Happily Ever After

Josh and Krista were married on June 5 and it has been a busy, happy, joyous time for our family. I'm still waiting for the photographer to send me the family group pictures.  Once I get those pictures, I will update the blog.  In the meantime, here are a few pictures taken by the photographer at the temple. [for more pictures, check my facebook page]. Despite the heat, everything went well and Josh and Krista were gorgeous and they are so happy.  My sister was here from New York, my brother and sister from San Diego, my parents and nephew from Utah, and my Aunt and Uncle from Orange all shared the big day with us.  We also had dear friends (that are like family) with us from Richfield, Utah and Las Vegas so it was a sweet time for our extended family to all be together.  Truly a glimpse of heaven!

The good news is that I have not crumbled with the departure of the kids back to Idaho, Utah and Louisiana. When the last batch of kids left, Craig said, "You're holding up remarkably well, Grama".  And I truly am holding up.  I will always want to be near our loved ones, but I recognize how blessed I am to have had them close by for 5 precious years.  I am so grateful for free cell phone calls and being able to skype!  Now I am trying to find a new normal with a quiet, empty house and calendar.  My only real committment left this summer is a road trip to Idaho in August with Melissa and the boys, and teaching my primary class.  So, sewing room,  here I come!

This is the picture I framed for the piano ---

It is such a great feeling to know that our family is complete.

This is my very favorite picture of all the hundreds taken that day.  It made my heart sing to see my 5 girls and know that they are all here at last!!!!!