James sent me this picture in his email this week. He said that all his life he had prepared to serve a mission and leave his parents and siblings but he had not prepared for how hard it would be to leave nieces and nephews. I am not sure why Maya is crying and by the look on James's face, I don't think he knows why either.

Our holiday was great. Sarah and Steven got to come (no baby yet) my sister was here with her family and my mom. It was hectic (as usual) but I love having family together. I am so blessed and have so much to be thankful for. With all the trials and challenges, disappointments and failures - the blessings ALWAYS out-weigh the bad. I am grateful for that.