The trip out seemed to go relatively quickly. We only stopped once for Ellie to throw up, so that was progress. When we got to Snowflake, we spent four days reconnecting with Steve's sister Shauna and her family. We played games, watched movies, took trips into town, went swimming, and had dance parties. We also battled pink eye, ear drainage, and runny noses.
Spencer and Dallas playing some tunes
Pool time!
Aunt Shauna and Dallas
The kids loved the kitties
"Jumping" on the trampoline
Hunter practicing his driving skills...
...and learning to play the ukelele
We were so excited to take two days to head back down to the valley! We stayed the night with Steve's old roommate and his family. It was fun seeing old friends and eating at our favorite places that we miss. A highlight was re-introducing the kids to the Mesa Temple where we were sealed. The Christmas lights were up, and while the big reveal wasn't until Thanksgiving night two days later, we were lucky to be there right when the lights turned on that night. We were enchanted! It made me wish we were there every December to keep the tradition of visiting the temple lights and music program.
When we returned to Snowflake, we met a new friend who came to stay for Thanksgiving. She had served in our nephew Spencer's mission. She and Megan made empanadas one of the days we were there - YUM! Everyone pitched in and cooked and baked in preparation for Thanksgiving. Our brother-in-law Ashley's parents came over for the meal. Along with the rest of us, we had a crowd of 17 people for the meal. And what a tasty meal it was! We were just full enough to taste the desserts and come back later for more.
It was bittersweet leaving to return home. We know we'll see them again in a year or two, but it's not often enough! Add to that the LONGER return trip, snow and ice, more vomit and me being sick with sinus pain, coughing, sore throat and congestion, and we were trashed when we got home. It was worth the trip for sure, though!
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