Amber's 25th Birthday

This year I spent my birthday out with Michael's family.
We went to see the lights at Temple Square in SLC on the 6th. I've always wanted to go, but never actually walked through all the lights.
Then on the morning of my birthday Madelin made me breakfast crepes. A birthday tradition in thier home.

 That evening she also made us a nice Parmesan chicken dinner and birthday brownies. David and Ashli came up for dinner and we all watched Glass Castle together.

Hyrum's Farewell

Today we were able to travel up and see Michael's family before Hyrum left for his 2 year mission.
We went to church to hear his farewell speech, and then the whole family got together for a lunch with many of his friends and neighbors. This is the last time we will see him for the next 24 months.

We don't get all dressed up very often so I had to document it with a picture.

Evan can Drive!?

Today I took Evan to the DMV to take his leaners permit test.

He failed the first time, but they told him he could retake the test the same day so I spent 5 hours in the DMV waiting for him to retake the test.

Luckily he was able to pass on the second try and is now a legal practice driver!

As soon as we were done at the DMV I had an appointment so Evan got to drive straight onto the highway his first time behind the wheel. And he did surprisingly well.

Brooks is Born!

Tonight my best friend gave birth to her 3rd child.

They didn't find out the gender until he arrived, which made the anticipation of delivery even more exciting. And while I was hoping for another girl, I am beyond thrilled that Royce has a cute little brother!

Congratulations to Kesley & Bridger on another healthy and beautiful baby.

They are out here setting false expectations for how cute and perfect kids are. 

Fall Family Photos 2019

Every Fall we have to have our pictures taken. Its a tradition now that somewhere September-October we Always take our pictures together. 

Usually our "Family Photos" include our Fur-children. But with it being hunting season in the mountains I figured it was safer to leave them home this time.

                                

Evan came out with us and I set up the poses and camera and had him take the pictures.

I bought a clicker for my camera, but it only works if it is pointed directly at the camera and that makes for awkward shots. So luckily he was there to help us and we got these great pictures!

Welcome Home Elder Smith!

Michael's brother Steven returned home from his Mission this week.

Unfortunately I had to work but Michael was able to go out and see all his family this weekend for Steven's Homecoming.

Steven served 2 years in Seattle WA. And is finally home! Just in time for their youngest brother to leave for his mission in a few short months. 

I LOVE this picture! My husband is so handsome! 😍

Labor Day Weekend

For the first time in over 4 years, we got to go Camping!
We went up to the mountains with my Grandparents and little brothers.

We stayed in a tent out there, then spent our days hiking and fishing all over the mountain. We saw 3 moose, a bull, then a mother and baby further down. We fished at Spirit Lake. And Michael out fished us all!

It was so nice to be able to get out in nature again after so long!

It makes me really appreciate the place I grew up and how close it is to so many outdoor adventures!
Utah will always be my favorite State.