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

The last transfer for Lolo !!

Hi folks, this will be short... Laura was transferred yesterday to Seneca Falls NY. I do not have an address yet, but will post as soon as I get it. Hopefully tomorrow. The thing I like about this transfer is that Seneca Falls has a nickname...Sneaky Falls... very fitting for Lolo. Also it was a place where women's movements and equal rights were started there Like Amelia Bloomer, who made it possible for women to wear trousers. So that is how the name bloomers got started. They named the trousers after Lilly Bloomer. I love folk tales. Hope many more are to come. Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side. and to be continued..............love a missionary Mom for 42 more days. Kathy

49 days...REALLY?????

Hi everyone, It's me Roo again. Me and Mom were just talkin today about the excitement of Lolo's return and we both agree that it was easier to send her off, than the anticipation of her homecoming. Before the MTC, We were packing for weeks and Lolo was reading Preach My Gospel. The house was destroyed, cuz Mom was gonna have plenty of time to organize it all perfectly. Mom was gonna sleep, walk, send boxes to Lolo and scrapbook. Well... who threw the monkey wrench in that plan? It's been nothing like we planned. Mom did send Lolo a box everyday she was at the MTC, full of treats for her and her new missionary pals. To date.. Mom has sent approx. 51 boxes to New York. I said " Mom. I think Lolo knows you love and adore her.....51 boxes...really?..... Well guess who is the most popular Mom in the mission field. Yep... Yep... our Mom. Once Lolo was settled in Rochester, Mom received a nice letter from President Hemmingway, in the letter he said" thank you for sending such a well prepared daughter to serve the Lord" Like Uncle Doyle always says" Preparation is a Wonderful thing" I am really loving my nightly strolls in my pink Mercedes Benz. I wave my little paw like a pageant queen at everyone, and say things like yo..yo, and whad up? and have you seen my cute face lately. Then all the little kiddies like to pet my head cuz I am so soft and smell so good. My secret....Juicy Couture, I have the whole set..Lolo got it for me. I am learning to sleep like a real person. Instead of sleeping on Mom's head like a Russian Hat, I have learned how to spoon like big people. Speaking of spoon, Lolo invented it, she is the best. Mom calls her a healer when she puts her red head in-between Mom's shoulder blades. Just think Mom will get Laura back in 49 days. We will be very busy at our house making sure the house is ready for our missionary's return. We are just so proud of our little Lolo, she got to visit Niagara Falls and had a fun day. She could get one more transfer before she comes home. President Hemmingway asked her if she would like to stay in Palmyra or full time in another town? She said " I'll go where you need me the most" Lolo is my idol. She has served so faithfully and loves everyone, even pigs. As long as she doesn't love Porky more than me, I'm down. Okay.. Mom promised that she would get serious and write some miracles next time. There are so many, I think she doesn't know where to start. Gee ...Mom is so proud of Lolo, I 'm planning to go on a mission, so Mom will think I am better than Ice cream too ! We think Holiday Bryn is in Swiss Days this weekend. So we will get postcards from that adventure. We need to head down stairs to pray and sing ( my -oh -my) I just wanted to tell you all how much we love and appreciate all your letters and support. We wouldn't have made it without all your help. Be safe this Labor Day weekend we don't want our friends hurt. As always" Stay on the Right Side of the Light Side"
And check out 2 Nephi 2:2 and Alma 37:37, those are just 2 of our favorites. we love you guys !!
Oh... Grandma in the garden and Papa are coming in a couple weeks, Yayyy !! I am so excited.
Love Roo the Diva, and a missionary Mom.