We almost didn't go to Education Week this year, thinking that three years in a row may not be as exciting. But we were wrong, and kept saying that we sure are glad we decided to go. 
We enjoyed well known speakers such as Susan Easton Black, John Byetheway, Michael Ballam, and others we had never heard of before. One of the most delightful was a retired chemistry professor, Dr. John Lamb. His presentations on"Religion and Science", showing the connection between true religion and science, were very interesting as well as humorous.
Dr. Lamb put on his wizard's hat when doing an experiment.
During the evenings, we had dinner at the Cannon Center Cafeteria and attended the musical "South Pacific"and a concert by the Nashville Tribute band.
When we were in New York on our mission, the missionaries loved religious music recorded by this band.
Each year at Education Week, there is a devotional featuring an apostle. We were treated to the inspirational message of Elder Jeffrey Holland, who spoke about the troubling rise of secularism. Forty years ago, Elder Neal Maxwell predicted open hostility against religion. This is troubling because no society can have a moral life without religion. Religion binds people together in charitable causes. The root word for religion is "ligature", means tying together what was separated, and mending that which was torn. The shift away from respect for religious belief is caused by a greater preoccupation with the circumstances of this world, versus the next life. Secularism can't answer questions of the soul or sustain us in difficult times. It doesn't give meaning to life. Sadly, religion is moving into the margins of society, instead of being at the center. Religious faith is the most powerful and enduring force in human history. Religion matters!
When we go to Education Week, we are doubly blessed, because we get to see our son Andy, his wife kaylynn, and our two darling Utah grandchildren, Emmett and his baby sister Addie, who were two years old, and 6 months old at the time of our visit in August.
Andy is always drawing. He makes his living as a professional artist.
Nothing makes my heart happier than being with these grandkids again!
Sweet Addie is always smiling.
Happy times at the local playgrounds
Addie and I hung out in the shade while the others splashed around at Seven Peaks Water Park.
Three generations of men enjoying the mountain stream at Bridal Veil Falls
All too soon, it was time to fly back to Houston. A tradition is to get a final photo with the kids. Even though Emmett wasn't in the mood for photos, I love this one!
