Uncle Matthew's Wedding

Mid-December we traveled to Utah for Matthew's (David's brother) wedding. We were glad to be able to visit David's side of the family. Taylin still had school and David had a small window before he had to be back to work, so we looked into flying. Our original plan was for me to drive myself and the kiddos up Thursday or Friday and David would fly in Friday night. Then I would drive back and David maybe drive back with me on Sunday. We found some great deals through Southwest. I was not looking forward to packing everything in suitcases. When you drive, everything doesn't have to be in a bag. Then venturing through the airport with a family of six (still weird to say) and four car seats. Once we checked three of the four car seats and luggage it wasn't too bad. The kids did great through security. Several people came up to us and were very impressed at the kids behavior. I think it is because they were so dumbfounded by the whole process. I also feel like I had some experience after our trip to Spain and the TIGHT security in London. I forgot about the ease of slip on shoes, but was more concerned about everyone's shoes staying on as we walked through the airport and their feet staying warm when we got off in Utah. We lost one sock, but everything else went through smoothly. We were so worried about being on time, that we had plenty of time to spare. Thank goodness for the play area. The kids couldn't wait another second for their plane ride.
I thought putting shoes on Teague's feet on the way back would remedy the loss of socks. Then I forgot to take them off through security on the way back (my terrorist child). They made sure his shoes were off, but no one said anything about the jacket I forgot to take off. Maybe because it was a pull over. Or they realized my innocence, "Poor thing, she has her hands full. She couldn't set off a bomb if she tried. Not without a third arm."

We enjoyed our time staying with David's cousin, Gustovo, his wife Jenny, and their beautiful girls in Provo.

David needed to be at the temple early, so we all drove to Salt Lake City. We weren't sure about parking...as we drove around and drove around, but were not excited about walking with the kiddos in the snow (aka me and four kiddos whom we are all not dressed in snow attire...from warm dress clothes to snow/water proof boots). We were running out of time, so I dropped David off. I finally just went for the parking garage $10 or not. We hadn't figured out the windshield wipers on the rental mini-van (oh we missed our van) so the windshield was dirty and it was hard to see underground. The "guy in the booth" let me go on through. Yeah it was free parking day. I found a parking spot no problem. I had no idea where I was coming out of the parking garage. It was obvious, since I parked at the bottom of the ramp and had to climb all the way up with Teague and Kennedy in my arms while Cohen was waking up and whining to be held the entire time. It was slippery and very dirty. What an adventure! There is a happy ending.





At the top of the hill were the elevators and I still had a four year old that wanted to be carried. I was definitely being watched over. After being entertained by my trek, a sweet lady noticed my struggle. She asked if she could help. As stubborn and independent as I am, I did not turn down her offer. She took Teague. I know had Cohen and Kennedy in tow. We went about 30 more yards to the stop light and this friendly lady had a friendly husband who grabbed Kennedy as we crossed to enter the temple. They sat with me as we waited to go into the child's room. I told them they could go, because I knew they needed to get to their event. After all this we found out we were going to the same sealing ceremony. She was Brittany's family, Matthew's wife ;) I was very thankful!!!!! Very thankful! Even though it was cold. I had no idea, I was gently perspiring for my efforts.





Phew! The kids were in good hands and I joined David as we walked to the waiting area. Thank you Piti and Grandpa. We then met much of Brittany's family. They are so sweet. What a great family!





The ceremony was beautiful. I haven't been to one in a long time. The sealer shared great words of wisdom which were a great reminder for David and I. I fell in love with David even more. I am thankful for a fantastic husband that I enjoy being with and love the relationship we have. It never gets old! Love it. We wish the best to Matthew and Brittney! Welcome Brittany to the family! You two are so blessed to have each other. We feel pretty blessed to have you too!

We attended church meetings Sunday morning. Again we were ill-prepared as we slid into the chapel on the slippery ice/slushy snow. I let David drive. A few people were skidding and almost got stuck. David left Sunday afternoon by plane. He barely made it on time. We underestimated the time it takes one person to get on the plane. He took all the extra baggage, so all I had to take back was two small carry-ons and check one small bag (yes, car seats still in tow). I was fortunate to have David's family on my flight to Phoenix. Clifford rode with me to drop off the rental and then check in. The kids were excellent on the way home too. Of course they were nicely spread out and, the flight attendants gave them packets to color. Kennedy fell asleep, so I just had Teague to entertain. Fun times, had by all.

Next time we would love to stay longer. We enjoyed being with Gustovo's family and getting to know them better. We enjoyed being with David's family too. Funny we met up in Utah. Teague and cousin Luke had fun moving around new territory, as well as seeing another baby. We were also only 15 minutes from the Hadleys. Had I planned better and had more time. I would have done better. I was so sad. What a tease!