two years

yesterday while i was sitting at lunch eating a yummy great harvest bread sandwich, one of my friends asked, "who would you say had the greatest impact on you growing up?" immediately, one of my other friends said, "oh, my cousin! no question!" my mind immediately thought of matthew, and though i know i can't speak for my children, i know that he, matthew, has had a huge impact and influence for good upon my children, and myself for that matter!


it has been two years since we received the news of his passing. and though that might seem like a long time now, he is still constantly in our thoughts and memories. just last week sadie told me, "there isn't a day that goes by that i don't miss him! but i am fine, and i know he is great."

he is noticeably missing from our lives. his huge spirit, his beautiful smile, his kindness and friendship, his curly hair:), and his lovable-huggable self!

i know my people visit his grave. especially after a particularly difficult experience. i'm not completely sure why, but i believe it is helpful and comforting for them.


when all of the stewart men gathered in st. george this past june, they took a group picture after doing a session at the temple.


i loved what tod wrote about the experience, but i want to quote especially what he said about this picture from his blog,
"I had mentioned to my Dad that it looked like Justin didn't like me because of how far away he was standing from me in the picture, he laughed then tearfully noted that that was where Matt was standing. In every respect, felt but not seen. It is in those times that the spirit testifies to me that families are forever."

i know we all look forward to the day when we will be reunited! until then, i'm hoping that i can acquire some of the traits i loved so much about matt! hopefully the impact and influence he had on me won't be wasted!

my love to my miller family...