Three weeks later

Three weeks ago school started, Celestra started Middle School, went back to choir, began playing the flute with her school's band program, and life became incredibly busy for both of us. Now, three weeks later, we get to see how far she's come, at least with one of her programs...

Presenting the Mount Logan Middle School 6th grade band in concert for the first time.

Warning: squeeks and screaches to follow... You have been warned...

Cele with her friends from band

The band getting set up on stage

The teacher/director going over a few things with the kids before the concert starts

One of Celestra's former choir mates (Hunter Franks) is also in the band
He looked so cute in his new suit, I just had to get a pic of him!

Playing Hot Cross Buns



Playing Au Claire de la Lune



Playing a piece simply titled 'concert piece'

So there you have it, the first time Celestra played her flute on stage. She got to choose where she sat, so of course she sat right in front of the director so noone could see her. At least she's having fun with band!

A little rain never hurt anyone. Right???

We now have undeniable proof that my 'dad' is waaay too attached to his sports. (As if all the injuries over the years weren't proof enough) Mom, Dad, and the 4 siblings that live here in the valley got together on Monday for some family time. Dad (and Byron) wanted to get some fishing and canoeing in so, despite the weather, we met out at first dam.

Dad out in his canoe in the pouring rain

Alisha and adorable little Ethan

Geese. Ethan sure had fun chasing these guys around.

Scott and Kellison hanging out under the pavillion during the heavy rain.

So after eating dinner, those of us not determined to go fishing (Dad, my brother-in-law Byron, and Byron's brother) headed back to mom and dad's place for hot chocolate and games of dominoes while the little kids had fun playing with each other.

We had a great time hanging out with the family. Thanks for the invite mom! It was great to see everyone.

Family, Food, and Fun

Yep its that time of year again. Time for the annual Anderson Family Reunion. But before we can get to that, we need to hold a shower for the intrepid birth of the Wheeler twins. That's right, for those of you not aware, Jennie Wheeler (cousin extrordinare) is expecting twin girls some time in October so to honor this, we threw her a 'diaper' shower. After all, she does already have two adorable children in the forms of Wesley and Skylie. So here goes...

The Wheeler side: Mark's (daddy) parents, sister and sister-in-law

A very pregnant mommy with daddy by her side: Mark and Jennie

Eiko writes a note for the twins to read when they turn 18

The always lovely Shannon Anderson

Amazing 'scrap' quilts made by Katie Willson (sister-in-law to Jennie)

A crib blanket set from Mark's parents

Skylie helps mommy open her gifts

A new diaper bag with goodies already loaded in

The always adorable Abbie

The equally adorable Izzy

Grandma and Jackson

A diaper cake made by Jacie


And now we're off to the Family Reunion held at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City

Little Brian wore himself out with swimming at Aunt Kristine's so...

Cousins Tasia and Celestra chat

Tyler, our grill master

the ladies

Wesley shows us his Karate moves

Tasia shows us her dancing skills

And for the grand finale: a group shot of (almost) everyone that was able to make it this year.

All in all, it was a great way to spend a Saturday. Who can go wrong spending time with your zany family!