Birthday Surprise

Madi and I flew to Utah this past weekend (thanks Daddy!)for my mom's birthday, and by some huge miracle we were all able to keep it a total secret from the birthday girl! My "big" sister came to pick me up at the airport, and then we met the family for lunch. We got there first, so we were able to plan and carry out the perfect "surprise!" moment! Buffy was holding Madi in the doorway, ready to greet mom, and said "Look what I found!" It took about .05 seconds for mom to figure out it was Madi and start looking around for me. She cried and laughed, and then the rest of the weekend everytime she thought about it or anyone talked about it she got teary all over again! We had such a fun weekend, just hanging out together. My dad and sisters had planned a surprise party for Saturday afternoon with all her friends and loved ones, and it was my job to keep her entertained and get her to the party without blowing the secret. Then we hung out at my parents house with all the sisters, husbands, nieces and nephews - even my workaholic brother-in-law came (it was great to spend some time with you, Terry). On Sunday I was able to go to church with my parents before flying home, and my dad just happened to be speaking in sacrament meeting. I missed my kids and Brett, but it was so great to see everyone again. Here's a little slideshow with a few pictures. I realized that I didn't take very many, we were having too much fun! PS to see pictures of Kody's first school bus ride, click here.