I can't believe it's been two years since my sweet mother left this world and her earthly cares to return to our Heavenly Father. In a lot of ways time has gone by quickly, but when I think about how long it may be before I see her again, my heart hurts so much! I remember mom saying how much she missed her parents and I never doubted her, I just had no idea the longing that was attached to that feeling.

My mother's life was her family. She was the perfect housekeeper, mother, example of Christ-like living, truly everything we need to try to be. I have no doubt of where she is - I just wonder what occupies her "time." I can imagine her planting flowers, beautifying and improving her surroundings. My mother really had a knack for knowing what a house needed to make it a home. Her and dad worked so hard in their yard. They both enjoyed it so much. I inherited that joy (planting flowers) from her and find a lot of satisfaction working in my flower beds.

I remember that first month or so after she passed away. I bought some flowers that my mother always planted in her gardens (daisies, lupine, flowering almond) and planted them in mine! It made me feel closer to her somehow. I wish I could just find the same incentive to keep house the way she did!! I imagine her looking down from heaven thinking - "Oh LeeAnn, let me help you organize a little!"

Oh how I miss my mom!! We butted heads as I was growing up, but I can truly say that as I learned to appreciate her goodness and recognize all of the sacrifice she made on behalf of her family, I grew to love and appreciate her like I never had as a child/youth. My mother was one of my best friends and the strongest of cheerleaders. I love her. I delight in knowing that I will see her again - it gives me such solace. Where would we be without the knowledge this gospel gives to us of eternity?

Our new little granddaughter, Kamry, came to visit us today! The kids love her so much (as you can see). She has tons of blonde hair and is a little peanut! We love our grandchildren and always are happy when they come to see us. Kristi is an awesome mom and works hard to take care of her sweet little family.

Trip to Nauvoo in October 2007

In October of 2007 we went to Nauvoo. We loaded up our motorhome and made a big old roadtrip out of it. It was really fun, except for all the driving Dale had to do! I have to say, he was a trooper!!! It was an awesome experience and a real testimony builder. I gained a whole new appreciation and love for the Prophet Joseph Smith and the early saints. We learned a lot and had a lot of fun together as a family.

My first attempt at blogging

So - this is the beginning of what will either become an addiction, OR a passing fancy - maybe lasting all of two days...who knows? At any rate, I'm giving it a chance and trying it out. I've enjoyed looking at other blogs and like being able to see pics and hear music while catching up on my little sister and her family.

Our family consists of my husband, Dale, two daughters (Kristine and Andrea), their spouses, our grandchildren, and of course the one that rules the roost - Nathan.

Over the next couple of days, I will attempt to put up pictures of us all and have some fun with this. For now - adieu. It's past my bedtime!