Utah: DAY 1

We visited my brother, Tom, at his office and he took us up to the bell/clock tower. I don't know why we always think this is such a fun adventure, but we do! He's kind to humor us. Staci and her two kiddos joined us, too. 

For lunch, we stopped at one of our favorites, The Old Grist Mill. Myles fell asleep half way through his meal. We transferred him when we got back to my parents and enjoyed a quick trip to the temple while Grandma played with Luke and Emma (and Myles once he woke up). Bryan and I have set a goal to attend the temple once a month together. It's definitely a challenging goal at times between schedules, kids' health and baby-sitters! So far, we've hit our goal. 

The kids discovered my parents' jetted tub. A bath will never be the same now.

Surprise!

Luke's last day of school was a half day. We had a Dr.'s appt in the morning for Myles and then I raced back to set up for Luke's end of school class party. In the afternoon, we surprised the kids by telling them we had airplane tickets to Utah that night (thank you Frontier for incredibly cheap flights). Their reactions did not disappoint. Bags were packed and we headed to the airport with three very excited children. Two kids knew exactly what was going on and the third just followed their lead. :) Traveling is getting easier and easier with this crew.  We flew in late, kids crashed and then were up bright and early ready to party the next day.

Not exactly prize-winning photos, but Myles was living his dream of riding on a bus, train and airplane all in the same day. 

Off we go!

Luke's Kindergarten Graduation

Luke had a great Kindergarten year. His teacher, Mrs. Lapp, was perfect for Luke. I cannot thank my kids' teachers, coaches, other parents, etc enough that have such a positive influence on my kids. Mrs. Lapp will forever have a spot in Luke's heart (and mine).

There were some tears shed from Luke as we were leaving the classroom. Again, so grateful for such wonderful teachers, especially this one.

Swim Lessons

Luke and Emma wrapped up another round of swim lessons. Luke improved his stroke and Emma is really gaining confidence in the water. Emma scored one of the best teachers. I wish we could have her every time for each kid. She was excellent. Bring on days at the pool this Summer!

BUNCO

I hosted Bunco last month. It was a crazy month around here. I ended up polling some of my SIL's for appetizer ideas/recipes and strolling the aisles of Sam's Club. The bruschetta was a hit. For prizes, I found a variety of perennials and annuals in various sizes and groupings. I enjoyed the evening, more than Bryan...who wouldn't love to wrestle three kids to bed with a houseful of chatty women??? Several friends lingered afterwards and it was a fun visit while we munched on remaining appetizers. I snapped a few pics of the spread and then enjoyed the night. So lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful women.

Emma Pre-K Graduation

Emma's Pre-K graduation came on the same day as a heavy snow storm! Crazy Colorado weather! We love Ms. Kristen and are sad to not see her next year! Emma had a wonderful experience and it's still shocking to me that she is starting Kindergarten in a few months. Emma was pretty funny to watch during her program. I could tell she was a little shy, but she still sang out on the songs. We sure love this girl.

Roly-Polie Hunt

On our way back from dropping Luke and Charlie off at school, I noticed a ton of roly-polies or potato bugs on a particular stretch of sidewalk. We were short on time that morning, but I promised Emma we would come back another morning. I made good on my promise yesterday morning. Emma and Myles easily caught 10-15 bugs. Emma's friends had a "family of them" and, as the story goes, her friend's little brother knocked over the cage and they all escaped. Emma wanted to give them to Milly to help her feel happy. I called my friend and asked if this would be okay...haha! She was a good sport about it and Emma loved giving them to her friend (me too!).