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Coco's Caravan

Life Update: We are moving

in My Story on 01/21/22

we are moving to Utah

We are moving to Utah.

Justin and I lived in Utah throughout our whole marriage and that’s where we were living when he passed away. I knew there was no way I could stay and take care of the twins on my own, so I decided to move to Minneapolis to live with my parents. It was hard to leave, but I knew I needed help. 

I lived with them in Minneapolis for two years until my dad got a job in Denver, Colorado. I grew up in Fort Collins so I was excited to be in Colorado again. We also found a house with a basement apartment so I could have my own space, but still be able to get help when I need it. My parents have been a tremendous amount of help these past three years. 

Not only did they open their home to us, but got up in the nights to help with the twins, changed their diapers, fed them, and played with them. They have been there 100% of the time willing to help and have been like second parents to my boys. 

A couple months ago my parents got a call asking them if they wanted to go on a church service mission for three years in Toronto, Canada. It was a very hard decision, but it was an opportunity they knew they couldn’t pass up. It has also been something they have always wanted to do and I didn’t want to be the reason they couldn’t go do it. They will be leaving in June.

The news was hard to hear not gonna lie. I cried a lot. I knew that one day I would move out on my own with the boys, I just didn’t think it would be this soon. 

We tried to make it work to stay here in Colorado, but I realized I would have more support and help in Utah. Justin’s parents live there and it will be nice for the boys to be closer to them. Some of my closest friends and all my extended family live in the area.  As much as I didn’t want to move again, I knew that I needed to be back in Utah. 

I know it will be hard and I’ll probably cry a lot. As I’ve expressed before, I’m nervous to live alone. Just anxious if something happens to the boys in the middle of the night or just getting lonely. On the other hand I am excited to have my own space and be near friends again. I’ve missed living in Utah. 

The hardest part of moving to Utah will be leaving my sister. The boys have loved living close to their cousins. It will also totally suck to have to pack up and move again. Not looking forward to that at all. 

I’ve had so much unwanted change in the last 9 years, but I guess that’s life. Change is never a good combination with anxiety, but I’m starting to realize life will always be changing. Some of the changes will be good and some will be hard. As hard as this time feels I know things will be ok. 

Moving to Utah

I have felt the pull to move back to Utah since I left. It will be so great to be close to family and friends again. I’m hoping to find a townhome or small single family home in Utah County. Low maintenance is the key! My parents leave in June so I’m hoping to get their help moving to Utah before they leave. Moving the end of May.

Thanks for all the love and support! I know you all will be there with me along the way as I start this new journey with the boys.

Love, Coco

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Comments

  1. Karen says

    January 21, 2022 at 12:10 pm

    Oh my gosh!!may god bless you in this new journey and big life change I pray he has great things for you and the boys in Utah

    Reply
  2. Rafaella says

    January 21, 2022 at 12:17 pm

    Sorry to hear about that. Change can be hard but it can be for the best also.
    Hope everything goes well and you can find a place.
    So much going on in such a short period of time.

    Reply
  3. Julia says

    January 21, 2022 at 12:31 pm

    Wow! It’s a hard change, but it can be a great opportunity for you guys. Hope it all goes for the best. I’ll be following you, since I’m also widow mom of twin boys and living with my parents. Sending you love.

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 21, 2022 at 12:36 pm

      Thank you! Yeah it will be so hard, but I know it will be good in the long run!

      Reply
      • Suzanne says

        January 23, 2022 at 5:17 am

        Your positive ness is catching and is being filtered to your boys magically. Utah sounds ok. Smart move to reach out to find a place. My son is in Colorado Springs and a Veteran . Finding an affordable place has been a great challenge. Shared custody is good but not always easier. Moving with organizing and getting rid of stuff is a huge chore. Being minamalistic in thought might help. Things are things but we collect a lot of junk along the way. And might be someone else’s treasure. ☘️

        Reply
        • cocoscaravan says

          January 23, 2022 at 12:52 pm

          I already started dejunking so I don’t have to move with more crap. I told myself to go through one room a week.

          Reply
  4. Jovan says

    January 21, 2022 at 12:34 pm

    Change is always tough and a bit scary especially with little ones. It sounds like you’ll be surrounded by many friends and family in Utah so keep that in mind when things gets stressful and you feel overwhelmed. Wishing you the best of luck in finding a need home!

    Reply
  5. Maya says

    January 21, 2022 at 12:50 pm

    So excited for your journey. It’s always scary to have change and leaving family but I will be praying for you guys you have overcame so much already. You can do this! At least you’ll be near family there as well. What area exactly are you looking into in UTAH?

    Reply
  6. Danean says

    January 21, 2022 at 1:37 pm

    Can’t wait to hear more about your adventure!

    Reply
  7. Stella says

    January 21, 2022 at 1:40 pm

    I totally understand how difficult this must be for you. I see how close you are to your parents and what a help they are. Come to Canada——I live 2 hours from Toronto.
    You will do well in Utah and be very happy there.
    Look forward to hearing all about your move 🥲🙏❤️

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 21, 2022 at 1:58 pm

      Well we might visit!

      Reply
  8. Elizabeth says

    January 21, 2022 at 1:43 pm

    Will you keep your blog going or do you have to get a job? Will you go back to teaching? I HATE change, however, you are right. Change happens no matter what, and the good thing is you’ll be near friends and family. I love your Instagram posts, and your emails. Thank you for opening up your life to all of us.

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 21, 2022 at 1:57 pm

      I will for sure keep the blog going!

      Reply
  9. Constanza says

    January 21, 2022 at 2:01 pm

    I wish you nothing but the best! Home is wherever you and the boys are.
    Thank you for sharing your journey with us, I am really excited for you and your boys.

    Reply
  10. Ashlee says

    January 21, 2022 at 3:06 pm

    Thinking of you during your move and always! You got this!!!

    Reply
  11. Kaydee says

    January 21, 2022 at 3:24 pm

    Another vote for Canada living!
    We live an hour from Toronto and would love meet you!!

    Reply
  12. Sydney (5hensandacockatiel) says

    January 21, 2022 at 3:40 pm

    Sending you so much love!! Change is such a tough thing. Your Insta and blog are such bright spots in my life. Excited to see where this journey takes you!

    Reply
  13. Sue Ellen says

    January 21, 2022 at 3:47 pm

    I think it will be good for you and the boys. It may be scary, but surrounding yourself with family and friends you will have a mountain of support. It will just be another part of your journey that makes you who you are. You are a great mom and someone who has a strength beyond. Great wishes for your new journey. Sue Ellen

    Reply
  14. Tash says

    January 21, 2022 at 4:02 pm

    Wow! What a change so I can understand your mixed emotions. You have such fabulous support from your fantastic parents but I’m sure you’ll get the same in Utah. Change and being on your own is both a challenge but also so exciting! We are all rooting for you and your boys! Looking forward to your next adventure! What’s your time frame?

    Reply
  15. Jessica says

    January 21, 2022 at 4:26 pm

    I think going to Utah is such a smart choice. Hopefully you can find a place close to lots of support ♥️

    Reply
  16. Heysell says

    January 21, 2022 at 4:51 pm

    Oh I’m so exited for you. Wish you all the best and can’t wait to see/read about the new adventure!

    Reply
  17. Ryley says

    January 21, 2022 at 4:51 pm

    I knew it had to be that you were moving. I just thought your dad was transferring.

    I know it’s hard to see from the inside, but look at how much the past year was preparing you. You moved into the basement. Started getting a feel for your own home with the gentleness of having your parents still close. And now you’ll be better prepared and still have Justin’s parents close.
    I’m truly feeling like this is going to be a really great move for you. Something big is waiting there for you. 💕

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 22, 2022 at 10:47 am

      Yes exactly. I’ve been able to slowly make baby steps to this big change of living on my own.

      Reply
  18. Sheri DeMarco says

    January 21, 2022 at 4:54 pm

    Wow Big changes for you but I think you will do great. You will have a guardian angel helping you through it all
    Also you must make sure to visit Toronto and surrounding area. I too live an hour out of the city, its a beautiful friendly place. Tons for the boys to do!
    Good luck 💞

    Reply
  19. Ornella says

    January 21, 2022 at 5:04 pm

    You have been an inspiration to me for the past years and I can testify that you are a great warrior. You have won so many battles and I have no doubt that you will adapt to the new changes no matter how hard they seem. I will keep you and the boys in my prayers. Sending you lots of love from Maine and I am hopeful that everything will be alright.

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 22, 2022 at 10:46 am

      You are so so sweet. Thank you for this comment!

      Reply
  20. Rhiannon says

    January 21, 2022 at 5:05 pm

    Congratulations on this new chapter! Change is hard. You’re a strong woman!!

    Reply
  21. Myra says

    January 21, 2022 at 5:30 pm

    You are a strong woman who has endured a lot. I admire you for all you do. Trust in the Lord to help you with this change. Enjoy getting reacquainted with your friends. I’m sure the paternal grandparents are thrilled, let them help you. I want to wish you all the best and many blessings in starting this new phase of you life.

    Reply
  22. Brittany says

    January 22, 2022 at 9:46 am

    Moving with kids is tough, I hope your parents can help you move before they move. Change is always good, and I hope some positive comes out of your move! So happy you will still have lots of family & friends close! I thought you were going to say you were moving to Canada too! My family and I live close to Toronto!!

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      January 22, 2022 at 10:45 am

      Yeah thats why I thought I needed to hurry and move before they leave. I wanted their help in the whole process.

      Reply
  23. Samira says

    January 23, 2022 at 10:42 pm

    I’ve been moving for the last 4 years myself! It’s a lot of work esp every few months with 3 infants at one point, now toddlers! I’ve come to appreciate the change!

    Best of luck with the move! Everything happens for a reason and the best! Trust in God, May he make it easier for you and the family! 🥰

    Reply
  24. Mireia says

    January 24, 2022 at 2:10 am

    That change can be hard! I admire you a lot, when I’m older and have kids I want to be a strong mama like you! Things will be ok for your family, you deserve it❤️ Lots of love

    Reply
  25. Anonymous says

    February 20, 2022 at 4:47 pm

    I’m in my bed, it’s 4 in the morning and am crying so hard by reading your story, my father is suffering from cancer too I have my exams today morning and I can’t help myself but think that how unbelievably strong you are, I can’t tell you how much I needed to hear all of this, I feel very inspired, thank you and I hope from the bottom of my heart that you stay strong and healthy till the end, the twins need you and so do you. So always stay happy and please never lose hope. Lots of love ♡

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      February 22, 2022 at 10:07 am

      You are so sweet! So sorry about your father

      Reply
  26. Carla says

    May 11, 2022 at 4:46 pm

    hello! How did your in-laws react to the news that you will be living near them? have they offered you any help? do you have a gofound me? I want you to know that you are Light and you are blessed, thank you for sharing your experience.

    Reply
    • cocoscaravan says

      May 17, 2022 at 11:39 am

      They were so excited and they can’t wait to spend more time with the boys. They are extremely helpful which was why I felt I needed to move by them while my parents are gone.

      Reply
  27. Kelli says

    June 19, 2022 at 12:31 pm

    God and Justin walk with you through the journey and you have so much love from family and friends and now all the people around the world who follow and support you. We send you much love, good luck and health and prosperity. You are an amazing strong and beautiful woman, mother, daughter and sister. You’ve got this!

    Reply
  28. Sarah Peck says

    June 19, 2022 at 5:37 pm

    Wow so much going on for u & the boys ! U r amazing i hope one day i can meet u! I totally understand about moving , finances & IVF plus health may God contunue to bless & hell u as i know He will! So happy u r moving to a place with support of dear family & friends when u dont have support from some ppl it doenst help but when u do it brings a lil bit of heaven closer in away! I am happy that yoyr parents will be serving a mission how neat but yet hard to have to be okay with that & moving again ! We have had to move 30 times in almost 14 yrs of marriage moving is so stresssful & hard but i am oh so happy u have loving parents helping u out before they leave! I hope u can find a great small nice size thats an afforable home for ur fam! God bless u & bring u lots & lots of comfort love & peace at this time! I too have aniexty and not easy mixed with hard things in life u got this especially the ones we cant control hugs & much love to u always here for u xoxo sarah peck

    Reply
  29. Kathy says

    July 5, 2022 at 8:47 am

    I just ran across your story! Wow! You are doing so awesome! We have twin grandsons and they are so cute and a lot of work. I’m glad you have help from family when needed.
    I have a brother and his family who live in Fort Collin’s not LDS and my cousin and his family live in Estes Park also not LDS. Beautiful places!
    You will be blessed while your parents serve as mission presidents in Canada! I only know it was a tough and best decision they made!
    Good luck to you and your darling family 🙏🏻💙💙💕

    Reply
  30. Daniela says

    July 15, 2022 at 7:17 am

    Last year at the last week of January I get the information that I’m pregnant in the 8! month with a little girl. I was shocked and scared. On the same day my mom got diagnosed with cancer 🙁 I had a wonderful son from (now) 6 years. My world got broken. I was not related to the father of my little princess and long time broke with the father of my son. Till the day she comes on this world (after 3 week of pregnancy because we both were in a bad healthy) I was not ready for her. I was worried if I will live her, if I’m able to handle this and millions of other questions in my head.
    And my mom has to start her chemo. So we decided to move together. The kids and I was a big help for her soul on her fight, and also with all the other issues, which brings cancer and chemo. And she was a big help for me with the new situation.
    When my girl comes 1 this year I decided it was time to move. And again I was scared! My mom helped me to make our new apartment a home. But still after a view months I miss her and always be scared not be enough for my 2 loves. They miss there “Nona” but for them it was easier to “come home” here 😅. But we all are always happy to meet with my mom. I thankful for the last year we had together. And I know if there is any problem she will always be there for us. So I think on you and wish you all the best! You will handle it 😊

    Reply

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welcome
Hi I’m Jenn, but my friends call me Coco. I recently lost the love of my life to cancer. I’m now a single mom of IVF miracle twin boys. I hope to help others as I share my journey as a new widow and mother of twins.

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cocoscaravan

Widow // Mamma of twin boys
Helping others along the way
Jump on in and join my caravan!
PO Box #1172 American Fork UT 84003
Email for collaborations

Jennifer Hanks
I’m here to help you save and create memories! L I’m here to help you save and create memories! Let’s make a summer video!!! I made a checklist of videos you should take of your family this summer and we can put them all together at the end of the summer to make a cute video!! Subscribe to my email so you can get it for free! Link in bio!! 👆 #creatememories
Let’s make a summer video! Helping you create an Let’s make a summer video! Helping you create and save memories! I’ll be emailing this printable to my email subscribers tomorrow! Link in bio to subscribe!
I took the activity table out of the playroom beca I took the activity table out of the playroom because they love using the @rooandyou for a table instead. They play legos and set up their car villages. It’s so cute! #rooper  I love getting multiple uses out of a product! ❤️
Much needed haircut ❤️🙌 #haircut Much needed haircut ❤️🙌 #haircut
Justin’s parents took the boys to visit Justin’s gravesite on Memorial Day. They shared this video of the boys going around picking up all the flower pots that had fallen over. My heart 😭❤️🥹 had to share #memorialday #memorialdayweekend #lossofalovedone
It was really hard going from living with my paren It was really hard going from living with my parents to then living on my own with the boys. I was terrified of sleeping alone at night. Managing a home. Single parenting. Being alone. 

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Mothers Day can be a hard day as a single mom. Tod Mothers Day can be a hard day as a single mom. Today was just like any other day. It’s another reminder that Justin is gone and then I start to think “if he was here I bet it would be like this..” everything always comes back to him 💔 Marshal did run in around 11am randomly and said “Happy Mothers Day” which was so sweet! So grateful to have my boys though and so happy to be their mom #mothersday #singlemommothersday #singlemom
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Join Us on Instagram

cocoscaravan

Widow // Mamma of twin boys
Helping others along the way
Jump on in and join my caravan!
PO Box #1172 American Fork UT 84003
Email for collaborations

Jennifer Hanks
I’m here to help you save and create memories! L I’m here to help you save and create memories! Let’s make a summer video!!! I made a checklist of videos you should take of your family this summer and we can put them all together at the end of the summer to make a cute video!! Subscribe to my email so you can get it for free! Link in bio!! 👆 #creatememories
Let’s make a summer video! Helping you create an Let’s make a summer video! Helping you create and save memories! I’ll be emailing this printable to my email subscribers tomorrow! Link in bio to subscribe!
I took the activity table out of the playroom beca I took the activity table out of the playroom because they love using the @rooandyou for a table instead. They play legos and set up their car villages. It’s so cute! #rooper  I love getting multiple uses out of a product! ❤️
Much needed haircut ❤️🙌 #haircut Much needed haircut ❤️🙌 #haircut
Justin’s parents took the boys to visit Justin’s gravesite on Memorial Day. They shared this video of the boys going around picking up all the flower pots that had fallen over. My heart 😭❤️🥹 had to share #memorialday #memorialdayweekend #lossofalovedone
It was really hard going from living with my paren It was really hard going from living with my parents to then living on my own with the boys. I was terrified of sleeping alone at night. Managing a home. Single parenting. Being alone. 

I find it hard when people say “you’re so strong” like I have some choice in the matter. The way I see it, it’s ether be strong or give up” I don’t see much of a choice. I made a choice to be strong, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t hard and I don’t struggle. It’s the hardest thing I’ve done since Justin has passed away. I’m still struggling, but I keep going. That’s most important! Big milestone today! Living on my own for a year now
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