Back in June we had family pictures taken. Last big family pictures for 3 years! Dad wanted to take them on the 'mink ranch' where he grew up. There is a small grey house that dad and his brothers lived in when they were younger, dad thought it might get torn down while in Japan, so we took advantage of it still standing. What a fun location, and I think they turned out great! Thanks to Miss Heidi and her photog skills....we love them!
The group shots....not edited yet, gotta find that perfect one with all the kids looking fabulous (or we'll just swap their head out)...
Notice the old grey house in the background...
Just a few more....
My favorite shot of the old grey house!
Today we attended the Oquirrh Mountain Temple open house. What an interesting temple, so different than any of the others I've been through. It was beautiful! I loved it! And so wonderful to be their with Caiser and the kids!
Our friends, Perry & Erin were in town, so we, along with Dane & Natalie all enjoyed the temple together. Then some Chick-fil-A, and visiting back at our house! Always good times, laughing, and of course the boys being idiots when we get together with these friends, so fun!
What a tough day! I dreaded this day coming, but I am now glad it's over with! Saying goodbye to your parents for 3 years is not an easy thing to do. But I am so glad they are on their way, and the countdown can start. We've known this day was coming, and I am glad it is finally here.
My parents are amazing! They sat down with us, dad read us a talk Elder Packer gave at the MTC to outgoing mission presidents, and also shared a scripture with us, both about serving a mission, and the promises and blessings you and your family will receive. They both wrote myself, Phil, and Kara letters to open later. We had a family prayer, and then we started the hugs! It was so hard, but so wonderful at the same time. To be in the room with my entire family, and know we all love each other, support one another, and have the faith and knowledge to know that the mission my parents have ahead of them will only bless our families, is a wonderful thing! I am so grateful I belong to this family!
And one last photo with ALL of us....
What a wonderful birthday I had! Here's what I did.....
The park with awesome friends...
And then dinner with my family....
Mom and dad left for the MTC today, but were able to leave for dinner. They'll be there until Sunday, and will fly out to Japan Monday morning. So happy I was able to be with them on my birthday! Don't they look official? So cute!
Sno-cones topped the night off.....YUM!!
Thank you to my wonderful friends and family for such a wonderful birthday! I loved all the calls, texts, facebook messages, and especially the company! Such a great/fun day!
Today I am so grateful for all the 'fathers' in my life! I have the best dad, father in law, and husband! I love each of these men so very much, and I am a better person because of them. So a big thank you to all 3, for all you do, and for who you are!
To my 'lover'.....thank you for being such a great dad. Where would we be without you? We love you so much and appreciate all you do for us!
