Ethan and I went to Utah to visit my family from July 2nd through the 7th. Larry was unable to join us since he had already accepted a position as a supervisor at the police academy. We had such a blast. The Asay family flew in from San Antonio, Texas. The Tyler Tolman's and Todd Tolman's drove in from Reno, Nevada. Mom and Dad also from Reno. The Tran's drove the furthest, all of the way from Kaysville, Utah. Mom and Dad rented a house in Draper, which was at the top of Eagle Mountain overlooking the Draper and Sandy Valley. It was gorgeous! The idea to rent a house was Kate's - she found the listing on Craig's list, and was ideal for a family our size... and for the fact that we all like to spend so much time together, rather than in different hotel rooms. The kids got to sleep in the basement together, it was like a big slumber party all week long. During the week we were able to have a baby shower for Andrea who is Todd's wife and expecting their first - a little girl, in November. We also had the chance to have our first cousin's the Clayton family over with their children, and Dad's first cousin, Duane and Kenna. The week was so busy, we did nothing, but was so occupied with things to do with the kids and just visiting, catching up, teasing, giving and receiving adviced on parenthood and our opinions of discipline, and spending time with each other. On the 4th, the Tran and Asay family's went to the Stadium of Fire nka Freedom Festival featuring The Jonas Brothers and She Daisy (originally from Magna, UT - I know that kills you Tash, that I'm right). Mom and Dad took the rest of us to dinner. The trip was so fun and rewarding to see how each of us have grown and changed and how much our children are like us and each other. I love my family - each of them and am so grateful for my relationships with each of them as different as they are. We are so lucky to have the love and warmth for one another that we do. I appreciate all of you and am so thankful for my parents who have instilled such deep family values.