Going Home

Because my grandpa passed away on December 23rd our plans for Christmas break changed a bit. My parents and sister were planning to come visit us right after Christmas. Instead, I flew out to Utah for the funeral and then drove with my family back to Oregon. Although it was not what we had planned, I had a wonderful time getting to see so much of my extended family that I miss so much and I had a fun road trip with mom and dad and Chrissy!

So on December 29th, Gary* and the girls dropped me off at the airport. I am so silly and sentimental, I always get a little teary when I leave my little family. They were so cute and brought me right up to the security gate to make sure I got through okay. I have such a sweet husband. And to top it off, he insisted on buying me a first class ticket to make my flight more comfortable. It was an anniversary gift he told me. (We celebrated our 13th anniversary on the 27th!) One of the main reasons he did this is because I really have a fear of flying and he thought if I could feel more comfortable at the front of the plane, I wouldn't be so anxious. What a sweetie. I am embarrassed that I am such a chicken. I honestly, don't think I would be so chicken if I wasn't always flying by myself. If I had Gary* there with me and the girls, I wouldn't be so freaked out.

Anyway, it was really cool getting to feel so pampered and comfy on the flight. It was fun to look down on all the "little people" from my throne up front. Just kidding - sort of. The flight was very relaxing until the end. I got a little anxious as we approached Salt Lake. There was some turbulence during the landing - the last 20 minutes. The only thing that helps me is talking to someone and I was lucky that the teenage boy sitting next to me was a nice kid and engaged in conversation when I attempted to "shoot the breeze". He was from Park City and returning from visiting his brother to Japan. He was also planning to attend Portland State next year so we had plenty to talk about. Phew!

When I landed Chrissy and Mom were waiting for me. It was great to see them. We met my dad at his work, which I was excited to see since he moved to a new office last year. Here he is posing at his desk for me! My dad's business is Compuprint and he specializes in fixing printers and recycling printer cartridges. After the grand tour, the four of us enjoyed a lovely lunch at Subway together. Then us girls finished up the afternoon with some shopping. We found these cute scarves at Bed, Bath and Beyond . . .

They are perfect for when you are in the mood to sing, "matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match." Which is, like, all the time for me!

Oh Cafe Rio - How I have missed you. I had only 24 hours in Utah and I made it to my two favorite restaurants that I miss. Thanks mom and dad!
We think that this boy behind me suspected we were trying to get a picture with him. You're cute and all, but I could be your grandma! There's no future for us. I think he was only attracted to my vibrant, new scarf anyway.

My brothers were sweet enough to make the effort to come and see me during my quick visit. I hadn't seen them since our beach trip last summer. This is cute Sammy - I love his smile!

Danny was taller, but still into mischief! He's my buddy!

My house is always rambunctious when everyone is together and that guy on the left is one big reason why! Love ya Andy! Collin (right) is getting so big - he's such a good boy, I loved getting to see him.