Upper Peninsula, Summer 2011

While Lawson and Alex were here visiting we had to go to the UP. It was such beautiful weather! 

We stayed at Grandma and Papa's house and got an early start to the day.

First stop - Castle Rock Souvenir Barn

We climbed 170 steps to the top and had a good look around. From here we can see the lake (of course) and the Mackinac Bridge. And trees. Lots. Of. Trees.

This was the first time our youngins had been to the UP in a very long time. For Lawson, definitely a first!

Alex brought along her baby bump. What a trooper baby Jett was.

Colin - stand here so I can take your picture with this awesome scenery. Thanks.

A little windy, as can be expected this high up right off the water. I wore my hat on purpose.

Love these boys. So silly. 

But really, there was a little tiny fence keeping us from falling 195.8 feet to the ground.

Kirtland, Summer 2011

While Alex and Lawson were here from Idaho, we took the opportunity to visit Kirtland, Ohio, an LDS Church historical site. I have been there a few times over the years, and each time it is better. 

One of the highlights of Kirtland is the temple, the first one built in current times, although it is not used currently as an LDS temple any longer. In fact, this temple is not even owned by the church - It is owned by the Community of Christ Church. They do a terrific job of maintaining the building and the grounds, and showing people around.

But there is lots to do and see in Kirtland. The LDS church has many historical sites to see with tours by missionaries. You cannot help but feel the spirit in this place!

Starting at the visitor's center, we visited so many fun places and learned so much. At the sawmill, I have to say I was a little nervous about these humongous teeth on the blades!

At the ashery, Liam handled the shovel like a pro, and may have violated a few child labor laws.

Lots of walking, but it was such a beautiful day!

Other sites include the Newel K Whitney store, the schoolhouse and the Johnson Inn Resource Center. So much to learn!

On the steps of the Kirtland Temple.

What an awesome sacrifice to build such a House of the Lord. 

(We did discover a nest in one of the windows. Glad it was up high.)

A great place to visit and renew our testimony of the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Fifteen

Colin had a birthday recently. 

Fifteen. 

Finished his first year of high school.

Lettered in track.

Taking driver's ed this summer.

Oh man, how can he be fifteen already?

Every year for his birthday, Colin wants strawberry frosted donuts. No sprinkles. 

Colin is consistent. 

When he was little, every morning he would wake up, shuffle into the kitchen, ask for Rice Crispies with milk, and juice in his purple cup. Then shuffle to the bathroom. Then back to the kitchen for breakfast. He would eat in silence - It took him a while to get going in the morning.

He did this every single day for years.

He still is a creature of habit. 

He still shuffles to the kitchen for breakfast. He still needs some time to wake up, and still very quiet in the morning. He did switch to honey nut cheerios a few years ago though. 

Gotta watch that kid.

(Black and red bracelet made by his friend Emily.)

I am pretty sure one of the things Colin likes most about birthdays, besides the strawberry frosted donuts, is lighting the candles. 

He loves to get his hands on the lighter. 

Hero modified another lighter so that the flame is about 4 inches long. Colin did not get to use that one.

 Too bad.

Fifteen candles on one donut. Wonder when we will have to go to two donuts.

Love that smile.

When you turn fifteen, you blow candles out, but hopefully not out of the donut.

Happy Birthday Colin! 

Prom Night

This guy is growing up. 

Brenden went to Churchill's prom with his good friend Michelle. She graduated last year, and this is their second prom together. I love that even with her heels on, Brenden is taller.

It was a pretty hot day, so B was not wanting to put his jacket on.

He purchased a tux this year for much less than last year's rental. And he wore his own shoes - much more comfy.

Pictures were taken at a friends house. The fireplace was a nice background, but the little clock on the mantel kept popping out of people's heads.

After prom, Brenden and Michelle and friends swam and ate and hung out till three in the morning.

Staying out late is part of growing up, too.