Oh so Grand

We're getting to be quite the regulars at the Grand America in downtown SLC. About one year ago, Lisa's sister Maryanne hooked us up whilst she was working at the Spa. This time, Spencer's mom was kind enough to let us use her "Premium" gift certificate she received by attending Good Things Utah. We drove up and parked at the Conference Center, and walked and used Trax in the free zone (which stops just in front of the Grand) to get around. If I were thinking strait, I would have borrowed the demo Brompton and toodled around town on the "silly bikes," as Kate calls them.

Our room was 700 square feet (nearly the size of our entire home), and was all sorts of fancy. It even had a "balcony" measuring 18"x48". Don't sneeze or you're a gonner.

For dinner, we looked up all sorts of restaurants, and finally decided on an Italian joint on 100 S, so we walk over to the Trax station and head up Main St. We get off the train at our stop, walk the 1/2 block to where the restaurant is supposed to be, but it's not there! We couldn't find it, so we're looking around and we see folks dining outdoors at an organic Bistro, the Olive Bistro. So amazing! Here is a picture of the owner, who cooked our food and who you can tell is a genuinely happy person.

Here is a picture of a gorgeous panini. By this time, Lisa's strawberries & cream (served in a wine glass) were long gone, so no picture :( I swigged an incredible cane sugar root beer while Lisa sipped her freshly squeezed orange juice. To top off the meal, we got a Nutella panini to go . . . mmmmmmmmmm. It was as good as it sounds.

MEANWHILE . . . . . . . . .

The girls had a sleepover at "Grandma Di's" house. Malinda had an awesome blow-up pool and a slip-and-slide all set up. They had such a good time. Kate tanned instantly, and Jess wouldn't wear her swimsuit, so was either wearing shorts or nada. Crazy little kid.

BACK TO SLC . . . . . .

The next day, we tried to act like we were visitors and went on a tour of the Beehive House, ate at the Nauvoo Cafe (inside the JSMB), toured the Square, and did our best to absorb the beautiful day. Even with the grinding and jackhammering across the street, we felt that it was quiet. Awesome day.

I grew up about 1 block from Moyle Park in Alpine, where John R. Moyle settled. 'Twas from here that he hobbled the long miles on an artificial leg to work as a stone mason on the Salt Lake Temple. His hands carved what you see below:

We are constantly inspired by the world around us and how the Lord's hand is evident throughout. The countdown to our move is at about 60 days, which will be such a wonderful opportunity to behold more of the Lord's wonders. We are all so truly blessed!