In order to keep from getting to down in the dumps, I figured I should just keep moving. My friends from High School were planning a get together last weekend. It has been so great to catch up with them from time to time when I visit Utah. One friend from our group, Britta, has moved to the east coast and our trips have not coincided for over ten years. When I heard she was coming to Utah, I knew I wanted to be there. It would also be a good time to clear any old flowers off of Cannon's grave and get some artificial ones to decorate his grave until we decide on a headstone and have it placed permanently. I was only planning on going for three days, during the week, so Ethan and Ella were going to stay home with Kent. Last minute decision, Ella came with me. I'm glad she did because it was nice to not be alone and we both enjoyed a little girl time. 
Ella was so excited that her cousin Afton got to skip school and sleep over at Grandma's with us. Grandma knows how to spoil these girls- skinny pancakes!!!
Going to Cannon's grave wasn't as emotional and powerful as I was expecting, but it was peaceful and beautiful. My mom and Camille helped me pick out some artificial plants to put out and we found a cute copper vase to hold some bright yellow flowers. It is just so perfect. I am thankful for the beautiful view from Cannon's grave of Mount Timpanogas. Whenever I look at those mountains, I am reminded of my childhood and growing up in this beautiful valley surrounded by breathtaking grandeur. I can't help but think of the song "How Great Thou Art". I truly felt like I stood there in awesome wonder. My mom commented that the sun was setting in the same was it was on the day we buried Cannon. I am thankful for those tender mercies that bring warmth to my heart and let me know that I am known by my Father in Heaven.
I love knowing that Cannon is right next to my mom's parents, my grandparents. It has given me a special connection that I have felt whenever I am at the cemetery. This special feeling began when Cannon and I stopped to visit their grave just after we received Cannon's diagnosis. I had a sense that my grandma was very mindful of Cannon and what we were facing. I know it sounds a little strange, but I have peace knowing that Cannon's body is not alone.
What a blessing it is that 8 out of the 12 of our close High School friends were able to meet up for dinner. They have been so loving and supportive throughout our journey with Cannon, and have really rallied around me as I adjust to life without Cannon. It was so fun to laugh with these girls and see what beautiful women they have become. They are some of the most talented and wonderful mothers I know. They gave me a precious necklace in the shape of Utah. They gave me a good idea to engrave a heart on it so that I can remember my heart is always in Utah.
The night before I left, my siblings came over and we had a little pizza and swimming party! The kids always have so much fun together.
Once everyone was in their pajamas, we all had fun sitting in the living room together laughing and enjoying each other.
I always hate to say goodbye. This time was especially hard because the last time I took a picture of this view, I had Bubs in the back seat with me. Although the sadness that he isn't physically with me anymore, I am thankful for the overwhelming feeling that I know I am blessed to see him again. I am humbled to be loved so dearly by a family that I don't deserve. I am glad I took the time to make a trip to Utah for a "quick fix". 
My sister is so thoughtful! I hope to become more like her. She sent this darling, and delicious, package home with us. It has a cute plaque that says "I Love You to the Moon and Back" I am so thankful to have her as my friend.
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