Celebrating Laura

From the first time she entered our house, Laura remained
not merely a welcomed house guest, rather as a beloved member of the family.

To our family, she added her own: herself, perky, mischievous Laura, sweet Mary, almost too good to be true, Ma and her wise, quiet ways, Pa who always brought change, but music too. And then dear Almonzo.

We delighted in bratty Nellie and Willie getting their comeuppance.
We disliked all that was Mrs. Olson but adored and honored her patient Nels who she in no way deserved.

Their lives became wound up with our own and it was only with adult perspective that we began to realize the thread of faith woven through their lives. Theirs was a time when personal faith was not talked about; it was lived. It permeated all their choices and relationships quietly, without announcement. That is the brand of faith by which you can warm yourself.

So this day, the birthday of Laura , we celebrate. We give thanks for her leaving us her record for us to enjoy,
to call our own,
to provide example.

She has delighted four generations so far and hopefully those coming up will not put her aside as being old fashioned.

"It is still best to be honest and truthful;

to make the most of what we have

to be happy with simple pleasures

and cheerful and have courage when things go wrong."

Laura Ingalls Wilder

1867-1957