Trip to Utah--General Conference & Bryce Canyon

Last September, I was able to go with mom to South Shields, England (Newcastle area, north of London), to visit Elsie, mom's MTC companion while going to Nauvoo. It was a wonderful and beautiful 7 days while there, and it was fun to get to know Elsie, her family and country.

Elsie, Becca, Janice

The Wellington House garden

Elsie decided to come visit mom this year, and spend some time in Utah. She brought her grand-daughter, Anna, who had a friend going to BYU and wanted to visit as well. While talking to mom one day, she asked for some suggestions of things they should do. After thinking about it, I wondered about taking her to Bryce Canyon National Park. Mom thought that would be a great idea, and after talking to Nick and Hayley, Sam's brother, and Father in-law Sam (who both live down in that area) we had the 2 1/2 day trip planned.

We decided to go Sunday, the 5th of October, right after the last session of General Conference. I flew down to SLC on Friday, Sam was wonderful and held down the fort. Mick picked me up with Cade and a truck and trailer load of mattresses. I stayed at their house through Sat. afternoon. I love staying with them, and feeling the spirit in their home. Kass had a bit of a back problem, so I was glad to help out a little, we just HAD to get a massage to work it out. We were able to listen to conference in the morn. (they don't have T.V.:0), and I enjoyed listening and watching Cade and Abby listen too.

Gargling water

Sunday morning, early, Mom, Elsie, Anna and I left for the Conference Center for the morning and afternoon sessions. It was raining pretty hard when we got there, but by afternoon it was sunny and nice. What wonderful talks that were given. Everything, I know, was meant for me. It was a great rejuvenation and to recommit to be a solid and grounded member of the church.
After conference, we headed down to Bryce Canyon. We were able to stay with Nick and Hayley, and greatly appreciate their hospitality. We were able to view all the points at the rim of the canyon. Always breathtaking.
Later, Dad Sam took us out in an area where we might find some old, old, arrowheads. We were able to each find some great arrowheads. I wish I would have taken a picture of all of ours. These are the ones I found. Actually, the one on the left is the one Sam (my hubby) found in June, he just wanted me to put it in the picture too. Most we find are broken, but I did find a very good one (right). Very exciting finds.
The next morning, we hiked the Navajo Loop into the canyon. A little over a mile down and up, not too bad. We did have to rest often on the way up, but WOW mom, what energy you had. You were truly being blessed while Elsie was here. You are well on your way to regaining your energy.

Thor's Hammer
towards the end of the hike
on way down, if you look closely, Elsie is trying to smile while a bee is in front of her face

Janice, Elsie, Anna

While we were there at Bryce, dad Sam received this rare Douglas Fir petrified wood to be sold at Ruby's Inn for $18,200.00. Anyone want to buy it? He said it will probably be sold within the week.
It was strange to be down there without Sam and the kids, but it was great to see Megan, Cavry and Casia, and Nick, Hayley and their cute, cute kids. Thank you, Nick, Hayley and Dad, for helping some Englanders have a Unique experience here in the great USA.

PS...We were able to pick some fruit from the trees of dad. They were spectacular!!!!