Back to Utah - Days 3, 4, & Home - Ava's Birthday

It's ZOO DAY!  No matter where I go, I love zoos and the Hogle Zoo is such a fun one that I am thrilled Ophelia wants to go today.  While we are loading up the car, she pulls out her bike that Grandpa gave her and shows me how well she can ride now.  I am super impressed.

Pictures are never good enough so a couple of videos help me to remember.

Back to Utah - Days 1 & 2

It's 5 a.m. and I am once again sitting in an airport.  This time I'm on the way to Utah for Ava's first birthday.  I've taken up my usual spot at the gate.  Now to just keep the eyelids open.

A direct flight later and I'm in Provo, unpacked and ready for fun.  The girls have a play date as a local splash pad.  Swimsuits on, towels packed, and before I know it, we are on our way.

Both girls love the water and since it's a beautiful summer day, I bask in the fun of watching them play with their mom.

Come along and watch them play with me.

Mister Making Pickles

While grocery shopping the other day, my sweet Mister spotted some small cucumbers and informed me that he wanted to try to make pickles.  Yep, Mr. Culinary is at it again.

Apparently, today is the day.  The kitchen is full of a wonderful aroma that contains vinegar and multiple spices.  Jars are being filled will dill and garlic while cucumbers and onions are being sliced.

I am fortunate enough to grab a couple of pictures when this sweet man is not looking.   Oooooh, don't these look so good?

21st  -- UPDATE -- they are ready to eat.  OMG -- so yummy.

Jon's visit - Off to Boston

 9th - Grandpa and I are driving halfway to Abilene to get Jon.  Once we have retrieved him, the drive back is filled with storm cloud wonder.  At one point, we even get off the road to watch the lightning strikes all around us.  It's so pretty in an eerie, almost frightening way.  Are we going into it or following it?

Pretty Tree and Bush

The yard is so pretty right now.  Here is just a sample.

Welcome Back Colorado Boys - Days 14 & 15

Dang, it's our last full day together.  Well dang it anyway.  Let's make it a good one.  After a little discussion, we've decided to zip over to the Fort Worth Stockyards and then Raef and I have a second stop in mind.  Hello Fort Worth.

Welcome Back Colorado Boys - Days 12 & 13

Only one request for the day.  And a surprise from me.  The boys would like to bounce their brains out at Jumpstreet today.  Since Grandpa is working from home, we need to get out of the house anyway and letting the energy loose seems like the perfect solution.