Yesterday, Colby took Braxton and Gabe down to Sandy to visit The Living Aquarium. His mom,
dad and nephew Xavier went as well. I dropped off Tristan at my parent's home and attended a bridal shower. I think they had a good time, Braxton hasn't talked about anything but McDonald's that they stopped to eat at on the way home. Gabe came home and told me that he
saw sharks! Colby said Braxton and Xavier pretty much just walked up to one tank, gave all the creatures a quick glance and then kept moving on to the next tank, too fast for the rest of the
group to absorb anything. I think those two were more interested in being together than observing the water life. This last week Braxton was grounded from friends (including his cousin Xavi) for disappearing somewhere in the neighborhood and not telling us where or when he left. My friends and neighbors were helping me look for him when he sauntered home from the Polygamists' house with a piece of homemade pie. Oddly enough they let him play with their kids, when usually they shoo the kids inside before any from the neighborhood can attempt to play with them. And Xavier was grounded the week before for disappearing up in his neck of the woods. So, they were excited to be reunited no matter where they went. Colby said that Gabe
was the one that enjoyed it the most. It was a quiet and relaxing afternoon for me while I hung out with Tristan and got ready to attend the shower. I used to live across the street from my good friend Christina Hansen from age 11-20. She now lives in Las Vegas as a successful saleswoman. I am so happy for her, she will be married next month, so look for more details on the two of them after October 10th. Anyway, I had a blast catching up with past ward members and friends at the bridal shower. It was good to see them all and hopefully we can reconnect more in the future.
Second, we did a little bowling at Fat Cats Bowling Alley. 
Then we finished off the night with salad bar and twisted bread sticks at The Pizza Factory. 
They had so much fun, and we enjoyed watching them. We were amazed at how well behaved they were the whole evening. We went back home, did some haircuts and got them all in bed. 
Colby's best friend Ben Johnson. He has known Ben since four years of age. He has had a turn living with us for 3 months in California, and been through thick and thin with us. He is our brother from another mother. And, since he has only sisters, it is the same for him. We were privileged to attend the wedding ceremony in the Bountiful LDS Temple yesterday morning 
bright and EARLY, and take pictures with the couple and their family afterwards. We then attended the reception held at the Maddox Lodge in Brigham later that evening with our kids
in tow. It was small and simple and we loved every minute of it. Colby got to reconnect with several friends from his childhood. We had a great time and are so happy for this couple and their makeshift little family. Deena was a divorced single mother of 3. A 14 year old son, 12 year daughter and 2 1/2 year old adopted daughter. Ben had never been married, and doesn't have any kids, but he makes a perfect father for this brood. The 2 year old knows no other father figure other than him. He is in the process of adopted little Riley, and they hope to adopt one more in the future. We love you guys, congratulations.
Tristan and I walked him to school and dropped him off with his other friends. 
Later, when it was time to pick him up, he was in a much better mood. Besides loving class, Smarties are always a kid's favorite. Thank you Miss Jackie for making his day. I can't wait until Friday for some more peace and quiet, and another very happy Gabe.
