2011 Zurmatt

Scott had a Wells Fargo conference at the Zurmatt resort and it was great. We were there from Wed to Sunday. I got to help introduce him to his fellow bankers with the other families. Wells Fargo is amazing to work for. They really take great care of Scott and reward him for his hard work. His work ethic is strong and he is consistently a top performer. He wins trips and awards and makes us all very proud. They have the best support team and business plan. With next day funding and little to no reports Scott can focus on helping his clients and selling like mad. We had a seafood dinner yum yum. Gelato daily. Explored new places went for walks and drives. Saw wildlife. I got to hold Sarahs baby which I love doing. Window shopped with Anth and Salina. Worked on youth conference and Phantom. We enjoyed time with friends and family and the great outdoors.<
Here was his intro
The TOP TEN things you might not know about David Scott Riffle
1. This could have been a TOP Eleven list. Scott was born with 11 fingers. Maybe that’s why he has a green thumb.
2. LIKES: travel with his Missy, the smell of gunpowder, time with family, Golden Retrievers, Hawaii, Deep Sea fishing, Backpacking, hunting, and Disneyworld, Montana, Wind Rivers, National Parks, Mexico, water skiing, and snow skiing.
3. His OCD makes Mister Clean look dirty. DISLIKES: being cooped up, blue cheese, dry feet, bare feet, messes, loaning things, and choirs. A great fix it man. Tim the tool man has nothing on him.
4. Enjoys wearing Billy Bob teeth while playing games and begins each turn with the phrase “Why you little”. (His mom is so proud.)
5. He is Loyal, honest, warm handed, NRA member who prefers melody over lyrics.
6. Laugh if you will but baby face Scott only shaves once a week; yet he received tickets for breaking the city noise ordinance with his loud snoring.
7. He is celebrating his 17th year of marriage, which proves his wife is lying about her age unless she wed at age 13.
8. Survived hurricane, tsunami, jelly fish, shark, and overzealous salesmen in Jamaica.
9. He does a mean Elvis impersonation while under hypnosis.
10. If it moves it’s a target to sell too or shoot at (what did that dove ever do to you?).
Just for that 11th extra finger...
11. Spent the 80s as a Sammy Hagar look alike with perm, combat boots and all.
Missy’s TOP TEN things she loves about “Sammy” working for Wells Fargo
1. Angela. Need I say more?
2. He can spend his time selling-- not doing absurd reports.
3. Amazing internal support and ongoing trainings.
4. The stage coach logo- fun.
5. Next day Funding.
6. Generous time off.
7. Internal referrals from building working relationships with bankers. Win WIN.
8. The Top Gun trip (If just for the hot cocoa in the lobby of the W.)
9. Awesome co workers.
10. He is so happy at Wells Fargo.

First Dinner Party

In all our years of married life we have never hosted a dinner party in our house. We did host events in our clubhouse or Thanksgiving which I do not count as a dinner party. Anthony thought we were anti social. (He was afraid to bring friends over when he lived with us due to this belief which is why we did not meet Salina sooner but that is a whole different post.) So we had a group of friends that all sold and moved within weeks of each other. We have group so we can all stay in touch and a home tour so we can all see the new abodes. We are very spread out from Centerville to Saratoga and form the Copper mine to the backside of Draper mountain. We pack a lunch and plan to stop for gas and head out with GPS in tow to get together. Scott started to panic about this event as soon as we signed the papers on our home. He has a vision of never having anyone over still which clashes with my dream of a home full of memories with other living creatures, including pets, kids, friends, and family. Mark backed Scott up when over the New Years party wanted no kids and he has two so I'm not the only one with a dreamy hubby. With our little group there are 3 kids so far- that is if you classify kids as 5 and under. They are adorable and different as night and day. I choose to have a game night with dinner and Scott wanted to smoke some meat to serve. I used evite and set it up. We heard back from everyone with a yes which is a feat with 5 families. My brother moved back to town was also a part of the Bishopric which all of these people are as well so they came also. Anthony called me to ask what he should bring the night before the party. Panic entered my tummy and planted thick roots. It grew all the way up and out of my head. I had set up on Evite for everyone to bring something. (Poor Emily did not know what I meant by romaine salad I meant to put green salad- again another post.) Anthony said call them and see if maybe they did sign up. I thought how can I call someone the night before they come and say hey you work all day tomorrow and have a huge long drive to the end of now where how about you bring food along. Michele pointed out that of course they were all bringing something and would not have all descended without asking. But I read the wording on the evite and it said Missy will make a few dishes not form Costco as I get teased about bring always Costco items. SO when I read it to me it sounded like no worries we handle the food you bring some games. The day of the party I gathered and made smoked turkey, meatballs, roasted red pepper dip, carrots, chips, salsa, cranberry, hoggies, romaine lettuce, cheese, croutons, hard boiled eggs, almond pound cake, honey roasted peanuts, Carmel nut crunch, and a few other items I can't recall. As the guest arrive with food in hand the panic flies away replaced by laughter and explaining. It was great to catch up and see everyone. Collene is having a baby any moment, Laurie has good dating stories, I'm always hopeful for adoption news from the Searles and the Ryker- Porter team always satisfies. While we played a drawing game Ryker drew this penguin and was very animated about telling us how slow we were to see it. He also knew every question to a Twilight game which made his dad nervous and the funny part was his mom is team Jacob but he is team Edward. Salina was all cool during catch phrase and we all were stumped how a bunch of Mormons knew all the answers to alcohol questions. Porter is so cuddle buggy I could hold him forever. Jessica is getting all grown up and tried very hard to make friends with Bella who wanted none of that but staked her ground. Jessica has this adorable face and smile what cute kids! The parents totally watched the kids every move so Scott relaxed and enjoyed the kids and people and food. Win win win.

2009 Sparkly Wedding

To spend the day with friends at the temple at a luncheon at a wedding at a reception is pure bliss. The bride whore a sparkly fest of a dress which made it almost impossible for me not to faint. The chandilers were sparkly. Everyone glowed. How great to see her so happy and to spend time with Laurie. Did I mention the dress? WOW. Her family is so nice I loved talking with them and getting to know Scotts family.

Opening Night for It's A Wonderful Life

I wish I had taken some photos of all the 12 different hair styles we tried out for this play. The victory rolls were my favorite. The setting of the play is between 1933 and 1947. It was interesting to study what things were like back then and the rations on clothing which effected hair and make up styles. The style which the director choose was the same way I wore it int the last show I did. I think I may not look too good with out bangs so the other styles I guess didn't read well from the audience. So I look like Shirley Temple. On Sat. after a tech and dress rehearsal I was considering how to get out of this. It seemed like the was no hope at all for the production. I thought maybe the theater will burn down. Each play I have done, always has glitches and I always wonder- how we will pull it off? But this one was my most fear inducing yet. I have not even told people to come see it as I was afraid to waste their time and money. My dear buddy Hilary Joy is in the production with me and we started some heavy praying at the beginning of the week. Hilary is so fun to be with and she makes me smile to just think of her. The show has a beautiful message about the importance of each persons life and the ripple effect they have on each other. Every single soul is precious to God and the things we don don't effect our worth. I actually was crying on stage last night because the beauty of that message was really loud to me:) I know a HUGE reason it even happened was because of the prayers. Sure we had hiccups- but we are starting to gel more as a team and help each other out more:) One down 12 more to go!

Grateful

Thanks so much everyone for all the love and prayers. I was very upset to be out of town for the Thanksgiving holiday with Scott's family because I missed the funeral. But I was also very proud of Deb's children, who all spoke- as I learned from the 'play by play' from my friends back home. I miss Deb already. I will never forget the first hug we had when she walked into the room with a Mitford bag and I tried to steal it:) It is lucky in life to find friends who you can let your hair down with. Deb was very supportive to me during a big trial in my life. I was scared and did not know the right course of action to take. I was fearful for some children's safety in my life and worried about what to do. Deb helped to to sort it all out and stood by me. She also was great at teasing me into trying something new and not taking myself so seriously. I was very sad to miss being here for the funeral but I have an awesome mom-in-law, sister-in-law and niece who did their best to distract my grief. I celebrated my birthday while away, had a nice break from the play and enjoyed time with Scott and family. I am grateful for friends like Deb and my family.

This year I flew over 10 flights and I am alive and I don't even cry anymore and I am actually enjoying the flight. On the way to and from Phoenix it was turbulent- the flight attendants could not even stand up to give us drinks. I pretended Jasper was there and he was using his calming influence over me. I often pretend I am a little girl sitting in Gods lap or that I am in a movie playing a role and not even in the air. How grateful I am for hope and healing.

I have been so busy I am missing journaling important meaningful memories. One was a visit form Anthony and Salina! It was really short but wonderful. We went and stayed at Snowbird. While Anthony was here he came to the play with me and got the part of Sam in the play! He will record his part. We also got away with Kinikini's:) It was our first trip with all 4 kids. We had the pleasure of seeing Kelsie dance in the Nutcracker! Scott hitnks ballet is his new favorite since there is no talking:) I'm grateful for travel with the people I love, great people to love in my life and little girls who dance as sugar plums!

Bella brings lots of adventure to our everyday lives. She is naughty but soft and gets more loving each day as she feels secure in her new home. She keeps me company and if I give her 24/7 attention she is great. She has lots of energy and the most beautiful face. Bella is not excited about sining puppies. She has won over our hearts. Even Aunt Sue adores her. I'm grateful for my furry friends.

Aunt Sue is the least judgmental person I know. Although my mom is a close second. I really have amazing women in my life. I love how Aunt Sue helps me memorize my lines. I Love that we view the world differently yet have respect and love for each other. I love her example of faith in prayer. I'm grateful for Aunt's and prayer.

Scott is my best friend. He loves me in a way that guides me to be the best me. I still have a crush on him and get butterflies when I hear his voice or he smiles at me. After 14 years he has still got it. I admire how much he endures with his health challenges. He has had a great seasons with hunting and is enjoying his work. I learn so much from him. I'm grateful to be loved by Scott.

In shock

I am just in shock. I am heart broken. One of my fun zany loving buddies is dead:( I got the phone call this morning and when I heard the words I went numb and felt cold. Who will tease me now? WHO is going to take care of all her family? Her name is Deb. We are crazy fun together.

I feel awful. I have been so busy lately with the play and being sick I kept putting off dinner with her. Why do I let busy keep me from doing the things that are most important to me??? I love her so much and she makes me feel so happy to be alive. Who will I roll my eyes with now? Who can I heckle with? Who will buy me sun showers so I can keep up my princess-ness while in the great outdoors? Her sweet daughters and hubby and son and brothers and just everyone relied on her for so much. She did it all. She had a knee scope a few days ago and this morning went into cardiac arrest. I keep trying to call the family but I can't quit crying. How can I help when I can't even pull it together? She can't be gone... I know it is not forever but she just can't be gone:(

So Happy to be Me.

Today we got to be around people we just love. I just felt to happy to have the neat people in our lives that we do who are so willing to lighten our load and share a laugh. I even enjoyed shopping with Scott. Kay and Jim were kind to have us over and give us a pep talk and some totally awesome advice. No wonder I love Teri so much her mom and dad are out of this world cool. We got to see Rob and Amy. It was there first time to a Cheesecake Factory and we enjoyed a lively debate on politics. Aunt Sue and Bella were super good today and even let me take a nice afternoon nap:) Bella has this new favorite spot behind our behinds at the computer! She is so funny. Aunt Sue is all manic with joy and loving Obama which I totally disagree with her on-- but how cool to live in a country where we are free to debate:) We both love to discuss the world and have polar opposite views which make it really neat to see the far side of your thoughts. As I walk around the mall I had several total stranger ask me why I was so happy. I told them "I love to be me. I love Jesus and being a daughter of God rocks!" It was just an ordinary extraordinary day. The sun was shining we took out the solar panels and let the sun light flood the house. The cool air is a welcome feeling. I just had to keep hugging myself and thanking God for the life I have in America with all the challenges which end up being blessings. I wish everyone could love to be them- it is nice because you always have your best buddy with you:) hee hee. I even loved my cute earrings I made they are like little pink chandeliers:) It feels good to love myself and that helps me to love others. I think there is lots of hope in the world. How can I not smile with handsome Scott by my side? I guess I am in my Rah Rah mode- it feels great. I love these photos from today I love cameras. The one of the 3 ladies makes it look like we are pink ladies- too cute. And I can't get over hottie Scott with that blonde hair brown eye perfect ear hunky man.

Hawaii Royalty

Have you ever wanted to be one of the rich and famous without all the fuss of being rich or famous? Then relive this trip we just took. (I only cried the first half hour of the 6 and 1/2 hour flight and then smiled and said I loved to fly.) I was a little shaky getting back on the ground so to have our name on a plack- perfect. We were met at the airport with gorgeous leis. Scott still has his and mine lasted 8 days! Miranda should be the head of tourism for Oahu. We stayed at this million dollar home with an unbeatable view of Pearl Harbor. We saw a rainbow each and everyday. On the way to the PCC she showed me the stairway to heaven this old set of stairs leading into the clouds and top of the mountain. It was super hot and humid- I would say that Aug/Sept is not the best time to visit, but is there really a bad time to be with friends in tropical glory? Miranda and Mano went on a date with us the first night to Waikiki Cheesecake factory which worked out perfect because we got to see this amazing artist who uses spray paint. Can you believe I slept like a baby for 4 nights in a row? I even fell asleep in the car. This never happens as I am an insomniac. It rained at night which is so soothing. Little Sami is a joy. She is hilarious and I looked forward to waking up to each adventure with her. Did you know that Mano means shark? Mano is sweet and not very sharky, he and Scott loved to eat. They said Scott would fit right in as a local.

On TV Live!

Guess what? My cute friend Karin will be on live T.V. tomorrow. If you get KSL Studio 5 then tune in at 11:00am to see her new business that works with iPhone and other tech and helps women track all the personal health info which is hard to keep track of:) Just think how many they might help have a baby:) It tracks all kinds of import info for women of all ages. I was so excited to see Karin who is just beautiful inside and out. Her and Shane are perfect for each other and he designed this for her-- now think all the women it will help you can buy it from apple or at ladybiz.net!

I can't find a cute photo of her... but she loves animal photos so here is the best one I have seen lately. It is from my friend Marcie who is terrified of bears.

Princess Calli

My friend Jody invited me to come and play Sleeping Beauty at her cute daughter Calli's birthday. The invites were adorable with Calli on them as a princess with a Royal invite. I love photos of me with Calli since we are both blond I can pretend like she is mine, I would take any of her cute kids- even the brown haired ones. Jody made the whole event very royal. I enjoyed the tea party very much. We hunted for poisoned apples to save Snow White and danced. The tiny cupcakes were darling. It was so much fun to see these little darlings all in their princess finest. I just wanted to scope them all up and take them home. They had these darn cute names like Annie and Faith. Here are a few photos of the day and you can read all about it at Jody's blog. The funny part was that my older sister was in town and we met up for lunch. I was still all dressed up, wig and all. What makes it funny was that the last time she was in town and we saw each other I had played Sleeping Beauty at Aubrey's birthday. I am not totally sure she believed me when I said I don't dress like this everyday- after all I am the crazy little sister. I promise I really don't do this everyday- but I would be willing to... so any other princesses looking for a visitor you just have your castle people give me a ring. Jody- what will we do with out you there at the girls get away this year???? Who will drink garlic with me:) Hey- Marlene, how about we get you a Belle dress?

Girls Night Out

I had a fun night where my face hurts from laughing so much with two friends tonight. One just is off track from teaching the others hubby was out of town. Not that we needed an excuses to get together but with one moving and life just busy sometimes it is hard to keep in touch and find time to hang out. I made a very ugly set of jewelry. We decided that if I call it wearable art and try to sell it for a ton of money then it would work out. The best part of the night was just being with 2 people that I can completely be myself around and feel so comfortable. It is not a fun thing to be self conscious, however there are times when I do feel that way. Never around these 2 friends. I like that they did not hold back in agreeing on the hideousness of the set I had made. It started out with the best of intentions I had ordered the beads because Sarah had ordered some similar ones and I thought they would be safe. Oh boy was I wrong. I can't even post a photos as I am afraid it might break my camera:) They must be destroyed or sold for lots of money as wearable art-- that is all there is to it. Hilary took me to a new soup/ sandwich/ salad place called ZUppas. It was yummy. I had a salad with romaine lettuce, chicken, strawberries, cashews, grapes, and feta. They gave us a chocolate dipped strawberry. Friends are good for what ales you, especially when you can laugh really really hard. I already miss Sarah.

"Buck" Naked misunderstood

Today we attended the birthday party of Scott best hunting buddy Rich. It made me really sad that we do not have our family to gather with on Sundays like our friends do. If I had a genie in a bottle it would be to be able to gather at my parents home I grew up in on Sundays with family all around. Rich has a lovely wife Jen and 4 children. They had lots of family there and a few neighbors. Jen is pretty handy with home making skills. At the party we had home made Cafe Rio salads- yummy. The party was wonderful and she made it all look very easy.They have an amazing home and back and front yard complete with out of a magazine landscaping which Jen tends too. I was commenting on the yard when Jen replied "It is a big yard but it is great because with the space it is like the kids aren't even here". I thought she is right I don't even here any kids. There were around 20 kids running around at the gala event so to have no noise was a feat. Then we both smiled and realized they were mostly missing. Yip all the younger kids had been invited by a generous 2 year old to a "pool" party at her home. Her parents were not smiling as we learned this info since they don't have a pool. On further investigating the "pool" was actually the master bathroom bath tub with a slide from outside. The younger kids, totally nude were happily sliding into the tiny amount of water the girls could carry in cups from the kitchen. We learned most of this initially from one of the older kids who said "The little kids are all down at the buck naked party". We started to laugh because what small child knows the meaning of Buck Naked? Rich asked him what Buck Naked meant? He replied "Duh daddy, it is when you can see your bum, naked" as opposed to just naked with no bum we gathered. I wonder if he meant topless verses bum naked? What he was really saying was Bum naked. I have never been to a bum naked party so thus the confusion. I am glad no one drowned and it is scary how fast kids can disappear with a yard full of adults. I asked Scott if he might enjoy a Bum naked party with me at our house- he did not accept... in fact he gave very discouraging looks at me. Too bad I did not meet him say, 30 plus years ago, when we were both 2ish- maybe then he would have been more interested:)

Cast party and parting

Parting is such sweet sorrow- unless you have kids, a husband, a wife, or a life-- that has had about all they can take of your current play. I did not have these as my husband actually enjoyed the play much to both our surprise. We had our cast party I didn't feel much like a party with our fury buddy gone and a funeral looming for my cousins. I did love seeing everyone they really are people I enjoyed being with. there was not one person behind the scenes or on stage that I didn't like. I love that weeks after I still have people come up and call me Christine and laugh with big smiles as they tell me just how much they loved the play. How great that we brought joy to so many and that they still are laughing:) I am working now to collect all the photos and footage! Here are a few favorites from the new set I have. I love Sarahs blog about the sparkles and the banana, since I use this as a journal which I have hard bound each year I am copying it over to this. Go check out the real deal at her blog.
Opening Night Run-down by Sarah Ray
We had opening night last night for our stake play. It was a lot of fun and actually turned out pretty well, all things considered! Our dress rehearsal the night before was quite rough. But last night people were actually laughing and seemed to enjoy it, so it couldn't have been that bad. But Oy Vey! In one scene we had two missed entrances, which totally threw me off, so then I ran off stage WAY early and had to, quite obviously, re-enter to continue a conversation that never should have ended. Yikes! Joel (Junior) got a little pistol-happy and decided to shoot our already dead prop man to death, not to mention everything else in sight. He seems to think he is the star attraction. I'm thinking tonight I might try to replace that pistol with a banana when he isn't looking. Really. I'm going for it. Oh yes, and the director has a crush on my hubby. Really.
Sparkles and Bananas by Sarah Ray
Last night the play was....unusual. To start, we didn't start. Until half an hour late. Missy had sparklies, a LOT of sparklies. And she was loving it! She kept offering them to everyone, but I think it was just so she could rub the excess on herself. She was, in all aspects of the phrase, too good to be true! The banana scheme, not so much. I practice stealing Juniors gun and returning it to his holster without him noticing all night, so I thought it would be easy. But I wasn't banking on him sitting so close to the side of the chair! I couldn't squeeze the banana in - and then he noticed and then I missed my lines because I was so preoccupied with the banana! It turned out funny, but not as planned. We had some interesting mistakes, but nothing major. Closing night tonight, and boy will the pranks be flying!

Come listen to a Prophets Voice

I was lucky to have my new friend Hilary go with me to Women's Conference this year down at BYU. Hilary played my best friend in the play, Zaza. She is an amazing dancer and I just adore her. She is also married to the Phantom and a fantastic dancer. My usual BYU buddies were all otherwise engaged and unable to attend. Hilary had never been and we had an awesome time. It is an amazing feeling to be with 22,000 women who are seeking to follow Jesus Christ. There is a sense of belonging and I always feel so special to be a woman and a daughter to God. I am overwhelmed by the education, leadership, social, spiritual, and growth opportunities provide me by being a woman and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints. I am not saying the men are not wonderful I think we are equal but we are different and boy am I glad because I know I could not handle being married to myself. I'll take Scott any day. The best thing (other than my very late night chat with Hilary and Sarah) was the surprise speaker at the end. I had the chance to hear our brand new prophet a few weeks ago but one of my favorite little buddies was being baptized at the same time. SO with a sad heart yet knowing I was doing the right thing I went to the baptism. She pointed out to me that I would have other chances to see our prophet but she was only being baptized once. I was beyond thrilled to hear that our Prophet President Thomas S. Monson was going to be there at BYU. I had been feeling very numb. After several weeks of bad news after sad news I think I had somewhat shut down emotionally. I am generally a very good crier. I cry at almost any emotion. Happy, sad, joy, fear, glad, tired-- you name it I have shed a few tears. My dad use to tease me that I was sensitive even at birth. Aunt Sue always tells me I am the most overly sensitive girl on earth- that is a tall order to fill, but I do my best to live up to it. For over a week I had felt nothing. During funerals and even others shedding tears I could not cry or feel anything. The first day of the Conference I enjoyed the talks but felt nothing. I think it freaked our family and friends who are used to my make-up stained checks. As I listened to the talks I realized that I was missing out on a very important goal of mine. I want to become more like my Father in Heaven- guess what? He has a tender heart, soft heart, compassionate heart- yip a love so much you cry at parting heart. Then I felt a wave of love wash over me and cried for the next 6 hours. When I do something I really like to do it with style. I know you do not need to cry to show love or to feel the spirit. Crying is a spiritual gift- I believe. My tear ducts are just attached to a neighboring drinking fountain and every time someone sips... I tear up. President Monson is our Prophet, he speaks for God. I have no doubt of this. As he entered the building I could feel this beautiful peace. It is hard to describe feelings but it is not like contentment to sit and strum a harp peace. It is a moving stirring call to love and serve and be better a feeling that also has a calm feel that all will be allright for God is aware and over us all kind of peace. All the women fell silent, then stood, then started to sing. It was not planned it was spontaneous, it was cool. He was warm and human. He was funny and profound. He has the mantle of God. He counseled us to focus on the good we are doing, to let go of works like someday or one day and start to find joy in the now. Everyday is a gift. If we have made a mistake- get over it or make it right and move on because problems are not as important as people. Share love and time with people. Then he spoke about all the adversity, pain, suffering and storms we will all face or are now facing. That no matter how hard we try to avoid them they will still come. Because that is why we are here on earth-- to grow and learn and love. We have to endure and exercise faith. We are being refined and our beauty polished. If you are at the end tie a knot and hang on. No pain is wasted as it develops patience, faith, humility, fortitude and character. I felt like I could do anything, that I could finish the journey and find Joy in the process. I felt like a beloved daughter of God- I felt like me. I love President Monson. If you have a testimony of our dear Prophet I think it would be really neat to share it with someone you love. Change is hard and people loved President Hinckley but the voice for right now is Thomas S. Monson. He is the perfect one for our time right now and if we will seek after his advice and ponder his teachings we will have a lasting joy and an anchor to God.
Here are a few of the actual quotes...President Monson encouraged the sisters to live every day as if it were a special occasion, to focus on accomplishments rather than on what still needs to be done and to remember that adversity is necessary for progress.
"Each one of you is living a life filled with much to do," Monson said. "I plead with you not to let the important things in life pass you by."
President Monson told the sisters a story of a man who, following his wife's death, found one of her precious things in a drawer. The item was purchased nine years before but never worn. President Monson explained how the wife had been waiting for a special occasion to wear the item.
"Don't save something for a special occasion," President Monson said. "Everyday of life is a special occasion."
President Monson used attributes such as sensitivity, selflessness and compassion to describe the sisters at the conference. He also made sure to include in his address single women, single mothers, grandmothers and those that have aging parents.
"You love and forgive with good hearts and willing hands," Monson said. "You make a real difference in the lives of others.
"The good you've done, the kind words you've spoken, the love you've shown to others, can never be fully measured," President Monson said.
He encouraged the sisters to focus on the service they are constantly rendering to everyone around them, rather than what they still need to do.
"No matter how carefully we plan our lives, we can't avoid all the storms that come our way," President Monson said.
He told the sisters that all suffering has a purpose; that it builds our character and helps us progress. He mentioned that no suffering is wasted.
"These and other trials present us with a real test of our ability to endure," President Monson said. He told the sisters that the Lord alone offers us eternal peace in times of adversity.
As soon as the prophet entered the room, more than 20,000 sisters greeted him reverently by singing "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet." Watching how all the sisters reacted, how they spontaneously started singing, I will always cherish. He looked surprised and humbled.
I have been attending the conference for years and this was only the second time a prophet has come. How lucky and loved I felt to have our Prophet come and speak to me:) or all of us:) but it felt like it was just for me:)

Linus and the Kite eating tree.

If you are old enough and a fan of Charles Schultz, you will recall the delightful story of Linus and the Kite eating tree. I just think Peanuts are really fun. As I was walking past my window I saw "Linus" using his "blanket" to try and free his kite from an eater in my yard. This has been a wonderful season for flying a kite. There is a big hill out one of our windows and it is favorite for flying kites and sledding in the winter. Many a day I glance outside to see a bright kite reaching new heights. Well fancying myself to be a a mix between Sally and Lucy I headed outside to ask if "Charlie Brown" was around. Ben (our friend) was very focused on getting said kite back form the eater. I inquired the cost of the kite... 1.50. The tree was over 250.00 to plant and I contemplated this as it was whacked away at. Then I went and produced a rather large broom. Which Ben sailed right past the kite into another tree even higher up and more of a slant. SO now as I walk past my window the stars and stripes great me and a little to the left my very stuck broom. Ben replaced the broom but I forgot it at his house so he dropped it down to me over the balcony. I did not catch it and it broke. Ben did recover another kite that had sailed high over our 4 story home and crashed to the side. It has been fun remembering all my Peanut stories and having something to harass "Linus" about, although he never seems very bothered about any of our teasing.

Sparkly and friends

We got together the other night to make jewelry with friends. Marlene and Jody made matching sets while Sarah babysat us all. Hillary helped me pick up all the beads I dropped as my neck is still so stiff and painful. Jody had back pain Marlene had rib pain and Sarah just was cute smiley Sarah. Sarah took some photos of her creations and I forgot to have her snap one of us:( Jody is a fantastic host and treated us to dinner and a variety of snacks. Her kids are so darn cute and getting way to grown up. I worked on a fun red and black set for an old brooch. It is always nice to sit and chat with friends.

Free dinner and laughs

I had so much fun tonight doing a play rehearsal with a bunch of people I love to be with. It was our first real rehearsal (we had some major glitches beyond anyones control) so we are way behind schedule but having a grand time. I laugh and think it is funny. I really do think it will be a great fun family show. I think everyone gets a free dinner too. I found out tonight in addition to my friends in it already that Sue will be playing my mom!!! Yipee!!! and my friend David is a genius at the piano and he will be our accompanist. Ben and Sarah were perfect and have major chemistry on stage even if their parts are not supposed to be in love. I was laughing hard from my tummy it felt so good after having a stiff neck for so long to feel pain free:) If you need a great Dr for neck pain let me know. The man playing the Phantom is so funny and he is in my ward too. I love his wife who I get lines with. I'm so happy to be doing a play:) I really really missed the stage it feels great to be on it once again. It was a little bit of a juggle as I tried to go back and forth between a Stake YW/YM pres. meeting. I got a work out dancing and running back and forth. Here are the dates for the play if you want to come... April 24, 25, or 26. that is a Thur. Fri. Sat. I think our Bishop will be proud of Riverbend in the Stake Play, since I am married to him I'll put in a good word for us:) We only have 4 or 5 rehearsals left so "break a leg".

Bye Bye Beki

Hip hip hooray for Beki. She will be awesome with the girls and I will get to know the girls in her ward are being looked after and loved and lead by an awesome lady. It is like the saying “Don’t be sad it is over, celebrate that it happened”. I celebrate my friendship with Beki! How sweet it is to have fun, kind friends. I think Beki is just the best and I will still get to see her more often because of PTA and the fact that she is still with YW. She is special. So are Emily and Sue. We are very different but have a wonderful time together. I am making her an album. I’ll put in some photos of it. I got the idea from Marlene who made one for me as a gift when I started to fly again in faithJ Another plus is I was released. For 5 minutes. I felt the weight of the calling lift. I felt a freedom, then I looked at the stand where all these YW I love were crying and pouting at me. I wanted to reach out and hug each of them. SO a gladly stood as my name was read as counselor. I received a beautiful blessing full of wonderful promises and a warm feeling of love surrounding me. I also get the blessing of serving with Candice our new sec. who is a good dear friend. Candice and I have had a long history of serving together. We used to go to scary parts of town and help the less fortunate together and boy did I get spooked but she was just great and kept me from freaking out. She did pint out I would not have made the best missionary because I took things too personal. It is hard to do when the person behind the door drops to the floor and army crawls away and it is a glass door which you can see every bit of it. Candice is so good that way. I have missed serving with her but thanks to good old change here we are together again. Change is not at the top of my all time favorites; but it happens and it usually brings good things- so BYE BYE Beki. She is now serving at a ward level in YW still but I won’t get to sit by her and I won't have reinforcements when I get picked on. Or maybe I should word it …I won’t have a partner in crime to tease back with. Emily gave a sweet prayer reminding me to trust Gods plan and be supportive. We have had almost every ward change over in leadership with YW so you would think I would roll with the punches. I am excited to get to know new buddies. PITY party now officially over.

Silent Night

We were thrilled to squeeze in a few holiday traditions this year I thought we wouldn't get to do. The first is the Temple Square lights. If you ever are in Salt Lake and have never seen the holiday display it is something special. I grew up going to see the lights and they are never a disappointment. We went with our friends the Deloneys and their 3 exchange students. For that few years they have also done some neat luminaries and nativities from around the world. I love ending the night with a visit to the 11-foot statue of Thorcaldsen's Christus, a magnificent statue of the Savior. There you can reflect on the majesty and wonder of God's creations as you stand beneath the star-studded dome in the rotunda of the North Visitors' Center and ponder the invitation of the outstretched arms. It was neat to hear the kids talk about the love they have for Jesus. Alex said "Scott, I believe in Jesus and Santa." We also warmed up with hot chocolate and caught up on the years events. We also went to visit Santa with the Dixon's, my cousins family. It was really funny to hear Santa react to all of us. We always have a great time with Teri, Kelly and the kids. We went to a holiday movie with them as well, Enchanted (which I loved except for the cleavage). I think that one of the huge changes in me is how much I love a happy ending and sweet stories. I use to like troubled dark stories-- gone are those days. It was funny and I love a good fairy tale. We attended a few parties and look forward the rest of the months festivities. This will be a slow journal month as each moment is filled I hope I can catch up in Jan.

Home again Home again jigity jive

We are back form 2 weeks in Florida and Alabama. I love to be home we are blessed to travel often but I love being in my very own bed and not in the sky flying. I also cherish hugging Aunt Sue and holding furry Mungo. We had a wonderful time in both states. Before we left our friends the Christensen's invited us to a pre- Thanksgiving, since we would be flying on the real turkey day. It was awesome to be with a big fun family and not alone. Laurie saved the day as she watched over Aunt Sue and Mungo while we were away. Marlene tried to comfort me by rolling her eyes and saying I was ridiculous at my birthday dinner before we flew out. Beki said "get real like you would get out of life and crash" and Candice said " you'll never be lucky enough to die with Scott in a crash" and my mom said how disappointing I was... don't I have loving kind friends:) I did well on 2 of the flights-- "well" meaning I didn't scream out loud- just cried. The last flight was the worse, I did scream a few times but others were tense as well. It was really rough, delayed and at night- I think I like flying in the day better and I found if I can look out the window while praying and singing church songs I don't shake too severally. I do have some scrapped knuckle's as the flight was moderate to sever turbulence in a 70 passenger plane. I think Scott goes a little bonkers remembering the days when I was never afraid of flying and flew all over with out a second thought. He just smiles at me and tries to hold my shaking hand and pats my head, I offered for him to sit a few rows back and pretend he doesn't know who I am but for some crazy wonderful reason he loves me. Scott is truly an amazing man who I am in awe of. My fear of flying sure has humbled me and and I feel great sorrow for any who have panic attacks as I used to have no understanding. I used to tease Aunt Sue because she is afraid of blowing off our stairs in a huge wind- now I see that I am just as irrational but knowing it doesn't ease the fear. I watched a child have a panic attack and wondered if God really sees us all still as tiny children which is why he can be so patient with us as we really are all still infants in our progression. Sometimes I feel really sad that I don't have enough faith that even if we fall from the sky God is over all. I do have faith in other areas so why do I struggle with this? Laurie said "at least you have flown this year without Scott driving you home- small steps-- see you do have faith:) The funny part was when one of the kind flight attendants thought I was a first time flyer-- hee hee-- I was crying to hard to correct her. Before we left I also had a very sweet talk with Aunt Sue who was a little anxious about our long journey. She told me how much she loves me and how she thins I am a marvelous girl. I wish everyone had an Aunt Sue. Hope everyone had a yummy safe Thanksgiving. I sure feel extremely blessed to know who I am to have amazing people all over my life and a Savior who loves me. Oh and the jiggity jive is to a song my dad sang each time we would pull into our garage after a trip. He had all kinds of great songs which annoyed me as a child but now I cherish- age sure gave me perspective.