A Message from Detroit

I don't know why exactly, but I felt like doing a little blogging. Natalie and the kids have been really busy, and she hasn't had access to all our pictures, because they're on my computer. So she hasn't updated the blog for awhile. The other day I was feeling a little home sick and decided to check out some familiar faces on the blog. It was nice to read what everyone had been doing, but it didn't help with the home sickness bit.

I have been in Detroit since the end of May. For my fourth year of podiatry school, I will be traveling around the country externing at different spots that offer residency training programs. I'll be in Detroit through August, then to Atlanta, then to Albuquerque,

then to Seattle, then to LaCrosse (that's in Wisconsin), and then back to Detroit. Natalie and I knew it would be tough, but it is really TOUGH! I miss them like crazy.

Well just for fun here are a couple of pictures of the place we're staying here in Detroit. It is a bachelor pad for married med students, just keep that in mind.

Here is the house. We live upstairs.

Then there's the kitchen, and yes there are usually dishes in the

sink, and no I haven't taken up drinking coffee. Then my bedroom.

It's nice. Our front room, which is totally empty, so you're not missing much. The place is an older place and the wooden

floors squeak like a million mice. Th

e people we sublet the place from were nice enough to leave behind some basic furniture. All in all it has been a nice place. I'm grateful that Dave, a classmate of mine was able to be here with me. Someone to hang out with on the weekends, and a familiar face to see after work.

You might be surprised to hear this but I actually really like the area. There are huge parks with pools and tennis courts, mature trees all over, and close to Lake St. Claire. There is a lot of money in this particular spot. The ward here is actually a small branch but every

one is super nice and very welcoming. Natalie comes in a couple days and I'm excited to show her around.

Natalie and the kids are up in McCall Idaho with the rest of her brothers and sisters, and then the week after they are heading up to Redfish. I hate missing those two vacations. Jealousy is starting to build. I don't like to miss the party.

The last time I saw my kids was the fourth of July. Those kids are the best. I was able to golf with Kelton, who is a total stud muffin.

He is so talented, and exciting.

I was able to play dolls and ride bikes with Tayla Bayla, my little princess. She melts my heart and I love all her hugs and kisses. Crew has grown up the most, and I feel terrible that I'm missing so many firsts

for that kid. To tell you the truth, I'm just glad he remembered me. He is always smiling and getting into whatever. I mean look at that face....

I miss them all dearly and as much as I love to Skype with them, it just doesn't cut it. When this year is over I'll be grateful.

My kids make me proud and bring joy to my life. Natalie makes it all happen. What a strong, hard working, caring mom she is. As an extra bonus, she is gorgeous. I love her with all my heart. She is one of a kind, and irreplaceable. So honey, if you end up reading this sermon... I love and miss you more than you know. I cannot wait to see you. I love the hellos and hate the goodbyes. To everyone else, PEACE. I can't say I'll do this again soon, but hopefully we will keep you posted on the upcoming events of the Kemp 5. Thanks for your friendships and support.

Ryan