Friday, January 30, 2009

Chess, Anyone?


Grandpa Farnsworth brought out his nice chess set he received as a Christmas present a couple of years ago, and proceeded to teach Elizabeth the classic strategic game. Given Elizabeth's attention span of about 10 minutes, I was surprised how well she picked up on it. She has proved to be a good competitor and almost beat Kevin once. Now, whenever we go to Grandpa's house there is sure to be a game going on in which Elizabeth has part. I'm hoping that one of these days I'll get a chance to play Kevin and to humble him a little bit.

I remember many years ago, I was a little older than Liz, when my father taught me the game. I was never really that good, but my dad made me think that I had the ability to keep up with the best of players. Chess will always remind me of my dad. I have fond memories of bonding with my father over a game of chess. If you've never played or it's been a while, you should! Pass along the knowledge, you may be surprised at how well your child can learn the game.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Happy Martin Luther KIng Day

I would like to take a minute to thank Elizabeth's teachers for their diligence in teaching my daughter History. I'm not too sure that when I was in 2nd Grade I even knew who Martin Luther King was, let alone understand his important role in Black History. But my 7, soon to be 8 -year-old daughter can tell me all about it. She amazes me! She led the FHE lesson tonight teaching us the importance of treating all people with kindness and respect. That we are all Heavenly Father's children, and we have no place or right to judge others, especially when the color of their skin is involved.

I am proud to be an American. We live in a beautiful land of opportunity! Nothing is impossible. May we all have gratitude for the rights and privileges we enjoy and work hard to protect them.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Zion's Hidden Waterfall


There is nothing like Zion in the winter with the snow. We discovered the hidden waterfall this time. The snow is spectacular against all the red rock. We are so lucky to live so close to such a beautiful place. If you've never been to Zion in the winter you don't know what you are missing.

Kevin's parents came along for the adventure. We enjoyed a nice picnic lunch together, but didn't do much hiking this time. There was so much snow on the ground! Absolutely breathtaking!