A Special Trip

My brother Mike passed away this past weekend.  He suffered a massive heart attack almost 2 weeks ago but was never able to recover from it.  It was quite shocking when we first heard and it was a long 2 weeks as we waited to see how he would do.  I am thankful that my parents we able to come home from their mission in Spain to be with him his last few days.

We headed down to San Diego Friday night to be there for his services.  It was a very special time for my family as all my siblings and almost all of their families were able to be together for this special time. 

We spent so much time together just talking.  It was fun to remenice about his life and tell "Mike" stories.  He was definitely our colorful brother.  There was never a dull moment with him.  He definitely taught us a lot and brought us together.  We love him and will miss him.

Settling in for a long road trip.

Bryce was awesome with my kids.  They love him and always wanted him to be doing something with them.

All the brother out doing what they do best.  Playing sports and talkin' smack.  Seth fit right in! :)

It was quite a busy weekend and Sam decided to catch up on some much needed sleep during Sacrament Meeting!

Mike's services were Monday morning.  It was a very wonderful funeral full of family, friends, the Spirit, and happy memories of Mike.  This is Mike's beautiful slide show of his life.  My dad put together a very touching presentation.

This beautiful quilt was made by some members of the local Methodist church for Mike.  The ties are extra long.  Each time someone tied one they would say a prayer for him.  A lot of tender prayers made this blanket for him.

Liz and Laura practicing for their approaching "Grandma" days (don't worry, we know they are still years away!) :)

Nate helping to keep spirits high at the luncheon.  (Hey, you photo bomb me, I'll share it with everyone!) :)

Our family's California ward we all grew up in put on a beautiful family luncheon for us where we were able to gather together and enjoy Mike's beautiful day.  Many more memories and stories were shared.  It was wonderful.

Clay and Logan, Mike's 2 youngest with my kids.  We love them so much and can't wait until they can come visit.

Seth had to pay a visit to Kristy.  Kristy's Donuts that is.  He made her day with how many dozens of donuts he bought.  I laughed at him thinking he bought way too much, but my family downed them that night as we were together again recovering from such a long day.

After such a long and emotional day Joy and I took Mom and Laura out for Chinese Foot Massages.  A little something I learned about in Xian.  It was much needed and helped us all relax.

We had so much fun being able to spend so much time with Andy.  We don't get to see him or his family enough.  He always had something to say, even when brushing his teeth he couldn't stop! :)

Laura and Dave were so amazing.  They had so much family going in and out of their home for the past 2 weeks and this weekend they hosted over 20 at the same time!  We sure love them and are thankful for all they do for us and our families!

After a long weekend we decided to stop and stay at a hotel.  We stayed at the Rio and loved it.  The kids loved looking out the wall of windows at the lights and look down to see how high we were.  I just had to snap a shot of my boys having a late night snack in the room.  Our kids sure do love hotels and it was fun to them so excited to stay in one.

For some reason I had wanted a peppermint hot chocolate our whole trip and never seemed to get it.  Well, Seth, who always takes such good care of me, made sure I got it on our way home.  It was so yummy!

We came home to a beautiful surprize.  Our Primary had put together some sweet notes of comfort for me and some beautiful flowers.  It was touching to find and read through.  I am so thankful for all my friends and loved ones here in my neighborhood.  They are wonderful.  Many others from my ward wrote cards of comfort, brought meals, and one of my good friends was even out doing my yard work for me when we got home!  We are so blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful people!

These beautiful flowers were made by my cousin, Norah, for Mike's.  Mike was brought up to Utah to be buried.  It's nice to have him close so that we can visit him.