The desert isn't barren... it has a metal tree

Philippe took this picture as he drove from Salt Lake City to Reno. He took another dozen pictures too - approximately 11 more than I've ever taken while on this "scenic route."

My Singular Uncle, Aunt & Cousin - 18 May

We visited my Uncle John & Aunt Pat and my Cousin Trisha & her girls in Salt Lake City. My Aunt & Uncle gave us an insider's tour of Temple Square. The roof of the conference center had exceptional views. The artwork inside was a Mormon Louvre. Trisha took us to meet some of her other cousins - in that she's my only cousin, it was unfathomable to meet a houseful of hers.

There's nothing better than Sunday family dinner - especially with homemade foccacia bread, lasagne and meringue for dessert!

Dinner with the Belot Family - 16 May 2009

The Belot family run the best Bed & Breakfast in the metropolis of Mapelton! Franz made chicken spicy enough to curl one's hair. Brandy made a breakfast casserole that set the bar at olympic standards. When she saw William she said, "I wan't him." She has 5 handsome boys already - she has distinguished taste (and genes!)

Generations Blessed - 15 May 2009

Philippe and I attended the Rexburg, Idaho Temple. (By divine coincidence,) Philippe met Brother Budge. He was a missionary who had taught his parents over 50 years ago. He recognized Philippe by his last name. I'm deeply touched that his mission service ultimately has been the means that Philippe, William and I are an eternal family.

Thomas's Family

Morgan, Spencer & Benjamin posed for this shot with William. William is blessed with so many lovely, talented, handsome, extraordinary, cousins. (Other cousins of which I could compose any number of superlatives - i.e. Dallin & Drew - had already left for school.)

Yellowstone - 13 May 2009

Thomas was our tour guide for Yellowstone. We saw herds of buffalo (none roller-skating) elk, and moose. The bears were less-inclined to oblige the nature paparazzi. The sapphire sulfur pools in the park were to the ground what the mountain peaks were to the sky - magnificent!

Old Faithful's Fidelity in Question - 13 May 2009

The guide at the "Trading Post" said Old Faithful's eruption occurred during a specific window. We arrived within the specific time, but the "window" was closed. We didn't miss the photo-op in front of the sign.

Philippe, Donna, William & Mom 12 May 2009

Donna, the owner of the Ranch, hosted us. The dark wood cabinetry, wool carpeting, footed porcelain tubs, & fluted light fixtures are nostalgic to me. Although, I remember the landings being taller...

Sunset on the Ranch - 11 May 2009

With Mom, we visited the Ranch where she grew up. The view from the front porch is prime. Fewer sunsets could be a better lullaby for the eyes.

No place like home for Mother's Day - 10 May 2009

Paul's, Leah's and my family gathered together at Mom's house for Mother's Day. As she has throughout our lives, she spoiled us with a home cooked meal and pies without commercial comparison.
At church Mom selected the children's hymn, I Often Go Walking for the music spotlight. I sang with the same enthusiasm as I had in Primary. After she commented, "That's why I chose it."

Opa & William, 7 May 2009

When we were children, we called our Grandmother "Oma." The tradition continues with our Dad who is "Opa" to his grandchildren. We visited Muir Woods National Monument together. Redwoods are tree sky scrapers.

The Wright Bed & Breakfast - 9 May 2009

While in the Bay Area we stayed with Pat & her family. With 5 biological children and 6 adopted, there's always something to celebrate in their home. Here, we are celebrating "Princess" Mia's 5th Birthday. I fed her a bottle as a baby. Change, change, change. At least the adults seem to respect the time warp I've created by moving across the continent.

Natural Beauty - 6 May 2009

Photo par Philippe - lest you thought it was pasted from National Geographic ;-)

Lake Tahoe - 6 May 2009

This is our third trip together to Lake Tahoe. We went just after our engagement, the day after our marriage, and with William. We like marking major life events with a "Trip to Tahoe." We commented that we will come back with William's sister.

Marshmallow, Monster Bunny - 5 May 2009

The first day we spent in Reno Sarah insisted on introducing William to Marshmallow. He is a Flemish Giant Rabbit (notice the capital "G" in Giant.) If this is William's introduction to rabbits, his point of reference for "bunny" will not be easily differentiated from polar bear cub.

First Flight - 7 Months, 1 Day (4 May 2009)

William flew like a seasoned traveler between Montreal (YUL) and San Francisco (SFO). The empty seat between us added to everyone's comfort.

Sunday Stroll - 12 April 2009

William "walks" with the kind assistance of tall(er)-folk.

Montreal, China - 11 April 2009

The Botanical Garden is 2 km from our home. Within the garden is a Chinese Park. We emerged from our igloo and took the short dog-sled ride to celebrate Spring's fashionably late entrance. In the distance is the Olympic Tower. It's a landmark to "home."

Aunt (Tati) Nelly - 8 April 2009

William met his Aunt Nelly this week - love at first site for both of them.

April 2009 - 6 months means motor skills

He seems to master a new skill faster than we can photograph!