FILLING OUR BASKETS

We had a great Easter!!!  I've decided it really is my most favorite holiday.  Nothing is better than family, spring, and my Redeemer.  It is such a special time of year for me.  I find that I am able to more easily recognize and count my many blessings.  I see the hand of the Lord in my life every single day.  His sacrifice and love is what makes my life so joyful!!!

This Easter I found myself thinking of Mary, Christ's mother.  I guess it's because I'm a young mother and am just beginning to understand the great innocence of a child.  Christ was crucified in his thirty's, but was innocent, pure, and without sin just, like my young children.  What a difficult thing this must have been for her.  I have such a greater understanding of his sacrifice and atonement.  How sweet and pure the power of the atonement and resurrection can have in our lives.    

Easter Fun...

ELDER MONKEY MENLOVE

I can't believe he's really gone!!!  My baby brother, Brandon, who we convinced, as a young boy, that he was a monkey we had adopted.  My oldest sister, Jamie, even went as far as putting his face on a monkeys' body in the encyclopedia :) That poor child!!!  After all that he is now serving in the Durban, South Africa mission, for the LDS church,... Back to his homeland... lol!!!

Brandon will be sorely missed, but we are so thrilled about the life changing experience he will have and create for others!!!  His farewell was a special day for our family.  I feel so blessed to have such incredible brothers, sisters, and parents, who all have a great love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  His gospel is powerful and truly is the plan of happiness.  I know the people of South Africa will feel that same happiness as they come unto the Lord!!!

God be with you until we meet again... Love you B!!!!!!