Grape Cheeks

Yuma Vacay

My little sister Jenna got married (on 09/09/09), so we took a trip to Yuma, AZ for a few weeks to visit my family. Brian drove us to El Paso, where we met my parents, who drove us the rest of the way to Yuma. Brian then turned around and headed back to San Antonio. (We did the same thing in reverse for the return trip. It was a lot of driving but waaaaay cheaper than flying; thanks Mom and Dad for helping!) It was so good to see everyone (except for my bro, who's serving a mission), and we had lots of fun.

playing Hungry Hungry Hippos to pass the time in the car (Man, that game is LOUD!)


My little sister Melissa took us to the beautiful, fun West Wetlands Park.













dead tired



After just a few days' rest, the kids were NOT ready to get back in the car for the 3-hour trip to San Diego for the wedding. Both Joshua and Nada cried nonstop for at least 45 minutes (effective birth control for Jenna, I think!) before we pulled over for a break. After that, all 3 kids fell asleep and we (Mom, Dad, Melissa, Jenna, and I) finally enjoyed some peace and quiet.




outside the San Diego Temple



Jenna and Israel ("Izzy") exiting the temple





sisters: Angela, Jenna, Melissa, Leah


siblings (minus Jonathan!): Michael, Angela, Jenna, Melissa, Leah


fam



everybody


My friend Emilee (whom I hadn't seen in 6 years) lives in SD and was able to meet me at the temple. It was sooo good to see her and her sweet baby girl!


Reception





Kara dancing with cousin Kendra



Heather, Melissa, and Nada


My friends Alyssa and Katie came to the reception; here we are with our kids.


Mom, Angela, Melissa, and I went to Jenna's and Izzy's apartment to watch them open wedding gifts.



Angela bringin' out more


This was the one from us-- I etched their last name on some casserole dishes.


I folded all the tissue paper, insisting that they have to reuse it. (I'm trying to teach these newlyweds frugality here!)


Then we played The Beatles: Rock Band! Heck. Yeah.


at the library with cousin Mia



on our way to the park with Grandma & Papa



hanging out with Alyssa and Katie


Michael turned 18.
He was such a great brother and uncle, watching my kids several times so that I could go out!


Kara had fun with the chalkboard.


Grandma pulling out a splinter


I was also able to visit my old friend Carly.


Angela & me


girl cousins


naughty kids on Izzy's scooter, the bike that they were specifically told not to touch


We went to Toys R Us in El Paso on the way back home for Geoffrey's birthday party.


Whew! What a fun trip!