Marilyn McNair

As Jeff and I were lounging after church today, I thought of Marilyn.

This is Jeff on his mission in Houston, Texas with Marilyn and David. I love this picture. It reminds me of the wisdom of our Heavenly Father- and the love I know he has for each of His children.

Neither Marilyn or David chose to be baptized, but they welcomed Jeff and his companion into their home and lasting friendships formed. Jeff, his mom, and Marilyn have kept in touch since. I was able to meet Marilyn over the phone during one of her and Jeff's Sunday conversations shortly after we were married. She told me she loved me after our very first chat- and I already had plenty of love for her too. Every few Sundays Jeff and I would catch up with her. Even though it was hard to understand her at times, Jeff and I would laugh through conversations with her about my failed attempt at a brisket recipe- or try and answer to when we were going to have kids- and how her pug 'Pugsley' was doing. She always wanted us to email her some of our latest pictures.

Unfortunately, Marilyn's health wasn't the best, and she recently passed away- much sooner than we had expected.

This post is for Jeff, because I know that was some difficult news to get. I know she loved you lots and really appreciated your time. And I know she'll be waiting for us- excited to tell us about all she has learned. :)

Thank you for exercising the faith to go on a mission and the example you are to me.

xoxo.

Exercise and Endorphines

(Soaked after my new favorite run around the neighborhood.)

When we are old and gray, I will remember that the first few years of our marriage we were very active. Seriously, between tennis work and play, running and kick boxing- we do spend a lot of time exercising, and I'm glad because it does make me happy and it kicks any worries or anxieties to the curb. I'm typing this today with dirt under my fingernails after taking on another backyard challenge (a workout indeed). I may have got my first sunburn of the year- yay!

Jeff came home a while back excited to show me a gift he was given. Eight-year old Colton ran up to him on court and handed him a bag with this homemade treasure in it. I think they love coach Jeff. :)

An exciting first for me this year was playing my first ever real tennis match. The Oly Aces 3.0 ladies team that Jeff teaches invited me to play with them. It was quite the experience. I played 3 doubles matches- lost the first two and won the last one with my awesome partner Janet 6-4, 6-3! I made it through the season without crying or throwing up. And if you know me and my nerves/emotions- you know that is a feat! It was so much fun. Cassey, Diane, Loretta, Janet, Linda, Barb, Pat, Patty, Noreen, and Jill- you are the funniest tennis team in the world and as sweet as they come. Can't wait until next year!