lame title #2: My Family

As soon as I knew I was going home I got so excited. I love my family so much. I can't even tell you how awesome they are.

The next 5 days were full of food, jokes, movies, dance parties, holding Joshua, Beiber fever, birthdays, and love. It was perfect that Amy and Josh were there. Joshua is THE CUTEST BABY EVER. It was the perfect time to see him because he is still so cute and little, but he is getting chubby and he is very responsive. He smiles so much and almost laughed a couple times. He is so happy and so fun to cuddle with and hold and talk to. I couldn't get enough!

Some details of the trip:

• My sisters are the coolest ever. They are really great examples to me. Each of them is so unique and has amazing talents. I hope they know how great and beautiful they are!
• My parents have so much wisdom. I always learn so much when I am around them. Their advice is priceless and I love them so much!
• Having a nephew is so much fun. Joshua is a great baby and I can't wait to see him grow!
• Iowa feels like a rain forest sometimes. Especially compared to Utah. I went running on a trail on a rainy day and with the tree cover and the mist and the humidity I was fully expecting to run into some strange jungle animal.
• Yard work is way more fun with music and sisters (and knowing you only have to do it once while you're home).
• Making friendship bracelets is one of the best ways to hang out with sisters.
• Ordering take-out for my mom's birthday dinner was genius. The oven fire while reheating the food could have been tragic but it ended well.
• Even though Blair is the youngest and only 8 years old, she is so smart and funny and I love that we are friends, and not just sisters.
• Gwendolyn is so mature for her age but she is still a blast to party with. She has beautiful red hair and I love love love hanging out with her.
• Polly has awesome style and seems way older than 16. I can't believe she's driving and can go on dates. And I think we might be soul sisters.
• Abigail is so great. I can't even tell you how excited I am that she will be in Provo with me in the fall. I know everyone will love her. How could you not?
• Amy is an inspiring mom. To see her with her son is so fun and I know she loves him and being a mom. I'm so glad that we are such good friends. I miss living closer to her!
• Trevor is a missionary and he is such a good example to me. I know he has challenges but he never complains and I know he is always working hard to share the gospel!
• My parents are incredible. I am so glad that I have realized how great they are. I can't imagine my life without the relationship I have with them. They give me the greatest words of wisdom and I feel so loved by them.

So basically my trip home was perfect. The only thing I would have changed is the length of the visit. I was so sad to leave so soon. Especially because I came back to Utah and the next day it snowed on my first day of my new job. It was a little stressful.