But mostly Today...

Was I busy matching socks or coloring with the kids?  Did I forget to set the minute hand?

Seems I was just 17 and in love with that handsome young Benedict Runner kid.
And two minutes later, he was on a Mission in Brasil, and then he returned with honor...
and with those same blue eyes.

Were we reading storybooks too much, or trying to save for bunk beds too long,
or spending too many afternoons in the soccer-fields and sun, clearing dishes again?
Was I smiling, or ranting and raving, when it happened?

All I know is that Life goes by as if a furious wind, yet gentle breeze...and  it happens all at once.

And then one day, on an island off the west coast of Africa, far from home, I turn 61 years old.
What?!

I love these beautiful Cabo Verdianos that speak Portuguese and Creole all around me and into the night,
I love that they sing loud and I love that they want to know what 'family' and 'forever' are all about.
I am thankful that it is Conference Week and that every word and warning was prepared just for me.  

Thank you to our Family.  Our Goodly Parents and Siblings. My Amazing Husband,
Our Wonder-Full Children.  Our Precious Grandchildren.
Thank you for making my Life Blessed beyond "good Measure.
...Pressed down, and shaken together, and running over..."

  I am thankful for the Scriptures and for my Heavenly Parents and for an Eternal Plan of JOY.  I am humbled that my Savior loves me enough to let me learn and grow and change and become...and I am grateful that He will help me do it.

Life, is an amazingly durable, fragile, timed moment, on its way to brilliant light!  I don't want to miss a moment of the Splender it holds.  That is why I am so thankful for each of you.

Ahhhh, family photos!  I had to promise everything from getting out of dish turns to an early Christmas to get ANYone to co-operate!!!  But, prepare yourselves...because we already need another!  I love that the Family Photo below is less than three years old and the next will include 8 more grandchildren.
I love each and every one of you for being MAGNIFICENT in my Life!

Older?  Yes.  Grayer? Absolutely!  Wiser?  Sure hope to Shout!
But mostly today...I am Very Thankful.

Early Morning in Cabo Verde, April 8, 2013

Momma and Daddy, Thank You for giving me life and welcoming me into your home 61 years ago this morning.
I am Eternally Grateful.
Today is a P-Day and so we will hang out our clothes and prepare our week,
but I also want you to know that my love and prayers
are right there in that Hospital room with you today.
 I love you fiercely and Forever...