Love: Perhaps the reason this talk attracts me so much is because of how long I have spent during my life feeling UNloved, both by the Lord and my fellow-man. After much repentance, I now feel loved. But, the thing I love about this talk is the promise of feeling higher levels of love with greater consecration.
Elder Russell M. Nelson's talk:
Divine Love Is Also Conditional
While divine love can be called perfect, infinite, enduring, and universal, it cannot correctly be characterized as unconditional. The word does not appear in the scriptures. On the other hand, many verses affirm that the higher levels of love the Father and the Son feel for each of us—and certain divine blessings stemming from that love—are conditional. Before citing examples, it is well to recognize various forms of conditional expression in the scriptures.
The Conditional Nature of Divine Love
With scriptural patterns of conditional statements in mind, we note many verses that declare the conditional nature of divine love for us. Examples include:
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“If ye keep my commandments, [then] ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.”18
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“If you keep not my commandments, [then] the love of the Father shall not continue with you.”19
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“If a man love me, [then] he will keep my words: and my Father will love him.”20
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“I love them that love me; and those that seek me … shall find me.”21
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“God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.”22
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The Lord “loveth those who will have him to be their God.”23
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“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”24
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
'Children of God as predatory beasts'
The television drives me crazy most of the time. Really most of the shows are disgusting. I used to be so desensitized by it and not bothered. Those days are gratefully gone. Now it bothers me a lot to see marriage and fidelity mocked, drinking is made to look glamourous, human relationships cruel with one another, etc. Elder Dallin H. Oaks says this:
'The movies and magazines and television that shape our attitudes are filled with stories or images that portray the children of God as predatory beasts or, at best, as trivial creations pursuing little more than personal pleasure. And too many of us accept this as entertainment.
The men and women who made epic sacrifices to combat evil regimes in the past were shaped by values that are disappearing from our public teaching. The good, the true, and the beautiful are being replaced by the no-good, the “whatever,” and the valueless fodder of personal whim. Not surprisingly, many of our youth and adults are caught up in pornography, pagan piercing of body parts, self-serving pleasure pursuits, dishonest behavior, revealing attire, foul language, and degrading sexual indulgence.'
I see many Latter-Day Saints accepting this as entertainment. Truly a shame.
'The movies and magazines and television that shape our attitudes are filled with stories or images that portray the children of God as predatory beasts or, at best, as trivial creations pursuing little more than personal pleasure. And too many of us accept this as entertainment.
The men and women who made epic sacrifices to combat evil regimes in the past were shaped by values that are disappearing from our public teaching. The good, the true, and the beautiful are being replaced by the no-good, the “whatever,” and the valueless fodder of personal whim. Not surprisingly, many of our youth and adults are caught up in pornography, pagan piercing of body parts, self-serving pleasure pursuits, dishonest behavior, revealing attire, foul language, and degrading sexual indulgence.'
I see many Latter-Day Saints accepting this as entertainment. Truly a shame.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
The Piano Guys
Look over at the side of my blog-------------->>>>>>>>>
If this is your introduction to The Piano Guys, you are in for a real treat. My husband grew up in the same ward as Steve, the cellist, and they were in the same orchestra together in highschool. We are in awe at the beauty of their music.
This piece is so gorgeous and calms my soul.
If this is your introduction to The Piano Guys, you are in for a real treat. My husband grew up in the same ward as Steve, the cellist, and they were in the same orchestra together in highschool. We are in awe at the beauty of their music.
This piece is so gorgeous and calms my soul.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Behind the scenes
I would say I am pretty naive when it comes to governments, politicians, lobbyists, special interest groups and the like. I don't spend my time seeking after power and looking for a handout from anyone. I am strongly opposed to government handouts. Of course, there are times when things happen to people, like hurricane Katrina, and the government steps in to give aid. Of course, even then, the people do a much better job with charitable organizations that a government agency. Nevertheless, I'm talking about people who, for example, go on food stamps while going to college. I'm with the prophets who teach us to save money to attend college, while taking semesters off, if needed, in order to save the money needed to avoid going on any government aid.
It is in this frame of mind that I search out who I will put in my vote for President of the United States in 2012.
A few years ago I read a book written by Gary Allen, which Ezra Taft Benson said all freedom loving people should read. It is called None Dare Call It Conspiracy. I read about secret groups that are organized to bring down freedom in the world. I read about groups like Trilateral commission and the CFR (Council on Foreign Relations.) I had never heard of this group and the others who are working to control what information we obtain through the news, media and entertainment, and newspapers, and truthfully I was only attracted to this topic of freedom because I married into a family who almost totally dissolved my freedom. They controlled nearly every aspect of my life and shamed me, humiliated me, and mocked me every time I 'tried' to use my free will. That is another story and a most sad one. But, this is what caused me to give great demand of my time as I read this book by Allen. Freedom. And who is trying to bring it down. The book talks about the Nelsons, Rockefellers, Rothschilds, Morgans and others. All of their work is done behind the scenes and if you don't know how to see the picture that is drawn behind it, you will be misled.
So, who is a member of the CFR? Well, Newt Gingrich is. Mitt Romney has chosen CFR members as his closest aids. Dick Cheney. Hillary Clinton is a member and more. You have to read this book, like President Benson says, to really get an understanding of what is happening in our world. I have posted several links that will give you a taste of what the book talks about. You can buy a hard copy as well, and I highly recommend it.
It is in this frame of mind that I search out who I will put in my vote for President of the United States in 2012.
A few years ago I read a book written by Gary Allen, which Ezra Taft Benson said all freedom loving people should read. It is called None Dare Call It Conspiracy. I read about secret groups that are organized to bring down freedom in the world. I read about groups like Trilateral commission and the CFR (Council on Foreign Relations.) I had never heard of this group and the others who are working to control what information we obtain through the news, media and entertainment, and newspapers, and truthfully I was only attracted to this topic of freedom because I married into a family who almost totally dissolved my freedom. They controlled nearly every aspect of my life and shamed me, humiliated me, and mocked me every time I 'tried' to use my free will. That is another story and a most sad one. But, this is what caused me to give great demand of my time as I read this book by Allen. Freedom. And who is trying to bring it down. The book talks about the Nelsons, Rockefellers, Rothschilds, Morgans and others. All of their work is done behind the scenes and if you don't know how to see the picture that is drawn behind it, you will be misled.
So, who is a member of the CFR? Well, Newt Gingrich is. Mitt Romney has chosen CFR members as his closest aids. Dick Cheney. Hillary Clinton is a member and more. You have to read this book, like President Benson says, to really get an understanding of what is happening in our world. I have posted several links that will give you a taste of what the book talks about. You can buy a hard copy as well, and I highly recommend it.
God's Hand
I have been thinking quite a bit lately about President Henry B. Eyring's thoughts on recognizing and writing down God's hand in our lives that happen daily. Immediately the thought comes into my mind of the peace I feel in my heart. I suffered so long with an uncomfortable, blech, in my stomach, that I'm reminded first off that I don't have that constant nagging anymore.
As I search my mind for other things that happened throughout the day, I find myself struggling a bit. So, I asked Heavenly Father. I'm still sifting through the events of the day, and I feel the Spirit as I'm thinking.
I am so grateful for this life and the chance to prove myself. It isn't easy fighting off pride, self-pity, covetting, envying, idolatry, etc. But I have my breastplate of righteousness, my shield of faith, my helmet of salvation, my feet shod with the gospel of peace, and of course my only weapon, the sword of truth.
With the temptations all around me, I feel so blessed to have the knowledge of Jesus Christ and that he is my Master, my King, my Counselor, my strength. I know I can get through it all with Him as my guide.
I love you all. May we each feel the love of the Lord in our hearts. May we feel His acceptance of us and our efforts to live as he lived. If you do not feel his love for you or his acceptance of you, may I suggest you search after it. It can be found and no matter how much effort you put into finding it, it will be worth every effort you make. I know that is true.
As I search my mind for other things that happened throughout the day, I find myself struggling a bit. So, I asked Heavenly Father. I'm still sifting through the events of the day, and I feel the Spirit as I'm thinking.
I am so grateful for this life and the chance to prove myself. It isn't easy fighting off pride, self-pity, covetting, envying, idolatry, etc. But I have my breastplate of righteousness, my shield of faith, my helmet of salvation, my feet shod with the gospel of peace, and of course my only weapon, the sword of truth.
With the temptations all around me, I feel so blessed to have the knowledge of Jesus Christ and that he is my Master, my King, my Counselor, my strength. I know I can get through it all with Him as my guide.
I love you all. May we each feel the love of the Lord in our hearts. May we feel His acceptance of us and our efforts to live as he lived. If you do not feel his love for you or his acceptance of you, may I suggest you search after it. It can be found and no matter how much effort you put into finding it, it will be worth every effort you make. I know that is true.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Two-Year Old Named Bruce
For history purposes, I have to write this post.
Bruce is a true terrible two. Here is the list of what happened the other day.
1. Climbing on the counter, turn on the water, play with the water sprayer. I come running in the kitchen, he turns the water sprayer and starts spraying me.
2. I walk around the house looking for him and I call out his name. No answer. I see that my bedroom door is closed. I try to open the door and it is locked. I retrieve the spare key and unlock the door, but can smell hairspray from the other side of the door. I go in my bedroom and he has my aerosol can of hairspray and he is spraying a piece of paper and the carpet. I move toward him and he turns the can of hairspray on me and sprays me.
3. We have a dog. We have a gas fireplace. The glass gets very hot. Bruce loves to chase the dog and pull on his collar. He pushes the dog against the hot glass and gets a kick out of the dogs reaction when it burns the dog.
4. He has found my bag of rice. He loves to eat it raw.
5. He climbs up on the washing machine.
6. He opens the oven door and uses it as trampoline.
7. He dropped Vanessa's necklace in the toilet and flushed it. When he realized it was gone forever, he cried for Vanessa's loss.
8. He runs down the street, running as fast as he can, with his big Tonka truck. It takes Jared and I running as fast as we can and we have a hard time catching him.
It is a crazy ride right now with this little guy. I don't know how I'll ever say I miss this stage. Older women tell me I will. I think they're crazy. I might eat my words someday, but that's okay.
Bruce is a true terrible two. Here is the list of what happened the other day.
1. Climbing on the counter, turn on the water, play with the water sprayer. I come running in the kitchen, he turns the water sprayer and starts spraying me.
2. I walk around the house looking for him and I call out his name. No answer. I see that my bedroom door is closed. I try to open the door and it is locked. I retrieve the spare key and unlock the door, but can smell hairspray from the other side of the door. I go in my bedroom and he has my aerosol can of hairspray and he is spraying a piece of paper and the carpet. I move toward him and he turns the can of hairspray on me and sprays me.
3. We have a dog. We have a gas fireplace. The glass gets very hot. Bruce loves to chase the dog and pull on his collar. He pushes the dog against the hot glass and gets a kick out of the dogs reaction when it burns the dog.
4. He has found my bag of rice. He loves to eat it raw.
5. He climbs up on the washing machine.
6. He opens the oven door and uses it as trampoline.
7. He dropped Vanessa's necklace in the toilet and flushed it. When he realized it was gone forever, he cried for Vanessa's loss.
8. He runs down the street, running as fast as he can, with his big Tonka truck. It takes Jared and I running as fast as we can and we have a hard time catching him.
It is a crazy ride right now with this little guy. I don't know how I'll ever say I miss this stage. Older women tell me I will. I think they're crazy. I might eat my words someday, but that's okay.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Feelings
After reading in Ether this morning, my heart is heavy and sad. I don't know how you can read chapters 11-16 and not feel sad. Wait, I take that back, I do know how you can read those last chapters and not feel anything.
And that leads me into the discussion I'd like to have now.
When I was 27 years old I was a very sad woman and had been for 17 years. From the time I was ten year old, I constantly had this feeling in my heart that something wasn't right in my life. I would watch movies and not understand them. I would read and not understand what I was reading. I would watch the news and see stories where violent crimes had taken place, and I would FEEL nothing. Not that I wanted those horrible things to happen to those people, I just didn't have any feeling of horror when I knew I ought to. That disturbed me. A lot.
I would talk to my family members, friends, fellow church members, and ask anyone who I thought would have answers for me as to why I might be so unhappy and I was met with the same types of replies: they didn't know. My family members would get annoyed by my persistence in asking questions.
Several years later and I have found my answers as to why I was so unhappy and why I didn't feel horror when I should, neither did I feel love, nor loved, when I should.
The answer is in repentance. How is that? Because I had been searching for love and happiness in others' acceptance of me, in the malls, in saying the right things. I envied and coveted others' lives. I had a MAJOR 'poor me' outlook on life. I could never measure up to what I thought the world expected of me in order to be an acceptable person. The people around me didn't help me.
Now I feel love and loved. And oh do I feel loved. My joy is as exquisite as was my pain. I know this came from accepting Jesus as Lord and Ruler of my life. I live for Him. Words cannot describe the feelings I have for Him.
So, it wasn't so long ago that I didn't feel anything.
I am grateful today that I do.
I have a constant prayer in my heart that I will never, ever go back to who I was.
And that leads me into the discussion I'd like to have now.
When I was 27 years old I was a very sad woman and had been for 17 years. From the time I was ten year old, I constantly had this feeling in my heart that something wasn't right in my life. I would watch movies and not understand them. I would read and not understand what I was reading. I would watch the news and see stories where violent crimes had taken place, and I would FEEL nothing. Not that I wanted those horrible things to happen to those people, I just didn't have any feeling of horror when I knew I ought to. That disturbed me. A lot.
I would talk to my family members, friends, fellow church members, and ask anyone who I thought would have answers for me as to why I might be so unhappy and I was met with the same types of replies: they didn't know. My family members would get annoyed by my persistence in asking questions.
Several years later and I have found my answers as to why I was so unhappy and why I didn't feel horror when I should, neither did I feel love, nor loved, when I should.
The answer is in repentance. How is that? Because I had been searching for love and happiness in others' acceptance of me, in the malls, in saying the right things. I envied and coveted others' lives. I had a MAJOR 'poor me' outlook on life. I could never measure up to what I thought the world expected of me in order to be an acceptable person. The people around me didn't help me.
Now I feel love and loved. And oh do I feel loved. My joy is as exquisite as was my pain. I know this came from accepting Jesus as Lord and Ruler of my life. I live for Him. Words cannot describe the feelings I have for Him.
So, it wasn't so long ago that I didn't feel anything.
I am grateful today that I do.
I have a constant prayer in my heart that I will never, ever go back to who I was.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Wake Up!
How many times do we ignore the teachings of the Savior and think that we know a better way? It is safe to say that I spent way, way too long being rebellious and proud, and even still struggle to be obedient.
Mormon led the Nephites to war against the Lamanites. The Nephites were rebellious at this time and would boast in their successes. They had stopped giving the glory to God for their successes against their enemies, the Lamanites. Mormon had stopped being their leader once, but then changed his mind and decided to be their leader but says this:
Book of Mormon
Mormon 5:2 But behold, I was without hope, for I knew the judgments of the Lord which should come upon them; for they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who created them.
How sad! This story is so sad. May we all give glory to God for each and every day we have here on the earth to repent and learn to live the way He says.
Do we know what God's judgements are? Or do we suppose that God will look down upon our rebellion and be okay with it? He is not okay. I too know of Gods judgements. Looking at the world today, I can see the sense of urgency the Brethern have when they speak of joining the Lord's army and standing for something. How many of us are alseep? We need to wake up and repent of our sins so we can join the fight against Satan.
Mormon led the Nephites to war against the Lamanites. The Nephites were rebellious at this time and would boast in their successes. They had stopped giving the glory to God for their successes against their enemies, the Lamanites. Mormon had stopped being their leader once, but then changed his mind and decided to be their leader but says this:
Book of Mormon
Mormon 5:2 But behold, I was without hope, for I knew the judgments of the Lord which should come upon them; for they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who created them.
How sad! This story is so sad. May we all give glory to God for each and every day we have here on the earth to repent and learn to live the way He says.
Do we know what God's judgements are? Or do we suppose that God will look down upon our rebellion and be okay with it? He is not okay. I too know of Gods judgements. Looking at the world today, I can see the sense of urgency the Brethern have when they speak of joining the Lord's army and standing for something. How many of us are alseep? We need to wake up and repent of our sins so we can join the fight against Satan.
Monday, October 17, 2011
What's up...
We have been working so hard to finish our yard outside and it has been consuming all of our time and extra money. Eric and Joseph finished up the football season and both of them had an awesome experience. I recently asked the kids if they like living in our new home and neighborhood better than our old one. It was a unanimous response... 'yes!' Jared and I agree as well. It was such a good move.
Bruce is almost completely potty trained and 2 years old as of Sept 9th.
Rex is learning his letters and sounds in kindergarten. He has Mrs. Roberts.
Joseph is in 4th grade. He loves to read.
Eric is in 6th grade and started middle school. He is a good friend. His primary teachers love him
Vanessa is in 7th grade. Her judgement is getting better. She started a tumbling class and hopes to be a professional gymnist and violinist someday.
Jared works hard. He is making new friends here.
I rejoice in the gospel of Jesus Christ. I love having Jesus as my guide. I have found where happiness is.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Dedicate my life
Speaking of the horrible tragedy of 9/11 President Thomas S. Monson said this:
'It is constancy that God would have from us. Tragedies are not merely opportunities to give Him a fleeting thought, or for momentary insight to His plan for our happiness. Destruction allows us to rebuild our lives in the way He teaches us, and to become something different than we were. We can make Him the center of our thoughts and His Son, Jesus Christ, the pattern for our behavior. We may not only find faith in God in our sorrow. We may also become faithful to Him in times of calm.'
Thomas S. Monson is president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I add my own thoughts and testimony that 'I need thee every hour' to our Savior Jesus Christ. I have begun to start my day with a prayer where I dedicate my day to Him. My kids hear me pray for this and have begun to pray for the same thing. The power of inviting the Lord into my life has been tremendous. I feel His guidance and my mind has had greater clarity to sense that guidance.
'It is constancy that God would have from us. Tragedies are not merely opportunities to give Him a fleeting thought, or for momentary insight to His plan for our happiness. Destruction allows us to rebuild our lives in the way He teaches us, and to become something different than we were. We can make Him the center of our thoughts and His Son, Jesus Christ, the pattern for our behavior. We may not only find faith in God in our sorrow. We may also become faithful to Him in times of calm.'
Thomas S. Monson is president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I add my own thoughts and testimony that 'I need thee every hour' to our Savior Jesus Christ. I have begun to start my day with a prayer where I dedicate my day to Him. My kids hear me pray for this and have begun to pray for the same thing. The power of inviting the Lord into my life has been tremendous. I feel His guidance and my mind has had greater clarity to sense that guidance.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
New School Year
Hi Everyone!
It is a new school year and the kids are really enjoying school. Vanessa and Eric are at the Intermediate school together, while Joseph and Rex are at the Elementary school together. Rex started kindergarten and has loved the first two days.
I am home with Bruce. I spend my days cleaning and cooking and planning meals and coordinating scout den meetings. Another part of my day is spent talking to friends. I have met two women here in our new neighborhood that seem to be a lot like me too.
Jared and I are also putting in a sprinkling system in our yard. Actually Jared is doing it while I chase after Bruce as he runs down the street. Aww! The joys of having an almost two year old.
Life is busy and sometimes seems like it gets so busy that there isn't time for the Lord. I have to purposefully set time out of my day for personal study and prayer. I get reoccurring dreams that I miss my Institute/Religion class when I don't make the time for what is most important in my day.
It is a new school year and the kids are really enjoying school. Vanessa and Eric are at the Intermediate school together, while Joseph and Rex are at the Elementary school together. Rex started kindergarten and has loved the first two days.
I am home with Bruce. I spend my days cleaning and cooking and planning meals and coordinating scout den meetings. Another part of my day is spent talking to friends. I have met two women here in our new neighborhood that seem to be a lot like me too.
Jared and I are also putting in a sprinkling system in our yard. Actually Jared is doing it while I chase after Bruce as he runs down the street. Aww! The joys of having an almost two year old.
Life is busy and sometimes seems like it gets so busy that there isn't time for the Lord. I have to purposefully set time out of my day for personal study and prayer. I get reoccurring dreams that I miss my Institute/Religion class when I don't make the time for what is most important in my day.
Monday, August 15, 2011
The Good Fight
As I was reading my scriptures this morning, I read in Alma Chapter 1. King Mosiah has passed away and appointed Alma the younger to be the chief judge in the judgement seat. In the first year, a man is brought before Alma and here is what it says about this man:
The thing that is so disturbing to me is that I see so many people believe this lie. All men will not be redeemed when they have spent their mortal days in rebellion to God.
Then I read in 1 John 2: 4-5
Continuing on with the good fight....
Have a good day! Give glory to God! Keep his commandments!
2 And it came to pass that in the first year of the reign of Alma in the judgment-seat, there was a a man brought before him to be judged, a man who was large, and was noted for his much strength.
3 And he had gone about among the people, preaching to them that which he termed to be the word of God, bearing down against the church; declaring unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people.
4 And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life.
The thing that is so disturbing to me is that I see so many people believe this lie. All men will not be redeemed when they have spent their mortal days in rebellion to God.
Then I read in 1 John 2: 4-5
4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
Continuing on with the good fight....
Have a good day! Give glory to God! Keep his commandments!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Saying I'm sorry can be hard, but not impossible
The other day Vanessa was over at a friends house. They were together for the better part of the afternoon. I had told Vanessa to come home at 5pm. She arrived home at 5pm along with her friend. She asked me if they could play until 5:30pm. I told her no. Thirty minutes goes by and I keep calling out for Vanessa to come help me get dinner on the table. There is no response. I go outside in the front and call out her name. No response. Ten more minutes goes by and I go out onto the fron porch to clean up a mud mess. I see Vanessa's friend walking out from behind where I had parked the van.
I call Vanessa over to me and tell her what she did broke my trust in her. She said sorry. I asked her if she had the 'ick' in her stomach. She said yes. I told her that I need her to follow my instructions in order for me to be able to trust her. She understands. I told her to call her friend and apologize to her for not making her go home at 5 and to tell her that she is sorry for not respecting my instructions. I also told her to tell her friend that she doesn't want her to think it is okay to treat her mother that way either. Her friend says, 'Okay, but I've gotta go.'
This friend has not made peace with me yet. She knew I told her to leave. She disrespected me too.
Instead of coming and apologizing to me, she has become sneaky.
I told Vanessa to tell her that if she wants to be friends with her, she needs to apologize to me.
We'll see what happens. I hope this girl apologizes and her sneakiness doesn't have to be brought to her own mothers attention.
These girls are 12 and 13 years old. I find it a priviledge to teach them the doctrine of repentance. I love teaching the children how to have successful, respectful relationships. I love seeing the look in my kids eyes when they understand what I teach them. It brings me great joy!
I call Vanessa over to me and tell her what she did broke my trust in her. She said sorry. I asked her if she had the 'ick' in her stomach. She said yes. I told her that I need her to follow my instructions in order for me to be able to trust her. She understands. I told her to call her friend and apologize to her for not making her go home at 5 and to tell her that she is sorry for not respecting my instructions. I also told her to tell her friend that she doesn't want her to think it is okay to treat her mother that way either. Her friend says, 'Okay, but I've gotta go.'
This friend has not made peace with me yet. She knew I told her to leave. She disrespected me too.
Instead of coming and apologizing to me, she has become sneaky.
I told Vanessa to tell her that if she wants to be friends with her, she needs to apologize to me.
We'll see what happens. I hope this girl apologizes and her sneakiness doesn't have to be brought to her own mothers attention.
These girls are 12 and 13 years old. I find it a priviledge to teach them the doctrine of repentance. I love teaching the children how to have successful, respectful relationships. I love seeing the look in my kids eyes when they understand what I teach them. It brings me great joy!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Camp, football, and spirituality
Today Vanessa left for beehive camp. I was excited and nervous for her as she got out of the car. We are in a new ward and the fact that she has rarely been away from us for the night are the main explanations for my anxiety. I'm sure she'll be fine and come home with fun stories to tell us about.
The boys, Eric and Joseph, start football tonight too.
We also have been called to be the Bears and Webelos Scout leaders in our ward and have our first meeting tonight with the boys. That should be fun. Jared has had this calling before and so it is very familiar to him. As for me? Well, let's just say there will have to be small learning curve.
Spiritually speaking, I am working on being steadfast and immovable in the fight to stand up for virtue and goodness, and stand against apathy and evil. It seems all around me that people allow their standards to follow the ways of the world. Blech! I despise the shame of the world and look forward to the day where I can rest from all the worlds disobedience. I look forward with hope to the day when I can meet my Savior again. But surely I'm glad it isn't today for I still have work to do. Today is the day for men to perform their labors... as the scriputes goes. Tomorrow the Savior comes... we read in the scriptures. So, today I work, always looking forward to tomorrow.
The boys, Eric and Joseph, start football tonight too.
We also have been called to be the Bears and Webelos Scout leaders in our ward and have our first meeting tonight with the boys. That should be fun. Jared has had this calling before and so it is very familiar to him. As for me? Well, let's just say there will have to be small learning curve.
Spiritually speaking, I am working on being steadfast and immovable in the fight to stand up for virtue and goodness, and stand against apathy and evil. It seems all around me that people allow their standards to follow the ways of the world. Blech! I despise the shame of the world and look forward to the day where I can rest from all the worlds disobedience. I look forward with hope to the day when I can meet my Savior again. But surely I'm glad it isn't today for I still have work to do. Today is the day for men to perform their labors... as the scriputes goes. Tomorrow the Savior comes... we read in the scriptures. So, today I work, always looking forward to tomorrow.
Monday, July 25, 2011
We've moved
Here's a picture of our house in the unfinished view. I don't have a current picture uploaded yet on the computer.
But, we are in our new place, we've already given our talks in our new ward, and been welcomed warmly in our new neighborhood. Vanessa turned 12 and is in Beehives, Eric turned 11, and Joseph is turning 9 on Sunday.
I feel so grateful to be in this new place, and I'm not just talking about our physical address. I am continually working on my relationship with Heavenly Father, and working to change from my old ways.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Busy, busy
Our lives have been crazy busy the last couple of weeks.
In Vanessa's English class she is working in a group to film a scene from The Bridge to Teribithia. It has been a gigantic project. It is due tomorrow, thankfully. She has worked hard on it and I can't wait to see the final work. She's finishing up on it tonight.
Eric is getting his Webelos tonight. I am so proud of him.
And then of course, the selling of our home has been a huge time consumer. As part of the deal the buyers of our home have asked that we put new shingles on our roof over the garage and front door areas only. Jared will be working on that over the next 7 days.
Life just keeps on moving and time flies by.
In Vanessa's English class she is working in a group to film a scene from The Bridge to Teribithia. It has been a gigantic project. It is due tomorrow, thankfully. She has worked hard on it and I can't wait to see the final work. She's finishing up on it tonight.
Eric is getting his Webelos tonight. I am so proud of him.
And then of course, the selling of our home has been a huge time consumer. As part of the deal the buyers of our home have asked that we put new shingles on our roof over the garage and front door areas only. Jared will be working on that over the next 7 days.
Life just keeps on moving and time flies by.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Sold!!!
So the buyers of our house came back with another counter offer that we are accepting. Yea! Our realtor is so awesome! He is taking $o.oo commission to make this deal happen. Jared will compensate him with an engraved garden rock for his home. We'll also probably do another rock or two for him in the future.
In the past, we have sold 2 other homes to .... divorced, single, middle-aged men. Not that there is anything wrong with divorced, single, middle-aged men. I just really wanted to sell this house to a family.
Happy day today!
-Sarah
In the past, we have sold 2 other homes to .... divorced, single, middle-aged men. Not that there is anything wrong with divorced, single, middle-aged men. I just really wanted to sell this house to a family.
Happy day today!
-Sarah
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
An offer
Adorable little Bruce at 1 year old- 6 months ago!
Yesterday our realtor called us to tell us that an offer for our home was coming in and that he would come by to present it to us. He said he didn't know what the offer looked like or if it would be acceptable to us.
So, the offer is considerably under what we would accept. We sent them a counter offer and we'll know tonight after 5pm what they think of our counter.
This process is exciting and stressful and tiring all at the same time. The kids have been working so hard alongside Jared and I to keep the house clean. They have been so great in the process and they amaze me at their understanding of the whole process. Frequently I have to remind myself that they are little adult human beings.
More updates to follow...
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Not much to say..
Recently we have been getting ready to move. Over the last 3 months we have spent most of our time either cleaning up the house to get ready for people to come see it, or making plans for the new house.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Parent Teacher Conference
I went to the boys parent teacher conference meetings. Joseph's teacher is a delight. She cares so much about Joseph and his progress.
Eric's teacher was quite a different story. Eric's class is doing a project where they are highlighting a famous person, making a poster with basic details about the person, and then they are going to have a fair where the kids are to dress up like their famous person and have parents/family members try to guess who they are.
I am so disappointed with the book Eric was given to highlight his person: Theodore Roosevelt. The last few years it has been increasingly important to me to learn the truth. The focus on Teddy Roosevelt is about his army service, being president of the United States, his influence on the game of football, and some family information.
Eric isn't being told the truth about who Teddy Roosevelt really is. I brought this to his teacher's attention. Her response was so disappointing. Sad.
Eric's teacher was quite a different story. Eric's class is doing a project where they are highlighting a famous person, making a poster with basic details about the person, and then they are going to have a fair where the kids are to dress up like their famous person and have parents/family members try to guess who they are.
I am so disappointed with the book Eric was given to highlight his person: Theodore Roosevelt. The last few years it has been increasingly important to me to learn the truth. The focus on Teddy Roosevelt is about his army service, being president of the United States, his influence on the game of football, and some family information.
Eric isn't being told the truth about who Teddy Roosevelt really is. I brought this to his teacher's attention. Her response was so disappointing. Sad.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
New Year
I haven't been on in awhile. I don't have a good excuse.
I do want to update what has been going on in the last little while.
Vanessa has been growing into a beautiful young woman. She would be embarrassed to read that. She loves to go to school and is learning more and more. She performed with her violin in the Christmas concert at her school. Her primary has challenged her to read the scriptures everyday and she takes that challenge with some seriousness. Little 16 month old Bruce loves her and you find him on her hip often. She loves to read and recently won a contest called 'Beat the teach.' She also love fingernail polish, earrings, and her friends. I love you Vanessa.
Eric is coming into his own more and more. He wants to do what is right. He loves his friends and really enjoys playing football with them out in the field. He has found a fun sport which he enjoys, football. He is good at football and he impresses his friends. He loves to watch football with his dad. He enjoys school and he learns easily. He has struggled to find a book he enjoys but recently found a series he is really get in to. I am happy for him. I love you Eric.
Joseph is a fun person to be around. He loves school and learns easily. He has a magnetic personality that draws people to him. He is the leader in the family with creative ideas for fun. If we're bored, we look to Joseph for ways to entertain ourselves. His siblings love his ideas. He loves to play football as much as his brother Eric does. He has a drive that makes him a favorite of his recent football coaches. He loves friends, and he is a good one too. I love you Joseph.
Rex is a spunky kid. He loves to be around his older brothers. He is anxiously waiting to go to school this coming fall. He has an infectious laugh and he loves to let me cuddle with him. He shares his bedroom with his little brother Bruce and is kind to him. I love you Rex.
Bruce is the most adorable 16 month old boy. He is learning a lot. His favorite thing to do is pull his popper around the house. He says words and understands what we are saying. He loves his brothers and sister. He has finally started sleeping through the night. I love you Bruce.
Jared is working a lot and taking good care of our home. He loves to play football with his boys, and take Vanessa for daddy daughter dates to the grocery store every now and then. He loves to try new foods and has me doing the same. I love that about him. He has found a renewed love for the scriptures and I love to hear him read to us. He is a member of the Elders Quorum basketball team and enjoys that. He also enjoys working out to his P90X dvds and keeping himself active. I love you Jared.
I am enjoying taking care of our home. I find the tediousness of the jobs I have to be a joy. The children and husband I have been given are a joy for me to take care of. I love them so much. I enjoy reading. I miss exercise. I love Heavenly Father and Jesus. And I love to learn. My greatest joys come from learning and growing. I love to see the progress our little family has made in being more obedient and faithful. I love to see the little miracles in our lives.
I do want to update what has been going on in the last little while.
Vanessa has been growing into a beautiful young woman. She would be embarrassed to read that. She loves to go to school and is learning more and more. She performed with her violin in the Christmas concert at her school. Her primary has challenged her to read the scriptures everyday and she takes that challenge with some seriousness. Little 16 month old Bruce loves her and you find him on her hip often. She loves to read and recently won a contest called 'Beat the teach.' She also love fingernail polish, earrings, and her friends. I love you Vanessa.
Eric is coming into his own more and more. He wants to do what is right. He loves his friends and really enjoys playing football with them out in the field. He has found a fun sport which he enjoys, football. He is good at football and he impresses his friends. He loves to watch football with his dad. He enjoys school and he learns easily. He has struggled to find a book he enjoys but recently found a series he is really get in to. I am happy for him. I love you Eric.
Joseph is a fun person to be around. He loves school and learns easily. He has a magnetic personality that draws people to him. He is the leader in the family with creative ideas for fun. If we're bored, we look to Joseph for ways to entertain ourselves. His siblings love his ideas. He loves to play football as much as his brother Eric does. He has a drive that makes him a favorite of his recent football coaches. He loves friends, and he is a good one too. I love you Joseph.
Rex is a spunky kid. He loves to be around his older brothers. He is anxiously waiting to go to school this coming fall. He has an infectious laugh and he loves to let me cuddle with him. He shares his bedroom with his little brother Bruce and is kind to him. I love you Rex.
Bruce is the most adorable 16 month old boy. He is learning a lot. His favorite thing to do is pull his popper around the house. He says words and understands what we are saying. He loves his brothers and sister. He has finally started sleeping through the night. I love you Bruce.
Jared is working a lot and taking good care of our home. He loves to play football with his boys, and take Vanessa for daddy daughter dates to the grocery store every now and then. He loves to try new foods and has me doing the same. I love that about him. He has found a renewed love for the scriptures and I love to hear him read to us. He is a member of the Elders Quorum basketball team and enjoys that. He also enjoys working out to his P90X dvds and keeping himself active. I love you Jared.
I am enjoying taking care of our home. I find the tediousness of the jobs I have to be a joy. The children and husband I have been given are a joy for me to take care of. I love them so much. I enjoy reading. I miss exercise. I love Heavenly Father and Jesus. And I love to learn. My greatest joys come from learning and growing. I love to see the progress our little family has made in being more obedient and faithful. I love to see the little miracles in our lives.
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