Wedding Weekend

Chase, the girls, & I were able to fly home for an eventful wedding weekend.  We sure would have loved to stay longer, but regardless of the length of time, trips like these really help me appreciate life, family, & love.  We left around noon on a Thursday and got back about the same time on the following Monday.  The girls weren't ready to leave!  As we were jumping into the car to head to the airport to head back to our AZ apartment, Sailor's response was "No, I want to stay, Mom.  We didn't stay for a long time."

 I know that feeling, Sailor.

The girls did board the plane and luckily they did just as good as they did when we first headed over.  I am grateful for easy plane rides like these--and for the very back row and for a non-full flight. :)

We took advantage of our time there and really miss all the family as we were leaving.

Sailor & Seryn were patient and calm on the flight over.  Hooray for that.  And hooray for useful technological devices that help this become a reality (the girls watching a "Leap Frog" episode on the tablet).

 

 

It was not only a treat to be staying at the in-laws' house, but also to have Chase's grandma stay with us as well.  Grandma Jackson spent some great time with the girls and became quick friends with Sailor.

The wedding was gorgeous.  Unfortunately, it decided to rain for a good portion of the day, but this did make for some BEAUTIFUL photos.  The deep black color of the men's suits, the gray from the temple, and the beautiful tulips made we wish I was able to get loads more pictures. 

Sailor with great Grandma Jackson.

 

Ser and grandma!

The Groom and nieces! 



After the sealing ceremony and pictures, we all headed over to "Chuck-a-Rama" for some old-fashion buffet food where we got to mingle with acquaintances, family members, and old college friends.

We all went back to the house to relax and nap for a few hours, but then it was back in our fancy dresses and the girls needed their hair tended to.  The girls enjoyed Grandma doing that for them.

And, Sailor spent some time playing with cousin August, or just creeping him out. haha

The reception that evening was enjoyable. But, after 20 mins or so I could tell it was going to be a long night with the kids.  By then they had had it- they were tired and acting out. ----but the night wasn't about us...

Kirsten was beautiful in her white dress, Chantz looked happy to be standing next to his new wife, & the room was filled with so many loved ones who came to support them.  Congrats to them! We are so happy for the big decision they made to wed!

Chavis & Kara Family.   It's always a good time playing games, visiting, or making sweets in the kitchen :).  I really wish we were able to visit them more often!

The wedding took place on a Friday and then Saturday came.....Saturday was AMAZING.  Our 5th year anniversary was the week prior and like I posted before, I surprised Chase with that news.  He had forgotten and I kind of counted on that happening.

Well, Chase certainly made up for that. :)   This time he and his parents were in cahoots and surprised me with a over-night getaway at the "Anniversary Inn."  Chase and I were on our way in town running a couple errands when he drove up to the inn.  At this point I knew I was being surprised with something, but I didn't realize where we were until we got to the front entrance and below my feet was the welcome mat that told where we were.  I just laughed!  I had no idea.  Chase even secretly grabbed me a change of clothes, my toothbrush, etc, and hid it in the car.  We checked in and walked to the surprise themed room!

To Preface: Ever since I was young, I've had this weird obsessed fascination with Hawaii.  Why?? I don't know, and I have yet to visit there.  And because Chase knows this, he was so sweet to think of me when he choose the room....

Chase's parents had the girls for the night, which made this our first night away from our kids.  I didn't know how to react at first, but once we got settled in I knew I wouldn't have a problem leaving them for future getaways. Heck, when I go to Hawaii for reals I think maybe, just maybe, I'll be fine with the idea of leaving the girlies at their grandparent's house. :)

Once we spent our time together, we were anxious to get back and spend the rest of the weekend with everyone else since we were only in town for another day.  Grandma took the girls to a fun park where we fed ducks and dodged a monstrous pooch as he ran circles around us almost running into Seryn a couple times.  We played on the toys, swung on the swings, and enjoyed the beautiful spring weather.

I need to shout out to my in-laws for being the greatest hosts.   Thank you, thank you, thank you for all!!  The girls just love visiting their grandparents, and I don't blame them.grandma & grandpa spend such quality time and cherish each minute that their grandchildren are in town.  We love you.