Timpanogos Cave

Grandma and Grandpa Dean took us on hike.  Now, this wasn't just any hike, it was a hike up Timpanogos Cave.

The boys were all great hikers!  The trail is 1.5 miles with most of it uphill.  I was very impressed with their hiking abilities!

Inside the cave was amazing!  It is incredible anyone even found the cave.  We learned a lot of intriguing information.

Conner wanted to know if he could just live there...haha!!   It definitely was a great day!!

Happy Birthday Stocky

Stocks,

Happy Birthday kiddo! What a happy blessing you are to our family. I feel you have so many incredible personality traits that I wish I had in my life. You are so laid back!! You don't stress about too many things.... you just enjoy life, regardless of what obstacles come your way. You are tons of fun to be around. Your smile is contagious, your laugh fills up a room, and people enjoy being in your presence. You have the most sweet little spirit. You think of others more often then yourself. You put others needs ahead of your own. I remember this past year you were working so hard to earn money. There was a pretty big toy you had your eye on, and I was for sure all the money you were saving was for that. Once you had earned enough, we headed to the store. You surprised me when you told me you had been saving your money to buy your brother a birthday present. Or that one time when you got up early just to make your friend a birthday card.... and I know how much you like to sleep-in. You are constantly thinking of others. I am so happy to see thoughtfulness in your character.
One of my favorite sayings you say often is, "This is the best day of my life!" You say it so often, but I love it each time you say it! You are willing to try all things! I have really enjoyed watching you develop so many great talents. I know Heavenly Father is happy too!

I love you Stocks! You are true blessing in my life!!!

Love,

Mom

School is back in session

The kids are excited to be back in school. Conner is in 5th grade (I am getting old)! Stockton is heading into 3rd grade. Garrett is in 1st grade. And Zander is in pre-school! They were all filled with enthusiasm as they headed off for another great year!

Vegas Babe!

We decided to have one more weekend of fun before it was time to go back to school. What better place to spend a few days then Vegas. My parents have a fun time share they shared with us. We had a great time! Niel, Conner, Dad, and me all went to the late showing of Beatles Love. It was fantastic!

"I would hate to be the one to pay the electric bill in this city"

Zander was scared to death to go into any water he couldn't stand up-right in. Grandpa coaxed him out into the water. Zander didn't stay out in the deep part too long.

The boys commented that their favorite site was watching the dancing waters in front of The Belagio. I was pretty excited about that too because it didn't cost up a dime.

This is one of my favorite attractions to see..... the chocolate fountain. YUM!

Can you believe gas is cheaper in Vegas? I filled the car up in Utah at $4.03 and I thought that was a good deal. I was shocked to see it less.... and in Vegas of all places.

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Dean for taking us down for a fun, fast trip! We had a blast!!

Happy Birthday Conner!

Conner,

My, oh my! It can't be possible that I am the mother of an 11 year old! Where as the time gone?

I have watched you grow up year after year. I have seen this little person growing up to be a young man. I have seen your personality blossom. I smile as I see the person you have become thus far and you continually beam with greatness as you continue grooming who you will become. You are so kind and thoughtful. I see you making friends where ever you go.... never shy, but anxious to speak with anyone who walks along your path. People love feeling important and you know just how to make others feel special. I know I can count on you for anything.... and I do mean anything. I do not second guess if you will do it.... I know you will. I appreciate the love you have for your family and especially the concern you have for your brothers and Megan. All your brothers look up to you.... and what a great example you are to them! I love your excitement for life! You are happy! I love to be with you, as well as does others. I love your determination. You know you can do anything, even though you want to be perfect in everything you try, you still keep at it. Your ability in basketball and football have been incredible this past year. Keep that drive you have!! And your work as a student.... straight A's!! Way to go!!!! Oh... and STOP GROWING! If you are taller then me next year.... I don't know what I am going to do!

I love you Conner! Thank you for making my life so full..... so full of so much!!!

Love,

Mom

Can we go back?

Wow, it has taken me month to post my pictures and tell about our trip to Hawaii. I hope you have enjoyed this month of reminiscing as much as I have! In reality, I could probably post on this vacation topic for a year, and even have enough pictures to go along with my story. But alas, life must go on.

This was the beautiful home we stayed in. Several people have asked for information on the place. The place was called Menehune Hale. It was a perfect place and I would highly recommend it!

This is the view of the ocean looking out from the kitchen! Incredible!!!

The last day we flew back to Oahu and spent most of the day at Turtle Bay!

Goodbye Kauai! What a breathtaking and unforgettable experience! Thank you Grandma and Grandpa J for taking us! We had the time of our lives!!!!!

Kayaking & Zip Lining all in the same Day!

We loaded up in a big army truck and headed to fun filled day kayaking and zip lining!

They dropped us off to do a little bit of hiking!!

We each got to paddle a kayak down a small stream. Zander told me we should keep our eyes out for alligators.

What a silly looking bunch of people!

Everyone liked our guides. Conner asked Drew a million and one questions.

It was an incredible ride on the zip line!!

"Look at me! No Hands!!"

Cliff Jumping

Yep... it is yet another video from me!

A lot of people have asked me if I was really in Hawaii since I haven't posted many pictures of myself. I guess that is what happens when I am the ones taking the pictures. Anyhow.... Megan did an excellent filming job. I even tried out the rope swing!

We all did a little jumping.... even Zander!!