The past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind and crazy busy. With school starting, we wanted to squeeze in as much family time as we could. With my son leaving on his new adventure soon, I had an added push for more time together. It is starting to really hit me that our family is entering a new phase. One I am not prepared for. I will no longer have all my kids under my roof and it makes me so sad.
We had a camping trip with Shane's side of the family. We camped up Little Cottonwood canyon. Even though it is here in Utah, I had never been up that particular canyon. Utah has SO MANY mountains and canyons that I have really only explored a small portion of them. It made me want to travel more within my state and see more places.
We hiked up to Red Pine Lakes. It was 4.1 miles each way so at over 8 miles, it was the longest hike I have done since hurting my ankle. It was a beautiful hike.
It is in the Albion Basin which is famous for its wildflowers. We were there at the tail end of the "peak" so while we saw plenty of flowers, it was no where near the colorful masterpiece it usually is in mid July to the beginning of August. I want to go back next year to see even more.
My son has decided to serve a mission for our church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints). For those of you who may not know the process, he submits his paperwork and then waits to see where he will be called to serve. The leaders of our church pray about each missionary to know where they should go. It could have been anywhere in the world. He was called to the Richmond Virginia mission. He is so excited to go. So, so excited! His mission includes a small part of West Virginia, a large chunk of Virginia, and even about a third of the North Carolina coast. I know this experience will help him grow. He will be gone for 2 years.
So if you live in that area and see a cute blond missionary from Utah walking around, say hi and give him a hug for me! If you have yard work you need done or just want to visit on the porch, I'm sure he'd love to help :)
It's such a mixed bag of emotions as your first kid leaves the house. I know there will be moments when he will be staying here (summers in between college semesters), but things will never be exactly the same. It will be hard to get use to and the emotions are always close to the surface. If any of you mamas have advice for me or thoughts on kids leaving the nest, I'd love to hear it.
He's had a lot of self reflection since graduating and I'm so proud of the choices he has made.
My other three boys started school last week. As a family we chose to do in person learning. They have really enjoyed going back to school even if they have to wear masks. They come home happy and that makes me happy. Navigating this school year during a pandemic is definitely a new adventure!
In other news, the garage attic for IS DONE! I also have another garage project ready to share. Both will be hitting the blog soon. It feels so good to have it finished. Whew!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful surroundings and adventure into Utah. As for children leaving the nest, it's never easy. My best advice (which isn't easy to do), is give them over to God for His care, protection and guidance.
Wishing you all the best for this time of growth and change!
Kindest regards,
Nancy
Thank you. That is beautiful advice :)
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your camping trip. Loved it. My Daddy told me many years ago when I had doubts about being a Good "Mama". Plant the Seed strong and it will always remain in God's Garden. As your Son is leaving home, I can tell you have also planted a Strong seed in him so you have no Worries, he will not stray from God's Garden and he will always be your Little Boy. Enjoy the Journey with him it is a new Chapter in both of your Books.
As hard as it will be to see him leave, knowing he is doing the Lord's work and serving others definitely softens the blow. It will be fun to see him grow even more :)
My daughter left today to serve in the Sacramento California mission (her original call was Uruguay). She is our third child to serve a mission and it didn't feel any easier to watch her go. But I do have the advantage of looking back at the amazing growth the mission created for my first 2 and I know it is so worth it and this time they can call every week. My oldest daughter served in the Richmond Virginia and loved it. The people were amazing. It is a great place to go back and visit after they complete the mission. We hope to make another trip back when they complete the temple.
That is so cool! I look forward to visiting the area when he is done. It is such a beautiful area.
Dear Stacy,
You have and will always be the biggest influence on your children. Now that they are starting to grow and actually leave be sure to stay connected in some way, whether it's once a month or a week. I'm not sure what will be allowed. But I AM sure you have raised your son with amazing values and a good head on his shoulders! Feel your sadness and remind yourself of all the beautiful things you have done together as a family! I know you have a ton of pictures. When the mood strikes, pull them out and pick a new one for display. Your family will love the memories you are sharing! We are here for you too! My children took totally different paths, but I love that I have grandchildren that I can sew for and help nurture with love! I think my sadness was short-lived due to that, but I do remember. Practice self-care, and follow your faith, both will help you feel secure and loved!
Your fried from Maine, Danita!
I meant to say, your "friend" from Maine! but fried works too! Stress and concern for many people has me a bit fried! LOL
What would we do without photos? They help us remember all the good times and even some of the not so good times. Such sweet advice. I keep reminding myself that even thought this stage is different, it doesn't make is worse. It will be nice to see him grow with these new experiences.
How awesome your son was chosen!! what a wonderful experience it will be. When feeding the homeless before the pandemic, 4 young missionaries (LDS) came and volunteered with our church (non-denominational) and they were a delight. So young and sweet natured, they had a conversation with our family and with the homeless. <3 I love when I see them around which unfortunately is not often.
Those photos are absolutely amazing!!! Thanks for sharing.
Blessings.
That is awesome! What a lovely thing for you and your family to do. This pandemic has definitely changed how much they can be out and about for sure.
Beautiful country you live in. I live in Virginia but not Richmond. Best of luck to your son.
Virginia is beautiful! I've been to several areas over the years and I think it is gorgeous :) Lucky you!
As they embark on the journey of growing up and gradually spreading their wings, make a conscious effort to maintain a connection, be it through monthly or weekly check-ins. The specifics might be uncertain, but what's definite is that you've instilled incredible values and a solid foundation in your son. Embrace the sadness, yet counterbalance it by reflecting on the countless beautiful moments you've shared as a family. I'm confident you have a treasure trove of pictures to revisit and cherish. Taxi in Hersham