Grandpa Ralph...

On April 24 we were able to get together with Reed's entire family and honor his Grandpa Ralph. He was shot in Iwo Jima during World War II and never received his Purple Heart. Reed's Aunt Kathy and Uncle Finn were able to do some research and remedy this situation. When Ralph walked in the door he looked really surprised, or maybe stunned would be a better word. It was so good to be able to spend time with the family, especially Ralph, who we do not see nearly enough. We ate at Stockman's in Manti, and the kids thought it was rather fancy as it had a scone, a salad course, the main course, and then dessert. Jake mentioned that "these fancy restaurants have the best cucumbers." Afterward we took the kids to walk the grounds at the Manti temple, and then we searched out some old headstones in Spring City. We had a great time, and hope to be able to visit again soon.

Baseball...

Reed was able to get free tickets to the home opener of the Salt Lake Bees, so we were excited to go and cheer on the home team. Unfortunately, they did not do so well. We had a great time, however, hanging out with Reed's co-workers and getting to know them. The kids somehow charmed the Chief into buying them some popcorn, so he is their new best friend! Jake was just happy shaking his money maker and embarrassing his sisters.

Softball..

A new season of softball is well underway. By this I mean that at least five nights a week are spent playing or practicing. Her coach is such a nut that he thinks we should take those other two days and spend them together as well. It is taking some getting used to. Taylor is doing great, and has even learned to bat left, which is another tool to put in her bag. We are happy to watch her play, we just wish it would warm up a bit!

Jake's Baptism...

Today Jake was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was so excited, that he kept asking if it was time to go yet. After the baptism when he was getting dressed he looked at Reed and said "I am so Happy," and he was. He was absolutely glowing. The speakers were Natalie and Logan Cameron, from our ward, and they did such an amazing job. Thanks to all who came and helped us celebrate Jake's special day!

As a side note: We were planning the menu for the dinner afterward and this is what he wanted:

Peanut butter finger sandwiches, cucumbers, olives, a bowl of chocolate chips, and chocolate milk. Needless to say, we went a different direction.

Adapt and Overcome...

We woke up on a beautiful Easter Sunday to a few inches of snow. The kids were in a panic as to how we would hunt for eggs. Grandpa Kerry was ingenious when he shoveled a maze into the grass and then dropped the eggs into the snow, some of which were white. The kids had a blast looking, and they could not leave the trail. It was great.

We were also treated to General Conference, which was once again amazing. I love to hear the Prophet and Apostles speak. I also try to listen occasionally.

A New Cub..

Jake became a cub scout and had his first pack meeting on April 4. He worked hard and was able to achieve his bobcat, and is now working on his wolf. Coming from an all girl family I dare say that the scouts have more accessories than my three sisters and I combined. Just saying.

The Devious Duo...

Last night the two "little's" approached their dad with a marvelous, wonderful, despicable plan. They knew that today was April Fool's Day and they had a diabolical idea. This morning that very plan was carried off without a hitch. Just as Taylor turned off the shower and began to step out to dry off, the fire alarm mysteriously went off. We hear a panicked yell from the bathroom, just as mayhem breaks out. "Is that the fire alarm?" she screamed at about the same time Reed is yelling for everyone to "GET OUT. GET TO THE MEETING PLACE. THERE IS A FIRE." Torey and Jake come ripping out of their rooms, and a very wet Taylor, wrapped in a towel, follows after them, yelling for them to meet at the mailbox. Reed is yelling, "JUST GO. I'LL GET MOM. DON'T TURN BACK. GO." Just as the kids hit the door, they realize that we are in the midst of an untimely spring snowstorm, and they hesitate for one small moment. No matter, the house is on fire, and we must get to that mailbox. It is the only place we can be safe. They step out onto the cold concrete porch and then make those brave few steps out onto the sidewalk, into the eye of the storm. At this point, mercy took over, and everyone looks at a dripping, cold, semi-naked Taylor and yells "April Fool's." The only thing we regret is that our photographer was off duty.