Memorial Day 2011

As is our tradition for long weekends, we headed to Star Valley for the Memorial Day holiday. This was also the last trip we would be able to make there for a while as we knew we weren't going to be staying in Salt Lake City, which made it bittersweet. The weather was pretty nice and Kaylen got another chance to ride the "horsey" although this time she kept calling Dodger a cow? Not sure what that was about, but it's always so fun to see how much she loves him. Grandpa Warren is always really good about re-familiarizing her with him and she usually can't wait to get on! She usually gets upset even to have to wait for Ian and I to switch out riding with her!

She always loves riding with her Uncle Neenie. She usually always talks about it long after we get home saying, "me ride horsey with Neenie". It's very sweet.

Kaylen chilling out waiting for Grandpa to change out the saddle for Mommy

Kaylen riding Dodger with Mommy

Two of my favorite boys!

Having brunch at Tootsies after church on Sunday. Grandpa getting some cuddle time.

Kaylen and Grandma Rie

Leslie wasn't able to make it home to Star Valley this time as she was off visiting a friend. But it was so nice to get some quality time in with the rest of the family for a long weekend before we had to move.

(I am sad to have to add as an additional side note to this post, by the time I had the opportunity to post this blog, Dodger has since passed away. He had to be put down after Warren found out that he would not be able to overcome the health issues he was having. It was a VERY sad time for Warren and Cherie as there were lots of great memories of both Ian and Kaylen having some really special time on the horse. Warren dutifully cared for Dodger day in and day out and had spent a lot of time with him. We were very sad to hear of his having to be put down. It's amazing how clear Kaylen's memories are of riding Dodger. Thankfully we aren't there enough now to have to address death with her at this point. But we are incredibly grateful for the joy that Dodger brought the family and the special memories he gave us)