Way Better Than Seeing Audra McDonald

Yesterday morning our family had an great experience at Temple Square. It was a special opportunity for us to attend Music and the Spoken Word, and this was one day we weren't going to miss. The last time we went to Music and the Spoken Word was December 2004 when Audra McDonald was the guest artist. And that was an amazing performance. Audra McDonald. Singing live. Phenomenal. Yesterday was an even bigger day because we were there to see my mom. Singing for the last time with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Way better than seeing Audra McDonald. And if you know how much I love Broadway, that's a pretty big statement.

**Sidenote unrelated to my love for  Audra McDonald or the Mormon Tabernacle Choir: David Archuleta--talented as well,  don't want to offend-- was a spectator at this performance of Music and the Spoken Word. To see a good paparazzi picture of David A. meeting Elder Oaks, visit my brother Steven's blog, but don't forget to come back here to finish reading this post :)

After the broadcast, they had a retirement ceremony honoring each of the retiring choir members for their service. The choir rules are that you can be a member for either 20 years or until you turn 60, whichever comes first. Every April, they have a retirement ceremony for that year's retirees.

Mom receiving her "thank you" from Mac Wilberg.

Mom receiving a plaque from President Monson, Choir President Mac Christensen, and Mac Wilberg.

Ali, Jessi, and Davis got to pose for a picture with Grandma in front of the famous organ pipes.

Jessi loves to pose for pictures.

The flowers (and the children) at Temple Square are beautiful this time of year!

We are so grateful, Mom, for your willingness to share your talent and love of music with the world. We will miss playing "Where's Grandma" during Music and the Spoken Word  and General Conference as well as any other time we see the choir. We are grateful for your example of service by sacrificing countless hours for practices and performances and cross-country tours in order to share your testimony through music. When you joined the choir, Ali was 8, Davis was 7, and Jessi wasn't even born yet! Because the choir has been such a big part of your life, it has become a part of ours as well. We will miss hearing about your experiences, but at the same time are glad to have you "back". We are proud of you, Mom, and we love you.