2011

I started writing to you to remember parts of your life and what they taught me. I wanted to record some of the lessons I wanted to share with you that I might forget down the line. But life with you is changing. Before, you couldn't talk and it seemed natural for me to keep a record where I taught you things and shared my insights. But now, you're sharing yours. It is such a joy to me.

Tonight you and your sisters came with me to visit my cousin Nathan. You played with his daughter Norah while the grown-ups talked. We talked about lots of things, but as usual the conversation came to Church and how difficult it can be to have a spiritual experience there with small kids. It seems that a little one is always distracted or distracting others and it's tricky to feel connected to the body of the Saints.

As we talked I admitted that I rarely have spiritual experiences at church and with my current responsibilities I'm not always good at studying and seeking them out on my own. I said that my most spiritual experiences happen listening to you pray. I said it meaning to illustrate the point that my life was bereft of the spiritual enlightenment or edification it needed. But in that moment, I realized how important those moments have been in keeping me close to Heavenly Father.

You have a tender spirit and a pure heart. You recognize the importance of prayer. It is so wonderful to hear you pray. We never prompt you or have you copy our words. I don't know if you would do it if we tried. But instead you always express gratitude for specific things relating to your day and you never forget to be grateful for Jesus Christ. And then you close in His name. And both times you say it, you speak it so clearly and lovingly.

When you pray, I feel the Spirit in our home. When you pray, I feel close to Heavenly Father. Being your mother is one of the greatest blessings I have ever received.