spontaneous getaway, anyone?

 I'm a little ashamed to say that I'm just now getting to blogging about out mini- vacation. I have been constantly thinking about it and it has literally been #1 on my to-do list. But hey, one week later isn't too bad, right?

I was born and raised in Utah. I really do love it here and am told constantly by out-of-staters that I shouldn't take such a beautiful place for granted. I mean, Utah really does have everything! North state is snow boarding, forestry, and mountains. Southern state has red rock, rock climbing, beautiful hikes, and great areas for boating. (did I mention warmth?)

Kristofer has been talking about a bucket list he has before he leaves for basic. He wants to really take advantage of all the Utah has to offer before he's gone. He's mentioned Moab before but we never really put effort into figuring our when we could go. I'd never been to Moab (there I am taking my home for granted) so I didn't really know what I was missing. I always just let it roll of my shoulder, not really taking his comments seriously. Until last Friday when we were driving in  the car and states that he really wants to go and he didn't have work for a couple day. hint, hint. Next thing I know we are booking a hotel and  packing to leave the next morning.

Early Saturday morning we were off! Unfortunately, we could only stay two days but I feel like we did an amazing job and fitting everything we did in! It was so, so beautiful!

Our first day in was pretty windy. We pushed through and hiked to the Delicate Arch knowing it would be worth it. And it absolutely was. Liam was such a good sport and let us have our fun. He cuddled up to mom at the top of the hike and enjoyed the view. And what a view it was!

Our next day was perfect for hiking. No wind and hardly any clouds to be found. We were able to see Canyon Lands. It's amazing how small that place makes you feel. You're surrounded by land that seems to go on forever. I hope to return soon.

It was just the mini-vacation we needed and I truly appreciate the time I had to get away with my boys.

11/52

 A portrait of Liam once a week, every week in 2014 

Liam's been doing so well as standing on his own lately! It all started at this latter while we were spending some time at the park. You can see him stare at a place he wants to get to or stare at an object he so badly wants and know that he is trying to figure out how to get there with out crawling. My little late bloomer is soon to be walking, I know it!

There's no pain like teething pain.

 It's been a rough couple days with Liam's teething lately. Unfortunately, he is a slow teether. It seems like it takes months for a tooth to finally pop through. He's been working on his two top teeth for a while and those darn things just wont push through! We know they are getting close when Liam starts getting sensitive around his gums and he starts getting little fevers. It's sad to see him in so much pain but we know he's getting close and we can't wait to see our little guy with four teeth! (finally). I've been enjoying the cuddles and loves I've been getting out of him, so there are some positives. (for mama, anyway). Teething is no joke!

10/52

 A portrait of Liam once a week, every week in 2014 

Have you ever seen a kid who loves the slide as much as this one? He could play on it all day long if I let him (and if I had the muscle strength). He thinks the slide is the best thing at the park! The minute you put him at the top you have to be ready because he literally dives down, head first, whether you're ready of not. He's one brave little boy!

easter basket ideas

one / two / three / four / five / six / seven

Easter has always been one of my favorite days to celebrate. This year has me especially excited now that Liam is at a age where he has a better understanding of present opening and gets excited over gifts. Though Easter is still a bit away, I have been thinking about what to put in Liam's basket. I want him to have some fun toys as well as things he's been needing. I think I finally found a perfect balance between both for my little guy. Now, I just have to try and not give in to my excitement and start giving him his gifts early!