Giving "Bones" to the 12

So many of you know I'm a huge University of Utah fan. So, I went up to Salt Lake with Anthon and my Dad and brother-in-law Cam to catch Utah absolutely wreck UCLA 44-6. The week before, Cam taught Anthon about "giving bones" or doing a knuckle bump. It was at this Utah game that Anthon really caught the spirit of giving bones.

So, we were at the game, watching it from the President's box. Other fans included the former President of the U and his wife, donors, faculty and one distinguished alumni Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles. Elder Wirthlin was a member of the Utah's football team when he was in college. He's 90 now.

So, I've set the stage. The Utes are doing well. Anthon has learned how to give bones and we're in a place where Anthon is the only child...youngest living thing around by aboutu 20 years. After the Utes score, Anthon decides it's time to start giving bones to people. He does this by clenching his fist and raising his arm in the air while joyfully declaring, "BONES!" He made his way down the aisle, giving bones to me, Cam and my Dad. The former President of Utah and his wife had to be educated on what "giving bones" was and they indulged my son.

Anthon crossed the aisle and found poor Elder Wirthlin watching the game. Anthon stuck his clenched fist near Elder Wirthlin and said, "Bones!" Elder Wirthlin looked puzzled, smiled and said, 'Hello young fella." He stuck his open hand out thinking Anthon wanted to shake hands. I had to sheepishly explain what Anthon was saying and Elder Wirthlin gave my two year old son bones. Elder Wirthlin sort of laughed after my son went off giving other people bones that kids are certainly a blessing.

As I think about it, I could have been witness to the first act of giving bones by a member of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles...ever! It's hard to imagine President Hinkley giving Elder Packer "bones" when Elder Packer says a really great prayer, or when Elder Oaks gives a "totally awesome" report of missionary work in Southeast Asia. You never know, though.

The two pictures are of Anthon giving bones, but unfortunately not to Elder Wirthlin. I didn't get my camera out in time to capture that. Too bad. You'll just have to believe me.