On this Mother's Day I wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to my mother. I have noticed that when people are asked who their greatest
hero is or who has influenced them the most, they almost always describe one of their parents. I think this is because we get to know our parents on a much more intimate level than other people in our lives. Our parents, especially our mothers give more service to us than any other person. I am so grateful for all that my mother has done for me. She has been m
y caregiver, my
teacher, my cheerleader, my example, and my friend. I am the oldest which means I was my mom's first baby. She adores this first picture of us right after I was born. Although her labor was extremely long and I was a posterior baby, I think she was excited about becoming a mother for the first time. Because I was the oldest, my mom was able to give me a lot of attention as a young child. I remember singing in the car with my mom as we did errands around tow
n. I remember she always dressed me in cute outfits and made sure my hair looked nice. She made a big deal out of birthdays and holidays; they were always so fun. When I became an older child, my mom would help me with my homework. She would let me have playdates and signed me up for Girl Scouts, dance, gymnastics, etc. I have always been in awe of my mom's many
talents. She is a great cook. She loves to bake at Christmas time and is especially good at candy making. She loved to can and dehydrate foods. She loves to give gi
fts and always adds an extra touch when she does her gift wrapping. She always kept a very clean and orderly house which has somewhat rubbed off on me. My mom is a very
compassionate person and loves to serve others. I recall her bringing many meals to those in need or supporting others when they were going through a rough time. My mom is a nurse and has always enjoyed
caring for others. The most important thing my mom has taught me is the gospel of Jesus Christ. My mother joined the Church when she was 16 years old. She has a strong
testimony and strives to keep the commandments. She is always mindful of the Savior and tries to follow His example. She also relies on the Holy Ghost to guide her daily. I am so grateful for my mom's two best friends who shared the gospel with her. I am so thankful I was raised in a home
where I was taught the gospel. Now my mom is a great
grandma to my kids. She takes my girls school shopping. She has them over to her home for sleepovers and day trips. Of course, birthdays and holidays are still a big deal. She listens to me and gives me encouragement. She reminds me to read the scriptures. She has been a
counselor to me when I served as the Activities Chairman and Relief Society President. She sends me cards and praises me when I need it. I am so grateful for this woman and the many ways she has influenced me. Thank you, Mom. I
love you!
On May 17, the day Cameron had been waiting for finally arrived. He had anticipated this day for months. He spoke about it to Grandma on the phone and even told strangers at the store that he was going to ride on Thomas the Train. As many of you know, Cameron is absolutely obsessed with trains and loves Thomas. When we learned about "A Day Out with Thomas" we couldn't pass up the chance to let him go. Lloyd took him the day after the Father/Son Campout. Cameron was definitely a lucky boy, camping with Daddy one day and riding Thomas the next. You can just see the excitement in his eyes!
