Lots of driving, a hierarchy of needs, and a farewell

We ventured out to Seattle, WA last week to bid bon voyage to Chris's mom Pearly who is moving to Turkey for a two year job assignment.

After 14 hours in the car, driving straight though the night with our Honda Civic packed to the max with people and stuff, here is what we did first:

-visit with Mom and eat lunch

-go swim suit shopping,

-then take naps.

I hadn't realized that we would be in a hotel with a pool, so of course didn't have my suit. (I needed a new one anyway, I just didn't expect to be swim-suit shopping tired and cranky and in 24 hours of grunge and body odor, with two tired and cranky children.) For the record, Samuel is a little swimming-pool daredevil and is not afraid to go under. And he always comes up smiling. He would jump right in to the deep end if I didn't stop him.

Anyway, it was nice to sleep and swim in the pool, but the best part was spending time with Lola and getting in some quality Lola-grandkids time! She spoiled us with buffets and toys and gadgets that she is leaving behind in the states. We also celebrated Chris's 31st birthday. You will notice in these pictures that my kids are always tired; we really ran them to the ground in order to get the most out of every day!

Additionally, we brought her van back to Utah with us for our family to use while she is away! That meant driving two cars home, which is 36 hours I don't care to remember (except there are 5 pounds stuck to my gut that won't let me forget). We had to stop at a mall and buy books on CD to keep us each awake in our separate cars.

We are glad we were able to visit Lola one more time before she ships out. We will miss being near her, and I know she is making a lot of sacrifices to leave the states, her home, her friends and family, her job, but it is such the right place for her right now. We will miss you, but we are so happy for you, Mom!