My Beautiful, Amazing Friends

We spent the morning setting new year's resolutions.  Surely the excitement to start anew and become better is from God.

Chill'n

We are just chilling with the family during Christmas break.  Having everyone home is heaven on earth.

Christmas Break

I love having the kids home. I'm so blessed these amazing souls to hang out with! Heavenly Father knew I needed their love, fun, and examples.

Christmas Bath

On Sunday evening we listened to a beautiful Christmas concert by the Tabernacle Choir & Sissel. I gave Adelynn a bath in the kitchen sink with the lights dimmed & the sacred music playing in the background. I felt so blessed to be able to take care of my sweet baby and contemplate the Savior's birth at the same time. I'm so blessed! I love my sweet family!

Poems

I wrote these a while back. Even though they are very amateur I'm grateful Heavenly Father allows us to make creative attempts. Someday far into eternity we will be able to create like He does. I'm so grateful for this promise.

For You

Goin' to die tomorrow

Don't have time to decorate

Not a moment to accumulate

Only have time

For You!

Ancestors

Watching me

Hoping

Praying

Prompting me

Patiently waiting

Names on a screen

And a reflection

Kneeling

Finding direction

Searching

Whispering

Names carved in stone

Turning my heart

Temple clothes

All in white

Mirrors

Forever in sight.

Budgeting Hard

After we pay hospital and doctor bills for Adelynn and I we will be down to no savings. We spent all of our $40,000 of savings in a year. Yikes!!! We need to get serious! No dining out! Only homemade bread! No gifts! Notes or calls instead! Grow a bigger, better garden! Earn more money! Eat less! Sell a van! No more vacations, except camping ones. Maybe no more violin lessons. Or maybe Jessica can get a little job and pay for them herself. So many options!

Our rent went up $100 a month. We are looking to lease a lot of land in River Heights for our garden. We will just have to tighten our belts. That's healthier anyway! I'm so excited!! Most people don't like cutting back and budgeting! I love it! I love the feeling of control and empowerment it gives! I love meeting goals!

Somehow we are going to not only save, but bring in more money. So this is going to be a really exciting winter! We are going to come out on top! My unrealistic goal is to save $70,000 this year! Jaremy doesn't even earn that in a year, so it's probably just a pipe dream. But maybe if we plan, work like crazy, and are blessed with miracles we can do it! I'm so excited!! I have no idea how we are going to pull it off, but we are going to!!! I pray Heavenly Father will help us be self-disciplined and self-reliant.

Medical Miracles

I'm so grateful for modern medicine and capable doctors and nurses. Adelynn had to be born early because she didn't have enough fluid around her. They could tell this so easily with an ultrasound. Also she was breech, but with a smooth muscle relaxant and well-practiced doctor she turned easily. I needed antibiotics because I'm Group B Strep positive. I was given pitocin to start my labor early. Adelynn had oxygen for a few minutes when she came out and a Vitamin K shot. All these things are so routine and easy now we hardly even think about them. But the fact of the matter is they saved my sweet Adelynn's life and made my delivery routine and easy. I'm so grateful to Heavenly Father to live in these last days when I can have modern medicine and living, healthy children.

Being a Mom is the Best!

I'm so blessed to be able to be a mom. I get to bond most intimately with my children. What other time or phase of life will I be able to care for a newborn around the clock. It is a sacred opportunity! Even when I'm exhausted I feel it is such a privilege to snuggle and nurse this little one. I don't want to miss a minute of her being awake even when it is in the middle of the night.

There just isn't enough time to soak in these precious, fleeting moments. A new baby's sweet little grunts, tiny toes, grasping fingers, rooting mouth, soft breathing, adorable wiggles, etc. I just can't express how grateful I am for these truly heavenly experiences. I'm so blessed to have my sweet children with me all the time. I love being a mom!!

But now I need to recharge my body a bit. I don't like missing anything. There is so much I want to take in and do, but I'm human and my body is starting to shut down. I don't want to get sick, so I'm going to bed early tonight. Good night!

Here is one of those precious moments!

The Plan Worked

Yesterday we had a really good Sunday! I had made a plan and prayed a lot yesterday that we could feel the Spirit and keep the Sabbath day holy as a family. Heavenly Father blessed us with a day that went great. We had family council and scripture study. We studied as individuals, contacted extended family, listened to hymns, sang hymns, obtained a list of the widows in the ward, colored while listening to Conference talks, and walked around the temple. Benjamin did family history work and got several names ready to take to the temple. Of course, we held Adelynn and soaked in the special spirit she brings into our home straight from heaven. We enjoyed just being with each other! We have an awesome family!!!

What a joy Adelynn has been in our family!!! She is so calm and sweet! I just love nursing her and holding her. She is very alert and loves bonding with the family when she is awake. We just can't love and hold her enough!!

Sunday Morning

Beautiful Family

I'm so blessed!!! Jaremy and the kids all help me so much! I don't have to worry about anything.

Poor little Tank is sick with a cough. We are trying to keep him distant from Adelynn. It's a little tricky. We pray she doesn't get sick; it would be so hard on her. But so far so good. I'm so grateful for the herbs, hand sanitizer, a warm home, plenty of clean laundry, and healthy food. We really have it so easy. But I still worry about a tiny baby getting sick even though we have so many things going for us. Heavenly Father gives us so much! I'm so grateful.

Adelynn May

Our sweet Adelynn May was born on November 22, 2011 at 4:30pm in the Logan Hospital. She is so precious and beautiful! She has such a sweet spirit, so calm, so loving. She loves to hear the kids and the hustle, bustle around her. The kids adore her. She seems to just love the attention they give her. She loves to be held. Heavenly Father has blessed us so much by sending her to our family. We are so grateful to have this amazing little soul in our home!!! She is so precious!!!

Thanksgiving Week

The kids only have a day and a half of school this week! Hurray! I love having them at home! We are going to Keller's on Thursday and Sunday and having a party with the Butlers on Saturday. We are going to use the weekend to play with friends, continue to get the house ready for the baby, and enjoy the holiday.

I'm so grateful I get to be surrounded by my children and husband. I am so lucky to be able to cuddle on the couch and read with them. I'm so blessed to hear them joke and sing crazy songs together while they do the dishes. I feel privileged to watch Jaremy dance with the little ones on a cold evening. I enjoy watching my children spontaneously serve each other and our family. I am living with some of the best souls ever. I'm so humbled and thankful!!!

Meaningful Sabbaths

Today in sacrament meeting we were asked to really improve our reverence. We are usually a little early; however, we think we should be a little more earlier. That way we can sit down and truly reflect on our Savior and renewing our covenants. We are going to be better prepared before we leave for church by having family scripture study and listening to hymns. I will make sure I have time for prayers that aren't rushed and time for quiet reflection and repentance. If our hearts are truly broken and contrite, if we are truly focused on partaking of the sacrament our family's reverence with naturally improve.

After naps and meals on Sunday we sometimes go visiting, hold family councils, review individual goals, and/or watch a nature documentary. However, there is still a lot of room for improving keeping the Sabbath holy. Keeping seven children or various ages and stages active in worthy Sabbath activities can be challenging. I would also like to fit in extra scripture study and contemplation on Sundays. So I need to plan better.

This evening Jaremy and Benjamin organized family photos. Jessica, Natalie, Tank, and I worked on humanitarian baby blankets. It was good, but I need to better to involve everyone in a meaningful Sabbath activity. So tonight I'm praying for Heavenly Father's guidance as a make a Sabbath plan. I'm excited! I think we will see and feel a big difference in our family's spirituality as we strive to keep His day more holy. Of course, this excitement and eagerness comes from the Holy Ghost. I'm grateful for the encouragement instead of a feeling a overwhelming.

Hard Night

The last two nights I haven't been able to sleep well at all. Cramps in my legs and tummy haven't allowed it. I haven't even been able to take a nap because of my twitchy legs. But this morning around five my legs went dead. It was wonderful! I was so tired. I slept until 8:30am. Now that's sleeping in around here.

Jaremy go the kids up, ready, and to school. He's amazing and very kind. I'm so grateful I was able to get some good rest so I could function the rest of the day. Heavenly Father has blessed me with the best family and good health.

Today I've just taken it real easy. My tummy and legs have been back at it, so I'm just going slow.

It would be wonderful (if the baby was ready) if I could go into labor today or tomorrow. I know it's not going to happen, but boy, would it be convenient. Jaremy could go to China in a week with his co-workers. Jessica has tomorrow off, so she could help. Jaremy could take off Monday when I come home. Then the big kids only have half a day on Tuesday and the rest of the week off for Thanksgiving. I would have tons of help without making anyone miss school and fall behind. But Heavenly Father knows best. We are excited to have the baby whenever she is ready.

As for right now I'm tempted to get back into some really comfy pajamas to help my abdomen feel better. But it's about time to go pick up the kids so we will see.

Quilting at Kellers

On Monday I took the little kids and we went to Mom's house to pick out fabric for a baby blanket and quilt it. It was a relaxing, nice day to spend with my mom. The kids, of course, love being at Grandma's house (treats, movies, toys, dress-ups, coloring, treats, and more treats). The kids really enjoyed picking out the fabric at the store. Then we visited while we quilted. It was nice.

I'm blessed to have a good mother and father. They bless our lives. I'm grateful Heavenly Father sent me to a family that taught me the gospel and a love of my Heavenly Father.

Comfort Zone

I don't like going out after dark. In the winter I want to just stay at home after 5:30pm. But luckily, I have a family that helps push me out of my comfort zone. We've been going to the Sports Academy in the evenings. Tonight Jessica and Benjamin took a kickboxing class while I watched the little ones swim. Jaremy had Scout meetings tonight. Jessica, Benjamin, and Moroni are still there playing racquetball. We'll go get them in a minute. Maybe Jaremy and I will go back for a workout after we get the little kids to sleep. Or maybe I will just watch the Republican Presidental Debate while I stair step.

Oh, by the way the big kids and Jaremy went to the Sports Academy this morning at 5am, swam, cycled, and played racquetball. Last night Jaremy and I went too for a date. Tomorrow the little kids want to play basketball while I run around the gym. Fun! Fun! It's great to have healthy, active kids. It is a lot of work, planning, and discipline to keep the family healthy and strong. I'm grateful Heavenly Father is helping us and notices our efforts.

Sports Academy

The kid's school had a fund-raiser where you could buy a 2-month pass to the Sports Academy. We bought everyone in our family one because it is getting cold and dark. It is hard to workout outside as much now. With the passes we will be able to swim, play basketball and racquetball, use the track and exercise equipment, take all types of fitness classes, and soak in the hot tubs. Everyone is excited! Hopefully, it will help us get through the winter while improving our health and fitness, versus using the weather and lack of light as an excuse to stop or slow down our exercise program. We have worked hard for five months. We have to keep going now! I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed us with the resources to continue exercising as a family. I think it is going to be lots of fun!

Whirl-a-Round

It seems we just got back from the Snow Canyon Half-Marathon vacation, but that was 50 hours ago. It seems it's just go, go, go. And when it's not I'm collapsed on the sofa.

The race was awesome. Jaremy, Jessica, Benjamin, and Moroni did great, better than they imagined. It was emotional seeing them push themselves and accomplish a goal that took a lot of discipline, training, and determination over the last five months. They are already planning their next races. Me too, but first I'm going to have this cute baby. I wogged five miles in St. George on Monday. It felt great except I totally biffed it. Luckily, I can't go fast at this point, so I only scraped my knees and elbows.

Benjamin turned 13 yesterday! I can't believe we are the parents of two teenagers already. Time goes so fast. Way too soon they will be flying away to start their own lives. I will miss them so! I just want to soak in every minute I have with them. All the kids are amazing!! I love them so much!!! I'm so grateful Heavenly Father let them come to our family!!!

Independent Will

I've had a hard time these last few months keeping my temper under control. Pregnancy, fatigue, seven children, and lack of discipline have made it difficult. I sometimes feel so out of control and like a victim of my children's disobedience, stupidity, confusion, and messes. The simple noise that usually I love about drives me batty. The whole atmosphere in our home is unraveling. Jaremy and the children don't appreciate it. I am really going to have to exercise some discipline and pray every moment for help. Because there is not a moments reprieve. It's constant "Mom, Mom!," "Tank is smearing Destin all over the kitchen!" "He pulled my hair!" Then there is the constant asking the same question over and over. Some children are a lot more annoying than others. But it all adds up to me feeling like I want to ring their necks. Even while I write this, "Mom, can I go on the treadmill? I'm not too little." for the hundredth time. "Tank is cutting his shirt!" Ella is coloring nicely, so I complimented her.

I must find and encourage the positive. I must be aware of my blood beginning to boil. I must push my pause button and pray earnestly. I must choose the right and good and kind. I must imagine a better solution than anger, frustration, and explosion. I must use my independent will to live that solution. Soon my patience will grow. Soon I will feel the Spirit in our home more. Soon our the atmosphere and culture of our family will change. Mothers determine so much of the mood. That's why we've been struggling. I can change!! I will try earnestly to be like Jesus!!! Heavenly Father is right there to help me!

Pause Button Help

Today Heavenly Father helped me keep my cool and turn a frustrating situation into a positive learning experience. A certain child was breaking a rule and placing his siblings in great danger. I was about to kick his bootie, but I pushed my pause button and prayed. I asked him to wait in the corner until I was ready to talk to him. I went into the bathroom & explained to Heavenly Father I was very angry. I wanted to handle the situation in a way that would help everyone and keep the Spirit and love in our home. But I couldn't even imagine not being furious, feeling, love, or coming up with a positive solution. I knew Heavenly Father could, so I pleaded for His inspiration. He helped me. I didn't act in anger but Heavenly Father helped me feel love. I came up with a just, logical consequence but administered it in love and with calm teaching. Wow! That's not me! That's Heavenly Father's influence and love. I'm so grateful for His help!!!

34 Weeks

I'm 34 weeks along in my pregnancy today. I'm getting way excited to meet this little girl.

I've been so blessed with good health and strength. Today I jogged (wogged) 5 miles and walked 1/2 a mile. I also just did an hour of prenatal yoga. I feel so relaxed. I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed me with a healthy body and the knowledge of how to keep it that way.

Well, good night!

Terrific Husband

I have the best husband! Jaremy is so thoughtful and helpful. He washes dishes, does laundry, fixes things, tidies up, and organizes the garage. He took hours finding me just the right shoes for my wide feet. No to mention he earned the $120 or so they cost. He makes sure he takes me on a date every week. I know he loves me! He doesn't just say it. He shows me all the time!!

Deep Rest

Today I was so tired I could hardly function. I pulled myself through as far as a could 9:30am. Then I didn't know what to do. I have three little ones at home who need me to care for them. So I prayed. We took naps right then. I thought there would be no way the kids would fall asleep. But they all were out. I went into a deep, wonderful sleep. I have a hard time sleeping well during the last part of pregnancy, but I was out cold. I woke up 3 hours later. I was shocked! It felt so good! Tank was still asleep. Hyrum and Ella had woke up a bit before but just quietly colored Halloween pictures. I am so blessed! Heavenly Father knew my need and helped me get the rest I needed. I'm so grateful!

Fabulous Fall Day

Yesterday I took the kids to the park. While they played at the jungle gym I walked around the park to stretch my legs. It was gorgeous. Leaves covered the trail and smelled wonderful. The sun was shining, but it was the perfect temperature. It was quiet and calm. The river was beautiful. I saw a muskrat. The kids had a great time playing tag and making friends. We are so blessed to live in this amazing, beautiful valley. I'm sure it is one of the best spots on earth. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father has blessed us to raise our children and soak up life here.

Book of Mormon

The other week in family home evening we learned about how the Book of Mormon can bless our families. A quote from Elder Marion G. Romney really stood out to me.

“I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness.”³

I have really tried to be more diligent in my study and prayers. Heavenly Father is slowly changing my heart. The Spirit is helping me to love, is reminding me to speak with kindness, and giving me ideas of how to build my children instead of criticizing them. Like I said, it's just the beginning, but I feel the change. I am so grateful a simple thing like prayerfully studying the Book of Mormon can bring about all those blessings.

Inspired by President Monson

This evening we watched "On the Lord's Errand," a video about the life of President Thomas S. Monson. It was wonderful! We all felt like we could stretch ourselves a bit more, like we too could seek for promptings from the Lord and follow them. President Monson is such a good example of following Christ. I'm grateful he is our prophet today. I want to be more Christlike because of his example. I pray for him and his wife.

Budget

I need to be a bit more disciplined in my budget. I'm so lucky! I can generally just go get what we need or want. If we go out to eat once or twice a week no big deal. Trust me it has not always been that plush. But I've been stupid and undisciplined. I should have saved more and not spent so much on food, vacations, and recreation. But now we can do better. We have baby hospital bills coming up, a rent increase, and large drop in our stocks. It's time to tighten our belts, save, and earn a bit more. Of course, I can't literally tighten my belt until the baby's born. But figuratively I sure can! I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed us with so many resources and the know-how on budgeting. I'm excited to hunker down! It's a challenge and adventure!

Kids Are Home

It's Fall Break! I'm so glad to have the hustle and bustle of the kids again. I'm glad we don't really have anything big planned or pressing this weekend. We are accomplish several small things, attending the temple, and going visiting teaching. The kids are playing with their friends, reading, exploring my new tablet, and relaxing. I love it! I'm so grateful for little breaks that rejuvenate us and help us enjoy our normal schedule as well. Heavenly Father knows all about this. I'm also grateful for the weekly break of the Sabbath.

Going Techy

Jaremy and Benjamin have been trying to get me to digitize my notebook, planner, shopping lists, etc. for a long time. I decided to embrace new things that might improve my productivity and effectiveness. I went to a family history class with Benjamin on Saturday to learn about using the cloud. Today I'm going to buy a tablet to replace my notebook. All week long I have been entering in my calendar, goals, tasks, etc. onto the cloud. Exciting! I wonder if it will actually improve my management or if it's just a cooler way of doing things. I couldn't care less about the cool factor, but I sure hope it helps me and my family accomplish the things Heavenly Father sent us here to do. I'll keep you posted.

But I have my suspicions it will help tremendously. In Conference they talked about how technology can bless us if we are careful and focused. Family history must use it! It's amazing what advances have been made. I think it can help me build up my little part of the kingdom. I also think by staying current with the techno wave I will improve my marketability if I ever needed to support the family.

Hey! This blog has already made my journal writing faster because I'm typing. I can make copies easily for my children, if I wanted. I can create an index to help me find entries, correct spelling, and write legibly even if I'm tired or my nails are cracked. So if this little thing helps adding up the rest should really improve our lives.

Heavenly Father is blessing us with these wonderful things. Yes, we need to be careful, but it would be ungrateful and stupid to put my head in the sand and not use technology for the wonderful things it can do.

Letter to Elder KyVan Keller

Hi Elder Keller,

You probably don't remember me, but I'm your big sister, Jennie. We think about you all the time and pray for you everyday, but writing hasn't been my strong point of late.

We love hearing how you are doing via Mom. The kids love seeing you in the pictures. They were worried when the hurricane went through your territory. It sounds like you

are doing awesome!

We are all doing great! We've been enjoying jogging. Jaremy, Jessica, Benjamin, and Moroni have trained for the Snow Canyon Half Marathon in three weeks. We are all

excited to have a vacation in St. George. Our baby girl is due in about 7 weeks. We just rearranged beds and cribs this afternoon. The kids are way excited! Of course,

Jaremy and I are too! Jessica is getting straight As at Logan High. She is in orchestra and Chinese plus the basics. She does a lot more with friends and after school

activities now. Benjamin is becoming quite the artist. He is currently reading Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Preach My Gospel, and the scriptures, of course.

He is trying to convince us that he wants to homeschool himself part of the day so he can take on-line high school courses. Moroni is competitive. He schooled everyone

in a mile race on Saturday. He also placed in the top 10 in a 5K with 200 people. Benjamin took 3rd running against adults, teens, and everything. Moroni loves to read,

write stories, and draw. Natalie has started public school. She loves it! She's doing great. She loves mountain biking with her dad and older siblings. She pushes herself

and goes off all the big jumps her brothers do. Hyrum is learning to read. He'd rather design cars, robots, machines, etc. more than anything. He builds them out of Legos,

cardboard, and whatever he can find. He spends hours doing this. It's a struggle to get him to do anything else. Ella and Tank both talk about the baby all the time. They

are way excited. They both love going to the park, playing house, and riding bikes. Ella is quite the runner. She is steady and fast! She loves girly stuff and school. Tank

talks like crazy. He's way smart and understands things you wouldn't think a guy his age would. He is also a mess maker! He does it on purpose sometimes to get

somebody's goat. Other times he just wants to do things he's not old enough to do without creating a disaster. Now that I'm huge I have a hard time keeping up with the

little dude. But he's cute as a button and sweet as honey, so that should get him to his third birthday. Jaremy is designing a new line of ultra running shoes at work. He

seems to really enjoy that considering he's taken up running. He loves running. He never thought he would. I just try to keep up with the comings and goings of everyone.

I feel so blessed to be surrounded by so much activity and so many awesome souls. Heavenly Father has blessed me beyond what I ever imagined!

We are going to be much better at staying in touch. We love you!!! Have a great week!

Love, The Butler Family

Criticism

Sometimes, okay most of the time, I find myself being critical of my kids. It seems one or more of them is constantly needed to be reprimanded for being too loud, breaking the rules, being slow or idle, disobeying, fighting, etc. I get so sick of it!!! I know the problem is mine. Which is part of why I'm so sick of it! I get annoyed so easily and feel like strangling everyone of them. I pray for patience and sweetness, but I feel raw and on edge. I really need the Spirit's help. I must not act on my base instincts. I must remain calm when everything is crazy. I must find good to encourage instead of constantly noticing the bad. It's making our whole family suffer. I pray and plead for help and strength. Surely, Heavenly Father will not leave me alone if I turn to Him with all my heart.

Pack Meeting

I have spent hours and hours on Cub Scouts this month. I'm the Cubmaster. I'm in charge of getting to know all the families, planning pack meeting, being the master of ceremonies, training parents, updating list, presenting the monthly theme, preparing activities and refreshments. It's been a huge deal! I've enjoyed it! I'm just worried that I've been a bit neglectful of my little ones and housework. Hopefully, I can jump off this this ball and onto another one after tonight. I feel I don't do very well when I'm spinning more than my family, workout, homemaking, school, scriptures, and personal grooming plates. When I add more than that things tend to crash and shatter. But Heavenly Father has asked me to be a visiting teacher and a cubmaster, so I will pray for help. I know He will bless me to do whatever He needs me to do.

Bed Day

I've had a dull headache for the last 3 days. Today it got worse, so I went to bed for most of the morning. I feel better now. I'm grateful I could slow down and get feeling better. I read ginger can help headaches, so I took some with my stevia lemonade. About an hour later my headache was gone. I'm grateful I feel so good most of the time. I'm really blessed to be able to take of my family, exercise, and do the things I love even during pregnancy.

Jaremy and I are planning a get away to celebrate my birthday. We are probably going to drive up to Tony Grove and then hike home. We will spend the evening recovering with a nice dinner and a hotel room right here in Logan. Oh, it sounds so nice to me!!! I'm way excited!!! Oh, by the way, the hike is over 24 miles long. I hope I can do it! Hey, why not! I'm only 7 months pregnant!

I'm also excited for General Conference! I pray I can follow the prophet with a willing, faithful heart!

Beautiful Canyons

I love living so close to the mountains. Heavenly Father has created so much beauty! Today we went up on a little hike in the canyon in the rain. It was nice.

Off to the Park

The little kids and I are about to walk to Willow Park and play for a bit. It's so nice to have so many parks.

Jessica is taking Chinese now. We try to learn a bit along with her. It's fun! I hope we get plenty of opportunities to use it in our lives.

Benjamin and Jaremy have a scout camp out tonight. Moroni and Jessica are bringing home friends after school.

I hope I can get the house clean, shower, and sneak away to the temple sometime this evening.
And it would be nice to get the shopping done and my visiting teaching. I also need to make all the meals for today through Sunday. Dream on!

Tomorrow we need to jog 9 miles! Wow! That takes tons of time and we can't really do it as a family with the little kids so we have to break it up and it takes all day. Oh, well! I'll get up early and get a good start on the day.

I'm grateful for all these fun, great things to do. I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed me with health and strength to do them.

Somehow

Somehow I need to parent creatively and with lots of love. What I'm doing now isn't working, especially with certain children. I need much more positive interaction with certain children and no negative. I pray for true charity to help me give them confidence and a willingness to do what is expected. I need the Lord's help to give me patience and love. I know He can help remind me not to get irritated by disobedience, lack of cooperation, not paying attention, getting out of bed, bad attitudes about easy assignments, etc. I must look for the good and help it grow.

Crowded Day

I'm already a behind today. I was supposed to go to bed early and get up early and go to the 5:30 am session at the temple.

The house needs some serious attention. I have lots of cubscout stuff to do. I have visiting teaching. Then all the normal stuff and lots more. So we will just do our best and plug along.

I pray Heavenly Father will strength me and help me prioritize in the right way. I'm so grateful He helps me do this and figure out what is most important and what He needs me to do on any given day. If I just turn my day over to Him, He can make more of it than I ever could.

Michele Bachmann

This morning I watched the latest Republican presidential debate. Bachmann was principle driven not circumstance or poll driven. Right is right in all situations. She is for following the constitution not whims. All the other leaders seemed to be wishy-washy in certain circumstances. Bachmann was firm. It doesn't matter if something has been done a certain way for decades; if it isn't constitutional it needs to be reformed. She is one on the main leaders of the conservative Tea Party. I strongly agree with the Tea Party! It's not driven by politics but principles, the founding principles of our great country!

I was hoping to find the same commitment to the constitution from Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman, but they seemed weak on fundamental constitutional principles to me. They are great men I'm sure, but I don't think I would vote for either one of them for president.

I'm so grateful for this free country! I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed me to live here! I'm so blessed!

Cookies and Family Home Evening

Usually I try to make something healthy for a family home evening treat. But today Hyrum (6), Ella (5), Tank (2), and I made chocolate chip cookies. They added and stirred, ate the dough, watched them bake, tested the cookies right out of the oven, and dunked more in milk for family home evening. Total sugar load! But great fun! I hope we made a happy memory! I did cut out half the butter and used whole wheat flour and oats. But I put them to bed almost an hour and a half ago and they are still bouncing off the walls. Sugar high! Tomorrow it is nothing but green shake! Just joking!

I love my kids! I'm so grateful I can spend time with them! Heavenly Father has given me so very much! Iknow it will be a happy memory for me!

Callings

Today in sacrament meeting I felt the Spirit and felt encouraged and inspired to fulfill my callings better. I'm going to be a better wife, mother, cubmaster, and visiting teacher. These callings are truly from God. I need to be more proactive, more charitable, more anxiously and enthusiastically engaged. I'm looking forward to pressing forward this week in building up the Kingdom. I'm grateful for Heavenly Father's Spirit encouraging me to be more dedicated.

Date Night

Jaremy's been gone for four days. Tonight he's back and taking me to the Indian Oven. I'm excited! My hair is curled and I'm looking forward to adult conversation and relaxation. I hope Jaremy is too! I'm so blessed to have a husband that puts his family first no matter what!

The last couple of days we have been watching President Obama's speech and the Republican Presidential Debate. I love politics! I'm definitely very conservative! I believe the private sector and individuals and families should do most of what government does now. Government is huge and ineffiecent and unaccountable to a large extent. We have lots of good nominees this year in the Republican party. I'm looking forward to all the excitement and battles. Principles and values and our future are at stake. It's so exciting! Heavenly Father has blessed us to live in this great land of freedom!

Ready for Bed

We have had a great day! And I'm ready for bed. It's only 8:30, but I'm lucky enough to be on my way to bed.

We went shopping for humanitarian baby kits, worked on homework, made chili, and then went on a walk up the canyon. The big kids ran down the riverside trail. The little kids and I walked up a ways then down. It was beautiful, breezy, and the perfect temperature! That was the perfect ending to the day.

Now I'm going to neglect the dishes, laundry, cooking, and housework and climb into bed. Tomorrow morning I will have more energy and work much faster than I would now. The big kids are going to bed too. Then they can finish their homework when they are fresh in the morning. I believe in early to bed and early to rise. It helps our attitudes and our bodies. It helps us accomplish more even if we have to leave loose ends when we go to bed. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father has given us this counsel. Well, good night!

Healthy Pregnancy

I'm so grateful I am blessed with healthy pregnancies. I get to carry on pretty much as normal. I take a nap everyday and get a full 8 hours at night. Then I'm usually not even too tired. This pregnancy is even better than any before. I'm exercising diligently and eating healthy. It really makes a difference. I haven't had any sciatic pain and I've had more energy and enthusiasm. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father has let me keep taking care of my family while pregnant. I'm grateful He has blessed me with knowledge of simple ways to improve my health and strength.

The kids are in full homework swing. It can be a bit stressful and constant. I pray they can be strengthened and find peace along with knowledge.

Jaremy to Portland

Okay, I'm more than a little jealous! Jaremy gets to go to Portland again. I shouldn't be so excited to travel. All my life I've fought with wonderlust. It's almost like a physical hunger. I love my life. I love where I live, but something inside me is going crazy to move, to explore, to experience, to travel. I have to pray for focus. I have to pray that this very real desire will calm down or go away. It makes me angry, sad, anxious, trapped, etc. So I have to focus on the wonderful things that are going on right now. Apparently, Heavenly Father wants me in northern Utah. I was born here. I've been praying for opportunites to move and experience. These aren't answered with yes. So I guess Heavenly Father wants me here. There are tons of wonderful, amazing things to do here to build up the kingdom. You couldn't ask for a safer, more beautiful place to live. So I will focus! I will have a great time while Jaremy's gone. We will enjoy and get a ton done.

Simplify, Simplify, Simplify

Henry David Thoreau had it right! Since school started I feel like screaming every one's head off. We run here and there. We cram in cleaning and story time. I'm a bit sick of it. It makes me irritable. Tuesday night I was so worked up I couldn't sleep until 4am. So we are going to simplify! When things aren't over scheduled the really important things (like human bonding and closeness, peace, revelation, etc) can actually occur.

Today I'm not going to the garden. We are going to cuddle and read on the couch for as long as the little kids want. We are not going to have piano on the list this fall. We will keep violin. Jessica can drop her on-line German course. I'm going to let Natalie and Moroni go to Primary activities only once a month instead of double and quadruple that. We canceled a four day cabin trip with our neighbors to just a day trip.

I'm so grateful for the apostles' counsel to simplify and be at peace. Heavenly Father truly knows what is best.

Lots of Blessings

I have wanted to buy a step to workout on. It is low impact and something I can do while I'm home and caring for the little ones. I need something like that for my non-jogging days. However, I didn't want to pay $100 for the steps. So I asked Heavenly Father to help me find some at the D.I. He answered my prayer and I purchased used steps for only $4. I also met up with a sister I visit teach who I haven't been able to contact by phone or home visits. It was a great way to let her know I'm still thinking of her and would love to visit her. Heavenly Father answers our prayers and some. I can't tell you how many times similiar incidents have occured. Finding things at the D.I. is hit and miss. But when I pray about a need or sometimes even what I consider an important want Heavenly Father paves the way. We are ever so blessed!

School

I'm so grateful the kids have great schools to go to. What a blessing! I don't have time to give them all the education and experiences they need. I'm doing laundry, dishes, gardening, and running a household. I'm grateful they love to learn and utilize their teachers, books, and opportunities. Heavenly Father has really made things so much easier than they used to be in this world.

Looking Forward to the Weekend

We have been running this new school week! It's been great and we've accomplished a lot. The kids have kept great attitudes. I think working out really helps with this.

The little kids (Hyrum -6, Ella - 5, and Tank - 2) and I are headed to the park to float the boats they have made. While they play I will jog around and get some fresh air before it gets to hot. Heavenly Father has given us this gorgeous day!!!

First Day of School

Benjamin, Moroni, and Natalie all started school today. Natalie has never gone to school before, but today she started the third grade. I hope things go well for her. We are going to pick them up in a few minutes. I'm excited to here about their day. Jessica started high school tomorrow.

The little kids and I started school here today too. We didn't get as far as we wanted to today because Tank had a immunization fever and needed a lot of attention. But hey, it's only 2:17. We can surely get more done today!

I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed us with ways to educate our children. I'm also grateful for the natural love of learning with which Heavenly Father has given me. I'm grateful I still have the little ones to teach and homework with the older ones when they get home. It's good bonding time most of the time.

Sundae Run

Last night we went on a fun run put on by the local running store. Jaremy had already run in the morning, so he took care of the little ones and drove the support vehicle. It was a great family activity. We had tons of fun. The course was 4.8 miles, but you could run or walk as much or little as you wanted. After you finished your jog they had ice cream sundaes waiting at the store. Great small business idea! Great family fun!

Our family started a bit later than everyone because of Tank(2). But Benjamin(12) and Moroni(10) quickly caught up with the pack. In fact, Moroni came in first out of everyone! Benjamin would have been right with him, but his dinner made him have a pit stop at the park. He was close to Moroni though. Natalie(8) ran up ahead with the boys for awhile then slowed down. She ended up without a jogging partner, but finished the whole race anyway! Hyrum(6) and Ella (5)ran 2 miles. Then they ran another mile with the stragglers at the end. Jessica (14) ran with the store managers little son (6). His dad was back at the store, so he needed someone to help him run. She was so sweet with him and kept him going the entire way. Jessica is so thoughtful and kind. I wogged (half waddle, half jog) the whole way, expect for about 50 steps when my knee hurt. I've never jogged that far in my life. Not bad for being 5 months pregnant. Tank(2) ended up running 3/4 of a mile. Jaremy kept tabs on us and cheered us on. The kids got ice cream at the store. It was tons of fun!!! Tons better than watching a movie. We bonded as a family and with the community.

Heavenly Father has blessed us so much!! in everyway!! I'm so grateful He lets us have fun meeting challenges and being together as a family!

Rhythm and Family Traditions

I'm so grateful that Heavenly Father has allowed our family to spend great amounts of time together. Together we eat all our meals, read books, clean and cook, exercise, hike and camp, nap, read scriptures, pray, get ready for the day and for bed, learn languages and practice instruments, and just hang out and work on other goals. We have spontaneous conversations about challenges, current events, values, friends, fears, silliness, and the gospel. Conversations that happen because we have lots of unrushed time together. When we are too busy this doesn't happen.

Whether we are in school or out, on vacation or at home certain things remain part of the rhythm of our lives. These simple family traditions (mealtimes, naptimes, reading, cleaning, exercising, studying) unit us. They provide not just safety but security for each member. They create a feeling of belonging and identity. They weave together to form a beautiful family culture. Not a perfect one, but beautiful nonetheless. They help each member know they are extremely important. They open opportunities to express and discuss anything, and I mean anything. Our kids quite often say after one our regular outings together, "I love our family!" They know they are blessed to be in a traditional family that really experiences life together.

We don't do many organized community sports or activities, but we spend that time as a family instead. We do tons and tons as a family. Driving, hiking, hanging out on the beach, jogging, exploring, playing at the park, camping, swimming, sitting in the shade or around a campfire, backpacking, boating, gardening, skiing, visiting family and friends, sledding, shoveling, etc, etc. We realize we have something amazing going on here. Most people aren't this blessed. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father has let us see and feel how important our family time is. I'm so grateful He has allowed us to have tons of it!

Up and Doing

I love Captain Moroni's admonition to "begin to be up and doing." There are so many people that need help. Sometimes I feel we should move to a third world country or to a new place in the mission field. That we should do some amazing, huge thing! That might be wonderful in the future. However, right now I struggle to get my visiting teaching done well. It is a constant effort to keep up with seven, soon eight children. They must be fed, clothed, washed, educated, and trained in the ways of the Lord. I feel it a challenge to get to the temple once a week. In fact I've only gone nine times this year so far. Extended family and aging grandparents need attention and time. I find so little time for family history, missionary, and humanitarian work. But I must try harder. There is much to be done. I must stretch my every resource. I must increase my energy and pray for guidance and strength. If I could just do what was already in my capacity and reach it would be some amazing and huge thing. And I would have proved myself ready for more. I love working in the Kingdom of God! I will be more devoted. I will be up and doing!

Need Some Change

Every once in a while I feel like I'd like something dramatic to happen. I'd like Jaremy to change jobs, move, start something completely new. But usually when I get this feeling it's because I'm not in the mood to carry on with my top priorities and goals. Sometimes I just need to remember why I set them or spice them up a bit. I could just throw out my to-do list and look for a job for Jaremy in some exciting place and escape into a little dream world. Or I can just get to work on the things that are really important and that will really happen.

Sometimes it's good to drop the to-do list and spend a bit dreaming or weighing options. But this can quickly turn into not doing what needs to be done and wasting time and life. So one has to be careful not to spend much time looking for excitement and dramatic change. Most of the time it is best to stick to the essential goals and really accomplish things in an ordinary, sometimes mundane way. Once you start working diligently enthusiasm comes back into one's soul.

I'm grateful Heavenly Father has helped me recognize my boredom is sometimes laziness and work shirking.

Temple

Yesterday I was blessed to go to the temple in the morning. At 4am when my alarm went off I felt slothful and was ready to reason my way out of going. But I prayed Heavenly Father would help me to be more faithful. So the Spirit reminded me of some important things. I asked myself some questions: Am I sleeping in a tent? Do I have to pull a midnight guard duty in the snow? Do I have to get up and pull a heavy handcart? No. No. No. So that's when I told myself to get out of bed and hop into my hot shower, cross the street to the temple, and sit in peaceful comfort. Wow! What a sacrifice!

Sometimes it's embarrassing how wimpy I am! So many have sacrificed everything and suffered terribly to build up the kingdom. Am I worthy to share the kingdom with such? I think not. I can bearly haul myself out of bed to go to the temple.

I'm so grateful for the example of early pioneers and latter-day pioneers. They inspire me to stand a little taller, take my callings and duties more seriously, and press on. I know I'm not even close to them in character and faith, but I'm better than I would be because of their dedication. Heavenly Father has blessed us with their stories of faith and fortitude.

Jaremy is Awesome!

I'm so lucky, okay, blessed to have Jaremy for my sweet husband. I'm so grateful we can work as a team. I don't know how either one of us could navigate life and raise our children alone. Heavenly Father has blessed us with eachother. He supports me physically, emotionally, financially, etc. He fills in gaps that not only I couldn't but was not even aware of until he filled them. He balances me and encourages me. He is my best and dearest friend. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father made it possible for us to team up and become eternal companions.

A Clean House

Order and cleanliness bring peace, calm, creativity, and productivity. The kids always help me so much. I'm so grateful for their willingness and capability. Our house gets clean and dirty over and over again throughout a day of meals, stories, projects, play, and living. But for those brief moments when everything or most everything is in its place I can take a deep breath or two and enjoy it. Heavenly Father has blessed me with lots of help in the form of my sweetest, dearest friends my children and husband.

Family Council

This evening we have worked on memorizing scriptures as a family. We have a list with a scripture, passage, or poem for about every week of the year. If we all memorize all the passages on the list we will go to San Diego at the beginning of next year. Fun! I love working together and personally to memorize.

We also held a brief family council to discuss our morning schedule for the coming school year and our workout schedule. Tomorrow we are jogging 5.5 miles. About a week ago I jogged (Jaremy calls it wogging - half waddle, half jog) 4 miles for the first time in my life. I am excited, especially considering I'm 5 months pregnant.

Heavenly Father has blessed me with an awesome family. Together He has blessed us to be able to do amazing things. And I hope we are only scratching the surface of what we will accomplish and become in the future. We want to build His kingdom and serve His children more and more.

Tony Grove Campout

We went on our annual Tony Grove campout with the Butler family the last few days. I barely said my prayers and didn't read my scriptures for three days we were there. Not a good thing! Reading the scriptures and really praying invites the Spirit. The fruits of the Spirit are love, understanding, tolerance, kindness, etc. Without the Spirit as my constant companion I became judgemental and frustrated with those who have chosen different lifestyles and values than I have. I really need the Spirit in my life every minute so I don't fall into traps of criticism and fault finding. It's been so nice to be home and be back to a somewhat normal day so I can read my scriptures and pray more easily. Although that is no excuse for not finding a way while camping. I have to repent of my neglect of spiritual things and my critical feelings and words. I'm grateful for repentance. I will be better!

White Pine Adventure

Yesterday afternoon around 2 we started packing for a backpacking trip from Tony Grove Lake to White Pine Lake (4 miles). Jessica and Moroni especially wanted to do this trip. Benjamin was worried it would be impossible. He did have a good point. Only the three oldest kids and Jaremy could carry packs. I'm five months pregnant or close enough anyway. Teancum is only two and hikes a tedious 1-mile an hour and that's with a lot a prodding. Jaremy was going to have to work late so we would have to start early without him in order to arrive before dark.





We arrived at Tony Grove a bit after four. From the very beginning, Tank informed us he was too tired to hike. But we knew that meant he just wanted to play instead. We made it to White Pine by 8:30. All the kids hiked the whole way! We figured Jaremy was right behind us. Suprisingly, there were tons of people camping up there. Because you have to backpack in there are usually only a few people there. Luckily, we found the second to last campsite just as the light was starting to fade.

Jessica started a fire then the big kids went back along the trail a ways to tell Jaremy where we were. Then one of the potty-trained kids pooped their pants. I didn't handle it well. We were four miles away from the van and it was pretty much dark. We were ultra-light backpacking we had only brought a change on clothes for Tank. I wasn't very nice. So we cleaned up the best we could using the last of the wipes and a diaper. I prayed I could calm down, be nice, and have a clear head. I apologized and feelings got a lot better. I set up the four sleeping bags we had brought. Jaremy was bringing two more. With just six sleeping bags for nine people it would be tight, but hay, it's called roughing it. Again we were packing light, so we decided to go without a tent. It's good to sleep out under the stars once in a while.

The big kids came back with out Jaremy. We prayed he would be okay. We had some more of our power bars (meal replacement bars are light and don't require prep or cooking gear). I put the little kids it bed. The big kids hunted for little sticks to keep our fire going. We couldn't find any real firewood, so they brought back so semi-dry pine boughs. We started to worry. It was now 10:30 and completely dark except for the stars. We didn't think Jaremy would be hiking in the dark, so we had left him no flashlight. We prayed for him again and again. We hoped he wasn't hurt along the trail. We kept the fire going until 1:30am. I told the big kids to climb into the sleeping bags with the little ones. I slept on the dirt with an empty backpack as a pillow.

After an hour I woke up. The stars were amazing. I prayed for Jaremy again, readjusted my pregnant body around the rocks in a new way, and went back to sleep for another hour. Jessica put her sweatshirt on top of me and told me to come squeeze in the double zipped sleeping bags with her, Ella, and Tank. She is the sweetest person, so thoughtful and selfless. So we made a tight squeeze. That woke everyone up for about an hour. Around 4:30 we all got back to sleep for another hour. It was a long night. But it was nice to know we were safe and morning was on it's way. I prayed for other people that might be hurt, driven from their homes, or out in the cold, dark night for some terrible reason. We were so lucky and hoped Jaremy was too.

In the morning we got everyone's shoes on and fresh mosquito spray. We figured we would stay put for an hour or so in case Jaremy was just waiting for light so he could find us. It turned out that's just what happened. It was so wonderful to see him okay and safe! We filtered fresh water and packed up.

It took us over four hours to get back to the van at Tony Grove. It was a gorgeous hike!! We had plenty of time to study all the rocks, flowers, trees, and bugs. Tank was slow, but he did an amazing job. Jaremy was so good at keeping him going and happy. But sometimes Tank hit "walls." But then he'd get another second wind and keep going.

As we finished the switch backs I started to get light headed because I needed water. Jaremy gave me the last of his water even though I'm sure he was thirsty. Then we hiked about a mile and a half to a stream and filtered more water. Delicious! The kids played in the stream and had a great time.

We came home and cleaned up while Jaremy picked up a 36" pizza. It's huge! We stuffed ourselves and took naps. Now I'm rambling on because I'm too tired to unpack, bath kids, and do the dishes. Not to mention I should pack for our next Tony Grove campout on Monday morning. Ugh! I'm not ready to do that yet.

I'm so grateful Heavenly Father watched over us. I was so grumpy with some of the kids yesterday evening I don't deserve His protection and blessings. I'm so grateful for the Atonement and for forgiving children. I love my family!!! The are incredible!!!

Full-Time Job

Being a Mom is a full-time job. I love it! We have charts that help us get chores and goals accomplished. Keeping everyone on track and on task is a constant job. Once you get one child reading or working or practing you quickly move to the next child. With seven awesome kids you just go and go. I love it! It brings such a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. It also gives me a great time to be close to my kids and help them develop their talents and knowledge. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father sent me these beautiful children. I'm so grateful He has provided Jaremy with a good job that allows me to stay with the kids full-time. I love my job!! It's the funnest, most fulfilling in the world!!!

Getting in Shape

We started exercising on June 5th. We were walk/jogging. Today Jaremy ran an entire 5K and then walked a bit. Awesome! He is training in barefoot shoes. He says he's been sore for a month and a half now. He was a bit frustrated with how long it takes to get in shape, but this morning was good news. My jog is extremely slow, but I'm almost 5 months pregnant. So when I trot I'm only going 4 miles an hour, but the extra bounce I put in the step gets my heartrate where I need it. It also gets my body used to a little more impact, so I'll bounce back after pregnancy faster. It's slow, but fun and fulfilling. Our family is having a great time. Heavenly Father has given us health and knowledge on how to keep healthly.

Sleepover

The kids, all except Jessica (and Benjamin who's at scout camp), went to sleepover at Grandma Eva's last night. They were so excited! We had a relaxing evening. We even went to a movie, 17 Miracles. It was about the Martin and Willie Handcart Companies. It was wonderful and touching to be reminded of what some have given to follow Christ. It renewed my determination to serve the Lord, no matter what. I need to be more zealous in my discipleship. I need to help others and overcome weakness and sin with renewed gusto. I will!!

It was nice to have a quiet evening with Jessica. She is such a sweetheart and strong in faith and love. It's so fun watching her grow and experience life. She is proactive and just plain wonderful. I'm so glad Heavenly Father let her come to our family. She is a huge part of it!! She's growing up so fast. I will miss her terribly when she goes out on her own, but I know she will bless the lives of her future family and many others as she has ours.

I Love Summer

Yesterday evening we took the kids on a leisurely bike ride to Willow Park. There we met up with the Kellers, Melissa & Avie, and Melissa's in-laws and their new adopted daughter, Sierra. It was a beautiful evening and the bike ride was so relaxing. The kids loved seeing the animals and visiting with extended family. It was amazing to see Sierra. She is about 7 years old and is from the Congo in Africa. She doesn't speak English, but is already learning so much. She has never experienced ice, flushing toilets, or a million other things we take for granted. Yet last night she learned how to petal on Tank's bike. Tank (2) was so sweet to share with her. She just loved it, so we let her take it home for a few days. She repeated everything people said to practice English. And above all her sense of humor came shining through as she teased and smiled. It was neat to see!

Today we get to plant our fall garden. We will plant carrots, beets, turnips, peas, herbs, cilantro, lettuce, chard, collards, kholrabi, and tons of fun stuff. I love gardening. I love warm summer evenings. I love getting wet then sitting in the shade on hot summer days. I just love everything about summer! Heavenly Father has blessed me to live in a place with beautiful summers!

Jogging

Jogging has been a real neat addition to our lives. It's helped slow down my weight gain this pregnancy. It's challenging and fun to push ourselves. We've bonded while we workout. It's wonderful to get outside and experience the beauty Heavenly Father creates everyday. It helps me have more energy and pushes me to meet goals in jogging and other areas of my life. I'm grateful Heavenly Father has blessed me with a healthy body, a great family, and beautiful scenery.

Oh, today I walked 3 miles and jogged 3 miles. For me that's a record!

Spiritually Fed

Today I have been spiritually fed as I have studied, prayed about, and pondered the scriptures and the words of the prophets. My testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith has been strengthened. The Savior's life, ministry, and love seem closer and almost palpable. I'm so grateful for the blessing of the Holy Ghost bearing witness of these things and sharing God's love and encouragement. Heavenly Father is there watching and caring for us. He loves us so much. I feel His love often.

A Bit Worn Out

Yesterday we went on a 10-mile bike ride. Usually not a big deal. However, I was pulling almost an hundred pounds in the bike trailer against a strong wind. It was all I could do to just keep going. Most of the time I don't sunburn and no one else did, but my arms are toasted. Pregnancy makes my skin more sensitive.

This morning we played a barefoot game in the park and worked in the garden for a couple of hours. It's 3:40 pm and I'm struggling to get the basics done. I'm dragging myself through the motions of grooming and fixing dinner. I know I'm going to make a healthy, cherry cobbler and a green shake, but after that? Maybe I'll steam some veggies and have Moroni bake some bread. That should work. Maybe I just need a multivitamin to put the pep back in my step. Who am I fooling, every pregnancy has days where you are so tired you can hardly function. It's just part of it. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father blesses me with plenty of energy most days. I'm so grateful for naps as well.

Weeding

This morning we will head out to our neighbor's farm in Paradise to weed the garden. Sometimes the garden seems to be so big and the weeds so many. After several hours of work it doesn't seem to be enough. But I love it! This situation reminds me of my life. Sometimes, okay, most of the time, my weaknesses and sins seem to be insurmountable. But if I keep working on changing, repenting, and improving with the Savior's help I will be a productive garden. But only with lots of hard, patient, hopeful work and the grace of my Redeemer.

I'm so grateful for the chances Jesus Christ gives me to repent and try anew to become like Him. I hope to develop His Christlike attributes and bring joy and love to others as He does. I love my Savior.

Lists

I love lists!! They help create order, keep us on task, and accomplish big goals. I make lists for everything! Menus, shopping, camping, packing, date ideas, books-to-read, things to do other than watch movies, daily activities, weekly activities, monthly activities, master to-do lists, workout plans and records, labor techniques, service projects, etc. Heavenly Father has blessed me with the ability to plan. And I love doing it!! I don't always accomplish everything on my lists, but we accomplish and become better with their assistance. I'm so grateful for notebooks, scraps of paper, word documents, and napkins that allow me to become more productive.

Day Camp

I'm so grateful Heavenly Father gives us callings that nudge us out of our comfort zones. I'm cubmaster in our cubscout pack. The last couple of days I spent recuiting Weblos for day camp and then taking them. It was fun to get to watch the boys push themselves and have fun. I'm grateful Heavenly Father gives us chances to push ourselves and discover that it's actually fun.

Happy Independence Day!

I live in the most wonderful place on earth. I'm free!! I am accountable for my own choices and life. I get to worship how I choose and teach my children what I believe. I can make money, own property, own guns, vote, run for office, say whatever I want, and pray outloud. I'm so grateful to my Heavenly Father for these profound blessings. Why was I so blessed to be born in this great country during this amazing time? I don't know. But I'm determined to share my blessings, my knowledge of the truth, my extra material wealth, my love, and the love of God. I'm determined to stand up for truth and freedom. I'm so grateful to my Heavenly Father for these precious gifts. I want to serve Him and obey Him to show my love for Him.

Baby Check-Up

Today Natalie(8) and I went to see how the baby was doing at 16 weeks. We were in and out pretty fast, so I took her for Aggie Ice Cream. She chose Cookie Fudge. It looked great, but I don't eat sweets. We then went to Anderson Seed and Garden and bought a bunch of herbs for the front of the garden. Natalie is such a sweetheart. She is thoughtful, full of smiles and giggles, helpful, hardworking, and easygoing. I just love being with her! I'm so glad we have one-on-one times with our kids. It is great to be able to give them our full attention for a bit.

This morning we got the kids up at 6:00. Jaremy rode his bike on his off-running-day while Jessica (14), Benjamin (12), and Moroni (10) ran along side. I just got a new jogging stroller (used, but new to me). I put Ella (4) and Tank (2) in the stroller and Natalie (8) and Hyrum (6) ran in front of me. We jogged 3.1 miles (5K). Hyrum has never gone that far. He was mad we started out so slow. He wanted to go with the big boys. He was full of big dreams of winning the 5K race we are running on Saturday. About a mile into our run reality hit. He wasn't happy, but kept going. At the 2 mile mark the tears started. He denied ever wanting to run, he didn't care about the race. But he kept going. After awhile he got his second wind and finished strong. He pushed through even though it was really hard. He's going to become a great runner. Hopefully, I will too! I'm grateful for the inspiration I get from my kids and husband. I love them so much!!

Everyday I feel so blessed by Heavenly Father. He has given me everything. I'm surrounded by love, comfort, beauty, and peace. I praise His name!!

American West Heritage Center

Yesterday we had a great time volunteering at the American West Heritage Center. We weeded, chopped firewood, remade flower beds, chinked a cabin, played in the mud and water, visited, hauled water, picniced, and had a lovely day. There were only a handful of visitors. And that was a big day. So everything was very laid back and nice. I'm grateful Heavenly Father has given us a way to escape to the country, work the land, and remember our pioneer forebearers even though we live in downtown Logan. He truly has cared for our desire to do this.

Today there is much to do. I've enjoyed over an hour of quiet time to study the scriptures, pray, ponder, and write. But I should probably wake of the kids pretty soon here. They have slept for almost 12 hours! They were woren out, so we went to bed at 7:45 last night.

Well, anyway back to what must be accomplished. Gardening, swimming lessons, visiting teaching, cleaning, cooking, exercise, laundry, and maybe a date. We will see how it goes. It's going to be a great day no matter what. How many people get to live their dream life everyday!!!? I do!! I'm surrounded by my wonderful kids. We get to work on goals, household chores, building up the Kingdom, playing, hiking, biking, etc. everyday. I have the dream career. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father has given Jaremy a job that allows me to do this. I'm so grateful Jaremy is passionate about how important it is for me to stay home and care for and train our little ones. He is so selfless! I love him so much!!!

Sewing Dresses

Today I'm going to be sewing pioneer dresses for the little girls. I've never sewn much, so this ought to be an adventure. We will see how it goes. I'm grateful we get to learn new things and continue to become more like Heavenly Father. Of course, half the battle will be staying caught up on dishes, meals, toddlers, and laundry while figuring out dress patterns. I just have to stay organized, keep the kids busy, and above all be sweet and patient.

Logan Temple

I'm so grateful I can go to the temple so easily. I was able to shower and get ready then cross the street to the temple this morning. The big kids are more than capable to take care of the little ones and the house while I'm away for a bit. It was nice to feel the Spirit of the Lord in His Holy House this morning. I need to do the little it takes to get there more often.

A Non-Movie Night

I set a goal for our family to only watch five movies/DVDs this summer. We don't watch very many in the first place, but in the spring we were up to 2 sometimes 3 a week. Not the best use of time, so I imposed the goal on everyone. No one has complained or even mentioned it really.

This evening I was tired and felt like popping popcorn and crashing a movie. Jaremy is away for the night, so it sounded so easy. The little kids were being crazy and I knew a movie would lead to peace and quiet. But peace and quiet isn't always what's best for the kids or me. Easy
doesn't lead to good results with children or people.

So I stopped thinking about myself. We popped popcorn and listened to a book on tape. Then we cleaned up and bathed Tank who had found a container of super hair paste. Next we went on a beautiful, evening walk to the park. The kids all bonded as they played tag together. We enjoyed all the flowers and trees on the way home. Everybody got ready for bed then I read The Friend and The New Era magazines to the kids. That led to good discussions and to making plans to go on a handcart trek. After singing to the little kids, having prayers, and tucking the younger ones in bed we have settled down to read our scriptures. Somehow they were pushed off until tonight, but at least everyone that can read is reading their scriptures this evening. This has been a great evening. It wouldn't have been so great if it had just been a movie night. Easy isn't always best. I'm so grateful Heavenly Father reminded me of this.

Overkill

Yesterday I was so excited! I walk/jogged over 7 miles! However, I am stiff and tired today. It seems when I'm pregnant if I over do it one day I pay for it the next. My body isn't as forgiving as it usual. But still that's pretty exciting 7 miles! I'll just take a hot bath and stretch out. It's plenty warm today so maybe I'll skip the bath and go for the yoga. I'm grateful Heavenly Father gave me a body that can work, walk, have babies, and for the most part feel terrific.

Too Much Pizza

We try to be healthy, but about once a week we go for easy, delicious, expensive, fattening pizza. I know I could save significant money and heartburn if I was more disciplined in this regard. So my goal is to buy pizza only six times a year. That makes it more of a treat instead of a fall back. It will save money for our future. It will help us be healthier.

I'm so grateful Heavenly Father helps us find small and simple ways to improve ourselves and our family's lives. He does this in every avenue of our lives. He loves us so much!

Gardening in the Rain

We are gardening in Paradise with our friends the Neilsens. What a blessing! It's so beautiful out there! We worked for a couple hours then it started to pour. Okay, rain. So we went a bit early. It's fun to work with friends and family.

Morning Jog

This morning at six o'clock Jaremy took Jessica and I on a refreshing, challenging jog. We jogged up to Old Main at USU. It was a beautiful morning. Well, it still is. Exercise always makes me feel more clear, clean, and invigorated. I'm so blessed to be healthy enough to exercise.

Jaremy's Amazing

Jaremy has been working tons of overtime for the two or three weeks to get a treadmill ready for a show. He works so hard for our family! He can solve most any problem and has invented several new mechanisms. Unfortunately, his lastest invention isn't going as well as he would desire. The show is today and it broke last night. He's been working so hard and is rather frustrated. Some people get ornery or discouraged when things aren't going perfectly. Jaremy doesn't. He just keeps at it! He is the kind of mature, level-headed person you want around when there is trouble. He is amazing!! I love him so much!!! Heavenly Father has blessed him with amazing talents and characteristics that bless our family greatly. I'm so grateful he is mine for eternity!

Camping Reveals True Character

I am so grateful for camping! It's beautiful and fun! It's a great way to bond with the family and nature. However, it is not always easy or comfortable. When the going gets tough and we feel out of our element our true character is revealed. In years past I haven't always liked what has been revealed about myself. This year has been a lot better. That might have a lot to do with the fact that my youngest is two and a half and sleeps through the night most of the time. New babies and tiny toddlers are a lot to worry about camping. So this year is tons easier than in times before.
Our families goal this year is to camp once a month. We are doing pretty great. We did skip February. And we were snowed out in March even though we were at the campsite and everything. January we camped in St. George, April in Oregon, May in Green Canyon, and June in Dry Canyon. We have bought new backpacking gear and that adds a whole new realm of possiblities. We have really simplified packing and unpacking. We have lots of big helpers. It's really been fun!
Last weekend we backpacked in a mile and then camped. It was tons of fun until night. The ground was very hard and I got a migraine headache. I wasn't able to sleep from 11pm until 3 am. But I'm very grateful for the experience!!! Even at the time I knew it was helping me understand a tiny bit of what millions of other people experience everyday. Pain, discomfort, minimal shelter and amenities, displacement, poverty, etc. Just like fasting helps us feel a bit more understanding and compassion for those who are truly hungry, camping helps me understand and feel campassion for those less fortunate. It helps me better imagine what they have and are going through.
Before I had children I heard of a pioneer woman having a baby in the back of a leaking wagon during a rainstorm. I thought that would be hard and awful. But when I was in the middle of labor myself and recalled the story it took on a much deeper meaning. The woman must have suffered greatly. She must have felt a terrible amount of fear. She became superhuman to me then.
I'm so grateful for these physical experiences that draw me closer to my fellowman and my God. He has blessed us so very much!! I love Him!!!

Duggar Book

There are millions of books out there. Finding one that is so perfect for me, answers my questions, resolves my challenges, and guides my ideas (therefore my life) would seem near impossible. Yet I believe Heavenly Father has led me to many wonderful books that have are are improving my character and life.

Duggars: 20 and Counting such a book. I gobbled it up in a couple of days of reading here and there. They are amazing!! They are truly guided by God because they follow Him. The book gave me tons of ideas for organizing a big family, training little ones with kindness, keeping close to our teenagers hearts, saving and investing, relying on the Lord more and more specifically in prayer, staying motivated in homeschooling, and cherishing family time. It was a beautiful book! I'm so grateful for their example and wisdom! They have really encouraged me to lift my sights and more completely turn my life and heart over to Heavenly Father. Now that's a good book! That's a blessing from Him from who all good things come!

Ornery Mother Bear

Sometimes I feel like an ornery mother bear. Everything rubs me the wrong way and the kids get on my nerves. Everyone seems louder and more troublesome than they really are. I need to be less self-centered and stop thinking about how everyone is bugging me and start caring about my kids. I pray I can turn this afternoon around. With Heavenly Father's help I know I can. Without it somebody might get a raking over the coals.

Health

I've been a bit under-the-weather, plus pregnancy, plus cramping today. It's nice to still be able to keep up with the basics. I'm so blessed with good health. I'm grateful I can take care of my family. The last two days we've been taking a sister in the ward to the hospital and caring for her two little girls. That would be so hard to be sick and not have a husband or older kids to help out. Her husband is in the military. Natalie, Hyrum, and Ella have been so good to entertain and care for the girls. Tank (2) isn't used to little kids (besides him) crying, so he gets kidda irritated with them. He says, "It's okay!" He's tone is more "Good grief, it's enough already!" Finally, after the little girl cried for a mom for awhile he just threw up his hands and said, "Fine, than just go to bed than!" Hopefully, he will be a little more patient with his new baby brother or sister. But he's a cutie! Have a great day!

Can I Just Pause This Moment?

I have let myself get a bit behind on recording a bit about our precious family life. When Tank snuggles up in my lap, or Ella gives me a big hug and kiss, or Hyrum lands a jump on his bike, or Natalie bakes a beautiful batch or bread, or Moroni gets up at 5:00am to have 100% homework, or Benjamin shares his feelings with me after being out with his friends, or Jessica makes another one of her witty comments I just wish I could push some sort of pause button. This time is so precious!!! I just love having my kids around!! They don't always think so, because I can get grumpy, especially when I'm pregnant. But I do love it!! I have always dreamed of having a beautiful family like ours. I'm so blessed to be surrounded by these amazing, wonderful people: my children. Heavenly Father has given me ever so much!! I will try to be a better wife, mother, and daughter of God. I will hold my tongue and reach out in love. I will live each day with more awareness of my blessings and obligations. Did I mention I love my life!?!

Peaceful Priorities

Today was a gorgeous day of warmth and sunshine! We played outside on the big driveway out back and at the park. Logan has lots of great parks. That is pretty nice because our yard is about 6 feet by 10 feet. And in that space there are 3 large trees, so not much run-around-room. We try to go to a park at least once a day for exercise, fresh air, sunshine, and fun. It's been really nice not to have to worry about a huge yard, gardens, and a farm this spring. I've been able to learn some new skills like foot zoning, massage, and sewing. I've also been able to focus more on the kid's schooling. Morning sickness has slowed us down, but at least everything hasn't come falling down because of it. I mean, if we still had lawns to mow, gardens to weed, animals to feed, and trees to prune most of that wouldn't be getting done right now. Stressful! Of course, I do miss it a bit, but next time we do a yard it is going to be very small, simple, and natural, so we can just enjoy it and not feel like it's taking over our lives. There are so many vitally important things to do: teaching and nurturing our children, bearing children, temple and family history work, sharing the gospel, fulfilling our Church callings, studying the gospel, etc. We can't let the good, fun, but nonessential things crowd out the essential ones. Heavenly Father has gently taught me this over the years. For instance, I think quilts are beautiful. I thought it was part of a homemakers job to quilt, craft, paint ceramics, sew frills, etc. Now I know these are nice, but not really important. Teaching a child to read, singing hymns as lullabies, attending the temple, really praying and pondering are the things that will make eternal investments. Silly decorations and pop hobbies are in the end a distraction from things that matter the most. They clutter our houses, time, thoughts, and lives with cute, beautiful, yet vain things of the world. A clean, orderly house with a few carefully selected, meaningful items is much more peaceful and focused than one full of a bunch of stupid stuff that takes time and money to accumulate and dust and rearrange, etc. If you spend your resources on vain things of the world you could have spent those resources on food storage, charity, family history, etc. Even if you don't think about it you are choosing one over the other. So often we feel we need these things, but most of the time we only need them to try to appease or impress others. Get over it and you will find true freedom! I can't tell you how peaceful, relaxed, and meaningful our life has become because we have done away with the endless wish lists and started being content with all our blessings. Since we have stopped caring about what anyone thinks and only care about what our Heavenly Father thinks. Stress levels have plummeted, true productivity levels have risen. It's easy to be productive and busy, but if you are just in the thick of thin things that don't really matter, who cares how many check marks you make on the busy work to-do lists.

Spring Evening

This evening we walked (well, the boys rode their new bikes) to the Merlin Olsen Park a few blocks away. It was a peaceful evening. We wore jackets and the temperature was perfect. Finally, not too cold! We watched the daring boys go off jumps and down steep hills. They are good! They take after their dad! It was such a peaceful family home evening activity outside in the beauty of the evening! I hope everyone had a good time too.

Expecting a Baby

Our family is so excited!! We are expecting a new addition to our family! I'm due December 10th, so we have a ways to go, but it will pass quickly. Eight children! We are so blessed!!! We enjoyed a beautiful vacation on the Oregon coast. We had lots of fun and enjoyed the rain. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have created the most amazing, breathtaking earth!! I'm so grateful our family was able to see another part of it!!

Jessica's Birthday

Today is Jessica's 14th birthday! I can't believe it! I can still remember her sweet, newborn face and her little tongue she kept sticking out then in over and over. Her skin was softer than anything I'd ever felt. I'm so very grateful for her in our home. She is a strength and example to us all! So talented, so beautiful, so loving, so responsible, so honest, so accurate in doing what's right! I love her so much!! We all do!! Right now she is making her birthday cake creation. Hyrum says, "It looks like a big pile of pink icing!" Maybe so, but she is enjoying creating and having a bit of time off school.

Fate

I believe Heavenly Father leads us to meet, learn from, and help certain people throughout our lives. I believe if you ask Heavenly Father to help you help others He will guide you to those in need. Today after Church we saw a new family walking home to an apartment by ours. Jaremy stopped the van so we could meet them. Most everyone in the ward in is new to me. There are tons of people that move in and out. It's been a fun challenge to remember names and faces. Well, anyway back to this family. I wasn't sure if they were new or not, but we stopped because it doesnt' really matter. It turns out they are from Japan and have been the ward only a week. They have to young children and don't really know anyone yet. The husband is going back to Japan for work this week so she was glad to meet someone who lived close who also had kids. We will get together this week for a play day. She seemed really relieved to meet us. I'm glad Heavenly Father led us to bump into eachother. I like talking to perfect strangers too. It's a little scary at first, but with practice it's not awkward but lots of fun. I know some of these people we were meant to talk to. They have become dear friends. One of them was Youngshen Wan from China. We later met his wife Dung. They were such good friends with a special spirit about them. She had read the Book of Mormon, but had a hard time believing in Joseph Smith because of polygamy. We lost touch when they moved. We miss our dinners and visits with them. I pray they will except the truth and that we will be able to meet them again. Meeting them again will be a miracle seeing they are back in China, but I know that isn't a problem for Heavenly Father. If it is His will we will meet again, or we might have to wait until the next life. I am grateful for dear friends that flow through my life like a beautiful, life-giving stream. I hope I too can pass on some love and kindness.

Young Women's General Conference

Tonight Jessica and I attended General Young Women's Conference. It was wonderful to be spiritually fed. I'm so grateful for inspired leaders and the Holy Ghost.
Virtue was one of the topics. How rare in this world at this time! How precious! What an amazing gift to give one's future spouse and unborn children. The gift of purity and chastity. The gift of selflessness and closeness to God. The gift of security, peace, and true love to one's future family. I'm so grateful for chastity. It has blessed my life beyond measure. I pray I can help my dear, innocent children through a world that mocks virtue and uses every means to destroy it. I pray I can help guide them in cleanliness to the temple of our God. He has great blessings in store for those who keep themselves pure and unspotted from the world. The Lord strengthens us in His Holy House and prepares us for eternity. Eternal life with our happy families. What a blessing! One worth living for and sacraficing for. I'm so grateful for the temple and Heavenly Fathers commandments. They keep us happy and safe!
By the way, I finished a little wool vest for Tank's pioneer outfit. I can't believe I actually sewed something wearable. Yeah!

Spring is Here and Coming

Officially it's Spring. But the weather has been cold, gray, rainy, and snowy for several days now. I can't wait until we get some sunshine and warmth! But waiting will make it even more appreciated.
The kids are sick and tired of school and homework. So maybe it's a good thing the weather isn't the best for playing outside. If it was warm and inviting outside I probably would have a revolt on my hands.
We are planning a vacation during Spring Break. We are headed for the Oregon Coast! I'm so excited! The kids can't stand waiting! We are going to play on the beach, tour Japanese gardens, eat in Portland's China Town, climb to the top of lighthouses, hike, explore, and have a wonderful break from the norm. We are renting an RV trailer for our lodgings. Jaremy's been carefully studying routes and maps. I never have to worry about getting lost Jaremy memorizes the map of wherever we are going.
We just need to set some goals that will help us endure happily and productively to the end. I'm going to do a spring de-tox, finish sewing our pioneer costumes, and keep up with the basics. Oh, I'm also going to lose 3 pounds. That should keep me busy and focused!
I'm just as excited for General Conference! To prepare myself for that I want to be caught up on my callings, attend the temple twice, fast for the Spirit, and keep peace in our home. No problem! Well, with Heavenly Father's help I can be spiritually prepared to hear His word and follow His prophet in every detail!

Childhood and Motherhood are Fleeting

Sometimes our lives get so packed. Run the kids here and there, visit so and so, buy such and such, grab something to eat, do this, and do that. Sometimes life is so crowded I don't know where to start. That's when I have to really prioritize. Even though there are so many people and organizations that need me, my family must be first! Even though there are so many good and important things to do, the essential ones must be first!
There are many wonderful things that I feel pressured to do because they are very good and can help people. However, I have to ask myself several questions. Have I taken care of my scripture study, my exercising, and personal grooming? Pretty basic, huh? If not, my life is out of balance and I need to drop other things. Have I been able to serve family meals? Have I been able to keep the house reasonably tidy and functional? Have I read to my children and studied the scriptures and gospel with them? Have I helped my children get to where they need to be academically, socially, physically, spiritually, developmentally? Am I unhurried enough to really enjoy cuddling, listening, helping, and observing my children? If not, more things need to be dropped.
The questions continue. Have I attended the temple at least twice a month? Have I seen to the needs of the sisters I visit and teach this month? Have I gone on a date with my husband this week? Have I had a one-on-one evening with one of my children this week? Have we held family home evening? Have we visited the elderly and encouraged and helped others this week?
I would like to learn a great deal, write children's books, do tons of family history, serve missions, help the poor more, etc., etc. All of these things are wonderful and would move me closer to Heavenly Father. I could spend lifetimes doing these things. But during this season
of my life Heavenly Father has given me seven beautiful children to nurture. This can't be done later. The time is now and moving quickly. I cannot shirk my duties at home, even if other activities are worthy. This is a small phase of my life. I must rise to the challenge and not become distracted!
Yes, I can help others outside my family. Of, course. But I must take care of my family first and foremost. My family is my eternal calling! Then I can do a bit to share the gospel, my time and talents, and resources with others. But almost all of my efforts, time, talents, devotion, and love must be with my husband and little ones right now.
When I am old or an emptynester I will keep busy doing all the other things I can only do a bit of now. But when I am old I cannot cuddle my children, kiss their bumps, tickle them, read to them, sing with them, or study their sweet faces. When my children are grown I cannot make sure their testimonies are burning within them. When I am old I can't watch their excitement as they go on the outings of youth. Now is the time!!! I miss it all ready!! It makes it easy to eliminate things from my to-do list so I can soak in this precious time!!!!

Dancing

How splendid is the human body! I love to stretch and move with yoga and dance! I love to jump, run, climb, hike, walk, skip, and dance. How blessed I am! My body is full of life and health! I visited with my Grandma Keller (88) today. She is restricted in movement and motion. Oh, how I wish she too could sway to music, spread her arms out, and do dog pose. I feel sometimes like I am flying! I want to move everyday of my life as much as I can. I want to help others and bring comfort to their aches and pains. I think movement helps with pain and sadness. I'm so grateful to have a body created after the image of my most loving Heavenly Father.
Japan has experienced an awful earthquake and tsunami. Sending our little donation seems like nothing. I pray for the people of Japan, especially the children.

Missionary Work

I've been praying for missionary experiences for a long time. I felt I should go see Amanda Leishman and invite her to go to church with us. I was so nervous. I don't know her very well. She was my visiting teaching partner for a bit, but then became to busy. She had told me she doesn't attend Relief Society and doesn't want to. But I kept thinking about her everyday. Of course, because I was so nervous I never found the time. Finally, I realized I was being like Jonah. I was hiding from the Lord. I was hiding in the thick of thin things. So I repented and made myself go to Amanda's house. I told her I was so nervous, but I kept thinking about her. I told her I'd never asked anyone to go to church before. I was so nervous I started to cry (which I never do). Of course, that made me feel like an idiot, but I asked her to go with me to Church. She said she would. I also learned during that brief visit that they are moving, so I went over to help today.
Today Amanda shared her amazing life story and conversion with me. She has had a hard life. She has overcome so much! Her story is inspirational. I hope she knows Heavenly Father loves her so much. He is aware of her trials and will help her if she turns to Him. I can see how much He has guided her so far. Tomorrow I'm going to fast for her and put her name on the prayer role at the temple. I hope she knows we welcome her with open arms and are here to help her overcome any challenges she has. I hope we can become good friends.
Yesterday we went on a gorgeous walk. Actually, it was a jog. The kids and I jogged to River Heights and back. It was beautiful and felt so good. We were all surprised to find we had been gone an hour and twenty minutes. It just flew by! We enjoyed it so much we want to go again today with Jaremy. His knee is injured so he'll have to ride his bike. I hope he enjoys it as much as we did.
It's no secret I love the country. I've been amazed how much I love living in town too. The kids have friends close and enjoy getting together with them. We are close to everything. Walking around town is an adventure and there are so many places to explore. We are just a few minutes away from the river, mountains, canyon, and many parks. I love living in Logan too. Heavenly Father has surrounded us with beauty, comfort, friends, family, and every good thing. I'm so grateful!!!