Families are Forever

My dear sweet Grandpa passed away peacefully this afternoon. My heart is full...of sadness, gratitude, love, etc... Those who knew my Grandpappy knows of the amazing strength he had. Back in his younger years he worked in a mine pulling cable up mountains where he built an INCREDIBLE strength in his grip. Anyone that would shake his hand could feel his strong grip. If you wanted to shake it long enough, he would squeeze until your knuckles and fingers felt like they would break.
In his football days, he was given the name "Iron Mike". He definitely lived up to his name. He was an incredible athlete. He was one of BYU's star football players. In fact, he scored one of the winning touch downs that beat the "U" back in 1940's just before he left to war. Always a proud story we have of Grandpappy. In 2005 he was recognized and received BYU's 'hall of fame' in their athletic department. What an honor. So proud.
He served honorably in World War II. I always LOVED hearing his heroic stories of courage and strength that will stay with me forever.
Grandpa was an incredible piano player. He played by ear and could play just about anything you asked him too. Oh he was amazing. I can still hear his music playing in my mind and heart. It will live on forever.
I love you Grandpappy. You have been the greatest example of strength and courage. I am so blessed to have such an amazing Grandpa. His legacy will forever live strong.

4 Year Anniversary

Has it really been 4 years?

What a wonderful Anniversary we had. It was spent going to the Mt. Timpanogas Temple where we were married and sealed for time and all Eternity. We brought Emma along with us during the day but she crashed in the car on the way there and there was NO waking her back up when we got there. But it was fun remembering that special day where our little family unit started.

Later that evening, Derek and I had a wonderful get away. One that we have not had in a very, very long time. Our wonderful Mom's took shifts in taking care of Emma while we were away over night. We had a lovely dinner at 'the Roof' in Salt Lake. Talk about amazing view and food.
This was my favorite part, the never ending dessert bar.

We stayed over night at the bed and breakfast "Anniversary Inn" in the 'Swiss Family Robinson' room. Derek had fun swinging on the trees. Awesome place. Then the next morning we packed up and spent the afternoon shopping at Park City.

It was a wonderful Anniversary. Happy 4 years sweetie!