Christmas 2010

This Christmas marked Sam and mine first Christmas as a married couple. I had always wondered how to coordinate holidays between the two families, but I have found it is much easier than I expected due to our convenient location almost exactly half way between both places! I was scheduled to work on Christmas day, so we elected to spend Christmas eve with my parents, and then Sam would spend the next day with his while I was at work. I was not the only one who had a holiday work schedule, Sam's brother David was working as well, so the Olsen bunch put on a belated Christmas dinner the 28th so all could be included. As always it is a treat to be able to spend time with both families, and getting to share the holiday with both was extra special.

One thing my side of the family has always enjoyed in the winter season is ice skating. A relative of ours has created a rink complete with skates to borrow, warming hut, and basic hockey necessities. It is the Moncur tradition to make several "hokey" trips while the ice is on. This year we took Sam on our Christmas eve visit. I had forgotten how much balance it takes to be successful on the ice, and it took me a while to find my skating legs. Sam and the other boys took to it with ease.

As a fast paced hockey game ensued, I stood back to watch as pucks flew, sticks smacked, and Dad said hello to the ice a couple times. It was a blast, and well worth the trip.

This was easily one of the most pleasant Christmas seasons yet.

Sister Olsen

It takes a certain determination and faith to make certain sacrifices. Sam's little sister, made the decision to sacrifice a year and a half of her time to serve a mission. We have all been so excited for her, knowing that by her example and testimony she will be able to touch the lives of many people in a very special way. On Sunday Most of our family got together to wish her well and see her off before she flew out to the MTC on Monday. It was so great to have so many people gathered together showing her their support. Wednesday marked her first day in the MTC, and we just can't wait to hear how she is doing.

Congrats Sister Katie Olsen.... you are going to take the Washington DC-South Mission by storm!!

Lime Light

I always enjoy witnessing my siblings talents. There is always something special about seeing the ones you love accomplish something they feel is important.

My youngest brother has (in the past few years) developed a knack for acting. It started with Lip Sync contests, and now has moved to school plays. Lovell Middle School put on a mini production of the Fairest Flower of the South, where Cole played the demented, yet charming Col. Cullpepper. It was so much fun watching his character come to life as he swaggered around the set voicing monologues traced with a well done southern accent. The crowd was small, but the laughter and applause that Col. Cullpepper received was not.

Take a bow little brother!

Dinysaurs!

A few weekends ago, Sam and I were visiting his family in Thermopolis when we started talking about the museums in town and how I had never been to any of them. There was one particular museum that I was dying to see. I have always had a soft spot for paleontology. With my Mother being a geologist, I have always enjoyed minerals, rocks, and the occasional fossil.

Sam treated me with a visit to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.

 


There were so many neat things to see.
I had no idea that such a great collection existed so close to home!

My favorite exhibit.... Mommy and her hatchlings.





Of course I couldn't help but show this guy who was boss....





Eagle Scouts

There is a lot to be said about a boy who earns his Eagle Scout award. There is a lot of dedication and hard work that goes in to the process of achieving such a feat. It is a special thanks that goes to the leaders and family of a boy who receives such an honor, but how about when you multiply that scout times two?

My younger brothers (twins if you haven't caught on) both achieved their Eagle Scout award this year. It was truly amazing to see the support that came from the community and church leaders who helped Peter and Kenneth along their way.

As it goes with Eagle Scouts, a special project must be completed. Peter chose to add an archery range at the local shooting club's existing rifle range. This entailed creating targets that could easily be moved to desired distances, and constructing bow hangers for the shooters to store equipment. Peter used recycled resources and good leadership to accomplish his goal. Now as you drive past the shooting range, you can see his idea in use.

Kenneth chose to update the Church grounds by tearing out overgrown old shrubbery and replacing it with something clean cut. This turned out to be quite the task as he and his fellow scouts worked around the existing sprinkler system to design the new beds and plant the new shrubs. the finished product was a great show of team work and care for the Church's property.

The Twin's court of honor was held on the 16th and was a great turnout! Thanks to all those who made this happen, our family is very grateful for all your support and hard work.

Congratulations Peter and Kenneth... now fly like an "Eagle"!