Wrapping Things Up

We have begun wrapping things up here in Utah. We get one thing done and then move on to the next. I finished my last week of school last week. We had a good last day and had a luncheon with all of the faculty and administration to say thanks they gave me a watch, a blanket for Lily and an apron with the school logo. I also decided to buy a yearbook since I had taught all grades this time. I went to graduation and was able to see the kids that I actually taught receive their diplomas. It gave me a great sense of satisfaction seeing some of my favorite students march down the aisle. It was a good experience overall and I wouldn't trade my time teaching at Jordan High for anything. I met people that I will always be friends with, in particular, Barbara Turpin who is planning a trip to come up and see me this fall in Idaho. I look forward to seeing her and catching up on all of her grandchildren. She retired this year and plans on spending as much time with them as possible. I'm very happy for her. Some of the others are Todd Landeen, Karlene Bauer, Mark Petersen, David Morrill, Carmen Price, and Gretchen Carr. All who were very kind and welcoming to me I love them all very much.

The next day we had the wonderful opportunity to go to the temple where Zack was able to receive his endowments in the Draper temple. It was absolutely beautiful, a bit hectic earlier but it turned out wonderful. The temple is smaller than I thought but they didn't hold back when it came to making it beautiful inside and out. Afterwards, we went to one of the four sealing rooms and were able to witness the sealing of the Jorgensen family, John and Rebecca and their son Gabriel. I knew I was going to get emotional when Gabe walked in but I completely lost it. It was so wonderful to see the family sealed together in the temple and all in white. Even Andrew admits that he got a little weepy.

Then on Sunday was Lily's baby blessing. My mom made her dress and it complimented her beautiful dark complexion. I loved it, click on the picture to see all of the detail in the collar and hem. I consider myself pretty darn lucky to have a mom who can sew such beautiful things for my girls. I hope to learn a lot from her when it comes to sewing but I doubt I'll ever be as good as her.

Take note: this is the first time Lily has smiled for the camera. It was perfect, the first shot I took. The beautiful white afghan was made by my Aunt Jennifer Fauver. She always makes beautiful things for babies, thanks again Jenny!

We got a call on Saturday from our Bishop to say that Elder Russell M. Nelson was going to be attending our sacrament meeting on Sunday. We all decided to go a little early to make sure that we would get seats up towards the front and then sure enough in walked Elder Nelson. It was so neat to see him sitting on the stand next to our bishop and stake president. Needless to say Andrew was very nervous to give the blessing in front of an Apostle but he did an amazing job and Lily received many wonderful blessings. It was fast and testimony meeting and I had planned on standing and bearing mine before I knew that Elder Nelson was going to be there but I started second guessing myself when the time came to give testimonies but as you probably know when the spirit says get up, you get up. I was really nervous but I wanted to take the opportunity to let my family know of my testimony of our Savior and also of the Temple. At around a quarter to, Elder Nelson told us about how he and his wife Sister Wendy Nelson, and possibly other LDS Church leaders were robbed in. He had actually had a gun to his head and started thinking about a scripture in the D & C. It was so neat to hear him speak right in front of us. It turned out being a wonderful morning.

Later after church we headed to my Uncle Josh's house for a nice lunch. It was raining outside or we would have had it outside. Thanks Josh for letting us come. Everyone was able to come over and eat the wonderful salads and desserts and BBQ pork sandwiches. I am always glad to have a lot of family around at such an occasion. Thanks for bringing the yummy desserts, chips and fruit everyone.

So yesterday I had all of these plans to get things done but for the most part we just played and hung out. Each time Lily cried Leah came running to see what she could do to help. This picture shows what a good "speedy" sister she is.

We thought we would try to go swimming in our pool so that we could get as much swimming in before we have to leave, but the weather was not cooperating. I decided to just let Leah get in her suit and play around the house. She sure is cute, check out the rolls in the thighs, I wish it was still cute on adult women darn it.

As for wrapping things up, we are planning on heading for Idaho on the 20th. Hopefully we can get things all together before then. I'm sure we can, we have already bought another couch for the TV room and also a nice table and chairs for the dining room. I look forward to starting fresh and having fun on the farm. Thanks again Dad for purchasing the trailer at such an opportune time for us to load it up with all our stuff. Even if mom didn't think it was so opportune. :)