Off to Utah

The Martin Family and Sydney and I all flew to Utah to visit with 99 year old Grandpa Kotter!

Visiting with him was the highlight of our trip we spent a few lunches and dinners with him and attended his sacrament meeting, and spent as much time as we could recounting stories and learning about his extraordinary life. We shared pictures and took some time to visit with Great Aunt Nola, Aunt Shauna and Aunt Nola; all of which were so sweet and welcoming.

We are blessed.

I have never known a man with a bigger heart then him.

After our days with Grandpa we spent our nights watching a movie all together like the old days.

Amberlee and I loved catching up on some sister, sister time too. 

We did get to enjoy a quick dip in the pool, and Sydney got to have her first swim ever!

Let me tell you it was exhausting.

Daniel showed off his unique ping pong skills, which actually hilariously worked!

Everyone loved Sydney, she definitely managed to hold the spotlight.

Sydney's early birthday present from Auntie Am!

But Sydney and I were being sorely missed at home. I FaceTimed almost every night our little family back east, and Shea and I chatted most mornings. I must say I don't know how they managed without me back at home, but somehow they survived ...

Seriously though they did so great back home I was so relieved and happy, Shea is the best Daddy ever he never ceases to amaze me.

The trip went by all too fast and before long it was time for goodbyes (the rest of the Martins stayed for awhile longer).

Sydney and I had a flight that was an hour delayed on the mat, waiting for a snowstorm to cease and a deicing for the plane. Sydney was a screamer for this portion of the flight proving that delays are far from fun. SO I enjoyed evil comments and stares while we waited and waited.

Fortunately, we did finally take off and Sydney slept the ENTIRE flight in the air. Thank you girl!
And we had the best greeters in the world ready to welcome us home!

It was too short and too long a trip all in one. 

I enjoyed seeing those college Martin folk and wanted more time with my Grandpa, but I sure missed my two little ones and my man all too much and FaceTime just doesn't cut it. 

I am extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity I had to visit my Grandpa, he holds a really special spot in my childhood and in my life. I am so thankful for everyone that helped to make it possible. It was wonderful.