Home Again, Home Again

We are once again Pocatellians.

Nate interviewed with two law firms in Pocatello back in February and March but it wasn't until June that we found out we would be coming back home.

We had mix emotions moving back but we knew it was the right decision to accept the job.

We will miss Boise.  We will miss friends, our ward, the amazing parks, shopping, restaurants, Kate's pediatrician, and the North End.  We really loved Boise and maybe one day we will move back.

Nate had his first day of work this past Monday!  He is working at the law firm Merrill and Merrill.  Even though Nate has only worked a couple of days it seems like this firm is the perfect fit for him.  Nate did not want to work at a big firm and work ridiculously long hours where he would never see his family.  Merrill and Merrill is a pretty small firm and they do not work long hours unless you want to.  I think this firm will allow Nate to learn the ropes of being an attorney without becoming overly stressed that a big firm would bring all while enjoying life and his family!  It is pretty perfect in our eyes! We are excited for this next phase of life as we enter the "real world."

Pocatello in May

Before Nate started studying for the bar we spent some time in Pocatello. 

While we were there, my little, big brother received his mission call!  He will be serving in the San Fernando California Mission.  I am so proud of him.  I know he is ready to serve and will be a great missionary!  He leaves on August 28th.

We were in Poky over Memorial Day so we spent some time at the cemetery visiting my Grandma Nielson's grave, along with other Nielson relatives and family members on the Carlson side.

 I was really close to my Grandma Nielson.  I spent a lot time at her house when I was a child.  I always enjoyed playing games with her, doing puzzles, painting our nails, making cookies, picking raspberries, helping her in her garden and selling cucumbers on her front lawn.  I have such fond memories of her.  I am pretty lucky that I get to remember her each time I look at my wedding ring.  My main diamond was hers.  My grandma actually left it to my mom but my mom decided to give it to me.  I love that I have a little part of her with me.  

I always thought Grandma Bonnie would be alive for when I got married and always hoped she would be here when I had children.  She may have not been alive when Nate and I got married or when Kate was born but I am positive she was watching over me with love and excitement in these important times in my life.  I am sure she would have loved Nate and would absolutely love Kate and her big, bright eyes.

On one of the days I went to Utah with my parents.  We stopped to see my Grandpa Stratford.  This was Kate's first time meeting her great-grandpa.

We also visited my Grandma Stratford at the nursing home.  She has dementia and cannot remember much.  It is hard visiting her because she rambles and nothing makes much sense that she says.  So... it is pretty difficult to have a conversation with her.  The one great thing about seeing her is she is usually excited to have visitors.  I am sure it gets lonely at the nursing home so she loves when people come to see her.  She loved meeting Kate!  She couldn't get over how cute she was.  I am sure we made her day by introducing her to Kate.  Kate enjoyed Grandma Barbara, too, and gave her some great smiles!  

Kate also met some of my aunts and cousins. 

Kate loved grabbing the leaves on the tree outside grandpas house.

Kate is getting good at standing on Grandpa Nielson's hands.  

She is starting young at being a "flyer!"

Kate has started to become more cuddly and lovey dovey.  

It makes me a happy momma!

Pocatello, we will see you again soon.