A Blessing in Disguise

August 23!!! The day I have been thinking about, and hoping for ever since I discovered Harrison and I would be apart this summer. 4 months is a long, long time in our marriage's young life of only a year and a half. I was really dreading this summer.

Spending 4 months away from Harrison, really made me appreciate how wonderful he is. There were so many little things that I always took for granted, and it only took a couple of days apart from him for me to realize how much I missed those things. He always rubs my feet, makes me breakfast on the weekends, takes the morning shifts with Jack to let me sleep in, and plays "Monopoly" with me for hours without complaining. I think a huge blessing of this summer was me realizing how lucky I am to have him. I don't know what I did to deserve Harrison, but it's too late for him now - he's stuck with me forever.

I have felt so much support this summer from all my loved ones. My family first of all, for putting up with me! Jack, I'm sure they loved having around, but they thought they got rid of me when I got married! Wrong! I have loved our time in Oregon, and I will miss the Poulson clan so much when we leave. We also had a chance to spend time with the Smiths, and I loved every minute of it. They are no longer my in-laws, but truly just family. And I have always considered myself so lucky to have the friends that I do, and I am continually impressed by them. They always show so much love and support for me! So thank you for all of your phone calls, emails, and visits! You know who you are :) And I love you!

I often found myself relying on the comfort that I found when I was on my knees this summer. I would often pray for help to stay positive, to keep Harrison safe, and allowing the Atonement to work in my life. My prayers were always answered. Once I realized that my Savior had felt everything I was feeling, I felt a huge burden lifted from me. I was able to focus on being happy and making the most out of this summer, despite some hardships that came with it. It was an experience I hope to never forget.

I realize this post is a little more personal that what I usually share, but unfortunately my journal writing skills need improvement, and I would feel ungrateful if I didn't write down the unexpected blessings this summer has brought. But tomorrow is the day! Harrison and I will be back together in Utah, and excited to start our last year there! We have so much to look forward to: his senior year at BYU, a new apartment, new friends (and the old ones too!), and within the next year, discovering the beginnings of our military career.

We're excited and extremely grateful to have our little family of 3 back together again soon.