temple square

The 10 grand-kids

On the way home from our Wood family reunion in Park City, Aaron and I decided to make a pit stop in Salt Lake and take the girls to Temple Square. The kids had never been and we're not in Salt Lake often so it was the perfect time. It was a very very hot day, (about 95 degree at 11 am) so we quickly made our way throughout the beautiful grounds to the air conditioned buildings. First we headed to the old tabernacle, then to see the statue of Christ, and then over to the conference center where we had a short tour.  Then we walked around the grounds a bit and took a few pictures.  I am always in awe of how beautiful the flowers, trees, and the general landscape are. It must take so much time and energy to keep it looking the way it is, but I know it makes a huge impression on all who come to visit. I also loved overhearing those not of our faith, asking the many, many missionaries questions about the gospel that I love and know to be true. 

 Anna just had to take a picture of this fountain. She kept commenting that it looked like a temple.

the party

 Jason, Noema, Emily, Anna, Isaiah, Joshua, Carter, Ryan, Carson, and Brooklyn

Carter was so lucky to have so many cousins over for his 1st birthday!  We had strawberry shortcake and opened presents. We are so grateful to have this sweet boy in our family. He is easy going and mello and a complete joy!  We can't wait to watch you grow until a little boy this year. I hope we're ready. 

More Summer fun

 Sweet Noema

 Isaiah and his smore... yum yum!

In July right after Angela and her family were here, Amanda and the kids were able to come up to Idaho and visit.  We had them over one night for a camp fire and smores.  The night was beautiful and we ate until we were sick.  Aaron also put up the tent that night and slept outside with the girls. They were so excited. I didn't think they would make it out there all night but sure enough.... they did! Thank goodness for "fun dads!"

1

Our sweet Carter, you were born a year ago today.  Your daddy and I were so excited to find out we were going to have a son, and your big sisters were so excited to have a baby brother.  You came two days after my due date in Portland Oregon. My labor was relatively quick and I was overcome with emotion when you finally arrived. The first two things I noticed were that you had redish hair, and that you had a little dimple in your chin, just like your daddy. You were a champion nurser from the very beginning and were just an Angel. You were content and happy and slept great.  Anna and Brooklyn could not get enough of you. 

Family of 5

Blessing Day

Discovering your reflection

Your Papa loved you so much. I will cherish this picture forever.  I wish so much that you would have been able to grow up knowing this amazing man.

Carter we can't imagine life without you.  In the last few weeks I've seen the little boy in you come out. You are walking so much more, and it just looks funny because you are so tiny. Your hair always looked a little redish blond but after we cut it you look more blond.  You have the sweetest baby blue eyes and content disposition.  You love milk in your sippy, toast for breakfast and watermelon.  You also sleep great which makes for a happy mom. My favorite thing in the world is to go get you in the morning. You're always standing on your bumper, on your tippy toes, smiling from ear to ear.  When I get close you raise your hands up and reach to be picked up. You are a joy and light in our family!

Happy Birthday Carter boy!

Huntsman Springs

 Over the 4th of July weekend, Aaron and I headed to Driggs, ID to Huntsman Springs. It is a beautiful golf coarse that is run by the billionaire John Huntsman. (He invented Styrofoam)  The only reason I mention how much stinkin' money he has is that the whole event was free, and it was also mentioned there that any money he makes at his resort goes directly to his Cancer Research Center in Utah. Glenn Beck was the featured guest and he was great. Some people really don't like Glenn's politics, but that night it was just about our great country, and its history. Politics aside.  

We were extra lucky too because our good friends, that we have not seen in  a long time, were gracious enough to save us great seats. It was wonderful to see Adam and Audra and catch up.  The weather was beautiful and the firework show at the end was the best I have ever seen. (and I've seen a lot of great fireworks) Thanks to Gary and Lynette for watching the little one's so we could go!  I think next year though we'll being the family.

backyard fun

The day of the 4th it was over 90 degrees! The slip and slid was the best remedy for the heat! Dad sure got a work out pushing the girls down the slide over and over.

                                                        Even Uncle John got in on the fun!

                                                                      Ellie

 Paigy-Waigey

 Carter enjoyed hanging out with Aunt Angie in the hammock

 The girls spent days preparing for a 4th of July parade that they put on. There were refreshments, songs, and even a surprise water balloon fight. It was adorable!

 Festive cupcakes they decorated

 Every year we go to the Madison county Rodeo.  It was a little crowded and a bit longer than we remember so we only stayed for a few hours but it was fun. The girls were so excited to chase the calve this year.

(They attach money to a calve and then let all the kids chase the cow through he arena until the money is gone. It is quite comical) 

I was actually more worried that the girls would be trampled by the other children but everyone was fine. After we left we headed to Nana's for fireworks. Phew.... what a day! 

Independence Day

 Aaron hard at work grilling up free hot dogs from his work. 

      Me and my other man

 Could he be any cuter? Really... I know I'm a bit baised but come on!

We missed you shell bell



These are a few pictures I stole from my mom's blog of the Woopie days parade!  I love that we live in a small town with a small town parade.  More to come from the back yard slip and slid, awesome BBQ, Rodeo, and Aaron and I's get away to Huntsman Springs and Glenn Beck!  What a weekend we had.

I'm pooped!