Happy birthday sweet Elder Gurksnis! How I wish I was there to cook bacon and eggs for you and put balloons and streamers all over your room and give you the most giant hug and never let go! Erik posted the rap they did for your 16th birthday on facebook today and it just cracks me up! A reminder of all the great birthdays we get to celebrate after this one.
I really, really hope you have our package by now. If so, you have my permission to open it on Wednesday:) I'm gonna make a date with you now, that next year on your birthday, I'll be in Utah to celebrate with you. So for now, we'll have to rely on Pday emails for my incredibly valiant and amazing young man.
I have so much I want to hear about today... how were your baptisms? How are the families progressing? Pres Crapo posted a picture of you and your comp (i'm guessing) with him on his Instagram account. It was such a fun surprise! Did he come for the baptisms? How did that visit go? How is your new comp? When you sent that picture telling me you'd be online late today, it looked like you were with an American so I thought you might have an American comp. Who was that? How are you doing with obedience? We have been praying that you stay obedient and can continue to stay valiant even when tempted.
We are doing good here at home. It was quiet compared to last week with all the wedding excitement. Abby has been going to counseling and taking medication for about 1 month now and I can see some improvement. It's hard because she REALLY does not like to talk about it so I don't. But I wish I could ask her to really know what she is dealing with and if she is truly improving. She got an 87 on her first college test in her dual credit class and she was pretty excited about that! I'm going to reactivate my real estate license and start selling again. I have mixed feelings about it. But I'm hoping we can save enough over the next year to do our first flip. That will be so fun!
We had a second debate last night. It came on the tails of an 11 year old video that was released of Trump talking when he thought the microphone was turned off (but it was actually on and recording everything he said). He's basically talking in the most crude way about women and how his star status allows him to do whatever he wants to women. It has caused so many problems for his campaign as you can imagine. Many republicans are backing out of supporting him (including Gov. Herbert). Most people think he did well in the debate. I just cant believe I have to vote for one of these people. They are both disgusting. So I have tried to focus more on our real leader, our Savior. It truly has helped me to feel less discouraged to know that whoever is President doesn't change the outcome of the Lord's plan. He knows what will happen. He knows the full story and those on His side will find joy and peace and eternal life inspite of all that goes on around us. So that is what I'm holding on to.
Seminary is going great. I'm super tired but my class is bonding and getting better. I wish I could act out for you some of the outbursts my two Asperger students make on almost a daily basis. It's pretty hysterical! They are great and keep things interesting:)
Taylor Austin was allowed to stay on her mission. I'm so happy for her. She and Kellie are so grateful for your example and words of advice to her.
We pray for you multiple times each day. I hope you get some special treatment on your birthday. Rather than lots of gifts this year, however, you are giving a tremendous gift. It is a unique opportunity and I hope you love every minute of your chance to give your gift on your birthday this year! Pres. Monson said, "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish - and in effect save their lives."
You are one of my greatest three gifts. I love you so very much my wonderful son! Your service and example has made a difference in our lives and we can feel the spirit more fully in our home because of your sacrifice. Happy happy 22 years my boy! I will think of you every second of that day and pray that you feel our love around you. Have a tremendous birthday week! I love you beyond words.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
mom
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