Thankful

"The happiest people I know are not those who find their golden ticket; they are those who, while in pursuit of worthy goals, discover and treasure the beauty and sweetness of the everyday moments. They are the ones who, thread by daily thread, weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder throughout their lives. These are they who are truly happy." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and I've been thinking a lot about gratitude this week. One woman said, “Don’t try to be happy. Try to be grateful and then happiness will naturally follow.”

1 Chronicles 16: 8 “Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.”

Mosiah 2:23-24 “And now, in the first place, he hath created you, and granted unto you your lives, for which ye are indebted unto him. And secondly, he doth require that ye should do as he hath commanded you: for which if ye do, he doth immediately bless you; and therefore he hath paid you. And ye are still indebted unto him, and are and will be, forever and ever: therefore, of what have ye to boast?

D&C 59:7 “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.”

“Mercies and blessings come in different forms—sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.” D&C 59:7; [emphasis added.]

All things means just that: good things, difficult things—not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love.”– Bonnie D. Parkin

Please bear with me as I share just a few things that make my life so rich: I'm so thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I'm so thankful for the freedom of religion, I'm thankful for my little family and for good people everywhere I go. I believe the majority of people are good in every land and every country, so I say I'm thankful for the good people all over the world. I'm so thankful to live in the United States, I'm thankful for the freedoms I enjoy here and the men and women throughout this country's history that have given their lives to make it free. I feel so blessed!

Change of Seasons

I noticed a few of the leaves were turning yellow today which means the change of seasons is in the air. This is always a welcome change for me because I LOVE fall! Seeing these signs of nature, made me think of the variety of seasons in life for all of us.

I couldn't help but reflect on the phone call from my dad earlier this morning that mom has been admitted to the hospital again. With her condition seemingly getting worse over the past year, this could be an indication that I am entering another season in my own life... the leaves are changing. I suppose nothing really does stay the same forever and life unfolds in ways we usually don't expect.

Thinking about my mom today, I began to feel a little heavy with fear. "I'm not ready to be at a stage in my life yet where I watch my parents deteriorate.... In 20 yrs. from now I still don't think I'll be ready to handle such a challenge!" Needing some comfort, I recalled the scripture in Mormon that reads, "For do we not read that God is the ^asame ^byesterday, today, and forever, and in him there is no ^cvariableness neither shadow of changing?"

I remember sitting in a testimony meeting years ago and listening to a mother who just lost a baby at birth. I'm sure this was something she never imagined would happen to her. But through her tears she had not lost her faith. She stood confident and declared with boldness, "I don't know what the future holds...But I know Who holds the future." I've never forgotten that.

I take comfort in knowing that God will not leave us, He will help us through whatever life requires of us and give us strength to bear it. I believe with all my heart in the promise found in Isaiah "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

Catholics and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Unite

See the devotional here Francis George Catholics and Latter-day Saints: Partners in the Defense of Religious Freedom February 23, 2010 BYU Broadcasting

9/11 Story of Hope

I saw this video last week on youtube. It is so beautiful. Wonderful things can come out of terrible tragedies. The video is called "Finding Hope" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkWc_EKLs4E

So Blessed

I had such a wonderful day with my husband and my little children today. It's not all the time that things go this smooth, it was great. So many times today I just stood back, looked at my little family and thought, "I am so incredibly blessed!!" I love being a mommy and I love sharing these experiences with my husband.

I thought this quote would be fitting for today:

"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." - Gordon B. Hinckley

I love you Grandpa!

I went to my Grandpa's funeral yesterday. He was 92. Joseph B. Wirthlin was 91, his funeral was the day before my Grandpa's. There is no relation between the two men. But I've been thinking alot about the things Elder Wirthlin taught in relationship to my family.

My Grandpa was a good man. He was funny, smart, very hard-working and he had a testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. My grandpa had his flaws just like we all do... and I regret that most of my life I didn't focus more on his strengths.

So where does this tie into Elder Wirthlin. Well, he gave a talk back in 2005 called, "The Virtue of Kindness" and all day at my grandpa's funeral I kept thinking about this talk.

Elder Wirthlin said:

"Nothing exposes our true selves more than how we treat one another in the home. I often wonder why some feel they must be critical of others. It gets in their blood, I suppose, and it becomes so natural they often don't even think about it. They seem to criticize everyone—...Even when we think we are doing no harm by our critical remarks, consequences often follow."

I regret being critical of my grandpa and not taking the time to focus on the good in him much sooner in life.... I really think I misunderstood him. Sadly, it wasn't until a few months ago that I began to see my grandpa in a different light.

I began to look for the good, and when I did, I started to see it manifested all over the place. He has always, always been kind to me. He always had a joke to tell that would make me smile. Greeting us as we came up the steps to his front door was always some kind of electronic toy that was motion censored, sure to entertain us. His door bell always played a different tune to match the season of the year and even someones birthday. I loved to hear him play the piano (he could play almost any song just by hearing it first.) He loved taking pictures, I think he's passed that on to me... I too want so much to hang on to the memory of my children. He worked so hard to provide for his family (I believe this is one of the ways he showed he loved them.) I know he loved his family deeply, I have no doubt. He just had his own unique way of showing it.

I remember every Christmas looking forward to seeing the star he had lit high above his house on his old radio antenna. It was there every single year and could be seen a mile away. Just over 7 years ago, after his stroke, the star stopped shining and no one has been able to get it working since. I would like to see it shine again just for him.

This last little while I think I've come to understand my grandpa so much more...

I got the feeling that he had a low self esteem. I also believe there are some patterns of behavior passed down from him to my father and then to my son. My son has been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, a little OCD and ADHD... it would be interesting to see if this was the case with my grandpa too. I know my dad says he sees himself in my little boy. My son is often greatly misunderstood because of his intense personality, he struggles socially... but I see him as an amazing, huge hearted boy with the best of intentions and wonderful gifts.

One night, a couple of weeks before he died, I called my grandpa just to tell him how much I loved him, I told him that he was a good man and that I was proud of his accomplishments.... he broke down and cried, "I don't know what to say.... I don't know what to say.... (he cried some more) thank you so much... I will sleep better tonight than I have slept in a long, long time... thank you... I love you too, I love you too!"

It's amazing what a few kind words can do!

I have seen and experienced the contagious disease of criticizing, judging, back biting, ill words and gossip. I have seen families tragically torn apart and lives crumble under this horrible illness. This disease starts with the thoughts in ones mind, spreads to the tongue and eventually overtakes the heart weakening and deadening the life of the spirit.

I suppose that the only death that is truly tragic is the death of our ability to love and forgive.

But just as Christ overcame physical death and raised his body from the tomb. He also overcame spiritual death and can bring back to life our ability to love and to forgive. Through Him we can see things so much more clearly, because He is the Light and He sees us as we really are. He is the way to happiness in this life and the life to come.

I'll close this post with these words from Joseph Wirthlin:

"Each one of us will travel a different road during this life. Each progresses at a different rate. Temptations that trouble your brother may not challenge you at all. Strengths that you possess may seem impossible to another. Never look down on those who are less perfect than you.

We are all children of our Heavenly Father. And we are here with the same purpose: to learn to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

When we are filled with kindness, we are not judgmental. The Savior taught, "Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven."  He also taught that "with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again."
"But," you ask, "what if people are rude?"
Love them.
"If they are obnoxious?"
Love them.
"But what if they offend? Surely I must do something then?"
Love them.
"Wayward?"
The answer is the same. Be kind. Love them.
Why? In the scriptures Jude taught, "And of some have compassion, making a difference."
Who can tell what far-reaching impact we can have if we are only kind?
My brothers and sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ transcends mortality. Our work here is but a shadow of greater and unimaginable things to come...
...As our Heavenly Father loves us, we also should love His children.
May we be models of kindness. May we ever live up to the words of the Savior: "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." Of these truths I bear witness in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen." - By Joseph B. Wirthlin, given April 2005

http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-520-10,00.html

Brag Tag!

I've been tagged! My friend Jessica wants me to share a little bit about my hubby:

JOSEPH

#1. Where did you meet? LDS distribution center, we were set up on a blind date... He took me to a yodeling concert!

#2. How long did you date before you were married? For sixteen long weeks (Not recommended) I had dated alot of guys before and he was different, He showed me so much respect and He was the first guy I was around that I felt like I could be completely myself (a nerd)..... and low and behold he was a big nerd too! We had all the same goals and beliefs, which was number one on my list.

#3. How long have you been married? 9 years.

#4. What is one thing he does that surprises you? hmmm. Can't think of anything.... he's been pretty predictable.

#5. What is your favorite feature about him? I fell in love with his profile. I love the bridge of his nose, cute smile, and the wrinkles by his eyes.

#6. What is your favorite quality about him? Besides his testimony of the Gospel, I would have to say his love for our kids.

#7. Does he have a nickname for you? "Sweetie-peetie-piety-poetie-pootie".... (I told you he was a big nerd.)

#8. What is his favorite color? light tan...just kidding (inside joke). green.

#9. What is his favorite food? Beef Jerky... does that count as food?... because other than that, eating is a burden to him.

#10. What is his favorite sport? Anything BUT sports. Joseph can't stand watching sports, he says it's a waste of time.... my kind of man. (Oh but he loves any kind of sport when his kid is in the game.)

#11. Who said "I love you" first? I don't remember... but we both said it the same night.

#12. When and where was your first kiss? On my porch, after our fourth date. He leaned in to give me a little peck on the cheek and I thought he was going for the lips so we bumped our faces... he was embarrassed and stepped back. I thought, "hey get back here!" and I grabbed his shirt and pulled him in for the lips.... he was all teeth, he couldn't stop smiling. Then he said the sweetest thing. "I have never kissed anyone before." I wished I could have said the same. But that really impressed me about him. (By the way, he's a much better kisser now.) ;D

#13. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Watch http://www.homestarrunner.com/ play Boggle or Scrabble, Ride Bikes, and Talk. Talk about our kids, our lives, the Gospel, just talk about everything and anything.

#14. Do you have any kids? We have four. Two boys and two girls.

#15. What is a hidden talent of his? Calculus. (Inside joke again.) Dancing... he never dances in public but he really CAN dance... I just need to convince him of that!!

#16. How old is he? 33

#17. What do you admire most about him? His testimony of the Gospel and his love of family.

#18. What is his favorite past time? SLEEPING (emphasis on the past in "past time")

#19. What is his favorite kind of music? CLASSICAL - favorite composer is Antonio Vivaldi. Next in line is: Enya, Josh Groban, Loreena Mckennit, Bagpipes.... He HATES country music... I listen to that when he's not around... heh heh.... well... sometimes I'll bug him and listen to it when we're in the car.

#20. Do you think he will read this? Yes cuz I told him about it.

I tag Vanessa, Kristen and Leah!

Defining the Family

What is happening to FREEDOM OF RELIGION?! What is happening to PARENTAL RIGHTS?! This is crazy!
I usually don't like to share depressing news but this is some serious stuff!!
Please watch these two videos!!!
Click on these links
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1815825713
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLHWBWSaW-4

There has been alot of talk about proposition 8 on the California ballots.
I found this quote from a woman who IS lesbian and she is opposed to changing the defenition of marriage: "...there are ways to make sure that the gay and lesbian community get to have their rights without infringing on others rights, I think Ellen and the gay and lesbian community needs to try to get with their congressional supporters and enact a law or amendment that would be called the parriage act, ( a pair of the same, in other words two men , or two women = a pair thus a parriage), and that will give the gay and lesbian community the rights they want without changing the definition of marriage. Why is the definition of marriage important to remain unchanged, well because if the definition of marriage gets changed to include two men or two women , then that will in essence violate the rights of any churches , and all people that do not believe that gays should marry, and IT WILL TURN THE BIBLE INTO A BOOK OF HATE AND CHURCHES INTO PLACES OF HATE CRIMES, because the bible states that men are to be with women, and I for one know that the bible is not an instrument of hate , nor are most churches. ..."
This is not about being discriminatory against gays... it's about changing the definition of marriage so religion is discriminated against and here are some examples to prove it:

Adoption services: Catholic Charities in Massachusetts refused to place children with same-sex couples as required by Massachusetts law. After a legislative struggle — during which the Senate president said he could not support a bill "condoning discrimination" — Catholic Charities pulled out of the adoption business in 2006.

Parochial schools: California Lutheran High School, a Protestant school in Wildomar, holds that homosexuality is a sin. After the school suspended two girls who were allegedly in a lesbian relationship, the girls' parents sued, saying the school was violating the state's civil rights act protecting gay men and lesbians from discrimination. The case is before a state judge.

Medical services: A Christian gynecologist at North Coast Women's Care Medical Group in Vista, Calif., refused to give his patient in vitro fertilization treatment because she is in a lesbian relationship, and he claimed that doing so would violate his religious beliefs. (The doctor referred the patient to his partner, who agreed to do the treatment.) The woman sued under the state's civil rights act. The California Supreme Court heard oral arguments in May 2008, and legal experts believe that the woman's right to medical treatment will trump the doctor's religious beliefs. One justice suggested that the doctors take up a different line of business.

Wedding services: A same sex couple in Albuquerque asked a photographer, Elaine Huguenin, to shoot their commitment ceremony. The photographer declined, saying her Christian beliefs prevented her from sanctioning same-sex unions. The couple sued, and the New Mexico Human Rights Commission found the photographer guilty of discrimination. It ordered her to pay the lesbian couple's legal fees ($6,600). The photographer is appealing.
Wedding facilities: Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association of New Jersey, a Methodist organization, refused to rent its boardwalk pavilion to a lesbian couple for their civil union ceremony. The couple filed a complaint with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights. The division ruled that the boardwalk property was open for public use, therefore the Methodist group could not discriminate against gay couples using it. In the interim, the state's Department of Environmental Protection revoked a portion of the association's tax benefits. The case is ongoing.

Youth groups: The city of Berkeley, Calif., requested that the Sea Scouts (affiliated with the Boy Scouts) formally agree to not discriminate against gay men in exchange for free use of berths in the city's marina. The Sea Scouts sued, claiming this violated their beliefs and First Amendment right to the freedom to associate with other like-minded people. In 2006, the California Supreme Court ruled against the youth group. In San Diego, the Boy Scouts lost access to the city-owned aquatic center for the same reason. While these cases do not directly involve same-sex unions, they presage future conflicts about whether religiously oriented or parachurch organizations may prohibit, for example, gay couples from teaching at summer camp. In June 2008, the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals asked the California Supreme Court to review the Boy Scouts' leases. Meanwhile, the mayor's office in Philadelphia revoked the Boy Scouts' $1-a-year lease for a city building.

Please take some time to view these other links:

Interview With Elder Dallin H. Oaks and Elder Lance B. Wickman: “Same-Gender Attraction”

Los Angeles Times: "Protecting Marriage to Protect Children"

ProtectMarriage.com

Video: Discussion With Elder David A. Bednar

"...We warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.
We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."-The Family: A Proclamation to the World

If you are raising children...

I enjoyed General Conference so much!!! It is my favorite time of year. I know we have a living Prophet of God to guide us and direct us. I know that Thomas S. Monson has been called by God to lead us all, I know it with all my heart! I love to sit at the feet of these great leaders, The First Presidency, The Quorum of the 12 Apostles, The Quorum of the Seventy, The General Relief Society Presidency etc. I love to sit at their feet and be fed spiritually, to be counseled, warned, guided, encouraged and uplifted. For this blessing alone I am RICH, my cup is overflowing... for they lead me to Christ, the one and only way to God. Thanks be to my Father in Heaven and my Savior Jesus Christ for this TRUE and restored Gospel on the earth today!

I want to share just a small little portion of what the Prophet of God said this most recent conference. I really needed to hear this!

"If you are still in the process of raising children, be aware that the tiny fingerprints that show up on almost every newly cleaned surface, the toys scattered about the house, the piles and piles of laundry to be tackled will disappear all too soon and that you will—to your surprise—miss them profoundly.

Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most important—and what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.” We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.

Send that note to the friend you’ve been neglecting; give your child a hug; give your parents a hug; say “I love you” more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of “what if” and “if only.” Said author Harriet Beecher Stowe, “The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.”

- President Thomas S. Monson - Prophet, Seer and Revelator of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

This is a world-wide church. To listen to conference in almost any language click on this link: http://www.lds.org/conference/languages/0,6353,310-1,00.html

Help Defend the Family!

"...We warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."- The Family, A Proclamation to the World- from the First Presidency and the Quorum of the 12 Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Published 1995



Last night my husband showed me a movie trailer to "Demographic Winter, the decline of the human family." I don't claim to be an expert on the population decline in European countries so I don't share this with the intent to have that as the focal point. The thing that strikes me most is they say there is a growing trend in western societies of people not wanting to have children or get married. No one wants to get married or have children because it is viewed as bondage or being "tied down". The other obvious problem is unnatural affection or gay relationships as in the times of Sodom and Gomorrah. This clip emphasises that the best thing for our nation and our economy begins in our home, in having healthy intact family relationships where a mother and father work together. This to me was just an echo of some things we have already been taught by prophets and apostles, ancient and modern.

I don't know what group made this movie. And again, I share it because it talks about the importance of building strong families with values and morals. This trailer is intriguing to me. It is very thought provoking... but I'm not saying it's "doctrine."
http://www.demographicwinter.com/ The family is under attack and we've got to find a way to stand up for it! We can't be silent in this war. I sometimes feel overwhelmed because I'm not exactly sure how to fight this battle. It's a battle much bigger than me, I pray my Father in Heaven will guide me along in this. I've got to do something... Whether it be signing petitions, casting a vote or most importantly, teaching my children morals, virtue, faith and strengthening the family ties that I have.

In my search to defend the family I have found these resources to inform me of what I can do.
http://www.unitedfamilies.org/

http://www.defendthefamily.com/

http://www.strengthenthefamily.net/

http://www.lds.org/hf/display/0,16783,4209-1,00.html
Here are some links to sites from various denominations that encourage defending the family please share these with as many people as you can. I believe it's vital!

God Bless You. And God Bless Our Families!
Alicia

The Twin Virtues of Forgiveness and Mercy

Chapter 6:

Wow! I really enjoyed this Chapter in Standing for Something. The principle isn't new. All through the scriptures we are taught to follow the Savior's example of love and forgiveness. These virtues are ones I feel are so much easier "said" than "done," at least that's how it is with me. I can preach it until my face is blue... but that doesn't mean I live it. Pride gets in my way. These virtues, for me, are obtained only as I earnestly seek them through much struggle and prayer and through the great Mercy and Forgiveness from a loving Father in Heaven. I stand in awe of the Savior's life and how perfectly He gave us an example of these twin virtues.

Here are some quotes that I really liked from this chapter in Standing for Something, by Gordon B. Hinckley:

"We have need of forgiveness, mercy, and compassion. The whole world has need of them, for they are of the essence of goodness. We need these qualities in homes where tiny molehills of misunderstanding grow into mountains of argument, and where parents and children sometimes hang on to an old grievance for years and even a lifetime. We need them among neighbors whose insignificant differences lead to undying bitterness. We need them among business associates who quarrel and refuse to compromise or forgive when, in most instances, a willingness to sit down together, exercise compassion, and speak quietly one to another could resolve the matter to the blessing of all.

Too often, too many people spend their days blaming others, nurturing grudges, and planning retribution." - Gordon B. Hinckley

Painting: "The Prodical Son" by- Clark Kelley Price

"We are prone to brood on the evil done us, and that brooding becomes as a gnawing and destructive canker.... it takes neither strength nor intelligence to brood in anger over wrongs suffered, to go through life with a spirit of vindictiveness, to dissipate one's abilities in planning retribution, or to press a grievance when someone else is 'down.' There is no genius or peace in the nursing of a grudge." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"Hatred always fails and bitterness always destroys. Are there virtues more in need of application in our day, a time marked by litigious proceedings and heated exchanges, than those of forgiving, forgetting, and extending mercy to those who may have wronged us or let us down?" - Gordon B. Hinckley

"Our Redeemer reaches out to us in forgiveness and mercy, but in so doing He commands that we repent of our wrongdoings. A true and magnanimous spirit of forgiveness will become an expression of that required repentance." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"So many of us are prone to say we forgive, when in fact we are unwilling to forget. If the Almighty is willing to forget the sins of the repentant, then why are so many of us inclined to bring up the past again and again? Here is a simple but great lesson we all need to learn: There is no true forgiveness without forgetting." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"Let us bind up the wounds - oh, the many wounds that have been caused by cutting words, by stubbornly cultivated grievances, by scheming plans to 'get even' with those who may have wronged us. We all have a little of this spirit of revenge in us. Fortunately, we all also have the power to rise above it." - Gordon B. Hinckley

Painting: "The Good Samaritan" by, Walter Rane

"I plead for a stronger spirit of compassion in all of our relationships, a stronger element of mercy, for if we are merciful we shall obtain mercy from the Ultimate Judge." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"The degree to which we are able to extend mercy is evidence of our commitment to Him who is our Master. He practiced what He preached, for it was He who, while hanging on the cross in dreadful agony, cried out, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do' (Luke 23:34)." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"How great a thing is mercy! Most often it is quiet and unassuming. It receives few headlines. It is the antithesis of vengeance and hatred, of greed and egotism." - Gordon B. Hinckley

"Let us be more merciful. Let us get the arrogance out of our lives, the conceit, the egotism. Let us be more compassionate, gentler, filled with more forbearance, patience, forgiveness, and a greater measure of respect one for another. In so doing, our very example will cause others with whom we associate to be more merciful, and we shall have greater claim upon the mercy of God who in His love will be generous toward us." - Gordon B. Hinckley

Wise Investments

"Invest in Bonds... Invest yourself in your family.

The pay-offs start now and continue through Eternity."

Make Waves!
Even if you feel like a small pebble dropped in a big pond...

Your choices create Eternal ripples...

Make a splash by choosing the right.

(see 3 Nephi 12: 14-16)

Spread Sunshine!

When "the SON" is your light,

You make the world a brighter place.

Differences can be appealing!

All of us are needed to make life delicious.

(see Romans 12:5)

He Loves Me! He Loves Me! He Loves Me!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,

That whosoever believeth in Him,

Should not perish, but have Everlasting life."

(John 3:16)

Refresh Yourself!

Avoid spiritual dehydration.

Drink deeply from the scriptures.

(see John 4:14)

She's one of my Angels.

My Aunt Ruth sent me this picture of my Grandma, Bertha Elizabeth. She passed away 50 yrs. ago... she was only about 35... which means she was only 5 yrs. older than I am now. She left behind 5 children, my dad was the oldest... he was 9 when she died.

My Grandma, ("Bert") is the one on the left with her little sister, Ruth (my Aunt), on the right.
I want to thank my Aunt Ruth for this picture. I will be among my greatest treasures. I am grateful for the contact I have with her. I know her big sister would be pleased about our correspondence.

I don't know much about my Grandma.... but I feel like I know her.... I also feel like she knows me, very well. I believe she watches over me. I have felt her spirit many, many times throughout my life. I know she watches over me. Someday, I will see her and we will be reunited.... I will hug her the way I would hug a very dear friend who I haven't seen in a long, long time. We will cry, we will talk, we will laugh... it will be a very wonderful reunion that I look forward to with great anticipation.


It's comforting to know that this life is not all there is. Death is not the end. There is a divine purpose and plan for our life here on earth. I know we have a loving Father in Heaven who is the Father of our Spirits. Jesus Christ, is His perfect Son, Whom He sent to earth to teach us the way to return, to set an example for how we should live our lives, to redeem us from sin and from death, so we could return to our Father in Heaven. We are all God's children. He is as real as you and me. He is anxious to bless us and to be involved in our lives.... and so are all of those loved ones who have passed away before us. It's a wonderful thing!

God bless you,
Alicia

The Secularization of America

"If we are to continue to have the freedoms that came of the inspiration of the Almighty to our Founding Fathers, we must return to the God who is their true Author."- Gordon B. Hinckley

About 8 years ago I read a book written by Gordon B. Hinckley called, "Standing for Something." I couldn't put it down! I read it in just about 3 days! I loved it!!

I have just begun to read this book again and recommend it to people of all faiths who believe in God.

There is an illness that is spreading across our nation and it can be remedied, it can be healed if we turn again our hearts to God and live these 10 neglected virtues.

No nation can be greater than the strength of its individual homes or the virtue of its people. Sadly, many today would say ours is a nation in crisis. Families are splintering around us, our children are becoming alienated from their great cultural heritage, and our leaders seem increasingly out of touch. Yet according to (the late) Gordon B. Hinckley, (former) President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (and living Prophet of God), one cannot lose hope.

The solution lies not within our governments, schools, or symbols of popular culture, but rather within ourselves, our families, and our faith. The Chapter's of this book include:

Forward by Mike Wallace

Introduction: The Secularization of America

Part One - The 10 Virtues

1. Love: The Lodestar of Life

2. Where there is Honesty, Other Virtues Will Follow

3. Making a Case for Morality

4. Our Fading Civility

5. Learning: "With All Thy Getting Get Understanding"

6. The Twin Virtues of Forgiveness and Mercy

7. Thrift and Industry: Getting Our Houses in Order

8. Gratitude: A Sign of Maturity

9. Optimism in the face of Cynicism

10. Faith: Our Only Hope

Part 2- The Guardians of Virtue

Marriage: What God Hath Joined Together

The Family: We Can Save Our Nation by Saving Our Homes

Some of which I read today in the introduction, I would like to share with you:

"Can we expect peace and prosperity, harmony and goodwill, when we turn our backs on the Source of our Strength?..."

"I would hope that all of us, within our hearts would then resolve to live nearer to God and the commandments He has given us as a guide in our lives; to walk with gratitude before Him for His generous mercies; to incorporate virtue in its many forms into our lives; to recognize that someday we all must give an accounting of our lives to Him; to strengthen and defend the home; and seek His strength, His wisdom, His inspiration, and His love as we serve in the great society of which each of us is a part..."

"Those who are committed to, and have patterned their lives after, a Higher Power need not rely on public opinion, which is often blatantly skewed. Here is the answer to the conflicts that beset us. Here is the answer to the evils of pornography, abortion, drugs, and the squandering of our resources on evil pursuits. Here is the answer to the great epidemic of litigation that consumes time, saps our financial strength, and shackles our entrepreneurial spirit. Here is the answer to tawdry politics that place selfish interests and pursuits above the common good."

"Let all houses of worship ring with righteousness. Let people everywhere bow in reverence before the Almighty who is our one true source of strength. Let us look inward and adjust our priorities and standards, recommitting ourselves to time-honored virtues that embrace right and shun wrong. Let us look outward in the spirit of the Golden Rule. Let us work tirelessly to defend and strengthen the family, which is the fundamental unit of society." - Gordon B. Hinckley

For the Strength of Youth

Even if you are not of the same religion as me and we have a few different doctrines... I believe that most of the Christian community would agree on the same principles... such as honesty, gratitude, charity, and so on. This is a wonderful guide and resource for Youth and Families. I believe if we apply these principles in our lives the world will be a better place. Check out the topics below by clicking on them-
God bless you,
Alicia

Table of Contents
Message from the First Presidency 2
Agency and Accountability 4
Gratitude 6
Education 9
Family 10
Friends 12
Dress and Appearance 14
Entertainment and the Media 17
Music and Dancing 20
Language 22
Dating 24
Sexual Purity 26
Repentance 29
Honesty 31
Sabbath Day Observance 32
Tithes and Offerings 34
Physical Health 36
Service to Others 38
Go Forward with Faith 40
The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles 43
The Family: A Proclamation to the World 44

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

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!

A Proclamation to the World

In 1995, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles issued “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” This proclamation is a declaration and reaffirmation of doctrines and practices that prophets have stated repeatedly throughout the history of the Church. It contains principles that are vital to the happiness and well-being of every family. Family members should study the proclamation and should live by its precepts.

“We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

“All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.

“In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.

“The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.

“We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan.

“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

“The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.

“We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

“We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society” (Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102).

Four Tips for Family Finances

Four things that will help you increadibly with your family finances: This information provided by providentliving.org

Pay Tithes and Offerings
Successful family finances begin with the payment of an honest tithe and the giving of a generous fast offering. The Lord has promised to open the windows of heaven and pour out great blessings upon those who pay tithes and offerings faithfully (Malachi 3:10 and Isaiah 58: 6–12).

Tithing
If our tithing is the first obligation met, our commitment to this important gospel principle will be strengthened and the likelihood of financial mismanagement will be reduced.

Fast Offerings
On fast day, we go without food and drink for two consecutive meals, if physically able, and then give to the bishop a fast offering at least equal to the value of the food not eaten. If possible, we should be very generous and give more. The bishop uses the fast offerings to care for the poor and needy.

Avoid Debt
Spending less money than you make is essential to your financial security. Avoid debt, with the exception of buying a modest home or paying for education or other vital needs. If you are in debt, pay it off as quickly as possible. Some useful tools in becoming debt free are a debt-elimination calendar and a family budget worksheet.

Distinguish between Needs and Wants
We must learn to distinguish between wants and needs. We should be modest in our wants. It takes self-discipline to avoid the “buy now, pay later” philosophy and to adopt the “save now and buy later” practice.

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught: “All too often a family's spending is governed more by their yearning than by their earning. They somehow believe that their life will be better if they surround themselves with an abundance of things. All too often all they are left with is avoidable anxiety and distress” ("Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts," Ensign, May 2004, 42).

Getting and Staying out of Debt
We should avoid debt. There is nothing that will cause greater tensions in life than grinding debt, which will make the debtor a slave to creditors. A specific goal, careful planning, and determined self-discipline are required to accomplish this.

President N. Eldon Tanner taught: "Those who structure their standard of living to allow a little surplus, control their circumstances. Those who spend a little more than they earn are controlled by their circumstances. They are in bondage” ("Constancy Amid Change," Ensign, Nov. 1979, 81).

Build a Reserve
Gradually build a financial reserve, and use it for emergencies only. If you save a little money regularly, you will be surprised how much accumulates over time.

President Gordon B. Hinckley has taught: “Set your houses in order. If you have paid your debts, if you have a reserve, even though it be small, then should storms howl about your head, you will have shelter for your wives and children and peace in your hearts” ("To the Boys and to the Men," Ensign, Nov. 1998, 54).

Teach Family Members
Teach family members the principles of financial management. Involve them in creating a budget and setting family financial goals. Teach the principles of hard work, frugality, and saving. Stress the importance of obtaining as much education as possible.

Abundant resources are available—from classes, to books, to other resources such as One for the Money: Guide to Family Finance. See http://providentliving.org/

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!