Kindergarten Girl

Maisie started kindergarten today. She's been counting down for a year. What a happy morning we had -- no fits nor tears -- all smiles and giggles. Meg helped her find her class, and Andy reassured her that you get a snack. Nick, Maddie and I missed her, though.

First Day of School

School has begun. Meg and Andy started this week; Maisie starts next week. Our morning routine was flawless, and I even had time to bike with the kids to school. I am always sad to see the kids head back.

Summer Lovin'

Today we hiked Stuart Falls. Afterward we went to John's pool for a family BBQ and swim.

Rick and John were together, so you know what that means -- craziness! They always come up with games that confuse even the most random thinkers; at one point everyone jumped from the big pool to the baby pool.



Twin cousins.

Shade seekers.

Happy nappers (well, Dad napped).

Before their bath tonight, I took a picture of my boys with their long blond hair and tan muscles....I wish I could have shown you their tan lines.

Organic Produce

One tomato. Two cucumbers. Three months of gardening.

Chalk it up to another failure. I'm over it.

Shark Week

Discovery Channel last week debuted an entire week devoted to shows about sharks. Due to the week full of visitors, I, too, spent the week with my SHARK.

Ensign Peak

My Dad came up with the best FHE for last night -- we hiked Ensign Peak followed by a lesson of its importance. I can only imagine the barren desert that existed in 1847 when the pioneers first came, but now this is a breathtaking view of the valley.



The evening ended in the park playing in the grass until 9:30. Endless summer fun.

Andy's Baptism

Yesterday Andy was baptized -- he made essential covenants with Heavenly Father. We are thankful to the family and friends who participated in his special day. I am especially thankful for the worthiness of Austin to perform the sacred ordinances.







Andy's program


Brownie Bar afterward

Been There, Done That

We went to Seven Peaks today. The Bells came from Idaho and between us we have 11 children 10 and under. We had tons of fun -- no one drowned, and only one person was lost for 30 minutes. Complete with a picnic lunch and lots of tube rides, the day was perfect.