Griffin's are in Town!

You know when the Griffin's are in town, we're in for non stop quality family bonding.  Rusty earned his Masters Degree from Utah State and came to walk in the ceremony.  Jimmy and Claire made the trek from Chicago to support Rusty and visit Utah for the first time.

There's not much cuter than these three reunited.  My boys had quite the cheering section this week at all their games.  They love playing for their awesome fans.

Rick surprised us at the luncheon before the ceremony!  We couldn't be more proud of Rusty and all he's been able to accomplish.

A fun night out on the town was in order.  We ate at a cool new spot called Lake Effect.  The food was incredible, the drinks were flowing. and the music was blasting.  Jenni's friend Jeremy fit right in with our craziness.

These sisters in law of mine can't be beat.  Way too much fun in the bathroom.  It was such a great night!

Cole loved watching Sam play soccer the following day.  We had a pretty epic BBQ at our house that night. 

This game of spike ball got much more serious the second the shirts came off.

Jimmy on the tramp makes me laugh.  He transported 30 homemade sausages from Chicago just for this party and boy were they delicious.

Jenni's birthday absolutely fell on the right day.  The highlight for me was when Randy, Rick, and Rusty bleached Dyson's hair.  There's nothing like watching the masters in action.

You know it's a good night when the leatherman's jackets come out. Cavemen til we die!  As the party ended around midnight there were tears shed by all.  It's not too often that we all get together like this.  When we do, it's very special.  We are so incredibly lucky to have such an awesome family who loves to spend time together.  I love that everyone looks forward to our BBQ's.  It's so fun to see Randy so happy when his bros are here.  I wish they lived closer.

Final Bear Hollow Field Trip

I've been dreading this day, my final field trip with Bear Hollow Preschool.  It was fitting that it happened to be at the zoo, my favorite field trip destination.  Having mom and Sarah there definitely softened the blow.  We had gorgeous weather and plenty of new baby animals to see.  

Sam loves his maps.

Almost as much as he loves Tucker and a box of Good n' Plenty's. 

There's nothing better than a 5 year old at the zoo.  This face captures it perfectly.  Everything is exciting and amazing through his eyes.  I love it!

Sam gave up his snake and rode the zebra so Tucker could have it.  That's what you do for best friends.

Dip n' Dots

Best zoo crew ever!

Oh my little lover!  I figure between my 3 boys I've attended 30 preschool field trips.  I've cherished this time with my boys so much.  There's been a little lump in my throat today.  I look at my darling Sam and can't believe how fast time has flown by. 

It's my Birthday!

Having a Monday birthday meant my celebrations lasted 3 days.  Randy planned a fun night away in the city.  We ate at a new restaurant called Meditrina.  Spanish style tapas and fabulous wine. It was the perfect meal with the perfect company.

Could he be any cuter?

We looked so good we had to continue the party on the dance floor at Sky Lounge.  We've still got it! There's no one I'd rather get older and wiser with.  I love my man!  Jeri was so sweet to watch the boys overnight for us.

The following day we had the entire family over to party.  I had way too much fun to be bothered with picture taking.  This is the best we got.

I got some wonderful gifts and completely enjoyed visiting with the people I love most.

I can't forget to mention my fabulous shopping trip with my sisters and my mom.  We had no trouble finding shoes, jackets, shorts, dresses, and tops.  I love this birthday tradition and I love these ladies with all my heart.

The following day was my actual birthday, and where better to celebrate but the ballpark at Mino's game.  They earned a win for me and Max played awesome.  

Check out these gorgeous flowers from my mom and dad.

Me and my boys!

As much as I cringe at the thought of being 37, I can honestly say I am happy and content with my life.  I am definitely where I'm supposed to be.  I'm surrounded by people whom I love and who love me.  Life is exciting, fun, and challenging.  With these studs by my side, I can do anything.  Cheering for Maxi at his ballgame next to my parents was the perfect ending to a fabulous birthday weekend.  I've been showered with love from so many and it feels amazing.  

April Randoms

Hank wasn't a fan of his 6th grade graduation picture.  I think it's adorable so I got it anyway.  I can't believe his elementary days are numbered.  Only one more month and he'll be a big 7th grader.

Good thing I have Russell to ease the pain of growing up kids.  He and Griffy are holding down the fort as the cutest almost 2 year olds in our family.

Griffy knows where to find food!  Russ always has something in his hand to eat.

Poor Max had a horrible diabetes night the same night our tramp almost cleared the fence.  Something was in the air that day.  I had to give him 2 shots to bring his blood sugar down and then he went low 3 times.  Poor dude hardly got any sleep.

Max has resumed his soccer season with the Purple Ninjas.

He has more confidence than he did in the fall.  He's scored at least one goal in each game so far.

Since his coach is pregnant, Randy has been stepping in during games to help out.  Coach of the year!

I'm still not over this last picture.  We showed up to one of Sam's games 20 minutes early only to find the team leaving the field.  The kids were all red faced and tired and my heart sank.  I had the wrong time for the game.  He was there an hour late.  To add insult to injury I was the treat mom.  Here I thought I was so on top of things with treats and arriving early.  Poor Sam burst into tears.  He was so excited to take Little Bear to his game.  I felt awful.  We consoled him with a family soccer game but this is going to haunt me for a long time.  I second guess every game time now.

Little Bear also got to come with us to Hank and Max's diabetes check up.  After the insane blood sugar we had on the cruise and the month prior I was nervous.  Their A1C's were slightly higher but not nearly as bad as I was expecting.  They are doing fabulous.  I'm so proud of them and so relieved.  Oh and Little Bear doesn't have diabetes so all is well!

Little Bear hanging out with the brahs.

Look who found the pirate costume.  Too bad we didn't have a little pirate costume for Little Bear.  This is our last time with him at our house.

What would I do without my little buddy always over my shoulder?

I've been taking some gorgeous runs with Griffy on Sunday.  I can't believe how well he keeps up with me.  He loves it and so do I.  I'm just a little afraid I'm working him too hard.

Speaking of running, I got to watch these two besties at the school walk a thon.  They are so different but get along so well.  I love their friendship.

The Jazz made it to the playoffs!  The six of us decided we couldn't pass up an opportunity to see an exciting post season game.  

And exciting it was!  My voice was gone by the end of the game.  The Jazz won a nail biter.  I forgot how fun playoff basketball was.  Totally worth the expensive ticket. Go Jazz!!!