Unexpected Friend

This week I have been very intentional about getting everything ready for Kindred Hearts. Part of that was going to Staples to get some color copies made for one of the 5-minute gift ideas I will be teaching the ladies.

As I entered the store I noticed that it was quite busy at the printing desk. I noticed a lady standing back from the line and asked if she was in line. She told me that she was but that she just needed help with knowing how to do the self-serve copy service. “It’s a lot cheaper,” she said.

I thought about that a moment, and then said to her, “You’re right, I’m going to go see if I can figure it out!” So I headed over there and found that it wasn’t at all complicated to do. As I was finishing up, I noticed her come over and work on her copies as well. I finished paying, and then approached and asked her if she figured it out.

She turned and thanked me for giving her the courage to come over and try. She said that when she saw me go over and start my copies without any apparent frustration or problem, it gave her the courage to do the same. As she expressed gratitude to me, I realized that I felt as much gratitude for her. I really needed it pointed out that I COULD go do it myself! I really appreciated the reminder.

As she finished up, we walked out of the store together visiting. As we parted wishing each other a good afternoon, it was like I had found a friend – even if for just a moment, but it felt so GOOD! I have had other experiences with people in the stores this week, and it’s pretty fun!

Conference Gatherings

 This weekend we had General Conference, and at our house, we combined it with our Thanksgiving celebrations. That means lots of good food and family all together in the same place. It was a great weekend! We got to be taught about spiritual things and enjoy associating with one another in family things. We had a pizza smorgasbord, there were giant conference rolls slathered with cream cheese icing and caramel sauce. There were large muffins, a ham dinner, and even a hot dog roast! It was all so good. 

One of my favorite parts of course was my grandchildren. My goodness, they are so precious to me. I love them all so very much! Odin and Ellen both told me the cutest things throughout the weekend. Everlee snuggled in and fell asleep on my lap and Lena smiled and giggled to the delight of all who were around her. We visited, played games, and shared food. It was all so good, and the effort of preparation was rewarded a hundredfold! 

Not long ago it was suggested to me to make General Conference a celebration... and what a celebration we had! I remember years ago when my children were little and their dad was working shift work. Depending on his shift, he wasn't always able to attend the sessions of conference with me. During those times I would pack up all my little ones, and drive out to Grassy Lake where we watched conference with my mom and younger siblings. That was probably our first conference tradition, but the spirit of conference has been alive in our family from the beginning, and no matter how we celebrate that outpouring of the Spirit, I feel so blessed to do it with my family.