A post about candy bombs, llamas, 5K's, talking faucets, and birthday cake from a mug

The past two weekends we've spent in Montpelier, Idaho. If you've ever been to Bear Lake, then you've been pretty close. It's where Tom's mom and stepdad live. Anyway, within these two weekends, I've experienced a great many firsts: first time driving a tractor...first time feeding a llama...first time running/walking/crawling a 5k...first time turning 25...and so on.

Things got especially wild once the family reunion started. People just kept coming. I would have benefited from name tags. 

Anyway, here are the highlights:

• The first weekend we were there we spent a day at Bear Lake. While there we discovered something that—had you been there—you too would have found amazing. The video explains it all:

 

• Tom's mom arranged for a "candy bomb" to go off during the reunion. She has a friend who apparently specializes in the art. He strolled in with this snazzy rocket-looking thing, salt water taffy, and some form of explosive. We all stood back as he lit the fuse and candy shot up high into the air. Then, after he gave the word, children ran in a frenzy to collect it all. Ah, to be a kid again.

• Tom's sister-in-law Tracy arranged for a family 5k to promote—well—family togetherness and well-being I believe. In my out-of-shape and out-of-practice state I decided to participate. I'm proud to say I nearly died. I feel great now though. I know what you're thinking—homegirl can't even run three miles?? I won't bother to defend myself. 

• I celebrated my birthday while there, and I must say, I received V.I.P treatment indeed. Tom's mom made sure that I ate from the "You Are Special Today" plate (another first) for both breakfast and lunch and we made birthday cake in the microwave. You just mix all the ingredients in a mug and heat it for a few minutes. Did anyone else know you could do that? Well, you can. See below:

Okay, so it's just now occurring to me that this picture may not be the most appetizing thing to look at, but I assure you that it IS cake, and that it DOES hold its own in the flavor department.

• Also, in light of mine and Taggart's (Tom's brother) birthdays being two days apart, a lovely birthday party was held last Thursday. I received a mister from Tom's mom (which I am contemplating toting back and forth to the non-airconditioned building that I work in); some much needed nail polish and nail care supplies from Tracy; and a really pretty necklace and earring set made by Shelly, Tom's sister. Tom gave me the collector's edition of "Jesus the Christ," and the one thing that I've been requesting for at least 6 months now: an apron. Yep. I've stained one-too-many good shirts. I just love imagining how it all went down while Tom rummaged through the selection at the "Flirty Apron" kiosk at our mall.

Goodness, now that our Montpelier adventure has come and gone, August's excitement is looking pretty bleak. You know what that means. Prepare yourselves for more sheep.