sprinkles

My sister Shelby had a birthday this month... 21! In honor of her special day, I made one of her favorites - a cake with lots and lots of sprinkles. It was pretty to look at, and even yummier to eat. Happy birthday to the most incredible girl in the world.

I attempted to use a recipe I found, but didn't have the time (or patience) to make the cake from scratch, so I cheated and used a store-bought vanilla cake mix. It still turned out amazing though! If you're feeling extra ambitious I highly recommend going for the gold and using the full recipe.

Thank you Sweetapolita for this fun recipe!

lake powell

Another incredible trip to Lake Powell! My family and the Weekes had houseboats next to each other so we enjoyed time with both our families. It was a party! There really is no better place on earth than Powell. It is absolutely beautiful, perfect weather and water, so serene, has breathtaking rock walls, it's a break from the world, and on and on... We had a wonderful time and made unforgettable memories.

vegas

At the last minute I decided to go to Vegas and spend the weekend with my family before we all drove out to Lake Powell. I loved watching my brother Steele in his basketball games - he's quite the little baller. The high school team needed an extra hand and my brother Chad (the football stud) got recruited. I can't believe I get these two as brothers!

The weekend was H O T. Luckily the Mandalay Bay has a pretty fun pool/beach/lazy river/wave pool. With 115 degree weather, we spent most of our time in the water. I couldn't believe how much of a swimmer Steele had turned into. I thought Michael was the fish in the family but I think Steele is going to give him a run for his money in that department. 

The weekend wouldn't have been complete without a little speed and shopping. Pole Position is a ton of fun. As always, Chad showed everyone up on the track and took first place in all the races.

I loved all the LeBron championship gear at Niketown :)

Awesome HUGE display at Niketown

I was so happy to spend time with my sweet Mom and brothers. I love them too much! On Tuesday we drove to Powell to meet up with the rest of our family and the Weekes who went a day earlier. I finally got to see my hubby and had missed him so much. On Wednesday we were off for a week in paradise. That post coming soon :)

a belly and a birthday

   

july fourth

I love 4th of July! I'm such a sucker for fireworks and love the opportunity to remember and reflect of the freedoms that we enjoy in this country. Monday we had a pre-fourth party at Stone Gate. Mike and his friend Drew had too much fun lighting up the sky with fireworks. He's always been a pyro! Gwen was so cute and beyond entranced by the big fireworks. She kept pointing and saying "looook!"

The night before 4th of July is a complete party in Provo. Everyone lines University, staking out spots for the parade in the morning. The streets are crowded and everyone is walking around having a great time. 7-11 is the place to be for college students (and apparently married people too ha) Mike and I, hoped on our scooter with Tanner and Bradon and joined the party. 

The actual holiday was spent BBQing, hanging out at the pool, basketball, and of course friends, family, and fireworks. We didn't go to Stadium of Fire this year (our mistake!) so we watched the fireworks from the Y. It's incredible how big those things are. We could see all the other big fireworks going off, but they're nothing in comparison. Stadium of Fire sure does spoil us with a one-of-a-kind show!

My family had a mini reunion and I was so sad to not be there. But seeing as how we've been gone so much lately, it was nice to have some time at home before we're off on another adventure next week. I can't wait to see my family next week! Lake Powell here we come!