Friday, September 2, 2011

A Picnic at Bridal Veil Falls

One of the things I focused on doing over the summer was to be active with my über-energetic children! We swam, biked, went on walks, played in parks, hiked....it was awesome!

So I decided it was time to journey up Provo Canyon for some experiences in places which meant so much to me as a BYU student years ago. The holdback? The Provo River. I've been terrified to take my children up canyons since some of them like to explore boundaries and I have a toddler. But we did well. We really did. And we LOVED the falls!











Hawaii in Utah: The Hult Luau!

We enjoyed the greatest evening at Meredith and Nate's home last weekend. It was a Luau in all its perfection from the smoked pig, coconut rice, scrumptious desserts to the Polynesian entertainment. Meres and Nate want to make it an annual tradition....We're There!



Aloha, Baby!

Football Fever Hits Our Home

This year, our sons committed to playing tackle football. Both of them. Now, don't judge us. Just judge Dave. :)

They are both little but super fast. Practices have been going since the end of July for both of them. The 5-day-a-week break from the two loudest, most energetic little boys for 2 hours has been enjoyable for him and good for them.

They played with first game last Saturday. It was a loss but they played hard and well (did I just say that? That is was okay to lose?). So proud of my boys!






First Day of School 2011

The first day of school 2011----significant on all accounts this year as we send our third child into the education system. Jaxson and Taylor began on the 23rd. I feel very good about their teachers, especially Taylor's this year. Austin began a week later in Kindergarten. His teacher has all sorts of unique experiences in education: teaching in China, Africa etc. She seems to be enthusiastic and very smart.

Here is Austin on his first day!

Taylor and Jaxson on their way to school

After school, I had little candy bar posters with good luck messages from me and Dave (Thanks, Rachelle, for another super idea for a tradition). They loved them!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Elder & Sister Hatch's Missionary Homecoming


All seven children, their spouses (two of which are pregnant), 16 grandchildren and 2 dogs headed to Southeastern Idaho on the weekend of August 13-14th for mom and dad's missionary homecoming. It was a whirlwind of noise, laughter, work and pictures. Mom and Dad bought Grandpa's house while in New Jersey so they had only been in it for less than a week before we all descended on the new homestead. It felt right. I mean, the house really felt right. On Saturday, while I was getting something in the basement, I had this feeling like this was my new home in Idaho; a place where my children would grow up coming to and enjoying in the years to come.

The little cousins played together beautifully! McKay and Jessica put together the most clever scavenger hunt for the kids with candy bars at the end. We also took on the task to having family pictures. Under the circumstances, I think they turned out fantastic.

On Sunday, we enjoyed being back in the ward where so many wonderful family and friends welcomed us back. Mom and Dad's talks were excellent and we could really feel the love they have of the Latinos in New Jersey and of missionary work. I felt inspired to live and love more fully.

I love my family so much and am grateful to have been born into this special family. Love you all eternally-
JODY


A Quick Trip to the Historic Store
The kids are trying to figure out what they can buy for 50 cents!

Jenny's DARLING sons, Patrick and Pierce


WE LOVE CANDY!

We drove to the cemetery to see Grandpa and Grandma Hatch's headstone.
Jenny with Justin's new baby girl.

Yes, Brandon, we know you are here!

Two of my cute nieces!

McKay and Jessica (the oldest of the cousins) put together the most entertaining and witty scavenger hunt for the younger cousins. Seriously- I was so impressed! They rhymes were superior.
Dan lifting Taylor up to retrieve the next clue!

Running around the house!


Jenny's 3rd son, Preston!

How TENDER is this? We love you BrinLee!

My sisters


Jeff and Nicole



Dan, holding the baby girl for good luck!

Austin with Grandma Rae Rae