heber trains

The Heber Creeper is what most know these trains by, but these days we call it the Heber Valley Railroad. When I say that I live in Heber, the two main connections people make are Granny's or the Heber Creeper. Even when I worked for a Landscape Design Build Company, Landaco, in Vegas, our shop/warehouse man had been on the Heber Creeper. :)

My long-time friend Jason Wright, took me to Brigham Young's Homecoming dance when I was visitng from Vegas for the weekend. We rode the Heber Valley Railroad, chugging along to top-40 music. It was cold out, and we found a warm car to hang out and catch up. I went on a lot of dates at BYU, but this is one of the most memorable (even though it occured after I had graduated). I'm grateful for the friendships shared while I was there and i still think of those special friends...they have had a great influence on my life and have given me many wonderful memories to cherish.

These days you can partake of so many adventures on the Heber Valley Railroad: A Day out with Thomas the Train, the Polar Express, Cowboy Poetry, Tube n'train, and a haunted train at Halloween to name a few. To ride the train or any of these special events, visit their website: http://www.hebervalleyrr.org/ Take a piece of the Old West and the Heber Valley with you.

spa at the homestead

The Homestead Resort and Spa of Midway, Utah, has long held memories for the many that have visited and enjoyed it's unique setting & atmosphere. It's crater and beauty were discovered and first utilized by swiss immigrant, Simon Schneitter in the late 1800's. Originally, Simon's intent for the land was a farm. Yet after discovering the medicinal value of the 55 foot crater and it's mineral rich waters, he began to invite others. In 1886 he openned, "Schneitter's Hot Pots," which was the first resort to be established in the area.

Through the years, the resort has changed ownership, but when mentioning the name "Homestead," the reputation of a family centered resort is recalled. The Homestead has meaning for both Carl & I. It was the setting for Carl's parents, very first date. It was also the honeymoon spot for my parents.

This intimate view is of the "Virginia House," which was the original home of the Schneitter family. It has been recently renovated and still carries the charm that must have welcomed it's first visitors. It is one of the oldest buildings in the valley. Here is the website for the Homestead Resort: http://www.homesteadresort.com/ Come, stay, remember old times, and create new memories with those that you love.

nyman home

The Nyman Home in Nephi, Utah: My mother-in-law, JuLee’s childhood home. Many memories were shared there with her parents & siblings, later with her husband, Dale, & their children. One that I particularly like hearing about is Grandma Nyman telling the grandkids it was too dangerous to sleep out in the yard during “fair” time because the gypsies would carry them away in the night. There is a carport next to the east side of the home, but new owners, cars, and the fact that the carport wasn’t always there…I chose not to include it in the painting. Nephi has changed quite a bit since JuLee lived there, but the charming home reminds one of quieter, smaller Nephi days :).

lumber yard

The Lumber Yard building was one that I had dreamt of painting. I finally mustered up the courage during Midway’s 2007 “Plein Air” contest. I consider it my first architectural subject. It was quite enjoyable. The shadows from one of the only nearby trees intrigued me as I imagined what this building must of looked like years ago…what it could have been like to visit, and how busy the yard was at one time.

This painting also has special meaning for me, as it is the first painting I’ve sold, and to a dear friend, Hilma Bellessa. An artist herself, and collector, it is an honor to have this painting in her home.

zenger barn

Another valley treasure that may not be for much longer. Nestled in the hillside below Interlaken in Midway, Jack & Holly Zenger’s barn is downhill from their home. Jack & Holly are known for many things, but the first thing I knew about Holly was how much she loved singing in the church choir. While my husband & I lived in Midway, Jack & Holly opened their home to choir members each Sunday for practice. Holly also was the initiator of the holiday Creche exhibit in Midway. Originally, Jack & Holly again opened their home to share nativity treasures. As you probably know, this has become such a large event that it is held along with the Swiss Christmas & Gingerbread Homes for the Children, in downtown Midway.

Because of a potential development on the Zenger property, the barn will most likely be moved. However, it’s charm will always grace the beautiful hillside in my mind.

sunshine, snow & ice

Each tree remaining within the North Fields of Midway have their own distinct character & personality. They seem to be moving and twisting until you look at them…that’s when they freeze and give you a wonderful pose to enjoy. I love the North Fields and have enjoyed painting there with another artist friend, Debbie Tolbert.

It doesn’t matter how many times I visit, it seems the fields have changed and yet, they are always welcoming & warm.

lovely holiday home

This is one of my favorite homes in Heber City. It is located in the heart of Heber and is simply charming. Although I don’t know the owners, just like their home, they are warm & friendly. Several times a week this past spring and summer, the kids & I would bicycle through town together and pass this wonderful home on the way to “Grandma’s” or “Aunt Kathryn & Charlotte’s.” I rarely missed passing the home, for I love it so much. Every once in a while, some of the family would be out enjoying the morning in their spacious yard, waving at us as we passed their lovely abode.