My Miracle is home...sweet home.....

Dear Friends and family, Well... it looks like my little blogity blog has come to a close. My missionary is back. Laura rocked Rochester, prayed in Palmyra, gave historic tours on scared grounds with the spirit guiding her, touched the lives of God's children who are searching for answers to their own problems, helped the poor and needy, bore the burdens of others , shared her testimony many times to members and non-members. There has been much sweat and tears in her learning, serving, loving, preaching and teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whew!!
On Oct 21 , 2009 the day started out like this... Grandma" what are the plans for today?" Me..." we are picking up our missionary", Grandma....." sob, sob, warm tear rolls down her hot little cheek.... and in a very small -quite -almost reverent voice...our little missionary Lolo" She is coming home today, the little one who overcame so much has served the Lord with all her heart might mind and soul"

Grandma... "ohhh... that Lolo, she makes my heart hurt, I still see her sitting on the bed in tears, hitting her precious face with her wooby blanket, trying to be brave. Now look what she did" Do I look okay to go pick her up at the airport? Yes , Mom, just grand. "Well you are so dressed up," she says to me...Well... I am the mother of the "bride". Awesome friend.. Jilly McCloud was the chauffeur, as we piled in her SUV full of excitement, we drive down the road, me and Jill aren't so good with directions, but we made it with laughter the whole way. After we park and head for the terminal, we see other families anxiously waiting for the return of their missionary's. They have posters, balloons and tons of peeps. We on the other hand just pretend we are movie stars and let our bling do the talkin. Holiday Bryn and her mother Linda are there full of laughter and support. We watch as the people come down the escalator. We wait and wait and wait. No sign of Lolo... Holiday Bryn starts pulling out staff passes, get out of jail free passes, and "I OWN THIS AIRPORT" passes, takes the stairs 2 by 2 and heads up to find our Lolo. A few minutes later, we see Holiday Bryn standing at the top of the escalator smiling , that must mean Lolo is coming her way . We later find out, Holiday Bryn heads on the plane, past pilots, crew, first class, and looks and finds our lolo. Hugs of course and leads her to the place ( just like Brigham Young ) where we are all waiting. Around the corner comes our missionary, full of smiles, as she descends down the escalator, I fight back the tears, but it ain't gonna happen, she runs off and into my arms. Ohh what a feeling. The paparazzi were in full swing so every cherished moment could be caught on film. After I let her go, there were hugs and tears all around. GLORIOUS.... what a beautiful day. Our missionary has returned with Honor. We chat, hug, and all say our good-buys as we part in different directions. Once in the Jilly mobile, I crash into the arms of Lolo and she just holds me. Jilly and Grandma are bawling in the front seats. Then we get lost trying to get out of the parking terminal. So we laugh and finally head for home. The scenic route of course.... haha....by the time we land in Provo we have only minutes before we are to be at the Stake President's house for her release. We pick up Papa and head up the hill. He greets us at the door and says to Laura" Welcome Home". We pile in his front room and he begins to tells us how to plan for an easier adjustment into life, after serving and always having a set time and schedule, sometimes the transitions hard. After the advice, he hands me a folder . I open and he has ME read her release certificate. Crocodile tears all over my Hollywood dress, my voice cracking, but I made it through. Then he looks at Laura and says" Now take off your name tag" It was heartbreaking sad, we were all crying, what a mess we are, so tender hearted. Then after much advice and when he said " Laura you have served an honorably full time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, well done". We head for the car and head to California Pizza Kitchen ( thanks Deanna) to meet up with other Elders who served in her district in NYC. They had a grand time, talking about NYC, they were all so cute and happy. Then she left with the Elders and I didn't see her for 2 days. They are keeping her busy, it helps with the transition. I am grateful for them. We still don't know the date for her report to the ward talk, but it will be posted on face book. Now that Laura's journey in the mission field is finished and a new chapter is about to start, it is a wee bit un-nerving not knowing what is the best way to go. Then Lolo reminds me, that if we always stay close to our Father in Heaven, he will guide us in the directions that will be best for us to progress. Laura is one amazing young lady , her stories are so powerful and like treasures to hear. It is Onedurful Hinks. she is home. A BIG Thanks to all who supported Lolo and for the many letters, cards, and dollars sent to her, she was just like Grandpa Cragun, who returned with more dollars than he left with. With the hard comes the sweet and is it ever so sweet. One last time," Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side". Love from Kathy the proud mother of a returned missionary.

Last Letter to my Daughter

........ How do I start a entry like this. I am full of sweet tender emotion today. I wrote the last letter to my daughter Laura that she will receive from me while serving on her mission. My little parents are here, and my mommy just rubbed my head and Roostifer Jane is snoozing with my Papa. Can it get any better than this? Just thinking about Lolo created a earthquake, which turned into a tsunami. Tears everywhere. I have written Laura approx. 100 letters, sent 65 boxes, and prayed for her daily. You guys... she did it !! she fulfilled a full -time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She is an disciple of the Lord. I have pictures all over my office, Her acceptance and 'called to serve' letter, the writing of 'Disciple of God' by Henry B. Erying, a picture of a young Joseph Smith before his leg operation , his father holding him so tenderly, and the faith in his eyes says a thousand words, you can feel the love and respect for his father. I have a picture of the three apostles giving Joseph Smith the Priesthood, in the sacred grove. I have a letter from Lisa Clark' lessons about how to gain and strengthen your testimony, I have an article sent to me by Holiday Bryn by President Gordon G. Hinckly on " it will all work out" I have some thoughts about the pain of mortality and that it is expected of us to have pain , endure the pain to the end and suffer in this life to be exalted on high. I have a little quote saying 'missionary work is the blood life of the Church'. there is no more important work. It blesses the lives of all those who participate in it. It will continue blessing future generations" My heart of so full of love, admiration and respect for Lolo, her companions, her mission President, the investigators and all of you who helped support and love my girl. Whilst I was composing Lolo her last letter, I thought to my self.... wait a tick...... this is the last letter she will read, so the pressure was on, Make it good Kidia, she deserves the best you can do. I glanced at her shoes she sent back already, worn, torn, scuffed but faith in every footstep. I can visualize my Lolo walking for hours, then going door to door to find the people who are willing to open their lives up and listen to the words they have to say. I prayed for her to be led to those pure in heart, searching for the truth. Her companions have all written me about how loved she is in the mission field. I have taped voice mails of people who met lolo on a tour or lesson who absolutely fell in love with her sweet spirit and smile, then took the time to let me know how wonderful she was ..... Yayyy.... that's my girl. I told Lolo that now that she has completed her mission call, more will be expected of her in her life. Her missionary work is really just now kicking in. Lolo will always be a missionary and ready to talk of Christ at any opportunity given. I am so proud of my little Lolo and in 6 1/2 days I will be hugging her with all my might, I might not just let her go. My Laura will be returning with Honor, and I can hardly wait to see her and just to touch her arm. The feeling is unexplainable. I am so filled with joy, I love my daughter and she loves me. She told me God has a plan for this mother and daughter dynamic duo... I can't wait to see what it is. I could go on and on about how much I love Laura and how she completed her mission with strong faith, love and very honorably. I might get a chance to write a story about Papa Jack and the army and his mission. Talk about shennigians. But as for now... I will close with love for all of you, who have so faithfully supported Laura, your lives will be forever blessed by your sacrifices made in her behalf. I love ya all and hope to see you all soon. Thank-you for all you have done for us.
"Stay on the Bright Side of the Light Side" Love to you ...a Missionary mom for one more week.....Kathy

Power of Brotherly Love....

Happy Monday to all my friends and family who take the time to read my little blog. Laura is home in 15 days... my cancer cells have dropped in number, General Conference was amazing. The blessings are abounding shall we say. I always thought my little bloggity blog was just for me keeping you informed of lolo, venting or recording for posterity. However, today whilst talking to my Brother Doug, I learned how much it has influenced his life. What... What...? Bro. Doug drifted away from our wonderful gospel for a time or two. He told me that reading my blog about Lolo's experiences and my own spiritual growth and feelings, he had a change of heart. He is now a regular temple goer and is serving in his Stake Presidency. We shall do as Jesus asked us to and " love our brother", not to be a quick judge on others, and lend our ear and support to those facing difficult challenges. I have often said the Primary song" He sent His Son" is one of my favorites. In the simplest of words it tells what our Father in Heaven has asked us his faithful children to do. " Live like his Son". I was so happy for brother Doug. ( Dougly, R2 Doug 2, Dougie Fresh) He sounded as peace and his heart was full of gratitude to who?.. me... I never thought my words would have a profound effect on anyone, other than me, Laura, and Roostifer Jane. As Hinks would say... it was ONEDURFUL" I contribute my gospel growth to the fact that Laura is serving a mission. Laura has made me see the "light" in a different way ...through her missionary experiences, I strive to learn more in the missionary way. Preach My Gospel is an amazing way to teach and learn. Laura has made me want to be a stronger member of Jesus Christ's gospel as well as a better person. And in 15 days I get to thank her myself. For those of ya all, who don't know the words to the song I am going to print them at the end. While teaching Primary years ago I was blessed to be taught the words of this song by the lovely Lisa Clark. Lisa was the Primary chorister. Her actions used to help the children along... helped this ( Me) Sunbeam teacher remember them. Now I serve with Lisa in Young Women's, how lucky can one gal be? Lisa is a great example of how we as Mother's in Zion need to love those around us. Here is the song: " How could the Father tell the world, of love and happiness? He sent his son a new born babe,with peace and holiness. How could the Father show the world, the pathway we should go? He sent his Son to walk with men, On earth, that we may know. How could the Father tell the world, Of sacrifice of death? He sent his Son to die for us, and rise with living breath. What does the Father ask of us? What do the scriptures say Have Faith, have hope, Live like his Son, Help others on their way. What does he ask? Live like his Son. That's about it... so simple... Help others on their way. My challenge to you is to find someone to help them on their way, and You will find a happiness that you can find no other way. "Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side" Help others on the way ! Thank you for your prayers for Mr. Bill and his sweetheart. Love a missionary mom for 15 more days. Kathy

Say a prayer....

Hi my nearest and dearest friends and family, This morning I have a small request. To please say a special prayer for my friend Mr. Bill and his wife Joanie. I received a note from him saying she is getting frail and weak, and I know they are both a little scared. Mr. Bill.... the wonderful Priesthood holder who gave me a Priesthood blessing when I was at death's door at Huntsman, is having his own struggles and challenges. Mr. Bill tenderly taught me about the morality of our lives, the pain we must endure to learn the valuable lessons needed in the eternities, that it is all God's plan. And most importantly how much we are loved by the Father. When you are married and sealed by President David O' McKay, friends with President Gordon B. Hinckley, L. Tom Perry, Mark E. Peterson and many other brethren, you know the life you lead has been greatly influenced by some of God's best. I have been so fortunate to be his friend and blessed to have him teach me the way. It breaks my heart to see him so tender. So this small request goes out to you my friends, to help another along. "Stay on the Right side of the Light Side" All is well.
Love you, and thank you. Kathy

Don't make me........

Dear Friends and Family, Today is Sunday and a perfect way to finish a perfect week. First.. thank you for all your sweet cards, gifts and well wishes ( especially those from Slick City, you know who you are : )
I had a most wonder week leading up to my birthday , surprise party, lots of cards and treats. Laura is coming home in 24 days and Elder Jordan Cook from her mission said he made a paper chain to count down. Laura has had the most wonderful, spiritual growing experiences we never could have imagined. I will relay this one, cuz it's funny and sooo Lolo. They were at District meeting, and they came in with a bad case of the giggles and treats. A do "gooder"
felt the need to lecture them on loud laughing Well.... if you know Lolo like I know Lolo, she laughs loud and often. The "do gooder" continues to chastise them and others who laugh. Her poor little newbie companion was feeling like a bad missionary, slowly her shoulders sank, then her head went down, and the crocodile tears fell,before Laura could put a comforting arm around her, she bolts from the room with a major panic attack and locks herself in the handicap stall. Laura tried to get her to come out. " No Way she says" So our little Lolo says " Don't make me come get you" companion is still crying in fetal position, then Lolo says ' don't make me spoon ya" she slithers under the door and holds her little companion, softly telling her she needs a Priesthood blessing, she slides back out under the door, heads back to the Elders who look like deers in headlights and Lolo sets it all up. Sitting, standing, full name of companion, etc... heads back to the bathroom slides back under and then tells her she has it all set up and she needs this blessing. After much coxing, she comes out. Many of the Elders have glassy eyes, but all were so concerned for her and her welfare. A beautiful blessing was said, the Elders left and the two sisters cried in the nursery room. Then the giggles began, so it was time to head home. Laura said" the Lord wants you to be happy and laugh while serving, a happy face is much more approachable. Oh... my girl... home in 24 days...She has done so well. She became the Mother to the Elders and Sisters, she took care of them and did an amazing job teaching and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Am I proud ??? I think I am walking above ground . Lolo took it upon herself to followed total obedience during her mission, and to watch the others in the mission field like a mother hen. She is wonderful. We still don't don't know the official homecoming date. I am getting antsy, and peeps need to make plans. But I also know it will all work out. I will post the date when I receive it so you can come and hear her homecoming talk. I will probably be in a puddle of tears basking in her sweetness and homecoming. So don't mind me, if you see a box of Kleenex under my arm, it's all good ! Roostier Jane wanted me to add a couple words. She reminded me that Holiday Bryn also met Brad , Angelina and kids, Matt Lauder,Katie Couric, Suze Orman, Oprah, Dr. Phil, Jerry Springer, the Pope and she flies close to God... SHE WINS!! We just love our Holiday Bryn. And "Spooning" is our way of comforting, and Lolo is a healer. Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side" as all is well. Love from a trunky missionary mom, Kathy and little Roostifer Jane

Holiday Bryn and Arnold

Hi guys, it's me... Roostifer Jane, Mom's busy getting Christmas things done, the house is decorated like Halloween, and it's 7 days before her birthday. Mom is one crazy mixed up Chick, but there is always a method behind her madness. I already put my Christmas list in, I want a dolphin, pony, snowy machine, and a unicorn. That's all. I know she can pull it off, Mom's magic. I wanted to tell you of our Holiday Bryn. That gal... Mom knew she was up to something fantastic. Well... she was just hanging out with Maria Shriver in the ladies room at Sun Valley. Then she shasyahed her little bad self over to Arnold.. yep yep. , the Governor of poor ole California. Man 'O' man, Bryn can make a holiday out of anything, that's why mom calls her Holiday Bryn, who knows who she meets and greets when working first class in the skies. So.... lets see...Mitt and the Romney;s, Jon and the Huntsman's, Dennis the Rodman, the Kennedy's, and the Schwarzenegger. Jo Lo and Bennifer at Sundance Film Festival just to name a few. It's great to be friends with Holiday Bryn, she has the best stories. As for me... well... I got groomed, so I pouted, and Mom went out of her way to spoil me so I wouldn't be mad at her( my pouting works every time) Poor Mom..." Lolo what are we gonna do with Mom? love her..just love her, that's all we can do" We are on the count down of 32 days before her little baby goat Lolo comes home. Are excited or what?. Well I guess Mom's putting up the Christmas stuff already. I can't keep her down, I have to bark my self silly to get her to take an afternoon rest with me.. Oh... yeah... I am getting quite popular in my pink Mercedes Benz buggy. I just wave my little paw like a beauty queen, circle.. circle or twist of the wrist like Queen Elizabeth. One evening the Paparazzi was out in full force. Have you seen my face lately? I am adorable. Alas... my time has run out, Lolo is doing great, and writing stories that make Mom cry a river, tears in her ears I could go on, but you get the picture. Mom's a cry baby, we need to toughen her up. Grandpa in the garden says she wears her heart on her sleeve, what ever that means. She just says she's tender. Okay Mom... I gotcha back. " Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side" and make your Christmas lists out early this year, I'll even help you, I know Santa. Love from Roostifer Jane and a very busy missionary mom.
PS. Lolo's new address is Peter Whitmore farmhouse,or the main office written in red to the left. : }

17 months of blessings

Hi gang, friends, family, dogs and cats, cougars and pet fishes,
Wow !! It's getting close, she's almost home. I can't bring myself to believe it. Everyone says'It went by so fast" , And it did. As I have Roostifer Jane draped over my shoulder, I try to find the words that will be inspiring, heart felt, loving, caring and grateful to all of you who have helped Laura and Me out for 17 months. The encouraging letters from family and friends. The " how's our missionary doing" echoing from the church halls and neighborhood patio's. The financial help from friends and family who wanted to contribute, because they believe in missionary's , their purpose , admiration and the sacrifices they make. The friends who made commitments to give each month for the 18 months, through the world recession and their own recession faithfully dipped into their pockets and helping. Oh.... what promised blessings you will receive. It has been 17 months of health issues, tears and worry. It has been 17 months of trips to the hospital, some in the middle of the night. It is learning about letting others serve you, and letting them receive those blessings. It has been 17 months of fasting and praying for our Lolo, It has been 17 months of Heavenly Fathers tender mercies, for learning and spiritual growth. It has been 17 months of relying upon the Father to watch and protect over us and never feel alone or lonely. When the Mission President asked Laura if she wanted to stay in Palmyra or go else where. Of course, Laura said " I'll go where you need me" So when I received a quick note saying she was at the Peter Whitmore Farmhouse Residence, and still gives tours at Church Historic sites. I felt joy in knowing she is finishing up her mission serving on sacred grounds. I thank Heavenly Father daily for her protection and experiences. Too many to write, but she has them faithfully recorded, I would like to think just as Nephi of old. Words can not describe how much I have missed my missionary, side kick and faithful daughter. However, in all the affliction's we both have faced, it has been the most humbling, and wonderful 17 months I will ever experience. The letters I have received from Lolo show her growth, faith and love for Jesus Christ. In her letters, she describes to me the miracles that happen on a daily basis. There are no coincidences with the Lord involved. His faithful walk the streets in humid, hot, cold rainy weather, trying to spread the gospel to all in such little time. These missionary's know the Plan of Salvation so well, they want everyone to have a chance to hear the message. The countdown is 38 days and the red haired -tired -swollen and bruised feet, sweet, gentle spirit missionary ... my daughter will be home. Then we have to catch-up, that could weeks or even months, so if you don't see me you can assume I am in a quiet spot with my daughter listening to her read her journal, with Roostifer Jane happily in- between us.
Our Holiday Bryn had a birthday, so hopefully I'll get a telegram telling me in detail just where she went. Amazon, Philippines, Africa, ya never know with Holiday Bryn. I am living my world traveling through her. HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOLIDAY BRYN. We love you and your spunky, funky bad self. To everyone... cougar included.. we love you and are so grateful for your friendship and support. " Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side" love from a missionary mom Kathy