five years with the kids from Lewis.

We have lived a pretty nomadic life since Sierra was five years old. After getting married we moved to San Antonio, Texas two times in four years, lived in Salt Lake City for 10, North Carolina for two, and in all those years we learned a lot. It has taught us how life is different everywhere, and to live each day to the fullest. 

With every move I always thought that the grass would be greener, but that is not always the case. I realized for the past five years of living in New Jersey that no matter where we live the grass "can" be greener, its up to us to keep it watered. And that is something that I have taught to our girls.

Moving to New Jersey during the summer five years ago wasn't too scary for us as parents because we've done it so many times, and although the girls seemed excited to move yet again... I knew deep down Sierra was a little nervous. 

We moved here in her eighth grade year, and I know that had to be a little tough. Having left her friends in Utah to move to North Carolina, and leaving her friends from NC to make new ones in New Jersey is not easy for everyone. Luckily Sierra has a heart of gold, a bubbly personality, and a mom like me to encourage her that everything is going to be alright, and for the most part it has been. 

I mean who wouldn't want to be friends with someone who has a smile so bright, and seems to laugh at everything! 

few kids from her 8th grade class, circa-2009

Still, I wondered how starting over in a new school, trying to figure out who's who in the eighth grade class at Lewis would benefit as to who she is. And who would accept her for who she is. I always told her to just be yourself, be friendly, and always smile no matter what. 

After learning that most of these kids grew up together, and attended the same elementary school that it could be a little tough for a "newbie" to just jump in and be a part of "the clan". 

Ms. Czbas drama class, circa-2009

Luckily for Sierra she met four lovely young girls who helped her tour the school at orientation during the summer, and after seeing the friendliness they all showed assured me that Sierra was going to be alright. 

Regardless of these kids growing up together or not. 

Although Sierra has had her ups and downs (more ups) throughout the past five years, in the end they have all mended broken hearts, uplifted each other in their own way, and are all graduating from high school next month! 

I can't believe it. I look back at these pictures, and still see her as my little 14 year old as if it was yesterday.

She had so much fun at her final and only year at Lewis middle school, and is so happy to have "grown up" with these kids for the past five years.

I mean...look at them in this photo jumping for joy, and just being happy! It's like they're shooting for the stars! 

I know that she had a good year at Lewis, and that the four years of high school with these kids has been a pretty good blast! 

**all photos taken by the talented Ms. Cathy Czbas