My Heart I Give To Him

    My favorite Primary song is I Know That My Savior Loves Me. From the first time that I heard it several years ago, the sweet melody and words affirm a new witness to my soul every time I hear it, especially sung by children. I remember the joy of the words, " I didn't touch Him nor sit on His knee yet Jesus is real to me" 
    Our Primary children are learning this song to sing in their Sacrament Meeting presentation in the Fall. I am really enjoying it. Yesterday as I was watching sweet Emma with her favorite part of me- the iPad!, I started to sing this song. She turned around and stated that she was learning that song in Sunbeams. I told her it was my favorite Primary song. I kept of singing it. It came to the chorus- "I know He lives. I will follow faithfully. My heart I give to Him." Emma turned to me and told me, " I gave my heart to Him". I replied that I have done the same. Magical moment for Grammy! I also had an incredible music moment with Emma last Fall during Alaina's sacrament meeting program. The congregation was singing with the children. Families Can Be Together Forever. Emma sang every words and even better she gazed into my eyes as we sang together. My eyes were self washing themselves during that! It is so easy to bear testimony through song.

A long time ago in a beautiful place
Children were gathered 'round Jesus
He blessed and taught as they felt of His love
Each saw the tears on His face
The love that He feels for His little ones
I know He feels for me
I did not touch Him nor sit on His knee
Yet, Jesus is real to me

I know He lives
I will follow faithfully
My heart I give to Him
I know that my Savior loves me.

Now I am here in a beautiful place
Learning the teachings of Jesus.
Parents and teachers will help guide the way
Lighting my path every day.
Wrapped in the arms of my Savior's love
 I feel His gentle touch
Living each day I will follow His way
Home to my Father above.

I know He lives
I will follow faithfully
My heart I give to Him
I know that my Savior loves me.

Thank you Veterans

I love the song America the Beautiful. It has a stirring tune and the words are gorgeous. My favorite verse is the third.
Oh Beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife
   Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life.

  Every time I sing those words I am grateful for the men and women that protect our land and freedoms. I also honor them for helping to protect freedom everywhere. It is a day to hear freedom songs in my heart. 
I love them all
The Star Spangled Banner
My Country 'Tis of Thee
That's My Flag
All the military songs
  I am glad to honor heros through music.

I'm Trying...

Last Sunday was our Primary Program. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even without a representative of the Johnson family on the stand. And in spite of having to sit in the back on the awful chairs. As the congragation was joining the children on the 2nd verse of their closing song, the Spirit flooded that chapel. I wanted to join in with a strong full voice, but I joined in with a strong full heart instead. My eyes was brimming over and I felt such love. I felt such a committment to my Savior.
I'm trying to love my neighbor.
 I learning to serve my friends
I watch for the day of gladness
   When Jesus will come again.
I try to remember the lessons He taught
   Then the holy Spirit enters into my thoughts saying:
Love one another as Jesus loves you
   Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought
   For these are the things Jesus taught.
 
I also was very moved to hear the Women's Choir at the broadcast on Saturday. All their songs were so fantastic. But once again, I loved joining them in my heart to ask my Father to be near me  because I need Him every hour.

Christmas Songs

A big thank you to my mother. As I have been feeling very 'scroogey', I asked for help. My dear mother reminded me of the beauty and spirit of Christmas hymns. A fact about me: I hate 'rock beat' Christmas music. It's okay if the song was written for a moving beat, but please leave the sacred hymns alone! That said, I am going to be sharing my favorite christmas songs.
Silent Night- Probably one of the first Christmas songs I ever learned. I think I love the 2nd and 3rd verses even more than the 1st. Something about a sacred quiet arrangement of this song makes my heart in tune with heaven.
Hark the Herald Angels Sing- I love this song. Yes, Mom, I love 'mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die'. I think my favorite rendition of this song has a neat memory that I choose to share. We were attending the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Broadcast. (I love those!) We arrive early to get in our seats and watch the last minute rehearsals. I love seeing the program a few times. This year's guest was Sissel. I had never heard of Sissel. I just knew she was a Scandinavian artist. As the choir practiced their first song, a full figured lady in one of the choir dresses sang the solo. It was okay but really nothing spectacular. I settled down to enjoy the show. As the official program started and the strains of Hark, the Herald Angels Sing began, an angel began singing with the choir. A beautiful young woman in a gorious dress with one of the most incredible voices I have ever heard was on stage. I have her singing this song...it always makes me happy.
Joy to the World- Christmas music season starts on Thanksgiving evening. I have to start it with Julie Andrews singing Joy to the World. So well written. The music and words stir us up to joy. I love that Handel wrote the music. I think he was a very inspired composer. Let every heart prepare Him room!

An Angel's Prayer

Yesterday, I was playing the organ for Sacrament meeting. The Sacrament hymn was 'In Humility Our Savior'. As I played and prayed in my mind, I heard a little angel's voice. The music was beautiful. I couldn't understand the words, but I understood the feelings. I glanced in the direction of the voice. It was darling Colton singing his heart out. He had a beautiful voice. It was in tune and he was singing with his heart. It made me think more about what was about to take place. I was getting ready to recommit myself to my Savior. I have always thought of Heavenly Father and Jesus as larger and white and kind of marble finished in my mind. Like statues. But in my mind I felt how they really are. Flesh like me. Real. I love them. I want to be with them. I love music for helping me feel that.

How Could I Keep From Singing

This afternoon , I held my newest lamb in my arms. His little legs are sore from the ‘protection’ of his immunizations. As I gently held him, I remember how he responds to my singing. He is so fresh from heaven that he seems to sense the testimony that leaves my heart in the form of song. I am working on learning a new song- How Can I Keep From Singing?. As I started to sing the words to him-
My life flows on in endless song above earth’s lamentation
I hear the sweet, tho' far-off hymn
That hails a new creation
Through all the tumult and the strife
I hear the music ringing
It finds an echo in my soul
How can I keep from singing?
Little Liam’s eyes started to sparkle and he burst forth in the most beautiful smile. He started to ‘sing’ with me. The soft coos and language that are available to him joined me through the rest of the song.
What tho' my joys and comfort die?
The Lord my Saviour liveth
What tho' the darkness gather round?
Songs in the night He giveth
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that Refuge clinging
Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth
How can I keep from singing?

I lift mine eyes; the cloud grows thin
I see the blue above it
And day by day this pathway smoothes
Since first I learned to love it
The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart
A fountain ever springing
All things are mine since I am His
How can I keep from singing?
Oh, that was my treat for the day. No sweets or earthly comforts could have made my heart as full of joy as had that moment. I will keep singing to this treasure child until the pull of the world over shadows my feeble voice and pulls him to more exciting climes. But today, Liam and I shared a song.

Whenever I Hear.....

I am a little needy this week. I need to know that my Heavenly Father loves me and will help me through all things. I have felt His love, comfort and strength. The peace I feel is incredible. But I also am appreciating the little ways I am being told that He is over all. We have a robin that is chirping his territory call every time I am outside. "Whenever I hear the song of a bird..." I am noticing all the beauties around me. They are no accident. Yesterday, as a class was filing into the music lab, a sweet 3rd grade girl handed me a tiny white flower. I know that it was a weed, but it felt like a rare orchid. I appreciated her thoughtfulness. She didn't know that I needed that flower, but there it was. I felt the love of my Father at that moment also. A few tears were trying to make an escape, but I stemmed them and enjoyed the beauty of music.
I have been thinking of the song,
Whenever I hear the song of a bird, or look at the blue, blue sky.'
Whenever I feel the rain on my face, or the wind as it rushes by.
Whenever I touch a velvet rose, or walk by my lilac tree
I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world, Heavenly Father created for me.

ReEchoing

I was so thrilled for the treat of listening to the Echoes at Relief Society on Thursday. They sound terrific. They blend well. I loved hearing the songs and feeling their testimonies permeating the room. The Echoes in my heart that night were of love and re commitment. I have been blessed to have such great friends. I really feel that my musical friends have iron strong bonds with my heart.
Thanks again guys. You are the best.

In Joy or Pain

I had wanted to feel closer to my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. I had studied the scriptures and increased my prayer time. As I was studying the words to "I Need Thee Every Hour", it struck me that I was very good at calling on the Lord in my times of trial and pain. I knew where to turn for comfort and succor and even miracles in my life. I realized that I wasn't so good at inviting Him into my life in moments of joy. I prayed for guidance and reminders to include my best friends in happy times also. As I sat in the temple instruction room with Morgan last May, the gentle reminder popped into my head as this hymn was suddenly there in my heart. Specifically the words, " I need thee every hour, In joy or pain, Come quickly and abide or life is vain." I said a prayer and invited the Savior and my Heavenly Father to be with me on this great day of my life. I felt their presence the entire day. I am grateful for the day, music and Their influence in my life. I am grateful for this memory. I am grateful for this hymn.

I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord
No tender voice like thine can peace afford
I need thee, oh, I need thee
Every hour I need thee
O bless me now my Savior
I come to thee!

I need thee every hour Stay thou near by
Temptations lose power when thou art nigh.
I need thee, oh, I need thee
Every hour I need thee
O bless me now my Savior
I come to thee!

I need thee every hour In joy or pain
Come quickly and abide or life is vain
I need thee, oh, I need thee
Every hour I need thee
O bless me now my Savior
I come to thee!

I need thee every hour most holy One
Oh make me thine indeed thou blessed Son
I need thee, oh, I need thee
Every hour I need thee
O bless me now my Savior
I come to thee!

I Am A Child of God

Last night as we were enjoying Family Home Evening, we frosted Christmas cookies. As I was taking everyone's cookie to set on the counter to dry, Hayden told me to listen. From under the table a sweet little voice sang, "Lead me, guide me, walk beside me". Our precious Ethan was singing so clear and beautiful. Our stake president recently asked how we can tell we are on the right track in the things we are teaching and living. I think that gives me peace. I think we are on the right track.

My Heart Found Christmas

Yesterday was our ward's Christmas program. As I settled in to listen to the music and hear the words, I was given the gift of Christmas. I have really tried to be a Christmas elf and enjoy the season. I started last January trying to overcome the things that I thought were causing my 'scrooginess'. It hasn't worked. I just don't like the 'holidays'. But I love Christmas. I love remembering the beginnings of my Savior's life on earth. I am coming to know Him better and and I love Him.
I looked for Carter in the choir, amused that he was up there. He had attended one rehearsal and is just learning how to sing, let alone harmonize. But my heart was full that he was there. I looked at his folder partner....the stake president, who has perfect pitch and a beautiful tenor voice. At first I giggled to myself, wondering if President Eckman was going crazy. Then my eyes were opened and my heart was opened as I heard the angelic music praising the Lord and saw a great priesthood leader teaching a young priesthood leader to sing. I was blinking back the tears pretty hard. Thank you Heavenly Father for the gift of your Son. Thank you for the gift of music. Thank you for the gift of great men on this earth.

I Know That My Redeemer Lives

Today, my treat in sacrament meeting was listening to two friends bear testimony through music. Thanks Terri and Susie. It was beautiful. I love this song. The times that it has touched my heart are innumerable. I am grateful for His love and sacrifice. I am grateful for my testimony of Him. He has guided me through pain and joy. Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives..I know that my Redeemer lives.

Echo of My Heart

I am using this blog as an outlet for my experiences with music. I love the Echoes of the Heart and will still publish their performances as they inform me. I am really looking forward to seeing their Christmas program in November.
I am grateful for music.
I think Heavenly Father created music for us and provides for our nourishment through music, just as He has provided air, food, water, shelter and spiritual guidance. I have had my live enriched when I open my heart, especially to the sacred hymns. This morning, I examined my testimony. I have been praying for ways to share it. And what do you know? There is a way provided today. As I thought about my testimony, I was listening to the Tabernacle Choir singing, "Redeemer of Israel". I know He is my Redeemer. I know He saved me. I know He lives. It was such a great outlet to hear the words of the hymn release all that I know. I hope I don't have to sing that testimony today....that might be uncomfortable for the congregation.

Becoming a Fan

Instead of performing with Echoes of the Heart, I am now a loyal fan. I heard them perform in August. I was a little worried how I would feel listening and not singing, but their beautiful blend brought such enjoyment to my heart. I plan on enjoying their Christmas program this year. I will try and publish their schedule so other loyal followers may plan to attend an evening of beautiful music.

Echoing All Over Town

I have been asked about the Echoes schedule. The following schedule will let you know what we are up to. The best perfomance to come and view would probably be the Temple Square performance.
December 9th Woods Cross 3rd ward 6:30
December 11th Heritage Retirement 7:00
December 13th Some ward in Salt Lake (ha-ha) 4:00
December 19th Temple Square South Visitor Center 8:00

Talk about Terri

Terri is truly royalty. Her creativity, leadership and thoughtfulness are the reason we even exist.
Terri was born in Provo, Utah not many years ago. West Bountiful did not get the privilege of claiming her until she was 10 years old. She is the original 'Echo'. Terri saw that we could form a group as an outlet for our musical energy. Her vision saw the hearts that we could touch with the gift of music we were given.
She is multi-talented in voice, piano, flute and many other instruments.


Terri is the mother of 5 wonderful children- 4 boys and 1 daughter. She sports two daughters-in-law and one son-in-law. She is the Grandma of 5...almost 6 terrific grandchildren. She is sister to two other Echoes.
She met her husband, Wes, when she moved to West Bountiful. People thought they were brother and sister.
When I asked her about her pet peeve, she responded that all her pets were dead!!!
You might not know that she has had 4 broken bones, 3 of them before she was 11 years old. She had reddish hair when she was born and her grandmother thought they switched babies. Shirleen's hair is dark ???
Her favorite food is ...anything she doesn't have to fix or clean up. Her favorite music is Country.
She likes to knit, sew and take pictures of her grandkids. What great subjects. Terri also has a wonderful talent for seeing the needs of others and fulfilling those needs. Her favorite song that we sing together is "May I Serve Thee?"
She shares with us a recipe called Peanut Butter Popcorn. Try it some evening!
Pop 2 bags of microwave popcorn- butter flavored and set aside. Bring to a boil and boil one minute stirring constantly 1 c maple syrup and 1 cup sugar.
Then add 1 cup peanut butter. Stir until melted. Pour over popcorn, let cool and devour.

No One Has a Life

I sent some emails out with questionaires on them....no one returned them. Did they get lost in cyber space? I would like to high light a new person. If you are willing....let me know.

Meet Pat

Pat was born in Malad Idaho. She grew up in the middle of nowhere. One room school house ~ grades 1-4. No stores. No gas stations. No paved roads except the one through town. 5th through 12th grade rode the bus 23 miles to school every day. She played softball on a team and took Drama all through high school.
We are so lucky that she moved to our area 35 years ago. Pat has been with Echoes right from the very first note! Her favorite memory of Echoes is practicing and learning new songs. Her favorite song we sing? Spread Joy!
She loves all kinds of music except....Classical opera and heavy country.
She met her husband David Soper Sr. (You will meet Jr.in a minute)while decorating for a fellow young adult's wedding reception. (He went to see another girl.) Husband David Sr.has worked for Delta/Western Airlines for 40 years. He enjoys photography and Formula 1 car races. Other members of her family include: Son David, 35 ~ works at Salt Lake County Jail ~ single, loves sports - especially football, almost has his degree in Political Science and Journalism, has a Boxer dog, Mookie (Grand-dog). Son Eric, 26 ~ single, works at Universal Computer, builds and repairs computers; plays trumpet in Ska band, likes to travel and try interesting foods.
Pat likes collecting dishes and kitchen gadgets, trying new easy recipes, crafts on a very small scale. She usually has a garden. She collects sheet music, good books and movies.
Does she play any instruments? Computer music program!
Her favorite foods are Seafood, potatoes, BBQ pork, soft home-made cookies and breads (not so much cheesecake or ice cream)
She has many pets- 2 small parrots, 6 cats and Grand-dog Boxer
Her pet peeve is pushy people. (Was I too pushy?)
Pat is very talented and one of the 'glue' pieces in our group. She is very talented and we depend on her to give us cue notes, transpose music, rewrite music, do any cutsie one liners in songs and many other things. We love her.
Here is a favorite recipe of hers:
Raisin Pudding Cake
2 T. butter 1 t. soda
1 cup sugar 1/2 t. nutmeg
1 cup milk 1/2 t. salt
2 cups flour 1 cup raisins
2 t. vanilla 1 cup chopped nuts
Cream butter and sugar together.
Add milk, flour, soda, nutmeg, and salt.
Mix into a smooth batter.
Add raisins, vanilla, and nuts.
Pour into greased 9 X 13 pan.
Combine 4 cups boiling water,
2 cups brown sugar, and 4 T. butter.
Mix until sugar is dissolved.
Pour over cake batter and
bake 45 minutes at 350*
Serve hot or cold with whipped cream or ice cream.

(Make sure the pan is nice and deep ~ the liquid tends to boil over)
Feel Free to leave Pat a little 'love comment'.

A Celebrity in our Midst

Congratulations Cynthia! She just graduated from the 2008 Space Camp. We are so proud of her. She is a blessing to the group. Way to fly Cynthia.

Getting to Know an Echo

I would like to feature a new friend each week or so. For this to work, I need brave volunteers, photos emailed to me and a questionaire filled out. I will have it ready by next week @ rehearsal. This can be a fun way to keep vital and fun information circulating. Let me know what you think.