Garrett Family Reunion 2014

Evan and I flew to Utah on our own for a family reunion and a little farewell to Austin for 2 years. Evan was an angel both ways on the plane. The biggest travel challenge was getting the luggage checked in and then picked up from the baggage claim. I had two suitcases, a car seat, a walker, a stroller with Evan inside, and a diaper bag. Thank goodness Southwest allows for all of that to be checked in free with my one ticket. We did curbside check-in and then security and the rest of the airport was a breeze.

In Utah I loved being in nature, feeling the family love, and showing off my adorable son. Isaiah also kept reminding me to get my fill of games while I was there which I made sure to do. In between family time Evan managed to squeeze in some lounge time in our room, watching TV. The lodge was so fancy.

Evan met a lot of second cousins (sometimes by running into them with his walker). He learned to sign "baby" and loved the babies he saw there. A lot of kids were curious about his walker and took their own turns with it. I love spreading awareness by allowing them to experience a piece of Evan's life.

Grandma (Evan's great-grandma) planned a Bear Hunt for the kiddos. They got superhero capes for their adventure and each got to collect trinkets, treats, and pieces of nature--not to mention the BEARS they found at the end! The jogging stroller did great through the rocky trails. Evan is very observant and seems to love being outside where there is a lot to look at.

After the Bear Hunt

Still wearing their superhero capes

Evan's favorite person at reunion (his reflection)

Evan finally mustered the courage to pet this dog but she didn't seem so fond of him and kept walking away. Somewhere there is also a picture of Evan with the domesticated fawn (Thunder) that lived at the lodge.

Janelle and I planned a craft with the kids where they made salt dough jewelry and shapes. They were so creative with making heart-shaped pendants for necklaces, worms, and in one case a ring for a "girlfriend."

One of my favorite parts of reunion was the adult "ninja warrior" obstacle course. Most of the challenges had an easy way and a "right" way. Even though I mostly opted for the easy way it still challenged me enough that I felt proud of my accomplishments in the the end. Thankfully a few others took pictures of the events.

Tomorrow (hopefully) or sometime soon I'm going to share some exciting news from this week! I can't wait!