Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
nap time adventure (that's not her bed, but it's cute though)
Lucy doesn't nap. I don't know why...I would love a daily nap, but she doesn't she gave it up this summer. With everyone home it just was impossible to do. She occasionally naps, so I shouldn't say never but most weeks it's zero times.
Last night I put her to bed at 7:30ish. She popped out of bed until 9:00ish (way too late) then was up at 5:30 this morning, again I don't know why. So today she is tired. So tired that I almost didn't take her to story time because I was afraid she would fall asleep in route and then that would blow today's chance of a likely nap.
We went. It was fun. I searched the library for some music I need for the ward Christmas social, with no luck ~bummer, I guess it's not going to be easy. We got a book, a signing time DVD, listened to story time, made a craft and then headed home. I thought she'd fall asleep so I handed her juice box and talked and put on a DVD. She did nod off and I had to take her from the car seat crying and kicking and brought her inside where she was suddenly "not tired". I put her in bed anyway. She barely closed her eyes in the car so I KNOW she's tired.
Not too long after she came out screaming that she was scared. So I picked her up and took her back while asking what she was scared of. She said a snake in her room. What?!? I asked where and she said in her drawer, which was now open but was closed when I left the room the first time.
Well, it seemed unlikely that there was a snake in our house, but maybe. So what was I supposed to do? Leave the room with Lucy and lock the door and wait for a)DH to arrive home or b) a poisonous reptile to get out and stalk our family or look in the drawer? I decided to look. At the first glance there was nothing. Then she told me it was under the toilet paper. I looked and sure enough there was TP in the drawer. Great.
Back to my two choices, although now I added slam the drawer shut and duck tape it until DH got home. I almost chose that but I was afraid he'd take the shot gun to the dresser and then where would we be?
So I picked up the TP. Under it was a plastic smooshing dragon leg, severed from a dragon body in an unfortunate accident previous and obviously left somewhere that caught her eye and scared her. Poor baby. So I showed her it wasn't a snake, threw it away, tucked her again....and now we're trying for a nap. She's tired I know she is, she's delusional: seeing snakes in the house! HA!
she never did nap, but now it's 6:54 and she's out like a light. She did mess up H's costume for tomorrow, fling a puzzle around the room, remove every book off the book shelf, get her finger caught in an umbrella and try on all her clothes...all VERY quietly.
Monday, October 29, 2007
project
Today is project day. DH is working on the back deck.Grandma and H are working on baby quilts for the sick babies at JPS Hospital. It's a service project with the quilting group Grandma is doing.
I went to help in brothers class today. It was his turn to bring the snack. I asked his teacher if I could come and do a story with it. The theme this week is "Make Believe" and "M&M"s. So I got the book "Hansel and Gretel" and read it to them while they munched on apples. Then I had a snack/craft ready for each one. They got a paper plate with a square graham cracker and a triangle graham that they put together for the witches house (from the story). Then they had a cup with a scoop of frosting and a bag of m&ms, fruit snack people, fruit leather and a chocolate door. They got to make their own candy house and eat it. After we stayed until school was done and helped with math. It was very fun. Brother got his math done in about 2 seconds, on the way home he told me his teacher hasn't taught him anything he didn't already know except for their class songs. I told him class songs were good, and playing with friends was good.
just for monday morning silliness
Maggie from Maggie Reads didn't tag me for a purely innocent meme but I know she would have if she knew I wanted to do it:)No hubby was maddened by my responses. I totally know Sandra Bullock is on his list and she's not even literary or is it the other dark haired one? I can't remember honey, who was it?
Anyway: “Ten Literary Characters I Would Totally Make Out With If I Were Single and They Were Real.”
1. Twilights Edward (duh) Yumm-o. What's not to love about handsome, strong, protective, willing to fight to the death for you. Lucky Bella!
2. Pride and Prejudice's Mr. Darcy (again duh) He is the walking incarnation of suave and debonair plus he demonstrates selfless love.
3. Long ago, when my sensibilities were less sensitive, I read the Clan of the CaveBear series (which, BTW, I would never read now) and I hearted Jondalar. Something about his cave mannish chivalry stuck in my brain all these years. I know, it's crazy. Maybe it's those crazy caveman commercials that always remind me.
4. I love the daddy bunny in the Bunny Book by Richard Scarry. I know he's a rabbit and all but he's such a good dad and loves his little bunnies and tucks them in bed. There is nothing more attractive in a man than being a good daddy.
5. Ring of Endless Light, Adam. One of my favorite books in my teen years and Adam was smart and good and always there for what's her name the heroine.
....I'm running out, it's hard to think of 10
6-9 Tom Hanks in his romantic comedy's I love him. (I know it's not literary...I guess I don't spend enough time thinking about making out ;) except with DH of course.
10. Also not literary but I couldn't complete the list without mentioning my "boyfriend" Josh. With the voice of an angel. Sheesh! Josh Groban.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
every day, all the time, joy
"Enduring to the end, or remaining faithful to the laws and ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout our life, is a fundamental requirement for salvation in the kingdom of God. This belief distinguishes Latter-day Saints from many other Christian denominations that teach that salvation is given to all who simply believe and confess that Jesus is the Christ. The Lord clearly declared, “If you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God” (D&C 14:7).
Therefore, enduring to the end is not just a matter of passively tolerating life’s difficult circumstances or “hanging in there.” Ours is an active religion, helping God’s children along the strait and narrow path to develop their full potential during this life and return to Him one day. Viewed from this perspective, enduring to the end is exalting and glorious, not grim and gloomy. This is a joyful religion, one of hope, strength, and deliverance. “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25).
Enduring to the end is a process filling every minute of our life, every hour, every day, from sunrise to sunrise. It is accomplished through personal discipline following the commandments of God.
The restored gospel of Jesus Christ is a way of life. It is not for Sunday only. It is not something we can do only as a habit or a tradition if we expect to harvest all of its promised blessings. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).
Enduring to the end implies “patient continuance in well doing” (Romans 2:7), striving to keep the commandments (see 2 Nephi 31:10), and doing the works of righteousness (see D&C 59:23). It requires sacrifice and hard work. To endure to the end, we need to trust our Father in Heaven and make wise choices, including paying our tithes and offerings, honoring our temple covenants, and serving the Lord and one another willingly and faithfully in our Church callings and responsibilities. It means strength of character, selflessness, and humility; it means integrity and honesty to the Lord and our fellowmen. It means making our homes strong places of defense and a refuge against worldly evils; it means loving and honoring our spouses and children."
Therefore, enduring to the end is not just a matter of passively tolerating life’s difficult circumstances or “hanging in there.” Ours is an active religion, helping God’s children along the strait and narrow path to develop their full potential during this life and return to Him one day. Viewed from this perspective, enduring to the end is exalting and glorious, not grim and gloomy. This is a joyful religion, one of hope, strength, and deliverance. “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25).
Enduring to the end is a process filling every minute of our life, every hour, every day, from sunrise to sunrise. It is accomplished through personal discipline following the commandments of God.
The restored gospel of Jesus Christ is a way of life. It is not for Sunday only. It is not something we can do only as a habit or a tradition if we expect to harvest all of its promised blessings. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).
Enduring to the end implies “patient continuance in well doing” (Romans 2:7), striving to keep the commandments (see 2 Nephi 31:10), and doing the works of righteousness (see D&C 59:23). It requires sacrifice and hard work. To endure to the end, we need to trust our Father in Heaven and make wise choices, including paying our tithes and offerings, honoring our temple covenants, and serving the Lord and one another willingly and faithfully in our Church callings and responsibilities. It means strength of character, selflessness, and humility; it means integrity and honesty to the Lord and our fellowmen. It means making our homes strong places of defense and a refuge against worldly evils; it means loving and honoring our spouses and children."
Elder Dieter F Uchtdorf (the handsomest apostle)
Saturday, October 27, 2007
i love the bullets
- Last night DH and I went to Time Out for Couples. It was fun. I liked some of the talks a lot. Some were a little too self cathartic for me but over all it was a fun evening.
- Brother had soccer this morning. They didn't do well but it was fun to be out in the crisp fall air and to watch them play.
- DH, H and brother took their belt tests today and all three advanced to yellow belt.
- J and S are out at the mall.
- Tonight I am taking J and maybe H to the Will Rodger Coliseum for an evening of musical entertainment. S has a stake priest/laurel activity. DH is taking the littles to McD for ice cream and running around on the play set.
- Watch for pictures soon...and maybe even a youtube video for your viewing pleasure.
almost an uh oh
Lucy came bouncing into our room this morning and I looked at my clock. 6:49!! Oh no! I leaped up and started to run toward the bathroom thinking "I'm late!, what happened to my alarm?, what happened to DH's alarm?, shoot!!" Two steps into my run I realized,"OH, it's Saturday!!" Whew
Then I scooped up that sweet little thing and hopped back in bed for another little snooze.
Don't you love it when that happens?
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Whoo Hoo!
Look what's starting on Nov 4th! The Amazing Race. My favorite show. I thought we were going to have to wait until Jan. I hope everyone keeps their clothes on.good mail surprise!
My cute sister Andrea (in red) sent the kids a Halloween surprise! It was so sweet and they were so not expecting it that it made it all the more fun. She sent the littles cute bags with candy and a cookie cutter and cool spider rings! Whoo Hoo! And she sent J and S hair stuff. Thanks SO much :) Andrea is so nice, really one of the biggest sweetheats you'll ever meet. I miss her. Next month she's graduating from beauty school ~Way to GO! and then I think going to UVSC. I'm excited for her.Love you Ange!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
daily dilemna
It's always something :) Right ?
So, here's the deal. The kids come home from school STARVING!! Brother will literally eat two pb&j sandwiches and an apple and cookies and milk. Everyone is hungry and wants to eat dinner at 4:30.
DH gets home from work anywhere between 5:30 (on the occasional rare early day) and 7:00. And some evenings have activities.
So family dinner time is important to me and we try and eat together but the troops are starving and filing up on "snack food" and when dinner actually gets here no one is hungry and they cry and fight at the table, and DH gets mad at the waste and I've spent time on food no one wants anyway.
and I don't want them to fill up on snack food, or even sandwiches and carrot sticks. And what about pleasant conversation? and familial bonding?
Solution:
lil' pumpkin
Brother's first HalloweenNot much to report around here. Our days are strangely quiet. Our afternoons typically busy. Lou and I have been getting to some chores that have been neglected. I have always imagined that if I just had more time I'd keep things spic and span. I guess we'll see. Maybe the truth is I don't like to do chores...or maybe it's the time thing.
Monday, October 22, 2007
dresses ~ purple and white, real and in stories
Rainy Rainy. It feels like fall, the weather is a lot colder. The kids were scrambling around for warm clothes this morning that fit right. I guess I need to sort again.
H started school today. That sentence doesn't sound right since we have been having school. She went to public school sounds weird too. In any case she went. DH took brother so I could take her. I had a very conflicted weekend (surprise) and was concerned about the teacher she had been assigned. In fact I didn't want her to have her and the more people I talked to about it the less I wanted H in her class so I had about made up my mind to turn around and walk out if they wouldn't change. H spent the weekend excited and looking forward to going so that was going to prove difficult if we came to that decision point.
Anyway we arrived, a little wet (all of us), a little nervous (me), very excited (H) and loud and bouncy (Lucy). I talked with one person after another for almost an hour until we were able to get her in a different class. The principal was nice and helpful and apologetic for the first teacher~once we made it past her sentinels who were also nice but not as able to help. Once that was settled we went to her classroom and she was excited to see several friends she knew there. The teacher was out today but the substitute was nice and at the end of the day she came home happy with how things had went. I will go again tomorrow and meet her teacher. I think it will turn out well.
Lou and I came home and did laundry and read stories. It was a quiet day. I worked with Joy on dinner groups, which is kind of like playing Suduku at this point, and made some visiting teaching appointments and played with google calendar since DH wants to try it out.
A beautiful purple princess dress arrived in the mail from Nana for Lucy to wear on Halloween. She tried it right on and it fit perfectly. Very exciting.
FHE was fine. We had a lesson on the wise man and the foolish man.
On a side note I read a fun book this weekend. It was called "the Wedding Dress". It was the story of three sisters at the end of the civil war. They lived on their family's land, which was once a lovely plantation, and were suffering through the reconstruction. Their parents had died. The older two sisters had married during the war and both their husbands had died in battle. The youngest sister is in despair about her prospects to find a husband and have a normal life so in an effort to cheer her the older sisters come up with a plan to make her a wedding dress. They sell what they can for fabric and begin their project. Word gets out in the small town where they live and magical things begin to happen. It's a quick, fun read but also poignant and a touching story of love and life in a different era.
update:
DH and I were talking tonight and it all of a sudden hit me why I am feeling, and have been feeling so conflicted over our schooling choices. He wants us to home school, always has & probably always will. I like public school. Neither choice is "perfect", and both have good and great things and both have not good things about it. I did agree to give it a go and there were things I liked about it. Mostly it was so sweet to get to know H better on a one and one basis, to see her sweet and agreeable side. I didn't like the conflict over school work. She didn't like to do the work, she liked to draw pictures, paint, play with Lucy, have me read to her. In the end I couldn't take the worry about her learning enough, and having such a big thing to have conflict over every day. I am happy she's back at school. I like school. I liked going, I like sending my kids. Although we decided together to try it, and decided together that it wasn't a good fit for us there is still that difference. Unfortunately I know DH is secretly unhappy about it and it will always be a disappointment to him. So, what are we to do to make everyone happy? (rhetorical)
H started school today. That sentence doesn't sound right since we have been having school. She went to public school sounds weird too. In any case she went. DH took brother so I could take her. I had a very conflicted weekend (surprise) and was concerned about the teacher she had been assigned. In fact I didn't want her to have her and the more people I talked to about it the less I wanted H in her class so I had about made up my mind to turn around and walk out if they wouldn't change. H spent the weekend excited and looking forward to going so that was going to prove difficult if we came to that decision point.
Anyway we arrived, a little wet (all of us), a little nervous (me), very excited (H) and loud and bouncy (Lucy). I talked with one person after another for almost an hour until we were able to get her in a different class. The principal was nice and helpful and apologetic for the first teacher~once we made it past her sentinels who were also nice but not as able to help. Once that was settled we went to her classroom and she was excited to see several friends she knew there. The teacher was out today but the substitute was nice and at the end of the day she came home happy with how things had went. I will go again tomorrow and meet her teacher. I think it will turn out well.
Lou and I came home and did laundry and read stories. It was a quiet day. I worked with Joy on dinner groups, which is kind of like playing Suduku at this point, and made some visiting teaching appointments and played with google calendar since DH wants to try it out.
A beautiful purple princess dress arrived in the mail from Nana for Lucy to wear on Halloween. She tried it right on and it fit perfectly. Very exciting.
FHE was fine. We had a lesson on the wise man and the foolish man.
On a side note I read a fun book this weekend. It was called "the Wedding Dress". It was the story of three sisters at the end of the civil war. They lived on their family's land, which was once a lovely plantation, and were suffering through the reconstruction. Their parents had died. The older two sisters had married during the war and both their husbands had died in battle. The youngest sister is in despair about her prospects to find a husband and have a normal life so in an effort to cheer her the older sisters come up with a plan to make her a wedding dress. They sell what they can for fabric and begin their project. Word gets out in the small town where they live and magical things begin to happen. It's a quick, fun read but also poignant and a touching story of love and life in a different era.
update:
DH and I were talking tonight and it all of a sudden hit me why I am feeling, and have been feeling so conflicted over our schooling choices. He wants us to home school, always has & probably always will. I like public school. Neither choice is "perfect", and both have good and great things and both have not good things about it. I did agree to give it a go and there were things I liked about it. Mostly it was so sweet to get to know H better on a one and one basis, to see her sweet and agreeable side. I didn't like the conflict over school work. She didn't like to do the work, she liked to draw pictures, paint, play with Lucy, have me read to her. In the end I couldn't take the worry about her learning enough, and having such a big thing to have conflict over every day. I am happy she's back at school. I like school. I liked going, I like sending my kids. Although we decided together to try it, and decided together that it wasn't a good fit for us there is still that difference. Unfortunately I know DH is secretly unhappy about it and it will always be a disappointment to him. So, what are we to do to make everyone happy? (rhetorical)
Sunday, October 21, 2007
quick recap
Weekend was busy ~ as usual.
Friday was KB.
Saturday we had soccer, our team was creamed. Karate, they practiced for their upcoming belt test. Brother was still sick but toughed it out through the events. J and Emma went out selling. They have been going out quite a bit and J is having some luck. Emma less. They're sticking to it though.
Saturday night we had planned to go out to celebrate Papa's 50th anniversary of moving to America! We had to alter our plans a little since brother wasn't feeling well and we wanted to stay close but we did go out to dinner at Pastafina (thumbs down) and had a fun time visiting and listening to him reminisce about the journey and the start to his new life. Then we went and got Transformers (thumbs up) and watched it at home.
Today was church. Mom and Dad came over for dinner. We went for a walk. I made apple pie and red, white and blue jell-o to continue on the celebrating, this time with the grandkids.
It was good.
Friday was KB.
Saturday we had soccer, our team was creamed. Karate, they practiced for their upcoming belt test. Brother was still sick but toughed it out through the events. J and Emma went out selling. They have been going out quite a bit and J is having some luck. Emma less. They're sticking to it though.
Saturday night we had planned to go out to celebrate Papa's 50th anniversary of moving to America! We had to alter our plans a little since brother wasn't feeling well and we wanted to stay close but we did go out to dinner at Pastafina (thumbs down) and had a fun time visiting and listening to him reminisce about the journey and the start to his new life. Then we went and got Transformers (thumbs up) and watched it at home.
Today was church. Mom and Dad came over for dinner. We went for a walk. I made apple pie and red, white and blue jell-o to continue on the celebrating, this time with the grandkids.
It was good.
Ponder
Eternal principles will take root in us as we take time not only to read the teachings of the prophets and the scriptures but also to ponder them in the spirit of prayer. Nephi, for example, took time to sit and ponder. By so doing, he was exposed to doctrinal pearls (see 1 Nephi 11:1). Take the time to do what the Lord has directed us to do: “Treasure these things up in your hearts, and let the solemnities of eternity rest upon your minds” (D&C 43:34). In a world that increasingly demands more of our time, it is essential that we take time to ponder in our homes, so that we may understand divine doctrine and its principles. As the Savior said, “Go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon these things . . . that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow” (3 Nephi
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
Friday blessings
October's first winner of the traveling trophy, we had time for two games and by the end of the evening he had to give it up to his wife!I love Fridays in the fall!
Well, really what's not to love about Fridays every season. Today was an overall good day. DH had the day off. He worked on the mower. The roof guys were here pounding away. I cleaned up~ washed laundry and scrubbed bathrooms.
E was sick so he stayed home. He woke up in the middle of the night with a fever and if came and went all day. Poor guy. He was supposed to go to his friend Mitchell's house for a birthday sleep over and couldn't. Hopefully he'll be well tomorrow for soccer and karate and the jumping party.
We had a scary moment in the middle of the day. E was home but actually acting pretty well. So well that I wondered why he was home. It was about 11 or a little after and we had that as a target time to get out of the house, do some errands, and go to lunch. I asked DH if he was ready and he said almost so I came inside and told the kids to get ready to go. Then went about my business, getting stuff picked up, helping DH outside with the pool a little. Long story short we filled up "almost" with another hour of stuff. Then I realized that I hadn't seen brother in a while so I started looking for him. Couldn't find him. Called DH and he started looking around. For some reason he thought to look in the car and there was E almost asleep and hot. He really scared me when he was missing, and then he scared me cause I was worried it was heat stroke (although it wasn't really hot out at all and even in the car it wasn't terribly warm) We gave him a shower and Tylenol and he was fine. Thank goodness. I said a prayer of gratitude for that as it could have been a horrible tragedy. Then we were all upset and cancelled our plans. If it had been a month ago he would have been dead so I feel SO lucky.
Eventually I ended up taking the girls and mom with me to the bank and Wal-mart and the boys stayed home.
Tonight we had killer bunnies tournament at our house. We didn't win the trophy :(
But had a very fun time with our friends. We had told everyone about the fever but they opted to come anyway and he was perky and playing by the time the other kids were here so that was nice.
Well, really what's not to love about Fridays every season. Today was an overall good day. DH had the day off. He worked on the mower. The roof guys were here pounding away. I cleaned up~ washed laundry and scrubbed bathrooms.
E was sick so he stayed home. He woke up in the middle of the night with a fever and if came and went all day. Poor guy. He was supposed to go to his friend Mitchell's house for a birthday sleep over and couldn't. Hopefully he'll be well tomorrow for soccer and karate and the jumping party.
We had a scary moment in the middle of the day. E was home but actually acting pretty well. So well that I wondered why he was home. It was about 11 or a little after and we had that as a target time to get out of the house, do some errands, and go to lunch. I asked DH if he was ready and he said almost so I came inside and told the kids to get ready to go. Then went about my business, getting stuff picked up, helping DH outside with the pool a little. Long story short we filled up "almost" with another hour of stuff. Then I realized that I hadn't seen brother in a while so I started looking for him. Couldn't find him. Called DH and he started looking around. For some reason he thought to look in the car and there was E almost asleep and hot. He really scared me when he was missing, and then he scared me cause I was worried it was heat stroke (although it wasn't really hot out at all and even in the car it wasn't terribly warm) We gave him a shower and Tylenol and he was fine. Thank goodness. I said a prayer of gratitude for that as it could have been a horrible tragedy. Then we were all upset and cancelled our plans. If it had been a month ago he would have been dead so I feel SO lucky.
Eventually I ended up taking the girls and mom with me to the bank and Wal-mart and the boys stayed home.
Tonight we had killer bunnies tournament at our house. We didn't win the trophy :(
But had a very fun time with our friends. We had told everyone about the fever but they opted to come anyway and he was perky and playing by the time the other kids were here so that was nice.
September's winner with the traveling trophy!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Great Talk by Sister Julie Beck
I've really been enjoying listening to conference and soaking it in! What a treat to have a living prophet and to have the word of God to direct our lives every day. I especially liked Sister Beck's talk. It felt like it was just for mom's around the world. And being a mom is my business. I highlighted, for my own edification, parts that I need to work on or at least remember and be aware of.
There is eternal influence and power in motherhood.
In the Book of Mormon we read about 2,000 exemplary young men who were exceedingly valiant, courageous, and strong. "Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him" (Alma 53:21). These faithful young men paid tribute to their mothers. They said, "Our mothers knew it" (Alma 56:48). I would suspect that the mothers of Captain Moroni, Mosiah, Mormon, and other great leaders also knew.
The responsibility mothers have today has never required more vigilance. More than at any time in the history of the world, we need mothers who know. Children are being born into a world where they "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12).1 However, mothers need not fear. When mothers know who they are and who God is and have made covenants with Him, they will have great power and influence for good on their children.
Mothers Who Know Bear Children
Mothers who know desire to bear children. Whereas in many cultures in the world children are "becoming less valued,"2 in the culture of the gospel we still believe in having children. Prophets, seers, and revelators who were sustained at this conference have declared that "God's commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force."3 President Ezra Taft Benson taught that young couples should not postpone having children and that "in the eternal perspective, children—not possessions, not position, not prestige—are our greatest jewels."4
Faithful daughters of God desire children. In the scriptures we read of Eve (see Moses 4:26), Sarah (see Genesis 17:16), Rebekah (see Genesis 24:60), and Mary (see 1 Nephi 11:13–20), who were foreordained to be mothers before children were born to them. Some women are not given the responsibility of bearing children in mortality, but just as Hannah of the Old Testament prayed fervently for her child (see 1 Samuel 1:11), the value women place on motherhood in this life and the attributes of motherhood they attain here will rise with them in the Resurrection (see D&C 130:18). Women who desire and work toward that blessing in this life are promised they will receive it for all eternity, and eternity is much, much longer than mortality. There is eternal influence and power in motherhood.
Mothers Who Know Honor Sacred Ordinances and Covenants
Mothers who know honor sacred ordinances and covenants. I have visited sacrament meetings in some of the poorest places on the earth where mothers have dressed with great care in their Sunday best despite walking for miles on dusty streets and using worn-out public transportation. They bring daughters in clean and ironed dresses with hair brushed to perfection; their sons wear white shirts and ties and have missionary haircuts. These mothers know they are going to sacrament meeting, where covenants are renewed. These mothers have made and honor temple covenants. They know that if they are not pointing their children to the temple, they are not pointing them toward desired eternal goals. These mothers have influence and power.
Mothers Who Know Are Nurturers
Mothers who know are nurturers. This is their special assignment and role under the plan of happiness.5 To nurture means to cultivate, care for, and make grow. Therefore, mothers who know create a climate for spiritual and temporal growth in their homes. Another word for nurturing is homemaking. Homemaking includes cooking, washing clothes and dishes, and keeping an orderly home. Home is where women have the most power and influence; therefore, Latter-day Saint women should be the best homemakers in the world. Working beside children in homemaking tasks creates opportunities to teach and model qualities children should emulate. Nurturing mothers are knowledgeable, but all the education women attain will avail them nothing if they do not have the skill to make a home that creates a climate for spiritual growth. Growth happens best in a "house of order," and women should pattern their homes after the Lord's house (see D&C 109). Nurturing requires organization, patience, love, and work. Helping growth occur through nurturing is truly a powerful and influential role bestowed on women.
Mothers Who Know Are Leaders
Mothers who know are leaders. In equal partnership with their husbands, they lead a great and eternal organization. These mothers plan for the future of their organization. They plan for missions, temple marriages, and education. They plan for prayer, scripture study, and family home evening. Mothers who know build children into future leaders and are the primary examples of what leaders look like. They do not abandon their plan by succumbing to social pressure and worldly models of parenting. These wise mothers who know are selective about their own activities and involvement to conserve their limited strength in order to maximize their influence where it matters most.
Mothers Who Know Are Teachers
Mothers who know are always teachers. Since they are not babysitters, they are never off duty. A well-taught friend told me that he did not learn anything at church that he had not already learned at home. His parents used family scripture study, prayer, family home evening, mealtimes, and other gatherings to teach. Think of the power of our future missionary force if mothers considered their homes as a pre–missionary training center. Then the doctrines of the gospel taught in the MTC would be a review and not a revelation. That is influence; that is power.
Mothers Who Know Do Less
Mothers who know do less. They permit less of what will not bear good fruit eternally. They allow less media in their homes, less distraction, less activity that draws their children away from their home. Mothers who know are willing to live on less and consume less of the world's goods in order to spend more time with their children—more time eating together, more time working together, more time reading together, more time talking, laughing, singing, and exemplifying. These mothers choose carefully and do not try to choose it all. Their goal is to prepare a rising generation of children who will take the gospel of Jesus Christ into the entire world. Their goal is to prepare future fathers and mothers who will be builders of the Lord's kingdom for the next 50 years. That is influence; that is power.
Mothers Who Know Stand Strong and Immovable
Who will prepare this righteous generation of sons and daughters? Latter-day Saint women will do this—women who know and love the Lord and bear testimony of Him, women who are strong and immovable and who do not give up during difficult and discouraging times. We are led by an inspired prophet of God who has called upon the women of the Church to "stand strong and immovable for that which is correct and proper under the plan of the Lord."6 He has asked us to "begin in [our] own homes"7 to teach children the ways of truth.
Latter-day Saint women should be the very best in the world at upholding, nurturing, and protecting families. I have every confidence that our women will do this and will come to be known as mothers who "knew" (Alma 56:48). In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
There is eternal influence and power in motherhood.
In the Book of Mormon we read about 2,000 exemplary young men who were exceedingly valiant, courageous, and strong. "Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him" (Alma 53:21). These faithful young men paid tribute to their mothers. They said, "Our mothers knew it" (Alma 56:48). I would suspect that the mothers of Captain Moroni, Mosiah, Mormon, and other great leaders also knew.
The responsibility mothers have today has never required more vigilance. More than at any time in the history of the world, we need mothers who know. Children are being born into a world where they "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12).1 However, mothers need not fear. When mothers know who they are and who God is and have made covenants with Him, they will have great power and influence for good on their children.
Mothers Who Know Bear Children
Mothers who know desire to bear children. Whereas in many cultures in the world children are "becoming less valued,"2 in the culture of the gospel we still believe in having children. Prophets, seers, and revelators who were sustained at this conference have declared that "God's commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force."3 President Ezra Taft Benson taught that young couples should not postpone having children and that "in the eternal perspective, children—not possessions, not position, not prestige—are our greatest jewels."4
Faithful daughters of God desire children. In the scriptures we read of Eve (see Moses 4:26), Sarah (see Genesis 17:16), Rebekah (see Genesis 24:60), and Mary (see 1 Nephi 11:13–20), who were foreordained to be mothers before children were born to them. Some women are not given the responsibility of bearing children in mortality, but just as Hannah of the Old Testament prayed fervently for her child (see 1 Samuel 1:11), the value women place on motherhood in this life and the attributes of motherhood they attain here will rise with them in the Resurrection (see D&C 130:18). Women who desire and work toward that blessing in this life are promised they will receive it for all eternity, and eternity is much, much longer than mortality. There is eternal influence and power in motherhood.
Mothers Who Know Honor Sacred Ordinances and Covenants
Mothers who know honor sacred ordinances and covenants. I have visited sacrament meetings in some of the poorest places on the earth where mothers have dressed with great care in their Sunday best despite walking for miles on dusty streets and using worn-out public transportation. They bring daughters in clean and ironed dresses with hair brushed to perfection; their sons wear white shirts and ties and have missionary haircuts. These mothers know they are going to sacrament meeting, where covenants are renewed. These mothers have made and honor temple covenants. They know that if they are not pointing their children to the temple, they are not pointing them toward desired eternal goals. These mothers have influence and power.
Mothers Who Know Are Nurturers
Mothers who know are nurturers. This is their special assignment and role under the plan of happiness.5 To nurture means to cultivate, care for, and make grow. Therefore, mothers who know create a climate for spiritual and temporal growth in their homes. Another word for nurturing is homemaking. Homemaking includes cooking, washing clothes and dishes, and keeping an orderly home. Home is where women have the most power and influence; therefore, Latter-day Saint women should be the best homemakers in the world. Working beside children in homemaking tasks creates opportunities to teach and model qualities children should emulate. Nurturing mothers are knowledgeable, but all the education women attain will avail them nothing if they do not have the skill to make a home that creates a climate for spiritual growth. Growth happens best in a "house of order," and women should pattern their homes after the Lord's house (see D&C 109). Nurturing requires organization, patience, love, and work. Helping growth occur through nurturing is truly a powerful and influential role bestowed on women.
Mothers Who Know Are Leaders
Mothers who know are leaders. In equal partnership with their husbands, they lead a great and eternal organization. These mothers plan for the future of their organization. They plan for missions, temple marriages, and education. They plan for prayer, scripture study, and family home evening. Mothers who know build children into future leaders and are the primary examples of what leaders look like. They do not abandon their plan by succumbing to social pressure and worldly models of parenting. These wise mothers who know are selective about their own activities and involvement to conserve their limited strength in order to maximize their influence where it matters most.
Mothers Who Know Are Teachers
Mothers who know are always teachers. Since they are not babysitters, they are never off duty. A well-taught friend told me that he did not learn anything at church that he had not already learned at home. His parents used family scripture study, prayer, family home evening, mealtimes, and other gatherings to teach. Think of the power of our future missionary force if mothers considered their homes as a pre–missionary training center. Then the doctrines of the gospel taught in the MTC would be a review and not a revelation. That is influence; that is power.
Mothers Who Know Do Less
Mothers who know do less. They permit less of what will not bear good fruit eternally. They allow less media in their homes, less distraction, less activity that draws their children away from their home. Mothers who know are willing to live on less and consume less of the world's goods in order to spend more time with their children—more time eating together, more time working together, more time reading together, more time talking, laughing, singing, and exemplifying. These mothers choose carefully and do not try to choose it all. Their goal is to prepare a rising generation of children who will take the gospel of Jesus Christ into the entire world. Their goal is to prepare future fathers and mothers who will be builders of the Lord's kingdom for the next 50 years. That is influence; that is power.
Mothers Who Know Stand Strong and Immovable
Who will prepare this righteous generation of sons and daughters? Latter-day Saint women will do this—women who know and love the Lord and bear testimony of Him, women who are strong and immovable and who do not give up during difficult and discouraging times. We are led by an inspired prophet of God who has called upon the women of the Church to "stand strong and immovable for that which is correct and proper under the plan of the Lord."6 He has asked us to "begin in [our] own homes"7 to teach children the ways of truth.
Latter-day Saint women should be the very best in the world at upholding, nurturing, and protecting families. I have every confidence that our women will do this and will come to be known as mothers who "knew" (Alma 56:48). In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
new roof
We're having a new roof put on our home. It's very noisy and driving Millie crazy. She spent ALL morning running from window to window barking.
It's been great.
Luckily we had errands outside the home this morning. One of the things we did was take H and register for school. She'll start on Monday. She wanted to start today, once we were there, but her teacher wasn't ready ~which made me kind of mad, I understand we caught her off guard but the kind thing to do would have been to say, with open arms, I am so glad you're here come on lets figure out what to do. I realize that I can't make a snap judgement ~ we are the ones starting school 8 weeks late, she didn't know we were coming, and I am sure part of the mad is just because of the turmoil it's been for me and the worry I have over making the best choice for H and feeling bad about being queen wishy washy. So I just smiled and said that would be great, we would see her on Monday. H was a little bummed but we'll go out to lunch tomorrow with DH, who has an off Friday and get her school supplies and it'll be fine.
It'll be fine.
It'll be fine.
It's been great.
Luckily we had errands outside the home this morning. One of the things we did was take H and register for school. She'll start on Monday. She wanted to start today, once we were there, but her teacher wasn't ready ~which made me kind of mad, I understand we caught her off guard but the kind thing to do would have been to say, with open arms, I am so glad you're here come on lets figure out what to do. I realize that I can't make a snap judgement ~ we are the ones starting school 8 weeks late, she didn't know we were coming, and I am sure part of the mad is just because of the turmoil it's been for me and the worry I have over making the best choice for H and feeling bad about being queen wishy washy. So I just smiled and said that would be great, we would see her on Monday. H was a little bummed but we'll go out to lunch tomorrow with DH, who has an off Friday and get her school supplies and it'll be fine.
It'll be fine.
It'll be fine.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Insomnia
"When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessing instead of sheep
And I fall asleep,
counting my blessings"
bonus points if you can name the movie this popular 1950's tune came from.
I never have trouble sleeping. It's one of my talents I guess. Sometimes I don't feel well and then I can't sleep but rarely do I just lay awake thinking (what does that say about my brain?)
Tonight after I took Lucy back to her bed I couldn't get back to sleep though. It was very weird. Finally I decided to get up for a few minutes and (what else) go online.
Since we missed conference weekend and DVRed it I have been catching up the last week and a half. I try and watch a couple talks a day and it's been so awesome to hear the messages. Taking them a couple at a time really lets me focus on their meaning instead of blurring all together. I guess I'll have to remember that for the future and try and do the same thing even if I have already seen in once.
Last night I was listening to President Eyring's talk and felt so prompted that his counsel was true and that I need to look for evidence of the Lord's hand in my life, and record it.
"When our children were very small, I started to write down a few things about what happened every day. Let me tell you how that got started. I came home late from a Church assignment. It was after dark. My father-in-law, who lived near us, surprised me as I walked toward the front door of my house. He was carrying a load of pipes over his shoulder, walking very fast and dressed in his work clothes. I knew that he had been building a system to pump water from a stream below us up to our property.
He smiled, spoke softly, and then rushed past me into the darkness to go on with his work. I took a few steps toward the house, thinking of what he was doing for us, and just as I got to the door, I heard in my mind—not in my own voice—these words: “I’m not giving you these experiences for yourself. Write them down.”
I went inside. I didn’t go to bed. Although I was tired, I took out some paper and began to write. And as I did, I understood the message I had heard in my mind. I was supposed to record for my children to read, someday in the future, how I had seen the hand of God blessing our family. Grandpa didn’t have to do what he was doing for us. He could have had someone else do it or not have done it at all. But he was serving us, his family, in the way covenant disciples of Jesus Christ always do. I knew that was true. And so I wrote it down, so that my children could have the memory someday when they would need it.
I wrote down a few lines every day for years. I never missed a day no matter how tired I was or how early I would have to start the next day. Before I would write, I would ponder this question: “Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today?” As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done.
More than gratitude began to grow in my heart. Testimony grew. I became ever more certain that our Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers. I felt more gratitude for the softening and refining that come because of the Atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. And I grew more confident that the Holy Ghost can bring all things to our remembrance—even things we did not notice or pay attention to when they happened"
I'm going to start doing that, although probably not here. How grateful I am for living counsel. For prophets who know the will and mind of the Lord and can tell us.
back to counting my blessings.
1.conference
2. the DVR
3. a living Prophet
4. a good husband, snoring beside me in my bed
5. a cute daughter to carry back to her bed in the middle of the night
6. a faithful dog to keep watch
7. dear friends
8. promptings
9. my sisters
10. that Dani has been blogging lately and I can take a peek at her life
11. that Christmas is coming
12. talented teenagers who are SO fun and so sweet
13. a boy with a kind heart and a cute little roundhouse kick
14. H to learn with during the day
What's been on my mind, I think :), is H. Our home schooling experience is not what I thought it would be. It's had ups and downs, as one might expect. And I've seen positive results, and I've had frustrating times. And I am now getting tired so I will save the details for another day and will suffice it to say that I was this close to sending her to public school yesterday~ and after some promises (which she won't be able to keep) and some thinking and some prayer I've changed my mind. For a lot of reasons I know I am not a "home schooler" and that this is a temporary journey for our family but at that same time I want to finish this year with her. And to have it be great for her and for me. I love H a lot and she is so sweet and so bright and loving and loves to be home so this is the right season for this. We just have to get more work done so I can call it an academic success too.
Rambling, tired, going to bed to hopefully put those sheep out to pasture.
edited in the light of day: finally went to sleep. When I got up this morning I told H the "good news" that we would continue with our present schooling plans. She was disappointed. I was shocked. We had a good long talk about what we wanted out of education, and for our family. She said she thought she learned better at school and that being home wasn't as fun as she thought it would be.
Pros and Cons Public: She's a worrier and school worries her. She worries about taking tests, and she hates to get up early, and she has friend dramas. But she likes having lunch and recess and friends in her class and says doing work is easier and more fun. She misses me, and Lucy. She gets great grades, learns quickly and is obedient and cooperative at school.
Pros and Cons of Home: She is easily distracted with stuff around the house, like phone calls, TV, playing outside, a stack of books and a little sister all keep her from wanting to learn. It's easy to argue with mom about doing work. She misses her friends and is jealous when the other kids go off to do fun school stuff. She likes being home with me. She is helpful with chores and kind to her siblings in a way that is new to us (but maybe that is just growing up) We can spend a lot of time reading and time following her interests. Problem is she never had much interest so I would pick and she would think "it was boring". Buying curriculum. She loves to do the fun part, and refuses to do the hard part and I don't think it's worth the battle when there are so many other things to worry about and she has an alternative where she has no battle.
I'm really torn because I don't want to be a quitter and I NEVER want her to feel like she failed at it or didn't "deserve to be home schooled" or that I don't like having her around. She didn't, she does, I do. She deserves the best education DH and I can give her. I think that means going to school and excelling there, then coming home and getting the help and encouragement she needs and supplemental activities if she chooses.
Can you tell I am driving myself crazy with this and have been for the last 8-9 months. Argh!
I count my blessing instead of sheep
And I fall asleep,
counting my blessings"
bonus points if you can name the movie this popular 1950's tune came from.
I never have trouble sleeping. It's one of my talents I guess. Sometimes I don't feel well and then I can't sleep but rarely do I just lay awake thinking (what does that say about my brain?)
Tonight after I took Lucy back to her bed I couldn't get back to sleep though. It was very weird. Finally I decided to get up for a few minutes and (what else) go online.
Since we missed conference weekend and DVRed it I have been catching up the last week and a half. I try and watch a couple talks a day and it's been so awesome to hear the messages. Taking them a couple at a time really lets me focus on their meaning instead of blurring all together. I guess I'll have to remember that for the future and try and do the same thing even if I have already seen in once.
Last night I was listening to President Eyring's talk and felt so prompted that his counsel was true and that I need to look for evidence of the Lord's hand in my life, and record it.
"When our children were very small, I started to write down a few things about what happened every day. Let me tell you how that got started. I came home late from a Church assignment. It was after dark. My father-in-law, who lived near us, surprised me as I walked toward the front door of my house. He was carrying a load of pipes over his shoulder, walking very fast and dressed in his work clothes. I knew that he had been building a system to pump water from a stream below us up to our property.
He smiled, spoke softly, and then rushed past me into the darkness to go on with his work. I took a few steps toward the house, thinking of what he was doing for us, and just as I got to the door, I heard in my mind—not in my own voice—these words: “I’m not giving you these experiences for yourself. Write them down.”
I went inside. I didn’t go to bed. Although I was tired, I took out some paper and began to write. And as I did, I understood the message I had heard in my mind. I was supposed to record for my children to read, someday in the future, how I had seen the hand of God blessing our family. Grandpa didn’t have to do what he was doing for us. He could have had someone else do it or not have done it at all. But he was serving us, his family, in the way covenant disciples of Jesus Christ always do. I knew that was true. And so I wrote it down, so that my children could have the memory someday when they would need it.
I wrote down a few lines every day for years. I never missed a day no matter how tired I was or how early I would have to start the next day. Before I would write, I would ponder this question: “Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today?” As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done.
More than gratitude began to grow in my heart. Testimony grew. I became ever more certain that our Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers. I felt more gratitude for the softening and refining that come because of the Atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. And I grew more confident that the Holy Ghost can bring all things to our remembrance—even things we did not notice or pay attention to when they happened"
I'm going to start doing that, although probably not here. How grateful I am for living counsel. For prophets who know the will and mind of the Lord and can tell us.
back to counting my blessings.
1.conference
2. the DVR
3. a living Prophet
4. a good husband, snoring beside me in my bed
5. a cute daughter to carry back to her bed in the middle of the night
6. a faithful dog to keep watch
7. dear friends
8. promptings
9. my sisters
10. that Dani has been blogging lately and I can take a peek at her life
11. that Christmas is coming
12. talented teenagers who are SO fun and so sweet
13. a boy with a kind heart and a cute little roundhouse kick
14. H to learn with during the day
What's been on my mind, I think :), is H. Our home schooling experience is not what I thought it would be. It's had ups and downs, as one might expect. And I've seen positive results, and I've had frustrating times. And I am now getting tired so I will save the details for another day and will suffice it to say that I was this close to sending her to public school yesterday~ and after some promises (which she won't be able to keep) and some thinking and some prayer I've changed my mind. For a lot of reasons I know I am not a "home schooler" and that this is a temporary journey for our family but at that same time I want to finish this year with her. And to have it be great for her and for me. I love H a lot and she is so sweet and so bright and loving and loves to be home so this is the right season for this. We just have to get more work done so I can call it an academic success too.
Rambling, tired, going to bed to hopefully put those sheep out to pasture.
edited in the light of day: finally went to sleep. When I got up this morning I told H the "good news" that we would continue with our present schooling plans. She was disappointed. I was shocked. We had a good long talk about what we wanted out of education, and for our family. She said she thought she learned better at school and that being home wasn't as fun as she thought it would be.
Pros and Cons Public: She's a worrier and school worries her. She worries about taking tests, and she hates to get up early, and she has friend dramas. But she likes having lunch and recess and friends in her class and says doing work is easier and more fun. She misses me, and Lucy. She gets great grades, learns quickly and is obedient and cooperative at school.
Pros and Cons of Home: She is easily distracted with stuff around the house, like phone calls, TV, playing outside, a stack of books and a little sister all keep her from wanting to learn. It's easy to argue with mom about doing work. She misses her friends and is jealous when the other kids go off to do fun school stuff. She likes being home with me. She is helpful with chores and kind to her siblings in a way that is new to us (but maybe that is just growing up) We can spend a lot of time reading and time following her interests. Problem is she never had much interest so I would pick and she would think "it was boring". Buying curriculum. She loves to do the fun part, and refuses to do the hard part and I don't think it's worth the battle when there are so many other things to worry about and she has an alternative where she has no battle.
I'm really torn because I don't want to be a quitter and I NEVER want her to feel like she failed at it or didn't "deserve to be home schooled" or that I don't like having her around. She didn't, she does, I do. She deserves the best education DH and I can give her. I think that means going to school and excelling there, then coming home and getting the help and encouragement she needs and supplemental activities if she chooses.
Can you tell I am driving myself crazy with this and have been for the last 8-9 months. Argh!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Twilight Quiz
Which Twilight novel character are you?
You're Esme Cullen - Your maternal instinct to take care of people and be kind draw people towards you. You're compassionate and loving, yet firm when you need to be. You appreciate hard work and value the beautiful results of your dedication to any project.
Take this quiz!
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Monday, October 15, 2007
S's talent
I wish I could get a better picture but we have been so pleased to see what a good artist Miss S is.
I don't heart mondays
Had to get up early this morning and search the house for library books. Lucy and I like to go during TAFA.
It's rainy, rainy today.
DH and I had the brilliant idea to do a cleanse. So I ordered this wonder powder~ balanced, organic, whole food, good for you liquid diet stuff. Had the first "delicious" drink this morning and GAGGED! It was so DISGUSTING! If the rest of the day doesn't go a lot better I'm going to be peddling this stuff on the street and keeping my arteries clogged up. YUCK!!
For Yvonne:
Peaches are so easy.
Cut them in half and grill face down for about 4 minutes until you have grill marks.
Turn them over, coat with butter, sprinkle on a brown sugar cinnamon mixture 2T sugar for every 1t cinnamon. Remove from direct heat and grill 10 more minutes until peach is tender and topping is caramelized.
Dinner Groups:
We send out a sign up at church. This is our third year and we average about 20-25 couples each time.
Then we assign everyone a month to host. Usually we have 5 hosts per month. Then we figure out who goes where.
At the beginning we sent out a letter with all the dates we would be meeting and hosting assignments.
A couple weeks before the big night we call the hosts for that month and remind them and just make sure that everything is fine.
A couple days before we call everyone else and tell them where they will be going. We also call the hosts again and tell them how many couples will be there. They do not know who is coming to their home, and the guests don't know who else will be there.
Our goal is to rotate everyone around so that you have a chance to spend the evening with everyone in the group.
We have some kinks in the system but for the most part it goes great and people have a good time.
It is a little labor intensive and there is some worry about how it will turn out each time. You should start one, it's very fun :)
It's rainy, rainy today.
DH and I had the brilliant idea to do a cleanse. So I ordered this wonder powder~ balanced, organic, whole food, good for you liquid diet stuff. Had the first "delicious" drink this morning and GAGGED! It was so DISGUSTING! If the rest of the day doesn't go a lot better I'm going to be peddling this stuff on the street and keeping my arteries clogged up. YUCK!!
For Yvonne:
Peaches are so easy.
Cut them in half and grill face down for about 4 minutes until you have grill marks.
Turn them over, coat with butter, sprinkle on a brown sugar cinnamon mixture 2T sugar for every 1t cinnamon. Remove from direct heat and grill 10 more minutes until peach is tender and topping is caramelized.
Dinner Groups:
We send out a sign up at church. This is our third year and we average about 20-25 couples each time.
Then we assign everyone a month to host. Usually we have 5 hosts per month. Then we figure out who goes where.
At the beginning we sent out a letter with all the dates we would be meeting and hosting assignments.
A couple weeks before the big night we call the hosts for that month and remind them and just make sure that everything is fine.
A couple days before we call everyone else and tell them where they will be going. We also call the hosts again and tell them how many couples will be there. They do not know who is coming to their home, and the guests don't know who else will be there.
Our goal is to rotate everyone around so that you have a chance to spend the evening with everyone in the group.
We have some kinks in the system but for the most part it goes great and people have a good time.
It is a little labor intensive and there is some worry about how it will turn out each time. You should start one, it's very fun :)
Sunday, October 14, 2007
the rest of the weekend
Brother and DH went to a building party. DH took some pictures. They made three cute projects.Blaine, Zach and Brother played with balloons.
Blaine and Brother worked side by side on their projects.
A box arrived in the mail. Lucy hit the jack pot. She got a cute purple jacket and some jammies. The big girls got a lot of shirts! Very fun.
Lou and I calling Nana to say "tank tu"
Tonight for dessert we made grilled peaches with sugar and cinnamon and served it with vanilla ice cream! Yumm-O.
Now I just need to get picture of J in her pretty dress. She and S are at scripture reading at the Petty's.
Oh, almost forgot, big news in the ward. We have a new Bishop. We are very excited. Bishop S has been awesome and we love him. Our new Bishop is not only a good man, but also a dear friend and we are excited for him and happy to have him lead our ward. Change is always hard and full of emotion. I think our over all feeling is one of excitement though. Bishop Petty will do a wonderful job...and maybe now I'll be down to only one calling :)
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Sabbath Morning
Love is the beginning, the middle, and the end of the pathway of discipleship. It comforts, counsels, cures, and consoles. It leads us through valleys of darkness and through the veil of death. In the end love leads us to the glory and grandeur of eternal life.
Elder Joseph B Wirthlin Conference last week
thanks to my good friend Joy for her beautiful pictures!
busy busy day
The kids slept in this morning until almost 9am. I couldn't believe it. We got up and got ready to go to the primary activity. While E and H were there the big girls, Lou and I went to Target. We had a short list of things we needed.
When we went to get the kids they weren't done so Lucy was able to join them for pizza.
Next we went to karate.
Then brother went to Riley F.'s birthday party. DH went with him. They had a building party and everyone had to bring their own hammer and grown up. They had a great time.
While they were there Grandma came over and helped J with her hair for homecoming.
S went out with some friends for the afternoon.
When she got home we switched and DH and I went to dinner groups, J went to the dance, and S baby-sat.
It was crazy busy but fun.
Our dinner group was at Greg and Alicia's. Dinner was very yummy and after we played killer uno, which was very fun. Two couples didn't come, or call..which I thought was rude. We had 6 couples who couldn't participate this time. Three called to let me know. The other three didn't say anything until I was making phone calls. I know things come up and I don't mind working around that but to not say anything or not show up is very inconsiderate. Sadly I was not even mad because I have come to expect it. I don't know if it's just this activity but it seems like some people you can always count on to do what they say they will, and others you can not. It makes me wonder if I am a follow-througher. I think that these no-show-ers are really nice and probably feel like they are always reliable. It makes me want to make sure that if I say I can do something or be somewhere that I do. Oh well, another month is coming up and hopefully everyone will be able to come and enjoy the fun evening. I think when they come it's always great.
When we went to get the kids they weren't done so Lucy was able to join them for pizza.
Next we went to karate.
Then brother went to Riley F.'s birthday party. DH went with him. They had a building party and everyone had to bring their own hammer and grown up. They had a great time.
While they were there Grandma came over and helped J with her hair for homecoming.
S went out with some friends for the afternoon.
When she got home we switched and DH and I went to dinner groups, J went to the dance, and S baby-sat.
It was crazy busy but fun.
Our dinner group was at Greg and Alicia's. Dinner was very yummy and after we played killer uno, which was very fun. Two couples didn't come, or call..which I thought was rude. We had 6 couples who couldn't participate this time. Three called to let me know. The other three didn't say anything until I was making phone calls. I know things come up and I don't mind working around that but to not say anything or not show up is very inconsiderate. Sadly I was not even mad because I have come to expect it. I don't know if it's just this activity but it seems like some people you can always count on to do what they say they will, and others you can not. It makes me wonder if I am a follow-througher. I think that these no-show-ers are really nice and probably feel like they are always reliable. It makes me want to make sure that if I say I can do something or be somewhere that I do. Oh well, another month is coming up and hopefully everyone will be able to come and enjoy the fun evening. I think when they come it's always great.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Carnival~ third times the charm :)
After dinner we had our pumpkin decorating contest. We had two tables set up, one for painters and one for carvers. Everyone did awesome. Ingrid did a great sailing ship, her's was my favorite.
Brother and K won the painted pumpkin prize!
The kids ran around and amuck.
We ended the evening by gathering on the front lawn for an outdoor viewing of "Night at the Museum." H and Alexis handed out glow stick and we gave out treats to eat.
I'm calling it a success!
I counted, we had 50 people and one dog here tonight!
Carnival~ take 2
Of course we had tons of food. There was game food~ apples and donuts and candy and cupcakes.And there was "real" food. Chili and soup served in a pumpkin. Veggies and dip. Worms on a bun and root beer.
We played group games after the individual games. We had relay races of different sorts and a cake walk.Then we had dinner.
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