Conference Weekend

We were lucky enough to have my folks as well as Jodie and her family here for General Conference Weekend. It's always a treat to have family here. Dad, Bruce, and I snuck in some golf and of course Tricia treated us to Orange Rolls. We had a wonderful weekend and yes we did listen to most of the talks as well. Mason was actually running a 104 fever and we thought the Swine Flu had hit, but it turned out to be just strep. The funniest part was strapping our out old bed frame on the top of Jodie and Chris' van. Because of the weather, we had it wrapped with plastic, blankets, and bubble wrap. Good news, it made the trip to California without incident. Hope you enjoy it.

Hiking

While in St. George, we decided to go hike our very large breakfast off. We went up above the city. Grayce and Mason had a blast on the red rocks. Sunday morning, we took Bruce and Rita up to the little town of Pine Valley. We decided to walk around the little resevoir.

St. George

Bruce and Rita recently decided to start looking for a place in St. George. Tricia, the kids and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to go down with them. We of course enjoyed lots of golf. The girls got in a play, and oh they did look at some potentially nice places to live as well. The kids enjoyed playing in the little water park near the condo we stayed in and Swiss Days out in Santa Clara was going which explains the photo of Grayce and the cow.

Mmmmmmm Donuts

Our kids somehow acquired a taste for donuts.

Grayce Turns 7

Lucky 7. Well, Grayce is hoping its Lucky. She was really excited for her birthday and although we shared a party with cousin Olivia, we did have a small family celebration too. We ate at Applebees (Grayce's favorite because of the Oreo Shakes), went miniature golfing with Granpa at Cherry Hill, and had mint brownies for dessert. Happy Birthday Grayce.

Oh How Does Your Garden Grow

Our Stake has strongly encouraged every family to have a garden this year. Fortunately my dad had helped me build some garden boxes last summer, so we were ready to go. We had lots of yummy vegetables, but Tricia was most proud of the carrots because she had never grown carrots before.

It's Great to be in 1st Grade

The first day of school is always fun. It may be more fun for the mom's than the kids, but nonetheless, I think Grayce thoroughly enjoyed starting 1st Grade. She is doing exceptionally well and I'm proud of her ability to start grasping Spanish as well.

Double Birthday Celebration

After consulting Olivia and Grayce, they consented to sharing a birthday party prior to each of their birthdays so that they could celebrate with their cousins. I think it won rave reviews.

The Tingey's Visit

After arriving home from California, we were lucky enough to have Mike and his wonderful family out. Actually, Mike only came for a week, but Stacie and the kids we had for the whole month. The kids, especially Grayce was in hog heaven. There were too many activties to name, but Lagoon, swimming, Bear Lake, and sleep overs were just a few of their favorite things. And Yes.....that is Mason on the Puppy again.

Fondu and the Beach

The trip to California really was wonderful and much needed. Fondu and another trip to the beach were a great way to wrap up the trip. Thanks Kadie, Jodie, and families. Can't forget to thank Uncle Duke for letting us crash at their place in Reno. The kids sure missed Aunt Morghan.

Game Time with the Cousins

This photo says it all. Grayce loves spending time with Brevin, JT, and Zack. She gets to play all kinds of Wii games. The boys are so patient with her which makes it so nice. Anyhow, this is a common site first thing in the morning. Thanks Boyz for playing.

More California

One day, we also spent the morning at the Monterey Aquarium. We highly recommend this to all. Following the outing, we went to a terrific park call the Dennis the Menace park. There were lots of fun features and a life size train that Grayce and Mason thoroughly enjoyed exploring.

California

In early August, I was out helping Mike Larsen get the new office opened at Travis Airforce Base. We decided to make a family vacation of it. I of course flew and left Tricia to fend for herself.....She was a trooper and made the what ended up being nearly 16 hour drive (should only be 12-13) with the 2 kids by herself. The kids did fantastic. We were able to spend time with Jodie and Kadie and their families. Of course the beach is a must and it didn't disappoint.

Bear Lake With the Girls

Tricia decided to make a run to Bear Lake. This is not unheard of course. This time however, she did have Maren and her girls come up as well. I think they had a great time.