Yo Momma Has Spoken!

Since I have had more than three of you children ask about my political stand, I thought I would share with all of you my mindset, as of now, regarding this very crazy and heated election.

Deep down inside, I have always loved politics and standing and supporting something or someone.  I  have never taken the process lightly and have done my own bidding, not someone else's, as I have cast my vote.

Several months (long before the famed Trump/Bush lewd commentary appeared) I tried to reason who I would vote for.  In the Nev. caucus, I vacillated back and forth with Trump, Cruz, Rubio,  And when it was down to just Trump and Clinton for the the R/D Presidential, I vacillated between Trump and Johnson.  I never felt good or settled or comfortable in casting that ballot for either one.  I would pick a candidate, feel somewhat settled about my choice, pray, and have total stupor of thought, frustration and a lack of clarity about my choice; thus putting me right back at square one.

When McMullin came on the scene, I watched and read everything I could.  And if I were to be perfectly honest, yes, the fact that he was LDS played a huge part in me taking interest; not necessarily voting for him, but learning  about him.  I am okay with that.  The more I read and heard, the more I like.  I was still in angst regarding the "a vote for Evan is a vote for Hillary" argument and the vacillating continued as a result.

Then came the Trump conversation.  Yes, it made me sick and mad and totally defensive towards him.  BUT!!!!!!   I am not naive enough or so misinformed that I equate his lewd, offensive and even telling statements in that commentary, with the degree of evil that I feel Hillary is.  Since that commentary, I have research other disgusting videos and interviews regarding Trump; there is plenty out there.

I made this all  a matter of significant prayer.  I pondered it over and over as to who I should support. Then the First Presidency sent out 'the' letter that is sent out every election year.  I know it well.  But I read, and reread and ponder their counsel and statements.  I hope you know this about your mom.........I know we have a prophet that leads us today.  And he is Pres. Monson.  I know he knows the will and the mind of God the Father and Jesus Christ.  So I take his words very serious!

It is the following two sentences from the First Presidency letter that have directed my thinking and my stand.

"We also urge you to spend the time needed to become informed about the issues and candidates you will be considering."   *I have done this for Trump, Johnson and McMullin because they are the candidates I have considered. 

"Principles compatible with the gospel may be found in various political parties, and members should seek candidates who best embody those principles." *The Republican party (at this particular time) and certainly it's candidate does not best embody the principles I have.  And I don't feel the  need to even address the Democratic party or Hillary.   But as I listened to McMullin's views, some  of which I am still up in the air about, it is his conservative thinking and policies that best embodies my principles and views.  His thinking brings me a degree of peace that I have not previously felt concerning this election.

I do not feel that I am wasting my vote, or worse yet, giving it to Hillary.  What I believe I am doing, is exactly what I feel  the prophet has asked me to do.  If Hillary becomes president, then it will be because she was voted IN   office.  My support  is for who I want IN  office as President and who aligns most with my views and thinking.  That is how I see the process of  this specific election and voting for me. I totally support how you feel your voice should be heard and am in no way saying my thinking and actions are for you.  

This blog post really is in response to those 4 of you who have asked about my stand.  And I totally love you for asking!  One thing our family is, is diversified and free thinkers.  I value that in us!

I do want to say this:  I love differences and I am okay with disagreements as long as they are kind and dignified.  I am not okay with mockery of any type or accusations that I am misinformed or naive in my thinking.  I am not.  Dad has different views than I, but he loves me and respects me enough to listen to me share those feelings and views with him.  He does not try to sway me or make me feel silly in any way with how I think or feel.  I adore him for that.  And I want to add that I have never felt that any of you have done that to me either in any way.  I love our differences and that we can talk and laugh and still love each other deeply.

Carry on dear children.  I write that you may know I have opinions that may be different than all of yours and maybe not different, but I so love and respect your amazing minds and abilities to think for yourselves!!  I am in awe of you all!

A pair of sunglasses, a fence and a bicycle....just because she loves.

This past Friday I, along with Mindy and Darren Leavitt,  a few other parents and grandparents,  and the finalist players on the boys and girls tennis teams, were all huddled together in the shade (it was a muggy 95 degrees) on the far west sidelines of the very first tennis court  (not the courts that have the lights) watching Lindsey demolish  her competition.  As great as it was to see Lindsey win her matches, it is the following experience that I hope never to forget.

During the match, Darren Hardy (Senior tennis player) called his younger sister Camille Hardy (Junior) and asked if she would bring him his sunglasses.  When she got there Camille walked up to the high fence that separated her from her brother.   The gates to the courts were locked and the kids told Camille to just throw the glasses over the fence and someone would catch them.  Both she and her brother were concerned that her throw would not be adequate and the glasses would fall and get scratched, or worse, broken.     Without hesitation Camille scaled the fence and when she saw Darren, she gently dropped the glasses into his hands. Her climb, genuine concern for his glasses, and kindness in responding to her brother's request, were impressive to all who were watching this scenario unfold, but not nearly as impressive as what happened next.

We all assumed that Camille had driven  a car over to the courts; so when we saw her hop on a bicycle and  peddle back towards her home (again, it was a muggy 95 degree day) we were all a little taken back.   Exclamations of: "Did Camille really ride her bike all the over here just to bring you your sunglasses?"  and "Are you kidding me!  She really did that for you?" were directed to Darren. Then Darren Leavitt  asked Darren Hardy if Camille was always that kind. Darren Hardy assured us that his younger sister had indeed hopped on her bike and trekked on over just for that purpose and yes, she was always that kind.  Darren Leavitt followed up with:  "Is that kindness reciprocated?" Darren Hardy sat silent for a few seconds, thinking, and then sheepishly replied: "No, not quite.  I ask her what I can do for her all the time, but she doesn't tell me anything. And I try to think of ways I can pay her back for but I never do." Those of us who were listening  to this little exchange had looks of disbelief as well as awe on our faces.  Darren went on to tell us that Camille does things for him simply because he asks her too. No pay backs.  No guilt motivation.  No doing it for something in return.  She acts because she loves.

I write that my children may know that I desire for Camille's example to not just have  a reflective impact on me, but an impact that causes me to emulate her actions. To act just because I love.

It's A Girl!

I have wanted to share this endearing little exchange that took place last Monday as Dad, Hannah and I were driving into the valley after a 4500 mile, 2 week, trip.  But a little history first.....

Dad had planned on renting a car for this trip and had been looking into finding the best deal.  It would cost us around $400.00 but felt a little security in doing so, due to the fact that the only car we had to take was old, getting horrible gas mileage and in need of new tires and repairs.  So that was the plan.

I am not sure when the plan changed, but it did.  Dad decided to put the money set aside for the rental into getting our car tuned up, new tires, etc.  Even up to the day of departure dad was working on the car.  I really totally trust dad with his expertise and auto skills, so I didn't give it a second thought as to if the car would hold up on our trip or not.  And I didn't think dad did either.  But I was wrong.

Monday night, as we were ascending into our little valley, so tired and so ready to be done with driving, I witnessed dad patting the dash of the car and saying:  "You did good ol girl! You made it."  It was so sweet.  I must admit that I was a little taken back that our car was a girl, but I was touched as I thought of how dad must have worried about his decision. I thought of how he not only exercised his skill and labor in preparing the car, but also his faith, in hoping it would be enough.  It was enough.  In fact it was more than enough.  For me, it was a great reminder of his goodness, his talents, his hope that his faith and work was sufficient for his family.

That little experience was not wasted on me.  It has occupied my thoughts and my heart for  the past 5 days.  I love you Jared.  Thank you for loving and caring for us.

Thoughts of Shelby and Brighton

My thoughts, prayers and heart have been very occupied this week with Shelby, Tyson, Brighton, Kellee and Tom.   Last Sunday, Shelby was admitted to the U of U Medical Center to have her first child.  All night long I checked my phone for messages.  I kept checking my phone all day Monday, Monday night and Tuesday.  Finally, Tues. afternoon, the message came that Shelby had delivered a little baby boy via C-section.

Yes, Brighton finally came into the world, and brought with him many concerns.  He was born with  club feet, very short arms with  only a thumb attached, and a very abnormal, faulty heart. His head was enlarged and his esophagus was under developed, just to name a few of these concerns.    It wasn't a surprise to Shelby and Tyson.  They had been somewhat aware of Brighton's conditions as early as when Shelby was 20 weeks pregnant.  No, they weren't surprised, but I am sure they were still shocked.  I really think we were all shocked.  It seems that if you pray hard and frequent enough, fast with a sincere heart , and exercise every ounce of faith you have, then perhaps you should be able to call upon a miracle even of this magnitude.  But that was not the case.  Faith was  exercised in Heavenly Father's will and we  accepted  that will, trusting that He knows best for  little Brighton, and his parents.

All Tuesday evening and well into the night, and all the next day,  my thoughts were centered on Shelby.    I would never experience the pain that Shelby experienced bringing Brighton into the world, let alone the pain that would continue in the days, weeks and months to come.   I would never be asked to sacrifice in the way that Shelby has had to sacrifice.  As I pondered over and over these thoughts,  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's Apr. 2015 Conference address, "Behold Thy Mother"  came into my mind.  Elder Holland, in only the way that Elder Holland can, expressed the beautiful doctrine of Motherhood being a similitude of the Savior.  Shelby experienced pain, she had labored, sacrificed, and  shed her blood so that another could  be delivered and progress.  Shelby is a similitude of Jesus Christ.  Her role is divine.  She has already given Brighton the greatest gift that she could ever give him whether he continued to live or not.  Praise be to Shelby for selfless love and devotion to her son.

On Thursday as I drove into Vegas to attend the temple,  my thoughts turned to Brighton.   Why did he have to go through this?  What is his mission?    Even though he came with a broken body, he also came with a strong, mature spirit; untainted by the world and completely pure. And even though he would only live for just two short days, he was already about his Father's business.  How could he have not made a positive impact on Tyson and Shelby?  He is perfect! He is theirs!  A family was born Tues. afternoon.  Brighton's mission is one of  rescue; giving life eternal in a sense, to his parents.     Undoubtedly, his short existence  has planted seeds of a  forever family in the hearts of Shelby and Tyson.  Brighton's influence and love will continue, leading them to make and keep covenants that will bind them all together forever.

I write that my children may know, the Lord is so merciful and wise.  And though his ways and will may be painful and beyond what we think we can endure, we just need to trust  Him.

18 years of Hannah!

A funny thing happened at church today.   Hannah, Jared and I were all called up to the stand by Bishop Holyoak, so he could present Hannah with  her Young Womanhood medallion.  The bishop immediately gave me the necklace  to put around Hannah's neck.  Major problem..........I am blind and I didn't have my reading glasses..  I fiddled around for what seemed like an eternity (probably 30 secs or less) and then turned to dad for help.  His vision wasn't the best either and by the time we both fiddled with it, her hair was tangled up with the chain and the clock was ticking and it was dreadfully silent and every eye was fixed on us and.........ugh!  Finally Hannah said that she would just do it.  Easy enough.......NOT!   Just as Hannah reached up to grab the chain, the medallion slipped off  and went right down Hannah's shirt. Hannah immediately turned and walked off the stand with Jared and I close behind her, leaving the bishop up there by himself.  No necklace, no congratulatory embrace or handshake, no explanation of  how and what she had earned. With heads down, we shamefully walked back to our seats while the bishop tried to salvage whatever he could of the disaster.  He tried to share some sweet things about Hannah from the pulpit, but they could not be heard above the snickers in the congregation. It wasn't our best moment to say the least.

Don't worry.  No harm! No foul!  And no biggie!  It certainly wasn't any ones fault.  It was just a funny experience that I thought you might like to hear about it.

 My real intent for writing this post is to let Hannah's siblings, siblings-in-laws and nieces and nephew know a little about Hannah from my perspective.  I  am not writing from her point of view, but from mine and what I have perceived and witnessed over the past few years regarding Hannah and her family.

Hannah adores her brothers!  She is proud of each one of them and when her friends come over and see their pictures, she is vocal about her love for them.  She will tell her friends their name, what they are doing and where they fit in the family.  It is very tender for me to witness that. Sometimes I feel bad that she doesn't know them or visa versa and that makes me a little sad.  But it doesn't matter that she didn't grow up with them.  She loves them as her adult brothers and the awesome men that they are.  I find it so endearing on her part as she writes little texts every now and then to them.  She loves being connected to her bros! And she loves them!

Hannah loves her sisters!  She loves being included in their adult lives.  She is grateful for the example they have set for her regarding school, dating, make-up, style, future plans, and love of the gospel.  I sense that it is really an honor to be the caboose to this family sub-set of four girls.  She desires to be like them,;to serve a mission, to gain an education, to marry a righteous priesthood holder and to be a mom.  She really wants to be a wife and mom!  Thank you daughters for shaping her life by your examples.  As much as Hannah wants to forge her own path upon high school graduation, and to a great degree she will, I sense that she is so very  proud of the paths her sisters  have forged and gladly walks in your footsteps! You have created a safety net of sorts for her because she is the little sister and is so welcomed into each of your lives.

To Brittney, Emily and Honey (Eric).  She adores all three of you.  You are more like siblings to her than in-laws.  She is comfortable around you and is so proud of all of you and your contributions to our home and family as well as your own little families.  She loves her title of aunt and is smitten by her Molly, Avonlea, Hallie, Claire, and Oliver!  Your children only enhance her desire to be a mother.  Your examples of parenthood are watched and revered by Hannah and tucked away for future reference.

Hannah is a glorious person!  She is loving and so kind.  She voiced to me this week that one of her desires is just to be a kind person.  I love that in her. And she really is kind.    Happy 18th Birthday daughter!  Your presence is so felt and needed in our family.  I love you!

My People

I was saying my morning prayer and discussing with Heavenly Father what I hoped for in 2016.  As I did so, I had a very specific thought enter into mind: "Write in your blog".

After I concluded in this particular interaction with Heavenly Father, I opened up an unmarked, cheap copy of the Book of Mormon and started reading, still with that particular thought that had been impressed upon me concerning my blog.

* I have missed  my daily readings from the Book of Mormon.  I have been consumed with the Old Testament for the past 5 months and although I have enjoyed it immensely, I have felt the nudgings of the Spirit to include the truths and teachings of the The Book of Mormon in my daily study.  And so this morning, I began my study with 1 Nephi 1:1.

I did not have to read very far to have the spirit open my mind and heart.  Verse 5:  "Wherefore it came to pass that my father, Lehi, as he went forth prayed unto the Lord, yea, even with all his heart, in behalf of his people."  My eyes and mind focused in on  the phrases: "with all his heart" and  "in behalf of his people" and I circled them. As I contemplated those phrases for a few seconds  I thought back to my morning pray with Heavenly Father.

I had prayed in behalf of Derrick & Brittney, Daniel & Emily, Noelle & Eric, with all my heart, thanking  Father for their wisdom, goodness and love as they continue to raise their sweet little children, I expressed gratitude in knowing my grandchildren are nurtured and cared for by amazing parents, all who are my people. JOY!

I had prayed in behalf of Travis and Holly, my people who are far from me.  With all my heart, I asked for Heavenly Father to protect them, bless them, and bring them back home to me when they have accomplished what they have set out to do.  I thanked Heavenly Father for their goodness and soundness of mind  to make those decisions that are best for them in a land that is far away.  I prayed in behalf of them as I thanked Heavenly Father for those good people who have opened their homes and hearts to them.  PEACE!

I had prayed in behalf of Brandon and Natalie, again my people, who I perceived, have been abundantly blessed with success and new beginnings of sort at this time in their lives.  With all my heart, I thanked Heavenly Father for blessing them with progression, newness and a desire to do hard things to bring about a great future and life.   GRATITUDE!

I had prayed for Hannah and dad and myself, thanking Heavenly Father that we still have our Hannah at home to help dad and I transition to what will be a new phase of our lives.  During that prayer, I spent a few precious moments thinking of my Hannah, how I loved her, trusted her and found so much joy from her.  I told Heavenly Father how blessed I was to have  Jared and reiterated what Hannah had told me late last night concerning her dad and how he had cleaned up the kitchen and had bought New Years Eve food so that she and her friends could celebrate at our house. She expressed her love for him to me as she shared her thoughts. Such a simple act, but so far-reaching in what it meant to her.   With all my heart, I expressed my love for him and his goodness and thanked Heavenly Father that he and Hannah are my people and still with me. HOPE!

And so today, at the beginning of this new year, I write that my children may know that your mother, me, will continue to go forth and pray unto the Lord, even with all my heart, in behalf of each of you. You are my joy, peace, gratitude, hope and people!!  How I love each one of you!

Small steps......big results!

So I have been asked to teach and Adult Religion Class for our Stake, and have been doing so for one month now.  I use the term "teach" loosely! I have been enlightened  and  joyfully share two pretty significant principles that have taken on new meaning and commitment in my life as a result of this opportunity:

*   Conversion is a wonderful process of ups and downs;  experiencing new beginnings again and  again and moving past the past.

*   The spiritual gift of revelation is the foundational gift of all other spiritual gifts. The heavens are open to me and to you  as we seek, obtain and apply the gift of revelation. Here is how:

                1.  Desire.  Just start with  a genuine desire to receive personal revelation.                                  "Desire dictates our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices                                   determine our actions.  The desires we act on detemine our changing, our                             achieving, and our becoming".  Elder Dallin H. Oaks

                2.  Pray with real intent and an honest heart regarding your desire.
                3.  Be mindful of impressions to both your heart and your mind.
                4.  Act upon impressions as  you have been directed.
                5.  Express gratitude, and continue to "apply unto it".

Still Daddy's Little Girl

In the early hours of the morning, Tues. August 12th, I was once again awakened from a dream as I heard my name being said in a very loving and gentle manner.

I had left Overton Monday night  to go stay with Grandma Skousen at her home in St. George as we would leave Tues. morning for a trip up to Idaho Falls.   I only remember a snippet of the dream , but what I do remember is very vivid.  I saw dad standing to the side of me in a dark suit.  He simply said:  "Lorri".  His voice was so clear and so real that I immediately woke up and looked around to see if he was actually in the room.    I only had two thoughts at that moment: 1- Why hadn't dad referred to me as "Lor Lor" like he normally would have if he were alive. And 2- Was he waking me for some profound purpose, danger, or warning.

I haven't resolved those two thoughts as of yet.  What I did resolve, feel and experience, was love.  Pure, tender love and an overwhelming feeling of knowing that dad is aware and mindful of me, much like the experience I had last year.

I believe that Heavenly Father took dad at this very specific time for specific reasons.  One of those reasons being to help his children and grandchildren who need his influence of goodness, acceptance and love here on earth at this time in their lives.

I write that my children and grandchildren may know that their grandfather is very much involved in their lives today;  that he has a greater opportunity to influence and guide them where he is now than if he were still alive.  I pray, dear children that you can also feel his  love and care for you.

Who Am I To Judge Another?

It is almost 1:00am.  I am tired but my mind is unsettled.  I have been reading about the Suwyn family from Hurricane, Utah who just lost their eleven-month old daughter Skyah two days ago.   Skyah's mother forgot she left her daughter in the car, causing her to die from heat exhaustion. Cruel, judging comments have been made regarding this mother.   I know it sounds inconceivable that a mother could do such a thing as forget her baby, but it happens. It happened to me.

Every time I read one of these horrifically tragic stories, I am taken back to  August,1991. I had asked Jared  if he could come home for lunch to watch Daniel, Travis and Noelle while I hurried to go visit teach my friend Nori.  When Jared arrived,  I quickly jumped into the car and took off.

It was an unusual overcast summer day.  I parked in my friend's driveway that was shaded by a big tree. I got out of the car and went inside.  Nori and I sat down and began to visit for a while. Her newborn  baby began to cry so she went to get him up from his crib.  As Nori walked down the hall she asked me about my nine-month old baby daughter.

Immediately  my thoughts turned to Noelle, and I was horror stricken to recall that I had actually brought Noelle with me and had left her in the car.  I ran outside to discover  a very red, screaming baby. I am convinced that the clouds and the shade tree were what kept Noelle alive.  Even though it was only twenty minutes, on a normal August day in LasVegas, I am sure the results would have been tragically different.

Nori called her husband who was a resident doctor at UMC.  He gave me instructions of what to look for and what to do.  Noelle was fine.  I was not. I reenacted that experience over and over in my mind for months.  I didn't have any recollection of carrying Noelle to the car or buckling her up in her car seat.  In my mind, I had left her with Jared and the boys.

It is actually more horrifying for me to think about it now and all the what-might-have-beens. Not only was Noelle's life spared, but so was mine.   I cannot fathom living with the degree of  guilt and pain that would accompany such a horrible accident.

Which leads me to where I began... with a grief-stricken mother who did the same thing as I but had a different ending.  My heart hurts for her, her loss, her pain, her husband, her other children.  I pray that angels will minister to this mother and that her aching will lessen as the days pass.  I pray that she will forgive herself.  I pray that others will too.

Five Mothers I Admire and Love

It was a long drive home from Idaho yesterday, but I filled the time nicely by thinking about mothers. Here are some of those thoughts.

As I contemplated the role that my mother now plays in my life, I was overcome with gratitude.  Gratitude that I still had her; gratitude of the empathy and love she still gives me every single day.  I have had experiences where I have known that I was getting through a trial simply because I knew mom was on her knees praying for me. The power of a mother's prayer is very real and I have experienced that power.
My heart is filled with love, honor and respect because of the amazing person and mother I have.  I love you mom..

 I have always maintained that I was blessed to have the perfect mother-in-law, but she surpasses that role.  I think of her more as a wonderful, caring mother who loves me dearly.  I often ponder the many trials she has had in her life and I stand in awe of the strong, faithful woman she is today.  I take courage and strength from her courage and strength.  I love you Pat.

Every chance I get, I share what an amazing mother Brittney is.  I am awed by her patience; her ability to help Molly learn to reason and think for herself, and so much more.  I have learned much in watching Brittney and know that she is committed to motherhood.  Oh how grateful I am that Molly has her for a mother!  I love you Brittney.

I have learned from this little mother-to-be too!  Noelle has empowered herself with knowledge!!  I love hearing her tell me the things she has learned in her marriage and parenting classes.  I love that she seeks out and digests every bit of information she can so that she can be wise and thoughtful in the raising of her children.  I love her commitment to raising her children in a Christ-centered home.  I am at peace, content and happy for little granddaughter Hillam and the mother who will raise her.  I love you Noelle.

I have spent time contemplating another special mother!  I love Emily's mom!  I love how invested she is with her children and my  children as well!  Marilyn is committed to families, regardless of who's they are.  I love that she cared enough for Grandma Skousen to drive all night to get Emily to grandpa's funeral.  I feel blessed and so grateful to know that Emily will be much like her mother when she becomes a mother herself. I love you Emily and I love you too Marilyn!

My Mother's Day is a reflective one today.  I am so grateful for these good mothers, sweet, dear friends all of them.

Dross

For years Judy and I have walked around our beloved Honey Bee Pond  in the spring time mornings.  The views are spectacular.  Lining the pond are tall grassy reeds.  Before you ever see a duck you hear them, along with the various birds that inhabit the reeds.  You then turn a corner to come upon the pond itself and the life that is peacefully gliding on top.  A random grouping of palm trees stand erect just beyond the water and all of that is nicely framed with the beautiful mesa in the background.  So serene and calming.

On the downside, you smell the stagnant water; fight the pesky gnats and occasionally slip on the slimy muck that is along the waters edge.  But still it is one of my favorite walks of all time!

Last year I was devastated to find that the rangers had emptied the pond and burned everything around it!  All that was left was the slimy muck and charred remnants.  Judy and I cursed the rangers that would do such a horrible thing.  What on earth were they thinking?  That pond was one of my "go to places" for peace and comfort and now it was destroyed!

Fast forward one year.  Judy and I decided it was time to return  to our  Honey Bee Pond and went there earlier this week.   The reeds were abundant;  tall, green and thick.  The sounds of the ducks, geese and birds filled the air.  And then we turned the corner.................MAJESTIC PEACE!!!  The water was clean, void of slimy muck and a stagnant smell.  There were only dragonflies flitting around; no  pesky gnats.Resting on a  beautiful, little island that was now out in the middle of the pond, was  a regal white egret just waiting to take flight.

To say that Honey Bee Pond was now better than before would be a huge understatement.  It wasn't just better, it was different.  Changed.  Renewed.  Breathtaking.  Peace giving.  Even sacred.

A burn was needed.  The rangers knew what they were doing.  The pond had to be emptied so the sun could burn off the slimy muck and harden the earth again.  The vegetation needed to be burned so that it could come back healthy, thick and strong.  And  the island..........  sweet refinement for this little pond.

"When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply.
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.

Sabbath Samplings

• .We arrived at church and sat in "our" pew. In front of our pew is the pew that accommodate the Bolton family.  In a few months that pew will be up for grabs. Our beloved Bolton family will find a new pew in Utah.  Can I just say how that tugged at my heart today.  It did.  As Jared and I drove home, he expressed the very same thoughts  to me.  I don't know how we are going to stand it.

• Aaron McCombs blessed his little daughter, Lillian Joyce this morning.  He blessed her with the gift of charity, that she may see others not as they are, but as they may become; that she may see beyond what the eye can see.   What a beautiful expression and understanding of charity.  

• Testimony meeting is "one of a kind" in our ward.  I would want it no other way.   Cayson is an 11 year old boy with Williams Syndrome.  He was very determined as he walked up to the microphone. He told us about his kitty dying.  He did not want to sit down and did not take it well when his older sister came up to the stand to tell him to end his testimony.  He had something to say and he was going to say it.  This is the same boy who last week shouted out "thanks dad" and gave him a big hug when his father ended his talk in sacrament meeting.  Every ward needs a Cayson.    We also heard from Brooke.  She is a 22 year-old girl with Downs Syndrome.  She is very comfortable going up each fast  and testimony meeting where she stands to the side of the pulpit and pulls the mic over to mouth.  She twinkles with purity and mischievousness as she shares whatever is on her mind at the moment.  Today she shared with us how much she loves her grandpa and as she did so she cast her eyes upward.  Brooke refered to her grandpa as her "Sweet Man" up in heaven.  She also included that she is strong because she drinks milk everyday and has lost four pounds.  Never a dull moment when Brooke is at the pulpit!   To add to the  diversity of our meeting, we were lucky to hear from Senaida.  I have to pay close attention when Senaida speaks because of her heavy accent.    It took me a few seconds to figure out that she was talking about "faith"  and not "fate".    She was wearing a crocheted poncho and told us that she was missing her mother greatly this week and so she wore this poncho to feel close to her.  Senaida explained that her mother would make ponchos for her when she was little and would wrap her up in them.  I thought that was such a beautiful tribute to her mother.

• And finally in Primary today..... The song that we were to learn this week was "I Stand All Amazed".  I really try to teach a song with the spirit of the song; meaning, not just teach words but help them understand content and  to feel it as they sing.  The first sentence was easy for the children to understand:  I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me.  Jace did very well in explaining what that meant to him.  The second sentence was somewhat more complicated :  Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.  In simple words, I explained that grace is the enabling power of Jesus' atonement.  When there is something that we can not do on our own, Jesus has the power to help us or enable us to do what we need to do.  I shared the experience of Grandma Skousen needing the enabling power of the atonement so that she could stand and talk with others at the viewing of Grandpa.  I then asked the children if they had any experiences of using the enabling power of the atonement.  Ally shared that she knew that she needed to let her teacher know that her friends had written the answers to the test on their arms, but she was scared.  She told us that the only way she could have done what she did was with the enabling power of the Savior.  She got it, and so did many of the other children.  Preston bore a sweet testimony of feeling Jesus' love.  Emma shared that she felt the enabling power as she prayed to remember the things she had studied for a test.  Primary is the place to learn, feel and love such powerful doctrines as the Atonement of the Savior.

Families Strengthen Primary

*Previously written 12/16/2013

Several weeks ago Pres. Frehner spoke at our Stake Primary Leadership meeting. He made the following comment: "Record those things that are said and done in Primary." At the time, I thought that was unusual counsel, but since then I have witnessed  over and over again, "things said and done in Primary" that should be recorded and passed on. Here are some observations that took place yesterday in Primary that I thought others should know.

1. Our Primary started off with a very sad little Kellen McClure. He obviously was upset and big tears trickled down his cheeks. His teacher lovingly attended to him and he was fine....for the moment. The teachers were then dismissed to go into the combined lesson for the 3rd block. As they left, I looked over to see a very anxious, little boy with tears starting to well up. Seeing his brother in the back of the room, I asked Kellen if he would like to go stand by Cayson. With that suggestion, he ran to his Cayson's side and was met with a smile. All this little boy needed and wanted was the comfort of a brother.

2. Sister Robinson gathered the Jr. and Sr. Primary together to take a picture (which was quit a feat in itself).  After given the direction to head back to their classes the children descended from the stand. Holding hands and leading the way were Trevor Hopkins and his little sister Lauren. Such a sweet, tender picture.

3. To prepare the nursery children who will be Sunbeams in Jan., Sister Robinson brings them into sharing time for a few minutes to sing with the rest of the primary children. Little three year-old Cru Palmer sat reverently in his seat. I looked down just in time to see Cru notice his big sister Abby sitting directly across from him in the other row. Without noise and fanfare, Cru reverently scooted his chair across the aisle next to Abby. Upon achieving success and finally sitting next to his sister, his face lit up with a huge smile. Pure joy!  I just happened to witness this sweet little display, but noticed later that Autumn Whiting had made her way over to her big brother Jesse. I must note that Joe Bolton demanded to know why his brother Daniel wasn't with the rest of the nursery children. Apparently Daniel had fallen asleep! Joe was not happy!

The purpose of primary is to strengthen families, but it is apparent that families strengthen Primary! Oh how I love to watch and learn each week.

My Own Sacred Grove

In front of the main entrance of the Las Vegas temple is a little grove of Olive trees.  In the last few months I have become very aware of those trees.  It is interesting to note however, that I rarely notice the Olive trees upon entering the temple.

Once I have been  edified and enlightened by my temple experience and I am exiting the same doors that I had previously entered, my little grove of Olive trees are brought into full view of my eyes and my heart.

Several months ago  as I first pondered this little grove, my thoughts were of the symbolism that accompanies the Olive Tree and the Savior.   I have studied and pondered that symbolism and have read the following amazing article by Elder Truman Madsen to further my understanding.   https://www.lds.org/ensign/1982/12/the-olive-press?lang=eng

On another visit, I focused on the beautiful canopy of leaves that offer safety and relief from the elements. That day I contemplated  the safety and relief that the Savior offers to me personally.

Earlier this week, I was grateful for a groundskeeper who had taken great care to prune away the wayward limbs and branches  leaving behind  nine sleek, gnarled and impressive trunks.  I noticed for the first time that the nine trees were grouped into clusters of threes.  As I studied each one of these three clusters that were made up of three Olive trees, I thought of the enabling,  healing, and redemptive power that is offered through the atonement of Jesus Christ.  I thought of how I personally have been blessed by those three powers as I have sought to use the atonement in my life.

This little grove of Olive trees invites me to return to the temple often.  It teaches and beckons for me to more fully experience the love that the Savior offers me through his atoning sacrifice.   I look forward to "experiencing" my little grove of trees with each visit to the temple.

Pahoran, Memoies and Meekness

This morning I found myself in the last few chapters of Alma, specifically contemplating the correspondence between Moroni and Pahoran.  I was reminded of the following experience.  Judy had been assigned by her bishop to  plan the ward Christmas Party.  She asked several ladies to help her with  various duties.  It was apparent that Leslie (name has been changed)   failed to see Judy's vision  and wrote her a somewhat critical email stating what she would and would not do to help with the ward party.  In a reply back to Leslie's email, Judy acknowledged her own excessive attention to details and apologized for the strain this may have put on Leslie. She thanked Leslie for her help in what she was willing to do.  The email  that Judy received back was poignant. Leslie thanked Judy for being a "Pahoran" in her response.  If you are confused about that comparison,  read Alma 60 and 61 for better understanding.

I continued  to think of Pahoran throughout the morning.  I want to be a Pahoran.  He was so mighty in self-control and so humble.  He did not waste one second of time being offended or critical.  What a great example of meekness.

As I thought of what makes a Pahoran, this scripture came to mind:   "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he".   Although he was a military man and engaged in bloodshed, Pahoran's thoughts were pure, thus making his words and actions pure even in the worst of circumstances.   Contemplating those thoughts led me to a conversation that your dad and I had a couple of days ago.  We were talking about  Terry Rogers who is the Las Vegas Temple President at this time.  We know him well as he was our bishop when we were engaged and later our stake president.    Dad had expressed how difficult it must have been for Terry to experience such horrific atrocities while serving in the Viet Nam war.  We talked about what a gentle, good man he is in spite of what he witnessed and went through. Terry Rogers is a Pahoran.  His heart is pure and he is mighty in self control thus making his words and actions kind and uplifting.

I also had another experience come to my remembrance this morning.  When Natalie was twelve or thirteen, she and I had stopped at a department store to buy her some shoes.  A beautiful, well-dressed woman, probably in her early thirties, sat down and tried on a pair herself.  She walked around in them for a minute and then returned to put  on her own shoes.  Apparently she could only find one of her shoes and started yelling at a Hispanic girl that worked there and was straightening up the shelves.  The girl was flustered as this woman accused her of first hiding her shoe and then actually stealing it.  Natalie and I quickly joined the  girl in searching for this woman's missing shoe, and as we did, we listened to rude, berating comments regarding this employee.  Finally the worker went and got the manager who quickly came over to  settle things down.  The woman continued to  assert her accusations  to which the manager said:  "Ma'am, the missing shoe is in your hand."  Sure enough, there is was.  Without realizing it, she had been holding it the entire time.   The woman did not apologize or even say one word.  She put on her shoe and walked out of the store with her head held high.   Obviously  her rude comments had found a place in her heart long before they ever passed through her lips."For as [a woman] thinketh in her heart, so is [she]."    She was not a Pahoran!

What a great, reflective morning!  I thought my pondering on Pahoran was over but it wasn't.  I opened up my email to find an inappropriate and caustic message.   It was disheartening to say the least.    Elder Holland's stirring conference address, The Tongue of Angels came to mind.  http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/the-tongue-of-angels?lang=eng  As I  read his words I gained a  greater conviction that  there is no place in our lives and certainly in our hearts,  to say or write demeaning comments regardless of the situation or the  person who the comments are directed to.     I fear it is too easy in this day and age to write things anonymously thinking they will have no repercussions on us.  They do!  "For as [we]thinketh in [our] heart, so [are we]".

I write that my children may know I want to be a Pahoran.  I have some things to kick out of my heart so that my words and actions reflect a Pahoran, but that is my desire.   I also write that my children  may know that meekness, one who is mighty in self control in all things, is within our reaching. I also hope you  find the  time to study Elder Holland's talk  and desire to be a Pahoran too!




o

The Magical World of Brittney

I have always loved Brittney from the first moment I heard her voice on the phone, but I have come to admire and cherish who Brittney is.  With each wonderful visit to our home, I learn more and more about this truly amazing person.  I do not just love her; I, more importantly, LIKE her!

Brittney brings a  much needed element to our family.  When she is here, she drinks in each moment of family bonding as she possibly can.  I love that even a lazy night of watching movies is an "experience" for her! By simply adding a facial masque, nail polish, and a camera, Brittney has created a lasting memory.  Brittney adds her magical touch to make things just a little more fun, and a little more important.

I love that Brittney loves me and that she shows her acceptance and love of me in the tenderest of ways.  She snuggles up with me on the love seat when I am cold.  She talks to me and listens to me talk.  She accompanies me and Judy on our morning adventures when she is here and understands how therapeutic and priceless they are.  Did I mention that Brittney, Judy and I were actually shot at on one of our  morning walks together? Some hunters mistook  us for dove............serious!  We hit the ground and took cover until we felt it was safe to come out of the brush. We could actually feel the buck shot whizzing past us and I was actually scared! OH  I LOVE THAT MEMORY!!   ( I love having you come with us Brittney.  It is fun having you share in those experiences with me.)

You are a breath of fresh air to  our family.  You bring us all closer together.    You make things special and memorable.  How grateful and HAPPY that you are ours and that we are yours. I love you dear daughter. Happy, happy birthday!   Love Lorri

Noelle........A Faithful Daughter

Last Sunday Kathryn Bolton asked the Primary children to think about their favorite Christmas carol and share why it is their favorite .  Ally Bolton raised her hand and said that her favorite carol is The First Noel because it reminds her of Noelle Rust and Noelle is a good example for her to follow. Noelle has had a significant influence on a lot of people.  Me included!

When we lived by Simplot, I remember Noelle, who was 12 at the time,  talking to me about how strict other moms of her friends were and how thankful she was that I wasn't that way.  I don't know if my parenting was the best, but as a mom, I so appreciated that conversation.  I remember thinking what on earth could Noelle ever do that would require me to lay down the law with her.  She  governed herself in the manner that she saw fit and I  agreed with that manner. She was a valiant little girl who grew up to be a valiant woman.

 During an unsure time in Noelle and Eric's courtship, Noelle called me.  She told me that she was okay because she and Heavenly Father had gotten really close  and she talked with him all the time regarding her and Eric's future. She was totally without fear or frustration/   She had complete peace and knew everything would be alright. As her mom, I was humbled and very grateful for  Noelle's spiritual maturity and reliance on her Heavenly Father. Noelle lives her life in such a way as to always be strengthening her faith, so when that power is needed, it is there.  

I have learned much from this daughter.  Feelings of peace surround her.  She is calm and comforting.  She is even and sure.  Indeed; she is a good example for all of us to follow.  

Happy Birthday dearest daughter.  Twenty-three years ago, our lives were "brightened" with your spirit. You continue to brighten my life today.  I am so proud of what you have accomplished and more importantly, who you are.  I love you.  Mommy

   

Heart Words

I got on FaceBook this morning and noticed a post on my live feed by someone who seldom writes.  The post was in regards to one of those picture/quote things that everyone shares from time to time.  The picture/quote thing was nice, even inspirational, but it was his response that  has occupied my thoughts for the past few hours.

He expressed gratitude for "heart words" such as 'thank you'; 'I am sorry'; 'Please forgive me'; and 'I love you'. 

Why are these heart words?   They open up a closed heart.  They allow for a broken heart.  They repair a broken heart.  And probably most importantly, they bind a heart to another heart. These heart words have power to change an outlook, a person, a relationship, a family.

I need heart words said to me and I need to express them to others.  Thank you Brad, for your thought-provoking post this morning.

26 Years of Wonderful Quirkiness!

It is always a treat to see Daniel. This is what I can usually expect upon first seeing him:  1)- He clasps  his hands together. 2)- He cocks his head to one side.  3)- He gently shrugs his shoulders while at the same time he 4)- coyly smiles. If he is accompanied by Emily he will 5)- turn and look at her and nod his head back and forth a few times with his lips pursed together.  (Think about it.............I have pegged it perfectly have I not?!)

Oh how I love my animated Daniel.  His antics have brought me much needed comic relief through the years. What would life be like without the "Daniel language"? - Dad, Holly, Hannah and I tried to recall how he used to speak while growing up.  Not one of us could remember.  Please, for the sake of preserving his childhood language, please respond with words, phrases, etc., that you remember.  I do fondly recall him walking into a room where I was, raising his  index finger and saying:  "food please" .  I also remember (not so fondly) him repeating "Mommy do you love me?" over and over and over and OVER!!!.  Share what you remember!

I think of the many imitations he has done throughout the years; baby Elise, Marvin, Sis. Wimer, Bolton Baby, mommy sneezing, various general authorities, etc. I think of his hand actions; Greta doing various things, Pappy yicking his yong yeg, baby caterpillar, and the creepy one he does now with his middle finger pointed out.  Oh such cherished Daniel-isms that must be remembered for posterity.

Daniel, you are a joy. You brighten a dark day.  Heavenly Father blessed you with a unique personality that has blessed so many others.  I am so grateful for that personality.  You continue to always make me smile. Happy Birthday son.  I love you. Mommy

Shall The Youth Of Zion Falter......An Amazing Day At The Temple.

Today mom and I went to the Las Vegas Temple to participate in an endowment session.  As we were walking down the corridor to the ordinance room, we passed  young men donned in white suits and name tags.  Sure enough, when we entered our room, standing in the front of the room was an 18 year old boy.  He was calm, assured, and thoughtful as he officiated.  It was nice and  I really enjoyed the session.  I asked a temple worker later what was up with the young ordinance workers.  She said that they encourage sisters and elders who have received their calls and are in the process of waiting to report for their missions to  be set apart as official temple workers.  She mentioned that they learn so fast and are filled with such a powerful spirit and are a big asset to the temple.  Amen to that!

Thinking that my temple experience couldn't get any better, I walked into that beautiful Celestial room. Lining the walls and occupying every seat in that massive,amazing room, were missionaries!!  Lots and lots and lots of elders and sisters who had just participated in a special session.  It was breath-taking to say the least.  They were so beautiful and inspiring. Ahhhh........it is still touching to recall that scene.    Grandma Skousen whispered to me:  "I think this is a lot like what was welcoming Grandpa when he passed away."    I think it probably was too.  Such a glorious sight!!

Truly an amazing day at the temple.