Absolutely Awesome Eight: Mother's Day & Shout Hooray (school's out)!

Before I blog about our summer adventures, the 'historian' in me must quickly recap a few of the highlights from the busy month of May. It was a wonderful month and clipped by at an alarming rate. It has been confirmed to me by a 95-year old (G-pa LaVerne) and others (G-ma Ann) that the older you get, the faster time moves along. I absolutely agree.

Flower arrangements done during a YW activity.

May flowers were aplenty!

The day after Quinn's baptism was Mother's Day (May 14). And while it was fast Sunday for us (due to Stake Conference the week before) again, it was a fabulous day and we enjoyed a spiritual feast. It was also the "year of flowers" - real, paper, fabric, etc. The kids' creations (from activity days, scouts, YW, school) were wonderful and I always love 'redeeming' my Mother's Day coupons.

Of course, the best part of the day was being able to Skype with Tanner! It went by too fast. He is doing well in the Lewisberry area and loves being a full-time missionary. We love and miss him.

Mother's Day photo

Love these kiddos!

Our FHE activity on Monday (May 15) was to attend the open house of the Idaho Falls Temple. It's been beautifully updated and as of June 4, has now be re-dedicated. It will be interesting to notice changes in attendance to our local temple with this temple operating again. It's been nearly 2 years since the closure. This is the temple my parents were married and sealed in on July 30, 1970 and the temple where my grandfather served in the temple presidency and as a sealer (set apart by then Elder Gordon B. Hinckley) for many years.

Going back to the beginning of May (pre-Cancun trip), Elsie's 4th grade class prepared for and participated in a Wax History Museum. Elsie researched and represented Springtime, first wife of the famous Indian Chief Joseph. She shared how Springtime's braids caught on fire and other interesting facts about her life. Elsie also enjoyed going on the Mountain Man Rendezvous field trip.

Elsie also completed her second year with the Act It Out Children's Theater group. She played the pirate, Sandy, in the production of "Treasure Island". Elsie knew her lines very well and enjoyed the experience. This fall she plans to spread her wings in new ways with a ballroom dance team rather than continuing on the stage.

Elsie at middle mic - dark green pants, black shirt, light smock & sword

Megan, Aubrey, Brinley - SL Temple

The high school orchestra took a day trip to SLC and toured/attended a concert at Abravenal Hall. I have enjoyed many concerts in that venue over the years while growing up in the SL area so I was happy Brinley was able to participate in such an excursion.

Anna received 2nd place in a local studio concerto competition and was thrilled to receive the $20 prize along with a certificate/medal. It's been a good spring in the piano department for her.

Maddi, Brinley, Rachel

The 'three amigos' celebrated Jr. Prom in their own crazy fun way.

First Cub Scout pack meeting for Quinn was a hit. Not only did he receive some awards, but he won a few prizes and was recognized for being 'properly' uniformed:). He loves scouts!

Brinley, Aubrey, Megan - orchestra performance

Cheryl (red dress) & Rick Hansen along with other dignitaries

The final orchestra performance conducted by Mr. Hansen (Sr.) was a very big event around here. It was an honor for Brinley to be part of this and to have been influenced by the vision and dedication of this impressive man. After 43 years of teaching, Mr. Hansen finally made the difficult decision to retire. He loves what he does and what he has created in this community. The evening of May 17th marked a bittersweet night to witness the community outpouring of support for his efforts and achievements.

It's not often that I get a few candid, random shots from Brinley who seems to float in and out of our house without making a sound:). Hiking with friends (and dogs) is a recent favorite activity.