Another Semester is OVER!!! Hooray!

Finals are almost here/done! Jam!

Okay so I walked out of one of my classes yesterday with a spring in my step from pure jubilation at finally being done with it! I went home and had the desire to focus on anything BUT school for a minute . . . so I ran a few errands, did a little grocery shopping and bought a big box of strawberries. I honestly tend to do a lot of my projects off the cuff . . . and yesterday was no different! I ended up turning on Rocky IV (I love the tunes in this movie!) and making a couple batches of strawberry freezer jam . . . and then freezing 8 pints of strawberries! Yes it was a LOT of strawberries! (At least I wasn't inclined to make wreaths again!) So Toph was coming home so I had to do something special for my boy . . . so I made homemade rolls to accompany the jam to greet him when he walked through the door! So now my freezer is laden with jam, strawberries and rolls! (a few food storage essentials right?) Okay anywho I need to hurry and finish a paper for my English class today . . . so I had better skidaddle . . . I also finally finished reading "The Appeal" (I read 3 other books while trying to get into this one) and was miffed with the ending (did you hear that J.G.?) Can't wait to see some of you crazies at Lala's birthday! Tchuss!

Day Breakers and Day Makers!

Day Breakers . . .
1-Snow!!! Ask me if I have any fingernails left at all! I am a little spazzed out by the weather and the fact that Toph is coming back from Provo tonight!
2- Making BEAUTIFUL bread and tasting it . . . only to discover that you mixed up the measuring spoons in your bread baking excited frenzy and it tastes SALTIER than the sea! (I made roasted garlic and cheddar bread . . .)

Day Makers . . .
1- The "Ultimate Survivor" CD! Yes I ordered it online with . . .
2-"Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day!" Bread baking is not something that has exhibited itself as a talent for me . . . take for instance my experience last night! the loaves look SO AMAZING . . . yet too much salt! I am determined to succeed!
3-I am glad that I tasted the bread before giving it to the ladies that I VT! That would have been devastating!

A Surprise Arrival (Lydia Continued!)

The ticking of the delicate porcelain clock on her bedside table was the only sound that Lydia could hear now. The usually quiet rhythm seemed to engulf the room in loud "ticks" that competed with the sound of her heart that beat steadily in the last lights of the evening. The house around her seemed to have settled in for the evening already, content to enjoy one more night of peace before the arrival of Lydia’s brother, sister and nephews. Lydia sat up in her bed, brushing the sleep from her eyes and stretching her stiff fingers in an effort to waken her limbs from their sore state. The effects of the coldness of the water and resulting sore muscles due to the stiff stance held by her legs earlier were now making themselves fully known.
Lydia pulled herself up from the inviting softness of the comforter around her and sat down in front of her dressing table playing with the curls framing her face. Yawning away the last remnants of a long afternoon nap, she began to sweep up her auburn locks in pins and crowned her head in a pile of soft curls that caused the line of her cheek bones to stand out, making her face instantly older than the girlish thoughts dancing in her portrayed her to be. The images of her morning adventure at the lake poured into her mind, as did the handsome face of Morgan Ashton. Today was the second time that he had seen Lydia with wet hair dripping down her face looking like an absolute misfit, which apparently had not fazed him in his choice to rescue her, once again.
She twirled a curl absentmindedly around her finger, allowing herself to smile slightly in remembrance of his appearance as well; wet from head to toe, barefoot and streaked with mud. What a scene they must have been walking across the driveway in the pouring rain, Mrs. Swenson running towards them, panic stricken across her face. But how quickly she had been to act; calling for blankets, baths and clothing. Dear Mrs. Swenson who had served as housekeeper at Westwood for as long as Lydia could remember. She certainly had taken good care of them both, ever clear minded and ready for anything, come what may. Sighing Lydia picked up a brush, and began making long strokes through her hair. Her curls bounced back after each stroke, refusing to lay straight. The evening rays of the sun gleamed outside her window, reflecting gold tones in her locks amongst the mass of curls as her brushstrokes calmed her wavy mane. The remnants of sunlight made Lydia realize how much of the day she had spent sleeping. It had miraculously only take half of an hour to get her scrubbed from head to toe and tucked snuggly away. In her exhausted state Mr. Ashton had dissolved completely from her mind, leaving her now wondering if perhaps he had stayed at Westwood, perhaps encouraged by Mrs. Swenson to await Lydia's return. Such thoughts seemes to Lydia perfectly rational in her sudden state of excitment causing her blood to rush to her cheeks. Perhaps Mr. Ashton was still at Westwood waiting to see of Lydia recovery.
The very possiblity of his presence sent her mind and body into motion. She began to dress quickly and called to her maid Eliza, who helped her finish setting her hair up, not wanting the earlier image of her to greet her rescuer again. With a last glance in the mirror and a quick misting of perfume she gathered a pale blue linen shawl around her trembling shoulders and stepped out into the hall, half expecting to hear the merry air of conversation echoing towards her. But the hall was quiet and no voices could be heard. She walked quietly towards the great staircase leading down towards the little light that lit up the hallway. She could now barely hear the softness of drifting voices that came from the dining room below. Carefully taking her dress in hand she began to descend the stairs. Gathering her senses and pausing for one last breath she glanced once more at her reflection in a hallway mirror before continuing on to the dining room. Her face had looked rather pale in her reflection, and the soft look of sleep still clung to her eyes. Still she looked much better than she had only hours earlier, the thought of which caused a slight blush to rise to her cheeks. She straightened her posture at the dining room door and smoothed her dress around her before she opened the door and stepped into the well lit room.
Chairs scraped across the floor as a warm and inviting voice greeted her saying “Why Lyddie! I didn’t expect to see you this evening, especially after the little adventure I heard that you had earlier today.”
Lydia smiled forgetting her dark haired hero as she raced across the room to embrace her brother who had risen from his seat and met her half way across the room.
Lydia looked up into one of her favorite faces to behold. “Oliver! When did you arrive? Why did you not wake me?” The surprise at seeing her brother set Lydia into asking a string of questions. “I thought that you were coming tomorrow.” She said as he released her from his warm embrace.
“Yes, we were to arrive tomorrow, but James took ill three days ago postponing travel for Julia. I could not wait to return, so I set out a bit early and arrived only an hour or so ago, right as the rain stopped.” He smile and stepped back holding her hands at arm’s length as he shook his head slightly while looking at her. “It is a good thing that I came early too,” he said with a teasing glint in his eyes, “I might not have recognized you if you had had time to grow another day.”
Lydia graced him with a pleased smile and a slight squeeze of his hand. “Really Oliver I am the same as when you saw me last,” She said releasing his hands and turned to sit at the table. He pulled out her chair and signaled to Mrs. Swenson for supper to begin.
Crossing around to the left of Lydia, Oliver settled himself down with his back to the roaring fireplace and smiled saying “Yes Lyddie that is true, but a lot can change in a short period of time and you young lady have certainly proved that.” He laughed lightly as he placed his napkin on his lap and drank from his glass. “The last time I saw you, you were all freckles and elbows but now I believe I will have to have a man posted at every door to keep all of the suitors away.” His last comment immediately caused her to blush a deep red, especially at the thought of the man who had crossed Westwood’s threshold only hours before. Did Oliver know ALL that had happened? She wondered.
“Oliver,” she said as she placed her own napkin across her lap and began to take little sips of the steaming soup that had been placed before her. “Did you hear all of what happened today?” She asked as innocently as she could without spilling the spoonful of soup that had begun to tremble in her hand.
He looked up with his own spoon full, half way to his lips. “Yes I believe so. Mrs. Swenson informed me of what happened upon my arrival.” He set the spoon down and wiped his mouth as a slight smile began to spread. “I suppose I should hear the transpiring of events from you, since you were the affected party.” The image of her covered in mud had apparently been recited to him by Mrs. Swenson from the smile on his face. “But first off Lyddie,” he said suddenly furrowing his brow and leaning over the table, changing his stance as quickly as blowing out the flame of a burning candle, “What were you doing in that boat . . . and alone no less. You know very well how dangerous it can be out there, especially in a storm. I thought that you knew better than to do something so dangerous.” He looked down at the table adding “You may have grown since I last saw you but you are still not capable of going out onto the lake alone, you know that.” He shook his head again before sipping a spoonful of soup.
His sudden rebuttal had taken her away from the dreamy world that she had been floating in only moments ago and returned her to the present, where the return of her brother meant the return to order and an end to carefree days of the past, spent as she willed them. In all honesty she never did anything radical or dangerous; this one situation had arisen from something as small and innocent as her desire to sketch on the island and enjoy one more day alone before the good weather brought the arrival of her sister Julia and the countless other visitors of spring and summer. She set her soupspoon down and looked up at his waiting face. Her eyes began to pool as she noticed the look of concern and disappointment that her brothers face portrayed. Dear Oliver who had been her playmate at Westwood as a child and who was always so kind and supportive of Lydia, an opposite to Julia’s endless rebuffing and instruction for improvement. Oliver had let her shine in her own light, the same as their father did. But with their father gone most of the year Lydia’s care had mostly been placed into Oliver and Aunt Emma’s hands over the past six years.
Lydia averted her eyes down to her soup bowl and fingered the other silverware waiting on the table. She could now feel the pools in her eyes beginning to well over beyond her control. It had been a long day filled with emotions and events that had changed as quickly as the weather and now encouraged by her disappointment at not finding Mr. Ashton still at Westwood. The surprise arrival of her brother now had ventured beyond what she could handle, erupting the emotions that she had managed to repress from earlier in the day. She brushed at the tears that began to overflow onto her cheeks while feeling embarrassed at her response and took a sip from her glass, not wanting to ruin the beginning of Oliver’s visit with the greeting of a hysteric woman.
“Come, come, Lyddie.” Oliver said softly, sipping from his own glass uncomfortably. “I am sorry to have started our reunion off with such a harsh reproach, especially after the traumatic events that you have endured today.”
He leaned over and pinched the arch of his nose as he spoke while closing his eyes, as though to hold back the thoughts pouring into his mind. Looking up he smiled lightly, “I myself have received unexpected news and have been a bit out of sorts since its reception this morning. I apologize for chastising you, I know that you are no longer a child but you don’t know the panic I felt when Mrs. Swenson told me of your predicament and the possibilities that flashed into my mind.”
Just then Mrs. Swenson entered the room caring a large platter, the contents of which filled the room with the delicious scent of roasted venison and root vegetables. She eyed Lydia with a look of concern as she set the platter down in the center of the table and turned again and left the room. Lydia bit her lip nervously and turned her attention back to Oliver, who was now sitting in obvious anticipation of some response from her at the olive branch that he had extended.
“I am sorry Oliver” She said while clearing the last evidence of tears from her eyes. “I promise that I will not go out on the lake alone again.”
Scrunching her nose Lydia quickly added “That is if I ever regain the desire to venture near it again, except to mourn the loss of a new pair of boots and the ruin of my favorite garden dress.” She stabbed at a potato, letting a slight smile come to her lips as she remembered her fearless rescuer and the kindness of his blue eyes, feeling a slight blush rise to her cheeks she took another sip from her glass and began to concentrate on the plate before her.
Oliver smiled and shook his head slightly; his eyes betraying an inner laugh as he began to fill his plate from the platter set before them.
“That must have been quite a sight for Morgan Ashton to come across, a young lady stuck in the mud in a downpour; you must have given him quite a fright Lyddie.” Oliver covered his mouth with a napkin as a chuckle emerged. A rush of red rolled across Lydia’s face as she watched her brother try to stifle his laughter.
“Well how do you think I felt Oliver?” Lydia retorted, sitting up straight while trying to look as serious as she could muster. “Mr. Ashton is practically a stranger and here he found me looking like a . . . like a hideous swamp creature dripping wet and covered in mud, stranded I might add.” This only fueled Oliver’s amusement, causing tears to form in his eyes and his body to shake even more.
Lydia tried to act insulted by Oliver’s response but she too could not hold back the laughter as it rolled from her chest as the image of how she looked upon Mr. Ashton’s arrival replayed in her mind. After a minute she gasped for air as an ache began to grow in her sides. “Oh Oliver!” she managed to say.
“I am at least glad that it is over . . . I have chosen to not think of it again and would be most grateful if you would keep it between us please, I would rather have sunk in the mud than to have to listen to Julia’s rebuking!”
Oliver smirked and returned his eyes to his plate and the steaming contents awaiting his attention. “Julia would have both of our heads if she knew how wild you are” he said teasingly. “I think that today’s little adventure is definitely one that should remain clear of Julia’s ears if we are to enjoy this summer.”
Lydia smiled wistfully as Oliver winked at her in assurance of their secret, and then turned his full attention to the plate before him. She rubbed her arms as a sudden chill rippled through her body. Julia’s arrival would certainly change the comfortable dinners that Lydia enjoyed with her brother to formal gossip parties; for that was one of Julia’s greater interests and talents. The lives and actions of friends, family, and neighbors as well as strangers kept Julia’s tongue busy from dawn until dusk it seemed. The first few days of her arrival seemed to be especially filled with the latest intrigues of London society, things that bored Lydia and made her want to avoid travel to London more than ever. The few times that their father had been at Westwood during the summer the past few years had made Julia’s rambling and gossip seem almost bearable. He teased Julia with the information that she so freely provided with her being oblivious to his actual intentions, in turn causing Oliver and Lydia to stifle their laughter repeatedly, and making Julia so pleased at the attentive way their father seemed to listen.
The first two weeks of Julia’s arrival always seemed to cause quite a stir at Westwood. She made it appoint to call on neighbors who had also fled the heat of the city to find entertainment in the country, as well as find out the latest news that had been missed during her absence. Disappointment over the lack of events that had occurred in her absence was yet to occur for Julia, for even the absence of many families to London each winter certainly did not prevent the lives of those who remained from continuing on in full force. Lydia’s only real rebuttal of Julia’s interest in the lives of others was her countless attempts at including Lydia in her visits and gossip circles. Such outings and gatherings seemed had no appeal to Lydia who was content to enjoy the friendships of neighboring families without ridiculing everyone’s lives and situations. It was yet another way that she and Julia differed, something that added another block to their dividing wall in life.
Lydia turned slightly at the sound of Oliver’s voice and realized that he had been speaking to her while her mind had wandered. She blinked back her thoughts and pushed a curl back from her face. “I am sorry Oliver what was it that you said?” She asked before sipping at her glass.
Oliver’s eyes crinkled as he smiled at her, knowing that she had been paying him no heed. “I asked if you had spent much time with Christine Wexler this winter?” he said, slightly smirking while leaning back in his chair.
“No, actually she has been gone these past six months to visit her Aunt in Bath; I expect that she will return in the next few weeks.” Lydia glanced down at her plate and took another drink before continuing on. “I have heard that she is bringing her fiancé back with her in fact.” These last words come across her tongue as though sucking all of the moisture from her mouth leaving it dry and her voice on the verge of cracking.
She knew that her brother had begun to take a liking to Christine two summers past, before leaving with their father on business, but it was so long ago. Perhaps if he had stayed behind it would be he on Christine’s arm, rather than the gentleman that she had met last summer in Somerset. The thought caused Lydia’s chest to ache slightly, knowing that Oliver would have to endure yet another summer of Julia’s attempts at uniting him with the “fashionable” young ladies of London society; all of whom had no doubt been weighed, measured and approved of by Julia over the past six months.
Oliver pushed his chair back and walked to the fireplace, leaning an arm on the mantle, a slight furrow on his brow reflected in the light of the fire.
“I had heard such news today from Aunt Emma, but I had not realized that she had been gone for so long as that.” He turned his head and looked at her, a slight smile on his lips attempting to push away the sadness held in his eyes. “You must have been lonely these past few months without the company of such a dear friend Lydia.”
“No not at all actually, I only found the lack of company from my most adoring brother to bother me.” Oliver’s smile grew, making Lydia smile in turn. It was good to have him home and to bask in the warmth that he brought with him. If only their father had returned Lydia’s circle of contentment and happiness would almost have been complete, except for the absence of one other.
“Oliver,” Lydia said, pushing her chair back from the table, trying to be nonchalant while feeling her heart beat increase in speed from anticipation and excitement. “Perhaps we could invite Mr. Ashton to dine with us . . . in appreciation of the generous service that he has rendered me today.” Lydia’s nosed twitched slightly in her attempt at appearing completely innocent in regards to her proposal. “After all it has been two years since he has summered in Berkshire and you were once seemingly good friends, I believe.”
Oliver’s body shook slightly as he attempted to maintain composure, rather than allow the laugh in his throat to escape and offend Lydia, who had now succeeded in projecting the perfect image of sincerity and innocence. After a moment Oliver regained control of himself and bowed to Lydia saying “Well, my Lady, I am at your service to do your bidding and would happily accompany you to invite your heroic Mr. Ashton to dine at Westwood with us tomrrow.”
Lydia bit her bottom lip, as she felt her cheeks instantly turn crimson at Oliver’s referral to Mr. Ashton has “her hero.”
“But remember well Lyddie" he said taking his seat again. "Julia will arrive within a fortnight if not sooner, and whatever mischief you stir up between now and then will certainly make its way to her all hearing ears.” Oliver filled his glass while grinning. His smile conveyed satisfaction, most likely due to the appealing prospect of Lydia maintaining most of Julia’s attention, allowing him an escape from her never ceasing plans.
A hiccup awakened Lydia from her daze, as did Oliver’s surprised laugh. She covered her mouth while laughing in turn and settled back to her chair, basking in the delightful mood that her brother's presence had brought. It appearred that a day begun wet and muddy had come to an end with the delightful surprise arrival of Oliver, and the appealing promise of seeing Morgan Ashton again tomorrow. Leaning back with her arms folded, Lydia closed her eyes, allowing her mind to remember her handsome hero and think of the prospects the next few weeks would bring. Surely life could not have been better.

Things to do when the hubby is away on business . . .

1- Miss Hubby like crazy!!!
2- Clean your house from top to bottom, includes vacuuming every day, going through baskets of paperwork, dusting like crazy etc, lint roll furniture!!!
3- Catch up on Homework . . .
4- Blog surf
5- Watch Twilight while cleaning . . . add buying the soundtrack to shopping list
6- Look for cute hairstyles online . . . decide not to cut hair in the end.
7- Watch HSM 3 . . . wonder what possessed you to do it! (Roll your eyes and squeal like a teen when watching it . . . wish that you had sisters their to gag with you!)
8- Shout for joy when after 2 1/2 hours of Math class you come home to discover that your Disney club movies came!
9- Watch "The Bridge to Terabithia" and SOB your eyes out!
10- Read!!! (Enna's Burning, River Secrets, The Sunflower, The Appeal)
11- Watch clips of "Bolt" on YouTube . . . laugh till you cry!

Brown eyed girl . . .

Since 4 out of 6 of the Parry kids and Mama P. and Papa P. headed off to sunny California this last week to frolic in the happiest place on earth (?) We decided to have fun while they were away . . . so this cute little brown eyed girl appeared at my door to come and visit her Auntie Em!
Lala is too cute! She entertained us all by opening and closing cabinets, climbing up and down my first few stairs, and showed her skills playing with her Mama's cell phone! Then we loaded up and went to Maggie Moo's with her Great Grandma Christensen for some seriously delish ice cream! It was so much fun! Look how cute she looks in her new sandals! Stylin' lady! We even hit up Bulloch's for a visit to the candy counter and a little easter browsing! Thanks for coming up guys! It is always so much fun to play with you Lala! Next time lets do lunch ladybug!

Great Day!

I guess I can finally spill the great news! My handsome hubby got a new job!!! It is in SG and we are just tickled pink! He so deserves it and has worked hard in school and at everything that he does! The next few months are going to be crazy since I am not done with school yet . . . but we are working things out! Hopefully we will find a home by next year! We are excited to begin "settling down" and have honestly missed the red rocks and absence of mounds of snow!
Just another tidbit to show how amazing my handsome man is . . . he woke me up with a dozen roses and a giant cinnamon roll from my favorite backerei! Ye-yeah! I guess getting one year older isn't all too bad then! Thanks Toph! Love you!

German Connections . . .

I tend to think about a million different things as I get ready each day and clean house a bit and what not . . . my mission is a constant for popping up in my head and just this morning I got thinking about my great love, appreciation and connection to Germany! I feel like my "German Obsession" began back in 10th grade when I started taking German in school . . leading to my time in Austria as an exchange student . . . in turn kindling my love of European History leading to my school studies . . . then serving in Germany on my mission made my love and knowledge of German History and church history increase 10 fold as well as my love for the German people . . . then I marry my sweet hubby who has Swiss and Danish ancestory . . . and then with Grandpa Liechty's recent passing I got to thinking more about his experiences as a soldier their and it has just touched my heart even more! In turn it is because of the kindness of a German couple who hid him and a fellow soldier that I have amazing in laws and an eternal husband and the future/present family that I have! I hope to meet them one day and thank them! The wars that ravaged the beautiful towns, cities and people of Germany are something that are close to my heart . . . the events and experiences any ways. As a missionary I must admit that what happened their was always with me . . . My entire time their I could not help but wonder what the forests that we traveled through had witnessed and what the people that I spoke with everyday had endured. I think towards the end of my mission while serving in the little town of Weimar, shadowed by the memorials of Buchenwald that towered over the town from the hillside, I really became just so very grateful for the love of a Father in Heaven! I know that many people view tragic events and say "Where is God" or "Why did he let this happen?" But as I walked the grounds of Buchenwald and remembered the fallen I knew with surety that Heavenly Father considers it sacred ground and that he is very aware of what his children did, and what they endured. It is an almost overwhelming experience to walk the grounds of Concentration camps and battle grounds but it is something that I hope that given the opportunity everyone will take to do and remember and learn from the past and honor those whose lives were taken and the many soldiers and saints who sacrificed so much to save those who they could and end the evil that sought after and encaged them. While in Weimar one night we were walking the loop home and came across a brand new memorial dedicated to the American soldiers who liberated Buchenwald. It is something that I will never forget and hope to educate my children on, specifically about their Great-Grandfather who helped to liberate Dachau. History is a master teacher and preparer for the future! Okay that was my brain spill for now . . . it is way late but now I want to hurry and browse through my mission album a bit . . . great! Take care!

Seid bereit . . . Get ready!

Okay you have heard the rumors . . . you know it is coming . . . you are already on edge with excitement . . . so get ready because on March 21st their is going to be a "Twilight Girls Night" at the Parry's! So come if you can! We are going to munch on some grindies, eat birthday cake, play games and watch Twilight! So mark your calenders! It will be fun! The festivities start at 5:30 and this year I have opted to celebrate my many happy returns with a Twilight themed party (yes, yes laugh if you must but I gotta do it while I still can . . . I heard that once your graduate college or have children you have to grow up . . .) Roll your eyes if you must but come for some fun!

Elder Kopischke

Hey everyone! Check out the March "The Friend" pages 8 & 9! It is about my amazing mission president Elder Kopischke! He is amazing and a day kids! Not only can he play the accordian (which should be required of all mission prez' nu!?) but he and his wife and family are just amazing and such incredible examples of people who are willing to sacrifice all for the gospel! Here is a link to The Friend online and to his conference talk from 2007's fall conference!

A Hero Appears (Continued) . . . Thanks Er for making my night!

“You are right Miss Weston,” he said looking up at her, his hair dripping water into his eyes. “It is deeper than I anticipated. Is the gardener shed near? Perhaps I can retrieve a latter or something else to aid us in your release.” He wiped at his face with the back of his hands, his clothes were now as wet as Lydia’s and quickly becoming as dirty. He adjusted his footing and looked around them, calculating something with his eyes. He was now only a few feet from Lydia and she could clearly see the blueness of his eyes. His gaze caught her off guard when he looked up at her, suddenly seeming to come to some conclusion over what he had been thinking. Lydia felt a deep red rush to her face as he asked her, “Can you move your legs at all? I believe that if you can get a few steps closer to me I am sure that I can pull you out.”
In response to his inquiry Lydia pulled at her right foot, feeling the mud grasp tightly at her shoes and suck her foot back down. Her shoes seemed to be constraining her now more than the mud; they felt tight against her skin causing her feet to prickle.
“My shoes seem to be holding me captive more than the mud; perhaps if I untie them and free my legs I will be able to move forward.” She bent over and ran her arms down her legs into the mud and felt around, trying to find her laces. She was able to pull at them, loosening the laces as she stuck her fingers into the tops of her shoes. She tried to free her right foot. She could feel it give and begin to slide. The feel of cold water and mud sliding into the void left as she pulled caused her stomach to spin slightly. She suddenly hoped that water and dirt were all that was oozing in. Mr. Ashton watched her progress, seeming to turn slightly as her foot appeared from its dark captivity.
“Okay now place your foot as far forward as you can while still being able to reach your left foot.” He said.
She slipped her right foot back into the mud as far forward as she could reach while keeping one hand close to her left leg. It caught her a bit off guard how much colder it felt now that her stocking was the only barrier between her skin and the mud. Turning her full attention back to her left leg Lydia managed to again untie her shoe and began to pull at her leg, this time she could hear the suction against her foot as she lifted her leg. The wind had apparently decided to cooperate and quiet down, offering a moment’s peace as she freed her legs of their leather constraints and settled them closer to the shore, closer to Mr. Ashton too she thought, fighting off another rush of blood to her cheeks.
Shyly she looked up, pleased with her progress and ready for further instruction from her brave rescuer.
“Good, good,” he said, his hair now slicked back out of his face, allowing her to briefly analyze his strong jaw and cheekbones and catch the piercing blue of his eyes again.
“Now see how far you can reach with your arms.” He encouraged.
She reached out only now remembering the mud that went all the way up to her elbows, creating a sudden surge of self-consciousness. It didn’t seem to faze him at all, he reached out grabbing at her fingers, and nearly falling forwards himself in his efforts.
“I am afraid to step out any deeper than I already am, is there any way you can take another step or two, the closer we get the more likely our success at your release and the faster we can get you dried off and warming in front of a fire. ” He said this with his brow creased slightly in concern, making Lydia wish to leap into his arms and making her feel as though she could drag him alone from the mud and onto the waiting shore. She felt her face burn with the blush that came now.
“I’ll try,” was all that she managed to give voice to as she lifted her soiled dress lightly with her muddy hands, realizing fully now how horrible she must look, in return causing another blush to overcome her face. She bent her head as if in concentration hoping that he had not seen her burning cheeks. She pulled and her leg began to give easier now than when she had had her boots on. After only a minute she was able to lift her right leg free and stepped forward adjusting her foot to avoid the sharp rocks hidden below and finally feeling it stay firmly in place. Her left leg came easier than the right, settling down with the mud only coming up mid calf. His arms were now stretched forward, awaiting hers.
“One more step Miss Weston and I’ll have you,” he said causing a sudden charge in the air between them and another roll of red to overtake her face. She was now hoping that her face had simply remained red from the first blush to the latest as she looked down and pulled her right leg out. “I will never come near this lake again” she thought as she settled her right leg in again and pulled at the left. His fingers were now circling around her wrists pulling them forward. She felt her body lift and her legs slide once again to freedom as he pulled her towards him, away from the murky waters and into his warm embrace.
“I think it best with your permission if I carry you the rest of the way” he said, already scooping one arm under her knees and the other around her waist in one smooth motion, making her air born before she could reply. In response to his fast movements she swung her arms around his neck, causing his until now only damp shirt to become smeared with mud. She gasped at both the shock of being lifted up so easily and at the brown smears that now adorned his shirt, neck and even his face.
Blushing harder than before Lydia’s lips trembled as she said, “Oh Mr. Ashton, I am so sorry, now your shirt too is ruined. I will get you another I promise.”
He laughed lightly as he looked at her muddy arms gripping his neck. “No matter Miss Lydia, you are free of your watery prison and the rain is still coming, so let us proceed away.”
He turned his body towards shore, and stepped forward careful but firm in his movements. For Lydia it felt as though they had not moved at all. She looked at his face as he moved; his brow was furrowed again slightly in concentration but his eyes sparkled deep blue with action, making her instantly crimson again. The close contact to him, being carried in his arms, and being swept out of the mud so easily sent chills down her arms as they crossed over onto the grass at last. He seemed to hold her tighter in response, “You are freezing, Miss Weston. We must get you indoors.”
She thought that he would set her down once they had reached the grass, but he continued on walking towards the gardens edge. She felt as though she should say something but her throat suddenly felt dry, as though if she opened her mouth she would only croak. In relief it was he that spoke first.
“Now Miss Weston may I ask what caused you to be placed in such an . . . unexpected position?” The corners of his mouth turned up slightly as he spoke.
Lydia paused briefly before responding, wanting to be certain that her voice would come. Trying to sound as composed as possible Lydia replied. “Yes Mr. Ashton you, my rescuer are certainly entitled to an explanation, but I am sorry that it is rather dull and embarrassing.” She paused, taking a breath and feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her accompanied by a slight nausea, realizing how foolish her e explanation sounded.
“I decided to sketch on the island this morning since the sun was out and I completely lost track of time. I guess I didn’t notice that a storm had come in until it was too late and in my hurry to return to shore I pushed out on my boat not realizing that the oars were not secure until it was too late and I was stranded from either shore.” Pausing to brush her hair back from her face she continued as he looked down at her smiling slightly in encouragement. “The oars slipped out and in my attempt to retrieve them I am afraid that my boat capsized causing me to swim to shore and in turn leaving me stuck in the mud.”
He stopped walking and looked down at her. “Were you their long?” he asked, a hint of surprise in his voice, causing her to catch her breath once again as she caught the glint of blue in his eyes.
Her response came out as a stammer “I, I don’t believe too long, no longer than a quarter hour, perhaps a little longer.” She sniffed, squeezing his neck slightly as she suddenly realized how truly cold her mud caked arms and legs were.
Her sniffle seemed to motivate his feet to move once again and faster in their journey across the lawn and through the garden. They crossed the drive way within five minutes of leaving the lake shore. Now Lydia could see the housekeeper Mrs. Swenson and Butler Mr. Kent hurrying towards them through the mist.
“Miss Lydia,” Mrs. Swenson exclaimed. “Miss Lydia what has happened? Are you all right child?” She rushed over looking Lydia up and down from head to toe as best she could in Mr. Ashton’s hurried pace.
“I am afraid that she had a small mishap with her boat and fell into the lake.”Mr. Ashton said, continuing onto the stairs leading up the back terrace of Westwood. “She is in need of a warm fire and change of clothes, I am afraid that a cold may have already set in.”Following along Mrs. Swenson seemed to only now register that Lydia was being carried up the stairs by a barefooted man who looked as equally awkward as Lydia in his muddy and wet apparel. The look on her face told Lydia that misunderstanding would shortly lead to much trouble.
“Mrs. Swenson,” Lydia interrupted before the words perched on Mrs. Swenson’s lips could come out. “Mr. Ashton saved me from my horrible situation of falling into the lake and becoming stuck in the mud for two quarter hours,” which elaboration caused Mr. Ashton to smile slightly, “I am most vehemently in his debt! Could you please see that he has a change of clothes and warm fire as well and something warm to drink?” Lydia’s plea caused Mrs. Swenson to pause and close her mouth. “I am most indebted to him!” She continued.
Regaining her composure Mrs. Swenson swished her skirts about her and hurried onward while calling “Of course Miss Lydia,” turning her attention now to Mr. Kent. “Mr. Kent please see to it that fires are prepared and that Mr. Ashton is looked after, I am going to see to Miss Lydia.”
Mr. Kent, a few steps ahead of the rest of them, opened the door and led the group down the hall to the room where the Weston family breakfasted each morning. A fire was already blazing in the hearth and Lydia could feel its warmth drift over her as they crossed the threshold sending another chill up her spine.
“Over there Mr. Ashton, by the fire.” Mrs. Swenson indicated, a warm blanket already in hand. She placed it over the chez-lounge in front of the fire before Mr. Ashton set her down. The blanket was then tucked around Lydia as Mrs. Swenson called out instructions to various servants that appeared in the doorway.
“Eliza, go with Anne and prepare a bath for Miss Lydia, and a change of clothing.” Turning her attention to new arrivals she extended directions to all who would appear. “Mr. Andrews please do the same for Mr. Ashton, I am sure that Mr. Weston would be willing to extend the curtsy to Mr. Ashton of opening his wardrobe to him, especially after what he has done.”
The walls in the room seemed to be alive with attention, awaiting their own instructions as Mrs. Swenson continued directing orders. It was only when Lydia stretched her feet towards the warmth of the fire that Lydia realized that Mr. Ashton was kneeling besides her watching her face. The rush of warmth to her cheeks caused her to look down from his piercing gaze. She heard his throat clear and watched his legs stand and turn to go.
“Mr. Ashton” she called leaning forward as though to stop him. He turned back to her, his hair once again brushing against his forehead as it furrowed ever so slightly in attention. “Please do not go without allowing me to thank you for the great service that you have rendered me today.” Un-wrapping one arm from the folds of the blanket encircling her frame she held out her hand to him. A smile broke out on his face touching the corners of his eyes and made them twinkle a sparkling blue as he stepped toward her.
“You are most welcome Miss Lydia” he said extending his hand. “I only hope to see you again in . . . less complicated circumstances.” Smiling once more as he gently squeezed her hand and bowed. Then without further adieu he nodded and left the room.

A Hero Appears (Lydia)

Okay call me crazy but I am on a major writing kick! I have a pile of papers filled with ideas and characters for different stories . . . here is a random snippet from my big project . . . my tribute to the Jane Austen era I guess . . . Just know that it is fun for me to write and I at least know that my sisters will get a kick out of this story . . . everytime I scan it I add and change things like crazy so it is definately a work in progress! (Tell me what you think)

Lydia leaned over the rim of the boat trying to reach the oar drifting lazily out of her reach. She could feel it begin to tip dangerously to the side as she willed her fingers to lengthen their reach in hopes of retrieving the escapee. The water felt cold on her fingers as she pawed at it while trying to reach the oar with her finger tips. Her touch sent ripples across its glassy surface that was beginning to plop softly with the first drops of rain. The oar was floating just out of her reach, taunting her with the grim aspect of spending the afternoon stranded alone on the murky waters that drew it further from her and warned of the impending storm that had crept in throughout the day.
Lydia tucked her loose curls behind her ears and leaned over the boats edge further in one last attempt at freedom from her watery keeper. The water’s edge was close to the boats rim and she could feel its coldness on her hands and its closeness to her outreaching arms. Leaning further still she was able to barely touch the handle of the oar before being suddenly greeted with a great splash into the murky cold waters below. Her chest tightened as the shock of the cold water sent her arms and legs into motion, fighting in an effort to find air and escape her unexpected surroundings. The murky wetness that seemed so happy to engulf her made her dress tangle about her legs while fighting her attempts to surface. She kicked hard and felt the water swirl around her as her fingers broke through the water’s surface and knocked against the escaped oar. She grasped the oar to her chest and gasped for air too soon in her excitement and felt the cold shock of water slide down her throat. Lydia coughed while reaching for the boat that was now floating upside down in the water. She continued to kick against the strains of the cold water on her arms and legs as she tried to turn it over but it was simply too big and heavy for her. She felt the sprinkle of soft rain falling onto her face as she looked around. The shore was only about twenty feet away now and she tried to hold onto the boat while floating to shore but it was unyielding to her attempt and hard to hold onto and push in the cold water. She finally relented and swam towards the shore happily feeling the bottom of the lake within ten feet of its edge.
Splashing towards the shoreline she could feel the pull of the muddy bottom below her feet as she drew closer. It was getting hard for Lydia to move due to the cold water and the muddy slope keeping her from the green grass only yards away. Each step that she took became a challenge as she fought against the muck that sucked her feet into the ground and held tightly to her shoes and legs as she neared the shore. The laces on her shoes felt as though they would burst as she pulled at her feet while trying to free herself of the dark mass that clung to her and sapped the little strength that remained in her body. She seemed to sink deeper and firmer into the mud with every attempt that she made to push her body forward. The water level was low yet the mud was deep, cold and unyielding to her demands of movement. The sound of it sucking her down as she struggled was all that she heard. After ten minutes her legs ached from fighting against the confining goo that surrounded her. Never before had Lydia ever been in such a predicament. Of all the days to be stuck knee deep in mud and soaking wet from her fall in the lake, her last day of freedom before Westwood was ran over with spring and summer company. She would never hear the end of it if her sister knew what had happened. Falling in the lake and covered in mud, and whatever else that had managed to cling to her from her watery surroundings.
Taking a deep breath while rubbing her arms, Lydia looked around her through the misty fall of the early spring rain. She shuddered against the chill she suddenly felt as the distance from the garden and her home sank in . . . no one would hear her from here. She was definitely alone in her muddy battle to shore. She could feel her legs beginning to cramp as they yielded to the pull below and were held in awkward positions. “I have to get myself out of this mess” she thought.
Where she stood the water was only a few inches deep, misleading viewers to the depths of dank mud lying below its surface. Most of the water around her had cleared up during her pause, filling up the hollow footprints left behind her with dark and cloudy swirls. She looked at her the muddy surrounding hoping to see a stick or stone, something that might serve a purpose in setting her free. Perhaps she could pull herself out with her arms and crawl towards the shore. Lydia leaned over and felt the cold stickiness of the dark mud and grasped at it while trying to move her legs, her butter yellow dress was now covered in the heavy brown sludge and clung to her frame even tighter. She heard a sucking sound as her right leg lifted a few inches until she could pull no more and it gave in to the ever tighter grip of the mud. It was no use; the top of the mud was too soft to pull her forward and she didn’t want to get her arms stuck too.
Lydia swished her hands back and forth along the top of the water to rinse of her hands the best that she could as she tried to think of a way out. She folded her arms as the cold wetness sent shivers up and down her body. Looking towards the gardens to the southeast of her she could make out a dark shape that seemed to be moving. Squinting against the misty rain she could see that it appeared to be getting closer. Lydia could now make out the features of a tall man walking toward her. She lifted her arms and yelled “Help, help me please!” His pace suddenly increased with her call and she could now hear the hurried footsteps of the approaching figure as they drew nearer on the wet grass. Squinting even harder against the rain Lydia could now see that it was someone with dark hair and an overcoat of deep green. Recognition of the gentleman suddenly dawned on her as she heard his voice call out her name “Miss Lydia.” It was Morgan Ashton.
A deep crimson sprung to her cheeks and Lydia tried to stand up straight in an attempt to look less foolish while pulling her hair out of her face. He was almost to the shore line and Lydia could see the look of shock spread across his face as he approached her.
“Miss Weston, what happened? Are you alright? You will catch your death out here.” He said as he began to step onto the slippery wet bank of the shore, carefully treading on the sprouting tufts of grass as he stepped, stopping just short of the muddy shore.
“One moment Mr. Morgan, wait! The mud is deep here, I didn’t know and now I am stuck.” As the words came out of her mouth Lydia suddenly wished that the mud had simply engulfed her rather than leaving her standing stuck up to her knees, facing a man whom she had only seen a few times and the last time also wet from rain.
He tested the shoreline with his boots and nodded his head in agreement. His dark hair clung to his creasing brow as the light rain began to increase in strength and the previously gentle breeze began to pick up speed, blasting Lydia’s dress against her legs and making the waters around her slap against the shoreline. It seemed like a fight between spring and winter had suddenly erupted with vengeance, both bent on winning over the day and staking claim to the valley around them, making the situation at hand even less pleasant to be in.
Never before had Lydia been placed in such an awkward situation, usually she was the one ready to render aid whenever needed, but now she was the one in need of assistance. A sudden blast of rain to her face shocked her back to the present, sending another chill over her body from head to toe. Mr. Ashton had now taken off his jacket and boots, laying them on the safety of the grassy edge and was rolling up his sleeves as Lydia watched chilled and helpless.
“Mr. Ashton I appreciate your help so very much, I . . .” she said choking on her words as he stepped barefoot into the mud. He only took three steps in and stopped.

Sparks in our lives . . .

So we have had some crazy mad weeks lately with lots going on . . . and some crazy moments that make life a little more flavorful shall we say. Here's a couple of the latest . . .

1- Toph surprised me with a night in SG at the Seven Wives Inn for Valentines Day (way fun!) . . . this is what we came out to in the morning . . . actually Toph had already started to clean it off . . . so yes it was worse . . . nice to know we are loved and can provide my sibs with some entertainment! (I personally am glad that you can't read what was written ALL OVER THE WINDOWS!) . . . and yes we know who you are!
2- Sunday I had a little project for my class to color and then I would cut it out and glue it together for them. So I was concentrating and cutting away trying to get them done before we had to go to closing exercises when out of the corner of my eye I see a shirt thrown onto the floor and look up to see a happy little ballerina dancing about the room in her jumper . . . it reminded me of my calling in the Sunbeams right before my mission when a little boy in my class was sitting next to me and had undone ALL of the buttons on his leder hosen during sharing time! I had no idea that leder hosen could come apart like that and it felt like brain surgery getting all of the buttons right! I love primary . . . NEVER a dull moment.

Grandpa Liechty, remembering a great man!

We were able to make it up to Logan last week to honor Chris' grandpa who passed away. It was a sad occasion to gather together for but it was so nice to see family and spend some time together remembering grandpa Liechty and attending his funeral. We were able to meet/see people cousins whom Chris had not seen in many years and whom I had never met. We love our Liechty Clan! Chris looks alot like his grandpa and it was neat to get to hear stories of his life and the many, many people who's lives he touched. Grandpa served in WWII and helped to liberate Dachau. I was very touched to hear of his life and deeds especially his ties to Germany and stories of his experiences. We are so grateful to know that our family is forever and that he is whole, happy and preparing to see all of his posterity again some day.
It was very touching to see these heroes offer a final solute to Grandpa Liechty. The entire service was very nice.
With almost all of our Liechty clan, minus 3 men in Texas whom we hope to see soon!
Toph with his beautiful sisters! Lucky guy!
Toph with his cousins and sibs!
The cute Liechty grand kids! A.k.a. our northern nieces and nephews who we wish that we saw more often!
Never camera shy!
Good bye Cache Valley! We will come again!

The 80's/90's is making a comeback?

Okay just driving home from school on Friday made ma laugh and do 20 double takes within 3 blocks! Yes ladies and gentlemen it was just on Friday that I came to see that the 80's and 90's are making a total comeback! The evidence was clear from the observations of fellow students that I made:
1- Guy crossing the crosswalk in MC Hammer pants! They were super baggy! The kid was so tall that it was a very surprising sight to see! They were solid black but could have been gold for how much they stood out!

2- Okay I had seriously never seen anything like this before but this girl was wearing high heels but her socks looked like puffy coat sleeves! They cold have been leg warmers but whatever she was sporting was something totally new to me!

3- The whole long skirt with the stretchy capri things . . . I can't think what they are right now but I know everyone knows. The YW where them to church too . . . very interesting!

4- Leg warmers everywhere! I still have 2 pair from my mission! They saved my life and kept my legs from turning to ice each day . . . especially while tracting!

5- Okay I have no idea where this trend came from . . . but flat brimmed baseball caps are apparently super cool . . . I guess I didn't get this memo. In fact i can now identify guys in my classes from far away because of the angle at which they wear there hats. How lovely. Do they have bad hat angle days like girls have bad hair days?

6- Pants! The tight ankle huggers and boys wearing girls pants! I just don't understand these things! Boys alway look like their pants are going to burst any second! In fact I vividly remember stopping at a grocery store in SG 3 years ago during the middles schools lunch hour because the store was overran with kids from the school and I honestly could not tell who the boys were and who the girls were! Same haircuts, same pants, and eyeliner all around! Oh lovely world we live in!

7- Oop item seven was spotted today being touted by a few male students . . . I thought that I had left this image behind in Europe . . apparently not! MAN-PRI'S! (Capri's for men) This is a very interesting choice . . . and kinda wigs me out!

I am curious about other styles/trends/ clothing that you have seen that made you do a double take or reminded you of an episode from Saved By the Bell!

Utah Science Teacher of the Year . . .

Here is a BIG congratulations to my amazing mom on being named the Secondary Science: Earth Systems teacher of the year by the Utah Science Teacher's Association!!! Way to go Mutterlein! Toph and I had the opportunity last semester of observing one of her classes for one of my education classes and watching her in action and I have to say she does an amazing job!!! She puts up with A LOT and really cares about her students success! Mutti you are the bomb.com! Congrats mom! We are so proud of you and the 110% you put into everything that you do!

How to tell where a driver is from!

One hand on wheel, one hand on horn: Chicago

One hand on wheel, one finger out window: New York

One hand on wheel, one hand on newspaper, foot solidly on accelerator: Boston

One hand on wheel, cradling cell phone, brick on accelerator: California.

With gun in lap: L.A.

Both hands on wheel, eyes shut, both feet on brake, quivering in terror: Ohio, but driving in California.

Both hands in air, gesturing, both feet on accelerator, head turned to talk to someone in back seat: Italy

One hand on latte, one knee on wheel, cradling cell phone, foot on brake, mind on game: Seattle

One hand on wheel, one hand on hunting rifle, alternating between both feet being on the accelerator and both on the brake, throwing a McDonalds bag out the window: Texas city male

One hand on wheel, one hand hanging out the window, keeping speed steadily at 70 mph, driving down the center of the road unless coming around a blind curve, in which case they are on the left side of the road: Texas country male

One hand constantly refocusing the rear-view mirror to show different angles of the BIG hair, one hand going between mousse, brush, and rat-tail to keep the helmet hair going, both feet on the accelerator, poodle steering the car, chrome .38 revolver with mother of pearl inlaid handle in the glove compartment: Texas female

Both hands on steering wheel in a relaxed posture, eyes constantly checking the rear-view mirror to watch for visible emissions from their own or another's car: Colorado

One hand on steering wheel, yelling obscenities, the other hand waving gun out the window and firing repeatedly, keeping a careful eye out for landmarks along the way so as to be able to come back and pick up any bullets that didn't hit other motorists so as not to litter: Colorado resident on spotting a car with Texas plate.

Four wheel drive pickup truck, shotgun mounted in rear window, beer cans on floor, squirrel tails attached to antenna: West Virginia male.

Junker, driven by someone who previously had a nice car and who is now wearing a barrel: Las Vegas

Two hands gripping wheel, blue hair barely visible above window level, driving 35 on the interstate in the left lane with the left blinker on: Florida "seasoned citizen" driver, also known as "no-see-um" (or could it be Marge Simpson?)

Two hands on the wheel, driving forty-five in a seventy mph zone in the left lane, with the left turn signal on, and making a right turn: New Mexico resident (as anyone who has ever driven through this lovely state can attest)