Presenting...

A handful of memories from Jordan's life that his friend, Jared Sprague, put together for a class reunion a couple of years ago. Thank you Jared. And Jordan, we send our love to you forever.

One, Two, Three

By this time of the morning three years ago, we were already without you beside us in this world. Our memories of you and our love for you have not diminished at all throughout these past three years, nor will they ever. You're part of everything we do, everything we are, or hope to become. Your like a magnet, drawing us nearer and nearer our God, and to thee, er, I mean to you. And so, sweet son, here is another song I want to dedicate to you on this day. I just noticed that the two previous songs have disappeared from the blog. I'll try to get them posted again, but I'm not super confident I'll be able to do it. Just for memory's sake, the songs are Walking in the Air by Declan Galbraith, and The Morning Trumpet by the BYU men's choir or maybe it was a chorus. With all my heart, I love you. I pray you feel it abundantly!

The Morning Trumpet

It's been two very long years since our Jordan left us. But then, we are two years closer to the day that will reunite us with him, the one we love and miss so very much.. We mark this rainy day of May, with flowers, with a visit to his sacred resting place, and with a powerful song filled with the hope of glorious things to come.

Walking in the Air

It's been 365 days since Jordan departed this mortal sphere. The earth has made one full revolution around the sun, and many of our days have revolved around thoughts of him, the son, brother, husband and friend we cherish. He was here one minute, and gone the next. There wasn't time to say a lot to each other. Our scant words seemed inadequate. But in those last moments, I knew like I've never known before, the strength and power of eternal love. I believe now that the words that carried the very strongest message, were said years before in a temple of God. That is where the covenants were made that sealed us into an eternal family unit, dependent upon our faithfulness.

During this year, my mind has been filled with wonderings about what it's like for Jordan. If only I could have a dream, an email, a message, something to let me know how he's doing! Twelve days ago, I chanced upon a message that could be from Jordan. When I heard it, I recognized it immediately and thought of him. Long ago, our boys watched The Snoweman around Christmastime on PBS together. I'd forgotten all about it until I heard the mysteriously enchanting song again. We'd been drawn to that melody, often humming it absent-mindedly. But here it was again. Could this be what Jordan did after his spirit was loosed from the confines of earth? Could this be a hint of future adventures we might have together? I remember when Jordan and I went to the Grant County Fair together when he was 10 years old. For that evening, it was almost as if he became older, and I became younger, so that we wandered the fairgrounds like peers, eating Spaceburgers and letting ourselves be spun silly by the carnival rides. I imagine that Jordan has taken at least one spin around the world since he left us, and I am picturing that he and I, and anyone else who wants to come along, will do a world tour together ourselves someday. It may just be something like this!

A Second Blog

Really, our journey here is complete. But another leg of it does continue and is highlighted elsewhere. Here, we're in waiting mode. I think God grants us knowledge, to some extent, on a need-to-know basis. So, we wait, patiently submitting our will to His timing...no matter how long He takes.

If you'd like to check in on us in the meantime, just send an e-mail request, and I will send you the link to our active blog.
meadowflowers@hotmail.com

The Missing Peace

Good tidings of great joy! The missing peace is found. I will have super weeks again. I am no longer lost and unsure of what I'm supposed to be doing. I couldn't, in good conscience, keep this unexpected blessing to myself any longer!

We had wonderful news this week when Brianna had the interview we've waited so long for,, and was granted lawful permanet residency in the United States. Other blessings: My friend, Karen, helped me find and decorate a cheerful little Christmas tree for our home, and shop for gifts, which she then wrapped for me, for I am a notoriously bad wrapper. A few Christmas cards have begun trickling in, and we're preparing to mail out a few of our own. Colin received his letter of acceptance from Boise State University and will begin his studies in Jan. Brianna will most likely begin working toward a nursing degree in May. Shane is doing wellin school, wrestling, and life, and he achieved the Eagle rank this fall. Dan and Colin and I attended Shane's choir concert and were touched by the festive and the sacred music alike. The Hallelujah Chorus was positively stirring! Colin sang a hauntingly beautiful duet with our friend, Evan Darrington, tonight at the churchChristmas party, O Come, O Come, Immanuel, and as always, hearing one of my sons sing, put a glow in my heart. We're anticipating a visit from Ethan, Missy, and family for Christmas, and all our sons and their families are well. In short, the peace I thought I might never find is here in abundance.

Merry Christmas, my friends.Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Till We Meet

Thank you for the support you've given us throughout the past months. Your comments, contact of all kinds, faith and prayers were a great source of encouragement to us.By keeping us connected and united in Jordan's behalf, this blog fulfilled its purpose well, and is now complete.

Jordan lives on in another sphere, the spirit world, a place we'll each inhabit after this life while we await our final judgment and resurrection, and assignment to one of the three degrees of heavenly glory, the celestial, terrestrial, or telestial kingdom. Brianna is working as a CNA, and spending most of her spare time studying and practicing yoga, with a view toward teaching it at some point. As for me, I'm presently a little lost, not certain of what I'm supposed to be doing, seeking answers, but determined to keep the faith.

I'll continue to check this last post for comments or questions periodically, and reply as needed. People we've never met happen by once in awhile, and I'd like you to know that you're also welcome to leave quesstions or comments. May God be with us always, and may we be with Him.
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

This Day Is One of Those

Mulling over for hours what to post, it took me awhile to settle on anything. How do you say life is as hard as nails without sounding like you're soaking in selfpity and seeking for sympathy? On the other hand, what if you aren't willing to pretend that everything is fine, that you've smoothly moved on with your life and that your heart isn't broken? I can do that in casual conversation, but I can't do it here. I won't expose my battered soul to view, but neither will I create a false impression of peaceful acceptance. I want to leave a true record of this harrowing trial behind me. Maybe it will be of use to someone else along the way.

Someone wished me a super week today. Super week?! My super weeks are over! That doesn't mean we don't laugh and look for ways to have fun around here, but expecting "super" is beyond the realm of possibilitty. Life is not letting us off the hook for a minute. Both good and bad continue to come our way, demanding patience, forbearance, and time spent in pleading for heaven's healing and guidance. My sister, Julie, shared the observation with me that I have an increased spiritual sensitivity since Jordan's departure. The Holy Spirit, and the unwelcome spirit of the adversary, have been close by at times, and I have had to consciously cling to the one, and decisively dismiss the other. An energy-sapping task, this. I found that this song penned by Michael McLean, and sung by (looking for artists' name) aptly describes the constantly shifting landscape of my life.

(Partial lyrics to "This Day Is One of Those."
There will be days so sweet
Blossoming like a rose;
There will be days complete
Where happiness overflows,
With everyone you meet a friendship grows.
You'll know on that day, you'll hear yourself say,
This day is one of those.

There will be days so tough
You'll wonder why you chose
Taking a path so rough, and trusting that heaven knows.
And when you've had enough
Of climbing the rocky roads,
You'll know on that day, you'll hear yourself say,
This day was one of those.

There'll be days that you feel you could just do without,
Other days that you want more of.
Days of answers and hope, days of questions and doubt,
Days when you never knew you were loved.

There will be days you swear God's inspiration flows,
There will be days in prayer you ask Him why it goes,
There will be days He cares more than you suppose,
This day is one of....
This day is one of those.

See you in November. May God bless us all.

Choosing the Right

Words! This is the week I've set for myself to choose the right headstone and epitaph for my precious Jordan. It's been on my mind for months, but until now I haven't felt a sense of urgency about it. It's here now though, so the search is on! I had a momentary pang of conscience for turning to the internet for inspiration, then I realized that that's exactly what Jordan would have done.. I even considered having the headstone resemble a widescreen monitor, but quickly dropped that idea.

So, about epitaphs. I haven't yet found the right one, but I have found quite a few wrong ones. For example, what on earth does this mean?
What lies behind him and what lies before him are tiny matters compared to what lied within him

And this one's kind of nice:
God could not have made earthly ties so strong to break them in eternity

Nice, but it's not exactly what I'm looking for. I'll know it when I find it, and it will be ready for placement by mid November, when Colin's home from his two-year church mission.

Experience

D&C 122:7 "...all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good." But I have enough experience! How could this possibly be for anyone's good! I FEEL B A D, not at all good!

Nevertheless, we kept on going through the motions of living, with questions steadily mounting. For example, during the past month, Brianna has begun the CNA class, studying diligently, almost tirelessly, enjoys quizzing me from her class notes, and has recently been able to accept a couple of invitations for outings with a friend she and Jordan made while in the hospital. July found me poring over the scriptures in search of peace, quietly observing my birthday, feeling bored, with little to look forward to, giving my emotions a strenuous workout by swinging from hope to despair multiple times each day. On 7/29, we visited the open house of the Twin Falls temple, and nearby Shoshone falls. I accepted, and Brianna declined, an invitation by the Hobsons to attend next week's ward camp out at beautiful Ponderosa state park in McCall, ID, something I've always wanted to do, but was uncertain of how to accomplish. I'm still uneasy about how it will all play out, but I am so exquisitely weary of living a nothing-happening life, that I have resolved to go despite my fears! Later in the month, Shane, our youngest son, embarks upon his final year of high school, and Dan and I celebrate our 35th anniversary. Isn't that enough experience, dear Father, I ask. I could use more excitement, but hold, please hold, the experience.

I had an amazing change of heart today. Elders Beheshti and Canold came by. They sat and talked with me for awhile, and brought hope, and answers to many of my fervent, known-only=-to-God-and-me prayers. They did it with the help of the Holy Spirit, the scriptures, and a blessing that I lacked the courage to ask for even though I knew I was desperately longing for. I am so grateful they offered. For the first time in what feels like years, although it's only been weeks, I feel happy. I think I may truly be able to be happy again!

As for experience, at last I can see that I am learning, changing, becoming closer to the person I need to become. I also see the Savior differently. He is kinder, wiser, more loving, compassionate, courageous, and powerful than I previously understood! Expperience, teach me. I am now thy willing and attentive student.

Heb. 12: 10-11 "For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeththe peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby."

Yes, big questions remain. I will cling to and trust in God's plan of happiness with all my might, and continue to search and learn from His holy word.

All Is Well

I don't think I'll go quite that far, but I guess I can say a few things are well. Brianna will begin a CNA (certified nursing assistant) course later this month. She's put a lot of mileage on her new pink bicycle, and she's made Thai food for the family a couple of times from a cookbook she purchased. Today, she tried her hand at wonton soup with great success. And thanks to her, we've found that sliced cucumbers are a great addition to the wok when stir-frying, and that watermelon juice is delish.

I finally got my FISH analysis results from the big appointment with Dr. Byrd last Jan. According to his recommendations, I should be heading off for a stem cell transplant in the next little while since it showed I do indeed have the 17p deletion. I'll meet with the local guy to discuss it in the fall. Allogeneic SCT's aren't offered in this state. I'd have to relocate to a willing victim's home for several months, most likely with my sister Julie in Utah. Jordan's patience and courage are definitely an example to me, but there are other considerations. Right now, it's all we can do to cope with Jordan's too-soon journey to what feels like a very distant land.
5/7/09: I decided some time ago that there will be no SCT for this CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia).
We made a trip to WA in June, visiting with Dan's brother and sisters, and Ethan and Missy, and families. Bittersweet...we had wanted to go much earlier, for other reasons. Still and all, we're grateful to have been there. Family relationships are worth traveling, writing, phoning, emailing, and doing whatever it takes (maybe even forgiving and overlooking), to preserve! (In most circumstances, that is.)

Better than a visit from St. Nick, was last week's visit from Julie, Liz, and adorable nieces, Erin and Lily.

First and Last

Lilacs in bloom are undeniably beautiful, beautiful and fragrant, too. We planted two in Jordan's honor, a white one and a purple one. He wrote that they were his favorite flowers, and I am so hoping that, henceforth, they will bring an air of anticipation, and even gladness, to our May mourning. Regrettably, May is now behind us, and the dreaded month of June has arrived, the first of many months that we will have to live without Jordan. We miss him beyond all imagining. Life hurts without him here, and, after three interminable weeks, we wonder if we will ever be free, while in the flesh, of this megalithic pain. No matter where we go, on a picnic, to the farmers market, for a driving lesson, to plant vegetable seeds in the garden, pain silently, unrelentingly waits behind the door to deal its crushing blow. It stealthily hides in the words of formerly favorite hymns, making attendance at church a risky venture. Even though I believe that lilacs are beautiful, that the resurrection will be joyful, that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, my heart still aches, and tears still fall. I am convinced that God showered us with small- and medium-sized blessings throughout this fiery trial (mostly through the kindness of others), but I am still scorched and singed from the heat, praying for relief.

I've promised Brianna that I will protect her privacy, so nothing regarding her experiences will be written without her approval. Naturally, all who care for us and who have provided such loyal support are interested in her circumstances. Rest assured that we love Brianna like a daughter, and we will do everything in our power to sustain and befriend her, and to see her restored to happiness. May God bless us all, writer and readers, and may we all find perfect peace that lasts!

Martha's lilacs

The Service

The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.

Bilbo Baggins, The Lord of the Rings

Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate
And though I oft have passed them by,
A day will come at last when I
Shall take the hidden paths that run
West of the Moon, East of the Sun.
Frodo Baggins, The Lord of the Rings

"And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow. "
Alma 40:12

Memorial Service for
Jordan McKay Washburn

Conducting: Bishop Christopher Coltrin Organist: Karma Elsworth
Chorister: Erin Taylor

Welcome ___________________________________ Bishop Coltrin

Opening Hymn ______________ #299 Children of Our Heavenly Father

Invocation ________________________________ Blaine Washburn

Memories of Jordan by his brothers:

Ethan Washburn ------------Neil Washburn

Kimball Washburn--------------Colin Washburn
Greg Washburn------------ Shane Washburn

Music ____________________________________ Evan Darrington

"Our Savior's Love"

Speaker ___________________________________Kirtland Naylor

Closing Hymn __________________ #286 Oh, What Songs of the Heart

Benediction ______________________________ Jonathon Washburn

Pallbearers: Ethan Washburn, Kimball Washburn, Greg Washburn,
Neil Washburn, Shane Washburn, Daniel A. Washburn

Honorary Pallbearers: Daniel E. Washburn, Colin Washburn, Rob Washburn,
Alan Washburn, Clifford Washburn, Cordell Washburn

Dedication of Grave _________________________ Kimball Washburn



Jordan McKay Washburn was born in Moses Lake, Washington, March 16, 1982. The fifth son of Daniel E. and Bonnie Washburn. He graduated from Royal High School in Royal City, Washington in 2000, served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from 2001 to 2003 in the Philippines San Pablo Mission. He attended college at Brigham Young University and Boise State University. Jordan went to China in 2006 where he met and married Brianna (Zhou Xiu Qiong). They returned to the states in December 2007 to seek medical treatment for Jordan.

Jordan is survived by his wife Brianna, parents Dan and Bonnie Washburn, brothers Ethan(Missy), Kimball(Jessica), Greg(Lesley), Neil(Penny), Colin, and Shane.

Interment: Morris Hill Cemetery in Boise, Idaho.

The Speaker

Jordan McKay Washburn
March 16, 1982 - May 10, 2008
Kirtland G. Naylor

Jordan Washburn, in his very short life, managed to influence many people and make us smile. He seemed quiet at first introduction, but loved to converse, even debate. He wasn’t much for mindless small talk, but found a way to engage you in a thoughtful discussion.

One learns of the true nature and personality of a life from the patterns of his personality he displayed. I have read emails from friends, missionary companions, and co-workers, and they all recognized the same characteristics in Jordan: he was a friend to all, unique in his service, and loyal. One companion noted that Jordan "had his own way of doing things, and after he would have me analyze with him, I would see that his way was correct (most of the time)." Another said, "He was quick to point out new ways of thinking that had never occurred to a mind as narrow as mine. I guess I can say that he was a good person and that made him an influential missionary. Simple as they are, those are two of the highest compliments I can offer anyone I have met in this life."

His first companion in the Philippines commented, "[With Elder Washburn,] I never worked so hard or laughed so much. It was awesome to see him learn and grow as a new missionary. What a wonderful missionary he was. I am truly grateful for the opportunity I had to serve with him."
Another companion from the bushland of New Zealand, spoke of how Jordan taught him to have a little giggle every so often, but also that when it was time to work, they worked. He said, "and by jingo’s could he move! That walking pace of his was often blistering, but I soon learnt to keep up–barely." He continued, "Anyone who has sat with him and talked about anything will have noticed his amazing ability to think outside the square and make even the most tedious of topics seem ever so interesting. Simply put, there was never a dull moment."

A high school friend confirmed all this with one simple illustration about how Jordan had fun and interacted with strangers. Jordan liked to find guy-girl pairs then challenge them to an arm-wrestling contest. He convinced them to play, lost to the girl (very dramatically), then beat the guy.

A recent Chinese co-worker reported: "Jordan is beloved and virtuous, wherever he goes, he's sure to bring joy and make surrounding people happy. All people knowing Jordan in this company like this friend very much. To me, he's more important, since he's always my bosom friend. Although there's some language barriers when we communicate, this never prevents us from being good friends. I feel more sorry and regretful, since I didn't accompany him through his remaining days. As I retrace the happy times, and then imagine all the pain happening now, there's more feeling about Heaven's unfairness. Why such an excellent person can't own more time to enjoy the life?"

We often question why death occurs, especially when it occurs at a time when the person was still young enough to have apparently many years to share their good works with family and friends. Benjamin Franklin said: "Our friend and we were invited abroad. .... his chair was ready first, and he is gone before us. We could not all conveniently start together; and why should you and I be grieved at this, since we are soon to follow, and know where to find him."

The purpose of this earthly life is best understood when we recognize from where we came, and to where we shall go after this mortal existence.

Before Coming to this world, we lived in the pre-earth-life as spiritual children of our Heavenly Father. As the Apostle Paul taught in his letter to the Hebrews, "Shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?" (Heb. 12:9.) "In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life." (Family Proclamation.) In this pre-earth spiritual life, we recognized that we wanted to come to earth to gain a body and experience this life. We knew that this life would not always be easy, that it could involve physical and mental struggles, and that we might make mistakes along the way; but, we would have the opportunity to experience life's choices--and the freedom to choose.

We then are born to this earth to receive a physical body. The spirit, joined with the body, allows us to experience the physical opportunities and tragedies of mortality, while having the spiritual roots to give us hope, if we will hearken to those spiritual promptings. The spirit does not die, but our physical body will pass away. It is the experiences from this mortal life that we will take with us when we leave. What we do and learn in this life about ourselves and the service we provide to others will not only bless those whom we have touched in this life, but will be a part of us that we carry forward. Each of us, as we honestly evaluate our lives, find within us a struggle between the natural (mortal) state, and the spiritual goodness within us. We find the world pulling us away from Godliness, and that is part of this earthly experience. We could not have learned this without a physical body. It is what we do in this life and the way we share goodness with others that will tell how much we truly follow the teachings of Christ.

One of Jordan’s missionary companions said, "He was one of the happiest, most caring, and loving missionaries I've ever known. He was always seeking to improve the world around him and especially to serve the people he was surrounded by, not only the Filipinos, but the missionaries and anyone--ANYONE--he came in contact with. I was many times the recipient of his unceasing efforts. He was always a joy to be around. I look forward to meeting him again on the other side of the veil!"

Toward the end of his life, as Jordan suffered excruciating pain, he was still tender and caring with those around him. He would be in such pain that he couldn't open his eyes, or move in his hospital bed, but he would ask with such kindness for his wife to hand him some water. I marveled at his patience. I didn't hear him complain, but he suffered with strength.

Another reason we came to this earth was to develop faith in God. We had a veil of forgetfulness placed over our memories of our existence as spiritual children of Our Heavenly Father. We are left in this life to seek after those things of the spirit that will remind us of a God who loves us, His children. When we follow Him and His Son, we come to realize the purpose of this life is to prepare us to meet them and live with them again. Life is a bridge; not to be lingered on, but to pass over quickly. Jordan’s hope and faith led him to do righteous acts that strengthened his faith even more. Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles described it in this way:

Having ultimate hope does not mean we will always be rescued from proximate problems, but we will be rescued from everlasting death! . . . Significantly, those who look forward to a next and better world are usually "anxiously engaged" in improving this one, for they "always abound in good works" (D&C 58:27; Alma 7:24). Thus real hope is much more than wishful musing. It stiffens, not slackens, the spiritual spine. It is composed, not giddy, eager without being naive, and pleasantly steady without being smug. Hope is realistic determination not merely to survive but to "endure . . . well" to the end (D&C 121:8). The "hope in Christ" (Jacob 2:19) of which ancient and modern prophets speak and write is not obtained without sacrifice. But once obtained, it becomes a "well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) (October 1994, General Conference.)

What many believe to be happiness in this life does not give us real hope. The material possessions; careers that bring the accolades of man and wealth; and physical beauty are all limited in their duration and enjoyment to this world. Yet, those who remain faithful in their hope of resurrection and exaltation find peace and comfort in the assurance that if they endure, every good thing will be theirs forever. C.S. Lewis said that we do not pray to change God; we pray to change ourselves. The Savior said simply, "Be of good cheer, for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you." (D&C 61:36.)

Before leaving on his mission, I shared with Colin a scripture found in Section 31 of the Doctrine & Covenants concerning missionary service. "Lift up your heart and rejoice for the hour of your mission is come . . , and you shall declare glad tidings of great joy unto this generation. . . .Therefor, thrust in your sickle with all your soul, and your sins are forgiven you, and you shall be laden with sheaves upon your back for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Wherefore, your family shall live" (D&C 31:3 & 5). I explained that I believe this promise is that your family shall live in the gospel, and be spiritually blessed, according to your faithful service.

I can’t explain why Jordan was meant to leave us so soon, but I know his experience brought many closer to God and their faith was strengthened. Colin’s dedicated service in the mission has blessed this family with spiritual strength; perhaps with that which was necessary to not just endure, but to learn from this experience.

Death is the gateway to the next existence that prepares us for the resurrection. Birth brings our spirit together with our body to this life. We know that death is as natural and necessary as birth. As death comes to one we love, there is a sadness in separation. Elder LeGrand Richards said, "The only reason to feel sorrow at the death of a loved one is the temporary loss of friendship privileges." We do miss our loved ones who die, but with God’s perspective, we find sweet peace and joy. Elder Mark E. Petersen said, "Death is a beautiful door into a more beautiful room."

At death, our physical body and spirit are separated. Our bodies await the resurrection, but as is stated in the book of Ecclesiastes: our "spirit shall return unto God who gave it." (Ecc. 12:7.)
A prophet of God has taught this about the spirit world, which follows death:

When you are in the spirit world, everything there will appear as natural as things now do. Spirits will be familiar with spirits in the spirit world--will converse, behold, and exercise every variety of communication with one another as familiarly and naturally as while here in tabernacles. There, as here, all things will be natural, and you will understand them as you now understand natural things. You will there see that those spirits we are speaking of are active; they sleep not. And you will learn that they are striving with all their might--laboring and toiling diligently as any individual would to accomplish an act in this world. We have more friends behind the veil than on this side, and they will hail us more joyfully than you were ever welcomed by your parents and friends in this world. (Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents, p. 281-282.)

After death, while in the spirit world, we prepare for the resurrection and final judgement. At the resurrection, the spirit and body shall be reunited. "Every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame." (Alma 40:23.) This promise is made possible by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. All mankind shall be resurrected. "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." (John 11:25.) We live to die; and we die to live again. (Russell M. Nelson, The Gateway We Call Death, p. 5.)
"Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of his resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him according to the promise." (Moroni 7:41.) Someone said, "If I can't win, let me do good in the attempt." I think that Jordan not only won, but he was valiant in the effort and true to his divine design. His life was short here on earth, but its duration in all our lives will be eternal; for he truly touched us in a meaningful way.

Each Life That Touches Ours for Good, Hymn No. 293

Each life that touches ours for good Reflects thine own great mercy, Lord; Thou sendest blessings from above Thru words and deeds of those who love.

What greater gift dost thou bestow, What greater goodness can we know Than Christlike friends, whose gentle waysStrengthen our faith, enrich our days.

When such a friend from us departs,We hold forever in our hearts. A sweet and hallowed memory, Bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee.

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim Devotion to the Savior’s name, Who bless our days with peace and love, We praise thy goodness, Lord, above.

May we all remember the life, love and laugh that Jordan brought into our lives, and rededicate to reach out to others and share the joy and peace the Gospel brings into our lives. Jordan’s life is yet another testimony of the love of God, His tender mercies, and the blessings of the atonement and resurrection. I testify of these truths, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

The Notice

We are both overwhelmed and comforted by your messages in remembrance of Jordan. Thank you for your love and prayers for him and for us. They are returned tenfold.

Please visit the Notice for him here:
http://www.legacy.com/Link.asp?I=LS000109584182X

To Jordan

Jordan McKay Washburn (March 16, 1982 - May 10, 2008) our hearts overflow with love and longing for you. In heaven, we will hug you once again. Look for us there, we'll join you when our journey on earth is done. We hope to leave a trail of joyful memories behind us just as you did so brilliantly

One of your friends wrote this to you a week ago, and we fully concur:

" We continue to trust in the Lord with all our hearts. Our fervent prayers to Heavenly Father remain unabated. We have the calm assurance you are in the Lord's hands and that He is mindful of you and your wife. The Lord is never surprised by what happens to us, or what we do. He does not cause bad things to happen to us, but He knows when they are coming and stands ready to carry us when we need to be carried. God bless you, our beloved companion. You are truly one of God's chosen sons, and have a great work to do! Regardless of the short term outcome of this battle, you will emerge as the winner!" -G.J.

Love forever and ever,
Your Family

Love Me Tender

Pure bliss: Bonnie cradling Baby Jordan

Sailor boy Jordan, with brothers Ethan, Kimball, Greg, and Neil

Wide-eyed innocence

New Discoveries

Jordan and Brianna came home from the hospital Friday evening. We met the home care nurse, Julie, soon after they'd settled in, and found her to be very warm and reassuring, much nicer than we'd imagined. A week of discussions and decisions, of papers being handed to us that we didn't really want to read, or think about, or sign, had made us apprehensive, even leery, of change. But with our feet setupon this new path, we see that we can walk it, hand in hand, determined to do everything in our power that contributes to Jordan's happiness and comfort. We understand that having kind nurses visit us at home to do blood draws, adjust meds, problem solve, and to contact the docs for us is going to be a great help toward that end, after all. For instance, when he developped a fever late Saturday, it was obvious that it was very taxing for Jordan to have to return to the hospital just past midnight, following a good day and night spent at home enjoying the visits of two of his brothers and their families. Once there, the fever vanished on its own, but he was kept overnight for observation, nevertheless. A nap was the first order of business when we welcomed a very tired Jordan home again early Sunday afternoon. Upon waking from a short rest, he and Brianna went for their first turn about the neighborhood in a wheelchair borrowed from a local service club. Then he watched a little of The Count of Monte Cristo, before resorting to the peace and quiet of their own cozy quarters for the rest of the day.

On Friday, we discovered we were sharing our 1/5 acre with a devoted mallard and her nest full of eggs. Not even the chain saw and leaf blower employed by the man we'd engaged to tame our overgrown honeysuckle vine and misshapen boxwoods, induced her to desert her nestlings. Both young and old watched her with great interest from the large picture window of our living room all the next day, as the downy ducklings eagerly emerged from their shells. Hoping not to alarm her, we tried to keep some distance from the duck family as bread and water were set out for them. We pictured loving eyes looking down from the windows of heaven upon our family, similarly leaving little secret gifts within easy reach, intended for our sustenance and blessing.

Don't duck! Missy captures this family photo.
Aunt Penny braids dandelion garlands for Brooklyn and Lilly.

Our Sunday is sweetened by a surprise "heart attack."

Here We Are

When Jordan was eight years old, his grandpa spent several months in a hospital, located about three hours away from our home. We loaded up the family station wagon three or four times with our then six sons, telling them that we were going to Seattle. On one of our last visits before grandpa was able to return home, two-year-old Colin finally found the words to ask the burning question, "Who's Attle?? :)

For all who have hoped with us that we would See Attle this week, or more specifically, that we would be able to see Dr. Hawkins, we need to let you know that it was necessary to cancel the trip. We did, however, participate in a conference call, which included Jordan, Brianna, both Dr. Zuckerman and Dr. Hawkins, Jordan's parents, and other hospital personnel. It has been recommended, (and much thought and prayer are being given to the recommendation), that it is time to shift to a palliative approach to treatment.

You will be glad to know that the pain is under control once again. We would also like for you to know that we are in awe over Jordan's calm strength, his gentle consideration of Brianna, and all others, and the steady, unfailing courage we see in him each day. Don't discount our admiration for him because he is our beloved Jordan, for many have spoken to us of his remarkable attributes and disposition in the face of this tremendously difficult trial.

This Is So Jordan: emailed from China on 3/21/2007

NOTE: Briannas answer will be first, Jordans answer second.

1. What time did you get up this morning? 9:15am / 10:30am

2. Diamonds or Pearls? "Probably pearls because pearls can be eaten." / (In reply to Brianna,"What???") Diamonds.

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? The mission impossible with Tom Cruise / Same

4. What is your favorite TV show? The Homeless (some japanese show) / Star Trek

5. What did you have for breakfast? Rice powder rolled in a ball with vegetable soup. / Chocolate

6. What is your middle name? Chinese people typically don't have middle names / McKay

7. What is your favorite Cuisine? Chinese Guangdong Province food / Rice and pork with spinage

8. What do you dislike? Hunger and being cold and sickness and being lonely / The question is broad enough that it would take me more time than I'm willing to spend trying to figure out some sort of a conclusive answer. If I just name a few things I dislike it would not really be an accurate representation. If I try to label a single thing I dislike I can always think of something I dislike more. For example, if I say "I dislike leg cramps" I then feel like erasing it and saying "I dislike it when my teeth hurt." (Since my teeth hurting is a larger problem than a leg cramp, not that either of them are large problems really.) But now I just noticed something, which is that both of the things I listed were types of physical pain. So I would say "Physical pain" as my answer except "leg cramps" and "hurting teeth" were only EXAMPLES and not actual things that I think of when I am thinking of things I dislike. Now you are beginning to see what happens though when I try to make a list of things I dislike (all these thoughts go through my head in like 2 seconds, over and over, in all sorts of variations) so I hope you can forgive me for not putting an answer to this question.

9. What is your favorite potato chip? Regular standard non flavored (but salted) chips / Probably KC Masterpiece or whatever it is flavored chips from America.

10. What is your favorite CD at the moment? Don't have CD / My WarCraft III CD.

11. What kind of car do you drive? Don't know how to drive and don't have a car / None, I take a taxi or what-have-you. We will buy a bicycle in the summer though, we think.

12. Favorite Sandwich? I don't eat sandwich / The one described in The Princess Bride, except substitute bacon for mutton.

13. What characteristics do you despise? Tons. Arrogance, Cruelty, I don't know now. / I would imagine most people don't realize that this question (along with many questions) are extremely vague. All the question asked is "What characteristics do you despise?" not "What characteristics do you despise, IN A PERSON." So I'm going to assume it is asking "What characteristics do you despise, in a bowl of rice." My answers, hardness, too hottiness, burnedness, not cooked well enoughness, and sogginess.

14. What are your favorite clothes? Stylish ones and good materials and fit me / My brown cargo pocket pants whatever those are called, and my green "lucky" shirt.

15. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation? America / An undiscovered (in modern times) cave that has 15 billion dollars worth of jewels and gold and stuff in it, and I'm not trapped in it or anything..and there is nothing stopping me from cashing out on the contents or anything.

16. What color are your eyes? Brown / Green

17. Favorite brand of clothing? I don't know brands / I don't care

18. Where would you want to retire? Somewhere warm and clean with fresh air and beautiful / These theoretical questions are really tempting me. Where "would" you want.... it makes me want to type something like "A place where if I am there I instantly have infinity wishes and unlimited power." But I'll stick with a more normal answer and say "Where ever Brianna is."

19. Favorite time of day? Sleeping time / Sleeping time

20. Where were you born? Dongguan, Guangdong, China / Moses Lake, Washington, USA

21. What is your favorite sport to watch? Olympic games / Not sure

22. Who do you think will not send this back? Myself / I don't know... these questions are tricks anyways to try to get the people who fill these out to provoke others into sending them.

23. Person you expect to send it back first? Someone who hasn't done it yet / Whatever

24. Pepsi or Coke? Whats different between pepsi and coke? / None

25. Cats or Dogs? Dogs / Dogs, but I like cats too

26. Are you a morning person or a night owl? I was a morning person but I'm getting poisoned by Jordan / Night person

27. Pedicure or manicure? The one for your hands / whatever

28. Do you prefer funny or mushy cards? Funny / Funny

29. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with everyone? We are at home (what she means is we are at her parents home in Guangdong) / No.

30. What did you want to be when you were little? Model or a movie star / a computer guy

31. What do you have in your trunk right now? I don't have one / "What you gunna do with all that junk, all that junk inside that trunk?"

32. What is your best childhood memory? Dancing out on top of a big car on chinese valentines day / Forts and stuff.

33. What are the different jobs you have had in your life? Worked at Giordanno, taught foreigners english. and worked with Jordan at MMOVP.com / Grape handler, worked for Shane Christensen for a bit, Fed Ex package handler, home loan call center, qwest DSL tech support call center, Ipod support call center, worked on flash for knowligent.com, worked at a haunted house some, off and on worked for myself selling virtual currency, worked at an english teaching center in china, currently working for mmovp.com...probably some other stuff

34. Favorite Holiday? Mid autumn festival / New year

35. What is your favorite dessert? Watermelon juice / so many ... i don't know

36. Favorite Summer getaway? Somewhere with a lot of fruit to eat / China, LOL!

37. Ever been to Africa? No / No, but I did sleep at best western last night.

38. Glasses or Contacts? I'm wearing glasses but I'd rather use contacts but my eyes cant handle them / Glasses

39. Ever been toilet papering? No / No

40. Been in a car accident? No, but a motorcycle ran into my bike once / Not really..if so I don't really remember

41. Favorite day of the week? Friday / Sunday

42. Favorite restaurant? The Steak restaurant where we get tons of free fruit / The Steak restaurant where I eat a lot of steak

43. Favorite flower? I don't know much about flower / Lilac

44. Favorite movies? Asoka and some Chinese stuff...but I like TV series more / LOTR and STAR WARS and many others... sci fi is good, and spy movies, and movies about smart people

45. Favorite Pastime? Yoga, resting, watching good TV shows, eating good food, spending time with my family / computer

46. Favorite fast food restaurant? KFC, but I don't like it much and don't eat there often / prolly subway, none here though that I know of

47. How many times did you fail your drivers test? N/A / 0

48. From whom did you get your last email? Bonnie / Bonnie

49. Sandals or tennis shoes? Sandals / Sandals for freedom and shoes for being able to run fast and stuff

50. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? I don't know much about credit card /http://www.newegg.com/

51. If the speed limit is 60 what is the fastest you will drive? I don't know speed, but if I could drive I would drive pretty slow / 65 or so

52. Bedtime? 1-3am / Same

53. Who are you most curious about their responses to this? Shane / Bill Gates

54. Last person you went to dinner with? Jordan / Brianna

55. What are you listening to right now? Listening to Jordan typing / Listening to Brianna telling me what to type

56. What is your favorite color? Probably green, all colors are good though / Green or blue or something, sometimes red maybe, but I think green is overall my favorite color.

57. How many tattoos do you have? 0 / 0

58. How many people are you sending this E-mail to? 1, and I'm going to ask her to please send it to anyone else "on the list"

59. What time did you finish this e-mail? / Not finished yet.

60. What animal would you be reincarnated as? Human / I would not choose to be reincarnated as an animal because the idea of reincarnation comes primarily from Buddhism, and I have studied Buddhism some and, GENERALLY SPEAKING, found that a human is only reincarnated as an animal if he was really stupid and evil during his life. It is worse than being reincarnated as a poor, sick, deformed human. So if I was reincarnated I would like to be reincarnated as a Buddha (except thats not an animal), and a human is arguably not an animal either, so I'm going to have to go with "smart, well groomed, long and happy lifed monkey."