Christmas Morning Testimony

I have one final Christmas post before I say farewell to the holidays.

On Christmas morning after a night of little sleep and a not as many hours as I wanted or needed nap, my family congregated over at my sister's house for an informal brunch.

My family hates, but subject themselves to my family grouping shots.  They know it is coming every year.  They complain every year, but then they obey and line up for the shots.

The first picture is my sister, Charity, and her family.  Julie is the next shot with her husband and son.  Julie's daughter is with her husband, serving in the air force in Italy.  If you read this Jodie, HAPPY NEW YEAR!  We miss you!

This is my youngest sister, Rebecca, and her family.  Kenzie is ecstatic about having her picture taken.

The final picture is dad with his girls:  Me, Charity, Becky and Julie.  Both of my brothers were missing.

Where was my family?  We were there, but I always have a hard time getting my family done.  I need to work on that one!

Dad didn't stay very long.  He never does.  He is too nervous.  His wife Celeste was home sick and he wanted to get home to her.

Before Dad left, he asked if he could speak with all of us?  I don't know why, but I thought he was going to tell us something awful, like he was going to die!

Instead Dad waited for all of us to quiet down and began to speak.  He immediately teared up.  Dad always tears up.

Dad bore his testimony to his family.  He told us that he knew the church was true; the Book of Mormon was true; he asked us to read the Book of Mormon.

Dad began to cry as he told us how grateful he was that one day he could be with mom again; how much he loved her.  It is always emotional for all of us when dad talks about mom.  We miss her so much!

I know how important it is to have my own testimony.  I am 42 years old.  I should have my own testimony...and I do, but I am incredibly grateful that dad has a testimony that he is always willing to share with his family.   I believe his testimony and it strengthens mine.

Dad has his faults.  We all do, but I have always relied on his spiritual strength and faith. 

I know Dad isn't reading this.  He doesn't even know what a blog is?  But thank you dad.  In a crazy, mixed up world, your testimony brings me peace.  It was the perfect gift for Christmas day.