Sledding at Rock Canyon Park

By the time we actually got to Rock Canyon Park to do the much anticipated sledding, I think we had collectively sweat a gallon. Not only was the air thick with the smell of perspiration, but it was also thick with anticipation. We were stoked for the fun that lie ahead, except that we were missing was Mom and Jocey. Jess would've loved it, but Jocey was napping and keeping her warm in the cold weather would've been tricky. If Jocey can't come next year, I'll take my turn at home with her so Jess can let her wild side see the light of day. ;-)


We began our afternoon of blistering fun on the east rim of the Rock Canyon "bowl" and promptly migrated to the south rim. Emma burned up the slopes over there with more than just the sleds. This gorgeous smile was on display for the entire afternoon. She and I enjoyed a lot of trips down the hill together.


Here's Aidan on one of his solo rides. He was frequently trying innovative ways of getting down the hill. My favorite was him getting dragged down the hill behind the sled. One time he made it all the way down the hill but managed to get five pounds of snow down his front.


Scottie was also an innovator: This sled had been broken in a couple of spots but figured out that he could stand on the rudders and steer himself successfully down the hill. Nine times out of ten he was successful, but every now and again he'd manage a painful wipeout.


Eliza is a lot like me in that she's timid at first and reluctantly makes her first solo run down the hill. But then she enjoys the rush of adrenaline so much that she can't get enough...speed and runs. I overheard her talking to Kellan as they were walking up the hill toward the end of the afternoon, and she said this was one of the best days of her life. :-) I think many of us felt that way...except that we missed Mom and Jocey.


Kellan and Scott are kindred spirits: They're daredevils and they love it! I didn't get a shot of him going off his jumps because he was usually taking off before I could catch my breath. He loved flying down the hill and was usually pretty quick about getting back to the top.


Jess is a true sweetheart, because she wanted us to call as we were heading home so she could put some hot chocolate on the stove. When we got home, she was pouring us each a steaming mug that met with icy lips. Thank you, Jess! That hot chocolate made the day!

One preview of pictures from our sealing day

Check out this photo! This was sent to us by our photographer as a preview of her work. I love this photo!!! More will follow...

Aidan & Kellan ANDERSON

Lately I've been thinking about really special times from the past 2 1/2 years since Jessica and I first met. A few days ago I was driving home from school and I saw the Village Inn restaurant on University Parkway. That's where Jessica, Aidan, Kellan, and I celebrated after I officially adopted the boys.

The day was December 19, 2007, and it was a bit rainy. The court appointment was early, and we were all kind of nervous. But Judge Stott made us feel at ease. Not only that, but he made us feel special. He was very pleased with this step we were taking and assured us that it would be a special day that we'd remember for a long time. I'm not sure why, but the way the judge spoke about the adoption pleasantly surprised me. I guess I was expecting a cold, business-as-usual feeling.

Not only was the judge pleased, but it was quite obvious that his secretary and the bailiff were happy as well. They were practically beaming! Since then, I've tried looking at ourselves through those people's eyes. What they saw were two wonderful boys that needed a dad to love them and be with them. They saw a husband and wife that loved each other and would love the boys. Sure they were happy for Jess and me, but they were happier for Aidan and Kellan, because their future was now bright and full of promise!

As I've thought about these events and about Aidan and Kellan, considerable emotion has welled up inside me. And whenever we drive by the courthouse, I point it out to the family and ask them what is so special about it. The boys are now used to that routine, and I hope they tell their kids about it.

Next up . . . The Temple!

Computer Networking with Kellan

Lately Kellan has been rather enamored with my rusty knowledge of computers and networking. This has translated into him wanting to become an engineer...not just any engineer, though. He wants to build and repair robots and all sorts of stuff that will require him to be a mechanical, electrical, and computer hardware & software engineer all wrapped up in one. I guess he better get started on things right away! :) I don't doubt that he could do it, because he has already helped us read from the Isaiah chapters in 2 Nephi. He has no fear...except for going off the diving board at the Helaman Halls pool. :D So, today Kellan and I are going to get our network put together so all our computers can enjoy a speedy internet connection. He's stoked to help, and Jessica excited for a reliable internet connection. Good-bye crappy internet!!!