New Bike and Labor Day

Over Labor Day Weekend we took a trip to Utah to visit Grandpa Tomkinson for a few days.

He had a very special gift for Ryan: a signature Guy LeMond 853 Model racing bike!

Not just any bike, grandpa's bike which logged over 3,000 miles last year in races.....

It is an honor.

Grandpa's sight isn't what is used to be and Ryan is interested in taking over where grandpa left off- competitive racing.

He's already talking and thinking about half triathlons and possible races he needs train to participate in.

Keyword being: Train 

 It's awesome- and exciting!

 Before leaving we posed for a group picture... a little dark but we were so happy to spend time with grandpa and visit.

Along the way home we stopped into visit Grandma Stephenson who lives in Twin Falls.

She is the best organ player. Period.

One of the things we most enjoy is to listen to her musical talent. She also teaches Ryan a bit of playing/finger-plucking too!  

It's never enough time to visit but we enjoy the few moments gifted to spend with family! 

Silly Pictures

A little fun on the Ipad...which made us laugh hysterically for several minutes!

 Ryan as the "Elephant Man"

'Mr. Brianiac' 
Kind of looks like a scheming mad-evil scientist.....

Ayla looks like a cartoonist baby off the movie 'Incredibles'  

 Squishy-Face!

 It's a giant brain-headed toddler!
Huh- no wonder Peanut is sooo smart!

 Meet the 'Elephant-Man's' Wife

 ...and her sister "Mega-Lips"

Don't forget the country singer: Wynonna Judd!
Seriously, it is uncanny, right?

Stephenson Reunion

The Stephenson Sibling Reunion was hosted in Meridian two weeks ago and what a blast it was!

Family Photo, only missing a few....

The first night we reserved the church and hosted a Family Derby Car Race. Each family brought their own uniquely decorated  cars.  

Of course, there was much feasting to be had, as well....Hawaiian Haystacks (delicious!) 

Ayla attempting to "help" Ryan assemble the Derby track....

Aunt Lindsday and Ayla

...and the race is on!

Richard kept score and in the end: everyone was a winner (of some sort).

The following morning we visited the World Center for the Birds of Prey- a very cool place!

This is great-grandpa Tomkinson dresses as a 'Bird of Prey'....love it!

The kids enjoyed the various activities at the Center and learning about the various variety of Prey Birds hosted there. Our tour guide was funny and informative!

Aunt Teresa made Ayla a 'Crown of Feathers' to which she wore for about 2 seconds.....

After the tour we crashed a park for BBQ, games and outdoor activities.

Always a good excuse to bring family together to visit and enjoy each others company.

Until next year!