When Words Fail

  We've been so incredibly excited for our basement to be water-free. Last week Sierra Construction started the process. They first had to tear out the dry wall, insulation and studs to get to the concrete. Then they filled in the cracks with some kind of super-powerful foam. After that is putting everything back together. We've been really impressed with Sierra and the quality of their work. They're even going to replace the pad under the carpet and fix the trim on the hobbit door for free. They should be all finished up by next week. We're so grateful! 

  I find I don't snap pictures of the day-to-day things. I'm trying to do better. And yes, that's a pink blanket. Sorry in advance, buddy. 

  Conference weekend was so uplifting. Cam, Mary and Greyson came up to visit and the kids had a total blast. It was so good to see them and wish they lived a little closer so we could play everyday.

  Sunday was spent out in Avon with the traditional Norskies for breakfast. So yummy! Looks like Allie got her Conference nap in with Grandpa.

  Allie came in one day and told me her baby Hudson was hungry and needed to eat.

  This past week has been incredibly hard. It first started with postpartum depression. Lack of sleep really got to me and I found myself incredibly sad, emotionless, frustrated and angry. I know that it's a stage and it will eventually get better but sometimes it's too hard to find the positive. Or you're just too tired to reason with yourself. This is the truth of motherhood. Although it's so fulfilling and you'd never trade it, there are times when you feel you literally have nothing else to give. But you keep going on, in my case, because of wonderful, supportive family. I don't want to think where I'd be without them.


 
















   Last Saturday I learned of a heart-wrenching tragedy. Cam and Mary at their twenty week ultrasound appointment, found out their baby has a lethal condition where if he's born, he will die. They are considering all their options but most likely will have to terminate the pregnancy. It's hard to describe my emotions after hearing this. They have already gone through years of waiting to be pregnant and a miscarriage. My heart hurts more than I ever thought possible.
  From the moment I was born, Cam has been my best friend. We never fought as kids and did most everything together. In high school he was my confidant, the one person I'd turn to with all my problems. He always calmed my fears and helped me through good times and bad. When he left on his mission I remember bawling for weeks because I just didn't know what to do without him. More than anything in the world I want he and Mary to be happy.
  When I talked to him on the phone, I was expecting to try and comfort him. But as it always happens in our life, he comforted me. He told me he knew their baby has a special spirit. To just need a body, you'd have to be one. He felt humbled to be chosen to be his parent and expressed his joy at being able to raise him in the Millennium. I could sense a peace, strength and calm from him that amazed me. I marvel at his faith, it's so resolute and unwavering. I know their hearts have been broken and it's going to be a hard path to walk for the next few weeks but with their faith and the strength of the Lord lifting them up, I know they'll get through this. Honestly, words have failed me as I've tried to explain how I feel. There's a song called Home by Gentri that I love and find that it's especially meaningful at this time.

  Sudden I left you, so far away
Unknown my day of return
If I could write you, words that would stay
I'd give you a promise to hold
That we never end
Dry all your sorrows, though bitter they be
Our parting be a moment that fades like a dream
And soon dear you'll find me where the stars meet the sea
Safe in the whisper that calls you home to me.

Your heart though it's aching, burdened and frail
Longing to follow behind.
But if I could give you, a gift that remains
Love that endures through all time
Never to end
So dry all your sorrows, though bitter they be
Our parting be a moment that fades like a dream
And soon dear you'll find me where the stars meet the sea
Safe in the whisper that calls you home to me.
If I could show you (just) for a moment
beauty unseen

Peace that surrounds you (and) hope that leads you home to me.

   Emily and Tyson came up last weekend and it was so good to see them. Even better was that Hudson finally was able to meet his aunt and uncle! He was just a bit smitten with Em. I sure wish they lived a little closer, we really miss them when they're gone.

  Kristen took these adorable photos of the kids watching Aaron slide down the stairs on a sleeping mat. 

  Monday night we went to Avon for FHE. I'm not a fish person but dad made some AMAZING fish tacos that were to die for. Wish I would have snapped a picture of them. I hope he plans on making them again soon. The kids colored a whole bunch of eggs for the Easter party with the Swan's on Saturday. Every year the Swans get together with Kentucky Fried Chicken and their colored eggs. The kids have a blast chucking them down Old Main Hill. When I first joined the family I thought it was one of the strangest traditions I ever heard, but now it's something I really look forward to. Again, Kristen captured these moments beautifully. One of these days the girls' hair will be done. 

  I'm so looking forward to Easter this Sunday. To be able to focus on the Savior and feel his Spirit and peace. I'm so grateful for Him and the hope he gives us through the Atonement and Resurrection.