Saturday, July 10, 2010

Maren's Baptism Day


This day has been very special.  Maren was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  She has looked forward to, planned and prepared for her baptism day for several months.  We gathered with loving grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins and a few dear friends.  It has certainly been a memorable, happy day for our family.         




Cousins practice their musical number

Before the baptism with Grandma and Grandpa Tanner

Maren with Grandma and Grandpa Butler

Following the baptism we enjoyed a brunch together

A custom-made cake for Maren and her guests

It's great to be eight!

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Hiking Stewart Falls

Yesterday Brian took Nathan and his cousin Max to Sundance (ski resort, home of Robert Redford and the Sundance Film Festival).  During the summer, Sundance becomes a laid-back destination for hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers. 

On the chairlift to Arrowhead Summit

Snow in the mountains--in July!

Arrowhead Summit--home base for hiking to Stewart Falls

Many interesting trees along the way

Great view of the Sundance valley

The trail to the falls was beautiful

Brian and the boys ate their lunch at the bottom of Stewart Falls and enjoyed their afternoon outdoors. 

Stewart Falls

Monday, July 5, 2010

Happy Fourth of July

We've had a wonderful time celebrating Independence Day in beautiful Utah!




Caroline sitting next to her adoring cousin, Madeline

Nathan and Maren were amazed with the awesome fireworks and music by Carrie Underwood at this year's Stadium of Fire in Provo.  The McEwan family joined us for the enjoyable evening. 



We have really enjoyed all the family time, fireworks, parades and picnics.  Our celebrating began in the city of Fillmore,  Brian's hometown.  I regret not having any pictures of our visit there (non-functioning camera).  Thanks to Rita (Brian's mother) for all the delicious food, fun games, and accomodations.  It was so nice to visit with you all! 

Our family just finished another full day of Fourth of July festivites in Provo.  Here are a few pictures of the children enjoying themselves.

Caroline loves to water the flowers.

You'll find Nathan speeding around on this little red scooter or dipping his feet in the backyard pond.


Maren has enjoyed every minute with her cousins and an occasional ride on this four wheeler.

Cousin Brigham shares his favorite blocks with Caroline.

This little girl loves the wildlife mounted in Grandpa's garage.  Grandpa stands close by as she stands on top of the refrigerator to give the deer a hug.  She requests to do this several times a day.


Caroline enjoys riding in the wagon with her big brother and puppy.

We are grateful for the opportunity to visit and decorate Sarah's grave.

Everybody loves Grandpa!