September 2021 will always be remembered as the month we sent Simon off on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was a big moment for our family and a big month. It was emotionally stretching, super fulfilling and felt BIG. I did a big post on Simon’s mission farewell and how he made it out to the mission field which you can read about here. September was more than sending a son on a mission, however. Here are a few snapshots of what else was happening for our family that month.

We sent Simon off on a mission and it was pretty special for our family.

I took a trip a week after Simon left with friends to Pismo Beach. Planning a post about that soon but it was just what I needed. Pure relaxation with awesome friends right by the ocean. Just what my soul needed.

We celebrated Sophie turning 17! She bought herself a fancy new iphone, we had dinner at Olive Garden (a perennial favorite of hers) and did some fun shopping to celebrate. She has had a big year and turning 17 felt momentous.

Went on a hike with a friend and continued to appreciate how beautiful Auburn is. This place is magical.

Sophie and I went down to Fairfield for the weekend so that she could go to the homecoming game and dance at her old high school with friends. She had the BEST time and she deserved it. I was so happy to see all of her plans fall into place for a fun weekend.

Honestly, most of the month was spent either getting Simon ready to leave or helping him leave and then the aftermath of that experience and lots of guests. The rest of the month kind of felt like mopping up and it was sorely needed. Happy September 2021!