Lessons in Parenting: 101 Mom Class in IL--three day course (baptism by immersion, or in this case maybe more appropriately, baptism by fire)! :D

 So Nykki is awesome and worked hard to earn a trip to New York to see wicked... I tell you what. If I were to covet/want something (but I won't because that is breaking a commandment) it would be Chick's ability to set goals. She is so driven. When she puts her mind to something, there is no stopping her. She is truly an inspiration.

 Well her trip was a way for me to be a full time mom for a few days in IL. I learned some good lessons...

 

•  Yellow Popsicles "taste like brownies and the orange ones taste like juice" according to one very happy little Mia.

• It is possible to drive a swirly little go machine around a slightly hilly block with one hand while the other hand is helping consume an apple. (And people think Utah are crazy drivers! They haven't met Cade yet! ;))
• Nykki told the truth when she said it is better to take a morning walk at 6:30 a.m. because even at 7 a.m.--one can look like they had a GREAT work out when in reality they just walked outside. 
• Sweat-does/can GLISTEN! ;) 

• When there is so much fun to be had outside... after using the potty, underwear pulled up quickly is more conducive to getting one back out to playing!

• Humidity can effect the camera on your phone. 
• Laughter--(child laughter) really does the body good! 
• There IS a time to be silly.

•  Discovering a lady bug can quite any moment! 
• Having the courage to pick it up is pretty cool too! 

•  When in a hurry at the library (before the children claw each others eyes out over the toy trains) you shouldn't just assume that because there is a section of books awarded the Newbery Medal--they would be good and appropriate reads for four year-olds... or even enjoyed by this 30 year old! From "stupid" every other word and "fool of the world"... I kept making up words to replace the words I wasn't ready to teach little ears!
• Of course Mia's favorite book was the stinky cheese man. She is the product of her father! (Love you Carson :D) When we came to this page in the book, she quickly made a comment that the fox had a "good" side and a "scary/sneaky" side. One observant 4 year old! The power/influence of marketing! 

As I was serving dinner, I walked passed the kitchen garbage can and apparently decided it would be fun to stub my toe. I let out a little grunt and then stood there trying to put pressure on what I had just done. Mia asked what had happened. I told her and her reply was:
"You should pray and ask Heavenly Father to make your toe better. I know that if you pray to him, it will feel better." This was the second time something had come up and she suggested that I pray. (*Oh the workings of a mother in the home! Way to go Chick!)
Later that evening as she said the family prayer she remembered two hours prior of my stubbed toe and asked for Heavenly Father to heal my toe. After the prayer I thanked Mia for being so considerate and thanked her for praying over my toe. The cute defiant Mia responded, "Silly, I didn't pray for you. I was just showing you how you can pray and ask Heavenly Father to bless your toe."

--Out of the mouth of a babe!!

Thoughts from a short week of being a full-time mother of two?
*My little sister is even more cool than I ever expected!
*I have a testimony of the quote shared at conference, "A Child Who Sings Is a Happy Child"
*I want the walls in my home to be as inviting and as intentional as Nyk's are.
*I really do love waking and being up early. All effort to do so before there are distractions--worth every effort. (Now to just remind myself this when I don't want to leave my pillow!)
*When a child is screaming and arching their back in your arms, and another one is running away and the whole store is looking at you like you are a child abuser--I can totally relate to you! Any mom who takes their children grocery shopping--hands down--IS A SUPER HERO! :)
*If I ever have a friend at the park who is struggling with crying and very vocal kiddos who do not want to leave... I will run and try and help by distracting the child with karate chops to every object on the way to their car! (THANK YOU MACK and HOLLIE! I would have never made my plane on time without you!)
*God sure exercises an amazing amount in confidence and trust in our ability to learn, grow and become better as we try to raise children as a joint effort. *He knows how in the world all of our mistakes/errors/short comings can be made right through His son Jesus Christ's atonement! I am grateful He has perfect knowledge in this--for I can put full confidence and trust in His knowledge and perfect understanding.
*Parenting--Kuddos to those who don't shrink from their responsibilities and keep giving, serving, receiving day in and day out! Your task is awesome. Don't give up! You are remarkable!!!

Happiness is John Buck's (met on the plane ride) answer to the question what top advice he would give to someone seeking a companion/getting married. The very first thing he shared was that you need to find someone who loves God more than they love you. I beamed with his advice, because that has always been #1 on my requirements too! ... but to hear it from this good Christian, 26 years (I think it was that long) past upper minister, I could not help but smile. He also shared that if someone loves and serves God--they won't need help books/courses on how to be a loving spouse because they will do the things which they learn from the Savior's life in how to treat those around them. Definitely the ideal! Loved his answer! He is a loving grandfather full of great faith, and it was an honor to meet him.Thanks John for the advice!

I am thankful for personal revelation and the ability to commune with God.

And all prophets who wrote down revelations in the scriptures, so I could have them to study... One day I hope to all thank you all in person on the other side!

BOOK RECOMMENDATION!

Book Review!

Securing Your Family Legacy 

by Douglas Cloward

Would I recommend this book?

Hands down, YES!

I am single, but the book is about families, still worth the read?

Yes. My thoughts have been directed and inspired with what I want to do with my personal life now and my own future family.

What was my overall takway?

The world sure needs this (!)—and-- I want/will be more intentional with my life and especially with the relationships of love and influence I have in my sphere of exsistence.

Few of my favorite quotes from the book:

• “Before we can make character-defining stands, we must know what our standards are.”
• “Do you know how to control the heartbeat of your home?”
• “I didn’t have their blood, but I was being infused with their values and heritage.”
• “The most effective self-security system parents can erect begins with a clearly defined code of family conduct, honor, and personal character.”
• “…choices always come with consequences.”
• “……we are all busy. Even people who aren’t doing anything are busy doing it!”
• “Traditions can be started anytime. You are in charge of them…”
• “The dreams, hopes, and influence of intentional parents hold the power to direct and change the world.”

*The last chapter of this book reenforces Hollands councel about dreaming and the need to dream-- 

“God expects you to have enough faith and determination and enough trust in Him to keep moving, keep living, keep rejoicing. In fact, He expects you not simply to face the future (that sounds pretty grim and stoic); He expects you to embrace and shape the future--to love it and rejoice in it and delight in your opportunities.“ God is anxiously waiting for the chance to answer your prayers and fulfill your dreams, just as He always has. But He can’t if you don’t pray, and He can’t if you don’t dream. In short, He can’t if you don’t believe.” Jeffrey R. Holland

  **When people asked me about my Dad’s book, I would tell them what I knew about it and that I was excited for it to be printed, but I did not feel like I could promote what I had not read myself. WELL—I have read it, (surprise Dad :) !! ) and I endorse this book full heartily. I would sign my name on it, and not at all because I share the author's blood, but because I have read for myself and have been inspired by the truths brought before my mind and heart! 

Way to go Dad!! Can't wait for your novel and other books to be be published! You are gifted in story writing!!

I love you!

To my family, friends, and anyone who wants to live an intentional life with their family... I highly recommend reading, Securing Your Family Legacy.

Happiness is someone following through with an impression--and that impression

having a direct impact on MY life.

Grateful for snuggle time with those I love on a porch!

TWO TIES AND A BOW-TIE

For whatever reason, Mr. Doogies takes getting dressed for Sunday very seriously. He carefully button's up his shirt which is usually re-buttoned with love by his mom or aunt!  I have to admit, he dresses for Church with a reverence and in a way I have never witnessed a child do. I really think it is because his heart knows whom he is dressing for!

Yesterday as sacrament was being passed I whispered to Doogies asking him what his favorite story of Jesus was. He didn't give me any indication he had an answer. Wanting to encourage his sacrament thoughts, I mentioned, "Like when Jesus feeds all the people with the bread and fishes..." Without skipping a beat, he whispered, "I like when He prayed so hard-he bleeded." A little shocked by his answer I asked, "You like when Jesus was in Gethsemane?" Doogs replied, "Yes--when He prayed so hard--He bleeded."

What a beautiful four year old profound interpretation/observation.

Thanks for my sacrament focus Mr. Doogies.  I love you.


EYE SINGLE TO HIS GLORY
Yesterday in Relief Society our teacher posed an awesome question. She discussed the scripture about keeping one's eye single to the glory of God. She asked each of us to turn to our neighbor and discuss what that phrase meant for us personally in our life. One woman answered that for her it meant that with retiring soon she should be going on a mission... but she is too scared to go. But keeping her eye single, is accepting the next step she feels she is to make, which for her, is a mission. Another sister's eyes started to glisten as she said what having an eye single to His glory meant for her. She didn't elaborate because of time, but I gathered from the emotion that her eye single meant having patience in God's timing with having a family...

I always viewed that scripture as a blanket statement of putting God's will first/keeping Him in my main focus. BUT this inspired teacher pointed out that each of us in our own individual lives can reflect and thus discover what having an eye single means for us in whatever challenges we are facing.

Inspired question! Inspired teacher!

Happiness is the insight of a child.

I am grateful for Dad's tartar sauce, Mom's custard, and a couple that enjoys dancing together!

"…not really about…sheep and goats."

Well I started this post over a year ago...! And apparently I saved it as a draft ???

be of good cheer

go in search

gather them together

bring them back

[to] the place of water

This is so sweet!

(Miss you Nyk, Carson, Tay and Kiss!)

I was reading Ammon's account of him contending with all the bad guys by cutting off their arms. That story, to me, has always been one about Ammon's courage/bold faith and undaunted spirit against all odds. THIS time however, because of Elder Holland's comment on parables not really being about sheep and goats--I was impressed with the workings of/with the sheep!!

A few questions to consider before reading:

Q's: What is water symbolic of in the scriptures? 
       Did the sheep ever actually partake of the water when they were first brought?
       What was the cause of their scattering?
       When brought back to the water again, why were they
               1.) not able to drink the water right away?
               2.) not scattered the second time, because they were scattered the first time?
       Did they eventually water?
       And to whom did they get to return home to?
--

 26 And after he had been in the service of the king three days, as he was with the Lamanitish servants going forth with their flocks to the place of water...and all the Lamanites drive their flocks hither, that they may have water—

 27 Therefore, as Ammon and the servants of the king were driving forth their flocks to this place of water, behold, a certain number of the Lamanites, who had been with their flocks to water, stood and scattered the flocks of Ammon and the servants of the king, and they scattered them insomuch that they fled many ways.
…
 31 And it came to pass that he [Ammon] flattered them [the servants of the King] by his words, saying: My brethren, be of good cheer and let us go in search of the flocks, and we will gather them together and bring them back unto the place of water; and thus we will preserve the flocks unto the king and he will not slay us.

 32 And it came to pass that they went in search of the flocks, and they did follow Ammon, and they rushed forth with much swiftness and did head the flocks of the king, and did gather them together again to the place of water.

 33 And those men again stood to scatter their flocks; but Ammon said unto his brethren: Encircle the flocks round about that they flee not; and I go and contend with these men who do scatter our flocks.

 34 Therefore, they did as Ammon commanded them, and he went forth and stood to contend with those who stood by the waters of Sebus; and they were in number not a few.

... 39 And when he had driven them afar off, he returned and they watered their flocks and returned them to the pasture of the king... (Alma 17 emphasis added)

 I hope my excitement in this subject does not kill the message! In response to the missionary who feels he is everyday/all day just "Home Teaching"... change the word "flock" to "members".

Perhaps for full time missionaries or member missionaries, the temptation is to think that there is only real joy in bringing someone to Christ's living waters who has never yet been. But the truth is, we all have been and partook of His waters before coming here to this earth.

For those members who may have been brought to the waters of baptism, perhaps some have not taken what Christ's waters have to offer by actually "drinking" in the gospel. Perhaps the demons of addiction, lack of commitment, family loyalty/traditions, laziness, sorrow, grief, fear, despair, sadness, struggle with commandment keeping, marital struggles (the list goes on and on) where "standing" ready to scatter whoever was brought to Christ...and those "standings" were successful.

BUT YEA to the missionary (member or full time servants) who are being of good cheer with the inspired assignment of going and searching, swiftly heading off, bringing back, encircling, contending, disarming the opposition, and making a way for a watering! His watering! Then together--heading for the pasture of the King.

It is an exciting time to be alive with God's hastening going on! I testify to all, that the sweetness and real joy is that someone is able and does partake. Whether it is their first mortal experience to the place of water or they have been brought back for the 100th time... when one does partake, one is changed!

Oh the wisdom of our great God!!

be of good cheer

go in search

gather them together

bring them back

[to] the place of water

 "together" would imply that there is more than "one" to gather... we are talking about families! And God would have us bring them back TOGETHER to the place of water! Oh the hastening of His work! Oh you missionaries, if you are given such an opportunity--EAT IT UP!

I am grateful for flower "snowball" fights.

Happiness is glistening eyes caught in the dark as one starts to realize that he wants to partake of Christ's water.

Sweet is the joy the gospel brings!

If God allows and grants you the sacred work of going in search, gathering and bring back so one might partake... I promised you, you will count your blessings 10 by 10 and you will be surprised at what the Lord has done!!

Its not really about sheep!

"ROOM TO CROSS AND CONTEND"

A few weeks back I was studying in Alma 2… and had some sweet thoughts. Amlici has gone against the voice of the people, and has dubbed himself King over the band that supports him. He decides to go to war against his brethren. Talk about the impact of having “contentions among ourselves”! Brethren fought against brethren.

In the middle of the battle (after loosing 12,000ish of his followers) Amlici hooks up with a Lamanite army which is described as “being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea”. Those type of odds have got to be a little bit daunting!

The scriptures say that Alma, (the one that saw the angel/is now the high priest over the land) goes at the head of his army to contend with Amlici and his army. Alma, as a Leader, teaches by example some awesome principles that I can apply to my life.

 Alma and Amlici were going head to head and obviously had to take a “breather” from the battle because:

 29 And it came to pass that Alma fought with Amlici with the sword, face to face; and they did contend mightily, one with another.

 30 And it came to pass that Alma, being a man of God, being exercised with much faith, cried, saying: O Lord, have mercy and spare my life, that I may be an instrument in thy hands to save and preserve this people.

 31 Now when Alma had said these words he contended again with Amlici; and he was strengthened, insomuch that he slew Amlici with the sword.

It says he contended again with Amlici. And he obviously had some type of time to offer such an awesome, selfless prayer. And BEING EXERCISED WITH MUCH FAITH, he asked (no doubt according to the will of the Lord) a pretty powerful/selfless wish, and his words were granted.

I asked myself, am I being exercised with much faith that in a moments notice I can pray with that much power?!  (Yep I have room to defiantly improve upon! :) thank goodness God is a perfectly patient God!.).

But again, look at this awesome Leader Alma—what he did. He contended with Amlici, killed him. Started beating up the King of the Lamanites, but the king retreated and sent his guards…

 33 But Alma, with his guards, contended with the guards of the king of the Lamanites until he slew and drove them back.

 34 And thus he cleared the ground, or rather the bank, which was on the west of the river Sidon, throwing the bodies of the Lamanites who had been slain into the waters of Sidon, that thereby his people might have room to cross and contend with the Lamanites and the Amlicites on the west side of the river Sidon.

…COOL!!! WITH HIS guards (those closest, bound in convent, strength, trust worthy—whatever would deem you the possession of being a "guard" for your head Leader)… together they slew and drove back the enemy…. And the ground was cleared! Why? So the rest of the army (anyone I love or am working with) could go and contend with all the other bad dudes/content with their [challenges, whatever that challenge/enemy may be].

What is symbolic of a ground being cleared? Didn’t the Savior “clear the ground” for me so I could walk the path of repentance, to have a way to escape the very jaws of Hell!? Not taking away the trials, but He cleared the way so I could “have room” to walk on and fight the battles/tests placed before me?!?! In what ways am I “clear[ing] the ground” for those in my family, those whom I work with, those whom I serve? Am I teaching with the spirit in which sets up a “clear ground” where others will have “room to cross and contend” to make covenants and progress?! … Did I loose you on this?! :)

A.)  I want to be someone who is being exercised in much faith so at any given moment I am literally a tool for those I love with my prayers and my desires.

B.)  Am I working at qualifying to be on the front line = devoted/supporting whatever God allots to my path so that I can be a guard for/with Him, and for truth?!

C.)  What am I doing to clear the way (teaching, serving, preparing the ground) so that I am giving room/making room for someone else to be able to contend with/go to war/conquer the challenge “enemy” before them?!

GO ALMA!!! Go GUARDS!! Is this not what being a member of His church is all about?! Clearing the ground!

I am thankful for "cleared" ground.

Happiness is a new semester of Mission Prep.

VIRTUE OF KINDNESS

"Thank you" "Thank you" "Thank you"... the words out of a most gracious bride... No grumpiness, hurried attitude, just a lot of "thank yous" for everything offered to Ashylnn. 

   I watched her in and outside of the temple, her grace, her goodness, her kindness... truly she is an elect daughter of God. It was nearly 8 years ago when I was walking down the hall at the Deaf Ward in Provo, UT and I saw these twins. I had a fleeting longing to get the chance to work with them in YW's, but quickly repented and told the Lord I was happy with my allotment of awesome little sunbeam class I had. Little did I know that at the time they were not in young womans--but God had plans for them and I to be together! 

   I watched both of these women blossom, and as God took me from them and into a singles ward, I continued to watch them, with their awesome peers, lead and build up a whole ward! 

   What a sacred moment to be in the temple with Ashlynn today. Her journey opening up to being a wife and eternal compaion, and Ashley's journey pointing her towards the mission. 

   There are no words! I love these girls!

Happiness is a temple marriage and sealing!

I am grateful for the constant hand of the Lord not only in my life, but in all lives.

40 Years started in less than 24 hours!

    Boy prayed ever since he was eight to know "her" when he met her. She was headed back to VA for the summer. He was frustrated with the dating games and told the Lord that when he was needed, he would move forward. Meanwhile a friend had fasted to know if she had anyone she could hook him up with. Three ideas came to her mind. He took out #2 choice because #1 was not available. Enjoyed #2 so much he wanted to see who #1 was. A blind date was arranged...so the story goes, he saw her get out of the car and knew. She enjoyed herself and after the date, in the middle of the night was awoken with heavenly things for over an hour. She felt dazed the next day as if she weren't even walking on earth. He picked her up after church and when she took his hand, she "came back" down to earth. Ride to the mountains, faith walk, and a "Will you marry me?" with a "Yes" response (not even a full 24 hours after meeting one another)... and six kids, 3 in-laws, 13 1/2 grandchildren later--whalla! An always striving, keeping the faith in God 40 years of marriage and hopefully at least 20 more to boot!
   My eyes are wet at the dedication, determination, and devotion. Only God really knows what each has gone through and what together they have born. Miscarriages, to un-employment, to endless hours in primary children's, to a growing family, teenage hormones, independence, traveling, more Primary Children's, missions, more hospitals and cancer, deaths door multiple times, to constant love, service and devotion... and 100 thousand other things in between!
   What do they hope their future holds--they are working to become/go/do this!

  Nope, they aren't perfect they will be the first to admit, but they are ever seeking to become more like Him a little bit more each day--they are determined to continue to give their lives in the cause of building up the kingdom of God. ... from covenants made across an alter, and ever relentless brother seeking to destroy while another strengthens and helps fortify... this is an eternal couple in the making...
   How thankful I am for the example and constant effort they show forth.

   Forty years ago... and counting!

 I love you mom and dad! Happy Anniversary. Onward and Upward! We never, never, never forsake! 

I am grateful for love, His love, their love.. 

Happiness is choosing and then walking whatever God has planned! 

THE PARABLE OF THE LITTLE GIRL WHO KNEW SHE COULD

   A few Monday's ago before seeing the one and only beautiful grandma Ratcliffe, I stopped at a park by a nearby park. As I sat in my car with my window slightly down, I noticed a girl (I would guess her to be about 11 or 12) working hard to ride her bike. Her training wheels were on. Her dad was walking by her side. When I noticed her it was just at the time I heard her cry out to her dad “I can’t daddy—I will fail!” To which he replied that she could. I heard “fail”, but perhaps she said “fall”. I watched her from my car and sure enough, the somewhat attentive father (I say this as he seemed to be a bit more pre-occupied with his drink then watching her) wasn’t paying attention and the little girl, even with training wheels, biffed it. I think the father started to pay a little more attention after that. :)
    This father daughter team went around the park several times. After 20 mins or so I gathered that she must have fallen a few more times, because I saw the dad riding the pink bike back to his truck while the little girl ran along the side. I thought about her fears with her bike and with the perspective as an adult, her petrifying fear of falling was nothing that would alter her life or be some big significant change/death, but to the little girl, her fear of failing was very real and at times overwhelming even to tears and stating that she would fail. I rejoiced in getting watch this little scene play out. I left the park and spent a choice night with grandma and was blessed with an FHE treat of seeing/being with Micarie and James.
    Well fast forward to the next night. After work, I had had a strong impression to go visit a friend. I met her a few months ago on a visit led by God. A friend and I knocked on her door not knowing what we would find. This sweet sister desired to go to church but without a supportive husband found that she did not have the courage. As we talked to her and testified of God’s love and support for her, she mentioned that her Pblessing said she would do a great work in Relief Society. She expressed desires to make it to that meeting. It was a choice meeting and my friend and I left her door praising God.
   Well this Tues night (a week ago) I felt impressed to go back to her house to check in on her as it has been a few weeks since she has answered any of my texts. After work as I was studying, I felt impressed to go right then. I did—and found no one home. I left a note on her door and I pondered what the Lord would have me do with the rest of my evening. I knew He had sent me at that time for a reason. ?? I felt impressed I needed to go to my stake center. *An impression to go to this specific building that I never go to except to attend stake events.
   I pulled up in the parking lot and smiled as I noticed a little girl trying to ride her bike with her dad… okay God, this is the second night in a row that you are having me watch a father and a daughter ride. I knew that God had a lesson to share with me for I know there are no coincidences!
    I parked my car and like the awesome creeper I am, (thankful for my tinted windows) I watched as this girl (older in years) was trying to ride her bike. This girl didn’t have training wheels. I noticed two little boys (who I came to find out were 3 and maybe the other one was 5 ??) were riding their bicycles all through the parking lot—no training wheels. I marveled at how small they were and how much older this girl seemed to be. The girl made several long rides across the parking lot. After a while she made a huge, wide turn in which I heard her very joyfully say, “ I did it! I did it!” And the father replied, “You did it! You made that turn. You did awesome!” I smiled from the vision of “I can’t…I will fail” verses the “I did it- you did it!”
   Thanking God for letting me witness two very similar situations yet completely different outcomes and determinations, I got out of my car. By this time a mother and another little baby had joined the father and three children. I worried that they might have seen me taking pictures and video from my car so I decided to head into the church building to find a place to study. I wanted to approach the little family and thank them for being in the parking lot that night, but I decided being suspected as a creeper and being confirmed as one… I rather just be suspected! :D I grabbed my bag and shut the door and to my surprise I found myself walking towards the family (opposite direction of going into the building).
    I called out to the presumed parents and told them they didn’t have to say “yes”, but that I wanted a picture of their girl as I had just witnessed a discouraged little girl the night before biking with her training wheels and I was so impressed by their little girl’s determination. The family graciously entertained my wish, but before the picture was taken, the mom turned to her daughter and asked her to share with me why it was so special that she could ride her bike that day. This mother, Andrea, then mentioned that she would cry if she talked about it. It wasn’t until that moment, that I noticed that the little girl, Kaja, was very special. With a big smile, and help from her parents she told me that she had cerebral palsy. (Cerebral palsy is a condition that brings along many disorders that can involve brain and nervous system functions, such as movement, a stiffness of muscles and normal reflexes. To what extent little Kaja has I was not sure.)
   Kaja’s mom said that for the longest time Kaja has wanted to ride her bike without training wheels. The doctors didn’t know what to tell her. Kaja’s mom and dad didn’t want her to get her hopes up as it seemed it might be physically impossible for her. But Kaja didn’t know it was impossible. She just knew she wanted to ride her bike like her younger brothers. The previous weeks her physical therapist had been working with her. The pedals and training wheels of her bike were taken off which allowed Kaja to sit on the bike seat and have her feet “walk” around/support her. After much practice, the day had come when the father and mother wanted to take her to an open area (church parking lot) to give her a place to try riding with pedals and no training wheels. And there, in the parking lot, a loving father ran by her side.
   At first Kaja had a very hard time turning, and when she would half crash (I say “half” crash, because her father was always close enough to help ease the blow) she would not be daunted. Kaja simply reposition herself on her bike and tried again. Over and over she did this… Crashing a bit, but determined and never quitting. Her tone of voice didn’t even flirt with the temptation of being discouraged. And always--as she worked at it, was her awesome father--getting his fair share of a workout as he ran behind her. (With children, is a gym pass even necessary?! ;) )
   His daughter, was doing the impossible.
   I already loved watching Kaja ride without training wheels… But hearing of the challenges that not just threaten to make life more challenging, but are actually apart of Kaja’s everyday life, made the symbolism of the moment all the more choice.
    I took their pictures and the sweet family with the sun going down climbed in their car and left. I went into the church, found a piano and started to write a song about this little soon to be nine year old, very determined, Kaja. As I played and sang, who should come to the glass door to listen… the Elders in the area!
   Talk about sweet life lessons to witness… On one hand, one girl, consumed with thoughts of failing with training wheels. On the other hand another girl, designated by life to not to be able to enjoy such thing as riding a bike… but sweet little Kaja seemed oblivious to her/life’s “designated” opposition. She just knew she wanted to ride. And every time she crashed, she got right back on and tried again. The first father, a bit neglectful and not providing an undivided attention (but perhaps through the crash of his daughter, caused him to be more mindful/diligent father [that is an insight right there into what our own trials can be God’s tool to help someone step up to their duty and responsibilities]) vs. a father that although didn’t prevent all of Kaja’s falls, He did help not only soften the blows but was right there to help her get back up on her bike and steady her as she started yet again—ever running, always in arms each (or a very speedy jog) to aid and assistance her.
   I am constantly being reminded of our journeys and those whom God puts in my path. The bikes (covenants, desires, commandments) I need/want/should ride. The hands that are ready to steady. The temptation to be discouraged as others seem to do with ease what I struggle and sometimes cry to do. What the world says I can or can’t do (or more often my natural man/fears) but with desires clothed in righteousness and firmly planted/determined—God will help me/YOU/us with the seemly impossible, and make it possible.
   Seeing little Kaja’s experience reminded me of an experience my grandpa once had in the grand canyon with a juniper tree. The PDF is attached. SO SYMBOLIC!

 From To Him That Believeth: Claiming Heaven’s Blessings 

                                                         -- Frederick and June Babbel

   I learned a valuable lesson a number of years ago when my wife and I visited the Grand Canyon in Arizona. We were at the north rim when the naturalist guide showed us a twisted, gnarled, old juniper tree which was literally growing out of the side of the rock canyon wall by the lookout point. We wondered how it could possibly continue to grow. Then our guide told us an interesting bit of history in connection with this tree.
   A juniper seed is shaped somewhat like a cantaloupe seed. One of these little seeds fell into a crevice near the edge of the canyon wall. Everything was solid rock. It appeared that the seed could not possibly germinate since there was no soil, little if any water, and virtually no sunshine down in this crevice. Yet this little seed was not covered about these limits. It had but one burning desire and that was to fulfill the measure of its creation!
   In a manner that we cannot fathom, that little seed germinated, implanted roots into that solid rock, and began to grow. Gradually it raised a shoot through the crevice where it could seek sunshine and a little rain.
   As it continued to grow and expand into a full-fledged, through misshapen, tree, its trunk and its roots began to exert a continuing pressure on the outer ledge of rock. Finally the pressure became so great that one entire large section of the canyon wall broke loose and crumbled into a massive heap near the base of the canyon, nearly one mile straight down.
   The guide said it was estimated that forty million tons of rock lay at the base of this tremendous canyon because that little seed didn't know it could not grow. It just wouldn't give up.
   No one is beaten until he stops trying. No one! We have often heard the admonition, "…without faith no man pleaseth God..." (D&C 63:11.) We need to discover how to gown in faith. We also need experience. A living faith is a priceless possession and the quest for it is worthy of our combined energies of mind, body, and spirit.
   Persistence is one of the essential components of faith. Don't give up! "That which we persist in doing becomes easier to do; not that the nature of the thing itself has changed, but that our power to do is increased!" (Heber J. Grant, Gospel Standards, comp. G. Homer Durham [Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1944], p.355.)

   If we continue to exercise trust in Him, He will be jogging with our every moment. I believe He softens the blows and crashes as much as possible without taking away the needed experience and exposure to trails and the exercising of our faith. With each needed stumble, a loving father will also be right there to help me/you back on, and start pedaling again!
   He can calm fears and cause us to ride on waters, even in the midst of a storm. He leads by faith. And we can/must/will walk by the faith He leads.

  The little girl who knew she could... and did!

And the parents who believe/support her every step of the way!

Kaja's zippy little brothers!

I believe in working for/towards fulfilling the measure of one's creation. 

I am grateful for Pres. Uchtdorf's insight to the atonement: 

"...while the Atonement is meant to help us all become more like Christ,

it is not meant to make us all the same." What an insight!! More on his talk here.

Happiness is: General Conference and my family. 

The two combined= 

IDEAL!

DID YOU EVER SEE AN ANGEL?

 

To the woman who helped me learn to love sunsets and seek for morning light.... To the woman who is the example to all angels on how to be a cheerleader for those they love in the race of life....

 To the woman who loves and loves, and then loves some more without ever expecting anything in return.... the woman who will do anything to make you smile... who loves laughter--and when she laughs the heavens must rejoice with such an angelic tone...

To the woman who is constant and has a sure foundation.... a woman who's faith does not waver.... to the woman who taught me how to say my prayers and believe in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ... to the woman who is a role model for showing Christlike love... who taught me to care for the one... the woman who encourages, lifts where she stands and reaches out to those who are in despair... a woman that gives all and expects nothing in return...

A woman who's ears can come up with any part to any song... ears that although none of her family can quite do music in perfect pitch like she can--she still encourages us to sing and to rejoice in God through music... to the woman who had her love for baking, but graciously steps aside to be a sew-chef to the dreamboat in her life.... to the woman who bares with patience what the Lord entrusts her to do.... to the woman who could move a mountain, if she was asked to... 

To such a woman...

 She is my hero. She is my example. And I am striving to become more like she is.

(You now can't say, you haven't not seen an angel...
                                          for I have just showed you one!)

I  am grateful for mothers who know!

Happiness is being with YOU!

"WHERE IS THE PAVILION?"

 

(Isn't this bird awesome!?! I didn't even dare look at the price tag as I was just taking a shot of it for Bishop Madsen to see as it reminded me of an illustration he did once (see here) ... but I wish I had looked at how much it was! I am back in the AZ airport come Aug, and I might just have to see if this beautiful fellow is still there and if I have saved up enough to buy it! IN LOVE!)

Studied President Erying's Pavilion talk. I have listened to it several times, but actually reading it again for this time around, I was impressed with some new ideas. For me, this was deep.

Q: What did he mention was the reason why the Lord had allowed him to stay longer at BYU Idaho?  (I freaked out as I caught this) 

He said: 

"He [the Lord] let me seek counsel and gain His permission to stay at Ricks College. He knew all the reasons that my service might still be valuable at the college and in Rexburg. [Just 30 days after he declined an enticing career offer, the Teton Dam burst]...I was there [Idaho] to ask Heavenly Father frequently in prayer that He would would have me do those things that would help the people whose property and lives had been damaged." 

A: !!!!!!!!!!!!  God used/in part, had him serve longer at BYU Idaho, because of his ability to seek (asking) the will of the Lord/His council in frequent prayer--TO BLESS THE LIVES OF THOSE AROUND HIM. What a complement! And among the Leadership skills and other things President Eyring offered, like the bird at the top, one of his "gifts/things" to offer--was that he, president Eyring, seeks the Lord's council in frequent prayer. Seriously, this concept as a principle of leadership, influence, career, WHATEVER, is a crazy insight into how one should manage/attend to all their affairs. 

!!!!!!!! :)

Can the Lord say such a thing of me? Would/could I be used as a tool in the Lord's hand in a like manner because He knew I would seek His will/ask Him/council with Him frequently? Jared obviously knew someone who would council with the Lord for the benefit of others in all things when he kept going to his brother "the Brother of Jared" (as the book of Ether states). Is this not a timely reminder of how my communion with the Lord should be, on a daily basis?!

Sweetly, at the end of his talk, (there is awesome stuff, I can't begin to scratch the surface- you can read it for yourself here ) he says: 

"...if you go for the Lord to bless others, He will see and reward it. If you do this often enough and long enough, you will feel a change in your very nature through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Not only will you feel closer to Him, but you will also feel more and more that you are becoming like Him." 

If we "GO FOR THE LORD" (in our every day lives, work, home, family, simply breathing/living) to bless others often, we are promised: 

• He will see what we do and reward us. 
• Q: Reward us with what?
• A: A change in our very nature-through the Atonement of Jesus Christ
• We will feel closer to Him
• Find ourselves becoming more and more like Him
• Not to mention, in serving we can become what Nephi states as a declaration of his soul: "I have charity for my people and great faith in Christ that I shall meet many souls spotless at his judgement-seat."--2 Nephi 33:7. (How would it be to say "I HAVE charity...! Not just striving for it, but actually saying I have it...?! What an amazing thing to be able to say...)

So I Bryndi K, am and want to/will strive...

in all things.

Can't wait for General Conference!

I am so thankful God has "let" me stay teaching Mission Prep, a little longer. 

I love my students.

And like Nephi, I too can say, I glory in my Jesus,

for He has redeemed my soul

from hell.

  

Happiness is placing one's faith in Christ.

p.s.

Not only can we "go for the Lord" with our actions and our very wills in serving Him... but when it comes time for picking where we will stand, whom we will believe, where we will put our faith and trust... 

GO FOR [meaning CHOOSE] the LORD!

:)

EVER BEEN SEEKING FUTHER LIGHT AND KNOWLEDGE FROM GOD?

What do you seek?

This past Friday, I was given the day off. It is not very often that I take a day off, for lots of reasons, but when I do, boy they are sacred days! I felt impressed that I need to "go to Salt Lake". But that was the extent of the impression. So after getting a few things off my plate, I set off to Salt Lake with no idea why or to where. All I knew was that I was to go.
    As I entered the city I felt impressed to hit the building east of the Conference Center. I could see it in my minds eye, but could not recall what building it was. I guessed it may be the genealogy building ?? Turns out it is the Church Library.
   I took a tour and for two hours (the allotment of the parking space I had) I had a crazy enjoyable time! The spirit was rich and as I took a tour of the Library I was overwhelmed with the reminder that I did not want to/nor did/do I have time to idle away any time. There is SO much to be learned/taken in, appreciated, loved in that building. Outside of service, I found myself wanting to serve my mind and heart by soaking in whatever goodness others have recorded. Seriously, it is moments like that when I wish I was a speed reader and didn't have some of the limitations I do. BUT God is the one that blessed me with such weaknesses, and I am to be grateful (and I am) that I even know how to read and write.
   While in the building my awesome Sr. Missionary Tour Guide pointed out the picture up above. She said that the man that painted it was from Chile and was not a member of the church, at the time. The picture depicts he and his family in a field with their eyes/faces towards heaven--seeking further light and knowledge. The spirit of the painting, was consuming. A year later or so after he painted the picture, the man found what he and his family had been looking for. He became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! Did you notice the date of the painting? '90! So recent! So many seeking for truths about where we came from, why are we here on this earth, where will we go after this life...? All those questions have answers, for which one can know for themselves! Click here for answers to such questions.What do you seek?
   The missionary then showed a small little clip of one of the journals in the Library. The story, deeply touched me and I could not hold back the tears. Thanks to a friend for finding this, Pres Packer shared this story in the 1980 April Ensign.

 … Joseph Millett, with his large family, was suffering through very, very difficult times. He wrote in his journal:

“One of my children came in and said that Brother Newton Hall’s folks was out of bread, had none that day.
“I divided our flour in a sack to send up to Brother Hall. Just then Brother Hall came.
“Says I, ‘Brother Hall, are you out of flour?’
“‘Brother Millett, we have none.’
“‘Well, Brother Hall, there is some in that sack. I have divided and was going to send it to you. Your children told mine that you was out.’
“Brother Hall began to cry. He said he had tried others, but could not get any. He went to the cedars and prayed to the Lord, and the Lord told him to go to Joseph Millett.
“‘Well Brother Hall, you needn’t bring this back. If the Lord sent you for it you don’t owe me for it.’”

That night Joseph Millett recorded a remarkable sentence in his journal:

“You can’t tell me how good it made me feel to know that the Lord knew there was such a person as Joseph Millett” (Diary of Joseph Millett, holograph, Archives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City).

The Lord knew Joseph Millett. And He knows all those men and women like him, and they are many. Theirs are the lives that are most worth recording.

   The movie, I felt like, caught the emotion perfectly. What a man brother Hall was! To go out seeking door to door for food for his family. And finding no success, he went and had the faith enough/humility to pray and asked God what he should do, and then had the humility to go knock on one more door! Surely, he knew that others were in "tight" situations with food just as he and his family was, but isn't it in loosing our lives to God, is when we find our lives! Then--also--in the sharing of what we have, it is magnified. Not meaning we will never run out of food, but didn't the widow, who gave what she had to the prophet first--have her very meal and oil increased!?! The spirit of adding a little more water to the soup, is the very spirit of giving all that we have...
   And this Joseph Millett... I believe if I had had the prompting to, I would have shared my flour. I would like to think I would have divided out my sack, but would I have just been tempted to say, "that is sad" and carry on without another thought of how to help? I hope it is not the latter, but how often do I say a prayer without a thought of being the hands?
   Jospeh's very character/nature was that he gave without prompting or being asked to give. And GOD KNEW he would share and sent Brother Hall to him. This has to be among the choicest of all complements and testimony, that the Lord knows us and will use our very strengths/natures to bless the lives of others.
   I was moved by this story and filled with a determination to seek for greater charity. I want a heart like Jospeh Millett. And I want the courage and the humility Brother Hall showed.
   My journey did not end in that building, as all those pieces were just blessings God wanted me to be showered with. And showered I was!
   About 20 mins before my parking spot expired, I decided to run over and see the Relief Society building. I have never gone inside before.
   A sister met me and suggested I go down and view the Relief Society, Young Woman's and Primary exhibits in the basement first. I was the only visitor in the whole building! The Sr. Sister Missionary that was with the exhibit let me walk around by myself. I found myself starring at the wall of all the Relief Society Presidents since the Restoration. I could not contain my emotions--and the flood gates let loose. Because I was the only visitor, I became very aware of how loud my sobs seemed to be and I tried to shush my tears. Oh how I love being apart of a society that seeks to: Increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and seeks out and helps those in need. Don't tell me that God is not behind an organization that is so choice and beautiful. One that allows woman to fully use the attributes that shape and define womanhood--to the fullest capacity. I LOVE Relief Society and the woman associated in it!
   My mins winding down on my parking space, I walked quickly through the rest of the exhibit as some precious reminders/insights stirred my soul.
  I was getting ready to leave the basement when I met a volunteer sister missionary who is currently serving as her Stake's Young Womens President. Without "reason" she started sharing with me all the ways she was plagued/attacked with debilitating anxiety as a young mother of six and what she did to combat/fight/overcome her anxiety. As she spoke to me and told me her story, I had to make sure my jaw was not hitting the floor as I had been seeking and praying to know how to help a friend who is battling such a storm. (I found the "full" reason why God has prompted me to go to Salt Lake!)
   All the words/stories/experiences this woman was sharing with me of what fear and anxiety had done to her, were the exact tear-filled words of a choice friend. God sent me to Salt Lake, to gain further light and knowledge, from a volunteer missionary that just happens to only be in Salt Lake once every two weeks on Friday afternoons- in the basement of the Relief Society building!
   God knew that my friend could not make it to Salt Lake with her current life situation, but in answer to much prayer, He allowed me to go--for her!
   Chalk it up for Him again! GOD--IS AWESOME!
   And in case you are wondering what this Missionary did to overcome her consuming anxieties... she studied/did Personal Progress as an adult (over six times)! What a testimony/tribute to that inspired program.
   What does this look like to you?

  Iron Man excitedly showed me what he had made for me... a temple! He apologized that the angel was not white as he only had a Darth Vader Lego guy, but he was more than happy for him to be used as the angel Moroni! I will tell you what, this Proud aunt has this awesome temple sitting right in front of her computer screen!
  I totally can see the temple! Can't you?! (*Yes, Darth has a face, but his beady red eyes and white monster mouth staring up at me just couldn't compete with THE angel Moroni, so yes the head is turned around! ;))
   Oh the creation of a seven year old! Whom I love.

I am grateful for inspired days off!

I am grateful for those who seek for something better.. 

Happiness is my Mission Prep class and students.