Philadelphia

We live about 3 hours from Philadelphia, and were able to take a day trip with the kids.  In preparation we had watched National Treasure.  We learned about Benjamin Franklin, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell.










































We had a blast joining the Continental Army, and learning about the rations, dental requirements for enrollment, and how to launch a bayonet charge.  Of course we enjoyed the Philly Cheesesteaks and other curiosities in town as well.  I don't think I've ever seen a bicycle bar before!

We wrapped up the day with a tour of the LDS Temple.  They have tours once the building is completed and prior to the dedication.  This is the reason we came to Philadelphia.  I am so grateful for temples that bind families together.  I am so gateful for the opportunity to learn about our Father in Heaven and His plan for us and our adventure here on earth.

2016 Butikofer Vacation

So much fun on our trip out west this year...  hope you enjoy this video!

Blessed

Yesterday I was cleaning the bathrooms and just had a random selection of songs playing.

I really like the song "Haven't Met You Yet" by Michael Buble.  When it came out I was single.  It was fun to listen to and dance to, plus it's romantic and full of hope.

And I know someday that it'll all turn out

You'll make me work so we can work to work it out

And I promise you kid, that I'll give so much more than I get

I just haven't met you yet

Well it's been a few years and I have met him.  We have been married for four years and I am constantly amazed by him.  He loves his kids, he builds me shelves, he gives amazing talks, he works with the scouts, he loves nature, he supports my lighthouse quests, he takes us tubing and fixes our bikes, he cooks, he has faith in Jesus Christ and honors his priesthood, he's smart and he even volunteers in the nursery when needed.

Oh, and did I mention that he cleans?  I was cleaning the bathroom for the first time in four years, because he always takes care of it! We work together, but in so many ways I do really get so much more than I give...

California Lighthouses and Long Beach Harbor

I had a work trip to Los Angeles, and got to see the four lighthouses in that area that I haven't seen on previous trips.

Point Vicente Lighthouse


















Point Fermin Lighthouse
















Los Angeles Harbor (Angel's Gate) Lighthouse
Long Beach Harbor Lighhtouses

I took a harbor cruise to get better views of these lighthouses, but still were fairly far away.  I did learn a lot of cool things about Long Beach Harbor.  It was also awesome to get a view of the lighthouses from the airplane as we were taking off.

Spring Break 2016

We were sad that Joseph was sick and unable to join us, but we had a Good Time nonetheless!

November Birthdays

Birthday presents, Inside Out, Cheesecake, Repeat.
We love these kids!  Jonas is now 14, and Joseph is super close to being 16!

Happy Halloween

We had lot of fun for Halloween.  So grateful for our ward family!

October means Halloween is coming

This is the first time we've been able to do Halloween dress up together.  Joseph was a "handsome devil" for his youth dance.  The rest of the kids and I went to a Halloween party at a friends' house.  Jonas wore his robe and brought his pillow and was a couch potato.  Hyrum put a plastic pumpkin in the head of his coat, and was a pumpkin head.  Jenna was a vampire and Joy a witch.  It was so fun to be with the kids and have an excuse to dress up.  They were all so excited and it was great to see their personalities show.  I'm so grateful to be their step-mother and the opportunities I have to be a part of their life.

In my dress-up suitcase I also had a "big head" costume.  The kids got such a kick out of it, and our friend "Patricia" came to visit and dance several times over the weekend.

DC

This time of year is so nice, especially when you can find parking in Downtown DC!  We were able to park right outside our primary destination - the National Gallery of Art.  We got to see the one Leonardo da Vinci painting in the United States while helping Jonas with a requirement towards his art merit badge.  We got a family picture with Pope Francis, well a cardboard cutout of Pope Francis. And we got some good exercise in the outdoor section of the Botanical Gardens.

Columbus Day Weekend

Some other pictures from Columbus Day Weekend from our time with the family.