Every Day A Blessing: July 2026

Friday, July 24, 2026

Encampment was 10 days. It's a time where we send Elijah off into the desert to burn, be stinky, be barked at by weird non-army/but army people, fly C-130's and start chain vomit reactions, cook 300 steaks alongside a large black man named Chef who is super chill, and get no sleep due to teenage boys who share a bunk where someone sprayed lysol in the swamp cooler so they had no cool air. When asked what he learned at encampment he said, "I learned hard work." Hence why we pay $350 for him to suffer/have the best time of his life. Barret went this year and cried every single day. But Barret also loved it and will go back next year. Because you better believe your little heart.... Eli made the chimichangas way smaller so it's manageable and there will be slightly less vomit.

June 25- Jody's Birthday, Corey comes to Visit, and Reno Drag

Jody's birthday is really hard for me. So I celebrated early with him at World Cup and tried to find peace during the day. The girls went on a hike with him for sunrise, Corey came to town, randomly we finally got good internet, and we ended up at a Reno drag show, that Saul just happened to be walking by.... so miss that kiddo. I mentioned the really sad break up right? It was nothing angry or a big fight... it was just a sad realization that it wasn't going forward in peace and harmony. Anyways, what would be the chances Saul would be there... it was weird, but also good to see the guy and give him a big hug. He will always have a special place in my heart.

And like that the day was over. That's just my viewpoint. I know it's a sad one that the day holds so much pain. It should be a day to celebrate a wonderful man who turned 50. And I'm also not there yet. I don't know how to master the emotions of the day because of past wounds. But I have hope. I know with God nothing is impossible.

Jody and Corey also hiked Mt. Rose. They killed it!! Corey said it was the hardest thing he's ever done, and yet he summited!! We are so glad they have each other. Corey truly is one of the most wonderful people I know.

June 24ish- Staff Infections

We had a beautiful play date with our friends the McMillens. We went up to Callahan Park and played in the streams. And apparently me and Ella had cuts on our toes that turned to staff infections within 1 day of each other. 2 trips to Urgent Care later, both SUPER quick due to new wait time updates, we had our meds and were better in time for Spain. Painful and annoying, but ever so grateful for American Health Care.... see Portugal in July for more info. (Also just a random picture of Alex as a Viking Runner)

June 23- Heading Home

Jody and I were trying to go to the Oakland temple and it was closed. We ate another hands down delicious breakfast, this time in Berkley. We walked around and hit a paper store where Jody found a fanny pack with a light. He is my person. I love to do things with him. Forgiveness and growth are possible.

Pain is also very present still. At the temple I was very distraught. I mourn what should have been and what was covenanted and broken. It's ok to have happiness and pain. It's ok to reflect and be sad about the past. It's also ok to move forward and keep trying and find out that you are strong and resilient. That you have so much to learn. That every experience is to teach you and help you become who God has destined you to be.

You are never alone in your suffering. You may not see them, but angels surround you and weep with you. And they dry your tears and help you up. And The Savior takes your chin gently in His loving hands and helps you remember how very special and how very loved you are.

June 22- Jordan vs. Algiers World Cup Game

The game didn't start until 7PM, so we had some time in the day to do some relaxing things. We went for a beautiful run/hike in the east bay, found a killer breakfast, and did some Indian Grocery Shopping. When it was time for World Cup, we hit the BART and started our trek. Everything was very clearly marked as the area was expecting 60,000+ spectators.

Just a side note. I had randomly looked online and saw tickets for $200. I thought that was very doable. I was worried I might be on a rip off site, however they were valid and the FIFA app had them all ready for us to go. I'm very confused by all this because we ended up about 11 rows from the soccer field in premium seats. The tickets were actually worth $2,000 and I think the seller somehow put in the wrong price. Miracles though. God is good.

It was about an hour ride on the BART which was 110% better than parking and traffic. Once we got to Levi Stadium (where the 49ers play- also the name was blocked by a blanket because World Cup won't allow brands) we travelled with the masses, and I do mean masses up to the stadium. It was SO MANY PEOPLE and so hype!!! We got in with no problems, lines were short and efficient, and found our way to our seats right on time. The game was great. You could see everything. We were by the Jordan section and it was like being in another place. Everyone was wearing red and white checkered Keffiyehs and we were by a section with a drummer that would lead the area in chants and cheers. It was so much positive energy. Algiers ended up winning. Jody was in the bathroom for goal 1 and I was getting food for goal 2.... of course!! But it was the memory of a lifetime. What a privilege to be around so many people in peace and energy.