Chelsey's Bridals

My little sister Chelsey is getting married January 15. I had the privilege of taking her bridal photos today. Here are a few of my favorite. Isn't she beautiful?

Christmas at Jarvie's Ranch

Brown's Hole is a 1 1/2 hour drive from Vernal and is located next to the Green River. I went there once with Tyler when we were first married. I fell in love with this little ranch that has been restored by the BLM office. It is called Jarvie's Ranch.

Each Christmas season, the BLM office turns the ranch into a country Christmas extravaganza that promises the appearance of Santa Claus, old-time activities and horse-drawn wagon rides. It is always the first Saturday in December. I've always wanted to go, but we just never made it happen. But this year, Tyler took the day off so we could go. We invited some family friends, the McConkies, and took off for the long drive. Yes, the children whined during the drive. They complained of hunger and boredom, but I promised that they were about to have such a grand time that they would forget their pains.

And yes, my promise came true. We stayed all afternoon enjoying the wonderful activities. I was very impressed at the efforts the BLM employees put into the activities. Santa handed a wrapped present from the dollar store to EACH child. The activities included candle making, rope making, leather tooling, kite making, shooting rubber band guns and a bake sale. We also watched a blacksmith make a small cowboy hat out of metal. He burned coal for fuel and I enjoyed showing my children the coal since they had never seen any. Now the threat of getting coal for Christmas is a very real thing. They were not impressed.

Our favorite thing was riding in the horse-drawn wagon. I'm sure it is a childhood memory my children will never forget. We also really enjoyed Santa, he arrived and departed on a river boat which was ever-so-enchanting. An image that I'll always remember.

We had a wonderful time. It is a great activity to do with friends. And although it was a little chilly, it was so nice to be out in the fresh air. I highly recommend this activity to all of you. It really adds Christmas charm to the season.