~ New Beginnings ~

"iF tHe ShOe FiTs" 

Since McKenna is turning twelve this year and will soon be going into Young Women, she was invited to this year's New Beginnings. This is an annual activity that is held to introduce the Young Women theme and activities for the incoming beehives.  As part of the preparation for New Beginnings, McKenna was invited to the YW week night activity.  The theme for this year's New Beginning's is "If the Shoe Fits", so for this activity, each girl was able to bring a pair of shoes to decorate to their own personality.  McKenna took her cowboy boots to dress-up and add a little extra bling too!  They turned out great.

Jeremy and I were able to take McKenna to tonight activity.  Once we got there we were greeted by the young women leaders and then we took a seat. It started off with a prayer, then each of the young women talked about the different things we will learn and do. They talked how personal progress had changed their life and how much fun they have at their activities, especially girls camp.  Each girl then joined in at the Shoe Parade, where they were able to model their shoes and tell why they decorated it like they did and how it fits their personality.

After the girls spoke, Bishop Rod talked about the Standing in Holy Place and the Holy Ghost. He did a activity and asked McKenna and Abby to help. At this moment Jeremy said he had to go use the bathroom. (this was part of the plan...) Bishop Rod asked Abby to stand by him at the front of the room and McKenna to stand at the back of the room. Bishop Rod was whispering "get away from the door" were Abby could only hear him. Then at that moment Jeremy jumped through the door scaring McKenna. In the end Bishop Rod said that he was like the Holy Ghost and when you don't listen scary things will occur.

After everyone was done talking they had a little game where the young women's leader would read a paper about each of the new beehives.  Based on what was read, everyone would guess which girl was which. I wrote the following about McKenna ....

"From cowboy boots to dance shoes and from dress shoes to flip flops, this girl has a step of charm. And for the last 12 years, we have been constantly charmed by this beautiful girl. Whether it be charming her parents into something or determined to do it herself, she has always been a step in the right direction to get what she  wants. 

Her charismatic personality makes our house complete. She is dramatic, loud, and full of crazy ideas. Every move she makes is a dance move and she has always kept us on our toes. She is a hard worker, honest, and determined to excel in all that she desires. She loves to read, play her Kindle Fire, listen to Justin Bieber, watch Duck Dynasty, and hang out with her family.

McKenna has a love for others and strives to be a good friend and example at all times. She is always ready to kick her heels and try new things. She is a great daughter and sister who we are very proud of and love very much!"

After everyone guessed who each the McKenna and Abby were, the two of them were asked them to come up to the front where they were congratulated and welcomed to Young Womens with flowers and a gift basket with young women things.  We enjoyed good refreshments and enjoyed with everyone there.  It was a fun night.

It is so hard for me to believe that McKenna will be 12.  Where have those years gone too?  McKenna promised me that I wouldn't cry tonight, she was afraid I would embarass her, but deep down I fought the tears.  It is so hard to see her grow up!  I am however excited for her to go to Young Women's, it will be a great new adventure for her to learn and grown into a beautiful young woman.  We Love You McKenna!