MAUI VACATION

In early March, we enjoyed a week in Maui as just the three of us! We had the best time staying at the Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas and spending all our time at the pool and beach for seven full days. By the second day, Grant was an expert at running down the hall, waiting for the elevator, running in, and running right to the pool. He was in heaven all week. Besides the lovely weather and endless hours at the pool and beach, we dined at a few of our favorite restaurants, including Kimos in Lahina, where we were seated at the exact table we sat at during our honeymoon almost 8 years ago! We dined multiple times on Leilan'is fish tacos, nachos and Hula Pie... when on vacation, eat like it! Grant became accustomed to Pina Coladas by the pool, before his daily nap. We had a wonderful time and cannot wait to go back in a few years! 

WALT DISNEY WORLD

In September, we flew to Orlando, Florida and met the Jones family for a week at Disney World. We had the best time between park jumping, enjoying a water park and the pool, and eating yummy food! Grant was in heaven at each park, and especially loved "The Lion King" show in Animal Kingdom. Derek loved checking out the new Pandora land and ride at Animal Kingdom as well, which was really incredible! One of the most magical experiences was watching him try on his Mickey Ears for the first time! He was smiling at himself in the mirror in pure delight. He also LOVED the characters, and enjoyed kissing their noses. It was a great week and we had the best time spending time with one another at the happiest place on earth! 

MCKENZIE FAMILY REUNION | OAKLEY, IDAHO

We spent a long weekend in Oakley, Idaho (Derek's hometown) celebrating with the McKenzie Family for a family reunion and the Oakley 24th of July celebrations this year. We spent a lot of time around the fire, roasting s'mores and chatting, while kiddos played and laughed on the swing set and we all took turns playing Papa Lynn's game, Nine Square. We also spent a day at Nat-Soo-Pah, a natural hot spring not far from town. Grant enjoyed going down his first water slide, swimming in the warm pool, and playing with his cousins! Early Saturday, a lot of us ran/walked the Goose Creek 5K, which is hopefully a new family tradition, and then enjoyed my favorite breakfast in the park! Our nephew Clark ran the Kids Fun Run, and did an amazing job! He was by far the youngest runner, but finished strong and hard. I can't wait for him and Grant to run it together in a few years. We finished the day with the parade, driving up to the Basin where the family ranch is located, family pictures, and the rodeo. It was a fun, but exhausting, trip, and we can't wait for our next visit!