David's little sister ... from Cindy

I joined this family in 2007.  I only have 4 years of personal memories with David.  Far less years than all siblings and most of our nieces and nephews.  I knew long before I met David while I was dating Alex, that Alex was really close to him.  My husband is the youngest of 6 children.  David was #5, and they are 5 years apart.  Alex has by far more growing up memories with David.  David was the first of Alex's siblings I met.  I flew in to SLC from Kentucky, where I was living that summer.  We went over to David and Cristina's house and played Settlers and talked.  It was a great night.  Alex was excited for David and I to meet.  I could tell from that night how close these two brothers are.  

David, Cristina, and Josh came up to Rexburg, ID to visit us one weekend.  I made everyone breakfast both mornings they were there.  David kept complimenting the food I made.  It felt so appreciated.  We showed them around Rexburg, when David and Alex decided to 'trick' Josh.  David was holding Josh up on his shoulders as we were walking through the BYU-I campus, but then Alex and David switched it up -- Alex being the one to hold Josh on his shoulders.  When Josh realized he saw his dad behind him rather than under him, he panicked with confusion.  It was pretty funny.  We bought this new game none of us had played or heard before.  Killer Bunnies.  We spent the rest of the afternoon figuring the game out and playing it.  

One night, Alex and David (and families) were hanging out at Mom and Dad's.  And the idea came out of going on a big trip together.  We were deciding between Hawaii or Florida, to visit our niece Lexi working at Disney World.  We decided to go with Florida.  It was fun planning this somewhat last second big trip, and so glad we have these memories together with Mom, Lexi, David's family, and the Vierra's.  

There are many memories of Alex and I sleeping over at David's, (both houses) playing games, and hanging out with each other.  I encouraged Alex to go to David's about once a month to play games together after moving back to Utah, and I am so grateful he has those last memories with his brother.  One time, we went over to David's for dinner, and at the table David said, "I'll say the prayer" and then all of a sudden Alex started saying the prayer!  David and I looked at each other at the beginning of the prayer smiling as we realized Alex thought David said, "Al say the prayer."  

These last 2 years life has been particularly challenging for Alex and I.  Moments of discouragement has often been felt between us.  Many of the times hanging out with David, when talking about what we're all up to, I remember David pointing out the positive and telling Alex, "That's great Al!"  It was nice to hear some encouragement from David -- and often this past year, I reflect on David watching us and whispering to Alex, "That's great Al!" as he said so many times to him.  

I am pregnant with our 2nd child.  This will be the first child born in the Kenney prosperity since David's passing.  I have felt David near me in my thoughts during this pregnancy.  A Kenney child will soon be leaving our Heavenly Father's arms, and I know David is aware of this accompanying me by my side -- he is our child's uncle!   I don't know if David is with this child as this child prepares to leave for Earth soon, but he has certainly been near me.  David loves this child as he loves all of us.  We are starting our family out the exact way David did: A boy first and then a girl!  

I want to participate in a Sub for Santa or some similar kind of gift giving program to families in need each year.  I want this to pay-it-forward by honoring David's friends from Institute that gave David's family a Christmas during a difficult time when they were in need and give to other families in need. 

Pioneer Trek . . . from Brianne

This past summer I had the rare opportunity to go on a pioneer trek with my new stake. It was held at our beautiful Clear Creek Family Ranch.

Before Trek had started, we were asked to pick somebody, preferably a pioneer ancestor, to "bring with us" on the trek. The purpose of this was to allegedly help us become closer to our pioneer heritage. I know we have some pioneer heritage in our family, but a lot of people don't, so it was an option to just pick someone who you felt like would have been important to "bring with you." I was totally being lazy and waited until the last minute possible to pick someone to bring with me. I had done no research about our ancestry, and I had no idea who to pick. Suddenly a very bright light bulb came on in my head and said "You dummy, just bring Uncle David with you!". I thought "Obviously, what a smart idea!", and wrote his name on the dog tag I was given for the occasion, and wore it around my neck the entire time.

This was one of the best decisions I've made in a long time. Being at The Ranch, a place David loved so dearly, and just thinking about him constantly was so great for me. I often felt David walking next to me on the difficult trail, and I knew that he'd never give up, and I surely couldn't give up either. David was in everything I did and saw, and I know he had fun with me at this trek. He literally was walking next to me, just how he was with us at Yellowstone on that hike to the waterfall. David still loves spending time with us, even when we can't see him. We miss you David, but I know you're still having fun with us!

A cousin's example . . . from Jake

I probably think about David about everyday.  I think about him when I see something I know he'd like (a movie, song or game), when I remember something we did together or just when I'm driving on my long commute and feel lonely.  Unfortunately all the thought has produced very little action.  I have been thinking about what I would say for this occasion of his 33rd birthday and in preparation dug into my stash of letters that he wrote me.  It was probably only the second time I had read most of them.  The dozen or so letters that were saved span from his high school days (I read about what he did for his birthday 15 years ago, the designing of our own Star Wars board game, college life) to his mission (what it was like in the MTC, first reactions to Mexico, advice to a future missionary such as myself), to my mission (his difficulty finding a girlfriend, working and studying, eventually meeting and being swept off his feet by Cristina).  He was my best friend during this period of our lives.  These past 11 months I have sat back and read what his siblings and spouse wrote about him and didn't even realize how much first hand (literally handwritten) sources I've had.  They have some really sweet things about his family, his early courtship with Christina (kind of the other side of Cristina's journal entries that Lani read at the funeral) and lots of goofy funny stuff too.  He was a real nerd but boy we had some good nerdy fun! So anyway I will scan these letters and make sure they are posted on the blog.

How David celebrated his Birthday 15 years ago

Our calendar of stuff to do during winter break '96.
We did this every time we got together, this was the only one I can find.

Cousins hike to Emerald Pools

EFY at BYU 1999 and yes Jared loved it

David came up with this totally original battle scheme for our
Star Wars game that we spent  months making but never played a complete game.

Not a great photograph but you can tell Dave and I are on top of the world
hanging out with three of the five most beautiful sisters in Orderville.

David on having annoying companions

David on the family speaking Spanish.  Johnny and now Lexie continue the tradition.

David on hanging out with Ben.  Of course he
later developed the same closeness with Alex just as he wished here.

David said, "Thanks for the Far Sides" which I would send with every letter. As I read the one about the man milking the cow standing up, I couldn't stop laughing.  Everyone thought I had lost it, but seriously I couldn't help it.  It was honestly the heartiest & heaviest I've laughed for 10 months.

He wrote me about a special girl named Cristina he fell in love
with on a trip to Merida with my dad and Joe

I feel I owe so much to David and have so many memories of him that the possible volume of this thought would either be impossibly big for me to complete or else a pitiful fraction of what I know and feel.  I want to just tell a couple brief memories that show his journey from faithful but immature and agnostic teenager to mature man of God (a phrase he used frequently in his correspondence, not in reference to himself but in his goal).  I feel like we took this journey at the same time.

We were headed back from scout camp where we were the two oldest scouts in attendance so David must have been 17.  Bruce was driving and David sat in shotgun while I was in the back.  I don't think they knew I was listening because I remember feeling secretly privy to a very intimate Father/Son conversation.  David asked his dad if he thought Heavenly Father treated His children in the Church differently than the rest of His children, "Does he answer their prayers the same as he answers a church member's?"  He probably wasn't doubting the existence of God but kind of wondered why He would need a single true church when we were all his children and thus why he, David, would need to participate in it.  The discussion went from "does he listen to and reward our prayers differently" to the disparity of our various positions at birth.  I don't remember all of Bruce's wisdom on doctrinal exclusivity or fore-ordination that day but I remember it was gracious, encouraging and calming.  I think of this conversation when the topic arises in study or church about "consider the lilies of the field" or "where much is given much is required" or what it means to make covenants.  What I've come to think this means is that David was a thinker.  He pondered on the big questions and did not shy away or let doubts get the best of him.  I think David was after two things; first, he wanted to know his standing with God.  He wanted to know if Heavenly Father heard his prayers.  He was always a good boy.  He didn't have an ounce of rebellion in him, he wanted to know what the right thing was so he could do it.  Second, I think this question shows his compassion for other people.  He wanted to know how they fit in the Plan of Salvation if they didn't have the blessings of the gospel like he did.

I believe it was the following Summer that we went to Youth Conference.  On the last evening a testimony meeting was held in which David played an unusually large role.  I actually don't remember what he said if he spoke at all but I remember multiple (like a half dozen or more) people talking about him.  They all said that their lives had been touched by David's example.  It was his example of kindness, stories about him being their only friend, or about him running with Eric Carrillo or showing kindness to a less fortunate.  All of these people said that his example brought them closer to the gospel.  I remember thinking about these statements in light of his uncertainties.  When others were wavering and needed an example he could be depended on despite his own doubts.  He acted righteously even before he was blessed with sure testimony.  I don't know whether it was because of something he said or whether I said it in my head but I remember thinking at the time and since that his faith preceded the miracle, that he was willing to act before he had a certainty, obey before blessed.

In Alex's poignant and perfect eulogy he spoke of an experience he had with David that must have happened not too long after this because David had not yet gone on a mission.  This story seemed to put a bookend on the timeline of David's testimony development.  Somebody, a return missionary apparently close to them, had flippantly expressed incredulity at Joseph Smith's divine role.  David made a point afterwards to take Alex aside and tell him that person was wrong, that Joseph was indeed a prophet and that David knew it.  It shows not only his love and concern for his little brother's spirit (a responsibility he undoubtedly learned from his older brother) but also his own spiritual growth from doubt to surety.

I know by the time he served a mission he had a deep and unshakable testimony that we bore in every letter and at every opportunity.  I just wanted his kids and nephews and nieces and anyone else who might read this to know how he got it.  He acted in faith, doing his best and hoping the Lord would give him answers.  He continuously tried to improve himself and to love those around him.  He cared enough to be curious and study and he followed the many good examples in his life.  I'm so grateful that he shared that progress with with me and that I could now testify that he knew.

I never said much about my thoughts and feelings at the time of David's passing but would now like to take the opportunity here.  My family had gathered from multiple states for Dana's boy Carter's blessing.  A few days before our arrival we heard that our maternal grandmother had passed away after years of widowhood and dementia.  At the time we counted it a great blessing that we could all be there for her funeral.  The morning of the funeral was the same dark Friday that the unthinkable happened to David.  My family was planning on staying with David and Cristina one of the nights of that trip but hadn't actually bothered calling to arranged it because I figured I could rely on their automatic hospitality as I had in the past.  Thus I missed my last mortal opportunity to talk to him.  I count it a miracle that Joe, Karyn, Dana, and I were in Salt Lake and close enough that we could visit the hospital to say goodbye and to hug our loved ones in so much pain.  A few days later the double baby shower (for Moses and Lincoln) turned into a wake and I remember feeling so grateful to close to my many beloved cousins and Jimae and Bruce in our hour of common grief. Being near them physically and emotionally helped.  My thought at the time was that it was such a tragedy that someone was taken that had so much going on, that had so many depending on him, that was such a good and worthy person.  Of all of us why him?  And yet the fact that he had accomplished so much, had so many loved ones, was so worthy perhaps made him a better candidate because he had had a fuller life.  That fact that in such the short span of his earth life he was able to influence so many, live a wonderful love story and father two great kids made him a more prepared and merciful sacrifice than another.  I also count it as a tender mercy to have said the closing prayer at David's mortal farewell just as I had at his missionary farewell.  Nobody but me would have remembered who said a prayer in some meeting 12 years earlier but I did and it meant a lot.

Ensenada Book of Mormon Project...from Dixie and family

Dear David,

What a year DEEJ!  (For those of you who don't know I used to call David  - DJ  - which turned to DEEJ)  Anyway, what a year - Oh what a year!  I have learned much in the last year!  Thank you for the things I have learned and thank you for watching over me during some of the trials.

When thinking about what service I could do - there are so many - and when I did things I thought - oh this could be my service in honor of David.  But I wanted to do something just for you.

Courtney booked our family to go on a cruise over six months ago.  I realized we were going to be in Mexico on November 7, the day before your birthday.  I knew the perfect service!  You were such a great missionary always.  When you were a teenager I remember walking in the living room of the Ranch House and seeing you asleep with the Book of Mormon open on your chest.  You had fallen asleep reading the Book of Mormon after a long day of hard work.  What an example that was to me about loving  and reading the Book of Mormon.  I often think of that night when I think of you.

Then you served your mission in Mexico!  What better service than to give out Book of Mormons to the wonderful Mexican people - like you did for 2 years of your life.  Brandy bought 3 Book of Mormons in Spanish and Courtney bought 2 of the kids Book of Mormon stories in Spanish.  As we left the ship on the morning of the 7th to go into Ensenada, Mexico we had a special family prayer that we would feel the spirit to know who David and Heavenly Father  wanted us to give the books to.

We had not been in town long when on a corner we were trying to decide what to do.  There were 2 little chiclets kids.  When you are in the main tourist shopping areas there are these darling little kids that want you to buy this little package of gum - maybe 6-8 little chiclet size gum pieces.  It is so hard to resist - Courtney could not and bought some gum.  Noah asked about giving Book of Mormons to them, but as we turned the corner there were 4 more kids and we only had 2 kids books.  So we decided to wait.

We decided to go to hang out on the nearest Beach.  We asked the closest taxi driver to take us to the closest good beach.  He proceeded to take us on a 30 - 40 minute drive through town to get to a private beach with hardly anyone else on it.  On the way Matt sat in the front and was chatting with Frank the Taxi Driver.  He brought up the Mormons and asked if he knew anything about Mormons.  When we got to the beach Frank said he was just going to wait for us for the next 1-2 hours until we were done at the beach.  Brandy gave out our first Book of Mormon to Frank.  When we returned later he was sitting in the front of the Taxi reading his new Book of Mormon.  He has 4 kids and is going to retire from his regular job of checking  beer bottles at the factory in one year.

When we got back to the same corner we began our journey.  Those same two kids were standing on the same corner selling their gum.  It was only the 2 kids so Noah asked if he could give out the 2 kids Book of Mormon stories to them. He bought a chiclet from each of them and then gave them the books.  The kids were so excited and happy!  There smiles were huge.  We saw them 2 hours later on  a different corner selling their chiclets and still holding their new books to their chests!

Next we did some shopping.  Camden was in search of a hammock.  He wanted the kind that David slept in after his mission.  So we looked in quite a few shops and Camden just wasn't feeling it.  After quite a few stores we were in a little shop with this older sweet man.  He spent alot of time showing us different Hammocks, even had a place in the back to hang it up and try it out.  He was great.  This is who Camden chose.  He started telling him about the church and the Book of Mormon and then gave his book away.  The man seemed pleased and said he would read it.

We left the shop and soon came to a mother sitting on the sidewalk with her 2 small children.  After we passed them Noah said that is who we were to give our last Book of Mormon to.  He ran back and gave her the Book of Mormon with some money.  You can see how happy she was.  Noah came back and said he wished he had another Book of Mormon for the lady sitting across from that lady that was nursing her baby.  We had no more Book of Mormons.  I asked Noah if he wanted to give that other lady some money (she was holding out a cup for money).  Noah said "Sure but I don't think she wants money - I think she wants a drink of water in her cup!"  I love that kid!

We had a great time giving out these Book of Mormons and wished we had brought even more!  I pray that these individuals and their families will be blessed by these special gifts from us, you - David and from Heavenly Father.



We love you!  Thank you for being you!

Love,
Dixie, Brandy, Camden, Noah, Courtney, Matt and Milo

Christ-like, from Nick

It’s been a long time coming and way overdue but I have finally brought myself around to post on David’s blog. To be honest, I don’t know where to begin. It still hurts sooo much knowing that he’s not on this earth anymore. David was in every essence of the word, my Brother, in fact when we introduced ourselves to someone new we would sometimes introduce ourselves as such. Dave and I met after he moved in 2 doors down from me over 7 years ago and we hit it off right away. David was the one friend that I knew would be part of my life, for the rest of my life. He’s the one I figured that I would sit down on the porch with when we were in our golden years to tell our grand kids stories of our childhood and teach them about life; but all that was erased almost 1 year ago.

Dave was much more to me than a friend, a best friend or a brother. He was an example, a teacher and an inspiration. To say that I miss him is an understatement and I can’t even write this posting without tears still welling up in my eyes. After David’s accident, life has been much different for me. Dave and I spoke practically every day and saw each other almost as much. I try to honor his memory, by being the best human being I can be. I can only think of how kind, understanding and selfless he was and how much I learned from him just by being next him. That’s what made him such an extraordinary person. He never imposed himself or his ideas on anyone, he was simply being himself, and by doing that, anyone who knew him, became a better person. It was this quiet dignity, this humbleness and meekness, which made him so much like our redeemer, Jesus Christ. I can, without a doubt say, that Dave was the most Christ-like person I have ever known, and for that I am grateful.

I think another reason David and I got along so well, is the fact that inside, we were both just big kids, trust me, I know this because our wives would constantly tell us! I loved how Dave never lost his sense of childhood wonder and amazement. He loved all children, especially his and they loved him. I remember how much I loved hanging out with Dave because I knew that at some point or another, there was a good chance we were playing some sort of game. Whether it was hide-and-seek with a bunch of other adults in his house with all the lights turned off, or playing childish pranks on our wives, we always had a great time. We played like children play, and we loved it! I remember how he would come up with these cockamamie schemes just like I remember doing when I was just a small kid and how that would just take me right back to my childhood. David still had that childhood imagination; it was never ending and never seized to amaze me. This childlike innocence also made Dave very Christ-like in my eyes.

I remember visiting New York with Dave. That was a whirlwind trip! The trip lasted for just over 24 hours and we managed to see all of New York’s major tourist attractions. From the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, and of course a visit to the flagship Apple Store! I remember his sense of amazement at all the tall buildings, but more than anything I remember how grateful he was to be in a place he’d always wanted to visit. Something that stands out from that trip was his never ending thirst for knowledge in how things worked. I remember him asking questions about the Statue of Liberty to our Statue of Liberty tour guide and about how it was built and asking me about New York’s Subway system and I remember thinking; this guy is such a “mechanical engineer”. I was so happy I was able to make that trip together with Dave. I’m grateful for his love, I feel it every time I think of him or something reminds me of him. I love Dave, and will always treasure all the memories I have with him. He’s the most caring and loving friend and brother anyone could ever hope to have and I was blessed enough to know him.

In this month of Thanksgiving, I am eternally grateful to our father in heaven for putting Dave in my life. As I said in my talk at his funeral, I may have lost a brother in this life, but I gained a family. I am grateful to the Kenney family for their love and for welcoming me and my family into theirs. Words cannot adequately express my love for Dave or his family and I hope that this small contribution makes someone who reads it, smile. I am also eternally grateful to Dave for his friendship and love. Thanks to Dave, my life has in fact been changed forever. I only hope that I can be more Christ-like in my life…more like my brother Dave.

Book of Memories... from Julia

Memories are so important to me.  I try to keep a journal and I know I take way too many photos. I guess my hope is that throughout the years to come I can look back at what I've done, where I've been, and remember those people and experiences that have made this life beautiful.

Currently, however, I am working on a different kind of journal.  One not for myself. I remember the weekend of David's funeral. I remember people asking, "What can we do for your family" but then realizing there is really nothing that could take away the awful pain and heartache. David's sisters asked for people to write down some favorite moments with him, and I'm sure a hundred different memories of growing up with David came to my mind.  I tried to record just a few of them before I let any more time pass, but I, like everyone else, found it difficult to put thoughts into words. Words just don't do justice for someone like Dave.  

Well, after talking with Laura a bit during a recent trip to Utah, she expressed how much the family would still love to preserve as many memories of David as possible. I agreed this project was a must. I took on the challenge of compiling memories for David's book.

I tell you, contacting and hearing back from everyone is no small task!  He has so many life-long friends, coworkers, mission companions, and family members that I know would love to participate.  I've collected entries from many... but am still waiting for MANY more. I continue to push back the "due date"... mostly because I know this book will not be complete without certain people who knew David best.
A work in progress.
If you are reading this post, and haven't submitted an entry for this book yet, please DO!  I know this is the busiest time of year, but this is an important gift of service for David's family.  As Laura said, "Something is always better than nothing."  So it can be short and simple or as detailed as you'd like.

Here are a few writing prompts...
What is your favorite memory with David?
What have you learned from his example?
What would you like his children to know about him?
David lived a life full of gratitude. At this Thanksgiving season, what are you most thankful for, and how can you show that gratitude more fully each day?}

How wonderful it will be for his two young children to get to read these memories someday and see how many lives David had influenced for good.  How wonderful it will be for his family to remember his optimism, goofiness, creativity, and charity. 

We love you, David, and miss you.  You've touched more lives than you may ever know.

Love, Julia

For David... from Aunt Kriss

From Kriss:  

I was trying to decide if I should run in the 5 K race back East in New Berne.  I had decided not to put that stress into my life.


However, when we were challenged to do a service for David, I decided that the run would be the perfect thing.  The race was supporting 10 local charities for New Berne, North Carolina.  I entered it in David's name.  I wore a sign on my back that said "David Kenney: 1979-2011".  While I was running, I had several comments like...  "Go David!  Keep it Up!".  When I was feeling tired and I was tempted to "stroll" during the race, I would think of David's determination in life... and pick up the speed.  There were 19 women running in my age category (60-64) and I was amazed when I won the 2nd place medal!

Ed wrote "David" in big letters on the back of his legs for the half marathon race.  He finished 3rd in his category!  During the race, One of the other runners told Ed "David is my inspiration! I just want to keep up with him."  We decided that would be a good motto for all of us.  If we can just "keep up" with the attributes that David had, and be the kind of person David was, we will feel that we have lived our lives well.

Love, Aunt Kriss

Our Memories, from Joe and Karyn

From Joe Bodell: 

A few weeks ago I came across some pictures of the trip to Merida I took with David and my Dad in 2002.  Since it was a few months before I left for my mission, it was a special, formative time in my life.  Learning about David's missionary experience firsthand and in the place he served really helped get the most out of my time as a missionary.  In fact, it seems that whenever I have spent time with David, his example was slowly and quietly changing me into a better person--more like him: caring, humble, and full of charity. I will also never forget how David met Christina on that trip, and I count it as a blessing that I was there for the beginning of such a special eternal relationship that has been a model for my own marriage. 

I also have to share the unbelievable--and slightly less serious--story of how we were driving a ranch truck  from Arizona when it broke down at night in the middle of nowhere.  After being stranded for an hour and running out of options, the idea came to us to use the propeller of the ultralight, which was strapped down to the truck bed, to push us up the hill until we could jump-start the broken ignition.  Sure enough, it worked and soon we were cruising down the highway in a fan-powered truck at around 30 miles per hour.  After the truck would not start for the second time, David, my sister, and I piled on to the ultralight frame  and drove it almost a mile back to the ranch.

From Karyn Bodell:

Last December for a Book of Mormon class I was taking, we were assigned to choose one area in our lives we wanted to work on for 6 weeks.  Since this class was a couple months after David’s passing, I remembered people at the funeral mentioning how they never heard David say anything bad about anyone.  He cared about everyone and you could feel the love he had for others.  During the funeral I thought how I wanted to be like David.  I wanted others to feel that same sincerity and love that David demonstrated in his life. I wanted others to be able to say the same things about me as they said about David.  So for those 6 weeks I chose to improve my language by not complaining, being sarcastic, gossip or say negative things about others.  I kept track of my progress by putting a tack in a jar whenever I caught myself saying something negative.  I tried hard to say kind things about people when others starting to gossip around me.  I kept a reflection journal each week and included things I was grateful for, which helped me not complain and be more positive.  I read at least one chapter in the Book of Mormon each day and a conference talk each week.  Lastly, I prayed each day for the strength and guidance to accomplish my goals.  By the end of the 6 weeks, I felt closer to my Heavenly Father and my love for His children greatly increased.  I know that many people admired David because he lived this principle in his life.  His example is one that I continue to follow in my life, and I feel blessed to have been able to know him

a letter to Jasmine, from Cristina

Jasmine:

There are so many things I want to write for you about your daddy that I am afraid I'll forget the most important ones. You were born on February 24/2009. Dad and I welcome you with so much joy. You were daddy's "baby blue eyes ". 

I want to tell you a little bit about papa Dave. First even when he is not here with us he loves you so much. You are 3 years old and I tell you all the time about papa. It seems like you don't remember many of the fun things he used to do with you. But he was very fun and loving dad. He was always worry about you growing up and he always said he needed it to buy a gun to make sure no boys will get close to you. Every time you heard the garage door opening you were the first one to run and give dad a hug. He would hug you and say : Oh my jazzy jaz. You loved when he used to throw you up and catch you, I have a lot of pictures to prove it. Hide and seek was your favorite game to play with him or what about the kailaan memory board game?. He bought lots of kids board games to play with you. I always enjoyed watching the 3 of you together. I think that is another activity I miss so much. 

I love your daddy with all my heart. He is the love of my life, the kind of love you feel once for that special person. A year ago our lives changed. Daddy was taken away from us. He had a very important job to do for Heavenly Father. Dad gave you a hug and a kiss the night before, you were sleeping on your bed and he stood at the door and whispered: Oh my Jazzy I love you so much! . I know with no doubt he is close to us more than we can image. I don't know why things happened this way but we have to believe that this was part of a plan that someday we will be able to understand. 

You are so little right now and with your innocence you help me get through day by day. I love when you say that daddy is at the temple. I love and admire your desire to go to the temple some day and you are only 3!. Melts my heart when you sing for me or when you sing for daddy Dave. We love you so much my beautiful daughter, I am trying my best to make sure you'll see papa again. Josh and you are my blessings in this life, you fill my life with joy and I can't wait for you to grow and see what kind of girl you'll be. 

Right now you are my buddy, who stays with mom while josh is at school. You like to go shopping with me and cooking too. I don't know what I'll do when you start going to school too. I guess I'll miss you but I need to let you grow. I wish you can stay this little. I want you to know how much papa Dave loves you. He is in a very special place now, he is working so hard and also he is with you. You will feel papa Dave as you grow older. I want to write to you the same I wrote on Josh's letter. The person responsible for what happened to dad is not a bad person, he is suffering very much. He is going trough a rough time like us. It is not easy for him and for us either. We were wounded bad by his actions. When the time is right I hope you can meet him. I hope you can feel in your heart the desire to forgive. I love you and you are also the world to me. Everyday I see a little bit of papa on you. I wish the best for you and I am always going to be here when you need a friend. Thanks so much for letting me be part of your life, thanks for your unconditional love and for teaching everyday about forgiveness. You are a beautiful soul and I am proud to be your mom.

Love you sweet heart!

a letter to Josh, from Cristina

Josh :

There are so many memories I have about your daddy. I want to tell you first that he loved you and still loves you like I never knew a daddy could love. 

Daddy was a missionary when I was living in Mexico. I was about 17 when I met him. All I remember is that he was so good about making others happy and serving the lord in a magnificent way. I remember helping him with some talks and I remember your abuela Candy had a surgery once and he went to our house to visit and that was the first time he did his trick with his ring, the same one he used to show you where he put the ring in his eye and then appears on the back of his neck. He was a very funny guy. I remember one afternoon sitting outside with Tia Gaby and telling her that Elder Kenney was so serious that I won't marry a guy like him. I ate my words 'cause he ended up being the love of my life. We dated for about a year and finally I got my visa. I came to the United States on a very cold day. On January 3, 2004 I married your daddy. I was so happy, finally I found a guy that loved me for who I was, and he made my life complete. It was very hard for the first months for me to get used to this new life, i was far away from my family and daddy was all I had. He spent lots and lots of days making me feel like a queen and he did an excellent job. 

When we were dating we had an important talk about not waiting too long after we were married to have have kids. It was a little bit hard for him to accepted but as always he told me we were going to do what makes me happy. Almost 2 years after, mommy got pregnant. We were filled with joy to know there was a baby growing inside of mommy. One day we went to the doctors office to find out if we would have a boy or girl. A BOY! Your dad was so happy he was already making plans with all the activities he wanted to do with you. He was also taking all the time to mom's tummy making sure you'll recognize his voice too. The time for you to be born came one day after mom and dads second wedding anniversary. Abuela, grandma and dad were there to welcome you. A beautiful boy was born to the Kenney family. Daddy held you and he was so proud of you, I still have the picture in my mind of him and you together. Dad worked so hard that everyday after work he would spend time with you, giving you kisses, letting you sleep on his chest and repeating to himself how tiny you were and how much he loves you. He would sing to you Baby Mine or Pokey Bear. You might not remember but he loved to have  one on one time with you, going to the movies was his favorite. Teaching you how to build Legos or helping him with the train.   Life continued and we sold our house, by that time dad got laid off from work and mom was pregnant of Jasmine. Dad was so smart and spiritual that I remember him telling me that the Lord will take care of us. A few days after he got a new job at ATI. It was one hour going and one back, we were so thankful that we didn't care about the drive. He was always worry about making sure his family was safe.

A few months later we bought a new house! Dad told you it was YOURS and until today you say MY HOUSE, not moms or dads it's Joshies. After he got back from work we will drive from grandmas to where our new house was going to be built. He was so excited, you were always next to him, asking him so many questions that only he could answer. 

My sweet Josh it's very hard to write about dad, my heart is in so much pain still. I miss him so much. I know you miss him too, I have seen you cry and now that you are growing the questions are coming. I want to tell you that even though I don't quite understand why daddy went back to Heavenly Father, he loves you much, please never forget that you are part of him. You are part of an amazing family. You are a Kenney sweetie. I also want to tell you to please forgive the person responsible for this. I know you are young now, but someday you will grow and I want you to be as loving and forgiving like dad was. The person is already suffering for what he did. Someday when you are ready you can meet him because at the end of all this he owes you an apology. He might ask for you to forgive him and I hope I will be a good teacher and teach you that no matter what, we need to forget and forgive. You will be ready on your own time. 

Each day that passes we are a little bit closer to see dad again. I believe in my heart that this is only a temporal separation and we will see Papa again. He is with Heavenly Father waiting for us to come back to him. I can't wait for that day to come. I picture in my mind you, Jassy, me and dad together. I want to share my testimony with you son. I always knew the church is true, about the power of the Melchizedek priesthood but not until papa died it was when I felt the real power and the love that Heavenly Father has for us. Heavenly Father does not hate us, he had a very important calling for your dad and it was necessary for him to go back. God loves us that is why he sent you Daddy Wes. Right now I am writing this and I can hear you with him laughing and playing and my heart is full with joy. Wes loves you so much. I believe also that he was sent to us to make our path easier to walk. I am glad you are so loving that I have heard you so many times tell him I LOVE YOU. I know someday our happiness will be complete. I know that in the other side of the veil there are lots of blessings awaiting for us. Be worthy of receiving them. I love you son, you are part of my world, I want the best for you always, I want to tell you that your 2 dads and mom are very proud of you. Daddy Wes and me are very excited to see what kind of man you'll be someday. I know papa is helping us too and someday I know you will feel him close to you. You bring so much happiness into our lives. Until we get to see dad Dave, be happy, be thankful, be kind, be loving and be worthy of heavenly fathers blessings.

With all my love, your mom

Happy Birthday David! from Laura

Happy happy birthday little brother.  This year, in so many ways, has been the hardest of my entire life.  But, at the same time, I cannot deny that I have learned lessons from your life and your death that have changed me for the better. 

When we decided to do some act of service in your name, the first thing that popped into my head was how I wanted to be better at serving in the Lord’s Temple.  I made it my goal to go every month this year.  Sometimes it feels like a selfish goal because I have received many blessings by giving of my time to do temple work for those in the spirit world that cannot do it for themselves. 

Many of the months Mom and I have gone together.  It’s been so nice to sit with her in peace and quiet.  Of course we don’t talk much, but we gain strength from each other.  Sometimes other family members have been able to join me, or I go by myself.

 

I want you to know that I have a testimony of temple service.  I am so thankful to live close enough to so many temples.  I have been blessed to feel you close most of the time that I am there.  I know this work is so very important to you, maybe that’s why I made it my goal. 

Last month was our Stake RS Temple day, and we were blessed to hear from one of the matrons of the Salt Lake Temple.  She read us the following quote from John A. Widtsoe:

“Spiritual power is generated within temple walls and sent out to bless the world. Light from the house of the Lord illuminates every home within the Church fitted for its reception by participation in temple privileges. The path from the temple to the home of man is divinely brilliant. Every home penetrated by the temple spirit enlightens, and comforts every member of the household. The peace we covet is found in such homes.

Indeed, when temples are on earth, the whole world shares measurably in the issuing light; when absent, the hearts of men become heavy, as if they said, with the people of Enoch's day, 'Zion is fled' (See Moses 7:69).”

I love envisioning the “path from the temple to the home” being divinely brilliant.  I know my family has been blessed by my attending the temple more often.  I feel like we have been blessed with more light and understanding to our little hiccups and trials of life. 

I’ve loved the scripture Doctrine and Covenants 101:16 ever since you whispered it to my heart last December.  

“Therefore, let your hearts be comforted concerning Zion; for all flesh is in mine hands; be still and know that I am God.”

I’ve tried to remember this commandment and take time to just be still.  When I quiet my heart and mind, it is easier to focus on what is most important.  This is easier to do when I return to the temple often. 

Last spring I made a little necklace to remind me of how important it is to Be Still.  I wear it most days, along with a pearl from Grandma Bodell.  It helps me feel a bit closer to both of you. 

Another of the service projects I did in your name was to compile a book of our experiences as a family relating to your death.  It was a hard thing for all of us to think about, but we knew that we had all experienced sacred things and felt of our Savior's love throughout this year.  Everyone contributed and I pulled the journal entries and testimonies into this book for our family to reflect on whenever we are missing you. 

I am so grateful for all the lessons you are teaching me as I work hard to become more like you until the day when we can be together again.   I miss you so much.

All my love,

Laura

"Me and My Papa", photo books of service from Courtney

I was given the opportunity of service by David's sister Laura asking me if I would be willing to make photo books for Josh and Jasmine.

 I am so grateful to have been able to do this. I feel like I came closer to David through this project of sorting and searching through all the pictures of him and his sweet children.

I have learned in the past year from David's death to cherish every moment with the ones you love, and to take lots of pictures.

I am so grateful that Cristina took so many pictures with the kids and their Daddy. These pictures are going to be constant reminders of who their Dad is and how much he loves them.

David was loving, kind, thoughtful and fun, all of these traits come through in the pictures that were taken of him during his life.

Thank you David for being such a great example and for teaching us all how we should live even after you have left this world. We miss you and love you.

Dear David, From Mitzi

Dear David,

You were 2 years younger then me but only a year behind me in school. Although I hung out mostly with Laura, we still had lots of fun together - especially in high school. While going through some boxes after our move, I found a bunch of letters that you had written to me back in high school when we were pen pals. I laughed and cried as I read them. It was funny to go back and read what we talked about. A little about how you were taking guitar lessons, a little about how you had just joined BMG and got your first shipment of CD's, a little about how you were going to run for a student body officer. I had to laugh when you called uncle Tim and old fart for talking you out of driving somewhere to visit girls.

You also talked about how you ran at regionals for cross-country and got first place for Highland J.V.  You were always about improving yourself. In high school you didn't like that you were getting overweight so you decided to join the track team. And a little while later, you were taking first place!

This is where I took my encouragement from when Liz and Laura challenged us to do something in honor of David. I decided that I too was a little sick of carrying a little extra baby weight so I decided to run a 1/2 marathon. My dad has always talked about running a marathon so I talked him into joining me (didn't have to talk him into it too much since he was practically training for it on his mission). My brother-in-law Hock decided to join us as well. It was such a great experience. It took so much hard work and dedication, but I did it! I never could have done it w/o Hock! I would be the one in the team to wake us up for the early runs and he would be the one to keep me running once we got up! It was a good partnership. About once a week I would run with my phone and earphones while talking to dad while he was running. It was a great bonding experience with my dad too. 

To close, I just want to write a few things that were at the end of David's letters. He was always such a positive kid.  I love these phrases b/c I can hear him saying each of them in my head:

Remember...Attitude is everything!

Always Smile!

Don't change for the world,
Always Smile and MPH! (Make People Happy!)

I love you David James!

"Beautiful", from Katherine

“Beautiful”

Jane is beautiful inside and out. She was able to overcome her trials and then share what she had learned to those who most needed her. She was a woman of love, thoughtfulness, action, service, and above all charity. Jane is a character in the book entitled “Beautiful” by Jenny Phillips which was an answer to my prayers.

I have had the scripture of Moroni 7:44-48 posted on my bathroom mirror for over a year. I just couldn’t get my head wrapped around the meaning of charity. I had been working on this goal for personal progress and didn’t want to move on till I felt I really got it. Not only understand it, but be able to exemplify it. I just wasn’t getting it. And then David passed away and life seemed to go in slow motion. I wanted so desperately to be this person of charity and love; instead I gave way to my natural man. Anger, judgment, bitterness seemed to be creeping into my veins. It wasn’t even about David, it became about everyone around me. Those who I loved the most became target for my thoughts.

As I read this book and discovered the answer was charity, my hopes arose as my desire to understand charity increased. I bought 170 copies and began sharing this story to all the Young Women in my stake, to my friends, and to my family. I did 11 different classes, some in Hawaii, some in Utah, and even one in New York City. Sometimes as I read this book with others I could feel the “pure love of Christ” other times my thoughts would betray me and I felt I could never achieve this “change of heart”. Satan knows when we are weak and will be there ready. I felt like I was constantly being chipped away by him, he knew I was vulnerable. But I kept at it. I slowly started gaining the strength I needed to make the little changes needed. Heavenly Father was always there. I learned to call on him the instant I needed him with “all the energy of my heart”. I learned to flick Satan out the door. The atonement was working in my life and I could catch glimpses of this peace I was working for.

I loved sharing this story. Many were touched by its message. David was my example of charity. Everything he did was to make someone else happy or to fill their needs. I loved showing pictures of him giving train rides, his nieces and nephews playing on the castle, of his goofy faces, of him in his scout uniform, of him serving on his mission, of him marrying in the temple, of him reading to his children, of his Christ like life. I would tell these girls that life is short. That we are so blessed to have such great knowledge of the gospel. And that we like Jane, need to find others to share it with. I believe that we cannot serve two masters; it is time to choose which side we are on and fight for it. It says in verse 46 if ye have not charity, ye are nothing. I DO NOT want to be nothing. “Charity NEVER faileth…for all things must fail”. If all else fails, charity will always conquer.

In the end, I was the one most changed by this message; my heart is full everyday with gratitude. The anger and bitterness are gone and I am filled with love. By no means am I perfect, I just have a “perfect brightness of hope.” Recently I read a scripture in Peter 1:7 that says “that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth”. My trials have been more precious than gold. Even though it has been an incredibly hard year, I would not give it up for anything. I have grown and learned so much.

Love you Dave.