Fun in Utah

We knew we weren't in DC in anymore when this became our morning commute.

About 40 miles south of Jackson, WY, on Route 189, we encountered "traffic". I think I'll take the hooves and tails anyday over the bumpers and taillights we're used to.

Five hours later, we arrived at Aaron and Stacia's in Midvale, Utah. Immediately we were ushered into the world of storytelling, pink nail polish, trains, and an energy level I envy. John and Lydia are at precious ages, almost 6 and 4 respectively, and Phill and I relish our Uncle and Aunt time with them. John is reading at a most impressive rate, and Lydia has become quite the artist. They are proud of their abilities and rightly so. John can nearly ride his bike without training wheels, and Lyddie is already saving her money for toys she'd like in the future.

We spent Saturday afternoon, first at a eclectic German grocery, then on a hike to Doughnut Falls. The kids are so inquisitive. It amazed me how foolish and uninformed a five-year-old can make a twenty-eight year old feel!

Stacie made a most delicious cherry pie (my favorite!) for us to enjoy that evening. She and the kids had gone cherry picking the day prior and the counters were lined with their bounty. Sunday was filled with church service, nail painting, riding bikes, jumping on the trampoline, cherry jelly making and a nice dinner out at a local favorite. By nine o'clock they had worn us out!

We so enjoyed our time with them. It's the first opportunity we've had to spend together as just the six of us. We had some great conversations, laughed constantly at the various stories the kids told us, and ate up all the hugs and kisses John and Lydia poured on us. There was even time for the Shafovaloff men to try their tastebuds on octopus. Even with Uncle Phill announcing it tasted like chicken, I'm not sure I'll ever forget the look on poor John's face as the taste finally set in on his tongue!

So alas, we come to a little break in our journey westward. Phill and I have returned to DC for a few weeks, as we have some commitments back here to tend to. Stay tuned, however, as I'll return on the blog July 16. We'll complete the last stage of the drive to Seattle that week. Until then, have great starts to your summers, a safe 4th of July, and stay cool!