The Sacred Grove

16.... I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.

 17 It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—

This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!

We visited the the home of Joseph Smith and the sacred grove on our way back across the country. Although it was hard for our young family to stay reverent in the woods, it was still a beautiful walk that hopefully they will remember.

My Maine Squeezes

Lovely but Chilly. This crazy 8 enjoyed the Maine coast but mostly from the shore line. Zach and Ruth did a fair amount of body surfing together in the waves, which was adorable, as did Gabriel, but the rest of us were satisfied with a quick dip in the ocean and then back out again. Becky, Stevie, Kayla, Jenny and Mason brightened  up our trip as we enjoyed each other's company out on the sand. Lincoln took a quick snuggle-snooze on Jen's lap and everyone enjoyed some sandy snacks. A successful family field trip.

Its how we take a proper selfie

old boat picture #1

old boat picture #2

old boat picture #3

Niagra Falls with my loves

  

This was our speed-pit stop at Niagra falls. It was 20 miles out of the way on our trek to Massachussets on a day that we were already driving 10 hours. We had to make it a quickie. It has been over 20 years since I've seen the falls and about the same for Zach (how am I that old!?) but a first time for our little family. This is Lincoln saying, "I see a boat!" and "Waterfall, Waterfall!" Niagra is a spectacular site so I'm glad we stopped. 

Visiting

This has been a visiting summer, starting with a visit from Grandma and Grandpa Barry and cousin Owen. What a fun way to start the vacation. 

Owen fits right in!

Alara 8 months

This sweet angel likes to army crawl, has two teeth, and follows me around everywhere.
 (I'm a month late in posting because of our trip, she is actually 9 months old today)

Mini Me

 Gabe was envious of the bow tie I made Zach at Christmas time so I made him one out of the same material for his birthday. Studly duo, and more than a passing resemblance.