How I Spent My Summer Vacation

It's hard to believe, but the boys go back to school on the 26Th, and Fall semester at BYU-I starts on September 10Th. Where did the summer go?!? And what do we have to show for our three months of freedom?

Parker has a farmer's tan--literally--and a bit more money in his bank account. Oh, and four fewer wisdom teeth. And shaggy hair (Please let me cut it!) Those of you who have Parker's cell phone number, feel free to send him a text message extolling the virtues of freshly-cut hair.

Hayden, Cameron and Jacob have improved their swimming skills.




(Darin, the phone works great under water. Thanks!)


I had to bribe Jacob with a new Transformer to get him to jump off the diving board, but he did it. Of course, he waited 'til the last ten minutes of the very last day of lessons to do it.

Jacob also played on a soccer team, though I don't know whether he can claim improved skills in that area--he made it to two practices and missed half the games--blame the multiple trips to Utah during July. At least he had fun.

Cameron spent his summer reading--a lot--and built some pretty amazing creations with Legos.

Hayden went to two scout camps, gained some leadership skills, and earned seven merit badges.

Hayden, Cameron and Jacob camped out in the backyard last night. They set up two tents--one for bodies and one for? I came home from visiting teaching this morning to discover this:


and this:

Those monkeys decided to erect every single tent we own!

Tyler, Brandi, and Chloe moved from Idaho Falls to Lyman (just south of Rexburg). Everyone is happy with that decision.


Chloe also spent time learning to sit.



And tip over.



With my bedroom project finished--the one BIG thing on my To Do list that I absolutely wanted to accomplish--I've moved on to the next task: reading my English textbooks for Fall and gathering sources for a research paper I'll be writing. I spoke with the head of the English department today while I was on campus to pick up a student employment form. After I told her a little about myself, she said, "This is the right place for you."

I recognize the incredible opportunity I'm being given to gain practical experience in my field. I am so excited to get started! I know--I'm a nerd, but I'm a grateful nerd. It continues to amaze me how everything has fallen into place, all the pieces coming together to form the ideal situation for me and the boys.

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The monument company set Paul's headstone a week ago Friday. We all went to the cemetery after dinner the following Sunday to have a look. I think they did a nice job. It's a little painful to see his name in stone--makes his death very real. Though, every day and every night for the past seven months I've been reminded of how real it is. I'm grateful to know our separation isn't permanent. That would be unbearable.