We have a tradition in our town called the “Honored Guest Party”. Each year, the seniors of our community are honored with a special dinner and program. The 90+ crowd is recognized for their influence and achievements and overall, it’s a pretty special afternoon and one that these folks look forward to each year. It’s so wonderful for them. There are usually about 200-300 in attendance.

It’s amazing how iconic some of these individuals are in our town – and their families. They just seem to be the anchors of influence and bring with them a wonderful heritage. It’s hard to imagine that one day they will a memory, but their legacy will live on. As long as I’ve lived here (which is pretty much my whole life), they’ve always just been part of the community. We enjoy their association as long as we can and are lucky to have them and thankful they pave the way for new generations.

This year, in addition to helping with music on the program, my husband signed us up to help serve plates. My son, Benson and his friend were taken by another helper to the lodges in town in the handi-bus to help board some of the guests to come to the hall for the luncheon. I was glad to know that when Benson went missing for awhile, he was about the business he needed to be! In fact, there were so many of our town’s youth there helping to serve and clear plates that it was almost emotional. Watching the youth connect with often two generations older is the most wonderful thing imaginable. Good for both! I loved watching them interact with each other.

My son, Brigham sang his first solo today and my daughter Taylee performed a couple of numbers plus an encore yodeling number. I did a piano solo – not as exciting, but a nice break from the choirs and other entertaining numbers.

It’s always nice to take part in the community. Everyone is family to us and I love that my kids get to know some of the people who taught me in school, music lessons, and church. I’m lucky to live in a small, tight-knit community where everyone is a friend.