Ettley’s Blessing:

Ettley Kate Rahlf was blessed on August 7th, 2016. We waited until August because we really wanted Dane’s parents to be there, home from their three year mission in the Philippines. I was so excited to have a baby girl because I was going to bless her in my baby dress but since we moved and a lot of our stuff is still in boxes I couldn’t find it. I’m really sad about this but we found her another cute dress. Hopefully we have another girl and she can wear my dress!

We did her blessing in church unlike Adler’s. Dane’s parents were there and so was his brother, Tony. I was so happy that they could be there for the blessing because it is events like this where I miss my Dad. I remember him at Adler’s blessing and I really wish he could have been there to help bless my little Ettley girl. I know he was there in spirit. My mom and Courtney were also there which I also appreciate. 

It was a beautiful blessing by Dane even though Ettley girl decided she wanted to cry during the majority of it. Dane explained that she was named after a place that he loved to visit while on his mission. He blessed her that people who were in her presence might enjoy the same beauty and companionship and to be able to hear the message of the gospel. I love being able to hear the blessings Dane gives our children and they will always hold a special place in my heart. 

The whole group (minus Tony)

Adler playing in the bushes...

Ettley with her Oma and Grandma

Elder Dallin Rahlf

When I think of Dallin I think of a little kid who could beat me at Mario Kart  and said the most outrageous things that would always bring me to the floor with laughter. Dallin and the rest of my brothers are my best friends and I don't think that is any secret to those who know me.

But of all the things I remember and know about my brother Dallin, today he was true to a choice that has made me and Jordan the most proud of all. Today, Dallin entered the MTC to begin his 2 year LDS mission in Germany Austria and Switzerland.

Yes, I smile that he gets to learn the German language just as I did. Yes, my heart leaps that he is the 5th of of 5 brothers to go on his mission. Yes, Jordan had an emotional roller coaster because this is her first sibling to go off on a mission. But what truly moves the very center of my soul is his conviction to act on something be believes so deeply.

I play this scenario in my head every so often. Truthfully and honestly, if a stranger came up to you and asked you to tell them the most important thing in the world in just one sentence, what would you say? I imagine several people may not know what they would say or even where to begin.

Dallin not only has an answer but his conviction to that answer has lead him to dedicate two years of his life to tell people more about it.

When I think of Dallin he's still that little kid. But he has become quite the man. Jordan and I are glad to have a little brother that can lead by example.

Immer weiter, Bruder. Immer weiter.