When it comes to living our lives, Christ doesn't make up the difference. He IS the difference.

Well, since it's almost midnight, I suppose that I can start writing. Who says I actually have to wait until tomorrow? Doesn't Dave have the most beautiful, catching smile? That's what charmed me from the very beginning. I can't believe that it has been six months since he passed away. It's amazing to think that we've all survived and we aren't that much worse for the wear. Naturally, we miss Dave and think about him often. ( I think about him every day, but I don't want to downplay every one elses feelings.) He was such a powerful man and such a strong influence for good. As I was doing this video, I downloaded twice as many photos as you see, but because I wanted them to fit within the length of the first song, I had to chop all but the most important ones: our family. Just about a year ago, as Dave sat pondering his lot in life and his contributions he questioned the Lord. "Is this it? Is this all I get to do? What have I accomplished?" An...

When we were able to speak with Elder Holland over the phone back in February, I was uncomfortable speaking to a general authority. I was afraid of stumbling over my words, sounding dumb, or saying something that I shouldn't. Dave, however, was completely at ease. He spoke to him as his friend and commented to me later that he would behave the same if the prophet or if Christ were in our home. "He is my friend. I know him and I love him." David did, and David does. Today I was able to drive with the kids down to St. George and meet with Elder and Sister Holland. It was an experience that I will always prize. But what amazes me the most is that I don't feel any different. I don't know what I was expecting to feel, but I just feel like me. He didn't tell me I wasn't doing things right, he didn't counsel me, he just listened, and provided hope. And Sister Holland? Hurrah for the sister's of this church. The backbone of the men, and the sup...

I can't believe that my oldest is already 10 years old. Thanks to Dave's preparation, Caden was able to open a birthday card from him today. It encouraged him to start to prepare for the priesthood that he will receive in two years. I can't believe he's only two years away from being a deacon! Caden had a great birthday. He got to celebrate at school, at the soccer game (where he scored 2 of the 3 goals), and at Applebee's after. Thanks for all of the phonecalls. I think that he really enjoyed his day. Caden is such a hard worker. He strives for 100% when it comes to school. He won't take anything less, but he loves to get extra credit! Last year his overall score was 432/435 total points or something like that. Dave and I sarcastically expressed our disappointment. Caden took the 4-wheeler certification course just 3 weeks ago. He told me that the test would be a piece of cake and so he didn't study. (I was hoping that he would fail and learn th...