'The Spirit of God' - Hymn #2

I've dragged my feet in posting about BYU Women's Conference, partly because I don't want to admit that it's over, and it's difficult to put my feelings into words. How can I do it justice? It's almost impossible. The 2 years I have spent as a member of the planning committee has been one of the sweetest tender mercies I have ever experienced. I never quite got over the urge during those 24 months to pinch myself and wonder what in the world someone like me was doing there? I was initially worried it was all some kind of mistake and that they'd rectify the problem by giving me a mint brownie and patting me on the head and sending me on my way, but they never did. And I just kept showing up at every meeting...first praying for guidance and reassurance, always followed by prayers of gratitude for this sweet adventure.

I have learned something significant from every sister I served with.
At the top of the list is the conference chair, Sandi Rogers.
This women is a marvel and a miracle.
I could fill volumes with what I learned from her.
I wish we were neighbors and I could see her every day,
so my boys could mow her lawn and I'd take out her garbage.

Our names, so alike, Julene and Jolene.
We are bonded forever in more ways than one.
I'd empty her garbage too.

Truly, one of my favorites...Sister Barbara Thompson.
I'd scrub her garbage cans.

Ann Takasaki taught me so much about humility
and the strength that comes because of it.
She'd beat me to the garbage cans.

Dear Chelita and Rosemary. Now I call her 'Sister Wixom' as she leads the worldwide Primary organization. She has the unquestioning faith of a child, and the wisdom and dignity forged by a life refined by service to her family and in the kingdom. Her ability to love is palpable. The children of the world are so lucky!

She won't have time...I bet she'd let me take out her garbage.

I was so grateful for all of the family and friends who came to support me and hear my session on 'Seeking True Beauty.' I wish I could have taken pictures of everyone! These are my darling 'laurels' and friends of long ago when we lived in Arizona...Paige, Bethany, Janelle, Lee Anne, Collette and Lori.

I love this Lori too! She came and spoke to our stake girls camp
last summer and the young women are still talking about it!

Some of my thoughts and feelings are too intense to share publicly,
but I want to pay tribute to all of these amazing sisters
who have changed my life. Mere words aren't enough.
Wish I had pictures with all of them individually!

It brings me comfort that friendship is an eternal principle,
and that the love that I feel for these sisters will go on and on forever.
The spirit of God like a fire is burning...

Until then, I'll remember some advice from dear Noreen...
'Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.'

The church is TRUE! How could it not be?