Broken Collar Bone x 3

I was shopping at Kohls last week when my phone rang. It was Tayden's coach, and my heart sank. I knew something was wrong. I answered, and my oldest was on the other end of the line. He said, "Mom. We have a problem. I just broke my collarbone." I dropped everything and headed to the school to pick him up. He was fine until he got in the car and he broke down in tears. He said, "I prayed last night. On my knees! That God would keep me safe this year." My heart has never broken quite like that before. 

We got an x-ray and sure enough, it was broken. We got into the car and talked about what choices he had. He could either be angry and turn away from God, which honestly, would be understandable. Or, he could turn to God and let this be a refining moment. He could use this opportunity to draw closer to God and strengthen his testimony. 

We got home, and our bishop came over to help give him a blessing. He talked about how grateful he was for a hard trial that his oldest son went through because it helped prepare him for his mission. He talked about having faith even when things are hard or we don't understand. 

I did great the whole time we were out dealing with the broken bone, but when we got home, I lost it. I called my mom and told her how angry I was at God. I felt so betrayed for my son. I cried and cried the rest of the night. Not because I was upset that he wouldn't be playing football, but because my heart was breaking for him. The love and devastation I felt for my son in the moment was more than I could take. I was also wildly in awe of him, as he put on a brave face. It was crazy emotional. 

As we talked, we decided we are going to expect a miracle, just as President Nelson taught. He is taking bone supplements and using bone rub. I am mustering every ounce of faith that I have for my son that he can heal quickly and play at the end of the season. I am determined there will be a lesson in this and I hope it is that faith can bring healing. 

During all of this, I am so grateful for the community that has rallied around us. Countless people have called and texted to check on him. People have stopped us at the store and in the streets asking about him. Friends, teammates, and coaches have come to the house with treats and well wishes. They are the miracle in all of this. 

This isn't how we anticipated his senior season going, but here we are. It's heartbreaking. But watching my son face this setback with such faith and determination has been completely awe-inspiring. He is so much more than football, and while this may slow him down, it's not going to stop him. I'm always proud of him on the field, but I'm forever proud of him on the field. 

Senior Banner

Tayden got his senior football pictures done for his banner. They turned out so good! I can't believe we are already here! 

 

Goodbye Midnight

Cache had a rough day earlier this month. Midnight, his pet tarantula, died. Males only live 5-7 years, and Cache had him so six, so it was time. Even though he was old, it was still sad. Cache was pretty bummed and we cuddled the blues away. Thankfully, Sully was more than happy to help.

 

Fashion Show

Kyle finished his school shopping and was excited to show Beckett. Beckett is extra particular about what he wears and how he looks, so getting his approval is a big deal. Beckett had Ky unpack his whole new wardrobe and try on different outfits. He showed him what to pair together, how to wear his clothes, and what adjustments to make. It went on for about thirty minutes. My favorite was when Beckett would go tell him to look in the mirror, and Kyle would be gone for a few minutes while he admired himself. Beckett was such a good brother and made Kyle feel a million bucks. It was a small, simple thing, but definitely a highlight of my summer. 

 

Jury Duty

Last month, I was called to Jury Duty. Initially, I was called in April, during State Testing. However, because I had to help conduct the testing, they delayed my call until July. After I confirmed July would be okay, I remembered I had Girls Camp, so they excused a week from my month of duty. So, after that, I should not have been surprised when they called me to report to the courthouse last Friday. 

I was unhappy about the call. Jury Duty is not my idea of a good time. But this time, I was especially upset. I had plans with Scott and my two little kids. We were doing dinner and a movie, and I had been looking forward to it all week. On my drive to the courthouse, I thought of every excuse to get out of serving. However, I prayed that I would have integrity and do my civic duty with a good attitude. 

After the instructions for duty, they called 14 people to be on the original panel. And wouldn't you know it, they called my number. Again, I was trying so hard not to be upset or angry. I did not want to be there, and I was sure I was going to miss my previously made plans. 

The judge started asking the primary questions to the Jury Panel. Questions about our bias, relationships to the case, etc. Then he asked a question regarding the timing of the case. Because it was only a misdemeanor, he only expected it to last the day. However, there was a chance of it going past 5:00. He asked us if we had any plans that would keep us from being fully present or committed to the case. I hesitantly raised my hand. The exchange went as follows: 

Judge: Juror five. 

Me: (Sheepishly) I have a date with my boys. 

Judge: Can you expound?

Me: (Still a little sheepish) I have tickets to the new Spider-Man. 

Laughs among the courtroom. 

Judge: Spider-Man? I didn't know that was a big thing.

Me: I know, I'm sorry! 

Other Juror: Oh, it is! Tickets are sold out everywhere! 

Other Juror #2: My kid has gone to six Spider-Man birthday parties this summer!

Judge: Spider-Man isn't something that calls for being excused. 

Me: I know! I'm sorry! I just wanted to throw it out there. 

Judge considers me.  Snickers among the courtroom. 

Judge: Okay! Go take your kids to the movie!

Me: Thank you!!

Juror Who Took My Spot: Thanks a lot! Enjoy Spider-Man! 

It was pretty humorous! I was a little embarrassed, but also so proud of myself for telling the truth, and surprisingly enough, it worked! 

Dinner Date

Last weekend, the older boys were with my parents in Boise. Scott and I decided to take the younger boys on a special Parents and Youngest night. We went to watch the newest Spider-Man movie and out to dinner afterward. Even though I only took one picture, we had a great time! It was really fun to spend some quality time with the youngest kids, talking and laughing without the distraction of phones or older brothers. I love these little boys, even though they aren't too little anymore. 

 

Backpacking in Salmon

Tayden went backpacking with his friends throough Salmon. They hiked, fished, and slept in hammocks. It was really hard to let him go, but I don't want to hold him back from these memories or experiences. They came back safe and can't wait to go back again!