Big girls don't cry

Yesterday I returned from kicking it with my older sister, Lanita, in Denver Colorado. I learned a lesson from her three boys. Chase, 3, has learned to whistle and use the toilet. Seth, 6, can tie his own shoes and has many wrestling spoils. Abram, 8, is learning the ways of a meteorologist: he can tell me how to read weather maps and how to predict weather through specific fronts. In each scenario bragging rights were held high, and optimism and energy expelled from my nephews with their new accomplishments. I too was excited to share in their achievements.
So I looked back on the last few weeks/months, and wondered why I hadn't been feeling the same zest and zeal as my nephews. I feel like the Dr. Suess book: oh the places you'll go.
Firstly, we went on a vacation over labor Day weekend. Our great friends, the Tingeys, invited us to their ranch near Evanston Wyoming.
Secondly, I worked full time for two weeks. I recognize that most of the world's population does this and more every week. For me, it's noteworthy.
Thirdly, apple session descended and I did my traditional drying of apples and tried for my first time canning apple pie filling (thanks to my sister Rachel)
Fourthly, I tried my hand in a test run of making grape juice (thanks to my neighbor Suzy).
Fifthly, Micah turned 25!!
Sixthly, my terrific sister-in-laws Ariel and Autumn came over conference weekend. We went to Salt Lake, we hiked the Y, went to the movies, and ate yummy yummies!
Seventhly (is that a word?), my grandmother was issued from this life. I journeyed to Idaho Falls for remembrances and a great big Taylor/Rydalch family party.
Eightly (has anyone gone this high on 'ly's'?), and as previously mentioned, I partyed at Lanita's. Micah left to party in Texas at a movie shoot, so I treked to Colorado for some of my own fun (thanks Lanita and Micah).
SOOOOOO. Those were all long stories made very short. And to save you from boredome I shan't delve into specifics. I'll post pictures, isn't one worth a thousand words anyways?
At the risk of sounding cliche, I'll tie this into my previous thought....I'd been reviewing how busy I've felt the last two months. (inserted disclaimer: I do believe in being "too busy".) It got me tired. Then I thought a more child-like approach would benefit me. Look at what I can do! I should be feeling powerful and on top of the world. So as I look into the next couple weeks, which don't appear promising in the slowing down business, I'd rather take Chase's perspective. In his words "I no baby, I big girl". In the last 24 hours, it's been rather refreshing to clap my hands insted of wringing them.
Becky and Troy Tingey: the excurtion on the new atv!
Sister-Sister in Idaho Falls
Grandma's pink casket!-pictured behind, Adam, Tom Jr, Eric

The top of the 'Y'Autumn too close to the edge!
Salt Lake with Autumn and Ariel-nice smizing gals!

Micah's B-day.

Braving my world into canning, one can at a time!
Great time and Great food with the Bells!

And what's a photo real without Eden! Her first fingerpainting. It was all she wanted to do for a couple of days.