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.

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.