Independence Day 2012

Independence Day is one of my favorite holidays. I love America and I'm thankful to live in a great land of freedom and opportunity.

We celebrated this year by running a 5K in the Freedom Run in Provo. Well, I should say I ran, along with Greg, Leslie, Kinzie, the Alexander family, and Rex and Case in the stroller. It was a blast for me, but since Adam and the kids had to be up by 5:00 a.m., they didn't find it quite as enjoyable.

We headed to Alpine after the run to get ready for the Neider reunion. It was a fun-filled day with cousins and delicious food and lots of preparation for the highlight of the day: Rob's fireworks spectacular. Adam and Rob set everything up and I made a music mix to go along with it. Karli spent her time being cute and modeling her darling ensemble that we whipped up the night before.









The fireworks were definitely the best part of the day. Aerial fireworks really make a show spectacular and the kids were enthralled.



That's Rex peeking out from his hood, enjoying his tasty fingers.



God bless America, land that I love!

Karli's Fifth Birthday

My sweet, caring, helpful, creative Kar-Kar turned five. FIVE! She's starting kindergarten, becoming a very good little cheerleader, and getting sweeter every day. We all think she is wonderful and we are happy to have her in our family.

She helped me make a Ponyo cake with lots of fondant.



We had a fun party with lots of cousins, aunties, uncles, grandparents, and even some friends from Korea.



I love this expression on her face!



She blew out all the candles like a pro. Happy birthday, Karli! We love you and your free spirit to pieces!

The Alexanders and Kahananuis came to Utah for a loooong visit and we had a blast!

The kids especially loved the dinosaur museum...



...the Children's Discovery Garden...



...and playing in Grandma's and Grandpa's yard. These three boys had a blast! We really missed having Gracie, Cooper, and Colton here to enjoy the fun.

After eating way too much yummy food, several birthday parties, Independence Day, and hours of fun, our cousins had to head home. We were so sad! Come back soon, fun families!

Happy Birthday, Adam! You're A Great Father

This handsome guy turned 32 this week, so we made him some yummy food at a barbecue with our families. Despite my best efforts, I totally failed in the gift department. Boo. I feel like a schmuck. He is so good to me on my birthday. Darn it.

Just six days later was Father's Day. I feel very lucky to be married to Adam and to have children with him. He is a magnificent father! He balances me, always sneaks the kids out after bedtime for milkshake runs, and teaches them great lessons that will help them throughout life. We all adore him. Thanks for being so fantastic, Adam!