No News is Good News

Nothing new for Chris & I, actually what I have to say is not news at all. Sometimes you gotta say things outloud to remind yourself how much you appreciate them. As I am nestled in bed, I wanted to write about one of those things...

Today my father turned 60 [more on that later]. I decided several months ago that this was an occation I should not miss. So, this morning I woke up bright & early- kissed my stressed, studying-for-the-bar husband & boarded a tiny plane headed to SLC.

My mother picked me up & I can't tell you how good it felt to hug her. When we arrived home it was, as it always is, like I was the most exciting person in the world. Seven children, 2 dogs, 2 brothers, 1 sister, 1-sister in law & my dad were all waiting to greet me. The kids were jumping and screaming when we pulled up & they rushed to the car. If I were to describe the feeling I get when this happens it would be: joy. As I am smothered in hugs, kisses, tails wagging & "Hey Mares!" I let go. Any worry or stress is out the door, and I only care about being there.

It felt marvelous.

Oh, and I got a kick out of my dad when I saw this on the front porch:

It's things like this that make me adore him even more, he is quirky & cool- and is happy to be himself. I love that about him.

Rock on Dad!

Being here for less than 10hours I already feel my batteries recharging. My parents old house has a charm to it, every corner, window, & piece of furniture hold a memory. I used to see it as just a small old house- but luckily my eyes have been opened. Although this place may need a little work, it's a great home & I feel grateful to have been raised in it. Mom, knowing that I am a sentimental kind of gal, does her best to do my 'favorite' things: Shirley's raspberry rolls, bran muffins, late night chats, hot chocolate, going through photo albums with me, etc. Then apologizing for all the things she wasn't able to do before my arrival. I walked into the guest room & an amazing smell hit me: "I know you have a sensitive nose" she says. "So I wanted to make sure you smelled something good & tomorrow I'll go to the store early & make a yummy breakfast for us". I see the bed has a new quilt, and am reminded of how I love my mothers taste: eclectic with a twist of her country roots. I do not deserve such a sweet, loving mother. I am very blessed. I met my nephew Dylan for the first time today, finally! I hated not knowing him! He is so sweet & cute- you can expect photos soon. I haven't seen my family since Thanksgiving, and it's going to be very nice to be able to catch up & spend time with them.

So as I sit here, weary from my over-worked schedule, I am grateful. Although, having Chris here would make it so much better, it's nice to be home. To be reminded of why I love this place so much & the people in it. To recharge, refresh, snuggle with cute babies & kids, play late night cards, watch british comedies with my parents, and laugh til my sides ache.

Home Sweet Home.

I'm savoring it.