Riding The Snow Leopard

When I asked Eliza and Mona what they wanted to do in Utah, one suggestion was "see animals." Grandma and Grandpa, bless their hearts, sure made that wish come true again at good ol' Hogle Zoo.

There were so many baby animals!

That afternoon we reported our day to Daddy, who was still at home. Mommy related a string of details, including Eliza's ride on a zebra and Mona's ride on a snow leopard. He was silent for a moment, "A what?" "Snow leopard," I replied. "Really?" "Really." I did mention at this point that it was a carousel. Maybe because of Swiss Family Robinson a zebra ride is fairly believable.

High in the Autum Sky

The perfect time for a ride on the Alpine Slide. Thanks to Grandma & Grandpa and a doctor Grandma works with, we had this beautiful view - twice.

In the photo above Eliza was chanting, "Here I am at the slide, with my yellow leaf." Rather than saying "cheese" in every photo, Eliza and Mona think up captions. After much time and dozens of photos with their mouths contorted for many other sounds, Mommy explained the significance of "cheese."I didn't even notice Eliza doing that when I took the photo. She said it wasn't what it looks like... ???

BFF Playdate

We did some catching up with Jamie & Kate (who's so grown up)!

General Conference

Tom flew in to Utah and the next day we enjoyed hearing Grandma & Grandpa Andersen relate experiences and share inspiring messages at the Donetsk, Ukraine mission reunion in Orem. As Grandpa spoke, Eliza turned to Grandma and said, "He's a good talker."

Ahhh, General Conference. We attended within the Conference Center on Saturday. This year Eliza played General Conference Bingo. She was quite determined - I had to smile when she said, "Mona, we're trying to listen to Conference," and "I can't hear what the prophet is saying."Grandma took us to Mimi's Saturday evening. Eliza was anxiously calling for macaroni and cheese when the waitress surprised her by bringing it from the direction opposite that which she was expecting. I've missed being part of a girls night during the Priesthood session(8-10PM is probably too late anyway:)).

We were up Provo Canyon near Aspen Grove long enough to catch as many glimpses as we could of the fall scenery (and get rather cold). Thanks to DJ & Julia, who brought delicious warm sandwiches which they kept heated with a brick.

Eliza with Aunt Annie, who we rarely get to see.

Bridal Veil Falls

Mona bowling with Grandpa at BYU.

Grilled Smores

Because she loves them.Grandma & Mona Burrito

Small Town Country Fair

Strawberry and lemon smoothies, pony rides, and plenty of animals to pet. It was an idyllic afternoon for the girls.

Just my size!