Its All About Family

During the summer we were able to fly back to the US and visit with family and friends.  One main event was Amber's family reunion, held in St. George, Utah.  

First day included celebrating Drake's 5th birthday.  He requested a piñata, which was perfect with so many little cousins around.

Not missing out on any of these wishes!!!!

The next best thing was the swimming pool!!

First night included an impromptu cannon ball contest.  Participants were judged on form, yell and splash.  Talk about cut throat competition.  Overall winner. . .drum roll. . . Lane!  You should have heard his yell!!!

Field trip to Grafton Ghost Town

This little town had its fair share of trouble and rough times.  Once it was finally abandoned it became a great spot for movie backdrops.

Our own little family headed to Zion's National Park.  Enjoyed a hike, the rocks, the views and a lizard or two.

Cedar City Temple

Just stopped for a quick picture.  We were in town visiting an old friend of Amber's. 

"Hey guys!  We had a fun time and it was good to see you again!!!"

St. George Temple

We spent the day doing family names.

I had the wonderful experience of having my son baptize me for family names.  Guy, although still 15, became a Priest at the beginning of the year with the announcement of the new age changes.  As a Priest Guy is now able to do the actual baptizing.  I witnessed him baptize Duncan a few times, but this was the first time I was a participant with him.  What exciting times we live in! 

The boys and Grandma

Fun day at the fun center!

Nothing like a friendly competition between family. . .

Even the littles had their moment to shine.

Can't beat a mean game of bowling!  

Not to mention . . . laser tag, miniature golfing, bumper boats, arcade and prizes.

I wonder where he learned to ride?

While in Southern Utah you can't miss a climb on the red rocks.

Or sit. . . Dixie Rock overlooking the St. George Temple.

We were grateful to have an opportunity to serve in the Lord's House.  This November they will close the temple for renovations.  Although this pioneer temple needs a few upgrades, like air conditioning, it was wonderful to see it "before" the "after".

My Little Big Brother

Picked up my little big brother from the airport.  His flight arrived an hour early making me late getting to him.  Sorry bro.  He came to stay with us for about five days, then he took off to explore other countries.  His amazing adventure has inspired us, now we are trying to copy his itinerary for our next big trip.

Of course one of the musts on the list is the Great Wall!!!  

My brother's list included: eat a scorpion, tarantula and octopus so off to Wangfujing Night Market we went.

I finally had a bite of scorpion. . .check that off the list, although truth be told, it was never on my list.  The Octopus was the hardest for him, a bit too rubbery.

Drake and I took him to the Summer Palace.  

The Long Corridor.  Very long and very rare to find an area without people in the way.

Four Buddha Kings

Temple of Heaven

Once my brother finished playing all around Asia, he came back to stay for a few more days before heading back home.  Out we went to catch more sites.

Bell and Drum Tower

Beihei Park which has the best version of the Nine Dragon Screen, see below.

Can't beat the scooter for getting around to all the sites.

Thanks little brother for coming to visit us!!!!