Welp. a lot has happened since you left us. I brought Mom home to live with me. She misses you a lot. You must have been good to her because she adores you. She's always happy if she dreams about you and can't wait to see you again. I'm trying to take good care of her. Sometimes I get tired, but I know you treated her like a princess, so I keep that in mind. She's suffering from arthritis pain and sciatica, but her heart and lungs are going strong so she may be with me for a while. I'm learning about gratitude and love and speaking kindly from her.
I'm trying to "Keep farming" like you always said. I planted your zucchini seeds that you had slipped into your scripture case. They started strong, but then something got them. Predators are a problem in the south. I'll try again next year. That's what farmers do, right? I would like to report that I did have black raspberries, thornless blackberries, and some canary melons. I also have figs on my tree for the first time. I'll think of you when I eat them.
Some more good news: I had no cavities when I went to the dentist this year. We had a family reunion in Idaho Falls. Mary and Megan planned it. It was a blast. You have some lovely posterity. Did you know you have 43 great grandchildren with 5 on the way? Of course you do. You have 2 missionaries serving right now. Matthew is in the same mission you and mom served in. Isn't that cool? Annalisa is getting married in October. You're invited.
2020 has been crazy with the Covid-19 pandemic. We thought it was behind us, but there have been some variants stirring up trouble. Our family has gotten through it okay so far, knock on wood.
I'm trying to be good. Sometimes it's hard, but it turns out serving others is fun. You used to tell me that, and you were right. I still have a lot of weaknesses that I'm working on. That's all I'm going to say about that. Oh, guess what? I'm learning to water color. Remember you used to send letters on cards with pheasants you had painted? I'm more of a flower girl than a bird girl. I'm definitely a beginner. I'm practicing mixing color and working on my strokes. Shading and scale are elusive, but there is always hope. I remember you never just watched TV. You were drawing the actors on the show or painting or carving. Such a great idea.
I don't know how they celebrate birthdays in heaven. Mom and I sang "Happy Birthday" to you. If you didn't hear us, just know that you are still loved and remembered, and I hope your day was awesome like you.
oxoxox,
Laurie
