A Moose of A Mother's Day

Oliver traveled back to Utah this weekend for Mother’s Day, finally getting to meet his Uncle Cody (henceforth known as Unca Griz) and his Great-Grandma Updyke. As he is wont to do, Olie ratcheted up the charm to full tilt boogie regaling his great-grandma with tales of infant life from the streets of New York City. Since no trip to Salt Lake City is complete without a trek into the soaring mountainous terrain that encircles Happy Valley, on Friday Grandpa & Grandma Updyke gave us a guided tour of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Incredibly, the snow was still well over 3 feet deep despite the 70-80 degree temps!

Later, as we were coming back down the canyon Justine spotted a moose by the roadside. We pulled over to snap photos and soon a female moose (a cow) and 2 calves joined the male. Having had his fill of our presence, Papa Moose suddenly charged the car causing us to hightail it on down the mountainside doing double-time.

On Saturday, Grandpa and Grandma Updyke threw a picnic extravaganza in Olie’s honor, which drew out most of the Carlson Uncles, Aunts, and cousins and the Jenson’s, who all warmly welcomed the little tyke to the family. In particular, Oliver enjoyed meeting his 11-month old second cousin T.J. (and, yes, they were nearly the same size). Olie was a trooper through all the cuddles, kisses and cheek squeezes, but simply refused to go to bed afraid that he might miss any part of the action.

So delighted was little Olie with his visit to his Daddy’s homeland that he squeaked, squealed, and cooed at full volume as we navigated the airports and the plane on our way back to New York causing many a smile from passersby and fellow passengers.

Once again, Happy Mother’s Day to all the Updyke, Hand, Carlson, Jenson, and Bonnell Mothers!

And most especially a tremendous thank you to Mama Justine for spending her Mother’s Day traveling! Happy first Mother's Day to you!!!