Lake Powell

LAKE POWELL

The Elkington Family Reunion was a blast! We went to Lake Powell and relaxed on my sister's houseboat (Roxanne). For three days, I felt like I lived in my swimming suit--we were always either boating, swimming, or jumping off cliffs. My sweet little family had such a wonderful time, and they created memories that will last a lifetime. I am truly grateful for my extended family. I am grateful my children have cousins that they love and adore. I am grateful we are able to set aside a week out of our busy schedules to simply be together. 

President Monson said, "[Nothing] can fully take the place of the blessed relationship of family life"

 (Thomas S. Monson, "Love at Home--Counsel from Our Prophet, 2011).

Day 1:

DAY 2:

Show-Off :)

Tongue

And this is how I surfed...
(Just kidding.) I was just playing in the water at this point in time.

I do not love this picture. My facial expression is something other than desirable; however, every time we look at it--we laugh. There is a quote from Disney's movie--BOLT that describes this look: "Morning Cat". We laugh every time. 

Not as solid as Bryan, but I'm up!!! 

Chilling on the Boat while we surf

I'm so proud of how hard Hailey worked at surfing. She wouldn't give up! She tried and tried until she had some success! I am proud of her!

Jake was so afraid to try the slide that I bribed him with a candy bar. After that, he wanted to do it over and over and over...

DAY 3:

Jake Drives the Houseboat

Defiance House Ruins:

We boated a side canyon, and half mile to defiance house ruins. 

I love Roxanne in the background!

We followed these fish for quite some time. It was awesome to see them right on the surface.

Kendall was a crazy driver!

Jacob  has had to deal with many fears. I have prayed and pondered of ways to help him. We have spent many hours facing his fears—fears of riding a bike, fears of swimming, fears of sleeping in his own bed. For the last three years, fears have been a constant struggle for my little man. There were times when I thought we would never overcome; however, this year has been a major breakthrough for us with many of his fears. This last week we went to a family reunion in Lake Powell, and my brother-in-law—having no idea of Jacob’s struggles—complimented Bryan and I for teaching Jacob courage. He said, “You and Bryan have done an amazing job with Jacob. He’s not afraid of anything.” I had to laugh. Out loud. And then I felt a surge of gratitude for the Lord’s hand in helping us overcome. 

Jacob facing another fear!

DAY 4:

We promised the boys to not "go" too hard on them for fear they would repay us...
I was worried after this...