He Did it!! Eric's Graduation

             2 Years ago, Eric and I decided that it would be beneficial to his career and our family, if Eric went back to school for his Master's degree. So we began a journey that we will never forget. I am not going to lie, the last two years have probably been some of the hardest years in our lives. Eric carried two jobs: One with the City of Sumner and an Associate City Planner, and also his side business 4M consulting, where he works contract work for the City of Ruston, and also doing wetland delineation reports. The first year he kept busy serving as  Elder's quorum president in our ward, and keeping up with the kids,  that summer we chose to sell our house, and move in to my parents home while they are serving a 2 year mission. Getting the house ready to sell, was absolute stress, and chaos, but in the end it all worked out.

             Then he started his 2nd year of his Masters degree. His jobs became more and more demanding. He served as assistant ward mission leader, and in the Young Men's organization, and I was called to be Primary President. We kept busy with our kids in Soccer, football, and baseball. With Eric at school I often felt like a single mom. Raising the 3 kids by myself. Helping them with homework, keeping up with the house and bills. Running them from sports, to scouts, to school events, etc. It was very common for us both to come to bed late at night, physically and emotionally exhausted from the day. We cried when times got so hard we weren't sure if we could keep going. Then we picked each other up, and pushed forward. I admire Eric so much. I have never seen him with so much weight on his shoulders. He is the hardest working man I know. He truly wants the best for our family, and wants to serve the Lord. My boys missed having dad around. But he always tried his best to make it to their games. They always knew when Eric was at the games. (Everyone did). You could always hear Eric cheering and whistling from the stands. And the boys always tried a little harder and played a little better when Eric was there cheering them on.

              We are so thankful for all the love and support from both of our parents. We could not have done it without their love and support from the sidelines.

               It has been a crazy journey!! Congratulations Eric. We are all so proud of you!!