It has been over a year and a half since I have posted on my blog. I have done what I said I wouldn't do. Ugh!!!!!  Yep, I have gotten caught up in the fb mania and have forgotten about my blog! Boo!!! All I can say is, "Never say Never!" hahahahaha!  Every time I say that word, somehow "Never" happens:) Here is my first attempt at journaling on my blog again.  Wish me luck!
   Our family has changed so much since October of 2010.  Everyone but me has gotten taller.  Yes...I think even Gary grew at least a milliliter or so. Everyone but me has gotten smarter (long story) :) and everyone, and especially me has a small hole in their hearts!  We Miss GARRETT!  
   It is strange having Garrett in Orlando, Florida.....and even stranger not to be able to talk to him except on Christmas and Mother's Day.  But almost 11 months into the journey we are all adjusting pretty well.  There have been great lessons for all of us and growth in so many ways.  Cameron has become the "Big Brother Exemplar" and Griffin is falling in nicely as his assistant and sidekick.  The little kids are learning great lessons in patience as they wait for their beloved Garrett to finish "Baptizing the people" and then he can come home and "play with them like he used to!"  Gary and I are learning that we can survive with someone out of our nest.  It isn't easy and we may not like it but survival is attainable and we are starting to even get excited about all the new changes and times ahead of us and our family Yippee!!!

These pictures were taken by a sweet, talented and generous friend before Garrett left on his mission. She has such a great eye and captured my children very well.  Awww....my kids, my loves, my everything! Like all parents, I am proud of them but even more, I am inspired by them.  They have taught me more lessons in their short lifetimes then I can even count.  I have become a better person because of them and their love and when we are all together and all the stars fall in just the right place......I know I have found  a little piece of heaven on earth in my family.  Heavenly Father knew when he placed us here in families the joy that could be found together! I'm so thankful that I know "Families are Forever!"