Sam's 18

Today is Sam’s 18th birthday. He is such a great kid. I invited some of his friend’s over for cake after his volleyball practice was over. He was so happy with his friends. It makes my heart happy. He turned in his mission papers about a week ago. I can’t wait to see what happens to him on his mission. 

 I know Olivia is having a hard time. The language is so hard and she is always so worried about what people think of her. So I think she is being very hard on herself and yet, maybe she isn’t hard enough. It is hard to say... I really don’t know what she is thinking or feeling. All I can do is pray for her... I love her and want her to be the best person she can be. I pray she is preparing herself to be a good mother and wife. 

 Lauren stayed home from school today bc she was having allergies and then she didn't wake up in time for school. They are doing state testing. If she goes to school late it would have been in the middle of testing and that would mean she would have to stay after and get caught up. Where as if she doesn't go at all she would just never take the test. Consequently, I put her to work at home and she said she is never staying home again. I love all my kids and pray for their testimonies. I have started telling them they have to be good parents and very direct about their testimonies and when teaching their children.  

We moved in with my parents October of 2020. I love living with them for many reasons. Just now we had Sam’s friends over for cake on his bday. My parents joined in teh celebration. I love that my parents are a part of my kids lives. I love that we have space in their big house. I love that we have a fire pit. I love that i can help my parents and my kids see me helping my parents. I love that my parents can help me. I love that Daniel is less stressed over money. We pay rent, but it is different than having a mortgage and being responsible for home repairs and such. I love the sunny warm weather and I love that we are so close to a temple. I am so blessed. I love my life... even though there are some things I wish I could change, I love where I am in life.