Dearest Readers: For all the important things in your life ... if it's important to you, it's important to us.

There's a lot to be said about having the courage to move on. And our next tidbit — apart from being one of the most unique that has ever come into Front Porch — certainly does show that it can be done.

"My siblings and I took the ashes of our parents — Gib and June Hunt— to the Oregon Coast recently and spread them on (and around) Proposal Rock at Neskowin," wrote Patti Moylan in her e-mail with the photo you see today attached.

"Our dad was a chemistry professor at the College of Idaho and later worked for Simplot. Mom was an operating room nurse at West Valley Medical Center.

"We called our trip the 'Spread the Ashes Tour' and had T-shirts made that announced that name and where we all are from.

"The same day we did that, the papers were signed selling our family home in Caldwell. Thus we finalized a major chapter in all of our lives in just one day."

... And they did it together, supporting one another and keeping that family unit strong and secure, no matter what. ... Which brings me to today's best quote.

The first thought that came to mind was "Life is what you make it." But I think the meaning we need to impart is best served with another quote ... also sent in by Patti at the end of her correspondence:

"There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so." — William Shakespeare

I'm not sure why the e-mail announcing the preschool graduation of that cutie you see pictured today, Danae Dotson, never made it to me in a timely manner.

But what I do know is she's continuing her education at Liberty Charter School in Nampa. And as proud of her as her family was that day in May when she said goodbye to ABC's & 123's Child Development Center, they are even more proud of her now!

... Probably why she's wished everything wonderful in the year ahead by those (including Mama and Papa Hill) who love her most!

I know we ran the photo of Andy O'Meara's really wonderful Sun God — a delightful entry in our Best Summer Yard Art Contest — awhile ago. But I just can't resist sharing another cute creation by the same artist ... as well as secretly wishing I had one of those, too.

Where would you see a more cleverly created shovel/disc turtle? (See photo.)

Can't think of a place? ... Me either!

Speaking of our Yard Art Contest, if you haven't already done so, there's still time enough to submit an entry.

All you have to do by Sept. 1, is send in a photo of your own exceptional Yard Art along with your name, telephone number and address and an explanation of what items were used to create it, and what it is now.

Then on Sept. 7, we'll feature what we think are the best 10 submissions to have come in, and let you choose your favorite from them. On the Friday after that (Sept. 11), whoever got the most votes will be named the winner ... and be the recipient of much publicity, praise and envy!

Don't delay. Send your submissions today!

The last I heard, the CCOA was in search of senior companions. You know, caring, dependable folks who are willing to assist senior citizens residing in Caldwell, Middleton, Meridian, Nampa and Boise to be able to keep their medical appointments?

Would you like to help?

You'll need a copy of your driver's license and proof of auto insurance. Then all that's left to do is call Tosha at 459-0063 and volunteer!

"My Grandma June is the best grandma in the world," said Jared who sends Many Happy Returns to her today!

Keep all of those tidbits coming!