“One father is more than a hundred schoolmasters.” George Herbert.

One of the greatest gifts that Father in Heaven has given to me, is MY EXEMPLARY FATHER. Losing his own father in a tragic plane crash at just 10 years old, he has lived most of his life, fatherless. Perhaps that is why he has been so determined and so dedicated in his role as a father. The influence that this man has had on my life is incalculable. As he celebrates another year of living, I celebrate him.

Not always the most popular (and usually avoiding it)... Not always given the time or attention he deserves...Not always fitting in or being understood, This man Has Always Been on the Lord's side. And in a world where "virtually every major social pathology has been linked to fatherlessness"(The Politics of Fatherhood,By Stephen Baskerville, Howard University) he has been a true anchor. I can't imagine how my life would be with out him.

It can honestly be said of him that;

"He is the protector, the defender, and the kindly source of discipline... the father who should lead, unify, and solidify the family unit by accepting the priesthood of God and responding to the calls and privileges associated with priesthood authority. His relationship with God and His Son, Jesus Christ, is one of the beacons which will lead his sons and daughters through the stormy shoals of life." (Dad, Are You Awake?Elder F. Melvin HammondOf the Seventy

I know that having such a gift of a father makes me no more qualified or favored of God...but it definitely makes me more in need of Gratitude. A good father, such an influential miracle.

Happy Birthday Dad. I love you.

My Kind of Media: A Tribute to President Hinckley

(Pause music on black box at right hand side)

I have needed this recently. With all the headlines that make it to the media, it sure is wonderful to see something so momentous being covered so personally on such valuable air time. This is one of those moments where we witness the good influence of the media .

Too see this amid some current political chaos, was a little miracle for me today.

Our Voice

There are some things that I can sit the fence on, that I really don't care about either way. Who I want to be the next President of the United States is not one of those things. So far I have chosen to be fairly conservative in my opinion on this blog, as to not offend anyone, but to rather encourage everyone to find their own voice, issues and subsequent candidate to support. And because I feel so passionately about our obligation and responsibility in this choice I welcome any informed differences and enjoy hearing what my friends and family feel and think. I often feel bothered by the media and political analysts that try to make up our minds for us, but feel confident that you and I can do our part to sort through the rubble and see the whole picture.

"1 WE believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society.
2 We believe that no government can exist in peace, except such laws are framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life.
3 We believe that all governments necessarily require civil officers and magistrates to enforce the laws of the same; and that such as will administer the law in equity and justice should be sought for and upheld by the VOICE OF THE PEOPLE..." Doctrine and Covenants 134:1-3

So here is my voice: How can so many people be falling for the fronts. To me, I hear and see so much that seems fake, for votes, for jokes, for gaining on the other candidates, that I wonder how people can not see past it. I am disappointed in any personal attacks on anyone and wish that the issues could always be forefront. I do not trust all I hear or see as I know much of it can be edited by liberal media crews on their own agenda. I am a full Mitt Romeny supporter and feel confident in what I have learned about his record, capabilities, word, and vision for our future. I was disappointed tonight at coming in second in Florida, especially because I know how much the momentum of the media will carry the candidates into super Tuesday. I am also disappointed in the fact that Huckabee is staying in the race, in my opinion with the motivation of becoming the Vice Presidential candidate with McCain, of course spliting the conservative evangelical voters with Romney - putting McCain at an advantage. But I still feel great hope that Romney will be able to reach people as I have been reached. I anticipate hearing the voice of the people and hope that others are making their decisions based on their own research and feelings.

And more of my voice: How is the system fair? I live in the United States where we believe that "all men are created equal" and each has a voice that should be heard, and yet we have primaries that emphasize party rules, early states and delegate numbers. Where each individual person's vote only goes into a delegate pool that can either be split or winner takes all, as chosen by the "party". How does that make each individual voice equal? How can the nominee be decided before I even get the chance to vote in my state of Texas? How can the democrats of Florida have their voices go unheard simply because their "delegates" decided to move their primary date up...so their vote doesn't count because of the poor judgment of their leaders? Am I the only one that finds this method pre-historic and in desperate need of refinement in order to meet the standards of our Constitutional Rights? The closest thing I can compare it to is the BCS. There are too many people involved and used to it just being the way "it has always been done" to think outside the box and challenge it.

To me that has been one of the greatest miracles we have been given in our lives, Our Voice. Our chance to not only have the agency to choose but to have that choice heard. That is what our country's freedom is based on. The voice and belief of the people and their rights to choose as they will. And quite frankly, it is our God given responsibility to have a voice and share it. (Especially those of you whose voices can be heard on Feb. 5th)

"Prinky Hinky"

A few hours before we heard the news, we were watching Special Witnesses of Christ, and when President Hinckley spoke, Addy (with her usual enthusiasm for him) blurted out "Prinky Hincky, I like him. You like him too Momma?" I replied that yes, I liked him very much.

She went to sleep and in her prayers offered her usual thanks for "Our Prophet, Prinky Hinky".

So after I heard the news of his passing I had to wake her up and tell her. I went into her room and she seemed like she had already been awake. I hope I can always remember the tender encounter that followed.

"Hi Mom"

"Hi Sweets...I came in to tell you something that's a little sad but good. Our Prophet..."

"Prinky Hinky?!" she interrupted, sitting up, smiling. I almost broke down sobbing at her obvious affection for him.

"Yes, our President Hinckley. He went to live with Jesus now. He died and won't be around us anymore."

"Oh." She said without much emotion, (I wondered if she was or could understand it).

I went to get the picture of him on her bookshelf and held it out in front of her. I said a few more things, trying to think of how I might explain death to this precious 2 year old, and wanting so badly for her to understand what a big event this was....

then she took the picture from me and holding it in her arms, lovingly gazing at him said,

"We miss you Prinky Hinky" and leaned down to kiss his picture.

It felt like heaven. I was so filled with the joy of the spirit watching her and feeling her closeness to the spirit. Somehow, in her way, she got it.

I spent several hours listening to KSL radio and looking up talks of his on the Internet. Trying to remember moments of personal revelation and inspiration I had from the voice of our Prophet. I had my ipod and BYU tv on all day, playing President Hinckley's talks, as I worked through out the house. There were moments where I would just start crying, thinking of the influence he has had on my life. Sweet Addy would just look up at me and say

"You sad mom? You miss Prinky Hinky?" Coming immediately to wrap her arms around my knees.

She brings me such hope in the future. I had been sad thinking that she would not get to know the Prophet as I have. Then, as I looked down at her, hugging my legs, I had such reassurance that Father is mindful of her tender spirit. That he will sustain for her, (and I) a new Prophet. For this time. For our next days ahead. And my heart sings and shouts in gratitude for the goodness of our God and his obvious love for us, in giving us a Prophet.

Sometimes it is overwhelming, how good the Lord has been to me. Here, I have had this wonderful man, my Prophet, who I just seem to expect will always be around, and now he is gone. As we met Spencer for lunch, and sat together sharing memories of President Hinckley, I looked around at all the people around us. How many of them missed out on this Prophet, their Prophet. They didn't even know he was here. How blessed I have been to have his example. How blessed to even have a Prophet. How much more I need to share this great news with others. The doors of Revelation are open again! I feel like I am so unworthy at times to have been given such an easy way.
...and so it is with increased determination, that I pledge more of myself to following his example, to living the way of Jesus Christ.

Thank you President Hinckley. Thank you for putting the Lord and His Kingdom before your personal agenda. Thank you for the prayers, talks, and plans you had made on my behalf. Thank you for showing us what it means to be "anxiously engaged in a good cause." You have wasted and worn out your life in the service of God and no doubt are going to continue to do so. Thank you for staying here, a few years longer without your sweetheart. We will miss you "Prinky Hinky" but we will never forget you and your testimony. And we Carry ON!!

My Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley

(Pause/silence the music on the right hand corner)

There are no words but Thank You. What a gift from Father, to have you. Our leader, example, Prophet and friend. I hope to always remember your light, humor, vigor,strength, and testimony. May we all review and recommit to the Gospel which you have so valiantly lived, loved, taught, and rejoiced in. Enjoy being with your sweets, Marjorie. You have left us with much to do. Your life, a miracle.

MODESTY:You Are My Ms. America

I am very troubled right now. Let me explain...

A few nights ago I caught some of the show Miss America Reality Check and did what I always do, looked for Miss Utah. Not only am I anxious to see who is representing a state that I love, I am always hoping she is going to be a representative of modesty as well. I was not disappointed when I saw Jill Stevens, a Soldier in the National Guard, who seemed unchanged by the pageantry, comparisons, and decorations of such a parade of women. She kept it real and stuck with her standards. She wore sleeves, was quirky, waved with two hands, did push ups, and refused to change herself and image just to please the judges. She was exactly what I would hope for Miss Utah and Miss America.

So the actual pageant "scholarship program" begins and I DVR the event for the sole purpose of seeing Miss Utah and hoping she might win. At the very beginning they select their 15 finalists and she is not one of them. Disappointed, we decide to turn off the show until the MC yells out "wait wait...we're doing things different this year" and then proceeds to tells us that their is one more contestant that has been selected because of the voting online.

Yep, you got it. She's back. Miss, -I'm so excited that other people in America appreciate her- Utah!

Here's where I begin to get frustrated. The first "competition" for these 16 ladies is the swimsuit competition. Don't get me started on this one. Not only do they need to just get rid of this excuse of a round, but to put it as the first eliminator? Basically saying, "this matters more than your talent, question answering abilities, and even how good you look in a gown (what's with the gown competition anyway, really). But here's the best part, the MC introduces it by saying
"Of course today we know the swimsuits are here, but they're just one part of the competition that's meant to highlight the importance of health and fitness"


Oh...Okay, now that makes sense. I thought it was just a tradition to check out cute girls in hardly any clothing, but if it has deeper meaning and significance...

Just not buyin it. Shouldn't their actually be a physical fitness competition then, like who can lift more weights, run longer, I don't know, something more centered on physical fitness and health instead of physical appearance.

I could hardly watch, I'm so embarrassed by the whole thing, but I fast forwarded until I saw her. Wait for it...YES!!! YOU GO MISS UTAH!! A one piece! Of course the only one wearing a one piece bathing suit, very much making a statement, that I knew from previous record, (including last year when Miss Utah was eliminated and later told "she must've been trying to hide something" by needing to wear a one piece)this is not really looked well upon. And although her lip was quivering and she didn't flaunt around like the others, I had high hopes.

To no avail. Her name was called and she was eliminated. I totally expected it though. The exact same things as last year with Miss Utah. The one girl, in the one piece. Not enough.

But in defeat this awesome gal, dropped to the floor with some of the other remaining contenders, and began doing push ups. Needless to say, she definitely had the best push ups. She got up smiling, so classy. Waved big, hugged and high fived the remaining contestants, and made me proud. But, I understand... the girl who has run a total of 12 marathons, including the first ever held in Afghanistan, earned the highest fitness award during Army basic training, was chosen as one of four “Women of Strength” featured in “Muscle and Fitness Hers” magazine- didn't cut it in the competition to "highlight fitness and health".

Can we call for a re vote? I mean the title is "Miss America". As in our Miss. America's Miss. Yours and mine, not just eight celebrity judges choice. Shouldn't we have some say in it? I wish. (For your info the actual winner, Miss Michigan, Kirsten Haglund, -who is probably deserving in other ways, happens to be the contestant who won the lifestyle and fitness competition.)

So tonight, amid my frustration, I give a shout out to MODESTY! To the women of sleeves everywhere! For the choices you make every day to be different. To decide that your unique bodies and features remain most beautiful to the world when they are respected by clothing (or for our husbands..wink wink). That what you give and how you live, truly show YOU off. That your outward display need not distract from the goodness of your soul. Here's to all the Jill Stevens. You are my Ms's America. And what a miracle your modesty is... in a world so desperately needing it. Carry on!

Maintaining Integrity

I have had a lot of thoughts and questions about Integrity brought on by the Media's coverage of the Presidential campaign. I've questioned candidates and taken time to look inwared. Am I maintaining my Integrity?

"Integrity means always doing what is right, regardless of the immediate consequences. It means being righteous from the very depth of our soul, not only in our actions but, more importantly, in our thoughts and in our hearts. Personal integrity implies such trustworthiness that we are incapable of being false to a trust or covenant.

We all have within us the ability to know what is right and good. Having received the Spirit of Christ to know good from evil, we should always choose the good. We need not be misled, even though fraud, deception, deceit, and duplicity often seem to be acceptable in our world. Lying, stealing, and cheating are commonplace[You Can say that again]. Integrity, a firm adherence to the highest moral and ethical standards, is essential to the life of a true Latter-day Saint.
The rewards of integrity are immeasurable. One is the indescribable inner peace and serenity that come from knowing we are doing what is right; another is an absence of the guilt and anxiety that accompany sin."
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Priceless Integrity”

To be continued...

Singing in the Car!

Every family outing or vacation included much singing in the car. And let me tell you, we got into it! We worked out our harmonies, rumbling around in our over sized van, rolling down the windows to invite others to enjoy. Often we would already have made it home from some event only to see Dad drive by our house and around our neighborhood, not wanting it to end. We'd rock out any tune- from "Danny Boy" to "Under the Boardwalk", Hymns, Oldies, Broadway and Barbershop. We'd free style our own numbers and make up new verses and versions to familiar songs. But the Classic, from the top of the lungs, deep in the diaphragm, high in the falsetto, Super Fortissimo and (getting Dad really worked up): "The Star Spangled Banner". What cherished memories.

So today when I was driving around my own little crew (along with our little cousin Tyler) We started rocking out to the songs on the radio, then I turned it off and let them just freestyle. They each got to take turns singing whatever they wanted and then we would all join in. I could not stop smiling. My heart was happy. Just listening to them and sensing the joy they were feeling from singing. That's a miracle to me, those feelings. Those moments when you feel bursting, carefree, full of life, confident and excited. Singing in the Car just does that for me.

We pulled up to the house...and then drove by. One more song, around the block.

Beef Stew,"No Hablo Ingles" & Grandma's Couches

Beef Stew. Love it. Haven't had it in a long time and the cold (ish) weather nearly beggs for it. "please...stay inside today.Cozy up, Enjoy the fog. Chop up some good old fashioned veggies, throw in some meat, and slow cook it up...you know you want to". Oh' I have a fetish with chopping and with slow cooking. Mr. Crockpot certainly makes my top 100 inventors list (and that's saying something) And The beef stew did not disappoint. Not only do you feel healthy eating it with all the fresh ingredients, but it actually can take you places. For me, I was back at the family barn dance in Herriman, UT. Freezing cold, just back from the hay ride, filling up with its warmth. PS-i've found instant potatoes to be a great thickener instead of flour.
...
I was sitting in my family room, taking in the scene, feeling so happy and comfortable, loving and being grateful for My Grandma's couches! I've loved them ever since I was a young girl, hanging upside down on them, watching BYU football on them, having family programs on them, sleeping over (and waking up stuck to the leather) on them. They are so smushy, comfy, huge. And even in there old (When did she buy these? Early 80's? We recently found a pair of keys that had been lodged in the base for who knows how long- NY key chain on it...anyone?), well worn, low to the floor (people complain about not being able to get out), structurally insecure state, I am absolutely thrilled that I get to have them in our home. I don't think I could have more perfect couches, and definitely not any other couches that could carry such memories for me. I think I might be one of few people who can say my couches inspire me. Thank you Grandma.
...
Anyone who has talked with me within the las few weeks knows that I am a little obsessed with the Presidential Campaign and consider myself my own Political Analyst (and a good one too). Along with this I have taken in some strong feelings about Illegal Immigration. I do not wish to offend anyone with my opinion or experiences.
I had several experiences in Utah where I felt concerned at the use of our tax dollars particularly as I would see US Citizen having to pay thousands of dollars of hospital charges (including myself) and people not legally in this country (or at least without proof of it) being able to walk away with no charge. Something just felt very unjust about that. And now, In San Antonio I have had other incidents, one in particular, where I was basically told (in broken English) that I was not eligible for a city tax funded program (which I contribute hundreds of dollars to monthly) because I had a Social Security card.
I have heard countless stories of people who have loved ones, including spouses, waiting to get everything cleared so that they can come into our country legally. I feel strong stirrings to act somehow. That somethings needs to change. Not because I want something for myself, but because I believe all people can benefit from self-reliance, including this Country. Independence is true freedom.

Having said that, let me share another experience. We have had to have some work done on our home covered under our home owners warranty. On Monday we had a big day planned for house repairs. The first person showed up at 10:00am. I answered the doorbell.
"ummm..."
a hispanic little guy mummbled nervously, seeming intimidated, showing me his tools and pointing inside.
"no hablo ingles".
I actually anticipated this since nearly every person that has come for home repairs tells me the same thing. Of the 9 laborers that came to our home, only 1 spoke English. I wondered if any of them were illegal immigrants. Then I wondered about their lives, their families, wives, children, home life. I just looked at them and felt what I do, everytime I really look at someone~compassion. I felt such love and concern for them. I wanted to cry.They seemed so helpless and humble. So respectful and kind. So cute pretending to understand my humor.
Working on our little problems in our home. I felt like telling them not to worry about the work, to relax, to come enjoy a cup of beef stew. This is me, Ms. "Kick the free loaders out of our country" saying this. The truth is, I firmly believe something needs to be done so that people do not get rewarded (free healthcare, schooling, housing. Estimated at over 10 billion dollars a year- just at the federal gov. level) for coming to this country illegally (Children are ALWAYS an exception). The borders need to be secured, employer guidelines and penalties set, people that are here illegally given the same chance as everyone else who wants to be legal, permanent resident, or citizen (meaning they need to go back home and we need to clean up and possibly simplify this application process). But when it comes down to it, when I see the people, I couldn't be the one to deny them of it. Me, with my brand new house, BORN Into this great land of the free with all it's possibilities. What a miracle. With all that I have. I couldn't enforce it. I guess I'm not suited for the Presidency after all. :)

Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Last Speech

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered this speech in support of the striking sanitation workers at Mason Temple in Memphis, TN on April 3, 1968. I feel his concluding remarks were in support of a higher cause, sharing his premonition that his mortal journey was soon to end. I find them powerful and triumphant, especially considering that he gave them — the day before he was assassinated.

Can you even imagine what life must've been like for him on this day. Knowing full well the threats against his mission, family, and own life. Could he possibly have known the full extent of his influence or the impact that his words, leadership, and "dream" had on the American people and the World.

Although you were imperfect, I salute you Dr.King, and consider all that you have done for the cause of FREEDOM a great miracle.

To turn off the music go to music player on the right side of my blog and click on the pause button in the left hand corner.

Staying the Course

Sometimes the hardest part in receiving answers to our prayers is actually just remembering the answers we were given. It takes much determination and faith to follow through while the cunnings of Satan wish to distract us into forgetting the revelation we had received. I am so grateful for this counsel and warning.

"With any major decision there are cautions and considerations to make, but once there has been illumination, beware the temptation to retreat from a good thing. If it was right when you prayed about it and trusted it and lived for it, it is right now. Don’t give up when the pressure mounts. Certainly don’t give in to that being who is bent on the destruction of your happiness. Face your doubts. Master your fears. 'Cast not away therefore your confidence.' Stay the course and see the beauty of life unfold for you."

“Cast Not Away Therefore Your Confidence”
By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What a comforting miracle, to know that not only does the Lord hear us and answer our prayers, but that through the subsequent testing, we can simply rely on the original answer. This has really proven to be vital information and great reassurance for me. It seems we can so easily doubt ourselves, we let worry and fear creep into our thoughts or we wonder if we might have misunderstood the Lord or misinterpreted his response.

If He told you it was right then, it is still right now. And if you have forgotten, why, The Holy Ghost can bring all things to your remembrance.

In my most important of decisions I have seen the "beauty of life unfold" for me as I have trusted in the Lord and his responses by simply staying the course.

Allergic to Texas

OK... so not Texas, but the Texas Cedar that has come out in full bloom the last few weeks. I used to think those people who sneezed all the time, with itchy eyes, nasaly sounding voice- with "allergies" were just weirdos. Well 3 weeks ago I earned the title. It always takes getting sick to realize how lucky you are when you are healthy. I have never really been grateful that I didn't have allergies. Now I look back on those over 9,500 days of my allergy free life as a little miracle.

So today I am grateful that I don't have any other of the millions of illnesses that could so easily be life altering for me and my family...but that I am in great health with a simple seasonal irritant. So, Here's to you Cedar. I'll take you anyday.

Floss

So there was a time in my life that I didn't know the benefits of flossing, so I didn't do it the recommended (at least) once a day. I am proud to admit that now (and for a few years now) I do (most days). I was just laughing while flossing today. The whole ordeal was funny to me...mouth opened wide, wrapping it around the fingers for a good grip, the stretch for the back teeth, looking at myself in the mirror, the glancing if anything had been caught by it. Life really can just be funny, can't it? Like those nights you realize how silly an every day word is, or say your name repeatedly in your head because it sounds so weird. I have those kind of moments regularly, and I love 'em. Floss laughing moments we'll call them. We need a few now and again to keep us simple and alleviate stress.

This event was even funnier because I recently helped a friend try and remove one of those unwanted skin tag/moles by tying floss around it. I think everyone would've laughed at that site. They asked me after several minutes trying to get the perfect squeeze if I thought it would really work. I replied "it would take a miracle, good luck stormin the castle!"

I'm interested to hear the outcome.

See, it' kind of a miracle, floss. Multipurpose-ful! Something to be grateful for!

I hope that you not only flossed tonight, but that you enjoyed it.

I'm off to an early bed time. Gotta get good rest for the Young Women's B-ball game in the morning (which I co- coach) but that's a whole different post topic.

Amazing Memories, Regardless of the Photos

Who doesn't love to look at their wedding pictures? Anyone? While the day was absolutely perfect and nothing could ever compare to the feelings and sacred covenants, I'll be honest, I actually sometimes look back on the pics and wish that maybe someone who wasn't floating on the adrenaline of starting a new forever, could've given me some advice,like...: "maybe you should try wearing some makeup besides mascara and sweat" or..."you don't have to wear the tiara if you don't want to, just because it was included" or..."why don't you just wear your hair down like normal, instead of trying to do some crazy updo at the last minute" etc...
Okay, those thoughts have come occasionally but flee quickly. All I do is think about the day and a memory will come to mind. Then the picture completely changes to me. Like when I think of sitting on the floor of the hotel room only minutes before I had to leave for the temple...my Mom and Sister pretending to know what I was requesting for my hair (I didn't even know what I wanted) twisting, flipping, bobby pinning here and there as I looked in the mirror, thinking of what I was about to do, wondering,anxious to see him, dreaming, loving...I can see my sister's face wanting so desperately for me to be pleased with my hair, wanting me to feel wonderful, so unselfish, serving...and my mom, walking on sunshine herself (I think she was the first one to fall in love with my husband) looking so proudly at me, and by her look, making me feel stunningly beautiful...

I realized my hair couldn't have been prettier.

Not even having the best celebrity stylist could've made me feel any prettier.

As I got to finally scan in some pictures of our wedding the other day, I was reliving it all. The anticipation, tender feelings, the excitement, spirit, intense joy, Wow. I was amazed that by looking at pictures and closing my eyes, I could visit that sweet day for a few moments. I am so grateful for memories. That the spirit can "bring all things to [our] rememberance". That we can live, remembering the past and looking forward to the future.

What a Miracle, our MEMORY

I don't want my life to be a collage of good pictures anyway. I think sometimes we interrupt or alter our living by trying so hard to get the "best shot".
And to those of you who look at your wedding pictures and actually feel like you looked your absolute best, well...
you did!
Next time let me know if you want to borrow a tiara though. :)

PS- I am not looking for compliments on these photos. Just wanting to share a visual so you can feel included in the memory.

THANK YOU MICHIGAN!

I could just kiss you Michigan. Thank you for voting!
Mitt Romneywill win Michigan primary, CNN projects
Delegate Total
54

"No candidate should become the spokesman for his faith. For if he becomes president he will need the prayers of the people of all faiths".
-- Mitt Romney in a December 6, 2007, speech on faith

As silly as it may seem, my miracle for the day:

Michigan.
You made my week.

My first Miracle

I could never thank all the people who have touched my life. I am so grateful that Father doesn't just ask us to come to this earth and fend for ourselves, but rather share with, learn from and depend on each other. Isn't that the true beauty of friendship, love and families?
Today I was thinking of a widowed sister I met a few years ago who shared with me her dealing with the loss of her lifelong sweetheart. She seemed like an angel to me as she shared her sweet memories and testified of the reality of a reunion with her love. She made an impression on my spirit that I still have today. All of us have had many experiences like these, where another individual has helped change us, make us better than we could've been in our own world. And as I start the adventure of listing some of my daily miracles I begin with YOU, the people who have crossed my path. I couldn't have done this life (or the next) without you! It is a miracle not only what you have done for me in my life, but what we all can do, daily for eachother. I consider myself lucky to be on earth with such amazing people, one of Heaven's greatest gifts.

"It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses, to remember that the dullest and most uninteresting person you talk to may one day be a creature which, if you saw it now, you would be strongly tempted to worship,... All day long we are, in some degree, helping each other to one or other of these destinations. It is in the light of these overwhelming possibilities, it is with the awe and the circumspection proper to them, that we should conduct all our dealings with one another, all friendships, all loves, all play, all politics. There are no 'ordinary' people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilisations -- these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub and exploit -- immortal horrors or everlasting splendours. This does not mean that we are to be perpetually solemn. We must play. But our merriment must be of that kind (and it is, in fact, the merriest kind) which exists between people who have, from the outset, taken each other seriously -- no flippancy, no superiority, no presumption."
--C. S. Lewis, From The Weight of Glory.

My Miracle today, YOU

They're full, hurry!

Does anyone else feel extremely accomplished after their children have eaten a balanced meal? I don't know what it is, but I just have these little celebrations in my head
"yes, we did it. I made the food, they ate it, they are healthy for today."
And sometimes, especially with Morzy, I see it almost as a car needing refueling, only instead of how many miles we have left on a tank, it's how many hours we have.
"Great, she's good and full, now that means I have a good 3 hours before We need refueling".
I was laughing at myself the other day when I realized how simple of a thing it is and yet how big of a deal it is in my every days. In fact I laughed when Spence got home and my report on the day started with something like this:
"So we woke up and all had baths today. We had scrambled eggs for breakfast then Addy had chicken nuggets and grapes for lunch..."
Seriously?!! Welcome home dear from the real world, into our lives of simplicity where mealtime rivals the mayhem of the business world! I bet he was just dying to know that! Yet, it makes me feel proud to report. Like I am getting my job done. Husband, the children are fed! Aren't you glad you married me. :) Oh' what simple joys are to be had in Mothering.

Isn't it about Time?!

We've had an exciting roller-coaster ride of a time these past two weeks and I've loved the ride! (not to mention the real roller coasters rides I got to actually go on! Our past 4 trips to amusement parks I have been pregnant.) Here's some of our ride the past two weeks together...

Spencer was called and began teaching early morning (6:00 AM) Seminary (can I just say this thrills me! He is made to teach! He understand so wonderfully the relationship between the teacher and student with the spirit. Truly, all are edififed and rejoice together!) We've had both our vehicles broken down and fixed (well mostly), We've danced in the kitchen, We've all had our own different sicknesses come and go (and come back again)- We've realized more our distance from our families (not being able to be with them for the Holiday's) and feel greater appreciation for them, We've sang to ourselves and others,We've tried to have game nights with friends- before the children meltdown time, We've dipped in and marveled at the ocean, We've played with play dough, We've bought and returned a toilet, We've read some good books-debatable actually (Twilight, Rough Stone Rolling and many with Adelaide spanning Suess, Discovery, Disney)We've stayed up way too late, We've gotten and paid a parking ticket, We've duck duck goosed, We've completely rearranged our upstairs rooms, We've colored, We've plunged out toilets (repeatedly),We've taken a few day trips, We've laughed and laughed, We've had a unknowing stranger accidentally steal our car keys leaving us stranded, We've prayed together, We've run out of milk and eggs, We've had some serious reflection and questioning that led to strengthened testimony, We've gone to concerts,We've eaten out twice (and once didn't tip- don't ask),We've broken and fixed our disposal, We've followed the campaign trail through its wars and "rumors" of wars , We've overeaten, We've Finished sorting our filing cabinets, We've watched some great football, We've decided to be true Defenders of our Faith at all costs! ..and through all the diaper changes, a "still in the freezer" turkey, and what seemed to be a never -could- stay- on- top- of- pile of dishes..these past two weeks have been some of the best of my life! I have loved being able to spend time with my dearest ones...and to the world (or possible endless void out there) I want to shout that I have never been more in love with my children and my sweet husband. And I really really mean that. We have become even better friends these past two weeks together. I am so thankful Father gave me them to have a chance at forever with. I can't imagine being able to have all that Time together, but welcome the promise. And especially to my love, Spencer... Thanks for choosing me.

..and it's back to work he goes.