Lat week we spent five days in Garth’s hometown. Our first full day in Salt Lake was the 24th of July, which is a state holiday in Utah. Sunshine. American flags. Funnel Cakes. We woke up early and made our way to the ridiculously crowded streets of downtown Salt Lake to watch the parade. The floats were amazing! Garth knew several of the marching band instructors, and would get so excited when the drum lines would pass. (I was tempted to befriend one in particular so that I could convince him to convince Garth to make it his profession- still working on a plan to make that happen).

(RIP Steve Madden sunglasses- they were crushed on this trip)

Later that afternoon we attended a lovely surprise retirement party for Garth’s Dad, who recently retired after 37 years with the Salt Lake Police Department. The food was delicious and everyone was delighted to see Garth and meet Jack. We got soaking wet in a post-dinner water fight.

There were lots of other family dinners and late night chats. I got the chance to go down to Springville and visit my super good friend Anna. She is 10 weeks pregnant and I am 4 months post-pardom, and our bellies look about the same. (no pics! Wish I woulda, but I was just so delighted to see her, the camera slipped my mind!). We also spent a quick few hours in Sundance (of the film festival variety) with my brother Joshua and his family. We bought milkshakes and smoothies at their little deli and played by the stream in the warm afternoon sun.

Right before we left the whole Plouzek family gathered and we had family portraits taken. 10 wiggly grandkids. These are some that I snapped (and one from Brena, thanks!).

love to everyone.
xoxo

elle