HAPPY EVERYTHING DAY

This year MAY 8, 2011, is a HAPPY EVERYTHING DAY!!   It's a day which happens about every 7 years or so, because not only do I get to celebrate Mother's Day, but we also get to celebrate our wedding anniversary.  This is a day where I can reflect on the most important roles I am honored to have as a woman:  a daughter, a wife, and a mother.

A DAUGHTER  My mother is a wonderful Mom.  Growing up she did all of the things that good mothers should do--she took care of our daily needs, kept our home comfortable and clean, she fed our tummies so very well, and organized our family.  She has a friendly and kind personality, and is so well loved by all.  Her challenge in life has always been her health.  About 12 years ago she suffered a stroke, and many of the things she enjoys doing have become difficult.  If I had a magic wand, the very first thing I would do is take away her pain and discomfort.  Nonetheless, she bears her burdens with grace.  She's a great example to me of enduring well.  I love you Mom!



Mom and I just several weeks ago.

A WIFE:  Today Brent and I celebrate 30 years of wedded bliss.  Wow!!  That's sounds like a lot, doesn't it?  How can we be married that long--I swear we're not even that old.  I can honestly say that the best decision I have ever made was to say "Yes."  There's a bit of back story there--when Brent proposed to me (in Monroe Canyon listening to the Eagles sing "Hotel California" on an 8-track) the first thing I said when he asked "Will you marry me?" was "Well, I think I can."  I admit, in retrospect, that it was kind of a weak answer.  After a few days, however, I was happy as can be and totally committed.  I was kind of freaking out over that whole 'for time and all eternity' concept.  Just so you know, several months into our engagement Brent had his own freak-out moment too.  Obviously we got beyond that as well, and on a beautiful breezy May Friday in Manti, Utah, we were sealed in the temple. 

I am so grateful to him for being my best friend, the best husband, and the best Dad.  He's a pretty amazing guy.  Sometimes I feel like I'm married to a celebrity or something.  People just love him, and I can understand why.  I'm so lucky to be his wife--Happy Anniversary Sweetheart.



We haven't changed a bit, right?

A MOTHER:  I've been known to publicly exclaim that my children are the very best children ever to have come to earth.  I have often pondered the eternal plan, and how we have all known each other for forever--truly.  Sometimes I think that Brittney, or Camille, or even Jace (although he can't really because he is not female) should have been the Mother, for they have taught me so much and are great examples of many of the qualities I admire.  Having babies and young ones is a lot of work and also a lot of joy.  Having young adult children is cool because now it isn't so much work, just a whole bunch of joy!  My children are my equals, my friends, my peers.  I thoroughly enjoy spending time with them (and their spouses--a great bonus when your children marry) and observing and vicariously sharing with them many of the same experiences we had years ago.  At this time in my life, motherhood is all so good.  I have joy and rejoicing in my posterity.



A weekend vacation in Las Vegas in February 2009. 

  

June 16, 2009--The day before Jace entered the MTC.



 I'm so grateful to be a daughter, a wife and a mother. 

 I also must say how grateful I am for modern technology which allowed me to talk to my Mom

and all 3 of my children today.  It really is amazing that I could speak with

Camille in Texas, Jace in Japan, and Brittney and my Mom in Utah all within seconds! 

 How awesome is that??

 I must say as well that we are fortunate to have a fabulous extended family,

and many dear friends and neighbors who are "the family we get to choose." 

Thanks to you all for making May 8, 2011 so lovely!