Monday, June 14, 2010

High on a Hill

Photobucket

The reason for our jaunt out to Utah was to see my parents before they head off to Korea for three years. A few months ago I talked my mom into scheduling some condos in Sun Valley rather than hanging around the house, the thought being we'd spend better time together if we weren't pulled by distractions at home. And better time, indeed, since it rained and we were inside together for the majority of the trip, ha ha! Fortunately, Mom planned a bunch of 'Minute To Win It' games. I've never watched the show, but holy canole, I was brought to tears from laughing several times. And listen well, all of you. If that video of me trying to get the ping pong balls out of the kleenex box ever makes it on youtube, I have revenge video of my own!!

I love, love, love Sun Valley. Wonderful memories of swimming, hiking, horseback riding, tennis, concerts. Biking everywhere but eating back every last calorie with fantastic food. And boy-howdy, how we ate. Koryn, Mom and I spent the better part of an afternoon just planning the menu before we left. My plan to do a kite-flying birthday party for the girls (and Noah...'cause what 27 year-old man doesn't want a kite-flying birthday party?) was a total flop. I tried to make up for it with tons of balloons but did not opt for the 'high float'... did you know helium balloons don't float long at high elevations?!? I had no idea. But it was great to celebrate their birthdays with the family, which hasn't happened...ever. I love this family of mine. So many intelligent, kind, interesting people in one place.


Photobucket

Photobucket

Photobucket


Love this last picture of my mom hauling Hayden down the mountain while she just sits there and blows bubbles. What a life.

9 comments:

aaron and allee said...

...lives a lonely goatherd. Now I will have that song in my head all day long!
What a fun vacation! I am glad you were able to spend the time with your whole family before your parents leave. I have never seen Minute to Win It either, so I would be very interested in said ping pong ball video. ;)
Your last picture is my favorite! Such a sweet shot of Hayden (I just adore her name!) and her grandma.

Aubrey said...

I love family gatherings! Plus the thought of family joining together before parents go out into the world to spread the gospel! What a wonderful feeling for your family!

melissa said...

I've never heard of Minute to Win-it. I'm thoroughly intrigued.

You so look like the Von Trapp children at play. "Let's start at the very beginning . . ."

Glad your beautiful family had a chance to be together before your parents leave. I'm so excited for them!

Katherine said...

That is an amazing family picture. Everyone looks great. What a treasure to have that before your parents go. I'm glad it was such a great visit!

Alisa and Crowells said...

How perfect! Sun Valley IS gorgeous--what a great idea to retreat there as a family! We wish your parents all the very best--they are incredible people with a beautiful family to support them.

Laura G said...

What a beautiful family you have...I think they are all such amazing people. It sounds like you made some wonderful memories to last a long time.

My parents said your parents farewell talks were wonderful last week. Their is no doubt they are going to be fabulous!

The Hodsons said...

You all look wonderful! Those minute to win it games are a "hoot and holler"! It sounds like a most wonderful family reunion.

Callister said...

I am delighted that I stumbled onto your blog because I loooove your mad photo skills. And then I was doubley delighted to find out that your husband is Justin, whom I've known for a while. What a nice surprise! Please tell him hello from me, Nicole Callister, formerly Foust. He'll know me by my maiden name. What kind of camera do you use? Again, amazing photos and darling girls. Take care.

Jen said...

What a gorgeous family photo. There is a tall dark and handsome man missing :( I've got to look up that game! Meanwhile- we are headed your direction in July and REALLY want to stop by....long enough for a picture to prove it:) Hope to hear from you!