Camping with Soccer

This was the soccer trip of a lifetime. This is where Bethany learned about the gospel, and became interested in learning more. I wrote about it in a talk. I said: 

President Nelson’s fourth invitation was to “pray daily that all of God’s children might receive the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ” (President and Sister Nelson’s Devotional for Youth: A Call to Enlist and Gather Israel, June 2018). He said, “you and I are living to see, and will continue to see, Israel gathered with great power. And you can be part of the power behind that gathering!” (President and Sister Nelson’s Devotional for Youth: A Call to Enlist and Gather Israel, June 2018). When my family and I first heard this invitation to pray for the children of men, we began adding this phrase to our nightly family prayers. We had no idea that our prayers would be answered with such directness. Just a few weeks after beginning our prayers, my oldest daughter’s soccer coach began asking questions about the gospel. My daughter had played under this coach for many years. Every year just before tryouts this coach would ask my daughter if she would please play on Sunday. To which my daughter would decline the invitation. The last time she approached my daughter, she told my daughter that if she was unwilling to play on Sunday, there may not be a spot for her on the team—again, my daughter declined. Because of this, this coach was the last person on earth that I thought would ever be interested in the gospel; however, I was blessed to be proven wrong. Her questions led to more questions. Soon we were having the missionary discussions at our home, and eventually we were able to watch her be baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This experience blessed my daughter as she was able to see the fruits of her choices, and it also blessed my family to see the Lord directly answering our prayers. As we pray, for the children of men, the Lord will direct us to help in his great work. Not always will our prayers be manifested in such big ways, but I have no doubt that our prayers will be answered—blessing our lives and the lives around us—preparing our hearts for His army!

Besides this most miraculous experience, this was special for Hailey to be with her team prior to their final season. She has grownup with these girls. They have been family. We will always love them.

We hiked up to the Trinity Lakes area. It's breathtaking. 

 

PROM 2018

PROM

Hailey went to Prom with Warren Johnson. When Hailey was little, we used to be in a babysitting coop with Warren's family. Hailey doesn't remember it, but she and Warren were childhood friends. It is so fun to see them as friends now too! They had a fabulous time at Prom! #prom2018 

On a side note: I am so proud of the girl Hailey is choosing to become. Finding a modest prom dress isn't easy. In fact, we had to drive to a different state in order to purchase the dress she wore. I am grateful that she is willing to put forth an effort to dress modestly. To me--her modesty makes her even more beautiful. 

You know that famous picture of the lady and man and a pitchfork...? They thought they were being funny.

I am so grateful to these girls. Hailey has found more than friendship with these girls--she has found a family away from home. They support each other. They love each other. They are there for the highs and the lows. They are simply the best.

The "Two" Hailey's

DYW; COME ALIVE 2018

COME ALIVE DYW

Distinguished Young Women is national scholarship program inspiring high school girls to develop their full potential culminating in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. When I was in high school, I competed in Junior Miss, which is was the name of this program once upon a time. I remember loving my experience with Junior Miss, and because I loved it so much--I convinced Hailey to give it a try. To her--it was the best experience ever. She absolutely grew as an individual and made lifetime friends. A major plus to the whole experience, of course, was the scholarship money she was able to obtain. She placed 1st in Interview; 2nd in Scholastics; and 2nd Runner-Up overall.

Opening Song: Come Alive

 Fitness Routine

 Talent

Hailey nailed her talent!

2nd Place Scholastics

2nd Place Scholastics

1st Place Interview

2nd Runner-Up

This judge told Hailey that "she was his favorite". He said that he had placed her in first. He said that she was definitely a distinguished young lady that he felt privileged to meet.

Many of Hailey's friends came to support her and cheer her on!