The last couple of weeks have indeed been like a Whirlwind for our family. We have had some exciting things happen and some touching moments and tears. Since Christmas we have been planning a "family" vacation. We didn't want to have to travel far so Kent and I rented a condo in Park City at the Mountain Resort. It would be perfect and we were so excited.
Unfortuately late afternoon on August 3rd (the day before we were leaving) Kent went next door to check on his brother and found he had passed away. Both Kent and I have discussed and felt we would encounter this challenge and in some ways we were prepared for it. As we realized the phone calls we had to make it became very difficult. It is not the kinda of phone call you want to make to anyone, let alone his mother.
I contacted Viron's exwife, Maria and she contacted his two boys. Which were both out of town at the time. This, however, gave our family time to enjoy our trip to Park City.
On August 4th we met at the first rest stop up Weber Canyon around 5:00 p.m. and headed up to Park City. It was so much fun and just what we all needed. Our whole family together, uninterrupted and simply enjoying each other.
We got there, ate dinner and everyone headed for the pool.
It was a large indoor/outdoor pool with a nice hot tub.
After swimming it was Play Station Time. Note the intense look on the guys faces!
This is serious!
Carter was quite content just hanging out with everyone.
He didn't need no stinking sleep time!
He didn't need no stinking sleep time!
The next morning we enjoyed a little more swimming time and relaxation. While the boys played more Play Station the Girls, Grandpa and Kids took the bus up to Park City Main Street. We walked around for a bit, got some ice cream and did a little sight seeing shopping
as they were setting up for the Arts Fair.
as they were setting up for the Arts Fair.
While we were enjoying ourselves on Main Street the boys went golfing. Rob has clubs but hasn't used them for years. I understand he was a little rusty but enjoyed the challenge with his brother-in-laws. Zach really enjoys golfing and has quite a good game going. But I don't think either Rob nor Zach realized just how good Braden is. It is truly one of his passions and he will play whenever he can. I understand they all had a great time. That's all that matters.
It was our last night. The girls had gotten dinner ready while they were waiting for the boys to come back from golfing so . . . the boys were on clean up duty.
They did a great job!
They did a great job!
We had a great time! Even cute little Garret was wonderful. We have already discussed adding one more day when we do it next year (Our annual Toponce Retreat)!
We topped off our weekend all together with the beautiful blessing Zach gave Garret on Sunday. In a time of great loss for Kent, being with family and realizing how blessed we are was just perfect. It was a really special time for all of us.
We are so blessed to have these incredible individuals in our family.
Our beautiful daughters have chosen outstanding men to be their spouses.
They fit right in with us and with each other.
God knows each one of us and our needs.
Our family is perfect! Really!
Viron Hart Toponce was laid to rest on August 11, 2011 in Ogden, Utah.
He has left us with many special memories and we know that he is in the loving care of family and a Heavenly Father who loves him.
