Christmas in November

Gloria and I have found the perfect spring and fall times to take a trip "home" -- the weekends that Tara is working a dance event at BYU! We had such a great time with Tara in March that we decided to make a return trip with her in November. Not only did we get to support Tara {and sit on the front row for some of the fun dance performances}, but we were able to spend a few days with Dad, deliver holiday gifts in person, and share some super fun "sister" time together.

I took advantage of some great airfare to Phoenix, which gave me a day on each end of the trip to spend with Gloria & Kent and their family. Gloria and I flew directly to/from Provo from Mesa, which was super convenient. The Provo Marriott was perfect, with easy access to campus for Tara, and close enough to visit family for us. Tara was able to join us at some of our favorite local spots -- Cafe Rio, Brick Oven, and Swig's for drinks & cookies. We were able to visit with, and deliver holiday gifts to, each of our brothers, Aunt Pearl and Uncle Dan & Aunt Viv. We placed a little Christmas tree on Mom's grave, were Tara's guests for some of the dancing competition at BYU, bought fabric in Provo's awesome Fabric Mill, and even had time for a little holiday shopping.

We were so grateful to have time each day to spend with Dad. He loved the quilt we had made him for Christmas, and was absolutely thrilled when we put it on his bed. One day we took him for a long ride clear out to Eureka, stopping for yummy licorice ice cream at the Red Barn. Dad seems to be in great health overall, and is grateful to be where he is. We feel so blessed to know that he is happy and content.

So...I got a jump start on the Christmas holidays -- wishing my Dad and each of my siblings "Merry Christmas" in person this year! With an added bonus of sharing with my sister a visit to our hometown, swapping holiday "Grandma" ideas, and once again tagging along on Tara's adventure. Christmas in November for me!!!