Tender Mercies

A very tired little girl :(

 

This last week was a difficult one. Elise caught a stomach virus which lasted for a couple days. Unfortunately for her, little stomach bugs turn into big problems. We weren't able to get her to eat or drink anything, including her anti-seizure medications.

 

Elise became very sick very quickly. She started on Wednesday night at dinner, not wanting to eat and starting to look a little green. She vomited not long after that. I left her with Heidi while I went to work on Thursday, stocked with Gatorade, Sprite and ice cream. Basically anything that would tempt her to take a drink of something. By the time I got home for lunch, she had had five seizures (two of them were the night before), one of which was terrifying for the kids to watch. Heidi had immediately called Eric, who came home right away.

 

I only had two more patients for the day, so we decided to take her to the hospital when I was done with work and try to get some fluids into her. We took her to the ER at Providence Hospital in Everett. We were there for about five hours, where she had two more violent seizures. One was exactly like the one that Heidi described from earlier that day. Her eyes suddenly shot open, her pupils were huge and black, and she started screaming hysterically while her entire body stiffened. It was the most terrifying thing that I have ever witnessed. I will never forget the look of sheer terror on her little face.

 

We had been sitting in the hospital room already for a long time, with hardly anyone coming in to check on us. Her first seizure had started directly after the doctor left the room. I ran out of the room to notify the nurses in the hall, but by the time they came in she was already self-stabilizing. When she had the second seizure, however, we were certainly not ignored. Three nurses and her doctor came running into the room as soon as they heard her screams. I was trying to console her, but didn't know what to do. I was crying, trying to talk to her and touch her face, hoping that somewhere inside of her she could hear my voice. The team immediately threw an oxygen mask on her face and a dose of Atavan (a strong form of Valium) was ordered for her.

 

After three needle sticks, the nurses were able to get an IV into Elise's arm. The Atavan was pumped in and she almost immediately quieted down.

 

The ER doctor who was helping Elise out decided that she was beyond the scope of their care. She needed a pediatric neurologist, who could get her seizures stabilized. They decided that we needed to transfer her down to Children's Hospital in Seattle.

 

Elise and I rode in the noisy, bumpy ambulance down to Children's at around midnight. She had another minor seizure in the ambulance, but it was very small. The EMT who rode in the back with us gave her a cute little teddy bear, with a few injuries of his own. He had a bandaid on his head, a cast on his leg, and carried a crutch.

 

We arrived at Children's and went through all the test results and interviews with multiple doctors. Elise had another seizure while everyone else was out of the room, but it was pretty mild. I mentioned it to them when they returned and they were stunned that I hadn't notified them. I hadn't gotten much help before so it didn't occur to me to call for anyone again, especially for a small one. But they were flabbergasted. It was pretty funny actually.

 

Elise was put onto a loading dose of Keppra, one of her main anti-seizure medications. After that we were finally admitted. We didn't get to our room until 4:00 am. By then I was so tired I thought that I would fall asleep on my feet. After getting her situated in the room I was finally able to get a few hours sleep until morning.

 

The next day Elise did well. She was very sleepy and nonresponsive, but that was understandable. The important thing was that she was no longer having seizures. Now the waiting game was just to see when she could manage drinking on her own, in particular to take her medications.

 

Eric came to Children's at about noon and I was able to step out of the room for a few minutes to get us some lunch. We coaxed Elise all afternoon until finally she was ready to really wake up. At last she was drinking enough and alert enough that the doctors felt comfortable to release her. We got home around 6:00 that night, just in time to make some dinner for the kids. 

 

On our way home!

As I have reflected back on this experience, I have been amazed to notice all the tender mercies that we received during Elise's illness.

 

Although it was scary to watch my child go through so much trauma over something as small as a stomach virus, I have felt so incredibly blessed. She is healthy and doing well. She was a bit wobbly today still, but by this evening she was laughing and babbling just like she always does. We have our little Elisey back, with no apparent damage.

 

The amazing thing was, however, that I felt so much peace during the entire event. I knew without a doubt that she was going to recover, that she was in excellent care with all the doctors and nurses who handled her case, and that we were going to pull through this as a family.

 

Several times the nurses and doctors mentioned how surprised they were about our calm demeanor. They said that most parents would be panicking at what they saw and what was happening with their child. We laughed it off, saying that it wasn't our first time dealing with these issues. But the more I have thought about it, the more I realize what a beautiful gift we were given of peace and comfort. It was a blessing straight from our Father in Heaven and I am so thankful for it.

 

I was also never concerned about the other kids at home. Heidi did a wonderful job holding down the fort, feeding the kids, and managing all that needed done in our absence. What a blessing she is to our family as well.

 

While we watched over our sleepy girl in the hospital, on Friday we had a visit from a woman in one of the wards located around Children's Hospital. She came asking if we needed assistance with anything, if we needed Priesthood blessings, and if we wanted our names submitted on the temple rolls for strengthening prayers and blessings. I was so touched by her visit, a complete stranger, who came bringing the love of the Savior into our room. She seemed to look right into me and see exactly what I needed to hear at that time. Among other things, she said that I needed a chocolate milk shake and gave Eric the charge to find me one. I felt incredibly blessed to be so looked after.

 

And then there were all the prayers from friends and family. It only took a few little posts on Facebook for me to have an entire support group rallying around our family. I can't even express how very much I felt those prayers. The power of prayer and faith is real. It is so real that I feel that I could tangibly reach out and touch it. I am still basking in the warm afterglow left over from it's encompassing glory. God's love for us is real. His love for my family is real. And His love for my little girl is as wide as the universe.

 

I am so grateful for tender mercies, and their affirming and absolute confirmation of my Heavenly Father's tender love for each of us. 

Tiffany's Journey

 

In January Eric and I started attending the missionary discussions with a girl that I had never met before, Tiffany Clark. The first time I met her was at the church after she had gotten off work at Wendy's, which is just up the street. It was a gray and drizzly evening, and Tiffany came rolling up to the door in her rollerblades, with a huge set of headphones on, and with a lot of spunk. I immediately thought to myself, "Well, this is going to be interesting!" Little did I know at that time what an amazing experience I was about to have with someone who appeared to be my total opposite.

 

Tiffany was looking for truth, and she was intrigued with the church. She had so many questions. I was immediately impressed with her voracious appetite for knowledge. She wanted to know everything, and with every answer we gave her, she would nod her head and say, "I like that. It makes sense."

 

Tiffany had come from a life of difficulty. She had been homeless as a teenager, pregnant, and abandoned by nearly everyone she knew. She went through so many trials at such a young age, and yet through it all developed an inner strength and resilience. I admired her right away for her drive to find truth and meaning, and her amazing sense of integrity to not involve herself in the garbage that surrounded her.

 

The longer we went with the discussions, the more Tiffany wanted to be baptized. I couldn't be more thrilled. The first step, however, was to marry the man that she was living with, and the father of her two youngest girls.

 

Tiffany and Kiel make a wonderful couple. In Kiel, Tiffany has found unconditional love, total commitment to their family, and a solid support for her. Although he has not shown interest in the church yet, he has been completely supportive of Tiffany as she was exploring her interest in the church and eventually wanted to become a member.

 

The thing that sticks in my mind the most that Tiffany said about Kiel is that he loves it when Tiffany and the girls go to church, because he can feel a difference in their home when they return. What a beautiful comment on what an impact the church can make in a family, even if it is a part-member family.

 

Tiffany and Kiel were married on June 21, 2014 in Brother and Sister Jensen's backyard. It was a gorgeous day, with a beautiful setting. What a special way to unite this family!

 

With the help of several ladies from the Ward, we put together a sweet little party. The decorations were simple. The bride was lovely. The food was delicious, and the spirit which was in that backyard was precious. Several of Tiffany and Kiel's family members and friends were able to attend the ceremony, along with a number of people from our Ward. It was wonderful to have so much support for this new family!

 



 

The elders were very excited for this wedding, since it meant that Tiffany could take the next step and be baptized!

 

 

Tiffany's second daughter Kaylee was baptized first, on June 15th, 2014. It was a really special day for her, and I was so proud of her for taking that first step to becoming a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

 



Then it was Tiffany's turn! Tiffany was baptized on July 6th, 2014. It truly was an amazing experience to witness her baptism. The Spirit bore testimony to me of how sacred this ordinance was, and how much it meant to Tiffany. As I stood on the side of the font, watching my dear friend be fully immersed in the water, just as Jesus Christ himself had done two millennia ago, my heart was brimming with pride and love. I knew that our Heavenly Father was so proud of her and the decision she made to be baptized. I knew that even though Tiffany had struggled through so much heartache in her young life, the Savior was watching over her and was with her for every step of her journey. He was preparing her and her heart for this special moment.

 



 

I was able to assist Tiffany as she stepped out of the font. Although she was dripping wet we embraced in a hug and I couldn't help but exclaim in excited whispers, "You did it! You did it!" Later on I discovered that our gleeful exclamations had echoed around the font and that everyone who had attended the baptism were witness to our joyful moment. I heard from many people on how sweet the Spirit was which was present in the room, and that our greeting was an incredibly touching moment. It was a moment that I will never forget.

 

 

Tiffany had started the missionary discussions with two sister missionaries, Sister Adams and Sister Garn. Both were able to attend the baptism, which was incredibly special. Sister Garn, who flew up for the event from her home in Utah, gave a beautiful talk on baptism. I was privileged to give the talk on the Holy Ghost.

 

  

The elders who completed Tiffany's discussions were Elder Paul and Elder Galante. They did such a wonderful job bringing the Spirit into all the discussions with both Tiffany and Kaylee. I was constantly impressed with their zealous dedication, their hard work, and the absolute love which they were able to share with us.

 

I feel a special connection with each of these missionaries who played such an important role in Tiffany's journey. They were all in our home so much, they almost feel like a permanent fixture there. What a wonderful blessing it has been to have them in our home.

 

I will forever be grateful for the opportunity which I have had to be a small part of Tiffany's journey to baptism. No one could have possibly guessed that two people who are so different, with such different backgrounds and different personalities could become such wonderful friends. Tiffany is not only my friend, though, she is my sister.

 

We are sisters of the heart and sisters in the gospel, linked forever through love and sacrifice, healing and hope, renewal and rebirth.

 

My sister, my friend.

 



I Want Jesus To Walk With Me

Last weekend I had the privilege of attending an amazing concert put on by the Ensign Symphony and Chorus, with special guest Alex Boye. What a wonderful evening! I have know about Alex Boye' for a while now, since he started singing as a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (of which he just recently retired from) and also recorded "Peponi" ("Paradise") with one of my favorite groups The Piano Guys. When I found out he would be coming to Seattle I knew that I had to make it to that concert!

Alex Boye' performing with The Piano Guys

Alex's story is an amazing one in itself. He told the audience a little about his history. Of Nigerian decent, he had a difficult childhood growing up in a rough neighborhood in London. Abandoned at age eleven, he lived homeless on the streets of London until he was placed in a number of foster homes. At the age of 16 while working at McDonald's he became acquainted with a pair of missionaries. He began taking the missionary discussions and was eventually baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a two-year mission for the Church in Bristol, England. As he prepared to return home, his mission president mentioned that he hoped that Alex would pursue a career in music, as it was an integral part of who he was.

When Alex returned home from his mission he was signed with a recording agency to be part of a boy band, and began touring around Europe. He said that although he gained a lot of experience with this venture, performing with big name acts like George Michael, he felt like he was surrounded by a lot of negative things which were not bringing him closer to God. He said that he didn't think that this was what his mission president had had in mind during his counsel to him. Alex eventually left the band, an act which required a lot of sacrifice on his part, as attorneys were brought in by his record label for breaking his contract. They stripped him of everything he had: apartment, car, savings. Eventually, without a penny to his name, he made his way to the United States where he settled in Salt Lake City, unsure of what to do next with his life.

It was while he was in Salt Lake that he started performing as a special guest for different groups, and eventually was invited to perform with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, first as a guest performer, and finally as a member of the choir.

Alex told a very touching story about the song that means the most to him. He was asked to sing "I Want Jesus to Walk With Me" with the choir, and to add his African flair to the song. The song was such a success that he was asked to travel to Africa for a music video shoot. He was excited to go. He and the film crew traveled to Ghana, without having any preconceived ideas of where they should do the shoot. They left it up to chance and the Spirit to help direct where to go.

Alex was drawn to a beautiful old building nestled in the rocks on the coast of Ghana and asked about doing the shoot there. He was told that they would probably be denied. Even Oprah Winfrey and President Barack Obama himself had had a difficult time cutting through all the red tape necessary to secure filming on the location at previous times. The location was a building of great historical significance, being the largest holding place on the coast for slaves which were taken to America and England. The prisoners were held captive there, crammed by the thousands into holding cells which were meant to contain hundreds. The conditions were unimaginable. Starving and disease-ridden, they were held for up to six months before they were loaded onto boats and sent throughout the world.

Alex knew that this was the place which they were meant to film the video. It took a lot of work to get permission, but with what he felt like was some divine intervention, it was made possible.

As the film crew climbed down into the depths of the prison, it was evident that they were walking on holy ground. Alex said that as he looked up through the tunnels he could see the sky, and the place from where the slaves' captors worshipped.

An intense feeling overwhelmed Alex as he stood there in the bowels of the prison, but it wasn't one of despair or anguish like you might expect. It was an immense feeling of God's love. He bore a strong testimony of how much he could feel God's love for each of His children, and the power of the Atonement, which gives us the peace and comfort we need through our trials, no matter how big or small they may be. The Spirit was very strong in the auditorium as Alex bore his testimony. I was deeply touched by his spirit and the message which he shared. He then performed the song which meant so much to him.

I felt so blessed to have had the opportunity to feel of this great man's spirit in person. The example which he is to the world is a testimony to me of how God brings miracles through the meek. Alex had a difficult start in life. Many could have said that he would amount to nothing. But through his continued perseverance and unquenchable faith in God, he was able to rise above the darkness and enter the light of Christ, allowing us a glimpse of that brilliant light through him.

Peace and Renewal

Tonight Eric and I enjoyed a romantic date at Arnie's restaurant, with its magnificent views of the water. While we sat eating our delicious grilled salmon and garlic mashed potatoes we were able to enjoy the beauty of the setting sun as it sparkled across the blue waters of the Puget Sound.

After dinner we walked along one of our favorite beaches, Mukilteo Beach, enjoying the sounds and smells of the beach at sunset. People were out enjoying the night, sitting on washed up tree trunks or roasting marshmallows over fire pits in the sand. There were a couple of kids playing on their guitars, comparing songs they were working on composing. Kids were throwing rocks into the water, which was up for high tide. I scoured the beach for unusual shapes of broken shells.

I marvel at the scenery which is right in front of me, and only about a twenty minute drive from my front door. When I go to the beach, no matter what season or time of day, it always fills me with a sense of peace and renewal. Tonight as I watched and felt the majesty of the sun setting on a perfect golden day, it made me feel both infinitely small and eternally significant. Our Father in Heaven must love each of us so tremendously to create such a beautiful and majestic place to live. I am in constant awe at His wonderful creations, and that I get to be a small part of it.

When I witness such beauty, it fills my soul with peace. I feel content because I am in a holy place, a world which was created in all its glory to bring God's children joy. I receive a sense of renewal because I am closer to Him when I am enjoying His marvelous creations. And although I feel as tiny as a grain of sand, I feel as loved as any creature could possibly be. 

I am loved beyond comprehension, and that brings me joy.

Because of Him

On this beautiful Easter Sunday, my thoughts are turned to my Savior Jesus Christ, his miraculous birth, life, ministry, and mission on the earth.  I also think of the sacrifice he made for each of us, paying a debt that no other could pay, and in the process paving the way for each of us to return to live with God.  And finally, the miracle of his resurrection, restoring to every son and daughter of God the hope of life after death.

I am so grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ! It is because of him that I can start fresh every day with a new conviction to be better. It is because of him that I can have the comfort and peace I need through trials and sorrow. It is because of him that my family relationships will not end at the grave. It is because of him that I can be whole and clean. It is because of him that I will be able to live with my Father in Heaven again one day.  I am truly grateful.

Mary's Story

I have always been intrigued by Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ.  What kind of woman must she have been to be entrusted with the incredible task of bearing and raising the Savior of the world?  She must have been one of our Father in Heaven's choicest spirits.  This must have been true about Joseph as well, to be humble enough to raise Jesus as his own, and to love and honor his mother, Mary.

Elder Robert J. Matthews said this about Mary:

"When we consider the strong influence that a mother has on the personality and attitude of a young child in the home, we sense the responsibility that our Heavenly Father gave Mary by entrusting her with the rearing of his chosen and Beloved Son.  This would require adequate training of Mary, both as a premortal spirit and as a young woman in mortality.  Notwithstanding her pre-earth assignment, Mary would not have been worthy to bear the Son of God and give him a body of flesh and blood unless she was clean and pure in mortal life."

When I first read the quote above from Elder Matthews, I was overcome with a feeling of admiration, respect, and love for this very choice daughter of God.  I am so thankful to have such an amazing example of a woman to study from the scriptures.  She truly exemplified faith, obedience, humility, and love.

Finally, Elder Bruce R. McConkie said this about Mary:

"As there is only one Christ, so there is only one Mary.  And as the Father chose the most noble and righteous of all his spirit sons to come into mortality as his Only Begotten in the flesh, so we may confidently conclude that he selected the most worthy and spiritually talented of all his spirit daughters to be the mortal mother of his Eternal Son."

I recently wrote a short story which was posted on my writing group's website for Christmas.  It is a portrayal of the story of Jesus' birth, as seen through the eyes of Joseph's donkey, who carried Mary on his back on their journey to Bethlehem.  I really enjoyed the opportunity which it gave me to think more about what Mary and Joseph must have really been like, what their daily life would have looked like, what the challenges were that they faced as they made this necessary trip to Bethlehem.  It made me appreciate even more the sacrifices that they each made, in order to bring our Savior into the world.  It also helped strengthen my testimony of our Father in Heaven's plan for each of us, and the joy which we can receive by following the example of Jesus Christ.

I am so thankful for a Father in Heaven who loved us enough to send his Only Begotten Son into the world, who would provide the way that we can return to live with them again one day.  Jesus Christ truly is the light of the world, and I hope that I can share that more fully with those around me, even if it is through the simple means of sharing a sweet bedtime story.

I hope that you have time to enjoy my story:

"Samuel's Stable" by Heather White

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all our beloved friends and family, near and far!

Our hearts are full of gratitude today for the gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ, for His life and example, and for His atoning sacrifice on our behalf. Our wish this holiday season is to share His light and love to all we meet.  May God bless you and your families.

Thanks for Thanksgiving

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving last week.  Since family was so far away, we decided to invite some friends to share the meal with.  I invited a coworker friend with her son, as well as the sister missionaries who are currently serving in our Ward.  We had a great time together laughing and talking, and had a big laugh over Elise and her antics.  She gets pretty excited with an audience, and even more excited with new friends to show off to.

Sharing time together as a family, plenty of food to eat, a warm comfortable home to live in....we are truly blessed.

I am so grateful this holiday season for all that the Lord has blessed us with.  We have enjoyed good health this year, successful and stable employment, satisfaction and fulfillment in service opportunities at church and in the community, and happy and active children.

Most of all I am so grateful for the way my family has been blessed by being members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  We receive peace in knowing that, through the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity to improve ourselves each day, drawing us closer to our Father in Heaven, and closer to our family here on the earth.

******

On a fun side-note, I wrote a Thanksgiving-themed short story for my writing group's website. I hope that you will read it and enjoy it, and remember all the things that we have to be grateful for....especially FAMILY!

"A Thanksgiving Week," by Heather White

Strengthening the Family

Poster for the Everett Stake Focus 2014

 

My new calling in church is going full force now.  I recently leapt over my first hurdle, testing my new wobbly legs in a Stake leadership position.  The Stake Presidency recommended that I develop a focus for the Stake Primary for next year.

I agonized over what this Stake focus should be.  I felt very strongly that it should be coming from the Lord, and not from me, so I sought for inspiration and guidance through much prayer and pleading.  It was hard work.  I learned a lot from the process.  I learned that directives which come to us from our leaders are not merely a whim, or an idea that they just decide on one day. They come from hours of study, prayer, meditation, fasting, and temple service.

Heavenly Father answered my prayers.  It became very clear what the Stake Primary's focus should be, and it did not come from me. 

The general Primary theme for 2014, as issued by the General Primary Presidency of the church, is Families are Forever.  Throughout the year the children will be learning about what families are, why we are part of families, and how we can make them become eternal families.

They will also learn about “The Family: a Proclamation to the World.”

How can we best teach our children about eternal families?  As I attended the Relief Society General Broadcast, I was struck with how many talks were focused on covenants.  They seemed to be talking specifically to me, and I felt impressed that it was something that the Lord wanted us to focus on this next year. Then as I was watching General Conference there were a few talks which reaffirmed what I had been feeling before, answering my prayer in an even more expanded way.

But what do covenants have to do with the theme Families are Forever?

Simply put, eternal families are families that make and keep covenants.

We cannot be an eternal family unless we have made and honored our covenants on earth.

What is a covenant?

In her talk “ThePower, Joy, and Love of Covenant Keeping,” Linda K. Burton (Relief Society General President) said this:

 

"Elder Jeffery R. Holland explained that 'a covenant is a binding spiritual contract, a solemn promise to God our Father that we will live and think and act in a certain way--the way of His Son, the Lord, Jesus Christ.  In return, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost promise us the full splendor of eternal life.' In that binding contract, the Lord sets the terms and we agree to keep them.  Making and keeping our covenants is an expression of our commitment to become like the Savior.  The ideal is to strive for the attitude best expressed in a few phrases of a favorite hymn: 'I'll go where you want me to go...I'll say what you want me to say...I'll be what you want me to be.'"

 

A friend told me recently that keeping the commandments and honoring our covenants is like following a pattern.  It is the pattern of God.  If we want to be like Him and live in His presence, we will follow the pattern which He has set.  This pattern is eternal, never changing.  It is up to us to mold ourselves to fit it.

We know that we need to honor our covenants in order to attain eternal life. But why do we need covenants?  It’s more than just fulfilling an obligation.

In her talk “DoWe Know What We Have?” Carole M. Stephens (1^st Counselor Relief Society General Presidency) said: "These priesthood ordinances and covenants provide access to the fullness of the blessings promised to us by God, which are made possible by the Savior's Atonement.  They arm sons and daughters of God with power, God's power, and provide us with the opportunity to receive eternal life--to return to God's presence and live with Him in His eternal family."

Sister Stephens then went on to explain how she visited four women in Honduras during a recent trip, who each had different struggles in their home.  She continued:

"When I met these faithful women in Honduras, I could see that they were striving to keep their families active in the gospel.  They expressed gratitude for covenant-keeping ward members who tenderly watch over them and help support their temporal and spiritual needs.  However, each of these sisters had needs that had not been fully met.  When we left each home, we counseled together about how to help these families receive the ordinances they needed to progress on the covenant path and strengthen their homes....There exists today a great need for men and women to cultivate respect for each other as sons and daughters of God and reverence for our Father in Heaven and His priesthood--His power and authority.  He has a plan for us, and when we exercise our faith and trust in His plan, our reverence for Him and for His priesthood power and authority will strengthen."

 

Are there families close to you who could use the added strength of making and keeping covenants?

How can a child make a difference in their family’s strength?  I believe very strongly that a child can make all the difference.

Imagine what can happen to a family if a child approaches their parents, saying, “Let’s have Family Home Evening, let's pray together, let's study the scriptures.”

Imagine what can happen to a family if a child applies principles of repentance and forgiveness, compassion and love? There will be increased peace in the home, the Spirit will be present, and it will become easier for everyone to keep the covenants which they have already made.

Rosemary Wixom (Primary General President) said this: “It is a gift to be able to teach the children. They are pure, and their minds are open. As Primary leaders, it is as if we are writing on blank pages. We are also protecting the faith that is innate in every child. In a Primary board meeting, Michael Wilcox put it this way: ‘Our job is to keep the world from taking out of a child what is already there.’”

As a Stake Primary, we want to help the families in our Stake become a stronger, covenant-keeping people, so the Stake focus for 2014 is: Preparing families to make and keep covenants.

 

In "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," it states:

Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of:

faith

prayer

repentance

forgiveness

respect

love

compassion

work

wholesome recreational activities

 

 

In order to help the families in our Stake prepare to make and keep covenants, we would like to focus on the nine principles listed in the proclamation.  As a Stake Primary Presidency, we are inviting the wards to teach the children in their Primary basic ways that they can help strengthen their families by applying the principles listed in the Proclamation.

We recommend that they discuss these principles with their primary children and brainstorm ideas of how they can implement each of them into their own family life.  Everything which is learned in Primary should also be supported and implemented in the home.  I am encouraging all families to learn how to apply the principles listed in the Proclamation, as a way to strengthen their family unit.  As we strengthen our own families, we will be better prepared to reach out to those around us who are struggling and help lift them up.

I have a testimony of the importance of the family.  My own family is more precious and dear to me than anything else on this earth.  It breaks my heart when I see those that I love struggling with personal issues, leading them on paths away from the safety and strength that covenants can provide.  I know that through our Father in Heaven's infinite love for us, He gave us the ultimate sacrifice of His Only Begotten Son, enabling us all to have access to the sublime blessing of exaltation, and living once again in His presence.  It is through this miraculous blessing that we are able to create an eternal family, one that is sealed together for time and all eternity, bound forever in our eternal relationships, even after the temporary separation of death. 

 

Sunrise

Brian & Carol Anderson

It was an emotional day for everyone at church today.

A member of our Ward, longtime friend and home teacher of ours, passed away on Monday after a long struggle with leukemia.  After years of chemotherapy treatments, which his body seemed resistant to, his last resort was a bone marrow transplant this spring.  He suffered through the trauma and illness, and even seemed to be reacting well to the transplant, when suddenly things took a downhill turn.  He started to react to one of his anti-rejection drugs and never fully recovered.

I have been amazed to watch him and his wife Carol go through this entire ordeal.  They were always positive and upbeat, choosing to put their faith in God, and trusting in his guidance and protection.

During one of Brian's home teaching visits with our family, he laughed about a situation that had just come up with an onsight therapist.  Cancer patients are encouraged to attend some therapy sessions, to help them through feelings of grief, frustration, and fear associated with such a terrible disease.  He told us about how he had explained to her his resounding feeling of peace.  He was already at terms with the possibility of death, and nothing he knew about death scared him.  He was ready for whatever was in store, whether it be living twenty more years on earth, or returning to his Father in Heaven.  He laughed when he told us her reaction.  She said, "Brian, I don't think you need me. I probably should be listening to YOU."

Brian was the epitome of enduring to the end.

As I listened to many members of our Ward family bear testimony today of the peace and reassurance which we can receive from the Savior and his Atonement, I was reminded so clearly, with a flood of emotions when we lost Eric's dad.  It is so difficult to watch someone you love suffer for so long.  I remember pleading with my Father in Heaven to please release him from such a burden.  In my heart, I was hoping that release would come through a miraculous recovery, but our prayers were answered in a different way.

The challenge of aligning our will with God's, and trusting in His love, is probably one of life's most difficult.  I fight this challenge every day, as I watch my beautiful daughter struggle to make her way down the stairs, or trip because her balance is not quite right, or struggle with picking up small pieces of cereal because her dexterity is not that intricate.  I mourn for the life she could have had, for the experiences she will miss, the children she will never have.  But then I look into her eyes and hear her musical laugh and I know that she is happy.  She is happy with who she is and what God has given her.  He loves her and has blessed her in so many ways.

I have learned from watching my father-in-law, watching Brian, and watching Elise, that not only are miracles possible, but they do happen.  I have learned that you can face your challenges and adversity with faith and optimism.  I have also learned that you can accept the outcome of circumstances with peace and contentment.  Aligning our will with God gives us the reassurance of His matchless love for His children.  That He loves us and only wants our happiness.

On Tuesday morning, as I was driving to work, I was thinking about Brian's life and his example to me.  As I rounded the corner to get onto the freeway I got a good view of the sky.  It was one of the most glorious sunrises that I have ever seen, full of rich oranges and pinks.  Seeing it flooded me with warmth.  I felt sure that it was God's way of reminding each of us of His presence and His love.  

Brian was definitely smiling down on his family that morning.

Prepared

At my church, the children of the congregation are part of an organization called the Primary.  They have many teachers and leaders, and are taught principles of the gospel through lessons, group activities, and music.

Last Sunday I was checking with our Ward's Primary Presidency about when we were scheduled to perform our annual Primary Program.  I am currently playing the piano as accompanist for the Primary, and was concerned if the date of the performance was while we are scheduled to be on vacation in Hawaii in October.

Luckily, the dates were not an issue.

Heidi Barker, from the presidency, teased me that I wasn't getting out of playing for the program that easily....Then she told me that I had to bring her back some chocolate-covered macadamia nuts.

I think I just got out of it, but it wasn't easy.

After church I had an appointment to meet with the leader of our regional area, our Stake President Porterfield.  He came to our house for the interview.

I was on pins and needles.  There are not very many times that a Stake President comes into your home to meet specifically with you.  There are actually only a handful of reasons that he would do so.  I was listing those reasons in my head and starting to panic, stewing over it the entire weekend.  Finally the suspense was resolved and President Porterfield got to the point of his visit.

He extended a new calling (or responsibility specific to the church) to me, and asked me to be the new Stake Primary President.

I was in shock.

There are eight separate Primaries in our Stake, each with its own presidency which oversees the week-to-week needs of their children.  The Stake Primary Presidency acts as a support for the Ward presidencies, training them and helping them with any difficulties they encounter.  They also assist with other functions of the Stake in relation to the children.  It is a big job, and will involve visiting the other Wards' Primaries frequently.

I struggled through this week, unable to discuss my new calling with anyone from my Stake, and given the responsibility to choose two counselors, to complete our presidency before our Stake Conference held this weekend.

I was bombarded with feelings of inadequacy. 

I remembered very clearly how I felt when President Porterfield told me, leaning in close with an intensity in his eyes, saying, "I believe very strongly that you are meant to be the Stake Primary President at this time."

In my head I asked, "WHY?!" 

Why me, when there are so many other women much more qualified than I am to fulfill this calling?

I relayed my feelings of fear and inadequacy to Eric, while he was still in Las Vegas for work. He texted me back, saying, "Don't let negative thoughts enter into your mind. The last year and a half have been preparation for you. You have a lot to offer."

On Friday I went to the temple, seeking the peace and comfort which comes in the house of the Lord.  As I was waiting for my session to begin, I read from the Book of Mormon. I opened to the book of Ether and read the account of the brother of Jared preparing to cross the sea with his eight barges.

In chapter 2:25 it reads: "And behold, I prepare you against these things; for ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come...."

Then in chapter 3:14 it continues: "Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. I am the Father and the Son. In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name; and they shall become my sons and my daughters."

I was struck with the use of the word prepared. Once I got home I looked up the definition of prepare in the dictionary.  It read:

"To make ready beforehand for some purpose..."

Even though I often do not feel adequate, and wonder if I am capable of completing this assignment, I can learn to trust the Lord.  He has prepared me for this work, because I cannot "cross this great deep" without me putting my faith in him.  And just like Jesus Christ was prepared for his glorious role on the earth, to be our Savior and Redeemer, I was also prepared for the many roles that I would carry out while upon the earth.

As I sat in reverence in President Porterfield's office this afternoon, his hands placed upon my head to set me apart as the Stake Primary President, I felt a warmth of reassurance that not only was I capable, but that I was meant to have this experience.  I knew that it would be a stretch for me, but it would be an amazing opportunity to learn and grow in the gospel, and that I wouldn't have to face the storm alone.

I am so thankful for this opportunity which I have been given to serve the children of our Stake, and feel the Savior's all-encompassing love for them.  What a blessing it will be to stand as a witness to them that he lives, and help them "believe on [his] name; and they shall become [his] sons and [his] daughters."

He Knows Me By Name

On August 6th was mine and Eric's 19th wedding anniversary.

It was a really special day for us. We happened to be in Boise visiting for a family reunion, so we thought it would be meaningful to attend a session in the same temple that we were married in 19 years previously.  My parents and brother Michael attended with us and it was an experience that I will never forget.

The Boise Temple was recently completely remodeled. Everything on the inside was gutted out and redesigned, and the outside was resurfaced with a beautiful white granite. This was our first time through the temple since all the changes were made. 

As I entered this beautiful building, both completely new yet forever the same, I was overcome with memories from my first experience in that sacred House of the Lord. Not only was I sealed to Eric on that special day 19 years previously, but I also made other sacred covenants with the Lord for the first time. To add to this remembrance of first experiences, we were also able to see for the first time a beautiful new production made for part of the temple ceremony. It was like I was reliving that new day again so many years ago, and I was once again full of awe and wonder at how blessed I am to live in this world at this time.

 

There were several other beautiful moments which occurred that morning, so sacred and special that I find them difficult to talk about. As I was sitting in the Celestial Room, the holiest of places in the temple, surrounded by my family and with Eric by my side, I contemplated what I had just experienced and why it meant so much to me.

I was suddenly overwhelmed by such a rush of warmth and love so powerful it left me breathless. In that moment I felt so incredibly and personally loved by my Father in Heaven. He knew my needs, my fears, my strengths, my weaknesses, and He LOVED ME! I knew that He knew me by name.

Why did this mean so much to me at this particular time?

There is nothing more personal or sacred that identifies you individually and apart from anyone else, than your name.

I have been struggling with a lot of personal issues for many months now. Despite my best efforts, I have been continually berating myself for my inability to overcome personal weaknesses, and it has been a struggle to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes I am so overwhelmed with the idea of who I want to be, that it seems impossible for me to be able to overcome my personal weaknesses and be that woman in my mind. How could I truly be loved as a Daughter of God if I wasn't perfect?

In my mind, I already knew that I was loved, even despite my imperfections. But at that moment, I really needed to KNOW, and in His perfect love and mercy, my Father in Heaven knew what I needed.

He knows me by name.

Tonight I had another difficult moment, when fear and desperation gripped me as I watched Elise endure another terrifying seizure. I held her, trying to calm her and comfort her as she cried, while at the same time I was screaming in my head, "WHY? WHY? WHY must we go through this? How can I endure seeing my child suffer like this?"

Then once again I was comforted with the same reassurance that not only am I loved, and my trials and fears are understood, but that Elise is so very loved as well. All at once, I flashed back to that special day in the temple and what I experienced there. Almost from the moment that the remembrance flooded my heart, Elise seemed to feel it as well. Her body started to relax and her rattling breaths began to slow and steady. I was once again overcome with a feeling of peace and love, knowing that our needs were understood and met.

Elise looked up at me and gave a small, tired smile, then rolled onto her side and snuggled into her sleeping position, her eyes quickly drifting shut.

I am so grateful for a Father in Heaven who answers prayers, especially the ones that we don't even know we are sending up to Him. I am so grateful for His guidance and the constant assurances I receive to confirm that I am a beloved Daughter of God, despite my weaknesses and faults.

He knows me by name.

Funny Me

Every year, Everett School District sponsors an art competition for students to submit their original pieces of art and presentation called the Reflections Celebration.  First place winners in each division then move on to state level competition.  For the first time, this year they have a Special Artist Division for those with qualifying disabilities.  The students must create their own artwork, but can have non-artistic accomodation and assistance from an adult. 

 

This year's theme is "Magic of the Moment."

 

Elise's teacher really wanted to submit something from Elise.  She works daily at school on an iPad, and loves to look at pictures of herself and her friends on it.  One day her teacher set the iPad on video record and let Elise do her thing.  The result is her submission titled, "Funny Me."

 

On Wednesday night, the School District had an open house with all the artwork and submissions on display, along with their awards.  Elise's video took first place in her division, which means it will be moving on to the state competition!

 

It was a really special night.  As I was wandering around looking at all the student submissions, I had several people come introduce themselves to me, wanting to get to meet Elise's mom.  Two women from the PTSA committee sought me out specifically so they could meet me and tell me how much they adore Elise.  They both started to tear up as they exclaimed how excited they were to see her video, and also tell me how much of an impact she makes on all the kids around her.

 

They didn't have to tell me how special she is, though.  I already knew that, but it is so touching to see what a positive role she plays.  She is here on earth, and in our home, for a very special purpose.

 

When Eric gave Elise her first Priesthood blessing at church, it was before we even realized that she was going to be different and have special needs.  He was inspired by our Heavenly Father to tell her that she is a very special spirit, reserved to come to earth at this time, and that others would feel the Savior's love through her.

 

Everyday, Elise brings the Spirit into our home, and I see how others immediately feel something special when they are near her.  They are filled with love.  I know this is a gift from our Father in Heaven to each of us, and is Elise's special purpose here on the earth.  Even if they do not know how to expain what they are feeling, they are experiencing first-hand the Savior's love for each of us, as shown through the smile of one of His most precious children.

Daughter of a King

July was a really crazy month....I will try to get caught up on all my blog posts!!

I taught a lesson today for all our Young Women, and made a slide show for the end of the lesson. I thought it turned out pretty well, but I am pretty partial to these girls!! I also LOVE the two songs which I used: "I Am His Daughter" and "Daughter of a King."  (Notice a theme going here?)  Even if you don't know my Young Women, the music alone makes watching the video worthwhile!

Fathers

I have three very important men in my life...

I was lucky enough to find my soulmate at the tender age of eighteen. Eric was the first Returned Missionary I ever dated, and I never looked back! My dad told me many years later that he remembered the phone call I made home after I met him for the first time. Once he heard that Eric was a Returned Missionary, he knew I was a goner!

I feel so blessed to be married to a man who honors his priesthood, is a loving father and partner, and is my best friend. He has always been a hard worker, and devotes countless hours to serving others. He is a great example to me of unconditional love and acceptance. I feel so blessed that we were able to be sealed for time and eternity in the Boise, Idaho temple almost eighteen years ago! It is amazing to think that I am at the point now that half of my life has been spent with this wonderful man!



Most of my fondest memories involve some sort of adventure with my dad. He was always the cool water-skiing, rock-climbing, mountain-biking guy that everyone else wished they were related to! In particular, I loved the years we spent learning to waterski after we got our first boat. I was twelve years old when he taught me how to drive the boat while he skiied. I felt so grown-up and important because I felt that he trusted me.

Over the years I have felt our bond increase. I love our long Sunday night conversations where we talk about everything from music to work to kids to church. He has always been such an amazing example to me of generosity and love. It was from him that I learned how to gain a testimony of the gospel. I so appreciate his priesthood leadership over our family, and have felt the strength from his testimony and priesthood blessings. I can always count on him for the best advice and counsel. I feel so blessed to have him as my father!



This is our first Father's Day without Brady. I have been thinking about him all week, missing his smile, his warm embrace, and his presence in our lives. I will always be grateful for his loving welcome to me into the White clan. He loved his family so much. His grandkids were his world. He never let an opportunity pass him by to express how much he loved us. Just this week, we were having issues with one of our cars. Eric mentioned how much he wished he could call his dad to ask for advice, like he always did before. It struck me hard on how much I wished we could just talk to him about anything. We miss him so much.

I will eternally be grateful to Brady for his example of hard work and dedication to his family, and his strength to endure so many years of sickness. I never heard him complain, even when I knew that he felt so ill and weak. He was a loving father, and raised four amazing children. I feel so blessed to have had him in my life, and for the wonderful son he raised!

Happy Father's Day!