Stressed and Blessed

It's about time I get a new post up here.  As one can tell- my consistent blogging days are over.  Unfortunately most of my blogger friends have dropped off the face of the virtual planet so there is much less motivation to post anything at all.  However, I really rely on these posts as a sort of journaling for the most part and for a shout out to my families in Utah.  I'm not calling it quits just yet.

I've been stressed out lately. I know it's normal to feel this way with a new job, new house, new town, new ward calling, new sicknesses, the holiday season, inlaws visiting, and two very rambunctious boys on top of it all.  I was thinking about it though, and each of these things that have "stressed me out" recently are actually such great blessings in my life.  How fortunate we are that Stephen has this amazing new job.  How lucky we are to be closer to family. It's a blessing I've been given a big calling in church because I am already meeting so many new people and making friends faster.  The holiday season brings family together which means it's my very favorite time of the year.  See?  Stressed... but blessed.

I wanted to write quickly because my heart is feeling very full today.  Jacob turned 4 years old.  He's handsome, smart, and so funny.  I am trying to figure out why it feels time has flown by so crazy quick.  I don't have babies anymore.  I have a toddler and a KID- a full grown KID.  He's been getting more acquainted with the big bad world out there and there's so much I still need to teach him.... so much I'm still trying desperately to protect him from. I hope he's ready. I hope I'm ready.

Today was fun.  I wanted a few photos of Jacob for his birthday, but after our first location didn't work out, I decided, "what the hay, let's go play in the dirt!"  And so we did.  I felt such a joy watching my boys play out there together.  They are my greatest treasures.

Here are a few of my faves of the day...