Blessing Day

We blessed Loren today in our ward here in Halifax. Loren screamed her little eyes out from the minute her blessing began until the moment it ended. In all honesty, I hardly heard a word that was uttered because my ears were so focused on her cry. :( I know Justin was disappointed he wasn't able to give her the blessing he had hoped for. It is a blessing only given once, and I know there was more in his heart and mind to be said. But oh well. We simply smile and carry on. This day was about our little lady, and she wanted to be heard! :) 

Today was special for so many reasons, a few of which I would love to record. 

I am grateful for Justin's stalwart priesthood leadership in our home. My heart overflows with joy as I watch him bless our children. It is an honor to follow him. I treasure his leadership and priesthood and recognize this gift and blessing. 

It has always been my experience to watch my children be blessed by a circle of priesthood holders in my family. And there are few moments in my life that I treasure more. We missed our family today, but today was a testament to me of the love and support we have felt here in Nova Scotia. It was moving to watch a large circle form around my daughter of friends and neighbors who have loved and cared about our family over these years. Each one special to us in a unique way. 

Even though we weren't able to be with our family today, we felt warmth, love, and supported by our Canadian family. For this I am so grateful.  

I have been blessed by Helene's talent and goodness once again. This gorgeous gown belongs to sweet little Isla Loren, and both of our girls were able to share it for their special day. Helene also came by the house afterwards to capture my world in these photos. She truly is too good to me. I love these pictures with all of my heart. I don't know what I am going to do when I no longer have my life's photographer! I am so grateful Helene! Thank you!

I am grateful most of all today for the woman and example Loren has been named after. It is our honor and privilege for Loren to carry the name of her Grandmother Elaine Rolfe ~ a woman who both Justin and I love and admire. It is our hope that our daughter will learn from, and model the pattern of  Elaine's powerful exemplary life.  Elaine is tender and strong, kind and good. Her faith, most of all, has  inspired us. Grandma Rolfe is a part of my life by no mistake, and her presence a rich blessing to not only me, but so many in my family. We love her dearly. 

~ I wrote this entry before Loren was born, about choosing her name ~

It is a special time in our home. As we wait for our baby girl to arrive I can't help but think of her, and the sweet addition she will be. Our third child, and second daughter. We feel so very blessed. I have reflected many times during the quiet hours here in Nova Scotia about the women in my life who I admire. Most to top my list are women in my family. My mother first and formost, grandmothers, great grandmothers, sisters, aunts, early saints and ancestors. I think about how their examples teach me and help me want to become a better person. I think of their faith, and courage in raising families and endlessly giving their selfless service. 

 A beautiful song filled my mind and as it played again and again it began to fill my heart in such a way I knew it was a whispering from the Spirit. 

Have you received his image in your countenance?

Does the light of Christ shine in your eyes?

Will He know you when He comes again, because you will be like Him?

When He sees you will the Father know His child?

As I reflected on the words I began to take inventory of myself and asked myself this very question: Have I received His image in my countenance? I thought long and hard about the areas of my life I know I could improve upon, and knew the answer was sadly NO. Then I asked, Who has? Who has received Christ this fully? Instantly, I thought of Grandma Rolfe, and knew in my heart this song was true of her. The light of Christ shines not only in her eyes but in her whole countenance. 

The spirit confirmed this to me, and I knew in that moment without any doubt the name we would give our daughter. 

*

My dear little Loren Elaine, these words often remind me of you ~

May the angels protect you, 

trouble neglect you, 

and heaven accept you when it's time to go home.

May you always have plenty, 

the glass never empty, 

and know intently, you're never alone. 

May your tears come from laughing,

you find friends worth having,

as every year passes they mean more than gold.

May you win and stay humble, 

smile more than grumble,

and know when you stumble, you're never alone.

Loren, you are loved deeply in this family you were given. Your older siblings adore you with all that they are! You have been blessed with an amazing father ~ The best there is, this I promise you. He is a gift in your life. Your soul is wise just like his. Look to him always for guidance. He will be there for you. Your mother's prayer is that you will honor your good name, love your family, and use your passion, strength, and will to stand in the light of Christ. You are a blessing in our family. ~ Our Treasure. We love you.

 From left to right: Brother Dale Smith, Ryan Millet, Nathan Smith, Brandon Griffin, Elder Tiffany, Bishop Macyntire, and Brother Josh Blakeney. Not pictured: Brother Patrick Hunt, Michael Brade, Byron Peacock, and Taylor Farland