The River

There is something to be said about floating down the river. You get to nowhere faster than you want to and you really get to know those who are with you. The last river trip in July 2005 was no exception. The discussions with the Howells driving up and back are unforgettable, Spence was his usual charming self, Paul was coming into his own rite, Danny was still the teacher, Dax was quietly listening in and Kathryn became a good friend. (Dax sends his love from his mission in Brisbane Australia.)

You ask about Danny being the teacher; many years ago, Chris and I were the Young Single Adult Advisors for our ward and that included the duo of Danny and Dave. When they called us to that position, they told us we would be teaching them in Sunday School also. Well the teachers soon became the students and the students the teachers. What a great experience it was to learn from that class. And when Amy started coming with Danny, it wasn't hard to see that he had stars in his eyes and was going to start a whole new life.

We watched family closeness on that trip. We learned from example about family ties and love. I saw a closeness between a father and daughter that any parent would want to have and incredible bonding through three generations. This is one family that will definitely be together forever!

May Heavenly Father always bless the Howells family and may your memories of Dan be sweet and loving.

Howard, Christine and Dax Norton