When a mother dies...

This is such a treasure to receive! It answers for my mom what she had wondered about her entire life. This information came to her in this priceless letter from a cousin on Feb 20, 1997. Due to size of the writing it is a bit difficult to read so I am going to type it for you so you can read it more easily:
 Dear Nora,
This is the house I was born in. It may be where you were born also. My mother said your parents were living here at the time of your birth. Because of the sickness of your mother, Nancy Adeline Simpson (our gradnmother) came to live and help.  Your mother passed away and William Orion (your father) went to Idaho to harvest potatoes. At that time my parents, Christopher Vernon and Beulah Simpson and my sister June moved in to help with the family also. We lived there until 1934. Aunt Verna Alice Simpson Hermanson lived just across the street and Howard (your brother) went to live with her. Afton (your sister) went back to Kaysville and lived with grandmother Nancy A Perkins Simpson. Your father was also there some of the time. My mother moved about a block from the above pictured home and Ruth lived with us as well as with one of your mothers sisters. This is how I remember it and also how Beulah (my mother) recalls it. I hope it might be of interest to you. Your cousin, Jack Simpson

Might be of interest?! Wow, he had no idea! This is priceless! What an amazing gift to have connected with this cousin Jack Simpson. My mom - being the baby at the time of her mothers death went to live with a sister of her mothers. She really never saw her siblings much again during her growing up years. My mother was the only child of the 4 to be raised by the Miller side of the family while the other 3 children were raised by the fathers side of the family - the Simpson's. Interesting how the children were divided.

Sometimes No Change is a Good Thing

It was kind of funny because this picture was probably taken in the 1950's. And right up until the passing of my grandma when we sold her home, their front room never changed. I know the stereo was still there. The picture on the wall was the same. The clock was still there, as was that planter. As I look at this picture, it's kind of funny what kind of comfort this familiarity brings. Makes me feel like I could go home if I wanted to.

I'm not really certain where to start with this blog. I want to have a place to post bits and pieces of my family, in particular those who have contributed to my genetic make up. Those who have sacrificed much so that I can enjoy the numerous blessings I enjoy. In particular I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am grateful to know my Savior. I am grateful for the great plan of a happiness. I can only pray that I will live worthy of the many blessings I enjoy every day. Today I start to introduce you to some of the special people in my life.

These are my beautiful parents. Neil H. Larsen and Nora D Simpson Larsen. They were married July 30, 1950 in Logan Utah. They have 2 children, my older brother Brent and myself. They met before my dad's mission for the LDS church while they were both working at Swifts packing house. My mom was attracted to my dad right away. She says he had an incredible smile and beautiful eyes.