I remember well the first time I met Belinda. Our little family had moved into our home just a few months before, and Stan and Belinda were in the field behind our house surveying where they would soon be building a home. She was happy, friendly and outgoing with a contagious smile.

Over the years we rubbed shoulders at church, neighborhood get togethers, and in callings. She was my visiting teacher during a very trying time of my life. I never opened up to her about things, but she would come faithfully and always had a bit of wisdom or thought for me. I remember one time in particular when I was preparing for Trek. I had been called to be the person over First Aid for the Stake. It was overwhelming at best. Then there were costumes to make for myself and three of my children. One day as I was frantically sewing, she showed up at my door and said, "I'm here to wash your dishes". I was embarrassed, but she was insistant, and bless her--she did my dishes. I am so grateful to her for her seeing a need and just doing it. But she was very much that way.

Not only that, but she too was preparing to go on Trek with Stan as Ma and Pa. I remember her waking up early in the morning singing to everyone. I certainly didn't feel like singing, but she did. I later thought that if we ever did have to trek back to Missouri for real-- I'd want her to be in my camp.

Belinda took great joy in creating a lovely home. One day I popped in, and she was just finishing up redoing her kitchen. It was amazing! (Of course she was very talented and everything she did always turned out looking like a million bucks.) Here she had textured her walls, put up bead-board, and redone the whole thing. It was inspiring. I admired her way of transforming the usual into something magnificent. 

I also remember some hard times for her. Those years of trying so hard to bring more children into this world, and having several miscarriages. Then when she did get pregnant, how very sick she was. She was so willing to do whatever needed to be done, wanting those sweet little boys to be part of their family.  She seemed to allow those challenging times to draw her closer to the Lord. Again, it was inspiring.

When I think of Belinda, what really pops into my mind is "She went about doing good." She wanted more than anything to be busy doing the Lord's will, and being his servant. She frequently went to the temple, studied her scriptures, taught her children, and served in many callings always giving it her best. I will miss hearing her testimony. She must have some very amazing calling now, and knowing her, she'll be giving it her all. Belinda, we love you and we will miss you. 

With love, 

Kathy