Fourth of July in Utah

Josh had the whole week during July 4th off, so we packed up and flew to Utah. Personally, July is my favorite month in Utah. There is always so much going on! We arrived Tuesday, the 2nd, and since movies are much cheaper, Josh wanted to take advantage. We didn't waste any time. saw "World War Z" that night; after dinner at Zupas.

Wednesday was a fun-filled day in Park City riding the Alpine Slide and coaster with our unlimited-rides wristband! We met up with the Pyle's and Luke. Everyone had a blast! Later that night, we took Gracee and Annie to "Despicable Me 2." Unfortunately, I fell asleep through the whole movie :( It was a long day!
 

 

Thursday was JULY FOURTH! We started our day early with breakfast with the Pyle's and Luke at Kneaders. Then we hung out at Kasey and Preston's before having a big BBQ at Lisa and Shawn's house. Meg and Adam joined us there. It was so nice to have everyone together ...good food and good company is all you need :) That night was "Stadium of Fire" with Kelly Clarkson. It was amazing! Charlotte slept through most, everyone took turns holding her and she was so good during the fireworks! I'm so glad none of us had to get up and walk her around. I don't know if I would take her next year, but it was fun being with the whole family!

Charlotte and Raegan at Kneaders

 

Friday, we all got up early to hike the "Y" in Provo. I had never hiked really anything until this point. Although I was part of the caboose, it was such an accomplishment for me. The air in Utah is so thin that I just could never get a deep breath in! My body felt fine, but I struggled breathing (kinda important). When I got to where I could see the painted "Y," I started getting teary eyed and a flood of emotions came pouring in.  I just kept my composure and celebrated by taking a ton of photos...for proof ;)  It was a beautiful site.  There were so many things that came to mind looking over the valley.  My main thought was that Provo will always hold a special place because that's where Josh and I met, feel in love, and started our beautiful journey together.  Sometimes I wish Charlotte had been born there, but that is what will make southern California special to us! 

Top of the "Y"

After hiking the "Y," we ate all those calories we had lost at Kneaders (yes, again).  It never gets old!  We went back home, did some shopping at the outlets and then got ready for my maxi skirt party that night.  It was fun and good to see friends that I haven't seen in a while!

Setting up for the maxi party

Saturday, we went out to lunch with my good friends, Megan and Annica, from BYU-Idaho and their cute families.  We are all moms now and it was so fun to catch up!  We all three have babies that neither of us have seen.  We came back to my parent's house afterward and let the kids all play.  I wish we saw each other more!!!

That night, we went to dinner at Cheesecake Factory with Kasey and Preston at City Creek.  Soon as they sat us down, they brought a plate of food out for both baby girls.  I thought that was so neat!  We miss living by them and try to hang out everytime we are in each others neck of the woods.  It had been a long day, so I apologize for falling asleep that night :/

Sunday, Charlotte turned TEN MONTHS and that evening Josh went back home...someone has to work ;)  My parents had Tyler's dad, Paul, over for dinner along with Luke and Meg and Adam.  It was fun!  Tyler took his dad, Meg and Adam on a ride up the canyon on the razor (my dad's off-roading vehicle).  I think they liked it, besides it being cold.  Never a dull moment at the Neilson home!!  It was fun to see Meg and Adam a couple times.

  

Monday and Tuesday were filled with days in Provo, shopping and the new Rec Center.  I do not like being away from Josh so it was nice to get back home!  Here are some more pictures from the week.

When Josh is away, Charlotte sleeps with me!