Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Summer coming to an end

So both Taylor and I are back to school. I can't believe we graduate in a year!

It has been an amazing summer just being able to spend time together and take some fun vacations!

The beginning of July we were able to go to Philadelphia with my side of the family. We went to Maryland, Washington D.C., New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, and Virginia ALL in seven days. I couldn't believe it. I was so excited to show Taylor my old stompin' grounds and teach him a bit about where I grew up. We were super exhausted when we got home but it was so worth it! The highlights of our trip were: The shore, the food, NYC, the food, Holocaust museum, the food, oh, and the food... did i mention that?

On July 24, 2010, Taylor's grandfather, Bud Bailey, passed away. It was such an amazing and incredible experience. I personally had never dealt with death before on such a personal, close level, but it was such an enriching and bonding experience for both Taylor and I and his family. It made me so grateful for our eternal family and the blessings the gospel brings into our lives. He was such a great example of what a man should be: he always put his family first, he was extremely generous, loving, fun, happy, adventurous caring, and spiritual. I think he is someone we can all aspire to be. I am so grateful I could know him, even though it was for such a short time, but even so, he had such an impact on me. Love you Grandpa Bud!

We were blessed to be able to buy a new car for Taylor. It's buh-bye Betsy!! Poor little Bets had over 215,000 miles on her, but she treated Tay well since his mission. It was on to better horizons. My company turned over their fleet of cars and so we had the opportunity to buy a 2007 Chevy Impala for a sweet deal! We flew to San Diego, picked up the car, stopped at Trader Joe's (LOVE that place), and then drove to Vegas where we met our friends, The Williams, for a fun-filled weekend! (I was finally legal! Woowhee!). Hilary and I had many adventures that included gangsters, watching security guards get punched out, Austin Powers, Brett Michaels, and sign language. It was great fun. If you are ever bored and want a good story, just ask.

As the perfect wrap up to our summer, we went down to Lake Powell with the Duncan fam. We were able to ski, wakeboard, hike, and TAN. It was truly lovely. I now know why Taylor never really wants to go anywhere else on vacation. It is SO relaxing and beautiful. We found a new canyon called Twilight Canyon. I love looking at all the beautiful creations Heavenly Father has given us as we wend through narrow passageways. It truly is heaven on earth. I also like thinking about how all of the rocks and structures have changed over time through erosion, water evaporation, and such while listening to Enya echo through the slots. It's truly perfect!

Now, sadly, we are back to school. Oh well!! Next summer we will be grown ups and have real jobs and contribute to society! Exciting! I am starting my psychiatric rotation for the next 7 weeks. Wish me luck! I'm sure I will have some great stories!

[PICTURES TO COME SOON]