Departures, Arrivals, & Vacations

To start off with, we had an interesting couple of weeks at the end of June. We were able to see Jared off on his mission to Brazil. He has worked so hard for this and we were so proud of him for making this commitment. It has to be hard knowing that for another two years he won't see his best friend and twin brother but he knew what needed to be done. Great job Jared.....We are going to miss you!!!


Then after saying goodbye to him on Tuesday, that night, James and I had the opportunity to go with the youth and do Baptisms for the Dead. There is something so special and sacred about watching youth whom you have become close with all dressed in white, worthy enough to honor those who came before them and do their temple work. Of course, I was just along for the ride. James actually got to do confirmations and baptisms on "my girls" which is such a great way for him to share in the joy of my calling. Then we made the annual trip to get ice cream where one of my leaders came so close to hitting the side of the building and I thought for sure we were going to have problems. It was a neat experience and everytime I go with the youth to the temple, I realized how blessed I am to serve with them.

Then Wednesday, it was off to our 3 year rotation of going to Hebgen Lake and Yellowstone with my extended family. This trip always make me remember my youth and the great times that we had knee boarding (on the banana board remember?!), swimming, fishing, and going through the park. Everytime we go, Dave and I get on the walkie talkies and remember all the great things that we have done and adventures we had. This is a tradition that died for a period of time in our lives and I am so glad has come back. It is so important to me that my kids have a taste of the great memories that I had growing up. At one point, we were going on a boat ride in Dave's boat and Julie and I were sitting up in the bow. I leaned over and we started talking about things that I remember my dad teaching me about and it was such an amazing feeling. I love those memories. We had a blast, as always, and as is bound to happen anytime we get together with my cousins, I am surprised the cops didn't show up to tell us to quiet down.....BS....we were glad you came! Here are a few pics of the highlights of our trip:

the whole gang minus Grandma & Jeffrey (who wanted some bonding time together, alone) and Mitch (I am so sorry....it's my fault he is not there!). We always go to Quake Lake and it never seems to get old....for me at least. And the kids are always scared of the stuffed bear in the basement!

Jeremy surrounded by all the 2nd cousins......you know you liked it!

After a "little" walk around some of the geysers. James did some serious off roading with Jeff's wheelchair which he loved!

If you look close, you can see Jackson's head that was accidentally cut off.

Mitch sporting the "gay pride" hat that Chaz made him.

We roasted marshmallows the last night and Dave & Brandy's kids let all the little cousins tackle them and they wrestled for a long time. It really was a blast!

Hands down the best picture of the trip.......Classic Eileen!

And lastly, while we were in Yellowstone Courtney and Joe welcomed their new daughter into the world. Introducing my new niece, Camri Marie. She was 8 lbs. and 8 oz. and is beautiful. Congrats you two and welcome to the fold Camri. Let me apologize in advance for the torture you will endure being born into my family.


I love you Chunky Monkey and good job Squeaks!