In a couple of days, we're heading to Houston for my sister Ashley's wedding. I'm so excited and proud of her for finding a good man- Daniel. We met Daniel when we went to Utah for Alison's wedding. From the short time we were with him, we like him. I think he'll make a good addition to the family and I've never seen Ashley more happy.
I hope she doesn't mind me getting into her past a little bit, but I'm so proud that she has turned her life around. She had Jaden when she was in High School and has been single mom-ing it for almost 4 years. In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, it is quite against the standards to have a baby out of wedlock. For those that do, it is very difficult to gain full fellowship in the church again and many struggle in finding their way back (not because the church is not willing to help, but the individual won't because of shame or lack thereof). Ashley never stopped going to church (even throughout the pregnancy) and little by little has turned her life around. I'm sure she is not proud of this part of her past, but she is a great example of letting the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ work in her life. She also has shown a great deal of endurance and dedication, not only to living the gospel standards but to her son Jaden. She is a great mom, and I'm so glad she has found a companion. Ashley and Daniel are getting married in the Houston Temple, and Jaden will be sealed to them. (It is quite significant that they are getting married in the temple, as there are strict standards for entrance into the temple.) I am so proud and happy for her. I can't wait...
