Fabulous weekend!

What a fantastic weekend in Phoenix! This last weekend we headed south to celebrate the marriage of my brother Ryan to Jodi. The gorgeous spring weather was such a nice break from the cold and snow here. After a looong drive, we arrived Thursday night. We had a great time visiting with my brother Jeff, who rode down with us. Friday, the girls got to shop and eat out...yummy fish tacos and great deals were found! That night we had a rehearsal dinner at "Monti's"...it was great to meet Jodi's family and see so many other family members and friends that we don't see often.
Their sealing took place at noon on Saturday in the Mesa Temple. Just as we were waiting to go into the chapel I ran into Annalisa Semadini!! I haven't seen her since...well, a really, really long time! It was such a sweet surprise to see her and quickly reunite. The ceremony was beautiful...they were both so relaxed and calm. We are just thrilled to have Jodi be a part of our family...she is such a sweet, wonderful person. The weather was just perfect as we waited outside for the bride and groom (about 80 degrees!). After waiting, Ryan finally peeked his head out to let us know she was almost ready. Finally they came through the revolving door and right back in...that is so Ryan. Jodi was glowing and Ryan looked so proud. From her hair to her dress, Jodi looked stunning. Really, I think that is the most beautiful dress I've ever seen. I know my pics don't do it justice. It was originally a strapless dress that had to be built up. It was a soft ivory and with the rhinestones it had such a vintage feel to it. Later that evening we met at Gainey Ranch Country Club for the dinner/reception. It was so beautiful. We had the best time dancing to the fabulous wedding singer (really, he was good!) It was so cute to see Josh dancing with Sarah. Sarah was so excited to meet her "new cousins" (Jodi's nieces). They had so much fun together. I have to give kudos to my kids, they were so well behaved (esp. Jenna who hadn't napped). Needless to say, they were beyond tired at the end of the night and quickly feel asleep.

Sunday we had a brunch at my Aunt Janis' house, went to the Temple's visitor center and had a BBQ with my family at Heidi and Dave's. While at the visitor center, they had the most amazing photography exhibit by a local photographer, Mark Mabry. He creatively photographed recreated scenes from the life of Christ. Just beautiful...I'm so glad we saw it.

Monday morning, we went on the most beautiful hike in Fountain Hills (where Heidi and Dave live). I'll admit that I haven't always been a fan of "desert beauty, " but it really was beautiful. Later in the day, we hit In and Out Burger (mmmm!). The girls went shopping (of course!) and the boys headed to a spring training baseball game (A's vs. Angels). The day ended with the kids going to the movie with G'ma and G'pa and Chad and I went for sushi with Heidi and Heather.

We had so much fun this trip (minus Sarah throwing up all over me on the way home! lol). Heidi and Dave were the perfect host and hostess...thank you so much. We so enjoyed visiting family...especially catching up with aunts, uncles and cousins that we don't see often. We love you all and are so very grateful for the time we had together this weekend.

(this pic is for you Jackie!) >>