And the Fun continues

We had a wonderful trip to Monument Colorado for Caleb's wedding. It was a bit surreal being there with the family. Like it wasn't real but just a dream. Wierd that we would all pick up and transport to some odd spot just so we could all be together. But I know it was real. Caleb is indeed now once again a married man. I wish the best for them.

The wedding was just outside the house on a patio put in for the occasion. It was a blue sky and at 11am kind of hot. She had the bridesmaids and groomsman come out and line up, then I escorted Caleb, then the cute little flower girl who just couldn't seem to get the concept of throwing out the petals and walking at the same time. Then Jessica and her father. She was beautiful. The bishop said a few things, then they exchanged vows, and rings, he pronounced them husband and wife and I had tears steaming down my face. We had pictures taken out in the meadow. They have 5 acres of meadow and pine trees and it was a very nice place to have the wedding. We stayed for lunch of pizza and then went to the apartment to rest till the reception. That was at the church, where we had lasagne, and a few words from those who wanted to speak, I got to dance with Caleb, but not nearly long enough, then they threw the bouquet, and garter, cut and ate the cake, changed and headed off for the night in a stretch limo to their honeymoon cruise to the Caribbean. We enjoyed getting to meet Jessica's family. It really gave me a better understanding of who she is and while I already loved her, seeing who she came from gave me added perspective and appreciation for many of her traits. I am impressed,and so happy for Caleb to have her for a life partner. Together they will indeed be better than they could be alone.

We had a Wedding

Our trip to Colorado Springs/ Monument for the wedding and back was wonderful. We really enjoyed it. The wedding was fabulous, and we are so happy to have Jessica in our family, she brings so much energy and vision.

Louisa, Russ, Debbie and I drove together spending our first day driving up Loveland Pass and spending the night near Denver. In the morning we went to the Denver Temple. It was a great way to bring the peace and joy of the gospel into our travels.

We arrived at the church to help set up and most of the heavy work had already been done. But it was great to finally meet Jessica's family. They are an impressive bunch for sure. The wedding was going to be at her parent's home. We all met there for a short rehearsal and to say hello to the Bishop.

Then we were off to Texas Roadhouse which we had finally decided on for the meal. They were fantastic. Caleb and I had chosen a menu and they had the salads already on the table and appetizers as soon as we arrived. Then everyone had three entrees they could chose from and drinks. It was plenty and we had a small area at the back so we weren't in anyone else's way. Very informal, just what Caleb wanted. He loves Texas Roadhouse ribs so he was way happy. Then Jessica's friends and sisters put on a shower which was a lot of fun. Caleb and the men went bowling... though neither of his brothers managed to go, they had just driven all day to arrive and were tired.

Busy Summer so far

Starting with the hike to Kolob Arch with Hyrum,

and the eclipse in Kanarraville with everyone, the summer has been a busy one.

Louisa and I took our two week trip through the Midwest on a search for Laura Ingalls Wilder. It was such a great trip and I'm so glad it went as well as it did. We had a great time. It was a perfect girl's trip and while I was sad Russ couldn't come and share in the adventure in the end it was more of an adventure because it was just the two of us. Read all about it here: http://touringlauraingallswilder.blogspot.com/

Then our precious little grandboy Karston joined the ranks of earthbound souls for his turn on earth. His birth was a little traumatic and ended up as a C-section. Poor guy was trying, but just couldn't get through. All is well now though and Mama and Papa are adjusting to life with a little one. I could have taken him home and cared for him no problem. Not sure what my role as a grandma will be. It will take some time to figure it all out. Next up is the Wedding. I'm glad for a little breather before we head over to Colorado for that. Changes afoot.

Babys and Weddings

We are going to be GrandParents. I'm getting used to the idea and am so happy for Hyrum and Laura. They will be great parents. Due the middle of July, I hope it doesn't come early.

Last Saturday Caleb proposed to Jessica. It had been in the works for awhile so it was nice that it is finally official. We are happy to have Jessica join the family. She seems to be a good match for Caleb and they seem so in love.

Ring of Fire

What a great weekend it was.

First Hyrum and I hiked into Kolob Arch. I didn't do too bad that day. I was slow but it went well with my pack for the seven miles in. Next morning we went to the arch for the first light. Loved it, could not believe I was actually there after all these years. The hike out was okay for the first 3-4 miles. But then after that for some reason my feet just wouldn't stop hurting. The last mile or so is a steep climb up and it was not a pretty sight. But I made it. When we got to the hotel I lay in bed and didn't move.

Next day we drove out to see if we wanted to watch the eclipse from the west desert area. We visited Mountain Meadow Massacre sight which has been fixed up a little since last we visited. Then we went into town where everyone else had arrived and we decided to watch the eclipse from the highway near Kanarraville. I had a blast. So happy to have everyone there.

Escalante

We hadn't been able to get away in March with Russ's operation. So the end of April we tried to drive the Hell's Backbone Road between Boulder and Escalante. It had been a mild winter, and hot spring so I figured the road would be open. It had been. Until it snowed the day we drove down. Then the 9000 ft high at the top road got more snow than I wanted to try driving through. So we did some other things and thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The drive over Boulder Mt and a short hike to Singletree falls. The visit to the Anasazi Museum, Scenic and beautiful hwy 12, a night in Escalante and the drive around town to see all the old homes from the first turn of the century. The drive down Hole in the Rock to Devil's Garden and then down the Burr Trail and up the Notom Road. It is such a wonderful part of the state and I was very happy to be able to go.

31 Years

January began the year well. We were able to move Louisa into her new room, which she promptly tried to make like the old room with everything on the walls in the same place. We are looking at getting Russ's knee replaced. Not looking forward to that, but it does need doing.