I realize it has been a while since I have written anything, but that should not surprise anyone! We have been busy with finishing up school and taking a family vacation. Kendrah and I spent two weeks in Washington and Meikah and Aleynah will spend a few more so they can go to girls camp with their friends. It was so nice to visit with family and friends! We were fortunate to spend some time with the Parsons family, the Drake family and the Stanger family, as well as visit with many others. We also enjoyed some lazy days (and some not so lazy days) with family. Kendrah was able to visit with her best girl friends, as well as attend a dear friends wedding in Westport. Meikah has been enjoying time with all of her best buds (most of them guys) while she attended the 8th grade promotion party, 8th grade trip to Wild Waves, a pool party, etc. Aleynah hasn't cared what she could do as long as she was with her best friend Hannah.

Washington is a striking difference from Oklahoma. I know that is a no brainer, but for us it is like being in two different countries. There are things to like (or love) about both places and there are things we dislike. There are some things that are better for some in Washington, and some things better in Oklahoma. It feels like we have a home in two places. On Sunday I was telling a friend that I wish I could find a happy medium. A place where the sun shines, the snow comes, the air is fresh, and the activities are abundant. This mom's happy medium would also include independent wealth so I wouldn't have to work and can spend the whole day with my children. Imagine the things we could explore and do if I didn't have to work! Oh well. I will have to find my medium around what the necessities are.

I really miss Meikah and Aleynah! This will be the longest that I will be away from them and it is very hard. Sure, the conviences of texting, phones, and email help bridge the gap, but it just isn't the same as having my fun-loving, giggly girls surrounding me. Kendrah is home with me, and I am relearning how to spend my time with this wonderful (nearly adult) woman who I can watch "big girl" movies with. I love my responsibility as a mom. I would rather be with these three ladies than with anyone else in the world. They are my lifeline to eternity.

I feel blessed to have so many wonderful friends in our lives to help and support us. Although moving would not be my choice of things to regularly do, I think about all of the friends we make as we have done so. I appreciate those who have supported our little family in various ways. Sometimes the simplest smile is a support. It is a curve that reminds you that someone thought of you. I know that might sound strange, but it is hard to smile at someone without thinking of them, and sometimes a thought is all you need.

Meikah and some of the 'guys' at Wild Waves

Hannah and Aleynah

Kendrah on her old school tire swing

Aleynah and Jacob (can you tell they are related :))

The girls and Jacob

Aleynah's snake skin

Aleynah, Oliver 5, and Meikah were going to crash!!

Aleynah getting ready for the outdoor movie

Dallin, Mason, Aleynah, Kendrah, Grandma, and Meikah at the Sweater Park in Redmond

Guess Who!!

I am very grateful for the blessings the Lord has given to me. Family, friends, life, and health are among the greatest. I am blessed to know of the gospel and to be able to have the conviction to live it every day of my life. My commitment to the Lord is more than a Sunday activity. I know He requires much of me, and I also know as I follow Him, I will be blessed. I have trusted in Him and hope he can trust in me also.