Wednesday, August 13, 2008

forever families

img006

A little more than eight years ago, we took Brianna to the Florida Orlando Temple for the first time. I had been miserable waiting. Although the adoption proceedings were uncontested, it took the Department of Children and Families 15 months to take care of the paperwork. On April 26, 2000, when we went before Judge Renee Goldenberg. The paperwork was signed sealed and delivered. We then planned our trip to the Orlando Temple for Friday, May 12. It was the birthday of my maternal grandmother. My mother had flown from California to be with us. We were also thrilled that our other daughters and son-in-law were there. When we arrived at the Temple a couple of hours early, we realized that the paperwork was missing. The Temple President suggested that we do a session. So after we called the wife of our attorney, we did as the President had suggested and tried to be full of faith. Meanwhile, the wife of our attorney contacted her husband, who happened to be at the courthouse. He then faxed the necessary paperwork to the Temple. When we finished our session all of the family was waiting. It was one of the highlights of my life.

img007 - Copy Today, Brianna joined with the other youth in our ward and was able to attend the Temple to bless the lives of others. I was so happy to be there with her again and enjoy her radiant face and beautiful spirit as she took her responsibilities seriously.

1Cor. 15: 29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? 1Corinthians 15:29

4 comments:

debbie said...

The picture of Brianna is so stinkin' cute. She is a absoultely beautiful young woman. I'm glad Jensen got to share the experience with her.

Melanie said...

Just love that picture of B. So sweet. Love that memory of B at the temple. Sounds like a great experience she just had as well.

Rae said...

I vividly recall Rand being sealed to us in the Boston Temple. She was 3 years old. It was a long journey with such a glorious ending. She is turning 10 this year. It will be wonderful when she is 12 and we are able to go to the Temple again together!

SpaceyKasey said...

I feel blessed to have read this sweet story and felt your testimony of the temple. Thanks.