September 2026 recap

The Celica of his dreams. He saved all his hard earned summer money and came home with this 1996 beauty. That he can’t drive yet, because the front shocks need to be replaced. But, one step at a time. He is sooooooooo excited.

And then this happened. He took a curve in the road too wide. So, now two cars are sitting outside our house, none of which he can drive. Rough.

The models go to Homecoming. Sort of. They decided to forgo the dance, get dressed up and go to the aquarium. I think they made the right choice. Erie’s dances are so lame. We took pics at Acerage, but I think we started about 1/2. hour too early. We didn’t hit our optimal lighting. But lighting or no lighting, they are adorable.

Happy 45th birthday to me! Rusty picked up Busaba for dinner, and then we bedazzled pumpkins. It was a great time! Then on Sunday, Jane made me the yummiest chocolate raspberry cake. She worked so hard on it. I was so touched. And I enjoyed every bite! I felt very loved. Also, the best part of every birthday is the texts from my Hawaii friends. It feels a little like tooting my own horn, but I’m going to paste them here so when I’m having a self doubting day, I can look back and know that I am loved.

Stephanie Hansen/;
Well miss Tara! I feel it very appropriate that you are the first to have a bday in the “new year” of 25. 😉 you are wise beyond your years. You are creative beyond the universe. Your navigational skills through New York are impeccable. You are kind and loving beyond words can express. You have hair and calves that I’ve yearned for. Yes, I love your calves. Our talks always leave me motivated for more in life. Rusty is the luckiest to call you his wife. Your kids are the luckiest to call you mom. And we are the luckiest to call you a dear friend. Love you so much my dear! Happiest of bdays to you hot mama!! Xoxox
Jessica Wilde:
Tara!! Happy birthday. I agree with everything that Steph said. I’ll never forget the first week living in the Hauula house you showed up with cleaning supplies. I knew from that moment forward you were a take charge person and liked some cleanliness and order! You always are full of good ideas, whether it be books, recipes, or general life advice! I love watching you as a mom and I can’t believe how grown your kids are! Life just happens so fast. I am so excited for more adventures with you. Even though we have had so many fun trips it never seems like it’s enough. Have a wonderful day Tara! Love you!
Rachel cone Christensen:
Happy birthday Tara! I love how you are so fun and real and energetic and adventurous! That shark diving on your birthday- I was so impressed that that’s what you wanted to do and you took us all with you. You’re a great leader, have a heart full of love, and you get things done. I’m so grateful you make the effort to be with us. Whether you already have a trip planned or you make a trip happen to come join the fun. It’s never the same without you. Love you Tara!!
Kasey Roundy Brown:
Happy birthday Tara! You are always my inspiration for planning things, making them happen, and going on adventures. I’m so happy to have gone through so many life stages with you. Have the best birthday, and let us know what you’re doing, because you always manage to do something fun. Love you!
Laura Scott Belk:
Tara, you always know how to celebrate a birthday!🎉 If it’s a good book recommendation I need I go to you; cool family Halloween costume ideas? That’s totally you. A good recipe? You all the way. Awesome trip ideas- you’ve been there and done that. I could go on because you are a never ending well of experience, how to have fun at any life stage, and just good life advice! You’re truly the best and hope you’re having the best birthday dear friend!🤗
As soon as I saw the date this morning, I started my personal celebration of you Tara! I just got back from a little hike and I am having so much fun reading everybody’s texts. And everyone has nailed it. You are the perfect balance of responsible adult while being a fun mom and a dedicated (and patient 😂)wife, always up for a true adventure like you’re still 21 though. I am currently reading your Lenni and Margot book too! I 100% agree that you always have a good book recommendation (or 12) up your sleeve. I love how you are so real and just say things how they are – not beating around the bush or overly romanticizing or sanitizing anything. when I missed my flight, it was so fun to be able to hang out with you and add a few more adventures to the list! I love that you pay attention to the world around you and see things from lots of different perspectives. You challenge the status quo. Rusty is lucky to have you and I think we are all lucky to have you. Can’t wait to party again in a month and a half!
Sitting down for a little lunch, and I’m going to turn on 100 years of Lenni and Margot and keep being grateful for and celebrating you 🎉😘

Halle and I also went hiking on the Abyss trail up Guanella pass. There weren’t a ton of leaves this year–it’s just been to darn hot. But, there was a particularly stunning section of the trail that made the drive worth it. We also stopped for lunch in Georgetown, and I’m going to have to remember the name of the restaurant because it was DELICIOUS.

Another Stake Conference, Another “Meat and Greet.” I like this Elder’s quorum activity because I get to sneak down fill my plate, and come up to my bedroom and enjoy a spectacular lunch while I read my book.

The Ft Collins Temple is showing off this fall! A++++ to the landscapers. It is beyond beautiful. Who can come do this in my yard??

Teddy bear fancy picnic with my YW! We made cucumber sandwiches, Teddy Bear Pizzas, trail mix, and everyone brought their favorite stuffie. I love this age–it’s still fun to do little girl things, and they love the big kid things too!