Aubree's White coat & passing of President Nelson

Aubree had her ceremony last night to receive her white coat as se begins her clinicals for the nursing program.  Jake and I were happy to be able to be there there and hope that she does not regret her decision to be back in Tennessee. We are confident that she will not only be a clinically sound nurse but a kind one and make patients/people feel seen. 

Sunday was the primary program at church and the spirit was powerfully present. The music sang by the children brought it in from the beginning but the last song when the youth walked up to join was amazing.  It proved to be more comforting to the soul than I realized it would be. We awoke that morning to the news that President Nelson, our beloved prophet, had passed away Saturday evening at the age of 101. I will remember him for the announcement of so many temples, his encouragement to gather Israel, and to think Celestial.  He has spoken so many profound words and taught forgiveness and that repentance is not something to be ashamed of but something that happens daily.   After church, word got out that a ward in Michigan as on fire and had an active shooter, my heart began to hurt for the Saints there.  No doubt the timing of the primary program was a tender mercy from Heaven for me. 

On to Alaska

The week after Ginny and I got home from Boston, Jake and I left for an Alaskan Cruise with our friends the Donalds.  We are very fortunate the Ginny was so kind enough to watch the boys while we went.  While we were gone, she also got rear-ended but was okay.  A day before we left on the cruise, there was an assassination of Charlie Kirk.  Honestly, I knew little about him before his murder but he seemed to be a man that promoted Christ, Christian beliefs, and family and was killed for it.  His death has since led to many people turning to the Lord.  His memorial felt like a religious revival in some ways and people (including politicians) were bearing witness of the Savior, it was very inspiring, especially his wife's remarks. 

Alaska was beautiful, so much of the beauty reminded me that we have a God that loves us.   I enjoyed the time with just Jake.  That man makes me better every day and shows love in ways I did not know could exist.  He is my everything. We rented a car and spent the day at Mt. Rainier after disembarking the boat.  The following day our flight home was cancelled so we spent the day exploring Seattle and caught an overnight flight home. I even convinced them to walk the temple grounds with me. We had time for a session but 1/2 didn’t have recommends or proper attire. 

Boston trip part 2

Boston, Salem, and more Boston.  On Monday (9/1), Ginny and I spent the day in Salem, Massachusetts.  As we walked around the little town, I was thankful for my legs and feet. I am glad that I’ve been blessed with the ability to walk and enjoy this time with Ginny. Ginny loved every part of it. We saw historic buildings and cemetery, went to the Salem Witch Trials museum, walked to some of the Hocus Pocus movie scenes, and walked more around the little town.  

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday was exploring the historic areas in Boston, although I did lead us in circles a couple times.  We also saw a movie because that is what our family does.  On Wednesday morning, I went to the Boston temple for iniatories while Ginny ran before we headed to Fenway park for the game. As much as I missed my Jake and our kids, I very much enjoyed the time with Bug.