Thursday, January 30, 2014

The Living Christ

I did it!
I memorized THE LIVING CHRIST Testimony of the Apostles,  that our church put out in 2000.
Our friends, Eric and Laura Belnap, gave us a paragraph by paragraph version of it that was 15 pages long and challenged us, along with other family and friends to get it memorized by Mothers day.  (That's what Laura wants from her children for Mothers day.... I hope it happens.)
Wayne took the challenge to heart and memorized it in 9 days, it took me 7 weeks.  But I did it!
It's good to have something like that  in my brain.  I ruminate on it and think about it and parts and passages come to me at different times through out my day to lift me up.  I love it.

IF you haven't read it in awhile....here it is:

As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ two millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the reality of His matchless life and the infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had so profound an influence upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth.
He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:3). Though sinless, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.
He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary’s cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.
We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world.
He rose from the grave to “become the firstfruits of them that slept” (1 Corinthians 15:20). As Risen Lord, He visited among those He had loved in life. He also ministered among His “other sheep” (John 10:16) in ancient America. In the modern world, He and His Father appeared to the boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised “dispensation of the fulness of times” (Ephesians 1:10).
Of the Living Christ, the Prophet Joseph wrote: “His eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white like the pure snow; his countenance shone above the brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the rushing of great waters, even the voice of Jehovah, saying:
“I am the first and the last; I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father” (D&C 110:3–4).
Of Him the Prophet also declared: “And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
“For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—
“That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God” (D&C 76:22–24).
We declare in words of solemnity that His priesthood and His Church have been restored upon the earth—“built upon the foundation of . . . apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:20).
We testify that He will someday return to earth. “And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together” (Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our works and the desires of our hearts.
We bear testimony, as His duly ordained Apostles—that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come. God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Oh happy double birthday!

Happy Birthday to Tru and Lai-- they are good buddies and it's fun to celebrate them together.  We had lunch at Settebelos on Tru's day and dinner at Five Guys  for Laila's.
Laila wrote this about her sweet brother Tru:
"Thanks for being the best example there is. To be completely honest, you are my idol. You've always been there for me. Thanks for being on my side even when you know I'm wrong. I think it's so exciting when you let me take pictures with you or go have dinner. I feel like I can tell you everything. Have I already told you how good of a singer you are? How can you be so awesome?! I'm kinda jelly...ha ha!  Well happy Birthday! "

All Laila wanted for her birthday was to go do baptisms at the temple.  Wayne helped her find family  names.  Her cute friend Emily Mortensen joined us early in the morning.  She also got a Florida trip to go see and hold baby Alfie...and maybe a bit of Disney World thrown in just for fun. 

In other NEWS...Alfie is growing.  Holly drew a portrait of him for me so I wouldn't forget what he looks like. She is an angel... So is he! 
First Smiles....

Friends

I have amazing friends....let me rephrase that.... I have many amazing friends.  I am so grateful to have so many shoulders to cry on , so many to share a funny story with, to go on vacation with, be in plays with, go to lunch with, share my children with, party with, attend church with.... I just really feel so blessed in this area.

........and they just seem to know what I need... a kind word, food, help, time....and when I need it.  

 One of my AMAH-ZING friends sent me this quote today with some nummy cookies.  It is so appreciated.

Joseph Smith said, "Our Heavenly Father is more liberal in His views and boundless in His mercies and blessings, than we are ready to believe or receive.  God does not look on sin with ( the least degree of) allowance, but...the nearer WE get to our Heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing souls; we feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders and cast their sins behind our backs."



Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Introducing...... Baby ALFIE!

"Hey World.... I'm Alfred Lyle Welch...and I arrived January 15th 2014 at 6:12 in the morning.  It was a rough delivery and I spent way too much time in the birth canal, but I made it out!  I'm a bit bruised and swollen, but my 8 lb. 20 3/4 inch body is happy to be out in the light!   My MommaMelinda thinks I look delicious. I have amazing parents, that I know I love, but can't wait to get to know better. They are new at this, so I will give them a few breaks and not be too demanding....maybe."


Addison and Bre are so happy this little guy is here, and now Wayne and I get to be baby Grandparents for the first time.  We have had grandparent practice with Sophia and Andrew for a few months....and it will be awesome to add baby Alfie to the mix.  I get to fly to Florida in 2 weeks to hold and kiss and love on this little man....and see my first born son with his first born son.  Can't wait!




Monday, January 13, 2014

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Monson rap

Monson was known as the "rapping missionary" in certain areas that he served in. He wrote ten raps on his mission in an effort for him to remember scriptures and stories.  Book of Mormon overview,  Scripture power, Ammon, Aminadab, Abinadai, Captain Moroni and more....

I caught him on tape the other night with this one, it's called ...........




                                                                  Sisters in the Scriptures
LOVE IT!

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

My Wayne is 52!

I met him when I was 15 years old...and  hooking my wagon to his star has only made my world better and better.
What a guy!
He's my Wayne.  Just look at that cute face......

It's his 52nd Birthday today and I just am filled with love for this amazing father, husband, worker, server,brother, son and friend.

Saturday, January 4, 2014

This year... my one word

my word for the year is:  COURAGE!

and I'm also working on..................



Wednesday, January 1, 2014

What a Year! 2013

Name: Melinda
Age: 51
Favorite Color this year:  Turquoise
Favorite Food this year: Salmon and Quinoa
Favorite activity: Biking
Favorite Book: The Kitchen House
Greatest Lesson learned: Life is short.  Cherish Each other.
Hardest thing this year: My momma's passing.
Favorite Memory: Singing "Once I went in Swimming" with all of the family after the viewing at the funeral home.  
What I loved about 2013: Going to China with My Wayne
Looking forward to 2014:  Having a Grandbaby !
Want to learn:to play at least 4 songs on the ukulele.  
Want to get better at: Painting..spend atleast an afternoon a week devoted to this
Goals for 2014: Courage.  Recognize my blessings and tender mercies more. Memorize The Living Christ

Name: Wayne
Age: 51
Favorite Food this year: Pizza
Favorite activity: Biking
Favorite Book: Read so many it's hard to keep track
Greatest Lesson learned: Love no matter what
Hardest thing this year: Sheri passing
Favorite Memory:   Can't remember
What I loved about 2013 :  Going to China with Melinda
Looking forward to 2014
Want to learn: More Chinese
Want to get better at: Being Kind
Goals for 2014: participate in two 100 mile bike rides

Name: Laila
Age: 11
Favorite Color this year: Mint
Favorite Food this year: Chicken Bellagio from Cheesecake Factory
Favorite activity: Hanging out with friends
Favorite Book: Michael Vey
Hardest thing this year:  Grandma Sheri dying
Favorite Memory: When Emily Mortensen and I made Shaving cream go everywhere...had a shaving cream fight
What I loved about 2013: Going to Disney World with Truman
Looking forward to 2014
Want to learn: How to do a foutte and a quad pirouette, to be a cleaner eater
Want to get better at: Dancing 
Goals for 2014: Memorize all 13 Articles of Faith

Name: Monson
Age: 21
Favorite Color this year:  Still Red
Favorite Food this year: Pizza
Favorite activity: Missionary Work
Favorite Book: Book of Mormon
Greatest Lesson learned: Obedience brings the best and easiest life
Hardest thing this year: Nothing...it was the best year ever!
Favorite Memory: Being able to go back to Traverse City and baptize Lexi.  
What I loved about 2013: My motive became that I love God
Looking forward to 2014:  
Want to learn: More doctrine 
Want to get better at: working out and playing an instrument
Goals for 2014: Keep my Missionary habits!

Name: Truman
Age: 22
Favorite Color this year: Red
Favorite Food this year: Cafe Rio Salad
Favorite activity:  Photoshop
Favorite Book:  I see Movies
Greatest Lesson learned: Accepting people for who they are.  Friends and family relationships are important
Hardest thing this year: Everything was hard.  2013 Suxz
Favorite Memory: Spending a week at Disney world with Add, Bre and Laila
What I loved about 2013: Netflix
Looking forward to 2014
Want to learn: a handful of songs on the guitar
Goals for 2014: Complete a half IronMan.  Meet the Carter family

Name: Landon
Age: 25
Favorite Color this year:  Green
Favorite Food this year: Churrasco
Favorite activity: Spending time and doing anything with Andrew and Sophia
Favorite Book: Tell the Wolves I'm home
Greatest Lesson learned: being a parent takes lots of time and means crying a lot and not sure what you're doing but smiling and making it up
Hardest thing this year: Moving to Eagle Mountain
Favorite Memory: Going to Disney World with Alex and the kids and seeing/spending time with Addison and Bre  
What I loved about 2013: the continuing of creating and building a wonderful family that helps each other
Looking forward to 2014:  
Want to learn:speak Portuguese
Want to get better at: supporting those who need support.  Loving those who need love.  Listening to those that need an ear.  Understanding
Goals for 2014: Survive, Laugh, Love, give longer hugs, sing more, keep a cleaner house, better shape and eating habits, Travel.

Name: Alex
Age: 30
Favorite Color this year:  Blue
Favorite Food this year: Gyros
Favorite activity: Spending time and doing anything with Andrew and Sophia
Favorite Book: 7 Habits
Greatest Lesson learned: the true meaning of family and unconditional love
Hardest thing this year: Moving to Eagle Mountain
Favorite Memory: Going to Disney World with Landon and the kids and seeing/spending time with Addison and Bre  
Looking forward to 2014:  
Want to get better at:  Making healthier food choices and recipes
Goals for 2014: Survive, move downtown, read atleast 1 book each quarter, volunteer more, better shape and eating habits, travel.

Name: Bre
Age: 24
Favorite Color this year: gold
Favorite Food this year: zucchini fettuccini
Favorite activity: water coloring
Favorite Book: gospel principles manual...it's the only one I read!
Highlights of 2013: feeling the baby kick for the first time, Addison getting a job, seeing Addison perform at work, family visits, teaching Sunday school, watching baby grow, making magic at work, ultrasounds, beach days
Greatest Lesson learned:  don't live as though everything were temporary, invest everything to fully enjoy what the present has to offer.
Hardest thing this year: working while pregnant
Favorite Memory: telling Addison he was going to be a daddy
What I loved about 2013: new friends, relying on Addison, making up our apartment, missionary work
Looking forward to 2014: baby! Getting fit, moving home, spending time with family
Want to learn: how to be the best momma I can be.
Want to get better at: water coloring, serving Addison
Goals for 2014: have technology free dates with Addi. Invest in the present. Get a business started from home.

Name: Addison the great
Age: 27
Favorite Color this year: Red
Favorite Food this year: 50s Prime Time Diner's pot roast
Favorite activity: going on free dates in Disney World with my Bre
Favorite Book: James Christensen's "Men and Angels" and "Passage by Faith"
Greatest Lesson learned: member missionary work, importance of friends and having a sense of community.
Hardest thing this year: being so far away from family. Especially when grandma was so sick- wanting to be there with her.
Favorite Memory: finding out imma be a daddy!! Calling grandma Sheri immediately and sharing the excitement with her :)
What I loved about 2013- all the new experiences with Disney. We loved all the visitors we got, it brought us a lot closer with our families and friends.
Looking forward to 2014
Want to learn: building puppets, caricature, digital painting,
Want to get better at: drawing, singing, filming- movie making, photoshop.
Goals for 2014: live in the moment, take advantage of every opportunity, be self motivated.


Elder Welch is HOME


It was a wonderful New Years Day! 
Waiting and waiting for our Elder to come. The flight was an hour and half late. 
He finally floated down the escalator.  I had to fight off Laila for the first hug. 



We brought Winston to meet him at the airport too





Greeting him at the airport :  Melinda, Laila, Wayne, Elder Welch, Truman, Lindsey, Landon, Alex, Paula 

Going through his treasures. He doesn't get reased til Jan 2nd
We had the Grandparents and Holly join us for Roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy. Monson's favorite.  The Family is together again.