Fourth of July in Utah

We worked out a pretty great way to visit Utah this summer with Dave sandwiching business trips on both ends of the visit.

One of our favorite traditions is taking our kids to the Thanksgiving Point Farm. Kyler was the perfect age for it, but apparently Aubrie liked it too!

Kyler wanted nothing to do with the pony rides though.

We also loved seeing family we don't get to see as often as we wish...like Great Grandpa Joines.

and even Aunt Natalie...

and Becca (and Chris) drove from Phoenix to visit.

The kids loved playing at the Children's Museum.

This was the second Fourth of July in a row that we spent in Utah. I think one of my highlights of last year was seeing Stadium of Fire. So we went for a repeat performance, but this time went as a girl's night.

We saw David Archuleta and Brad Paisely. Surprisingly, I liked David's performance better than Brad's.

Kyler enjoyed the trucks and horses at the 4th of July parade

As you can see, we definitely now have a boy in this house!

Sunday morning, prior to church, Aubrie, Ellie, Dave, and I were able to be at the Conference Center for a live patriotic broadcast of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Fourth of July might just be my favorite holiday, and hearing this huge and talented choir singing of our freedom was incredible! I think everyone deserves hearing the choir in person sing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." It is life changing!

Thank you Grandma T. for housing us, spoiling us, and providing great memories! We love you!