Becky and April

Almost a year ago I made two new friends, April and Becky. April has a five year old named Caleb. Caleb's brain didn't form completely before he was born and he has hydrocephalus. Becky's son is named Ben. He is seven and was born with microcephaly. Obviously, both of these sweet boys are SO much more than their diagnoses-just like Hunter, but it was our special calling as caregivers that brought us together originally. After Thanksgiving, Becky came to Utah to visit for a week (she lives in New Hampshire). The three of us got to spend some quality time together while Becky was here and it was SO fun. It was more than that too, though; like a balm for my soul. Spending time with these lovely ladies convinced me that not only will we enjoy the same "sociality" (D&C 130:2) in heaven as we did here, but also that we probably developed relationships before this life. And while our minds may not remember, our spirits definitely do. BYU v. Utah football game - go Cougars! April, Becky and me

Becky snuggling with Hunter.

GNO to Farr's Fresh. Yummy!

Me and Becky

Hanging out at April's, holding Caleb. Thanks for hosting the whole crew at your place that week April!

"Real friends share the gospel—the living of it and the loving of it. No stronger bond nor higher compliment can be given from one friend to another." (Elder Holland, New Era 1998)

Excellence

In a book I read recently it said the following:

"...she had piano lessons which she enjoyed, she passed her exams, but she had a need of excellence which she herself could not provide." (The book was The Morning Gift by Eva Ibbotsen.)

This really struck me. I can totally relate to what is being described. I have a need of excellence in so many areas-art, music, literature, etc.-that I could never provide myself. I'm so grateful for the talents of others which resultantly produce my favorite books, my favorite works of art, my favorite songs. I love feeling awed and inspired by someone else's capabilities. I only had a handful of truly exceptional teachers in college, but I will never forget any of them. They practiced their craft with excellence and it left an enduring mark on me.

I think that is why I love general conference so much too. I adore basking in the blindingly bright testimonies that the general authorities exude, even through the tv. I feel so inspired by their strength.

I'm so grateful for glimpses now and then of excellence. For a moment, I'm lifted to a higher sphere.