I don't think there is anything more rejuvenating than the sun. Even if it is cold outside, the sunshine makes me feel better - it clears my mind, it gives me energy, and warms my heart.  We have had lots of sun these past few days, and I am loving it so very much! 🌞

 We got back Thursday morning from our 8-day, three-state trip. healthy, but tired.  Sammy and Paul did a great job taking care of Sendai and the house while we were gone. Thank You! ❤

Francie's funeral was lovely. Ruthie and Mike both gave beautiful talks and shared funny stories and spiritual insights that were so heartwarming.  Francie was an amazing "big" sister whom I idolized when I was little and came to appreciate more and more as I got older.  I will miss her and her sweet, humble ways, but at the same time, I am so thankful she was spared the significant limitations that can occur with Alzheimer's. After her burial in Marysville, we were able to meet Mike at the Feather River Temple, where he took Ruthie, Adam, Kim, Kevin, and I on a tour.  I think Mike knew everyone working in the Temple that evening.  Each person he introduced us to was his "favorite" person 😄.  While we were sitting in one of the sealing rooms, the Temple Matron came in, and she stayed and visited with us for a few minutes. It was the perfect ending to a bittersweet day. 

 

We got to Francie's house about the same time as Mike and Barbi on Wednesday, and fixed a quick dinner we enjoyed with Jenny.  We spent time on Thursday going through some old photos and letters that Mom had sent to Francie while she was in college, and some letters that Francie had sent home.  It was also so nice to visit with Ruthie and Ken, Matt and his family, Steven, Hollyanne, Heather, Jenny's friend, Lance, Ryan, and Amy, AND Sugar (Steven's dog) - you can tell she misses Francie 😥

We left Sacramento Saturday morning, with a layover in Chicago, and then on to Cedar Rapids.  Kate picked us up at the airport, and we got back to their home just in time to sing Happy Birthday to Sayre. 

 Sadly, he wasn't feeling his best (Jonathan took him to urgent care, and he came home with a flu diagnosis).  He perked up enough on Sunday that we were able to get to Church and afterwards, his baptism.  

 

Kate and Jonathan have the nicest Bishop, and he tailored the meeting to help Sayre feel comfortable. It was also so nice to have Jonathan's Dad and his wife there.  

So happy we could be there, Sayre!😊

We enjoyed our quiet time in Iowa.  Jonathan also came down with the flu/pneumonia, and Kate wasn't feeling her best either, so we spent a lot of time reading, doing homework, napping(Dad), eating, discussing the government, and walking Clementine.  We did make it to Costco a couple of times, the mall once, and the day before we left, I talked Kate into taking me to Aldi. (I do love Aldi) 😋  It was way too short of a visit, but we hope to go back later in the Spring.  Kate said when she got back to the house after dropping us off at the airport, Clementine was a little droopy 😢 (love that girl!)

Wednesday afternoon, we were able to get on a flight from Cedar Rapids to Chicago. Kim and Chris picked us up from the airport, and we went directly to Portillo's. Dad was in a little bit of Heaven with his Chicago Dog.

 I was so sad we didn't get to see Spencer, but thankful for the time we got to visit with Blythe and Grant. 

We are looking forward to going back for a longer visit - to see Spencer's new apartment, meet Grant's girlfriend, Jordan, and hit the Outlet stores with Chris!😁

What can I say?  Families are the BEST, and I love ours❤

Other news to pass on - 

Paul's mission paperwork has been turned in, and now he is just waiting for that Tuesday email  - not sure which Tuesday it will be, but he'll let us all know so we can join in the excitement.

 I just know that wherever he goes, he will be an amazing missionary and a blessing to so many people.

 

Rumor has it that Max might bring Amelia out for a visit next weekend. 

 

Adam is putting his "coach" hat on again and will be coaching girls' soccer for Palmer Ridge High School. I think Lily just might have talked him into that.  He is so great with the kids and Palmer Ridge is lucky to have him! ⚽

Chris joined Blythe and her friend for Yoga last week!  He said it hurt 😂😂😂

What a great Dad!!!

And thank you, Kim and Chris, for my Sunday Selfie!

I have a lot more I would like to share tonight, but it is getting late, and my Sunday scoop of ice cream is calling me.

 I love you all so much! You bring me so much joy (and sometimes, worry) but I know that Heavenly Father hears my prayers for you, and I also know that he loves you all so much, and is cheering you on to become the best of who you are.❤  

Have a very wonderful week!