Change...

"The only constant thing in life is change."

I don't remember where I first heard that little quote, but I have reflected on it often throughout my life. On a similar note, I've also realized over the last few years that the only thing predictable about life is its unpredictability.

Even when you think that you have all your ducks in a row, life often offers a surprise or two.

I think that the concept of "change" often comes with a very negative connotation. As humans, we like to feel in control of our situation. We are creatures of routine and habit, so when a new change is suddenly introduced it can be a hard adjustment for us. I have witnessed this in my life, even in the happiest of moments. Heading off to college all by myself, getting married, moving to Arizona, having children, etc. Some of the happiest events in my life have been sincerely difficult because of the change.

As Kristin an Elliot announced their departure for Utah last week, I'll be honest, I was devastated. Deep in my heart, I was happy for them because everything worked out so perfectly and it was clearly time for them to go home. I knew it was what they wanted. Heck, it's what I want. It is easy to admit that I was sad....no, devastated. Devastated that they would no longer be a HUGE part of my every-day life. Everything worked out so quickly that I felt like the CHANGE smacked me in the face when I wasn't prepared for it. Hadn't I just been at the park that morning, watching the 3 kids collecting acorns and giggling together? Didn't I just have my hand on my sister's belly feeling that sweet baby girl squirm? Wait a second.

CHANGE.

It was hard to imagine my every-day life without my best gal -pal-sister only 3 minutes away.

After the initial blubbering reaction I had to the news, I felt a lot better and the sadness eased a little bit as I enjoyed the precious time I had before they drove away for good.

With Elliot and Kristin so busy packing and getting the house ready, the boys and I enjoyed lots of Lindsey time. I didn't have pj's for Linds after their bath, so I put her in a large crocodile t-shirt of Blake's. You would have thought it was the most beautiful gown in existence the way she danced and twirled in it. Notice the shoulder she's showing in this picture.

The kids spent a little while spinning in circles, running back and forth, and screaming. It was so fun to let them go a little wild and just be kids.

Then we enjoyed some "fancy-yogurt."

The last night they were in town, everyone stayed at our house which was a lot of fun. Krissy bought some cupcakes to celebrate Blake's Birthday a little early since they couldn't make it to the party. I made some delicious enchiladas and we had a little mini-Birthday/Going-Away party.

It touched my heart so much that in all the craziness of packing and moving at 34 weeks pregnant, Krissy bought this awesome Scooby hat for Blake. He's been wearing it pretty much ever since.

Krissy was exhausted from all of her hard work.

As soon as she laid down, my boys wanted to snuggle with her.

Clayton LOVES snuggling that cute belly (Ashley). He usually screams BALL! and tries to smack it. It was just so darling that he wanted to snuggle and hug Kristin so much.

Wild-Lindsey came over for some brief snuggles too, but I couldn't get a good shot of her cute face.

I am so happy they made it safely to Utah and that they have a little time to get settled before the baby comes.

Even though I miss them already, I know that change is good, even if it takes some adjusting. Even if it means a few tears.

Change is good.