Jamie is our oldest daughter. For me, she has been more of a friend since we are close to the same age. Out of all of our children she struggles the most. She has led a hard life and because of difficult choices she has made or tragedies in her life, things have not been easy for her. She tries very hard and has great intentions, though at times they are not always seen for what they are. Jamie is a very talented artist. I hope that someday she will be able to share her creativity outside of her family. She also has the ability to care for others, which is an amazing gift. It doesn't matter what the age, Jamie can do it. She has the personality of a lion and the heart of a lamb.
Melissa Dawn is married to Scott Soodsma and they have adopted a daughter, Martaysha. They are truly a beautiful family, growing in God's grace everyday. We have watched Scott and Melissa and seen them grow through many trials including; Scott's cancer, miscarriages, depression among others. They have a tremendous strength to them and have walked many dark shadows in the beginnings of their marriage. Yet, holding onto the Lord's hand through each one they have not only grown to love each other more, but grown to love the Lord and allowed him to take complete control of their lives. It's hard to watch your children go through those trials, you constantly want to rescue them and save them from the pain and heartache, similar to that of what God wanted to do when Jesus hung on the cross. Instead, we step aside and let God do the building in their lives. Melissa offers such a joy that lights up a room when she is around. She's the one I can instantly tell when she needs to talk or share something that's going on in her life. She has a special way of letting you know you are needed and wanted. Many people focus on her music, but she has so many gifts and talents that she has to share with others. She is a special daughter and a beautiful person. She and her family are such a blessing to others and have so many ways that they can be a testimony to others.
Michael is married to Destinee Harrison Pollock and they are expecting their first child. Together they have grown into an amazing couple. Their marriage is fresh and new and I'm looking forward to what their future holds together. Michael and I are probably the two that are most alike in personalities. We would butt heads a lot while Michael was growing up. He wanted to spread his wings and fly the nest before I was ready to let him go. He is our hard worker, like his father, he completes a task that is set before him. He is a man of character and will be a terrific father. Michael has been one that I relied on heavily when I lived back West. There has always been a comfort knowing he would take care of me, make sure the younger kids and I were safe and taken care of. I love when he asks me for my opinion about the littlest things. He has always had a way of making me feel important and needed in his life. I watch him with his wife and how he makes her feel like the most important person in his life now. He treats her with such love and compassion, making sure she is provided for and cared for. I can't wait until the day arrives that he is a dad.
Matthew is married to Tanna Kirk Pollock, they have two beautiful children; Jaelyn Lerae and Finlee Alison Grace Pollock. Tanna is a true and genuine Pollock. We have had the privilege of having Tanna in our lives since she and Matt were in high school together. She's become a special part of our family. It's hard to talk about them separately because they come as a pair. Everything they do is together, they are a true example of what it means to become one. Matthew and I share so many common interests. One of my favorite things about him growing up, was being his cheerleader. I loved watching Matt play sports. I think I loved it because he loved it. He always does everything with his whole heart. He hates disappointing people, which has given him determination to be successful. He is committed to his family, God, and is a faithful friend. I love making new memories with them and with their children. It is so wonderful being a part of their lives and watching their children grow. I missed out on Mel, Michael, and Matt's beginnings and being able to watch their children gives me back a part of that.
Michaela, my little missionary. I've said so many things about her, but I can't say enough. I remember while she was growing up, she was always praying for everyone and making them feel better. She has this special way of making cloudy skies look beautiful. I want so badly to keep her tucked away with me forever, but I give her over to God and ask him to take care of her and keep her safe. She is my independent child. She has the personality of a golden retriever, sensitive feelings, compassion for others, and unconditional love. She has a true heart of forgiveness and such a gentleness about her. She is going to be an amazing missionary. Those who know her heart will truly be blessed.
Joshua is our youngest. It's hard to believe he is 6ft, the tallest of all our children. He reminds me of a tower of strength with a teddy bear heart. It's amazing how much of his siblings he has wrapped up inside of him. He has so much of his brother's in him; hunting and fishing, sports, sense of humor. He's the one in the family that can laugh about anything. He loves deeply and he laughs whole heartedly. He is our gift giver, never leaving anyone out. Growing up, if Josh got money for his birthday or Christmas, he always had to make sure he bought something for others with it. We would tell him, that was given to you to buy something for yourself. It didn't matter, he would make sure the other siblings got something too. He has always seen things as black and white. There is no riding the fence with Josh. Fair is the word that comes to mind. If he feels it's unfair, he will let you know. I'm excited to see what Joshua will decide to do with his life.
Loren and I are truly blessed to have the children we do and the spouses they have chosen to marry. We couldn't ask for a more perfect family. They were each handpicked by God to be a part of our lives and for that we are truly thankful.
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