Every time we leave Utah the last several times, Trey always asks when we are going to see Papa GG (Ken). We haven't seen him because it is hard to take all the kiddos over to the Senior Center he is living in. But, after the last time he asked, I vowed that the next time we were in SLC, we were going to go see Papa GG. So, we did. Unfortunately, we just had to go before Trent came into town since he was going to be in town for such a short time - and days all with plans unfortunately. So, Marla and I took the kiddos up to see him. I am SO grateful that we did. It was such an amazing experience! According to Marla, Ken has not had such a "good day" as he had while we were there in a VERY long time. To be honest, I think the kids bring the life back into him. It was so good to see him. And a fantastic, proud moment, story that I need to share: After we finally found Ken, we wheeled him outside (despite it being nearly 100 degrees) under a small gazebo so that we could talk with him some, and then the kiddos could play on the small playground they had there. The boys were all very stand-offish, a little nervous around Ken. Marla and I kept drilling him with questions trying to get him to talk and chat. During of the times we were waiting to see if we'd get a response from Ken, our beautiful little princess, with her back straight and tall, and arm fully extended, walked right up to Ken, and said "Hi Ken. I'm Jada. So nice to meet you." Both Marla and I looked at each other in absolute amazement. Then, we looked back at Ken and grabbed her hand, smiled and his eyes swelled up with tears. OH WOW! Then, I started getting all emotional! I don't think I could have been more proud, more amazed, more in awe of that little girl than I was right then! We totally got a glimpse of that giant spirit that is in this wonderful little girl. After that, Ken wouldn't let go of her hand for a while. I could tell she was trying to pull her hand away, so I went in and gave him my hand and let her go. I gave her the biggest hug I could, hoping she'd understand all the emotions that I had for her at that time (though, knowing she wouldn't). What an experience! It is one I will NEVER forget!
Papa GG loved tickling Levi's feet. It brought a smile to everyone's face and heart!
Seth, trying to smile "naturally." Didn't quite work - but it's a fun picture because of it!
Trey and the kiddos on the swing set at Ken's home.
We were in Utah again for the 4th of July. Here we are at the Kaysville Parade again. A tradition we will probably always keep whenever we are in Utah for the 4th. It was HOT this year. Ironically, it was hotter in Utah than in Texas (only by a degree or two, but still) while we were there. The other funny thing about this year's parade, is that the Walters family - who are in our ward here in Texas and whom I visit teach, were actually IN the Kaysville parade. How funny is that?!?! What a small world. I did see them too. That was a riot. We all had such a blast at the Parade.
When the parade finally ended, we went over to Karla and Greg's again for swimming the rest of the day. That wore the kiddos out! But they hung in there and were great! Once it got close to firework time, we got the ones we brought out. We were the hit of the party! Uncle Trent was the coolest uncle ever since he
was the one lighting them and setting them off.
This was the end result of our fun fireworks. They were really fun actually! I just love July 4th! Happy Birthday America!!
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