a new era in our Country

This has been one of the most dramatic weeks in any election history I can remember. Leading up to this election has felt intense to me. We've never had such interesting options, and I mean that in the very worst sense of the word. I have had almost zero interest in following this campaign, because I have been so unimpressed with our candidates. Last night I fell asleep about 11 pm, and woke up at 2 am when Nate came upstairs. I watched the thirty minutes leading up to CNN's announcement of Donald Trump taking the title of president elect in shock. No one saw this coming, except for one pole maybe.

As some are elated at the news, many are horrified and even scared. I am not all together surprised by the outcome. I have however been deeply saddened and troubled that someone with such low moral character or consideration of minorities and women could get so much approval and absolute devotion by so many. Republicans are more loyal to their party than I gave them credit for.

My prayer going into this new era, is for our leaders to be guided in such troubled times. I pray that Donald Trump will be better than he has said he would be. I pray that we as Americans will somehow find a way to come together, to strengthen one another in truth and right.

I have felt amazing peace during this time. It is a fulfillment to me of President Nelson's talk - finding peace even in troubled times. I find peace because I know what the ultimate outcome will be. Christ will reign on the earth one day, and evil will fail. Until then my job is to do the best I can to stay on the side of Christ, to help others, to love, to be inclusive, to reach out as He would if He were here. I want to be His hands. That in my opinion is the job of every American citizen. Come what may.

I am so grateful to live in this blessed land. It is still the greatest country on earth, and this country's greatness is not based on only its leaders - what matters is what happens in the homes of our country.

This quote my Mom taught me as a girl helps me in times like these:

I Saw the Morning Break




(author unknown)

Ye that have faith shall look with fearless eyes 

Beyond the tragedy of a world at strife, 

And know that out of death and night shall rise 

The dawn of ampler life 

Rejoice, whatever anguish rend the heart, 

That God hath given to you the priceless dower 

To live in these great times, and have your part 

In Freedom's crowning hour. 


That ye may tell your sons who see the light 


High in the heavens, and their high heritage take 

I saw the powers of darkness take their flight, 

I saw the morning break.

Enjoy the beauty you find all around you even more this week! I will try to be even kinder than I was before - especially to those who might feel alone or afraid.

post voting picture at the Alumni house. We were in and out. It was a great experience

a very disgruntled future voter

Stan would not let go over those mock ballots

leaping forward with faith in the future