-Chapter 2-

Welcome to Conference

I remember waking up extra early to get myself ready. I had my two little girls and a niece that were exhausted from playing and even more tired from traveling. There was no way we were going to be late for General Conference. We finally had the whole family together and we were going to make a memory! EVERYONE knows that Temple Square is my FAVORITE place on earth!  I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!! I can spend ENDLESS hours walking, reading, watching, and devouring the spirit. I believe I know every nook and cranny that you can possible know. I never tire of the beauty! I am in awe! So, to have the opportunity to take the kids to hear the Prophet and walk in the Salt Lake Temple's shadow is literally heaven on earth for me! My kids will tell you this is true!

For any of you that are not familiar with General Conference. It is a special time for us who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Twice a year we gather our families together and listen to the Prophet and Apostles give instruction, guidance and warning that will help us return to our Father in Heaven. It is broadcast via-satellite and available with modern technology with a click of a button to anyone who will listen.  Families gather in their homes, churches and Temple Square.  I crave what is being taught and look forward to each and every speaker.

This day was no exception! As we weaved our way towards the door of the Conference Center, I noticed there were no little children. I had wondered earlier if we would be able to take them in? I even asked Ed, his reply was sure we have tickets for them.  I should have known better. I should have read the fine print on the back. Right before we were to enter a kind usher informed us we would not be able to take the girls in because it was a live broadcast. No one under the age of eight but we were welcome to take them to the Tabernacle. I felt horrible splitting the family up and of course, Nivee was upset she wouldn't be able to see the Prophet,  President Thomas S. Monson.

After we gave the older kids hugs for not being with them we quickly crossed the street and entered the Tabernacle. I love the old building and it's history! The workmanship from early pioneers makes you grateful for their sacrifices and even more amazed at their talents and God given abilities that cannot be rivaled to this day. I am serious about this! I am certain they were foreordained to build His Holy Temple and Temple Square. The beauty is unsurpassed!

We took our seats in the balcony and waited for Conference to start. The Prophet started to speak and I was distracted for a minute because the girls needed my attention. Ed nudged me to pay attention! I could tell something special was about to happen than the Prophet spoke these words!

"I am pleased to announce that effective immediately all worthy and able young men who have graduated from high school or its equivalent, regardless of where they live, will have the option of being recommended for missionary service beginning at the age of 18, instead of age 19. I am not suggesting that all young men will or should serve at this earlier age. Rather, based on individual circumstances as well as upon a determination by priesthood leaders, this option is now available. 

As we have prayerfully pondered the age at which young men may begin their missionary service, we have also given consideration to the age at which a young woman might serve. Today I am pleased to announce that able, worthy young women who have the desire to serve may be recommended for missionary service beginning at age 19, instead of 21".

I am a witness to the gasp of excitement that could be heard throughout the Tabernacle and Conference Center! 

I wanted so much to be with our kids especially Echo and Alema. I knew for certain that Echo probably was having a hard time containing herself. My daughter-in- law Rachel confirmed this. She said Echo almost started to hyperventilate as the words were being spoken. She was 19 at the time and this meant that she could submit her papers now, not in 2 years!

Alema on the other hand, I think it threw his system into somewhat a state of shock. He was 17 at the time and thought he would have 2 more years. Taking a extra year out of a young teen's life is a lot of time for them. He wasn't quite as excited as his sister. Nevertheless, a historic announcement was made and they would have to get prepared.

After the announcement was made I turned and saw a beautiful young women that I was drawn too. Instinctively, I got up to give her a hug! I needed to hug my daughter and this young lady needed her mother!
We needed each other at that special moment!
I felt a change,we all felt a change.

To listen to the Prophets words click here