So I guess it's time to post something!

My, it has been awhile! Here is a little update on Andy and I. First, I would like to apologize, I thought I was going to be so good, and take tons of pictures of our trip, however, I forgot our camera everytime I wanted it, so we didn't get any pictures. Sad huh! I need to be better.

Our Christmas started off a little rocky. After finals were finished, Andy and I took off early for Idaho. My sweet grandma had a heart attack the weekend prior and we went up to be with the family. She ended up passing away on December 19th, the day that we arrived in Idaho Falls. Grandma Jacobson was a kind, loving grandmother. Grandma was always interested in every aspect of our life. She was such a caring lady, we always got Valentine's in the mail from her, so cute. She used to always have something good for us to eat when we were at her house. She was talented at so many things. One of her passions was sewing, I love the quilt that she gave me for my wedding. My mom, a few of my aunts, and I got to finish her last quilt for her. I felt honored to take the already threaded needle that she had been using and follow her lead on it. What a wonderful, strong example for me.

The day after Grandma passed away, my cousin Cody was killed in a car wreck. See story here. Cody is my dad's nephew. He was eighteen. Cody was one of the kindest, funnest kids that I knew. He was always so fun at our family reunions, playing Rook with. A few years ago, a bunch of my family hiked Alaska Basin in the Tetons. Cody came along and it was so fun to see this 14 year old wide eyed kid be so excited to see that beautiful country. I have some good, good memories of him and I am so grateful that my family has the knowledge and testimony of forever families. I know that we will all see Grandma and Cody again. We were all in shock those few days before Christmas, but being together and supporting one another made all of the difference. I am so grateful for my loving family and their goodness.

My uncle spoke at both his mother and son's funeral. They were on Monday the 22nd and Tuesday the 23rd. He did an amazing job. He shared a poem that was perfect at both of the funerals. I think that it gave a good perspective on the Christmas season.

My First Christmas in Heaven

"I see the countless Christmas trees, around the world below.
With tiny lights, like Heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear.
For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear.
But, the sound of music can't compare, with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you the joy their voices bring.
For it is beyond description to hear the Angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart.
But, I am not so far away, we really aren't apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear.
And be glad I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my Heavenly home above.
I sent you each of memory of my undying love.

After all, Love is a gift more precious than pure gold.
It is always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do.
For I can't count the blessings or Love He has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year."


After some very emotional days, on Christmas Eve, Andy and I drove over to Boise and got to spend a week with his family. We had a wonderful time eating, playing games, going sledding, hockey games, long visits, High School Musical 3 with cute nieces, a flying monkey, grandparents, seeing old friends, and sleeping! Heber and Karen spoiled us with a wonderful Christmas. We so loved being with all of them and miss Boise again already, one day we will be up there and we will stay!

On December 30th, we drove back to Idaho Falls and spent the next few days with my family. We went up to the lodge at West Piney for our annual reunion. There was tons of snow, but Andy and I mostly stayed inside, reading, relaxing, and playing many hands of Rook (I managed to win, too!). My aunt, Yvonne, taught me how to make these cute hand towels, I became addicted to that too, very fun! We loved being up there in that beautiful area, I miss it. We also got to spend some time with my sister Jill, her husband Ben, and Miss Brooklyn, always a good time. We miss all of you guys already!

On January 3, we headed back to Arizona, my brother Zane driving. He is going to stay with us again this winter. We stopped in Mesquite to stay the night. We stayed at the Casablanca Hotel there, very nice, and excellent buffet! :) We made it back to Mesa late Sunday night. It is good to be home, but we loved the time we got to spend with our family. Anyways, there is an update for you. Sorry for the long novel! We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!