Mom's note to Jordan (missed the deadline) :(

People continue to ask about you every day. On Saturday we went to see the SAHS production of "Anne Frank." They did really well. Mrs. Turnbow sought me out to give me a hug and to ask about your well-being. After the show, I approached each of the players I knew who knew you and gave them kudos plus a hug with a "this is from Jordan." I kept looking for you above the crowd of actors emerging from the side hall. It was hard to see you not there. You are desperately missed by that group of kids/teachers.

Church yesterday was surprising because we had Zak (from the corner--Attena's son) at church in a brand new white shirt. I invited him to sit with us. Before he had a chance to sit down, Chad had pounced on him to invite him to pass the sacrament. It was very touching. Apparently, he's living in the state mental hospital where he has been active and involved with young men's activities.

The newsletter got done...eventually! I finally figured out that I can do it best by myself rather than using a template.

I am applying for SSI (Social Security Supplemental Income) for Sarah. This week is the final (I hope) of the telephone interviews. All we really need is the medical coverage since the state declined her (because she's still a minor and dad makes too much money). There are worse situations. ;)

My job at the school has been REALLY challenging for me. I sat through a training Thursday that taught: "Every grade has a team. Every team has a leader. YOU ARE NOT IT." It's really hard to be reminded that I'm working far below my potential--at least my education level. My classmates are judges and CEOs and I'm a 5th grade TA who has never held a real job for more than a year.

Mental health has become more of a political issue and it breaks my heart to think how little I did for you guys. I'm so proud of you for rising to the occasion: with laundry, dishes, chauffeuring, helping your sisters, teaching yourself instruments and the like. When I see little people who have been taking ballet since they were 3, I am reminded of all you missed because of me and my challenges. :(

Steven xxxxx's mom just got diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis on top of her already suicidal tendency because of her bi-polar. Steven is in xxxxx somewhere (xxxxx?) and it's got to be hard on him to know how much she's struggling. Kid xxxxx's (Hannah's age) just is still recovering from cancer treatments herself.

Ugghh! Sorry for such bad news. I feel like such a downer.

Good news (?) Olivia xxxxx  started at Summit today. Hannah's excited. I hope that it turns out to be a good fit for her. Speaking of Hannah, she's ranked #1 in her class. She's SO thrilled. Rachel and I just had her CCR where we talked about her future plans. She wants to be a singer/actress. It's hard not to be afraid of all the failure artists must endure. She is not well...again. I hope it's not her depression/anxiety rearing its ugly head.

I fear I missed you this week. So sorry. Please know that I love you and miss you--especially where I'm used to being around you: driving H/A to school, school plays, seeing kids who say, "Aren't you Jordan's mom?" and after the men pass the sacrament. There's still a little pause of silence when everyone walks by and you don't. I miss the tissue delivery desperately!

We've had so many new families move into the ward...you won't believe how few people you'll know when you get back. Joyce seems to be doing fine, the Clements ask about you every time I see them. The Urton's are always clamoring for a Jordan update--HT doesn't feel the same without you! The Lynch's are always inquiring after your well-being.

Oh, and btw, I asked R to ask the xxxxx girl from school if she still had a boyfriend; the dark hair, went to xxxxx with you, pictures of you two at school there...can't remember her name. Anyway, she doesn't! R told her that I wanted to know--not you!

At the dentist last week (I broke another tooth), I watched a program about how South Korea is pushing a major tourist campaign toward the Mainland. They are apparently succeeding, and they're seeing hundreds of thousands popping over for their leisure travel. Perhaps you'll meet even more! It was fun to see pictures of SK and visualize you among them. You're my pride and joy. Be well, my favorite son. I am proud of you, and wish for all the best as you serve so selflessly.

Much love, Mom