Uncle Cory's Visit

Uncle Cory (my "little" brother) came all the way from New York to visit us the first week in August! We were sooo excited to have him here, and so grateful he was willing to spend his hard-earned summer money on a trip to the HOT desert! Caden and Dallin had a blast playing with their uncle and joining in on all the fun activities. We spent a day in Sedona doing some hiking, shopping, and taking in the beautiful scenery around us. Caden LOVED hiking up the mountains and of course, THROWING ROCKS!!

Dallin can't wait for the hiking to begin!!

The boys: Caden, Daddy, Dallin, and Cory

Sedona's beautiful views.. the pictures don't do it justice, but they are truly breathtaking!

Caden's rocks- he insisted on carrying them everywhere, even up the steepest parts of the hike! Then when he found the ideal location, he threw them down the mountain and promptly found two new rock companions to carry.

Cory and Laurie taking a break to pose...

Uncle Cory helping Caden...

Our little family enjoying a beautiful day.

We enjoyed spending time with our Aunt Kathy and Uncle David from Tempe, who treated us to a night at Peter Piper Pizza. Caden was beyond thrilled! He really got "into" the games....

Caden and Dallin have some fun!!
Of course the boys had to get in a day at the golf course to make the week complete. They were brave to battle a heat advisory of 114 degrees and a tee time of 10:00 am!! They had a great time nonetheless!

Justin and Cory.. before the rivalry begins!

Justin and Spencer... before the Becks move to Colorado. We'll miss you guys!

Cory perfecting his swing.

Justin hoping for an eagle!

The course....
Caden had the most fun playing with his Uncle Cory. They played games in the back yard, watched lots of "Cars", and got lots of reading time in. We're so glad the boys got to hang out with their awesome uncle.


Come back soon Cory!

Jennell and Mauli's Wedding

On July 18, 2009, Justin's sister Jennell was married to Mauli Hodge at the Mesa Temple. It was a quick engagement, but the wedding and reception turned out beautifully. We were up late the night before setting up all the decorations, but the boys were troopers! They had a blast running around the church with their cousins until almost midnight. Justin and I were so happy to be a part of their ceremony in the temple. We had family pictures outside afterwards (I have to note the 115 degree temperature at 3:00 pm!), but the photographer did a great job and got us in and out quickly. Thanks Boyd!
The boys had fun dancing and running around at the reception. It's great to have Dallin walking around and able to hold his own! We are so happy for Jennell and Mauli and wish them lots of love and happiness together!


Caden with some sweet moves!

Daddy and his boys....


Dallin is enjoying the party!



Marcus and Caden.. cousins forever

Caden turns 2!!

Our little man is growing up! It's hard to believe Caden is officially 2 years old! We'll probably say that every year from here on out, but time sure does fly. We are so grateful to have been blessed with such a curious, fun, and lively little boy. It's fascinating to watch his little mind work as he explores the world around him. It amazes us how his vocabulary has developed in such a short period of time. Our favorite phrases are: "I yike this song", "Go hockey game", "I wuv mommy", and "fight daddy." HIS favorite phrases are: "No, I do it" and "I don't WANT to."
Caden's birthday party was a blast and he enjoyed spending time with his family. We were especially happy to have Papa and Jean make the trek from Tucson. Here is Caden helping Daddy mow the lawn in preparation for the big celebration.

Caden checks out his birthday cake!
Lovin all these presents!

Caden tries on his new baseball helmet!

Thanks for the squirt guns, Aunt Stacia!

Thank you to all our family and friends who came to share in Caden's special day! We love you Caden!