Saturday, June 26, 2010

Happy Father's Day!

Annelie wrote a beautiful poem for her dad for Father's Day. She gave me permission to post it here. Annelie has a way of writing that really touches my heart...she is such a blessing to our family. I love this picture...I took it in SanDiego a few years ago, it was the first time Annelie had seen the ocean. When I decided to post her poem I knew I had to put this picture with it...
Derron & his little girl.
The mark of a father’s presence

Is more than a bill paid

Or of shaving cream essence,

Or a pipe system made.

But is the brush of a hand

Calloused yet soft

A tear wiped away and

Comfort found oft.

A favorite toy repaired

At the bargain price

Of a tight hug shared

And a kiss once or twice.

A swing through the air

In the strong grasp

Of those arms full of care

Which to love clasp

A pat on the back for

A job well done.

But still encouraging more

When that prize not won.

A listening ear and understanding heart

For a simple world

Seemingly falling apart.

A hand to hold

When life gets rough

A story told

When tired enough.

The mark of a father’s presence

Is something I often see

Fortunate to receive these presents,

Proud, his daughter, to be.

by Annelie Hansen 2010

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Pioneer Trek 2010

Derron & I were asked to be a Ma & Pa on the Pioneer Trek this summer. It took place about a week ago. Here are a few photos I took while on the trail. It was a great experience & if you get the chance to participate in one of these, take it, you won't regret it.
This was our family, I was the mother of twelve for four days, six boys & six girls. We named ourselves the Jones's & this was our cheer..."We're the Jones's, try to keep up!"

Tis' better far for us to strive...


Our useless cares from us to drive...
Do this and Joy.... your heart will swell...
And that's exactly what happened. This will always be one of my favorite experiences. It was not easy & there were situations I did not enjoy, (like sleeping on the ground under the stars while the wind blew all night) but what I gained far outweighed it all.