Grateful Sundays

"I am in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing."

...Louise L. Hay

Mikenzie and Kellie having a karaoke moment...

Where has the month of July gone?  Here are just a few of the things I'm grateful for this week.

Navigation Systems.  Getting used to a new area would be nearly impossible if it weren't for my handy, dandy navigation systems.  I have one in my car, one on my phone and just in case either one of those is leading me in the wrong direction, Bob bought me a Tom Tom.  I am sure to get to my destination now.  The only thing about these navigation systems, is it seems like they are so anxious for me to see the beautiful scenery of Pennsylvania and Delaware, that often they lead me on the most scenic route available, which is not often the shortest.  Oh well.  For the Modern Technology of Navigation Systems, Thank You.

New Callings.  Well, we've been here not even quite two months and Bob and I have received our first callings in the West Chester Ward.  (Funny thing, our ward in Cincinnati was called the West Chester Ward, too...)  I am so excited to be serving as the 2nd counselor in Relief Society over RS activities (formerly known as Enrichment meetings).  I am so happy to be able to serve with the wonderful sisters in our ward.  Our relief society president, Sister Ali Brown is absolutely amazing.  She and her family are from England and have been here in the states for almost 11 years.  She is a spiritual giant.  And of course, her beautiful English accent is mesmorizing.  I am so fortunate to be able to learn from and serve with her.  Wish me luck, my first lesson is next Sunday.  It's been so long since I've taught a class to adults!!  (Bob will be serving as the Teachers Quorum advisor in Young Men and as an assistant Venture (?) Scout leader.  He will love it!)  For the Opportunity to Serve in New Callings, Thank You.

My Girl Sue.  Sydnie flew in to Philadelphia and spent a week or so with us here.  She got to see our home and her room for the first time.  I think she liked it.  It was so great to have her home.  Yes, it was a little more lively, if you know what I mean. But it just felt like home.  She's already made some fast friends as she attended our Stake's Trek activity for the youth.  They spent 3 days near Gettysburg reenacting the pioneer trek toward the Great Salt Lake Valley.  My Girl Sue is one tough cookie.  She had a great time even when the handcart ran over her foot.  She is a special girl!  I hope she'll always know how much I love her.  For My Girl Sue, Thank You!

Rain.  You don't know how important rain is until you don't have any for a month or so.  Today we got a 30 minute downpour that was desparately needed.  The ground drank up every drop of the gift from the sky.  It's been very hot and humid here the past 3 weeks or so.  I think I may just go outside and do a little rain dance and see if I can tempt the heavens to send us some more moisture.  Wish me luck!  For the Gift of Rain, Thank You.

Bored/Board Games.  When the kids seem a little bit bored, I suggest the old-fashioned, non-technical Board Games.  Recentely, they actually took me up on the offter.  The kids have been having a ball playing Life and Monopoly.  They have even rediscovered Yahtzee.  They have been having a wonderful time sitting at the kitchen table playing nicely with each other.  I occasionally hear a kind word and maybe even a little laughter, too.  For the Gift of Board Games, Thank You.

Grateful Sunday

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

On this Mother's Day, 2010, here are a few things I'm grateful for...

* My mother.  Abraham Lincoln said it best, "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."   I am 43 years old  and the memories I have of my mother grow sweeter as each year goes by.   From my earliest memories, I have always thought my mother was the most beautiful mother of them all.  She always dressed so stylish, always had her hair done perfectly and her shiny lipstick always made her smile more perfect.    As I write this, I can still smell that lipstick as she kissed me on the cheek as a small girl and told me she loved me.

I have a vivid memory of sitting next to her in church as a small girl and helping her hold the hymn book and thinking my mother's voice was just like that of an angel. Her soprano voice was lovely. But every now and again, she would sing the alto line which I thought made her voice sound magical.  Even now, when I am lucky enough to sit next to her in church, I still think her voice is magical.   

Through the years, I have not only come to love her as my mother, but truly as my best friend.  I know that my mother always has my best interest at heart.  She is my biggest cheerleader.  She is my closest confidant.  She is a listening ear.  She is non-judgemental.  She is selfless.  She is radiant.  She is Christ-like.  She is...My Mother.  For My Mother, Thank You.

* My Kids.  Of all the blessings in my life, along with Bob, my kids are my most precious.  Heavenly Father has blessed me with choice children who bring me joy, bring me challenges, but have blessed me with the capacity to love far more than I ever thought possible.  They are each unique and different in their own way and bring such unique gifts to our family.  For my Special Kids, Thank You.

* Missionaries.  Today in Sacrament meeting, we had two of our young men speak who are leaving to serve missions in Guatemala City, Guatemala and Denver, Colorado, Spanish speaking mission.  They each spoke on the influence their mothers have had in their lives and shared their sweet testimonies.  It was such a wonderful meeting and I couldn't help but think how much their words ment to their mothers, Caroline and Michelle. 

During Relief Society today we had a wonderful program.  Bishop Smith came and spoke for a few minutes and thanked us for our role not only as mothers, but as women of the church.  His words were touching and heartfelt.  Then the young men of our ward, about 30 or so, came in and recited an amazing scripture in unison while each young men held a paper that stated when he would be eligible to serve a mission.  Seeing Blake stand there in such fine company, reciting that scripture holding his paper that showed he would be eligible to serve a mission in 8 years, 8 months and 19 days was powerful.  There truly is power in the priesthood.  Power in being valiant.  Power in being a servant of God.  For Missionaries Today and 8 Years From Now, Thank You.

*  My Dad.  I know it's Mother's Day, but I couldn't let the day go by without expressing my gratitude to my Heavenly Father for my wonderful dad.  He is strong.  He is valiant in his testimony of Christ.  He serves others more than we probably know.  He loves his country.  He is...my dad and today I want him to know how much I love him. For my Dad, Thank You.  

Grateful Sunday

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.     Denis Waitley

On this beautiful Sunday evening, here are a few things I'm thankful for this week...

*  A Lienient Judge.  On my way to play prelude music at a stake baptism last December I received a speeding ticket.  I know.  I should have been obeying the speed limit.  Long story short:  Due to a misunderstanding (poor penmanship) on my ticket, my online driving course was not received in time at the Colleyville Court.  I had to wait for a summons to appear before the judge to plead my case.   I have never been in a real court room in my life!  When I arrived, there were 75 other people there to plead their own cases.  As my name was called, I approached the bench and apologized to the judge for my tardiness in submitting my online course.  He asked me if I did indeed complete it, for which I gratefully produced my certificate of completion.  He said that was fine, asked me to sign it, and off I went.  Whew!! What a relief!!  Now my kids didn't have to wonder if I would be calling them from the county jail or at the very least waving to them from the side of the road as I completed my 'community service'.  For a Very Lenient Judge, Thank You!!

*  Birthdays and Fun Memories.  What a fun week it has been celebrating my sweet friend, Stacey's birthday.  What I love about birthdays is that the excitement and fun is contagious to everyone.  What a great time we had visiting, eating, singing and dancing.  For Birthdays and Fun Memories, Thank You.

* A Fun Stake Youth Conference.  This weekend, Sydnie attended her first Youth Conference.  The theme for the weekend was 'That's Life'.  She had a wonderful time, even commenting that the speaker Friday night was great.  (Shocker...Something Posative...Finally!!!)  She had fun providing service at the Community Storehouse Saturday morning.  Then after lunch, 300 youth from our stake played a life size game of Life in the cultural hall.  Sydnie said it was awesome! After picking her up at 11:30 Saturday night, she said she had a blast at her first stake dance.  And as tired as she was, she and Mikenzie both got up early to attend an 8 a.m. Fast and Testimony meeting which she said was 'good'.  As a grateful mother, and for a Fun Stake Youth Conference, Thank You.

 
*  It's Over!!  Mikenzie took her second SAT test Saturday morning.  She has been studying extra hard and attending a special course on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for the past few months to get ready for this exam.  I know her hard work and time spent studying has surely paid off!  And best of all, It's Over!!  Thank You!
 
* A Great Home Inspection.  I am so grateful for sale of our Texas home.  On Thursday, the buyers inspectors were here for over 4 hours.  I think they checked out every crack and crevice of this house.  Thankfully, the few things they found were very minor and will be easy to fix. For the outcome of a Great Home Inspection, Thank You!

Grateful Sunday

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded."

                                                               Ralph Waldo Emerson

On this quiet Sunday evening, here's a few things I'm thankful for this week...

* "SOLD"  On Thursday, we accepted an offer on our home here in Texas.  It was a little bitter sweet.  But it is a sweet relief to look forward with anticipation and excitement to our move to Pennsylvania.  I am so happy to know that the family that bought our home is excited.  They actually came four times to visit the house, and the last time the new owner actually left me a note.  It read, "Mrs. Fitzpatrick, Your home is beautiful and we are so excited!  It will be well cared for!"  I am so grateful to know that this home will hold many more happy memories for a family that will love it and take care of it as we have."  For our Texas Home that is Sold, Thank You.

*  My Health.  With allergy season in full swing here in Texas, I am so grateful for my health.  Sydnie must have inherited her dad's allergies.  She is coughing and sneezing up a storm.  Except for a bum knee, I have always enjoyed pretty good health.  Nothing makes you appreciate your health more than being sick or being injured.  For My Good Health, Thank You!

*  It's A Girl Cousin!    My sister is expecting her fifth child, due in September.  She found out this week that she is actually having a girl.  I love her post on facebook.  "A little girl's deepest prayer comes true...Lila is having a sister!"  I'm sure my sweet sister, Danae, cried tears of joy, too!  She is the amazing mother of 3 wonderful boys and one adorable girl.  Now their family just might be complete!  For the Blessing of a New Baby Girl Cousin, Thank You!

* Just Hanging Out With Kellie.  I had promised my adorable Kellie at least three weeks ago that I would take her to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid.  Things just kept getting in the way.  On Saturday, I knew I couldn't take hearing, "Mom, when are we going to the movies?  You promised!" one more time, so off we went.  Kellie loved the show and I loved being with Kellie.  For a Fun Afternoon, Just Hanging Out With Kellie, Thank You.

* A Thoughtful Boy.  This morning as we were getting ready for church, I reminded Blake that I needed to iron his new church pants and shirt before he got ready this morning.  He said they were fine (even though I knew they were wrinkled.)  I told him that now that he was a Deacon passing the sacrament, he had an important job to do that required him to always be, act and look his best.  I reminded him that before the Savior was crucified he instituted the Last Supper and served bread and water to His disciples in remembrance of His body and His blood.  And that as a deacon, he was in fact, acting in place of Christ, serving the sacrament to all of us in the congregation, because we are His disciples here on earth.  He understood the significance of his calling a little bit more and quickly got his clothes ready to be pressed so that he might look his best performing his priesthood responsibilities.  For A Thoughtful Boy, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

"If you want to feel rich,
just count all of things you have that money can't buy."     

 Anonymous

On this rainy Sunday afternoon in April, here's just a few things I'm thankful for.

*  A Handsom Husband.  Bob was in town the last part of this week for the Army Aviation Association of America (Quad A) conference held here in Ft. Worth.  How nice it was to have dinner together as a family this week and just hang out together.  I am so grateful for Bob's new job, which he loves.  It's so wonderful to see his passion for life and his love of aviation in in full swing again.  For A Very Handsome Husband, Thank You.

* A Pennsylvania Home...finally.  We were finally able to close on our new home in Pennsylvania.  Bob is living there now, doing lots of touch-ups and things that need done.  We have loved living here in Texas and I have loved this home.  But I am ready to let it be loved and enjoyed by it's new owners.  Instead of feeling sorrow leaving this wonderful place called Texas,  we are happy and excited that we will take the best of Texas with us to share with others.  For Our New Home In Pennsylvania, Thank You.

*  A New Calling.  It has been a long time since I've had a calling in Young Women.  I am excited to be the Personal Progress leader for the Beehives in our ward.  I am so excited, because not only will I be encouraging and helping the 12 and 13 year olds, but I have started on the journey of completing my own Personal Progress.  One of my biggest regrets of my teenage years is thinking I was too big, old or important for Church.  I wish I would have stayed where I knew I should have been and been doing the things I know I should have been doing.  For A New Calling That Gives Me A Second Change To Complete My Own Personal Progress While Motivating Others, Thank You.

*  Boys Who Love To Camp...  Blake and Bob went on the Scout campout Friday night.  Even though it has rained nearly non-stop for most of the weekend, just being together, I'm sure, they had a great time.  Blake was in charge of breakfast.  His dad said 'He made some mean scrambled eggs.'  Blake served some very welcome breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese and and salsa, along with fried potatoes, cinnamon rolls, bananas and orange juice.  Let me just say, nothing came back home.  For Boys Who Love To Camp, Thank You.

* The Miracle of Spring.  What a wet weekend we've had.  The pool is nearly over-flowing.  But I think Kellie said it best, "Mom, I bet the trees and flowers really like this rain."  I think she's right. After the dull, dark and cold of winter, spring brings with it renewed hope of sunshine, and an opportunity as things once perceived dead come to life again.  For The Miracle of Spring, Thank You. 

Grateful Sunday

"Be thankful to God for all of your life's experiences.  The good ones are easy, but the negatives are the ones that will change your life!  With loving gratitude, you can soar to all levels in life.  Don't ever let anyone tell you different.  And never, never let anyone steal your dreams!"  

Christina Perry

On this second Sunday in April, here are a few things I'm thankful for...

*  A.Wonderful Stake Relief Society Women's Conference.  The sisters in the Colleyville, Texas stake were spiritually fed yesterday as we attended "Mary, Martha and Me"  We learned that it's okay that sometimes we feel like either Mary or Martha, as long as we always remember the 'one needful thing'; staying close to our Savior, Jesus Christ.  We attended 3 workshops, enjoyed an awesome skit and ate a fabulous boxed lunch.  For wonderful talented sisters and being reminded of my value as not only a Relief Society Sister, but also as a Daughter of God, Thank You.

*  Surprise phone calls from an 'old' treasured friend.  What a surprise when my special friend Jan Skousen called me on the phone this week.  We met our dear friends Jan and Jeff Skousen over twenty years ago when we were newleyweds in Mesa, Arizona.  Have you ever met someone and just knew you've known them before?  Well, that's how I feel about Jan.  It took us 20 years to connect again on earth and I'm so grateful we did.  She is definately a life-long friend!  I have been thinking so much about her lately.  She is the mother of twin baby girls, Annaliese and Mattia.  They turned 1 in March.  It is so much fun to catch up and express the concerns, challenges and joys of our hearts with each other. For Special Friends, Thank You.

*  Five Showings on our home.  After a long dry spell, the home buyers are finally out and about.  What a joy it is to actually keep my home clean for someone to see other than us!  The comments on our home are great.  Keep your fingers crossed for a quick sell!  We are excited to be together in Pennsylvania!  For the Abundance of Showings on our Home This Week, Thank You.

* Talents.  I would have never believed as a kid that I would ever be thankful for the many dollars spent by my parents on piano lessons in my behalf.  As an adult I am forever grateful for this gift that allows me the ability to serve others.  I volunteer to play the piano at Florence Elementary for Mrs. Knagg the music and choir director.  The children preformed their Spring Concert last Friday and again this coming Monday.  They are singing numbers from The Sound of Music.  How fun it is to hear the sweet voices of chidren!  For the Gift of Sharing my Talent With Others, Thank You.

* Visiting Teachers.  Visiting teachers?  And it's only April 11th?  Yes.  And they actually came on the 7th!!  I have the best visiting teachers ever.  Krista and Karma have been my visiting teachers for well over a year now.  I truly look forward to their phone calls and visits.  We love catching up on each other's lives.  But I love our amazing gospel centered conversations the most.  What a blessing it is to me to be able to learn and grow from such amazing, wise women.  They have shared some tender moments with me over the past six months.  They have definatey been on the Lord's errand.  I know I am in their prayers.  I know they love me.  And I truly love them.  For Special Visiting Teachers, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

"There is gratitude for our mothers. Mothers, who willingly made that personal journey into the valley of the shadow of death to give us birth, deserves our undying gratitude. One writer summed up our love for mothers when he declared, 'God could not be everywhere, and so He gave us mothers.

While on the cruel cross of Calvary, suffering intense pain and anguish, Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother!' (John 19:26-27.) What a divine example of gratitude and love!" --Thomas S. Monson

Today is Mother's Day, 2009. Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* My Mother. My mother is the kindest, most loving, gentle, soft-spoken, selfless, and serving person you might ever meet. She has been such a wonderful example to me of all things good. She gives me courage and strength to go forth in life and conquer whatever challenges might be set before me. She is my quiet cheerleader. I am honored to be her daughter and to be able to call her my mother. But I'm even more blessed to call her My Friend. For My Mother, Thank You.

* My Kids. If you would have told me 25 years ago I would be the proud mother of 4 beautiful children, I might have called you a bit crazy. But after almost 22 years of a happy marriage and 3 beautiful daughters and 1 wonderful son later, I called myself extremely blessed.

Each one of my children is as different as the seasons of the year. Each brings such different and unique gifts and talents to our family. I can't imagine being on this journey of eternal life without each one of them. They teach me more about life than I could ever hope to teach them. For a loving Heavenly Father who has enough trust in me to bless me with such unbelievable and special children, Thank You.

* Wonderful Women. When we begin this life's journey, little did we know that we would have the opportunity to work with, become friends with, be influenced by and love the wonderful women that we would have the great fortune to cross paths with. I am thankful for the wonderful women throughout my life who have taught me in Primary, Young Women and Relief Society. I am thankful for wonderful women who have shared their knowledge about food storage, exercise and their zest for life. I am thankful for wonderful women who have taught me to bake the best loaves of bread and many other goodies. I am thankful for wonderful women who have taught me the blessings of service by their personal actions. I am thankful for wonderful women who have shared their personal wisdom with me and have reminded me that it's not always about the destination, but about the journey; to stop and enjoy the little things; that life, when you really get down to it, is truly about relationships and love. For all the Wonderful Women who have influenced my life, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

Thou has given me so much... Give me one thing more, a grateful heart.--George Herbert

The unthankful heart ... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and. As the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!--Henry Ward Beecher

Already the month of May. Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week (and last).

* Good Friends. Last week I had to prepare for a Stake Auxiliary Primary meeting for 40+ women. Our theme was "Feed My Sheep". Being the A type personality that I am and extremely detail oriented (to a fault) I thought it would be so fun to make some yummy individual cut-out sheep sugar cookies. These couldn't just be any old sugar cookie, they needed to be the most tasty, frosted beautifully and each individually wrapped sugar cookies. You know, cookies that could pass for the ones "Martha" would have made. I wanted to give these special sisters something that could serve as a special favor to remind everyone the wonderful evening we had, along with the other handouts I had prepared.

My dear friend, Christine, 5 months pregnant, and with an adorable 7 month-old in tow, volunteered immediately to spend the day baking and frosting with me. Anyone who knows Christine, knows she is a fabulous cook with only the most delicious recipes in her repertoire. She not only supplied me with a delicious recipe that we tripled, but also a wonderful morning and afternoon talking about our kids, our church callings and just about life in general. For her gift of time and talent, and for Good Friends, Thank You.

* Special Meetings. Twice a year, my counselors and I conduct Stake Auxiliary training for the Primary presidencies in our stake, which is comprised of 12 wards. This meeting,we also invited all of the nursery leaders as well to meet our new stake Primary nursery leader, Sister Kim Beer. We had a wonderful attendance. The theme of our meeting was "Feed My Lambs".

After our Savior was resurrected, and returned to show himself unto his disciples, he drew his apostles close to him and talked and counseled with them. He left with them some parting instructions. I often wonder if I knew my days in this life were limited, what would I want my husband and children to know? What would be the most important thoughts that I could leave with them? What would be some of my parting words to them? I'm sure the Savior was thinking these same things.

"So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith uhto him the third tme, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third tme, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus said unto him, Feed my sheep. (John 21:15-17)

Of all the things the Savior could have said to them at his parting, he pleads with them not once, not twice but three times to 'Feed His Sheep'. I'm sure he was saying, 'Teach them about me. Help them learn of me. Show them, by word and deeds, how to live so that they can return again to me someday.'

My wonderful counselors, Tracy and Laura, each shared some thoughts. Tracy talked about being a sheepherder or a shepherd. Did you know there is a difference? Yes, there is. A sheepherder is one who is hired for wages to watch over the sheep. Often he is seen at the rear of the flock, slouched down on his horse, sound asleep. Doing the work are a half-dozen or so dogs yapping and barking at the heels of the sheep. He doesn't necessarily have any feelings for the sheep. He puts in his time and goes home. Such is the life of a sheepherder.

A shepherd on the other hand, leads his flock from the front. As he turns to the left, so do his sheep. As he turns to the right, so then do his sheep. A true shepherd loves his sheep. He knows each one by name. He has compassion and genuine concern for the sheep entrusted to his care. Christ was a true shepherd, not a sheepherder. Which one are you? It's an interesting question, isn't it?

Laura talked about teaching with the Spirit. Each Primary leader can be taught by the Spirit when she prepares early. A former counselor in the general Sunday School presidency has said, "I have learned that teaching by the Spirit is to plan your lesson at least a week ahead of time; then you give the Spirit time to teach you." Elder Russel M. Nelson said he sets for himself a deadline to have the first draft of his talk for April general conference finished by January 24 and for the October conference, by July 24. "Why? Because I don't get any help from heaven until that first draft is finished. Once I'm immersed and I know were I'm going, then the Lord give me help." He said those who teach the gospel are guided by the Spirit once they are 'invested' in teaching the message. Such good counsel.

We shared a short DVD presentation called "Feed My Lambs" which tells the story of a brother and a sister given the summer task at their family farm to simply feed the lambs. The father promises that if they will feed the lambs, at the end of the summer, when they are sold, they will be given half of the profits. They excitedly agree. What the father neglects to tell his children is that these lambs have no mothers. They were shorn early in the spring and an untimely frost had killed most of them. These lambs are motherless. The children find out quickly that it is nearly impossible to feed 300 sheep 3 times a day. They devise many ways to feed the lambs. They make troughs, but the lambs don't know how to eat from a trough. They have never been taught. They find out that to feed the lambs adequately, they need to do it one at a time, with a large bottle. As the summer progresses, the coyotes begin to take the toll on their little lambs. When the lambs get unusually restless at night, the father goes outside and shoots his shotgun into the air to scare away the hungry coyotes. First, the weak ones are taken. Then the sick and starving ones become easy prey for the coyotes. It becomes not unusual to find 4-5 dead lambs each morning. It wasn't unbearably sad until the special, little lamb the girl had named comes up missing one morning. She wanders the hillside looking for her lamb and finally finds it near a little stream, dead. With tears in her eyes, she picks up her favorite lamb and cradles it under her neck and walks slowly back to the farm. She finds her father working in the barn and with tears streaming down her face, asks her father, "Isn't there anyone who can help us feed our lambs?" A caring father, gets down on his knees and stares at his daughter in her eyes and says, "There was someone long ago who asked the same question."

A grown up daughter, in retrospect, understands what her father was saying. The message is abundantly clear. Are we taking our stewardship seriously when we are entrusted to care and teach 'His little lambs?' Do we love them and nurture them as He would? He is counting on us, as his leaders and teachers to teach our precious lambs about Him and make sure they are nourished and fed with his Word.

The presentation ends with her stating, that "of the 300 lambs they cared for that summer, they were only able to save one-third."

As Primary leaders, and even as mothers, we must do all that we can to insure that our Savior's flock is given all that they need to be nourished, fed and to flourish and learn here upon this earth. It was a very awesome and sobering presentation.

Our meeting concluded with my dear friend, Angi and her sweet daughters singing, "Teacher, Do You Love Me?" It was absolutely the perfect ending to a wonderful meeting.

To say that this was a special evening would be an understatement. The Spirit was so strong in the room. Tears were shed and everyone in the room was richly blessed by their attendance this night. For the opportunity to attend, conduct and share in Special Meetings, Thank You.

* Inspired Leaders. This week we have been inundated with stories of 'Swine Flu' all over the globe. It doesn't seem too serious. I am optomistic. But I am grateful for wise and loving leaders who tell us to always be prepared for anything that might challenge us; a natural disaster, unemployment, illness, etc. "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." We have not felt panicked here in our home. We try to follow what our leaders have taught us.

“Too often we bask in our comfortable complacency and rationalize that the ravages of war, economic disaster, famine, and earthquake ... cannot happen here. Those who believe this are either not acquainted with the revelations of the Lord, or they do not believe them. Those who smugly think these calamities will not happen, that they will somehow be set aside because of the righteousness of the Saints, are deceived and will rue the day they harbored such a delusion. The Lord has warned and forewarned us against a day of great tribulation and given us counsel through His servants, on how we can be prepared for these difficult times. Have we heeded His counsel?” - Ezra Taft Benson (General Conference, October 1980)

For the gift of Inspired Leaders, Thank You.

* My Sister, Danae.

In the cookies of life, sisters are the chocolate chips.
~Author Unknown

Friday was my sweet sister, Danae's 36th birthday. I've already told her that she's now closer to 40 than 30, with which she replied, "Yikes!" I've comfortingly reassured her that the 40's are a wonderful place to be, and not to be afraid.

My sister, although she is 7 years younger than me (you do the math on that one...) is someone who I look up to immensely. In my eyes she is a spiritual giant, an exemplary mother, a caring daughter, a compassionate friend, a loving wife and an inspiring sister. I am grateful for the incredible gift she has been to me in my life. She has taught and continues to teach me many things through her example and the quiet way in which she lives her life.

It's true, just like the quote above states, Danae, you ARE the chocolate chips in my life. Why choose the simple, yet delicous sugar cookie when you can have the over-the top, scrumptious, roll-your-eyes-back-in-your-head, ooey, gooey, warm and tasty, milk chocolate chip (with walnuts) Chocolate Chip Cookie? For the gift of my Sweet Sister, Danae, Thank You.

p.s. I can't wait for all of my friends here in Texas to meet her. She's coming to visit in June!! You're going to LOVE her!! Check out her new blog, http://www.justgiveitawhirl-danae.blogspot.com/. You'll love her inspiring ideas!

Grateful Sundays

If you concentrate on finding what is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul."-- Rabbi Harold Kuchen

Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* The Beauty of Springtime. Last week we enjoyed the slow pace of a few rainy days. After the rain left, the beauty of spring has blossomed everywhere. I have a giant yellow rose bush that is just beyond the driveway that I enjoy every time I go in or out of the garage. This week, the roses have just blown up all over their mother bush. Roses are an interesting thing. They remind me that things of beauty or that are worthwhile in life are not without their thorns. That along life's path, there will oft be times of trial or tumult. But if we endure it well, the thorns will lead to the most exquisite blossom, the thing of beauty that we would have missed, if we had let the pain of the thorns thwart our experience. For the Beauty of Springtime, Thank You.

* The Right to Peaceably Assemble. This week on April 15th, not only were our taxes due, but there were thousands of TEA (Taxed Enough Already) parties all over the country. Contrary to what the media would have you believe, thousands of people from coast to coast, peaceably assembled to show their concern for the direction our current president is taking this country. I am so grateful that we live in a country where we can voice our opinion without fear of repercussion. For our right to peaceably assemble to have our voices heard, Thank You.

* Dinner Time. I have to admit, we don't always have or make the time to sit together as a family and enjoy dinner and the conversations that follow. Most often, we each 'cafeteria style' with Mom making a meal and everyone eating when his/her schedule permits. If someone doesn't like what Mom makes, there's always a frozen burrito or PB and J. This week, because of the rain, we were able to actually sit down together at the kitchen table, sans television or radio and just visit with each other and catch up. It is so nice to have my Handsome Husband home. I'm sure he appreciated a home-cooked meal and the opportunity to catch up on the wonderful, busy happenings with each of us. I love my family. They are each unique and special in their own ways. It is a privilege to pass through this mortal journey with them. For the opportunity to sit with them at dinner time, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

"Great men have always recognized the greatness of God and their dependence upon him, and they have with regularity rendered to him gratitude and thanksgiving....To the Lord Jesus, who bought us with a great price, we owe an undying debt of gratitude. It is impossible for us, weak mortals as we are, to fully comprehend and appreciate the suffering he endured on the cross so that he might gain for us victory over death. And even less can we understand the suffering he endured in Gethsemane so that we might obtain forgiveness of our sins." Marion G. Romney

This Easter Sunday, here are a few things I'm grateful for.

* Blueberries. This week, I picked up my order of blueberries from Marybeth Bohn's Bithell Farm's fruit and seafood order. (All 4 boxes and 56 pounds of them!!) These are the most delicious blueberries you will ever taste in your life! I eat them every morning with my grapefruit. By the time I finish my grapfruit, these tiny morsels of delicacy have thawed just enough to pop in my mouth with the most delicous, juicy goodness. And it doesn't hurt that my Handsome Husband's favorite dessert in all the world is Homemade Blueberry Pie. Believe me, by the time Miss Marybeth is ready to send in her fall Bithell Farm's order, we will be ready for more blueberries! For the best blueberries ever, Thank You!

* Wonderful Youth Leaders. This weekend, Mikenzie participated in our stake's Youth Conference. They all wore shirts that read "Service in Action" as they did 2 days worth of service for the Haltom City Senior Citizens Center. After a full hot day of service, a spaghetti dinner and awesome speaker at the stake center, all of the girls stayed at Sister Caroline Briggs home Friday night and were treated to a delicious breakfast Saturday morning before they were off and running again. After another long, hot rewarding day, they all showered and headed back to the stake center for another delicious dinner and a dance. I picked her up Saturday night, tired, sore and sunburned but glad for having participated in this most rewarding project. This morning, all the youth who participated in this event, met for a special testimony meeting at 8 a.m. My own daughter, as well as the other youth in our stake were richly rewarded and spiritually fed these last few days by numerous adult leaders in our ward and in our stake who truly love and care about these youth. I am so grateful for the sacrifice of their time, their effort and the love that they put towards planning all the lessons and activities that my daughters participate in. For Wonderful Youth Leaders, Thank You.

* A Long Weekend. Just when I needed a little extra sleep, here comes a 3-day weekend. I am always grateful for an extra day to spend with the kids, just catching up on whatever needs to be done around the house. This long weekend, we spent together coloring Easter eggs, watching Bolt, Bedtime Stories, Tales of Despereax and eating Easter candy. We held hands as we walked the mall, bought new dresses and church pants and enjoyed Mexican food together. For the opportunity to enjoy a very longed for long weekend, Thank You.

* My Handsome Husband. My Handsome Husband has been out of the country for what seems like weeks. I am so grateful that he loves his job, even amidst these turbulent economic times. I know that while he is away he is always thinking of us. Such was evident when we got home from shopping and were pleasantly surprised by the beautiful bouquet of flowers sitting at our door, wishing us a happy Easter from my Handsome Husband and my kids' dad. For everything my Handsome Husband does to provide us with a wonderful life, even while he is away, Thank You.

* Easter. It wouldn't be a Grateful Sunday if I didn't take this opportunity to thank my Heavenly Father for the gift of his Beloved Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. I am thankful for his life, his example, his atonement and his willingness to sacrifice himself so that we all might live with Him again someday with our families and loved ones. For this gift, this Easter Sunday, I will always be eternally grateful. Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven. - Johannes Q. Gaertner

It's April already. Here's a few things I'm thankful for this week.

* Visiting Teaching. I have an awesome visiting teaching companion. And I think we visit the sweetest sisters in our ward. This week we visited one sister and visited and had lunch with our other two sisters. I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to visit with these special sisters, share in their lives and discuss a simple gospel message. As I have gotten older and wiser, I have come to understand that being a visiting teacher blesses me more than the sisters I visit. Undoubtedly, I have been blessed by their lives, their challenges and their testimonies. For making me a better person because of visiting teaching, Thank You.

* Good Books. This week I finished a great book. Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. This is not only a short novel, but also a true story which takes place right here in our own Fort Worth. On the back cover it reads, "It begins outside a burning plantation in Louisiana...and an East Texas honky-tonk...and without a doubt, in the heart of God. It unfolds in a Hollywood hacienda..an upscale New York gallery...a downtown dumpster...a Texas ranch. Gritty with pain and betrayal and brutality, it also shines with an unexpected, life-changing love. This is is one of the most inspirational and emotionally stories of faith, fortitude and friendship that I have ever read. This story illustrates that truly one person can make a difference; that the Lord is always in charge; and that unconditional love is possible. For a good book that makes me want to do better and be better, Thank You.

* Good Movies. This weekend we watched two movies that were really enjoyable. First, Marley and Me starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson. If you've ever had a dog or loved animals, you'll love this movie. It reminds me that some members of our family might just have four legs and a tail. Keep your tissue box handy. Second, Fireproof starring Kirt Cameron. What a great movie that illustrates the difficulties that some marriages encounter and how, with enough effort and love, a marriage can become better and stronger than before. I watched this twice with my girls. (The Handsome Husband is out of town.) This is definitely a good date-night movie. For the opportunity to enjoy two wholesome movies, Thank You.

* General Conference. I always enjoy the opportunity to hear from our Prophet and the apostles twice a year. (The opportunity to sleep in on Sunday is an added bonus.) I am so thankful to know that we are indeed led by these inspired men who are instructed by the Lord through His Spirit. I am thankful for their instruction which gives me a 'power boost' and makes me want to be more obedient, to show more love, to be a better mother, a better missionary and just be a better Daughter of God. For the inspired messages at this General Conference, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

"Gratitude creates the most wonderful feeling. It can resolve disputes. It can strengthen friendships. And it makes us better men and women."-- Gordon B. Hinckley

Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* Frequent Flier Miles. My Handsome Husband spends much of his time traveling around the globe doing business. This week I am the lucky recipient of some of his frequent flier miles that enabled me to 'jet' down to Houston this week and spend time with my dear friend, Jan, and her sweet baby twin girls. To American Airlines, and the opportunity to 'cash-in' some frequent flier miles, Thank You.

* Friends. True friends are ones where distance of time and space doesn't matter. I am so lucky to have such friends. Being with Jan this week was so wonderful. For the blessing of friends, both near and far, Thank You!

* A Cold Snap. I know. Nobody likes the cold in Texas. But this week it was a welcome surprise that enabled my life to be simplified. If the weather had been warm, my Handsome Husband and The Best Boy in the World would have been on an overnight camp out (which they would have loved) but I would have had to totally figure out the carpool thing with Kellie's soccer game, and a few other obligations. Thanks to the cold weather, the overnight camp out and the soccer game were canceled. So, a morning that looked like a logistical nightmare was somehow now very manageable. For the unexpected cold snap, Thank You.

* Primary Teachers. Today, my presidency facilitated a Teacher In-Service in a ward in our stake. We shared with these wonderful teachers the blessing of the calling which is theirs as Primary teachers, the importance of their stewardship, a variety of teaching methods to use in their lessons and also how to prepare spiritually for their their lessons each week. The Spirit was strong as we testified to them of the importance of their calling. President David O. McKay has said, "No greater responsibility can rest upon any man or woman than to be a teacher of God's children." For caring, loving Primary teachers who love the children of the church, Thank You.

* Beautiful Music. Today, in sacrament meeting, the choir sang a beautiful arrangement of "God So Loved the World". It was absolutely lovely. Then, a sweet sister from a neighboring ward, played an unbelievable arrangement of 'I Know That My Redeemer Lives' on her violin accompanied by my sweet friend, Angi. The Spirit was so strong as each movement of her bow testified of the Savior and his love for each of us. For beautiful music that literally puts a lump in my throat, Thank You.

Grateful Sundays

"Gratefulness and simple living go hand in hand. When we are grateful, we appreciate life’s free gifts: friendship and solitude; movement and rest; Nature’s bounty and her spare winter introversion; our own alternating sonata movements of joy, sorrow, and joy’s resurgence. Through this appreciation, we find contentment." - Anonymous

Just a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* Cool, Gray Days. What is it about the low gray sky shedding its tears upon the face of all the land that makes us slow down, step back and focus inward on what matters most? This week, we thankfully received an abundance of rain. Looking out the windows, life just seemed to move a little slower and all of the many errands I thought I needed to run, suddenly didn't seem so important. I found myself putting on a favorite CD, peeling potatoes for a delicious homemade soup and grinding wheat for some delicious homemade bread for my family to enjoy later in the day. There is something so innately satisfying in finding joy in the most simplest of tasks. Cool, gray day, for reminding me that what matters most is always found at home, Thank You.

* A Priceless Gift. Nearly 20 years ago, my life's path crossed with Jan Marie Skousen. She and her husband Jeff, and some other friends, Dave and Michelle Pack, and my Handsome Husband and I found ourselves all newleyweds together in Mesa, Arizona. We became the best of friends. Traveling together, spending weekends together, and just basically becoming each other's family and support system. Michelle and I became mothers for the first time a year apart, while having a baby seemed to always elude Jan and Jeff. Nevertheless, 'Aunt Jan' was the BEST 'Aunt' we could have asked for. Years went by. Moves were made. Precious children continued to come to Michelle and I.

A true Texan by birth, Jan genuinely loves people, children in particular. I have learned more about unconditional love and service from her than possibly anyone else in my life. Jan would literally give you the shirt off her back, the last can in her cupboard or the final nickel in her wallet if you needed it. And you wouldn't even need to ask, she would just GIVE it. On Tuesday, my dear friend Jan became a mother for the first time. Not just to one baby, but to twin baby girls, Annaliese and Mattia. This was a gift priceless gift given to them by the way of an incredible woman; a special friend; a miracle; a surrogate; ...Susan. Susan has given Jan and Jeff the most priceless gift of all, the gift of an Eternal Family. The anticipation over these two little girls has been over 20 years in the making and Tuesday the wait was finally over. To Susan, the giver of the most priceless gift ever given, Thank You.

* The Healing Process. Last week, Dad had another eye surgery to reattach the retina in his left eye. Thankfully, my dad has the best care he could ever want or need from the specialists at the University of Utah Medical Center. After another 90 minute surgery, his prognosis is favorable. We are still praying for a full and complete recovery but we are extremely grateful that he has kept the sight in his remaining eye. We have all learned so much through this trial. Service. Patience. Gratefulness. Love. And above all, Faith. For the many lesson we have learned and continue to learn, Thank You.

* Birthdays. Today is Kellie's 9th birthday. Kellie is our baby and affectionately know in our house as 'Littlelicious'. She brings a smile to our face and laughter to our lives. Birthdays remind me that we all deserve to feel special; that every day and year are precious; that life goes by way too quickly; that you're only little once; and that it's always okay to eat cake and ice cream on your birthday. For all of the joy you've brought to us Birthday Girl, Thank You!

Grateful Sundays

"Life without thankfulness is devoid of love and passion. Hope without thankfulness is lacking in fine perception. Faith without thankfulness lacks strength and fortitude. Every virtue divorced from thankfulness is maimed and limps along the spiritual road." -John Henry Jowett

Here are a few things I'm thankful for this past week.

* The Tease of Spring. Everywhere I look this week, the trees are starting to bud, flowers are peeking out from their winter's rest and you can hear the sweet singing of birds in the trees. It's a wonderful reminder that after the long, dark days of winter, a vibrant, beautiful spring is around the corner. As it is with the seasons, so it is with life. After a long, seemingly dark season of life, we can have the hope of a beautiful tomorrow with freshness, new life and experience that will enable us to grow and flourish. Thank you, spring.

* Reliable Transportation. I spend nearly half my life in my car, literally. Running kids to seminary, to school, to soccer, to rehearsals, to Scouts, to Young Women, to Girls Activity Days, to birthday parties and more. I am so thankful that I'm blessed to be a busy, stay-at-home mom who CAN run my kids everywhere. And I'm also thankful for my 'Kid Mobile' that is reliable and takes us everywhere we need to go. It keeps us cool in the hot Texas afternoons and evenings and even warms our 'seats' on the coldest of mornings. With the turn of the key, the engine roars and we are off and running. For our reliable transportation, I am truly thankful.

* Old Friends. My sister, Danae, invited me to join Facebook. I have resisted for many months, mostly because my Handsome Husband put a gigantic filter on my computer that wouldn't let me even into facebook. But somehow, with my new computer, the filter isn't quite to severe. It has been such a fun week reconnecting with old high school buddies, wonderful old-friends from previous wards around the country we've been in and just simply 'talking' with long-distant family members. It's fun to see how well everyone is doing and simply catch up on life. It's amazing how small the world truly is, technologically. Reconnecting with wonderful people who have truly had an impact on my life is great. Thank you.

* Voices of Children. Last night, I attended an '8 Is Great' fireside for the children turning 8 in our ward. It's so exciting to be turning 8 and these children learned about baptism, Cub Scouts, Girls Activity Days and the Faith in God program. The program was wonderful. My favorite part, though, was the simple voices of these children singing 'The Rainbow Song'. When was the last time you listened to your children sing? Did you listen to their voice singing the words? I promise if you listen closely, you might just hear the angels singing along with them. The voices of children are sweet, melodic and just plain angelic. For sharing your beautiful voices with me, sweet children, Thank you.

* Alarm Clocks. Day light saving time. Need I say more?

Grateful Sundays

"You simply will not be the same person two months from now after consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in your life. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given you."-- Sarah Ban Breathnach, Simple Abundance

What a crazy, busy, wonderful week. Here's a few things I'm grateful for...

* Wonderful in-laws. Bob's mom and dad came to visit us on Valentine's Day. They came to celebrate my Handsome Husband's 45 birthday and to get a change of scenery from their beautiful desert home in Tempe, Arizona. Because of their visit, I was able to leave my kids in wonderful hands for a whole week to go and help my parents move. I couldn't ask for better grandparents for my kids. 'Nanny' and 'Pop' are loving, dedicated and fun. (And Pop is the best dog walker ever!) I am so grateful for their willingness to help out our family with a moment's notice. Thank you.

* A strong body. This past week I was able to go home to Utah and help my parents pack away (and throw away and donate) 30 years of memories. I was so happy to be able in some small way to repay my parents for ALL that they have done for me and my family throughout the many times they have helped me and my sister move across the country. My dad is recovering from eye surgery and it is imperative that he not lift anything or even bend over. My brother was out of town most of the week, which left me, my sister (who probably weighs 110 pounds soaking wet) and my mom to do all of the heavy lifting. I know it was nearly breaking my dad's heart to watch the three of us do the work that he was wishing he was able to do. I know that the Lord gave us the strength we needed to lift heavy furniture, pack and move heavy boxes and all the many other tasks that moving entails. We were also given the gift of increased energy. We only got 4-5 hours of sleep each night, but we were refreshed and ready to start each new day. In a way, my dad reminds me of myself and my relationship with the Savior. When we have done all that we can do and are unable to do anything more, our Savior shows up to do the 'heavy lifting'. We just need to rely on Him and He will help us complete our 'move'. I'm grateful for a strong body and a Savior, Jesus Christ.

* Soccer. Yes. It's soccer season once again. Blake and Kellie are busy pulling on their shin guards, lacing up their soccer cleats, grabbing a water bottle and heading to the soccer field. Soccer reminds me that a little heathy competition never hurt anyone; that it's okay to lose if you try your best; that having good sportsmanship is more important than winning; and that being outside, breathing fresh air and getting your heart to pound is a good thing. Thanks for the reminder.

* A very kind Keller policeman. Need I say more? Thank you.

Grateful Sundays

"Gracias, danke, merci whatever language is spoken, 'thank you' frequently expressed will cheer your spirit, broaden your friendships, and lift your lives to a higher pathway as you journey toward perfection. There is a simplicity even a sincerity when 'thank you' is spoken."--Thomas S. Monson

Another week. Here's a few things I'm grateful for.

* Chocolate. Nothing makes me smile like a little taste of chocolate. This week Chris Hickson taught us how to make Chocolate Molton Lava Cakes. Oh my. Were they yummy. They were so easy I made them for my family for dessert on Valentine's day. Chris, for sharing your chocolate dessert talents, Thank you.

* Valentines. How much fun was it to watch 'The Best Boy in the World' and Kellie get their valentines ready to take to their classmates. Such a good reminder to all of us to find something special about everyone in our lives. Thank you.

* My Dad. I love my dad. He has always been such a rock to me. I know I can count on him for anything. He has never led me wrong. When asked for his advice, it is always 'spot on'. I know my dad will never lead me astray. I value his council, his friendship and his abiding love for his country and mine. A daughter could not be prouder of her father than I. I only wish at times I lived closer to tell him in person how much he means to me. For just being you, Dad, I love you and thank you.

* Friends. What would we do without them? Life would be less for sure. My good friend Stacey has a gift with flowers. She is the 'Flower Girl'. This week, her flower shop made a beautiful arrangement for my Handsome Husband's secretary, Pat, for her birthday. When I dropped of a gift of my own, I saw the beautiful arrangement that had been delivered. It was stunning. No babies breath or leather leaf in sight. Just a beautiful arrangement lovingly planned by watched over by a special friend. Stacey, Thank you!

Grateful Sundays

Gratitude
Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings, thank you, Lord, that I can hear. There are many who are deaf.
Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you, Lord, that I can see. Many are blind.
Even though I huddle in my bed and put off rising, thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise. There are many who are bedridden.
Even though the first hour of my day is hectic, when socks are lost, toast is burned and tempers are short, my children are so loud, thank you, Lord, for my family. There are many who are lonely.
Even though our breakfast table never looks like the pictures in magazines and the menu is at times unbalanced, thank you, Lord, for the food we have. There are many who are hungry.
Even though the routine of my job often is monotonous, thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who have no job.
Even though I grumble and bemoan my fate from day to day and wish my circumstances were not so modest, thank you, Lord, for life!

---Anonymous

Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* Modern Technology. My Handsome Husband is out of the country. I am thankful for the gift of modern technology in the way of computers, cell-phones, and yes, even the Blackberry that lets me know he is happy and safe. It even provides a way for us to communicate with him even when he's half way around the world.

* Righteous Daughters. This week Mikenzie and Sydnie went with the youth of our ward to do baptisms for the dead at the Dallas Temple. I am thankful for daughters who live their lives to be able to worthily enter the House of the Lord and are willing to give others who have gone before us, the same opportunity to have the blessings of the gospel that we enjoy here on earth. Your example to me is inspiring. Thank you, girls.

* Home Teachers. As I write this post, I am looking at a computer jerry-rigged by a handy Home Teacher. Ron Ludlow. Last week, I carelessly moved my computer desk and the corner of a picture frame fell on my lap top and broke the crystals in my screen. My keyboard works, fine, but the screen is a big mess of vertical lines. This wouldn't have been so bad, except that my Handsome Husband is out of the country for nearly 2 weeks. What to do? No computer? No email? No blog-posting? I placed a quick phone call to our Faithful Home Teacher who came right over and fixed me right up. He took an old monitor from the attic and hooked it right into my lap top. Now my computer is (almost) as good as new. Ron, your dedication to our family for nearly the last 5 years is so very much appreciated!! Thank you.

* A World Wide Church - Today, I had the privilege of attending the Euless 3rd ward for their ward conference. It is a wonderful ward full of Tongan members of our church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I love the Polynesian people. They are so warm and hospitable. We were welcomed to their ward with beautiful Gardenia leis. The fragrance was intoxicating. Their meetings, all except Primary, are conducted in Tongan. Have you ever been in a meeting where you cannot understand a word? Not even the hymns? Luckily, for me, I was given a translator radio to listen to. (There's modern technology, again.) Their bishop spoke about how to Come Unto Christ. Then the youth of their ward sang Teach Me to Walk in the Light both in English and Tongan. I don't know if you've ever heard the Tongan people sing. But boy, can they sing!!! They sing loud! They know every word of every song!! We could learn a thing or two from them. They know their voices are ment to sing praises to God, and they do!! After their beautiful song, President Nielsen spoke. We are so blessed to have not only a living prophet to lead and guide us, but also stake and local leaders who have a desire to share their wisdom and love with all of us. Then, I spent the next hour and half in Primary. I am so thankful to be able to share my musical talent with the children in this ward who don't have a regular pianist. There is no greater joy than hearing these sweet Tongan children sing the Primary songs proudly, loudly and lovingly as they share their testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ through music and song. And if that wasn't wonderful enough, we were invited to share a delicious afternoon meal that they had prepared to show their appreciation to us for our visit. Unbelievable. Their generosity and graciousness was so humbling. It was indeed our privledge to be in their presence this day. Today, I was reminded that no matter where on this earth we are; Texas, Tonga or anyplace in between, we are all children of a loving God.

Grateful Sundays

"Our society is afflicted by a spirit of thoughtless arrogance unbecoming those who have been so magnificently blessed. How grateful we should be for the bounties we enjoy. Absence of gratitude is the mark of the narrow, uneducated mind. It bespeaks a lack of knowledge and the ignorance of self-sufficiency. It expresses itself in ugly egotism and frequently in wanton mischief....Where there is appreciation, there is courtesy and there is concern for the rights and property of others. Without appreciation, there is arrogance and evil. Where there is gratitude, there is humility, as opposed to pride. (Gordon B. Hinckley)

Already it is the first of February. Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* A great haircut and color. My good friend, Angi is the BEST haircutter and colorer ever. It never fails, I always feel and look better after having been the recipient of her talents. Thanks, Angi for always brightening up not only my hair but my life!! Thanks you!

* An expired Visa. My Handsome Husband was suppossed to be off traveling the world. But thanks to an expired Visa, we have had the pleasure of having him around all week and this weekend, too. Sometimes someone's misfortune is another's fortune. This week it was ours! Thank you!!

* One kid down, three to go. I am thankful that Mikenzie has FINALLY had her last trip to the orthodontist. No more retainer checks for this girl. Her teeth are beautiful. Her last instructions from Dr. Grove are to continue wearing her retainers at night for the next 3 months, then cut back one night a week continually each 3 months until she is only wearing them at night 1 night a week for the rest of her life. Oh, the price we pay for beauty. (Literally!) Thanks, Dr. Groves, for giving Mikenzie a beautiful smile she can be proud of!!

* An unexpected ice day. - Boy, was it nice to have a day to get a little extra sleep and play catch up. And it was the 'Best Boy in the World's' birthday to boot. What a nice surprise! Thank you!

* Friends. What would I do without great friends? This week my friends not only gave me great hair, but they are also are the first to step up and offer to help out in anything I need. I couldn't have pulled off the Stake Girls Activity without the help of my awesome friends who always are willing to help shoulder the responsibility as well as all of the fun. Thanks, Friends. I Love You!

Grateful Sundays

"This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that make it, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help."

"We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues."

- Thomas S. Monson -

Another week has come and gone. Here's a few things I'm grateful for.

* Primary Music. Did you know that you can 'sing the gospel?' Every gospel truth can be taught through any simple Primary song. Today, I had the great pleasure of attending four, yes, four Primaries. In each ward, the children were learning the gospel through word and song. They were learning simple gospels truths like, "I Feel My Savior's Love." "When Jesus Christ was Baptized..." "I Think the World is Glorious..." "I'll Seek the Lord Early While In My Youth..." ...Families Can Be Together Forever..." and "I Am a Child of God." I am grateful for the simple truths taught through Primary music that stay with us the rest of our lives. Thank you.

* Report Cards. I am thankful for Report Cards. It's a wonderful way for my kids to get recognition for their hard work and study habits. It's also a gentle reminder that we can always improve. Every day is a new beginning. Thank you.

* Gray Days. I am thankful for the kind of gray, drizzly days that make you want to put a pot of soup on the stove, a fresh loaf of bread in the oven and settle down with a good book. Yesterday, was just that kind of gray day. I cleaned out both of my pantries from top to bottom. It took all day. That's okay. As I open each pantry and take a deep breath, I see the reward of a hard days work. Maybe the next gray day, I'll make that pot of soup and loaf of bread and settle down with my newest favorite book. Thanks for the gray day.

* Presidents. On Tuesday, I watched TV all day. I witnessed what reporters were calling one of the greatest things to be witnessed in our day, the peaceful transfer of power from one president to another. I have to say, I was slightly emotional as I watched President George W. Bush end his stewardship as the Leader of our Nation. As he waved to the people one last time before boarding the former Airforce One, a single tear slipped down my cheek as I silently thanked him for keeping me and my family safe for the last 7 1/2 years. We will never know the immensity that sits upon the shoulders of the President of the United States. But, I am grateful for the former President's character, values, optimism and unending service to our nation. Thank you, Mr. President.

* A Weekend with my Handsome Husband and the Kids. Nothing special. It was just great to have everyone home together this last weekend. Kellie had a friend sleep over. Sydnie did some babysitting. Mikenzie did a few hours of geneology at Sister Williams. Blake rode scooters nearly all weekend. And me? Well, besides my pantries, I enjoyed doing mostly nothing. Just enjoyed the 'noise' that a happy family makes. Thank you.

Grateful Sundays

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others. (Cicero)

To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven. (Johannas A. Gaertner)

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. (Melodie Beattie)

"And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things.. (D&C 59:21)

This year I am trying to give thanks each day for the abundance that exists in my life. Each Sunday, I'll record a few of the many things that I am grateful for. Here goes.

I'm grateful for...

* Great Visiting Teachers. I love to visit with these two special sisters who have made time in their busy day for me. I'm thankful for the spiritual messages they leave each month that always give me 'food for thought' and lets me know they love me. Thank you.

*A Wonderful Sister. I love my sister, Danae. She's seven years younger than I, but oh, so much wiser. I value her wisdom on children, the gospel and life. She makes me want to be better and do better. She makes the most menial of household tasks (like folding laundry) pass by quickly and painlessly as I chat on the phone with her for what seems like hours. Thank you.

* Wonderful and healthy parents. My mom and dad are simply the best. Even though my dad is battling a very serious eye virus that has, hopefully, just temporarily taken the sight in one eye, I am grateful for both of my parent's overall health and vitality. They go, they do, and they find joy in the service of others, whether it's a widowed neighbor or a returned soldier. For their health, for their examples to me, I am grateful. Thank you.

* Beautiful cool weather. We have had a beautiful week. Bright, blue skies; a crispness to the air; days filled with beautiful sunshine. The kids have had a glorious week of playing outside, jumping on the trampoline and riding bikes and scooters. This weather reminds us that the darkest days of winter are (probably) behind us, and that hope for the wonderful days of new birth and spring are just around the corner.

* Kind police officers. On our way to church this morning, and yes, just a little bit late, a kind police officer gave me a warning instead of a ticket. A good lesson learned for the newest driver in our family. The moral of this story is, going a few extra miles over the posted speed limit doesn't get you to your destination any faster if you have to pull over and explain to the policeman why you are not obeying the law. Thank you, kind officer.