Seek --  All That is Good

A week ago Rick and I climbed aboard the “TRAX” and rode into Salt Lake City with a few of our family members. We were interested in seeing the recently completed  “City Creek Center”.  All of the grand opening celebrations had concluded and some of the 50,000 daily guests had  lessened -- not!  It was crowded, hundreds, if not thousands had decided to visit the plaza just like we had. It was fun to see all the hustle and bustling around the downtown area once again. City Creek  has been years in the construction.  From the looks of everything Salt Lake City is thriving. It has become a central addition and influence for the city. 

I took a few minutes to observe the movement of people from a balcony position. In every direction I could see people in progress. Moving here and there,  entering and exiting stores, pushing stollers, carryng shopping bags, everyone with a goal or purpose in mind. 

          The many beautiful fountains, designed by those that created the fountains at the Bellagio  in Las Vegas, seemed to invite and welcome everyone’s touch and observation. I delighted in watching the children play in the fountain’s water.Their faces reflected joy as they danced in the water cascading. Everywhere you looked there was fresh fountains, or flowing water streams. Doesn’t really look like a shopping mall--it’s beautiful 

          North of the City Creek Center is Temple Square and the beauty continued north. It was a perfect walk in the park. By tradition the tulips had awakened the joy of color. Giant orange tulips, white poppies, blue for-get-me-nots, purple pansies. . . to name a few. I took pictures, as I want to appreciate the abundance of spring, and new beginnings.

      Rick and I stepped away from the family who wanted to do some shopping. We then enjoyed a journey back in time with some memories and  experiences on temple square.  

I took a picture of the door that once led into the baptistery. I was baptized there 54 years ago. My mind genereated a few thoughts and special feelings as I pondered my tender memory of my good father holding my hand and walking me into water. We had practiced prior to going to Temple Square just what I was supposed to do.  It made me smile just knowing that I had been so prepared and ready for baptism. 

        I snapped another picture of the Assembly Hall , where I had performed with my high school seminary choir, as well as the BYU’s Sounds of Freedom several times. 

        Just looking at the Tabernacle brought back so many experiences to mind. As a young girl our family frequented it, especially on General Conference Sunday. We always looked  forward to  the presentations by the Sunday School.  The Tabernacle was too where I sang with several performing groups.  One sweet memory was when I was twelve I was featured by the church as the “Beehive” representing the girls of the church.  It was the Golden Beehive Jubelee.  I had my picture taken for the newspaper standing by the podium.

Temple Square has often made me feel ‘at home.’  Perhaps it because of all the sweet memories, moments and lunch breaks that I was able to spend there. Working at the Federal Reserve Bank allowed me to walk up and enjoy my lunch hour every day. Some of my comfort came from all the flowers. I smiled as I thought of my mother making friends with the gardener on Temple Square years prior.  She wanted to learn about gardening. He became a good friend and teacher. He had given her numerous flower starts, bulbs, seeds, even tree starts. After which our own yard on Parkway Avenue was reguarded by many as a true garden of beauty. So in my thinking mother and daddy had indeed created a “heaven on earth.”

      

     Our walk through the gardens was refreshing. It wasn’t just the colors. I believe my spirit was soaking in the sacred beauty. There within a city wall was God’s varieties of all kinds--even people. 

       If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

       In today’s world I believe we must seek diligently to fill our minds with virtuous and lovely thoughts, surround ourselves with goodness. Learn and study and fill our minds with all that is uplifting. It is up to each of us to generate goodness, and beauty.

        Speaking about generating beauty I encourage everyone to go down to the Church Museum across from Temple Square and see all the works of art that have been entered into the annual Church competition.  As you enter the building’s foyer you will see a delightful piece of art made of stained glass. It was made by Yvonne Bent, ( my niece). It’s white framed (door) invites all to ponder the beautiful elements of God’s garden.  With light coming from behind it is the perfect introduction to the art.  If one knows Yvonne, one realizes that she is constantly seeking to learn and then share her knowledge. Congratulations Yvonne, the piece is beautiful. 

       Walking back to join the family Rick and I took our time. It isn’t often that we go downtown.  However, it allowed me to think about a vision once held. There were fountains, spacious buildings, people pushing and people being lost by the wayside. It was so real as I could see it before my eyes. It led me to question: where I am in God’s plan or visioned picture? Am I focused, truly focused in things that matter most?  Am I dipping into waters that seem too inviting?  Are there fads and fashions that are tempting?  Are the voices louder than the ones I should listen too?  It is good to ponder at times and discover one's footings.

     

Seeking that which is good, is becoming a necessary standard. There are so many distractions in this very busy life of ours. To choose between better and best is a daily juggle. I like the words diligently and steadfast, and I pray that I will hold strong as I walk the path. 

 

A thought I shared at the seminaries this week:  

“Our task is to become our best selves. 

One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying

 again, for no failure ever need be final.”  Pres. Thomas S. Monson  

Love to all,

   Shauna 

It's Spring!

Blessings Within the Blossom

by Shauna V. Brown

     There is something invigorating about springtime. I know that this year I have rejoiced as I have watched the bursting of the blossoms. There should be a holiday for this event. It seems the trees are singing out their souls with “popcorn balls that could smell so sweet” -- delicate flowers. Flowers that announce the hope of new possibilities.  

I almost pucker as I imagine a Granny green apple sprinkled with salt. Or recall as my mother would slice a golden pear dripping in yummy sticky juice.  I can’t forget the cherries, or the fuzzy peaches either. My mother used to slice the peaches and sprinkle them with sugar to my delight and lip licking joy. I tried to duplicate those visions and memories for my own family. 

     Daily I drive past some of the old fruit stands on State Street.  Most of the fruit stands are closed now and many of the fruit farms have been sold.   One of the fruit stands has sat vacant for at least eleven years that I know of. The metal baskets are rusting and the walls of the building are falling in.  I drive past a couple of the remaining farms and rejoice for those last few fruit farmers that treasure the harvest. Thank heavens for memories that help us recall times past. 

Sometimes I can even see my daddy and mother load up the car with baskets and cardboard boxes of fresh grown produce. In fact I recall that yearly mother had daddy drive us all the way to an Orem hillside to get some cherries from the orchard she used to pick in as a child.  It was one memory she “cherrished.” That orchard is gone now, replaced by homes and schools.  But I can still taste the cherries and giggle with the thought of just  how many I could eat before I would get sick to my stomach. Awe, such sweet memories.

From my Lindon seminary I can look down and see a blanket of pink and white blossoms.  I realize that in a few coming years there will be few if any fruit farms. Time does change things. 

      It seems my life’s path has been framed in blossoms.  I have been surrounded in possibilities and blessings.  Growing up in a loving home, surrounded by a family who truly cared for one another. I believe we were ‘hand picked’ and selected to be together.  One of our blossomed blessings was that we had a father who was committed and dedicated to his wife and family. A mother who constantly worked in providing a warm, nurturing home.  Together my parents sought the necessary environment for a thriving harvest. Granted, we were not all cherries or peaches. We were a hardy variety bunch. We were taught to enjoy the light and seek the living water. We were taught the gospel of Jesus Christ. For that I am eternally grateful. Bless you mother and daddy! 

      Just like the fruit farmer I see  the ‘family’ is being threatened. Today we hear that fewer are sensing the need for home or family. Many feel the family it is outdated, too much work, or selfishly - to expensive.

As a little girl I thought everyone wanted to be a mother or father, and have bunches of children and gather them for family prayer, and dinners around the table.  Sadly I know that fewer and fewer are seeing the purpose or the blessing within the blossoms.  Working with the young single adults we are realizing that fewer believe in the need for marriage, committment, or children.

         

    I recall with vividness my mother sharing some of the sad stories of those living at the Atria Assisted Care Center with her. There were many who had never had any visitors. Some shared how their lives just didn’t include having a family. Their career was top priority. Some had chosen to remain single. There were widows who had not been able to have children, or didn’t want any. Many expressed to mother how they envied her constant stream of family visits.  Frequently they shared their regrets in having chosen that independent path. There were no blossoms to frame their pictures. No one to remember or recall memories. Their lives were now very lonely.

     Blessings Within the Blossoms.... yes, family is a sweet blessing to savor. The greatest blessing we can savor is our Savior.  Hopefully, we might all consider that the apple  (each one of us ) doesn't fall far from the tree. 

     Every time I see an apple sliced I think of my sweetheart Rick. Frequently he would create a tray of goodies to share with his children, or guests.  Peanut butter and apples, cheese and crackers, red twisty vines, and “come catch the bubbles”--7up.  Smiles were always expressions of gratitude and 

     “Man is that he might have joy.” 

There is nothing like an armful of hugs and squeezes and dancing children. I believe joy comes by counting the blessings, expressing gratitude, and extending to others the joy in having children.  I count each one of mine as a great blessing--and miracle.  I too know that each was handpicked and selected for our Brown’s Sunshine Factory.  

        I looked out the window and what did I see? 

Blossoms of joy given unto me.  Oh, my soul doth delight!!

     Last weekend our family was gathered for an Easter celebration. Briant was offering the family prayer when he prayed that Heavenly Father might bless “Baby Brown”.  To everyones surprise and joy.  Egg-actly-- another blessing and eternal blossom is beginning to grow on our family branch.  Rejoice!  It is spring once again.    Congratulations Camille and Briant!  Baby Bud is due in October.

     Love to all! 

Have a sunshine day. . . with a cherry on top!

Easter-- Time to Rejoice!!

    The headline read: LDS Church to blitz YouTube, Facebook with messages of Jesus Christ on Easter weekend.

    I was excited to join in the blitz... and add my voice of testimony. It was sweet to see that many had added their feelings for their Savior, Jesus Christ.   [ mormon.org ] will lead you there - if interested.

    At a time in the world when so many are turning their backs to even the very thought that such a man as JESUS CHRIST has ever existed. How sad it must be for Jesus to realize that such an incredible sacrifice would someday be met with the description of “invention.” 

    So where do we stand--- you and I?   Where are our thoughts concerning Jesus Christ? Is He for real? Did He do what he is 

reported to have done--submitted to the will of the Father and paid the price for all--- so that we can live again?  

     I guess the thoughts of Easter are too close to my heart... as I have been preparing to give a talk in Sacrament Meeting today.        Everyone should pretend they are having to speak about Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. There is nothing like research to regenerate a deeper devotion.  So I took a bit of time to write down those personal moments when I have felt His closeness in my life.  It has been a most precious experience.

     I wish the following melody could come forth as you read...a hymn I grew up singing as a child: I Stand All Amazed 

        I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me.

Confused at the grace that so fully he profers me.

I tremble to know that for ME he was cruicified,

That for me a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.

Oh, it is wonderful - that he should care for me, 

enough to die for me.

Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me.    

     What a special, wonderful, blessing for me. I rejoice in life! I love my Heavenly Father, my brother Jesus Christ and all those who have sacrificed to give me purpose and worth.

      Part of my Easter talk was about my experience in giving birth to my first child, and the pain felt. I shared how I had nine months to study, contemplate the pain and prepare for the delivery. However, one can never truly prepare for the intensity of it.  

     Made me think: How long did Jesus  have to ponder and prepare for his Gethsemane?

    Here’s my personal quote of the day

:

“I was willing to give my all for one, 

but Jesus Christ  was willing to 

give His all -- for all.” sb 

I shared in part a dream that Elder Orson Whitney had of being in the Garden of Gethsemane and observing Jesus Christ.  If you haven’t read it, take a moment and locate it. It becomes very personal. [Elder Whitney... The Divinity of Jesus Christ, Improvement Era 1926 .  I’m sure you can google it as well.]

       

       Enjoy your Easter.... 

                          it was meant for each of us.

With Love,   Shauna

Praise the Lord • Sing Hallelujah! 

• He is Risen

by Shauna V. Brown 

    In 1987 Rick and  I traveled as guests of Rev. Sun Yung Moon to Korea.  We, along with about 20 other Latter-day Saints were invited as representatives for the church.   Rick and I were serving as advisors to the Young Single Adults at the time. 

This experience would prove to be life changing experience for me.  I must admit when we first considered going I was nervous as I definately didn’t consider myself well scholared in the Bible. I knew we would be surrounded and exposed to numerous beliefs. I didn’t want to embarrass anyone with my lack of knowledge.  I was mostly concerned about the “Bible Belt” folks as I believed most of them would be Bible scholars.

  Upon arrived in Korea we were placed within  buses to travel to a conference center. Rev. Sun Yung Moon was spending  thousands, if not milliions of dollars to hold weekly conferences to expose people to his beliefs. We were his guests. He had been holding similar conferences for over a year. Our conference hosted about 5- 600 people from all over America. There were individuals representing the Methodists, Quakers, Unitiarians, Baptists, Mennonites, Penticostals, Evangelicals, everyone one including the Pastor for the “Church on the Corner.”  

It was all exciting as we met many Pastors, Priests, leaders and companions. So interesting to learn about their beliefs. It truly was an event I have thanked my Heavenly Father for. It was a smorgasbord of spiritual learning. Not about what I believed, but what others believed, and then what they would believe of me. Would the see the similiarities? Would they seek to understand? 

       The ride from the airport was a bit of a distance and so the advisor assigned to our bus led a discussion with us concerning our varied and different faiths. Our advisor was warm and welcoming, and had the ability to allow everyone to relax.  I can’t recall how it happened, I only can remember with vivid sweetness the moment when he asked if I might share a favorite song of our church. Instantly my mind was flooded with melodies. But I had no hymn book. I knew at least the first verse of many, The Spirit of God,  Oh, My Father, High on a Mountain Top, We Thank Thee Oh God for  Prophet, Jesus the Very Thought of Thee . What would and could reflect a special song for our religion?  I know that first impressions are critical.  I pondered for a moment. Then I felt to share one of my very favorites. I had sung it thousands of time when I was touring with the Sounds of Freedom and the Young Ambassadors. We would sing it at the conclusion of a performance. Many times it would render the audience to tears. 

 “I Am a Child of God”.   I told how our little primary children learn and sing this song. 

 Standing in the front aisle of the bus, holding the microphone and singing sweet words: 

    I am a child of God and He has sent me here. 

Has given me and earthly home with parents kind and dear. 

Lead me, guide me, walk beside me. Help me find the way. 

Teach me all that I must do. To live with Him some day.

          The words... are presious and true.  It wasn’t long before I realized that many were listening intently. I only wish that I could have had accompainment. However, it was and will forever be a tender memory for me.  It was amazing how many had no belief that we truly are children of a Heavenly Father.

 I looked into faces unknown to me, but I know God knew them. I prayed that I could see each one through His eyes. It was an experience that I shall always treasure.After many days and experiences I came to realize that a testimony of Jesus Christ is of great worth and a gift. A gift meant to share again and again.

One of my favorite moments came during a rally when revival music was being played. It was easy for me to stand and get involved and enjoy the rhythm. I clapped, sang loud and swayed with the crowd. [ Not everyone did)  Apparently many of the congregation thought I had received a witness of the spirit .  

         “You done got the Holy Ghost Sister! ”  I smiled, and answered, 

         “No I received that gift when I was eight.” Imagine the interest and conversation from then on. 

 I think we all need revivals.  Spiritual revivals...  Where we stand up and praise the Lord and invite everyone to enjoy the spirit, enjoy the light, and share the gratitude for having a Redeemer and Savior.  

        I believe I succeeded in spreading the joy and a bit of the "Mormon" in me when a few of the southern Pastors asked if they could have a picture taken with a real “Mormon Gal.”   

Perhaps Rev. Moon had another purpose in inviting so many to Korea & Japan--hoping to open our eyes to the world and what others believe.  I am thankful I took a step into the unknown.  I made new friends and enjoyed relationships and learned how blessed Rick and I were to spend 14 days sharing our testimony of Jesus Christ, our beliefs while studing scripture and rubbing shoulders with those seeking the same--‘Coming to Jesus.’ 

Isn’t that what life is all about? This is the time for all of us to prepare to meet God. 

Jesus Christ has given everything possible so that we ultimately can return to Him-- some day.  My goal is to strive daily to keep my thoughts, my actions and heart centered on Jesus Christ.

May we all  take a moment this week and rejoice in Jesus Christ, and his love for each of us. Let the congregation say   “AMEN!” 

Love to you all,

       Shauna

Some Must Push and Some Must Pull

    by Shauna Brown 

For the past seventeen years I have focused a good portion of my time and talent writing scripts about pioneers. Scripts ranging from major stage plays, monologues, reader theatres for pioneer treks.  It has been an uplifting and rewarding experience. Never dreamed that words written would be performed from coast to coast and continent to continent.   I treasure with great appreciation the opportunity to research pioneer histories. Pioneer journals and ‘their’ stories have enriched my life. In fact, those stories have lifted me at times when I needed an affirmation of trust, perserverance, faith and comfort.  Those pioneers are sweet blessings in my life.

     Frequently I am taken back to 14 Gatehouse Lane in Sandy, Utah. It was there I was asked by our stake president, Stewart Glazier, to write a stage production about the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies. Most mornings around 2-3:00 I would rise early as a melody or thought would rush through my mind. My fingers couldn’t keep up with the melodies. Tears would frequent my cheeks as I felt so close to those who had walked those frozen pathways.

    I have been blessed to testify weekly of those precious saints to those seeking music and scripts to perform. I have loved stepping into their shoes if only for a moment to testify of their courage and faith. In so doing I have found a firm foundation upon which I can walk.  I have had moments where I have encouraged others, as well as myself to ‘pick up the handcart and keep moving.’ 

   This week I found  a sweet thought. I felt so at home with it.  I emailed it to all of the seminaries as I know the teachers are always needing an extra lift. I sent it off as well to some of my family members. I love it. 

“When our wagon gets stuck in the mud, God is much more likely to assist the 

man who gets out to push than the man who merely raises his voice in 

prayer—no matter how eloquent the oration.” 

Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf

     It is my testimony that God and Jesus Christ are very much aware of each one of us.  Some times we wonder and question our worth, life’s direction, and if we will be strong enough to face the coming challenges.  Some of us feel stuck in the mud at times.  That is when we must all get out and push and pull one another.  

     Tender mercies to me are those moments when a thought, a voice, a bird flying overhead, even a billowing cloud with a silver-gold lining  gives me a moment to count my blessings. It is then I realize I must load up my personal handcart and push forward.  

     My pioneer friends had a vision of life eternal. They were willing to sacrifice all, to leave their loveones, their possessions and step into the unknown.  More than any other time in my life -- I love them more. I cherish their words, and their willingness, their strict obedience.  They realized that life is brimming full with possibilities and promises of a loving God.   

     I have watched numerous actors step into the shoes of Francis Webster, a pioneer favorite and share his stirring words:

“Not one of that company ever apostasized or left the church because 

every one of us came through with the absolute knowledge that God 

lives for we became acquainted with him in our extremities.

I have looked ahead and seen a patch of sand or a hill slope and I have said, 

I can go that far and there I must give up.  When I reached it, the cart began 

pushing me.  I have looked back many times to see who was pushing my cart, 

but my eyes saw no one.

I knew then that the angels of God were there.  The price we paid to become 

acquainted with God was privilege to pay.  I know that God was there.”

      It’s it wonderful that each new day we have the opportunity to step forward, pull on, and in some cases push others to seek the higher road.  

     If this life is the time and goal for all of us to prepare to meet God.  Then I must ask: “What’s in our handcart?” 

     What price, sacrifice, time are we willing to give to know God? 

     Francis Webster.... ‘the price we paid to become acquainted with God was privilege to pay.’

      Make the best of this sabbath day.  

      Love to all,

Shauna

Have a sunshine day. . . with a cherry on to

It’s Time to Swing Again

This morning as I was returning home from driving Rick to the church... I began singing spontaneously...

Climb every mountain, forge every stream . 

Follow every rainbow, till you find your dream. 

         From that melody it took me home to childhood memories and melodies.

 As a little girl I spent many hours swinging from our clothes line posts. Swinging and singing was time of anticipated enjoyment. I could swing for hours. I’m sure it was then  when I learned to appreciate God’s beautiful world.

Mother taught me numerous songs and I can still remember every word of my favorite one when I would swing:  

How do you like to go up in a swing,

Up in the air so blue?

Oh, I do think it the pleasantest thing  

Ever a child can do!  

Up in the air and over the wall,          

Till I can see so wide,  

Rivers and trees and cattle and all  

Over the countryside—  

Till I look down on the garden green,  

Down on the roof so brown—   

Up in the air I go flying again,

Up in the air and down!  Written by Robert Louis Stevenson,

Precious memories. I frequently thought that if I could swing high enough I could see farther, perhaps even into heaven. As from one vantage point I could clearly see the capital building resting on the hill in Salt Lake. At sunset the Great Salt Lake was gleaming before my eyes.  I remember how empowered I felt as I could see over into the backyard of Neeleys, or rhymthically peeking into the backyard of Blakes.  I recall frequently being frustrated as I looked at their tall swing. It seemed to be almost twenty feet in height. I wished, and longed that I could swing upon it, so much bigger than ours.  Imagine all that they could see. That is when I first learned about wishing and hoping.  Yet, I found contentment in my own wonderland. It held enough imagination and possibilities of life. Even with the squeaking sounds of rubbing chains upon the clothesline pipes. It was a special time for a young girl. A girl who then only knew that the sun would rise in the east and set in some incredible golden toned sunset. 

Recently there have been those moments when I want to participate in tippy toe adventures into someone else’s yard, and pretend for just a moment--to have. It’s funny as I come back to the ground I realize wherein contentment is found.  I am asked now to climb mountains that I can’t even see. I am experiencing a rainbow moment. Surrounded by all the colors, plans and vivid scripted possibilities.  Daily I sit upon my swing holding onto faith and clasping the rope. Within the rhythm of daily living I can feel heaven brush against my cheeks as answers to my prayers are whispered on the wind. It is within those moments and pondering that I am finding the peace that is promised.  

When mother called, “It’s time to come inside.’ Reluctantly I slowly dragged my feet upon the ground. I stopped and promised to return. As there was still too much to see, and horizons unexplored.  

Up in the air...   Till I can see so wide.

I continue to sing as I breathe deep and lift my feet and place hands firming upon the ropes.  With all the faith one can muster we will learn to rise and see all that God has in store for us. Great vistas of learning.  Imagine how much more we would appreciate the sunsets as we realize they are the peaceful impressions that God is writing upon our hearts.  

Today I see there are more sunrises to enjoy, flowers to pick and plant and lives to touch, as well as testimonies to be born.  Jesus has walked the pathway for me and sprinkled seeds to grow within my soul. 

Let me share a quote that I came across by Elder Jeffery R. Holland. I was seeking a thought to post within the seminaries... 

“When you are confronted with challenges that are difficult to conquer or you have questions arise, the answers to which you do not know, hold fast to the things you do know. Hang on to your firmest foundation, however limited that may be, and from that position of strength face the unknown.” 

 Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Created for Greater Things

I sense that Elder Holland loved to swing as well.  Enjoy the sabbath. 

“Be A Builder”

by Shauna V. Brown 

Yesterday Rick, Kate and I went to see the continuing construction of Brooke and Dan ‘s home.  At first when Dan told us it was going to take three months  to build I questioned the possibility of the timing. Could a house be built in such a short amount of time.  We stood on the lot just after the cement for the foundation was poured. We smiled with the beginning and anticipated blueprint design. With each visit I continue to be amazed  at just how quickly it is taking on the beauty of a home.  I marveled as one of the workers, carried one piece of huge sheetrock up the stairs by himself and tossed it around like it was a light piece of paper, at least it looked that way to me. I watched as other workers nailed on the trim. Skill full hands and equipment are indeed key to the art of home building. 

While waiting for Brooke and Dan to arrive I pointed out to Kate a man roofing on a nearby home.  There appeared even a rhythm to his stapling down the roof tiles. Within a matter of minutes he had laid a completed section of the roof.  It was apparent that time and time again they had all lifted, hoisted, stapled, hammered.... It was clear they didn’t waste time. They had developed the craftsmanship, and ability  by all appearances to  build and complete and hopefully upon completion we shall all say,  ‘job well done.’

      Building a home, takes more than mortar and brick. It takes time, patience, skill and desire. I have been so blessed to stand side by side with a great home builder.  I know many of you laugh or marvel that I can say that... especially those who have seen Rick with a hand saw, or plumbing tools. Yet, I see things even more clearly now, some forty years in the building.  I smile as I reflect upon those first moments and mistakes of parenthood. Who knew?  Who knew how to do it all right and perfectly?  

Tossed into action the moment a little babe came into our life. It instantly changed the dynamics of our peaceful, little heaven on earth. I’m sure heaven smiles, and sometimes giggle as angels watch the intense hammering moments of concern, despair and unknown. 

I reflect and can laugh with the thought of the moments when our little Heather threw up for the first time. Father Rick was on duty, and instantly held her up quickly, baby out stretched before him. With a puzzled look on his face he began running back and forth down the hallway, “What do I do? What do I do?” 

I replied, “Go into the bathroom.”  That moment was most  revealing. It wasn’t a pretty picture, and the clean up wasn’t pretty either.  It didn’t take long before he learned and recognized the symptoms and signs, where to go, and how fast to move there.   

 Now look at him, a seasoned father and Bishop with hundreds, no thousands, he has held up and carried until they knew and realized what to do, who to turn to, who to trust and where to go. 

      He is an incredible brick layer...Brick by brick.....Rick’s my pick.

      Yesterday Brooke shared that she had told her friend Nicole that growing up she remembers her mother always counseling, “Be a Builder.”

     I smiled and my mind flooded with gratitude and great appreciation for those who were brought into my heart to teach me how to be a builder. 

That roofer... that Kate and I watched will leave that roof, and will go to another. 

But parenting is never over or completed. I realize now that each of our homes, sunshine factories, have been and always will be ‘under construction.’  

Our Father in Heaven is allowing us the opportunity to learn to become builders of the best... to dwell someday in a home, a ‘perfect home’.  

Becoming  qualified, certified, as an eternal builder ... is the process through which our Heavenly Father allows us the opportunity to realize HE is the master builder and Christ is the foundation of all things.  

When we cry out for direction. He know exactly where to turn.

    When considering all the possibilities of parenthood we prayed and asked for special spirits -- children that would enrich and strengthen our lives. 

 I believe fully that each one of you were hand and heart picked by a loving Father in Heaven to come into our family. I am ever grateful for the lessons learned from each of you.  Even now my life continues to be enriched as we labor side by side - together.  What a blessing!  

Each one with their unique skills and talents for adding  and building to our family’s tool box.  Just thinking about all the blessings you have brought: Sense of humor, tidiness, sensitive, peacemaker, order, style, creative, thrifty, devoted, love of God, love of life, leader, kindness, gentleness, appreciative, genuine, talented, trustworthy, example, generous, gracious, patient, constant, faithful, steadfast, loving, to name just a few of the talents  and skills that our sunshine factory has been blessed to be surrounded with. I’m sure you can even think of more. Great blessings!  Great builders!

    I am so grateful that I was raised in a loving home. I was surrounded by many great builders. Thankful for two parents who were totally dedicated in daily fortifying our foundation, while laying brick by brick principles that would forever build faith.  I continue to feel of their strength within the walls of my heart as I can hear mother say, "we must have unwavering faith." 

 So as we each face our 'learning experiences' and learn how to hoist and lift what we might have thought impossible... there are tender mercies and puddle makers all around.  Thank heavens! 

 May our Father in Heaven know how much we appreciate being blessed with 'family.'

     The first year of marriage  Rick selected a thought:

      “You lift me, I’ll lift thee, and We’ll ascend together.”  

  • Quaker Proverb  

“You build me, I’ll build Thee, and we will all

             find a room in God’s mansion.”

  

That’s the goal! 

With Love Shauna

Have a sunshine day. . . with a cherry on top!