I am feeling selfishly sad tonight after learning that a friend has headed home to meet his Father in Heaven. Les Lovesee has finished his fight with cancer and is no longer in pain. He was ready to go and asked that we pray for it to be over quickly. He was in so much pain. I should be glad that his suffering has ended but I am sad. I am sad for our loss. I am sad that my dear friend Kathie will have to go on without her sweetheart by her side. I am sad for the little ones who will miss grandpa and for the daughters who will mourn their dad
What I want to remember about Les: 1) His love for and understanding of the gospel. I first came to know Les when he was called as our Sunday School teacher. He was the best there ever was at this! He really knew what he was teaching. He opened my eyes to a greater understanding so many times. 2) His constant service to those around him. I remember a few late nights at the church painting sets accompanied by Les who was taking care of audiovisual details. He magnified every calling he was given. I especially enjoyed hearing from him at the pulpit as a member of the bishopric, bearing his testimony and offering his insights. 3) Lastly, I will remember his wit. Les has a terrific sense of humor. His chuckle is the best.
Tonight I am thankful for my knowledge that families are eternal. I am comforted in knowing that Heavenly Father has answered our prayers for Les and ended his suffering. I am grateful to know that I will see Les again. I pray that the veil between here and the spirit world will be thin for Kathie, and that she will feel Les watching over her. I also pray that Heavenly Father will help me to be mindful of her needs as she mourns. I was once Kathie's visiting teacher. She is now mine. She was one of the most diligent primary teachers, and Daniel was blessed to be in her class for some time. I consider her a dear friend and pray for her tonight.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Become
I attended a wonderful 2-day conference this past weekend called Time Out for Women. I was blessed to be accompanied by family and many dear friends. Just being with these women and soaking up their goodness would have been enough to call the weekend a success. The conference offered powerful spiritual nourishment of the soul. The speakers were uplifting and tremendously motivating. The music was equally inspiring. The message of the conference and the challenge issued to us was to become something more. We were asked to ponder on this topic and leave with a direction as to what we can become.
Jason Wright was a wonderful speaker who talked about his dad, a hero in every sense of the word. This man had remarkable experiences where he literally came to the rescue of those around him. William Wright said a prayer everyday before he left the house promising God that if he was given an opportunity to serve, he would see it and take it. He lived his life looking outward, seeking to meet the needs of others. The speaker recalled how his father would always check behind him when entering a building to see if there was anyone he could hold the door for. He mentioned that if his dad saw a woman clear on the other side of the parking lot headed for the door, his father would wait (for what seemed like days) to hold the door for her.
Before the conference was over, we were all checking behind us and holding doors open a little longer than usual. The lesson to look outside ourselves was quickly put to use and taken into our hearts.
Messages throughout the conference continued to empower those there. We learned about habits of happiness, overcoming trials, the equalizing power of the atonement, forgiveness, and remarkable faith. By the end of the day on Saturday, I was ready to pack my bags and give my life serving children in Ghana. I wanted to do more with my life - make a bigger difference. I wanted to become MORE. I left the conference not sure how to accomplish this new mission.
Sunday morning, as church services began, I looked down our pew and noticed that one of our boys was missing. I asked James where Dallin was and he pointed to the lobby. Dallin was still holding the door open for every last member in the parking lot. He didn't join us until the opening song had been sung. What a tremendous example he was! I hadn't mentioned to him the lesson that I was taught just days before. Yet, my little boy was living an outward looking life, a perfect Christlike example.
Moments later I was explaining the sacrament to Darren. I mentioned that they bless the water and as we drink we can think of our mistakes, think of the Savior, and repent. Darren then adds, "And then we get married!" I of course giggled and patted him on the back with a big smile. Then, I realized how right he was. The sacrament is a step on the path to the temple. The bread and water are associated with the covenants we make that prepare us for the blessings of eternal families. Again, I was schooled by a child.
This morning, I opened the package that contained two magazines, the Ensign and the Friend. Darren shouted for joy at the golden Angel Moroni statue on the front cover. He's always thrilled to see the angel-topped steeple. Then he caught a glimpse of something that he assumed had been on the back of the Friend magazine. "The Gospel! The Gospel!" he shouted. I handed him the Friend and he flipped it over to the back only to be disappointed. What he was looking for wasn't there. He said, "Where's the gospel." I then handed him my copy of the Ensign. He turned it over and smiled. There on the back of the magazine was a picture of our prophet, Thomas S. Monson. "The gospel!" he said as he pointed. At the age of 3, this little angel knows the source of light and truth - the source of the gospel. The prophet just addressed the members of our church in a worldwide conference last month. At that conference, President Monson shared with us the gospel of Jesus Christ.
"2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
Jason Wright was a wonderful speaker who talked about his dad, a hero in every sense of the word. This man had remarkable experiences where he literally came to the rescue of those around him. William Wright said a prayer everyday before he left the house promising God that if he was given an opportunity to serve, he would see it and take it. He lived his life looking outward, seeking to meet the needs of others. The speaker recalled how his father would always check behind him when entering a building to see if there was anyone he could hold the door for. He mentioned that if his dad saw a woman clear on the other side of the parking lot headed for the door, his father would wait (for what seemed like days) to hold the door for her.
Before the conference was over, we were all checking behind us and holding doors open a little longer than usual. The lesson to look outside ourselves was quickly put to use and taken into our hearts.
Messages throughout the conference continued to empower those there. We learned about habits of happiness, overcoming trials, the equalizing power of the atonement, forgiveness, and remarkable faith. By the end of the day on Saturday, I was ready to pack my bags and give my life serving children in Ghana. I wanted to do more with my life - make a bigger difference. I wanted to become MORE. I left the conference not sure how to accomplish this new mission.
Sunday morning, as church services began, I looked down our pew and noticed that one of our boys was missing. I asked James where Dallin was and he pointed to the lobby. Dallin was still holding the door open for every last member in the parking lot. He didn't join us until the opening song had been sung. What a tremendous example he was! I hadn't mentioned to him the lesson that I was taught just days before. Yet, my little boy was living an outward looking life, a perfect Christlike example.
Moments later I was explaining the sacrament to Darren. I mentioned that they bless the water and as we drink we can think of our mistakes, think of the Savior, and repent. Darren then adds, "And then we get married!" I of course giggled and patted him on the back with a big smile. Then, I realized how right he was. The sacrament is a step on the path to the temple. The bread and water are associated with the covenants we make that prepare us for the blessings of eternal families. Again, I was schooled by a child.
This morning, I opened the package that contained two magazines, the Ensign and the Friend. Darren shouted for joy at the golden Angel Moroni statue on the front cover. He's always thrilled to see the angel-topped steeple. Then he caught a glimpse of something that he assumed had been on the back of the Friend magazine. "The Gospel! The Gospel!" he shouted. I handed him the Friend and he flipped it over to the back only to be disappointed. What he was looking for wasn't there. He said, "Where's the gospel." I then handed him my copy of the Ensign. He turned it over and smiled. There on the back of the magazine was a picture of our prophet, Thomas S. Monson. "The gospel!" he said as he pointed. At the age of 3, this little angel knows the source of light and truth - the source of the gospel. The prophet just addressed the members of our church in a worldwide conference last month. At that conference, President Monson shared with us the gospel of Jesus Christ.
As I thought over the events of this morning and the challenge to become more, my understanding grew and I knew what I needed to become.
"2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."...from Matthew Chapter 18.
I'm so thankful for the mysterious ways that the Lord teaches me. I am thankful that he blessed me with 3 angels who every day teach me the gospel. I am grateful for the atonement, for forgiveness, for a prophet that knows and prays for me. I am grateful for my faith and for Heavenly Father's patience with me as I slowly learn to live the life that HE wants me to live and to become who HE wants me to become.
I doubt I'll ever travel to Ghana, Sierra Leone, or Zambia, but I promise to work everyday to be more like my children, more Christlike, and to forever look around me for those that I might serve.
I doubt I'll ever travel to Ghana, Sierra Leone, or Zambia, but I promise to work everyday to be more like my children, more Christlike, and to forever look around me for those that I might serve.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Gotta Finsh This Up
So the last to go was Miss Kate. The pics of her move have been on my desktop for ever. DENIAL.
Kate is a happy ray of sunshine wherever she goes. This girl never says an unkind thing. Her example as a friend, visiting and teacher, and mom has been such a gift. She does all that is required of her and she does it with a smile. Kate beautifies all that is around her. I could count on Kate to deliver tasty messages with gorgeous bows. Her companionship and creativity was always a joy at craft night.
Kate's leaving was especially difficult for 2 reasons. 1) She was the last to go - the block felt so empty for the rest of the summer. 2) We said a speedy goodbye before I left to run some errands, thinking that I'd have a chance at a proper farewell when I got back. Unfortunately, we returned to an empty parking lot.
Darren still misses Hayden. On Sunday mornings, when we spike up is hair a bit and doll him up with a little hairspray, Darren shouts, "I look like Hayden!"
Kate's advice and positive attitude was a great asset in helping me through the first 2 years of dental school. Year 3 is so much better!!! I wish the girls were here to celebrate it with me. The afternoon ritual of bikes and sidewalk chalk seems to have left Riverisde. Things just aren't the same. What a blessing it was to have clicked the way we did. The days at the pool and BBQ outback, the play dates at the park and the nights of fundue, it will all be remembered as some of the best times EVER!!!
Kate is a happy ray of sunshine wherever she goes. This girl never says an unkind thing. Her example as a friend, visiting and teacher, and mom has been such a gift. She does all that is required of her and she does it with a smile. Kate beautifies all that is around her. I could count on Kate to deliver tasty messages with gorgeous bows. Her companionship and creativity was always a joy at craft night.
Kate's leaving was especially difficult for 2 reasons. 1) She was the last to go - the block felt so empty for the rest of the summer. 2) We said a speedy goodbye before I left to run some errands, thinking that I'd have a chance at a proper farewell when I got back. Unfortunately, we returned to an empty parking lot.
Darren still misses Hayden. On Sunday mornings, when we spike up is hair a bit and doll him up with a little hairspray, Darren shouts, "I look like Hayden!"
Kate's advice and positive attitude was a great asset in helping me through the first 2 years of dental school. Year 3 is so much better!!! I wish the girls were here to celebrate it with me. The afternoon ritual of bikes and sidewalk chalk seems to have left Riverisde. Things just aren't the same. What a blessing it was to have clicked the way we did. The days at the pool and BBQ outback, the play dates at the park and the nights of fundue, it will all be remembered as some of the best times EVER!!!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
The Great Exodus of 2011 - Part 3
On June 20th my girl Tara loaded up her moving van headed for Cape Girardeau, MO. I spent a semester of school in Cape at SEMO and feel blessed to know that she won't be too far away. Seriously, the girlie reunions are already in the planning. Tara and I share a love for all things beautiful (a.k.a. Robert Downey Jr.) so I'm sure we'll be getting together in December when the new Sherlock Holmes movie comes out.
On the day Tara left, I got up early to pick up QT donuts. It's what friends do. Only I had a flat tire.
I was so not amused. A flippin' tire got in the way of my neighborly kindness. How rude.
The best of friends came out that day to assist in the move. We mourned together a bit.
These guys have been some of our closest friends here. Like family, we spent Thanksgiving together. They helped us celebrate birthdays and brought so much priceless entertainment into our lives.
Oh, the laughter we enjoyed with these kids! We regularly enjoyed watching old James Bond films together. We grilled, we played, we sewed, we even spent a night together on an island
(see Valentines Day 2010). Seth thrilled us on a regular basis with his clever wit and wisdom. I will never be able to watch animal planet and not think of him.
My earliest memories of Tara involve the two of us on ladders, painting scenery for a stake musical. We shared a love for smores and silliness. She was everything girlie and fun, from strawberry frozen yumminess to pink glitter nail polish. My wardrobe has benefited immensely as a result of her hand-me-downs. If you see me wearing something cute, it likely came from Tara. Seeing Tara go was like letting go of a sister.
Darren's face in this picture pretty much says it all. The good news is I know where to find Tara and I think she's ok with me stalking her a bit.
Friday, June 24, 2011
The Great Exodus of 2011 - Part 2
We have been fortunate to establish our little corner of the neighborhood as a gathering place for friends. We regularly get together on three-day-weekends for grilling burgers and dogs and enjoying the potluck of sides, salads, and dessert. The food is always stellar and the company is sublime.
The big maple tree out back provides lots of shade for the adults while the little ones enjoy the kiddie pool. This year's Memorial Day celebration was our biggest celebration yet. Everyone came out to bid farewell to friends one last time.
Heidi and Kyle McClintock (pictured on the right) would load up their van the following day also headed for St. Louis.
Heidi has been the unofficial leader of the pack. She is the organizer of all things fun. Heidi heads up Park Day for all the moms, and I'm pretty sure she's thrown a dozen baby showers. She is so loving and selfless, always thinking of others and serving those around her. I will remember Heidi and the hours spent chatting poolside at Dagg Park.
I will cherish all the great conversations that we had as the kids rode bikes up and down the block. I will value most her loving example. Heidi could talk to anyone. She was a brilliant conversationalist, always including everyone in the group.
Even weeks later, my kids are still asking if Luke and Chloe can come out to play. It feels empty here without them, and Park Day will never be the same without our fearless leader.
Before the McClintocks left. I ran up the road and left them one last chalk drawing (I'm sort of famous for those around here.) Heidi was so busy waving one last goodbye as she pulled out, I'm not sure that she even got to see it.
The Great Exodus of 2011 - Part 1
I have not been blogging in quite some time, but with good reason. The end of school was extremely busy, and the second it was over we headed to St. Louis for a week of fun with the kiddos. I have so many pics to share and much to blog about. However, I must first talk about the mass exodus. Truly most of time lately has been spent soaking up every last minute that I could with my dear neighbors before they move.
Living in a community rich with medical and dental students, it is standard practice in June that when rotations are through, residencies are over, and programs are completed, these amazing neighbors move on to the their next adventure. It is always difficult saying goodbye to such wonderful people. I am usually comforted by those that remain and by the pleasant idea that I'm dotting the nation with friends. In fact by the time we finish dental school we should be able to travel all over the country and never need a hotel. We've likely got a friend to bunk with in almost every state.
This year however, was a little different. So many long time friends, the closest of friends, are saying farewell. I have learned so much from each of them. Letting them go is really difficult. There are truly pieces missing.
The first to go were Ali Shepherd her husband Josh and their little ones, Conrad, Amelia, and Ruby. I was Ali's visiting teacher 4 years ago when she just moved here. We became fast friends. I remember the quick telephone calls that ended up lasting hours. I remember the ward Christmas party where we both shared that we were expecting, and I remember celebrating Amelia's arrival by dropping off a small birthday cake. When we were blessed to move into the townhomes we became more than friends. We became neighbors, and our kids played together so well.
On the day that the Shepherd's left, I took Conrad and Amelia to the last official Park Day before the big moves. I was hoping to ease the burden on Ali a bit. The kids had a fantastic time at the park which was mildly flooded. The moment we got there, the kids scattered in different directions. I went running after the little one and slid in the mud. It was quite the spectacular dive which left me covered in mud. While I was so unpleasantly distracted with my wet bum, Conrad found a lovely place to take a mud bath himself. Some help I was! I returned Ali's kids to her dripping in mud, covered in sand, and Josh had just finished cleaning the empty bathroom. I am sure to be remembered by my friends for my constant grace and decorum.
Despite the mud, the Shepherd's loaded up there moving van and headed off to their new home which is (luckily for me) in St. Louis. It was good to know that I'd be seeing them again soon.
Still, my boys will sure be missing their friends, as will I.
Living in a community rich with medical and dental students, it is standard practice in June that when rotations are through, residencies are over, and programs are completed, these amazing neighbors move on to the their next adventure. It is always difficult saying goodbye to such wonderful people. I am usually comforted by those that remain and by the pleasant idea that I'm dotting the nation with friends. In fact by the time we finish dental school we should be able to travel all over the country and never need a hotel. We've likely got a friend to bunk with in almost every state.
This year however, was a little different. So many long time friends, the closest of friends, are saying farewell. I have learned so much from each of them. Letting them go is really difficult. There are truly pieces missing.
The first to go were Ali Shepherd her husband Josh and their little ones, Conrad, Amelia, and Ruby. I was Ali's visiting teacher 4 years ago when she just moved here. We became fast friends. I remember the quick telephone calls that ended up lasting hours. I remember the ward Christmas party where we both shared that we were expecting, and I remember celebrating Amelia's arrival by dropping off a small birthday cake. When we were blessed to move into the townhomes we became more than friends. We became neighbors, and our kids played together so well.
On the day that the Shepherd's left, I took Conrad and Amelia to the last official Park Day before the big moves. I was hoping to ease the burden on Ali a bit. The kids had a fantastic time at the park which was mildly flooded. The moment we got there, the kids scattered in different directions. I went running after the little one and slid in the mud. It was quite the spectacular dive which left me covered in mud. While I was so unpleasantly distracted with my wet bum, Conrad found a lovely place to take a mud bath himself. Some help I was! I returned Ali's kids to her dripping in mud, covered in sand, and Josh had just finished cleaning the empty bathroom. I am sure to be remembered by my friends for my constant grace and decorum.
Despite the mud, the Shepherd's loaded up there moving van and headed off to their new home which is (luckily for me) in St. Louis. It was good to know that I'd be seeing them again soon.
Still, my boys will sure be missing their friends, as will I.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
A Most Memorable Day
Oh, what a wonderful day it was!
I woke the boys at 6:30am this morning. They slowly and reluctantly poured out of bed, wondering why I would insist that they get up and dressed so early. "Today is the day we get our angel!" I proclaimed. Daniel jumped out of bed and hurried to get dressed. Darren heard the noise and was ready to join the action. Dallin took his time.
We were off just after 7am, headed for the Kansas City LDS Temple site. Today they would place the statue of the angel Moroni on top of the East spire. Rumor had it that there would be an unveling ceremony at 10am. I didn't want to miss a bit of the action, and I was hoping to make it past any barricades they would put up to distance the public. By 7:30am I was parked at a little alcove on the East side of the temple. Accompanied by both close and new friends, we watched the green tarp come off the statue.
We had at least an hour in the van with little or no action around Moroni. I decided we'd make the most of this time together and pull out our scriptures. We recently finished the Doctrine and Covenants and began reading the Pearl of Great Price at Daniel's request. This morning as we awaited the rising of an angel, we poured over the second chapter of Moses. What a fantastic thing to read at the temple! This was the story of the creation of Earth and the heaven around it. The boys seemed more interested than usual as we spoke of the lights in the firmament, the beasts, and the fouls. We found ourselves really studying the verses, not just reading them. It was a gigantically spiritual experience. I am thankful that they were reverent enough to allow that all to happen.
The sides of the crate were soon lowered. It was at this point that we took a stroll to get a closer look of that beautiful statue.
We were able to talk with a member of the construction crew working on the stake center. What a nice guy! We also spoke with a man named Rule (sp?) who is the head of operations for the temple site. Both these men were members of the Church and it showed. They were both so kind and courteous. Rule politely explained that our perfect parking spot was within the liability of the construction company. The foreman was uncomfortable with that. The gentleman placed orange traffic cones on Searcy Creek, the main road on the west side of the temple, reserving one lane of traffic for us to park in. We quickly moved our van to the street and were grateful to still be so close to the action. Our dear friend Dave soon joined us as well. We had a great view as we stood in his truck bed. It was great to be able to see and photograph above the chain linked fence.
The statue stood still on it's side until 25 minutes after 10am when the beautiful golden image of Moroni was lifted vertically into it's place atop the Eastern spire. It was a cloudy day with a cold breeze. The slightest bit of sunlight peeked through as the statue was lifted, lighting it just enough to make it really stand out from the gloomy backdrop. I was surprised how perfectly shiny and golden it was. It was such a brilliant thing to behold.
Watching it rise was a more powerful experience than I expected. I kept reminding my boys that this was history in the making. I reminded each of them what age they were the day Moroni topped the Kansas City Temple. I think I will keep reminding them so that they'll always have this special experience in their minds. My video recording is shaky thanks to the wind, the zoom, and the little one on my hip who was really done being cold. Yet, I did manage to get some pretty great stills of the event. There was a good-sized crowd in attendance and a joyous roar was heard among them as the statue met its final place atop the spire. I am so glad to have been a part of it.
My love for this temple runs far and deep. I have a passion for the temple because of the sacred ordinances that are performed therein. I am grateful for the blessings of the temple that seal my family to me for eternity. This temple makes my heart especially full as I think of the opportunity that the open house will bring. As Mormon temples are closed to the public after dedication, many dear friends and family members have never set foot inside such a beautiful house of the Lord. When a new temple is built, an Open House welcomes the public to tour the building and learn about what takes place within these walls. My children who are not yet old enough to participate in temple ordinance will be able to enter the Kansas City Temple for the open house. We will be able to show them first hand the kind of alter we kneel at, the dual mirrors that offer the image of eternity, and the Celestial room which offers an atmosphere of heaven. I can't wait to share it!!!
I am pleased to learn that construction is ahead of schedule and that the temple may be completed as early as the end of this year. The day will not come soon enough.
I woke the boys at 6:30am this morning. They slowly and reluctantly poured out of bed, wondering why I would insist that they get up and dressed so early. "Today is the day we get our angel!" I proclaimed. Daniel jumped out of bed and hurried to get dressed. Darren heard the noise and was ready to join the action. Dallin took his time.
We were off just after 7am, headed for the Kansas City LDS Temple site. Today they would place the statue of the angel Moroni on top of the East spire. Rumor had it that there would be an unveling ceremony at 10am. I didn't want to miss a bit of the action, and I was hoping to make it past any barricades they would put up to distance the public. By 7:30am I was parked at a little alcove on the East side of the temple. Accompanied by both close and new friends, we watched the green tarp come off the statue.
We had at least an hour in the van with little or no action around Moroni. I decided we'd make the most of this time together and pull out our scriptures. We recently finished the Doctrine and Covenants and began reading the Pearl of Great Price at Daniel's request. This morning as we awaited the rising of an angel, we poured over the second chapter of Moses. What a fantastic thing to read at the temple! This was the story of the creation of Earth and the heaven around it. The boys seemed more interested than usual as we spoke of the lights in the firmament, the beasts, and the fouls. We found ourselves really studying the verses, not just reading them. It was a gigantically spiritual experience. I am thankful that they were reverent enough to allow that all to happen.
The sides of the crate were soon lowered. It was at this point that we took a stroll to get a closer look of that beautiful statue.
We were able to talk with a member of the construction crew working on the stake center. What a nice guy! We also spoke with a man named Rule (sp?) who is the head of operations for the temple site. Both these men were members of the Church and it showed. They were both so kind and courteous. Rule politely explained that our perfect parking spot was within the liability of the construction company. The foreman was uncomfortable with that. The gentleman placed orange traffic cones on Searcy Creek, the main road on the west side of the temple, reserving one lane of traffic for us to park in. We quickly moved our van to the street and were grateful to still be so close to the action. Our dear friend Dave soon joined us as well. We had a great view as we stood in his truck bed. It was great to be able to see and photograph above the chain linked fence.
The statue stood still on it's side until 25 minutes after 10am when the beautiful golden image of Moroni was lifted vertically into it's place atop the Eastern spire. It was a cloudy day with a cold breeze. The slightest bit of sunlight peeked through as the statue was lifted, lighting it just enough to make it really stand out from the gloomy backdrop. I was surprised how perfectly shiny and golden it was. It was such a brilliant thing to behold.
Watching it rise was a more powerful experience than I expected. I kept reminding my boys that this was history in the making. I reminded each of them what age they were the day Moroni topped the Kansas City Temple. I think I will keep reminding them so that they'll always have this special experience in their minds. My video recording is shaky thanks to the wind, the zoom, and the little one on my hip who was really done being cold. Yet, I did manage to get some pretty great stills of the event. There was a good-sized crowd in attendance and a joyous roar was heard among them as the statue met its final place atop the spire. I am so glad to have been a part of it.
My love for this temple runs far and deep. I have a passion for the temple because of the sacred ordinances that are performed therein. I am grateful for the blessings of the temple that seal my family to me for eternity. This temple makes my heart especially full as I think of the opportunity that the open house will bring. As Mormon temples are closed to the public after dedication, many dear friends and family members have never set foot inside such a beautiful house of the Lord. When a new temple is built, an Open House welcomes the public to tour the building and learn about what takes place within these walls. My children who are not yet old enough to participate in temple ordinance will be able to enter the Kansas City Temple for the open house. We will be able to show them first hand the kind of alter we kneel at, the dual mirrors that offer the image of eternity, and the Celestial room which offers an atmosphere of heaven. I can't wait to share it!!!
I am pleased to learn that construction is ahead of schedule and that the temple may be completed as early as the end of this year. The day will not come soon enough.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
The Kids May Never Thank Me
First, an apology: My blog has been a place I only visit lately when desperately needing to vent. Reading the last few entries, things seem rather depressing. My blog is very much the therapeutic leather couch upon which I work out all my troubles. Sorry if it has been less than uplifting.
Secondly, my blog is very much a record of my mortal existence. I hope to one day soon put together one of those beautifully designed hardback versions of my blog in print for my posterity to ponder in amazement. I hope that it is a true encyclopedia of my life offering wisdom, laughter, and just enough insanity to make it fun. Many important/interesting events have gone undocumented, including birthdays, a creative valentine's day scavenger hunt, visits to the temple site, and much more. However, this last week needs to be discussed so that someday my kids will know that I tried to be a great mom.
Our school district chose to give us a Monday and Tuesday off following a Friday's teacher workday as Spring Break this year. James was allowed a week off school for a Spring break that began that same Monday. I felt it was more valuable for my kids to enjoy those days with their dad than it was for them to attend class those days. We visited the zoo in St. Louis on Wednesday. The boys bonded over movie nights, staying up late sharing bowls of popcorn. A short hike through a nature reserve was an important part of the week as well. The time spent riding bikes, going to the theater, shopping, and baking together was invaluable. The week was delightfully full of quality family time.
My boys returned to school yesterday to find a sea of worksheets at their desks. They each had more worksheets than a kid could do in a day. Daniel's teacher expects it all done right away. Tonight, instead of enjoying the beautiful weather, I tried to entertain my toddler while assisting the other two with their overwhelming loads of busy work. Oh, how I wish the school could see that my children's time with us was so much more valuable than a few word problems and some practice rhyming. Could we just drop the worksheets and move on? If their work was part of a unit, I would understand. If any of it was a precursor or stepping stone for something they would work on next, I would understand. But this was just busy work. An insane amount of busy work.
To top it all off, the school tried to insure families would not take additional time off by holding class pictures during the second half of the week. Daniel was quite troubled when he learned that he missed it. I told him that when we see that yearbook and his presence missing from the class picture, we'll remember that we were too busy having fun, having togetherness, and having a life to be doing worksheets at school that day.
I love my dear friend Lisa who put it all into proper perspective for me. She said, "Never let school get in the way of a good education." Thanks, Lisa.
My kids may never thank me for keeping them out of school and creating this backlog of worksheets, but I hope they will someday appreciate that their mom thought that time spent together as a family trumps all. I want them to remember that despite the opposition, we choose to be together, and oh what a joy it is to be together!
Secondly, my blog is very much a record of my mortal existence. I hope to one day soon put together one of those beautifully designed hardback versions of my blog in print for my posterity to ponder in amazement. I hope that it is a true encyclopedia of my life offering wisdom, laughter, and just enough insanity to make it fun. Many important/interesting events have gone undocumented, including birthdays, a creative valentine's day scavenger hunt, visits to the temple site, and much more. However, this last week needs to be discussed so that someday my kids will know that I tried to be a great mom.
Our school district chose to give us a Monday and Tuesday off following a Friday's teacher workday as Spring Break this year. James was allowed a week off school for a Spring break that began that same Monday. I felt it was more valuable for my kids to enjoy those days with their dad than it was for them to attend class those days. We visited the zoo in St. Louis on Wednesday. The boys bonded over movie nights, staying up late sharing bowls of popcorn. A short hike through a nature reserve was an important part of the week as well. The time spent riding bikes, going to the theater, shopping, and baking together was invaluable. The week was delightfully full of quality family time.
My boys returned to school yesterday to find a sea of worksheets at their desks. They each had more worksheets than a kid could do in a day. Daniel's teacher expects it all done right away. Tonight, instead of enjoying the beautiful weather, I tried to entertain my toddler while assisting the other two with their overwhelming loads of busy work. Oh, how I wish the school could see that my children's time with us was so much more valuable than a few word problems and some practice rhyming. Could we just drop the worksheets and move on? If their work was part of a unit, I would understand. If any of it was a precursor or stepping stone for something they would work on next, I would understand. But this was just busy work. An insane amount of busy work.
To top it all off, the school tried to insure families would not take additional time off by holding class pictures during the second half of the week. Daniel was quite troubled when he learned that he missed it. I told him that when we see that yearbook and his presence missing from the class picture, we'll remember that we were too busy having fun, having togetherness, and having a life to be doing worksheets at school that day.
I love my dear friend Lisa who put it all into proper perspective for me. She said, "Never let school get in the way of a good education." Thanks, Lisa.
My kids may never thank me for keeping them out of school and creating this backlog of worksheets, but I hope they will someday appreciate that their mom thought that time spent together as a family trumps all. I want them to remember that despite the opposition, we choose to be together, and oh what a joy it is to be together!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Gratitude
Don't you love those people who are super positive. Those people who never say anything unkind and always have a smile on their face. Those are the people who never complain through their trials.
I am not to be counted with such a crowd.
But tonight instead of addressing the trials that I am faced with, I think I will chose to lift myself out of it. Do you ever have a night when the stress and strain of the day keeps you awake? I bet that writing a list of the things that you're grateful for can help you get to sleep.
Here goes...
I am thankful for the most perfect eternal companion. He loves me so completely, supports me, sustains me. He is a righteous husband who is a beacon of light for our whole family. He continually lights the way and guides us on the path we ought to be on. He is the source of much laughter and the remedy for the dreaded trials that life throws at us. My James says the things that should be said to a woman to make her feel like a goddess. He also makes really good breakfast.
I am thankful for 3 little munchkins that crack me up. There's a toddler who loves me the MOST right now and for that I am thankful. I love that when it's nap time, he asks for a snuggle snooze. I love the way he looks in his pea coat with his little tasseled hat. I love the charmer that can get away with murder when he raises those eyebrows. I am thankful for the bond that I share with my middle child as an overly emotional person with a tremendous capacity to love. I am thankful for my firstborn son who makes feel like I'm an ok mom. I am thankful for all his accomplishments and his many spiritual insights.
I am thankful for my home, my family, my talents, my friends, my experiences, my recipes, my tiny ankles, my blog readers who listen to me whine, my Savior, my knowledge of the Plan of Happiness, and even my trials.
My trials have made me who I am. I am pretty ok with who that is. I am a little nervous about the trials ahead and how they'll shape me. But when I think of all we've been through...I know that this next hill is just there to make me buff. I'll try to remember that when I'm breathing heavy and I think I'm gonna die. It's all just part of P90X for the soul.
I am not to be counted with such a crowd.
But tonight instead of addressing the trials that I am faced with, I think I will chose to lift myself out of it. Do you ever have a night when the stress and strain of the day keeps you awake? I bet that writing a list of the things that you're grateful for can help you get to sleep.
Here goes...
I am thankful for the most perfect eternal companion. He loves me so completely, supports me, sustains me. He is a righteous husband who is a beacon of light for our whole family. He continually lights the way and guides us on the path we ought to be on. He is the source of much laughter and the remedy for the dreaded trials that life throws at us. My James says the things that should be said to a woman to make her feel like a goddess. He also makes really good breakfast.
I am thankful for 3 little munchkins that crack me up. There's a toddler who loves me the MOST right now and for that I am thankful. I love that when it's nap time, he asks for a snuggle snooze. I love the way he looks in his pea coat with his little tasseled hat. I love the charmer that can get away with murder when he raises those eyebrows. I am thankful for the bond that I share with my middle child as an overly emotional person with a tremendous capacity to love. I am thankful for my firstborn son who makes feel like I'm an ok mom. I am thankful for all his accomplishments and his many spiritual insights.
I am thankful for my home, my family, my talents, my friends, my experiences, my recipes, my tiny ankles, my blog readers who listen to me whine, my Savior, my knowledge of the Plan of Happiness, and even my trials.
My trials have made me who I am. I am pretty ok with who that is. I am a little nervous about the trials ahead and how they'll shape me. But when I think of all we've been through...I know that this next hill is just there to make me buff. I'll try to remember that when I'm breathing heavy and I think I'm gonna die. It's all just part of P90X for the soul.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
"We're Having A Baby"
Have you ever noticed that it is completely acceptable for a man to say, "We're having a baby!"? The man is surely not with child. He isn't experiencing morning sickness or weight gain. He will not be the one with feet up in stirrups after nine months of gestation. Yet it is still perfectly acceptable for a man to say, "We're having a baby."
I don't really have a problem with a man saying such a thing. In fact I think it's rather cute.
My gripe today is over the fact that the reverse is not understood.
I have a tendency to say, "We're in dental school," when describing our current station in life. The reaction is an alarmed response. "You're BOTH in dental school?"
Now when a man says, "We're having a baby," people don't question if both he AND his wife are having a baby.
Those who have supported a spouse through a graduate program such as this (or any lengthy endeavor really) knows what it means to "be in dental school." It means that our lives revolve around this tremendous thing. While it is not central to our existence, dental school is where we're at. It's why we live where we do, why our budget is what it is, why we see so little of each other, why we need certain medication, why we rely on our friends and neighbors for adult conversation, why our spouses are stressed out, why mommy is a nutcase, why debt is now a term to be understood with 6 digits, and why there is only 4 of us at the dinner table. Dental school is also the reason why my husband will be able to provide a comfortable living for us, why he'll be able to support 3 boys on their missions, why he'll be able to serve those in need and make people feel better. It's the reason we'll have a nice home someday in which to welcome friends, neighbors, and grandkids! It is the reason why we'll be financially stable enough to serve missions for our church as a couple. It is the reason why James will be able to travel to other countries and provide care to those less fortunate. It is what makes us laugh, what makes us cry, what makes us stressed, what brings us possibilities.
Dental school is the gigantic all encompassing thing for US. Not just him. US!
I know that I am not the one headed to school at sunrise. I do not spend hours a day in lecture halls or labs. I won't be drilling on patients in clinic or pouring over my notes before final exams.
But I am holding down the fort. I am making sure the bills get paid with those tiny scholarships and giant loans. I am unloading groceries, cleaning house, dressing kids, meeting with teachers, feeding the picky eaters, wiping noses, quieting tantrums (sometimes my own), requesting flu shots, visiting doctors, researching parenting, reading studies, bathing, diapering, clothing, budgeting, cooking, entertaining, struggling, trying, and praying. Lots of praying.
I am certainly not trying to take credit for my husband's academic achievements. He is amazing! He balances so much outside of dental school and still manages to be successful in a difficult program such as this. He deserves every bit of credit. How proud I am and how proud I'll be when he graduates with that diploma!
I would merely like the world to understand that DENTAL SCHOOL IS SOMETHING WE ARE IN TOGETHER!
I don't really have a problem with a man saying such a thing. In fact I think it's rather cute.
My gripe today is over the fact that the reverse is not understood.
I have a tendency to say, "We're in dental school," when describing our current station in life. The reaction is an alarmed response. "You're BOTH in dental school?"
Now when a man says, "We're having a baby," people don't question if both he AND his wife are having a baby.
Those who have supported a spouse through a graduate program such as this (or any lengthy endeavor really) knows what it means to "be in dental school." It means that our lives revolve around this tremendous thing. While it is not central to our existence, dental school is where we're at. It's why we live where we do, why our budget is what it is, why we see so little of each other, why we need certain medication, why we rely on our friends and neighbors for adult conversation, why our spouses are stressed out, why mommy is a nutcase, why debt is now a term to be understood with 6 digits, and why there is only 4 of us at the dinner table. Dental school is also the reason why my husband will be able to provide a comfortable living for us, why he'll be able to support 3 boys on their missions, why he'll be able to serve those in need and make people feel better. It's the reason we'll have a nice home someday in which to welcome friends, neighbors, and grandkids! It is the reason why we'll be financially stable enough to serve missions for our church as a couple. It is the reason why James will be able to travel to other countries and provide care to those less fortunate. It is what makes us laugh, what makes us cry, what makes us stressed, what brings us possibilities.
Dental school is the gigantic all encompassing thing for US. Not just him. US!
I know that I am not the one headed to school at sunrise. I do not spend hours a day in lecture halls or labs. I won't be drilling on patients in clinic or pouring over my notes before final exams.
But I am holding down the fort. I am making sure the bills get paid with those tiny scholarships and giant loans. I am unloading groceries, cleaning house, dressing kids, meeting with teachers, feeding the picky eaters, wiping noses, quieting tantrums (sometimes my own), requesting flu shots, visiting doctors, researching parenting, reading studies, bathing, diapering, clothing, budgeting, cooking, entertaining, struggling, trying, and praying. Lots of praying.
I am certainly not trying to take credit for my husband's academic achievements. He is amazing! He balances so much outside of dental school and still manages to be successful in a difficult program such as this. He deserves every bit of credit. How proud I am and how proud I'll be when he graduates with that diploma!
I would merely like the world to understand that DENTAL SCHOOL IS SOMETHING WE ARE IN TOGETHER!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
