Our oldest, Elise, is settling into her new home in Florida. She had a quick change of plans—initially, she was going to move to Utah, but now she’s staying with a friend’s family down south. While she looks for colleges in the area, she’s working as a substitute teacher at a private school, and absolutely loving it. She memorized all the kids’ names on her first day, and it’s solidifying her desire to work with children. Some of the classes she took at the college here in Washington are really coming in handy!
Bensen just returned from an amazing trip he’d been planning for about two years with his scout troop. They went to Philmont High Adventure camp, where he hiked 50 miles, navigated orienteering, and even had a close encounter with a rattlesnakes. He’s got all the scout stories to tell now! He is still dedicated to his passion for swimming, practicing for hours even on his days off.
As for the younger boys, Joseph (7) and Caleb (5) just got signed up for fall soccer, and they are beyond excited to start in September. Fisher starts the basketball season soon and so life is getting crazier quickly. We’re also kicking off homeschooling this week, and I’m really looking forward to all the learning and growth that’s ahead for all of us this year.
In the meantime, the nonprofit that a friend and I started is gaining some momentum. We’re thrilled about the opportunities it’s creating for kids who have been impacted by incarceration. This experience has been incredibly eye-opening, and my heart goes out to all the families—especially the children—who are affected by this.
On the home front, our house is still on the market, and we’re looking forward to the move when the time comes. We’ve truly seen miracles as our lives have taken turns we never could have expected, and through it all, we remain grateful that the lilies continue to blossom.
Lots of love, Marie
