Oh, Say Can You See....

This year, our Nation's celebration landed on Sunday.  We had a flag raising ceremony before the Church service started.  As I watched the flag being raised and as we sung our national anthem, the words of this song resonated within my heart:
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof thru the night that our flag was still there.
Oh say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
Afterwards, Brad gave a thought and talked about Captain Moroni as he made the Title of Liberty - reminding the Nephites to defend their religion, freedom and peace.  I felt so blessed at that moment to have the freedom to worship as I want and to belong to God's church.  It was a great way to celebrate the 4th of July!!

One of our family's favorite places is this beautiful mountain.  With Brad's leg in its "delicate" condition, we opted to take the MDX up the mountain.  Brad rode in the back seat so he could keep his leg elevated.  Aly drove up the mountain and Jacque drove down.  Yes, I know...we are VERY brave and adventurous souls, me and Brad!

We headed up on Thursday to catch a few hours before the rest of the family arrived.  It's a little more peaceful and we sure enjoy that first night as a family.  We had a few guests with us, but that made it more fun and as the slogan goes.... "Always welcome!"  Our first project was to fix a broken water hose that had depleted our water supply.  With strict orders to "take it easy" and "no sharp objects", Brad tried very hard to supervise Aly and keep his part at a minimum.  She dug the hole, (yes, the spoon was involved!)  hacked the piped, applied glue and all sorts of dirty plumber's duties.  After a few hours, they had the piped fixed and we were ready to go.

Next morning was beautiful and the cousins had a great time on the bikes, playing games and just relaxing.  As the family arrived, we sure enjoyed their company and looked forward to everyone being together.

Saturday was the big dinner and it was a smaller crowd this time.  The weather was wonderful and no one had to endure the dreaded rainy weather all night.  Not that we don't like the rain.  It's just that out in "tent city", those brave individuals have to endure quite a lot!

Sunday meetings are always the best.  I don't think anyone could ever deny that our Heavenly Father blesses that special place.  We always have the sacred opportunity to take the sacrament and have our testimonies strengthened as we listen to those family members and friends bear such sweet and strong testimonies of our Savior's love, His tender mercies, and the blessings we all enjoy.

Monday, most everyone headed down...back into the heat.  Watching the temperature guide in the car is always the game as we head back down into "THE valley" before we head into our valley.
One of our family's favorite things to do is talk about all the wonderful things that we saw, we did, and felt up on Mt. Graham.  Usually, we can talk the whole trip. Here are some of our favorite memories:

Watching all the kids play "Dead or Alive" or "Ultimate Frisbee".  This game appeals to all ages and all ages want to play.  SOME end up with nasty bruises or achy body parts from acting like the younger kids....but we won't name anyone particular!

(Pay close attention to those who are "watching" and those who are playing!!)

A new family tradition is to cook the Friday dinner for all those who are traveling up on Friday.  Since our family (and company) enjoyed the day to ourselves, we also cooked up a wonderful stew for everyone on the road.  With so many helpers (and no, they did NOT eat it raw!), the preparing went fast and all enjoyed a hot meal as they came to the cabin.

Preparing for the meal is a FAMILY affair!  Everyone helps.  From putting up tables, to cooking hamburgers, to sorting the beans, to peeling onions, to "tasting" the goodies, to cleaning after everyone has stuffed themselves silly, to kicking certain individuals OUT of the kitchen and claiming the dishwasher spot.  Again....a FAMILY effort!!

(My favorite picture!!)

Sunday brings such wonderful memories as well.  It goes without saying that the meetings are the mountains are special each time they are held.  Hearts are touched, feelings expressed and faith is strengthened.  It doesn't get much better than that.

Of course, up at Columbine, the Sabbath is only a 1/2 day. Some un-written rule I've never quite understood but gladly accepted. Meals, games and good conversation create an afternoon that everyone enjoys.

(We have way too many pictures of this cutie-patootie!)

Monday is the day we all say good-by.  Good-by to a relaxing, very minimal techno, very cool vacation.  We take a last bike ride, pack up and clean up.  Everyone helps!  This year Jeff turned 19!  He is leaving shortly for the Dominican Republic.  We sang to him 3 times, since the next two birthdays will be celebrated in another country!  Best of all, we enjoy reliving our memories all the way back home....to a long, cool shower!!