My Hopeless Romantic

I suppose that most people don't feel very attractive when they are sick. It's hard to keep up appearances when your struggling just to keep food down. Like a domino effect, this flu has gone from each of my children and now to me. I've had it for a few days and by this third day I'm feeling very unattractive.

Despite all my feelings of ugliness..... I have a sweet little 6yr. old boy who knows how to win my heart and make me feel very loved. (My husband likes to tease that my son is the hopeless romantic that I always wanted.) Yesterday, after taking a long bath to help ease all my aches and pains, I returned to my bedroom and found this heart on my pillow.

My sweet boy also wrote this for me on the whiteboard in the kitchen.

Watch out ladies! This boy is bound to break a lot of girls hearts.... because only one of you can have him.

Daughters of God

I think most mothers would agree that there are very humbling moments where you feel inadiquate as a mom. I know I do when I've displayed a lack of patience, an unkind word or a short temper. I have much need for improvement... but I am thankful that God is faithful and forgiving. And like Paul in speaking to the Corinthians I too have a thorn in my flesh... yet, Christ's grace is sufficient for me and my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Lately I've been deeply studying Alma 37. A couple of days ago three verses stood out to me very strong that made me think of my children, the way I speak to them, the time and attention I give them and what I truly value.

"I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise....If ye keep the commandments of God, and do with these things which are sacred [my children] according to that which the Lord doth command you, (for you must appeal unto the Lord for all things whatsoever ye must do with them) behold no power of earth or hell can take them from you, for God is powerful to the fulfilling of all His words. For He will fulfil all His promises which He shall make unto you..."- Alma 37:6,16-17

After reading these verses I went to LDS Scripture Citation Index and found a talk by Elder M.Russel Ballard given back in 2008. It fit perfectly with my thoughts on motherhood. I've posted a majority of the talk below.

DAUGHTERS OF GOD (After clicking on this link, scroll down to the bottom of the page it is the second to last talk given in the Sunday Afternoon Session. Here it can be viewed, or listened to as well.)

"After observing and empathizing with three generations of mothers and thinking of my own dear mother, I surely know that there is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood.

There is no one perfect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family. Many are able to be “full-time moms,” at least during the most formative years of their children’s lives, and many others would like to be. Some may have to work part-or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God and her husband, prioritizes them above all else.

I am impressed by countless mothers who have learned how important it is to focus on the things that can only be done in a particular season of life. If a child lives with parents for 18 or 19 years, that span is only one-fourth of a parent’s life. And the most formative time of all, the early years in a child’s life, represents less than one-tenth of a parent’s normal life. It is crucial to focus on our children for the short time we have them with us and to seek, with the help of the Lord, to teach them all we can before they leave our homes. This eternally important work falls to mothers and fathers as equal partners. I am grateful that today many fathers are more involved in the lives of their children. But I believe that the instincts and the intense nurturing involvement of mothers with their children will always be a major key to their well-being. In the words of the proclamation on the family, “Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102).

We need to remember that the full commitment of motherhood and of putting children first can be difficult. Through my own four-generation experience in our family, and through discussions with mothers of young children throughout the Church, I know something of a mother’s emotions that accompany her commitment to be at home with young children. There are moments of great joy and incredible fulfillment, but there are also moments of a sense of inadequacy, monotony, and frustration. Mothers may feel they receive little or no appreciation for the choice they have made. Sometimes even husbands seem to have no idea of the demands upon their wives.

As a Church, we have enormous respect and gratitude to you mothers of young children. We want you to be happy and successful in your families and to have the validation and support you need and deserve. So today, let me ask and briefly answer four questions. While my answers may seem extremely simple, if the simple things are being tended to, a mother’s life can be most rewarding.

The first question: What can you do, as a young mother, to reduce the pressure and enjoy your family more?

First, recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction.

Author Anna Quindlen reminds us not to rush past the fleeting moments. She said: “The biggest mistake I made [as a parent] is the one that most of us make. … I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of [my three children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four, and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less” (Loud and Clear [2004], 10–11).

Second, don’t overschedule yourselves or your children. We live in a world that is filled with options. If we are not careful, we will find every minute jammed with social events, classes, exercise time, book clubs, scrapbooking, Church callings, music, sports, the Internet, and our favorite TV shows. One mother told me of a time that her children had 29 scheduled commitments every week: music lessons, Scouts, dance, Little League, day camps, soccer, art, and so forth. She felt like a taxi driver. Finally, she called a family meeting and announced, “Something has to go; we have no time to ourselves and no time for each other.” Families need unstructured time when relationships can deepen and real parenting can take place. Take time to listen, to laugh, and to play together.

Third, even as you try to cut out the extra commitments, sisters, find some time for yourself to cultivate your gifts and interests. Pick one or two things that you would like to learn or do that will enrich your life, and make time for them. Water cannot be drawn from an empty well, and if you are not setting aside a little time for what replenishes you, you will have less and less to give to others, even to your children. Avoid any kind of substance abuse, mistakenly thinking that it will help you accomplish more. And don’t allow yourself to be caught up in the time-wasting, mind-numbing things like television soap operas or surfing the Internet. Turn to the Lord in faith, and you will know what to do and how to do it.

Fourth, pray, study, and teach the gospel. Pray deeply about your children and about your role as a mother. Parents can offer a unique and wonderful kind of prayer because they are praying to the Eternal Parent of us all. There is great power in a prayer that essentially says, “We are steward-parents over Thy children, Father; please help us to raise them as Thou wouldst want them raised.”

The second question: What more can a husband do to support his wife, the mother of their children?

First, show extra appreciation and give more validation for what your wife does every day. Notice things and say thank you—often. Schedule some evenings together, just the two of you.

Second, have a regular time to talk with your wife about each child’s needs and what you can do to help.

Third, give your wife a “day away” now and then. Just take over the household and give your wife a break from her daily responsibilities. Taking over for a while will greatly enhance your appreciation of what your wife does. You may do a lot of lifting, twisting, and bending!

Fourth, come home from work and take an active role with your family. Don’t put work, friends, or sports ahead of listening to, playing with, and teaching your children.

The third question: What can children, even young children, do? Now, you children, please listen to me because there are some simple things you can do to help your mother.

You can pick up your toys when you are finished playing with them, and when you get a little older, you can make your bed, help with the dishes, and do other chores—without being asked.

You can say thank you more often when you finish a nice meal, when a story is read to you at bedtime, or when clean clothes are put in your drawers.

Most of all, you can put your arms around your mother often and tell her you love her.

The last question: What can the Church do?

There are many things the Church offers to mothers and families, but for my purpose today may I suggest that the bishopric and the ward council members be especially watchful and considerate of the time and resource demands on young mothers and their families. Know them and be wise in what you ask them to do at this time in their lives. Alma’s counsel to his son Helaman applies to us today: “Behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass” ( Alma 37:6).

I hope all of you dear sisters, married or single, never wonder if you have worth in the sight of the Lord and to the leaders of the Church. We love you. We respect you and appreciate your influence in preserving the family and assisting with the growth and the spiritual vitality of the Church. Let us remember that “the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World”). The scriptures and the teachings of the prophets and apostles help all family members to prepare together now to be together through all eternity. I pray that God will continually bless the women of the Church to find joy and happiness in their sacred roles as daughters of God."

Words of Wisdom From a 7yr. Old

The following is an experience my husband related to me:

"I was sitting at the table with my daughter Sunday morning and she painted while I was eating. She kept asking if I like her art and I said I loved it. Which I do. She's very talented and has beautiful brush control. She then started talking about how she was going to be the best painter in the world. Now, I confess, I missed the boat on this one. As the father of a 7-year-old you're dang right she's going to be the best painter in the world.

However, lest she be exalted above or disappointed beyond measure I entered with the wisdom that could only come with age and experience, "That sounds wonderful sweetie. But always remember that there will always be somebody better than you at whatever you do." I swear she didn't miss a beat and she did not look up from her painting, but in that beautiful way that only a child can do she replied, "Well, then there will always be somebody for me to learn from!"

POW!!

How's that for wisdom? I just thought I would share that. It was so wonderful!

"Out of the mouth of babes."

Imagine if more of us adults would be as humble and teachable as little children. Mark 10: 14-15"

Where's Earth?

I took my children to see a kid's show at the planetarium in the science building my husband does research at. The planetarium is a large dome theater that projects a replica of what we see in our night time sky. The lady giving the presentation pointed out different planets such as Jupiter, Venus, and others...

...then she asked the children if they knew where Earth was.

One child squinted her eyes, "there it is, I see earth," she said pointing to one of the stars.

"Actually you can't see earth in the stars like you can the other planets," responded the presenter. "The reason you can't see it in the sky is because you are standing on it."

I looked over at my 4yr. old and saw this revelation hit him...

He looked down at his feet with complete amazement... as he gazed with his eyes wide open he shouted excitedly , "I'M STANDING ON EARTH!"

I laughed with adoration. And then..... I learned something from him. I learned how children see miracles in things we adults often take for granted. Isn't it amazing in this vast expanse of space that WE ARE STANDING ON EARTH!

Help Me to Be What I Am Not

I've never done this before but this year I've been doing an online school with my kids through k12.com I've chosen to do it for several reasons... one is because we move alot and another is because my son has asperger syndrome. I also like the fact that my kids can pray in school and use Scripture for part of their study. My children will still take a few classes at a regular school as they get older but I will teach the core ones.

This has been both rewarding and very challenging. Today has been very challenging. We all woke up on the wrong side of the bed and have been irritated, rude and impatient with each other. It's days like these that I feel like I am doing more damage than good by homeschooling. uggg!

I was getting so impatient and so irritable with my kids that finally for their safety I sent them outside for an hour long recess from me!

I went to my room and knelt down completely overwhelmed by my own weakness. I prayed for patience. I know about patience, I can talk about patience. I read scriptures about patience. But I don't feel like I AM patient... I know I'm not. So I prayed for GRACE! "Dear Father in Heaven please help me be what I am not." As to my own strength I am weak... I need strength beyond my own to accomplish this God given assignment as mother.

Every day I pray to improve but most of all I pray that He will help me see what I don't see.... in myself and in others. I pray He will help me be what I am not.... Because so often I am not forgiving, I am not gentle and I am not compassionate....the human nature side of me isn't.

But He knows my divine nature. I know our Father in Heaven is so anxious to bless us and he will give us what we ask for if it is a righteous request. I feel better now that I've given myself a "time out." I'm thankful to know that I can pray anytime, anywhere and seek for the powers of heaven to assist me. Our Father in Heaven is faithful, as I seek Him, He is always there. Oh how I need Him.

I laughed until I cried!!

My sister-in-law sent me this video. I laughed so hard!!! Ahhh, laughter is such good medicine for the soul. Hope this makes everyone's day, It made mine!
**Remember to mute the music player on the left and then click on the video.

Why throw a tantrum if no one can see you?!


Here's a couple other videos you may have seen before. My kids really like these ones. Enjoy!

Mr. Personality!

Yes. These are my 3 kids with their home-made Easter baskets. Take a look... can you see which one of my children is my craziest?

I don't know where he gets it from.... hmm...I really don't know...
Now she might look like she could be my mild one...... but.....Believe it or not this one is really my mildest.
Life is full of excitement!
Ahh yes, there is my mild one.
Remember my pretty little girl... this is her home-made "costume." She wrapped scotch tape around her head and said, "Look mommy, look at my costume mommy!" Hey, at least she's creative....practical too.

Ahh the Joys of being a mommy!
I wouldn't trade any of it for the whole world!

Powerful Mothers

I listened to this talk 3 times this morning by Julie B. Beck, General Relief Society President. I agree with everything she says. So I wanted to share it. Of course this is just part of the talk... I have summarized it for the ease of reading and to highlight the points that stand out to a more general audience.

I think it's sad how children are valued less now days and motherhood is seen as a burden instead of the great blessing it really is. I know it's not always easy. I'm a full-time mom of 3 with one on the way. Some days are overwhelmingly hard. But, there is no one else whose influence is greater than a mother.... so why do we let the world influence our little ones? There is nothing that gives me greater joy and greater fulfillment than teaching, leading, loving and nurturing these precious gifts God has given me. It is no small thing to raise a child in righteous principles. It's a noble calling that I am proud, very proud to be a part of.

Here's the clips from that talk I liked so much:
God bless you!
Alicia

"The responsibility mothers have today has never required more vigilance. More than at any time in the history of the world, we need mothers who know. Children are being born into a world where they "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12).1 However, mothers need not fear. When mothers know who they are and who God is and have made covenants with Him, they will have great power and influence for good on their children....."

"Mothers who know desire to bear children. Whereas in many cultures in the world children are "becoming less valued,"2 in the culture of the gospel we still believe in having children...."

"Mothers who know are nurturers....Nurturing requires organization, patience, love, and work. Helping growth occur through nurturing is truly a powerful and influential role bestowed on women."

"Mothers who know are leaders. In equal partnership with their husbands, they lead a great and eternal organization. These mothers plan for the future of their organization..... They do not abandon their plan by succumbing to social pressure and worldly models of parenting. These wise mothers who know are selective about their own activities and involvement to conserve their limited strength in order to maximize their influence where it matters most."

"Mothers who know are always teachers. Since they are not babysitters, they are never off duty. A well-taught friend told me that he did not learn anything at church that he had not already learned at home. His parents used family scripture study, prayer, family home evening, mealtimes, and other gatherings to teach."

"Mothers who know do less. They permit less of what will not bear good fruit eternally. They allow less media in their homes, less distraction, less activity that draws their children away from their home. Mothers who know are willing to live on less and consume less of the world's goods in order to spend more time with their children—more time eating together, more time working together, more time reading together, more time talking, laughing, singing, and exemplifying. These mothers choose carefully and do not try to choose it all. Their goal is to prepare a rising generation of children who will take the gospel of Jesus Christ into the entire world. Their goal is to prepare future fathers and mothers who will be builders of the Lord's kingdom for the next 50 years. That is influence; that is power."

- Julie B. Beck, General Relief Society President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints- Given in World-wide Conference Oct. 2007

You are loved!!

Art work:Under His Wing, by Jay Bryant Ward

There are some wonderful articles published in this month's Ensign magazine. This is a poster included in the middle of the magazine that I thought was absolutely beautiful. Children have increadible faith... I see it in the eyes of my own children. My children are my greatest teachers on what it means to be humble, teachable, forgiving, and believing.

The following poem is one of my very most favorites. As I ponder the words, "Jesus loves me."... my mind recalls this poem.

“The Touch of the Master’s Hand,” -by: Myra Brooks Welch
“ ’Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer

Thought it scarcely worth his while

To waste much time on the old violin,

But held it up with a smile:

‘What am I bidden, good folks,’ he cried,

‘Who’ll start the bidding for me?’

‘A dollar, a dollar’; then, ‘Two!’ ‘Only two?

Two dollars, and who’ll make it three?

Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice;

Going for three—’ But no,

From the room, far back, a gray-haired man

Came forward and picked up the bow;

Then, wiping the dust from the old violin,

And tightening the loose strings,

He played a melody pure and sweet

As sweet as a caroling angel sings.

“The music ceased, and the auctioneer,

With a voice that was quiet and low,

Said, ‘What am I bid for the old violin?’

And he held it up with the bow.

‘A thousand dollars, and who’ll make it two?

Two thousand! And who’ll make it three?

Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice,

And going, and gone!’ said he.

The people cheered, but some of them cried,

‘We do not quite understand

What changed its worth.’ Swift came the reply:

‘The touch of a master’s hand.’

“And many a man with life out of tune,

And battered and scarred with sin,

Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd,

Much like the old violin.

A ‘mess of pottage,’ a glass of wine;

A game—and he travels on.

He’s ‘going’ once, and ‘going’ twice,

He’s ‘going’ and almost ‘gone.’

But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd

Never can quite understand

The worth of a soul and the change that’s wrought

By the touch of the Master’s hand.”

New Baby

I'm excited to say that this year we will have a new addition to our family. There is nothing like holding a newborn baby in my arms. My other children are so excited too. They can't wait. I feel very ready for my fourth. I pray for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.
Here are a couple of poems about newborn's. God bless you!
Have a wonderful day!
Alicia

They are idols of hearts and of households!
They are angels of God in disguise;
The sunlight still sleeps in their tresses,
His glory still gleams in their eyes;
These truants from home and from Heaven,
They have made me more gentle and mild;
And I know now how Jesus could liken
The kingdom of God to a child.
By- Charles M. Dickinson

Your tiny hand, Holds mine so sure-
Your precious hand, So clean and pure.
With all your trust, You cling to me-
No worries or cares, Of what might be.
A light in the dark, A shining star,
An angel from heaven, Is what you are.
This joy I feel, I can't express;
you've brought my life Such happiness.
I have more Than riches told;
Your tiny hand, In mine I hold.
By- Alicia Rawlins http://aliciarawlins.com/

Sleeping Beauties

I don't have much to blog about today. I've had a good day but have been extremely busy carpooling back and forth to schools, running to Doctors appointments, cleaning up my car from sick kids, bathing children, feeding children, changing dirty diapers, reading stories, playing games and tucking my sweet little ones into bed. I'm exhausted! I'm leaving the dishes undone and the house a mess and I'm going to bed, it will all be there tomorrow. I'm exhausted but I feel great, I'm so blessed to have what I do. It's so awesome to see my three little miracles all taken care of and sleeping peacefully, Man! there is nothing better than being a mommy. It's amazing how much work it takes to care for my little family.... but it's so worth it! It's so worth it!

Show & Tell

It was my oldest child's turn in his elementary class yesterday for "Show & Tell." He wanted to bring his younger brother and sister to show off to his class. I called his teacher to see if that would be alright and arranged a time I could bring his "Show & Tell" over to the school. Witnessing things like this are just one of the many joys of being a mom. I think it's sweet. And I'd do the same. Hey, they are the first on my list to show off to my friends.

My poor little boy.

My youngest has the flu. Poor kid. I've been holding him in my arms for 3 hours this morning just trying to ease his discomfort. I laid him down in his bed and held him some more until he finally fell asleep. I feel so bad to see my children sick. I'm grateful it is nothing too serious. Moments like these give me greater admiration and compassion for those loving parents who have had to watch their child go through or even be taken by a life threatening illness. That would break my heart into a million pieces - it would truly tear me a part.

Is it ok if I just vent today?!

Shhhh. Let them sleep. They just need a nap, or a time-out... or they're hungry and tired and could use a nice long, warm bath.... but mostly they need a nap. I'm not talking about kids.... I'm talking about MOTHERS.

Normally I like to share things that are inspiring and uplifting to others. Today I'm not so sure that I could call this post "inspiring."

Today has been so overwhelmingly difficult with my kids and I am ready to explode. My kids are on year-round school and they have been off track for almost three weeks. Off track means no school... no school in the middle of the fridged winter with no money means my creative juices are all gone by the third week and I am drained!!!! Today they have done nothing but fight, scream, make messes, climb the walls and complain!!! They are driving me CRAZY! So, for their safety and my sanity, I have tucked myself in a little corner of the house and am wearing ear plugs.

I'm using my blog to vent this time.... I know it's not very uplifting but.... do you mind if I just SCREAM? AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! Breathe. Breathe. Breath. Now say to myself, "I love my kids. I love my kids. I love my kids. I don't want to kill them. I don't want to kill them. I don't want to kill them."

My mother-in-law is so awesome. She must be inspired. She called to offer to babysit tonight so my husband and I could have some time away from the kids. Oh, I love that woman. THANK YOU. My father-in-law is coming to help babysit too. Now I just need to endure the children for a couple more hours... I think I can make it. There is a light at the end of the tunnel... and I don't think it's cuz my children are killing me, so this is good.

How is it that these beautiful little children of mine, who have given me so much joy and fullfilment in my life, give me days that are a living hell? OH how I love them. I think that it's BECAUSE I LOVE them that days like this hurt so much.

Tonight, I will have some time off (thanks to my in-laws who are a God-send). I will get some good rest tonight and tomorrow I will feel much better. Awww. I feel better already.

Winter Fun

My youngest has muscles!!! He actually pulled is older brother across the entire yard and he's half the size of his big brother.



My husband, adding a little more speed to the sleds. He knows how to make things so much more fun for the kids... and he has the energy for it too. When he's home, I totally get to kick back. There's no contest, the kids would rather play with daddy any day.

My youngest boy. He has so much personality. He's the most cuddly of all my kids....oooo.. I love it!

These expressions are typical of my oldest. I think he has over 200 faces. He is such a clown.

This is my beautiful daughter, she was sick and had to watch her brothers play outside from the window. She is so full of energy and knows how to make her brothers roll on the floor with laughter. Oh don't let that sweet little innocent smile fool ya... look a little closer... do you see the wild streak in her eyes?

Faith of a Child

My oldest boy has been learning to pray on his own. These are some cute experiences I have had with him concerning prayer:

I couldn't find my keys to the car and we all had an appointment we were late for. I looked everywhere and was begining to lose my patience too... I went outside to buckle my kids in thier seats anyway. I got my younger two strapped in and called to my oldest to hurry. I walked back in the house, frustrated, because now I not only had to find my keys but I had to find my son as well. Impatiently, I searched for my keys while telling my oldest to hurry. Then I saw him... he was kneeling down by the couch and stood up with a big smile on his face... excitedly he said, "Mommy, I know right where your keys are. I said a prayer and now I know. I asked Heavenly Father to help me and He did." Then he ran straight to where my keys were and handed them proudly to me. "See I knew Heavenly Father would help me. I knew it." It was humbling for me.

My son loves to pray about everything. I told him how proud I was of his faith. "Never lose that faith," I said. He responded, "Ya, I just know Heavenly Father will help me with anything I ask... He always does. I have really great faith!"
"Yes, you do" I said, "And I am so proud of you. You are a very good example to me."

The other night, for dinner my son gave the prayer on the food... this was his prayer:

"Heavenly Father, thank Thee for this food and for our blessings. Thank Thee for Jesus... and... please bless me that when I go back to school it won't be winter anymore... that next week at morning recess I will go outside and it will be 90 degrees..... And Heavenly Father, I know that You hear my prayers even if they aren't always answered as I expect them to be.... in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

No wonder Jesus taught:
"Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." - Matt. 18:3
"Suffer the little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." - Matt. 9:14

A Few More Pictures

My cute little daughter. Everything is fun for her!

My three greatest joys! Oh, how I love these guys.

My good-looking husband on his way to work. He can't stand being away from the kids... but I'm glad he works hard so I can be home. He's great!

Fun Family Pictures

Me and my kids at a train expo. My boys love trains. We are riding on one that requires a very tiny bottom... uh... mine was a little sore after this.

Ahhh the joys of parenting. This little guy discovered the sun block. I just laughed... it was way too cute not to.

Our little adventure that caused a bit of grief for us all. But we made it through. Didn't lose anything too important, we were happy for that. It could have been worse!

Me and the kids on the train at the Zoo. My husband took this picture, that's why he's not in it. We all had a great time. It was a perfect day.

My oldest pretending to fly a helicopter at the childrens museum. Isn't he so adorable.... of course arn't all my children adorable! I like to brag. I'm the mom I have those rights! So there. :)

Simple Fun

I had a fun little simple time with my kids the other day.... the best part is that it didn't cost any money. See, I like to take advantage of my tax dollars and go to the library. I checked out some of the 80's greatest hits on CD- (these were songs I danced to as a kid.) We had so much fun just dancing like maniacs. I love dancing with my kids because anything goes and it's great exercise! I don't listen to music like I did as a teenager... it's funny because... I find myself turning into my mother and listening to the news or talk radio more than music now days. Which is really ironic because, I always gave my mom a bad time about her "boring" radio stations. I wonder if the reason children enjoy life more is because they don't listen to news and talk radio. So, sometimes I get talked out and weighed down with news to the point that these little "music dance breaks" with my kids are a welcome relief from it all. Go find some of your old music and just dance like no one is watching... it's guaranteed to put you in a good mood!

Excerpt from President Gordon B. Hinckley's Message

I revere President Gordon B. Hinckley as a Prophet of God. This is an excerpt from the December Ensign, a monthly magazine distributed from my Church. This is only part of his sermon but I love to hear him speak.

I think that people of all faiths could benefit from and appreciate the following message:

"If I may be pardoned for suggesting the obvious, I do so only because the obvious is not observed in so many instances. The obvious includes four imperatives with reference to children: (1) love them, (2) teach them, (3) respect them, and (4) pray with them and for them.

There once was a commonly seen bumper sticker that asked the question, “Have you hugged your child today?” How fortunate, how blessed is the child who feels the affection of his or her parents. That warmth, that love will bear sweet fruit in the years that follow. In large measure, the harshness that characterizes so much of our society is an outgrowth of harshness imposed on children years ago.

Do you want a spirit of love to grow in the world? Then begin within the walls of your own home. Behold your little ones, and see within them the wonders of God, from whose presence they have recently come.

Behold your little ones, and teach them. I need not remind you that your example will do more than anything else in impressing upon their minds a pattern of life. It is always interesting to meet the children of old friends and to find in another generation the ways of their fathers and mothers.

Behold your little ones. Pray with them. Pray for them and bless them. The world into which they are moving is a complex and difficult world. They will run into heavy seas of adversity. They will need all the strength and all the faith you can give them while they are yet near you. And they will also need a greater strength which comes of a higher power. They must do more than go along with what they find. They must lift the world, and the only levers they will have are the example of their own lives and the powers of persuasion that will come of their testimonies and their knowledge of the things of God. They will need the help of the Lord. While they are young, pray with them that they may come to know that source of strength which shall then always be available in every hour of need."- President Gordon B. Hinckley- Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints