My Mother

"A mother has far greater influence on her children than anyone else, and she must realize that every word she speaks, every act, every response, her attitude, even her appearance and manner of dress affect the lives of her children and the whole family. It is while the child is in the home that he gains from his mother the attitudes, hopes, and beliefs that will determine the kind of life he will live and the contribution he will make to society." -Eldon Tanner

Last Saturday (that's right, Valentines Day!) was my mom's birthday. My sweet dad decided that it would be fun to fly me home for a day so I could be with her on her birthday. I flew into Salt Lake on Thursday night and Mags and Ryan and Soph picked up me and Quince. (Q came because he could ride on my lap for free.) We slept over at their house that night and it was soooo fun!! My dad planned a little surprise luncheon for my mom on Friday and invited the women in our family and some of her close friends. When she came to the luncheon she was so surprised to see everyone! I stayed seated in my chair so that she wouldn't see me and had my sisters, Grace and Chlo'e, help Quince walk up to her. It took her a couple seconds to realize it was Q-ball, but when she did she looked up to look for me. So I went and gave her a hug and we both broke down. She was so surprised! She had told Abby and my dad earlier that day that all she wanted for her birthday was to see me, just to have all her kids there with her. She is so sweet!

Referring to the quote that I wrote above, it is so true of my mother and in the best way possible. My mom has impacted my life tremendously. I am so grateful for her example. She is a woman of faith, virtue, integrity and hard work. She gives her life to those she loves. She serves others with no thought of reward. She does it because she loves the Savior and she tries to see people through His eyes. My mom has set the bar high for our family. She believes in us all, and she tries to help us accomplish our big dreams however she can. I love her very much. She and my dad are an amazing team! I am grateful for them! Happy Birthday Mom!!!
I had the most wonderful weekend! Quince and I were there in Salt Lake with my family and were able to celebrate my mom's birthday with them! Then we flew home on Saturday around noon and I was able to go on a date with my sweet husband for Valentines Day!