In Rememberance

So today is the tenth anniversary of 9/11. We have all heard about on the news all week but I wanted to share a very special moment I had at Granger High on Friday. When I got to Mrs. Reese's classroom she informed me that we were going to be going over the events of 9/11 with her ESL students. Many of these students were not citizens of this country ten years ago and so if they know anything about what happened it is very sketchy. As she began to go over the events I was amazed as how calmly and yet lovely she explained the events of that day. Then as the students were watching a short video, she asked me if I would be willing to tell of my own story of that day ten years ago. As I thought about what I would say. When it was my turn I felt the spirit as I told of when I was doing as a sophomore in college and what I felt. I know that while the events of 9/11 were tragic and we have all been changed forever, I know that there is good that has come out of it as well. For one, I know that it has help me and my family to enjoy our time with each other more. Also I know that it has made me appreciate all the little things in my life more including my husband, my daughter and my unborn son. Tragedy is hard but it can also be a strengthening agent for your faith. I know that 9/11 like when my grandfather passed a way in 95 has deepened my faith in my Heavenly Father and the eternal nature of families. I know that this church is true. I know that Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is a grove of trees in Palmyra, New York. Also I know that President Monson is our true prophet on the earth today. I know that while the people within this church are not perfect, the doctrine is. For, it is centered in Jesus Christ. May we all remember that there is a higher power in this world that will help and guide us through troubled times, if we allow him to.

Family Bond

This week Eric has been home. It has been both nice and challenging. Nice because he is a big help but challenging because I am having to learn to let go and allow him to help me. The really nice thing about it is that we have been able to get back into the habit of doing family scripture study. While Mackenzie really just listens to us read aloud it is fun to read with Eric and to have Mackenzie in the room. The other big news is that Mackenzie is finally starting to sleep in her big girl bed. One of us (mainly Eric for now) still needs to lay down with her at first but once she is asleep she stays asleep all night. Of course she is ready to play at 7 or 8 in the morning and Eric would prefer to sleep in but he is starting to see that the earlier you get up the more you accomplish in a day. I hope this next week is just as great as things week, challenges and all. For the good and the bed together are what make life worth, especially when you remember to laugh and not take yourself too seriously.