a good cause.

I began to cry. Not because of the fact that her hair will be gone. Not because she's going to look different. Not because I'll be embarrassed to be seen with her. Not because of the questions I might get asked. I cried because my 14 year old daughter decided on her own motive to be one of the candidates to have her hair cut, and buzzed to raise funds for child cancer research. I cried because of her bravery. It's official. She has been chosen, and so the short story goes like this... 

"Mom, what would you think if i shaved my entire head off?" I was like..."uhhh...why, what for?" "It's to raise funds for cancer research." Without hesitation, and a little bit of tears I said "it's fine with me." (my wow moment came shortly after!) She then asked me what her dad would think? I then told her go ask him. Better yet I called his name out to come into the living room. "Hun...come here." "Okay Lexie, ask him now." She asked him and he immediately said "go for it". I knew he would be supportive as we usually are when it comes to something huge, and different like this. I stood up from the couch, gave her a great big hug, kissed her on the cheek, and told her she was amazingly brave for her wanting to do this. 

We began to discuss the details of when it's going to take place, and how does one get chosen. Apparently the staff chooses three students from each grade. Lexie was so serious in wanting to do this that we got up early the next morning to sign a permission slip allowing her to be one of the candidates to participate. We got there a little late, but signed the permission slip anyway. She didn't think she'd get chosen, but I had a strong feeling that she was going to be, and sure enough she came home Friday after school telling me she was one of the chosen ones. I was really happy for her, and let me tell you something...I didn't recant in telling her that she shouldn't do it, and wasn't disappointed that she was chosen. As much I love her beautiful hair, I will love her even more without it! 

My heart swelled because of the choice as to why she's doing this. It is such a great feeling to know that I have a child full of strength and courage with a heart so big that she is willing to do this even thought she's not sick. The fact that we have had many family members from both sides of our families die of cancer has given her more encouragement to do so. Uncles, grandparents, and even friends who have suffered long battles with it, and eventually died from it. 

I began to cry because of the offering she is so willing to give, and in thinking of the cause. I am so pleased with myself in the way that I have raised this child. All of our children are sooooo different, and not everyone would have the audacity to do such a thing. I know that I would not have even thought twice about cutting my hair (was made fun of too much as a kid with an afro) much less having it buzzed off at her age. What an awesome young woman! 

I am in awe of her bravery, and the willingness for her to do such a selfless act of love. I count my blessings that the Lord continues to give me when it comes to our children. I am thankful for having a heart so big in allowing my daughter to give up her gorgeous hair for this stupid thing we call cancer.

And lucky for locks of love to be soon receiving some beautiful, healthy hair that has never been damaged by any chemicals! 

She has three weeks to enjoy her hair before it gets buzzed off! 


The End.

**Our goal is to raise at least $500.00, but we hope to surpass that. If  any of you who would like to donate funds please visit the St. Baldricks Foundation website and you can donate there.  Donations as little as a dollar will help increase the funds! This is such great cause, and again I am humbled that our daughter has chosen to do this.  

A special thanks to those who keep up with this blog!

xxx-Rose

Son of God: Reasons why I love movies about the Savior.

Ever since I was a little girl I remember my mother practically forcing my sister and I to sit down & watch The Ten Commandments with the iconic Charleston Heston. As if watching this movie from 1956 was going to teach us some kind of lesson, and help us grow spiritually. Funny thing is that I actually found that movie very interesting & inspiring. Growing up as a catholic I remembered having to memorize all sorts of prayers including the ten commandments. Now that I am older I have learned that there are more than just ten. Today...I thank my mom for all the times she would have us sit in front of the tv every time that movie would air during Easter weekend.

My love for Jesus grew as my mother tried her best to keep us on the right path. I developed a strong love for Jesus, and every time there was a movie airing about him I was always eager to watch it...without force. As I entered the double digits, and endured the trials I faced throughout my childhood I began searching for that light of Christ that I once remembered as a seven year old girl. I wanted to encounter and investigate every single church that worshipped the Lord. That was the beginning of humbling myself as a tween hoping that by going to church, and learning more about the Lord just as I did about Moses in the ten commandments would somehow help me, and those who were hurting me both physically & emotionally. The difference then is that when I was a small child I had my eyes wide open, and a mind that was willing to be focused on learning more about Jesus...specifically to save me through my trying times. 

For some of us it's a lot different when we get older. Some of us drift away, and take for granted the things that are taught to us by our parents about God. Then there are those who have gone through so much crap in their life that we are eager, and willing to "find ourselves" and seek that light of happiness. 

I eventually chose the latter...at the age of 16.

As I reached my teens I was still feeling lost, and afraid. Wondering why people were so mean to me. I wondered sometimes what I did to deserve such hateful treatment. I never wanted to blame my childhood as to why I did the things I did, but as hard as it was seeing some of my friends treating me so harsh I couldn't comprehend, and I wanted to die. Then again...I'm a girl. And sometimes girls at the age of 16 have a boyfriend. And with boyfriends at a young age comes heartache and drama. And with drama comes heartache, and with heartache comes severed friendships and relationships with both guys and girls.

Now that I am older with a family of my own raising four children of which two are teenage girls I am wiser in the advice I give them. The fact that they are being raised with a foundation of God helps me to become strong, and I am not afraid anymore. Reading this lovely post today written from my oldest daughter tells me that I did something right. And even though she had to learn things for herself on her own motive...she is on the right path to having eternal life.

I love sharing my thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. I am forgiving, kind, and love anyone who has ever harmed me in my past, last year, yesterday & today. It is not my place to judge but God's. The fact that I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints puts me at ease knowing that I have the truthfulness of the gospel to share with others, and that puts a huge smile on my face. I chose to follow Christ, be baptized, and to remember my sins no more. That's what He wanted me to do. That's what He wants all of us to do.

Watching the Son of God this past weekend three times was humbling, and like attending the temple gave me an extra boost of energy knowing that I can always do good. I practically sobbed throughout the entire movie all the while saying to myself, I want to be just like Him. I want to turn the other cheek when someone says something hurtful, or rude. I want to have his patience, his courage, his faith, his deep, deep unconditional love. I want to have his sincerity, and obedience in always doing good. Not cursing, thinking evil thoughts, or saying anything inappropriate to anyone.  I personally felt the spirit knowing that each day I have a choice to be like Him, and I can. And although I think I'm pretty close to being like Him...I am sooooo far from it. 

Everything about him is so perfect. I cried when he spared the adulteress in being stoned to death. I cried when Judah betrayed him. I cried when Peter denied him three times after he was sentenced to death. I cried when Jesus Christ walked up a steep hill holding the cross while being whipped after he already had been given 40 lashes. His perseverance, and the strength that he had was amazing. And when he said, "With God all things are possible" I cried even more, because that sentiment is so true. His heart was filled with the most unconditional love you can ever imagine, and the fact that he had such a forgiving heart to those that betrayed him helps me even more to always, always love, forgive, and strive to sin no more.

There was not one dry eye in the audience and people clapping their hands at the end of the movie was proof enough that this movie was beautifully, and eloquently done. Proof enough that even though those that saw this movie will walk out as imperfect as I am hopefully knowing that we can change, will start now to follow Christ's teachings, and do better.

And so today I move forward. Each day is a new day. A chance for a do-over. A chance to do better today than I did yesterday. I will strive to be forever on that path. Striving and seeking the good in many ways. Striving to choose good over evil. 

I love watching anything about the history of the world, current events, but most of all the Savior and his apostles. My life has changed immensely because of Him. I am not a perfect person, nor will I ever be, but reading about what Jesus went through in order for me to experience this thing called "life" gives me the courage to follow him in righteousness, and fight the adversary.

After all... "He is the way, the truth, and the life."

**all photos via google.

our "winter" Valentine's day weekend.

Is Valentines day a weekend for lovers? Yes and no. Some of us may be single with many friends to share it with, and some of us may have a significant other to celebrate it with. Fortunately I have a love in my life along with four children to make this holiday very special. Valentines day is one of my favorite holidays specifically because of the kids. Exchanging valentines with other kids at school was one of my favorite things to do when I was their age. I love teaching them about loving their fellow man no matter what, & that giving out valentines day cards to their friends at school (even to the kids that are mean) is teaching them unconditional love. 

Valentines day is not just for adults. It's also for the little people & these two had a grand time making valentines. Noah's art may not be mastered but he has the right concept when he draws a picture. We mailed cards, dropped off treats, and after a day of thinking of others it was our turn to have a date night. 

The day we saw The Saratov Approach movie we saw the trailer for Winter's Tale, and the fact that Jessica Brown Finlay (who played Lady Sybil in Downton Abbey) stars in it along with Colin Farrell made my heart swell, and I was sold! I had been counting the days till valentine's day for this magical looking movie to open. 

First of all I had no idea that this movie was going to be about angels & demons. Without giving too much of the movie away it was beautiful & absolutely stunning. There is a lot of love, hope, magic, and miracles in this film. It's an unabashedly love story with an ending that makes you realize what could possibly happen to us when we die, and in my opinion was an interesting rendition of good verses evil.

If you liked the movie "Ghost"...you'll definitely love Winter's Tale! 

*****

Attending the temple the day after was perfect! It was Valentine's Day weekend, we had just seen the perfect movie the night before, and we had our cute kids with us. We made it a priority to just take off and "run" to the temple! I felt so emotional this day. Winter can bring out the "blues" for some of us, but when you're at the temple no matter how busy, tired, or stressed your week, life is/was going to the temple takes all of that away. I know I write a lot about our trips to the temple, and that is because I have such a strong passion for it. The seasons pass us by way too quickly, and knowing that I made it to the temple this winter makes me extremely grateful that I made the time to go. 

Spring is coming pretty soon, and I look forward to the flowerbeds filled with different colored tulips, but on this day seeing the temple grounds covered with snow was a sight to see. It's amazing how looking at this timeless building in the winter brings me a different, but "fresh" perspective at my life right now.

This picture makes me so happy. Seeing these two hugging while the cold air is blowing with smiles on their faces gives me a surety that no matter how much they bicker they truly do love each other. Noah was too cold to stand outside for a long period of time, and so I quickly managed to capture this photo of him while cuddling on papas shoulder. Stubborn little boy wouldn't put his coat on. I asked him if he wanted his hat, and he said "I am wearing my hat mommy...it's my hoodie!" Silly boy.

Our lives seem so much calmer, peaceful when we leave the House of The Lord. Our feelings don't get hurt, and any offense made by another person whether it's family, a friend, neighbor, or even a member of our own congregation just passes us by. Nothing matters to us, but the love we share for others, by being a good example to those we meet, and come in contact with. Whether they feel our love for them is real is their choice. But I know that my love for each and every human being that I meet on this earth is real.

And that...my brothers and sisters is what the temple brings. Love, joy, & fulfillment. It truly makes us a better disciple of Christ, mother to my children, wife to my hubby, and friend to others.

Now two things you need to tryyyyyy to do this week..go watch Winter's Tale and attend the temple if you can! There's over 100 of them, and there's bound to be one where you live! If not...I don't think you'll have to wait much longer.

Happy Monday! 

an inspiring weekend.

Ever been to a movie where you leave with all kinds of thoughts, wows, & 'aha' moments? Well Saving Mr. Banks was like that for me. It was brilliantly produced & if I could have five minutes with Walt Disney & Pam Travers in the next life I'd be one happy girl. 

This movie was such an inspiration to me. It resonated with me in so many ways. Having three father figures in my life was quite the experience & you know what...I'm glad I endured every thing that I experienced while having all of them in my life. 

While Ms. Travers had one father she loved him in a way that was filled with wonder & portrayed him in her book as if he were her hero. The love she had for her father was overwhelming, and one of a kind. 

This movie was mystical & magical. Magical because it's based on Mary Poppins. Throughout all the adversity & heartache this woman went through as a child her thought process on how to recover & endure from her experiences was admirable & remarkable! She had an imagination like no other. An imagination where she was able to endure & escape on how to deal with traumatic experiences. I don't want to give away too much of the movie but I'll tell you this. It has motivated me to write my own story in ways where a young life that was filled with heartache can be turned into something magical & beautiful. 

And then seeing the trailers of Son of God & Heaven is For Real right before the movie began prepared me for the tears that came later!

Next to the sound of music, Mary Poppins is by far my favorite musical. My kids can watch it over & over again & seeing it on broadway was fantastic!! Getting a glimpse inside this woman's head as to her coping with her childhood was touching. And as Walt Disney said "don't dictate your life by living in the past." Is something that I have learned. 

Go see Saving Mr. Banks. Better yet, own it!

*****

Attending Kate's missionary farewell was a grand end to my weekend. I love going to missionary farewells & homecomings because they definitely put me back in full 'missionary mode' not that I served a mission, but it encourages me even more to speak up, and share this wonderful book.  Listening to her speak on how she chose to serve, & where she was spiritually before making this decision was very humbling. And I'm so pleased with her decision. 

We live in a world where everyone needs saving. A world where negativity is prevalent & different forms of parasites are roaming the earth to destroy the goodness that's inside of us. We can mend the world by doing something good & when it comes to sharing the gospel..life is fulfilled, and the world seems like a happier place. 

I'm thankful for those who are called to serve The Lord to share his gospel.  

Good luck Kate! See ya in 18 months! 

seek, ponder, & pray.

All day long I had been sitting at home trying to figure out some temporal things that have been on my mind lately. Now that Sierra has chosen her school, and all the deposits for tuition and housing are paid for I am pretty much relieved.

Yet, I felt as if something is still missing. I asked myself am I praying enough, am I reading God's word enough, am I serving enough? Why do I still feel out of sorts? And then the thought came to me about the temple. It's been a month since I haven't gone, and boy am I going through withdrawal. Since I don't have a temple nearby that I can drive to within five minutes like I used to it's really nice to live in a neighborhood where pretty much everyone works, and the street is pretty quiet hence being a perfect time to concentrate about 'life'. 

With Noah's allergies acting up he began to fall asleep, & instead of doing laundry, blogging, or reading I decided to take advantage of the glorious weather. I figured this was my opportunity to connect with the divine through prayer, and just relax by being outside.

I decided to grab a blanket, took Noah with me, and we both laid on it with the sun shining down on us. As I was laying down trying not to cry too much in front of my boy I couldn't help, but to think about my family's future, Sierra's graduation, the possibility of a job change for Jon, and all the things that were written in this talk that I'm going to teach about this Sunday.

I read it again while laying outside, and again so that I can be well prepared for my lesson this Sunday. There are a few things that connected with me in relating to this talk that brought back memories of my childhood. It was also a reminder to me to make the right choices in this life every single day.

This is the closest I felt to God today. An afternoon of laying out in the sun in my little backyard while Noah was sleeping. What I felt on this day was amazing. The feelings, and thoughts that came into my head as I focused on the things that are paramount. I may not have been at the temple or in a sacrament meeting at church, but I sure did feel God's love for me today. I never want to lose sight of recognizing those feelings. I love Him too much to let go, and give up on the things that are eternally important.

This is a blessing of motherhood, and instead of taking Noah to the park, and running afternoon errands, I am so grateful that all I did today was focus on receiving some inspiration from above. I wish I could have these moments everyday (minus the allergies...poor Noah). The difference is that I was seeking it, and instead of me waiting to receive guidance from Him...I came to Him first.

And that was a great feeling!