I-5 adventure

Today we traveled south on I-5 from Myrtle Creek, OR to Redding, CA.  The drive was as scenic a stretch of highway as we have driven in this 1000 miles journey from Amanda's house. Much of the distance was mountain driving interspersed by beautiful valleys. One valley was a scene of pastoral serenity. Cows grazed in a beautiful green pasture ringed by split rail fences. The mountains, timbered with thick pine trees, framed the valley, rising steeply on either side. It reminded me of a peaceful mural painting we might find in one of our temples.

The visual "cherry on the top" was Mt. Shasta, pictured above. We came around a bend, and Wow, it filled the windshield of Bigfoot! It looked like a matt painting in a movie. It is a volcanic giant still covered by snow with clouds surrounding it. We took this shot with Mom's phone (thumb is mine) from a rest stop/vista stop. What a country!

"This is your birthday song...

Mom decided to spend this birthday with her only brother, Donald in Portland, OR. Here they are in Donald's backyard with Mom's birthday bag gift. Becca calls this large Uncle, "a hunky guy"
Mom and Donald spent the day baking in his kitchen. This is the day before the 9/25 special day, but Mom wanted to get the baking done so tomorrow she can just "enjoy".  She created a spice cake with maple frosting, decorating it with the double meaning "Route 66"--a highway we've spent a lot of time on, and of course it celebrates her big 66th birthday.
And a fresh Rhubard pie for Uncle Donald and Papa. Happy Birthday Gramma. "...It doesn't last too long. HEY!!!"

Beautiful, beautiful brown eyes

Amanda, Lily and Carson have the clearest, bold brown eyes, each with a different shade. Check it out the next time you see them together. I have enjoyed being with them for a time this summer. I will miss them (and their eyes) when we leave tomorrow. I am quick to add that Emma has dazzling green eyes as part of her beauty. (And Eric's eyes are nice too)

"Hee Haw!!"

That's what Carson calls out when he jumps on your back for a ride. There are few things sweeter in this life than a hug around your neck by a 2 year old grandson (followed quickly by a choke hold before things get mushy).

David's "Orientation"

On August 26th, the new Kindergarteners, parents (and grandparents) were invited to Timpanogos Elementary School to meet their teacher and see their classroom, preparatory to beginning school on Aug 27th. Heidi was thoughtful to let Gramma know of the opportunity. I don't know who was most excited, David or Gramma. In this photo they pose with Mrs. Unufe, David's teacher. Her husband is Tongan, so we are trying to teach David the Tongan greeting (who remembers?) "malo lelei".