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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Anne

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My friend Anne passed away last Saturday after fighting a hard battle against cancer. This is a picture of her and her three lovely daughters. I was lucky to be able to get to know Anne for four of the years we lived in Cleveland. She made such an impression on me then and has left such an impression on me in recent months.

In Cleveland I remember watching her as a mother and thinking-I want to be a mother like her. I remember the first time I heard her bear her testimony in church and thinking how amazing she was and how much faith she had and how strong her testimony was. When ever I was with her I wanted to be a better person, a better mother and a better wife. For one who struggles to find the right words sometimes, the only way I can think of to describe Anne would be...PURE.

Being able to follow her blog this last year I continued to learn from her. At her funeral today someone had said of her that she handled her trials perfectly, she grew in faith instead of growing bitter. That person was right, Anne trusted in the Lord and she didn't ask 'Why', she asked 'What can I do?'. She really knew that Heavenly Father had, or still has a plan for her.

The spirit was so strong at the service today and I am renewed. I will never forget my experience there today. I am so grateful I was able to attend this service and to see what a strong little family Ward and Anne have. Even though Anne is no longer here on this earth, she is continuing to serve the Lord. And she is still an example to me. I am so grateful for being able to know Anne even if it was for a short time. I am so grateful for the gospel and for Eternal Families. I will hold on to my little angels a little tighter today and tomorrow.

I pray for Ward and the girls, but I know that because of their faith and trust in the Lord that they will make it through this trial. Thank you SO much Anne for your impact on me!

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Fun at Grandma and Grandpa's pool!

Summer is coming to an end and we are definitely going to miss a lot of things, especially swimming!! My kids LOVE the water! As you can see in these pictures. They can be crazy in the pool, especially Canyon. He is a dare devil. Just wanted to share these fun pictures from the other day.
Here's Canyon...
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and Canyon again...
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and Coleman...he could use a little more practice.
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and Nash... attempting a back flip
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and my little splasher Paige...
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It is rare I am in a picture (I like to be behind the camera), so thought I would share these of me and my cuties!
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