Surgery and Beyond

Dad and Mom arrived on February 19 to spend a few days helping me as I went in for surgery on February 20. Travis took me to the hospital early in the morning and Dad and Mom spent the next three days shuttling kids to school, preparing lunches, visiting me at the hospital, attending to me at home, helping kids with homework, helping feed the family and more. I am so appreciative of the help I had. Dad and Mom went home on Saturday to attend to some pre-planned events, then drove back on Sunday afternoon to continue the above-routine for four more days. Travis had to go out of town for two of those days, so I really don't know what I'd have done without them.
My pantry didn't look this good, even when I first moved in. I came downstairs one morning (after being allowed to sleep late) and Dad and Mom were cleaning and organizing my pantry. They cleaned bathrooms, the laundry room, the refrigerator, and the entertainment/office portion of the family room.
Here is my beautifully clean laundry room. They did so much to help us. I was so sad and a little overwhelmed when they left (okay a lot overwhelmed). I know they're busy and I feel so grateful that even though I'm long past the years that they should have to be taking care of me, they were willing and went above and beyond. Thanks Dad and Mom. From all of us at the White House. We sure do love you both.
Here are the beautiful flowers and cards brought to me by Travis, my family, Dad and Mom, my in-laws, some of my young women. The cute pillow was sent to me by Kara along with the cute hand-made card in front. It went to the hospital with me. Thanks to everyone for your calls, prayers and concern. I love you all!

Snow Much Fun!

When we had our big snow storm the first part of February, Savannah and Joseph entertained themselves for hours and hours shoveling neighbors' driveways and building snow forts. They had such fun and loved being out in the snow. Every morning, I'd be annoyed that it had snowed and I'd have to drive them to school in the snow. They, on the other hand, were excited and couldn't wait to get home from school. I'm glad they enjoyed it!

Remembering Bruce on his Birthday!

These pictures are of Bruce, my little brother and the one we named my son, Bruce, after. At 16 years old, he died in a car accident. So young, with so many life experiences unlived.

Thank goodness we know that we have a loving Heavenly Father, who orchestrates the big and little things that happen in our lives. While I miss Bruce, even to this day, I have been comforted these many years by the knowledge that it wasn't random, that Heavenly Father's hand was in the events that took Bruce from our daily lives, but thankfully not from our eternal lives.

It was with sadness that I realized that I would marry and have children that would have no memories of Bruce. Bruce was a good kid, who tried hard to honor his parents and do what he was taught. He was an athlete, playing every sport he could and doing well at them. That is something he and my son, Bruce, have in common--a love of sports and a willingness to work hard and take the knocks that come with them. Bruce played the baritone beautifully, not embarrassed to be a band geek. He was a good harmonizer (ridiculous, I know). We'd be riding in the car and if we were listening to something on the radio or singing, he and my brothers would harmonize. At the time it bugged me to death. I can remember saying, "Mom and Dad, make them stop harmonizing. It's bugging me." The response would be "Don't be bugged." Now, as I think back, I realize they were good harmonizers and I wish Bruce could be a part of the singing that takes place during get-togethers sometimes. The harmonizing still happens.

Someday, Travis and my kids will get to meet Bruce. Someday, I'll get to see him again. I'm thankful for that knowledge. I'm also thankful that Bruce was the kind of person I'm glad to have my son named after. I love you and miss you Bruce. I'm so glad you're in our family!

"The greatest test in life is to see whether we will hearken to and obey God's commandments in the midst of the storms in life. It is not to endure the storms, but to choose the right while they rage." - Elder Henry B. Eyring

Our Personal President Hinckley Experience

We enjoyed the funeral of President Hinckley today. Many shared their own personal experiences with this wonderful man. I'd like to share ours.

When Bruce was 2 1/2 years old (just before President Hinckley was made President of the church), my Dad worked at the church office building. We had gone in to see him and ended up riding the elevator with then Elder Hinckley.

"What a cute little boy," he said.

"Thank you," we said.

"What is your name? No, don't tell me. I'm pretty good at guessing names. Hmm, is it Steven?"

"No, it's Bruce," we said.

"Well, Bruce is a good name, too."

He was kind and funny. Bruce says he's considered naming a son Steven because of the story. It would be a great story for how you got your name.

We will miss President Hinckley, but look forward to wonderful things from President Monson.