End-of-Summer Fun!

What a blur this summer has been! July brought it's own share of special challenges, but August was really great. It started with lazy days with the boys and kicked it up a little mid-month with a wonderful visit with my sister, Janie, her daughter Cecelia and her darling, darling granddaughter (!) Esther.


Cc and Esther on our hammock

Although the three of them were only able to stay for a long weekend, it was so enjoyable and relaxing and very memorable. On Friday, I was able to spend lots of alone time with Cc and get to know her more as an adult, instead of just my niece. We perused Ikea, shared cheese fries and had a lovely time together. I couldn't get enough of her baby and was chomping on her and kissing her as much as possible. Such a gorgeous little girl! I adore Janie and while I know she is an amazing sister, I am pretty sure she is also the World's Best Aunt (just ask Dylan!). She baked with my boys, tickled and chased them and just generally made them feel loved. We tried the Farmer's Market at Pioneer Park on Saturday morning, only to get soaking wet in the rain. But we were able to warm up with coffee and tea at Salt Lake Roasting Co. - a favorite spot. My hubby shocked us all later that afternoon, by volunteering to watch baby Esther and the boys, while we saw a movie. I think he is excited to be the daddy of a little girl, because he later shared what a fun time he had! We finished the day with some potato pizza (my fave) and more visiting.


Dylan and Cc making pizza dough. Yum!

On Sunday, my other sister from Idaho, Amy and her family came to town! We had a big family party for my brother, Paul's birthday that evening and just had a wonderful time catching up with everyone. Sadly, Janie and Cecelia had to leave after that, but our week with Amy and her kids was just starting...

Tuesday we all went to the gardens at Thanksgiving Point...


Kaden, Brinley, Addie, Gabe and Dylan at the Noah's Ark fountain at the children's garden.


Gorgeous! In the distance you can see some pillars which Dylan called "The old God temple ruins."

Wednesday to the zoo! My mom, brother Dave and his kids Sophie and Ethan joined the zoo fun that afternoon, but Amy, her girls and I started that morning with a check-up with my OB and they were able to hear our baby girl's heartbeat! So exciting!


Gabe and Dylan on the the new Carousel.


Trying to decipher the map AND get out of walking!

That Friday, Aug. 21, was my birthday and Amy treated me to lunch and a fun afternoon of shopping. My hubby took me out that night for dinner and a movie and most importantly, alone time! I love him.

Amy's visit ended on Sunday, with all of us heading to Trolley Square for salt water taffy, chocolate treats and shopping. It was sad to see them go, but we made some great memories and what a wonderful way to end the summer and get ready for a new school year.