June | 2018 | The Jeweler's Wife

This week as I sat at my computer to write my regular blog post no words would come. As time continued to pass the screen remained blank.

You see there has been a lot weighing on my heart lately. Based on recent events in our community it doesn’t feel right to sit here and talk about jewelry trends, my favorite designers, or what’s coming up at the store. Because, the truth of the matter is … life is about so much more.

Today my friends I’m not here to talk about bling. I’m here to remind you all of the larger picture. To encourage you to always put family first.

Family first.

That was the title of a recent e-mail that I received from someone I respect immensely. In that e-mail, they explained that they would be stepping away from the grind for a while. Instead they would be shifting their energy to help their family in a time of need.

Since I received that e-mail two other events have occurred within our Lakota/West Chester community that have caused me to pause. First, a 13-year-old boy was hit by a pitch during a baseball game. This poor boy has faced several challenges since the incident and has only recently made his way back home. Without the support of his family and his community I’m not sure this would have been possible.

Family first.

Andrew

Following this event, a high school Lacrosse player collapsed after a game. What they suspected was heat stroke actually turned out to be a rare brain disorder. Within hours of the game our community came together to support the family and stand behind the child. It’s been remarkable to witness.

Family First.

Stratman

While these are members of my community I don’t personally know either of these families. What I do know is that the theme in these stories is something we all need to give a little more attention too. With a 14-year-old baseball player an 11-year-old lacrosse player at home, I’ve been reminded that life is precious. Every moment counts.

Summer is here. Rather than getting hung up on the things that don’t really matter, enjoy the moments you have with your family. Stay up a bit later. Eat the ice cream. Hug your kids every night and remind them how much you love them. Whether they show it or not, they need to hear it as much as you can say it!

Every cloud has a silver lining and I am proud to be part of this community that has pulled together to support both the Edrington & Stratman Families. Keep the prayers and support coming! And remember … family first.

It’s hard to believe that summer has officially arrived. One thing is for sure … I’m ready to celebrate! As a family, it’s going to be a busy few months. There will be fun things like family vacations, sports tournaments, and urban date nights. And then, I have some other goals that I’m not sure the boys will love. You know like getting the house clean {wink}. It’s all about balance, right?

In order to keep us accountable I’ve jotted it all down. What’s on the 2018 Yelton Family Summer Bucket List, you ask? Well, here it is …

5. Organize, Organize, Organize

Before we get to those good times we need to roll up our sleeves up and do a little bit of work. We’ve been in this home for three years now and already I can feel the walls closing in on me. The clutter! Ahh! From the closets, to the garage, and everywhere in between it’s time to clean, purge, and organize. My boys are going to love me.

4. Visit Kings Island

After a bit of a hiatus our boys have secured their season passes to Kings Island again, so you’ll be able to find us there on the regular. I’ll admit that I’m not a HUGE of the rides, but I’ll play along in the name of family time. Plus, I do really enjoy the blue ice cream and late-night fireworks. Can you blame a girl?

3. Date Nights

Now that school is out, there’s no need for us to set our alarms for the crack of dawn. You know what that means? More date nights! Mark and I love checking out new restaurants as well as dining at our old favorites. From there we usually catch a movie or post up at a local brewery. Do you have any spots you would recommend for the summer? I’m all ears!

2. Lake Time

While we do own a lake house, sometimes it feels like we never have time to get there! Well my friends this summer it’s right near the top of our summer bucket list and I’m not going to let anything get in the way of that. I can’t wait to spend time in the sun, on the boat, and simply relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of normal life. Ahhh.

1. Have Fun!

Above all, I want everyone to have fun! To me that means that everyone’s interests are taken into consideration, we make time for each other, and we walk away from the summer with new memories. After all this season is only a few short months. We have to enjoy it while we can!

So, what’s on your bucket list? Did I miss anything on ours? We’re always open to suggestions, especially when it comes to summer fun! Whatever you end up doing I hope you have an amazing couple of months. Happy summer everyone!