Very few come along as amazing as this one.....

Where do I begin? We met 6 years ago when you moved to Iowa. Ben and I delivered an invitation for a get together at my house. We chatted for a while and discovered we both had a love for scrapbooking...and thus our friendship began. You have taught me so much about exploring my creativity and have inspired me in so many ways. You have an outgoing personality that always make everyone around you glad to be your friend....including me.

Your family is amazing and soon became a part of our family. Craig, was our first active home teacher. We loved having him over, there was a certain presence he brought with each visit. I remember talking to my mom about it and she summed it up when she said, "He listens to you. He is not in a hurry or concerned about the time. When you talk he is actively listening and responding." That was it. I often joked with the EQ President when he mentioned changing the routes and I told him not to take us off of his list....I wouldn't let the new ones into my house. He thought I was kidding.....I was only 3/4 serious. We had him for 4 years and looked forward to every visit....now I don't let the new ones in:) just kidding!!!

I am grateful for the opportunity you have allowed me to watch after your children while you were out of town. I took care of them as if they were my own, often hearing the annoyance in their voices when I'd call their friend's house every 30 minutes, just to make sure they were safe and accounted for. Sometimes an occasional panic attack would occur when one was not accounted for or when they were sent to the ER. I talked to Jamie, a few months back and told her you should find another sitter because kids wander off and injure themselves when I am around. She said something comforting....like something you'd say then I remembered why I love you so much.

I am not the most outgoing person. I am quiet and like to keep to myself, and if I had a choice to go out or stay home....9/10 times I would choose to stay home. I don't have a lot of good friends and that is OK. But I have a handful of best friends that I love very much and you are one of them. You have always tried to include me. You were my friend despite my dull-self...you liked me despite the fact that I was not the most exciting person to talk to and I feel that over the past several years we have become very close. I always looked forward to spending time with you.

When I heard about this move to Texas, I remember thinking to myself....they are not going....they can't go. It didn't really hit me until I was at your house and saw all the boxes and knew that it was happening....you really are leaving. Then I got sad and have eaten chocolate every night since...thanks:)

I have many memories that I will always cherish, from crops to girls night out to family BBQ's and baseball games. And even though our lives got busy we still remained friends....even though it may have been a while between events or conversations...we remained close. You are good people.

Parker, has grown up with your kids and loves every one of them. From pestering Ella, to digging for bugs with Sydnee, to shooting hoops with Christian. Let me just talk about Christian for a minute. Ever since he has turned 12, he has been a role model for Parker. He always asks when he can pass the sacrament or if he can go on a mission like Christian and if we can read the book of Mormon like christian did.....and his testimony made me cry. It takes amazing parents to create something like that. And yet again...you inspire me.

On the way home tonight from seeing you, Parker said, "I'm like, so mad at Craig and Texas....I mean Craig is still my friend, but Texas isn't...I just don't like Texas, mom!!!" I thought....me either!

I never thought I would feel so emotional....I feel like my dog just passed away....not that I am comparing you to a dog....it just hurts a little, knowing I can't see you any time I want. I didn't think I would be this sad. I guess this is what it feels like to have a best friend. To have someone to look up to, who inspires you to be better, who cares about you and what is happening in your life. Thank you for always being there for me. I often think that I want a friend just like me...thoughtful, loving, considerate...:) and I found at least one!!! Thank you for everything!!! You have influeanced my life more than you may ever know. I have enjoyed every minute of your stay in Iowa and am excited for you and your family as you embark on this new adventure.

Safe Travels...we will see each other soon:)

Love ya!!!