Bankhead Adventures

Recent Happenings

James decided to take a break from college and move home. We're glad to have him. He has a long commute to his new job at a robotics company in San Francisco, so he's up early with the seminary goers. Here's a typical morning.

Amos rocks every piano recital.

Amy's college roommate Liz came to visit, and we had a most enjoyable sleepover.

Christmas Means Family

The grandparents love a couchful of cousins on Christmas Day.

Sadie did her nails with younger cousins who adore her.

We trekked to BYU to relive college days and to give Sadie some data points for college.

Amos got some quality time showing pictures of his Germany trip to Aunt Michelle, who was suffering from a sore hip.

Christmas Means Traveling

Every Christmas, we head to Utah to spend time with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings. This year there was snow over the pass, so Sadie and James learned how to put snow chains on our tires and the equally tricky task of taking them back off again. New skills unlocked.

Sadie: "I feel so tough right now."

Yes, she is barefoot

Christmas Means Hosting

For over a decade, the Bankheads who live in California have created a mini Christmas celebration that brings joy to all involved. Word of this happy tradition spread to all of Paul's siblings, and suddenly mini Christmas rivaled actual Christmas. We hosted 23 Bankheads for 2 days of board gaming, cookie-making, carol-singing, and gift-giving.

Christmas Means Presents

Snuggled among bounteous Christmas gifts

Post-present chaos

Paul and his luxury toaster, gifted by Amos

Christmas Means Music

So much of the Bankhead family Christmas experience revolves around music. The high schoolers travel all over the community with their choirs giving holiday concerts, and we host an annual singing party that might be Paul's favorite party of the year.

Sadie and the Madrigals bringing festive joy to elementary school kids.

Our friends who can handle singing choir music in our living room.

Singing for the Ladies' Auxiliary

Amos and the A Capella choir singing for the city employees Holiday party.

Family Backpacking Trip in Point Reyes National Seashore

With the extra days off school before Thanksgiving, we backpacked along the ocean to a lovely campsite. Amy and Paul are grateful the children are big enough to carry all their own stuff, set up their own tent, and not whine too much when we required that they attend this family adventure.