Family rocks!

I am so enjoying my time in Washington helping Diona and kids move into their new house on base. They are moving from a very crowded 3 bd. apt with "kid gates" lining the living room/ kitchen to keep Seven out of things (like the "pantry" under the computer desk). There just isn't even space for an infant/toddler to get around and explore properly. And since they moved from a 4 bedroom house in Virginia to this 3bd apt, they have not unpacked lots of boxes which have lined the perimeter of several rooms (and closets and garage is top to bottom loaded with boxes). It will be so nice to have a house again with a backyard for the girls and a sidewalk to chalk with their art and all those good things. I love being here but I always feel guilty because I get to be here and Ray doesn't. But this time he does. He will be here tomorrow and I am so excited. I hate trying to tell him details of what is going on here and what the kids are doing and saying. I am so glad to share this experience with him this time. The kids are excited too. They get Grandpa all to themselves. And, it feels good to be able to help Ric and Diona. With Ric being underway, this move will be just one more nice surprise to come home to (not really a surprise, of course he knows they are moving, but it will be done for him!) But, believe me when I say, Diona could have done this herself (we may be helping to make it easier, but she is one self sufficient woman) She does so much on a daily basis for her family. She is so dependable at work, always taking on the extra tasks and committees no one else wants, and yet she is an awesome mom who spends every minute of the day with the kids in mind. I am in awe when I see how much she accomplishes in one day (up and going at 4:00 AM everyday). Somehow she manages to keep up with household, the kids, herself and all others in need. She has been taking the missionary discussions and attending church and is faithful in reading with the kids each night from the book of mormon stories. She is one of the strongest women I know and I am so happy to have her in our family. I know Ric hates being away from the family but I know he knows that Diona is capable of running things smoothly while he is away. Thanks Diona for being a special part of his and our lives. We love you.