Family Ties Aug.27 - Sept. 3, 2006

Aug. 27 - Sept. 3, 2006
Dear Family,

Following our trip to Idaho, we began our last two major projects on Monday morning. Your mother began our "fur coat" for the entry room and your father began the dreaded job of replacing the insulation stolen by the squirrels who mouthful at a time transferred it to their undergrown home for more comfortable winters. He then improved the insulation skirting at the west end of the cabin. The mink blankets we sent home from Korea will add a most interesting/unique touch to the cabin and will provide insulation that is badly needed in that area.
We learned over the internet of the death of our close friend and former neighbor, Joseph Pehrson. His funeral was Friday morning in Bountiful and we were very glad that we attended since it appeared we were the only ones from Granger where such important events in his life took place, i.g. becoming active in the church and going to the temple. All four of his children were there including Lynn, Joe Jr., Brad and Jeff.
Fortunately, this date coincided with the plans made by Debbie and Marie for the joint family shower for Jarica and Janie since traditionally the Madsens come to the cabin for Labor Day weekend. While the women attended a fun shower on a beautifully decorated patio and appetizing buffet table of food, the men went to dinner at the Red Robin restaurant. Those attending were: Linda Madsen (Ted's wife), their daughter Chelsi and son Colemans wife and daughter Sofie. Of the Hymas family were Debbie, Melissa, Heidi, Ann, your mother and of course, Susan, Janie & Jerica. David's family were at Red Fish Lake for the holiday and Dan's family (except Ann) were at lake Meades. The girls received some lovely gifts and we all enjoyed the evening.
Saturday Susan's family joined us at the cabin where we had a bar-b-que, played games and socialized. Several of the young adults went hiking in the dark in search of the elk Skyler and Janie had seen earlier in the day. Sunday we all attended church at our ward and both your dad and Janie bore their testimonies which were both touching. After dinner Jared, Jake, Jeff, Skyler, Jarica, Natalie and Janie had a fun game of plastic soft ball on the grass. Before heading home we enjoyed the dessert we were too full for at dinnertime. Jared headed for Logan and Susan, Jake/Jarica, Skyler/Janie for St. George. Jeff and Natalie stayed with us over night. That was a plus for us as we enjoyed "one on one" time with them. We are most impressed with the companions Jake & Janie have chosen and are equally impressed with Natalie Wilde whom Jeff is very fond of.
This week has been joyous as much was accomplished and our association with family via telephone, email and in person made our week.