I'm not sure how to start this post... It comes with tender feelings, happy feelings, but "ending" feelings. Not sure I am wild about those "ending" feelings.
You know how sometimes you have things that are your responsibility and you have no clue how you will do it... And how sometimes, you just need the right people in your life to help you... Like God sends you those people...
These ladies were those people.
When I was called to be the primary president, I was more overwhelmed than I had ever been. But God sent Shannan, Kim, and Karin to help me. And truly, there is NO way I could have done it without them. They were so reliable, willing, helpful, creative, and positive. And they always knew when to jump in and take a load from me, sometimes when I was hesitant to give it.
We were responsible for an average of 150 children, ages 3-11 and between 20 and 30 toddlers at church. I told people that it was like being the principal of a small school. I never realized how much goes on behind the scenes. How much there was to do on Sunday and during the week. How much there was to plan and just ponder. There were things to actually do and things to coordinate, and things to be sure someone else was doing.
During the almost 2 years, we had 3 pregnancies, lots of vacations, one deployment, lots of husbands working late nights, several running/swimming races, and 12 hours of college credit. And there were many moments where we were in survival mode. But looking back, I think we not only survived, we really meant something to those kids. We did what we wanted to do. I feel that we pleased Heavenly Father. I think the children and our teachers learned from us and knew we loved them.
We also learned a lot together. And I think until recently, we under-appreciated how well-oiled our "machine" was. How lucky we were to get along so well. How easily we were able to do it all and accomplish so much. There is no way I could ever thank them for all they did and all the support they were. But I hope they know.
It was truly a pleasure. And a chapter in my life that I will cherish. I am truly blessed to call them friends. Hugs, girls...
What a nice tribute. I'm sorry about the "ending feelings." Hopefully you'll stay in touch and you'll always be good friends.
ReplyDeleteOkay, so I'm not sure how I missed this post... I know I'm a little late on the comment, but you four girls are amazing. Seriously, with raising 3 crazy boys, Amy, you did such a great job in the primary. I can't even imagine the pressure of being over such an enormous number of children. The thought of it makes me want to cry. You really are amazing, Amy. I just thought you should know that! And I hope things are going well with the move and the new ward, too. Hope they give you break and give you a cushy calling this time! Love ya!
ReplyDeleteYou four were an amazing presidency and it was so nice serving under you as a teacher. I loved every minute of primary while we were in it!!
ReplyDeleteWe'll miss you!
What a wonderful tribute. Having served in Primary before, and currently, I can see how busy the presidency has always been. Glad you had a great support team & worked together so well.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind words Amy! It really was a pleasure working with you and Kim and Shannan. We were a great team. I learned so much from you and am thankful that I built a new friendship along the way. You are a beautiful person Amy and I will miss having you here in our ward. I promise to visit next time I come up to Prescott. Love ya!
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