BYU Women's Conference 2008

The Place we met in 2004

Chrissy and I

Steven, Janelle, and Tori--our friends from Pleasanton who are now at BYU.

Ryan, Kiersta, Hendrix, Faryn, and Errson

Errson snuggled right up to me as if he sees me every day of his life!

Shaunna (who made this trip possible) and me

Kiersta, me, Wendy

Randalyn, me, Wendy, Kiersta, Shaunna, Christine

Hannah & me

The whole crew

It was phenomenal. I left Wednesday night and have just returned on Sunday. My darling husband took two vacation days and cared for our three children for four days so that I could attend this wonderful event. I had never been away from our children for more than one night (the only time I’ve ever been away was when I was in the hospital having another child) and I took some much needed “Mommy time”. It was wonderful! I missed my sweet family but a few days away, learning all of the amazing things I did, gives me renewed strength and optimism, from which we will all surely benefit.

I saw our prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, and heard him speak on kindness, service, and love. I heard intelligent, amazing women speak to us about our profound, special, and significant role as women, wives, mothers, and daughters of God. We heard one of our favorite speakers, John Byetheway, speak with his Mom. I attended sessions on several great and inspiring topics, but overall it was the spirit of the conference and my renewed faith and clarity of purpose that were the greatest gifts.

Of course, hanging out with my wonderful, fun, exceptional friends was also a key highlight! (Thanks to John and Shaunna for arranging the buddy pass!) Spending some awesome “sister time” with my sweet little sister, Chrissy, was much needed and really great too. It was also just fun to be back in Provo, a place of very tender memories for William and I.

And now, I am home. The house is quiet and amazingly, not a mess. William and the kids are at church and should be home soon. I can’t wait to see them! I love my family, I love my friends, and I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Not only do I simply believe in its doctrinal truth, but its teachings make me a better person, or at least someone who is truly trying to be.

Wishing you all a great day!