Les Miserables

I'm so proud of my kids.  Since September, Jeremy & Emily have had play rehearsals every day for 3 hours.  When I heard Provo High was putting on Les Mis, I was thinking they were thinking pretty ambitious and I hoped they could pull it off enough to do the play some justice, but they have more than exceeded the expectations I had.  It has been terrific.  I've seen it twice already & look forward to the last 3 nights.

Jeremy & Emily have had a wonderful time being a part of the production.  I can tell they've put their heart & soul into their parts.  Despite being only a member of the chorus, they have had a great experience.

I'm proud of all the PHS kids.  They have worked so hard & so long.  And it has definitely been worth it.  Each night, I get tears in my eyes, not because of the story (though that's definitely worth tearing up for!), but because I feel so proud of the hard work they've given.  And I hope they all feel that pride in what they have done.  Not in a vain way, but proud of their accomplishing something so difficult.

I love to see my kids on stage. 

Skype

I'm so grateful for the ability to Skype my parents!  What wonderful technology!  How can you feel far away from anyone now? 

I remember as a child thinking of wild, crazy, fantastic things...like phones that had a camera so you could see who you were talking to, or cars that told you where you were going.  And to think that's really happening now.... crazy.

This is my favorite picture of all time.  It was the first time we were able to Skype with my mom & dad.  I love how all the grandkids are gathered together looking at the computer talking with Gramps & Nana.  They are such a blessing to my parents. And my parents are such a blessing to them.

New Days

I'm grateful for good nights' rests and for bright mornings that allow us to start a new day.  Things feel better.  Life feels new again.  Ironically, I am a night person, but it doesn't do my emotions good.

Elder & Sister Manning

Emily & I have shared a few tears over the weekend...at odd moments.  Which is what happens when you miss someone.  But I am so happy that my parents have this opportunity.  It's a new day for them in their lives. Their chance to give & to serve--which they are so good at already.  It's a new day for us too -- to experience missionary work from the "sending away" part, to share in their experiences, and to prepare for Jeremy's mission (which will be in 1 year!!).

Grandkids had to have a picture 

with their missionaries!

Spencer (10)

Jeremy (17)

Morgan (6)

Garrett (8)

Emily (14)

Tanner (1)

Aubrey (12)

Group Hug:   Me (though you can't see me!), Matt, Mom, & Dad

I think about how much the Gospel of Jesus Christ has changed my family's life...
Because a member family was brave enough to share...
Because a sister missionary was wise enough to knock...
Because good ward members were kind enough to invite...
Because an Elder's Quorum president & 2 elders were bold enough to visit...
We are a testament of Member Missionary work.

The gospel brought a "new day" into our lives.
All 4 of us have a testimony of Jesus Christ.
All 4 of us have served the Lord through our missions. (all 4 of us left in October too!)
All 4 of us have been sealed to our families in the temple for eternity.
All 4 of us love each other and Jesus Christ.
We have so much to be grateful for.

God be with you, til we meet again.