Free Range Kids: And

Feb 2022

Sometimes your pain needs a voice. After leaving our home, I had silently cried on the drive on and off, but real healing began in a nondescript parking lot-type RV park in Farmington NM. The park bathroom was clean and I was alone and I wailed for at least 20 minutes.

After my lament, I returned to the trailer where I was immediately enveloped with peace. The children's laughter and smiles were manna from heaven. After neglecting my children while I frantically packed, it was a balm to be in a small space together.

Hair brushing train

Much needed stretching after all our packing

Some experiences in life are or, but most are and. I am grieving and excited for the future. I am sad and happy. I am tired and...exhausted.

We spent a week in Utah and had a much needed rest. We finally had a moment to celebrate Rachel's 14th birthday, nine days late. We also enjoyed a milestone with Eva and were able to take her to the temple for her first time.

Provo Temple

There was joy and there was also pain. Asher & Josiah endured a terrible stomach bug that lasted days. Asher was using one of Grandma's old containers to vomit in and after a day of use he read, "add flavor to life" & "no artificial flavors," and weakly began laughing.

Farewell pictures. I was only going to share one, but then I noticed the mad girl. I can't remember why Eleanora was upset and neither can she, but this set made me smile.