A Short Trip

Yesterday I completed my class on Public Policy and AIDS. After sitting in the library for 8 hours and finishing with a final exam I took my kids up to Tanner's Flat campground to see the family. Chas is heading back to Hawaii next week, so this weekend was the only time they had to get a camp trip in. By the time I got up there we only had a couple of daylight hours left. While the girls made s'mores Patrick and I went on a short hike. He did really well for a short little guy. I was happy to see how much he enjoys hiking. A chip off the old block...

We didn't stay overnight, because I had to teach in church today. But it was a nice relaxing evening.

Uh, Whit, your marshmallows are on fire...

I would like to commission a study about how many marshmallows are actually eaten as opposed to those that just end up in the fire.

Patrick was kind enough to stop every once in a while to wait up for me.

This just really pisses me off.

In case you're wondering, yes, he is hiking with flip flops on...

11 Years and Counting

Last night Kate and I celebrated our 11 year anniversary. We kind of made a big deal about it. The first half of this year has been a major challenge, with my school schedule, our work schedules, Kate's health, the girls, Froggy getting smashed, and everything else. We both feel that we have handled everything pretty well. So we decided to have a special evening. Plus, it was a milestone anniversary, being 10 years since our temple sealing. Kate bought a beautiful new dress. Being the bonehead that I am, I didn't bring a camera along to get pictures of her in her dress. But I will post pictures as soon as I can get them. We spent the evening at Franck's Restaurant in Holladay. It is a beautiful place with excellent food. I will be sure to go there again. But not before I can save up some money. It was a very relaxing evening, and I was able to dwell on how lucky I am that Kate said 'yes' so many years ago. When I think about it, it doesn't seem like 11 years. It has gone by fast. And yet I can't remember what life was like before she and I were together. I know I am getting mushy, so I will stop now. But if you go to Franck's, get the halibut.

Check out the whole menu:

Independence Day 2009

In honor of Froggy, and in an attempt to get rid of the stain in the street, we decided to light all of this year's fireworks on the spot where she was killed. We didn't get rid of the stain, but the firework display was impressive.

Bean was glad that uncle Chas came to watch fireworks with us because he decided to wear his Yankees cap, instead of that awful BYU hat he wears...


When asked about the fireworks package that Kate bought, Whitney answered, "You picked a winner, mom!"


Samantha was "blown away" by her dad's great firework display




Literally...

Usually a picture is worth a thousand words. Thanks to Pat and Whit, this one is worth two.

The newlyweds (Shared and Kat) graced us with their presence.

Can you guess what happened about 10 seconds after this picture was taken (I'll give you a hint: Scott was glad Patrick decided to wear undies)