Saturday morning we headed out to go on a mini hike with almost everyone. It was a nice walk and the kids had a blast playing near the waterfall. I didn't realize how many fish were in the water until looking at the pictures I took. There were tons and the kids enjoyed feeding them. Ryan and Jonathan decided to see how far they could climb up the waterfall. Ella, wanting to impress Daddy, was not too far behind them. She climbed pretty high on her own, getting back down seemed to be the tricky part. After all the fun, we ate lunch picnic style. While Ryan and I relaxed and enjoyed the scenery, Leia decided to get muddy along with a couple other kiddos. That was a sign we needed to pack up and head out to our hotel so we could clean up and get ready for the graduation ceremony.'On the way to Alysha's graduation, we got a little lost on campus trying to find the building but eventually found it with Blake's help. It was interesting seeing a graduation at BYU simply because it had a spiritual side to it. All of the other graduations I have been to did not have that so it made everything a little more special. So special that Ryan is now okay with the prospects of one of our kids going there someday.
To be honest, I had to step out of the graduation early because of crazy Audrey but we were able to slip back in once we heard names called. Luckily, everything was broadcast outside the room over a speaker system so I did not miss much. Once Alysha's name was called Audrey and I screamed and clapped. I became a little emotional which surprised me. I first met her when she was three so maybe that was the reason? Any way, it was nice we could be there, especially since I was not able to go to her wedding.
After the ceremony, kids were dropped off with babysitters and the adults, plus Jonathan, took off for dinner... a fabulous idea I tell ya. The food was delicious mixed with great company made it a fun time out. After dinner we still wanted to stay out but had no idea what to do so we ended up picking up the kids. I put them to bed while Ryan and Jonathan stayed up to play games with who else, Uncle Todd.
On Saturday almost everyone was leaving for home, except for us. After goodbyes we headed out to Salt Lake City to visit Temple Square, since Ryan was the only one in our little family who has ever been there. I have heard the temple is smaller than you think it is and I must say, I completely agree with that statement. It was beautiful though. We walked around for awhile, I took the girlies on a little adventure to see all the different brides getting their pictures taken and then we took a few pictures of our own. We met up with Alysha and her little family where we headed out to the Visitor's center. After that we went over to the mall where Leia became completely soaked but extremely happy, Ella was spoiled way too much by her daddy, and Audrey and Leia consumed a delicious strawberry cheesecake candy apple. The kids also had a blast playing in the kiddo play area at the food court. We then decided to leave but Jonathan had to use the restroom so we stopped by the Conference center. I think that's the name of it but not sure. We were asked if we wanted a tour and even though kids were crazy tired we said yes. I secretly wanted to see it but thought we would not be able to. Boy did I luck out. There was amazing, inspiring original artwork everywhere. The actual seating area was HUGE. I know personally because I ended up chasing Leia down it. Our guide gave us a special treat where we were able to go to the rooftop and see the sun set. Amazing. It was another great day. We got back late to our hotel but eventually fell asleep to wake up super early and head back home.
The drive was once again beautiful. A funny thing happened on the ride home though. Ryan was pulled over for speeding and when the Sheriff walked up, looked into our car, realized four kids were in the back, he hesitated on giving Ryan a ticket. He let Ryan go with a warning. Actually a warning and he told Ella she was now a deputy and had the job of keeping track of Ryan and making sure he did not speed again. That. Was. Awesome. The Sheriff was also the Mayor so he talked a few minutes to Ryan about Arizona before letting us go. He was such a nice man. The rest of the trip was hilarious because Ryan did watch he speed and Ella kept him in check. Every time she saw a speed limit sign she would tell him the speed limit. He seriously would slow down. It was entertaining beyond measure because if you know Ryan, this is quite different from his normal behavior. He respectfully listened to Deputy Ella. Classic. I will never forget this trip!
Leia is about to take off and get near the pulpit.
