Goodbye My Boy

This…my sweet “Bald Kid” is leaving us now, for the Missionary Training Center for three months–then on to Siberia–for two years.

I’m deeply proud of his willingness to serve, but—

oh, the ache in my heart.

Behind him it feels as if he’s left a huge gaping hole with no bottom.

The absence of him is in every corner of every room…socks–his socks…. bananas–he loves bananas… his aftershave… his car keys… his Viking quilt… and his kitty that can’t find him–anywhere.

Many moms are so-so perfect at this “sending them off into the great adventurous unknown” to work and serve and grow up. But, as you might expect, I’m not so good at it. Fact is—I’m a blubbering wreck.

I wander around the rooms and think, “I’m not ready for this. No. It’s happening too fast. I need more time…”

More time.

And yet, somehow I’m quite certain we will survive the away-ness of my baby boy–for the next two years–but…

I think…

just barely.

Be brave, and well and happy in your new world my dear, sweet boy, and know that our love and prayers and such a piece of your Mama’s heart are going with you…

till we’re together again.

 

Stuff To Love…

on this Valentine’s Day.

Since I don’t actually have my own “sweetheart” per se, I’ve decided that I’m pretty close to being in love with the UPS man…or maybe it’s just the truck. Just seeing it pull up in front of the house, makes my heart pound. It must be love!

I positively love having a daughter that can machine quilt my sewing projects like some kind of magical pro. I mean, seriously–check out those hearts. Amazing.

My sweet kitties–Beany and Jiff–who utterly refuse to sleep somewhere other than my bed. ~sigh…

Homemade potato salad, made the right way. You know, with my mom’s recipe, only I added chopped pickles, which she never would have done, but it’s fabulous–so we’re good. Don’t tell her.

The greatest creation in the cookie decorating world since sugar sprinkles. I mean it.

A boy with a very new suit…who is leaving soon.

Hope your day is full of love, and kisses, mushy stuff…and chocolate–lots of chocolate.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Just Dance

A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from our lives.

A simple, special, memorable moment.

A moment I want to pause, savor and keep close to my heart.

If you are inspired to do the same–leave us a link in the comments.

Happy weekend my friends!

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Happy Birthday Rick!

{Nurturers}

“President Hinckley admonished both men and women to be nurturers. He said, ‘How much more beautiful would be the society in which we live if every parent regarded their children as gifts from the God of heaven and brought them up with true affection in the wisdom and admonition of the Lord.'”

Susan W. Tanner

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Happy Birthday Dane!!

Swiper

A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from our lives.

A simple, special, memorable moment.

A moment I want to pause, savor and keep close to my heart.

If you are inspired to do the same–leave us a link in the comments.

Happy Saturday friends!

Happy Birthday Laurie!