Happy Birthday Lula!

 Dearest Eliza,

Today you turn 21.  That means that 21 years ago the world was illuminated by a beautiful ray of sunshine.  From the minute you came into our family you have brought peace and joy to the people around you.  Some of my happiest moments have been observing your relationships with your brothers and, especially Dad.  I admire the strengths you have that I don't:  a quiet soothing voice, a calm spirit that is content being alone, and of course, hair and makeup skills.  This year you've learned a lot about yourself, maybe even recognized things you would like to change.  I hope this is the year that you experience the power of acting, the gift we all have been given,  to decide the trajectory of our lives.  I'm hopeful that you get to experience that circumstances, money, or other people don't determine our happiness.  Thank you for being the center of our family, the safe and happy place for all of us.  You are my sweet girl and I love you so much.  Happy Birthday beautiful Eliza.

Surgery and Spring Break

Sams ski picture from the last day of Spring Break

Last week Tony bit the bullet and finally had orthroscopic surgery on his knee.  His surgeon was the same that did Mom's hip and both he and she are enamored with their doctor.  The surgery was smooth as silk and Tony's done a good job not pushing it.  We spent the night in Las Vegas the night before the surgery and even enjoyed a rare snow fall there.

Last week was Eliza's spring break so we enjoyed spending time with her, going shopping, eating out and staying up late watching movies.  She always brings sunshine into our house.  Thanksfully Jake and Callie came for the weekend after she left and broke up the monotony.  Callie made Sunday dinner for everyone one and we were swooning!  She is such an amazing cook.  Callie and I took the kids hiking in snow canyon with Wendy and Harlow on a beautiful sunny day.  Then the rain started!  I love the rain, but it does limit our activities here in the desert.  We attempted a hike with Sam in Red Rock Canyon outside Las Vegas, but ended up eating at Bagel Cafe and going shopping at the mall.  It was kind of Sam's dream spring break: no travel, no exercise, no pressure.  It causes me anxiety that Tony took two days off to do nothing, but I think he loved the freedom.  

Last Sunday Sam chose to receive his patriarchal blessing.  Tony and I joined him and I really loved hearing the great potential he has.  I feel a lot of responsibility to help him discover that potential and facilitate and promote his success.

Last Sunday my ministering partner referred to me as a humanitarian.  I've never thought about it before, but it was exactly how I'd like to identify.  When I looked up the definition it was someone who works to prevent and alleviate suffering in the human race.  Of course, Jesus Christ was the ultimate humanitarian, so I want to follow his example.  I've been thinking everyday about how I can incorporate more humanitarian work into my life.  I'd like to dream bigger in this area.  

Spring break day with Sam

Sam receives his patriarchal blessing