Spring Break Part 1

For spring break this year we packed up and went camping with 21 other families from our neighborhood.

The kids were excited for the big camping adventure but I was a little distracted with all the packing and preparations to take little ones camping. However, being with so many fun families made all the hard work getting there worth it.

There were lots of friends, campfires, smores, and games.

The first morning we all gathered for an Easter devotional. With girl's camp really being my main camping experience previous to this I felt right at home. There is something about camping that brings a renewed gratitude for the beauties of nature.

We all set out to Arches with the first stop being a hike to Delicate Arch. As you can see hiking for Lexi involves pirouettes, leaps, and arabesques.

Peyton and the boys preferred finding alternate trails and climbing anything they could.

Delicate Arch is beautiful. I had not been there since 8th grade and it was fun to share it with the kids.

Peyton just started scouts so he got a few lessons from mom about safety and what to do if you get lost.

The heights and drop offs freaked me out a bit (so notice Kempton's harness). When he wasn't in the back pack he was on a leash. I know my child is not a dog but safety first.

Lance taking a well deserved break with the boys.

We then hiked to Sand Arch.

The kids loved playing in the sand! It was a lot of fun until we got back to camp and the showers were delightfully cool.

Spring Break Part 2

What would a vacation be without a little golf. Our campsite was next to a golf course. So we headed out as a family to hit the ball around.

Lance and Peyton are not use to having the whole family go golfing with them. I am sure they wish that we all could join them every round ;)

What is it about boys, sticks, and balls. Kempton was a natural. I don't think he is going to let dad go golfing by himself now that he has been out on the course.

The last morning the moms had planned an Easter egg hunt for the kids.

Can you tell the kids cared a lot more about the egg hunt then getting their picture taken.

After we packed up our camp, we all headed to Goblin Valley. Within a few minutes of being there this is where I found Peyton.

The way the rocks have been carved out into all these unique formations is fascinating.

The kids loved climbing everything and of course Kempton was right there with them. Someone needs to tell this kid he is only two.

We had a great family trip with so many of our neighborhood friends. We made memories the kids will remember for a long time.

Chelsey's Wedding

We are so happy for Chelsey and Adam! They had such a beautiful wedding day.

Their wedding was one great big celebration. The night before we enjoyed a special wedding dinner. The kids carried on the Rice tradition and sang "I love to see the Temple" complete with roses and hugs.

All the nephews waiting at the Temple to see the bride and groom. It was a rainy morning but it did not dampen the excitement of the day. The reception was absolutely beautiful. Everything was perfect down to the smallest detail. Peyton could usually be found by the food. If not eating dinner then he was snacking on cupcakes or gelato. There were nine groomsmen plus four little nephews all dressed in tuxedos. Lexi and Chelsey looked everywhere for just the right dress for Lexi. They finally had one specially ordered. Lexi was in heaven- flowers, fancy dresses, and dancing. It was such a fun day!

Pinewood Derby

Peyton was very excited to participate in his first pinewood derby. He had been planning and working on his car for the last month. Of course it was red and had black stripes. We had to leave his baseball game a little early but it was worth it.

Well after all the hard work, his car won the grand champion.

The four finalist posed before the last big race. The men in charge of the race were former National Pinewood Derby Champions. So there was no messing around. This was official stuff.

Peyton had a lot of fun! What a great introduction to scouting.

Peyton and Lance's Birthday

We finished out March with Peyton and Lance's Birthdays. Peyton woke up early so he could open a few of his presents before heading off to school.

Peyton got to check out of school so we could all meet for lunch to celebrate his big day.

Lance was a great sport because we spent the evening of his birthday at a wedding shower for Chelsey and Adam.

Happy Birthday to two of my favorite guys in the whole world!

Alexandria's Birthday

It is Birthday week at our house and Lexi kicked it all off.

All moms say it but I can't believe it has been six years since I first held this beautiful dark haired baby girl in my arms.

It was Lexi's off year for a big birthday party so she had a couple of friends over before school.

We had a girls lunch date at McDonald's.

Nana Dixie came to town to celebrate with Lexi. After dinner we all went for ice cream and shakes.

Lexi has been asking for an alarm clock for a few months. I'm not sure why but she was really happy when she opened it. I hope that enthusiasm lasts when it is waking her up early in the morning. In her class they have Babs the bear that gets to come home on your birthday with you. We all got a kick out of her funny song and dance. Lexi had a great birthday. We love you!

Chelsey's Bridesmaid Luncheon

Chelsey had a fun bridesmaid luncheon to thank all her favorite girls for being a part of her upcoming wedding. Lexi is so excited to be a flower girl.

She has been looking forward to seeing her dress.

It was fun to see all ten dresses displayed before Chelsey gave them to her bridesmaids.

All the food and treats were so yummy! We can't wait for the big day.