"Let me Esplain...it ees too much"

Before I head into all the updates, allow me just to express my love and gratitude to everyone for making the effort to be together this summer. We actually got family pictures! And Bear Lake was terrific! (Missed you Ted!) What a wonderful, funny, beautiful family we have. Dad and I sometimes look at each other--a bit dumbstruck at what we started 36 years ago. Who would believe that a couple of cock-sure kids (well, we felt like kids)would be blessed so abundantly?! Truly the desires of our hearts are known to a loving Heavenly Father--we ARE rich beyond measure. Remember, there is nothing that compares to the joy of having and keeping eternal covenants.

Now, for some extended-family updates: My brother Kent had a severe foot infection that threatened amputation, but after weeks in hospitals, he is doing better and his foot is healing. His wife Lynda, however, has had a series of strokes and will probably not live much longer. Her son lives in Alaska and is supervising her care. Next, my youngest brother, Mark is anticipating neck surgery this fall. He has suffered increasing pain and numbness, and the surgery is necessary to prevent further injury. Good news is he'll still be able to water-ski. Jerry & Ann's oldest grandson, Taylor, left for his mission on the 12th. And Trent and Ashley are planning to be married on October 16th.

Finally, closer-to-home updates: Chris started school today and is excited for his Senior year--can you believe it? He'll be 18 in a few months--time to include him in the adult circle. Devin is moving into an apartment in Orem this week; the promise of a social life won out over Mom's cooking. Trevor will be heading to Logan on Friday and moving in with Sam. His love life is on hold for now. He received pell grant funds that will almost pay for school, which is a real blessing. Sam is getting ready for teaching next week; and he received in-state tuition status, so that's also a blessing.

Our congrats to Swen and Bex on the upcoming #5! Swen should finish up work in California in a couple weeks. Mike is studying for his comprehensive exams coming in November, and Angela is looking forward to having 3 of 6 in school soon. Alexis and Paul are hoping to find the right buyer and the right home in preparation for their move to Illinois/Iowa. Ted is already working hard in school, and Allie has found a new use for old sheets--making rugs--so look out yard sales!

When Alexis was here, she had a good visit with her friend, Amber Hunter. Amber shared four guidelines to follow in relationships, and they are very helpful, so I'm sharing them with y'all. 1) Don't take anything personally 2) Don't make any assumptions 3) Be impeccable with your word 4) Always do your best. I assume you will consider these carefully ;).

Love and blessings,

Mom