Memorial Day

Welcome to the unofficial start of Sumer 2021! I honestly can't believe it has been over a year since the pandemic hit and the world turned upside down. For the most part, things have returned to some semblance of normal. There are still some places that require face masks and there are still social distancing signs, but as more and more people become vaccinated (Jeff, Danny, and I received our vaccines in April), states are opening up and events are being planned. We still don't have any big family vacations planned (although I heard Disneyland is opening up so I'm hoping to head there perhaps in January or February), but we are excited to have a more relaxed summer! Now, before I get too far in my post, yes, I know what this weekend's holiday is really about. Believe me, I haven't forgotten those men and women who have given their lives for me. I constantly tear up at the sound of the National Anthem or when I watch military reunions. I am forever grateful for what this day represents and who this day honors. I am indebted to those people who sacrificed everything so I can have my freedoms. The freedoms that I enjoyed with my family this weekend. We started our weekend with a trip to Yuba Lake on Saturday (May 29th). This was our 2021 season maiden voyage. We started at Utah Lake, but the windy conditions made it impossible to maneuver the boat so we headed south. This was my first time at Yuba and I doubt it will be our last. It was so much fun to be out on the water! I didn't jump in...it was still a little too chilly for me and not hot enough outside to entice me to jump in, but everyone else did. Jonas wasn't as much of a fish as he usually is, but he did jump in and he enjoyed tubing. Danny was (of course) all over whatever water activity we were doing (e.g., wakeboarding, surfing, kneeboarding, tubing). He brought a couple of his friends with him too. We all had a blast!

On Sunday (30th), Jacob and Amber decided to camp overnight up Payson Canyon. They found a little spot near Pete Winward reservoir (just south of Payson Lakes). They invited us to join them. Danny was the only one who decided to stay overnight, but we all went up to enjoy an evening of hiking, impromptu swimming (crazy boys!), and hanging out around the campfire. I love that we live so close to the canyon. It really is a beautiful place to recreate...even with all the burn scars and charred trees. 

Too much fun!

We loved the little place up Payson Canyon so much that we returned the following day with Jeff's parents, Laurin, Casey, and Carter for a picnic! We love that Laurin wants to come down to join us for things like this. We enjoyed a little more hiking and the boys enjoyed a little more water time. Jeff even got in this time. That evening, we invited everyone over for a burger BBQ. Life is always better with family. I am looking forward to a fun summer with lots more family time and fun memories!