What does the fox say?

Last night we went to dinner at our dear friends the Bennetts. While there, we watched a video that all the children knew the lyrics to, even mine. I had no idea they had even seen it before. It's a strange video about someone wondering what sound the fox makes. The musician, in fox costume, sings a variety of possible fox sounds and calls. The kids danced and I laughed. The song has been on repeat ever since. 

Here is the version the kids made up a couple of days later.

It Worked

If you've ever invited someone to church you find yourself praying like crazy for them to feel the Spirit so strong that they want to join the very minute they step foot in the door. Today was one of those days. We sent out invitations to the kids primary program to their elementary teacher. Noah's teacher, Mrs. Bjorge decided to come. There were so many of her student past and present on the stand. I thought it was a beautiful program. Perhaps the experience will plant a seed in her heart or help her understand better what we believe and value? For me, it was rejuvenating seeing her come and I felt very grateful for the experience, especially since we have been praying for it in our family.

 Mary, Noah, and Nicole did a great job with their parts. They had them memorized. Nicole didn't feel comfortable sitting in the front with the other Sunbeams so she squeezed by Noah on the side of the room. After the primary's first song Noah became a little nervous because he knew Nicole's class would be up first. He waved to us to help Nicole make her way to the podium in time and Aaron helped her over. She said her part beautifully, "My favorite creation on earth is monkeys and zebras". She got a giggle or two. It was very sweet. It was so tender how Noah was watching out for her and how he treated her throughout the entire program.

Busy Continued

Just when you think things may slow down a bit, you have another whopper of a day...it was the last day of soccer games for the season. Since Aaron was coaching we had to put together a little party with donuts and trophies. We had our primary program practice followed by a pizza party, and then a friend of ours had a Halloween party with a bunch of families. Super busy again!

Busy Busy Busy

This afternoon was so busy I could hardly figure out how to get to everything we had scheduled. We had two birthday parties, a piano recital, a stake primary presidency meeting, and the school Halloween carnival all scheduled within a short block of time. This picture is of Nicole at a masquerade birthday party she attended. We tried to make a silly mask with eyeballs and mustaches, unfortunately it didn't win any prizes, but I hear the party was very fun. Phew! It's nice to wind down a bit from all the chaos.

Joy School Field Trip Number 2

Today we went to Seven Oaks farm, again! This time we went with our Joy Schoolers. These little pumpkins are just too cute!

The Elect

I was asked to speak at our ward's Young Women in Excellence this evening. It was a beautiful celebration of the young women and their accomplishments. The theme for the evening was "An Elect Lady" inspired by an article from Sister Marriott.

I began by showing a touching short video from LDS.org about Emma Smith and her life followed by this quote from President Hinckley, "Emma was called “an elect lady.” That is, to use another line of scripture, she was a “chosen vessel of the Lord.” (See Moro. 7:31.) Each of you is an elect lady. You have come out of the world as partakers of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. You have made your election, and if you are living worthy of it, the Lord will honor you in it and magnify you."

As I was preparing to speak an acronym came to mind. For me, it helps me remember what God expects of His elect, or chosen children.

Engage in God's work

Love God and draw close to Him

Enlarge your learning and talents

Cleave unto covenants

True and faithful

This was one of my favorite quotes from Sister Marriott's article:

We “must be ready and willing to work with all their “heart, might, mind, and strength” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:2) in establishing His kingdom on earth. Our part will be accomplished in the quiet ways of the Spirit as well as in more prominent ways. The great things that happen, such as standing as a witness of God, receiving temple blessings, teaching truth, eternal marriage to a worthy priesthood holder, and raising a righteous family, may require many small faithful moments—often without fanfare.

Young women, we must immerse ourselves in a selfless work, perhaps receiving little public praise or attention. Instead, we must feel the Lord’s great love for us and our efforts through the influence of the Holy Ghost. As these feelings come, faith in Jesus Christ grows. Capacity to serve then increases."

I love this idea of teaching the girls to develop themselves and look outward. It was a lovely evening. Here is a picture of Eliza and Rachel's personal progress project that they displayed.  I just can't get enough of these darling young ladies.

Looking Ahead

Tonight we headed to Emma's final home game. Mary's team joined the High Schoolers for the game's opening and then took posts around the field, making for the most darling little ball girls you've ever seen. We sat behind the birthday boy, Josh snuggled next to Sarah. I can see myself in a few years watching Mary's soccer game and snuggled up to a teenage Noah. So much to look forward to.