Merritt Memories

April 12 is my dad's birthday. My kids don't remember much about my dad. My boys remember the funeral and that's it. It makes me sad, so I was thinking of things I could do to help them know him, without really knowing him. One thing I remember about my father: The man loved his ice cream! He was especially fond of the Wendy's Frosty. In fact he almost bought his own Frosty maker. (I don't remember why it never worked out) So, in honor of my dad's birthday, I bought frosties for everyone! Now when my kids eat a Frosty, they can think of Grandpa Taylor and know where their love of ice cream came from. Happy 74th Birthday, Dad!!! We miss you and love you!

During conference, Kate asked me if a girl can be the prophet. When I answered, “No,” she seemed a little confuse and disappointed. “Why?” she asked. “Well, number one, the prophet has to hold the priesthood. And number two, he has to be called by God.” This lead to, “A girl can’t hold the priesthood?” She’s asked this before when she saw her brother passing the sacrament. She wanted to do it too. “No a girl gets to be a mom and have the babies,” I replied. I realize this is a watered down version, but I’m talking to an almost 7 year-old! “That’s her part,” I continued. That seemed to make her happy for the moment. I remember thinking like Kate. I remember thinking I can do anything any old boy could do. Why are they so important? Why am I not? Then I learned something. I learned how remarkable and noble a calling it is to be a woman. I learned this as a little fetus grew inside my belly. I learned this as I gave birth to that baby and had the most spiritual experie...

One of our favorite things to do during conference is to play Conference Bingo. Am amazed every time how well my kids listen when they are playing. They may not be getting the whole gist of the message, but they are hearing key ingredients to our faith like: Jesus Christ, temple, tithing, scriptures, commandments. While they are listening and are entertained for a minute, I get to listen! Words cannot explain the way I feel as I listen. I always anticipate what I might learn from these great men and women. I am never disappointed. This time the talks by Dallin H Oaks and M Russell Ballard resonated with me. Truly messages meant for my struggling heart. My priorities seem all askew lately and I find myself missing the value in those small and simple things. I find value only the whole chunk of gold rather than the flecks. I am thankful for the opportunity to rejuvenate myself with new goals and focus. This General Conference was a true blessing. (they all are, but this one was so import...