My resignation from the church

Where do I start?  This is tough! Never had I ever imagined something like this would happen in my life.  I had intertwined my love of the Savior and membership of the church as part of the same.  But, I have learned how to separate my feelings for the Savior from being a member of an organization.  This has been such an emotional roller coaster for me for so many years now.  Nichole first told me she was gay back in early 2015.  I had no idea how that one sentence would change the trajectory of my life and that of my family's.  It has been such a journey.  It is one I need to tell and express.  But, to tell it properly and to give it the meaning and justice this story deserves will be a challenge.  

Jake heads for Chicago

 We got together at the Olive Garden before Jake was to head off for Chicago with his Utah State classmates. Man, it’s fun but also sad at the same time for me because it sure is tough to see the kids move on with their lives. There was a stat I saw the other day that 83% of the time a parent will spend with their child is spent during the first 18 years of the child’s life. The moments are few now that we can all be together at the same time. I’m happy for my children, but it also tears me apart. It’s definitely a comfort to have them in my life and when we’re together

This week

 Geoff’s mother, Elaine, just passed away recently. And, as such, Devorah and Geoff came back from their mission in Germany to attend her funeral. Although a sad occasion, it was good to see my sister again. I do love my family and extended family! Family really is everything to me. Jake is home for a few days before heading off to Chicago for a school event and then to California for the summer. It is so great having him home even if for a short few days. I love all my children! Ava actually cleaned up her room on her own accord yesterday. It was amazing to see her take pride in having a clean room and to see her floor again. The time I have with my children seems to be fading and so short. I hope I can be an influence for good in their lives. So many times it feels I’m failing as a father or just not good at it