My Arizona Retreat

I have a secret place I go every so often...shhh...don't tell anyone or everyone will want to come.

When I was fourteen, I went on my first solo plane trip to visit my cousin Suzanne and their family one summer in Arizona. It was there, I met the most amazing people...and I was related to them! I loved Suzanne and her hubby Wayne and I felt like all of their kids, Todd, Trisha, Amy, Amber, Sara, and Alissa, were the most fun and lovable little brother and sisters (I like to think I am one of them) ever!

I have been blessed to be part of their lives over the past 22 something years and it has meant the world to me! As I have had a family of my own, they have welcomed them into their lives as well (Garth, Sommer and Calvin know what I am talking about). So I must tell each of you in the Tomkinson Family how ever grateful I am for your constant love, concern and the happiness I feel when I am with you. And the super Arizona sun always helps too! (pictured: Amy, Trisha, Me and Suzanne)

On this trip, I was able to visit two of my long time friends, Shawni and Stacy. We have known each other since the days of "one toddler and second baby on board." In those days, we used to get together regularly for playdates. We would sit together and talk about our futures and eat the following: Chips and Salsa, Spinach dip and warm Artichoke dip. Those were some good old days! It is refreshing to see them both with beautiful families, strong in the gospel and still inspirations to me...we have 15 kids between us...10 girls and 5 boys! And notice...we are eating!