My mom had an inspired idea to hold a special Family Night on Monday. She asked us all to bring a thought to share. Something that had special meaning to us, or something we've been studying or thinking about.
Mom made her yummy chili and me and Celia, Mom and Bill, Tawny, Connor and Mikayla, Kevin and Randee and Grandma and Grandpa Terry all enjoyed a wonderful meal. Then we shared the things we brought.
I shared the Susan Tanner quote I've posted here on my blog. It holds special meaning for me right now. This last year has been the absolute hardest year of my life. But, I've also discovered the most joy. It's funny how that dichotomy works! I truly believe my trials have helped me appreciate the little moments, like reading with Celia and holding her on my lap. Or just coming home to her beautiful smiling face every day. Or being blessed with the most patient, loving and forgiving family. Or having Daniel in my life. I don't think I ever completely realized what an amazing man he is. He is infinitely patient with me. And he loves the things I love about me. I am so blessed!
Tawny shared her testimony of prayer and a little about how hard it is to attend church without Casey. My heart breaks for her. I wish she could see what an amazing mom she is. She gets her two kids ready for church every Sunday, and they love being there. She's given them such a special gift. The love of the gospel!
Randee and Kevin shared their testimony of scripture study. I admire Randee so much for making that a family goal and sticking to it. She's developed such a love for the scriptures. I hope she doesn't mind that I want to use her idea of reading the Book of Mormon with the Institute Manual as a study guide. There are just so many things I want to learn from the Book of Mormon. She inspires me to devote the time to study.
Bill shared with us the scriptures that had impressed him during his prayers concerning us. It was so touching to read the inspiration that he had been given. He really is the spiritual leader of our home and I have gained so much knowledge from him
Mom shared a portion of an article about becoming like Jesus and then shared her testimony of the kids and how they are learning the sacredness of the sacrament.
Grandpa Terry shared some touching stories about his time in the service. While in the Navy he was assigned to gather the woman and children from the outlying islands after the bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima and help them resettle. He doesn't talk much about his service. But, when he does, I love to hear his stories. He is a hero. And I'm so grateful that my daughter has been able to have a relationship with him, just like I did when I was her age.
Grandma Bunny shared her love of our family. She struggles so much in her Alzheimer's, and there are days when I really miss the way she used to be. But, then she greets me with such an enthusiastic smile and hug, and I realize that my Grandma is still here.
Chace and Kaytlen both wrote beautiful messages to share. I with they could have been with us. Grandpa commented that it really is amazing that we have the technology to communicate with our loved ones when they are so fat away. I'm so used to having email, texting, and iming in my life, that I guess I've forgotten what a huge blessing it is. Like talking to Chace. Even though he's in Spain, we still get to talk to him several times a week. So we can stay active in each other's live. I love that!
I love my family! And I love my mom for having this idea. We don't get to share our testimonies with each other often enough. I am so blessed to have my family near to me. I wouldn't have been able to make it through this year without them!
I Do Now
5 days ago
