Father (s)

I have been without my father since I was 14 years old. Days like Father's day would come and at times, I would sit and get down while I'd hear others boast about their dads and hear them speak of how lucky they felt for their relationships with them and the continual example they provided. It would leave me with feelings such as: am I less or do I miss out because I don't have that influence and guidance in my own life?

On the other hand, I do enjoy days like Mother's day and Father's day because I will sit and reflect a little more than usual. I especially enjoy that it lies on a Sunday and usually something I learn from church enhances and heals me in ways I'd never see or feel on my own.

In Relief Society we had a wonderful lesson on the Life of Christ. During the lesson, Anya was inspired to have us sit and reflect. One of the posed questions was: what is something about the Savior's life that is meaningful to me? Besides His example, His healing miracles, His Atonement and love for mankind...the one thing that stands out to me is that every single act he did was a teaching moment.

This awakened me to a realization that every single action and word I express will teach others (for better or worse), but also awakened me to what I observe in others that teach me through their actions.

Immediately in pondering those who teach me; great men I am surrounded by came to mind.

First and foremost, my eternal companion. Not only has he always treated me like a queen with kindness, respect, love, and service, he also teaches our family continually through every single act he performs. He always strives to live his best and inspire along the way...and he does.

I am blessed with an amazing father-in-law who is a tremendous example. From day one he has called me daughter, buys me flowers, sings to me, embarrasses me, dances with me, and embraces me like a father would. He taught Jason the importance of women and did it by actions. I am the benefactor of those teachings.

I have an awesome brother who is a great father. I'm amazed when I watch him with his kids and how they look at him. He is their hero. He carries impressive qualities that our father never had. Since he is the only direct male blood relation alive in my life, his opinions and wisdom carry heavy weight for me.

I am surrounded by great men via church and some of my friend's fathers. I am particularly close with one of my friend's family for the past 20 years. His father called me up last month and invited me to lunch. He expressed to me that he never wants me to feel as if I'm without a father figure....that I always have someone to call if I'm in a bind, need encouragement, or someone to bounce ideas off of. I can't express how loved I felt that day. It taught me that family needn't be blood. At times it's a ward family, and at other times it's kind words and actions expressed by those who care.

So although my father isn't here to honor this day, I have so many that I do honor. I am thankful for their example and the continual teaching I receive from them. I am grateful for my relationship with them. And above all, I am grateful for my Heavenly Father who placed these men in my path to help me, inspire me, teach me, and make me feel loved like a daughter should.

Montezuma's Castle

We have decided to travel more within state to see all that is available so close to home. We've seen the signs off the 17 for years for Montezuma's Castle and decided one of these days we should actually turn off and go...so we did. When I leave, I'm always so thankful I went because of all I learn while being in new places. I really love history. I want to know what went through people's minds, why they made the choices they did and am fascinated to know that I'm walking in the same footsteps and my eyes are taking in the same sights that others so many years ago experienced.

The kids had many questions and weren't quite as fascinated but appreciated it for being a 'house in a rock.' They were more concerned with snakes, scorpions, and lethal bugs.

Some may say I'm a rebel...I sometimes just do things because it makes Jason sweat.

Peep Holes

We got the special VIP treatment and got back castle passes to see what activity was taking place within the walls.

Williams

We spent a couple days in the Old West. Enjoy our short film.

'Good Girls...for now'

'Town Mockers'

'Busted'

'Insanity'

Town Snob: 'Where's the Mall?'

'Punishment'

'Who will save us?'

'Redemption'

The End.

(Never mess with a pick pocketer who can steal your keys.)

The Grand Canyon

We've lived here for 9 years and have never been to the Grand Canyon. Kind of embarrassing to admit. We thought we'd go in style and ride the train. It was a 65 mile trip from Williams to the Grand Canyon. Travel time one way was 2 hours 15 min. The time went by quickly. Many facts and history pointers were given along the way and it was nice to be able to sit and enjoy the scenery without worrying if Jason was tailgating.

I didn't know if the kids would be too old to get excited to ride the train. I was thrilled when they were bouncing up and down with anticipation and honestly I was also excited...though I could have fun about anywhere.

Part of our travel entertainment. Larry. He was actually very, very good. You should ask him about his CD.

This was our first glimpse of the canyon.

It seemed surreal. I felt like I was looking at a piece of artwork. The only thing that made it real was being on the trail and being inches from falling to my death. My wish list for the next trip to the canyon would consist of going to the bottom and white river rafting the Colorado River. I think being down in the canyon and gazing up would be the perspective to really gain an understanding of how beautiful it really is.

The squirrels were so tame you could pet them.

Tried to get Jason to dangle Nathan over the edge for a copy cat Michael Jackson footage, but he was unwilling.

Note to self...never wear a yellow shirt to the canyon ever again. Jumbo black bees were shadowing me the ENTIRE day.

Have I mentioned my annoyance of the trip? Foreigners. They have no hiking etiquette. Always on the wrong side of the trail...won't pull to the side to let faster hikers by, etc. I can go on and on. Here we wanted a photo op with the family and this guy would NOT move. Jason got the body language well in this frame. Brynna bored, Nathan with hands on hips, and me starting to rock the attitude.

Captured: Another etiquette-less hiker. As the mules continued their descent, the guide had to continually ask this lady to step to the OTHER side of the trail...you know the one she couldn't get kicked off of.

California Condors

Hopi House

The Hoop Dance. Love this dance. Back in Nebraska, a missionary was serving who did this dance. He tried to teach me a few of the moves...the best I could do was 2 hoops and it was to hula with. White girls can't hoop dance.

At first I thought this was a joke. It is actually missing. Jason eventually put a stone from the ground on it. :)

On our train ride home we were 'robbed.' The kids LOVED it, they even sacrificed their own money.

The kids thanked us over and over and are still talking about it. It feels good to be able to expose them to so much. Personally, I would definitely go back. Next trip will be adults only for a more challenging adventure.