Birthday Party in Idaho

Both Jared & I grew up surrounded by lots & lots of family – cousins, aunts, uncles, grandmas, & grandpas.  Birthdays were always a big deal in my family.  In fact, one might say my family went overboard in this department, but as I’ve gotten older, those celebrations have become some of my greatest childhood memories.  Every family has many different ways of showing love.  In my family, big birthday parties were a traditional way of showing love for one another.

Since my girls haven’t lived in neighborhood proximity to most of their extended family, I wanted to take the opportunity while we were in Idaho to throw AnnMarie a memorable birthday party surrounded by lots of family members who love & care about her.  So that’s exactly what we did - animal cupcakes & all.  (She specifically requested those). 

This girl has an amazing amount of grandmas.  A huge thanks to everyone who came & made this such a special day.  It’s August, & we’re still talking about it. 

I Said YES…Again!

Two weeks ago we found ourselves in SLC again for more meetings.  Jared & I had a little extra time one night to enjoy Temple Square.

We watched the Mormon Tabernacle Choir practice for an upcoming concert in the Conference Center.

During their rehearsal, Jared proposed to me with an anniversary band that I’ll wear in South America instead of my wedding ring.  I laughed, but I said yes – I didn’t' really have to think about it.  Very practical (& spontaneous) he is.  Spectators thought they were witnessing something monumental, but perhaps they were. 

Because marriage is about falling in love and saying yes to love every…single…day. 

Our New Pool

It even has jets!

My girls got creative over the weekend.  A stark contrast from the water park we went to the week before, but  still suitable.  After our MTC experience, we met up with Jared’s parents & his sister Kristen & her family.  We went swimming at Cowabunga Bay in Draper & ate dinner at an amazing Mexican restaurant in SLC called Red Iguana.  I’m so glad my girls have cousins to look up to.  All of our nieces & nephews are so talented & fun.  We love them very much & relish any opportunity to be with them.

 

And last but not least, a very handsome man…with a perfect farmer’s tan.  ;)