Mommy time out at Quincy's

Let me just say that I have a rocking husband who shows me all the time how much he loves me and this is a huge example of what he does. I left Jed with all the kids and flew to Portland in the hopes to rejuvinate myself and feel that desperate connection I wanted with my childhood in Oregon. I've always felt that pull, always will, to be near the place where I grew up. I'm sure there are studies and studies about this but I feel it very strongly. I can tell when it is coming on and thankfully my husband knows this about me and supplies me with all the love and support that I need to make this journey to my roots. It also helped that it rained and rained all the days that I was there!
That said, a huge part of this trip had nothing to do with my roots and everything to do with how my life is plunging forward with my family and life experiences and that need to stay connected with my family; mainly my sisters but also my gorgeous and generous brothers. I have never been very good about long distance relationships with them and I know there are ways to be better at this. However, put me in a room with one of them and I am on top of the world. Even with life's distractions there is a closeness and a love that I am so grateful for. And I adore their spouses' and children as well.
So the first part of the trip I stayed in Molalla with Quincy and her family. The very first night Q and I stayed up talking until 2:30 am. Then the next day was a beautiful glimpse into homeschooling and chores and making up for being apart. It was overwhelmingly joyous! Quincy's middle girl, Mari, is so sweet and lovely and I loved getting to spend time with her. Ava, the oldest girl, is articulte and beautiful and growing by leaps and bounds. Jarom as the oldest and only boy has goodness radiating from his soul. He is so loving and helpful and sucks up all the knowledge he can. I admired watching Quincy teaching school and felt drawn in by her subjects. I also fell asleep listening to her read to her children. Such pleasure! Oh and little Leina. She made me desperately miss my girl Leah but provided enough entertainment and happiness to quiet me!
I just wanted to also say that I know it's hard to understand this in a blog but each and every one of my siblings does this for me. You fill me up. The older I get I know that no one in this world, other than Jed, is more important or more helpful than you. You may not realize the influence and impact you have on my life. I love you all for who you are.