Generations come together to celebrate family

OREM — Generations of experience and family-minded wisdom were resources Amy Krzymowski wanted to tap into when she became a new mother.

So, in a family room, Krzymowski spent the day with her mother and aunts, sharing experiences and swapping stories about dealing with children, family crises and societal problems.

"There's a lot of strength that comes from getting together," Krzymowski said. "It's obvious other people have needed the same help I did."

Since that first gathering in 1999, the small group of women has blossomed to more than 120 women who gather annually in Orem to share ideas about how to strengthen marriages, families and homes.

"It began as a desire to have a forum where these young mothers ... could be given ideas and inspiration — kind of a vision of what they were doing and the importance of what they were doing," said LaDawn Jacob, Krzymowski's mother.

It's also a chance for the women to remember their heritage. Most who attend are descendants of Hans and Mynoa Andersen, who had 10 children and 83 grandchildren.

Black-and-white photos of the patriarch and matriarch were placed at the podium in the LDS chapel where the women gathered.

The two-day Andersen Legacy Conference includes talks, musical numbers, chances to chat and potluck meals.

A talk Friday morning, titled "The Rock of Honor and Virtue — Keeping Children Clean in a Dirty World," focused on the importance of teaching children with love.

The conference is based on teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This year's theme was based on an LDS hymn: "Firm As the Mountains Around Us."

"We are people striving to make a difference in our children's lives," said Carol Soelberg, who traveled from Mesa, Ariz., to attend her fourth conference. "What a wonderful thing to be reminded about how important women are in establishing stable relationships in home and society."

Soelberg said she hopes other women see the value and strength in gathering and perhaps form their own groups, based on their needs.

And, the women say, anyone who comes benefits, whether it's a young mother rocking a fussy baby or a white-haired matriarch thinking back on decades of parenting.

"You feel a part of something that's big," Krzymowski said. "You don't feel so alone."

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