Children's Mercy throws quite a PARTY!

My FIRST hike to the "Y" in Provo, Utah

After 23 years, I FINALLY got a chance to hike to the top of the "Y" that represents BYU where I graduated from college in 1989. Although it was strenuous, it certainly was not impossible. My brother-in-law, Ritch Houdek, Brad, my niece and nephew joined in the trek and we enjoyed the blessings of nature and God's magnificent creation.

Brandon was participating in college marching band camp and missed out on the hike, but we saw the band from the mountain as we looked out over the valley.

Brandon leaves for BYU!

As a baby, before he could even recognize letters, Brandon was encouraged to support his parents' 

alma mater---

Now he is amongst the many young adults who are entering college and spreading their wings. The transition for him was without emotion as he quickly embraced college dorm life, living, and learning--we hope learning!

Helaman Halls of BYU! Move-in day--it took Brandon 40 minutes to move in and set up his room, with our help of course.

Marching with the BYU Cougar Band is a great way to meet other students who are interested in music and FOOTBALL!

Go BYU Cougars!

The LAST Supper--Brick Oven

Brick Oven is a campus classic and a dining tradition for many years. Their delicious pizza can not be duplicated and Brandon chose this as his last meal with us before we headed home and left him in his new home.

Touring Provo and BYU Campus

The picturesque Wasatch mountains are the backdrop for the college where Brandon is attending. Brad, Jessie and I spent some time walking on the campus during our recent visit.

The BYU grounds crew is made up of many dedicated students and leaders who create a beautiful and peaceful environment. Bright and brilliant colors scatter the campus.

All the buildings are named after LDS church leaders since the 1830's. The spirit of these strong, spiritual, intelligent and driven leaders is present in all the buildings.

Because Jessie missed a week of kindergarten, we spent time on practicing recognizing her letters by using these signs. It kept her focus on something else besides her intense HUNGER! 

Blame it on Mom as I forgot any snacks.

Brad and I attended this university 23 years ago and so much has changed and grown during that time. The communities surrounding Provo have tripled in size and roads have been widened and created to accommodate the growth. One example of restructuring is the old BYU Academy building now renovated as the Provo Library.

We enjoyed seeing a part of history be restored to a useful and vibrant structure.

Birthday celebrations for Brad at this mother's home

Brad attempting to eat a GOGURT!   Oooooops!

One of Brad's favorite cakes is his mother's recipe for MARBLE cake and since we were in Orem where his parents live, his mother created the delicious masterpiece! It has been too many years to count since he has been with his parents for a birthday!

We attended a BYU Marching Band fireside in the Cougar Marching Band Hall of the Lavell Edwards Stadium.  One could feel the intense excitement even though no one was in the stands.

Joseph Naylor and Brandon at Joseph's BYU apartment!

Dressing up for the Bishops

Brad's brother, Joel and Kristin Bishop, and family!

Heather, (Brad's sister) Brad's Mom (Anne) Brad, Brad's Dad (Duane)

My nieces--Jenna and Marissa Houdek