HAPPY THANKSGIVING
We spent Thanksgiving in Featherville with the Critchfield's, the Kener's, and Grandma and Grandpa. 

A few things I am grateful for:

JESUS CHRIST
ATONEMENT
GOSPEL of JESUS CHRIST
FAMILY
KIDS
FRIENDS
HOME
SCHOOL
LOVE
HOME
SCHOOL
LIFE LESSONS
OUTDOORS
CABIN
I truly am blessed. There is a song called, "Count Your Many Blessings" that proclaims that as we count, we will be surprised at what we have given. I believe that to be true.

Youth Cultural Celebration for the BOISE TEMPLE
This was definitely an experience of a lifetime. For weeks we practiced and fine-tuned a dance that the youth would perform in front of President Monson. As a Stake leader, I was fortunate to be heavily involved. My spirit was touched as the youth practiced, but also as it came to an end and we were able to see the fruits of our labors. As President Monson walked into the Taco Bell Arena, the spirit was so strong. I remember thinking how he was an example even from a distance as he stopped and talked and hugged the youth who were close to his entrance. There are so many times in my life when I feel that people are waiting on me, or I am in a hurry that I neglect to take the time for what matters most. I was inspired as he took the time to love even though there were thousands of people waiting for him to begin the program.


Here is an excerpt from our Stake History File:

The Boise Temple Rededication date was announced in early September and shortly thereafter we were provided information regarding the Boise Temple Youth Cultural Celebration. Our Stake was part of Region 4 and was comprised of Kuna East, Kuna, and Meridian Amity Stakes. Dance and Choir practices began Wednesday, September 26. The practices were held on Wednesdays, as well as some Saturdays. On November 10^th, there was a Regional Dance Practice in Melba and a Choir Rehearsal at Mountain View High School. There were over 9000 youth involved, which was much higher than the General Committee had anticipated. On the day of the performance, November 17, practices and rehearsals were held in the morning and then we were transported to the Taco Bell Arena on Boise State University Campus by bus. Sack lunches were distributed as we were getting ready to board the buses.  The practices at the Taco Bell Arena continued as well as the first- time rehearsals for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.  Boxed dinners were served prior to the performance.   
Our Stake did a BSU Football Routine where they duplicated the "Statue of Liberty" play that the Bronco Football team has done on a number of occasions. It included the "wave" for the audience. It was a huge success. The kids were dressed in bright orange or blue T-Shirts.

Rehearsals at Mountain View High School

Dress Rehearsal

Ali Haskell, Chloe Mark, Ashley Olsen

The Big Night

President Monson Holding the Football We Signed

Excerpt continued...

The Boise Youth Cultural Celebration was titled, “Treasure the Light” There were over 9,000 youth and their chaperons, plus Bishops, Stake Presidencies, and some of the drivers. (Most of the 14-18 drivers had to watch the program by live satellite feed at the Student Union Building on campus). The building was full! Taco Bell Arena seats approximately 12, 000. There were 35 Stakes involved. The farthest one away came from Enterprise, Oregon that is about 5 hours driving time away.

     Pres. Monson was there along with Elder David Bednar.  President Monson talked to the youth and told them how much he enjoys the Temple Cultural Celebrations that have preceded the Temple Dedications. Our Stake Dancers were seated across the court from Pres. Monson and we could tell how much he enjoyed the different dance numbers. He clapped and waved his arms and stood each tiem a number came on where there was a US Flag as part of it. It was very special to see him having such a good time. It was an inspiring, tender, joyful, spiritual performance. 

Day 10; Beach and Temple

BEACH
We woke up early for our last day, so we could spend some time on the beach. The girls especially loved playing on the beach. Jacob, on the other hand, was frightened of the water.

Trying to convince Jacob that the water was safe.

Still feeling anxious.

Finally, Jacob trusted me enough to enter the water. So exciting!

After getting soaking wet, the girls quickly changed for the remainder of our time on the beach.

San Diego Temple

Day 9; Sea World

SEA WORLD
We spent the entire day at Sea World. From Stingrays to Shows, and many animals in between--we enjoyed ourselves immensely. Sometimes I wish I could push a replay button for my favorite moments or days. This was one of those days I wish I could replay. To hear Hailey's laughter as we first touched the Bat Rays, or watch Amber's awe as she touched the dolphins, or maybe Jacob's excitement over the sharks and whales would be absolutely fantastic. The whole vacation was a special memory. Perhaps, that is why it is so important to take the time to slow down once in a while. Too often I find myself so busy that I forget to enjoy the moments that are right here happening in my home. I pray every day to remember to tell my children how much I love them. Why do I have to pray for a reminder? I wish it was something that came naturally, because "naturally"--I do love them! I love them with all of my heart; however, in the hustle and bustle of life it is so easy to forget the most important. I read another mother's words recently in which she said that she would tell her children that out of all the ___ (fill in child's age) year-old's in the whole wide world, she would choose them (her children) to be hers. I was so touched by this simple sentiment that I decided to incorporate it into my home. In just a few days, I could see just how much this simple set of words meant to my children. Their faces lit up! They added bits of sentiments within my words like: almost 7 year-old's, and out of all the gymnasts... Each time I would begin to say, "Out of all the..." my children would stop and smile. I would most definitely get a hug, a smile, and if I was really lucky--I would get a kiss too. I am grateful for this lesson from a stranger. I am grateful for the everyday moments as well as the "replay" moments. I hope I can make those everyday moments just as magical as the extraordinary "replay" moments of Sea World. I am grateful we went to Sea World and had a chance to spend time with the MOST IMPORTANT PEOPLE.

BAT RAYS

To feed the Bat Ray, we had to hold the fish between our fingers and allow them to suction it out. Sometimes the suction from the Bat Ray was stronger than comfortable. It was somewhat scary having our hands in their mouths'.

I love the progression of these photos. Hailey started out so excited; however, as her siblings each took a turn feeding, her face grew more and more concerned. She admitted that it scared her a bit; however, she was still willing to try.

I love Hailey's face!



Hailey doesn't even seem interested at this point.



At this point, Hailey gathers her courage, and chooses to feed the Bat Ray.

RIDES
We enjoyed several rides while at Sea World. This was the only ride we captured on photo. My favorite ride was the Bat Ray ride!

Aquarium

STARFISH

Sea Turtle

Dolphins
Amber wasn't the only one to touch the dolphins; however, because of my angle--she was the only one with good pictures.

SESAME STREET BAY

Jacob was excited to see the Sesame Street Heroes!

FACE PAINTING

Hailey wanted to spend her own money on a face painting experience, and she was thrilled with her purchase!

After Sea World, we took a quick swim!