AZ Trip

We had a blast on our weekend trip to AZ! It was Sister Gee's homecoming and Elder Gee's farewell. I loved seeing so many of my aunts, uncles, and cousins.

I went a day early just me and Rykie, and he seemed to enjoy the one-on-one time we so rarely get together.

He was an angel on the plane and slept in my arms the entire flight. He also won over our seat neighbor, a charming old school teacher named Odessia Love (a name worthy of being a lounge singer, right?)

Nicholas arrived later and became Grandpa's little hiking buddy.

Rykie played nicely with his 2nd cousin, Amber (a miniature of her mom, Melissa), who is just two weeks older.

... And in emptying out Grandma's closets we dusted off my old wedding dress I left there. Still fits! I forgot how much I loved that dress.

Nicholas was fascinated the most by Grandma's brand new elevator! He found it very entertaining and enlisted whoever he could find to take him in it.

Run, Jared, Run!

Jared completed his first ever half-marathon this month! It held more meaning for him than a typical marathon because it was one his Grandfather used to run every year. He began running in his thirties, and started jogging during his lunch breaks wearing only his work clothes and shoes. He went on to become a fantastic marathon runner, placing and winning at many famous marathons, including, but not limited to, the St. George and Boston Marathon.

J ran all along the coast on a beautiful morning (not that he noticed). If you're going to run anywhere, why not along the beach, right?

We created our own little cheering section, and ran in to the finish line all together.

We were so proud that he ran the whole thing! He was, understandably, very tired and sweaty at the end, but perked up when we went to Cafe Rio to celebrate. He finished in just over 2 hrs, which was his goal.

(a video of us fans)

He doesn't talk much about doing another one, but we might just be doing this same one together next year! (rambling: I don't have much of a desire to do a full marathon. It can be so boring just running for hours on end. Plus it seems like so many people have done these days it that its not really that much of an accomplishment anymore.)

Graduation

Kiki has officially graduated from preschool... He will be held back for another year though :)

The whole family was able to attend the ceremonies and lend support.

So proud of this kid... He has learned so much. Preschool will be missed over the summer

Moms

We have been blessed with two of the best Moms ever

I have always appreciated my mom for her good advice. She has always been someone I could call and hear the answer to my problems, and she says the right things. One thing I actually miss about her living in Holland is being able to call her in the middle of the night when I couldn't sleep!

She has a wise way of approaching the world's problems, and has a skill of stepping outside a situation to find a solution that I try to emulate. She is a kind and thoughtful friend who often thinks of others over herself. She also strives to stay educated and is continually learning and growing. She has been the best mom to my little brother with his challenges, in being patient and constantly doing what is best for him hugely at the expense of her own time.

She also has impeccable timing when it comes to anticipating the arrival of her grandchildren! Being in Holland before made me (and I'm sure her too) nervous that she would miss their births. In both cases, though, she was there in perfect timing to help me a few days before, see their births and help me, then spend some more time before leaving again. These boys love Mimi, and wanted to be nice to her even from the beginning!

Sabrina has been the most incredible mother-in-law I could ever have wished for. I constantly marvel that we were able to live together for two years and still be talking to one another! She is so compassionate, loving, and kind. Often I look to her example of being a good mom- Love first, and discipline next. She has raised 3 wonderful kids (ok-I'm biased), and I have her to thank for my husband's sense of responsibility and also sensitivity that blesses my life on a daily basis.

She also knows how to have fun and relax. She has spoiled me with shopping, massages, you name it. I have never felt so pampered and appreciated! I learned that part of being a great mom is being a good person and strengthening your self.

This is not even part of what makes her so wonderful, and not to mention any of how fantastic of a grandma she is. My boys adore her and Nicholas calls her every single day, and often multiple times a day. She screamed with excitement when I told her Nicholas was successfully potty training, and right after Ryker pulled himself up for the first time. She was there when Kiki took his first steps, comforted me in my frustrations, and makes an effort to be there for every important or even simple milestone.

I feel like I have much to live up to, but I am truly grateful for such good examples of strong, smart, and kind women.