Last week of March 2014

Dear Samantha,

Well, as sad as I was not to be able to talk to you on Tuesday and knowing that I only missed you by about 20 minutes, I was able to carry on...barely:).  On Friday we got the picture of you and your new companion & the Mission president and his wife along with your letter (which was awesome) and a letter from the mission president (I'm pretty sure it was a generic letter with your name filled in, regardless I loved it!).  I was so excited that I called Dad and made sure he looked at it right away! It was so nice to know that you made it to the mission home safe and sound.  I keep wondering what your week since then has been like.  I think of the MTC like a bubble (nice and safe, all your time planned out...etc.) and now you are REALLY out in the field.  Is your companion from Peru?  The letter didn't give her name or where you were going in the mission (like I said pretty generic).  So I can not wait to hear all about it!  I check the weather there and it is nice and hot.  Does it cool down at all?  How are your clothes treating you?  

On Tuesday I went and got my hair cut and highlighted.  I needed a big change.  I thought it was a big change, but half the people that I talked to didn't even notice...including Grandma Garner, Aunt MaryAnn, among others.  I will take a picture and send it to you (in the morning after I fix it all up).

Tuesday evening I had bunko at our house.  I think it has been a really long time since I had bunko here.  It worked at great!  What a fun group of women!  They all noticed my hair because they don't see me all the time and so it was more of a drastic change (at least that the reasoning that Dad gave me after I told him that some people hadn't noticed and others had).

The High School put on the play Beauty and the Beast this year and we went as a family on Friday night (Amber was supposed to go, but got invited to a birthday party and decided to go to that instead.  Grandma Garner came with us in her place).  Brett C. was Gaston, Riley P. was his sidekick Lefou, Brooklyn D. was Belle, David W. was the beast, Tyler D. was Lumiere, Tori B. was Mrs. Potts, and Becca S.was the wardrobe.  They did an amazing job.  They were all well cast and wonderful!  I LOVED it!  Brought back a few memories of when you did Dolly:)

Saturday morning we went on another hike:) (got to get them in before it gets too hot).  We hiked up to the tallest point in the Superstition mountains.  It is Superstition peak 5057.  It was about 9 miles round trip and tough up and down.  It was a super cardio workout up and a super quad workout on the way down!  I am seriously so confused at why my quads continually get so sore.  I am very sore today!  OK, not as sore as after the marathon, but close.  It took about 6 1/2 hours to do this hike.  I thought that I might have a few blisters, but fortunately I didn't, just some hot spots.  My toes were a bit sore from hitting the top of my shoes on the way down.  We started earlier in the morning yesterday so we were done earlier this week and that was a good thing!  

We got back from the hike, I showered and then headed out to the Women's broadcast.  Did you get to go?  Do they show it there at all or do you get to watch it later?  What about Conference?  Lindsay was not too excited about the "opportunity" to attend another meeting.  I told her she could take a notebook to write and draw pictures in. She wrote a title on the front of it and I am going to send a picture of it so you can see it yourself.  It is hilarious!  I thought that the first song was so beautiful.  I enjoyed the talks and appreciated the words that were spoken.  After it was over they served egg shaped sugar cookies.  Everyone came to our stake center (we got there early and saved seats).  After it was over we all went to Sweet Tomatoes for dinner. Marianne O. and Haley joined us as well.  After that I was so tired it was all I could do was come home, change and go to bed.

This morning we got up early and drove to the stake center at the Temple for a morning-side to finish up the Groundbreaking to Dedication.  President Lesueur and his wife spoke along with Lauren K., and an Oliver kid and President Merrill.  They released the adults so that we line the way to the temple and then the youth came and walked up to the temple to get another group picture. (Were you at camp when they did something similar after the spiritual evening?  It reminded me of that).  We had a closing prayer and cinnamon rolls and headed home with a few minutes to spare before church. It was a great morning.  

My primary lesson this morning was on Issac and Rebecca and we made a paper circle out of a 5 X 10 paper (the instructions were on it).  We talked about celestial marriage and I gave them some of the pictures of the Gilbert temple (I glued them onto hard paper so that they were stronger) that Sister D. gave us.  I had a couple of kids that didn't take pictures, which is okay.  I try not to push them and I would rather keep it than find it on the floor in the hall later.  I brought them dum dum succors today and they still are struggling with the concept of being thankful.  They just kept asking for more and I said, "It is hard for me to bring treats when you just keep wanting more and you didn't even thank me for the first one,"  Of course they all chimed in saying "Thank you" at that point.  Maybe my only contribution this year will be to help them show a little gratitude:).  Keeps me on my toes though!

We have Psych Night on Wednesday and I think that is the biggest thing on my schedule for this week.  Other than conference this weekend, of course.  Well, I love you tons and can hardly wait to hear how your week is going.

Hope your coming week is wonderful and full of good things!

Love,

Mom

Pictures from our hike to Peak 5057

Kent, Amber & Dave at the parking lot getting ready to head up.  Peak is in the background.

Kent, Amber and Kristine

Kent & Amber on the trail!

We called this the "Mushroom Rock"
Kent & Dave

Kent with some of the many HooDoo's along the trail.

Dave with Kent in the background.  We had to scurry up lots of rocks
 (looking for cairons to make sure we stayed on the trail!)

Amber and Kent at the top of the "false saddle"
getting a quick snack and enjoying the shade for a minute!

Dave always has to show off in precarious positions and scare me (Kristine) to near death.
You can see a bit of Weaver's Needle above his shoulder in the background.

Kristine with Weaver's Needle in the background.
Last Saddle before reaching the peak!

Kent, Amber and Kristine in their VICTORY poses!
Top of  Peak 5057!

Kent, Dave and Amber at the top of the Peak.

Dave took off his socks and shoes and we all followed suit!
It sure felt nice to free our feet for a bit before heading back down.

Notes from Dad -- March 30, 2014

Dear Sammy,

I sure love you!  Mom and I were bummed that we missed an opportunity to hear your voice (and pepper you with questions :-) in your call from the airport.  Oh well, life goes on, right?

We were very happy to receive your short note from the mission home, as well a letter and photo from Pres. and Sis. Rowe, following your arrival in Piura.  You  look great!  (No surprise there :-).  We were a bit surprised that the letter didn't mention the name of your companion or any information about where you had been assigned to serve, etc.  So, we are anxiously awaiting your next letter to get a few more details ...  (It always seems like whenever we get a letter, we are always left wanting more info. Kind of insatiable in that regard.  Oh well ... Learning to be patient and grateful for the news we do get ...)

The letter mentioned your companion is a native. Where is she from?  How long has she been out?  Hopefully, she doesn't know much English, or if she does, you still speak in all Spanish, as that's the best way to improve your language skills!

How do you get around?  walk? taxi? rides from members?  

How big is your area? Where are you living?  What's your apt. like?  Do you have a pensionista? How's the food so far? Eaten anything "interesting"?  Any interesting cultural stuff you have observed so far (i.e., everyone greeting with hugs and kisses on the cheeks, etc.)?

Do you have anyone in your teaching pool?  Have you had an opportunity to teach some lessons?  I encourage you to jump in and contribute/take on as much responsibility in teaching/setting up appointments, etc. as possible.  Even though you might be tempted to hold back and lean on your senior comp, the sooner you jump in with both feet, the sooner your comfort level will increase.  I found on my mission that effective communication had a lot more to do with a missionary's love for people an desire to convey the message than it had to do with the missionary's knowledge of grammar, tenses, and vocabulary (though those things are important as well).  In fact, one of the senior couples I worked with in Bulgaria barely knew a lick of Bulgarian but were instrumental in teaching/baptizing/fellowshipping one of their neighbors, who didn't speak a lick of English!

How was your first Sunday in your new ward/branch?  How are the ward members?  Where do you meet?  I found a link on lds.org or somewhere that plots out all of the stakes and districts in the Piura mission, along with the locations of all of the ward/branch buildings.  It says there are 6 stakes and 1 district in the mission.  

Ok, enough with the questions, right?  I'm sure I have a ton more, but I guess I'll devote at least some of my letter to what's been going on around here this week.

Yesterday, Mom, Amber, Kent, and I went on another hike (I know, 3 weeks in a row--I'm in heaven!).  This time we took on a challenging one:  Superstition Peak 5057.  It is the peak on the opposite (i.e., east) end of the Superstitions from Flatiron.  As you know from personal experience, Flatiron is known as one of, if not the most, challenging hike in the area.  Well, others think 5057 is tougher.  It's definitely longer (9 miles, instead of 5), and climbs more elevation (3500 ft, instead of 2900).  That said, I personally still think Flatiron is more "intense" and unrelenting.  In any event, peak 5057 is definitely a challenge.  But a fun one.  And, everyone did great!  It took us about 3 hours and 20 minutes to make our way to the top of the peak, and another 3 to get back down.  So, it was a solid day's work. 

As you might expect, the views from the peak were amazing.  It was a bit hazy, so I can only imagine how cool it would look on a clear day.  It was fun to look across the range at Flatiron and Peak 5024, some 5 miles or so away.  With the zoom on the camera, I could see hikers milling around on the Flatiron.  

It was a great accomplishment to make it to the top.  At the end, it took a little rock scrambling on the "hoodoos" (rock formations) to finally get to the actual high point.  Apparently, the bugs are fond of being on top of the peak as well, as there were a ton of flies, gnats, and some strange bee-like bugs flying around.  So, we didn't stay too long on top after taking some victory photos and signing the summit register (contained in an old ammo can).  Instead, we climbed down from the peak a bit to a nice, shady spot among the hoodoos, and took a lunch break, and enjoyed the view.  We all pulled off our shoes and socks and just hung out for a bit.

Our descent was again filled with beautiful vistas, but otherwise generally uneventful (except that Amber took a spill and earned a nice bruise on her bum ...).  Surprisingly, despite our 6+ hours on the trail, over 9 miles, we only came across one other hiker!  So, essentially, we had the trail to ourselves, which was kind of fun!

We came home and treated ourselves to concrete mixers and french fries at Culver's.  Lindsay had her first soccer practice of the new season, so couldn't make it on the hike, and Paige had other plans.

We got home about 3:30 and the girls all got ready for the General  Women's meeting.  Lindsay wasn't exactly honored to be a part of history in being invited for the first time to go to the meeting.  I'm not sure her idea of a good time is getting dressed up and spending another couple of hours at church on at Saturday :-)   When she asked me if she "had to" go, I said, "No, You get to go!"  Apparently, it wasn't as bad as she anticipated (Reagan being there, and Sweet Tomatoes afterwards, helped soften the blow), but she took with here a notebook, on which she had labeled:  "For Long Boring Meeting and other events only," with the "boring" underlined three times.  Yep, that's our budding spiritual giant!!  Ha ha!

This morning, there was a stake youth morningside at the temple, to "bookend" the morningside that took place in the alfalfa field prior to the groundbreaking at the temple.  Mom and I went and drove our girls and the Echols boys.  We first met in the next-door chapel for a few messages from youth, Pres. Merrill, and Pres/Sis. Lesueur.  Pres. L spoke on "endowments" and compared the temple endowments to the monetary "endowments" that people give to universities to fund various programs, and buildings, etc.  He emphasized that just as the funds associated with monetary endowments must be used for the purposes for which they are given, or else they will be lost/revoked, so our temple endowment can be lost or rendered ineffective if we do not continue to live worthy of it by abiding the covenants associated with the receipt of that gift. 

After the talks, all the adult leaders were excused and formed a two-line pathway to the temple grounds, through which all the youth silently walked for another temple picture.  It was kind of cool to watch.  After the photos, we returned to the chapel parking lot for cinnamon rolls and milk.  

In other news of the week, we went to the high school musical on Friday night:  Beauty and Beast.  Amber couldn't come because she had a conflict with a b-day party, so we gave her ticket to Grandma G.  We enjoyed the show, which was well cast.  Brett C. played the roll of Gaston and did a great job.  David W. was the "Beast," and as you probably know, as a beautiful voice.  Tori B. was Mrs. Potts and did a great job as well.  A fun evening.

On Thursday, I went home teaching.  My first visit was to the S.s.  Sis. S. was not home, so it was just me and Marty (my companion, Chase Echols ended being stuck taking care of his great grandmother).  Marty had gotten a call from Bro. Q., an older gentleman who lives in the care center at the end of our street, indicating that Bro. Q. was sick and needed a blessing. So, we walked over and gave him one.  It was nice to be of service.

After the S., I recruited Mom to be my companion in visiting Macki B. and the D..   We had a good talk (she is wanting to get into running, so as you know, Mom and I had lots to say about that!).  

At work, I put on a "CLE" (continuing legal education) seminary at the firm on pre-litigation strategies and administrative proceedings.  I presented with two other partners, one from our Colorado Springs office, and another from here in Phoenix.  I think it went okay.  Part of my presentation was about drafting/sending and responding to pre-lawsuit demand letters.  For fun, I put up a slide entitled "The Ultimate Demand Letter," and pasted in a copy of the Declaration of Independence, preceded by a salutation: "Dear King George III ..."  Everyone got a chuckle out of that, so I guess it wasn't completely boring.

On Tuesday night, we had a open house/reception at our new offices in the evening.  Clients and prospective clients were invited.  I had a few clients come, which was nice.  Richard (my brother) also came, as his company has been a client of the firm over the years.  We had hors d'oevres and toured folks around the office space.  Mom hosted bunko at our home that night, so I guess it worked out well that I was out of her hair :-)

Speaking of hair, Mom got her hair cut and highlighted.  It's hard to improve on beautiful, but I like the new do, and I think she does as well.  She has found it funny to she which of her friend and family members notice (or at least mention) the change.  Regardless, she looks good!

On Wednesday, for combined mutual, the YM/YW leaders put together a DVD highlighting all of the youth events from 2013 through the Cultural Celebration.  We ate popcorn and other treats and had shaved ice from Bro. Crotts at the end. The DVD included a number of pictures with you in them.  It made me miss you, and also seemed like some of the events were ages ago, given everything that's happened since you graduated--college and mission!

Well, this is getting a little long, so I'll sign off for the week.  Know that we pray for you multiple times a day, and think of you more often than that.  I am proud of all you are doing and continue to be honored to be your father.

Keep working hard and having fun!

Love you,

Dad

Just another regular week at the Garner home!

This is my letter to Samantha this week.  No time to go in and just make it a blog entry:).

Dear Samantha,

So I wrote most of this letter yesterday, but didn't send it yet.  I was so sad (I can't even tell you how sad) I was that I missed your phone call.  I just had no idea when you would be leaving or I probably would have sat by the phone all day.  I am glad that you got to talk to the kids though.  So how many of you flew to Piura?  How was your flight?  One blog I found of an elder in Piura said that they were having a very bad drought there, you will have to fill us in on the details.  

I wrote this question yesterday, but am still wondering:  Some of the moms that have missionaries at the Peru MTC were saying that their (all of them were elders) were leaving today (monday) to go to the mission field.  Do you leave from the MTC in shifts?  Just wondering. Can't wait to hear from you when you get Pirua and figure out where your first assignment is etc!

I know that we talked (but I can't remember) about whether or not you want me to forward letters onto you from Connor, Ryan, David and Kaleb.  What about: Hayden, Tyler, Grant (think those are the only ones I get).  I know your time is so limited, but let me know what you think.

My cycle class has become pretty popular:).  I have had a full class each time for the last few weeks.  I am not really sure what makes the difference, but I am not complaining!  Today (Monday) I had 2 people that couldn't come to my class because there were no bikes left. CRAZY!

Amber had her play last week.  We went on Wednesday night.  Grandma and Doris came with us.  Amber did a great job as usual.  I will send a few pictures:). (Actually dad sent pictures and a better description:)).

On Saturday morning I was in charge of the orienteering course for girls camp for the 3rd years certification.  It went pretty well.  I thought that I knew what I was doing and didn't go check out the course the day before.  I should have, but oh well!  You learn something everyday!

When I got home Dad wanted to go on a hike.  No one else wanted to go so we made it a date.  We got started pretty late.  We made sandwiches and ate at the trail head. We went to South Mountain and hiked the Guadalupe Ridge line trail.  It said that it was only about a 3 on a scale of 5.  It was up one peak and down the other side and up the next peak.  It was warm and the sun was out.  It was however, beautiful and you could see so much of the valley...all directions.  We took the National trail back and went through Hidden Valley (fat man's pass) and then back to where we had parked (dad will have to fill you in on where the parking lot is, it is not one that we have gone to before).  I have to tell you that even though the hike was 8 miles (same distance we hiked last week), I was much more wiped out!  By about 7 pm I was falling asleep.  Dad was awesome and went and did some last minute grocery shopping for our Sunday dinner (just spaghetti).

My primary class is still pretty rambunctious!  They still crack me up.  I have lowered my expectation on what I can teach each week and try to enjoy the moments when they are actually listening!  

Which reminds me of something that I was going to talk to you about as you head into the "real" mission field.  I know that when I was in the MTC it was like living in a bubble.  We talked a lot about missionary work, and role played a ton, but living in the field is a bit different! You have had a taste of that with your Saturday outings (which is awesome), but I want to share one of the lessons that I learned.  My second companion was a convert to the church and was just a little older (not much) and had a lot of life experience.  One of the things that she taught me (she had a really hard time waking up in the morning and I refused to be her mother and wake her up)  was that when she worked, she worked hard, but at the same time she knew how to enjoy life and get the most out of life all the time.  She would always tell me, "I work hard and I play hard."   P-days were always fun and a time that we could let down (within reason) and enjoy.  They were super busy, and we were always respectful of our callings as missionaries, but we tried to experience what our area had to offer as well.  Also when we worked she made the work as fun as possible.  We constantly sang hymns.  She is the one that taught me that relaxing did not mean slacking.  Remember to enjoy your mission and each experience and know that the Lord will make up the difference!  I know you have a good balance in your life, especially when you focus on the positive!

I guess what I am saying is don't let being "strictly obedient" get in the way of enjoying the experiences that you will have.  Laugh and love and live and trust that the Lord will help you to find the people that need your message!  Focus on the things that are going right and the good things that you are doing each day and let the other stuff go so that it doesn't stop you from being the best you can be.

I love you!  Hopefully you will get a minute today to read your email and respond to ours!  If you get a chance to call me from the mission home, call my cell phone:)!  

 

Our thoughts and prayers are with you!! 

Love,

Mom

Date Hike to South Mountain-Guadalupe Ridge-line

Kristine by "Guadalupe Rock"

Selfie of Kristine & Dave 

One view of Dave (most points on the ridge-line we could see in several directions)

The sun was HOT!

Lots of rocks to climb through and over,
sometimes making the trail a little challenging to follow!

There were several peaks, this is the last one.
We could see in all directions.  Dave enjoying the vista.

Kristine squeezing through "Fat Man's Pass"

Dave posing in front of the tunnel coming out of "Happy Valley"

Amber's Play..."Robin Hood"

Amber shines as Casper!

Amber as Casper in Robin Hood

General Scene:)

Two of Amber's biggest fans!  Grandma Garner & our favorite neighbor, Doris!

Rachel and Sister Beecroft also came to support Amber!

Notes from Dad--March 24, 2014

Here is Dave's letter to Samantha:

Dear Sammy,

Exciting times!  Can't wait to hear about your trip to Piura and your first "real" area assignment/companion, etc.  Actually, I guess we have no choice but to wait :-)  And even though you may not get a chance to read this email tomorrow, I'll drop you a note just in case ...

At work, I'm still enjoying the "high" of being victorious in my special education hearing.  I went out to lunch with the associate who helped with the trial (and then left the firm to go clerk for a judge before the briefing was due).  She was excited to learn about the favorable result, and the client is very pleased.  

One of my partners sent an email to everyone in the firm about the successful ruling, and I received a lot of congratulatory emails, etc.  It's been fun.

Also, Grandma wanted to take your Mom and me out to a celebratory dinner, so we went to the Outback Steakhouse on Friday.  We had a nice dinner and enjoyed some good conversation.

Amber's play (Robin Hood) was this week, and we went on Thursday.  Doris came with us, and Grandma came as well.  Amber played the role of Kasper (one of the Prince's guard, who has the arrow shooting contest with Robin Hood).  As usual, Amber did a fantastic job.  She is very animated and expressive on stage.  Sis. Beecroft came as well and brought Rachel Kingsford along. Afterwards, Grandma treated us to DQ, where we saw Maddie Brown (again :-).

On Saturday, I got up early and took a 31 mi. bike ride up through Las Sendas and some surrounding areas.  The route was a familiar one, generally, but I explored a couple of new areas on my way home to make things a bit more interesting.  The morning weather was beautiful.  The only downside was that Mom was not able to go with me, as she was over at the Riparian, leading the YW in the orienteering course as part of Girls Camp certification.

We made up for the time apart by going on what ended up being a "date hike" on South Mountain (we invited the kids to go, but they weren't interested).  It was probably a good thing they didn't all come, as the hike turned out to be a bit more strenuous than I had anticipated.  It was a new trail for me, called the Guadalupe Ridge.  It starts at the eastern end of South Mountain and follows the ridgeline for four miles until it finally dead-ends into the National Trail (which extends the full length of the mountain range).  The ridge was neat because from that vantage point, you could see all of the surrounding areas both to the north (i.e., downtown Phx, Camelback, Piestewa Peak) as well as to the South (Ahwatukee, etc.) and everything out east (Supersitions, etc.).  So, the views were great, though it was a bit hazy.  

The ridge is not an official trail, and there were quite a few spots where we had to guess/explore and scramble up/down rocks to figure out where to go next.  That, along with the warm temps and exposed nature of hiking along a ridge, made it more tiresome than we had planned.  We did, however, find a cool rock formation with a sheltered, cave-like area that was kind of fun to explore and take rest in the shade.   

Just before we reached the junction with the National Trail, we climbed to the high point in the hike and enjoyed essentially a 360 degree view, which was very cool.  

Instead of returning on the ridgeline, we took the National Trail back, including a shortcut through Hidden Valley.  We went through Fatman's Pass and the rock tunnel on the other end.  By the time we were done, we had hiked nearly 9 miles and were pretty pooped, but in a good, satisfying way :-)

It was dinner time by the time we got home, so we stopped by Little Caesars and got pizza for dinner.  I  did a little shopping that night for some essentials and picked up some mint chocolate chip ice cream and swiss rolls for a treat.  I figured we earned it!

In other news, Amber spoke in church about the family.  It is my month to arrange for speakers for sacrament meeting, and I had had trouble finding a willing YW, so Amber, bless her heart, stepped up to the plate and filled in the gap at the last minute.  She talked about the Proclamation on the Family, FTSOY, quoted 1 Ne. 1:1, and shared about how some of our crazy family traditions help bond us together ("sure do love ya .... big hugs" after prayers, and our scripture alarm clock).  I was grateful for her willingness to step up and help me in a pinch.  I guess that's one of the consequences of being a child of a bishopric member ...

Richard also went hiking on Saturday, taking Amy and her friend up Flatiron.  They came across a huge rattlesnake, which he sent me a picture of.  Pretty crazy.  I still have yet to come across a snake while on a hike ..., which is okay by Mom :-)

Kathy and Julie are planning a trip to Southeast Asia this summer, including a few days in Singapore with John and his family.   So fun.  Also, Kathy's roommate is getting married, so she is now looking again for a new living situation.

The weather continues to be unseasonably warm around here, but unseasonably cold throughout the rest of the country.  Kind of weird.  The mornings and evenings right now are fabulous, though it won't be long before the real heat wave begins.

Your missionary plaque came in.  It looks great (how could it not, right?)!

I'm probably forgetting to tell you about some events of the week, but hopefully Mom will fill in the gaps and straighten out any errors ;-).

I need to sign off so I can take Amber over to the Y for a quick evening workout.  

We are excited to hear from you, as always.  We love you and pray for you multiple times a day.  Proud of all that you are doing.  Keep working hard, and good luck as you enter the "real" mission field!  You'll do great!!!

Love you,

Dad

Dave's Letter to Samantha and his perspective on Spring Break 2014

Dear Sammy,

Mom just finished giving our FHE lesson, based on an article in the New Era that reminds us not to look to the world to define what is of value (e.g., trendy clothes, money, toys, body shape, etc.)  A good reminder that, in contrast to the world, the worth of all souls is great in the sight of God, regardless of physical attributes or material possessions.

Although last week was spring break, I worked all week long, so it wasn't much of a break for me. As Mom mentioned, we did, however, sneak in a good family hike  out to Canyon Lake from the First Water Trailhead.  I had toyed with the idea of making a trip up to the Grand Canyon and doing a hike out to Plateau Point (not all the way down to the river, but still a tough hike), but Lindsay had an end-of-season breakfast with her soccer team on Saturday morning that she was excited about going to, so we looked for something closer and more modest in terms of difficulty.  That was fine, as I had been wanting to do this "shuttle hike" for quite some time.

Because of Lindsay's breakfast, we got a little later start than I wanted (11 am) and I was worried that it would get pretty hot (forecast was for 84 degrees), but the weather turned out to be quite pleasant. We had a nice breeze on the latter half of the hike that helped keep the temp in check as well. We set up the shuttle, by dropping off our "destination" car (the Honda) at the Canyon Lake Marina. In researching this hike, I wasn't sure if there was a charge to park there (there is not). Then, we headed back to the First Water TH in the Suburban.  I thought the TH parking lot would be full, but we lucked out and there was a spot open when we arrived!  As Mom mentioned, this is the same trailhead where we did the "full moon" hike with Bro. Kirby and where we started the Garden Valley/Hackberry Springs Loop hike 3 or 4 years ago.

When Paige asked how hard the Canyon Lake hike would be, I told her, "We've done much harder."  She responded that that was not particularly reassuring, given some of the difficult hikes we have been on :-)  It was 8 miles long, but actually quite manageable.  There was some elevation gain, but it was just enough to get the blood pumping.  Because it was a point-to-point, shuttle hike, we did not cover any ground twice.  I was impressed by the wide variety of plant life, rocks, and diversity of nature we saw on the trail.  There was a spring that fed a running stream and some creek beds we crossed over that probably have some pretty impressive flows after a good rainstorm.

The first four miles were generally flat or downhill.   We came across a train of horse riders and a few small groups of hikers, but for most of the trip, we enjoyed some peaceful solitude. We stopped for lunch at a place called the Indian Paint Mine--a section of particularly red rock/dirt, which the indians apparently used to make paint for their pottery, etc.  There wasn't a "mine" in the traditional sense, but a good size pit and some areas with nice shade for our lunch spot. 

As we headed out after lunch, the kids remarked that the hike had been pretty easy. I told them that the uphill section was yet to come and that's where they would "earn their ice cream." Luckily, the elevation gain came with breathtaking views--first of the classic Superstition icons (Flatiron, Peaks 5024 & 5057, Weaver's Needle, Battleship, Geronimo Head) and then after cresting the divide, views of Canyon Lake and the surrounding areas. The outstanding scenery took almost all of the pain out of the climb (which wasn't actually that bad). 

Just as we were approaching the final descent into Canyon Lake, there was a fork in the trail. The most "direct" route to the trailhead was blocked off by a pile of rocks, but for no reason that I could divine. Yet, we decided to take the longer, more circuitous route, assuming that the trail had been blocked for a reason.  Sure enough, the more circuitous route re-connected with the more direct route about .1 mile from the Canyon Lake TH (and was again blocked off by a row of rocks). When I came home an checked by GPS track on the satellite view, I could see both trails and still  I don't know why they are apparently encouraging the more round-about route.  There's a good gospel analogy there, as sometimes it's not always clear why the Lord asks us to do (or not do) certain things or to do them in a way that we think is harder or more complicated than we think it necessary.  At those points, we learn to be humble and trust His judgment.  

When we got back to the lake, we stopped by the Marina Restaurant, but ice cream was expensive (and they only had vanilla) so we decided our sweet tooth could wait till we got back to Gilbert for a less expensive option at DQ.

After coming home for a quick shower, Mom and I went to a dinner/dance party that Glade and Laurie Smith were hosting at their church building in Queen Creek.  We saw a bunch of our old Ragnar teammates (and women from Mom's Bunko group).  The food was good, but we had to cut it a bit short, because I had to get back home to meet a deadline for submitting an application for the lottery to hike Mt. Whitney in California, as part of Kent's 12 y.o. birthday trip.  The deadline for the lottery was 9 pm, so we hustled back and put our hat in the ring.  Mt. Whitney is the highest peak in the lower 48 states, so it's a popular hike.  We'll find out next Sunday whether we get drawn.

In other news, Mom and I finished reading the book "Ender's Game" together.  I don't know if you heard about that movie coming out, but the book is a sci-fi novel by Orson Scott Card (who is LDS), about a young boy (Ender Wiggin) who is extremely smart and saves the earth by leading a military attack on the "buggers"--a race of intelligent, insect-like beings who had previously attempted to conquer humans and colonize the earth.  The book gives a lot to think about, including the fact that Ender has no desire to be violent or hurt others, but was constantly being thrust into situations where he was forced to do so (as a matter of self defense).  While much about the book was a bit disturbing (to Mom, in particular), it had a satisfying, cathartic ending, where Ender was able to turn from violence/destruction and focus on nurturing and building society (including the bugger nation for whose nearly complete destruction he felt responsible).  Anyway, after finishing the book, Mom and I rented the movie.  As usual, it was only a pale reflection of the book, but still well done, as far as it went.

Work is going okay.  I've been expecting a decision in my big case (the special education case that went to a 12-day trial last year).  The special education laws require the judge to issue a ruling within a particular time frame, unless the court approves an extension request by the parties.  Well, it's turned out that the judge has been requesting multiple extensions of the decision deadline, each time promising that this extension will be the last.  The last extension expired on Friday, but still no decision.  We didn't get one today, either.  I anticipate that we will get the ruling tomorrow sometime.  It's a little stressful, but I feel comfortable that, regardless of the outcome, I represented my client's interest well and put them in the best position possible.  That said, I would sure like to win :-)

We finally got your missionary plaque ordered, along with Kellee Huffaker's, and Megan Nelson's.  Hopefully, we'll have those hanging up in the hallway soon.  This month, the ward newsletter contained a blurb from each of the missionaries serving from our ward.  It was great to see all of you sisters out representing well!  That said, it will also be nice to send out a few elders.  We should have a batch going out after graduation (hopefully)--Riley Hales, Kenny Morris, and perhaps a couple more.

Since the marathon, I've just been taking some easy runs.  It's been nice just to enjoy the runs without any firm time goal or pace.  The weather has been perfect for running in the mornings.  Have you had a chance to go running at the CCM?  Do they have a gym or other exercise equipment? 

It's exciting to think that you will be heading to Piura in another week.  Do you have travel plans?  As Mom mentioned, we've been "blog-stalking" other missionaries in the CCM and in Piura.  You are in for a great experience and adventure.  We sure love you and pray for your continued success with the language and in sharing the gospel message in your field of labor.  You are and will be a great missionary.  Very proud of you!

Till next week, love, Dad

Spring Break March 2014

So Dave did a little digging on the internet and found the blogs of a couple of Sisters in Samantha's district.  It was fun to read what their thoughts were and see some of their pictures as well!  I decided that Samantha should send more pictures, in and out of the MTC!   

Sister B.said that her companion and many others got sick and they thought that it was the food there (meat). Dave and I talked about it and came to the conclusion that Samantha didn't get sick because she probably didn't eat the meat!  I can't wait to hear if our theory is right or wrong.  

Only a little more than a week and Samantha will be out working with the people!  

The kids all had spring break this week.  We stayed home, can't even really call it a staycation because we really didn't do anything really.  Kent and Lindsay played with various friends and even Amber was able to hang out with friend a couple of days.  Paige was hanging out with friends when she wasn't working (which actually was only 2 days...so lots of friend time).  Both Haley O. (Cody W.) and Chelsea (Chandler, I think) got asked to Prom.  I asked her if she was sad that she didn't get asked and she chucked and said no, her guy friends all asked other girls and so she was pretty sure that she wouldn't be asked.  She has a great attitude about it and unless she is hiding something, it is really not a big deal.

The most major thing that we did this week was go on a hike on Saturday.  We started out the same place that we did on the night hike that we did with Brother Kirby (and in the same area that you and dad and the kids did a few years ago).  This time though we dropped dad's car off at Canyon Lake and then went back to the start of the trail and hiked to the car.  It was about 8 miles long and BEAUTIFUL!  Everyone had a great attitude about it and even though it was long it wasn't a hard hike.  We had to start a little later than Dad would have liked because Lindsay's soccer team had a breakfast get together to hand out trophy's, etc.  We thought it might be a little too hot starting out so late, but there was a nice breeze and so the temperature wasn't bad at all!  

Start of the Trail

Crossroad, good thing Dad had a map and knew where to lead us!

 

Beautiful views all around.  A look at Weavers Needle in the distance.

Stopped for a little lunch at the Indian Paint Mine

A little different perspective.

Looking back where we had come from.

This was the hardest part of the hike.

First sighting of Canyon Lake

Amber wasn't able to go with us because she had to help build the sets for her play that shows this week.  The performances are on W, TH , and F.  We will take some pictures of that and send them to you.

We did our regular thing and stopped for a treat at DQ on our way home and Maddie Brown was working.  It was fun to run into her and thank her for her friendship with you while you were home.  She is such a great gal!  She asked how you were doing:).  

Kent spent the week on his science project (for the science club at school).  He is testing 3 brands of batteries to see which one lasts the longest.  I don't think he really knew what he was getting into when he figure out what his project would be.  I am flashlight sitting right now.  They are starting to die, but so far it has been over 50 hours!  We had to convince him to do other things besides just watching them (he said it was boring....go figure:)).  He is determined to get it done!

Well that is our week in a quick nutshell!

Notes from Dad--March 10, 2014

I'm going to start posting Dave's letters to Samantha too because he adds things that I didn't remember about the week!  Go Garner family history through our letter writing to our missionary!


Dear Sammy,

Sure love you!  Hope you have had a wonderful week.  Can't wait to hear about it.

We just got home from an FHE at Usery Park with the usual Bridlegate suspects (Dilles, Smiths, etc., etc.), as we have done in years past.  Roasted hot dogs, s'mores, and sat around chatting till it was late.  I smell like smoke, but it was a very pleasant evening.  As we were arriving, the setting sun lit up Pass Mountain beautifully and then we watched the sun set and hung out around the campfire and/or ramada.  

The big event this past week for me (and Kent) was going to Science Camp.  I carpooled up with three other dads from our ward (Bros. Robison, Taysom, and Bloom).  We went to the same camp you went to in Prescott.  Kent had a great time.  We shared a cabin with Jared I. and Jacob B.. Most of the other kids in our "room" were various levels of autistic, so they required a little extra supervision, but the boys all got along great.

After lunch on Tuesday, our group went on the hike up Thumb Butte.  After we finished the hike, Bro. Bloom congratulated the boys on conquering Thumb "Butt" (he told them the "e" was silent).  That became the joke of the evening . . . .  After the hike, we did the rock wall and zip line.  That was the consensus favorite activity of the camp.  Kent didn't seem scared at all.  He climbed right up and jumped right off on the zip line. Then lined right up and did it a second time!

That evening, we did a group scavenger hunt.  Our team came in second place (and earned a big Hershey bar)!  After the scavenger hunt, we went to the lodge, where the kids put on their skits.  Kent is so funny.  He was so prepared--he had written out a script for his group and, in addition, put everyone's individual lines on a 3x5 card with various items highlighted.  It was cracking me up (as the skits are pretty simple).  Anyway, they had planned to do a skit involving one of the kids acting like a lawnmower that proved very difficult to get started.  After the boys all failed to get it going, they were going to ask Bro. Sawyer to try; then, when the mower starts right up, they would say:  "I guess all it needed was a 'big jerk'!"  (haha.)  Well, it was a great plan, but before they could have their turn on the skit, the "MC," who was interjecting jokes and stuff between skits, ended up stealing their skit . . .  Luckily, the boys had another one that they ended up being able to do, though it wasn't quite as funny.  Anyway, Kent didn't seem to bothered by it, so it was all good.

I actually slept fairly well that night, though I always forget to bring ear plugs along with me to combat the inevitable snorers . . . .

On Wednesday, we did all the other activities (solar art, backpack attack, owl pellets, dance instruction, teamwork challenge, etc.).  Kent's owl pellet turned out to be a good one--we were able to construct nearly a full skeleton of the rat the owl had eaten.  Bro. Sawyer taught the owl pellet lesson and started by telling the boys what owl pellets are [i.e., puked up stuff that the owl eats but can't digest]  and then explained that, in a survival situation, you could eat owl pellets if necessary.  He then told the boys that the pellets didn't really taste too bad and proceeded to unwrap one and pop it in his mouth.  The boys all gagged, before Mr. Sawyer confessed that he had just wrapped up a piece of brownie to look like the owl pellets.  :-)

During dinner, a whole group of javelina decided to come traipsing through camp.  The kids got a real kick out of watching them.

That night, we sang campfire songs and roasted s'mores before . . . the DANCE!  The dance was hilarious!  I had no idea how much the kids--including the boys--would get into it.  But, get into it they did, including Kent.  Mrs. Wilson had taught them about 12 line dances and other dances during their rotations, and they all really had a fun time.  Kent was cracking me up.  He really let down his guard and went a little wild (which, as you know, is not his normal m.o.).  I kept discretely taking video clips of him on my phone to show to Mom.  His "macarena" was the best--particularly the "hip action" part.  (it was all knee action...Kristine's comment)

That night the boys all slept like logs and the following morning we packed up and headed for home.  I'm glad I was able to go with Kent.

On Friday, we had the adult ward party.  Mom gave you the details on that and sent you a couple of photos of our "potato car."   As is the Garner tradition, our car was more about design and looks, rather than speed (it didn't even make down the entire track), but we had a fun time. 

Saturday, Mom and I did the 35 mile Usery loop on our bikes.  She told you about her two flat tires.  Turns out that my front tire was punctured as well, though luckily, the leak was a slow one and the tire held up for the whole ride (which is good b/c I didn't have a spare tube with me).  I didn't realize it was punctured till later that night when went to ride it to the park and found it completely flat.  Anyway, the weather was absolutely beautiful for a ride.  I love getting out and being active in the comfortably cool mornings this time of year!

Mom gave you the scoop on Jessica's wedding and Amber's tryout for the Saturday's Warrior play and Kent's and Lindsay's final soccer games.

The play Mom and I went to see was Oklahoma.  The singing, acting, and choreography were actually pretty good, but as Mom mentioned, the storyline of the play is kind of dark and filled with a lot of sexist, gender stereotypes.  But, the actual date activity was not as important as the fact of the date itself!  

Between the ward party, the bike ride, the wedding, reception, the play, and a no-extra-meeting fast Sunday, I pretty much spent the entire weekend with my sweetheart.  I sure love your Mother!  It was great to have a chance to spend that much time together.

At fast and testimony meeting, there were a number of testimonies referencing the Cultural Celebration and temple dedication.  All very positive and uplifting.  Amber shared her testimony.  She mentioned that one of the moments she felt the Spirit most was when the youth were all out on the field getting drenched while waiting for the prophet to arrive.  Instead of focusing on their wet condition, a bunch of youth in her area broke out into singing primary songs, which made it both spiritual and fun.  Love it!

I cooked our break-the-fast dinner (grilled chicken and rice), as Mom had a bad headache and, in any event, deserved a rest.  Kent made the salad, and Lindsay made a no-bake cheesecake (with minimal help from me).  The Bishop joined us for dinner (he is a "bachelor" for spring break, while his family is in Utah).  After dinner, we went on a family walk down through the horse properties to the south of us.  Again, the weather was gorgeous.  Very pleasant to be out.  I posted  a picture of the family on our walk to FB.  Doris commented on the post: "What a beautiful picture of a wonderful family.  God bless you all and I thank him every day you guys are a part of our lives."  She's so sweet.  She also commented on a photo of me, Mom, Amber, and Paige at the Cultural Celebration, saying "You are missing one!" (i.e., you).  

Work is going well.  We are settling into our new office space, which is not far from our old office (directly across from U.S. Airways arena--where the Suns play).  I get to look out my window at South Mountain all day, so it's all good. [I think I may have told you about that last week--oh well, I'm getting old . . . ].

Well, when I start repeating myself, that means it's probably time for me to wrap things up.  

We pray for you daily and think about you constantly.  I'm proud of your decision to dedicate this portion of your life to the Lord's service.  The blessings you reap for your service will be much greater than the sacrifice you are making.  Keep working hard, and enjoy!

Love,

Dad