Spoiled

When we got home from Utah it didn`t take more than two seconds to realize how spoiled we were while we were there. It hits like a slap in the face. We were spoiled not only to even BE there, but spoiled endlessly by our parents, and family members love, service and support. You realize quickly just how amazing that is when it is suddenly all taken away.

 

Both My mom and Justin`s mom offered countless times to watch the kids, and even took them on special outings for treats, or to the playground, or farm. Maybe this seems like a little thing, but to us, it`s HUGE, because it never happens in our world.

 When we got home Miley quickly became violently ill. She was so sick it was almost too hard to handle by myself. Shortly there after Scotlin came down with it even worse than Miley had it, and to top it off I got it too while I was struggling to take care of them both. It got to the point when it really was too much to handle on my own, and I found myself looking around wondering who I could call on for help???!...

It`s a humbling reality when you look around and remember the only answer to that question is `No One... It`s all you.`  It`s all me. And only me. The weight of that responsibility slowly started to press upon my shoulders once again, and suddenly I was really missing my family.  

 

The outpouring of love and support we felt while we were there was so tremendous. I wish I had the words to adequately describe how it feels. I feel like I`ve been strong in Canda, with my responsibilities, and the events that life has presented on my plate. But still, when I leave Utah, and have to hug my mom and dad at the airport it takes all that I have not to break down and bawl like a baby. (Although I still cry loads of tears!) For days, and sometimes weeks after we get home my heart has an empty hole- a place only family can fill, and I miss them tremendously. Words can`t explain how spoiled we are, and have been.  

 

Even after these years, I still have to gird up my loins and find that fresh courage to live away.

No amount of years makes living away from an amazing family easier.

I am spoiled by great love, trusting, and supportive relationships. There is no where else in all the world it can be found than at home.  

 

 

- Pics from outtings with Grandma-

-Miley with her oldest cousin Isaac. Grandma Michelle said it best when she observed `Miley is a Isaac Dicsiple!` She has always loved, admired, and adorded Issac... just short of worshiping the ground he walks on...
It`s not hard to see why when he loves her so easily in return. He spent the ENTIRE afternoon making this birthday card for her. It was complete with hand decorated balloons and card. He even made a special pouch in the front where he carefully placed a dollar bill. She was certaintly spoiled!-

- I was spoiled as I always am, and don`t deserve, by my best friend Arlee. It`s a sad day when the only way we can see eachother is if she helps me come and run my frantic errands. But, she turns a blind eye to my flaws, and understands where I am at in my life. Thankful for her everyday. I keep my promise to her that better days lay in store for our friendship. Neighbors?... :) -

I reccognize my blessings are great no matter where I am, and I also know the richest of my blessings lay in my loving family relationships. I`ve been so blessed.
I watch how Heavenly Father so kindly and mercifully shows me His love. I remember on some of the harder days kneeling down (to probably wipe up another mess) and thinking to myself... `well, I`m already down here on my knees... I might as well pray.` No more than a split second after my silent, pleading prayer do I look up to find Scotlin looking at me. He instantly runs to me, and embraces me with a loving hug. Just what I needed, right then, to remember I am not alone in this, and I can do it.
I have many similar stories that I hold in my heart. Simple little reminders. Simple tender mercies.

I`ve watched as new families have arrived for their 4 year journey here in Halifax. As I watch them adjust to a new climate, country, school, ward, ect... my memories of that time come flooding back.
Watching friends have babies lately, has reminded me of what we have to go through at the hospital here to bring these little ones into the world... and I am remembering again, the fresh courage I need to take. It`s true, that what dones`t kill us will only make us stronger.

I know that my trials are small and there is so much more to learn and gain with more experience. I also know good can be found where ever we are looking for it. I may be far from my family during this time, but we have been richly blessed by a family of friends and neighbors who have at times stood as proxy for angels! From the deepest place in my heart I want to express my gratitude for my family and for their love and support to Justin and I. As always, we are spoiled beyond what we deserve, and have only our purest thanks to give in return.
We thank you. We love you.