It's hard to coordinate schedules during summer and that's kind of what happened with the Larsens. Their Gabriola trip coincided with the first week of our trip to Calgary and then they came home the same day we went to Banff... So we made sure to reserve a chill day with them the day before Cora had her surgery. I love to just be with my family. The Larsens are some of my favorite people! It was so nice to see their new home and spend time with them. After dinner, I French braided Cora's hair before her surgery. It reminded me of when my sister, Alanna, had brain surgery and I braided her hair before she went in for surgery. Both experiences were tender and special for me.

Before we knew John, Allison and kids were coming to town, my mom asked for pics of at least 8/10 grandkids. These kiddos had so much fun together! One day, my sister Kim and I went out to lunch with just Ira. Holly and Greta watched Maeve and Kim's kids (E was napping), and it was so nice to just be with my sister.

Some loving moments with Nana and Papa JJ...

We celebrated Christmas early with Nana and Papa JJ. It's just so much more fun to exchange gifts in person rather than over video chat. The girls were very spoiled and felt very seen by their Nana who had listened intently to their interests and then come up with the perfect gifts. It was a treasure to spend this time together.

It's really no secret that this year has been tough. There's a whole list of hard stuff. My soul was very much restored by spending time with my parents; they took care of us and loved us. I could rest and reset. We all left with our buckets a little fuller!