4th of July, 2013

 We've had a fun two weekends with grandchildren sleepovers.  Talisa and Kira stayed over on June 21.  Talisa has good arm strength on the bars. 

 We took the girls to play at Heartland School on Friday night . 

 West Jordan Park was also fun for them. 

June 24th we had a lovely reunion of the extended Rogers family in West Jordan.  We had 35-40 people there--siblings, and first, second, and third cousins.  It was a very nice occasion.  In this pictures are Rob and Tam Rogers, Dave and Tam Rogers, Dan and Luana Rogers, Frank and Lillis Byers, Dennis and Kathie Smith, and John and Kathryn Ann Rogers.  Craig and Lissa Rogers from California were definitely missed. 

 We had Grant and James sleep over on June 28.  This was the beginning of there terrible 100+ degree temperatures that went on for 6 days.  We went to the park early in the morning but didn't stay long because it was so hot even before 10:00 AM. 

 This section of the park has some interesting music features.  The base is a soft and bouncy which prevents injuries. 

It was still hot on the 4th of July so Grandma and Grandpa  went with the Eliasons to Silver Lake which was a delightful 73 degrees. 

 Grant and Lillian   There were a lot of double takes and with our two sets of twins.  "Didn't we just pass those children?"

 Mark and John

 The trail was nice but the rocks were more fun. 

 Amelia and Lillian.  The little girls are beginning to talk but their sign language is very helpful when they really want to communicate.  They will be two in 6 weeks. 

 Snack time, then the boys went on a little hike with their dad while the rest of us played on the rocks. 

 Silver Lake

 Lillian and Mark say "Hi!" 

 Near the end of the loop the little girls were content to ride. 
Mark, Kristilyn hold John, Lillian, Amelia, Grant, and James

 The Eliasons have had the sprinkler system installed so now are working hard to prepare the ground to lay sod. 

View of the front yard.  Notice the blinds can be arranged for light from the top and privacy on the bottom if desired. 

Colorado was the gathering place for most of our children.  Mike and Desi hosted Julie and Jason and Keith and Kim' family for the 4th.  I'm sure they had a lot of fun together.  Carters enjoyed the parade in the morning and neighborhood fireworks in the evening.  Brandon had to work so Melody enjoyed their ward breakfast and activities. 

We live in a wonderful land and I'm so grateful for the sacrifices of so many to keep it free.  Last week we attended Uncle Blaine Batty's funeral.  He was 89 and served in World War II, earning a purple heart.  He was in the Battle of the Bulge but never spoke of what he endured there.  So many have and continue to sacrifice to keep our nation free and they deserve our honor and respect.  I've traveled and lived abroad and my love for this great land has only been increased.  There are amazing people all over the world but this is a land of promise if we will but keep the commandments of God.