1 more week

I've really learned this past week that I take for granted the fact that I can usually call and talk to my parents whenever I want to and that they'll always be there to listen, ask questions, talk to about the happenings here and there, and always feel their love and support. My parents are on a tour of the Holy Land and though it's only been a week, it feels like forever, as the only communication we've had so far is one quick email from my dad saying that they are safe and having a great time. I remember being dropped off at BYU my freshman year and my dad giving me the talk about 'college protocol', which included that I am to call them every Sunday, if not more often. Of course this wasn't hard to keep, and since that time I've only grown closer to them and appreciate their advice and support more and more every day. Before my mom left on this trip, she said, "This really makes me see how hard it will be to go on a mission!" and I naively asked, "Oh, like getting all of your affairs in order?" and she said, "No--I'm going to miss you guys and the grandkids!" It's so true though. Since then, I've really thought about all of those who don't talk to their parents on a regular basis for whatever reason, and how difficult that would be for me. Anyways, I'm just so glad that they'll be home on Sunday and we can all get back into the routine of calling each other for milestones, church calling ideas, recipe help, and just general life happenings for which only wonderful parents have true, genuine excitement.