Tender Moments

I had the pleasure of singing with my family in church today.  We sang "Families Can be Together Forever."  We had practiced several times and felt ready.  The kids did a fantastic job.  I however, became overwhelmed with love for my family and ended up crying more than I could sing.  (Which of course was totally embarrassing).

I was thinking about my amazing children and how grateful I am to be their mother.  It's definitely not easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

I was also thinking about my parents and siblings.  When I was 6 1/2  years old my mother was expecting twins.  They were born premature and sadly one passed away due to complications--sweet Holly Ann.  I hope to meet you someday.

Thankfully her twin, my sister Kimberly, is alive and well!  Love you Kimberly.  At the time all of this happened I was afraid.  I didn't really understand what was going on.  My parents were so sad and even though Kimberly was alive she was in the hospital for a long time and I barely saw her.  Sometime after the initial trauma, but before Kimberly was home, we went as a family to the cemetary and knelt around Holly Ann's grave and sang the same song.  I'm pretty sure I cried more than I sang then too.

With this memory fresh in my mind and the tender feelings for my own children I am filled with gratitude for a loving Father in Heaven's Plan of Salvation.  It's also called the Great Plan of Happiness.  I am thankful for eternal families.  I know that I will see my sister one day.  (I should say that they are fraternal twins and I've always wondered what she looks like).  I am grateful for the opportunity to be sealed to my own children.  We strive every day to be a forever family.  Honestly, who could ask for more?