Reflections on Loss

I know that this seems an odd time of year for reflecting on something other than blessings, but sometimes you find (in retrospect) that what seemed at the time to be a tragic loss was really a great blessing in disguise. In my case, I lost two babies at this time of year, Jenna, December 23, 1973 and Caleb, January 4, 1983. In both cases, I thought my heart would surely break and in a way it did. It took me years to understand what, on some level, I always knew, that through the atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ, I would be able to be reunited with those precious babies.
So, in many ways, this is the perfect time to reflect on those "losses" and rejoice that they are not really "lost" at all. How thankful I am for the Savior and for a loving Heavenly Father who so carefully planned and provided a way for all of us to return to Him and live together as families. I hope that all of you will find "comfort and joy" in this knowledge at this wonderful time of the year. I know that my Redeemer lives and loves me...and I know that He also loves each and every one of you. I see His hand in our lives every day. Have a blessed and merry Christmas and may you feel His arms around you always.

Family Photo Fun!

Here we all are...hamming it up! Troy, , Jordan, Josh & Mark
Madison, Synda, Sid, Rhonda, Slater, Bethany & Dane

Madison, Troy, Synda & Jordan on 'game day'. A family with divided loyalties!

Bethany and her 'boys'. Mark, Dane & Slater. They had a good time at the photo shoot!

Not Al Capone...just our ever lovin' son, Josh. Isn't he handsome?

Here we are! Aren't we cute? After nearly 40 years of marriage (on January 29th) we can both still smile!