Utah Trip

Picture overload.  We went to Utah during the summer and it was just what we needed.  I hadn't seen most of my family in a year and I have missed them.  We lucked out and were able to join our families for the fourth of July week.  We went hiking up to Timp Cave which I've always wanted to do but have never  made it for one reason or another.  I packed Rae and Paul pack all the water and food.  It was quite the hike.  I think the only reason Audrey made it without too much complaint was because she was with her cousins.  She was all smiles!  Even though there were moments that I had to take breaks it was so fun to be with everyone and to see the cave. It was amazing and I'm so glad we went. 

Paul's family reunion just happened to be when we planned to be there so we spent a lot of time catching up with cousins, aunts and uncles, and Paul's Grandpa.  It was so good to see everyone.  I can't believe how everyone's families have grown.  Audrey aspired to be the queen of Skull King because she is at our house but Grandpa proved her otherwise.  I don't know how he does it but he wins almost every round.  Uncle Spencer kindly played Audrey in chess, I don't know what has made her so intrigued in the game of chess but she always wants to play it...maybe it's the game pieces.  Spencer was so nice to gently correct her when she tried to make some moves that were against the rules, she's only recently learned how to play and sometimes she's really inventive with her idea of how the game works.  Later Uncle Karl took up the baton and played several rounds with her, he might be her favorite now.  :)  

On the fourth Karalee rented a blow up slide and we all had an amazing time.  The food was so good.  The company was the best and adult sliding time surpassed my expectations by miles.  I was laughing so hard and I couldn't stop.  The kids never stopped sliding...you'd think they would get tired but they hardly stopped for food.  The three babies finally met each other.  I had to get pictures.  Sadly a lot of my pictures are missing.  We had a little issue with the computer and accidental unloading of the recycling bin.  Long story short, I'm grateful I have what I have.  

There were a few other things I want to remember.  I attempted to crochet for the first time.  Kimberly tried...bless her soul!  I think I'm going to need another lesson.  I decided we were going to have our pictures taken while in Utah so both Kimberly and Michelle took time out to help me shop.  They are the best humans.  Paul and I had to go to a reception of one of our friends one of the evenings while we were there and my parents so kindly took care of Audrey.  My Dad played chess with her and then they watched a movie.  I'm so glad she got that time to spend with them.  It means so much to me when my girls get one on one time with their grandparents. They grandparents influence, their wisdom, and just having time with them in general I know will be invaluable to them as they grow into young adults.