Disneyland! aka "Dinney"

Wow, it has been far too long! I will spare you all too many words and just let the pictures do most of the talking, and then you can decide how much we all enjoyed our vacation... :)

The daily walk.

Such a trooper!

Tom Sawyer's Island.

One of her favorites.

Time out...

Cheesy grin!

You might imagine Lizzie's dismay when she discovered we were not, in fact, going to live there. On the morning of our drive home, she attempted to lead Case out the door and down the street toward "Dinney." I'm so glad we have these pictures to show her how much she loved that trip, even if she can't remember it!

4th of July Wonder

As this 4th of July approached, my excitement and anticipation was not for any of the activities for myself, but for Lizzie. Last year, as a little 2 month old, she did little more than sleep, which was, of course, understandable. However, this year, I hoped she could begin to experience some of the wonder I did throughout colorful, memorable Fourths as a child. I was not disappointed in the least!

I love this expression of pure wonder. She kept exclaiming, "Baa!! Baa!!" at the hot air balloons, which is also her word for ball. Close enough. :)

We had a blast at the balloon festival and parade. I love the festivities in Provo! They really know how to celebrate the 4th!

I loved how she kept reaching for the hot air balloons.

Between the parade and a bottle of hand sanitizer, Lizzie couldn't have been more content.

Pioneer Park

On Saturday, we went on a family outing to Pioneer Park, which not only is just a few blocks away from our house, but hosts a farmer's market every Saturday in the summer! I loved watching Lizzie explore the playground there. She's getting good at those steps!

She wasn't sure what it was, but she knew that kid was doing it!

I love the legs up in resistance!


She laid in stunned surprise for quite a while at the bottom.

...but she survived.

and then wanted to go back up it!

I loved watching her try! It seemed easier for her when I took off her shoes so she could pad her way up. She is always more sure of herself in bare feet!

I tried to get her to go down on her tummy, but she just clung for dear life.

Frustration mounted until I pried her loose, and slid down with her on my lap.

Despite how much she enjoyed the slide, she kept grabbing my hand and leading me to the swing set. We had to wait for some time, however, since on a crowded, sunny Saturday, they were all occupied. Any wait is worth that smile, though!

Tired!! She propped her chin for a while, just enjoying the wind whip past her face.

Swings were always my favorite, too. As timid as Lizzie is about many things new and unknown, I was delighted knowing she, also, loves the weightless thrill and simple pleasure of a swing.