chris.reese.girls1.2.3.4

We found out in early April that my Grandpa had suffered a devastating and fatal clot in his back and the end was near. It was difficult news. It happened so fast. He passed within a few days after his children gathered to say their goodbyes and send him on to his next adventure. Of all my grandparents he was the one that influenced me the most...he could see me when I often felt like no one could. He truly helped me find my way when I needed it. I am so grateful to him for his guiding influence, his love, his kisses, his care and concern. His love has been meaningful my whole life. I was anxious to be with family after we received the news, so I took the girls down shortly after he passed, driving straight through in one day and arriving in St. George in the wee hours of the morning at my sister's house on General Conference Sunday. We spent the week preparing for the services and supporting my mom and dad as best we could. In the process, the rest of the family ...

Here is a giant one-post recap of our amazing trip to Australia with my parents, siblings, spouses (missing Jonni!) in February. We visited Sydney to see my sister, Camille's, family who live in Manly. The weather was more rainy than I had planned for (my packing skills really lacked), but we had an incredible trip! The first few days we soaked up the sun at the local beaches: Manly, the harbor side wharf beaches, Shelly and Freshie (Freshwater Beach, which is not fresh water). Chris and I snorkeled and saw some big groupers and other small fish. My BIL was a major force in helping me get up and surf (surfing is super duper hard!). We also did a bit of body surfing. We took every chance to eat an Acai bowl after our morning walks in delightfully scenic paths along the water.  We spent a day in downtown Sydney, riding the fast ferry across the harbor, which had stunning views of the Opera House as you ride in!...