June 21, 2017

I went visiting teaching today.  It was super fascinating.  I had to go alone because my partner's air conditioning broke today (in like 115 degree-weather) and she had to wait at home for the repairman. So, I got to sit next to Rose Mery (from Brazil) and tell her about the story I am writing about her aunt, and then listen to more incredible stories about her family.  She also showed me some beautiful heirloom crocheted pieces from Natercia and Rose Mery's mother.  We looked at pictures and she told me of life in Brazil before she came to the United States.  I had to drag myself away after she showed me her grapes and her gardens.  It was time for my next appointment!

I rushed over to visit my neighbor, Kelsey, who lives across the street.  I love her and her family.  I wish they would never leave but I know they are planning to move on soon.  Their house is small and they already have four children.  But they are the best neighbors (and we are part-owners with her husband on a few apartments in town.)  We had a nice visit too.  It is always fun to see her.  She is one of my running partners.

When I came back across the street, I went straight out back to where Sunee and her kids were swimming.  I sat with my feet in the pool for a few minutes while we visited.  Then I had to run to the school to pick up Emma from her camp and bring her home for lunch.  The camp has been a little discouraging with LOTS of girls showing up and a whole new coaching staff.  Emma is trying to find her way.  I really hope things work out well this year for Emma.  She is such a great little player and every coach has always loved Emma, but sometimes it is hard to be noticed when there are so many girls and everyone is new to the coach.

High School will be a whole new world for our family.  It was one of the most exciting times of my life, and I'm so interested to watch my kids experience some of the same things I did.  But along with those exciting times will come plenty of heartbreak and hardships.  I remember those things too.  I just hope that I can be the kind of mom who will love them through it all and be there to guide and help them and cheer for them when things go well and love them when they don't.  It's a lot to think about!