Leaving Sara

I’m tearing up right now as I write this. I have only a handful of hours before I leave Washington, and I hate it! I know I’ll see Sara and these adorable grandchildren again in a few months, but it still breaks my heart to say good-bye. When I’m here with them, I’m home. That’s such a wonderful feeling—but it makes leaving bittersweet. 

We did a lot while I was here. We went to Seth’s soccer game, we read books, we cooked meals, and Sidney and I finished a pair of pajamas. Tonight we went out to dinner—an adventure with five children ranging in age from one to tween! Then I kissed them and gave them all long hugs before tucking them into bed. And that’s only what I did with the kids! 

Sara and I did even more. We made a list when I first got here of all the projects we wanted to complete. While we haven’t done them all, we’ve made a decent dent in the list, and I have a reason to come back soon because she simply can’t finish these things without me! (Or so I tell myself. . . .)

We also enjoyed a delicious Texas sheet cake—Sara’s specialty! I told the kids that if they weren’t good at the restaurant, there wouldn’t be any left when they got up in the morning—it’s that good! 

Even more than the projects and cake, though, are the late-night chats, the heart-to-heart moments, the laughing and bonding that mean so much. I can never get enough of family, and this trip has been so wonderful! Often when I see Sara and her family, I’m racing through on business and grab a quick, overnight stay. This trip has been a little longer—not nearly long enough, of course—but longer than normal. It’s been very relaxing and enjoyable.

And to make matters even better, the weather has been perfect. Oh, my goodness! When I travel to Washington, I expect to be chilled, and I pack accordingly. But I didn’t need my sweaters and jackets and long sleeves this trip. Clear, sunny, and warm every single day! 

I just couldn’t have asked for anything more—except for time to move a little slower perhaps.

But now we’re popping in a movie and settling down for our last late night—and at least six pieces of Texas sheet cake. I don’t know how mothers do it who don’t see their children for months and months, even years. I know it happens, but I’m so grateful it doesn’t happen to us! 

Comments

[Kristen Swanson]

Hi Shelli- I love your blog and I look at it all of the time. Celebrate 08 was my first convention (I joined 10/07) and I loved loved loved the Barbie and the Barbie commercial. Is there a chance we can watch the commercial again? Also, it would be amazing if you and mattel could offer that Barbie to us- I'm sure everyone would buy one, maybe donate the proceeds or something?

[Mercedes]

You two are soooo cute in your PJ's! Is there anything you DON'T know how to do?!!!! You are just so creative and talented and a great inspiration to many. Thank you! Speaking of talented....I would love to see some pictures of your buffet you decorate for the seasons. I love seeing your creations and, of course, copying them!!! When my friends and family come over and ask where I got THAT idea, I simply reply "My best friend Shelli!" It is so fun making some of your things and passing them on to my stampin' friends and family. Don't get me wrong...we love seeing pictures of all the girls and grandbabies, but would love to see pictures of your buffet (as each season comes and goes) and stamping room!!!!!

Take some time to take care of yourself as you are so busy taking care of others constantly. And if you need a quiet place to hide away for a couple days, my house is always open!

Mercedes

[Sherri Lonar]

Hi Shelli:)
I'm emailing you from Canada and decided I might share with you my thoughts when I saw you and your granddaughter in your "jammies" as we like to call it up here.... I found myself reflecting on my daughter (she's 4) and I when we get in our jammies and settle down to " get cozy" as she (Madeleine) likes to call it.
I have to say there is something quite nurturing and loving about bedtime routine and my favorite time of the day in this roller coaster of life. I guess no matter if she's 4 or 30 (it'll be the late night chats then instead of bath and storytime) it'll still be a quiet, nurturing quality time between a mother and her child. I'm sure you'd agree.
Sherri Lonar

[Sharie]

Shelli- It's so fun to keep up with you via blog now that I don't get to see you at work each week. I have a request.. TX sheetcake recipe please!! My niece's baby shower is on Saturday and my plan was to make a sheetcake however I cannot find my mom's recipe. I have searched for others online but how do I know that they are good? I know you are busy at founders but if you have a spare moment in the next two days to post the recipe I would be forever grateful. Enjoy St. George and all those amazing demos you get to spend time with... I'm jealous!

[Janell]

Shelli,
I have to ask this, do all of Sara's children have s names? I had the honor of meeting her when she first moved this way, but I don't know that we talked much about kids. That is expect to admire the cute little one she had with her that day.

[Kristin]

Hi Shelli! I always enjoy checking your blog. You're a great writer...it's a rather mind clearing hobby isn't it? - Anyway, I was really writing about my baby sister (she's 18) who is going in for extensive back surgery this Monday. I've started a "We've Got Your Back" Card Shower Campaign to try and bury her in cards and well-wishes from around the world during her 8 month recovery. More details are on my blog: www.cottagestamping.blogspot.com. I didn't know if you had any advice on how to get the word out to find participants? Naturally I thought my SU! Demo family would love to be involved. Any advice on what direction to head would be appreciated! I know every card will bring a little sunshine to her hospital room. Thanks for your time! Have a great time at Founders Circle!

[Claire Daly]

Great posts Shelli! I usually get to check in here on the weekends, and it's a great read. I had a giggle about your soccer snooze. Glad to see among all the business of your life you still get to hang out with your family in PJs too :)

[Rebecca]

I LOVE the jammies! I am also SO addicted to the bella papers and am curious how I can get the fabric! This is the first time I have ever fell more in love with a paper design than my cat.... LOL! (Just teasing, I LOVE my kitty, but I wanted you to know I feel *that strongly* about that design...)

[Teresa Brown]

Hi Shelli
I just love to read your blog. when I got home from Palm Cove I wanted to do a blog.
The last two days I have put my blog together.
Emily and Krystal have just stated school hoildays over here. Emily is 13 and I spent the other night with her as her mum my daughter louise was going to a wedding. Emily cook tea for us then we watch movies this time together is specia.I have a great photo of you and me on my blog hope you get time to have a look. I have to go as I can talk all day to you.Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful storie with us

Happy Stamping Teresa Brown (Warragul Aus)

[Luanne]

Dear Shelli,
My daughter Nancy (age 22 ) is moveing tomorrow to Arizona.Her Dad and I live in Michigan.We are a very close family and we are going to miss her! Do you have any tips or words from experience to help us keep the closeness we've allways shared?
If you can't get back to me dont fret the Lord will take care of me!
You'r Friend Luanne Parks