Today I am thinking about this and this.
Showing posts with label Thoughtful Stuff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thoughtful Stuff. Show all posts
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Tender Moments
I had the pleasure of singing with my family in church today. We sang "Families Can be Together Forever." We had practiced several times and felt ready. The kids did a fantastic job. I however, became overwhelmed with love for my family and ended up crying more than I could sing. (Which of course was totally embarrassing).
I was thinking about my amazing children and how grateful I am to be their mother. It's definitely not easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I was also thinking about my parents and siblings. When I was 6 1/2 years old my mother was expecting twins. They were born premature and sadly one passed away due to complications--sweet Holly Ann. I hope to meet you someday.
Thankfully her twin, my sister Kimberly, is alive and well! Love you Kimberly. At the time all of this happened I was afraid. I didn't really understand what was going on. My parents were so sad and even though Kimberly was alive she was in the hospital for a long time and I barely saw her. Sometime after the initial trauma, but before Kimberly was home, we went as a family to the cemetary and knelt around Holly Ann's grave and sang the same song. I'm pretty sure I cried more than I sang then too.
With this memory fresh in my mind and the tender feelings for my own children I am filled with gratitude for a loving Father in Heaven's Plan of Salvation. It's also called the Great Plan of Happiness. I am thankful for eternal families. I know that I will see my sister one day. (I should say that they are fraternal twins and I've always wondered what she looks like). I am grateful for the opportunity to be sealed to my own children. We strive every day to be a forever family. Honestly, who could ask for more?
I was thinking about my amazing children and how grateful I am to be their mother. It's definitely not easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I was also thinking about my parents and siblings. When I was 6 1/2 years old my mother was expecting twins. They were born premature and sadly one passed away due to complications--sweet Holly Ann. I hope to meet you someday.
Thankfully her twin, my sister Kimberly, is alive and well! Love you Kimberly. At the time all of this happened I was afraid. I didn't really understand what was going on. My parents were so sad and even though Kimberly was alive she was in the hospital for a long time and I barely saw her. Sometime after the initial trauma, but before Kimberly was home, we went as a family to the cemetary and knelt around Holly Ann's grave and sang the same song. I'm pretty sure I cried more than I sang then too.
With this memory fresh in my mind and the tender feelings for my own children I am filled with gratitude for a loving Father in Heaven's Plan of Salvation. It's also called the Great Plan of Happiness. I am thankful for eternal families. I know that I will see my sister one day. (I should say that they are fraternal twins and I've always wondered what she looks like). I am grateful for the opportunity to be sealed to my own children. We strive every day to be a forever family. Honestly, who could ask for more?
Friday, April 29, 2011
Born to Run
Sorry, you won't be able to click on this picture to look inside, but you certainly can check it out more at Amazon.com. I was trying to put a link in, but I don't think it was working. I'll try and fix it later.
Anyway, I have been reading this book and I love it! It is a nonfiction work about the subjects on the title but even more than that. For me, it has made me think about life, and what motivates me, etc. So far, two of my favorite quotes actually come from other authors that are cited in this book.
1). "Let us live so that when we come to die, even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
2). "Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own; sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction." William James
Wow! Such powerful and thoughtful words.
A little bit about the author, Christopher McDougall is a former war correspondent for the Associated Press and is now a contributing editor for Men's Health. His writing is very relaxed and real to life. It's very easy to read. That being said, he does use an occasional swear word now and then. It's not something I am fond of, but I just wanted you to know.
What's great is that you don't have to be a runner to enjoy this book. The stuff that I am reading about is very cool and it's hard to believe that the people, places and events are real! I had no idea things like that existed. If you decide to read it, I hope you enjoy it.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Perspective
Today was my first official day at my new job--a special education teacher's aide. It was not difficult, (I'm just training and getting prepared; school doesn't start until next week). However as I drove home I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed and a little discouraged. This is such a big change for me and for my family! I wonder if I will really be able to succeed. I worry and wonder how we're all going to manage as the kids go back to school and everyone's schedule gets crazy. Not only do I have to make sure that my kids have clothes and shoes that fit I also have to get new school clothes, (as much as I'd like too--wearing workout clothes just won't cut it). How will we do it?!
Well, as I was checking e-mail and feeling sorry for myself, etc. I got an update from an old friend of mine. Here is her story:
At the time I met her she and her husband had three beautiful children; her youngest was about 8. They had wanted more children, but it just didn't work out like they thought it would. Then after about a year--they happily discovered that they were expecting again, a little girl that they named Sarah. Sadly, Sarah was stillborn. To say they were crushed is a huge understatement! At this time in my friend's life she was told that she really would not have anymore children. They humbly accepted that fact and pressed on with life.
Imagine their inexpressible surprise and joy to find out that they were expecting again! This time the pregnancy was a success and they were blessed with a little boy. It was such a wonderful time in their lives!
However, life we know, is not always smooth sailing. About 10 months later her husband was laid off. I'm not sure how long it took him, but thankfully he did find another job.
About a year after their son was born my friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, that she discovered from a self exam! (Note to all women out there keep checking yourself!) It turned out to be pretty serious. After about 5 rounds of chemotherapy--hair loss and all, she underwent a double mastectomy. Now remember she has a toddler at home, plus 3 older children!
Thankfully, about a year after her diagnosis she is doing much better. They are getting ready to take their oldest daughter to college next week.
Then again, the bomb drops--her husband was laid off last week! On top of that she is preparing herself to undergo the first of 3 reconstructive surgeries.
So I ask myself--how can I feel discouraged over my little problems?!
Through all of these things our friends have remained hopeful and positive. They have set an incredible example for me and my family. I feel honored to say that I know them. My heart goes out to them. Getting her update definitely helped me to put things into perspective. I hope that I can be half as hopeful and faithful as she and her family are. Out of respect for them and their privacy I have left out their names, but I do ask that you please, if you are inclined to pray. Please pray for this family. Heavenly Father will know who you are praying for.
Well, as I was checking e-mail and feeling sorry for myself, etc. I got an update from an old friend of mine. Here is her story:
At the time I met her she and her husband had three beautiful children; her youngest was about 8. They had wanted more children, but it just didn't work out like they thought it would. Then after about a year--they happily discovered that they were expecting again, a little girl that they named Sarah. Sadly, Sarah was stillborn. To say they were crushed is a huge understatement! At this time in my friend's life she was told that she really would not have anymore children. They humbly accepted that fact and pressed on with life.
Imagine their inexpressible surprise and joy to find out that they were expecting again! This time the pregnancy was a success and they were blessed with a little boy. It was such a wonderful time in their lives!
However, life we know, is not always smooth sailing. About 10 months later her husband was laid off. I'm not sure how long it took him, but thankfully he did find another job.
About a year after their son was born my friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, that she discovered from a self exam! (Note to all women out there keep checking yourself!) It turned out to be pretty serious. After about 5 rounds of chemotherapy--hair loss and all, she underwent a double mastectomy. Now remember she has a toddler at home, plus 3 older children!
Thankfully, about a year after her diagnosis she is doing much better. They are getting ready to take their oldest daughter to college next week.
Then again, the bomb drops--her husband was laid off last week! On top of that she is preparing herself to undergo the first of 3 reconstructive surgeries.
So I ask myself--how can I feel discouraged over my little problems?!
Through all of these things our friends have remained hopeful and positive. They have set an incredible example for me and my family. I feel honored to say that I know them. My heart goes out to them. Getting her update definitely helped me to put things into perspective. I hope that I can be half as hopeful and faithful as she and her family are. Out of respect for them and their privacy I have left out their names, but I do ask that you please, if you are inclined to pray. Please pray for this family. Heavenly Father will know who you are praying for.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Humbled
{Kelly, November 2008}
For some goofy reason I cannot get my text to center--oh well.
O.k. so how to express what I want to without getting too personal. The last couple of years we've had our share of ups and downs, heavier on the downs--I'm not going to lie. You know we just get this one life and we have to make the best of it. Sometimes that means learning things the hard way. Justin and I are striving to figure out what it is we need to know so that we can move on and make some real progress towards reaching the goals we have for our family. So, yes, I've had a lot on my mind and in my heart lately as I try to make the best of things.
Tonight I was up late helping Kevin with a report for school, (seriously thank goodness there are only a few days left!) And Kelly, in her sweet and tender way came down to see if she could help. However, her real motive was to secretly leave me a letter of encouragement. Here are excerpts from that letter,
"...I love my job, being the big sister can be pretty stressful sometimes but it's worth it.
"I'm worried about you...I know things are tough but if we pray and pay our tithing we'll be okay.
"Mom we're going to be okay.
"All across the bible people have gotten into tough situations but God has helped them get through and he will do the same for us."
-Kelly
So yes, I am humbled and grateful for such a beautiful, wonderful daughter who knew just what I needed.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
What Are You Thinking About Today?
{This picture has nothing to do with this post. It's just one I took the other day that I really liked.}
My Thought for the Day:
"Your Life is an Occasion....Rise to It!"
Mr. Magorium
Monday, May 3, 2010
Toy Story Clouds
We went on a short walk yesterday evening. The sky was breathtaking. You couldn't help but smile when looking at the fluffy, white, "Toy Story" clouds. Rounding the corner to our townhouse this towel on our neighbor's balcony caught my eye and summed up how I felt. Life is good.
Misery is optional
This was the view out of our back window this evening, shortly before bedtime. It brought much needed relief from a less than good day. Rainbows are truly amazing. It's hard to see, but there is a second rainbow slightly above and to the right. Beautiful.
Yesterday, during sunday school we were discussing the Israelites 40 year journey from Egypt to Canaan. To sum up, we were talking about how the choices that they made, (to complain, etc.) made things so much harder for them. I mean they had to wait for a whole generation to die before those who had faith and did what was right could finally enter Canaan.
Anyway, one of my friends made this wonderfully insightful comment that I have been thinking about ever since. She said, "suffering is a given, but misery is optional;" meaning that life is hard. We are going to face challenges and difficulties--that is a given. However, we don't have to be miserable. We choose how we will react to what life throws our way. That simple act, that small choice, can determine whether or not we wander around for 40 years, so-to-speak, or instead, we keep our chin up and do what we know is right and ultimately succeed. So simple. So powerful.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Life Spinning By
I used to think that being a stay-at-home mom was kind of like the movie, "Ground Hog Day," where every day was exactly the same. But lately my life feels more like a speeding merry-go-round. The kind they used to have at the park, (next to the teeter-totters). Some days I feel like I'm hanging on for dear life, my legs being pulled off by the centrifugal force and I'm just doing all I can to survive and safely make it to the end of the day. Those are the days that I go to bed late, with dirty dishes in my sink, and laundry that has been sitting, folded for 3 days, still sitting folded and will most likely never get put away, just taken straight from the basket, worn, dirtied and put back into the laundry to be washed again.
Other days life is still spinning by me, but I'm prepared, I'm sitting in the middle, my arms and legs wrapped around the post/handle and I am secure, while everything spins by. I get everything done just in the right amount of time. I have things done ahead of time that make the other things I need to do go so much easier. Everyone goes to bed on time and my kitchen is relatively clean as I go to bed. (I still have a hard time sweeping the floor everyday, I just run out of steam). I love days like this!
Still, life is flying by, and most days I just can't seem to get everything done. There are just not enough hours in the day. Hence, why I haven't posted too much lately. I would like to be better organized, but then I realize that even the most organized person will be thrown off track by 100 interruptions--homework, help with tying shoes, drinks of water, "ouchie nails," and on, and on, and on. And that's o.k. I am grateful for those interruptions because they also come with sweet hugs from small arms around my neck and small, kisses on my cheek. I just hope that I can make the best of everyday.
I'm not really trying to complain. I'm just "thinking out loud," and succumbing you to my rambling. So sorry! I'm just realizing that I am entering a new phase of my life, and I don't think I have completely adjusted. The irony is, that once I'm adjusted, things will just change again! :) But I digress.
How do you cope with the busy-ness of your life? Do you have any secrets that help you keep things organized? Something that I have been doing lately and really sticking with that has totally helped me is planning dinner menus. I ususally try to do 2 weeks at a time. This coincides with payday. Having menus planned helps keep my grocery lists easier to put together, (and I haven't really done the math, but I think it helps me keep costs down). Plus, dinner time--which can be chaotic usually goes a little smoother, because I know what we're going to have and I have all the ingredients that I need. It does take a little time at the initial planning, but once it's put together it really helps. Plus I've noticed that we're not always eating the same things like we used to do.
I guess I have rambled on long enough. Here's to all the women, o.k. parents, (I'm sure there are men that feel this way too), out there hanging onto their own merry-go-rounds. You are amazing! You inspire me and help me to keep holding on as my life spins by.
Other days life is still spinning by me, but I'm prepared, I'm sitting in the middle, my arms and legs wrapped around the post/handle and I am secure, while everything spins by. I get everything done just in the right amount of time. I have things done ahead of time that make the other things I need to do go so much easier. Everyone goes to bed on time and my kitchen is relatively clean as I go to bed. (I still have a hard time sweeping the floor everyday, I just run out of steam). I love days like this!
Still, life is flying by, and most days I just can't seem to get everything done. There are just not enough hours in the day. Hence, why I haven't posted too much lately. I would like to be better organized, but then I realize that even the most organized person will be thrown off track by 100 interruptions--homework, help with tying shoes, drinks of water, "ouchie nails," and on, and on, and on. And that's o.k. I am grateful for those interruptions because they also come with sweet hugs from small arms around my neck and small, kisses on my cheek. I just hope that I can make the best of everyday.
I'm not really trying to complain. I'm just "thinking out loud," and succumbing you to my rambling. So sorry! I'm just realizing that I am entering a new phase of my life, and I don't think I have completely adjusted. The irony is, that once I'm adjusted, things will just change again! :) But I digress.
How do you cope with the busy-ness of your life? Do you have any secrets that help you keep things organized? Something that I have been doing lately and really sticking with that has totally helped me is planning dinner menus. I ususally try to do 2 weeks at a time. This coincides with payday. Having menus planned helps keep my grocery lists easier to put together, (and I haven't really done the math, but I think it helps me keep costs down). Plus, dinner time--which can be chaotic usually goes a little smoother, because I know what we're going to have and I have all the ingredients that I need. It does take a little time at the initial planning, but once it's put together it really helps. Plus I've noticed that we're not always eating the same things like we used to do.
I guess I have rambled on long enough. Here's to all the women, o.k. parents, (I'm sure there are men that feel this way too), out there hanging onto their own merry-go-rounds. You are amazing! You inspire me and help me to keep holding on as my life spins by.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Growing Pains
I would love to be one of those amazing bloggers who post every day and you can't wait to read what they will come up with next. Sadly, I'm not quite there yet.
However, Kate said something the other night that has really made me think. We had enjoyed a beautiful day at the Arboretum with great friends. But after all of that running around and walking so much, by bedtime her little legs were just aching. The way she described it seemed like growing pains. {Why do growing pains flair up when you want to settle down and go to sleep?}
Anyway, I was explaining to her that she was growing and that's why her legs were hurting. She paused for a moment and you could tell that she was really thinking about what I had said. Then she responded, "Oh, it really hurts to grow!"
Yes, it does. Growing hurts in so many ways. But it is a necessary part of life. When we are faced with difficult and sometimes painful situations that force us to stretch and grow, we realize just how strong we are. And as we look back on those "growing pains" we realize that we are better because of them.
I think of the growing pains that we've experienced over the last couple of years, (moving 3 times 1/2 way across the country and back, etc.) and although it was so, so difficult I have greater insight into myself and I appreciate the strength and faith of our children and the support of my incredible husband.
I'm sorry if this post sounds totally cheesy. I wish I had the vocabulary and ability to adequately describe what I'm trying to say without sounding so retarded. I guess when it all comes down to it. I am grateful for the challenges that have caused me to stretch and grow and become a better person; and I just love the way that little 5 year old Kate summed it all up, "Oh, it hurts to grow!"
However, Kate said something the other night that has really made me think. We had enjoyed a beautiful day at the Arboretum with great friends. But after all of that running around and walking so much, by bedtime her little legs were just aching. The way she described it seemed like growing pains. {Why do growing pains flair up when you want to settle down and go to sleep?}
Anyway, I was explaining to her that she was growing and that's why her legs were hurting. She paused for a moment and you could tell that she was really thinking about what I had said. Then she responded, "Oh, it really hurts to grow!"
Yes, it does. Growing hurts in so many ways. But it is a necessary part of life. When we are faced with difficult and sometimes painful situations that force us to stretch and grow, we realize just how strong we are. And as we look back on those "growing pains" we realize that we are better because of them.
I think of the growing pains that we've experienced over the last couple of years, (moving 3 times 1/2 way across the country and back, etc.) and although it was so, so difficult I have greater insight into myself and I appreciate the strength and faith of our children and the support of my incredible husband.
I'm sorry if this post sounds totally cheesy. I wish I had the vocabulary and ability to adequately describe what I'm trying to say without sounding so retarded. I guess when it all comes down to it. I am grateful for the challenges that have caused me to stretch and grow and become a better person; and I just love the way that little 5 year old Kate summed it all up, "Oh, it hurts to grow!"
Thursday, April 15, 2010
P.L.O.M. All Gone
Wow. I had really bad case of P.L.O.M. disease yesterday, (Poor Little Old Me), sorry about that. When I think about the trials and challenges that so many people are facing these days, I really feel ridiculous for feeling sorry for myself.
I'd like to share one of my favorite scriptures with you. This one is my new "theme" to carry me through when I feel tempted to be discouraged.
It's from Doctrine and Covenants 78:17-19 and it is revelation given through Joseph Smith, the Prophet from the Lord Jesus Christ.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are little children, and ye have not yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
"And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
"And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea more."
Among so many things--today I am thankful for my family. The other night while the little girls were in the bath they were playing and just getting along so well. Kate said, "Mom, if you didn't have a baby it would not be any fun." I could tell that was her way of saying that she was thankful for her little sister. Again, I am thankful for my family.
I'd like to share one of my favorite scriptures with you. This one is my new "theme" to carry me through when I feel tempted to be discouraged.
It's from Doctrine and Covenants 78:17-19 and it is revelation given through Joseph Smith, the Prophet from the Lord Jesus Christ.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are little children, and ye have not yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
"And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
"And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea more."
Among so many things--today I am thankful for my family. The other night while the little girls were in the bath they were playing and just getting along so well. Kate said, "Mom, if you didn't have a baby it would not be any fun." I could tell that was her way of saying that she was thankful for her little sister. Again, I am thankful for my family.
Friday, March 5, 2010
What Really Matters
As I was perusing through my regular blog reads I came across this.
It is beautifully written and achingly sweet. You will get a lump in your throat and maybe even shed a tear. But I think that you will also be inspired and encouraged.
Thank you sweet sister for posting this and helping us remember what really matters!
It is beautifully written and achingly sweet. You will get a lump in your throat and maybe even shed a tear. But I think that you will also be inspired and encouraged.
Thank you sweet sister for posting this and helping us remember what really matters!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Thankful
What am I thankful for? Of course I am thankful for my beautiful children and how they push me to be a better person. I'm thankful for my loving, supportive husband who carries enormous burdens for the sake of our family. I'm thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that I get to be a part of it and that I get to teach my children about it and make it a part of their lives. I'm thankful for my parents and their generosity and patience in opening their home to our family. I really don't know where we would be without them.
This one is a little harder-but I'm thankful for our trials. I'm thankful to have the opportunity to stretch and grow in ways that we never thought we would have to. Although painful at times, the refiner's fire does just that, it refines us and helps us become stronger, and we are better for it.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
This one is a little harder-but I'm thankful for our trials. I'm thankful to have the opportunity to stretch and grow in ways that we never thought we would have to. Although painful at times, the refiner's fire does just that, it refines us and helps us become stronger, and we are better for it.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Keep Your Chin Up
Warning, this post is long and it is a little personal, so please, bear with me.
I'm not even sure how to begin. Since Thanksgiving is this month I've been really trying to recognize the blessings in my life, from the small and simple, to the great. So with that in mind I want to share a couple of instances that happened a little while ago. Most of you know that we have had a difficult time financially lately. With Justin being laid off right before we moved over the summer to the unemployment market being saturated. It seems like it doesn't matter how much education you have or how many incredible things you have accomplished during past jobs. There are so many applicants for every job it's really hard to be offered anything at all. So when he was offered a position as a salesman for Lexus, Justin took it. It has continued to be what we thought it was at the time--something to do while we look for something better. Think of your current income, whatever it is and then divide that by four, thats kind of where we are now, at a fourth of our previous income. So even though it's hard sometimes it's truly a blessing that we live with my parents.
Anyway, that's just a preface to the rest of my post. So a couple of Sundays ago Justin and I were sitting in the foyer during Sunday School with Kenzie (we can't wait for her to be old enough to go to nursery). We both felt so discouraged--I don't know if any of you have felt this way. It was just all consuming and made doing anything really difficult. Well, we started talking with another mother in the foyer with her toddler and found out that her and her husband had recently moved into our ward. During the course of our conversation we lightly told her of our situation. She got all excited and told us that we needed to meet her husband who is tight friends with the guy in charge of hiring for their company. She said to us, "Keep your chin up," and we both felt so encouraged by that comment. Of course nothing came from sending her husband Justin's resume, we kind of new it would be like that at the time, but it was so refreshing and uplifting to hear and feel so much support from someone we hardly knew. It was just what we needed that day to get through.
Then a few days later I was at Wal Mart with Kate and Kenzie. I was again overwhelmed with the burdens that we are facing these days. This of course left me a little distracted. As we were trying to pick out the best jalapeno to put in our soup for dinner a man sped by on his motorized cart and Kate said, "Mom, you missed it! That was a really fat man!" I turned to look, but he had already sped pretty far away. At that time I turned back to Kate and told her that we don't say things like that, it's rude and it hurts people's feelings. Well, we went on to finish our shopping. I had to get some "stupid frisbees" for a school fundraiser for Kevin. That's how I felt about them. Kevin was assigned to bring frisbees to be part of a classroom basket that was going to be auctioned off. Now I probably could have explained that I don't have enough money, but it's so humiliating! And somehow being given this specific assignment I felt obligated. Besides, how expensive can frisbees be? So off we went, me feeling sick to my stomach about a lot of things and overwhelmed when this metabolically challenged man on his motorized cart sped up to me and said, (I'm not making this up), "I caught up to you because your daugher made a comment about me and I know she's young, but you didn't do anything to correct her, (and then without a break he turned to Kate and said), I'm like this because I was injured in Vietnam serving my country. Not on my first detail there, not on my second detail, but on my third detail serving my country. And now with all of the morphine and medications I take because of my injuries I gain weight no matter what my diet is like!" He might as well have added "So there!" I immediately apologized and calmly, but firmly told him that I had in fact corrected her and that he had sped away too fast to hear it. I think I said something like thank you for your service and we understand. I probably apologized again. And then he was off. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?! I'm still a little stunned myself. Of course the whole thing went over Kate's head and she just kept on with her never ending, "Look at that Mom! I want that for christmas!"
Needless to say, this event did not help my heavy heart in anyway. I just sped off to find my stupid frisbees and get home so I could help with homework, make dinner, go to activities, etc. Well, a few minutes later a women caught up to me and told me how she had overheard what that man had said. She apologized for his behavior. She recognized that little kids just say whatever and that they don't understand what they are saying. She told me that I had handled it well. Unfortunately or fortunately, my emotions finally caught up with me and I started to cry, (I know totally embarrassing!) I told her thank you and that I needed that today. And then she said, "Keep your chin up!" Again, such a simple statement from someone I didn't know but it came at a time when I really needed it. Again, it was supportive and encouraging and helped me get through. Even now it brings tears to my eyes. So thank you! Thank you! Thank you for your encouraging words!
So to anyone reading this who may find themselves in a tough spot, Keep your chin up! Things will get better.
I'm not even sure how to begin. Since Thanksgiving is this month I've been really trying to recognize the blessings in my life, from the small and simple, to the great. So with that in mind I want to share a couple of instances that happened a little while ago. Most of you know that we have had a difficult time financially lately. With Justin being laid off right before we moved over the summer to the unemployment market being saturated. It seems like it doesn't matter how much education you have or how many incredible things you have accomplished during past jobs. There are so many applicants for every job it's really hard to be offered anything at all. So when he was offered a position as a salesman for Lexus, Justin took it. It has continued to be what we thought it was at the time--something to do while we look for something better. Think of your current income, whatever it is and then divide that by four, thats kind of where we are now, at a fourth of our previous income. So even though it's hard sometimes it's truly a blessing that we live with my parents.
Anyway, that's just a preface to the rest of my post. So a couple of Sundays ago Justin and I were sitting in the foyer during Sunday School with Kenzie (we can't wait for her to be old enough to go to nursery). We both felt so discouraged--I don't know if any of you have felt this way. It was just all consuming and made doing anything really difficult. Well, we started talking with another mother in the foyer with her toddler and found out that her and her husband had recently moved into our ward. During the course of our conversation we lightly told her of our situation. She got all excited and told us that we needed to meet her husband who is tight friends with the guy in charge of hiring for their company. She said to us, "Keep your chin up," and we both felt so encouraged by that comment. Of course nothing came from sending her husband Justin's resume, we kind of new it would be like that at the time, but it was so refreshing and uplifting to hear and feel so much support from someone we hardly knew. It was just what we needed that day to get through.
Then a few days later I was at Wal Mart with Kate and Kenzie. I was again overwhelmed with the burdens that we are facing these days. This of course left me a little distracted. As we were trying to pick out the best jalapeno to put in our soup for dinner a man sped by on his motorized cart and Kate said, "Mom, you missed it! That was a really fat man!" I turned to look, but he had already sped pretty far away. At that time I turned back to Kate and told her that we don't say things like that, it's rude and it hurts people's feelings. Well, we went on to finish our shopping. I had to get some "stupid frisbees" for a school fundraiser for Kevin. That's how I felt about them. Kevin was assigned to bring frisbees to be part of a classroom basket that was going to be auctioned off. Now I probably could have explained that I don't have enough money, but it's so humiliating! And somehow being given this specific assignment I felt obligated. Besides, how expensive can frisbees be? So off we went, me feeling sick to my stomach about a lot of things and overwhelmed when this metabolically challenged man on his motorized cart sped up to me and said, (I'm not making this up), "I caught up to you because your daugher made a comment about me and I know she's young, but you didn't do anything to correct her, (and then without a break he turned to Kate and said), I'm like this because I was injured in Vietnam serving my country. Not on my first detail there, not on my second detail, but on my third detail serving my country. And now with all of the morphine and medications I take because of my injuries I gain weight no matter what my diet is like!" He might as well have added "So there!" I immediately apologized and calmly, but firmly told him that I had in fact corrected her and that he had sped away too fast to hear it. I think I said something like thank you for your service and we understand. I probably apologized again. And then he was off. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?! I'm still a little stunned myself. Of course the whole thing went over Kate's head and she just kept on with her never ending, "Look at that Mom! I want that for christmas!"
Needless to say, this event did not help my heavy heart in anyway. I just sped off to find my stupid frisbees and get home so I could help with homework, make dinner, go to activities, etc. Well, a few minutes later a women caught up to me and told me how she had overheard what that man had said. She apologized for his behavior. She recognized that little kids just say whatever and that they don't understand what they are saying. She told me that I had handled it well. Unfortunately or fortunately, my emotions finally caught up with me and I started to cry, (I know totally embarrassing!) I told her thank you and that I needed that today. And then she said, "Keep your chin up!" Again, such a simple statement from someone I didn't know but it came at a time when I really needed it. Again, it was supportive and encouraging and helped me get through. Even now it brings tears to my eyes. So thank you! Thank you! Thank you for your encouraging words!
So to anyone reading this who may find themselves in a tough spot, Keep your chin up! Things will get better.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Meeting Our Needs
After reading this, I have been surprised at the small, yet significant ways in which my life is blessed on a daily basis. Here are just a couple of examples.
My kids have needed new sheets for a long, long, time. And since it's much, much, colder where we live now, some new comforters would be really handy. However, I just kept telling myself with a sigh, "use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without." Most of you know that Justin was laid off in June. About 6 weeks ago he started working as a salesman for Superior Lexus, (a commission only job). There just isn't a lot of room in the budget. So 'use it up' has been my mantra these days. Well, I happened to take Kate to Target last friday because she needed new socks and underwear, (those are a little harder to hand-me-down). And as we were checking out, the people behind us in line has sheet sets and comforters that were on clearance for $3.24 for the sheets and $4.98 for the comforters!! Hurray! I was so excited! Even more excited when there were still some left!
Then the next day I loaded all the kids up to find the local Salvation Army. Being new to the area I wasn't exactly sure where we were going, and in NOT finding the Salvation Army we came across a great resale shop called "Wild Child"! They even had clothes in Kelly's size. It was truly an answer to prayer, especially since it has gotten so cold here. (Sunday they broke a new record for the coldest "high" this time of year, a whopping 42 degrees).
I am completely humbled and grateful to know that my Father in Heaven loves me so much to answer my prayers and meet our needs in what seems like such small ways. I know that he loves you and will do the same for you too.
My kids have needed new sheets for a long, long, time. And since it's much, much, colder where we live now, some new comforters would be really handy. However, I just kept telling myself with a sigh, "use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without." Most of you know that Justin was laid off in June. About 6 weeks ago he started working as a salesman for Superior Lexus, (a commission only job). There just isn't a lot of room in the budget. So 'use it up' has been my mantra these days. Well, I happened to take Kate to Target last friday because she needed new socks and underwear, (those are a little harder to hand-me-down). And as we were checking out, the people behind us in line has sheet sets and comforters that were on clearance for $3.24 for the sheets and $4.98 for the comforters!! Hurray! I was so excited! Even more excited when there were still some left!
Then the next day I loaded all the kids up to find the local Salvation Army. Being new to the area I wasn't exactly sure where we were going, and in NOT finding the Salvation Army we came across a great resale shop called "Wild Child"! They even had clothes in Kelly's size. It was truly an answer to prayer, especially since it has gotten so cold here. (Sunday they broke a new record for the coldest "high" this time of year, a whopping 42 degrees).
I am completely humbled and grateful to know that my Father in Heaven loves me so much to answer my prayers and meet our needs in what seems like such small ways. I know that he loves you and will do the same for you too.
Friday, September 25, 2009
What to be When I Grow Up?
So lately I seem to find myself surrounded, (o.k. probably not surrounded, but that's what it feels like), individuals that are utilizing their talents to create amazing things and live fulfilling and successful lives. I'm sure a lot of this is my own perception and I know we all face different challenges. However, it makes me wonder.....what am I good at? What are my talents? Is there something inside of me that I can develop and use to be part of something bigger? Is there something that I am capable of creating that may bring a little success to my life and better the lives of my family? Hmmmm.......
Any thoughts?
In trying to "figure it all out" I went here and took a career exploration survey. It was very interesting. It consisted of 100 questions which had three choices of random things and you had to pick which one you liked least and which you liked most. I'm not sure how choosing between training wild animals for the circus and stuffing envelopes can help figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are, or determine what you're most interested in; But right now I just feel this increasing need to find out and make something happen!
Any thoughts?
In trying to "figure it all out" I went here and took a career exploration survey. It was very interesting. It consisted of 100 questions which had three choices of random things and you had to pick which one you liked least and which you liked most. I'm not sure how choosing between training wild animals for the circus and stuffing envelopes can help figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are, or determine what you're most interested in; But right now I just feel this increasing need to find out and make something happen!
Friday, September 11, 2009
It's Good to Be Home
This is what I did yesterday. It felt good to accomplish something like this and I felt extremely grateful to be at home with my two little girls. You see, Justin got a job (insert cheers here)! I gave notice at the natural foods grocery store and have been home for a couple of weeks. Justin is working for Superior Lexus of Kansas City as a salesman. I know what some of you are thinking....car salesman?! I think one comment made by a friend was, "Well, you don't have to put every job on your resume." Of course this person meant well and we didn't take any offense to it. The truth is, we will not underestimate any opportunity for growth and success. Wouldn't it be nice to know that for the effort you put into your job you are adequately, (or even more than adequately) compensated? That is the potential with this job and so far he really likes it.What surprises me is how quickly we've adapted to this new routine. Dad's at work again. Kelly and Kevin are at school again and lucky Mom gets to stay home with the little girls. It feels good. It feels comfortable, kind of like your favorite pair of jeans, as goofy as that sounds.
So, what have I been doing with all of my "free" time? I haven't figured out yet how the day can go by and I can be busy all day and yet in the evening I feel like I have done nothing. However, yesterday I DID make bread, (again, insert cheers here). And I'm trying to make time to read here and there. I feel grateful for this time in my life. I love my children and I am blessed with a great family. Yes, it's good to be home.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
I Think You Are Wonderful!
I read this in my sister's blog, and wanted to add a wonderful quote that I used a few years ago in a Young Women's lesson. This comes from Margaret D. Nadauld (October 2002)
"May you understand the great potential for good you inherited from your heavenly home. We...must nourish our gentleness, our nurturing nature, our innate spirituality and sensitivity and our bright minds...Be thankful for the position you have in God's grand plan. And always remember what President Hinckley said: 'Woman is God's supreme creation. Only after the earth had been formed, after the day had been separated from the night, after the waters had been divided from the land, after vegetation and animal life had been created; and after man had been placed on the earth, was woman created; and only then was the work pronounced complete and good.' Remember all that you are and must be, all that you were prepared to be in royal courts on high by God Himself. Thankfully consider how you can use with gratitude the priceless gifts you have been given to lift others to higher thinking and nobler aspirations."
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