More Fun... in Idaho

I couldn't help myself. My nieces and nephews are so dang cute that I took a "few" more pictures around the farm. Here's a few of my favorites. I was a little sad that we didn't make it up to our ranch. We just ran out of time. I was hoping for some fish. Maybe next time... unless my sweet little brother lets ALL his friends go up. :)

One of the nights we went to Riot Zone. It's a fun little park with bumper boats, race cars, and some other fun rides in Rigby. It was hilarious to watch the kids. I think their favorite ride was the race cars. We did have a little drama... Carson had a hard time with the ride. You could tell that he really wanted to go but was a little concerned/scared. After watching his little brother McKay(who is four) and the adults praising his abilities to drive the 4wheeler... he decided he would try. After his 1st try he was hooked and we couldn't get him off of them.

McKay was the funniest to watch. He almost didn't qualify to drive. He barley made the height. He was determined... He Could DO It!!! After the first lap of running into the curbing (I should say-- CRASHING) he got the hang of it and did a great job!!! I was impressed.



Hallie and Riley were the Rock Climbers. I was amazed... you would blink and Hallie would be to the top. She was awesome!

Poor Wyatt was not having as much fun... Until he found the water. We couldn't keep him out of it. In the middle of the bouncers there was a mister to help keep the kids cool. Wyatt loved standing right under it.

The kids really had a great time. The were sad when they had to leave. Here's a few extra random pictures.



And then it was time for the Knudsen's to leave. Don't ask me why I didn't get any pictures of them... I'm a major slacker! After the Knudsen's left it was then the Hilton's turn to leave. The girls were a little sad but excited to be on their way to pick up Sadie (their new puppy). I think Brad was glad they were leaving. He didn't have any more room in the truck.

Aunt Jan with the kids

I found when I was home a few things had changed. The major one: My parents no longer go to the same church building. Who knew that Iona would ever be big enough to need another building. To be honest, I was really bummed about it. I love going and seeing all the "regulars" when I'm home. I like the small town appeal... where everyone knows you.

The new building is beautiful. I still saw a few people... but it didn't feel like home. I guess change is inevitable...but I DON'T have to like it. :)

I did get to go to one of my favorites places of all time. If you want some good food then Chiz's in St. Anthony is the place to go. It's this little dive that I love!

I took Jon and his family... the parents didn't go. But me being the nice daughter that I am, brought some food back for them. I did score points for that. :) I love the shrimp. Last time I was home, I had heard that they were going to close. I was so sad. Hopefully they stay in business forever.

On the 4Th we celebrated with the Iona Loin's Breakfast. It was delicious. I went to Stacie's for a barbecue. I had so much fun seeing all her family. Later we had family fireworks at the Doman's. I didn't want to go to the river and fight the crowd. The next morning I left to come back to AZ. I had a good trip and was very happy to touch base with a few of my friends. The only thing that could have been better... was more time. :)

They name her "LUCKY"

If you can't tell by Carson's face... He couldn't be happier. Out of all my brother's boys, Carson has been the most excited to be getting a dog. I don't know how long he has been asking for one. Don't misunderstand... the other boys are excited. BUT Carson has a "thing" for animals. I'm not sure how to explain it other than he truly loves and cares for them. I call it a gift. I'm sure if you asked him who's dog it is... He would tell you "HIS". :)

I think her name fits her.... I think it's how the boys feel about her.

They are "LUCKY" to have her!

Puppy... Puppies???

These will be the newest little additions to our family. Can you believe that Sophie will no longer be the only 4-legged barking grandchild? Not certain how she will feel about that... I have a feeling it won't go over well. :) She has been so spoiled thanks to my siblings and their kids. I can't tell who is more excited for the new puppies... my nieces and nephews or my sister and brother.

Introducing...

SADIE RAE HILTON (aka "Sara")

This is the sweet little baby girl that will shortly be joining my sister's family. Like Sophie, SADIE is a Black and Silver Miniature Schnauzer. Sadie is only 2wks old in this picture. I loved that they are naming her after their Grandma Cheryl. They will be bringing her home July 5Th... And the girls are COUNTING the days! :)
www.ludwigsminischnauzers.com/

???? JUDY

This is the Judy's little girl. Finally another girl in the family. j/k :) They haven't named her yet.... or maybe I'm still on the "BAD LIST" and they are not telling me. Not sure if they have forgiven me for the baby slip yet. :) Yes- I did say baby slip... Jon and Kristen are going to have another baby boy.

You can already tell that she is going to fit right in with the all the boys... she loves the outdoors! She is an Aussie. You can go to this website and see more pictures of her. http://www.hillmanaussies.com/

The Newest San Diego Charger Fan

Cole Joseph Anderson

Born: May 13, 2009 at 12:03 AM

6 pounds 15 ounces- 20 inches long

I couldn't be more thrilled for my cousin, Jon. He and his wife, April, welcomed this beautiful baby boy into their home. I know that they will be wonderful parents! I loved these pictures of Jon holding Cole. I feel really bad that I didn't get any pictures with April... I'll get a few next time I go over. :)

It was so fun to go over last night and meet Cole for the 1st time. I even got to hold him. :) I always seem to forget how tiny they are. Talk about a sweet little handsome guy.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

I've enjoyed my flowers this year. Unfortunately, it is NOW getting hot...so they won't be as beautiful for long. :(

This is Friday, a cat that has adopted me, hanging out. Sophie and him have become friends.

Yes-I'm finally getting around to post a few pictures of my garden. Try not to be too judgemental... I do have a few "weeds". :) I'll get to them this weekend. I really miss the parents garden! I love eating all the fresh fruits and veggies.

Where has the time gone?

If you would have told me that my parents were going to stay with me for two months... I would have said you were crazy! We all know how long Bob likes to stay in one place other than home. :) I can't believe how fast the time flew by. Yesterday when I went home... it was so sad... only Sophie greeted me at the door. I'm really grateful my parents could come down and spend time with me. It was so fun to have them! I especially appreciate all my "honey does" they helped me accomplish. :) We did manage to find some time to play. Here's a recap of some of our adventures.

We visited several nurserys and gardens. I loved these chickens. Had to take a picture.

Spring Training Baseball Game

We saw the Cubs and the Angels play. I had never been to a game before. It was a first for all of us except Aunt Joann. It was fun. We had awesome seats in the shade. We had to have hot dogs, Cracker Jacks & peanuts. :) It was all tasty!

Prehistoric irrigation in the Salt River Valley

This was a neat little stop. It shows how the Indians irrigated. You can still see some of the original canals below.

Mom & Bob

Aunt Joann, Bob & Mom

Botanical Garden

A few random shots.

Family and Friends

The parents were able to see many friends and family members. I know that they enjoyed visiting with everyone.

Aunt Connie's Birthday Lunch

Mom, Aunt Joann, Aunt Colleen, Aunt Connie & Sonja

Can You Say COACH

I love my sister... she is awesome! She bought my mom and I Coach purses. Her & the girls surprised us. I love mine!!! Thank-you! Thank-you!!!