Birthdays, Baptism and Graduation

Dear Family,

It has been a wonderful blessing to live close to many of the family. We sometimes don’t see each other for months but this past month we had more opportunities than usual. We were spiritually uplifted when we met at Carole & John’s in Heber for Stewart’s mission report. Much of his mission seemed to be a testimony of our Heavenly Father’s love for each individual and the unique way that each of us learns. Stewart was certainly sent to those that needed his gifts in recognizing truth.

Grandma Flora invited us all to a Memorial Day picnic but had to be cancelled because of the unusually cold, rainy and windy weekend. Jean and Bruce persisted in creating an opportunity to celebrate Grandma turning 82 yrs old and we were able to enjoy her company at Jean and Bruce’s.

Eliza Joann Windhorst turned one year old last week and it has been rewarding and fun to see her grow. Abby, Marie and I took her to Target for pictures. She is beautiful but would not crack a smile. We weren’t able to have April with us who is the “secret weapon” in making Eliza smile.

The icing on the cake was attending Marianne and Thomas John’s baptism yesterday, June 2. When we arrived we were greeted by Lillian’s beautiful prelude music and Hannah’s great smile as she handed us a program. T.J. and Marianne were beaming with excitement. We were delighted to see Spencer and Heather!! Grandma Barrus, Bruce, John, Carole, Brittany, Andrew, Willow, Alex, Ashley, Marie, Abby, April, Curt and myself were there from the family as well as a few close ward members. With Carole accompanying, T. J. and Marianne sang “Love is Spoken Here” as a duet. What a tribute to the type of parents and home that David and Megumi have created. The love in that room and the spirit that was felt was overwhelming to me. There is no doubt that additional members of the family were there in spirit. It is hard to convey spiritual experiences accurately. This is one of those times. After the baptism we enjoyed a beautiful picnic near their home. The warm sun and breezes felt so incredibly relaxing and the food was great.

The day before the baptism my family helped me celebrate turning 52 yrs. old. Marie, Abby, April and Curt decorated the van and took me out for breakfast. I haven’t been out for breakfast in a long time and it was great. April ordered the chocolate and peanut butter pancakes with white chocolate chips just for fun. We all agreed it would be most appreciated by younger children. Too sticky and sweet for us. My kids were way too thoughtful and generous to me on my birthday. I always feel bad for them because they are hit with Mother’s Day and then two weeks later, ta-da, it is my birthday. Curt gave me a solar oven which I am anxious to try out. I have tasted some things cooked that way and it was terrific.

Later that evening we attended April’s graduation from Syracuse High School. She graduated with High Honors and we clapped with heartfelt praise for the type of person she has become thus far. She is generally an optimistic and upbeat person who is quick to sense other’s needs. It will be a pleasure to continue to be part of her cheering squad as she moves to new challenges. After the graduation ceremony we went home, changed our clothes and went to chaperone the all night senior party held at the high school. We volunteered for 11:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

Abby and her very fun and nice boyfriend, Travis, came with us and volunteered to be chaperones as well. They took our spots helping with the “minute-to-win-it” games (thank goodness) and Curt and I monitored the use of the bouncy gym things. Sometime during the night Abby and Travis were rerouted to help on the bus transporting kids back and forth to the nearby Fun Center. They came back about 15 minutes after they left enjoying root beer floats and sub sandwiches. “That was easy,” said Abby, “We just rode the bus there, came back, got off the bus and we’re done!” We explained that they were supposed to stay ON the bus as it went back and forth. The “light bulb” came on and they quickly went back to their assignment. Abby reported that Travis really got a kick out of chaperoning. When each bus filled with students he would stand up and say, in his most authoritative returned missionary voice, “We are your chaperones. I am wearing a white shirt and my assistant (and he would point to Abby) is also wearing a white shirt. There will be no smoking or alcohol on this bus. Prepare for your missions.” And then he would sit down. Abby felt that he got a little crazier as the night went on. It is good to see who you date in various venues, right? It was really great to have them there with us. Curt and I got a little crazier as the night went on as well. We were glad that we took this last chance to support the schools. Actually, I think we could probably volunteer even if we don’t have any kids in school, so we can’t use that excuse. We got home at 5:00 a.m. after the long .5 mile drive home and promptly fell asleep.

I can’t close without telling you how much I love you all and think about you all. This family is part of the core of my well being. Thoughts of you keep me in the right direction.

Much love,
Aunt Susan & Uncle Curt