Adventures with Grandpa

Since we've been here in Utah, Grandpa Byron has done many gardening projects with the girls. He is so amazingly patient and sweet to them. I cherish these days full of making memories in the sunshine.

Cauliflower straight from Grandpa's garden anyone?

Annie & Josh's Reception

Congrats you two lovebirds!

Grandpa Byron grillin' up some shish kabobs:

Alright my bloggy peeps-- tomorrow we're headed to the land of Zion (Utah) for two weeks to visit Alan's family. We might stay in Winnemucca or Elko, NV on the way for a night to break up the trip. For those who have made the drive before, do you know of a hotel there that's cheap but not scary?

Anyway, here's a few fun/random things with us lately. . .

*Swimming at the Folsom Aquatic Center almost EVERY day!

*Learning from my 14 and 15 year old Sunday school class that "stud muffin" is an old person term. Great, now I'm old cause I say it.

*Tried a bronzer for the first time-- really like it.

*Almost died when Brooke said she wants to stay my baby forever, even when she grows up and goes to school and becomes a mommy. She said she doesn't want to grow up "cause it's not easy." Boy ain't that the truth!

Adios Amigos!

Summer Days-- Folsom Aquatic Center

End of Kindergarten Celebration

Emma's End of Kindergarten Celebration was a bitter sweet day. Mrs. Young made it a truly magical year. What a neat lady. She was a light in our lives and I thanked the Lord for her often. She would let the girls and I stay after school and play in her classroom every day, or help her with projects so we could pass some time, since she knew Alan wouldn't be home until late at night. She would talk with me and ask how I was doing. She connects with everyone, young or old. Not to mention her phenomenal teaching and nurturing abilities. She is an angel. We are very blessed to know her.

Taylor, Emma, Aliya

You can do it Owen!

Emma and Eric, her crush. :)

Emma and Izzy, who hugged Brooke and I every day.

Aliya, Emma, Amaya

Suby, Emma, Cameron

They sang songs, did sign language, and played their flutes for us.

Aliya and Emma

Salwa and I. She was another light in our lives this year who I thank the Lord for. What an example of how to be an awesome, very involved mom, and an incredible follower of Christ.

*Emma, I can't believe that says Class of 2022! I'm so proud of you. You've grown in leaps and bounds this year. You can READ for goodness sake! You love life and you are so passionate in all you do. You are a leader and a good learner. You also have a tender heart and you are kind to your friends. I can't wait to watch you grow even more over the years! We love you!

Alan's 32!

For Alan's 32nd birthday (May 15th), he made the girls and I these awesome, budget friendly ice cream cakes. I guess I should have been the one making them for him, but hey, he's the chef of the family and I wouldn't want to steal his moment to shine! ;) So we enjoyed them in celebration of his birthday and his completion of this year of law school. By the way, we're over half way through. Whew! It's been a VERY bumpy ride. Someday I'll let you know if it's been worth it. :) Most days, I'm thinkin not. . . ha ha!

Well, 3 years down, 2 to go.

I love you Alan. Happy Bday!