysville to ready their house for summer gatherings. It was a bit of an escape from the Utah storms of late.

The true sign of spring's arrival is that of the awakening of the wasps in the Mink Creek LDS chapel. They are making themselves known and are taken in stride by the community, but visitors get a little more alarmed.

Sprucing up from winter has started. Trimming of evergreens into better shapes after the snow weight has done some bending. Patchy lawns getting some early treatment in hope for improvement. Fixing fences, both domestic and agricultural.

April 23, 2025

 

The Syringa Camp of the local DUP met this month at the home of Colleen Wilde on Capitol Hill Road. Julie Westerberg presented an interesting lesson about pioneer involvement with Indian tribes. Karen Erickson shared an ancestor story discovered through genealogy research, of a tribal ancestor from the 1500's, located in what is now Rhode Island. Last month's DUP meeting was at the home of Linda Carlsen in Preston.

Very well attended was the wedding of Lana Baird and Paul Swainston, held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mink Creek. Officiator of the ceremony was Bishop Nathan Palmer of the Preston 10^th Ward, where this new couple will now be residing. It was a joyous occasion for family and friends.

The Hansen House has been humming with springtime. Wes and Heather Hansen came up from the Ogden area for one weekend. Not long after the parking spots at the retreat contained outfits belonging to Roxanne and Wesley Beutler's family of Dayton. It is great to be able to always “come home to Mink Creek.”

Brad and RaOne Stuart were in Mink Creek for the funeral and burial of RaOne's cousin, Dee Virile Christensen of Dayton. Christensen was born and raised in Mink Creek, he recently passed away resulting from a confrontation with a bull at his farm.

Each week for some of the wintery months there has been a game night. In the village. Those who wish can gather at the LDS Rec Hall for playing rounds of Bunco and this is serving as a way of getting acquainted among those who are recent residents of the community. The social side, plus some potluck refreshments has made this a popular cold weather activity. We will see what happens when warmth brings on outdoor work and longer daylight hours.

The winter sleep of nature  is sliding away with growth and animals waking up.  Canadian geese have arrived and are enjoying our ponds, building nests.  Skunks are out and about particularly during night hours.  Deer are checking out their old snacking areas.  

April 16, 2025.

 

When a weed burning project gets out of control it becomes distressing and alarming. This was probably the case with a fire that burned some acreage in the Station Creek hills. Several fire departments arrived to take care of the spreading blaze and the smoke could be seen for miles around. We are grateful for the firefighters and their expertise.

Phee and Robert Crosland drove down to Eagle Mountain, UT, to witness the blessing and naming of a new grandchild. She is the daughter of Mario and Amanda Crosland of Smithfield, UT, and was named Britta Crosland.

Kim Rasmussen was able to stay true to a personal tradition. He went to the March Madness in Las Vegas, NV, with his brother-in-law, Hays Carr, and enjoyed every minute. Such a relief after dealing with the long-lasting seasonal cough this year.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ward has a new organ in the chapel, much to the enjoyment of all who attend. There are also three recently baptized members in the congregation. Kason Rhees, son of Matt and Chelsey Rhees was baptized in February when the family was on a vacation in New Zealand. The Rhees family were visiting grandparents who are serving a mission in New Zealand. Jamie Osborn and her daughter Shylynne Osborne were baptized in March at the Preston East Stake Center.

Bryan and Shannon Erickson of Wellsville, UT, held a nearly family reunion when they celebrated the birthdays of Bryan's mother Karen Erickson and his sister, Terrie McKay, born on the same day. A goodly number of the Erickson family gathered in Wellsville to recognize the day.

Expected a change from the warm spring weather we have been having--and it surely came to pass.  All things white  and we look like a normal January, meaning that it is on the verge of thawing but hasn't quite decided yet.    We are hoping that anything that has decided to put forth some greenery does not get wiped out in the next few days.

April 9, 2025

 

The family of Stuart and Alona Ostler did some splits during spring break and had a marvelous time. There was a fishing trip to the Salmon River country that turned out very successful. Mexico is an annual spring sprint for Alona and her mother Jody Sharp and this time they included sister Brenda Shaffer. Lots of smiles and lots of fun.

Lauren and Ken Nash were up from Sol Vang, CA for a few days to get things ready for more frequent visits from various Haws family members at the hang-out on the shores of Mink Creek itself.

ReNae Egley just got back from another travel session with her friend, Jill Baird Hobbs. They have been to Thailand and seen and done wondrous things. The buildings, museums have much to offer, the scenery was beautiful. Preparing Thai food as well as eating it is something they can add ti their everyday lives. They learned so much about elephants with personal interaction, feeding them, playing with them, preparing food for them and just enjoying the personality of each animal.

Heather Tuttle came over from Garland, UT, to spend some time with her parents, Tammy and Kent Beardall. There was a special occasion, that of her parents speaking in a Sunday meeting. .

Kurt and Margret Iverson took advantage of the spring break time to visit New Zealand. One objective of this trip to faraway was the attending of the Wellington, New Zealand , Temple newly completed for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There is much to enjoy in beautiful New Zealand.

Lawns are being raked, even mowed.  Flower beds are being readied.   Green shoots of daffodils are in evidence at the back entry of the LDS church.  All sure signs that the population, human and otherwise are feeling the shift of the seasons.  I am even hearing the roar of motorcycles quite regularly.

April 2, 2025

  The Influenza A strain has taken a number of residents out of commission for a lengthy stretch.  One resident was down with the stuff for six weeks.  Nothing good can be said about the bug, unless it might be that a person so afflicted enjoys staying home with lots of naps of exhaustion.

A project for the community of Mink Creek that took considerable time to complete was the compiling and editing of a book entitled Women of Mink Creek. It is a record about the women who now live in this small community, and includes glimpses into the past as well. Some of the stories are from residents of long-standing, others may have lived here only a short time. The project grew and blossomed as stories were submitted to Cecelie Costley, a counselor in the current Mink Creek Relief Society presidency. Cecelie was the inspiration and provided the narrative to tie the stories into the final copy. The printed edition has been very popular and gives a little different perspective from some of the past histories of Mink Creek.

Jyllian Christensen, daughter of Kerry and Lacey Christensen, and a junior at Preston High School participated in the Distinguished Young Women pageant recently. A skilled horsewoman, Jyllian has competed in a number of rodeo royalty competitions in past years.

Kasey and Julia Haws are now permanently Crickers. Kasey has been spending vacation times in Mink Crik since he was a kid, coming with his parents from California to enjoy Idaho summertime with his grandparents, Louis and Eleanor Engel. Through the years, as the senior sibling of his family, Kasey has made sure the Engel/Haws home was taken care of. Now they have purchased the former home of Drew and JoAnn Ford up Bear Creek Road and those Idaho roots are spreading out, here to stay, with reverse visits to California.

A newer resident is Anita Hadley, also from California. She purchased the Steve and Amy Baldwin home with its beautiful porch and view in the distance of the west side mountains.

There is that feeling of spring, and along with it has come the awakening of dormant box elder bugs and the invasion of early mosquitoes. The storms passing through have not been sufficient to discourage them

March 18, 2025

 

With the excitement of Preston High's basketball team headed to Boise for the Idaho State 5A tournament a number of Mink Creek residents followed them for the three day challenge. This team has provided many hours of spectator fun this whole season. It was extra exciting when the team proved their prowess and became the State Champions for the 2025 year.

The community was part of the food drive of the Preston East Stake for supplies to be donated to the Preston Community Food Pantry. Some foods were brought to the meetinghouse, others were gathered door to door by the young men and all delivered to the food bank.

LaMar and Claudine McKague's family all gathered in Utah to attend the wedding and festivities of their son Ethan McKague and Caitlin Paulson, the daughter of Clint and Jamie Paulson. There are five McKague siblings and all were able to make the trip: three from southeastern Idaho and one from Vancouver, WA, where the McKagues resided prior to moving to Mink Creek. Ethan and Caitlin will make their home in Lehi, UT.

Eldon and Danita Wilcox have received another mission assignment for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This time they will be serving in Bluff, UT at another historic site. It is the area of the famous “Hole In the Rock” that was part of the early colonization of the church members to the southwest. The Wilcox are due to arrive in Bluff before the end of March and will soon be on their way. Several of their children and grandchildren have made recent visits in Mink Creek, aware of this next time of extended absence of their parents.

Some of the local wildlife are as confused about the spring/winter as are we humans. Migrating birds with their overhead  view considering the landscape might think twice about dropping down into a land where the snowplows are busy into the wee hours of the mornings. They may want to have a break further south before resuming their flights.

March 12, 2025

 

On a Saturday morning the members of the Mink Creek Relief Society were invited to join a session of tying quilts. Spearheaded by Danita Wilcox this was a project long in the process. Donations of scraps and larger pieces of fabric had been given to Danita to assemble into quilt tops as a humanitarian service, quilts for those needing the same. The results, after several months of stitching, were six tops that had been pieced together, set in frames and now in need of tying. About twenty ladies volunteered their services and gathered at the recreation hall. A brunch was served of breakfast casseroles, a french toast casserole, fruit plates and veggie trays. Along with the task at hand there was the enjoyment of being together and socializing. The next step was to find volunteers to sew the binding of the quilt edges to have a finished wrap of warmth.

The Young Men also had a a couple of days of snowmobiling together, knowing the days of fresh white snow may be limited as spring nears. Dads and leaders went with the guys, starting out from the Birch Creek parking lot. Those on the ride were Bishop Jared and Morgan Keller, Jesse Wilcox, Carson Christensen, Matt Rhees, Brian Peterson, Kurt and Conner Iverson, Per and Krister Danfors, Jesse and Elliot Keller. They met at the warming hut in Horseshoe Basin for lunch then rode over to the Bear Lake side to spend the night at a cabin in St. Charles. LaRon Baird and his sons Hazen and Orrin drove over from Mink Creek with food to meet them in St. Charles and spend the night.  No injuries were reported and just a few scratches on the machines. Lots of smiles from a great activity.

We have multiple indications of health issues.  Among them are arms in special slings to keep  shoulders in place,  a leg scooter for a healing broken leg, several leg boots, not to mention absences due to respiratory disturbances. 

There are reports of crocuses putting in appearances and the recent warm days have pushed yard snow way back.  Spring?  Forecast is for three stormy days this coming weekend.  I guess that does make it spring.