"But Dad, did you see my tackle?"

Anyone who knows me at all knows that I am an avid college football fan.  

 I love that sense of connection with humanity in cheering for a team. 

I love the feeling of watching athletes play their hardest and realize their dreams. 

And when the team I cheer for wins, I just love it.  

But winning isn't everything.  It really isn't.  And today I made a vow to myself to never lose focus on the game and what's really important. 

I went to my nephews little league football game, and let me tell you these things are legit.  Coaches yelling, concession stands, huge crowds, even a halftime show by little league cheerleaders (yes, 10 year old little cheerleaders.  Adorable).

Well, the Titans were losing... and it was bad.  But many of the little spirits on the sidelines remained hopeful and were antsy with anticipation of possibly getting to play. 

One of the boys saw his Dad coming to the sidelines and ran over to him.  I couldn't hear what was being said but I could see the Dad's face was tight with anger as he was "coaching" his son about some mistakes that had been made.  

"But Dad, did you see my tackle?" 

The Dad just shook his head and walked away.  As he turned his back, I saw the boys face fall.  The smile was gone, the spark in his eyes went out as he hung his head and walked back to the bench.

My heart ached for that boy.  What if that moment in his little league game he lost his dream?  

I was filled with gratitude... both for an earthly and Heavenly Father who never miss my "tackles" in life.  Who never chastise me from the sidelines... rather, they cheer me on and inspire me.  

May we all remember that both teams are playing to win in this life, and show a little more love encouragement towards one another. 

Grandpa supporting Collin and the Terrace Titans!  We love you bud! 

{In Loving Memory}

This past month has brought a whirlwind of change that has landed me back in Utah for the next four months!  

On August 2, my sweet grandmother passed away at the age of 91.  I am so happy for her - to think about all the reunions she is having on the other side with her family and my Grandpa. 

This photo was taken the last time I was able together with Grandma.  I think it is so sweet and such a great reminder of how much she was loved by everyone - both big and little! 

The services were beautiful.  Dad & Aunt Ginger spoke and both told great stories about Grandma and her love for the gospel.  I love that she was a nurse for her whole life and worked while raising her family.  What a great example.  

Another favorite memory of Grandma was Christmas 2010.  This was the year Mike and I were dating, and it was our first Christmas being together.  My Grandma crocheted this bright pink beanie for Mike -and he wore it proudly all morning!  He still has it in fact, and we laugh about it often.

This is a huge part of our family.  Missing Mike, Lisa, and little Isaac and Carter.  It was wonderful to get together with as many as could make it and reminisce about Grandma.

This is my Dad's family!  From Montana, New Mexico, Idaho, Mona & Roy, Utah.  Many travelled very far, and this is the first time I can remember seeing all the aunts and uncles together on the Perkins side.  Bill, Bob, Vic, Mike, Judy & Ginger.

The girls in the family sang "Nearer My God To Thee" as one of the musical numbers, and the 3rd verse I just love...

There let the way appear

Steps unto Heaven 

All that thou sendest me 

In mercy given.

Angels to beckon me, 

Nearer my God to thee.

Nearer my God to thee, 

Nearer to thee. 

We love you Grandma Avery!