Family reunion 2010

I really should let Ryan write this post, but I'm afraid my dear husband has very little time these days, so I'll attempt it.

Over the 4th of July weekend we trekked out to Utah and drove to Zions National Park to meet up with Ryan's best buds from high school.

Here is the clan pre-marriage and kids


Here's the clan now!

The mini clan minus a few

We stayed at a fantastic home and Everett had a blast splashing in the hot tub and playing with his buddy Carter!

Here we are "hiking" the river walk in Zions Canyon. Hiking sure takes on a new meaning with kids. However, I think it's more fun!

Aww, my little boy is the best!

Splashing in the narrows!

Each year we have reunion there is typically some sort of swim. The first year it was in a freezing cold lake - literally freezing. The next year there was a bare-all swim; and this year they discovered the most awesome water hole along the river walk.

This is as far as I made it this time. Although I would like it noted that I was the only female to participate in the freezing cold lake swim.

Bubble, bubbles, everywhere

Game Night!

The newly engaged couple - Congrats again Rob and Katie!

On the way home from Zion's Ryan and I made a quick detour to Bryce - this place in incredible! I'm so glad we stopped.

Hilton Head, SC

At the end of June we headed to Hilton Head, SC for some fun in the sun with my family. We had a fantastic time exploring the town, playing at the beach, and soaking up rays. Thank you to my awesome parents for such a wonderful vacation.

Ryan had to work most of the week, but we were so happy he could join us for the weekend.

I LOVE this picture. Everett had so much fun playing in the water. The waves were very calm and he loved splashing and running through the water.

For those who know me well, you know that I HATE sand. So why am I sitting in it you ask? That would be because my dear husband wrestled me to the ground and covered me with it. In his defense, I really need to get over my sand phobia.

Staying hydrated on the beach.

Three of my sisters. Aren't they the cutest?

My grandparents. I was able to share a condo with my grandparents on this trip and it was so fun to enjoy spending a lot of quality time together. I love you guys!

My parents. Thanks for such a great trip. We enjoyed every moment.

Did someone say BBQ?

Looks like someone else has an eye for BBQ as well.

Awesome Friends in Colorado Springs

This post is long overdue, but I'm committed to catching up on blogging. At the beginning of June I flew to Colorado Springs to visit my friend Heather. Heather lives in Tokyo, but was visiting family in Colorado and I just had to take advantage of the fact that she was only a 1 hour flight away. It was so fun to see her and her cute, cute kids. We had the best time chatting, eating, chasing our kids, and did I say chatting. One of the things I love best about Heather is the conversations we have. She's hilarious and always has at least one funny story to tell. Thank you so much to the Howe family for hosting Everett and me. We miss you Heather!

Our cute, cute kids playing at the park

Everett needed a break

Ivy and Everett

No girls week is complete without a pedicure

Pool pecking order

We met an interesting friend at our apartment's pool today...



Everett and I enjoyed playing with our friend....



It turns out ducks can smell fear....



Taryn, I officially apologize to you and the rest of the world for not quickly running to your immediate aid and fending off that evil, deadly threat.