A Recital and Mother's Day Treat

While David and Noah were in Utah the few of us left at home had some fun events of our own. First was Savannah's piano recital held at the Mattson's beautiful home. Savannah played Minuet in G Major.

She did a lovely job.

All the recital participants.

Savannah and a few of her piano-playing friends: Tatum, Ella, and Carolyn.

This was the first year Savannah has studied under Ms. Lebo and we absolutely love her. She is a fantastic teacher, so patient and full of encouragement.

I dabbled in the realms of creativity for the treat I brought to the recital - black and white chocolate covered strawberries that were supposed to resemble piano keys. They were a hit! I didn't even get one.

Unfortunately David and Noah did not get back from Utah until the night of Mother's Day but Savannah and Xander made sure I was well taken care of in the "breakfast in bed" category. Such sweeties!

It was quite tasty!

Noah's Utah Visit

Sometime in the early spring David asked me what I thought about Noah accompanying him to Utah on one of his business trips. I was a little hesitant at first because I hated him missing a whole week of school. But then I thought about what a great opportunity it would be for him to spend time with grandparents and his little cousin Cameron so I gave my stamp of approval. I'm so glad I did because he was super excited to go and had an amazing time!
Traveling in style!

Adjusting to the time difference was especially tough that first day; Noah started to fade at their late dinner.

Let the spoiling begin! While David was at work each day Noah hung out with Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Cherish and Uncle Dan, and cute little cousin Cameron. Obviously Noah was well taken care of. Frappucinos!!!

Playing with Cameron.

Now he knows what it feels like to have someone else be the destructo boy!

Hangin' together and having fun.

Cherish told me that when Noah found out they were going to a museum he wasn't too thrilled. But the curiosity museum quickly became his "second favorite kids museum ever!" From the pictures Cherish sent me it's easy to see why!

Things to build are always a plus.

Outdoor play is always good.

Cute cousins!

Cameron's face cracks me up!

And water....oh, how Noah loves playing with water!

One night Noah went to dinner with Uncle Dan, Aunt Cherish, and Cameron and then went back to their house for a sleepover. This dinner was all he could talk about because his awesome aunt and uncle let him order ice cream as his main meal! Spoiled rotten!!!

One day they headed up to Hogle Zoo. The train ride is a must at any zoo.

Hangin' with lions...

gorillas...

elephants...

birds...

and otters. He had a blast!

All too soon it was time to come home. We sure did miss our No while he was away!

Party Time

Noah decided to take a page out of Xander's book and have a nice, easy-going birthday party. Fine by me! He invited 4 of his best buds over for some pizza which surprisingly only one of his friends actually liked.  Who doesn't like pizza?

Noah and his best friend, Eli.

Thank goodness Savannah was there to enjoy the extra pizza we ended up having.

Then it was time for some Wii...

followed by cupcakes and ice cream.  Brody showed up just in time for the dessert!

Noah loved being sung to.

Make a wish!

EVERYONE liked the cake and ice cream!

Noah picked the new Star Wars movie for everyone to watch. As I took pictures throughout the night I just had to laugh at the expressions Fin would make.  I can see why he and Noah get along so well.

About halfway through the movie the boys got a bit restless and decided to go wrestle in the basement. By the time the parents arrived for pick up the boys were wound up and extremely sweaty. But I did get a great final picture of them! Logan, Fin, Noah, Eli, and Brody.