In my morning prayer, I fervently asked Heavenly Father to protect each child. I prayed that Jake would make more friends and learn to like going to Sage Hills. I prayed for Caleb, and that specifically he would be cloaked and shielded from the yuck that can be found in the world. I prayed that Emily would feel peace and confidence as she embarks on this new all day school adventure and that Michaela would have the courage to continue being the sweet, friendly girl she is and notice those that need her friendship. I love these little persons that have been placed in Mike's and my care as they grow into adulthood.
Last night, as is tradition as each school year embarks, Mike gave each child a father's blessing. For more information, click here. At first, I was feeling a little cranky because Mike and I had a tiff that morning. I almost said, "Maybe we shouldn't do it tonight." I was worried my attitude may get in the way. However, I decided, perhaps I needed it more than anyone. We opened our family home evening with prayer and song and a short lesson from Michaela. Then, Mike gave a blessing to each child as directed by the Holy Ghost. I felt such peace and warmth and love as Mike gave counsel, guidance, and invoked blessings particular to each child's circumstances. Caleb's blessing focused on encouraging him to never shy away from who he is and to never be afraid to succeed. There was no end to what he can accomplish, that there will be those who may try to stop him but to hold to the love of his family and to what he knows is right. Jacob's encouraged him to refrain from judging and be willing to learn and try new things and he will be a shining light and example to others and to have fun, to watch over his sisters and see to their safety.
Michaela's main message was to encourage her to reach out to those who are afraid and scared and she would be blessed to make new friends that would feel of her warmth and love. As she worked hard she would continue to pick up her math.
Emily's was blessed to strengthen her friendships and that her wonderful personality would shine through and that she would find comfort in that.
I wish I could convey the immense love that filled the room among all of us. I am so so grateful for Mike, for his goodness and how he leads our family. That stupid tiff that had happened earlier in the day was forgotten and I was filled with gratitude that we all get to journey through life together. As a young girl I fretted that I wouldn't be able to have a family, that I wouldn't have the opportunity to be married or perhaps not have children. Or perhaps that if I did get married it wouldn't be happy and we would end in divorce. I think most children worry about it--but I did particularly because of coming from a broken home. That's only natural. But all of my dreams have come true and it is because I crossed paths with Michael Timothy Kessel. I am so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ that has solidifies our marriage and our relationships with our children. It provides opportunities for us as a family like last night, that remind us of how much we love each other. Hugs were given all around when we were finished, there was no squabbling. It was a great way to start off the school year!
You can tell how much Emily was feeling the love. This was her throughout everyone else's blessings.
First day of 8th grade for this guy
Emily is in 1st, Jake in 5th and Michaela in 4th.
Kids from the 'hood that walked together this morning. Love where we live.
