I love this story. Even young children can answer crucial prayers.
Why Do I Need to Be Here?
Megan Robinson, “Why Do I Need to Be Here?,” Ensign, Dec. 2009, 66–67
A week before Christmas in 2007 two of my children were diagnosed with strep throat and ear infections. Jacob, age 5, whined all the way to the pharmacy for his medicine, and Beth, 19 months, was especially clingy.
When we arrived, we were greeted by a long line at the prescription counter. While Jacob tugged at my leg and complained about his ear, Beth wiggled out of my arms. I thought she would stay beside me, but as soon as she was free, she ran straight to an elderly gentleman sitting on a bench near the line.
The man was looking at the floor, his face resting in his hands. I called after Beth, not wanting to leave the line, but she approached the man anyway and bent down to look up at his face as she grinned and giggled.
I then sent Jacob to get her. He grabbed her hand and tried to pull her away from the man, but she refused to come. Then she started pushing on the man’s forehead in order to get him to raise his head. As I grew agitated, Beth took off her untied shoes and shoved them into the man’s lap. He sat up and smiled.
“Beth!” I called.
“It’s all right,” the man said in a tired voice. “I’ll tie her shoes for her.”
I grew a little nervous as he began putting Beth’s shoes on her. When he finished, he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her on the head. He was slow to let her go, so I quickly left the line to rescue my daughter from this stranger.
As I approached, I noticed that he had tears in his eyes. Concerned, I sat down next to him.
“I have to tell you something,” he said, staring straight ahead. “Not more than a month ago my wife died, and about an hour ago I found out that I have terminal cancer. I came here to get medicine, and I have been contemplating my life and thinking that I might move along the inevitable. I didn’t think I could bear going through Christmas and the pains of cancer without my sweet wife.”
He said he had been praying, asking God, “If I need to be here for something, You better speak now, or I’m going home to end things.” Before he had even said “amen,” Beth began pestering him and calling him “Grandpa.”
“Now I know why I need to be here longer,” he said. “I need to stick around for my grandkids. They need me.”
I threw my arms around him and could not help but weep. I then got our medicine. Beth, who had seemed so ill only moments earlier, kissed the man on the cheek and bounded away with Jacob and me, waving and saying, “Bye-bye, Grandpa.”
I didn’t ask his name, but I will never forget that even a young girl who pesters an old man can be an answer to prayer.
Megan Robinson, Utah, USA
Perception: synonyms = Discernment, observation, sensitivity, view, opinion...
I have been thinking A LOT lately about perception (and pride) because I have been battling with my “natural man” internally over thoughts and feelings concerning actions of people... humans, just like me. As I’m trying to understand and decide how to respond to words and actions, I realize I am assuming and judging based on outward appearances. I DON’T KNOW THEIR HEARTS. People typically judge what they don’t understand. When we find ourselves thinking, “I would have handled that differently,” then we are comparing and judging. I love President Benson’s talk on pride, because it helps me see that the root of most of my faults is pride. So, it’s my job to catch myself when I’m being prideful and cut off those thoughts and feelings by reminding myself that I don’t know anyone’s heart but my own, and therefore I cannot judge their actions. Isn’t it funny how often we are bothered by the actions or words of others, but the truth is, we are uncertain of their intent. So, it’s all about PERCEPTION! I believe that Satan is crafty and knows how to get to even the most humble, righteous, well-intentioned people: he tries to skew their vision. He can even play a part in the original actions or words that upset them. SATAN IS TRYING TO DESTROY RELATIONSHIPS AND CREATE DISCORD! While we are trying to create unity, he is highlighting the negative things so we will focus on those and feed off of them.
A favorite quote of mine is from Marvin J. Ashton: “Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other.”
I feel strongly that we all need to recognize the good in each other, not let the actions of others ruin anything for us, and make a personal effort to smile at each other, sit by someone different for a change, reach out and uplift each other. It’s a daunting task to befriend everyone, but one smile at a time, one phone call or comment or any tiny act of service lets people know that you are aware of them. We are all a work in progress. We’re all learning life lessons one at a time, in a different order and at a different pace. Let’s be patient with one another and take more responsibility for our own happiness. It comes from within.
P.S. PLEASE don't think this is directed to any one at all!!! It is simply thoughts I've accumulated over time through my own experiences and talks I've read and heard spoken.
A favorite quote of mine is from Marvin J. Ashton: “Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other.”
I feel strongly that we all need to recognize the good in each other, not let the actions of others ruin anything for us, and make a personal effort to smile at each other, sit by someone different for a change, reach out and uplift each other. It’s a daunting task to befriend everyone, but one smile at a time, one phone call or comment or any tiny act of service lets people know that you are aware of them. We are all a work in progress. We’re all learning life lessons one at a time, in a different order and at a different pace. Let’s be patient with one another and take more responsibility for our own happiness. It comes from within.
P.S. PLEASE don't think this is directed to any one at all!!! It is simply thoughts I've accumulated over time through my own experiences and talks I've read and heard spoken.
Fluff post... just fillin' space with my thoughts
I guess that implies that my thoughts are fluff... oh well! All I know is I have GOT to update my blog because it's my poor excuse for a family journal/ scrapbook. My Dad recently discovered that I had a blog, and being that he and Mom live on the opposite side of the world, I should share a little more with them....
If anyone reads this that I haven't told... we're pregnant! Yes! It's been a year since my surgery, followed by months of hormones, and then some drugs, but now we have been blessed with a baby coming in May! We are extremely grateful, relieved, and excited.
Now, something to fill a little space... thoughts... hmmm... it would probably be lame to discuss my feelings on New Moon, the movie. So, I shall just say that Edward was a disappointment and that he and Bella didn't even seem like they were in love. Jacob stole the show, but he was supposed to, he was the hero of the book.
I was in the Child Watch at the Athletic Club today (my Friday morning gig so I can maintain a free membership) and only one child came in during the entire four hours, so I watched tv during the other three hours and some lady (don't know her name) was on one of those morning shows and I REALLY liked a few things she said, (wow, this is a really long sentence) such as:
1. If we want our children to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, and appreciate what they have, we should limit their gifts, maybe to a number like THREE. That's how many gifts the baby Jesus received. I've heard this idea before, and I like it. The only thing I have against gifts is that the commercial Christmas detracts from the real Christmas, and they cost a lot money.
2. Don't buy what you can't pay for NOW, with real money you've actually earned. What a concept.
3. Service is the way to invite the Christmas Spirit and experience true joy (all year round). I like any traditions that support service and remind us of our Savior and what He taught.
4. Christmas should be celebrated more like Thanksgiving - by giving thanks and focusing on family and blessings - and we should carry Christmas in our hearts all year.
I've felt before that the Christmas Spirit hadn't "moved in" yet, and heard other people say similar things, so I've done a little research into how we can "bring it!"
My wonderful Mother gave me a book of Christmas stories, you know, about miracles or kind acts of service, or reminders of what Christmas is all about. A good friend shared this list with me of fun & FREE things to do as a family to celebrate the Christmas season:
1. Watch a Christmas movie or holiday show on television.
2. Go see the Christmas lights in the neighborhoods in your pajamas.
3. Drink a mug of hot cocoa under your Christmas tree.
4. Read the true story of Christmas.
5. Open one gift early.
6. Bake cookies and take a plate to the firefighters. See if you can get a tour of the fire station and the engines!
7. Write a letter to Santa to leave on Christmas Eve.
8. Make a snowman.
9. Make a snow angel.
10. Pop popcorn and play a board game together, while listening to holiday music.
11. Go to the dollar theatre and see a movie. Sneak in a snack.
12. Go to the library and pick out books about Christmas. Read them together.
13. Give the kids a bath while Christmas carols blare into the bathroom. See who can sing the loudest.
14. Get or make stocking stuffers for Dad.
15. Write a note to each member in the family to tell them how special they are and what you love about them. Leave them in their stockings.
16. Draw a holiday picture and send it to a relative (of the child’s choice).
17. Take a tour of lights in another neighborhood. Pop popcorn to take with you and blast Christmas carols in the car.
18. Make an ornament together for the tree. Try to incorporate a picture of your child and have them choose the decorating. Write the year on the back and try to add one of these each year.
19. Bake cookies for yourselves.
20. visit Santa at the mall (even if you already did this once).
21. Start a holiday memory book. Quote your child and ask them what their favorite thing they had done (so far) was for the holidays. Record what they asked for from Santa. Take a picture of them for that year with their Santa gift.
22. Print out a Holiday Coloring Page and color it.
23. Make Christmas Crackers to put in each stocking. Take tissue paper and cover each toilet paper roll with it. Take ribbon and tie to close one end of the roll. Fill it with candies and confetti (if you wish). Tie the other end with ribbon and place these in each family member’s stocking. These can be opened on Christmas morning. To make them extra special, have your child write a note to each family member and tuck them inside. It will be a special surprise for everyone!
24. Go to the library and pick out a movie to watch together as a family. Make homemade pizza and curl up together on the couch.
25. Put together a box of items to donate and take your child with you to donate them. Ask them if they would like to contribute something that they have outgrown.
If anyone reads this that I haven't told... we're pregnant! Yes! It's been a year since my surgery, followed by months of hormones, and then some drugs, but now we have been blessed with a baby coming in May! We are extremely grateful, relieved, and excited.
Now, something to fill a little space... thoughts... hmmm... it would probably be lame to discuss my feelings on New Moon, the movie. So, I shall just say that Edward was a disappointment and that he and Bella didn't even seem like they were in love. Jacob stole the show, but he was supposed to, he was the hero of the book.
I was in the Child Watch at the Athletic Club today (my Friday morning gig so I can maintain a free membership) and only one child came in during the entire four hours, so I watched tv during the other three hours and some lady (don't know her name) was on one of those morning shows and I REALLY liked a few things she said, (wow, this is a really long sentence) such as:
1. If we want our children to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, and appreciate what they have, we should limit their gifts, maybe to a number like THREE. That's how many gifts the baby Jesus received. I've heard this idea before, and I like it. The only thing I have against gifts is that the commercial Christmas detracts from the real Christmas, and they cost a lot money.
2. Don't buy what you can't pay for NOW, with real money you've actually earned. What a concept.
3. Service is the way to invite the Christmas Spirit and experience true joy (all year round). I like any traditions that support service and remind us of our Savior and what He taught.
4. Christmas should be celebrated more like Thanksgiving - by giving thanks and focusing on family and blessings - and we should carry Christmas in our hearts all year.
I've felt before that the Christmas Spirit hadn't "moved in" yet, and heard other people say similar things, so I've done a little research into how we can "bring it!"
My wonderful Mother gave me a book of Christmas stories, you know, about miracles or kind acts of service, or reminders of what Christmas is all about. A good friend shared this list with me of fun & FREE things to do as a family to celebrate the Christmas season:
1. Watch a Christmas movie or holiday show on television.
2. Go see the Christmas lights in the neighborhoods in your pajamas.
3. Drink a mug of hot cocoa under your Christmas tree.
4. Read the true story of Christmas.
5. Open one gift early.
6. Bake cookies and take a plate to the firefighters. See if you can get a tour of the fire station and the engines!
7. Write a letter to Santa to leave on Christmas Eve.
8. Make a snowman.
9. Make a snow angel.
10. Pop popcorn and play a board game together, while listening to holiday music.
11. Go to the dollar theatre and see a movie. Sneak in a snack.
12. Go to the library and pick out books about Christmas. Read them together.
13. Give the kids a bath while Christmas carols blare into the bathroom. See who can sing the loudest.
14. Get or make stocking stuffers for Dad.
15. Write a note to each member in the family to tell them how special they are and what you love about them. Leave them in their stockings.
16. Draw a holiday picture and send it to a relative (of the child’s choice).
17. Take a tour of lights in another neighborhood. Pop popcorn to take with you and blast Christmas carols in the car.
18. Make an ornament together for the tree. Try to incorporate a picture of your child and have them choose the decorating. Write the year on the back and try to add one of these each year.
19. Bake cookies for yourselves.
20. visit Santa at the mall (even if you already did this once).
21. Start a holiday memory book. Quote your child and ask them what their favorite thing they had done (so far) was for the holidays. Record what they asked for from Santa. Take a picture of them for that year with their Santa gift.
22. Print out a Holiday Coloring Page and color it.
23. Make Christmas Crackers to put in each stocking. Take tissue paper and cover each toilet paper roll with it. Take ribbon and tie to close one end of the roll. Fill it with candies and confetti (if you wish). Tie the other end with ribbon and place these in each family member’s stocking. These can be opened on Christmas morning. To make them extra special, have your child write a note to each family member and tuck them inside. It will be a special surprise for everyone!
24. Go to the library and pick out a movie to watch together as a family. Make homemade pizza and curl up together on the couch.
25. Put together a box of items to donate and take your child with you to donate them. Ask them if they would like to contribute something that they have outgrown.
Summa-time
I haven't blogged for 2 months, so here's a summer summary:
Had the time of my life playing games outside with family in Idaho!!!
Trying to write often to my brother Preston while he's serving a mission in Peru. He's doing awesome and we love the stories he writes home about. He's enjoying the jungle, his companions, the investigators, the members, and all the love sent from home. He is focused, optimistic, energetic, and lovable. I miss him.
Taylor is enrolled in a weekly soccer class with some friends, which takes place at a park close to home. (I'm all about convenience!) She's enjoying it and I'm glad she's receiving instruction, learning to follow directions, learning new skills, and interacting with other children in an organized & fun atmosphere. (Thanks for telling me about it Rach!) We've decided not to have her start kindergarten this fall (she'll turn 5 on Sept 1st), so I'm going to enroll her in classes like this. Swimming this winter!
We have enjoyed outings with friends to various beaches. Tay has been getting more and more comfortable in the water. She loves it! I adore this picture because of Molly's face :-)
I ran my first race! It was an 8k in Seattle's Torchlight Run as part of the Seafair Events. It was a night-time race that finished in the parade route, so the streets were lined with people cheering us on and kids giving us high-fives! I loved it!!! I'm only a 10-minute mile pace, but the race atmosphere is contagious and I can see why Heidi keeps signing up for more! Thanks to my friend Sommer for getting me involved in this one. It was a super-fun, unconventional ladies night, followed up by dinner at Panera. I'm wearing the shirt they gave us for registering. It has a pirate on it ;-)
My next summer adventure will be 10 days in Minneapolis to visit Heidi and help her with the kiddos! She's made a list of fun things to do, so I can't wait!
Had the time of my life playing games outside with family in Idaho!!!
Trying to write often to my brother Preston while he's serving a mission in Peru. He's doing awesome and we love the stories he writes home about. He's enjoying the jungle, his companions, the investigators, the members, and all the love sent from home. He is focused, optimistic, energetic, and lovable. I miss him.
Taylor is enrolled in a weekly soccer class with some friends, which takes place at a park close to home. (I'm all about convenience!) She's enjoying it and I'm glad she's receiving instruction, learning to follow directions, learning new skills, and interacting with other children in an organized & fun atmosphere. (Thanks for telling me about it Rach!) We've decided not to have her start kindergarten this fall (she'll turn 5 on Sept 1st), so I'm going to enroll her in classes like this. Swimming this winter!
We have enjoyed outings with friends to various beaches. Tay has been getting more and more comfortable in the water. She loves it! I adore this picture because of Molly's face :-)
I ran my first race! It was an 8k in Seattle's Torchlight Run as part of the Seafair Events. It was a night-time race that finished in the parade route, so the streets were lined with people cheering us on and kids giving us high-fives! I loved it!!! I'm only a 10-minute mile pace, but the race atmosphere is contagious and I can see why Heidi keeps signing up for more! Thanks to my friend Sommer for getting me involved in this one. It was a super-fun, unconventional ladies night, followed up by dinner at Panera. I'm wearing the shirt they gave us for registering. It has a pirate on it ;-)
My next summer adventure will be 10 days in Minneapolis to visit Heidi and help her with the kiddos! She's made a list of fun things to do, so I can't wait!
ATVs baby
Nick and I went with my dad, Lindsay, and Nathan to ride ATVs on Joe's property (a guy who has taken Dad and Lindsay around the past 2 times they've come) but we didn't get to meet Joe... :-( He has a ton of land - sand, beach, red-clay ground with palm trees and rubber trees (it's a rubber plantation) and mud holes.
It was so fun! We got stuck a couple times, but had a blast!!!
Family Fun
Nick's family is all in town this week to be together and celebrate Brian and Audrey's graduations... unfortunately it's the same week we are in Thailand. The cool thing is that they are watching Taylor for us and she gets to play with cousins!!!
We went to Pike's Place Market (I got to carry little Sydney while she slept) and we watched them throw the fish ;-)
We had a long flight to Japan... and another one to Thailand, but it's worth it!!!
We are staying in the coolest hotel attached to the hugest mall!!! We are having a blast - shopping, eating, playing, chillin' and planning the rest of our trip. We go to Phuket next, where Nick, my dad, and sisters will run a 1/2 marathon. Gotta go... dad needs his laptop...
Gotta love international food!!!She learned her lesson! And so did I...
The other day, I pulled out an old binder of notes from a college parenting class. My professor gave us some good material! (Of course, it didn't mean as much before I became a parent.) Anyway, when certain principles are taught in story-form to me (real life experiences), they stick with me better. So, even though I've been taught all my life that you shouldn't try to control people,... that we've been given our agency for a reason,... that people learn better when their not forced,... I still have an urge to control my daughter. One of the stories I read in the parenting class binder was about being patient as your children learn lessons their own way. WARNING: this method requires patience and faith...
Here's my experience:
Tonight, Nick told Taylor she could either get a treat at Mix It Up or Emerald City Smoothie after dinner. Of course she chose Mix It Up (Snoqualmie's version of Cold Stone), but I can't stand by and watch my own daughter spend $3.50 on a single scoop of ice cream without at least saying something. Since I know it's wrong to take back daddy's promise, I decided to present the more economical OPTIONS to her and then let her choose.
So, as we walked her down the frozen aisle of the grocery store, I explained how she could use the same amount of money to get a carton of ice cream and mix in her own candy instead, or a box of popsicles to share with friends the next day. She defiantly said "NO" to all my suggestions, and despite the LONG line at Mix It Up, she came home with a tiny cup of cotton candy ice cream and white chocolate chips that hurt her tummy and ended up in the trash half-eaten.
What do you think she said when I asked her if she wanted to go back? You guessed it! "No mommy, I'm going to get a box of popsicles next time."
She learned the lesson through her own choices which is WAY more effective than by force. She would have resented me if I had said, "HECK NO! We're not spending $3.50 on one scoop of ice cream!" Hopefully, I can remember this method next time we don't see eye to eye. :-)
And since every post needs a picture... here we are after her tap dance recital :-)
Here's my experience:
Tonight, Nick told Taylor she could either get a treat at Mix It Up or Emerald City Smoothie after dinner. Of course she chose Mix It Up (Snoqualmie's version of Cold Stone), but I can't stand by and watch my own daughter spend $3.50 on a single scoop of ice cream without at least saying something. Since I know it's wrong to take back daddy's promise, I decided to present the more economical OPTIONS to her and then let her choose.
So, as we walked her down the frozen aisle of the grocery store, I explained how she could use the same amount of money to get a carton of ice cream and mix in her own candy instead, or a box of popsicles to share with friends the next day. She defiantly said "NO" to all my suggestions, and despite the LONG line at Mix It Up, she came home with a tiny cup of cotton candy ice cream and white chocolate chips that hurt her tummy and ended up in the trash half-eaten.
What do you think she said when I asked her if she wanted to go back? You guessed it! "No mommy, I'm going to get a box of popsicles next time."
She learned the lesson through her own choices which is WAY more effective than by force. She would have resented me if I had said, "HECK NO! We're not spending $3.50 on one scoop of ice cream!" Hopefully, I can remember this method next time we don't see eye to eye. :-)
And since every post needs a picture... here we are after her tap dance recital :-)
Self Control
I'm sharing this in case it helps...
So, last week, the Christensens challenged us to a week of no junk food and a one-hour work-out every day. We started on Monday and ended on Saturday, so it wasn't a full 7-day week, but the point is, we did great!!! Some how, the accountability and the challenge is enough motivation to look for healthy options and to get your behind out of bed to exercise. In fact, there was one day I had to be REALLY creative to squeeze in my work-out, and would have probably not gone that far if we hadn't been challenged. But the MAIN REASON I am blogging about this is because today I noticed some left-over fondue chocolate and whipping cream in my fridge. The frugality in me screamed, "I must use those before they go bad!" I pulled out a recipe book and found a recipe for easy hot fudge. In fact, it was calling my name because I have all the ingredients and 2 of them in the perfect amounts and I would hate to throw them away. We also have strawberry ice cream in the fridge which the Baileys gave us. I don't usually like strawberry ice cream, but with hot fudge I'm sure I would down it! So, here I am after a succesful week of self-control and I am actually planning to consume chocolate fondue (and something to dip) and hot fudge on ice cream. HELLO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is where my aha moment happened. I called Nick and mentioned my discoveries and my plans... and then I thought, "WOULD I RATHER CONSUME A THOUSAND CALORIES THAN THROW THEM IN THE GARBAGE?!?!??!?!!" The left-over fondue doesn't even taste very good anymore and I don't even like strawberry ice cream, yet I was ACTUALLY planning to eat them. Hmmmmm... add to my weight or the garbages'? All of a sudden it seems like a no brainer. So, I go to the fridge, pull them out and chuck them in the garbage without another thought.
You know, this reminded me of a guy on the biggest loser who said he would eat extra burgers when he could get them for just a dollar a piece. When I heard that, I remember thinking, "You really want to sell your health so cheaply?" You know what I mean? And now I'm thinking, am I willing to sell my self-control and my desire to be healthy for so little?
Anyway, like I said at the beginning, I only wanted to share this in case it helps anyone else in their struggle to win the fight against chocolate or whatever your weakness is. Before I take a bite, or a sip, I need to ask myself every time, "Is this really worth it?"Eventually, I hope to not even have to think about it.
And because every blog needs a picture, here's what I did yesterday with my Mom, Taylor, friend Erin Christensen (who issued the week challenge) and her twin boys. We hiked up Little Si - "A short but somewhat steep hike up Mt. Si's small sibling peak, 5 miles round trip, elevation gain 1,200 ft. Taylor did the whole thing without being carried or complaining. 2 hours up, 1 down. It was AWESOME!!! Erin and I carried the boys on our backs and they were great sports!!! Perfect weather, gorgeous views.
I read it 3 times, slowly...
I just read a fantastic article in the April Ensign, written by Elder Dallin H. Oaks and his wife, Kristen M. Oaks (who spoke at Time Out for Women!)... and I love this quote; it has inspired me to fulfill my soul's "hunger to learn."
"Beyond increasing our occupational qualifications, we should desire to learn how to become more emotionally fulfilled, more skilled in our personal relationships, and better parents and citizens. There are few things more fulfilling and fun than learning something new. Great happiness, satisfaction, and financial rewards come from this. An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. This kind of learning goes well beyond books and a selective use of new technology, such as the Internet. It includes artistic endeavors. It also includes experiences with people and places: conversations with friends, visits to museums and concerts, and opportunities for service. We should expand ourselves and enjoy the journey.
"We may have to struggle to achieve our goals, but our struggles may yield as much growth as our learning. The strengths we develop in overcoming challenges will be with us in the eternities to come. We should not envy those whose financial or intellectual resources make it easy. The stuff of growth was never made of ease, and persons who have it easy will need to experience their growth with other sacrifices or forego the advancement that is the purpose of life."
"Beyond increasing our occupational qualifications, we should desire to learn how to become more emotionally fulfilled, more skilled in our personal relationships, and better parents and citizens. There are few things more fulfilling and fun than learning something new. Great happiness, satisfaction, and financial rewards come from this. An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. This kind of learning goes well beyond books and a selective use of new technology, such as the Internet. It includes artistic endeavors. It also includes experiences with people and places: conversations with friends, visits to museums and concerts, and opportunities for service. We should expand ourselves and enjoy the journey.
"We may have to struggle to achieve our goals, but our struggles may yield as much growth as our learning. The strengths we develop in overcoming challenges will be with us in the eternities to come. We should not envy those whose financial or intellectual resources make it easy. The stuff of growth was never made of ease, and persons who have it easy will need to experience their growth with other sacrifices or forego the advancement that is the purpose of life."
work....play....
I want to share something that made me laugh last night. It requires a little background, so here we go...
When Nick and I were dating, he would want to take me out during the week and I would always say, "it's a week night! I have homework!" I am definitely a work-before-play kinda gal and he has gradually learned to appreciate that. Needless to say (to those who know him), he values play a TON. Fun is the most important thing in life. I am grateful that he makes time for work. I wouldn't have married a complete goof-off.
Most nights we read a little "wisdom nugget" from this book called Married for Life - Inspirations from those married 50 years or more. Last night, the topic was "Keep your priorities straight - responsibilities ahead of pleasure." So, Nick starts to read outloud and comes to "Rule one is, work before play. Get your chores done, then have a good time. This is important to remember if you are the less responsible, more fun-loving partner." My eyes widened and I thoughtfully "hmmmmm"ed as he said, "told you so!!!" then he blurted out: "I'm so glad I have an awesome work ethic and I kick butt at life!"
I'm so glad too :-)
When Nick and I were dating, he would want to take me out during the week and I would always say, "it's a week night! I have homework!" I am definitely a work-before-play kinda gal and he has gradually learned to appreciate that. Needless to say (to those who know him), he values play a TON. Fun is the most important thing in life. I am grateful that he makes time for work. I wouldn't have married a complete goof-off.
Most nights we read a little "wisdom nugget" from this book called Married for Life - Inspirations from those married 50 years or more. Last night, the topic was "Keep your priorities straight - responsibilities ahead of pleasure." So, Nick starts to read outloud and comes to "Rule one is, work before play. Get your chores done, then have a good time. This is important to remember if you are the less responsible, more fun-loving partner." My eyes widened and I thoughtfully "hmmmmm"ed as he said, "told you so!!!" then he blurted out: "I'm so glad I have an awesome work ethic and I kick butt at life!"
I'm so glad too :-)
Family News
I have a new niece named Sydney Grace! Look at her cute little face!!!
Her excited parents: Travis and Lindsay Simon!
Congratulations guys! We love you and are so happy for you! Can't wait to meet her :-)
More news: My little brother Preston gave the best missionary farewell talk I've ever heard. I'm so impressed with the man he has become. He's going to make a fantastic missionary in Peru!
My little sister Lindsay is getting married to Nate Duffy on May 2nd in the Seattle Temple! I'm so excited and I'm having fun helping her plan details like flowers.
Lots of changes in the family... but change is good.
Her excited parents: Travis and Lindsay Simon!
Congratulations guys! We love you and are so happy for you! Can't wait to meet her :-)
More news: My little brother Preston gave the best missionary farewell talk I've ever heard. I'm so impressed with the man he has become. He's going to make a fantastic missionary in Peru!
My little sister Lindsay is getting married to Nate Duffy on May 2nd in the Seattle Temple! I'm so excited and I'm having fun helping her plan details like flowers.
Lots of changes in the family... but change is good.
TIME OUT For Women
Last year, my friend Erin Christensen came home from Time Out for Women and told me all about it - the speakers that make you laugh and cry, the musicians that blow you away, the recharging of your inner battery, the strengthening of your faith, and the "time out" that we sometimes need from life in order to refocus and get back on track. I knew right then that I wouldn't miss it for the world next time it came to Washington. My expectations were set very high, which I usually avoid so as not to be disappointed, but I knew that wasn't a possibility. When Erin told me it was coming to Seattle March 13th and 14th I said, "I'm IN!" She bought tickets for me and a few other friends (group discount baby!) and made hotel reservations at the last minute (better deals!) for us to stay at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Seattle near Benaroya Hall (where the event was held). On the way to the room, we traveled up the elevator with some coolers we'd brought with breakfast inside. It reminded me of my lifetime dream to ride an elevator carrying a cooler marked "Human Head."
Then we headed off to Benaroya Hall for our Time Out! There were 1000 - 1500 women in attendance!
The biggest thing I learned from this was the importance of going BACK TO BASICS and having a daily FOCUS.
Having decided to make a whole weekend out of it, we kicked it off with dinner at McCormicks (in the lounge for happy hour deals!!) where we tried some mocktails...
The Mocktail Mommas - Jen, Erin, Erin, and Karine (who's friend Sarah wasn't able to join us afterall because her unborn child wouldn't give her a "time out" from being sick)
We devoured our meals/ appetizers for $1.95 - $3.95 as we reviewed the details of our love stories. Remembering how you fell in love always makes you miss your husband -speaking of which, this one's for you, oh lovers of hot wings...
Then we headed off to Benaroya Hall for our Time Out! There were 1000 - 1500 women in attendance!
The director, Laurel Christensen, was a hoot! I liked her instantly for her genuine, friendly, humorous personality. Her job would be a blast!
Hilary Weeks was amazing! She is quite the entertainer. She told a story to preface almost every song she sang, which made it all more memorable. The first story she told stands out to me the most. She said her husband rented a jet-ski for them to ride, but she had 4 rules: no going fast, no funny-business, no tipping over, and no breaking the rules. (Sounds like me. I refuse to buy a jet-ski, though Nick continues to keep it on "the list" of future toys.) It was fun at first, but eventually he broke all the rules. After tipping them over, Hilary noticed a pretty pink think in the water and tried to catch it with her foot. She missed, but watched it sink into oblivion. When her husband climbed back on the jet-ski, he stated that the key was missing. "What does it look like?" she asked. "It's chained to a funny little pink thing." ... ... So, they said a prayer and waited for a heroic ski boat to come rescue them. After a few hours, they saw a little, old green motor boat coming their way. It wasn't at all what she had imagined as the answer to her prayer, but it managed to tow them and the jet-ski back to shore.
She then talked about how our prayers may not be answered in the way or the time frame that we want them to, but our Heavenly Father knows what is best for us more than we do. She sang... "He's the tender behind the mercy, the unconditional in love..." and "it happens when you least expect it." I love how she sings her testimony. She also sings little "diddies" she makes up about motherhood. She had us rolling with laughter because we could all relate. That was the best thing about her - she's so relatable and down to earth. In case you're curious, here's an example of one of her mom-anthems:
To the tune of "I Believe I Can Fly" -
I believe I can fly,
and I will if you continue to cry
I've listened to you whine all day
gonna start the minivan and drive away,
My ears are gettin' sore
You'll see me runnin' through that open door...
And when daddy gets home,
Tell him not to call my cell phone.
UNLESS
He's made you dinner
and the dishes have been done
and you've been tucked into bed
With pajamas and a pull-up on
Otherwise I'll run errands all night long,
or at least I'll try!
Ardeth Kapp (former Young Women General President) talked about personal revelation. She said that in a war, the enemy's first attack is on your communication with the command center. Satan has the same tactics. He wants to separate you from Heavenly Father, so he is blocking communication with the headquarters via distraction and sin. We need the Holy Ghost to communicate with the command center and we need to pray. That's why we are constantly being reminded to pray and read our scriptures. The adversary wants to get us too busy to stay in touch with the Holy Ghost.
The biggest thing I learned from this was the importance of going BACK TO BASICS and having a daily FOCUS.
She also stated, "you are innately, inherently, and intuitively good." Let us remember that about ourselves and others.
She reminded me that I can be an instrument in the Lord's hands if I listen to the Spirit.
Kristen Oaks is the wife of Elder Dallin H. Oaks. I enjoyed her very much! She reminded me of my mother - adorable and sweet, but especially because she taught her grandchildren about gardens. The biggest lesson I learned from her is that if it hurts, you're being stretched. Growth is uncomfortable and sometimes painful. "Life is not easy because salvation is not cheap." She also reminded us to be gentle with ourselves - negative thoughts are not of God - and don't doubt yourself!
Emily Watts spoke to us the next day. She taught us that some fruit is slow to ripen (ie: children and manners/ good behavior). We should be patient as we wait for the fruit to ripen, & don't give up. What if the fruits of parenting are how you turn out after being a mother? Motherhood certainly teaches compassion, patience, and charity... along with communication and incremental progress. She talked a lot about children, and the lesson I learned was to PAY ATTENTION and CHERISH each day with my sweet daughter. Hilary Weeks followed this up with a song about what you would do if you had just one day left with your loved ones, like leave the dishes in the sink and let the phone ring while you read to your child and give them your attention.
Emily Freeman talked about making the most of what you have to offer. You can have miracles in ordinary life. Sharing your blessings with others can make a huge difference in their life. She and 3 other families took in a troubled neighborhood boy 1 night each week to help him with homework and feed him dinner. This didn't require much change of schedule for these families, other than including him, but it made a huge difference in his life.
She mentioned that gratitude usually precedes giving. Ask yourself "Am I content with life?" "Have I found abundance in the blessings that surround me?"
The BE THERE principle is one of my favorite wisdom-nuggets from this weekend. "Mourn with those that mourn" is one of those principles I haven't quite grasped yet. I have more of the "fix-it" mentality. I am learning that all you have to do is just be there sometimes. It doesn't matter if you have nothing to say, in fact, it may be best to say nothing to those to mourn - but BE THERE, and just let them cry. He will bless your offering and make it enough.
Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% what you make of it.
Kim Nelson pointed out that divine discontent is NOT the same as hopeless shame. One motivates and moves you to action. The other may be the result of a chemical imbalance which needs treatment. You don't have to earn God's love - He's already crazy about you & loves you no matter what.
Hilary told us a story of the time she wrecked two family vehicles before early morning seminary, but her dad didn't even get mad at her or say anything she expected him to. She reminded us to save the lecture and just love. They'll still learn.
Kris Belcher was full of hilarious stories (please, tell your children if they see a bum coming at them, to say "nooooo!!!") and jokes and so many life lessons. She said it would bother her when people would try to console her with the scripture about how God will never give you more than you can handle, but they were misinterpreting it. The scriptures I recall that discuss this (like 1 Corinthians 10:13 and D&C 95:1) are talking about temptation and suggesting that there is always a way to escape it. Kris said, "Of course God gives you things you can't handle [alone], or else there is no need for Christ." GRACE!!! So, when you wonder how someone could possibly handle their difficult trials, consider the role of strength and grace Christ plays in their life. And when you find yourself in those black holes where you wonder if you'll ever come out into the light again, tell yourself the struggle is worth it, you still have a personality and sense of humor under the grief and pain, and even though you can't pray away the obstacles, you'll survive; you'll come out stronger.
Well, I've run through my notes and pictures. So, until next year (when I'm taking my mother and mother-in-law) it's Time-In for me.
It has EYES...
Life is too often too monotonous. So, I just want to share something that was a new experience for me... The Crab Pot. Yes, even though I lived in Shanghai for four years, I never even braved the seafood restaurants. I pretty much stuck with dumplings, sweet and sour pork, garlic broccoli, fried rice, chow mein, etc. So, anyway, it was a fascinating experience for me to be introduced to mountains of crab legs, mussels, clams, and shrimp - with their HEADS still on! I was staring in awe at my friends go to town on these creatures of the sea. UGLY creatures I might add. I can see why they hide in shells.
It was Erin C's birthday and was she ever SURPRISED to find a table of friends waiting at one of her favorite restaurants! It's always fun to pull off a surprise. Her whole day was filled with them, thanks to a couple of her good friends who planned the whole thing even though they live a couple hours away. They were kind enough to include her locals buddies in the surprise and we all had a great time.
Emily and I with our stinky bibs. I'm slightly embarassed to say we shared a cheeseburger - which I DON'T regret - but it is pretty lame, I know. I DID try some crab. It was good, but I prefer it mixed with other flavors.
This shows the pile of goods dumped on the table and the tools to de-construct them with. I only knew half of these women but it was such a fun group, easy to be comfortable around, that it didn't matter. I admire Erin's ability to maintain life-long relationships. Some of the women there were friends from middle school, whom she still sees regularly.
Erin J warned me of the shrimp that stare at you. I normally like shrimp, but not with eyes.
Her good friend Kim made this gorgeous cake for her! You know, Kim, my little sister is looking for someone to make her wedding cake...
Her good friend Kim made this gorgeous cake for her! You know, Kim, my little sister is looking for someone to make her wedding cake...
Nick got a job!
Thank you for your prayers! Nick was offered a job today in the purchasing department of Quadrant Homes! It's been exactly one week since they let him go, but I guess Quadrant was motivated to get the position filled because things moved very quickly! Can I just reiterate how much we love Quadrant Homes (and Weyerhaeuser - which ownes Quadrant) - they have been so good to us. These two companies have impacted my life more than any others. My experiences living in Asia, traveling with my family, educational opportunities, my home and neighborhood, my husband's work experience, our awesome insurance which will help us get another child, and so many other things are results of Weyerhaeuser initially hiring my dad 21 years ago, and then Quadrant offering Nick his first job out of college, which he applied for when my dad sent him an email. Our lives could be very, very different if Weyerhaeuser hadn't seen something wonderful in the 2 most important men in my life. I feel very grateful right now.
Nick said he doesn't know how his interview could have gone any better, and that he knows he received divine help. He starts on Wednesday at the corporate office in Bellevue, which is half the commute!!!! We feel so blessed, especially considering the job market right now. Thank you to everyone for your kind words of encouragement and your prayers and support! I know it's not just the big man upstairs who is looking out for us, but He certainly takes care of us. ;)
Abundant Blessings and a Turn of Events
Before I get into our pictures and memories of the holidays, I want to tell you about today, Thursday, January 8th. Taylor cut her long gorgeous hair off - about 4 inches on each side. I couldn't take a picture because my camera battery is dead and the charger is at my mom's house. So, I evened it up, and she has adjusted to it over the past couple hours. Better now than when she's 12 and her self esteem rides on her long blonde locks.
A few hours after that incident, Nick came home early because Quadrant Homes let him go in their 3rd round of layoffs. Luckily, they have a good severence package and insurance for the next 6 months. So, I'm planning to start Leupron at the beginning of February (to kill off the rest of the endometriosis).
In Nick's words, "I enjoyed my time at Quadrant and appreciate all that I learned in my position. They took a gamble on hiring me 3 years ago, as I had no construction knowledge or supervisory experience. I'm still not sure how my degree in Education applied to the position, but hopefully it will serve me well in the future. The position was a wonderful opportunity, and I will treasure what I learned and those people that I was able to associate with. Please know that I feel we will be taken care of. I've had that reassuring feeling from the moment I left my job site. I'll continue to put my faith in God, and work towards starting the next chapter of my professional career (let me know if you hear of anything)."
THE GOOD STUFF:
The holidays started off great with a Wheiler family date organized by my brother, Preston. My dad is always saying he wants gifts of our time ("because I have money, but no time" - he has been mercilessly mocked with that phrase). So, Preston planned and executed a SUPER FUN family date (adults only).
We went to the Rock for dinner and played a shopping game of buying gifts for another couple with a limited cash budget. Preston and his girlfriend, Anna, bought us Kung Fu Panda! We are huge fans of that movie!!!!! "There is no charge for awesomeness,... or attractiveness."
And this is just a funny picture that Nathan, Lindsay's boyfriend, suggested. You take a deep breath and blow out your flapping lips while someone takes a picture of the action. It's funnier up close.
The weather didn't exactly give us many opportunities for outdoor family pictures, so we did our best inside by the Christmas tree. This is one of the half-serious shots. I just love Preston's face in it.
My pictures at the Simon's didn't turn out very well. In fact, most of these pictures here are from my brother's camera. We had a wonderful time over there, too. We played games (like the candy bar game and Scattegories and Phase 10) and ate good food - and AMAZING home made chocolate sauce on ice cream. We had a surprise baby shower for Lindsay (Travis and her are having a girl in March). Keith and Barb gave us 2 huge bags full of medical supplies, medicines, and first aid kits! We got the hook-up!!!! I feel like we are gradually more "Emergency Prepared."
A few hours after that incident, Nick came home early because Quadrant Homes let him go in their 3rd round of layoffs. Luckily, they have a good severence package and insurance for the next 6 months. So, I'm planning to start Leupron at the beginning of February (to kill off the rest of the endometriosis).
In Nick's words, "I enjoyed my time at Quadrant and appreciate all that I learned in my position. They took a gamble on hiring me 3 years ago, as I had no construction knowledge or supervisory experience. I'm still not sure how my degree in Education applied to the position, but hopefully it will serve me well in the future. The position was a wonderful opportunity, and I will treasure what I learned and those people that I was able to associate with. Please know that I feel we will be taken care of. I've had that reassuring feeling from the moment I left my job site. I'll continue to put my faith in God, and work towards starting the next chapter of my professional career (let me know if you hear of anything)."
THE GOOD STUFF:
The holidays started off great with a Wheiler family date organized by my brother, Preston. My dad is always saying he wants gifts of our time ("because I have money, but no time" - he has been mercilessly mocked with that phrase). So, Preston planned and executed a SUPER FUN family date (adults only).
We went to the Rock for dinner and played a shopping game of buying gifts for another couple with a limited cash budget. Preston and his girlfriend, Anna, bought us Kung Fu Panda! We are huge fans of that movie!!!!! "There is no charge for awesomeness,... or attractiveness."
And this is just a funny picture that Nathan, Lindsay's boyfriend, suggested. You take a deep breath and blow out your flapping lips while someone takes a picture of the action. It's funnier up close.
The weather didn't exactly give us many opportunities for outdoor family pictures, so we did our best inside by the Christmas tree. This is one of the half-serious shots. I just love Preston's face in it.
Taylor must have really been inspired by the experience, because the next day, I found some pictures like this on my camera. When I asked her about it, she said her princess toys were having a family picture taken.
Dad really came through this year with some studly Harley Davidson helmets for the men.
Dad really came through this year with some studly Harley Davidson helmets for the men.
One of my favorite gifts were these Access bars from Heidi. She buys them from Melaleuca and had to quit eating them because she was losing too much weight. Pretty much, they boost your energy and help your body burn more fat while you exercise. So, THAT paired with our free gym memberships are definitely a perk to all this free time Nick has at home now. In fact, the first thing he wanted to do when he came home with the news of his job loss was go to the gym. Ultimately, I hope he finds a job he loves in a field he can be passionate about.
Looks like he was not quite ready for the picture, but don't be fooled - he's pumped about these bars too :) He tried to have one as a snack the other day and I said, "Don't waste them! You are only supposed to have them on an empty stomach 15 minutes before you work out!" Thanks again, Heidi - especially for giving me the mint chocolate ones.
Nick and Mom tied the prize for most creative Taylor-gift this year. Mom gave her a new bed spread and Nick gave her an MP3 player so we don't have to listen to disney, barbie, and veggie tales anymore. It was a big hit with this musically inclined 4 year old, but she still sings out loud. :)
Preston spent hours compiling 12 years of Christmas home videos onto 2 DVDs for Dad. Now THAT is a true gift of TIME.
My pictures at the Simon's didn't turn out very well. In fact, most of these pictures here are from my brother's camera. We had a wonderful time over there, too. We played games (like the candy bar game and Scattegories and Phase 10) and ate good food - and AMAZING home made chocolate sauce on ice cream. We had a surprise baby shower for Lindsay (Travis and her are having a girl in March). Keith and Barb gave us 2 huge bags full of medical supplies, medicines, and first aid kits! We got the hook-up!!!! I feel like we are gradually more "Emergency Prepared."
Our good friends in Yakima (Clayton and Shantay) were planning to come celebrate New Year's Eve in Seattle - and invited us to join them at the Space Needle. Unfortunately, poor road conditions kept them at home, so we followed the plans with Travis and Lindsay. We went to Gas Works park, then got hot chocolate from 7-Eleven, then romped around Seattle and enjoyed the fireworks.
This one's for my dad, who graduated in 76 :)
All in all, life is good. We are fortunate and blessed and happy. We enjoyed the holidays SO MUCH that we don't know how we'll ever surpass it in fun and fulfillment. Maybe the more children we add to the family, the more joy and excitement there will be on Christmas morning :) We are so grateful to have been healthy and safe through the holidays, and for our awesome CR-V that made it possible for us to enjoy the time with so many beloved family members despite the crazy snow.
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