Valentine's Day

This year was one of my favorite Valentine's Day. It's not because Jory and I did anything romantic-because in all reality, we weren't even together-but I had the opportunity to be with some of the most amazing people in my world. Laura and Peter flew me out to Missouri to be part of a very special day. They have a very unique story that I won't share it'll make me cry and it's really their story to tell. They waited so long to start their family and a year ago, they were privileged to adopt this amazing little girl. I remember the excitement I felt for them when Laura text me the picture of their little girl. I was at work and sat down and cried-heck, I'm starting to cry now. They have been through so much and have stayed so strong through it all. There is an amazing love in their marriage that I really respect and look up too. No one-in my eyes-deserved this as much as these two.

Over Valentine's Day weekend I got to witness the finalization of this adoption. It was such a happy and joyous occasion. The judge was such a sweet man who had a smile on his face the whole time that put us all at easy.

On Valentine's Day, we drove to the St.Louis Temple and they had Abbie sealed to them. I have to admit, I was a little nervous that it was going to be very hard for me (those that know me well will understand why). However, those emotions luckily never came. I was overcome with such joy and happiness for this little family. Abbie was so peaceful and beautiful. I felt so grateful to have these two as my life long friends. I love that this family WILL be together forever. There is such an overwhelming feeling of love in this family. What an amazing feeling of calmness, reverence and peacefulness being in the temple with them brought me.














The wonderful events from this weekend made me reflect on the my own experience having my Dad adopt my brother and I and then take us to the temple to be sealed to him and my mom. I still remember those emotions well-kneeling at the alter with my mom, dad and brother. I can remember it like it was yesterday. I am so grateful that my Dad loved us enough to adopt Mike and I and have us sealed to him. I wouldn't have it any other way and am so happy to have him in my life. He is a great father and I KNOW he loves me. Thanks Dad-I love you so much.