families are forever

mason and i just got back from an Ellgen Family Reunion in northern utah. it was an extended Ellgen reunion as my great aunt Blanche was there with her family, my grandpa and some of his family, as well as my great uncle Philip and his family. to give some history for those of you that don't know, my great-grandfather homesteaded in Northwestern Colorado almost 100 years ago. since that anniversary is coming up, there was a lot of talk about all that he and my great grandmother did for their immediate family and ultimately for their posterity. it's hard to believe that life has changed so drastically in 100 years but i think we're all grateful! it's difficult to find the words because they all seem so shallow in comparison with what i'm trying to say ... but i am so very grateful for my ancestors and all they did.


i recently taught my young women about creating righteous traditions and we talked about the ripple effect. we talked about how many ripples are created by throwing just a small rock in a pond or stream and what a great effect that small action has. i think of my parents and grandparents and my ancestors when i think about that. i realize that many of the blessings i enjoy now are because of righteous actions taken by parents, grandparents, etc.

on somewhat of a side note but still on families: i'm so very excited because my little brother Justin is flying home from the Philippines on august 9th. so we'll be having another reunion of sorts in less than a week! :)