The Big Five-Oh

This is Melissa, blogging on behalf of my mom, since I have all the pictures and won't be able to get them to her for a bit.

Well, tomorrow is the day that my mom will officially turn 50, so Happy Birthday Mom! We surprised her this last week with a HUGE birthday fiesta to celebrate 50 years of one amazing woman. The party was a great success and the only downside was that we had so much family far away that couldn't be there. Sarah, Michael and I made all the decorations ourselves, and Pop designed a buffalo pinata that Sarah and I decorated. Unfortunately, my dad doesn't know how to construct things that are easily breakable and it was no surprise to me that she couldn't break through the thick cardboard reinforced with metal wire. At least we all had a good laugh watching her try :) The Mariachi's were INCREDIBLE, and should anyone in Utah ever need some, they are called Mariachi America. If you couldn't make it to the party, you really missed out! Don't worry though, we've already started planning for her 100th party (we need to get a head start if we're going to out-do ourselves!).

Fishing with Grandpa

The kids spent some time with my dad while Daniel and I were away on business this weekend checking up on some of our stores in California. They love his happy spirit and always look forward to any time they have to spend with him, since he lives in St. George (4 hours away) and we don't get to see him as often as we'd like. They went out fishing up Big Cottonwood Canyon and had a blast (even though they didn't catch anything!). Or as Grandpa would say it when passersby asked how many fish they had caught- "Well, this one and six more will make 7!"

Today is Sunday. I think because it is a day of rest, I am able to reflect more on the things that are most important to me. The Lord truly knew what he was doing when he gave us a day to slow down and refuel. I must admit that sometimes I have to make myself remember this concept.

Anyway, I am in S. Cal visiting Mom. She has been asleep for most of the time that I have been here this morning. Her awake times have shifted more to the afternoons. She loves when I come and clean her room. She is not able to get out of bed to do it herself. That must be so frustrating! She has been in this very bed for 15 years. She is such an example of patience and endurance. 

So as I sat in this room I reflected on her life. Behind her on the wall is pictures of a life well lived. There are pictures of a girl's trip to Europe, college graduation, a loving grandfather, a even a page containing her name of "Who's Who in American Colleges".  Anyway, even though at a quick glance you see a woman reduced to a bed and few bookshelves, this is one woman who lived life to the fullest. Maybe somehow she knew that her life would change drastically with a stroke at 30 years old.

I love you mom and am so grateful for the fullness of life that you gave to John and I. The only thing that holds you back from those pearly gates is that they just aren't ready for your energy. After all it has been bundled up for quite some time.