Visit from Grandpa and Grandma

We were able to visit last week with Grandpa and Grandma California. They have been visiting the East coast for over 10 years now since Sonnet and I went to college in Virginia, but we were able to fit in some firsts for this trip. The day after they flew in there was a "lawful assembly" in front of the Capitol building in protest to the health care proposal that was being voted on the following day. This was my first time participating in something like this and I must say it was a good experience.

We were also able to take Grandpa and Grandma to the National Zoo. It was freezing, but we had a fun time. Anytime we saw one of these statues we would have to pose for a picture with it. One day I'm sure we will get a picture with all the statues in the park.

We also went to Fort McHenry. Now that was amazing. Learning the History of our Nation and the valiant people who laid their lives on the line so we could be free is always a wonderful experience.
We also were able to get some Parks family pictures while they were here. Grandma use to do photography so I always like to take advantage of her expertise. Here are some nice and silly pictures from that day.

We had so much fun with Grandpa and Grandma California the kids didn't want them to leave. Anna cried the whole way home from dropping them off at the airport. She asked Heavenly Father in her prayers tonight to, "Please help us see Grandma again soon." They are so sweet. Someday...Someday we will live closer to family...Someday...

Jared's Baptism

Our little man was baptized today. I can't believe how big he is. It was a really nice program. One of his Primary teachers spoke on baptism and she said some really nice things about Jared.

(Jared and his primary teacher Sister Hawes)
Kevin baptized Jared and Andy Johnson and Grandpa California were the witnesses. The water was a bit cold so when Jared came up out of the water he had a bit of a shocked look on his face. Anna has been worried for Jared about going under the water so when she saw his face she blurted out the question, "Are you OK Jared?" Jared kind of chuckled and reassured his sister that he was OK.

After Kevin and Jared changed Grandma California and I sang "I Feel My Savior's Love" and then Grandpa California Gave the talk on the Holy Ghost. After his conformation the Primary President and the Bishop welcomed Jared into the ward and bore their testimonies.

(Grandpa and Grandma California)

(Conformation Circle: Sam Wilkinson, Todd Benner, Quin Briggs, Grandpa California, Kevin, Paul Anderson, Andy Johnson, Bishop Rothlisberger)
Jared planned the whole program from the songs to the people involved. He has been looking forward to this for a while. Tonight for prayers he asked Heavenly Father to help him choose the right. After the prayer he turned to me and said, "I really hope I can choose the right." I told him that he already does and we love him so much. He is such a blessing and we are truly blessed to have him as a part of our family.

Trick or Treat

Friday we headed off the the ward Halloween party. We ate some yummy soup and salad and the kids played some games and then went outside for a little trunk or treating. Jared was dressed as OBeOne Kanobee (no idea how to spell that name), Anna was Fancy Nancy, and Audrey was a little birdie.


After the activity we stayed behind to help clean up and I just had to take some pictures of the kids. Did any of you out there ever do this when you were kids?


I remember a wood floor gym and getting some pretty good speed out of these things. I also remember getting in trouble for riding on them as well. Funny how kids find the same things to play with generations down.
Last night we met at some friends house for some pre-trick-or-treating snacks and playing. After a few pictures we headed out into the rainy night for some trick or treating.

The kids made out really well in the candy department and our supply should last through Easter I think. Lots of fun. Hope you all had a great Halloween.