Noah's Baptism!

"Yes, mothers, teach your children the gospel in your home, at your own fireside. This is the most effective teaching that your children will ever receive. This is the Lord’s way of teaching. The Church cannot teach like you can. The school cannot. The day-care center cannot. But you can, and the Lord will sustain you. Your children will remember your teachings forever, and when they are old, they will not depart from them. They will call you blessed--their truly angel mother. Mothers, this kind of heavenly, motherly teaching takes time--lots of time. It cannot be done effectively part-time. It must be done all the time in order to save and exalt your children. This is your divine calling."

-Ezra Taft Benson

What I'll Miss About South Jersey: Part Four

Heavenly Father puts people on our path for many reasons, and if your lucky you'll meet a few who share the same attributes, likes, dislikes, loves, thoughts, but the most important thing I've learned from each individual while living in south jersey, and attending this specific congregation is having a christlike love in your heart. 

And that's all that matters.

No matter the challenges I faced when it came to my life here those lessons only taught me to become stronger, and to learn from them. They have done nothing but strengthened my testimony in the love I have for the Lord, the belief i have for the gospel, and the love i have for my fellow man. It has increased my compassion towards others in need, helped me to be fearless in sharing my beliefs, and boosted my energy to be able to tolerate any unfortunate negativity that comes my way. The unconditional love I have for my sisters, and brothers in this world is an amazing feeling to have, and I'm so grateful that I was able to humble myself even more throughout my eight years of living here. 

Although my faith was tested many times I have seen miracles happen while living here. God is amazing when it comes to answering prayers, and I know that when we go to Him, and simply "ask" He will provide ways to lead us to unimaginable happiness, and fulfillment. Especially in times of stress! 

My life here amongst the trials we've endured have been blessed over and over again. Thanks to a few of my sisters who have been there for me when the going got rough. But especially for being there when it came to simple, and sincere friend-shipping. 

There are those sisters whom I've know the entire time I've lived here who always thought of our family when it came to concerts, and events happening all over Philly! Thanks Mary!

Mila, whose example of meekness, and benevolence rubbed off on me in many ways! Such a sweet, and beautiful Christ like attribute to have! 

 Rosa, Rosa, Rosa. I love her. Love her sense of fashion, and one thing I learned from her is learning. She is an amazing woman raising three daughters on her own, and the strength she has when it comes to having the desire to learn, and grow more in the gospel is astounding! 

These two sisters are awesome when it comes to endurance. I love how they just have a smile on their face, and come to church to listen, and be taught. Charlene (left) and I had some great visits in my home. 

I love the comments Trish gives during Sunday school, and in our Relief Society lessons. I sure learn a lot from her!

This woman deserves her own post, and I'll do that at a later date, but this woman is amazing when it comes to patience, and unconditional love in her calling as the Young Women President! Love her! 

This is Diane who is as sweet as can be. She is someone who has the desire to learn, and tries really hard to strive for the greater good as we all should. 

These sisters I have known within the past year or so, and they are just beautiful! I love them so much, and hope they know how much I appreciate their friendship! 

All of my sisters in my congregation are amazing, and I will never forget them. We each have stories to tell, and experiences to share. There are so many more I would like to mention on here such as Tweara who is by far the strongest person I know when it comes to hardships. And Wanda who goes with the flow, and has a tender heart underneath her boldness. These sisters are the perfect example of love, and kindness, and I will forever be grateful to Heavenly Father for putting them on my path. 

These are the ties that bind to true friend-shipping, and even though they tell me that I inspired them in many ways, sometimes it's the totally opposite for me. They have enlightened me as well. 

I will miss my dear sisters, and will do my best to see them, but at best we can plan temple dates, and I will write my heart out, and enclose silent hugs via snail mail. 

Love you guys so much!! Stay strong in the gospel, and with the guidance of Heavenly Father, and never ever give up on yourself when times get rough. Remember that you are worthy of God's love no matter what!! Live the gospel, and stay high in your standards no matter how old we get! I promise that if we all do that our cup will runneth over. 

Have a great weekend everyone ! 

What I'll Miss About South Jersey: Part One.

For the past eight months I have been serving as the Faith in God Leader for my church, and I can't begin to tell you how much I will miss teaching these sweet girls. With each calling comes great faith, and growth and I have to say that this one was on the top of my list. I will miss these girls, and teaching them every two weeks was something that I always needed. I think they taught me more than I taught them, because for the most part they were quicker at memorizing the articles of faith than I was, and answered quickly to the questions that I'd ask when it related to a bible or book of mormon story. Pretty impressive minds! Seeing their smiles as I'd walk in because they would be there a bit early, or because I'd be running late made me feel worthy of their presence because it showed me that they were willing and ready to be taught! They truly have brought so much joy to my life, and the fact that I was able to teach my own daughter was a bonus! I can see that even when we come home she tries to do her best in living what I just taught her, but at least she keeps it real with her sassiness, and that at the end of the day she says her prayers, apologizes, forgives, calms down when she's having a drama moment, and knows right from wrong.

This past week was our final lesson, and I wanted to leave some memory with them that would be important for them to remember to help keep them focused on the gospel. And being that summer is coming wanted to keep them busy so I decided to teach a lesson on service which entailed bringing a long list of things they can do to serve, and help others as well as doing random acts of kindness on top of having a little bit of temporal fun. I combined a few ideas I got off of pinterest, and gave each girl a tin can to decorate with scrapbook paper, wooden sticks to write on and washi tape to decorate it for good measure. They all wrote the things that they can do during the summer as well as on Sunday on what they can do to keep the sabbath day holy with good, clean, happy fun. 

I didn't want to keep them too late, and because they were having so much fun decorating we went over time, and some of them had to take them home to finish up. I love crafts, and finding ideas for them to not only cultivate a talent, but to learn at the same time is worth going out to get the things that we need. It's fun, and I think the girls enjoyed doing it.

Sister Trace, who was my assistant has been a huge help, and guide for me in this calling. Sometimes I wonder if she should be the leader because she knows her stuff! She's so good with the girls, and I think the fact that she has years over me when it comes to primary callings is why she's so great with kids. She has been in the primary off and on since I moved in the ward eight years ago, and was my other daughters (Lexie) first primary teacher. She currently teaches Chelsea in her final year of primary, and has really enjoyed having her as her teacher. 

Towards the end of the evening I wanted to take a picture of the girls and of course they had to be goofy as all pre-tweens are and they wanted to "dab????" I had no idea what that was, and found out as they were doing it! They are so fun!! 

I'm sure going to miss these girls, and their wonderful, unique, different personalities. My hope is that these girls wil remember what I taught them, and live it! Being that sister Trace is still around to teach them gives me hope that they will continue to be taught true principles and be in good hands! I really care for these sweet girls! 

Here's hoping everyone has a safe, and happy three day weekend! 

A POWERFUL ORDINANCE.

One of our many adventures when we travel, and don't laugh, is attending other wards. Same church, but in a different city or state. Reason why I wrote "don't laugh" is because for most people that may not be an adventurous outing, but it is to us. Ever since the girls were little we decided to not only attend a temple while we are on vacation, but to find an LDS chapel to attend if we stay until the weekend. Since our daughter participated in EFY for a whole week we decided to stay over the weekends to attend the past two Sundays at Rockbridge ward in Virginia. 

And it was refreshing! 

Refreshing because knowing that no matter what area of the church we attend the gospel never changes. The doctrine is the same, and most of the time I end up making new friends. That's a bonus! 

We were lucky enough to have been present this past Sunday when the stake president spoke on the sacrament, and why we partook of it at the end of the meeting. 

I was wondering why we were waiting to take sacrament at the end, but after listening to both talks as to why it all made sense. 

First, this wonderful sister gave an excellent talk on sacrifice, and President Jones talked about preparing ourselves before taking the sacrament, and how vital it is to prepare ourselves not five minutes before we step into the building on a Sunday to sit down for church, but to prepare the week before. Maybe even two, or three days before. In other words...always be prepared to take the sacrament ahead, and with a great desire. 

He mentioned how partaking of the sacrament every Sunday isn't ritual. It happens regularly, but it isn't ritual. It is the closest thing that we have to the ordinances of the temple of Solomon. The closest thing we have to the ordinance and anticipation of the sacrifice of Christ. He continued on with the story of when Jesus met with all his apostles for the last supper (the passover), and taught them the doctrine, and procedure of the sacrament as explained in Luke 22-15. 

I personally never want to think of taking the sacrament every week as ritual, but a "powerful ordinance." I don't want to rush coming to church, winded trying to find a place to sit with my kids while in my head saying, "we made it." It was nice to not have not been in a rush for the past two Sundays, and to have arrived to church five minutes before it began. It was nice to have felt a sincere desire as to why we chose to come to church when, in all honesty, we didn't have to. We could have slept in, and played hooky. But we went. 

As I was listening to the words of President Jones all I can think about was the crucifixiton of God, and how He knew what was going to happen to him, and yet He desired it. And when I think about what He sacrificed for me, and my family gives me a stronger desire to come on Sunday prepared to participate in the emblems of His sacrifice, and to be spiritually renewed by His atonement willed by his father. And to recommit myself to be more like him by that "powerful ordinance." I know I'll never achieve that goal in this lifetime, but I'll certainly do my best every day of my life to be a kind human being. To follow along in prayer, and take the ordinance of the sacrament seriously, so that in the process I can be cleansed. 

I am so grateful to have been a part of this ward, even if it was just for two Sundays, and to have participated in taking the sacrament at the end. It truly made it a more holy, and sanctifying experience...without any distractions!! 

Having it done this way reminded me of all that I was taught when I first became a member of the church. I was reminded of the story of Jesus, and how going to church shouldn't be "casual, and ritual" but a sincere commitment because the main purpose why we are there is to take the sacrament so that we can be spiritually renewed. 

President Jones ended with saying how partaking of the sacrament should be the central focus of our sabbath worship, and our week. That is so true. That should be our main purpose, and having him reminding me of that gives me a greater desire to keep God's commandments throughout the week in hopes that by coming every Sunday prepared that the cleansing that I long for will come, and that I will always have the Savior in my life. 

I want for my husband and I to be good examples to our kids so that they can understand that church is a place where we come to worship, and remember the Lord's sacrifice. That church is a place where they will learn all about Heavenly Father, and his son Jesus. That church is a place where they can feel safe, and know that they are loved by Heavenly Father as well as their brothers, and sisters. To teach them that no matter where we go...the Church is perfect, and true. 

It was so nice seeing our children happy, and comfortable in Rockbridge ward. We really had a nice time in Virginia, and you better believe we'll be coming back to visit this ward next time we are in town! 

Happy Monday! 

Baptism.

A few weeks ago my husband had the opportunity to baptize a youth at our church, and I'll tell you...when he was asked to perform this ordinance his was grinning ear-to-ear! The last time he baptized someone in the church was our 10 year old daughter. At the time she had just turned eight so it had been about two years. He loves it when he has the opportunity to baptize someone int the church whether it's an investigator or his own flesh and blood. It's times like these when he is reminded of his mission, and it never fails that every time I attend a baptism at my church I am always reminded of my own. The thoughts and feelings that come with nervousness were all too real, and somewhat familiar to me as I've witnessed some of the past baptisms we've had in the past. 

Let me tell you something. 

Those thoughts and feelings of nervousness are not feelings of "should I do this", or negativity  but come from happiness, and all that is good knowing that even though you are joining a church that is unfamiliar territory to you the end result of "belonging" is a blessing, and a feeling that only we can comprehend. The tears of joy, the tingling in our fingers, and that big smile we put on our face is not a facade, but real in all its glory. Because we have just given our life to the Savior, and have vowed to strive to live just like Him. Cleansing ourselves from any sins we have committed in hopes that we will never repeat the "big" (and even the small ones) again!

Though it may be tough for some of us to endure to the end it's so important to continue to remember the things, and promises of commitment we made at baptism. To remember to be strong, and live the gospel. To continue to attend all the meetings at church so that we can seize all the words that are coming out of every lesson taught to us during those three hours of church. To soak it all in so that it can strengthen us, and pray your heart out that we will never forget. Listening comes with strength, and unforgetfulness with out the listening comes with consequences. Consequences that can be avoided  if we put God first.

What an amazing experience and fresh start for anyone who comes unto Christ to change their life, and start anew.  The missionaries who serve throughout the world in finding those to seek what we're all about, and learning about Heavenly Father's plan have so much to share with all of us. I know this to be true because I felt it the moment two sisters came knocking on my door to deliver this video. That was it, and I was in. 

The ending to all the bitterness I harbored ended. Along with massive prayer, professional counseling, endless brutal writing in my journal, and being tested along my way to progressing in the gospel has helped me to become who I am today. It was the beginning of a beautiful life, and even though there are struggles in between it doesn't have to be the end. That's when I realized that we have a choice. A choice to look back at the promises we made to our Father in Heaven when we got baptized. My life will never be perfect, but knowing that I have made the choice to serve God with all my heart brings me a feeling of joy that only I can feel, and know for myself.

I pray this for anyone out there who wants a changer of heart.

Dominican Republic New Mission President.

May has definitely been a busy month with school field trips, award ceremonies, trips to the post office for mothers day, birthday & graduation gifts, attending bridal showers, & I cannot believe it's come to an end! One great memory of May was attending President Corbitt & his wife Jayne's missionary farewell. 

Last Sunday many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints gathered in the chapel to bid farewell to one of the most amazing former stake president (& couple) known to man. 

President Ahmad Corbitt and his wife Jayne have been called to serve a three year mission in the Dominican Republic. I have never been to a former stake presidents farewell, and was very excited as to what they were going to discuss & talk about. 

I was very impressed by what his work in the church entailed. I knew he was an attorney but I'm not one to poke into someone's business & although I knew his job dealt with public & international affairs I didn't think it was to the point where he's meeting major prime ministers of china & other countries! I wasn't aware of all the different dignitaries he met throughout the years & how large of a scale he was on in furthering the view of the LDS church and I think that's amazing! 

It's also amazing to see how the Lord works with the other countries who are having issues right now, and having the right people in place through our contact and examples to everyone we meet. And having them learn more about the church can have a positive influence on their countries to build towards peace with one another, and when other countries know what we're all about their hearts can be softened. President Corbitt is the perfect example of interfaith relations, and in that field where his presence & knowledge with the church will bring a peaceful spirit.

I know that the Corbitt's are going to be amazing leaders and that their missionaries are going to love them. My kids love him, I love him, my husband loves him, everyone loves him! He's definitely one of a kind, and unique in his own right as to build up the spirit in a room. He strengthens, motivates, and encourages others to hasten the work just as he has been doing with people of other faiths for many years. I wouldn't doubt if someday we'll be calling him "Elder Corbitt from the Quorum of the Twelve."

I recently met one of his missionaries through the internet who will be serving in his mission when I wrote this post about him. Sister Schmidt is sooooooo excited to meet them & mentioned to me how reading about him got her pumped for her mission. We exchanged emails, and are now Facebook friends. I told President Corbitt how I already met one of his missionaries via the internet, and how I was was going to keep tabs on him through her! Haha! I'm kidding of course. He doesn't need any looking after because he is so awesome! It definitely is a small world when it comes to the church & I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've met a friend of a friend of a friend that way. Truly amazing. 

So, here's my farewell speech to the Corbitt's since I didn't get to put it on video:

President Corbitt...for the past six years you have been an amazing example of good works to my daughters. Because of that you are going to be a fantastic mission president. The people of Domincan Republic are going to love you for being there, and the missionaries are going to miss you when you leave. I remember when you said how you will "be gone" once you got released from being a stake president...well, in a sense you are. You truly meant your words when you said something about not looking back, but moving forward after your release and that is a great example to be! 

Jayne...I've only known you for a short while, but feel as if I've known you forever. You are such a beautiful soul with so much to look forward to. Good luck on the language, and being the best "mission Mama president" you can be. 

Continue to seek the good in others, and to never forget your purpose in this life. Good luck with your future endeavors for the next three years of your life surrounded with nothing but the spirit...and I hope it'll all be good! 

xo-Rose

Why i feel marrying within the same religion is so much easier.

One of the best parts of being a wife and parent is having a companion who shares the same beliefs as you, loves everything about you, doesn't disrespect, belittle, or controls you in any way. Punishes your children in any way except when strictness is necessary. Someone who equals you out in the best way possible. When your weak he's strong and vice versa. Someone who knows how to turn down the volume when the "mean mom" comes out. Someone with a heart so big, and forgiving that he's willing to do anything for you, or anyone without hesitation. 

Someone who listens. 

Someone who knew you way before your life was changed, and accepted everything about you even after you told him all about your dark secrets. Someone who has faith to entrust you in having his children no matter how rough your childhood was. Someone who's like a little kid himself who will drop everything to spend time with his own. Someone so spiritually strong who has the patience like Jobe to explain a certain verse, or chapter in the scriptures to the younger children that usually goes on for an extra 20 minutes! 

Someone who knows, and has a relationship with God. Someone who grew up with values you wish you had. And even though they made mistakes at some point...they know what repentance is & that it's there. Not to do it again, but that it's there to help rebuild your life. 

Someone who has the best attitude especially when times get rough. Who has so much faith & believes that good things happen not just to good people, but to everybody. Someone who is just simply the best in all that he does. 

Someone who picks the perfect family home evening lesson that is needed for your family (especially for that week!) Someone with a faith so strong that no matter what lows come your way he always manages to bring them up to an all time high. 

That someone is my eternal companion whom I've shared my life with for nearly 20 years, & he is the ultimate hero in our life. 

*****

Which brings to pass the purpose of this post, and reasons why I would like all my daughters to marry someone with their fathers attributes. Not everyone will be exactly like their father because there's only one of him. But they can find somebody who shares the same values, standards, and beliefs, as he does.

Some of you may think I'm being close minded & judgmental because I only want them to marry within the church, but if you were in my shoes having converted your life to Christ & a religion where they teach true principles...you'd want them to have those same exact values & marry someone within the same faith. 

I have heard stories on how hard it can be to be married to someone with a different religious background or nooooo religious background. And although their love is real, there may be times where deep down life can be such a stressor for them. The "active mormon" verses the "non-member spouse." Sure we may feel that we can be the "key" & example to help them convert, but think about it.....

Do you really want to wait five, 10, 20, 30, or 50 years for them to convert to christianity? And what if they never join the church in your lifetime...who's to say that they'll even accept Christ & the gospel in the hereafter. 

This is exactly why my passion in having my daughters marry within their faith which is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is so strong, and to meet someone who will understand why they believe in what they believe. If I don't feel connected with a boy that my daughters are dating it's not because I dislike them. It's because I just don't agree. Call me old fashioned, but in my eyes that doesn't make me a hypocrite, or a sinner. It makes me a strong, loving, & caring mother whose job in this life is to protect & look out for my girls...& eventually my son. 

Boy is he going to be a hard one to let go! 

Thankfully I have learned over, and over again that all children need to govern themselves. And I'm especially grateful that my firstborn has "seen the light" in knowing that getting serious with a nonmember can have some serious consequences. Their beliefs won't be yours, and yours won't be theirs. You can either go their way in jeopardizing everything you were taught to learn for yourself, or stand firm in what you believe in to have that special someone take you all the way to the eternities. 

Marriage requires a hell of a lot of work to begin with & when you two don't see eye to eye due to different beliefs that will cause problems which again will add more problems, and stress to your life.

I can never imagine how it is to be married to a nonmember, but I'll tell you this. I know how it feels to date someone who didn't understand why I no longer wanted to drink, smoke, or have sex. Clean fun was, and will always be my goal, and I want that goal for all of our children. I'm not perfect, never was, and never will be. I know what temptation feels like even after joining the church, but I thank God that there is repentance, and the chance to do it right. 

If my kids do end up marrying outside of their religion I want them to know that I will love them, and their spouse unconditionally. I will accept them because they are all children of a loving Heavenly Father. 

And if you happen to be married with someone who is not of your faith, and things are just  a-okay with them then that's awesome! Everyone is different. 

I count my blessings for the choice I made in marrying someone in my faith. We may have our ups, and downs but because we share the same beliefs it's easier for us to talk openly about our faith, and any problems we may have pertaining to "life." Communication is key to a great relationship, and because of that we always manage to lift each other up, and find a common ground to stand firm in our faith.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.

dance like it's 1980.

lovely young women enjoying an evening of dancing like it's 1980.
-photo source Tom Hawkins

This polar vortex that we've been having sure didn't keep us indoors. This past weekend was planned with fun places to go one being New York to see Jon's cousin Kenzie, and beating the clock against New York traffic to get Lexie to arrive safe and sound for her first youth dance at our church. 

Darkness began to fall and it was already after five pm. We had planned it very carefully to leave at a certain time so that we can make it back in time for the dance, but to no avail.  

We didn't leave the city until past 5 & by the time we hit the Polaski skyway it was close to 6! Although we knew we'd be arriving late we tried to make up time without trying to speed. We obviously enjoyed Kenzie's company way too much that time spent with her flew like a leer jet, and we lost track of time. We just had to keep her until the very last minute!

We arrived close to 8:30 so that gave Lexie an hour and a half of 'boogie time" As we drove into the parking lot of the church and pulled into a parking space I could see some of the young women waiting for Lexie. I told Jon to reverse slowly so that I can catch a clearer glimpse of who they were. Not that I worry about who the girls were, but I was glad that Lexie's reaction to entering wasn't nerve wrecking (although I think she was hiding it very well.) I saw the girls welcoming her with open arms & greeting her with hugs. I can see Lexie smiling, and laughing from a distance, and that's when I knew she was going to have the time of her life. 

And I wasn't worried.  

Lexie had a great experience attending her first youth dance. It was an '80's themed dance, and I think the youth committee is doing a great job in planning these activities to accommodate the younger crowd. 

She turned 14 two weeks ago, and was pretty excited about going. I have no clue how one feels to be anxiously awaiting to turn 14 to go to a dance at the church. Sometimes I wish I was able to experience how Lexie and Sierra felt when she began going to youth activities. I know that it's a totally different feeling as opposed to a youth outside of the church turning 14. At 14 I had a boyfriend and doing things that were not "spiritual"...if you know what I mean. 

There is so much fun that goes on within the youth of our church both spiritually and temporally. Mini youth conference is coming up next month, and Lexie is definitely excited for that. Her favorite part about being 14 in the church aside from going to the dances, & seeing her friends from other wards is learning about the gospel at the level she is in. She is anxiously engaged in wanting to know more about The Savior & His restored gospel so that she can serve others, and share it in hopes that her level of spirituality will reach an all time high. I believe that it will.  

I am so grateful for these activities that keep our youth safe, and actively strong in the church. Having clean fun surrounded by happy youth is the way to be. I'm happy that Lexie enjoys learning about the gospel, attending her meetings, and learning from her leaders in her class. She is another daughter of mine who is unique in her own way. One of a kind, and it's so fun to watch her spirituality grow, and to see the love on her face when we talk about the Savior, and the gospel. It is a priceless look that I never want to go astray!

the desires of my heart.

I have been thinking a lot about the resolutions I have made for this year, and it's sad to say that I have broken one of them. The 'mean mom' came out of me this past Sunday morning...right before church. Not the way we like starting out our day especially while getting ready for church, but chaos broke out in our house, and I wasn't too pleased with that. 

To begin with church begins at 9am now which I actually love, but my youngest daughter had a hard time waking up. She is such a night owl, and prefers going to church at 11:30. I struggled with her to the point where I had to raise my voice. Okay...no sugar coating on this blog. I yelled. I had to explain to her (again) that we rotate the time every other year with the other ward, and that this year church for us begins at 9am. The first couple of Sundays of the year are always hard. I think that having Noah in the mix calms our house down. All I have to do is look at him, and he puts a huge smile on my face. He glares at me as if he's telling me to calm down. He actually did tell me that "my voice is too loud" at one point. That was a 'whoa' moment for me. Maybe there is a reason why he is born last! He is such a stud, and loves getting dressed in the morning. No problems with that little guy (or my two teenagers!) 

Second of all I slipped and fell on the steps as we were walking out of the house, and almost sprained my right foot. If it wasn't for Lexie hanging on to me it could have been a lot worse. Jon suggested that I stay home, but because I was teaching I didn't want to miss church. I cleaned myself up and off we went. 

As soon as I entered the foyer of the church I immediately felt that overwhelming feeling of peace. The peaceful feeling that brings in the spirit of God, and the desires of my heart. I saw my visiting teacher in the hallway and gave her a great big hug. The glow on her face uplifted my spirits. I quietly stood outside the chapel as prayer was being said, and then quietly walked in with my family. We sat in the front pew, and I knew that I was supposed to be here. That I wasn't supposed to miss church. To grow, and learn. To serve, and fellowship. To partake of the sacrament & renew my covenants. To bear testimony...and to teach. 

It was fast Sunday and testimony meeting, and every month I always have the desire to share my testimony of the savior. I stood up to share the minor mishap of our morning and the love that I have for the gospel. 

Testimonies mixed with a story were born by my fellow brothers and sisters and they were all mostly about scripture study, being guided by the holy spirit, temple work, and overall the love we each have for the gospel. It seemed as if every one who stood up there has a goal for the year to read, read, read the scriptures. That is good, and that is my goal as well. Especially since we're studying the Old Testament this year. There is so much for me, for all of us to learn. The gospel gets better with time. The more we read and learn it...the better it gets. It truly is a timeless gospel. 

Everyone's heart is good, and it feels good to know that we all attend church for the same reason. I'm sure that we all have different desires, but i believe the one desire we all have in our heart is to do better each week we attend. I hope that with time, prayer, & patience my teaching skills regarding the gospel will improve. I'm no gospel scholar, but have a lot of love to share. I have the desire to always be there for my fellow man. To be able to share parts of my life (if it has anything to do with the lesson), & and I will do it in a tasteful, and tactful manner. Luckily I bought this book to help me throughout my lessons and to become more familiar with the Old Testament. So far it is a life saver!

I have the desire to want to help others, and be a better mom. I know, i know, there is no perfect method, or recipe for motherhood, but in the eyes of God...I not only want to please Him, but my children as well.  

I am so grateful that Heavenly Father stood by my side all the way up to the pulpit that morning with a throbbing foot to share my thoughts, feelings, and love I have for the gospel, and to have endured three hours of church. 

In spite of a rough morning the day ended well. That was the main desire that was in my heart from the moment I woke up. 

And I made it through...I made it through. 

**Hope you're week is a good one! 

primary blues.

So for the past two Sundays Noah has not been wanting to attend his primary class at church, and it's beginning to get a tad bit frustrating. I have no idea what has caused him to not want to attend after being in this class for ten months, but hopefully we will find a solution, and figure out as to why he's not wanting to attend. 

Quite shocking because Noah loves primary! He loves his teacher, and all the little girls in that class. We can be out of town in a different state, same church with different people, and Noah will have no problem going to that primary class. At first I thought it was the fact that we had general conference earlier this month, or the fact that he was going through withdrawal with Celeste being gone. He's perfectly fine when he's at home. You know.. with saying prayers, and participating in family home evening. Scripture study can be a bit of a struggle, but that's to be expected from a toddler, and sometimes he won't sit still. He's turning four next month, and I personally feel that it might be that he's just growing up. 

His sisters never really went through phases like this of not wanting to go to their little class. Sure once they entered nursery for the first time, or a sunbeam class (which Noah is in now, and he's not even four yet) can be overwhelming, and scary. But overall they all did well going to class, and we didn't have to deal with anything like this.

What is it with boys? Or is it just my kid.

I remember in other wards I've lived in, (and I've lived in a lot of them folks) nursery age was up until the age of three. Once they turn four is when they enter the sunbeam class. I don't know. I'm not complaining (okay maybe I am just a little...too late) it's just that Noah was barely three years of age when he entered the sunbeam class. Well..he's turning four next month so there is no turning back, or no use whining about it because that gets us nowhere! All we can do is try to find a way where he will go to class without causing a distraction, and continue to love this kid when he doesn't. 

Jon was such a good sport this past Sunday, and ended up taking him to the class he was teaching. Even then Noah wouldn't sit still, and wanted to "go to the car". I felt bad for Jon, and for the youth in his class who probably sensed the contention. I wish he would have grabbed me to take him since I wasn't teaching. He even took him to priesthood which didn't go very well. Apparently Noah thought it was play time, and decided to play behind the curtains (priesthood is on the stage in the gym in our ward.) I sensed Jon's frustration on our way home, and felt super sad for him!  

Noah is a darling little boy, and there are times when Chelsea will try to take him, but to no avail. I feel like a bad mom bribing him with treats during the week so that he'll go to class this Sunday. Not that I've bought him anything, but i gave in by giving him my iPhone to play games on, watching more than one movie, etc. I'm such a softee.  

I don't know if anyone has ever had this issue with a toddler about to turn four not wanting to go to class. We shall see how he reacts this Sunday. 

Jon and I both teach Sunday school, and this week it is my turn to teach Gospel Doctrine! Yes...I'm excited, but still nervous!

I don't want this small trial to run our lives every Sunday. I know that this too shall pass.

He did say he'll go to class though...after i gave him some technology time. Thank goodness for these little cards. 

We shall see.

Pray for him, and me... 

^^Noah and his sweet friend Celeste^^

That he'll have a smile of excitement on his face again when he's on his way to class! 

i trust her...she's strong.

It's already been a week since Sierra first stepped foot into her dorm, and after meeting her roommates and their parents I am so not worried. Sierra couldn't have been blessed with better roomies. These girls are beautiful in every way and they all have one thing in common...The Lord.

They are all christian, and even though they are of different faiths they understand each other, and it is a comfort to know that.

Jessica is from Singapore, and Emily is from New Hampshire. They are both dance majors, and are the sweetest girls. Jon and I immediately hit it off with both their folks, and it looks like they are going to have a great first semester living together.

I have to say that I am extremely grateful that she is just across the bridge because let me tell you...we did a lot of things at the last minute. Had she been going to school across the country I know she'd, we'd have been better prepared. It didn't help with the spontaneous road trip we took returning home close to midnight the day before she moved in! I know...crazy huh?

A last minute lunch date with one of her friends took place an hour before the move. Having Steve with us the entire day was helpful, and we didn't mind the good company. I am just wondering if he'll ever want to hang around us again. I adopted him for the day, and it was so much fun having another boy hanging around in the mix of all my girls.

We spent all day moving her in, and luckily for us UARTS fed us really well that evening.

It feels weird not having her here, and I miss her. Although she is across the bridge, it feels as if she's thousands of miles away. I guess it's just really hitting me now, and those tears have been coming down like a waterfall. I'll go into her room which Chelsea has taken over, and rummage through her desk. There are back issues of American Girl, and New Era magazines on her desk that should be recycled, but don't want to. Luckily I have another teenager that is putting them to use, and Lexie has already read a few.  I'll even come up to Lexie to tell her how much I miss Sierra, and burst into tears. She'll console me, and tell me that she's not far away. She knows how much I miss her sister. I miss her so much that I've been calling Lexie "Sierra" more than I should. I know she's just a text, and a phone call away, but I don't want to smother her too much. I know it's going to take some time to get used to not having her around to play me some Downton Abbey on the piano, and hearing her laugh. 

One thing for sure...the singles ward in Philly, and the staff at UARTS are lucky to have her.

Church...oh how I was so looking forward for her in attending Relief Society with me, but that's okay. She committed herself to staying in the young women until the day she left for college, and I thought that was awesome. She even did some visiting teaching with me as well. I am especially grateful that her testimony is firm enough to attend church on her own. She knows that life without the gospel would be hard. She has already made friends in her singles ward, and although she was a little nervous to enter inside the doors of a singles ward where she is literally the "baby" of the group (there are more 20 year old's in church) she stands strong. 

She has accomplished so much to get to where she is today both academically, and spiritually. I hope that she will remember all the principles that has been taught to her in the gospel throughout her life. Attending a college in the city in Philly can be scary for some, but because of Sierra's solid testimony she knows where her standards are, and where she stands in the gospel, (and how to defend herself-thanks to pepper spray.) 

One chooses their own destiny, and I'm praying for a lot of successes in her future. 

I only pray that she won't make the same mistakes I did, and that she will do a lot better. 

A lot better...and I believe that she will. 

farewell to sister nichols.

Missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are a huge blessing in our life, and a gift to those who are seeking happiness. I know because I was one of them. I will never forget the day I met two wonderful sisters who came to my door to deliver a video leading to the day of my baptism. I will never forget that day, and how the gospel of Jesus Christ continues to transform my life. 

We constantly have missionaries serving in our area, and it is so nice to have different sisters come to serve. It gives us the opportunity to know them, and to serve them. We may feel that it is their job to solely seek those in need, but I have learned a long time ago that as members of the church it is our role to help the missionaries serve others in sharing the gospel as well. 

It is an honor to know that I have this book in my life, and how it helps me on a day to day basis. Without the gospel I honestly don't know where I would be today, or have the family that I love now. 

Since I have lived here I have grown so close to various sister missionaries trying to do all that I can in helping them find souls to seek the plan of salvation, and bring them eternal happiness. To help, and accept them unconditionally no matter their history or background.

I love missionary work, and hope that as each new sister comes into our ward that we will continue to know them, help them in making their investigators feel welcomed, and fellowship those that they bring to church.  

I love each sister missionary and hope that we will continue to keep in touch. There is a 100% chance we will because I still continue to keep in touch with the sisters that not only taught me the gospel, but that witnessed my sealing in the Salt Lake temple. 

There are other sisters such as this one, and this one whom I will never forget. Then there is the lovely Sister Nichols who just spent the last several weeks serving in our area. She served with her whole heart, and last night we bid her farewell.

Many of us gathered at the church to visit, eat yummy treats, and say our goodbyes...for now. It was a lovely evening, and getting acquainted with her parents was so much fun. Knowing that her dad was from Texas was fun to talk to, and her mother was the most pleasant woman to visit with...not to mention beautiful! Wish I would have taken a picture with them! 

We all fell in love with Sister Nichols, and I think she favored Noah the most which is okay because we all do in this family.

She says he is on reserve for her future daughter! 

Who knows...who knows!  

She will certainly be missed!