This has been a difficult six months for my sister, Alena Stevens, family and for her daughter-in-law, Kayla and son, Garrett, Alena’s passing has left a specific void, because with Kayla’s job as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, comes periodic travel around the state and even the nation. That has not been a problem, because whenever Kayla had to go out of town, Alena would travel to Sheridan to take care of Kayla and Garrett’s girls, Elliott and Maya. There is nothing more comforting for a parent who must travel for work, than to know that their children are well cared for, and especially when it is the grandparents who take care of them. Children love to spend time with their grandparents, and they always have a great time.
The family is slowly adjusting to Alena’s April 23rd passing, but it was particularly hard, because when they found out, Kayla and Garrett were on vacation at Disney World with their girls. That definitely put a damper on the trip. Garrett tells me that they are doing ok, and that it has been a very busy summer, which has helped 
too. This summer has held fewer trips for Kayla, because they are still adjusting to having no one to come and stay with the girls. Nevertheless, she will be taking a few as the summer goes on. She has turned down some of the trips so she can help her family get through this tough time. Kayla, as a social worker is very good at helping people wade through grief, and that is so helpful for her family. The girls are young, but they know that Grandma isn’t there anymore. Kayla felt like it would be had on Garrett to try to handle the girls alone while she is out of town. As time goes on, they will figure out a new way to deal this those trips, and as the girls get older, they will be able to help their daddy more, but this summer, they all need time to adjust. Kayla usually stays overnight for the events that are more than a couple of hours away. Garrett and the girls usually had Alena come up to help with the kids during those times so now, there is a definite void. In addition to Kayla’s ability to help with the grief of her own family, she is very skilled at her job too. Garrett says, “She has more credentials than I can even remember, and she is one of the go-to people in her field. She is so incredibly smart and skilled at what she does.” He is very proud of his sweet wife. and all she has accomplished.
Kayla is a great planner. She has been busy planning out the summer camps that Elliott will be in this summer. It’s setting up to be a busy summer for Elliott, with cheerleader camp, nature camp, parade camp and many others. She is very organized. Kayla loves to make sure the kids have great activities to keep them busy and to stimulate their young minds. Garrett says, “She has been such a great support to me during this time. Anything I needed she was there, and she has sacrificed a lot.” Garrett, Elliott, and Maya, as well as the rest of the family, have been very blessed by Kayla and her caring heart. Today is Kayla’s birthday. Happy birthday Kayla!! Have a great day!! We love you!!
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