Loose Bricks & Damp Pockets

I am blessed to have had many mothers in my life.  They have all influenced me in one way or another. 

 My Great Grandma Matis was an amazing woman.  I remember going to her house in the summer and having bottled cherries that she grew in her backyard.  It was in her basement that I found her old reading books from when she was a teacher.  That summer, she started to teach me how to read.

GGma Matis & Julia, Mom & Greg, GGpa Matis & Me

 My Grandma Packard was one of my mothers away from home while I was at BYU.  I spent lots of time at her house talking, laughing, and recharging. (I still do because there's no place quite like Grandma's!) She taught me about my heritage, how to knit, and how to plant pretty flower pots.  This year I have my own that I planted just like I used to with Grandma.

Grandma Packard & Me

 My Grandma Olsen was my other mother away from home while I was at BYU.  Grandma always had open arms and plenty of food to feed the neighborhood.  Her recipes are legendary that I am still trying to master.  She always had time to talk and was constantly interested in my comings and goings.  It might sound silly, but I think about her when I look at my baby.  I know that Grandma would love her because she looks like one of her beloved baby dolls.

Grandma Olsen & Me

 In addition to my own wonderful grandmothers, I was lucky enough to know my husband's Grandma Pat.  She never let anything slow her down.  She was ready, with lipstick in place, for whatever life handed her.  She welcomed me into her family with open arms and had a smile that was infectious.  I am so glad that Grandma Pat got to spend some time with Little Miss C before she was called to her heavenly home.

PC, Little Miss C, Grandma Pat, PC's Father

 I am one of the lucky ones.  I love my In-Laws like my own parents.  My Mother-in-Law has perfected the art of service.  Anyone that has come in contact with her has felt her love and benefited from her thoughtfulness.  She loves to love her family - that much is obvious to me.

PC's Mother & Little Miss C

 I will say it again - I am one of the lucky ones.  I was raised by a mother that has given her life to her family.  Everything mattered to my Mom - little or big.  My Mom made the coolest birthday cakes, huge calendars for us to track our days with, and knew how to rock out while cleaning.  Every question was worthwhile.  I learned a love of books, prayer, service and the Gospel from my Mom. 

Mom & Me

 If there is one thing that I have learned, it's that family is the center of life.  I am truly one of the lucky ones!

Little Miss C & Me