I have been thinking about the things that I will miss most once we embark upon this upcoming journey - several things pop into my head, some of which are material items: my comfy bed, the convenient and relaxing hot tub out back; others are a little harder to explain: grandma’s grilled cheese sandwiches, mom’s hugs, plus dad and Brett having a wii boxing competition; but without a doubt - what I will miss most is my family.

I love being so close (not necessarily the living in the same house part) to so many of my family members. I don’t see all of them all that often - but there is a calm that comes with knowing I can see them. I was able to be at the hospital when grandpa had both of his diabetic episodes and got his pacemaker put in plus when grandma got her knee replaced (even if she doesn’t remember me being there thanks to the meds). I have been able to see Joshua compete in band competitions and Joel dance at shows and in plays.

The biggest blessing that I have had in the two and a half years that Brett and I have spent in the Midwest - is seeing Marilyn, our niece, come into the world and being able to be with her for each twist and turn in her busy first year.

Although I do not overly enjoy her dirty diapers, her constant runny nose or the whining she does when she gets tired, I would have never missed this! She has grown from her small 6lb start to a very mobile and active toddler. I will most definitely miss her smiles and laughs and seeing how she continues to develop.