The 4th, take two!

So on independence day we rolled into Aspen just in time for the town's parade. Tate loved it! She was able to see some of the nicest cars in her life, horses, fire trucks and kids riding bikes....oh and lots of Democrats! After the parade we headed over to the art museum for a free BBQ and a live Jazz Band (we were loving all the free activities). I have decided that this was the start of a new family tradition to celebrate the 4th in Aspen every year! To finish off our vacation we watched fireworks from our hotel parking lot, it was a great fun filled weekend!

Our fabulous fourth of July!

Our little family headed for the mountains to celebrate our freedom...and to get some real rocky mountain fresh air over the weekend of the fourth! Our first stop was Breckenridge...the home of our future cabin. It is one of the only towns not effected by the pine beetles who have destroyed thousands of pine trees in the Rockies. We started the weekend at the base of a fourteen-er and hiked our way up. It was breath taking! Tatum was such a good sport that we even considered going all the way to the top, until she started passing out in her backpack. It looked so uncomfortable I ended up carrying her down the path in my arms....it was a precious moment though!

Hurray for Jeff!!!

I am very proud of my sweetheart for taking advantage of our beautiful surroundings and getting out when he can. A few weeks back he and a buddy, Justin, from our ward completed their first race in boulder. It was a beautiful day and they said their 60 mile journey was quite a site to see. The wives and kids were there to cheer them on as they crossed the finish line!

Yes, yet another trip to Utah!

Since Tate will not be going on the extended Family trip this year I decided I had better fly her out to see the Family before she is walking and talking. We had a great time attending the REAL soccer game, going to the zoo with cousins and swimming at Grandpa's condo. While I was there I decided to get some good bonding time in with Jenny so I decided to get involved in one of her favorite past times these days...running. Now those of you who know me, or did back in my high school days, recall I use to do this quite often and for good reason back then. I ran to clear my head of stress with dating, work and the pressures of school. Now that I am free from those running has become more of a chore. So while in Utah, Jenny's enthusiasm encouraged me to sign up for a local race (10K)to benifit something to do with eyes(?). So what did I do to prepare...I woke up that morning, after not running in a few weeks, and prayed that I would cross the finish line. Well I did it! I fininshed the 5k loop before heading back to the finish line. I secretly peeled off my sticker, that indicated I was running the 10k, and headed back with the majority of the crowd. I know this is bold to be posting a confession like this on the web, but hey, I am amazed that I ran at all on that very hot day! Overall Utah was a blast and I can't wait to go again soon!

Father's Day...a month ago!

Happy Father's day to all you Dads out there! I know that we only take one day out of the year to give you an official thanks, but you deserve it everyday. That is why I have extended this post until now! (it has nothing to do with busy schedules or an undesire to blog at times) I just have to shout it from the roof tops of cyberspace that my hubby takes the cake when it comes to being a Dad (and believe me he has a lot of good competition out there). He is such a hands on Dad involved in Tate's ever growing development and makes it all the more fun! Tate can't get enough of Jeff and yes, she is even starting to take on some of his looks the older she gets (although I still hold the dominate gene) We Love you Jeff and all you do for us! I also want to take a moment to recognize the Fathers in my life. Jeff reminds me a lot of my own Dad in how much they get involved with their kids...Dad, a lot of who I am is shaped after your good example and honesty in all you do. You are and will always be a great example in my life and I love you for that and more! And to the other, my Father in Law, you have helped us in so many ways to grow and move forward with our lives (even if you would prefer us closer) you have made so much possible for us with your never ending generosity! We send our love your way! So there you have it Dads, always know your appreciated for the role you play to your kids! Lots of love!

Arizona heat!

The newest member of the Brimhall clan (actually he is a Shoemaker) arrived a few weeks back and we were able to fly down on a weekend to be there at his Blessing. Logan is not far behind our little Tate in Size weight etc...but it couldn't have been more fun for Tate to see all of her girl cousins! Grandpa never wanted to put her down and Grandma spoiled her (and me with toys for Tate and clothes for me, hurray!) OUr little girl has turned into a little fish and LOVES Grandma and Grandpa Brimhall's pool, I do too since I melt even walking outside in the shade! It was such a wonderful weekend and it is always fun to spend time with family! We love you guys and can't wait to see you again in a few weeks!!!

Has it been that long?!!!

No the brimhalls didn't skip the month of June, in fact it was rather on the busy side, hence no post for over a month. So what have we been up to, well....Tate has turned into quite the sports fan (just like her Daddy) she survived more shots, but got really sick for the first time shortly after and managed to get two teeth all in the same week! It was awsome!!! Jeff is back in the saddle again, although he has held off from mountain biking it has not stopped him from utilizing the road bike he bought (that sits in our bedroom because we are outgrowing our apartment). As for me being a wife a mother and a primary leader keeps me PLENTY busy.