With this tradition also came the adding of another candle to my cake. I had a special birthday this year as it did fall on Conference and Easter. Thank goodness for the internet which allowed us to watch conference in our home. I was so touched by each message and felt such an outpouring of the spirit. Truly these are the Lord's anointed servants! I think there is something extra special about hearing the words spoken. Each time I read the messages, they come with more power as I can hear in my mind the speaker speaking the words. I am looking forward to getting the Ensign so that I can begin my study of their words. Lots of good counsel for families and moms specifically.
As a family we enjoyed being together. I woke surrounded by my family singing "Happy Birthday" and then was served breakfast (which could have been eaten in bed but I enjoy it much more eating with my family at the table). It was a wonderful day! I was thankful for its simplicity. A sweet young woman in our ward felt inspired to make our family an Easter cake. I was touched that she had followed that prompting. It was a gentle reminder that Heavenly Father knows I am here and that He loves me. It was so delicious!!!!
A few days later, I received a package from my Mom Chase. It was rather large and I wondered what on earth she had sent to me. As I opened it up I was shocked to see its contents! Gifts such as the one I received are rare because it came from hours of service and sacrifice. It was a very special quilt. In the hustle and bustle of our move, I was going through all the different "projects" I had started over the years. I decided that I would not move with projects that were not complete as our space was very limited. I pulled out a quilt top that I had made over 11 years ago. It was my "wedding quilt" made because I had always wanted one and I had decided that I could make one for us. I debated over what to do. Should I keep it or not? I finally decided that since it had been so long and I had never finished it I would donate it to the Relief Society to finish and give to humanitarian aid. Mom Chase was serving as the Relief Society President and so I gave the top to her. I felt good with my decision. Well you might be able to imagine my complete surprise and joy over finding this quilt finished for me for my birthday! Mom told me that she just couldn't get rid of it and with my birthday coming up she new just what to do. Her gift was a true labor of love and I will treasure it always. Thank you so much mom for your continued love and thoughtfulness! I LOVE IT!
I also received a much needed pair of running shoes from Chris and my parents. The ones that I had been using were a couple of years old and my feet were hurting in them when I ran. I went running in my new shoes this morning and boy did my feet feel a difference! Thank you Chris and Dad and Mom Bingham for this much needed gift!!! My feet thank you too!
