Unforgetable Valentine

Valentine weekend found us in Utah for a mini reunion with Jim's side of the family. Jim did lots of skiing. His favorite experience of the weekend (the whole year!) was with Jacob skiing in deep powder at Alta. Not only did he enjoy Jacob's companionship, "flying" through that snow down the steepest slopes they could find was exhilarating! I settled for more "mundane" activities (but a whole lot more interesting to me) like having a much appreciated lunch with my parents and sister, Margy. I got to bake Valentine cookies with granddaughter Maggie shaped like Christmas trees, stars, gingerbread men and even some hearts (Maggie's choice). Even with the thin icing made from Elly's sparse powdered sugar supply (and the Christmas sprinkles), they turned out yummilicious! We stuck on a few candy hearts to remind us that it wasn't Christmas.:) A meeting with Elly and Sariah got things rolling for Sariah's wedding and reception.

We met with family members from Jim's side of the family at a BBQ restaurant one evening. That experience was one of the highlights of the trip not necessarily because of the food but because of the love felt. We were happy that we got to meet Cami's friend, Boone--a really nice guy. He's the tall one in the pictures.:)

After dinner, our immediate family members had a party at Elly's house. We laughed 'til our sides hurt playing "Duck, Duck, Goose" and "Fruit Basket" with the kids. I discovered that Boone's birthday is in October and have been teased non-stop ever since when I commented that we have lots of birthdays in October. Is it because both sons-in-law, at this point, have October birthdays?

Bright and early Sunday morning, Jacob, Sariah and Brett, Cami and Boone, Jim and I attended the Mormon Tabernacle Choir broadcast. What a fabulous experience! The choir's rendition of "The Prayer" was particularly moving for me. Thanks for that great idea, Jacob!

Jim and I attended church with Elly and visited with Grandma Wilson in the care center. Grandma didn't say much but we got a few smiles, even a giggle. She loved holding our hands and responded to our squeezes. We drove to Provo to share wedding advice with Sariah and Brett. They fed us a delicious chili dinner. Cami and Boone joined us. What a delightful evening!

The whole trip was an unforgettable Valentine treat.