Sunday, February 24, 2013

Missionary



I loved being able to serve a mission together. I was so grateful that we were in the MTC together. I loved being able to see you at the Tuesday devotional. I loved singing with you in the choir. I loved writing letters to each other knowing that you would understand my discouragement and disappointment because you were going through the same trial as a missionary. You were a wonderful letter writer. You faithfully wrote every week sometimes even two times during the week. You were my anchor and I learned to love and appreciate you so much more than I did before my mission. Not only were you a great support to me while I was serving my mission, you were a great example to your grandchildren. They saw you go and serve and you have had many grandchildren follow your example and there will be many more to come.

--Michelle

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Sisters



Mom and Aunt Elaine were more than sisters, they were friends. They would get together each week to visit, sew, quilt, or do some new project. One week Aunt Elaine would come to Mom's house and the next Mom would go to Aunt Elaine's house. They made it a tradition that continued for many, many years.

They planned fun outings and vacations together. They spent many Christmases together too. They loved each other very much. I have applied this custom in my own life with my sister and am very blessed for having close family ties.

--Lisa

Prayer



I remember mom listening to me say my prayers every night before I went to bed. We had family prayer and prayers on the food. Mom taught us to pray, but she also taught us by example. I remember walking into her bedroom in the morning and she would be kneeling down and I knew that I needed to wait for her to finish. I also remember when she would have a bad day, because we children were fighting, she would often go to her room to pray. I remember mom and dad saying prayers as a couple. They are still wonderful examples of prayer. Last year when mom was in the hospital I happened to be there one night before dad left, and he drove his jazzy over by the side of her bed so that they could pray together before he went home. There have been many days when I have followed your example of prayer when my children aren't getting along and I go to my bedroom to pray for peace and inspiration.

--Michelle

Ice Cream



I remember walking to Baskin Robbins every summer to get an ice cream cone. It was always one of the many activities that she planned for us during the summer. This was always a special treat for me. Mom loved ice cream and so we usually had some at home, but we usually only went to the ice cream store once or twice a year. I loved being able to go and pick out my own ice cream. I loved walking and talking with Mom. I don't remember any conversations that we had but I do remember walking along main street eating our ice cream cones. I loved being with her and holding her hand as we walked.

--Michelle





Saturday, February 16, 2013

A House Becomes a Home



A House Becomes a Home

A house becomes a home when there's love inside,
When you let your love be as a guide.
When there's joy and sweet understanding,
When you're handing out a compliment or two.
A house becomes a home when you do your part,
And when all your heart is wrapped in those around.
Life can be just like a symphony
When you see a house become a home.

A house becomes a home when its prayerful there,
When for everyone there is a care.
When each one is kind and forgiving,
When you're living for some happiness to share.
A house becomes a home when it's full of life,
When there is no strife among it's very own.
Life can be so sweet and heavenly
When you see a house become a home.

This song was a staple of each Family Home Evening. I remember Mom at the piano and the rest of us dutifully singing the words to this song. I'm sure Mom always wished we would heed the words in the song a little more...I'm sure that is why we sang it every week.

--Lisa

I couldn't ask for a better Mom



I wanted to take this chance to recognize and praise all of the efforts you have made as a mother. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom!. Your example of love, commitment to the gospel, and concentration on family are the biggest characteristics I have tried to emulate from your life.

Your moral support in all that I endeavored is always evident. I remember as a teenager, many late nights you stayed up with me while I finished my homework. You were always supportive of the activities that I undertook. I know you watched many dance recitals and plays. Your encouragement to succeed is always appreciated.

This support continues even now that I am raising my own family. I have delighted in all the seasons of our relationship. I loved the help you gave me when my family was young. You have spent many hours watching my children (even at a moment’s notice). I loved running errands with you or going to the mall, even if it was just to window shop. I am glad now for the opportunity for me and my family to serve and help you. I am glad that we live close together and treasure the time we spend together.

The commitment you have shown to the gospel has always been unmistakable. I remember family scripture study, family prayer, and family home evening as staples in our house. You have always willingly served in callings your example has not gone unnoticed. I will always be grateful to you for helping me gain a testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel.

One essential element of the gospel that is certainly very important to you is having a forever family. This is apparent by the time you spend with your family. I remember as a young child many fun family vacations. Most of the time our home wasn’t only over flowing with people but with love also. Even now, you maintain our close knit family with monthly parties and holiday get togethers that my family and I cherish.

As I look at your life, I see a lasting legacy of love, continuing service to the Lord, and a forever family. I love you more than words can say! Thank you for being my mom!!

--Lisa

Sunday, February 10, 2013

80 Amazing Years

As Mom's 80th birthday approaches, we thought it would be meaningful to compile memories of her life to share on her birthday. This blog will serve to capture your memories of Mom and should provide a nice place from which to view them. If you have a memory you would like posted you can email me at knockonwood.lisa@gmail.com and I will post your text and any pictures you send. If you would like to become an author on this blog site, email me as well and I will make you an author. You can then make your own blog entries.