Coach Kris

Last night I went to Clearfield High School to watch Kristen in action with her debate team. Even though they were also in Anaheim while we were there, I didn't get to watch any of that tournament. And last night I didn't actually watch the tournament either, but did get to see the organization and challenges that come with putting on a debate tournament. It reminded me a lot of the event planning I do. You're everyone's "go to" person, with a million questions coming at you constantly. Kris handled all of it with great aplomb. The other thing that was SO impressive was to observe how much these kids - from a somewhat "tough" high school - absolutely love her and want to impress her. And it was easy to see why. She had something positive to say about every kid she introduced - usually lots of positive things. Three times as we went past a group of kids, someone would call out, "I'm her favorite!" It is a unique talent to be able to make multiple people all feel that they're your favorite. Just ask any parent with more than one child ... then again, I suppose it's easy because each one is your favorite version of that person. Lastly ... it is humbling and gratifying to watch your "baby" (because they remain that no matter old they are) not only do okay, but become amazing. Kris, you are an incredible teacher and mentor. And I love you.

The team last night


At the beach in Cali

Aunt Kate

This past weekend I flew to Portland, Oregon, and then drove to Randle, Washington for my Aunt Kate's memorial service. Sadly, she lost her battle with cancer just after Christmas. It was a nice service, with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, etc. there from Utah, and of course, all of Aunt Kate's family there in Washington. Many of them I haven't seen since we were kids. It was a sad occasion to do so, but it was good to see everyone.

Aunt Kate was a "feisty broad" - probably from the time she was born. As one of the speakers said, "Whether she liked you or whether she didn't ... you knew it." I always thought of her as my fun aunt. She was the baby of their family, so it's been a bit hard for her sisters - my mom and Aunt Evie and Aunt Jerrie.

She was able to come for a visit in 2008, and I am thankful that I had the opportunity to spend a little time with her then.

We'll miss you, Aunt Katie!

Randle is in the general vicinity of Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Ranier and Mt. Hood. Unfortunately, it was so overcast we couldn't see much of the grand dames. But it is truly beautiful country up there.

Disneyland!

Steph and Mickel decided to surprise their kids with a trip to Disneyland. They truly did not tell them where they were going until they were almost there, and then Kaiya was just beside herself with excitement. I wish I would have been on the plane with them. Then another surprise ... Grammie showed up at the Long Beach airport! Really I just invited myself along, but Steph and Mickel were gracious enough to make me feel welcome. So here are some random pictures of our fun. It really IS the happiest place on earth!

Everyone's favorite mouse ... especially Teagie's.



Teagie's our little man ... he was giving the sword his best effort.


Here we are chillin' in line to meet the Princesses. It's always been Kaiya's favorite, and I think Teague is becoming smitten as well. And the line wasn't too long!

Having a treat at the Tiki room, which we call the "Teagie room."

We went to a character dinner, which was hosted by FIVE princesses, beginning with Arial. Kaiya was in 7th heaven ... too bad she didn't eat the $19 mac and cheese.

Minnie was a favorite, too.

I'll have to get a copy of the picture of Kaiya and Peter Pan and add it. She has a crush on Peter, it's so cute. When we went to the parade, she kept her eyes absolutely glued on him. She threw him a kiss - both nights we went to the parade - and he saw her and caught them.

Kris and Sterling also happened to be there at the same time. Kris' debate team had a tournament, so she was busy with that quite a lot. But I did get to see her - if only because I was bunking with them! Thanks, guys.

I've always been a Disneyland fan, but I have forgotten how much more fun it is with little ones.