4th of July

Just like every year, we headed up to Idaho Falls for the 4th of July. And as always, it didn't disappoint. Krew and Myla love going to visit Grandma and Grandpa Backman. One of Krew's favorite things is catching bugs with Grandpa. 

Krew showing their catches for the day.

 I think there was a worm in there, who didn't last very long.

I love how Myla is smiling so proudly.

 On the morning of the 4th, we always hit up the parade which is conveniently located just a block away from Jorden's parents' house (no frustrating parking for us).

 I love that my sister Megan is in Rexburg, so every time we go to Idaho we get to see her too. We watched the parade together and then she and David were able to come to Jorden's parents' for lunch afterwards. I'll be so sad when they move to Texas next year!

 Patiently waiting for the parade to start. They handed out these American flags, which kept Myla entertained for quite some time.

Someone was really excited to see some firetrucks!

I love Krew's silliness! 

 Someone didn't last long. This tired glare is evidence of the impeding doom. 

And there she goes!

 After the parade, we went back to Grandma's to cool off.

Krew was having a blast running and jumping into the mini pool.

Myla mostly put her leg in and out of the pool.

 She was more into the slip-n-slide. Although for her, it was more like run and fall.

Krew had to show her how it was done, like a pro!

She just wasn't a fan of getting sprayed directly.

Luckily she got used to it, mostly because she wanted to keep up with her big brother.

 I'm pretty sure the adults had just as much fun as the kids.

Jorden:

Blake:

Harvey was so curious but was not about to get wet!

 Myla hanging out in her favorite chair,

and her favorite car.

 

Later that evening we headed to the firework show. You have to leave so early to get a decent spot, so the kids had several hours to kill. What better thing to do than build a nest for a bird "so they don't have to".

 A bird would be crazy not to use this nest, Krew!

 Picture with my honey.

 Someone sneaking in for some snuggles.

Love this little family of mine!

More of the self-entertaining thing. Or maybe someone made a makeshift jail to keep themselves entertained. hmmmmm

Grandma and Grandpa had plenty of treats to keep us from starving to death.

 When the cotton candy was about gone, it was time for the show to start!

 Sadly, someone didn't it make it long enough to see it. 

The next day we headed to Tautphaus Park.
Uncle Chet pushed Myla,

and Jorden pushed Krew.

 

 I love the amount of joy in this picture.

Thanks for all the fun Backmans! It was a perfect 4th of July.

Montana Visitors and First Day of School

At the beginning of September my Dad needed to come visit some clients in Utah. I think that was just an excuse and they were dying to come visit me. For whatever the reason, I am so glad they came down. While they were in town, we decided to hit up Payson for Onion Days. I've never had the privilege of seeing or even knowing what Onion Days is all about, so this was exciting stuff! We started the morning off at the parade. 

 It was a beautiful day. Not too hot and not too cold. But I think it is safe to say, Myla did not enjoy those ambulance sirens! Or was it because Grandma looked at her? I can't remember, but this girl seriously needs to get over her stranger-danger, or at least understand who strangers are!

 It seemed like the entire town of Payson came out for the parade. We were pretty much elbow-to-elbow with other parade-goers. But it was so worth it! They had some pretty impressive floats and Krew got his fair share of candy and treats!

After the parade we took the opportunity to visit my Grandma and Grandpa Kenison's grave. I'm so glad we did. I really enjoyed hearing my Mom tell me about all the surrounding headstones of relatives and friends. 

                      All while Krew found big sticks to play with.

Next stop was the Payson Temple. I was surprised at how big it is. It is so beautiful and I can't wait to see it when it's complete!

The next day we headed over to The Gardens at Thanksgiving Point. Even though I live so close, I've never made it over here. Krew had a blast, so I think I will probably be purchasing a pass next year! They have the neatest splash pad, built to look like Noah's Ark.

Krew wasted no time getting soaking wet! I had no idea they even had a splash pad so of course I didn't have a change of clothes for him, so worth the fun of course!!

 They had fun little tunnels and caves all over the place.  A 4-year-old boy's dream come true!

This climbing thing looks like a lot of fun but let's just say Krew is a little cautious. Grandpa convinced him to go through a few ropes and holes but he wouldn't go further than that. Kind of looks like a broken bone waiting to happen. Maybe I'm a paranoid mother but I don't always mind when Krew is so cautious!

Telling us all about the different bugs.

Krew and Grandpa feeding goldfish to the fish. Is that considered cannibalism?!

 It is a beautiful place!

With a handsome boy!

A soaking wet handsome boy!

We were able to go to a few of my Mom's and my favorite places.

 Kneader's, where Krew got some lovin' from Grandpa.

And Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Love those caramel apples!

Grandma and Grandpa were lucky enough to see Krew off to his first day of preschool.

 How on Earth does this happen?! One day he's born and the next day he's off to school! 

I just LOVE my little family, and couldn't be more blessed!

Krew was so excited! He was hiding from me trying to convince me he was already at school. I almost believed him...almost.

Luckily the preschool is just a few houses down. He was so excited that he ran the entire way.

Until he finally made it!

His enthusiasm hasn't changed. He runs everyday to school. Some days it may or may not be because we are running late!

We made the first day a family affair. Myla was fresh out of bed with tired eyes and Jorden lookin' sharp in his work attire.

These two waited outside while I took Krew down to his classroom.

Checking out his new school.

Immediately finding the books. Krew loves books!

and his special hook for his backpack.

  I was a little bit nervous Krew wouldn't want me to leave. I was ready and willing to stay for as long as I was needed until he was comfortable. It was approximately 1.3 seconds. I gave him a kiss on the cheek and he responded, "Ugh Mom! Don't kiss me!" Then wiped it off. He has NEVER. DONE. THAT. BEFORE! Did he have to start on the first day of school, when it's an emotional day for me anyway?!

It was a very bittersweet day,

for all of us.

But I think we'll be okay.