The Joys of our dear Deseret Industries

We have discovered the D.I. in American Fork to be a treasure trove of goodness. :)

While we did not, unfortunately, bring home our furry friends, we did carry out this load of wonderful books. Stephen and I made a goal before we got married to work on our library little by little, so that when our children are old enough to read, they will not be at a loss for good material! And I just about started jumping up and down when I found this pile of Gooseberry Patch books (wonderful, wonderful books that add some more joy to homemaking). Sixteen books that all range in price from $15.00 to $30 dollars apiece for $19.00 dollars? Sounds good to me! We love to read. :)

We also ran into a dear friend that we hadn't seen since high school - Emily Lunt (although Lunt no longer) and her sweet husband! I wish I'd gotten a picture with her. They were absolutely darling and happy. It's so good to see old friends. :)

My Dear Papa

During a birthday dinner, it's a tradition in our family to go around the table and express one thing you have appreciated about the birthday boy/girl that year. So, let's just imagine we're sitting around the table, and it's my turn, because today is my dear Papa's BIRTHDAY!!

Dad, one thing I have appreciated and admired about you this year, is your watchcare over your family.

Watch-care & ...to stay awake and keep a vigil, to spend time observing something closely, to guard and to observe... Watchcare is caring for the spiritual and temporal welfare of those in your stewardship...are willing to "bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort."

You watch over your family - to be with and strengthen them. (D&C 20:53).

Thank you for taking care of us!

We know how much you love us, Dad. We can see it in all you do. I hope that some day I'll be able to better show you in that way, too.

I LOVE YOU, DAD!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!