L~'s prayer:
You have to know that L~ likes to say family prayer and she likes to say it fast. In fact, she is quite the expert in what I like to call speed-praying. I've noted of late that she has slowed down her pace just a little. If you listen really closely you can actually make out the words. The following is and excerpt of what I heard last night.
Please bless *the caterpillars that they'll be OK even though one of them is cocooning from a leaf.
Please bless Stephanie and...um...everyone else who was on the plane.
Please bless Luke that he will write really soon.
...Amen
*Luke used to raise Monarch caterpillars. They've been scarce in recent years, but we happened to find two eggs a few weeks ago and we waited and watched as they hatched, kept them stalked with fresh milkweed every day, and have been anticipating their morphing into chrysalides and then butterflies. It is fitting that on the day Luke left us for his mission both caterpillars slowly worked their way to the top of the jar and on this day, the day he arrived in England and entered the MTC they are creating their respective chrysalides.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
It's amazing how good friends, teachers and mentors are all an integral part of who we were, who we are and who we become.
Last week I was rounding the corner of a street just a block away when I saw a familiar face. Her name is Vi Schiefer. She used to be Luke's primary teacher. She loved Luke and was a good friend to our entire family. She is deaf and I was always touched and amazed at how the children in her class could feel her testimony and her love for them and she theirs despite the communication differences.
Vi moved away years ago and we haven't seen her since. But there she was. I was able to take Luke over to visit with her once again. He'd learned ASL since he'd seen her last, and although the vocabulary was a bit rusty, it meant something to her that he would sign what he could.
In the past weeks we've had a number of such encounters that I know were not by chance.
Blessings every one.
Last week I was rounding the corner of a street just a block away when I saw a familiar face. Her name is Vi Schiefer. She used to be Luke's primary teacher. She loved Luke and was a good friend to our entire family. She is deaf and I was always touched and amazed at how the children in her class could feel her testimony and her love for them and she theirs despite the communication differences.
Vi moved away years ago and we haven't seen her since. But there she was. I was able to take Luke over to visit with her once again. He'd learned ASL since he'd seen her last, and although the vocabulary was a bit rusty, it meant something to her that he would sign what he could.
In the past weeks we've had a number of such encounters that I know were not by chance.
Blessings every one.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Going downstairs and finding Z~, his friend Jeff and Luke all sprawled out on Z~'s floor (yes, I issued the annual "Your Room Will Be Cleaned Before School Starts" edict and there is again floor visible) just hanging out. Luke and Z~ are 21 months apart and were pretty much inseparable until Jr. High. They will miss each other and be apart for almost four years. It's good to see these two very different but very dear and good young men together again during these, their last days together. (Someone please remind me to tell you sometime about the two of them walking down the hill from the Provo Temple on the day Luke took out his endowments.)
Getting good news that some tragic news I'd received a few hours before had been incomplete and therefore incorrect. Miracles happen. Lives are spared. My heart is somewhat lighter for being reminded of that.
A home teacher of at least eight years or more (which means Luke would have been 10 or 11) coming by today to tell Luke goodbye. He is one of my dear friend's husband and I know he genuinely cares about us. Dave served in England as well and came by because he'd been reading in his mission journal and he recalled a time when he had a regret because he let slip by a chance to learn to love and learn from a certain companion. As someone who is also a harsh judge of her 23-year-old mission self I could appreciate his story--it touched my heart. He entreated Luke to be humble and to be open to what God wants him to learn from each opportunity to grow. "No regrets," he said. And he kindly reminded Luke not to be too hard on himself when he did make mistakes but to move forward. He left a loving, true and positive message about making the most of the next two years. I am grateful for the power of a good home teacher who would take time out to leave a personal lesson for my son before he leaves.
Getting good news that some tragic news I'd received a few hours before had been incomplete and therefore incorrect. Miracles happen. Lives are spared. My heart is somewhat lighter for being reminded of that.
A home teacher of at least eight years or more (which means Luke would have been 10 or 11) coming by today to tell Luke goodbye. He is one of my dear friend's husband and I know he genuinely cares about us. Dave served in England as well and came by because he'd been reading in his mission journal and he recalled a time when he had a regret because he let slip by a chance to learn to love and learn from a certain companion. As someone who is also a harsh judge of her 23-year-old mission self I could appreciate his story--it touched my heart. He entreated Luke to be humble and to be open to what God wants him to learn from each opportunity to grow. "No regrets," he said. And he kindly reminded Luke not to be too hard on himself when he did make mistakes but to move forward. He left a loving, true and positive message about making the most of the next two years. I am grateful for the power of a good home teacher who would take time out to leave a personal lesson for my son before he leaves.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
I'm in the middle of compiling a few letters for Luke. They consist of notes left on paper I passed around during the gathering that ensued after he spoke in church last week. (I need to get them in the mail today so he will have some mail when he arrives in the U.K.) I can't help but read a few as I put them together in groups of four sheets of paper each, to remain at 1 oz. or under to qualify for the 94-cent postage. One in particular touches my heart. It is from a boy who moved here a few years ago and who kind of grew up w/ Luke until high school when their interests took them down different paths. He thanks Luke for encouraging him and showing him the way and mentions that he is starting to kind of figure things out. I know this boy has struggled and it warms my heart to know he is figuring things out. I wish him well.
It occurs to me that I am grateful beyond words for the power of a good example. The truth is, there were many good examples that influenced and inspired Luke thus far in his life. I also recognize and appreciate the good example he has shown for others. I have heard other stories, ones I won't detail here, but which I hope I never forget, of how Luke's good choices and desire to do good have made an impact in the lives of others. Most importantly, I am beginning to glimpse the beauty of what it can mean for a family when the oldest child leads off with a good example. I know there are challenges--current and future--to overcome. But somehow I feel more hopeful about the eventual outcome knowing that thus far Luke has chosen the good path and has shown the way to those who follow. I realize Luke still has lessons to learn, choices to make and things to figure out. I wish him well.
It occurs to me that I am grateful beyond words for the power of a good example. The truth is, there were many good examples that influenced and inspired Luke thus far in his life. I also recognize and appreciate the good example he has shown for others. I have heard other stories, ones I won't detail here, but which I hope I never forget, of how Luke's good choices and desire to do good have made an impact in the lives of others. Most importantly, I am beginning to glimpse the beauty of what it can mean for a family when the oldest child leads off with a good example. I know there are challenges--current and future--to overcome. But somehow I feel more hopeful about the eventual outcome knowing that thus far Luke has chosen the good path and has shown the way to those who follow. I realize Luke still has lessons to learn, choices to make and things to figure out. I wish him well.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
I love how in about mid-August this magic occurs in which the daytime temperature can be the very same it was in mid-July but it feels different. You can sense the promise of a gentle breeze and cooler nights even when it's still 90 degrees outside.
I am amazed at how good food and good friends can make the world right for a few hours.
I can't tell you how grateful I am to know my nine-year-old has the best fourth grade teacher in the world. I think I may be as excited about fourth grade as he is. Best part? He had her last year, too. We love her!
I got a letter today from my friend Lil. One of these days I need to write about Lil. She has done a very brave thing. It's something I want to do sometime--when the time is right--but it is something that I know takes her way out of both her comfortable and warm and loving home as well as out of her comfort zone. She and her husband Phil are serving in the Louisiana New Orleans mission. In an area that is too scary for sister missionaries. And they are speaking Spanish, which language Lil is just now learning. I miss Lil's sweet smile and her gentle ways and her kindness and friendship to me. But I am so very proud of her. She wrote in an e-mail how because of the language barrier the most the people get from her right now is a hug and a smile. I've been blessed by both Lil's hugs and Lil's smile and I think the people of Louisiana are coming out OK on this one.
Tonight I went to Guru's to hear Lil's sweet daughter Amara sing. I gave her a hug in between songs. It was from me, but I hope she knew it was also on behalf of her mother, who I'm sure misses her dearly.
Someone said something to me today that meant so very much to me. I'm not quite sure how to record it, but I need to because I don't want to ever forget it. Some friends of mine have moved back to Utah after living in Georgia for a year. I knew they had mixed feelings about coming back, but I've been so happy to see them again. Today he told me part of the reason they felt OK about coming back was because I made them feel like they were coming back to family. I know what it means to me when someone makes me feel like more than a friend--like family--and I'm humbled and happy to be able to share that kind of love and acceptance with someone else.
I am amazed at how good food and good friends can make the world right for a few hours.
I can't tell you how grateful I am to know my nine-year-old has the best fourth grade teacher in the world. I think I may be as excited about fourth grade as he is. Best part? He had her last year, too. We love her!
I got a letter today from my friend Lil. One of these days I need to write about Lil. She has done a very brave thing. It's something I want to do sometime--when the time is right--but it is something that I know takes her way out of both her comfortable and warm and loving home as well as out of her comfort zone. She and her husband Phil are serving in the Louisiana New Orleans mission. In an area that is too scary for sister missionaries. And they are speaking Spanish, which language Lil is just now learning. I miss Lil's sweet smile and her gentle ways and her kindness and friendship to me. But I am so very proud of her. She wrote in an e-mail how because of the language barrier the most the people get from her right now is a hug and a smile. I've been blessed by both Lil's hugs and Lil's smile and I think the people of Louisiana are coming out OK on this one.
Tonight I went to Guru's to hear Lil's sweet daughter Amara sing. I gave her a hug in between songs. It was from me, but I hope she knew it was also on behalf of her mother, who I'm sure misses her dearly.
Someone said something to me today that meant so very much to me. I'm not quite sure how to record it, but I need to because I don't want to ever forget it. Some friends of mine have moved back to Utah after living in Georgia for a year. I knew they had mixed feelings about coming back, but I've been so happy to see them again. Today he told me part of the reason they felt OK about coming back was because I made them feel like they were coming back to family. I know what it means to me when someone makes me feel like more than a friend--like family--and I'm humbled and happy to be able to share that kind of love and acceptance with someone else.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Little things mean a lot.
Melody bringing me flowers a couple of days before and letting me into Costco. She brought Rice Krispy Treats and blueberries and strawberries tonight, too.
A number of family and friends who have been dropping off extra food for days now, knowing I'll be feeding a crowd.
Olga as she sent me home with chafing dish after chafing dish of marvelous leftovers in order to help me feed the masses of family we had show up today in love and support of our family. Even better--a hug and well wishes and a big "I love you."
Brothers and a sister who postponed big plans for a family reunion this year in order to be here together for this day. Each one of them willing to do whatever was needed especially when just being here was what was most needed.
A mother who generously helped in every way she could even though she was hosting family the entire time.
Three grandmothers who are still living and loving and supporting us.
An aunt and uncle who sort of adopted us after my father died and make sure not to miss important events like this in our lives.
Another aunt who left the family farm during the busy time of harvest and spent a lot of money for gas to come when she knew she really shouldn't but because she knew should couldn't miss it.
Shane's mission president and his wife who pulled in as I arrived. Shane served some 30 years ago, but their love and support of us hasn't waned.
Four long rows of family. Six side rows and an additional scattering of high-school students who arrived to Sacrament Meeting 45 minutes early in order to get a seat.
Two friends from my work who come--even though it is their second Sacrament Meeting of the day--and staying for dinner.
A dear friend who is quite ill and has been hiding her illness from me so I wouldn't worry but who came and sat in the foyer so she could hear my boy speak.
The moment when I thank my mother-in-law for coming, telling her how I know she wouldn't have missed it but that I wanted her to know how much her presence means to us. She turns away to wipe her tears and I know she felt what I meant.
Knowing two families who moved away ages ago came back to the ward today so they could be there.
Having a young woman give me a hug and thank me for raising a righteous young man.
Georgia and Rob coming to be a welcome part of my village.
Seeing at least one boy who I know is no longer active sitting on the back row.
The moment that most undid me--seeing Shane and Luke together as Shane waiting to give the closing prayer.
A ward family who is as supportive as my immediate family.
Wondering what happened to my baby and the last 19 years that seemed to fly by, but proud of this boy who is growing into a man. Knowing he is anxious to serve the Lord and share his testimony with conviction will make it easier to let him go. I want him to be happy. While I know this will be hard, I know he will find joy as well.
Melody bringing me flowers a couple of days before and letting me into Costco. She brought Rice Krispy Treats and blueberries and strawberries tonight, too.
A number of family and friends who have been dropping off extra food for days now, knowing I'll be feeding a crowd.
Olga as she sent me home with chafing dish after chafing dish of marvelous leftovers in order to help me feed the masses of family we had show up today in love and support of our family. Even better--a hug and well wishes and a big "I love you."
Brothers and a sister who postponed big plans for a family reunion this year in order to be here together for this day. Each one of them willing to do whatever was needed especially when just being here was what was most needed.
A mother who generously helped in every way she could even though she was hosting family the entire time.
Three grandmothers who are still living and loving and supporting us.
An aunt and uncle who sort of adopted us after my father died and make sure not to miss important events like this in our lives.
Another aunt who left the family farm during the busy time of harvest and spent a lot of money for gas to come when she knew she really shouldn't but because she knew should couldn't miss it.
Shane's mission president and his wife who pulled in as I arrived. Shane served some 30 years ago, but their love and support of us hasn't waned.
Four long rows of family. Six side rows and an additional scattering of high-school students who arrived to Sacrament Meeting 45 minutes early in order to get a seat.
Two friends from my work who come--even though it is their second Sacrament Meeting of the day--and staying for dinner.
A dear friend who is quite ill and has been hiding her illness from me so I wouldn't worry but who came and sat in the foyer so she could hear my boy speak.
The moment when I thank my mother-in-law for coming, telling her how I know she wouldn't have missed it but that I wanted her to know how much her presence means to us. She turns away to wipe her tears and I know she felt what I meant.
Knowing two families who moved away ages ago came back to the ward today so they could be there.
Having a young woman give me a hug and thank me for raising a righteous young man.
Georgia and Rob coming to be a welcome part of my village.
Seeing at least one boy who I know is no longer active sitting on the back row.
The moment that most undid me--seeing Shane and Luke together as Shane waiting to give the closing prayer.
A ward family who is as supportive as my immediate family.
Wondering what happened to my baby and the last 19 years that seemed to fly by, but proud of this boy who is growing into a man. Knowing he is anxious to serve the Lord and share his testimony with conviction will make it easier to let him go. I want him to be happy. While I know this will be hard, I know he will find joy as well.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Corn-on-the-cob for dinner last night (and tonight--only this time with fresh-off-the-vine tomatoes).
Lunch with friends (topped off by the perfect flourless cake) after a crazy day at work. (Thank you ladies!)
Having second son ask this of me as he is packing for a macho JEEP trip down in Moab for scout camp: "Mom, can I please take a bar of your soap with me?" YES!
Not feeling guilty about being AWOL from RS activities in a week where there are three planned in four days.
Puffs Plus with Lotion (again)!
Lunch with friends (topped off by the perfect flourless cake) after a crazy day at work. (Thank you ladies!)
Having second son ask this of me as he is packing for a macho JEEP trip down in Moab for scout camp: "Mom, can I please take a bar of your soap with me?" YES!
Not feeling guilty about being AWOL from RS activities in a week where there are three planned in four days.
Puffs Plus with Lotion (again)!
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
They say laughter is the best medicine. I hope the ubiquitous they are correct. I've been hit with a nasty summer cold. My youngest doesn't believe me. "You can't catch a cold in the summer time...it is too hot!," he says. In any case I'm downing garlic and vitamin C and whatever else I can think of along with a healthy dose of Stephen Colbert and Whose Line is it Anyway clips. I should be good as new in no time!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Toasted Almond Fudge Ice Cream. In the form of a hand-stirred homemade shake. Yummy!
Movie nights. It's too hot outside or even upstairs so whoever is home hangs in the basement catching up on movies we are the last people on the planet to have seen. (I loved Batman Begins and I did not expect to all.)
The convenience of oral surgery. Wisdom teeth? Piece of cake. Someday I'll tell you the horror story of my wisdom teeth extraction, but Luke's went great. Whew! He can go to the U.K. now.
Getting bit by mosquitoes as I chatted on the front porch with my friend Tonya last night. (Really the chat part more than the getting bit part.) I love Tonya. She is one of my favorite people.
The fact that, at least until tonight (it's 1:40 a.m. and still 85 degrees out, and my AC is not even putting a dent in the 77 degrees it is inside--I need it about 68 to sleep), nights have been cool. I need air and it's been great to throw open my windows at bedtime each night and embrace the relatively fresh air. I think I may have to pack up the old cpap and head downstairs in a bit or I won't be good for anything tomorrow.
Movie nights. It's too hot outside or even upstairs so whoever is home hangs in the basement catching up on movies we are the last people on the planet to have seen. (I loved Batman Begins and I did not expect to all.)
The convenience of oral surgery. Wisdom teeth? Piece of cake. Someday I'll tell you the horror story of my wisdom teeth extraction, but Luke's went great. Whew! He can go to the U.K. now.
Getting bit by mosquitoes as I chatted on the front porch with my friend Tonya last night. (Really the chat part more than the getting bit part.) I love Tonya. She is one of my favorite people.
The fact that, at least until tonight (it's 1:40 a.m. and still 85 degrees out, and my AC is not even putting a dent in the 77 degrees it is inside--I need it about 68 to sleep), nights have been cool. I need air and it's been great to throw open my windows at bedtime each night and embrace the relatively fresh air. I think I may have to pack up the old cpap and head downstairs in a bit or I won't be good for anything tomorrow.
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