4th of July in Utah

We started the day off early, going to the Hot Air Balloons.  This one of our family traditions when we lived here, and we weren't disappointed!  The kids loved it and were so fascinated!  We then walked back to the van and went to see Papa before the parade since we were so close.  We stayed for a short time cause Papa was tried and the kids had a hard time being quiet.  We then headed to the parade, which took a LONG time to park.  But we finally did and were so thankful for Jessi and Carter so we could sit in the Grand Stands.  The kids had a blast with all the bands, floats, things that were thrown to them!  Then we went to cool off at the rec center.  We had a great time and just love the new pools. Later Sarah and I went up to see Papa with Kristi and Lacey.  Dave worked on putting up a fan in Grammy and Papa's house.  The kids and I enjoyed the neighborhood block party with games, and fireworks. Gordon LOVED the sparklers.  Then we decided to go up with Craig and Liz to see the fireworks with Papa at the hospital.  Papa got into the wheelchair, which took a lot of strength and work.  But Papa was so happy we came and spent that time with him.  I am glad we did too!  We will always remember our last fireworks with Papa were at the hospital!  It was a long fun 4th of July; we were so glad we could spend it with our family in Utah!

I loved this one with Sarah holding Papa's hand... she just loves her Papa and still continues to pray for him daily and waits for the Day that we will be reunited with him!

Family Pictures

These are the pictures taken on July 2, 2014 at the outside of the hospital. I couldn't decide if I like the color or the black and white; so I did both.

Our trip out to Utah (when it all began)

So we decided to change our plans for our family trip and head to Utah to be there before Dads Surgery scheduled on July 3rd.  So we left on July 1st after Dave worked and drove through the night.  Dave drove most of the 20 hour drive but I did drive a handful of hours.  It was long, but I am so glad we drove through the night so we didn't have to answer the question when are we going to be there hundreds of time.  We did great timing cause we only stopped for the bathroom or to get gas.  We got into town around noon time and all I wanted to do was go and sleep.  But we went and saw Dad first...although he didn't feel great with that tube in his nose, he still teased and tickled like Papa always does!  It was so good to see him and be there.  After we went and saw Mom at work and she treated us to lunch at the Cannon center with Jeff and Marcie with the boys, Craig, and us.  The kids loved all the selections and options.  That night before the surgery the next day we had a family picture with everyone.  I will upload the others once I can.  But I have one with Dad and Mom for now.  The kids were so happy to be with there cousins, to be with Papa... especially Sarah! (This is so hard to look through pictures and write...but I know I need to do it)