Coming home

Jeff and the kids left Arizona on January 2nd. The kids technically started back to school that day, but we convinced them to miss one day (which was harder than you may think when you have academically responsible kids!). I, however, stayed in AZ for another week. My sister had surgery on January 3rd. I wanted to stick around to help out with her kids and to spend more time with my parents. I really miss my AZ family. Until now, my nephew (Tyler) and niece (Kate) were like my pseudo-kids. I watched them grow from infants on up. Nichole said that both of the kids were a little worried and anxious about her surgery, but when she told Kate that I would be staying to help out, Kate smiled and calmed down. That melted my heart. I'm grateful that I had Jeff and my kids' support to be able to do so. I know I wouldn't have been able to stay if Jeff and the kids weren't so capable in handling things while I was away (although Dallin told Jeff by the end of the week that the house was "clean" but not "crisp clean" while I was gone. That made me laugh.). I was also able to see some friends that I hadn't seen in nearly a year (because other than the quick trip down in March 2013 I haven't been back to AZ since my wedding). While I missed Jeff and the kids (not the snowy weather!), I really enjoyed being able to help out and catching up with friends.

Nichole and I chillin' in bed...which was what was most comfortable for Nichole.

I came home on Thursday. Jeff picked me up at the airport and had a dozen roses and a gift. I guess I was missed! I can't believe I've almost been married a year to the man of my dreams. I feel so incredibly lucky to have him in my life. Being away from each other, we both realized how much we need the other person. I have always thought of myself as a strong, independent woman, but now that I finally have someone I can lean on and someone who I consider my partner and best friend, I realize how much stronger I am and can be with him by my side. I'm happy to be home and back in his arms.