2006 Comes to a Close

So, as I've previously blogged, 2006 has been quite a year. This blog briefly summarizes the year 2006.

Of course, the most traumatic event for the year, as well as for my life, was the death of my dear, sweet Mother on March 10, 2006. My Mother died on that day from a wicked brain tumor, a glioblastoma. I miss her immensely and not a day goes by that I don't think about her and the wonderful legacy and example that she left. I suspect that this is something that I may never fully get over.

My 23-year-old daughter moved home (again). She had been living in Provo, but decided that she was too poor and moved back home. Although I'm sure it has been an adjustment for her, she seems to have grown up a bit and she is easier to live with. I hope she feels the same about her family. She also seems more focused about life, is starting back to school (Salt Lake Community College), will be working full time (with benefits). I feel better about her and her direction. She is a smart, wonderful daughter.

The son is now a senior in high school. He has physically really grown into quite a young man, now at 6'2" and still growing. He is fun, and enjoys playing Yahtzee almost nightly with his mom, which in and of itself is a miracle. He has a "friend" who seems to hold a special place in his heart. I hope he realizes that your first love is a special love, but that there's a lot more to come. He plans to graduate and get into college. A mission seemed to be his priority for a while, although lately he hasn't said as much about that, so I don't know. I do know that if he goes on a mission, it will be his decision.

My husband was called to be a member of our bishopric. This was a very stressful time for me, because I am not your typical "mm" wife and I have some real doubts and problems with some of the Church doctrine. I was really put under pressure from the Stake Prez when he was called, and I still to this day resent how I was treated. With that said, I am confident that husband is doing a great job, and he truly feels that he has been called to serve God. He is a kind, compassionate man, and it shows in how he takes this calling very seriously. He is dependable and willing to do whatever is asked of him. I would have been extremely disappointed in the church if they had not called him to this position based on my doubts and insecurities.

In July, our family of four motored to Yellowstone, which I previously blogged about. It was fun and we got along great.

Another of my biggest challenges for the year has been my Father. He has been lost, bewildered, physically frail, and on "a trail without a map". He has taken so much energy, and I had no idea he would handle my mother's death in this way. His mourning has taken its toll on him physically, and since my mother's death he has been hospitalized on three separate occasions. I think that maybe he has turned a corner, and is now again on the mend. I can only hope that eventually he will become stronger and able to do again for himself. It is so sad for me to watch him without his wonderful partner.

Professionally for me, my job has been a bit more stressful, due to political changes in the program. I traveled a bit less this year, but next year will travel much more, to remote places of New Mexico and also Western Colorado.

I have been able to see a lot of movies this year, and still have continued to find time for myself. I try to take time to walk on the Provo River Trail, something that is so good and therapeutic, too. I have luckily had the support of some wonderful friends, who have helped me through this year. One friend in particular has been my walking partner, and I have been able to do a lot with that friend. I am so fortunate that friends and family are such a part of my life. I would be lost without them.