11 Days Until Daddy

Music is amazing. . . . truly amazing. Today was the final time I directed the Tempe Ward Choir--and what a ward choir! I've had the privilege of conducting many ward choirs during my life and this one is definitely unforgettable. Today we sang two pieces during Sacramant meeting, "I Need Thee Every Hour" with an amazing oboe soloist (my friend Carly), and "Praise to the Lord the Almighty" with an amazing organist (my friend Carric). There were over 60 people singing! Okay, so I asked some members of the choir I directed for the last two years if they wanted to come sing with me one more time and they did! They added some depth and experience to an already amazing ward choir. The combination was astounding. Countless people approached me after with their comments of amazement. I must admit that I had a little bit of a difficult time controlling my emotions. During the speaker between the two songs I momentarily reflected on the last 4 years in Tempe and suddenly felt a wash of emotion. The last piece felt like letting go of so many things. When the organ began playing I was not sure if I could make it, but I got a hold of myself and I relished in their sound, commitment, and testimonies. I feel I left my testimony with the Tempe Ward. Here is a picture of the choir during rehearsal, we added a number of people when we actually sang.

I thought Matt might want to see what Abby looked like today before Church, so here is a picture.

After Church we had a linger longer where people stayed and talked and ate. I really enjoyed talking to everyone and Abby enjoyed running around. She still had a lot of energy so when we arrived home we decided to take a walk. We ended our walk at the dog park and playground. We normally don't play on the playground on Sunday, but she spent a few minutes on the toys and made two friends. They thought she was so cute and just followed Abby around.

I really love Sundays. I love the peace I feel and the discussions of the gospel. Plus it is so wonderful to be surrounded by wonderful members of the Church. We are truly blessed to be members of this Church. I cannot imagine my life without it.