Family Vacation

After my sister's wedding, we headed off for a short vacation since my brother and sister-in-law were here from Utah. We went to the Goliad, Texas and rented a ranch. As a family, we LOVE these vacations and the chance to play games, talk, and, in this case, swim!! Having a swimming pool in the backyard was a wonderful activity for the kids. We went swimming mornings and evenings most days. Caleb made some great progress in his swimming. If you look closely in this picture. Caleb is swimming from my brother, Clayton, in the middle of the pool, to me by the steps.

Although playing games with kids is difficult, we got a lot of game time in, especially during naps and late evenings. The game that dominated this family vacation is Dominion...great fun.

I didn't do very well at taking pictures, but between meal times and games, there really wasn't that much to catch on camera. Here's Caleb, Dallin, and I taking a break from packing up in order to practice taking pictures of ourselves. It was difficult for them to understand how to look at the lens rather than the view finder.

On the way home, we figured it would be a good idea to check out the history of the city since it has a role in Texas' independence. This is a picture of the Presidio, La Bahia, which Texans took control from the Mexicans in 1835. The first declaration of independence of the Republic of Texas was signed here. After losing the Battle of Coleto in 1836, the Texans surrendered with the promise that they would be set free in a few weeks. However, Santa Anna (Mexican General) ordered that all the survivors were to be executed. In the Goliad Massacre, 342 men were killed and 28 escaped. Colonel Fannin was killed last after watching the execution of all his men.

The Fannin monument to commemorate the massacre.

Even though it was short, it's always wonderful to spend time with family. We missed Lindsey and Derrick though who were on their honeymoon. It was especially fun to spend a lot of time with Jared and Kari's family (my older brother) before they move to the Netherlands. We will sure miss them! Hopefully they don't get too attached that they don't want to come back after the allotted 2 years! I'm so grateful for my family and that we are all such great friends.