We have been married for 3 years now. This year has had it's up and downs too. I feel like this year has been smoother in most aspects. Everyone knows the rules and has their own space. They are integrated into their schools and social lives. They are thriving and are such great kids. Rex and I always comment on how our kids have been through so many hard things and yet, they are great kids. They don't have major issues, just the normal growing pains. They might be intensified by their losses, but they are amazing and always find a way to cope. We feel so lucky to be their parents.
This year our oldest daughter, Lucy, graduated from high school and left for college. This totally changed the dynamic of our home. She was the most responsible one. The one who helped and nurtured our youngest the most. She was the one we knew we could rely on. BUT...it was time for her to start her own journey, which we are thrilled for. She has been looking forward to this for a long time and we know she will do great!
The other kids are adapting to life without Lucy. They are building their relationships with each other much more. They are coming closer and learning more about one another, which doesn't always result in happy endings. There is still teasing and fighting and learning that they aren't always right, but I would say that overall they are doing great! Cole is now the oldest child at home and he has taken that role on willingly and does what he can to help his siblings and us, the parents as they like to call us! Kaylie is becoming the fun sibling that Cecelia needs and entertains her and does fun things with her. Cecelia is growing up quickly. She is curious about the things around her, which sometimes gets her into trouble because she is always wanting to try new things! There are small changes in the household like chore charts and other household responsibilities, bedtimes, who gets to stay home and watch Cecelia instead of going out with their friends, and who gets to pray or read scriptures AGAIN since you just did it at the first of the week, but it's your turn again.
Rex is amazing as always. His patience with all of this is almost superhuman. He is constantly building me up and helping me through the challenges of life. We still make all of our decisions together...kids, house, work, everything really. It makes it easy to support each other and our family because we both have ownership of the life we are building together. I know that doesn't work in everyone's situation, but for us that has been essential.
We are excited to see what great things are to come this year! We feel lucky to have so much love and support from our families and friends!! This blended family business is challenging at times, but it is so worth it every day!! Here's to another year!!!
💗💗💗💗💗💗
Heather
