Maybe the worst baby name ever

Me: Lilly, that is such a cute baby you are holding. What is your baby's name?

Lilly: Her name is DJ Lance.

(Only those familiar with YGG will understand how truly cute that is.)

Fear is an amazing motivator

So, I am signed up to do the Wasatch Back with some amazing members of the Larson clan on June 20th. The race is 8 weeks away and I am really quite freaked out about it. I just started training on Saturday and I am embarassed to say that I am sore after running 3 miles. I am just planning to be sore every day for the next 2 months. I miss running and I am not sure how I got out of the habit, but I'm back on the roads my friends. Spencer is signed up for a few triathlons as well this summer so we will just collapse into a large heap of exhaustion every night about 9:00. Much like this:

Ann Clayson Larson

My wonderful grandmother passed away this week. While it is not unexpected since she was 94, it is still sad to see her go as she was amazing and an example to me my whole life. Some of my fondest memories:

-She was the definition of class. Her home was always beautiful and she always did things the proper way. I remember learning how to set a table, make a bed, and treat guests at her home. She treated grandkids like honored guests and even a cookie was served on a plate with a napkin. She also knew how to dress. She always looked impeccable and I was so proud when she came to my functions. I always had the classy grandma.

-She was so talented. I loved to hear her play her violin and the piano. She and my young cousins played at my wedding and that is a treasured memory for me. I also loved the story of her playing old love songs for the alzheimer's wing at Brighton Gardens just a few years ago. She always used her talents to bless others. I have not inherited that musical talent but have admired it in many of my cousins.

-She valued education-Always a reader, I remember as a child being read to all the time in her home. Grandpa was known as the big reader, but she was not far behind. She always had a book and it was a favorite gift to get. She was also very educated and interested in my educational pursuits. When I got married I had a semester left of school,I remember her worried I would not finish my degree. I did of course and always admired her for obtaining a college degree at BYU in the middle of the depression. It might have been easier for her to drop out, but she knew how important it was.

-She loved us all equally-She never played favorites but wanted all her grandchildren to feel she loved them the same. One of the best examples of that is that when she was selling her home she gave away a lot her and grandpa's possessions. All the grandkids wanted grandpa's gavel. Of course there was only 1 or 2. So, to be equal, she had Grandpa's gavel reproduced and gave one to each of us at Christmas. She did not want anyone to be left out. I have the gavel on my piano and it reminds me of both Grandma Ann and Grandpa John.

-She was an example of a great marriage. She really loved Grandpa. I know it has been hard the last 14 years without him and I am so glad they are now together. I treasure the portrait that Grandpa painted of me and hung in their home for years and now hangs in mine. I know it would give her great pleasure that I love looking at it. It just reminds me of Grandma and Grandpa and their love every time I walk by.

-She was so kind-I never heard her say a bad thing about anyone. She always gave people the benefit of the doubt. She was never one to gossip. I wish that I had that quality.

I love you Grandma. Thank you for all the support you have shown. I especially felt your concern and love through our many trials with Lilly. Your prayers were felt and your strength helped me get throught it with courage. I named my little daughter Lillian in honor of your dear sister. I remember all the stories about what a beautiful, strong, smart, and kind person she was. My hope is that Lilly can live up to her namesake and live up to the things you have taught me. I will see you soon. Tell Grandpa hi!

The Office Returns

It was the most uncomfortable dinner party ever! So awesome. Here are my favorite parts.

Michael Scott:
Did you know, that candles are the number one fastest growing product in the scent-aroma market? Two billion dollar a year industry. And for only ten thousand dollars YOU could become a co-owner of Serenity by Jan. What do you think about that?
Andy:
Thought about it. I'm in.

Dwight Schrute:
Uh, what seems to be the problem officers?
Police officer:
Not now Dwight.

Michael Scott:
That is a 200 dollar plasma TV you've just killed. Good luck paying me back on your zero dollars a month plus benefits salary, babe!

Dwight Schrute:
I know you love beet salad. I've seen you eat it many times.
Angela:
The thought of popping one of your beets into my mouth makes me want to vomit.

Jim Halpert:
Michael and Jan seem to be playing their own separate game, and it's called, "let's see how uncomfortable we can make our guests." And they're both winning. So I am going to make a run for it.

A day in the life of Lilly

I know you think I must be kidding, but all these pictures were taken yesterday. Lilly is a very active 2 year old. We are exhausted keeping up. Please send help.

Lilly has taken to hiding under the bathroom sink and it really takes some effort to get her out. She mostly does this in the morning while we shower. As you can imagine, its hard to pull a child out of a cabinet.

My co-workers gave me these fun balloons for my birthday. They have provided endless hours of entertainment for Lilly. And for that we are truly grateful.

A change of clothes for this shot. She wanted to get out of her skirt and other shirt for whatever reason. She loves to imitate Dad and is all ready for her bike ride. I see a future triathlete in the making.

Out of the mouths....

I bought an Easter lily and right now it has two flowers on it. Spencer was explaining to Lilly that this type of flower is called a lily, just like her name.

Spencer: This flower is called a lily

Lilly: No, this flower is called a Daddy.