Mason is super independent. He has starting disappearing and I’ll find him on the toilet. He’s not always perfect getting there when he needs to poop, but today he actually completely pooped on the toilet all by himself. He’s not so good with peeing, but maybe he’s going to potty train himself.
Sunday, December 30, 2018
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
November 2018 Highlights
During the month of November we enjoyed attending more plays than we have the rest of the year. A group of girlfriends and I went to see ‘Ragtime’. David and I went with friends to see ‘Come From Away’. David took Porter to watch one of the youth in our ward perform in ‘Big Fish’. And David and I went on a date to see ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’. I had forgotten how much I love a great play!
David and I loved attending the Salt Lake Temple Open House where we were able to hear from Elder and Sister Bednar. I wrote a separate post about this.
David and I loved attending the Salt Lake Temple Open House where we were able to hear from Elder and Sister Bednar. I wrote a separate post about this.
We stayed in town for Thanksgiving since David started his week of service the day after. David geared up for the neighborhood Turkey bowl took Porter along to play while the other boys and I watched or cooked at home. They enjoyed the game until the second to last play when David caught the ball and turned to run. He heard a pop, thought someone had kicked him and couldn’t run to complete the play. He spent part of the day in the ER where it was confirmed that he’d ruptured his Achilles. Needless to say, Thanksgiving was a bit somber as the reality of his injury sunk in. He spent most of the day in bed and I hosted my sister and a few friends for dinner.
Since David wasn’t feeling up to doing much that weekend, we decorated for Christmas. The boys and I loved it! David cheered us on from his chair in the living room.
David had surgery to repair his Achilles and has been recovering. He’s spent a lot of time sitting in our living room. Children are the best to put things in perspective. As Porter was helping David slide down the stairs one day, he said, “Dad, you can still do the most important things: go to church, read your scriptures, pray, spend time with your family and play games.” Even though David can’t wrestle and chase the boys, they have loved the special time sitting in his lap reading and talking or playing games on the floor.
Saturday, December 1, 2018
Jonas’ Prayers (12/1/18)
Lately Jonas has been expanding his prayers and saying the sweetest things.
Two examples:
“Thank you that Jesus let’s the grocery stores get full again.”
“Grateful that Jesus gave us the scriptures, let’s us go to church and lets us know Him.”
I love his tenderness.
And then before David’s surgery on Thursday, he came into me and said, “ Tell Dad good luck on his surgery and I told him to tell you that you look beautiful today.”
Two examples:
“Thank you that Jesus let’s the grocery stores get full again.”
“Grateful that Jesus gave us the scriptures, let’s us go to church and lets us know Him.”
I love his tenderness.
And then before David’s surgery on Thursday, he came into me and said, “ Tell Dad good luck on his surgery and I told him to tell you that you look beautiful today.”
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Sunday (Nov 11, 2018)
The morning started out pretty good. I wasn't as prepared as usual because David and I had been out with friends the night before. So, the boys still had to take baths and I still had to get their clothes ready. But, we were doing good and it was about 8:35am and everyone was just finishing getting dressed. Then the problems started. Jonas did not want to wear what I had set out for him. I decided I wasn't going to get frustrated and I would just find the shirt that he wanted to wear in the baskets of clean laundry. While I was searching for it in the laundry room, Porter yells down, "Mom, Mason has your eye liner all over." I bolted upstairs to find Mason not holding my eye liner, but holding my mascera and it was indeed all over. He had basically painted his hair with it and it was on his face/hands and clothes. As I ran to get it he dashed into the dining room and crawled along the ground to get under the table. This movement helped him continue his painting along the dining room carpet :). Awesome, I thought. But, I had not time to deal with that because we needed to get out the door. I quickly gave Mason another bath, found him some new clothes, finished getting myself and Jonas dressed and off we went. Unfortunately for Mason, I was not happy with him and he knew it.
Sometimes when days start out like this you think they can only get worse. But, it was a beautiful Sabbath day. I was able to mostly listen during Sacrament meeting while still taking care of my boys needs. Adam and Newel Jenson spoke. I'll admit the beginning of Adam's talk was not my favorite, I thought it was somewhat negative, but as he bore his testimony of our Savior, the spirit was there. Then Newel spoke. She was real, sincere, positive and Christ centered. She shared her journey through an abusive marriage and divorce. I had not known she was even married before. She is probably in her early to middle 20's. Her story was full of honesty without blame. Facts were shared and feelings were expressed. She articulate her experience in a way that you yearned for her release. Her story was shared so that she could express that the only person who could save her and make her whole again was our Savior. You could tell that she had experienced his healing and restorative power. That when all hope was almost lost and she didn't know what to do, He was there with open arms to rescue her. I literally sobbed through the majority of her talk. After Sacrament I wrapped my arms around her. I have seen people go through really difficult experiences in life, but not everyone comes out smiling, positive and full of light. Newel did. Hearing her story was inspiring and also a reminder that no matter what happens in our lives, joy and happiness can be found on the other end. It doesn't mean that some scares don't remain. The scares are there to remind us of how we have been succored by a loving Savior.
After church, Jonas, Porter, Ryker and I played Carcassone. I loved that Jonas wanted to be on his own team. He actually did pretty good :).
Later in the afternoon David and I had a chance to go to the Salt Lake Temple Open House for ordinance workers. We didn't arrive in time to be in the Solemn Assembly, but we were in the chapel overflow and we still got to hear the message of Elder Bednar and his wife Susan. I have observed more and more lately the increasing declarations of the apostles. Their messages are full of power and they are direct. The action we need to take is more often than not very clear. Elder Bednar's messages were this day as well. Generally I have seen Elder Bednar be a bit more serious, but today there were a few jokes. I loved his message. David has written up the majority of main points, but I want to share a few of my impressions or those parts that stood out to me the most. He spoke about our need for correction and the importance of not only listening to correction offered by others, but being willing to give correction without concern for ourselves. We need to correct out of love, not judgement. I thought about those that I am concerned about, often I don't want to be as direct as I should about my concerns regarding actions that they may or may not be taking. I have always thought it was out of concern to offend them. But, as I listened to Elder Bednar, he was very clear that correction is not offered out of concern for myself.
He also spoke about the how the natural man is an enemy to God and has been since the fall of Adam. He said we need to hurl the natural man off a cliff. As I have thought about this, I have reflected on the need for deliberate daily actions to put off the natural man. How I spend my time, what I read, what I watch, how I speak with others and what my conversations entail. Sometimes I can feel myself giving into the natural man. I just want to relax, "veg", etc. As I have noticed the council given from the Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency, as well as what is going on in the world today, I know it's time to really focus on who I need to become and to start working towards it. Sometimes the thought of it is overwhelming, but I can't stop working. I can't give up or become paralyzed. Endure to the end. I have thought about this phrase before, but it has begun to take on new meaning to me as this overwhelm can set in if I allow it to.
I loved getting to attend this devotional with David. It was energizing and exciting to hear Elder Bednar direct us and counsel us. He talked about what we have learned from the Book of Mormon and if everything we know is from what people have taught us or from our own personal study.
He spoke about ordinances and covenants and being on the covenant path.
Sunday night we had a High Priest Quorum Open House and it was a good chance to talk and meet new people from the stake.
Sometimes when days start out like this you think they can only get worse. But, it was a beautiful Sabbath day. I was able to mostly listen during Sacrament meeting while still taking care of my boys needs. Adam and Newel Jenson spoke. I'll admit the beginning of Adam's talk was not my favorite, I thought it was somewhat negative, but as he bore his testimony of our Savior, the spirit was there. Then Newel spoke. She was real, sincere, positive and Christ centered. She shared her journey through an abusive marriage and divorce. I had not known she was even married before. She is probably in her early to middle 20's. Her story was full of honesty without blame. Facts were shared and feelings were expressed. She articulate her experience in a way that you yearned for her release. Her story was shared so that she could express that the only person who could save her and make her whole again was our Savior. You could tell that she had experienced his healing and restorative power. That when all hope was almost lost and she didn't know what to do, He was there with open arms to rescue her. I literally sobbed through the majority of her talk. After Sacrament I wrapped my arms around her. I have seen people go through really difficult experiences in life, but not everyone comes out smiling, positive and full of light. Newel did. Hearing her story was inspiring and also a reminder that no matter what happens in our lives, joy and happiness can be found on the other end. It doesn't mean that some scares don't remain. The scares are there to remind us of how we have been succored by a loving Savior.
After church, Jonas, Porter, Ryker and I played Carcassone. I loved that Jonas wanted to be on his own team. He actually did pretty good :).
Later in the afternoon David and I had a chance to go to the Salt Lake Temple Open House for ordinance workers. We didn't arrive in time to be in the Solemn Assembly, but we were in the chapel overflow and we still got to hear the message of Elder Bednar and his wife Susan. I have observed more and more lately the increasing declarations of the apostles. Their messages are full of power and they are direct. The action we need to take is more often than not very clear. Elder Bednar's messages were this day as well. Generally I have seen Elder Bednar be a bit more serious, but today there were a few jokes. I loved his message. David has written up the majority of main points, but I want to share a few of my impressions or those parts that stood out to me the most. He spoke about our need for correction and the importance of not only listening to correction offered by others, but being willing to give correction without concern for ourselves. We need to correct out of love, not judgement. I thought about those that I am concerned about, often I don't want to be as direct as I should about my concerns regarding actions that they may or may not be taking. I have always thought it was out of concern to offend them. But, as I listened to Elder Bednar, he was very clear that correction is not offered out of concern for myself.
He also spoke about the how the natural man is an enemy to God and has been since the fall of Adam. He said we need to hurl the natural man off a cliff. As I have thought about this, I have reflected on the need for deliberate daily actions to put off the natural man. How I spend my time, what I read, what I watch, how I speak with others and what my conversations entail. Sometimes I can feel myself giving into the natural man. I just want to relax, "veg", etc. As I have noticed the council given from the Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency, as well as what is going on in the world today, I know it's time to really focus on who I need to become and to start working towards it. Sometimes the thought of it is overwhelming, but I can't stop working. I can't give up or become paralyzed. Endure to the end. I have thought about this phrase before, but it has begun to take on new meaning to me as this overwhelm can set in if I allow it to.
I loved getting to attend this devotional with David. It was energizing and exciting to hear Elder Bednar direct us and counsel us. He talked about what we have learned from the Book of Mormon and if everything we know is from what people have taught us or from our own personal study.
He spoke about ordinances and covenants and being on the covenant path.
Sunday night we had a High Priest Quorum Open House and it was a good chance to talk and meet new people from the stake.
Sunday, October 14, 2018
New beginnings (10/14/18)
I keep saying I am going to get back to keeping my blog regularly and updating with pictures and I have not been able to be consistent. The night time rolls around and all I want to do is crawl into my bed. But, this has to be a priority for me. I want these memories of my children and the feelings and experiences I have to be recorded.
Last weekend was conference. Of course it was inspiring and there were things I was praying about that were answered during conference. Nothing profound, but I was shown direction and given reminders of things I need to do in my life to accomplish some of my goals. Pres Nelson invited the sisters to take part in four things
1) Read the Book of Mormon from now and until the end of the year and look for Christ within the book and then talk about Him
2) Take a 10 day fast from social media or any sort of media that brought negative thoughts/impressions to our minds
3) Develop of a pattern of regular temple attendance
4) Fully participate in Relief Society and read the declaration for Relief Society and the purpose statement
The fast from social media has been good for me. I have realized that I turn to social media when I am bored or feeling lazy. During this fast I have found other things to focus my energy/thoughts/time on. Things that are more meaningful and more gospel/Savior focused. I have found I don't particularly miss social media. I have found that social media is good for knowing when someone is in need. There are people that post things on social media, but don't necessarily reach and tell you directly. When I find out a need on social media I can reach out to them. Also, I have significantly minimized my viewing of the news. The news can be so negative, depressing and scary, so I have been grateful to have a reason not to check it.
The challenge to read the Book of Mormon between now and the end of the year has been great. At first I thought, "how can I ever do that?". Then I committed to read 10 pages a day and highlight all the scriptures that reference our Savior. This goal has been so good for me. Some days I can't read all the pages at once, but I have made it a point come back to the scriptures at another time if I couldn't finish it all in the morning. Before this goal, if I only read two pages or 10 min or whatever I could get in during the morning, I usually wouldn't come back and read it later in the day. I have found that these invitations from Pres Nelson have helped to focus my priorities.
I am still figuring out how to develop a pattern of regular temple attendance. I offered to kid swap with anyone that was interested thinking that I would get to the temple at least twice a month this way, but so far I have only had one taker and I'm not sure if we'll be able to schedule anything consistent. I am definitely hoping to make this a priority and figure out how it will work.
Last weekend was conference. Of course it was inspiring and there were things I was praying about that were answered during conference. Nothing profound, but I was shown direction and given reminders of things I need to do in my life to accomplish some of my goals. Pres Nelson invited the sisters to take part in four things
1) Read the Book of Mormon from now and until the end of the year and look for Christ within the book and then talk about Him
2) Take a 10 day fast from social media or any sort of media that brought negative thoughts/impressions to our minds
3) Develop of a pattern of regular temple attendance
4) Fully participate in Relief Society and read the declaration for Relief Society and the purpose statement
The fast from social media has been good for me. I have realized that I turn to social media when I am bored or feeling lazy. During this fast I have found other things to focus my energy/thoughts/time on. Things that are more meaningful and more gospel/Savior focused. I have found I don't particularly miss social media. I have found that social media is good for knowing when someone is in need. There are people that post things on social media, but don't necessarily reach and tell you directly. When I find out a need on social media I can reach out to them. Also, I have significantly minimized my viewing of the news. The news can be so negative, depressing and scary, so I have been grateful to have a reason not to check it.
The challenge to read the Book of Mormon between now and the end of the year has been great. At first I thought, "how can I ever do that?". Then I committed to read 10 pages a day and highlight all the scriptures that reference our Savior. This goal has been so good for me. Some days I can't read all the pages at once, but I have made it a point come back to the scriptures at another time if I couldn't finish it all in the morning. Before this goal, if I only read two pages or 10 min or whatever I could get in during the morning, I usually wouldn't come back and read it later in the day. I have found that these invitations from Pres Nelson have helped to focus my priorities.
I am still figuring out how to develop a pattern of regular temple attendance. I offered to kid swap with anyone that was interested thinking that I would get to the temple at least twice a month this way, but so far I have only had one taker and I'm not sure if we'll be able to schedule anything consistent. I am definitely hoping to make this a priority and figure out how it will work.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
Collegium Aesculapium Fireside/Dinner 10/4/18
Tonight David and I were able to attend the dinner/fireside with the Collegium Aesculapium. It was held at the Hilton downtown and the quest speaker was Elder Gary E Stephenson of the Quorum of the Twelve. He spoke about LDS Charities and their mission and the work they do. It was an interesting perspective because he served as the Presiding Bishop of the church and he had first hand experience. He spoke specifically of 4 at risk populations throughout the world that the church has focused on and the work that they do specifically among these populations.
1) Those affected by natural disasters/emergencies
2) Mothers and infants during the 1st 1,000 days of life- resuscitation, immunizations
3) Primary (school) age kids- nutrition and clean drinking water
4) Those with disabilities
1) Those affected by natural disasters/emergencies
2) Mothers and infants during the 1st 1,000 days of life- resuscitation, immunizations
3) Primary (school) age kids- nutrition and clean drinking water
4) Those with disabilities
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
At A Loss (9/5/18)
This morning I took the Jonas and Mason to Jonas' gymnastics class. Jonas does not want to go in without me and then even then he may not participate and he definitely won't participate unless I'm standing right by him. Mason on the other hand is right in all the action. Today I was a little frustrated with the boys when they wouldn't listen and follow instructions at the beginning of the class. Jonas was being goofy and laughing, but not obeying. About 3/4's of the way through the class he started to participate and then he had fun. I have talks with him about it and I'm trying to figure out how to get him engaged. He is definitely more of a homebody and has wanted to stay around me if we are out. This past Sunday he actually came to the Primary class I was subbing rather than his own.
Then this afternoon, Niko walked home from school with Porter. Niko is a boy from his class and we are watching him for the few days when his mom can't get away from work fast enough to pick him up after school. He is much more shy and reserved then Porter, but he super nice kid. I don't think Porter is always kind to him and he gets annoyed with Niko. I think it comes down to how Niko engages or doesn't engage that frustrates Porter. Well, something happened on the walk home and Porter got annoyed and punched Niko in the face. I was shocked and super sad when I heard what happened. You never want your kid to be the one causing pain or sadness for another kid. I am disappointed in Porter and David and I are trying to figure out how to deal with this. Porter doesn't appreciate the severity of what he did and does not take full responsibility for it. He still thinks its Niko's fault because he was being annoying. So far his punishment is that I will walk him to and from school the next few days and he is not allowed to have play dates the rest of the week. I am not sure what else we should do for him.
I am realizing that my boys are all out of control. Jonas has started hitting in the face and Mason is going to follow right in their footsteps. For some reason my kids all think that hitting is the way to solve problems. I'm hoping I can find a solution and help my boys to obey.
Then this afternoon, Niko walked home from school with Porter. Niko is a boy from his class and we are watching him for the few days when his mom can't get away from work fast enough to pick him up after school. He is much more shy and reserved then Porter, but he super nice kid. I don't think Porter is always kind to him and he gets annoyed with Niko. I think it comes down to how Niko engages or doesn't engage that frustrates Porter. Well, something happened on the walk home and Porter got annoyed and punched Niko in the face. I was shocked and super sad when I heard what happened. You never want your kid to be the one causing pain or sadness for another kid. I am disappointed in Porter and David and I are trying to figure out how to deal with this. Porter doesn't appreciate the severity of what he did and does not take full responsibility for it. He still thinks its Niko's fault because he was being annoying. So far his punishment is that I will walk him to and from school the next few days and he is not allowed to have play dates the rest of the week. I am not sure what else we should do for him.
I am realizing that my boys are all out of control. Jonas has started hitting in the face and Mason is going to follow right in their footsteps. For some reason my kids all think that hitting is the way to solve problems. I'm hoping I can find a solution and help my boys to obey.
Sunday, August 19, 2018
Where Can I Turn for Peace? (8/19/18)
Yesterday I was not in the best mood. Parts of the day were great and I enjoyed my time with the boys and visiting with people we ran into at the Heart Center Carnival and Porter's soccer game, but there was an underlying sullen mood. As the day progressed into the afternoon it continued. Around 6 pm David was talking about going to the temple. He had been gone for the past few hours, but I knew he had wanted to go. Within about 5 minutes he determined that I should go. Since my mood was already sour, I told him no. I didn't want to go to which he immediately said then I definitely should go. So, by 6:15pm I was out the door heading to the Salt Lake Temple.
Of course, the temple is exactly where I needed to be. I didn't immediately feel better, but slowly the peace replaced the sullen feelings I had been experiencing. There were a few things that stood out to me. In the room representing the telestial world, part of the mural depicts 3 lions attacking each other. This world is called the lone and dreary wilderness. As I looked at this mural, I realized that sometimes we are like these lions. We "attack" and "disconnect" from one another and create a "lone" and "dreary" place. Rather than embracing one another and lifting each other up, we separate.
There was another part during the ceremony where covenants we make were discussed. More directly it was talking about the covenant of how we serve and give. One of my gifts is to love children. My own, but also others. I am using my talent as I continually open my home to kids around me. I know they feel welcome around me and they know that I love them. Sometimes I need the reminder that I am doing thy work, although it may look completely different then how someone else is doing it.
The last thing that stood out to me was at the very end of the ordinance when each individual is being presented to the Lord. This portion has touched me many times before, but last night it struck me again as the imagery of each individual seeking the presence of the Lord reminded me of each individual's journey with the same goal in mind. No matter where we came from last night or what mistakes we have made, we were each there seeking the presence of the Lord. Seeking to return to Him.
I am grateful for a husband who recognizes my need to be in the temple and helps to make it happen. I am grateful that he loves the temple just as I love the temple. I am grateful that at 6:05pm we can determine to go to the temple and be in a session by 7pm. This is a tremendous blessing.
Of course, the temple is exactly where I needed to be. I didn't immediately feel better, but slowly the peace replaced the sullen feelings I had been experiencing. There were a few things that stood out to me. In the room representing the telestial world, part of the mural depicts 3 lions attacking each other. This world is called the lone and dreary wilderness. As I looked at this mural, I realized that sometimes we are like these lions. We "attack" and "disconnect" from one another and create a "lone" and "dreary" place. Rather than embracing one another and lifting each other up, we separate.
There was another part during the ceremony where covenants we make were discussed. More directly it was talking about the covenant of how we serve and give. One of my gifts is to love children. My own, but also others. I am using my talent as I continually open my home to kids around me. I know they feel welcome around me and they know that I love them. Sometimes I need the reminder that I am doing thy work, although it may look completely different then how someone else is doing it.
The last thing that stood out to me was at the very end of the ordinance when each individual is being presented to the Lord. This portion has touched me many times before, but last night it struck me again as the imagery of each individual seeking the presence of the Lord reminded me of each individual's journey with the same goal in mind. No matter where we came from last night or what mistakes we have made, we were each there seeking the presence of the Lord. Seeking to return to Him.
I am grateful for a husband who recognizes my need to be in the temple and helps to make it happen. I am grateful that he loves the temple just as I love the temple. I am grateful that at 6:05pm we can determine to go to the temple and be in a session by 7pm. This is a tremendous blessing.
Sunday, August 5, 2018
Porterisms (8/4/18)
Tonight Porter declared that he did not need me as his mom. Our friend Amber Sagers was over and she proceeded to ask him what he would do with out me. How would he take care of himself, buy food, get clothes, etc. This led into a discussion about ways that Porter could work and make money. One of his ideas was a Lemonade stand. As he was discussing the various aspects to making this happen, he turned to me and said, "Mom, can you go make some lemonade." Oh, the irony of this statement! Amber and I laughed and laughed.
He came up with a few other great ideas too. He would charge $950 to mow a yard and blow off your driveway. He would by Legos and then sell those legos. I was a little concerned about this one because he loves Legos, so I probed a bit further. Of course he had this figured out, he would buy the legos he doesn't really care about, "those little car sets". We also discussed a garage sale where he determined he would sell water balloons and the boys outside trucks that he is no longer interested in playing with. It was quite an entertaining conversation.
I love this kids mind. He will definitely go places.
Later this evening he was talking about a girl from our ward, Kenna Mitchell. She is an adorable, sweet little girl. She is a few months younger than Porter, but he gets a little frustrated with her because he doesn't like when she wants to sit by him all the time. Tonight he did say she was fun and he liked her because she's obedient. I thought, that is great. It's impressive that he noticed her obedience and I loved that this was a characteristic he appreciated. Then he continued on with his thoughts about her obedience. He realized that because she was obedient, he could probably get her to do the things he wanted her to do. He said, "I can tell her to do (fill in the blank) and then she'll do it." Oh my goodness!!! Heaven help us.
He came up with a few other great ideas too. He would charge $950 to mow a yard and blow off your driveway. He would by Legos and then sell those legos. I was a little concerned about this one because he loves Legos, so I probed a bit further. Of course he had this figured out, he would buy the legos he doesn't really care about, "those little car sets". We also discussed a garage sale where he determined he would sell water balloons and the boys outside trucks that he is no longer interested in playing with. It was quite an entertaining conversation.
I love this kids mind. He will definitely go places.
Later this evening he was talking about a girl from our ward, Kenna Mitchell. She is an adorable, sweet little girl. She is a few months younger than Porter, but he gets a little frustrated with her because he doesn't like when she wants to sit by him all the time. Tonight he did say she was fun and he liked her because she's obedient. I thought, that is great. It's impressive that he noticed her obedience and I loved that this was a characteristic he appreciated. Then he continued on with his thoughts about her obedience. He realized that because she was obedient, he could probably get her to do the things he wanted her to do. He said, "I can tell her to do (fill in the blank) and then she'll do it." Oh my goodness!!! Heaven help us.
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Pure love (7/19/18)
A couple of days this week I have watched some kids (Hannah, Rya, Namia, Mikayla and Quentin) from our ward. They are newer to our ward and don’t come to church every Sunday because their parents are in the process of a divorce. And Ryker Thompson comes over almost every day or he calls.
It is interesting how your heart can swell with love for those you don’t know well and those that aren’t your own children. Every time I have a house load of kids, I feel this swelling love.
I am grateful that people feel comfortable and welcome coming to our home.
Sometimes Porter has a harder time with all these people, so I need to figure out how to still be attentive to him, but also allow him freedom and room to play. As he struggles, he can be unkind, so we need to work on this.
Jonas is usually pretty easy going and full of love unless he’s following Porter’s lead.
Mason loves everyone and everyone loves Mason.
It is interesting how your heart can swell with love for those you don’t know well and those that aren’t your own children. Every time I have a house load of kids, I feel this swelling love.
I am grateful that people feel comfortable and welcome coming to our home.
Sometimes Porter has a harder time with all these people, so I need to figure out how to still be attentive to him, but also allow him freedom and room to play. As he struggles, he can be unkind, so we need to work on this.
Jonas is usually pretty easy going and full of love unless he’s following Porter’s lead.
Mason loves everyone and everyone loves Mason.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
What Manner of Men and Women Ought Ye to Be (July 12, 2018)
I listened to this talk by Lynn G Robbins tonight. I needed to hear this talk for a lot of reason, but especially for the kind of parent I am. I need to “be”, not just “do” in life.
Jonas and Mason both have hand, foot and mouth disease, so we’ve been home the last few days. We’ll get outside and run an errand that doesn’t include all of us going inside somewhere, but it makes for longer days. But, I love the good moments we get to have everyday when we laugh, snuggle, talk, read together and when I can watch the boys play. I have realized more and more that I need to chill out as a mom and not control everything. The only thing I need to control is my mouth, my emotions and my thoughts.
Jonas and Mason both have hand, foot and mouth disease, so we’ve been home the last few days. We’ll get outside and run an errand that doesn’t include all of us going inside somewhere, but it makes for longer days. But, I love the good moments we get to have everyday when we laugh, snuggle, talk, read together and when I can watch the boys play. I have realized more and more that I need to chill out as a mom and not control everything. The only thing I need to control is my mouth, my emotions and my thoughts.
Friday, May 11, 2018
Porter and Siri (5/11/18)
Porter loves talking to Siri and asking her questions. Siri is the computer on my phone. He has listened to me talk to her or tell her to do things. Today during our walk, Porter was laughing and asking Siri poop questions. Then I hear him so, "Siri, how do I get a girl to like me?" Poor Porter still has a thing for Caitlyn from his preschool class. He thinks she is "nice (kind) and funny". He has liked her since day 2 of preschool.
Jonas' Bedtime Ramblings (5/11/18)
My brain is saying, "I don't want to go to sleep. I want to eat breakfast and eat treats and eat sugar."
I'm thinking, "That's because your brain is exhausted and has no idea what's it's saying."
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Seeing God's Hand (5/9/18)
Today was a great day. There were a couple things that happened that reminded me that God is in control and His hand is in our lives and the details of our lives. Since the church has made this change to ministering, I have been praying about how I can minister to my sisters. I was assigned two new sisters, Roxanne Berg and Kristen Reynolds. I have been trying to figure out what to do specifically for them. It's been on my mind and I've been praying about it. Over the years, including just a couple of weeks ago, I have given Roxanne my number. Well, today I got a phone call. It was Roxanne and she asked if I would check on her mom. She said she was unable to get a hold of her so she didn't know if her mother had fallen or if the phone was off the hook. I rounded up the boys and we walked up the street. (Roxanne and her mom, Myra, live at the top of our street.) We knocked on the door and Myra answered. Fortunately she had not fallen and her phone was just off the hook, but she invited us in and I was able to sit and talk to her. She was so welcoming and seemed excited to have visitors. She didn't mind my crazy boys and we had a short visit and I asked if we could come another time to which she said, "yes". This was an answer to my prayers. This is exactly how I can become part of their lives and minister to them. I am grateful that my prayers were heard and answered. The joy I felt was wonderful. And, I am so glad that Roxanne thought to call me.
Tonight Porter had soccer pictures. We went to a park that we don't generally go to. His team took pictures and all the kids ran to the nearby playground. The parents were standing around chatting and I was mainly watching Mason. Then after 20-30 min I realized I hadn't seen Porter. Porter's friend, Finn, said Porter had gone to the other playground by where we came in. I thought he must have gone with some of the older kids. When we walked over there and verified he was there, I planned to talk to him about telling me where he is going. But as I approached him, we talked and I realized he didn't know where I was. He walked back to the playground by the car thinking I was there, then he walked to the car, then he walked back across to the field where they took pictures and then back again to the playground by the car. Once he was back there he ran into our old neighbors and played with his friend, Chase. I snuggled him and told him how sorry I was. I asked if he was scared or nervous, but he said he was okay. I was so grateful to get to hug him and tell him I love him. Thankfully he was okay.
Later today I contacted Robert Thompson about stopping by to pick up some dressers. While he was here with Ryker, Dan Murdock walked by. He had been heading up the street to drop off cookies to another family, but they had already moved. As he walked by our place, he offered the cookies to Ryker. Ryker gladly took them. I later texted Adrianne to thank her family and to say I thought the cookies were not for the other family, but were meant for Ryker. Another sign that God is in the details. Ryker needs to feel loved and known. Adrianne felt the same thing I did.
Also, I had a conversation with Ryker and Robert last week about Ryker and how he's doing. They told me he's not doing well in school, especially with math. He's really struggling. I reached out to The YM (Matt Redding) and YW (Elaine Lindberg) President's and asked if there were any youth that would be interested in tutoring Ryker in math as a service project. Cole Peterson (18 yr old senior) quickly offered to do it. We are here to serve one another and I love to watch this happen. This simple service can make lastly changes for Ryker.
My testimony has been strengthened today and I have been reminded that God loves us and He cares about each of us.
Tonight Porter had soccer pictures. We went to a park that we don't generally go to. His team took pictures and all the kids ran to the nearby playground. The parents were standing around chatting and I was mainly watching Mason. Then after 20-30 min I realized I hadn't seen Porter. Porter's friend, Finn, said Porter had gone to the other playground by where we came in. I thought he must have gone with some of the older kids. When we walked over there and verified he was there, I planned to talk to him about telling me where he is going. But as I approached him, we talked and I realized he didn't know where I was. He walked back to the playground by the car thinking I was there, then he walked to the car, then he walked back across to the field where they took pictures and then back again to the playground by the car. Once he was back there he ran into our old neighbors and played with his friend, Chase. I snuggled him and told him how sorry I was. I asked if he was scared or nervous, but he said he was okay. I was so grateful to get to hug him and tell him I love him. Thankfully he was okay.
Later today I contacted Robert Thompson about stopping by to pick up some dressers. While he was here with Ryker, Dan Murdock walked by. He had been heading up the street to drop off cookies to another family, but they had already moved. As he walked by our place, he offered the cookies to Ryker. Ryker gladly took them. I later texted Adrianne to thank her family and to say I thought the cookies were not for the other family, but were meant for Ryker. Another sign that God is in the details. Ryker needs to feel loved and known. Adrianne felt the same thing I did.
Also, I had a conversation with Ryker and Robert last week about Ryker and how he's doing. They told me he's not doing well in school, especially with math. He's really struggling. I reached out to The YM (Matt Redding) and YW (Elaine Lindberg) President's and asked if there were any youth that would be interested in tutoring Ryker in math as a service project. Cole Peterson (18 yr old senior) quickly offered to do it. We are here to serve one another and I love to watch this happen. This simple service can make lastly changes for Ryker.
My testimony has been strengthened today and I have been reminded that God loves us and He cares about each of us.
Sunday, May 6, 2018
Fireside for Medical Colloquim and Primary Sharing Time (5/6/18)
We went to a fireside with Elder Uchtdorf tonight. It was wonderful. His main message was to find balance, priority and have joy while doing it. He told the story of Martha and Mary. Martha was burdened and weighed down with worries and things she needed to do. Mary found the good part. She was at the feet of the Savior listening and being taught. Martha was doing good things, she was serving, but it's finding the balance between service and being kind, as well as taking care of yourself and prioritizing. At the end of his talk and after Q & A, he ended with trust in the Lord and keep the commandments. If you keep the commandments and trust Him, He will direct you.
His wife, Harriet, spoke also. She was adorable, completely straight forward and practical. It was great to hear her simplify things. She said kids can understand the gospel, we don't need to overcomplicate it.
I had the privilege of teaching sharing time today. The topic was, "The Living Prophet Leads the Church under the direction of Jesus Christ." I love the topic. This last week I studied talks by President Nelson. As I read them I changed how I listened to them. I was more focused on hearing what Christ wanted me to hear. As I did this, my heart was touched. He gave a talk on Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives, and Ministering, etc. Every single one of them touched my heart and I was excited to share them with the children. I love those primary kids. I want them to feel the spirit and know that Christ talks to them. As I thought about the new ministering program at church, it struck me that for me this looks like becoming/being a better friend. Making new friends and being their friend. Christ laid down His life for His friends. I don't always feel like I am the greatest friend. It's been on my mind lately. I don't always feel like I have a lot to say or that people want to to me around me. But every one wants a friend that loves them and cares about them. I can serve people, but am I connecting with them?
His wife, Harriet, spoke also. She was adorable, completely straight forward and practical. It was great to hear her simplify things. She said kids can understand the gospel, we don't need to overcomplicate it.
I had the privilege of teaching sharing time today. The topic was, "The Living Prophet Leads the Church under the direction of Jesus Christ." I love the topic. This last week I studied talks by President Nelson. As I read them I changed how I listened to them. I was more focused on hearing what Christ wanted me to hear. As I did this, my heart was touched. He gave a talk on Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives, and Ministering, etc. Every single one of them touched my heart and I was excited to share them with the children. I love those primary kids. I want them to feel the spirit and know that Christ talks to them. As I thought about the new ministering program at church, it struck me that for me this looks like becoming/being a better friend. Making new friends and being their friend. Christ laid down His life for His friends. I don't always feel like I am the greatest friend. It's been on my mind lately. I don't always feel like I have a lot to say or that people want to to me around me. But every one wants a friend that loves them and cares about them. I can serve people, but am I connecting with them?
Sunday, April 8, 2018
Jonas Bedtime (4/8/18)
Jonas loves to rock himself to sleep at night. Tonight was no exception and while he was doing it he was saying, "I love Jesus", over and over again. He was also singing a song about a girl loving Jesus. When he caught me trying to videotape him he stopped, but I left the room and he started up again rocking and singing a new song, "I love everyone in my family."
I love this sweet boy. He truly is a joy.
I love this sweet boy. He truly is a joy.
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Potty Trained (3/14/18)
Jonas did it! I guess with all my boys, if I wait long enough they’ll be potty trained and it’ll be a breeze. Jonas just started doing it about two weeks ago. I’d reward him everytime and he’s really only had two or three accidents. Not bad. Way to go Jonas! He has to sit and push his penis down into the toilet or he accidentally pees on his pants and he does not like that:).
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Words (3/3/18)
Mason has started saying more and more words. I love to watch this explosion of development. He can say:
Bye bye
Dada
Mama
Trash
Poop (he started saying this when is chabge his poopy diapers)
Shoes
Outside
Ball
Bath (he LOVES the bath and gets so excited to take one)
Sign language:
Please
I’m pretty sure he says other stuff too that I just haven’t understood yet.
And today he said,”Thanks”, loud and clear.
And best of all, at bedtime As he went to give each of us a kiss, he said, “Love”. It was precious. I adore him. He is fun and smart and independent and I still make his world bright.
Bye bye
Dada
Mama
Trash
Poop (he started saying this when is chabge his poopy diapers)
Shoes
Outside
Ball
Bath (he LOVES the bath and gets so excited to take one)
Sign language:
Please
I’m pretty sure he says other stuff too that I just haven’t understood yet.
And today he said,”Thanks”, loud and clear.
And best of all, at bedtime As he went to give each of us a kiss, he said, “Love”. It was precious. I adore him. He is fun and smart and independent and I still make his world bright.
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Heavenly Father is Good to Me (1/21/18)
This is David's week on service. I knew I would be flying solo this am for church, so I prepared as best I could the night before. I ironed clothes and went to bed pretty early. Generally I'd have bathed the kids too, but David was home and wanted to spend time with them.
This morning started out early... 4:55am to be exact. Mason woke up. He's been doing this lately and I used to be able to breastfeed him (when he'd get up around 3:30am) and lay him back down, then he'd sleep until about 6:30am. Well, the past two weeks he's been getting up between 4:45am and 5:15am most days. Today was one of those days. I laid in bed until 5:15 and finally got up with him.
One of the benefits of getting up so early is I can read my scriptures when the house is nice and quiet. It's not perfect since Mason is a busy body, but it's still nice.
Mason and I enjoyed breakfast and then Porter was up by 6am. Porter and Mason took a shower with David before he left and then I showered. So, Mason, Porter and I were all showered by 7am. Pretty good. The morning was right on track to get to church on time. Jonas woke up around 7:45am and then he was showered by 8:15am. Unfortunately Mason would not go down for a nap and continued to eat all morning long.
Mason and I were both dressed and ready for church and I was about to start getting the other boys ready when Mason fell off a chair in the kitchen. As he was crying I picked him up and then he threw up all over both of us. It was 8:30am. We leave for church at 8:45/8:50am. I checked him to make sure he was okay, took off his clothes, wiped him off and strapped him in the highchair. Next I cleaned myself up, got new church clothes on, cleaned up the throw up that was all over the kitchen floor and randomly sprayed around the kitchen. Remember, this kid had just eaten a ton of food. Yum... I mean yuck.
Next I got Mason ready and we had about 5 minutes until we absolutely had to leave to be at church on time. Jonas and Porter were playing pearler beads. I got Jonas ready and was asking Porter to get ready, but he really wanted to finish his project, so he didn't get dressed until too late. By this time I'm frustrated and not being the kindest or most patient mom. I have gotten Jonas and Mason in the car and Porter is still trying to get ready, but now he needs help with socks because he didn't want to wear the ones I put out.
Needless to stay, we fought and we were late for church. I was furious and the thought crossed my mind to stay home. But, that's not what I do or what I've ever done. Church is where I go on Sunday and where I want my boys to be. As we pull into the parking lot Jonas is crying because I brought his Spiderman stickers and he wanted me to take them back home. He even said he'd drive the car himself and take them home. Luckily I got him to calm down and we walked into church during the Sacrament song. We sat in the overflow. As we sat down the boys sat on each side of me with Mason on my lap. They leaned against me and I put my arms around them. I kissed them each, told them I was sorry and that I loved them. I felt peace again. I knew being at church was the right place to be. It was healing for all of us. My boys were great during Sacrament, no Gayle or Dad to help me. But, there was an army of people around me if I did need help. I was offered a sweet tender mercy today as my boys sat reverently during Sacrament. There was only one small incident where Porter did something to Jonas and Jonas yelled, "Shut up Porter!". Other than that, it was one of the best experiences during Sacrament with my boys.
Even though David was on call/service today, he showed up after church, helped me walk the boys to the car and then enjoyed most of Sunday at home until this evening.
Mason should have fallen asleep at some point during church, but he never did. This helped to reassure me that he was okay after his fall and it also helped him to take a good nap right after church so I could take one too. David helped so I could nap and Porter and Jonas were quiet.
My family got to enjoy FHE together and dinner.
Then my last little blessing was a text from Adrianne offering to watch my boys tomorrow so I could run. I had been trying to figure out what to do. Coordinating the gym with naps and preschool is hard. Conditions aren't great for the jogging stroller and at night sometimes I am too tired and in the back of my head I know I might have to get up super early with Mason.
All these small tender mercies to remind me that Heavenly Father is aware of me. He knows what I need and what I can or can't handle. I am blessed and grateful for His love.
This morning started out early... 4:55am to be exact. Mason woke up. He's been doing this lately and I used to be able to breastfeed him (when he'd get up around 3:30am) and lay him back down, then he'd sleep until about 6:30am. Well, the past two weeks he's been getting up between 4:45am and 5:15am most days. Today was one of those days. I laid in bed until 5:15 and finally got up with him.
One of the benefits of getting up so early is I can read my scriptures when the house is nice and quiet. It's not perfect since Mason is a busy body, but it's still nice.
Mason and I enjoyed breakfast and then Porter was up by 6am. Porter and Mason took a shower with David before he left and then I showered. So, Mason, Porter and I were all showered by 7am. Pretty good. The morning was right on track to get to church on time. Jonas woke up around 7:45am and then he was showered by 8:15am. Unfortunately Mason would not go down for a nap and continued to eat all morning long.
Mason and I were both dressed and ready for church and I was about to start getting the other boys ready when Mason fell off a chair in the kitchen. As he was crying I picked him up and then he threw up all over both of us. It was 8:30am. We leave for church at 8:45/8:50am. I checked him to make sure he was okay, took off his clothes, wiped him off and strapped him in the highchair. Next I cleaned myself up, got new church clothes on, cleaned up the throw up that was all over the kitchen floor and randomly sprayed around the kitchen. Remember, this kid had just eaten a ton of food. Yum... I mean yuck.
Next I got Mason ready and we had about 5 minutes until we absolutely had to leave to be at church on time. Jonas and Porter were playing pearler beads. I got Jonas ready and was asking Porter to get ready, but he really wanted to finish his project, so he didn't get dressed until too late. By this time I'm frustrated and not being the kindest or most patient mom. I have gotten Jonas and Mason in the car and Porter is still trying to get ready, but now he needs help with socks because he didn't want to wear the ones I put out.
Needless to stay, we fought and we were late for church. I was furious and the thought crossed my mind to stay home. But, that's not what I do or what I've ever done. Church is where I go on Sunday and where I want my boys to be. As we pull into the parking lot Jonas is crying because I brought his Spiderman stickers and he wanted me to take them back home. He even said he'd drive the car himself and take them home. Luckily I got him to calm down and we walked into church during the Sacrament song. We sat in the overflow. As we sat down the boys sat on each side of me with Mason on my lap. They leaned against me and I put my arms around them. I kissed them each, told them I was sorry and that I loved them. I felt peace again. I knew being at church was the right place to be. It was healing for all of us. My boys were great during Sacrament, no Gayle or Dad to help me. But, there was an army of people around me if I did need help. I was offered a sweet tender mercy today as my boys sat reverently during Sacrament. There was only one small incident where Porter did something to Jonas and Jonas yelled, "Shut up Porter!". Other than that, it was one of the best experiences during Sacrament with my boys.
Even though David was on call/service today, he showed up after church, helped me walk the boys to the car and then enjoyed most of Sunday at home until this evening.
Mason should have fallen asleep at some point during church, but he never did. This helped to reassure me that he was okay after his fall and it also helped him to take a good nap right after church so I could take one too. David helped so I could nap and Porter and Jonas were quiet.
My family got to enjoy FHE together and dinner.
Then my last little blessing was a text from Adrianne offering to watch my boys tomorrow so I could run. I had been trying to figure out what to do. Coordinating the gym with naps and preschool is hard. Conditions aren't great for the jogging stroller and at night sometimes I am too tired and in the back of my head I know I might have to get up super early with Mason.
All these small tender mercies to remind me that Heavenly Father is aware of me. He knows what I need and what I can or can't handle. I am blessed and grateful for His love.
Monday, January 8, 2018
Single's FHE (1/8/18)
Tonight was the Single's FHE for our ward. It's held at the Gygi's home and we were invited as the guests. We joined them for dinner and then we prepared a lesson and presented it. It was a great evening socializing with people we generally don't get to and sharing a sweet message with them about being like Jesus and loving one another. Bro. Gygi pointed out a picture of Jesus over the fireplace. He asked if Porter had noticed it and Porter said, "Yes, I've been looking at it this whole time."
All the boys were very well behaved. They ate good dinners and played with toys. Porter was a gentleman and offered to help Sis. Gygi. He put out silverware for the dessert. I'm sure seeing the dessert was an incentive to help. I was proud of all them Porter even said two Articles of Faith at the beginning of FHE.
And the boys must have felt extremely comfortable because both Jonas and Porter pooped there:).
All the boys were very well behaved. They ate good dinners and played with toys. Porter was a gentleman and offered to help Sis. Gygi. He put out silverware for the dessert. I'm sure seeing the dessert was an incentive to help. I was proud of all them Porter even said two Articles of Faith at the beginning of FHE.
And the boys must have felt extremely comfortable because both Jonas and Porter pooped there:).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)