There's No Place Like Home

Eric and I went to my family's house this weekend! I love being at home with my family. I wish we lived closer so that we could see them more. We slept in, watched TV, went swimming, did some shopping, but mostly just relaxed and visited!

My mom's birthday was on Saturday and everyone was able to be home for it. With everyone being out of the country so much this summer, it's been awhile since we've all been home. We spent the day together, had a nice dinner, and then did presents and cake.

There are no words to describe what a wonderful lady my mom is. My mom is one of the most selfless, sacrificing people I know. My mom portrays so many Christlike characteristics and is a stalwart example of what is right. My mom is a spiritual giant and always rises to the cause of truth. She is kind and loving, gentle and patient. My mom knows how to have a good time and laugh until it hurts. She is always smiling and ready for anything. Through trials and tribulations, my mom perseveres with a positive attitude. My mom would do and/or give anything for her family. My mom is eager to increase her temporal and spiritual knowledge and is an example as she continues her education with excitement. My mom is one of my best friends.

Here are some of the presents my mom got for her birthday:

Since my mom is in school again, some of us got her school supplies. Andrea was eager to buy her own present and after much thought she exclaimed with all seriousness, "I'm pretty sure mom needs a new ruler." So we went to the store, seeking a ruler of course. However, after seeing this pencil case, Andrea decided that my mom's current pencil case was too small and that this one would be much better. My mom was of course excited about this gift, as I'm sure she's been worried about what she will do this school year with a pencil case that is inadequate for the amount of pencils she has :)



Alex got my mom a really cool bracelet and necklace from Bolivia. Both of these pieces of jewelry were actually made by disabled Bolivians who make jewelry for a living. Alex said it was very touching to see these humble people who got so much joy out of this talent.

Eric and I also went with the "back to school" theme and got my mom a new backpack. She modeled it so well for all of us :)

Austin and Kelly made my mom these fun picture frames with pictures from our Disney Cruise this summer!

We realized as we were looking for candles for my mom's cake, that we didn't have any. So we pulled out this jumbo scented candle as an alternative. I think it worked out quite nicely.

Happy birthday mom! I love you!