New Beginnings

Charlotte turns 12 this year.  This takes my breath away when I really think about it.  Where have the years gone?  Thank goodness I couldn't be happier for her to start the Young Women's program.  Charlotte's birthday is in October, yet all three members of the YW's presidency have already talked to me as her mother as well as to her.  They invited her to New Beginnings last week.  Again, all three members of the presidency called to make sure we knew about it.  We received a beautiful hand-made invitation with a dry-embossed edge and a beautiful script font written in a delicate pale green and yellow ink.  That night we walked into the RS room decorated in Hawaiian theme with fish nets tastefully draped, beautiful centerpieces, bright flowers in orange, yellow, pink, and green.  During the program, each of the older girls shared different parts of the YW's program and they showed a beautiful video of the young women in our ward.  The Beehive teacher introduced Charlotte & Christy, gave both girls a YW's necklace (which Charlotte has worn every day since), an "Especially for Youth" pamphlet, and her personal progress booklet.  After the program, we all enjoyed fruit kabobs (using each of the value colors) with pink and chocolate cupcakes.  While eating our dessert, one of the older Beehives came over to welcome Charlotte.  What a kind gesture - so, so thoughtful, because frankly, Charlotte looked a little small standing up there at the front.  The YW's president gave her a hug; the Beehive counselor came over to chat at our table; and the first counselor asked her about her interests and hobbies.  Tears came to my eyes more than once that night.  Everything, and I mean everything, was so, so beautiful!

I love that my daughter is being loved and nourished already.  I love the way these women make her feel important and valued.  I love that the strongest adjective that came into mind while watching the video of the current young women was "clean" - clean in their language, dress, thoughts, and activities.  Those girls have a special glow and I'm excited for Charlotte to participate with them.  I know this program will bless her life.

I've often wondered why Heavenly Father sent me three girls when I grew up with all brothers.  I don't think I'm very good at being a mother to girls.  Already the emotions alone baffle me and I rarely seem to know what is the right thing to say or do.  However, attending New Beginnings opened my perspective a bit.  The YW's program feels comfortable and comforting, like slipping into a beloved sweatshirt - warm, cuddly, and secure.  I understand this program.  I know how women think.  I know what to expect.  And I love it.  And I feel grateful that Charlotte will begin her youth experience in the church on such a wonderful note.  Bless these beautiful women and all the effort they are making to bless my daughter and the other daughters of God in this ward!