PAIN
Mondays can be painful. Today was especially harsh. It never ceases to amaze me how hard it is to start the week again, knowing that you don't get to rest again until next Sunday. But today was worse. We have our own fiasco here in our house. I'll live through that. But...
I have a little sister. She's taller than me, smarter than me, kinder than me. She is 3 years younger than me. She was the kid with the perfect GPA. She was the viola expert. She was the volleyball guru (for those that have seen my latest attempts, you know I'm no guru!). She was the peacemaker in our home growing up. I believe in Justice. She believes in Mercy.
A few of years ago she began to get headaches. She tried everything to change them. I guess somewhere along the way, they gave her an MRI to try and diagnose what was causing them. I don't know much (she's VERY private), except there was a small "node" at the time "they" weren't concerned about. "They" being the doctors. Stupid doctors. They believe so much in themselves and in their drugs and technology. They don't think they can make mistakes. Not all are bad, just like not all lawyers are creeps. But, there's enough to create a culture of arrogance.
Her headaches are worse. She has a beautiful 2 year old now. She tries to smile through the pain for her 2 year old. But, she also tries to find answers to make it go away. She got another MRI. The "node" is now a "tumor" on her brain. Very scary for her and her family. Hard on those of us on the outside wanting to help or make it go away.
She's tough. She can make it through the pain. She'll fight. She'll win. She always has. It's in her 4.0, volleyball playing, viola music-making heart. And, now, she has her daughter and husband to fight for. She'll win. But, it'll be painful.
I hate Mondays. Especially this one.
2/11/08
2/5/08
I'm on a political kick. Perhaps its because it's such an important time in our country, and having studied it much, I feel that. Perhaps it's because I know this election season is my oldest children's first "test run" before they are old enough to take this God-given priviledge of voting to heart and do it themselves. I believe that the ability to vote on issues, laws, and principles in this country is God's way of giving us a "written test". Think about it...what you vote for is truely what you believe in your heart (or it should be). You can't vote for gay marriage if you disagree with it. You couldn't vote to keep gays from marrying if you felt it was their right...so voting is a true measure of what you have in your heart. I think it's a way that the Lord gives to us to share our inmost thoughts and feelings...by what we choose to allow to happen with our votes, in the communities where we live, and in the people we choose to lead and direct our nation. I want my children to know this and understand the importance of the privilege of voting our conscience...not with the popular wave, or what another would want them to vote. But from their hearts.
I also feel this because I see in my own family a quiet malaise. They aren't interested in hearing about this. They don't want to talk about the issues. A few want the whole thing to go away. I think this is why we have clods in Washington...people don't really do their homework, they just vote for someone who they've heard of, or some one who's TV ads they like. I don't want to do that. I'd like to be sure that I've done my best to try to put great leaders in. If I stand alone, I stand alone. I don't mind being a patriot. I love being an American with this ability to voice my preferences, and choose my public servants. I'll try to do what's right...no matter how busy I am or how little I think my vote will matter in a nation this size. It matters to me, my children, my nation, and my God. And, besides, when things go in the "pooper", I'll know I tried to make a difference. Sincerely trying matters.
Today is Super Tuesday for many states. Not mine. I'm pleased some of my friends are sitting in polling areas today volunteering their time in their states. How lucky they are to watch history as it happens, and to be an active part of this Constitutional right! I hope they have a fun day!! Many others are making phone calls on behalf of candidates, or standing in bad weather to be sure to get their votes in. Horray for the priviledge to CHOOSE our leaders! Many have died for this right, and I'm excited for those that honor this by doing all they can to keep this freedom alive.
Another thing I know is that many are still confused on who they'd like to support for President. Of course, this is only one of many voting issues. But, at this time, it's a big one. I'd like to share something that was in a NE paper a couple of weeks ago. It shows the character of Romney. I think what a person does on his "day off" or "Sabbath Day" gives some insight into their character. Mitt didn't have to go to church...he wasn't home, and no one would know if he decided to sleep in during this busy time in his life. But, this is one man's experience with him...
Published: Sunday, January 20, 2008
Romney visit to church a memorable experience
On Sunday, Jan. 6, as I do every Sunday, I attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Concord Street. It was the Nashua 2nd Ward's fast and testimony meeting. On the first weekend of every month, Mormons traditionally abstain from food for 24 hours, then at the conclusion of this fast we attend our meetings. From the money we save from not eating, we're encouraged to donate generously to the poor among us. This meeting is called a 'testimony meeting' because anyone feeling prompted can rise to the podium to speak. It's certainly a unique and sometimes unpredictable meeting.
As Bishop Spenser was welcoming the congregation, I happened to glance behind me. I was astonished to see Mitt Romney and an aide quietly walk in and sit down. I had just watched him on Fox News Sunday minutes before.
After the passing of the sacrament, the bishop opened the microphone to the congregation. During this hour-long meeting, about 12 to 15 adults and children spoke. Romney sat through the rest of the meeting and listened graciously. At the conclusion, he walked to the foyer where many greeted him and wished him well.
I will always remember this Sunday's meeting for what did and did not happen. What amazed me was that during the meeting no one, including the bishop, mentioned or made reference to our important visitor. And unlike Mike Huckabee, who was preaching a sermon somewhere in New Hampshire on 'Becoming an Army for Christ,' Romney chose not to speak but rather chose to simply listen respectfully to the impromptu speakers.
I think this experience is significant for two reasons. First, it is a good example of how the culture in the Mormon Church clearly respects the separation of religion and politics. Second, I also respect and admire Romney's choice not to arise and address the congregation. His quiet reverence said a lot more about who he is and what he values. He was just one of us. Lastly, as the bread and water was quietly being passed, I couldn't help but glance over at him a time or two. I saw his head bowed, his eyes closed and his hands resting on his lap.
As we sat solemnly amidst the quiet, I wondered what was going on in the mind of someone seeking the highest office in the land. I thought of all the criticism from the media questioning his integrity, calling him a liar and flip-flopper. I thought of Huckabee's campaign manager wishing to kick his teeth in. I thought of vicious attacks on his character from everywhere and wondered how he could and why he would endure such disparagement.
When the meeting was over, I couldn't get near him so I approached his aide, who was standing at the door, and shook his hand. After a few words, he grabbed Romney's arm from behind and said 'gotta go.' Standing in the way, I moved aside to let Romney by. As he passed, he turned and extended his hand to me, he looked me square in the eye and smiled as I smiled back. And then I knew. I knew exactly how he got his strength and I knew exactly why he was doing this.
Mitt Romney has been blessed with great, great ability and talent. Our nation has critical problems that all seem to be reaching a tipping point at the same time. Consider the coming insolvency of Social Security, our unmanageable $8 trillion debt, the forthcoming economic tests from China and India, the illegal immigration challenge to our sovereignty, the Islamic extremists who want to harm us, our dependency on foreign oil, and the crisis in education and health care.
Have we ever had more of a need for an honest, competent, compassionate, think-out-of-the-box problem solver? Can you honestly say in your heart that any other candidate, or even any other American, is more qualified to lead us through all these challenges?
Even if you disagree with some of his political positions, consider what it would mean to America's youth and future if someone of his competence, principles and character occupied the Oval Office. Certainly, one can look back at the last two administrations and see the consequence of what the lack of competence has meant during the last seven years and what damage the lack of character and principles did during the previous eight.
Mitt Romney is not doing this for himself. He's doing this because we need him to. Our children and grandchildren need him to. He's our last hope if this country is to survive, then thrive, once again. I know the New Hampshire primary is over. I get a feeling though that you'll have a chance to vote for him once again.
Paul Yarmo
Hudson
Thanks Kelly for sharing this. Now, go vote!
I also feel this because I see in my own family a quiet malaise. They aren't interested in hearing about this. They don't want to talk about the issues. A few want the whole thing to go away. I think this is why we have clods in Washington...people don't really do their homework, they just vote for someone who they've heard of, or some one who's TV ads they like. I don't want to do that. I'd like to be sure that I've done my best to try to put great leaders in. If I stand alone, I stand alone. I don't mind being a patriot. I love being an American with this ability to voice my preferences, and choose my public servants. I'll try to do what's right...no matter how busy I am or how little I think my vote will matter in a nation this size. It matters to me, my children, my nation, and my God. And, besides, when things go in the "pooper", I'll know I tried to make a difference. Sincerely trying matters.
Today is Super Tuesday for many states. Not mine. I'm pleased some of my friends are sitting in polling areas today volunteering their time in their states. How lucky they are to watch history as it happens, and to be an active part of this Constitutional right! I hope they have a fun day!! Many others are making phone calls on behalf of candidates, or standing in bad weather to be sure to get their votes in. Horray for the priviledge to CHOOSE our leaders! Many have died for this right, and I'm excited for those that honor this by doing all they can to keep this freedom alive.
Another thing I know is that many are still confused on who they'd like to support for President. Of course, this is only one of many voting issues. But, at this time, it's a big one. I'd like to share something that was in a NE paper a couple of weeks ago. It shows the character of Romney. I think what a person does on his "day off" or "Sabbath Day" gives some insight into their character. Mitt didn't have to go to church...he wasn't home, and no one would know if he decided to sleep in during this busy time in his life. But, this is one man's experience with him...
Published: Sunday, January 20, 2008
Romney visit to church a memorable experience
On Sunday, Jan. 6, as I do every Sunday, I attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Concord Street. It was the Nashua 2nd Ward's fast and testimony meeting. On the first weekend of every month, Mormons traditionally abstain from food for 24 hours, then at the conclusion of this fast we attend our meetings. From the money we save from not eating, we're encouraged to donate generously to the poor among us. This meeting is called a 'testimony meeting' because anyone feeling prompted can rise to the podium to speak. It's certainly a unique and sometimes unpredictable meeting.
As Bishop Spenser was welcoming the congregation, I happened to glance behind me. I was astonished to see Mitt Romney and an aide quietly walk in and sit down. I had just watched him on Fox News Sunday minutes before.
After the passing of the sacrament, the bishop opened the microphone to the congregation. During this hour-long meeting, about 12 to 15 adults and children spoke. Romney sat through the rest of the meeting and listened graciously. At the conclusion, he walked to the foyer where many greeted him and wished him well.
I will always remember this Sunday's meeting for what did and did not happen. What amazed me was that during the meeting no one, including the bishop, mentioned or made reference to our important visitor. And unlike Mike Huckabee, who was preaching a sermon somewhere in New Hampshire on 'Becoming an Army for Christ,' Romney chose not to speak but rather chose to simply listen respectfully to the impromptu speakers.
I think this experience is significant for two reasons. First, it is a good example of how the culture in the Mormon Church clearly respects the separation of religion and politics. Second, I also respect and admire Romney's choice not to arise and address the congregation. His quiet reverence said a lot more about who he is and what he values. He was just one of us. Lastly, as the bread and water was quietly being passed, I couldn't help but glance over at him a time or two. I saw his head bowed, his eyes closed and his hands resting on his lap.
As we sat solemnly amidst the quiet, I wondered what was going on in the mind of someone seeking the highest office in the land. I thought of all the criticism from the media questioning his integrity, calling him a liar and flip-flopper. I thought of Huckabee's campaign manager wishing to kick his teeth in. I thought of vicious attacks on his character from everywhere and wondered how he could and why he would endure such disparagement.
When the meeting was over, I couldn't get near him so I approached his aide, who was standing at the door, and shook his hand. After a few words, he grabbed Romney's arm from behind and said 'gotta go.' Standing in the way, I moved aside to let Romney by. As he passed, he turned and extended his hand to me, he looked me square in the eye and smiled as I smiled back. And then I knew. I knew exactly how he got his strength and I knew exactly why he was doing this.
Mitt Romney has been blessed with great, great ability and talent. Our nation has critical problems that all seem to be reaching a tipping point at the same time. Consider the coming insolvency of Social Security, our unmanageable $8 trillion debt, the forthcoming economic tests from China and India, the illegal immigration challenge to our sovereignty, the Islamic extremists who want to harm us, our dependency on foreign oil, and the crisis in education and health care.
Have we ever had more of a need for an honest, competent, compassionate, think-out-of-the-box problem solver? Can you honestly say in your heart that any other candidate, or even any other American, is more qualified to lead us through all these challenges?
Even if you disagree with some of his political positions, consider what it would mean to America's youth and future if someone of his competence, principles and character occupied the Oval Office. Certainly, one can look back at the last two administrations and see the consequence of what the lack of competence has meant during the last seven years and what damage the lack of character and principles did during the previous eight.
Mitt Romney is not doing this for himself. He's doing this because we need him to. Our children and grandchildren need him to. He's our last hope if this country is to survive, then thrive, once again. I know the New Hampshire primary is over. I get a feeling though that you'll have a chance to vote for him once again.
Paul Yarmo
Hudson
Thanks Kelly for sharing this. Now, go vote!
2/4/08
"Better duck — if you're a Mormon"
By Doug RobinsonDeseret Morning News Published: January 8, 2008
I missed the memo that said it's A-OK to make disparaging and often erroneous statements about Mormons. Apparently, they are fair game.
Sure, these are hypersensitive times, when name-calling or perceived bias against any group will get you the Don Imus treatment, but you get a free shot with Mormons. You can say what you want about them with impunity.
If you denigrate a racial group, you're racist.
If you denigrate women, you're sexist.
If you denigrate Mormons, you're hip.
No one would openly suggest that you shouldn't vote for Hillary Clinton because a woman can't lead the country, especially an ornery one. Nobody would dare say that you shouldn't vote for Barack Hussein Obama because he's black, or of Muslim descent, or because he has a name that sounds like a terrorist. One Clinton worker even apologized for alluding to Obama's use of drugs as a youth, so apparently it's wrong to disparage former drug users, too.
But nobody is shy about saying you shouldn't vote for Romney simply because he's a Mormon. It doesn't even register on the PC-O-Meter.
Just like that, 6 million Americans have been virtually disqualified from running for president. They've been rendered second-class citizens. They're foreigners living in America. They face a glass ceiling.
How un-American is that?
It would be one thing if most of those who oppose Romney did so because they disagreed with his politics or character. But Romney is one of the few candidates who has no character issues, a 'squeaky clean' man who has a distinguished record of accomplishments, success and service, with no divorces, no affairs, no scandal. The only thing opponents can say about him is that he belongs to a church they don't understand.
A Harvard law professor called Romney the most qualified of all the candidates and 'the perfect candidate for this moment in time.' But there is his Mormonism, he noted. Even the self-styled PC chief of police, Al Sharpton, once jumped in on the action, saying, 'As for the one Mormon running for office, those who really believe in God will defeat him anyways.'
Mormons don't believe in God? For his penance, all Sharpton had to do was endure a family home evening in Utah.
It's open season on Mormons. A few days ago, Miami Herald columnist Dan Le Batard stated on ESPN and in the newspaper that part of the reason fired coach Cam Cameron failed was because he got stuck with a Mormon quarterback — not a rookie quarterback (which he is) but a Mormon quarterback.
'And you'll have a hard time finding a leader anywhere in sports who was as unlucky this year as Cameron,' Le Batard said, noting that because of injuries, Cameron was forced to play 'a United Nations huddle of a Mormon quarterback, Mexican receiver, Samoan fullback and some guy named Lekekekkkkerkker.' Now Mormons are foreigners?
Ignorance makes no difference. You can say Mormons have four wives or that they aren't Christian, and no one cares. Imagine the uproar if Le Batard had written that the Dolphins suffered because they had to play a black quarterback for part of the season? Or a Catholic?
The Salt Lake Tribune has had a field day for more than a week since learning that Mike Leavitt and some of his like-minded cohorts met early in the morning to discuss Mormon theology and governance while he was Utah's governor. What if it had been a Bible study?
Nobody seems to mind when former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee says his religion 'defines me.' Or when Obama says his church guides 'my own values and my own beliefs.'
People worry that Romney will take his orders from his church leaders. They don't worry that Obama will take orders from his church, whose '10-point vision' includes two references to its 'non-negotiable commitment to Africa,' with no mention of America. Oh, and the church statement begins by noting on the Trinity United Church of Christ Web site, 'We are a congregation which is Unashamedly Black.'
It's a different set of rules for some out there. You can print newspaper cartoons disparaging Mormons. You can harass their families as they walk to their biannual conference with all sorts of foul language. When someone commits a crime, you can note the criminal's religion, but only if he's Mormon. You can make them a one-liner on Leno.
Good luck reconciling all this with the paranoid political correctness that's so in vogue.
Meanwhile, the most politically correct presidential election field ever assembled — a woman, a black, a Mormon, a Baptist, etc. — has gone politically incorrect, but only when it comes to you-know-who.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695242 228,00.html
By Doug RobinsonDeseret Morning News Published: January 8, 2008
I missed the memo that said it's A-OK to make disparaging and often erroneous statements about Mormons. Apparently, they are fair game.
Sure, these are hypersensitive times, when name-calling or perceived bias against any group will get you the Don Imus treatment, but you get a free shot with Mormons. You can say what you want about them with impunity.
If you denigrate a racial group, you're racist.
If you denigrate women, you're sexist.
If you denigrate Mormons, you're hip.
No one would openly suggest that you shouldn't vote for Hillary Clinton because a woman can't lead the country, especially an ornery one. Nobody would dare say that you shouldn't vote for Barack Hussein Obama because he's black, or of Muslim descent, or because he has a name that sounds like a terrorist. One Clinton worker even apologized for alluding to Obama's use of drugs as a youth, so apparently it's wrong to disparage former drug users, too.
But nobody is shy about saying you shouldn't vote for Romney simply because he's a Mormon. It doesn't even register on the PC-O-Meter.
Just like that, 6 million Americans have been virtually disqualified from running for president. They've been rendered second-class citizens. They're foreigners living in America. They face a glass ceiling.
How un-American is that?
It would be one thing if most of those who oppose Romney did so because they disagreed with his politics or character. But Romney is one of the few candidates who has no character issues, a 'squeaky clean' man who has a distinguished record of accomplishments, success and service, with no divorces, no affairs, no scandal. The only thing opponents can say about him is that he belongs to a church they don't understand.
A Harvard law professor called Romney the most qualified of all the candidates and 'the perfect candidate for this moment in time.' But there is his Mormonism, he noted. Even the self-styled PC chief of police, Al Sharpton, once jumped in on the action, saying, 'As for the one Mormon running for office, those who really believe in God will defeat him anyways.'
Mormons don't believe in God? For his penance, all Sharpton had to do was endure a family home evening in Utah.
It's open season on Mormons. A few days ago, Miami Herald columnist Dan Le Batard stated on ESPN and in the newspaper that part of the reason fired coach Cam Cameron failed was because he got stuck with a Mormon quarterback — not a rookie quarterback (which he is) but a Mormon quarterback.
'And you'll have a hard time finding a leader anywhere in sports who was as unlucky this year as Cameron,' Le Batard said, noting that because of injuries, Cameron was forced to play 'a United Nations huddle of a Mormon quarterback, Mexican receiver, Samoan fullback and some guy named Lekekekkkkerkker.' Now Mormons are foreigners?
Ignorance makes no difference. You can say Mormons have four wives or that they aren't Christian, and no one cares. Imagine the uproar if Le Batard had written that the Dolphins suffered because they had to play a black quarterback for part of the season? Or a Catholic?
The Salt Lake Tribune has had a field day for more than a week since learning that Mike Leavitt and some of his like-minded cohorts met early in the morning to discuss Mormon theology and governance while he was Utah's governor. What if it had been a Bible study?
Nobody seems to mind when former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee says his religion 'defines me.' Or when Obama says his church guides 'my own values and my own beliefs.'
People worry that Romney will take his orders from his church leaders. They don't worry that Obama will take orders from his church, whose '10-point vision' includes two references to its 'non-negotiable commitment to Africa,' with no mention of America. Oh, and the church statement begins by noting on the Trinity United Church of Christ Web site, 'We are a congregation which is Unashamedly Black.'
It's a different set of rules for some out there. You can print newspaper cartoons disparaging Mormons. You can harass their families as they walk to their biannual conference with all sorts of foul language. When someone commits a crime, you can note the criminal's religion, but only if he's Mormon. You can make them a one-liner on Leno.
Good luck reconciling all this with the paranoid political correctness that's so in vogue.
Meanwhile, the most politically correct presidential election field ever assembled — a woman, a black, a Mormon, a Baptist, etc. — has gone politically incorrect, but only when it comes to you-know-who.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695242 228,00.html
Super Monday
As Marlin K. Jensen just noted...yesterday was "Super Sunday". Tomorrow is "Super Tuesday". Today, for the Saints, is Super Monday. Only 16 times in the modern history of the church has the membership had a new Prophet to sustain and support with our prayers and love and work. Thomas S. Monson is the new President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Henry B. Eyring as First Counselor and Dieter F. Uchtdorf as Second Counselor. We are thankful for these men. It is no small task to be given...prophets are never really appreciated by the world population at large. They are mocked, ignored, or treated lightly--sometimes even murdered just for trying to share what they know to be true. However, these humble men will work tirelessly to reach the few who will humble themselves and listen. May the Lord bless them with health, strength and vigor in their lives! The Holy Ghost is already a constant companion to each, and thus I'm sure they'll be fine. I pray for their beautiful and supportive wives who will have their lives forever changed because of the righteousness of their husbands and the heavy load they've just been given. I'm sure they will take it all in stride. They know the greatness of the men they married, and are equal to them, and thus will be a fantastic support to them.
As for my family, I hope they will take a few minutes to read my last post...look up those talks. Read them. Pray about them. Follow the council in them. And for the future, I hope they will listen to the Lord's prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. Really listen. Really try to do what they are asked (often it's really so little asked!!). (www.lds.org is where you'll find all you want).
I am thankful for this Church, and for the fullness of the teachings of the Gospel, and what I have learned about Christ and Heavenly Father from it. I'm am thankful for the fantastic people that are my friends and examples within the church. I'm thankful for the example of these great leaders as they strive diligently and daily to be like the Savior, and to guide and direct the Church as the Lord instructs them. My children will learn from them, and hopefully strive to become good people, as they are. I'll do my best, too. I'm thankful to watch history as it unfolds...It's a Super Monday!
As Marlin K. Jensen just noted...yesterday was "Super Sunday". Tomorrow is "Super Tuesday". Today, for the Saints, is Super Monday. Only 16 times in the modern history of the church has the membership had a new Prophet to sustain and support with our prayers and love and work. Thomas S. Monson is the new President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Henry B. Eyring as First Counselor and Dieter F. Uchtdorf as Second Counselor. We are thankful for these men. It is no small task to be given...prophets are never really appreciated by the world population at large. They are mocked, ignored, or treated lightly--sometimes even murdered just for trying to share what they know to be true. However, these humble men will work tirelessly to reach the few who will humble themselves and listen. May the Lord bless them with health, strength and vigor in their lives! The Holy Ghost is already a constant companion to each, and thus I'm sure they'll be fine. I pray for their beautiful and supportive wives who will have their lives forever changed because of the righteousness of their husbands and the heavy load they've just been given. I'm sure they will take it all in stride. They know the greatness of the men they married, and are equal to them, and thus will be a fantastic support to them.
As for my family, I hope they will take a few minutes to read my last post...look up those talks. Read them. Pray about them. Follow the council in them. And for the future, I hope they will listen to the Lord's prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. Really listen. Really try to do what they are asked (often it's really so little asked!!). (www.lds.org is where you'll find all you want).
I am thankful for this Church, and for the fullness of the teachings of the Gospel, and what I have learned about Christ and Heavenly Father from it. I'm am thankful for the fantastic people that are my friends and examples within the church. I'm thankful for the example of these great leaders as they strive diligently and daily to be like the Savior, and to guide and direct the Church as the Lord instructs them. My children will learn from them, and hopefully strive to become good people, as they are. I'll do my best, too. I'm thankful to watch history as it unfolds...It's a Super Monday!
2/2/08
Our Prophet (yes, he's yours, too, since all prophets are meant to teach anyone willing to listen to the Gospel), Gordon B. Hinckley, was buried today. He'll be remembered for all he did...the increased temple building, the new Conference Center, the updating of the Tabernacle, all the growth he over saw, the media outreach he encouraged. But mostly for his life, his example, his teachings, and the sheer amount of work he did. He was an inspiration to all of us on how to live well, truely love & serve those around you, and not take any day for granted. His parents, I am sure, are pleased and proud of him, and I'm sure his wife is glad to have him by her side, again. They were great together!
Below are some of my favorite talks he recently gave, or talks where he announced some of the monumental tasks he undertook during his last years, or gave strong council to us (have we listened?). He accomplished so much AFTER age 80 that it's motivating for those of us younger ones! I have no reason to complain about my workload...it's nothing compared to what the Lord allowed Pres. Hinckley to accomplish in his old age! I'm thankful for him, and will spend much time in the next week dedicated to teaching the children (and refreshing my own mind) what he taught. He reminded us of who we are, how we should be good friends/neighbors, and of why we're here. He bore clear testimony of the living Lord, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father. He was a fantastic man. I hope my children listen. I can only add my puny voice to his...I know this is the true Church. I know Christ lives and is the director of this church; leading and guiding through these regular (but good) men that he knows will listen and guide unselfishly, and worthily. His testimony strengthens mine. His life motivates me to be better, stand taller, work harder, and love more. I'm thankful for my blessings given to me by Heavenly Father. I am thankful for the leaders of this church, and the service they give just to try to turn a few more hearts to God. Here are those talks:
“To the Boys and to the Men”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-22-20,00.html
Construction of the Conference Center
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-22-1,00.html
“Some Thoughts on Temples….”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-32-20,00.html
“Latter Day Saints in Very Deed”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-32-33,00.html
“The Things of Which I Know”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-690-30,00.html
“Seek Ye the Kingdom of God”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-602-26,00.html
BYU has much more about him, including his funeral services and a nice program highlighting his life. http://www.byub.org/preshinckley/programming.asp
Below are some of my favorite talks he recently gave, or talks where he announced some of the monumental tasks he undertook during his last years, or gave strong council to us (have we listened?). He accomplished so much AFTER age 80 that it's motivating for those of us younger ones! I have no reason to complain about my workload...it's nothing compared to what the Lord allowed Pres. Hinckley to accomplish in his old age! I'm thankful for him, and will spend much time in the next week dedicated to teaching the children (and refreshing my own mind) what he taught. He reminded us of who we are, how we should be good friends/neighbors, and of why we're here. He bore clear testimony of the living Lord, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father. He was a fantastic man. I hope my children listen. I can only add my puny voice to his...I know this is the true Church. I know Christ lives and is the director of this church; leading and guiding through these regular (but good) men that he knows will listen and guide unselfishly, and worthily. His testimony strengthens mine. His life motivates me to be better, stand taller, work harder, and love more. I'm thankful for my blessings given to me by Heavenly Father. I am thankful for the leaders of this church, and the service they give just to try to turn a few more hearts to God. Here are those talks:
“To the Boys and to the Men”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-22-20,00.html
Construction of the Conference Center
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-22-1,00.html
“Some Thoughts on Temples….”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-32-20,00.html
“Latter Day Saints in Very Deed”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-32-33,00.html
“The Things of Which I Know”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-690-30,00.html
“Seek Ye the Kingdom of God”
http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-602-26,00.html
BYU has much more about him, including his funeral services and a nice program highlighting his life. http://www.byub.org/preshinckley/programming.asp
2/1/08
Dirt-y Dreams
I've been lucky the last couple of days. I had a little time to myself. Dave took all the kids to Mutual/Scouts on Wednesday night...and even took the rest of the little ones with him to the grocery store to pick up a couple of things I had forgotten earlier in the day (I'm getting old, ya see!). This left me with a couple of hours to myself. Imagine that!! (This is where you're supposed to remember I home school, so I really don't have a couple of hours to myself most days.) The first thing I did was sit down and watch the GOP debate on the computer. No interruptions. I didn't have to explain anything to the children about what a "terrorist", or "amnesty" is, or why McCain was a P.O.W., or why it's funny that Mitt can't picture Bill Clinton in the White House with nothing to do all day! I'm glad I did. Fun stuff. I'm likin' Mitt Romney. I hope he wins. I can go on and on about this topic, but I'll save it for another day.
But, I couldn't blow ALL the time, so I got up and did what I told Dave I'd do...I actually got in a much needed SHOWER! Not a quicky like usual. You know the kind where you can get between the toes, and really wash your hair well, and actually use the conditioner that's not the instant kind? A REAL shower. Rare for me. Then I actually got time to file down my jagged finger nails, put on hand lotion, attempt to resemble a woman again, etc. I almost feel pampered. Almost.
But, for some reason, this led to "dirt-y dreams". The kind where you picture yourself out in the bright sun shine, surrounded by butterflies and sweet smelling flowers. The kind where you're going down the rows feeling the dirt between your fingers and toes, hot sun on your back, and then suddenly the ice cold sprinkler on your back (people without kids can't relate to that one). The kind where you laugh as your 2 year old takes a pod of peas, opens it, and proceeds to eat the "little green balls" behind your back because he thinks it's a treat and doesn't want to get caught! (What were YOU thinkin'? Don't you know me better than that? Sheesh.) The kind where you look at the garden you've created and feel that special "pat on the back" feeling from the Holy Ghost that you've done something you were asked to do, and you can see (and smell) the blessings you'll get from it. I drooled over seed catalogs, ordered what I wanted, and sat down to read about more and more cool things I could add to the landscaping. But, I just stuck to buying the seeds for the garden. The landscaping will have to wait.
Do you dream about gardens? Great big cutting gardens? Scads of bright, vibrant flowers everywhere (with no bees in my dreams!). Great paths with shade, singing birds, and fantastic smells? Vases of flowers in your house all the time to bring the sunshine in? Or a food garden...fresh strawberries (dipped in chocolate and topped with whipped cream!), blueberries, peaches fresh and right off the trees? Or a nice glass of home made grape juice, with a bowl of salsa--made from crisp tomatoes and peppers from your own land-- and chips? Or just a nice salad from your own garden? Aaahhh...those are good dreams. Refreshing. Motivating. Dirty; but refreshing.
But, for those wondering how a shower leads to dreaming about playing in the dirt and gardening...it all began when the word "ripe" crossed my mind as I headed for the water!
I've been lucky the last couple of days. I had a little time to myself. Dave took all the kids to Mutual/Scouts on Wednesday night...and even took the rest of the little ones with him to the grocery store to pick up a couple of things I had forgotten earlier in the day (I'm getting old, ya see!). This left me with a couple of hours to myself. Imagine that!! (This is where you're supposed to remember I home school, so I really don't have a couple of hours to myself most days.) The first thing I did was sit down and watch the GOP debate on the computer. No interruptions. I didn't have to explain anything to the children about what a "terrorist", or "amnesty" is, or why McCain was a P.O.W., or why it's funny that Mitt can't picture Bill Clinton in the White House with nothing to do all day! I'm glad I did. Fun stuff. I'm likin' Mitt Romney. I hope he wins. I can go on and on about this topic, but I'll save it for another day.
But, I couldn't blow ALL the time, so I got up and did what I told Dave I'd do...I actually got in a much needed SHOWER! Not a quicky like usual. You know the kind where you can get between the toes, and really wash your hair well, and actually use the conditioner that's not the instant kind? A REAL shower. Rare for me. Then I actually got time to file down my jagged finger nails, put on hand lotion, attempt to resemble a woman again, etc. I almost feel pampered. Almost.
But, for some reason, this led to "dirt-y dreams". The kind where you picture yourself out in the bright sun shine, surrounded by butterflies and sweet smelling flowers. The kind where you're going down the rows feeling the dirt between your fingers and toes, hot sun on your back, and then suddenly the ice cold sprinkler on your back (people without kids can't relate to that one). The kind where you laugh as your 2 year old takes a pod of peas, opens it, and proceeds to eat the "little green balls" behind your back because he thinks it's a treat and doesn't want to get caught! (What were YOU thinkin'? Don't you know me better than that? Sheesh.) The kind where you look at the garden you've created and feel that special "pat on the back" feeling from the Holy Ghost that you've done something you were asked to do, and you can see (and smell) the blessings you'll get from it. I drooled over seed catalogs, ordered what I wanted, and sat down to read about more and more cool things I could add to the landscaping. But, I just stuck to buying the seeds for the garden. The landscaping will have to wait.
Do you dream about gardens? Great big cutting gardens? Scads of bright, vibrant flowers everywhere (with no bees in my dreams!). Great paths with shade, singing birds, and fantastic smells? Vases of flowers in your house all the time to bring the sunshine in? Or a food garden...fresh strawberries (dipped in chocolate and topped with whipped cream!), blueberries, peaches fresh and right off the trees? Or a nice glass of home made grape juice, with a bowl of salsa--made from crisp tomatoes and peppers from your own land-- and chips? Or just a nice salad from your own garden? Aaahhh...those are good dreams. Refreshing. Motivating. Dirty; but refreshing.
But, for those wondering how a shower leads to dreaming about playing in the dirt and gardening...it all began when the word "ripe" crossed my mind as I headed for the water!
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