hello there!

I cannot believe it is July, and I haven't written in this space since May. Oy. I knew time would fly, but boy I was not prepared for it to completely pass by me. June was spent trekking across eight different states, starting with a road trip across the salt for a baby shower in Utah. We were blessed to be surrounded by both sides of our family. All at once. Such a rare occurrence. My mama threw the most darling shower, and there was so much love in her home that day. I was able to meet my new (and first!) nephew the first time on that trip, also. Nothing quite like the baby fever a tiny fresh babe can give you. 

After a week juggling our time between the two families, we flew to Missouri, and then drove across Iowa and into Illinois to see my two favorite people on earth. My grandparents are serving a mission in the tiny town of Nauvoo, IL. A town nestled right by The Mississippi. A town lush and green, where history is preserved, and life is simple. There is so much I could say about my time there, but I don't think I could give it the credit it deserves. We learned so much about the people who lived there. The hardships they endured, and the joy they had despite it all. We learned all about their way of life - brick, candle, rug, rope, barrel, gun, shoe, food, and home making. A town built from the ground up, taking years and years to do so. Only to be taken from them. It was a humbling experience for both Steven and I. Learning how little we need to be happy, and how lucky we are to have the freedoms we do now. It was an especially good lesson after I had lost both my iPhone and Macbook Pro due to water casualties. (I clearly have great luck with technology - all is well now, though!)

As for my grandparents. My heart is so full because of them. Their charm. Their wit. Their love. I could write books and books on the impact that have had on my life. The entire town of Nauvoo, and even towns over would sing their praises as soon as they learned that we belonged to them. And I just wanted to say, "yes! I've known this for so long!" I was so thrilled to see them finally get the glory that they deserve. I wish I could introduce them to all of you. 

And today, I turn twenty-one. And I can honestly say I have got everything I could possibly want in my life. There are just about thirty days standing between me and my daughter, and I am so ready. When I can't feel her moving in my (giant) belly, I miss her. I miss her and I haven't even met her. 

I know this year will be a wonderful one. 

And now it is time to celebrate it all.

I'll be back soon! Happy summer, friends!