Thursday we spent at the Tautphaus Park Zoo with the Gallup's, Meikle's, and Niederer's. Natalie made the boys tie-dye shirts and the girls bandanna's. We grabbed a bite to eat and shopped until we dropped. We ended the night with dinner at Johnny Carino's yum! I can still taste the Italian Nachos and Chicken Scallopini.
Friday we spent time at my Grandma's house and farm. The kids couldn't get enough of the livestock, tractors, and toys. Gavin has decided he wants to be a full time cowboy and live in Idaho. After fun in the sun we hit Heritage Park for the 1st part of my 10yr. reunion. I know, I know... I'm getting old. It was fun catching up with old friends and letting the kids run wild. We couldn't forget our Sugar City tradition of picking out penny candies at Schofields.
Saturday we stopped at Cal Ranch and picked out a hat for Gavin. He felt right at home. For lunch we went to Olive Garden. Oh, how we have missed good Italian food. My Mom, her fiance' Gary, and Denae joined us as we scarfed down our pasta. We ran to Vickers and picked out boots for Reagan and Gavin. Gotta have all the gear right? Next we cruised home where the kids were dropped off with Grandpa to learn about milking cows.
Jon and I (and Addie) went to the 2nd part of my reunion. We had dinner, watched a slide show, and enjoyed catching up.
Sunday my Dad blessed Denae's baby. What a day. After a great blessing my Dad shared his testimony. He is such a wonderful person. I am lucky to have him in my life and to be blessed with the knowledge that no matter what, he loves me and my children. He has had difficult trials but still continues to be focused and driven to do what is right. Most of our family attended the blessing. It was a moment I will cherish forever. After Sacrament meeting we attended a luncheon at my Dad's. Several extended family members and friends joined us.
This was a difficult day. I knew we would be heading home for Alaska in the morning. I tried to fight back tears as we packed. I knew it would be a long time before I would be with my family again. The next morning we loaded up our things. My Dad offered a prayer and we gave tear filled goodbyes. Our trip was too short, but definitely worth it. I love my family and can't wait to see them again.
3 comments:
we had no clue you were in town we would have loved to see you and the rest of the family,
its hard having to say goodbye, i am so far awway from my family i know what its like especially holidays birthdays ect. but you have to know that no matter where you are they are always with you. and it it gives you a greater apretiation for family and get togethers when you are so far away
glad you had fun though and love the pictures, I bet G.ma birch was thrilled to have you all visit, as with everyone else.
What fun pictures. I love to see your whole family all together. You all look great!!! It sounds like you had a lot of fun.
We sure do love you too. It was sooo wonderful to see you. On the way home Sun. night I broke down and was crying. I wish we could have spent more time with you and your fam. I am sad that it will be a while before I get to give you and your kids a hug again. But Wayne reminded me that there is a reason why we have the webcam, so I at least get to see you and we can always talk to each other. I love ya bunches!
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