Adventuring

Summer so far:

Hiking

• Poppy fields in Alpine: Saturday, June 10

I have heard about this short hike for years. The timing is critical. The poppy's peak for only 2 weeks. We made seeing them a priority and so did many others in UT. This trail is no secret. There were photographers and artists painting the breathtaking scenery. The poppies were absolutely stunning. We invited Grandma Langlois to join us and she was very enthusiastic. The kids especially liked signing the book saying we visited the fields. There are more poppy fields near Brigham City and even with that drive, I'm tempted. I'm delighted we finally crossed this hike off our list. It was worth the wait.

• Jungle Trail in Draper: Monday, June 12

The last time we hiked this trail was in 2020. Izzy wasn't even 1 yet. Being accompanied by friends (the Bradshaws) on this hike made for a good time. We hiked further than the trail because we've got some expert hikers.

James is big into tree climbing these days. 

• Farmington Creek Trail: Monday, June 19

We've had to think about snow this year when planning our hikes. This is not something I expected in mid-June. 2 hikes we planned on doing still have road closures, snow, and spikes and snowshoes are recommended. I guess we'll aim to do these hikes in August?

Farmington Creek was different from the hike we intended to do on Juneteenth due to the snow, but it was beautiful. It was also lengthy. 3 websites said different distances which made things confusing. After the hike, Andrew's new phone said we walked 4 miles which is probably accurate.  My phone has trouble counting my steps and said we went 3.6 miles. Regardless, we hiked a long way. I was bummed we decided to turn around before we made it to the biggest waterfall. (I think we were close) We had already hiked so far. We thought we were supposed to already be at the end, didn't want to push the kids too much, and needed to get home. We still enjoyed this gorgeous trail though!

There was only a little grumbling by our children. Izzy rode in the hiking backpack for less than 5 minutes. The hike was extremely green with purple and yellow wildflowers galore. It was steep and rocky at times. We had to cross 3 streams which thrilled the kids.

There were several old cars just off of the trail. James was extremely fascinated by these and told several strangers hiking up the mountain to keep an eye out for the cars. We made up stories about how we thought the cars got there. We also played 20 questions. We even made a friend on the trail-- a dog named Zena. Andrew kindly helped the dog and owner cross one of the streams. James discovered a little cave after doing rock climbing. The old rusty cars along the path and the small cave made this hike one of James' favorites. 

Can you tell Izzy was scared?

This Farmington Creek hike proved our kids are ready to go on the strenuous Timpanogas Cave hike. We have tickets to go next month and I am so eager!

South Jordan parade: Saturday, June 3

We found a much better parking spot than last year and didn't have to walk for so long. It was amazing! The kids had the best time. They got so much candy! James also got a hat and a T-shirt.

Picnic at our old stomping grounds: Tuesday, June 6

Harrison and the kiddos!

We met the Hendricks at one of our old favorite parks in Pleasant Grove--Strawberry Park by the fire station. I was surprised James didn't recognize it. We had a picnic with takeout. Of course, we chose Cravings Bistro for dinner. I miss living by this. Obviously, we had to stop at Cravings Cupcakes too which James recognized. Catching up with the Hendricks was great and the temperature was cool. We only had a few raindrops. On our way home, we drove by our old house. It's now a rental property which is sad. It was a lovely evening and walk down memory lane. 

Aquarium: Tuesday, June 13

Going to the Aquarium with the Reinhardts was a good call. Both Izzy and James have playmates their ages (Walker and Ari). My kids have never wanted to stay so long. We stayed for over 2 hours and they were begging for more. I'm glad we're putting our annual pass to use. We will definitely make more trips this summer.

New Draper All Abilities Park: Friday, June 16

This park has been on our list for a while and we finally made it happen. The weather cooperated which has been one of the biggest hindrances. This is an excellent park with gigantic slides and so much to do. Going at 9am is the key. At 11, a bus full of kids arrived and the parking lot was nearly full.

Goodbye dinner for Jeff and Lindsey's family: Saturday, June 17

They're gone. I'm sick of goodbyes and have another one coming. I hope Indiana is good to Jeff, Lindsey, Simon, and Esther. Maybe if it's not good, they'll come back? I wouldn't wish that on them though. We miss them already and loved getting to see them a couple extra times the week they left. The cousins parted with one giant snowball fight. It was epic and adorable.

First visit from the Toothfairy: Thursday, June 22

James has a new nickname--toothless. He has been telling anyone and everyone that will listen that he lost his first tooth. His smile is even cuter! He already has another loose tooth.

Veterans Memorial Park in West Jordan: Friday, June 23

My mom suggested this park what feels like a lifetime ago. Pre-mission, so at least a year ago. We finally went and it did not disappoint. There are 3 smaller parks and one gigantic park which is where we spent our time. The zipline was one of the best I've seen and both kids rode that on repeat. There was also an "elevator" toy which was new and exciting. Of course, Izzy made a friend. After, we couldn't resist and walked to the ginormous and nice West Jordan library. On our way home, we stopped for our free Frazzles. Each Friday in the month of June, Maverick and Holiday gas stations give out free small slurpies/frazzles. If you know me, you know I like a good deal. We have gone every Friday.  

Summer is off to a solid start. I didn't even include details or pictures of the 2 weeks of swimming lessons, the summer camp the kids went to, or friends' birthday parties they attended. Bring on July! It's going to be a big month for us. In fact, I'm even taking all month off of teaching piano. 

Hello Summer!

School's out for the summer! We are getting into a rhythm with our summer adventuring and routine. My next post will be all about that. I know you're counting down the minutes until you get to hear more hiking stories. Spoiler alert-- we haven't had more pooping on the trail incidents. (Fingers crossed) For now, let's do a school recap.

Isabelle went to preschool at Magic Moments. It is honestly the best preschool I've seen. It was in a basement that was completely redone and made for a preschool. There was even a slide down the stairs and an epic playground. Isabelle had preschool on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-11:30. On Tuesdays, she stayed for dance until 12:15. Preschool cost $135 plus $35 for dance totaling $170 a month. It's official--Isabelle is left-handed like her dad and had her fair share of homework. 

We were heartbroken to hear that Miss Amy is not continuing her preschool. Miss Amy was extremely organized, loving, crafty, a talented photographer, and full of creative ideas. The Grinch came to visit, certain days were color days where students wore the color they were learning about, there were several themed parties, students exchanged gifts with buddies, etc. 

The culminating event was a party at Airborne. The kids sang an adorable song (Izzy had the moves down to a t), we watched a slideshow of pictures throughout the year, and we got Isabelle's amazing preschool book full of pictures and memories. We're in denial it's over. Izzy has some pals from preschool. She gets to attend a joint bday party for 2 of them and can hardly wait. Izzy seemed to develop a little crush... Jett. Another boy in her class "annoyed her" and Izzy rolled her eyes talking about him.

Last day of preschool: Tuesday, May 23, 2023

First day of preschool: Tuesday, September 6, 2022

All the other kids took pictures standing by Miss Amy. When it was Izzy's turn, she jumped into Ms Amy's arms. Peep Miss Lexie (an aide/helper) in the background.

Airborne! Cantrelle (Trelly) turned into one of Isabelle's best buds

Fortunately, another preschool nearby was recommended for next year. It is dirt cheap ($90 a month for 3 days a week which seems unreal) and we can even walk there. Isabelle's new preschool is also in someone's home. The kids are doing a few summer camps there. Isabelle will also start doing the Upstart reading program next school year. She is getting too big too fast. 

James has matured so much this year. He can read and every time he asks to read a book to me, I can't help but say yes! He is starting to read longer books too. He is more used to sitting still. I wondered if going to school would be a fight and it never was. He looked forward to school. In fact, he is thrilled he gets to be a Mustang until 6th grade. Next year will be a big adjustment with James going to school all day and him starting the Chinese immersion program. 

Last day of school: Thursday, June 1, 2023

First day of school: Friday, August 26, 2022

Field trip to the zoo

James did an animal report and he chose capybaras which are found in Brazil. Nana has sent many videos of these animals. James worked so hard on his report and got to present it to the class.

Field day

One of the many playdates with classmates.

My kinder graduate

James became friends with the crossing guard, Evelyn. We were both upset when Evelyn slipped and broke a bone during the brutal winter. It was a happy day when she returned to her usual crossing guard duties. We biked/scootered/walked to school sometimes which isn't necessarily a short trip. 1.1 miles one way. 4 other kids in our ward were in James' class which, made things fun. James became good friends with Walker and Calvin. He also gets along well with Eva and sees a future with Lily. For awhile, he liked 3 girls but he has narrowed it down.

I volunteered to help in James' class once a month and liked getting to know his classmates and seeing how things were run. James had the most loving teacher-- Mrs. Philbrick. After a shaky start, I wasn't so sure about her. But, she was phenomenal! She is made to be a kindergarten teacher and is extremely caring, communicative, and patient. James often came out after the bell holding her hand. James had kindergarten testing to end the year and it's no surprise that he is thriving and above grade level. Atta boy! We are continuing to work on his handwriting and have seen big improvements. 

As of today, my not so little 6 year old has his first loose tooth. This hit Andrew hard. Our kids aren't so small anymore. In fact, I tried to lift James so he could reach the monkey bars today and couldn't. (could be pregnancy) This stage is flying by. I'm looking forward to back-to-school shopping with my kids. It turns out they are too. They've already made some requests. I love my school-aged cuties.