Thur 31 *I am so thankful to have had a great time bringing in the New Years with Kent's sister and uncle and their families. I am now a huge fan of the card game hand and foot. It is quite fun.
Wed 30 *I am thankful for a busy day as I try and get ready to head to Logan.
Tue 29 *I am thankful I was able to catch some great deals at Target and Bath and Body Works.
Mon 28 *I am thankful for a wonderful day enjoying Braxton and playing some games with him. It's nice to have a day to just enjoy being his mom.
Sun 27 *I am thankful for my new calling leading the music in the Primary. I feel this is a place I can truly use my talents.
Sat 26 *I am thankful that I have had so much success in losing weight. So much that I was able to buy two extra small sized sweaters. I never would have thought I could go from L to XS.
Fri 25 *I have been blessed to have one of the best Christmases I've had in years. We have been surrounded by family and friends and we have been blessed with abundance.
Thur 24 *I am thankful for great weather so I could take Braxton out for a much needed walk while deliver goodies to friends. I am also thankful for great friends to go caroling with.
Wed 23 *I am thankful I have been able to get neighbor treat plates put together today. It has been a lot of fun making all these goodies for friends.
Tue 22 *I am so grateful with further layoff at Kent's work that he is still employed and that I have a couple of different way I am contributing to the income as well.
Mon 21 *I am thankful that I was able to learn as well as be successful at popping popcorn in a pan on the stove to make for neighbors today. What a great blessing to save on having to buy a popcorn popper.
Sun 20 *I'm grateful for the insight that I had to call a talk to my Uncle Marv H. tonight. It was nice to see how he was doing and gain a little understand through his insight. I have been blessed with wonderful extended family.
Sat 19 *I am thankful we were able to have an enjoyable evening with Brian and Cheryl and their families for dinner at our house as well as on temple square. It was a good night together...and it was fun to be the favorite aunt to Austin and Ashlyn.
Fri 18 *I love going on dates with my husband. It was so enjoyable to go out with Randall and Yuriko to the comedy club and see Dave perform. I have been blessed with such great friends.
Thur 17 *The Lord knows what I need and blesses me with it daily. I am thankful for the sunshine and a desire to get out and go running at the park trail in Sandy. There's nothing like running in the sunshine and breathing in the fresh air when it isn't freezing.
Wed 16 *What a blessing to be able to drop Braxton off at school and have him so excited to enjoy being there. Also so nice to go shopping at Target without having to take 30 minutes to look at the Disney Cars display!
Tue 15 *I am thankful I was able to attend the stakes court of honor with Kent and Braxton. It was so much fun to watch Braxton, Baylee, and another little girl named Bailey interact with Bishop Decker and just have that truly joyous laughter of a child.
Mon 14 *I am thankful I have been able to get the primary music planned for the rest of this month and all of January. It is so nice to have a plan and feel the sense of being prepared!
Sun 13 *Kent gave a wonderful inspired talk in church today. He was inspired by last Sunday's speaker to share his family's tradition as well as my family's traditions. When the song Silent Night was sung at the closing I was brought to tears so I could not sing the song. I was remembering the blessings of growing up in a musical family and the beauty of singing together for Christmas. I'm thankful the Lord has reminded me how important music is in my life as well as my family's history.
Sat 12 *I feel blessed to have a husband who will listen to me and hold me as I cry when life is not going as well as I would hope for. I have been so blessed to have the spouse I have.
Fri 11 *I am thankful for a great salesman who took the time to sell Kent boots when he was just plain onery. It's great to have such wonderful help.
Thur 10 *Kent, Braxton and I have been blessed with good friends. It was such a pleasure to deliever toys to Ian and Tia and enjoy their friendship and support them in their lives as they support us in ours. These are dear friends and I am thankful for their influence in my life.
Wed 9 *I am thankful for inspired public programs. Braxton just started speech class today which we don't have to pay a dime for. I am also thankful for the blessing of having Father in Heaven who answered my prayer that Braxton would be happy to go to class and ok with me leaving. He loved going to school.
Tue 8 *Although it may be little I am thankful for the makers of Biggest Loser who had another great season finale. Biggest Loser is always a show I look forward to because it inspires me to take good care of my body.
Mon 7 *I feel blessed each year I have enough to buy a Christmas tree. I will forever be thankful to Rick Lipinski for his generousity in selling us our "Miracle Christmas Tree" two years ago.
Sun 6 *We were so blessed to attend Kent's cousins baby blessing. The woman who spoke shared the traditions of her family at Christmas and it brought a feeling of Christmas spirit. Such a blessing at this time of year. I also feel blessed to watch the beautiful interactions in the home of Kent's cousins in-laws. What a great example of love and acceptance I felt there. I hope the Lord will bless me to make my home the same.
Sat 5 *I was blessed to practice selling my Discovery Toys at a boutique at Wheeler farm today. I enjoy being in control of my business. It was also a great blessing today to enjoy the festival of trees as well as dinner with Kent's Aunt Mary and Uncle Bruce and their family.
Fri 4 *I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the top Discovery Toys team leader in the state. She has great ideas and knows this business well. I am glad we discussed the purchase of the fall kit because I may not have had it although I had earned it had I know mentioned waiting for it to arrive to her.
Thurs 3 *What a wonderful opportunity to spend the day and night with family. Saddly my sister-in-law Mariel lost her grandmother and the funeral was today. Braxton and I were able to put off some errands and attend the funeral, graveside, and luncheon as we spent time with Erik, Mariel and her family. That night we invited Brian and Cheryl and their families over to have dinner and spend the evening together. We love and enjoy any time we get to spend with Erik and Mariel.
Wed 2 *I am thankful Kent is so supportive of my Discovery Toys business. He encouraged me to attend my recruit Mary Bybee's opening party even though I found out about it last minute. I am also glad I was inspired to call her and see how things were going.
Tue 1 *I am grateful I had the time to help my friend and neighbor Jill Washburn out with some jello for the ward party tonight. I am thankful for all those who work to make those parties nice. Including the Primary children this year.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
How did I Do I ask Myself...
My Goals 2009
*Enjoy play time with Braxton at least 4 times a week
*Work on praying at least daily and making my prayers more meaningful
*Keep up visit teaching monthly again
*Attend the temple at least 9 times this year and track it in my gratitude journal.
*Read the entire Doctrine and Covenants with the Sunday School lessons this year.
*Study the gospel daily
*Stay on top of paying tithing
*Exercise 5 times a week for 30 min. or more.
*Lose 15 lbs or more
*Get on track with a financial plan and follow it
*Keep a rolling list of gratitude's DAILY for mental health.
*Find ways to help out others daily with a great attitude (even if it is my family)
*Read 6 books this year. (good sized books that is)
Well my report is that I seem to have a problem with staying focused on my goals and tracking them. The goals I did accomplish were...
*I finished (or will finish) reading the D&C
*I was able to easily claim full tithe payer
*I have all but lost that 15 lbs give or take a pound
*I may forget sometimes, but I have always been able to go back and recall a gratitude from each and every day
*I have read two books (sadly one being the D&C). I learn an immense amount from reading The Last Lecture and I highly recommend the book. I only wish I would take the time to read more.
These goals I either didn't accomplish or else I didn't track it well enough to know.
*Play with Braxton 4 times a week
*pray daily and more meaningfully
*VT monthly (I missed a few months)
*attend the temple 9 times
*I know I didn't study the gospel daily
*I probably did well on my exercise, but I didn't track that well
*my financial plan has improved, but it still has A LOT of work to be done
*I think I helped others daily, but again tracking is an issue
As I am contemplating my goals for 2010 I am planning ways to remember to track my goals and see how I am doing. You may see my side scroll change a little as I get ready to keep myself on track. I hope that you are setting your own goals for 2010.
*Enjoy play time with Braxton at least 4 times a week
*Work on praying at least daily and making my prayers more meaningful
*Keep up visit teaching monthly again
*Attend the temple at least 9 times this year and track it in my gratitude journal.
*Read the entire Doctrine and Covenants with the Sunday School lessons this year.
*Study the gospel daily
*Stay on top of paying tithing
*Exercise 5 times a week for 30 min. or more.
*Lose 15 lbs or more
*Get on track with a financial plan and follow it
*Keep a rolling list of gratitude's DAILY for mental health.
*Find ways to help out others daily with a great attitude (even if it is my family)
*Read 6 books this year. (good sized books that is)
Well my report is that I seem to have a problem with staying focused on my goals and tracking them. The goals I did accomplish were...
*I finished (or will finish) reading the D&C
*I was able to easily claim full tithe payer
*I have all but lost that 15 lbs give or take a pound
*I may forget sometimes, but I have always been able to go back and recall a gratitude from each and every day
*I have read two books (sadly one being the D&C). I learn an immense amount from reading The Last Lecture and I highly recommend the book. I only wish I would take the time to read more.
These goals I either didn't accomplish or else I didn't track it well enough to know.
*Play with Braxton 4 times a week
*pray daily and more meaningfully
*VT monthly (I missed a few months)
*attend the temple 9 times
*I know I didn't study the gospel daily
*I probably did well on my exercise, but I didn't track that well
*my financial plan has improved, but it still has A LOT of work to be done
*I think I helped others daily, but again tracking is an issue
As I am contemplating my goals for 2010 I am planning ways to remember to track my goals and see how I am doing. You may see my side scroll change a little as I get ready to keep myself on track. I hope that you are setting your own goals for 2010.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Our Year Review in Pictures
Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you enjoy our year review in pictures. Thanks for visiting!!!
JANUARY
Braxton loved carrying the balloons around after Kent's birthday party.
FEBRUARY
For Valentine's Day we hit the skates in Fillmore with Kent's family.
It was so fun to spend time with the Kunz' for Brianna's baptism.MARCH
March brought beautiful flowers at Temple square so we went to see them.
Braxton wants to be just like his daddy!APRIL
Braxton got the opportunity to help dad feed horses.
Braxton got the opportunity to help dad feed horses.
We hosted a murder mystery dinner with friends. It was so much fun.
MAY
He likes being a cowboy.
In May Uncle Devin returned from his California mission and we helped welcome him home.
We explored some sights and hiked in New Mexico.
We enjoyed some family time.
Braxton loved every minute of it.JUNE
Air Force Week was here and we loved it. It was worth the drive to see the Thunderbirds.
Kent and Braxton under a giant airplane.
June also brought Braxton's 3rd birthday. My baby isn't a baby anymore.
He loved fishing with dad and driving the boat at Fish Lake during the Kesler family reunion.JULY
Braxton's got some true patriotic spirit for the 4th of July.
Kent and I enjoyed cuddling up and watching fireworks together.
July 31st Erik married Mariel in the Manti temple. We just adore her!AUGUST
My sister introduced us to the Highland splash pad.
Braxton loved running the gray swirls on the sidewalk.
My sister introduced us to the Highland splash pad.Braxton loved running the gray swirls on the sidewalk.
He and mom enjoyed spending time together.SEPTEMBER
In September we decided to show Braxton the Jordan River Temple.
My friend Jill and I spent the day downtown with Braxton and Bailey.
OCTOBER
October brought my friend Becca to town so we met Tia downtown to tour the Conference Center. 
Braxton finally gave in a wore his Robin costume for Halloween.
In September we decided to show Braxton the Jordan River Temple.
My friend Jill and I spent the day downtown with Braxton and Bailey.We enjoyed the circus parade as well as Temple Square.
OCTOBER
October brought my friend Becca to town so we met Tia downtown to tour the Conference Center.Braxton finally gave in a wore his Robin costume for Halloween. It's like pulling teeth to get him to dress up.
Heading home after a fun night trick-or-treatingNOVEMBER
In November Braxton enjoyed playing with daddy.
This kid is so clever he is using the towels as a track for his tractor.
In November Braxton enjoyed playing with daddy.
This kid is so clever he is using the towels as a track for his tractor.We enjoyed Thanksgiving at Grandma Robison's, but sadly have no pictures to share.
DECEMBER
Who needs great educational toys when there are boxes and peanuts to play with?
After all that hard work and lots of running this is how my old pants are fitting.
I finally allowed them to go to DI...Thanks for all the support everyone!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Family Who Climbs Together, Stays Together...
While I was trying figure out what to do for Christmas card photos a friend suggested we get a picture of mountain climbers and photo-shop our heads on. Well without photo shop you get paint and this was the result. It was too funny an idea not to do it. I'd like to thank Eddie Bauer for providing me a picture of mountain climbers. Have a good laugh!Monday, November 30, 2009
Gratitude and Blessings in November
Mon 30 *I'm glad to have Braxton eager to help me mop the floor today even if it was because he wanted to play in the water. I am also thankful for the fun family night we had shopping at Winco. Braxton was thrilled to push the button that moves the conveyor belt.
Sun 29 *I am thankful for a wonderful afternoon enjoying the day with my husband and son.
Sat 28 *I am thankful for the opportunity to go into my neighbors house and see his newborn son. It is great to see a man so proud to be a father. I love watching how having children changes people. Tiny babies really are miracles!
Fri 27 *I am thankful for great customer service from Sear who price matched to get us the best deal on a great vacuum. Who said appliances couldn't be a fun Christmas gift!
Thur 26 *I am thankful for an enjoyable dinner with the in-laws. I am thankful Braxton had so much fun at Grandma's house with the cousins. I am thankful for a wonderful husband and a great son who bring love and joy into my life. I am also thankful for great sister-in-laws who are always eager to walk off the extra food for five miles after dinner!
Wed 25 *I am thankful we were able to get out of here and to Fillmore in such good time. I am also thankful for a really fun night at Travis' house playing guitar hero and rock band with Keslers and Robisons!
Tue 24 *I am thankful for fun friends who make being at home with Braxton bearable when I need to get out of the house. I am also thankful I was able to get all those reminder calls done for the show tomorrow.
Mon 23 *I am thankful Kent was able to help me get some of the invitations for the show on Saturday in the mail. I am also thankful for our family night I find that it's my favorite night of the week. Also I am so thankful for the success I have been experiencing from bring other women into Discovery Toys.
Sun 22 *I'm thankful that I had scheduled my day in such a way that I was able to stay for choir practice today even though I didn't know it was happening.
Sat 21 *I am thankful for a nice visit with the owners of our old horse Ty. It is so nice to know that they are so willing to let us come and visit him. He truly is a great horse.
Fri 20 *My heart is full of gratitude for the personal revelations the Lord gives to Kent and I. I am also very grateful to know how quickly Kent acts upon those promptings. He's such a good man.
Thur 19 *I am thankful I was able to learn more about my grandparents through reading their patriarchal blessings.
Wed 18 *I am thankful the Lord protected Braxton and my life as well as many others on the freeway today. A car flipped around and could have easily hit someone or been hit by someone including me. No one was injured and I know God protected us all. I am also thankful to finally be learning the stories of my ancestors that I have been longing to hear for years now. I do have a rich heritage!
Tue 17 *I am thankful that I have been able to be so very productive these days with all I have to do. I know the Lord is sustaining me.
Mon 16 *I am thankful for the opportunity to teach my son the gospel. It's great to see him enjoy feeling the spirit.
Sun 15 *I am thankful for wonderful people who I can trust my son with.
Sat 14 *I am so thankful for Braxton's new snow boots, Kent and I new socks, and me new bras and a new coat. I almost feel like Christmas is over now. It's nice to have some of those things I have waited so long for.
Fri 13 *I am thankful the Lord reminded me what he can do when I pray. He can make a 3-year-old behave and actually cooperate for a whole hour and he can make a small boys tractor reappear out of no where. I am also thankful to finally have Braxton's speech tested and to know we will be getting some help.
Thur 12 *I am thankful for a clean house as well as some thoughts that came to mind on how I could make my Discovery Toys presentation better.
Wed 11 *I am thankful that I was able to finally get started with my Discovery Toys business. I'm so thankful the Lord directed me to do this and allowed it to be a blessing in my life.
Tue 10 *I am thankful I was able to attend Relief Society and remember what the true meaning of the upcoming holidays are.
Mon 9 *I am thankful for Family Home Evening and the joy that is brings to my family. We truly are blessed if we obey the Lord.
Sun 8 *No matter how many things go wrong the Lord always had a hand in making the primary program work out. I am thankful for his help with this today. We had such a great spirit I almost couldn't lead the music for the third verse of How Firm a Foundation.
Sat 7 *I am thankful the Lord blessed our lives with the ability to laugh. I am also thankful for great comedians who help us remember how to laugh. Thanks Dave.
Fri 6 *The Lord has blessed me to have a wonderful husband who I love so very much and who loves me back. I feel very blessed to enjoy my marriage to him.
Thur 5 *I am thankful for a nice day at wheeler farm with Emily, Heather, and the kids.
Wed 4 *I am thankful Emily called and asked if we wanted to go to the park. It was such a nice day to be outside. I am also thankful for a 5 mile run this morning.
Tue 3 *I am eternally grateful to my Father in Heaven who knew I would need a man like Kent who could help me to be calm when life gets frustrating and overwhelming. Kent really helped me in my frustration with too many babies tonight.
Mon 2 *I am thankful my wonderful husband was so willing to come home and go for a walk with me when my motivation to exercise was not there today.
Sun 1 *I am thankful that we have a pianist for our primary program and that the kids know the songs as well as they do. I have faith that the Lord will bless next weeks program to come together.
Sun 29 *I am thankful for a wonderful afternoon enjoying the day with my husband and son.
Sat 28 *I am thankful for the opportunity to go into my neighbors house and see his newborn son. It is great to see a man so proud to be a father. I love watching how having children changes people. Tiny babies really are miracles!
Fri 27 *I am thankful for great customer service from Sear who price matched to get us the best deal on a great vacuum. Who said appliances couldn't be a fun Christmas gift!
Thur 26 *I am thankful for an enjoyable dinner with the in-laws. I am thankful Braxton had so much fun at Grandma's house with the cousins. I am thankful for a wonderful husband and a great son who bring love and joy into my life. I am also thankful for great sister-in-laws who are always eager to walk off the extra food for five miles after dinner!
Wed 25 *I am thankful we were able to get out of here and to Fillmore in such good time. I am also thankful for a really fun night at Travis' house playing guitar hero and rock band with Keslers and Robisons!
Tue 24 *I am thankful for fun friends who make being at home with Braxton bearable when I need to get out of the house. I am also thankful I was able to get all those reminder calls done for the show tomorrow.
Mon 23 *I am thankful Kent was able to help me get some of the invitations for the show on Saturday in the mail. I am also thankful for our family night I find that it's my favorite night of the week. Also I am so thankful for the success I have been experiencing from bring other women into Discovery Toys.
Sun 22 *I'm thankful that I had scheduled my day in such a way that I was able to stay for choir practice today even though I didn't know it was happening.
Sat 21 *I am thankful for a nice visit with the owners of our old horse Ty. It is so nice to know that they are so willing to let us come and visit him. He truly is a great horse.
Fri 20 *My heart is full of gratitude for the personal revelations the Lord gives to Kent and I. I am also very grateful to know how quickly Kent acts upon those promptings. He's such a good man.
Thur 19 *I am thankful I was able to learn more about my grandparents through reading their patriarchal blessings.
Wed 18 *I am thankful the Lord protected Braxton and my life as well as many others on the freeway today. A car flipped around and could have easily hit someone or been hit by someone including me. No one was injured and I know God protected us all. I am also thankful to finally be learning the stories of my ancestors that I have been longing to hear for years now. I do have a rich heritage!
Tue 17 *I am thankful that I have been able to be so very productive these days with all I have to do. I know the Lord is sustaining me.
Mon 16 *I am thankful for the opportunity to teach my son the gospel. It's great to see him enjoy feeling the spirit.
Sun 15 *I am thankful for wonderful people who I can trust my son with.
Sat 14 *I am so thankful for Braxton's new snow boots, Kent and I new socks, and me new bras and a new coat. I almost feel like Christmas is over now. It's nice to have some of those things I have waited so long for.
Fri 13 *I am thankful the Lord reminded me what he can do when I pray. He can make a 3-year-old behave and actually cooperate for a whole hour and he can make a small boys tractor reappear out of no where. I am also thankful to finally have Braxton's speech tested and to know we will be getting some help.
Thur 12 *I am thankful for a clean house as well as some thoughts that came to mind on how I could make my Discovery Toys presentation better.
Wed 11 *I am thankful that I was able to finally get started with my Discovery Toys business. I'm so thankful the Lord directed me to do this and allowed it to be a blessing in my life.
Tue 10 *I am thankful I was able to attend Relief Society and remember what the true meaning of the upcoming holidays are.
Mon 9 *I am thankful for Family Home Evening and the joy that is brings to my family. We truly are blessed if we obey the Lord.
Sun 8 *No matter how many things go wrong the Lord always had a hand in making the primary program work out. I am thankful for his help with this today. We had such a great spirit I almost couldn't lead the music for the third verse of How Firm a Foundation.
Sat 7 *I am thankful the Lord blessed our lives with the ability to laugh. I am also thankful for great comedians who help us remember how to laugh. Thanks Dave.
Fri 6 *The Lord has blessed me to have a wonderful husband who I love so very much and who loves me back. I feel very blessed to enjoy my marriage to him.
Thur 5 *I am thankful for a nice day at wheeler farm with Emily, Heather, and the kids.
Wed 4 *I am thankful Emily called and asked if we wanted to go to the park. It was such a nice day to be outside. I am also thankful for a 5 mile run this morning.
Tue 3 *I am eternally grateful to my Father in Heaven who knew I would need a man like Kent who could help me to be calm when life gets frustrating and overwhelming. Kent really helped me in my frustration with too many babies tonight.
Mon 2 *I am thankful my wonderful husband was so willing to come home and go for a walk with me when my motivation to exercise was not there today.
Sun 1 *I am thankful that we have a pianist for our primary program and that the kids know the songs as well as they do. I have faith that the Lord will bless next weeks program to come together.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Lost Batallion: Our Need to Rescue
Every now and then a message is given so strongly that you hear it over and over. On October 18th we were blessed to hear the messages of the leader of the church in a regional conference meeting at the conference center. I was quite amazed as President Monson spoke because I thought his talk was just a repeat of one he had given at conference but quickly I realized I had remembered it for another reason. It was a talk published in the church magazines way back in 1987 and I had just read it in the last few months. The even more interesting part is why I had read it.
Let me explain. Possibly sometime in August a visitor came to our sacrament meeting. Bishop Decker recognized him as the Salt Lake Mission President and came into the congregation to ask him if he would mind bearing his testimony at the end of the meeting. When the speakers finished he invited the president to come and address us. The president encouraged us to go to LDS.org and search the word rescue to find the talk by President Monson entitled The Lost Battalion and to read that talk. As I look at my notes I found reminding me who shared this talk with us it states, whatever your calling it all boils down to we are all shepherds for our Savior.
I don't remember any other words of wisdom he dispelled, but I do remember going home and finding that talk and reading it. In fact I was inspired when I read that talk that I needed to encourage my family to save my uncle as he was one of those lost. Sadly I sent out the email and no one ever replied back. Either way I was inspired to action and I will consider what I can do that may allow him to know of my love for him and how I might be able to guide him to the good shepherd.
It was a powerful feeling to sit in the regional conference and realize that I was learning of our need to rescue those around us for a second time in only a few months. I was amazed. I have reaffirmed to myself that I need to be looking for the ways I can rescue others. There was one person the spirit continued to guide my thoughts towards during that meeting. When I came home I asked Kent if the thoughts I had of how to rescue that person were correct. He reassured me they were and shared that those were the same thoughts he had as he listened to that talk. I am so thankful for the wonderful workings of the spirit and the knowledge that God does care about each and every one of His children. I am thankful that the Lord trusts me to help Him in guiding His children home. I pray that I may always see the opportunities in my life to help my brothers and sisters come home to our loving Father in Heaven.
Let me explain. Possibly sometime in August a visitor came to our sacrament meeting. Bishop Decker recognized him as the Salt Lake Mission President and came into the congregation to ask him if he would mind bearing his testimony at the end of the meeting. When the speakers finished he invited the president to come and address us. The president encouraged us to go to LDS.org and search the word rescue to find the talk by President Monson entitled The Lost Battalion and to read that talk. As I look at my notes I found reminding me who shared this talk with us it states, whatever your calling it all boils down to we are all shepherds for our Savior.
I don't remember any other words of wisdom he dispelled, but I do remember going home and finding that talk and reading it. In fact I was inspired when I read that talk that I needed to encourage my family to save my uncle as he was one of those lost. Sadly I sent out the email and no one ever replied back. Either way I was inspired to action and I will consider what I can do that may allow him to know of my love for him and how I might be able to guide him to the good shepherd.
It was a powerful feeling to sit in the regional conference and realize that I was learning of our need to rescue those around us for a second time in only a few months. I was amazed. I have reaffirmed to myself that I need to be looking for the ways I can rescue others. There was one person the spirit continued to guide my thoughts towards during that meeting. When I came home I asked Kent if the thoughts I had of how to rescue that person were correct. He reassured me they were and shared that those were the same thoughts he had as he listened to that talk. I am so thankful for the wonderful workings of the spirit and the knowledge that God does care about each and every one of His children. I am thankful that the Lord trusts me to help Him in guiding His children home. I pray that I may always see the opportunities in my life to help my brothers and sisters come home to our loving Father in Heaven.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Lord Looketh on the Heart
The best lessons I learn are the ones that life teaches me. People have been on my mind lately. What do we know about them? How do we treat them? Do we take the time to get to know who they are, how they got there, and what their story is? More often than not I don't take the time. It's pretty sad. I have come to these thoughts by realizing how I would view some choice people from my past if I were to be meeting them for the first time today. It makes me wonder who I am looking at without spiritual eyes. Those eyes that look at others and see my beautiful brothers and sisters instead of strangers.
I would like to tell you a little about these people who have brought these thoughts to my mind. First let's start with the older sister of my childhood friend. As I look through photos on facebook it would be very easy to see her through eyes of judgment due to the lifestyle her pictures portray. While it may have been years since I have seen her I still see the same girl who I knew. A beautiful sister who loves her family and appreciates them for who they are. A fun and energetic woman who knows how to be a little wild and crazy and makes for a fun party. Someone who is going to make sure that you have a good time. She's a woman who has a heart to take on the world.
In my mom's family there are many who fit under this category. The one I would choose to focus on is my cousin who I just talked to on facebook. My cousin is in his mid 30's and just told me he has been married and divorced five times. None of which have lasted an entire year. If I didn't know what a great guy he is or the heart of gold he has then I might wonder what is wrong with him. While I do have an idea some of the struggles in his life I also know that he is still a person who is deserving of love and acceptance. I know much of his life story and I know there is a lot of pain and sadness in that story, but he's a good man none the less.
I have a fantastic friend who has driven me crazy at times with the choices she has made, but still I know the beautiful spirit that radiates from her. She in all sincerity is one of the most beautiful women I have ever known inside and out. Yet I know she has a lot of walls up and there are many people who don't get to know the deep and compelling person she is. I feel blessed to know a little of her soul and for that I love her. Through out my life I have been blessed with beautiful people who remind me that it is the inside not what is on the outside that counts.
In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." How often do we as people judge others because of their appearance? I know I myself do it far more often than I would like to admit. Perhaps if I knew the questions to ask and how to listen to their story I would be able to see them more clearly the way God sees them. I might be able to see their heart and soul.
One of the most compelling and beautiful women I have met is a GREAT example of looking on the heart. Each person she meets she seemed to be genuinely interested in learning their story. In fact I was so impressed by her that I have considered naming a daughter after her someday. This month I am going to work to see others the way God does. As I do I will share the hearts and souls of the beautiful people I meet. Look forward to meeting some amazing people yourself. Take the time and get to know their stories. Share with me what you learn about those around you. I think we'll all be a little better as we take on this education.
I would like to tell you a little about these people who have brought these thoughts to my mind. First let's start with the older sister of my childhood friend. As I look through photos on facebook it would be very easy to see her through eyes of judgment due to the lifestyle her pictures portray. While it may have been years since I have seen her I still see the same girl who I knew. A beautiful sister who loves her family and appreciates them for who they are. A fun and energetic woman who knows how to be a little wild and crazy and makes for a fun party. Someone who is going to make sure that you have a good time. She's a woman who has a heart to take on the world.
In my mom's family there are many who fit under this category. The one I would choose to focus on is my cousin who I just talked to on facebook. My cousin is in his mid 30's and just told me he has been married and divorced five times. None of which have lasted an entire year. If I didn't know what a great guy he is or the heart of gold he has then I might wonder what is wrong with him. While I do have an idea some of the struggles in his life I also know that he is still a person who is deserving of love and acceptance. I know much of his life story and I know there is a lot of pain and sadness in that story, but he's a good man none the less.
I have a fantastic friend who has driven me crazy at times with the choices she has made, but still I know the beautiful spirit that radiates from her. She in all sincerity is one of the most beautiful women I have ever known inside and out. Yet I know she has a lot of walls up and there are many people who don't get to know the deep and compelling person she is. I feel blessed to know a little of her soul and for that I love her. Through out my life I have been blessed with beautiful people who remind me that it is the inside not what is on the outside that counts.
In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." How often do we as people judge others because of their appearance? I know I myself do it far more often than I would like to admit. Perhaps if I knew the questions to ask and how to listen to their story I would be able to see them more clearly the way God sees them. I might be able to see their heart and soul.
One of the most compelling and beautiful women I have met is a GREAT example of looking on the heart. Each person she meets she seemed to be genuinely interested in learning their story. In fact I was so impressed by her that I have considered naming a daughter after her someday. This month I am going to work to see others the way God does. As I do I will share the hearts and souls of the beautiful people I meet. Look forward to meeting some amazing people yourself. Take the time and get to know their stories. Share with me what you learn about those around you. I think we'll all be a little better as we take on this education.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Gratitude and Blessings in October
Sat 31 *I am thankful that of three times when Kent crashed on skates or by foot that none of us were seriously injured. Just aches and sores.
Fri 30 *I am thankful for a nice evening out to Gardner Village with my family and then a fun evening watching movies with Kent.
Thur 29 *I am thankful for a cooperative son and a busy day now done!
Wed 28 *I am grateful for a cute little snuggly boy who came in and slept in my bed this morning. I am glad that he can go back to sleep and get all the rest he needs to get better.
Tue 27 *I am thankful I was able to help Kent out with all of his tasks on such a busy day for him. After spending an hour without power I am very grateful to remember all the wonderful modern conveniences we had due to electricity.
Mon 26 *I am thankful for the small amount of time I did get to spend with Kent today. He's such a great husband. I love being married to him.
Sun 25 *I am thankful I was able to come up with a productive way to help the kids learn the song for the program.
Sat 24 *I am thankful I was able to enjoy going out and learning how to do my business on the boutique end of things.
Fri 23 *I am thankful that I know how to treat Braxton when he gets a fever. It is nice to be a mom who doesn't panic from my son's illness.
Thur 22 *It was fun to be able to enjoy taking Braxton to his friends Halloween party.
Wed 21 *I am thankful Braxton is making new friends in the apartment complex. It was weird to have somewhere I could send him and have a few minutes to myself while I cleaned.
Tue 20 *I am very excited about the possibilities of this new business venture. I can see many possibilities and I am thankful for the direction from the Lord.
Mon 19 *I am thankful for a nice family night with Kent and Braxton selecting a pumpkin and playing with toys together.
Sun 18 *I am thankful Kent and I were able to attend regional conference today. It was great to be reminded what the Lord wants us to do.
Sat 17 *I am thankful that our Primary activity turned out so well. It seemed to work out just the way it needed to.
Fri 16 *What a wonderful day. We were blessed to enjoy a tour of the conference center and lunch downtown. We also enjoyed hanging out with Becca and Tia and kids. It was topped off with a great dinner with all the good friends from Corvallis!
Thur 15 *Sharing my talents with others is such a blessing. I am thankful I was able to show Becca how to bottle applesauce.
Wed 14 *I am thankful when I get to find out when my husband is willing to be humble to express apologies to others. I usually don't know about these times from him.
Tue 13 *It's fantastic to finally get to enjoy sitting down to watch the biggest loser.
Mon 12 *I'm so glad Kent was so great to come up with an idea for family night even if we did get there late. I love it when my husband takes initiative with the family.
Sun 11 *I am thankful that Jill and I were able to work out the primary kinks today and make decisions together.
Sat 10 *I am thankful I was able to make it to my Dt (discovery toys) meeting thank to Becca. It was so nice to enjoy a delicious Kneader lunch together.
Fri 9 *I am thankful Becca made it to Utah safely.
Thur 8 *I am thankful for a fun day at the park with so many friends. What a blessing to have so many good friends.
Wed 7 *I am so happy that my opening discovery toys party went so well!
Tue 6 *I am thankful for the gift of the Holy Ghost and the inspiration He gives to the members of the church. After Primary inservice I know that the women I am working with are who God wants to be in this calling!
Mon 5 *I am thankful Kent was wise enough to suggest we get outside and go for a walk while there are only a few days of good weather left.
Sun 4 *I am thankful for the wonderful example my mother set for me all the years that she watched conference not only Sunday, but Saturday as well. I have grown to love the times of year when I get to hear the words of the prophets.
Sat 3 *I am thankful Kent, Braxton, and I were able to go down to St.George and support my sister-in-law Darcy in her marathon. I am also thankful we had a wonderful day spending time with his brother Gordon and his family.
Fri 2 *I am thankful my Discovery Toys came just in time to test them out on the road today. It has been such a fun trip discovering new toys with Braxton!
Thurs 1 *I am thankful Kent is willing to help me can and harvest so we can have a wonderful store of food.
Fri 30 *I am thankful for a nice evening out to Gardner Village with my family and then a fun evening watching movies with Kent.
Thur 29 *I am thankful for a cooperative son and a busy day now done!
Wed 28 *I am grateful for a cute little snuggly boy who came in and slept in my bed this morning. I am glad that he can go back to sleep and get all the rest he needs to get better.
Tue 27 *I am thankful I was able to help Kent out with all of his tasks on such a busy day for him. After spending an hour without power I am very grateful to remember all the wonderful modern conveniences we had due to electricity.
Mon 26 *I am thankful for the small amount of time I did get to spend with Kent today. He's such a great husband. I love being married to him.
Sun 25 *I am thankful I was able to come up with a productive way to help the kids learn the song for the program.
Sat 24 *I am thankful I was able to enjoy going out and learning how to do my business on the boutique end of things.
Fri 23 *I am thankful that I know how to treat Braxton when he gets a fever. It is nice to be a mom who doesn't panic from my son's illness.
Thur 22 *It was fun to be able to enjoy taking Braxton to his friends Halloween party.
Wed 21 *I am thankful Braxton is making new friends in the apartment complex. It was weird to have somewhere I could send him and have a few minutes to myself while I cleaned.
Tue 20 *I am very excited about the possibilities of this new business venture. I can see many possibilities and I am thankful for the direction from the Lord.
Mon 19 *I am thankful for a nice family night with Kent and Braxton selecting a pumpkin and playing with toys together.
Sun 18 *I am thankful Kent and I were able to attend regional conference today. It was great to be reminded what the Lord wants us to do.
Sat 17 *I am thankful that our Primary activity turned out so well. It seemed to work out just the way it needed to.
Fri 16 *What a wonderful day. We were blessed to enjoy a tour of the conference center and lunch downtown. We also enjoyed hanging out with Becca and Tia and kids. It was topped off with a great dinner with all the good friends from Corvallis!
Thur 15 *Sharing my talents with others is such a blessing. I am thankful I was able to show Becca how to bottle applesauce.
Wed 14 *I am thankful when I get to find out when my husband is willing to be humble to express apologies to others. I usually don't know about these times from him.
Tue 13 *It's fantastic to finally get to enjoy sitting down to watch the biggest loser.
Mon 12 *I'm so glad Kent was so great to come up with an idea for family night even if we did get there late. I love it when my husband takes initiative with the family.
Sun 11 *I am thankful that Jill and I were able to work out the primary kinks today and make decisions together.
Sat 10 *I am thankful I was able to make it to my Dt (discovery toys) meeting thank to Becca. It was so nice to enjoy a delicious Kneader lunch together.
Fri 9 *I am thankful Becca made it to Utah safely.
Thur 8 *I am thankful for a fun day at the park with so many friends. What a blessing to have so many good friends.
Wed 7 *I am so happy that my opening discovery toys party went so well!
Tue 6 *I am thankful for the gift of the Holy Ghost and the inspiration He gives to the members of the church. After Primary inservice I know that the women I am working with are who God wants to be in this calling!
Mon 5 *I am thankful Kent was wise enough to suggest we get outside and go for a walk while there are only a few days of good weather left.
Sun 4 *I am thankful for the wonderful example my mother set for me all the years that she watched conference not only Sunday, but Saturday as well. I have grown to love the times of year when I get to hear the words of the prophets.
Sat 3 *I am thankful Kent, Braxton, and I were able to go down to St.George and support my sister-in-law Darcy in her marathon. I am also thankful we had a wonderful day spending time with his brother Gordon and his family.
Fri 2 *I am thankful my Discovery Toys came just in time to test them out on the road today. It has been such a fun trip discovering new toys with Braxton!
Thurs 1 *I am thankful Kent is willing to help me can and harvest so we can have a wonderful store of food.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Beautiful October
So October has flown by like a whirlwind as usual. It started off with a trip down to St. George/Cedar City area to watch my sister-in-law Darcy run the St. George Marathon. It was so much fun to have the energy of watching these athletes cross the finish line and cheering them on. There was one guy who came in at around the three and a half hour mark who had to be helped over the finish line. It was amazing to me that someone could do so well and still struggle near the end. We were lucky enough to have two friends from the stake run as well. One told me he hurt his Achilles tendon a few weeks before and the marathon was the most painful experience he had ever had. It's so inspiring to know these people's stories! 
With this week being Halloween I am sure I'll have more photos to post, but I wanted to get these ones up for you to enjoy our month so far. Happy Halloween!
Here she is running toward the finish line. She did great.
I think her time was 4 hours and 24 minutes as I recall. 
I asked Kent if we could drive by the St. George temple on the way so
I could take a picture. I love how beautiful the temples are!
We stayed with Kent's brother Gordon in Kanab that night and REALLY
enjoyed spending time with their family. This is the beautiful view from their back door.
The next weekend we were lucky enough to have my friend Becca come and stay with her baby Lorelai. She was insistent that we take a picture despite how fantastic I looked. lol
While Becca was here we headed down to the LDS conference center
Finally my son was willing to take my hand and walk with me.
However it wasn't for long.
I love the beautiful fall colors around the conference center.
More of those fall colors.
It has always been interesting to me to study what the church does with consistency. Wherever you see a big church building there seems to be beautiful gardens and a water feature.
I love the view inside the conference center. It is a beautiful building.
How can you not love that view?
I also find it interesting that on top of the conference center they have
the pine trees to represent the forest...
...and the grasses to represent the prairie as well as other parts of the world.
The state capitol and what they call the old pioneer house.
"And this gospel shall be preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people."
D&C 133:37 It's worth looking at the detail of this picture etched in marble.
Double click on the photo.
That temple would be so much better without those pesky high rises. lol
Braxton can't stop himself from wanting to play in the water.
We were so lucky to have Tia join us. It was a lot of fun
for the three of us to be together with our kids.
More crazy times with the group.
Lorelai and Kimber were best of friends. It was cute.
Sometimes I can't believe that I have known these ladies since high school.
I don't know I think fall in Utah has a good chance
at being one of the most beautiful places.
We had to take the photo opportunity that was available.
We had to take the photo opportunity that was available.
Tia thought it was time for high school senior photos. lol
Which turned into another photo shoot back at my house. 
What can you say? Girls will be girls. Right?
Funny how trying to be silly and sexy doesn't work. lol
Tia's face is hilarious.
The boys enjoyed a little time in the dirt.
They only beat each other up a few times.
Boys will be boys too.
Braxton and Lorelai so tired.
After a long day I wanted to throw on pajama bottoms. After I put them on I realized how hideous they were with my shirt. It was so funny I had to ham it up and take a picture.
After Becca left Kent threatened to cut Braxton hair. Knowing the kind of cut he would do I decided to try my hand at cutting Braxton's hair. It was his first cut without a tear. 
Not too bad for a mom without any formal training.
The hardest part was blending the sides, but I think it turned out ok.
With this week being Halloween I am sure I'll have more photos to post, but I wanted to get these ones up for you to enjoy our month so far. Happy Halloween!
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