A Day Late (and Probably a Dollar Short)

What with auditions for Thoroughly Modern Millie, meeting Emilee's (Joel's fiancee) parents, and performing with the Davis Master Chorale in concert yesterday, I'm a day late posting this birthday wish to Valerie. How well I remember those frightening hours after her birth--knowing there was something wrong with her, but not knowing what it was for sure. One of the most traumatic moments of my life was watching a medical helicopter taking my newborn daughter to Primary Children's Hospital. It turned out that she didn't have heart problems, but had ingested amniotic fluid into her lungs. After an almost two week stay in the newborn ICU, we got to bring her home just in time for Mother's Day--definitely my best gift ever! We loved that little baby and we love the grown up version of her, too. Happy birthday to a smart, funny, and loyal friend, daughter, sister, aunt, and wife--our Valerie Jean.

That's Entertainment!

Jim and I have often wondered what we did for entertainment before we had grandchildren. One of those sources of entertainment, James, celebrated his third birthday today. How we enjoy his clever antics and the cute way he talks. We had dinner and presents at our house this evening in honor of his special day, Melissa's birthday this past week, and Valerie's birthday coming up this weekend. Sam had made a darling train cake, which was also very delicious. (Maybe she'll post pictures on her blog.) A good time was had by all!

Missy

Today we celebrate Melissa's birthday, once our little Missy whose smile could always light up a room and now a grown woman meeting the challenges in her life with a positive attitude and that same smile. How we admire your determination to create a better life for yourself and your children, no matter what it takes! We love you. Happy birthday!

Busy Weekend

My wonderful mother-in-law and friend, Mary, was honored by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers for her many years of service, including ten years as their International President, on Saturday afternoon. A tree was planted in her honor on the lawn of the state capitol and a plaque was also placed there. It was a nice ceremony and she definitely deserves the recognition. I'm truly blessed to have her and True as my parents-in-law.

True and Mary with state senator and family friend, Margaret Dayton. Margaret received the tree on behalf of the state.

Next it was off to a baby shower for Emily, given by Adam's family. She received so many nice gifts--even a diaper "cake".

The diaper "cake"

The real cake was masterpiece of fondant and chocolate cake. I thought the baby must be made of plastic, but it was created from fondant, too. This was made by the same woman who made Adam and Emily's wedding cake.

We ended our busy Easter weekend with a wonderful dinner at my parents' home. Adam's parents, two of his siblings, and two of his cousins were able to join with our family for the occasion. The youngest members enjoyed a fun Easter Egg hunt after our meal.

A Full Heart

I love how participating in General Conference always makes me feel--that feeling of wanting to be better and try harder in everything I do. The positive ways our leaders encourage us always makes me feel like I can be a better person. So my heart is full of gratitude for the things I've heard this weekend.
My heart is also full because our prayers in Joel's behalf have finally been answered. This weekend he has announced his engagement to the beautiful Emilee Bradley. (She's the one in the middle.) We have been praying for so long that a wonderful young woman would come into his life and consent to stay forever and we're so happy that she is the one. The big day will be in July.

Adam

Although he was born on April Fool's Day, he's no fool--after all he made the choice to marry one of our daughters. We love his quirky sense of humor, fun personality, and we appreciate the kind of husband he is to Emily. I'm happy to call him one of "my boys". We can't wait to see him in the role of "Dad". Happy birthday Adam!