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.