From Sun to Snow

Just 5 days ago we were in Phoenix, relaxing by the pool in 90 degrees of sunshine.

Today, in Denver, we are in the middle of a BLIZZARD!  The weather man is reporting 15-19 inches of snow in the metro area!  I can not believe it.  The snow has been thick since 9:00 a.m. and the blowing and drifting is out of control...a total whiteout at times.  It is so bad, we can't go anywhere (it's Spring Break).  Where is Spring?   I put our snow clothes in storage a few weeks ago.

Ahhh, those were the days!

Addison...dreaming of Arizona.

Visiting Beautiful Arizona

We are currently in Arizona.  Brad is watching the Dodgers (his favorite team) at this years Spring Training. While he is with his buddies at the baseball field, the girls and I will be at the pool enjoying the warm weather.

Our trip began early yesterday morning.  On our way, we stopped at one of my favorite places in the world...the Navajo Reservation in sunny Arizona.  I lived on the reservation several years ago as I served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  I can not tell you how much I love to visit this beautiful area and the amazing people that live there.  Brad and the girls had a good time exploring the reservation and learning a little bit more about Native American culture.  

Olivia and Addison in a Hogan-

Primary traditional 

home for the Navajo people.

Before we arrived on the reservation, I promised the girls that we would stop at my favorite trading post to buy them each a Native American doll.  They were eagerly anticipating our arrival.  On the way,  I taught them how to say hello(ya'at'eeh) and thank you(ahe'hee') in Navajo.  They practiced and practiced and practiced (so adorable).  When the time finally arrived to use their new words they were too nervous to say them. :)

Olivia- proud of her 

precious new doll.

Hammond's Candy Factory

We took a trip to a local candy factory.  On our way, as I listened the kid's excitement, it was clear to me that they were anticipating a "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" experience.  In fact, Olivia said, "Mom, if they ask me to eat grape gum, I will say no because I don't want to blow up into a big grape."  Cute.  

It was so much fun to see all of the candy, how it is made and try a few flavors.  It really was fascinating.  When we arrived at home, Addison asked if she could make some candy (pink suckers).  So, we gave it a try.  It was our first attempt at making candy and probably our last. :) It was a messy, sticky process. But, in the end she was very proud of herself.   

Kenna, Addison, Addyson & Olivia

waiting for the tour to begin.

Exploring candy heaven.

Addie's pink suckers

Bloomba! Fort Collins, Colorado

The girls and I visited Fort Collins on Friday.  Our friends, Heather and Joe Widdison, own Bloomba- a cute, trendy play center and yummy cafe.  It was a blast.  If you are ever in the Fort Collins area, you must stop by and check it out. Click here for more info.  My girls loved it and were entertained all afternoon.  I was able to sit back, relax and enjoy the delicious food (I recommend the Turkey Applewood Panini YUM!).  Heather, thank you SO much.  I was very impressed by your creation. :)