tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33638987475061658212024-02-21T07:03:49.254-06:00The Foster CircusQueen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.comBlogger1065125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-7965312184253186162016-11-28T09:23:00.003-06:002016-11-28T09:25:01.121-06:00Fourteen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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She's the caboose. When she arrived we had this calming knowledge
that everyone had finally shown up. I knew she was the tail end. So I
held her longer, smelled her fresh baby skin and kissed her tiny baby
toes. I soaked her in.<br />
<br />
I still find myself trying to
soak her in. But from a distance of course. Teenager and all. I watch
her with my mother heart and catalog every smile, every eye roll and
every "Love You" as she walks out the door. More often than not I find
myself sneaking a peek at her humming along with headphones on.<br />
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She
has attitude for miles. #whatever. But no matter how much she argues or
how much she yells, I still see my tag-a-long toddler who adored me and
I adored her. And now, at 14? She has my heart. All of it. For all
time.<br />
<br />
She's a good friend, a great sister and a clever
organizer. She loves to chew ice and sleep late. She can't wait until
her braces are off. She is my everything. All the time.<br />
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She's a part of my very heartbeat. She completes this family. And forever just wouldn't be the same without her. She is our joy.<br />
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Have the loveliest of birthdays #3.<br />
Love You Lots So Many<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-33135595516835520272016-10-30T12:15:00.001-05:002016-10-30T12:23:07.213-05:00So, She Needed A New Bed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And just for fun, because rolling on mattresses wasn't enough, she heal clicked down the isles. I haven't been this entertained in years.</div>
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Oh how I adore this girl.</div>
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-40907592467053931642016-09-08T08:13:00.003-05:002016-09-08T08:13:17.351-05:00She's 20<br />
It happens every year. On each birthday, I remember the very beginning. How she came into the world and we started life together. How she was the first to make me a mother. I remember that day so crystal clear, probably because it's written across my heart.<br />
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And now she's grown and living a new life. One of her own direction. One that makes me so very proud. In all the ways, she is still making me the mother I'm supposed to be.<br />
<br />
I want to wrap my arms around her and soak her into my skin. But that will have to be for another day. She's too busy serving the Lord and becoming her divine self. Her work and living and teaching are literally inspiring. Hugs will have to wait until next June.<br />
<br />
But love doesn't wait. It's here and it's there with her. And it ties us together. Just like we started 20 years ago. You are the air I breath and the joy in my heartbeat. As it should be.<br />
<br />
Happy Birthday to this girl of mine.You are a part of me. The very strands of my soul. May you feel that love all the way to California. Hold it tight and don't let go. You are my light. Guide the way.<br />
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20 never looked so good.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-16161639866168279852016-08-27T18:48:00.001-05:002016-08-27T18:48:09.342-05:00The First Week 2016<br />
That first day is always an eye-opener for me. Have I prepared them for this moment? Do they leave this house every morning know they are loved beyond even Heaven? Do they know, really know, who they are? Step by step they're knowing who they are becoming. Small steps can move mountains.<br />
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The oldest begins every missionary day at 6:30 am. Her days are full of studying and teaching and offering service. She's thriving and growing into a young woman we are proud to call ours.<br />
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Daughter #2 is a Senior. That I didn't see coming. Truly. It snuck up on me. Here she is so grown and beautiful with big decisions on her hoizon.<br />
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The Baby Child is now in 8th grade. For the last days she's compared classes, teachers and supposed homework. This child of mine was in preschool when we moved here. Now she has grown into a fine young woman.<br />
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I can't quite place what it is about the start of a school year. It makes me look back, but it also makes me look forward. Life is living beyond the borders of our home. For years I never thought that was possible. But, they're slowly gaining speed and a little direction and a whole lot of faith to spread their wings and fly.<br />
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They are the very strings that hold my soul in place. And as they soar off to new freedom and new places and new life paths, they take my very soul with them.<br />
They will always be my forever.<br />
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Happy New School Year, friends.<br />
Love 'Em While Ya Got 'EmQueen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-5861258246919612532016-08-12T09:44:00.000-05:002016-08-12T09:44:00.359-05:00Float The River<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The whisper in the wind is "You're not a real Texan until you've floated the river." I've lived here 9 years and I had no idea there was a river to float. This summer, we took the challenge.<br />
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Being with great friends and family- check<br />
Eating at amazing restaurants- check<br />
Being entertained at a glass blowing factory- check<br />
Late night trip to In and Out- check<br />
Floating the river- check<br />
Almost drowning- check<br />
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We floated while it rained. An interesting experience. Guess what else is interesting? It's a river. Like, with real river "stuff" floating everywhere. Twigs, leaves, long grass. For a paranoid OCD person like myself, that's tough stuff. Guess what else is tough? Daughter #2 almost drowned. Like, for reals. So for reals I got scared and she was terrified. She got caught in an undercurrent section. She was turned upside down on her tube. She lost her brand new $150 birthday Ray Bans and her shoes. When she was underwater, she couldn't find the surface. Can I just tell you how big of a prayer I sent to Heaven that day? Huge. I look at her even now and think, "miracle".<br />
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It takes hours to float the river. So of course, we took food. They have special cooler tubes for all that jazz. Just like Daughter #2, those tubes got turned upside down and the food sunk away. Awesome.<br />
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Would I head to the river again? Probably not. But at least we can all say we're real Texans now.<br />
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The best part of the trip was being with family and friends (who are like family). Lots of laughter and good times.<br />
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And of course the internet is a genius and tells you all the best places to eat and visit. Even Slurpees from 7-11 were on the list.<br />
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We had some of the best barbeque I've ever tasted. Ya'll, real Texans eat real barbeque. For sure.<br />
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We found a place to junk shop. I nearly died with happiness. We also visited a glass blowing shop. Amazing is the only word I have to describe it. Crazy talent.<br />
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All drowning aside, it was a great trip. There is some kind of magic that happens when you step away from your regular work and life. It allows you to enjoy the people right in front of you. It's a gift of time. One we fully enjoyed. Because of course we went outlet shopping on the way home. Spending a gazillion dollars is the best way to wrap up a trip.<br />
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From our Texas home to yours, Happy Friday.<br />
School starts in a week :)<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-74380223481743552962016-08-02T08:16:00.001-05:002016-08-02T08:16:58.607-05:00Sisters Day 2016Years ago we created our own tradition. Sisters Day. We've been celebrating this day so long, I can't remember when we even started. Here they are on Sisters Day in 2008:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnG_hmuph3tpfUEW8pyuuVh7KWpCuMNEaHExWD2m5ARcPU7gBTTg9dC8OPHpzaSkm0rhjmnbyXdMfjiK_7x7nknhQ-MqtI_f7o5fRAYJFI3FlkQDctLhfZQKoxKiYXzhoke4CNDyWvmIv/s1600-h/100_1144.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229656488223588722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnG_hmuph3tpfUEW8pyuuVh7KWpCuMNEaHExWD2m5ARcPU7gBTTg9dC8OPHpzaSkm0rhjmnbyXdMfjiK_7x7nknhQ-MqtI_f7o5fRAYJFI3FlkQDctLhfZQKoxKiYXzhoke4CNDyWvmIv/s400/100_1144.JPG" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
Wow, time is a funny thing. It erases all the hardship and leaves you with the joy. I look at them at this age and I'm happy. My love for them just oozes all over the place.<br />
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Here they are today (well, yesterday. Aug. 1st is Sisters Day):<br />
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With Sam on her mission, this is the first year they haven't all been together. It makes my heart heavy. But we still celebrated in our own way. And Sam was with us and we were with her.<br />
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Having sisters is an extraordinary gift. If you're lucky enough to have one or two or more, count yourself blessed. Sisters are forever.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-52508577796713105452016-07-28T15:35:00.004-05:002016-07-28T15:35:57.579-05:00But A Moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I met them outside with one simple request. "Take a picture with me."<br />
The moaned and complained, but still smiled.<br />
They truly are my joy.<br />
I want to hold them forever.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-58128570518218800832016-07-05T10:28:00.002-05:002016-07-05T10:28:53.648-05:00How We 4th<br />
3 girls in 3 different places for Independence Day.<br />
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Girl #1 with her companions in the mission field:<br />
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Girl #2 at home with her boring parents:<br />
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Girl #3 staying with a friend. I haven't seen her for days. Ah!<br />
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We partied all day long with Girl #2 in tow. I was so excited that she was actually willing to be with me. I begged her to take a selfie with me. That. Did. Not. Go. Well. So here's how I improvised in the moment. I took a picture of her and a picture of me and squeezed them together. Now I can pretend she was standing slightly near me and was enjoying it. See? We're both looking down at our phones. It's almost like were matching BFFs!<br />
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What's more American than baseball? The Houston Astros! A large group of friends gathered at the highest tier of the stands and had a blast. Baseball is actually interesting. Who knew? <br />
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We ate enough sports food to be slightly sick. When at a sporting event, soak in the beauty of the concession stand. And enjoy being with friends.<br />
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Fireworks finished off the day. Freedom feels like a beautiful thing.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-79688215413837218192016-06-17T13:21:00.001-05:002016-06-17T13:21:36.343-05:00And Just Like That, She's 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I laid in the dark early this morning. Remembering. How she came into the world and into my heart. It was a short labor for a beautiful baby girl. She came out looking exactly like the sister before her. With her arrival, we became a family of "girls".</div>
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There has literally never been a dull moment. I can't think of any one calm space of time. She has challenged me and challenged the world. She has always looked at life from a different angle. She marches to a beat unknown to me. Sometimes it's chaos and sometimes it's pure beauty.</div>
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I have loved her always. Even that day she threw her entire bedroom out her second story window. I may have used my outside voice. But I still loved her. She continues to push my mothering skills way past any place I've ever known. She's forced me to see with new eyes and to love with my whole heart.<br />
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She is my joy. This girl that makes life one big adventure.<br />
She is the brightest light in every way.<br />
Her smile infectious.<br />
Her laugh contagious. <br />
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She is a gift.<br />
Unique and extraordinary.<br />
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Happy Birthday Little Layne<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-13877962688084500682016-05-22T08:42:00.000-05:002016-05-22T08:42:01.033-05:00Yesterday and Today<br />
My brain lately feels hardwired to look back. Into different days than these. I've tricked myself into thinking it was easier then. I know it wasn't, but I'm telling myself it was. Deep in my bones it <i>feels</i> like life was fresher in different days than these.<br />
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Because, here's the thing: they were all mine and they were all home. End of story.<br />
Life now feels like a game changer. One is on a mission, the second graduates in a year and the third wishes shes didn't live here. You see? When they were little, they liked me and they loved home. Now no one's ever home. Dinner feels on the fly. And lives are spent elsewhere. It leaves me spinning sometimes. How did I ever get here?<br />
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I have lived this part of my life in knee-deep mothering. I just can't imagine it any other way. But now, mothering takes a different role. Sometimes it's ugly and sometimes it's beautiful. It's just the way of things. And teenagers somehow push you to examine yourself and life in an entirely different scope. That's a truest story.<br />
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But this I know. Right here, right now, this is where it's at. Not tomorrow, not yesterday. But today. With these people that literally take up all the room in my heart. My very soul is made up of theirs. They are the air I breathe.<br />
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Days pass. Ages change. Life moves. I know I got here one day at a time. One daughter at a time. And here is where I'll always be. In THIS today. Soaking up all it has to give. Not wishing for different days. But taking today as it stands. And holding it's bounty in my arms.<br />
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Let's gift ourselves with life where we are. To love and hold and cherish these moments. And to take courage in what is to come.<br />
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Look at your people and breathe them in. Love them where they stand and as they are.<br />
Enjoy your story as it unfolds.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-36597733860553455702016-05-11T20:17:00.002-05:002016-05-11T20:18:48.426-05:00One Of The Heart StringsI've been through a few Mother's Days by now. Some were good, some were not so good and most were just "fine". But this Mother's Day? There simply are no words.<br />
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We got to talk to our missionary!!! Tears just started as I write this. The moment was pure joy and excitement all rolled into one. She's still her sassy self, just missionary style. That was nice to see. She now loves real, and I mean real, Mexican food. She has sung quite a few times in quite a few places and she got to shake hands with Elder Bednar. Bucket List for sure.<br />
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We talked for an hour and a half and it nearly flew by. For just those few moments, our family felt whole and right. Just complete. Laughter held a higher meaning, simple stories became golden moments. And best of all? She prayed with us. In. Spanish. Stop. Right. Here. And imagine your daughter praying for you in another language. Words left me and my heart opened right up and she poured right in.<br />
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That final cut-off goodbye was rather difficult. She left us with , "I'll see you soon." Tears were everywhere.<br />
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Just now, days later, I'm finally able to soak in the full moment of her call. It has been stored in a place in my heart for my dearest treasures. And ya'll, she's doing it. And she's doing it well. She is obedient and hard working and tries to follow the Lord's will in everything she does. When she graduated from high school, I wrote in her journal, "Be The Good." And look. At this girl right here. She's doing the good. From sun up to sun down.<br />
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She really, literally, is my heart.<br />
One of the 4 strings that wrap and hold it all together.<br />
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And this Mother's Day. Oh, this day. Will be remembered forever.<br />
And stored on a heart string.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-57537783961531488972016-05-06T09:01:00.000-05:002016-05-06T09:01:02.156-05:00Through The Blinds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the mornings, I watch her through the blinds. She has no idea that I stare at her and think of all the ages and moments she has been. This stage, this 13 year old torture, is a hard one to swallow. She pushes me to the brink in all her teenager ways. She only speaks to me if she has to. And when I try to talk to her? You would think she was in pain. She hides in her room, behind her phone, headphones plugged in. It's the way of things. A phase? Maybe. Maybe not. Perspective is hard to come by when you're knee deep in the thick of it.<br />
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So, I watch her. Every morning. She comes alive when she's with her friends. And I soak in her smile. I want to reach out and touch her joy. And my memories flood with her as a sweet, little girl. A best buddy. I was convinced she would always be that way. I was wrong.<br />
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The internet is flooded with advice for toddlers. Teenagers? Advice doesn't exist. At least, <i>real </i>advice. In the trenches kind of advice. Why? Because it's so dang hard. And who wants to talk about all that trouble. So, we stand on the sidelines of their life and we give it everything we've got. Literally, everything. We try and we love and we love some more. It's the only way. Teenagers can pull your soul right out. And every time, I give it right back to them. Every. Time.<br />
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Through the blinds I see the girl I adore. And I pour all my love right in her. I want it to surround her every moment of every day. I give it all with my mother's heart. Me to her. Always.<br />
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Let's give it all. Every day. Love and patience, and love some more. Sure, it's ugly. And hard. And constant. But deep within me lies a strength of love so strong to make the ugly and hard blur away. Let's hold on to that. Our soul deep love. Let it give us the strength we need as we muddle through the hard stuff.<br />
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And let's watch. Through the blinds, in the car, asleep on the couch. Nothing, and I mean nothing, can overcome a mother's love. We'll give it all we've got. Every time. Every day. In every way. Love just may be our road to recovery. No matter the outcome.<br />
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Love them through it.<br />
It may just save us both.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-50565708847284587282016-05-05T08:44:00.003-05:002016-05-05T08:45:49.478-05:00A Catch Up<br />
There was a trip to the Alamo with the Baby Child and Her Friend (who feels like one of our Foster Children). 7th grade is the year for Texas History, so this is the 3rd time we've Alamoed.<br />
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Traveling with 2 teenage girls and 1 crazy husband has definitely been checked off my bucket list. Oh the Alamo, we love you. And your Riverwalk Boat Tour is always awesome when you're traveling with 2 girls who think it's dumb. Teenagers are my fave. Like, for reals.<br />
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***<br />
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The Husband and I had an anniversary.<br />
21 years. Boom.<br />
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He is my joy.<br />
Oh, and did you know our anniversary is also his birthday. Boom again.<br />
I get a gift and he gets a gift. "In Theory". It's a genius way to celebrate.<br />
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***<br />
<br />
We had the Rain Apocalypse of 2016.<br />
People, it poured. Like, massive buckets.<br />
School canceled for 5 days straight.<br />
Flooding everywhere. It was crazy.<br />
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Wanna know what else is crazy? The Turd (our nickname for this car) was parked on the curb. Then it started raining during the night. And it rained HARD. The Turd filled up with water all the way to the steering wheel. The car was full, the trunk was full. Water everywhere. Once it drained, it wouldn't even start. So it sat. In the heat. For a full week before it was towed. Just for fun we opened the car doors to see what it smelled like inside. There are no words to describe. I think Daughter #2 has been praying for it's death for a loooonnnngggg time. Prayer answered.<br />
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***<br />
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I leave you with a happy thought. Not.<br />
20 more days of school left. Pah-Leaze.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-45570466021396423902016-04-15T09:01:00.001-05:002016-04-15T09:01:00.333-05:00The Missionary<br />
Just in case you don't follow along on her blog, <a href="http://hermanafoster.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Missionary Life of Hermana Foster</a>, I've got some updated photos to show you.<br />
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She's doing good. So good. Every letter home is a confirmation that she is in the right place at the right time. She's also mentioned that this is the hardest things she has EVER done. But she is learning so much about herself, The Lord and the Book of Mormon. We live for her Monday emails. I read them twice just to hear her voice in my head.<br />
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I would give just about anything to hold her in my arms and hug her. Sometimes that need is a physical ache. But then I remember that this girl was born to be a missionary in Santa Rosa, California. She is doing the right thing for the right reasons. So, I ask the Lord to hold her for me.<br />
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My favorite picture of her while she was in the MTC:<br />
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Her last companion, Sister Burton. They got along so great and even sang together!<br />
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Her newest Companion, Sister Gudmundson:<br />
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And her very best friend from the MTC is Sister Bennett. They got to see each other last week and it made them both so ridiculously happy. They are determined to be companions one day.<br />
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She is now in Sonoma and there are vineyard EVERYWHERE.<br />
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She is my light and my joy. She strengthens my testimony with her own. She is constantly teaching me. Missing her is a small price to pay for this incredible life experience. I simply adore her.<br />
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Sami, you are loved beyond the stars.<br />
I think of you every moment of every day.<br />
Thank you for using your life to do good.<br />
May angels surround you and protect you always.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-9795133003360801472016-04-10T09:33:00.000-05:002016-04-10T09:33:55.623-05:00A Birthday, An Anniversary and Team Riley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The weekend started with a birthday and an anniversary.</div>
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We got married on Todd's birthday. Every year I give him a birthday present and he gives me an anniversary present. It's the best win-win situation all around. In all the truth I know, this man is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.</div>
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21 years. That's quite a number. I even dragged down our wedding album out of the closet just for a reminder. Todd's hair is shorter now and mine looks exactly the same. I'm not sure what that says about us. It just boils down to this: We're perfect for each other. And I'm fairly certain that's all that matters.</div>
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On Saturday morning Team Riley all gathered at the Houston Zoo for the Easter Seals event. We made quite a presence. And all for one precious, angel girl who happened to be one of the three ambassadors of the event.<br />
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These 2 girls have a part of my heart. I would literally do anything for them. Including arriving at the Zoo by 6:45 am. We walked, we talked and we cheered.<br />
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The Texan cheerleaders were there. Wow is all I can say. I seriously pondered how they can dance in those boots. It's a mystery. But Addie was determined to get a picture, so she jumped right in.<br />
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What a day for being together for an amazing girl and a great cause.<br />
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Kellie and Keagan </div>
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Me and My Amazing Sister </div>
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Keagan and Her Many Talents </div>
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I hope your weekend brought you as much goodness as ours.<br />
Life really is all about loving those close to you.<br />
And wearing matching Team shirts.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-2006304886766361842016-03-22T15:31:00.000-05:002016-03-22T15:31:43.335-05:00How To Spend A Day<br />
It's become an unwritten rule that orthodontic treatment equals skipping school. Oh, and having your mom buy you lunch.<br />
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So it was today. And in a strange way, I like it when this happens, because I have her all to myself. No one to text. They're all in school. So, she's stuck with me.<br />
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She requested I buy Cake Flower for a cake she wants to make. And also enlisted my help to get her Converse squeeky white again.<br />
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Luckily, I grabbed a $5 craft kit at Target, and the Baby Child and I crafted together. And she talked to me {gasp}. I might venture to say she liked me. For at least 30 minutes.<br />
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I hung it in the kitchen over our missionary board. She looked at it and said, "I like it." I nearly fainted on the floor from the whole experience.<br />
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Every now and then these teenagers give you the briefest glimpses of the girl they are inside. Today I shared several hours with that girl, and I adore her. A day well spent.</div>
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-52561978863478623782016-03-20T09:48:00.000-05:002016-03-20T09:48:13.409-05:00When To Stop Caring<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You wouldn't believe what mounds are in the other daughter's rooms.</td></tr>
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When they were little, I spent 99.8% of my time cleaning up. I thought I would die holding a broom in my hand. Little people produce large messes.<br />
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And then they grew up. You'd think the messes would diminish. Nope. They just rotate to their bedrooms. I literally avoid going in those rooms unless it's necessary. And I advert my eyes. On the good days I humor myself and count all the bottles, chip bags, cups and bowls. I have a strange way of entertaining myself.<br />
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Oh, and by the way, when we moved into this house a made a grand, final, foot-stomping rule that food stays in the kitchen. You hear me? The kitchen only!<br />
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I clearly have authority around here. In fact, in order to have authority, they'd actually have to listen to the words that come out of my mouth. That right there is the real culprit.<br />
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At some point, I stopped caring. About a lot of things. Teenagers will do that to you. It's like they whittle you down to a nub. And the list of what you really care about becomes quite small. Crap all over their bedrooms? I'm over it. The words you decide to speak to me? Ah, now there's something that's on the list.<br />
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There is freedom in not caring. About the stuff that doesn't really matter. Take a look at the list of all the things that drive you crazy and just remove a few (or a lot) items. It's rather life changing.<br />
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From Erma Bombeck:<br />
"My theory on housework is, if the item doesn't multiply, smell, catch fire, or block the refrigerator door, let it be. No one else cares. Why should you?"<br />
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Amen.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-60291370089930299622016-03-17T10:27:00.001-05:002016-03-17T10:27:53.285-05:00Y'all, We Went To The Rodeo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Rodeo. It's a Spring Break tradition with my sister. And this year? I'm down to one kid who will actually go and only with a friend. I had to bribe her to take a picture with me. Life with teenagers.<br />
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This year we discovered that Wednesdays are half price. That means all of Houston and Louisiana and probably Florida were all there. I've never seen so many people in one place. And a majority of them were wearing cowboy boots.<br />
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We ate corn dogs and treats and rode carnival rides until we were sick. The best kind of fun.<br />
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Can't wait until next year. It may just be me and the twins by then. I'll work on my bribery and blackmail skills. Maybe I'll get 2 teenagers to come instead of just 1. What a likely story.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-50042099594745551822016-01-20T08:58:00.002-06:002016-01-20T08:58:33.722-06:00Saying Goodbye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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She's been gone for 14 days. It's taken me that long to look at the pictures I took on the day she walked to her airport gate. I can't really describe what her absence has done to my heart. Pride and sorrow all combined. It's a strange state to live in.<br />
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We stood at the end of the security lines and hugged her tight. Each one of us taking our turn.<br />
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I held her as tight as I possibly could and whispered in her ear how much I loved her. And then I looked into her eyes and told her she was brave and courageous and inspiring.<br />
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We walked her all the way to the security check point. All of us with tears. My heart pounding so strongly, I thought it would stop.<br />
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And then she was gone. With one final wave goodbye. Her final words, "I'll see you soon." The Lord carried all of us that day. Her to Utah and us back home. I'm pretty sure He's still carrying me.<br />
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And the dearest of friends were on the other end of the plane trip. There to catch her and take care of her. She and her friend Emily are both serving missions in California, just different ends of the state.</div>
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They drove her to the MTC (Mission Training Center), hugged her tight and handed her off.</div>
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And now she's been gone 14 days. We've gotten 2 emails from her so far. I reread them over and over, just to hear her voice in my head. She's immersed in learning Spanish and loving her companion and district. She bears her testimony of the truthfulness she knows. Just like a missionary.</div>
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I don't think about the journey ahead. I can't. I simply focus on today and send her name up to heaven in all the ways I know how. What she is doing with her life, serving the Lord with everything she's got, is so inspiring and monumental. Her courage reverberates through our family. She is our light.</div>
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If you want to read her letters home to us, we've created a blog: <a href="http://hermanafoster.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Missionary Life of Hermana Foster</a>. Feel free to follow along.</div>
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-67589591638841385832015-12-30T10:43:00.000-06:002015-12-30T10:43:05.388-06:00Her Farewell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A missionary farewell is a strange day for a parent. First off all, I want to take my people and squeeze them all together forever. United time is ticking away. So our family unit becomes extraordinary in all it's ordinary ways.<br />
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You watch your child stand at the church pulpit and teach. She also bares testimony of truth, especially her truth. And as a parent, your heart is so full of pride and sadness and hope, so all you do is cry. You look at her in awe and cry. <br />
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And then she sings. Oh, when she sings. My heart tries to capture every word and hold it close. Because music is ingrained into her very being. And when I watch and hear her, I am caught in her beauty. I am reminded of her unfailing example of what it means to be a righteous, warrior of a woman.<br />
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It is such an honor to be this girl's mother. I was created for her, and she for me. And for the next 18 months we are both giving our hearts to the Lord. Mine is in letting her go. Hers is committed to teaching the Savior's truth. Noble, and honorable, and great, but also hard. Pretty much the perfect recipe for growth.<br />
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I gave Sam a necklace for Christmas. It's titled, "The Ties That Bind". It's five perfect circles centered inside one another. The 5 rings represent the 5 of us. This family of ours. For we will be with her with every step she takes and every door she knocks on. We will be <i>right there</i> on the hard days and cheering for her on the glorious days. And every night when she lays down to sleep, we will be right along side her holding her together with our love. What a mission for us all.<br />
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Santa Rosa, California is getting one awesome Sister Missionary.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-12809897595571893862015-12-26T06:11:00.001-06:002015-12-26T06:11:51.439-06:00The Day After<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas, Y'all.<br />
I hope it was the loveliest of days.<br />
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And now it's the day after. The day you look around and realize you've got to find room for all this new stuff you just brought into your house. Why does this day always look like a tornado hit the family room? And the kitchen?!<br />
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I'm up early this morning with a migraine. #storyofmylife. And I've walked around to survey all the work I have to do today (or next week), and somehow my eyes don't see the mess. They sweep past the piles and decor. All my eyes see are blessings. Oh, and gratitude. Yes, gratitude for sure.<br />
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My blessings feel ever reaching today. My college girl is home. She leaves for her mission in 10 days. I'm drinking her in every minute. Yesterday I got to see my kids open presents with bright eyes and laughter. And when they opened something that they really wanted, That. Is. The. Best. I think I'm addicted to their joy.<br />
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The Husband and I hugged each other and took a good look at all we had created together. A hot mess and a whole bunch of awesome, all wrapped into one. That's pretty good odds. That man is half my soul. Truly.<br />
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These people are my very life strings. And yesterday I just got to soak them in and watch them glow. There really is no greater gift. Gratitude feels everywhere.<br />
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I hope you had the merriest of a Christmas.<br />
I hope you got to gather with your people and just love each other. With presents thrown into the mix. That makes for the perfect kind of recipe.<br />
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Today, in all the aftermath, look around and see your joy.<br />
It's goodness and gratitude and family.<br />
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Happy Holidays, friends.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-60783432633867126952015-12-21T12:15:00.000-06:002015-12-21T12:15:00.027-06:00Jealous?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Only the most special of friends gift you with a blow up moose head for Christmas.<br />
The entry has never looked more chic.<br />
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<br />Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-68577090377339716382015-12-17T08:36:00.003-06:002015-12-17T08:36:55.087-06:00Christmas At Our House<br />
This is how we decorate for the season. And by "we", I mean "me". Right? It only took me 30 minutes to vacuum up all the pine needles that fell off the tree as it was being fluffed. No big thang. Here's how our house looks for Christmas.<br />
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Happy Season of Giving<br />
Happy Season of Putting Up All The Decor So We Can Take It Back Down<br />
Happy Season of Buy All The Things<br />
Happy Season of Eating All The Baked Goods<br />
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Amen.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-61343924670792082992015-12-05T09:19:00.000-06:002015-12-05T09:21:19.394-06:00The Best<br />
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Pah-Leeze.<br />
An awesome photographer.<br />
Plus one crazy family.<br />
<br />
This is what you get.<br />
This. This, right here.<br />
Click to enlarge it. Seriously.<br />
It makes it so much better to look at. <br />
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Have an awesome Saturday, homies.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3363898747506165821.post-75833094682695055492015-12-04T07:45:00.000-06:002015-12-04T07:45:05.591-06:00It's Only Taken A Week To Recover<br />
Y'all. I'm just now catching up. Thanksgiving week was a doozey. Just now, a week later, Christmas decorations are up and I can finally catch my breath.<br />
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Here's how our awesome week played out.<br />
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First and best: My college girl came home. Like, I could physically touch her and talk to her. I literally soaked her up for days. Just having our family all together again was my greatest blessing. Lots of hugs and screams at the airport.<br />
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We had family pictures taken. My favorite day of all time. Says no one ever.<br />
But, just look. Aren't they adorable!? Family really is the greatest. <br />
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My girl went through the Temple (our sacred church where we make covenants with the Lord). It was such a special time to be with her there. She was over the moon excited. It was thrilling to be her mom that day.<br />
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We then had a family reunion in Austin! We spent 3 days at a lake house with all the cousins. Lots of cooking and even more laughter. We had an incredible time.<br />
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And then, to top it all off, the Baby Child had her 13th birthday! And by that point I was so exhausted, I didn't take one single picture of her or her celebration. Bless my heart.<br />
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I hope you're Thanksgiving was good. No. I hope it was special. Mine was filled with blessings. Front and center. All around. The best kind of way to enjoy them. But most of all, let's be grateful for family. They are all the things and then some.<br />
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Queen Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14055715770515184265noreply@blogger.com1