Memories about Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a 607-foot-tall double cataract waterfall in the south end of Provo Canyon.  In 1996, an avalanche destroyed the building housing, the tramway machinery, and a gift shop, which was never rebuilt.  When it was still there, we had an opportunity to take the tram up to the gift shop, and Nathan Powell (family lived in Valentine, Nebraska) was the operator of the tram.  

In 2008, an arson fire burned the building at the top of the tramway, and the Utah County Sheriff's Office ordered the property owners, the Grow family from Orem, to pull down the remaining cable, fearing adventurers might use it scale the rocky face by the waterfall.  In early 2023, an avalanche ran down the route of the waterfall, altering its landscape and greenery.

The movie Savannah Smiles (1982) contains scenes in Provo Canyon, including Bridal Veil Falls.  The film also shows a scene with characters in the movie riding the tramway when it was still functioning.

We loved this movie and have seen it several times.

My Brother' K.'s Christmas Letters

THE FULL STORY OF CHRISTMAS

By K. LeRoi Nelson

Christmas has always been a special time for me. My first recollection of Christmas was when I was four and a half. It was the time of the great depression and of course I didn’t know then that my parents couldn’t afford any presents for Christmas. They were embarrassed to have to go to the local storekeeper on the day before Christmas to borrow enough money to buy a few simple presents. I wanted a blue car that I could sit in and move the peddles with my feet. I was so disappointed on Christmas morning when my blue car was only six inches long. Later in life when I knew the sacrifice for that gift, the little blue car became the symbol of my personal Christmas. I don’t remember having it after we moved to South Dakota when I was fifteen and a half but I have wished so many times since then that I still had that little blue car.

Other memories of Christmas include driving on the ice of the Missouri River down to what we called Christmas Tree Island to cut our own tree. For at least the first year we had little real candles clipped to the tree branches for the lights. Fortunately the tree did not catch fire. Most of our presents in South Dakota came in the mail from Montgomery Ward and Sears Roebuck. That explains why Santa left a note one year that he had run out of presents and would be back later.

For most of our married life I have had the privilege of reading the Narrative for Christmas Pageant with the scriptures and appropriate Christmas Carols to get us into the real spirit of Christmas.

In the 1960s while I was Bishop of the BYU 5th Ward, I started a personal tradition of telling the true story of Christmas in the last Sacrament Meeting before Christmas each year.

The full story of Christmas goes back a long time before Jesus was born. We have been told that we have always existed and that there is neither beginning nor end of our existence.

In the spirit world Jesus was our older brother. He helped organize the earth and everything on it. He was chosen to be our Savior. Because of his special role in this world we are his children by adoption. When we are baptized we take his name and we promise to keep his commandments and renew that promise every time we take the sacrament.

We first learn of the magnificence of our own history starting with Abraham 3:22 . . . the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones;

23. And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them; thou wast chosen before thou wast born.

24. And there stood one among them that was like unto God, and he said unto those who were with him: We will go down, for there is space there, and we will take of these materials, and we will make an earth whereon these may dwell;

We were to be tested to see if we would keep the commandments of the Lord and a great promise was given in verse 26.

26. And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and . . . they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads forever and ever.

There was a council in heaven wherein a plan of salvation was presented. There was a conflict over how the plan should be administered. Lucifer’s plan was rejected and he with a third of the spirits rebelled. As a consequence of this rebellion, Satan and his followers were cast out of heaven. We were among those who supported Jesus. Jesus was appointed to be the Savior.

The next step is given in Abraham 4:1 And then the Lord said: Let us go down. And they went down at the beginning, and they, that is the Gods, organized and formed the heavens and the earth.

At first the earth was dark, then they added the light and divided the light from the dark and provided the sun, the moon, and the stars. They divided the waters from the dry land and brought forth grass, shrubs and trees. They brought forth the birds, the fishes and animals of all kinds. And they brought forth man and gave him a wife. Adam was the first father and Eve was the first mother. We are descended from them.

In about 1700 B.C., Jacob blessed his son Judah and prophecied in

Genesis 49: 10 “The sceptre shall not depart from Judah . . . until Shiloh (that is, Jesus) come”.

About 1500 B.C., Abinadi in Mosiah 13:33 taught: For behold, did not Moses prophecy unto them concerning the coming of the Messiah, . . .

The birth of the Savior was further predicted in the scriptures about 750 BC as recorded in Isaiah 7:14 and 2 Nephi 17:14. Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Continuing again in Isaiah 9:6 and 2 Nephi 19:6: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Nephi had his own vision of what was to come approximately 150 years BC in 1 Nephi 10:4. Yea, even six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem, a prophet would the Lord God raise up among the Jews—even a Messiah, or, in other words, a Savior of the world.

Going on in 1 Nephi 11:13 And it came to pass that I looked and beheld the great city of Jerusalem, and also other cities. And I beheld the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white.

14. And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: Nephi, what beholdest thou?

15. And I said unto him: A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.

18. And he said unto me: Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh.

19. And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: Look!

20. And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms.

In 124 BC King Benjamin said in Mosiah 3:5 . . . Behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent . . . shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles . . . .

8. And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creater of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary.

To the people of Gideon 83 years before it was to happen Alma also prophesied of this special event in Alma 7:9. But behold, the Spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying—Repent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God cometh upon the face of the earth.

10. And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.

Samuel gave the sign of the Savior’s birth just five years before it was to occur in Helaman 14:1. And now it came to pass that Samuel, the Lamanite, did prophesy a great many more things which cannot be written.

2. And behold, he said unto them: Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name.

3. And behold, this will I give unto you for a sign at the time of his coming; for behold, there shall be great lights in heaven, insomuch that in the night before he cometh there shall be no darkness, insomuch that it shall appear unto man as if it was day.

5. And behold, there shall a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld; and this also shall be a sign unto you.

6. And behold this is not all, there shall be many signs and wonders in heaven.

The persecution of believers intensified as the time drew near for the sign prophecied by Samuel.

The details of this true story of Christmas begins to unfold when we refer to the familiar account in Luke.

Luke 1:5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

6. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

7. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

11. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.

12. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

13. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

14. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.
15. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink, and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.

16. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

17. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

18. And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

21. And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he tarried so long in the temple.

22. And when he came out, he could not speak to them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.

26. And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city in Galilee, named Nazareth,

27. To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

28. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

29. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

30. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

31. And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name, JESUS.

34. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

35. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

36. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

37. For with God nothing shall be impossible.

38. And Mary said, behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

39. And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

40. And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

41. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

56. And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

Joseph’s role in this process was revealed to him in Matthew 1:19. Then Joseph . . . being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

20. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from sins.

22. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

23. Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

24. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

Turning back to Luke 2:1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

3. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the House and lineage of David:)

5. To be taxed with Mary his expoused wife, being great with child.

On the otherside of the world on the next day, the unbelievers and the believers witnessed the sign that had been prophesied by Samuel. 3 Nephi 1:8 But behold, they did watch steadfastly for that day and that night and that day which should be as one day as if there were no night, that they might know that their faith had not been vain.

13. Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.

15. And it came to pass that the words which came unto Nephi were fulfilled, according as they had been spoken; for behold, at the going down of the sun there

was no darkness; and the people began to be astonished because there was no darkness when the night came.

19. And it came to pass that there was no darkness in all that night, but it was as light as though it was mid-day. And it came to pass that the sun did rise in the morning again, according to its proper order; and they knew that it was the day that the Lord should be born, because of the sign which had been given.

Going back to Luke 2:6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

16. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

18. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

19. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the

things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Switching to Matthew 2:1. Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying,

2. Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

3. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

4. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

5. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judæa: for thus it is written by the prophet,

7. ThenHerod...

8. . . . sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

9. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

10. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

11. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

12. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

13. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

14. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

15. And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

19. But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,

20. Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child’s life.

21. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.

23. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.

Back again to Luke 2:40. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

41.Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

42.And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

52. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Again in Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,

5. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,

6. And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.

13. Then cometh Jesus from Galiliee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

14. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

15. And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water:  and, lo, the heavens opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

17. and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Jesus was now ready to carry out his mission on earth. It only lasted three years but has affected all mankind. We reckon time from his birth. He was loved by many while he was preaching in Palestine and later in the new world. Many love and praise him today. Unfortunately, many cursed him while he was alive in Palestine and many now use his name as a curse and even worse. He suffered for our sins in Gethsemane and he died on the cross in Golgotha. He was laid in a borrowed tomb from which he arose on the third day. His resurrection opened the way for us to live again after his death. We followed his path in our own baptism and we remember him when we partake of the sacrament. We pray to our Father in Heaven in His name. We belong to His church.

In 1973 we had the opportunity to visit the country of Israel and walk where he walked. Our BYU tour group had a sacrament meeting at the location considered to be where the Sermon on the Mount was given. I had the privilege on the Sabbath of giving a talk in the Garden by the Tomb where Jesus was laid after being crucified.

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I have saved here copies of letters received from my brother at different Christmas times.  For the original size, click on the image, right click, choose "copy" and then "paste" in "Page" or another document program. 

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2013

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2016

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2017

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2017, p2

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2018

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2018, p2

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2019

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2019, p2

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2021

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2021, p2

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2022

Christmas Letter from K. LeRoi - 2023

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K. to his children:  The Legacy of Nirvana

It began in 1936, had a new birth of reality on April 4th 1966, spread its wings in 1990 and is almost ready to fly in 2020.  Grama loved everything we did but faded from view in 2016.  I hope I have a few good years left to perhaps see the finish of the R&R Center which could be our ultimate gift to the family.  It is your turn to share with your family now and pass it on to succeeding generations in the future.  It will take continued love and help from everyone to shine brightly as I have dreamed that it could be.  Grampa

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Remembering Dear Friends

We have emptied the large walk-in closet upstairs and going through things that had been kept there.  Some things have currently been moved to the "photograph and scrapbook" closet and other items are being evaluated whether to keep or discard.

Beth came over yesterday and she and I went through a basket full of cards and letters from family and friends.  Most were tossed into the discard pile, but we sorted others into eight piles for our children and one for me to further review before saving or discarding.  This was an enjoyable task and brought back some nice memories.

Following are some of the thoughts written by family and friends on their Christmas cards that I have appreciated reading once more.  I have included photos I had on my computer. 

(Quotation marks are included when appropriate, and photos are included when available and follow after the quotes and comments.)

Note: These are not listed in any chronological or alphabetical order.

Esther Davis from St. Johns, 2013 (who turned 94 in December 2023):  "Some time ago someone, I can't remember who, sent us a saying that rings true.  It is as follows 'Some people come into our lives and quietly go.  Others stay for a while and leave footprints in our hearts and we are never the same'."

Esther's husband Wayne was still alive in 2013 but was having a hard time getting around. She was still giving voice lessons to eleven students each week and was the chorister of the ward choir.  She was going to be helping with the high school production of "Footloose" and helped soloists in "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, "Beauty and the Beast, and "Les Miserable." 

Esther's 2018 letter:  "When Wayne and I were called on our first mission, we were given the blessing that because we were willing to serve, many missionaries would come from our family.  This has certainly been true, as fifty-six have served all over the world. Four of our grandchildren, and two of our great-grandchildren are currently serving or have recently returned."  

2018:  "Six great-grand babies and one great, great grand baby have been born this year with four more on the way. This will make a grand total of 220 in our family. . . . It is still hard having my darling Wayne gone.  I'm thankful for the knowledge that I will be able to see him again, along with many others whom I love."

2018:  Remembered and shared this saying:  "Some people come into our lives and quietly go.  Others stay for a while and leave footprints in our hearts and we are never the same."  Esther added this handwritten note at the end of her letter:  "You are such a special couple and friend."

2022:  "I am doing well but feeling my 93 years after having Covid twice!  Our family is growing in leaps and bonds, like ours.  When we are all together the count is now 245.  We feel most blessed."

2023:  "I am doing well.  Still able to drive to and attend the temple in Snowflake.  I have stopped giving voice lessons since having Covid twice.  My vocal cords don't work so well and have had to get a pace maker, but I still feel well.  Just turned 94 this year and if you don't know it, that is pretty old, as you can tell by my hand writing.  When our next two babies are born will have 249 in our family and it is growing in leaps and bounds.  We even have 10 great-great grand children.  I think of you two often.  You will always be one of Wayne and my favorite people on this earth."

 

Esther Davis - 2022

Esther and Wayne Davis and family - quite a few years ago

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Anna Smirnova, our former translator in Russia (written to us in Martin, SD in 2013 while she was serving a mission in Ukraine: "I'm glad for this miraculous time I have here.  It seems that my testimony that this Church is true will keep me forever on this path. I always had a strong testimony as I saw miracles in my life.  But here it becomes stronger and stronger every day.  I love my mission!  And I am grateful for your example!  I will never forget you!!!" (Anna married and has added Afrika to her name.) 

Anastasia and Anna Smirnova, our two interpreters in Moscow

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Karl and Barbara Wrigley, who have been our friends since we met at BYU.  Sam and Karl were working toward a Master's together, and Barbara and I both worked as secretaries at the Utah Child Guidance Clinic in Provo where parents and troubled children had counseling appointments with the psychologists and counselors (Dr. Harston, Eloise Morley, and Richard Jensen).  In their 2008 Christmas letter, they told about having served a mission at the St. George Visitors' Center and Historic Sites from Oct. 2006 until Oct. 2007.  While we were living next door to the Wrigleys in Provo, their son Tony was born.  Their children are Tony (md. to Colleen), Kent (md. to Julie), Susan (md. to Shaun), Scott (md. to Shannon), and Sherrie (md. to Brian.)

In another Christmas letter responding to my mentioning Sam's gall stone problem, Barbara wrote:  "Karl has had some health issues this past year.  The first of January he had a very large blood clot. He had a filter already, so it didn't pass to his heart, lungs, or head. We are blessed.  But since then, he has had kidney problems, anemia and pulmonary problems. He already is on an apnea machine.  When we are in Provo the higher altitude bothers him. But, we have good doctors and he is doing better.  (Their second home is in Provo).  

Karl and Barbara Wrigley and family

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Gene and Jane Kraus - Gene was Sam's PhD supervisor at the University of Michigan when Sam was working on his doctorate.  The photo was taken when they came with their family to visit us at the farm.  

In their hand-written Christmas letter in 2018, they shared they had become octogenarians.  To celebrate, their two boys (Ed and Tom) and their wives planned a surprise treasure hunt that included crossword puzzles, codes to decode, and a stretch limo to drive to each site that was solved.  By the 3rd stop all 11 of their family (including the 5 grandchildren) were in the limo on its way to a restaurant for dinner and then back home for a decorated cake dessert.  Riding in a limo had been on Jane's bucket list.  For years, Jane said she had made up treasure hunts for the grandchildren, so this one "sort of brought things full circle for me."

We have continued to hear from Jane after Gene died.  They have 

Sam, Narene, Jane & Gene Kraus (in our home)

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Anna Marie Barnes Smith is Sam's relative.  Preserved Ireland's wife was a sister to Anna Marie's relative.  Her relative went West with the Saints, but Sam's great-great grandparents, Preserved and his wife Susannah, did not.  Anna Marie had contacted us years ago sharing this family history, and we first met her when she came to Marla's wedding reception in 1984.  She was living in Utah in South Weber at that time.  We began corresponding at Christmas time with Anna Marie after that.  Her 2023 address is: Anna Marie Smith, 204 Plamondon Dr., Simpsonville, SC 29680.

 The following quote is from Anna Marie's 2020 Christmas card on which she wrote a nice message that included the following: 

"I had a great-uncle that served here in South Carolina in about 1895.  They had to be careful because of mobs.  He died here due to an illness.  They had to ship his body home by train.  His mother had a visit from him during the night after his death.  I think that is wonderful.  That he could do that. . . . I'm so grateful for the Gospel and for my Savior.  It makes all the difference in your life when you have the Gospel."

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Laura Elizabeth Morgan - Obituary Cover

05/02/1911 - 05/28/2013

Aunt Laura was a favorite; she was Sam's mother's only sibling.  She and Mable were best friends and their children always enjoyed times being together. 

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Joe and Jeanne Cannon, former Mission president and wife in Rapid City who became our special friends.  We appreciate their visits in our home and visiting them in their home at 725 Airport Rd., in Blackfoot, Idaho.

From their 2022 Christmas letter:  "Memories!  Our Christmas scrapbook is filled with treasured times we have enjoyed with each other for the past 53 years.  Each year was enriched as we added four boys, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.  The scrapbook prompts us with thoughts of gratitude and love.  We miss those who have passed away but remember the rich traditions they bought to us as they blessed our lives.  We cling to the knowledge we will see them again as part of the Eternal Plan." 

2022 has been especially appreciated as Covid 19 lifted and we could resume spending time with family and friends."  We all felt this way!

Our visit with Joe & Jeanne Cannon in February 2011 at Bear Lake 

Visiting the Cannons in their home in Blackfoot, ID - Dec. 2009

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Ann and Duane Barker - Ann was my roommate at BYU our freshman year and first semester our sophomore year before she married Duane.  We initially became acquainted when her father was our mission president in the North Central States Mission with headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.  Her only sibling, Eugene England, had taught classes in Mormon literature at BYU from 1976 to 1988 when he retired due to "tensions between authoritarian control versus free expression."  He wrote books of essays, poetry, biography, and numerous articles.  Among other positions held in the Church at various times, he served twice as a bishop.  

Ann and I have kept in touch throughout the years since our time at BYU.  I was a bridesmaid at her wedding.  Here are some quotes from some of Anne's Christmas cards:

"We are spending the winter in Henderson, NV with our daughter and son.  Duane and David walk in the Rec. Center pool several times a week.  Duane had a mini stroke in October but has completely recovered.  However, he uses a cane because he is somewhat unsteady on his feet. . . . Our missionary grandson is serving in South Africa.  He enjoys it.  He graduated Valedictorian in May with a full-ride scholarship to USU.  He'll be living with us when he returns from his mission and attending school in Logan.  We have wonderful memories of our time at BYU."

BYU roommates, 1957-58

Margaret Foy, Narene, Fern Ozawa, Ann England (Barker), Lilly Alder (Singleton), Dixie Davis (Alder)

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Mary Jo Peterson (Wright) is my cousin and my Uncle Edwin Peterson's daughter.  It was nice getting to know her as a friend while we were at BYU.  Berkeley Peterson (my Uncle Alton's son) was also at BYU my freshman year, and I was his partner for a social dance class. 

We are "friends" on Facebook and also exchange Christmas cards.  Here are some things shared from Mary Jo's card:  "I still have 7 granddaughters and 2 grandsons.  Tashia's Mary Jane MacArthur is at BYU-Provo.  She plays her violin in the BYU symphony orchestra. . . . You have met Aprille and Bryan in New York City (when we were on a trip traveling with Bill and Karen).  Bryan's oldest daughter, Siena, now lives in Vancouver, WA and she and Steven Davis have a 2-year old named Maggie.  Maggie is my first and honorary g-g-child. . . . I'm in good health and enjoy having 3 of my kids living near me."

"My ward "ministering angel" just returned from attending the temple in Rome.  Her brother was the architect for that temple."

Me with cousins when we were students at BYU:

Berkley Peterson and Mary Jo Peterson

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Wilma Maxine Ireland, daughter of Howard and Mary Ireland. She married and had children with her first husband; and then when Kenneth John (Bud) Kindred died, she married Don DeBoir.  Wilma has been interested in family history and sharing her information.  The Howard and Mary Ireland family have annually had reunions in Martin, SD for offspring and descendants.  Wilma's brothers and sisters are Myrtle Bea (1909-1995); Harold Emery (Sam's dad, 1911-2007); Lester (1913-1913); Robert LeRoy (Bob) (1913-1986; Theodore Raymond (Slim) (1916-1993); Oscar Edwin (1917-1945); Melvin Lewis (1920-1943); Mable Irene (1921-2012); Forest Howard (Shorty) (1923-2016); Eulalia Belle (Curly) , (1924-Living); Bernetha  May (1925-1926); Bernice Mary (Beanie) (1925-2011); William Wayne (1928-1998); and Wilma Maxine (1932-living).  

(back row): Bernice (Beanie), Eulalia (Curly), Wilma, Mable 

(front): Harold and Forest (Shorty)  - 2006

(back row): Wilma, Eulalia, Bernice

(front): Forest, Harold (2003)

Wilma's family - 2003

Forest (Shorty), Wilma, and Eulalia (Curly) at Curly's 90th birthday celebration in 2014 (born in 1924)

Curly's 90th birthday with Wilma

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Shorty Ireland, sending his letter from the Kadoka Nursing Home, wrote that his health was good and he enjoys being with friends and family.  "If you get to Kadoka stop by and visit.  I love to visit with company - a game of cards could break out at anytime, so stop and spend some time visiting and playing cards."

Curly Mansfield, 2013:  "I feel like I've aged a lot since Bert died.  I use a walker all the time.  I still drive around town, but if I want to go out of town, someone drives me.  I'm amazed at all the help I get from my family and all the people around town.  I go over to the Frosted Petal, a bakery and flower shop, for breakfast and to the Senior Center for lunch 5 days a week."

"Our family is all doing OK and most of the great-grand kids are in college; only Sarah (LaRene's) and Alison and Jackson (Tancy's) are in grade school; none in high school.  Shantel finished her training and is employed at the hospital in Alliance, NE.  She and Travis Lurz plan to marry May 31, 2014.  Abby and Adam Meany have set their wedding date May 16, 2014.  Bill has informed his insurance company that he is retiring June 30, 2014.

2018:  Had her 94th birthday September 28.  Moved from her apartment in Martin to an apartment in Rapid City (2620 Holiday Lane, Apt. 239, Rapid City, SD 57702)  "I had lived alone about 6 years, so I found my own entertainment like riding and crocheting. Before I left Martin, Eastern Star had a ceremony awarding me my 60-year pin.  I had held most of the offices.  Church, Star, Senior Center and Legion and Auxiliary was our social life.  The Senior Center had a very nice farewell dinner for me."

Family:  Bill, Jane Anne, Tammy and Tancy and families live in Rapid Valley.  Tonya and family are in Mitchell, SD.  Bill spends a lot of time at Martin on the ranch.  Jane Anne is in Rapid City mostly.  Ray is on his ranch in Bennett County.  Jack and Betty live in Ord, NE.  He still works at the bank.  LaRene and family live in NE and Mark is in Kansas City, KS. 

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Patti and Galen Busch, friends that feel like family.  Our families have shared many good times together and have served in the church in many callings.  They both have moved on to their Celestial home. We cherish the special memories shared with them and their children:  Colin (md. Wanda), Kevin (md. Totes), Nicole (md. Jim), Kendra (md. Shannon), Marci (md. Jeremy), and Mandi (md. Todd).

(2013) "Galen keeps busy with his volunteer work at Habitat for Humanity (almost full-time) and during the summer he plants a large garden.  I am still working at the dorm and am adjusting to not having mom here as she lived with us for 3 years.  We keep busy with our church jobs and are grateful for the chance to be of service."

(2016) "My biggest undertaking was to accept a call to teach an online class in the New Testament to teenagers in the church who can't make it to a church building for the class.  I am not a tech person so it was a challenge to learn to do WebEx, etc., but has been a blessing.  I really love doing it.  I am also president of our Relief Society in the church so I keep busy.  Along with church I am keeping busy with being treasurer for our local Chamber of Commerce and Habitat for Humanity.  I have also tried to take up painting again.  I had a hard time getting back into it - my eyes are not as clear, even after surgery in October, but I am truly blessed."

Galen Busch (September 10 1939 - April 25, 2014). He suffered a massive stroke on April 24th and was taken by ambulance to Rosebud where he was flown to Sanford in Sioux Falls. He was pronounced dead the following day.  Survived by his wife, Patti of Mission; children - Colin (Wanda) Busch of Kamas, Utah; Kevin (Totes Waln) Busch of Mission; Nicole (Jim) Simko of Salt Lake City; Kendra (Shannon) Fernen of Mission; Marci (Jeremy) Stevens, St. Lawrence, SD; Mandi (Todd) Loughran, Valentine, NE; sister Kathleen (Harold) Schultz of Yorkville, IL; Sister-in-law Margaret Busch of Mendon, VT; 10 grand- children, 5 great grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

(xxxx) Patti:  "I finished the hard chemo in February and since have had an infusion every 3 weeks of Herceptin.  I went back to work at the dorm filling in half days when I felt good and was needed as the person who took my place ended up leaving in January to be with her daughter whose cancer returned.  

Patti Busch (August 17, 1942 - June 3, 2019 (aged 76).  She was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, holding various local and district positions in the Relief Society, Primary and Seminary. She was a Sunday School teacher for years and loved the children. She currently was teaching an on-line class for teenagers in the church and was serving as the Rosebud Relief Society President.

In October of 2013 she was honored at her workplace, Sicangu Owayawa Oti, at their annual wacipi by being given an Indian name -- Wawokiya Win (she who helps others). She always felt very close to all of the Native Americans she lived and worked with for so many years.

The love of life was her family. She loved her children and grandchildren and the many children she worked with at the dormitory and those at church.. She made most all of the grandkids birthday cakes every year – decorating them as they put in their order. She loved watching them participate in athletic events, rodeos, musical and artistic events as well. For years she kept the volleyball books for her husband when he was coaching.

Galen Busch

Patti Busch and Narene - 2009

Patti Busch and Narene - October 26, 2014

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Roy and Barbie Ireland divide their year between living at the farm and living in Arizona, where they bought a home in January and closed in March.  "All three kids came down and visited us before we went back to SD in April.  We returned to AZ in November.  The airport and the cancer center are less than 30 minutes from our house so it's really nice."

"The farm had a better year than last year.  The moisture was short again and cut our wheat yield down a lot.  We just needed one more rain.  The corn, sunflowers and milo were pretty good crops.  The harvest has been a real challenge though after the early October blizzard.  Brent is still trying to pick up the milo that went flat during the storm. We lost a few cattle during the storm but feel fortunate compared to a lot folks."

 

About 2013:  Information provided on their Christmas letter:   Traci and Amy living in Idaho after being in Hawaii for 5 years. Steve and Kennedy still in Rapid City with Steve working for Assurant as a sales consultant.  Kennedy in the 8th grade and secretary of the student council. Chad and Trisha still working on the farm, living down by the river. Trisha working from home for Assurance, but in a different division than Steve.  Roy still working on the farm, chairman of the Basin Board, but retired from the Basin Electric Board after 17 years. Barbie still enjoying gardening and did a lot of canning and freezing of the produce.  She had some small areas of cancer show up in her liver, pancreas, and lymph nodes and started chemo again in December at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Roy and Barbie Ireland

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Helen and Harvey Bauss, are dear friends from Ann Arbor, MI.  They came to visit us at the farm in South Dakota several times.  The first time they came in 1978.  On a second visit, in 1993, they were going to Utah with their family except for Linley and Chuck and stopped at the farm.  Another time they came with friends from Ann Arbor who had moved there after we had left.  They came again in 2009.  

Twice we went back to Ann Arbor for a visit and stayed with the Bauss family.  The first time, Scott, Marla, Ryan, and Brent went with Sam and me.  I drove our car and followed Sam in a truck he had full of wheat that he left in Sioux City.  Scott, Marla, Ryan, and Brent went with us, and we stayed with the Bauss's.  On another visit, Karen and Bill were with us on our trip to the East Coast; and on the way we stayed with Harvey and Helen in Ann Arbor.  During that visit we went to a University of Michigan football game.  

We appreciated having Harvey come to visit us in Spanish Fork after Helen had passed on.  Helen's funeral was in 2018 (May 18, 1941 - November 30, 2018). 

Helen and Harvey Bauss family, September 1993

Helen, Harvey, Tom, Doug, and David (Linley and Chuck were not there).   Sam took the picture; Narene, Brent, Beth, Jeff, and Doug are with the Bauss family in the photo. 

Harvey and Helen with Narene in the cornfield - 2009

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Linda  and David Nearon, became friends with them on our mission

We have enjoyed receiving the nice cards from David and Linda Nearon, as they are always personally made and include a copy of one of Linda's original beautiful paintings.  In 2022, the painting is of a Native lady done in beautiful pastels entitled "Pondering."  The 2021 card has a cute little girl's head and shoulder painting entitled "Sweet Innocence." 

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This post was started to have a place to save photos of friends and family who have included nice photos in their Christmas cards.  We have friends we love who have sent cards but not included photos, and there are also friends we care about who do not have the tradition of sending cards.  Thus, this post only represents those few who have a tradition of sending photos at Christmas time.  It has been nice to remember these special people in our life as I have looked through the basket full of Christmas cards we have appreciated getting and represents those cards received since we moved to Spanish Fork.

 In a separate post, I will add the letters received from my brother.