It seems like lately the whole world is falling to pieces. There has been so much devastation from earthquakes and other natural disasters on top of the already constant destruction of wars. Of course it can be easy to forget these since they seem so far away but there is also so much heartache among the ones we love that we cannot ignore. I know so many people that I love and care about who are having a very difficult time right now. It makes you feel so helpless when you can't do anything to make things better for them. Sometimes it doesn't seem fair to have so many good people being hurt so badly, but it will only make us stronger and we will come out better for it at the end. Obviously I don't want to discuss everyone's problems, as it's not my place to share their personal business with the world, but I do want them to know that I'm thinking of them always and praying for them daily.
One story I will share with you is that of sweet little Lily. Lily is my cousin's new daughter and she is absolutely beautiful. She was born with something called CMV, or cytomegalovirus. According to the statistics that I have read, 1 in every 150 babies are born with CMV but 90 percent of them don't have any symptoms. It's that last 10 percent that are born with symptoms and can be left with permanent disabilities and Lily is part of that 10 percent. This has been and will continue to be a struggle for their family but I know that they will get through this. They have a huge support system around them and, most importantly, they have each other. I've had three kids myself and I have never been told about CMV, which is surprising because it affects more kids than down syndrome, spina bifida, or fetal alcohol syndrome. This is something that we should be aware of. You can learn more at www.stopcmv.com or www.cmvfoundation.org.
"The Lord gives us a spirit of hope and a feeling of comfort and confidence that we can overcome the obstacles we face. He has shown the way to gain strength during our struggles. With His assistance, we have the ability to succeed."
--L. Lionel Kendrick, "Strength During Struggles,", Ensign, Oct 2001, 24
On March 16, 2002 I married my prince charming. I can't believe it has already been 8 years! I feel old now. I guess time flies when you're having fun! I am so lucky to have a husband who loves me and is a wonderful father to our three kiddos. I'm grateful that he works so hard at work so that I can be at home with our kids instead of shipping them off to daycare everyday. I love you honey! Eight years down...an eternity more to go!
P.S. I just added some of my favorite love songs so enjoy!
