Thanksgiving Everyday

Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, I feel like it's important for me to share some of the gratitude that is in my heart, because although "the day" has come and gone, there are so many things to give thanks for every single day! President Thomas S. Monson said in this last conference, "Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God's love." I feel that is so true. When I sit back and count my blessings, I always seem to become overwhelmed with a deep sense of love that I know my Heavenly Father has for me. In fact, the more I feel gratitude, the more blessings I am freely given. Doesn't it seem kind of ironic? In trying to give back thanks to Him, I am given even more. It's also that way with service. When we give of our time and talents to others, in the end, we are the ones that feel the blessings of serving. President Monson also said, "feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." So as we move from Thanksgiving to a holiday full of gift giving, I wish to express my love and gratitude to those who touch my life. My husband - he's truly amazing and is always giving to me. He gives me love, support, laughter and encouragement, and compliments that would make any woman feel like Ms. Universe! I love you Clint! :) And my children - who make me feel needed and loved, who love their one on one time with me, and who unconditionally love me even when I am grouchy! (and tend to pick those moments to tell me that I'm the best mom in the whole wide world! Imagine that! ;) I love you kids! And my parents - who have given me all that they have to give throughout my life - and can be good sports about attending a "rock Christmas concert" for an unforgettable 69th birthday gift with no complaints! I will never forget that one! I love you mom and dad! And my siblings - who I know love me even through banana-less banana bread and my all time famous attention getter - "accidentally" getting my nose in my ice-cream cone and then acting like I don't know it's there! I love you guys! And my in-laws - who accept me and love me just the way I am, and who make me feel not at all like an "in-law," but a prized sister and daughter who can do no wrong! Boy do I have you guys fooled! ;) I love you all! And to all of my friends - who love me, encourage me, believe in me, and inspire me and make me want to be better. Thank you for your devotion and friendship! They mean the world to me! And last but NOT least, a kind and generous, wise and eternal Father in Heaven who lifts me, forgives me, and loves me to the end. I am eternally grateful for all of these precious gifts!

It's a Wonderful Life!

I recently wrote about the "speed limit " that we travel through this life at, and since that day, I feel that "time" is traveling at the "speed of light!" I am just simply amazed at how true it is that the older we get, the faster time goes by. Everyday seems to be full of things to do, people to see, places to go, reasons to celebrate-laugh-and smile. And as much as I desire for the little things in life to linger, I am enjoying life to the fullest - along with each of the days that come and go. I love taking my little ones to the zoo, (especially when it's their first time!) I love going on dates with Clint and taking our children on their individual dates each month when it's "their day." I love making birthday cakes for my family and laughing out loud when the little ones press their faces up against the window with squished noses and crazy faces! I love having Family Home Evening and the time that we are together with no where to run off to, and no where that we have to be. Whether it's being a "Ghost buster" with Clint or "Booing" someone for the 3rd time in one week, our family home evenings is on my list of favorites. I also love serving in the church. I feel like life has so much more meaning when we are doing something for someone else. And although I wish I could do more at times, I still feel so much joy and satisfaction from the time that is given from a mother to her family. I love having my parents come and stay for a visit and to see everyone giddy over the"special attention" that they get from grandma and papa. I love when the kids say something so cute like, "I'm choosing the right because I want to be on Jesus' side!" I also love watching the kids all run for the back door for a big hug every night around the same time, (you know the time, when daddy comes home?!) I love watching the seasons change and taking in all of the wonder and beauty of Heavenly Father's creations. I love watching my children grow in confidence with their accomplishments in church or at school. I love getting together with family for blessings and baptisms and holiday gatherings. I love family traditions, especially the ones that come this time of year! (Baking, singing, decorating, and the "Gift of Time!") I love seeing old friends and wrapping my arms around them and hugging them a little longer than usual. I love to close my eyes at those moments and push pause and record those thoughts and feelings and memories in my heart. And even though there always seems to be challenges both great and small that are mixed in with all of the good, I love making it through the hard times and then looking back on how we may have grown through the experience or trial. Because - it is true that without the opposition in life, we would not know true joy. For all of these reasons and so many more, I am so grateful at this Thanksgiving time. I know that all that is good in my life comes from our Heavenly Father and I can honestly say, "it's a wonderful life!"

"SPEED LIMIT 35"

I can hardly believe that it's already November! It feels as if the hands of time are turning faster and faster as the days pass by. So, in an effort to remind myself to take time to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life, I have been listening to President Uchtdorf's talk from this last conference titled, "Of Things That Matter Most." I love everything that he says in this talk! He reminds us that during some of the busiest, most hectic times in our lives, we need to slow down and SIMPLIFY! As I have listened to this talk over and over again, (almost daily now!) I find myself learning new things all of the time. (And just as Dieter relates almost all of his stories to airplanes, I seem to relate almost all of mine to running!) So, I guess I'll chalk this one up to just one more of "life's little lessons" that I learned on a run!
I was on my way home with only about a mile or so left to go, when I happened to look up just as I was passing a speed limit sign. It said, "SPEED LIMIT 35." Now, I don't know how many times I have passed a sign like this, but for some reason, today, this sign taught me something. A speed limit is just that. It's a limit. Not a challenge of "how much faster than that can I go?" Well, as I thought about this sign, I also realized that it was there to help me and to keep me safe. And - not coincidentally, the closer we get to home, the slower the speed limit gets. In some areas on the freeway we can travel at speeds of up to 75 mph! After we exit the freeway the speed limit drops to 50 then 45 then 35, then once inside our little neighborhood, the speed limit is a whopping 25 mph! So, as we continue to race on through this life, we need to be sure that the closer we get to home, the more we need to slow down! Doesn't it make perfect sense? Some of the most important work that we do in life happens within the walls of our own homes. Wouldn't it be sad if we were in too big of a hurry or we were in such a rush that we ended up missing out on those priceless opportunities? I know that I personally try to fill my day to the fullest with good things. But, I also know that there are millions of "good things" in the world and that I need to be selective on which ones I put my effort into and which ones can be left aside for another time. I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who is kind enough and wise enough to help us learn and grow while we are here on this journey through life. I am grateful that He speaks to our hearts and minds in ways that we can understand, and if we are listening, we just might hear what it is that He is trying to tell us. This life truly is a gift and I am so happy to be reminded daily that there is a purpose and a plan to all of this! Now, if only I could figure out how to get the laundry done at freeway speed, and how to turn nap time into a "school zone!" Or hey, how about a "STOP" sign! THAT would be awesome!

The Parable of the Socks

One thing that is certain in this life is that there is always room to grow. There is always room to improve and learn and to be better than we were the day before. I know that I can definitely learn more patience from my children, increase my knowledge and learning through good books, and thankfully, gain more "wisdom" through life's little lessons. Some days the lessons that I learn seem to be simple in logic, yet profound in meaning - just like what happened to me the other morning.


I was sound asleep, peacefully dreaming, when I was abruptly awakened by the sound of my alarm. I threw back the covers and stumbled to turn off the sound. This morning was starting out the same as most mornings as I mechanically maneuvered myself through the room in the dark, gathering the items that I needed to go out for my morning run. I had been successful at collecting all of the items except for one thing - my socks. I reached into the basket to get my socks and was certain that all of the different materials that I was feeling were NOT my socks. I could feel nylons, wool socks, my nice trouser socks, my furry warm slipper socks - everything but my running socks! Frustrated, I left the room and decided to go and get dressed and get a drink, and then I would go back a second time and this time surely be able to find my socks! Well, when I went back and "felt" my way through the sock basket, I found myself once again frustrated at not being able to find my socks! Finally, after mentally apologizing to Clint for having to turn on the light, I reached my arm around the doorway of my closet, flipped on the light switch, grabbed my running socks, and then quickly turned the light back off. That was it! Within a matter of seconds I was able to see clearly what I needed, get it, and be done! I had finally obtained the last item that I needed before I could move forward with beginning my day. As I sat (in the dark) putting on my socks and shoes, I had this very distinct thought come to my mind. -Sometimes in life we think that we can do things on our own - that we don't need any "light" to find what we are looking for or to get us where we need to be. If only we would take an extra second in our day to "turn on the light," then we could begin to move forward and progress. Who knows how much time I would have wasted in the dark had I not decided to just turn on the light. It's also interesting to think about the fact that Clint was right there in the room with me, but I was still the one who had to flip the switch. It is the same with the gospel of Jesus Christ. What we need is right in front of us and only we can choose to turn on the light. Only we can invite our Savior into our lives and let His light shine bright for us. It's a pretty simple lesson, but one that I have thought about time and time again, and one that I am reminded of every single day as I simply choose to "turn on the light!"

The "Heart" of an Angel

I am pretty sure that I know just about everything that there is to know about one of Heavenly Father's littlest angels. Her name is Kambriella Noel. Her favorite people are Dada and Mama. She loves books, bracelets, necklaces and balls. She loves babies, singing, dancing, and shoes. She loves doggies, kitties, balloons, and chocolate milk. And she delivers more laughter and smiles to our family than all of the toys from Santa on Christmas Eve!

One year ago on October 5th, this little angel had to under go open heart surgery at Primary Children's hospital. One year ago, I held that precious angel and wondered if I would ever get to hold her again. I remember feeling worried and scared, and then comforted all at the same time. I have a vivid picture in my mind of Kambriella peering over the shoulder of the doctor as he cuddled her and walked down the hall that had a bold yellow line that we were not aloud to cross. She looked so tiny in her hospital gown and I wanted to run after her and hold her, but I knew that this "hard thing" would be good for her. I guess that is kind of how life is for all of us. Heavenly Father sent us here and probably wanted so badly to run after us and hold us, but He knew that this earthly experience, this "hard thing," would be good for us. I have learned that even though I don't necessarily like doing hard things, that I can still do them. Even though Kambriella's heart surgery was scary at best, just look at this little angel now. Look at how much she has grown and what a beautiful little girl she is turning out to be! This trial has made her strong and part of who she is today. It has also made me a stronger person and so much more appreciative of all of the angels in my life. As I direct my thoughts to the hope of the future, I will ever be grateful that I still get to hold on to this precious child. For I am anxious to see what lies ahead as more of the characteristic traits develop from one of Heavenly Father's littlest angels.

5 Years From Now...

I love Autumn time for so many countless reasons. The colors of the leaves are in their fullest brilliance, the temperature starts it's gradual decline, and some of the most important words ever to be spoken, etch themselves into the walls of our homes. As the General Conference of the church is broadcast throughout the world, the tender, sweet, and inspiring messages are also ever so close to home. Not only is the council that is given to each of us so definitely all inclusive, but also so very personal in so many different ways. With paper and pen in hand, I opened my heart and mind to the words that a loving Heavenly Father was sending to ME. There are always so many wonderful messages that it is like a feast for the soul. And lucky for us, we live in a day and age where we can read and re-read those inspired words and then the "feast" becomes a "buffet" where we can "go back " as many times as we would like and then truly "be filled."
So, as I listened to 5 sessions of conference (including the General Relief Society Broadcast), I learned many great lessons. I learned a lot of our great worth as individuals. I learned a lot about charity and service. I learned that we should always make sure that we are looking out of "clean windows" and not judging others. :) I learned about faith and prayer and endurance and obedience and gratitude... and the list goes on and on. But I asked myself this question, and it was amazing the answer that I gave: "What was the number one most important thing that you learned this conference that you can use today to help your family right now?" Well, with such a smorgasbord of spiritual food, the one thing that touched me greatly came through the talk given by Mary N. Cook. She related the story of her new grand-daughter and how her daughter felt so driven to "begin now" teaching little Ruby the things that she needed to know to become a virtuous young woman someday. I likewise felt those inspired words pierce my soul with such great force that I knew that this was what I needed to do. Sister Cook said, "Begin now teaching your children what you would like them to know 5 years from now." As I sat and pondered on this, I began to see such great wisdom in this council. In 5 years from now Kierra will be almost 18 years old! Carew will be right behind her - preparing for a mission, Dallin will almost be a teenager, Gavin will be 10 and Kambriella 6! So, should I wait until then to begin trying to teach them what they will need to know to be happy? Or should I begin now and prepare them for the joys and trials that indefinitely lie ahead? If I want my children to dress modestly, love the scriptures, live honestly, and go to their Heavenly Father in prayer with all of life's questions, should we begin by doing these things now? YES! And although I have always tried to make these things a priority, I now have a renewed sense of determination to do better and be better because I know it will benefit the lives of the people that I love the most. I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father, a loving prophet, and the spirit that can whisper to each of us individually of what we need in our lives right NOW.

The Symbols of My Birthday

As a mother, I by no means "lay out a wish list" of all of the things that I want for my birthday, but it is fun to give a few suggestions when the kids come up and ask, "Hey Mom, what do you want for your birthday?" Some of my replies I gave with a grin just in case Clint was listening or overhearing our conversations :) - "Oh a new diamond ring or some new running shoes would be nice! -Or how about an hour long back massage? -Or someone to do the dishes without being asked? -Or how about someone could brush my hair or do the laundry for me? :)" Those are some of the things that I think every mother would like and that kids are very capable of giving. But all of those things are NOT what I got for my birthday. - I actually felt kind of spoiled with the gifts I was given because, well, moms just really don't expect a whole lot! As I thought of all of the gifts that I had received, I couldn't help but reflect on ALL of the gifts that I have been given in my life. I remember when I was young dreaming about growing up and finding "Mr. Right," getting married in the temple, and having a family all of my own. Now just look at me! 5 kids later and 1 Mr. Right! (Well, at least I let him THINK that he's right - but we know who really wears the pants in the family - Mrs. Right - RIGHT? :)

Well, on to the symbols of my birthday. Each gift that was given to me represents in my mind something greater than I'm sure was ever intended, but I feel that if I can see all things as a means to learn and grow, then I can hopefully pass on something more to my family. I received a new phone AND phone calls from family and friends, representing the gift of love. I actually told my mom that when we grow up we don't even need birthday presents. We just need to know that people love us! I also received flowers and a necklace engraved with the saying, "Dear friends are always close to the heart" - representing the gift of friendship. I also received chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate with caramel, Reese's peanut butter cups with chocolate, a cute Halloween bowl filled with Chocolate Avalanche popcorn, and a Neapolitan and chocolate birthday cake, ALL representing the gift of, well,.......Chocolate!:) I also got a really cute hat that reminds me to keep my head on straight! -A lunch date with Mr.Right and 2 beautiful hand made watches representing the gift of time, precious time. I got a cute decoration for my entry way that says "Blessings" -that reminds me daily to count them every one! And last but not least was my favorite gift of all. It didn't come wrapped in any pretty paper and it wasn't tied up with any fancy bows. It came from my sweet little Dallin with his eyes full of excitement and anticipation to give it to me. He couldn't wait until the evening for me to open it with the rest of the presents that I had set out on the table. He had asked me quite a few times throughout the day, "Mom, do you want me to give you your present now?" I could really tell on the last time he asked me that I was getting my present right then and there whether I wanted to wait for the whole family or not! As I leaned in close to him, he smiled with both of his hands behind his back and said, "Happy Birthday Mom!" He quickly pulled out from behind him a small plastic compass and said, "It's for you Mom, so you can find your way home!" Something in my heart immediately swelled up - you know -that thing that is directly connected to the tear ducts? I thought to myself, "What a sweet little boy! He doesn't ever want to lose me!" And because of eternal families, he never will have to! I don't ever want to lose my way - and I think I'll always be able to find my way to 11903 Buckwheat Way, but I truly need continual guidance, a "compass" if you will - to find my way back to my heavenly home. My compass in life is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Without it, I would be nothing, and with it, I can accomplish anything. I am eternally grateful to my Heavenly Father who gives us all good gifts, and I am thankful for Dallin - and all of my family and friends who are continually helping me to find my way home.