We head back to Phoenix after another couple of months of travel. This leg of the journey felt quite different from the one before. Previously, there were tears of sadness, loss, and difficulties with the transition. But God wasn’t finished teaching and refining us. He still isn’t! 
We spent a month in southern Utah, joining in our Utah grandkids’ school events and celebrations—things we hadn’t been able to do before.
We were also blessed to attend a dear sister-in-law’s baptism in Salt Lake City, visit with two of my brothers and their sweet families, spend a day with my 98-year-old grandpa (who, along with my grandma, inspired us to serve a senior mission!), visit and attend the temple with my dad, make new friends in Adam’s ward who would be serving at the MTC at the same time as us, and spend time with aunts, cousins, and other family members. We even had the privilege of attending a live session of General Conference—thank you, Lizzy!
We wrapped up this chapter with a “last hurrah” (for now) in San Diego with our Arizona grandkids, followed by some “solo” time enjoying one of God’s most beautiful creations—the beach!
The best part of this leg of the journey has been the people we were with and the lessons God continues to teach us:
• Be in the moment—be grateful for that moment, whatever it looks like.
• Slow down—what a beautiful opportunity to not rush or stress, but simply stop and smell the roses and admire their beauty.
• Feel immense gratitude for the dear family and friends who make up my beautiful patchwork quilt of life. What a blessing to spend quality time with them.
• Enjoy and refine my relationship with Eric—I can feel God softening our rough edges.
• Experience the truth and blessings that come from the invitation to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Next up: finishing our to-dos, tying up loose ends, sharing our “farewell” testimonies at church, and packing up for our two-year journey in Australia!
The Helland's Down Under 