My Eternal Family

Ever since Kevin passed away last summer, it has gotten harder and harder for me not to be living close to my family members. Oh, how I miss being with all of you!! I guess when you lose someone close, everyone else around you becomes even more important than they already were to you. The feelings of love and closeness that we all shared during that “week of a thousand days” is something I always want to feel. With not being geographically close to family members I am trying to find a way to maintain those feelings. I think a lot about my family and each individual member in that family. How grateful I am that we are an eternal family!!!

Dad – You are a great example of gospel living to me, from childhood through today. I love your serious/reflective side and I love your fun & humorous side. I will always be your little girl. :-)

Mom – I gain strength from you and your many talents of motherhood. Thank you for always being there.

Brett – I love the kindness and love you show towards my children when we are home visiting. I am glad you are a part of my family.

Rick – You are a perfect example of a great husband and father (and big brother). I admire your parenting and your righteous example of one who holds the priesthood.

Charity – Of course, going along with what I said about Rick, I admire your parenting greatly. There is always the feeling of the Spirit in your home making it a place people want to be.

Dallin – I am amazed by your many talents. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.

Dailie – Beautiful young woman! I love your creative talents that you have always shared with us.

Audri – My not-so-little-anymore girl! I love just talking with you and seeing what you are up to. I love seeing how well you do at taking care of and playing with Emma when we are visiting your home. You are going to be a great mommy!

Eliza – Fun and energetic Eliza! You’re fun to be with and play with, and my kids love playing with you.

Daniel – You make me smile! I could listen to your stories all day. I’m sure you’ll be great author some day. :)

Ed – I love just hanging out and talking with you. I love hearing your insights and perspective on anything.

Kelly – Although you’re younger, you have always been the best big sister and greatest friend. You’ve always been a great example to me in so many ways. I love sharing mommy stories with you.

Caleb – Great big brother and protector.

Sam – Super boy! I really sense that you’ll do so many great things in your life, that you’re destined for great things.

Heidi – Sweet, little Heidi. When I think of you I think “sweet, little Heidi”! Oh, and I like your hair. :)

Kevin – Always has been a perfect example of strength, courage, and faith. I loved hanging out with you and laughing. I look forward to when we can do that again. :-)

Tera – Just as strong, courageous, and faithful as Kevin! You are compassionate, loving sister-

in-law and aunt, and fun to be with.

Kyle – I love how you take such good care of Amy and Addy. What a great husband and father!

Amy – I love laughing with you!! Laughing hard! I admire your strength and determination in adjusting to dietary restrictions. You do so well at it.

Addy – Thinking of you makes me smile. You can call me on mommy’s phone anytime!

Lee – You are a fun person to be around. I love to hear what books you’re reading. And Ethan has definitely made a friend. He loved playing with you last spring.

Sarah – I admire the many things you’ve accomplished, all the hard work you do. It’s evident that you love to serve others.

Brian – My eternal companion. Thank you for working so hard to take care of our family.

Ethan – Forever my little boy. I love how you love to learn about everything and anything. And your memory astounds me. You are a kind big brother and I love to see you take care of and play so well with Emma.

Emma – My little princess! I love your girly I-love-pretty-dresses-and-baby-dolls side and your adventurous, outdoorsy, I-want-to-get-dirty side. You have the most beautiful smile.

I love each of you sooo very much!! You are all very important to me and I miss you. I look forward to the next time we’ll be together.