Celebrating the Pioneers

We enjoyed a great weekend in St. George with my fam. We didn't necessarily do anything real pioneer-ish, but we're always thankful for a holiday weekend! We did some boating at the new & beautiful Sand Hollow Reservoir, some outlet shopping, some relaxing, some swimming, some eating, some fire-working, and enjoyed some all around FUN. We had some good rain accompanied by lightning, nothing a towel couldn't shield. Here's a sampling of my pictures, I'll let them speak for themselves.

We're grateful for good family and the fun times we have with them.

Pathetic, I know.

I'm feeling good about Jillian and Ed. I'm a hopeless romantic and I like a good fairytale ending. That's why I love The Bachelor/Bachelorette, although, I've been severely disappointed the last few seasons when things take weird twists and turns. It seems like it's been awhile since we've seen a normal, successful ending, and what a relief, we finally got one. I was rooting for Reid, however, I've cleared a special place in my heart for Ed. Should my hopes and dreams for them be dashed, well, such is reality T.V. and I'd be lying if I said I'd never watch it again. Something keeps me coming back for more, season after season. For now, I feel that this season of The Bachelorette was a real success and I'm excited to see who the next Bachelor will be..... pathetic, I know. Someone please back me up on this....

Sweet Memories

My mom and her siblings at our family party in May from L to R: Cheryl, Mom, Kris, Dave, Dane, Jim, Pete

Kristine "Nama" Anderson Johnston 1951~2009

Our cherished wife, mother, sister, and grandmother passed away peacefully at her home in Elk Ridge, UT on July 8, 2009 at the age of 58 after battling cancer. Kris was born April 2, 1951 in Springville, UT and was the third of seven children born to Mays and Orpha Anderson. She is remembered by her siblings as being a spunky and humorous child. Kris graduated from Springville High School in 1969 and soon thereafter attended BYU where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education. While pursuing her education, she met Steven C. Johnston and after a quick courtship they were married in the SLC Temple on November 16, 1973. They enjoyed nearly 36 years of marriage together. During this time she was able to serve in many church capacities living in various locations, including twice overseas, and serve an LDS humanitarian mission, along with her husband, to the Romania Bucharest mission. All of these, plus many other experiences, blessed her with an increased amount of faith and understanding of Heavenly Father's plan for His children. Kris will always be remembered for her compassion, acts of service, love for her family and those around her, and faith in her Savior Jesus Christ.

Kris was survived by her husband Steve, her five children: Matt (Monica) Johnston, Amy (Neil) Andersen, Laurie (Kevin) Wilson, Dana (Mark) Purcell, and Katie (Jeremy) Bailey, several grandchildren, along with her brothers and sisters. She is preceded in death by her parents Mays and Orpha Anderson, and her granddaughter Lindsey Kate Johnston.

Until we meet again, we will always love and miss you Aunt Kris.