Serving Grandpa

Many, many years ago my husband's third great-grandfather, Milo Andrus, was one of the first people to settle in the Salt Lake Valley. He had a nice home that was located in Salt Lake. That home was later relocated to the local "This is the Place" state park across from Hogle Zoo. On April 11th, our family (minus one who had to work) joined cousins from all over to honor our grandfather and do a nice spring cleaning of the home. It was a fun time as we came together to meet cousins we already knew (as in first cousins) and cousins that were old enough to be my own grandparents so we could spend a day in service. 

Windows were washed, benches painted, fences mended and stained, leaves raked, weeds pulled.... the list goes on and on. It was a great time in a beautiful setting up on the mountainside. 

I especially loved seeing my kids, who are the older grandkids, having quality bonding time with their younger cousins while their parents (brother and sister) laugh. 

What is especially fun about this park is that 21 years ago, I met my husband's (then friend) extended family here for the first time at a reunion. We stood in front of the Milo Andrus house and took a picture together. As soon as I can find it, I will post it. For now, here is one of us 21 years later, married and very in love. 

Perhaps my favorite part of this outing was seeing my little girl connect to her roots. She absolutely loves family history! To sit and look out a window where her grandfather probably looked out as he tucked his kids to sleep 150 years earlier, was a very special moment. She also made great friends with the sweet "pioneer" tour guide who was very kind and really enjoyed assisting our family on this project. 

Finding service projects your family can do together is not hard and it is so very worth the memories. Thank you, Grandpa Andrus, for providing this opportunity to give back all you gave to us. We hope you like your home!

Making memories,
Mama Dragon