Emotions.

I can't believe the whole Christmas season has come & gone. I'm leaving my tree up for a while in defiance of the calendar. I'm not quite ready to let it go. I love this time of year. I love it even more now that I have my own Christmas baby. It was an amazing time of year to bring new life into this world. Unfortunately, this year, we had to watch a loved one leave it.

On the 26th of December, Samuel's cousin's husband was killed in a tragic gun accident. Jason was only 27 years old and was an exemplary young man. He loved this gospel & loved his Savior. I have no doubt in my mind that this was Heavenly Father's plan. It has been very emotional for the whole family, nonetheless. I am so grateful for the reminder it has been, however. Jason's life has inspired me. I want to live better. I want to be better. And I want to draw closer to my Savior. With all that, and Jesse coming home on the 20th, I didn't even get neighbor gifts out or send Christmas cards (Dear friends & family, We still love you. XOXO, Us). We have found some time to be home & just be together. I am so grateful for the joy there is to be found in every single day. I hope you all found joy this Christmas season.