We have a Graduate!

Layla's Preschool Graduation

We are technically missing the official graduation ceremony since we will be in Hawaii. But Mrs. Stacey was kind enough to give Layla her hat and diploma before we left. I still can't believe this little lady will be starting Kindergarten in just a couple months! We are so proud of her and all the hard work she did in preschool. She is such a smart, responsible, sweet girl.

Last day of preschool

A very bittersweet day! Layla has truly blossomed and learned so much the last 2 years in preschool with Mrs. Stacey. She is an amazing teacher and such a great lady! We are going to miss her so much but we are excited for the new adventure of Kindergarten.

 The kids get to wear their pajamas to the last day of school and enjoy a fun party day!

 Layla with her cute friend Elysse

My beautiful Mom

Karen Lynn McDonell

December 17 1948-May 5 2013

 

On Friday May 3rd I flew up to Utah with Tatum to say goodbye to my mom. She was very quickly losing her battle and we knew she didn't have much time. It was extremely hard to leave and fly back home knowing it was the last time I would see her on this earth but I am so grateful I went and was able to spend that very special time with her and my family. Sadly, on Sunday May 5th she passed away.

 

 I love this photo of her! It is her high school senior picture.

 

 

The day of her funeral was a perfect spring day. There were so many great friends and family there to celebrate her life and say their goodbyes. I have honestly never seen so many flowers before! It was so clear how many people loved her. My Mom's final resting place is the most beautiful place up on a hilltop surrounded by gorgeous mountains and trees and is very peaceful.

 

 



 

Sweet girls

 



I am so thankful to have such great friends who left their families, jobs, etc to be by my side and with my family during that very difficult time. 

 

 I feel so fortunate and grateful for the love and support we have received. Sweet cards in the mail, meals delivered and listening ears extended. Unfortunately, we also saw the other side of that coin as well. That has been extremely surprising and hurtful to my family. Thankfully, the good and love we received has far outweighed the bad!

 

So glad I have these 5 to go through this with!! We know how important it was to our mother that we love and take care of each other. We miss our mom everyday.

 

Cute cousins playing together afterwards.

 

and 2 cute girls with Papa Bill and their blankies (of course). So happy to have been able to spend time with Papa Bill. We love him a whole bunch!