Long Weekend

Ian has been sick since Thursday and can't seem to shake his fever. He's a little better today but still has a low-grade fever. We are staying home today and hoping he can get well enough to go to school tomorrow. It's been an exhauting few days -- lack of sleep (for everyone in the house), taking temperatures, pushing fluids, giving Tylenol, lots of snuggling, etc. It's so had to see him when he's not feeling well. He never complains, he just wants to be held. I'm hoping none of us catch whatever he has. Here's hoping for a quiet Sunday and a back-to-normal Monday.

Update: We just got back from spending two hours at KidsCare -- Ian has strep. Looks like Monday will be another quiet day at home comforting the sick and afflicted.

Be My Valentine

It was a great Valentine's Day! The boys got enough "sugar" at their preschool parties so Kim and I opted to get them non-food items. We feel fortunate they are still excited over getting a Barrell of Monkeys and Go Paint. We know those days will be short-lived. We also went to Reagan's birthday party at the Little Gym and the boys have decided it's their new favorite place to play. Afterward we went out for an early dinner. It was a great day to spend with my three Valentines. I could not have asked for anything better!

Draper Temple Open House

After two and a half years of waiting, we were finally able to tour the Draper Temple. We have been taking the boys to the temple site on a regular basis and taking photos ever since the groundbreaking in August 2006. They were so exited to finally be able to see the inside. Connor said his favorite part was the "pool." Ian liked the cookies afterward. It was a wonderful thing to experience as a family. I have the privilege of volunteering as a host this coming week and providing background music. Kim has arranged music for the open house and dedication. We feel very blessed to live only five minutes from the temple. And Connor and Ian can both see it from their bedroom windows. There is something very peaceful and comforting about having the temple in our daily view. It an inspiring reminder of all things eternal.

Winter Fun

The boys had a great time this afternoon making a snow "monster." It turned out quite creative I think. They love to be outside in the snow, especially Connor. Ian prefers warmer weather as you see by his T-shirt and flip flops. The boys were lucky to even get enough snow to make their creature. Not to worry. We are expecting more snow this weekend!

Olivia Debut

We have spent the past week getting back into the daily routine of life. We are very much creatures of habit at our house. The most exciting news this week is the debut of "Olivia" the cartoon on Nick Jr. (You can tell it's a slow week at our house.) The boys have been anticipating the new show for weeks. The cartoon is based on Ian Falconer's "Olivia" books. They are some of our favorite stories because she has such a vivid imagination. As someone who usually prefers a movie over a book, the cartoon does not do the books justice. But the boys love it. (They never met a cartoon they didn't like.) And I must admit it's a nice change from watching "Tom & Jerry" over and over and over and over...

Another great trip to NYC!

This was our 10th trip to New York City together and this was undoubtedly one of our coldest. With the windchill factor, it was below zero most of the time we were there. The weather did have its advantages. There wasn't a lot of traffic on Times Square and that's always a plus. We were able to cram in five shows in three days: Shrek the Musical, Speed the Plow, Billy Elliott, In the Heights and Forbidden Broadway. We really loved Billy Elliott. The music by Elton John was incredible and the story is quite touching. I also liked the fun and comedy of Shrek. It was a nice surprise. In addition to shows, we found a new restaurant we really loved -- Gotham Bar and Grill on Fifth Avenue. It's ournew favorite place! It's good to be home. We missed the boys but knew they were in good hands with Jordan and Jolynn. Now it's back to our normal routine. It was a nice break and fun to celebrate Kim's birthday in the Big Apple.

Go Jazz!

Last night my brother Bill invited us to the Utah Jazz game. We were in a Club Suite and had a great time. I'm convinced it's the only way to watch a game. The boys had a great time! They look for any excuse to wear the Jazz jerseys Uncle Bill got them last year. They even got to meet The Bear who spayed them with silly string. The boys lasted until shortly after halftime (and more snacks). Oh yeah, the Jazz beat the Pistons 99-82.