Monday, September 07, 2009

There's no place like home. . .

What a crazy month! A few of the highlights for us:

For Larkin's graduation, I took her on a trip to the land of my forefathers: Indiana! It was so good to show her my old stomping grounds and to introduce her to family that I love! We flew into O'Hare and drove over to Indiana. We were able to stay with my cousin, Jill, and her family. What a great time! They were wonderful to stay with and we had so much fun. My cousin, Cara, put together a surprise party for my Grandma Luke's 90th birthday. She was surprised to say the least. It was wonderful to see my aunts, uncles, cousins, their kids, etc. There were some family members I hadn't seen in 20+ years. It was wonderful to be with people who love and miss my parents as much I do. Larkin had a wonderful time meeting people who thought she was wonderful instantaneously. After spending time in Indiana/Michigan, we spent a couple of days in Chicago. What a fun place to visit! We hit museums, shopping, a White Sox game, and the 95th floor of the Hancock Building. . .yes I am afraid of heights, but did it anyway! I believe there were promises of a visit out west by certain people:) On the way back, we were bumped to Minneapolis. Sad day, Mall of America called our name for a few hours! Larkin was so disappointed. . . not.

Frankie and I were able to make a trip down to Provo for Larkin's thesis defense. She officially passed! Then we were able to go down for graduation. The day before we were able to hook up with Urpy and Rob Rogers and their girls! We love their family. We hadn't seen them in way too long. It was a terrific bonus! What an amazing day to see Bugs achieve a masters degree in communication disorders. She did it! All her hard work paid off. We were thrilled for her and the progress she made over the last six years. Way to go Bug! She is now working in the Alpine School District as a speech pathologist.

I was able to go to Minneapolis and "help" Brittanie and Marcus Darrington with their third baby, Will! It was more like a vacation to play with two darling girls and their baby brother. Marc is a wonderful father - it was kind of weird to see him in that roll ;) They were a sweet family and so fun to be there!

Two days after I returned, Frankie went to Casper to drive his mom to Grand Junction, Colorado. Frankie's oldest brother retired and the HMO he was the CEO of had a big shindig. Frankie's brother, Rod, was able to fly in as well. He had such a good time. The scary part was that he was giving his mom computer tips - anyone who knows Frankie know that as a family, we never imagined him giving anyone help on the computer! Way to go Frankie!!!

While Frankie was gone and David worked, Jessie orchestrated their move into a new townhome. Man, talk about family stepping up big! Terry, Savannah, Roz, Brad, Tanner, Jackie, Mark, and Dan helped move. We did it all in one trip thanks to everyone's trucks and Terry's trailer! And of course, Camille watched Bella! Thanks to all.

Then to wrap it up our nephew, Travis, got married to Betsey! We love them both. The next day our cousin, Markell got married. We are excited for both couples. Needless to say, life has been incredibly busy with good things.

September. . .we hope is slower. . .and we hope to be home more. . .

Much Love.