Timpanogos Cave

On the Fourth of July we hiked a mountain! Aaron's brother Tyler wanted to go to Timpanogos Cave and invited a whole bunch of us --- we had 16 people so we were a whole tour. Thank goodness it was often shady, because it was hot. 

Zeke and Nora loved the rock tunnels. 

The views were beautiful. There were times we could see the highway from high up and we enjoyed looking down at the tiny cars on the road below. 

Zeke wanted to be the first one up the mountain so he kept us moving. Nora wanted rest/snack breaks often, so we stopped at most of the benches to recharge. Zeke was up and insisting we continue on long before the rest of us were ready.

Inside the cave was beautiful. It's been a long time since I've been there, and I had forgotten how extensive the caves are. 

The kids loved that they got to use flashlights in the dark cave.

The way down went quickly  --- thank goodness because Nora was tired and whiny for most of it. Aaron carried her for a bit, but probably not more than 1/4 mile. She did almost the whole hike on her own two cute little feet. 

Not surprisingly, we were all sore the next day. The kids kind of staggered out of bed (after sleeping very well that night) were a little confused why their muscles didn't feel quite right. They recovered much quickly than the adults did. But we tried not to complain too much, because we had so much fun. 

Foot Pictures

For some reason my kids are obsessed with taking pictures of their feet. I guess that means you get to see all of Nora's cute shoes! (and some Zeke feet too)

Zeke's Birthday

Zeke partied 3 days in a row for his birthday this year. The first day was not his party, but a birthday party for a friend. Nora kind of weaseled her way into that party too (with the blessing of the hosts!) and they both had a great time. 

The next day was a family party. I had visions of making a layer cake with something pirate-y on top, but in the end we opted for cupcakes with pirate flags. I'm so happy with how they turned out!

Zeke got fun presents - several books, some clothes and some summer toys. 

And two new beyblades - he was hoping for those!

And, on the third day, we invited his friends over for a movie party. We had plans to watch Planes and eat popcorn, but the kids were happier to eat popcorn, run around, and play. We had the movie on in the background and popcorn everywhere - and fun was had by all. 

After the movie we did presents, followed by cupcakes with Dusty Crophopper flags. 

It was such a fun friend party. I was a little nervous because we had never done this before, but it turned out to be a smashing success. I loved getting to know his friends and meet their parents. Lots of fun for me too!

And- Zeke lost his first tooth a few days before his birthday, and his second about a week after. A great present for a 7 year old.

Easter Festivities

We just love Easter. I think it has something to do with all of the fun traditions, as well as the joy of spring weather and flowers. 

Saturday the kids found the box of baskets and Nora didn't want to put hers down. So we took a few pictures outside with our lovely tulips and snow glories. 

Then we colored eggs. 

Sunday morning we hunted those Easter eggs, 

and ate chocolate bunnies.

And took pictures before church. I had a hard time getting good ones because they wouldn't focus... maybe it was all the sugar?

Then it was off to grandma's for dinner and family and a few fun Easter surprises. We had a such a great holiday weekend!