nine eleven

I am not a writer, nor am I good with words, however I feel the need to type a little something tonight. I have been wanting to scrounge up my journal and letters to and from Dave on his mission from this time. Perhaps another night.

NINE. ELEVEN. Who would have thought that those two numbers could mean so much to many around the world. Feelings of sadness, grief, remembrance, sacrifice, patriotism, love, kindness, and so much more.

I cannot watch footage, see photos, or hear songs from that time without getting a little shaken up. Those images from that day are now history, but history never to be forgotten.

I woke up early that morning and headed to the U of U campus for my 7:00 am Business class. I remember having an eerie feeling on the way. The roads were quiet and my radio said something about a bomb at the world trade center. I had been to NYC before and seen the twin towers, but for some reason it didn't click that they were the same thing.

I went to class, it was the same as usual. But when I came out I ran into John Bradley, a friend from high school, outside the room (as we did most days at this time). He asked if I had heard about NYC and I said I heard something about the bomb. It was then that we turned to the tv's in the business center's cafe. Showing footage. Looking back now I don't know where I was when each tower fell and when the pentagon and flight 93 fell. But I remember all day long being glued to the tv or radio. Trying to figure it all out. I went home and hugged my family, took Natalie to a music lesson, but didn't want to leave anyone's sight. When I returned home I headed straight for the tv. For days we watched and watched and couldn't put words to it.

I will remember that eerie feeling from that morning and the rest of the day for the rest of my life.

When I visited the site of ground zero that feeling returned to me among other feelings indescribable.

To all Americans and others who lost loved ones, or have to deal with the pain associated with that day, I wish I could take the pain away. Ten years later, we haven't forgotten and still pray for comfort and love to be with all of us.

Cabin moments- Part I- The kids

This Summer we had a few weekends up at the cabin.  We always  love being there and definetly missed it last year when we didn’t go once! It is usually a place of relaxation, LOTS of food and treats, and good sleep.  WELL, with 8 kids and 3 babies all under the age of 11 it is not AS relaxing, and the morning are usually full of SHHHHs and don’t wake up….., but makes for some fun times and memories.  Here are a few favorite snap shots from the summer of the cousins.

Hangin’ around the cabin, being creative with whatever was around. Emily and Hannah are the oldest cousins, they help out a LOT with the youngins.  Maddie adores them.

The porch swing, a favorite seat for as many as can fit on!Looks like there is room for more!

Dave beating them up… or playing good uncle, take your guess.  Playing out front.  We love this area.  This last time we were up there the kids played tag for HOURS.  The grass/shrubbery was pretty matted down when we left.  (Brynn did not cause the damage, but quietly cheered them on.)

Swinging is another favorite, it is also a good lesson in sharing and watching out for others. There are usually a few bumps and bruises.

Going on walks is one of my favorites.  It can be a little stressful when the younger kids go close to the river,  (or I am just a worry wart) but it is always beautiful and great to get out.

Eating. Eating and more Eating.  I feel like we OVEREAT at the cabin, but there is always too much good food to pass up!  I love this little table, the classic orange placemats, colorful dishes, church bench and boosters for the kids, and the way we cram all of us in.  Cabin breakfasts seem to taste so much better than any other breakfast! AND you don’t have to dress up fancy, in fact jammies and scruff are usually the way to go!

Throwing sticks and rocks over the bridge. (or being creative like Chels and Chase and making a fire in the middle of the road.

Racing down the Road.. Logan, the oldest, won.  (can you tell how excited he was?)

Week of Firsts

First Day of Preschool.  She loved all they did and couldn’t wait for the second day.  She said goodbye and didn’t even turn around to watch me leave.  It took me a few minutes to leave, watching her to make sure she was okay, and because it was the first time I left her in hands of people I don’t really know.  She is getting too big!

First Day of Dance with Mrs. Nanette.  Tap, ballet, creative moment, tumbling, rest time, who could as for more in one hour?! She was the “wake up princess” and had a GREAT time!

(We’ll work on posing another time)