January Trip to Utah

packed to the brim

In January of this year we decided to go to Utah. We did miss out on the holiday, but we felt like we were somewhat a part of ringing in the New 

Year because we did roll right at the beginning of it. We drove straight through-and honestly-I think that has more to do with we have a dog now. It does not seem as simple to stop half way at hotel looking for one that allows dogs, but on the flip side, we get to Utah faster. 

A primary reason in going to Utah was to say a goodbye to Grandma and Grandpa Jo, who would be leaving on their mission to England in that same week. So, we first stopped in to Salt Lake to stay with them at their condo. Sam and I got to go do a session the next morning-we walked to the temple. It was a really nice session, one that I will remember because the feeling of love I felt from Heavenly Father was so strong it practically embraced me that day. So... there's that. 

We sure are thankful for Grandma and Grandpa Jo for their love for the gospel, and the enthusiasm they have for teaching it. We feel very loved when we are around them, and even when they are far. We have been able to FaceTime them while they have been in England weekly, just as we were doing before, and we get to hear about the work they are doing. 

temple square with the boys

We also spent time at my parents new house in Midway. This would be our first time staying with them in the finished basement, and my dad did a great job, which doesn't surprise me, he always does. But, it was fun to tell the boys how Pappy did the basement. They get pretty blown away at the "Master Builders" and how they actually build houses. And, I also love that my boys still call any construction worker master builders- it's from the Lego Movie. Also, Midway is beautiful, and my parents have an amazing view from the backyard. Midway, itself, it will take a few more visits to figure just where everything is-maybe just one-it is pretty small. We were excited how much time we got to spend with family and cousins. There was some sickness--which just comes with the territory, I guess when visiting especially it seems in the winter seasons. So, Rowan got hit with something, and then Kaj got the stomach flu, which then made us leave a day early, because it didn't make sense to stay when the ship was going down ( the whole family would most inevitably be getting hit with the stomach bug within a day or two) So, we opted to stay a head of it. Which, happy to say, we did! No one threw up in the car and the following day Jonah was throwing up, and since we're going here it was followed by Josh and Sam, then Sam left for Portland and that was my cue to get it, and that's it! Rowan did NOT get it! 👍🏻🙌🏻 hallelujah! 

birthday boy 4 years old

pictures from Bend

 But, let's end this on the high note and not the sick notes.
We got to spent Rowan's birthday with everyone. We threw a party for him and Noel since they share the same birthday. It was so great having a big party surrounded by the family who love him so much. I know they love him and I am so thankful for that. One day, I know, he will recognize how loved he is.

I was very thankful for the chance to visit. I am always thankful for any and all chances to visit my first home.

dog park 

Mister Jones

This guy