A Forgotten Post From Christmas Time in 2020.

Couldn't let the year go by without doing a little shout out for Lexie who continues to valiantly serve her mission in Arizona. Although time in the beginning of the pandemic seemed slow when she first came home cause the borders closed she pressed on and continued to serve the Lord from our home via zoom with her fellow zone missionaries. She truly shined and no matter how challenging it seemed to learn the language from home as opposed to an in person class setting, she was lucky enough to have had some free time after her missionary classes so she can relax and spend time with us. Thanks to a chill and understanding, caring mission president, he didn't expect her to be cooped up in her room all day strictly reading the gospel. Fast forward to today where he continues to be the best mission president and she appreciates him and his wife so much. She is lucky to have them and they are lucky to have her serving in their mission. So proud of her in how she has handled every challenge that has come with this pandemic. She is unstoppable and amidst the challenges she has faced - she has learned to face them and spiritually grow from them. Yup, she is just like me when it comes to facing and learning from hard things because...we can do hard things! 

Eight more months and she's home! Merry Christmas everyone! 

Spiritual Thought.

Missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ not only share the gospel online or in person. They also make time to physically serve others and in these days it’s sooooo needed. Serving others in these days has helped me cope throughout the pandemic. Not only is it therapeutic, but I find that when I serve others I tend to focus on them instead of myself. It is so true that when you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God. And one can truly find joy when they serve and help others.

**Pictured is my cute daughter and her companion Hermana Cook who are currently serving in The Arizona Tempe mission.

The Only Missionary Who Was Waiting At The Curb At Newark Airport.

I know this is old news but I wanted to express how thankful I am that Lexie arrived home safe and sound last week. Even though she was rushed to leave the country from Mexico City it was nice knowing that she wasn't among the 1600 plus missionaries who arrived in Utah. I also count my blessings for not living in Utah (lived there experienced that) and that she and her companions were the only missionaries at LAX to switch planes and that she was the only missionary at the Newark airport to pick up! After reading this article on how sooooooooo many families in Salt Lake City were NOT waiting at the curb for their missionary but instead were allllllllll NOT practicing social distancing blew my mind! It didn't surprise me with that many missionary families did not follow protocol. I get that families were excited to greet and have their missionary home, and maybe they feel invincible from this virus but they really should have practiced caution. I only hope that none of those missionaries or their families got infected because of NOT social distancing and minding protocol. 

Our Last Day With Sister Griffin & Elder Berrett!

Once again I'd like to express my gratitude to all the missionaries all over the world who are serving full time missions. I know leaving their comfort zone is not an easy thing to do especially when one is super close to their family, but I know that leaving for 18 months to two years to serve The Lord, and share his true gospel is worth all that time gone from the ones you love. 

A New Year, A New Calling.

When we first moved to our new ward in Princeton, and our bishop told us how they don't keep us in a calling for too long he wasn't kidding! I love change, and even though I've enjoyed being in the nursery with the babies, and teaching Noah's class it's always nice to have different callings for that is the only way we will spiritually grow. 

We Love Our Missionaries!

Ever since we moved into our new area we have had the missionaries from our church over for dinner more than we have before in previous wards. We have had them over every month since we moved in (except for January because the plague took over the entire family except for Jon) Anyway, having the missionaries over in our home has been such a blessing, and our lives have become more peaceful. Especially after they leave. The more I get to have them over my house the more I truly appreciate their hard work, and effort in what it takes to share the gospel to strangers. Leaving their home life, family, and other important things that they sacrificed to leave their life behind to serve the Lord for two years is admirable, and I am so grateful for their service. 

A Shout Out To The LDS Missionaries.

One thing I failed to mention upon moving were the details of our move. I mean, we're just moving and it's not like I'm going to take numerous photos of boxes, and us packing. That would probably be boring to most readers, but what I wanted to write about is "the help" we received. 

In the beginning of packing boxes and piling all the rubber maid bins against the foyer I thought to myself, "we can do this on our own, just the five of us, we don't need any help, we're pros. We've done this before." Now mind you I was thinking this way because Jon and I have moved so many times before (at least 11 times in 21 years) we figured we can do this, but when it came close to the end of our moving date I was beginning to get a little bit overwhelmed and like 21 Pilots "stressed out" that I knew I had to swallow my pride and ask for help. I knew that I needed at least three extra bodies besides my family to help us out to load up boxes and bins into the truck. I was thinking who could possibly help us out two days prior to our move. If you're wondering about my neighbors helping they would have, but most of the neighbors on our block are senior citizens, and my neighbor next door, whom I love to death, was getting married so my last resort was asking members from our church. 

I began scrolling down the directory to see which brethren would actually come serve on a Saturday morning with two days notice. I thought of a few, and got a couple of responses, but only one brother showed up. No biggie. My gratitude kicked in. Then, as Lexie was sweeping up the kitchen she said, "mom call the elder missionaries." It was as if a light bulb clicked in her head, and I was like, "why didn't I think of that?" Well, it's probably because we haven't had any male missionaries in our church for like five years so the term "out of sight, out of mind" was like that towards the missionaries. 

I immediately gave them a call and asked if they could come help us load. They obliged without any hesitation. They even asked us if we'd like more help. I was like, umm, yes!!!  So we had more missionaries come help us, and I was so relieved. It was like an anvil was lifted off my shoulders! 

I'm so grateful that Lexie received that inspiration of telling me to call the missionaries, and for my part in contacting a few brethren. Even though we only had one brother come I was so grateful!! What a blessing it was to have had five men come and help our family move. 

We got everything loaded in the truck within two hours and it was really quick and easy. Even the missionaries and Brother Szary mentioned how our move was the easiest move ever! They said, "you guys have it down." I attest that to years of moving, and only keeping the things that are the necessities of life which makes our move easier! 

My heart swelled with so much appreciation for their service, and I will forever be grateful to them for helping us out at the last minute. 

I want to give another shout out to the  missionaries from our church because if there is one person(s) you can rely on when it comes to a helping hand, call the missionaries. They are really big on service. We were so fortunate to have had them come, and even though I called them a couple days prior to our move, there was no murmuring or, whining. There was laughter, and a lot of action. 

If you follow me on my Snapchat I snapchatted them while they were moving our washer and dryer from the basement and they had the biggest smiles on their face, and were laughing because they were trying to figure out how to get it through the door. Jon helped them out a bit, but the genuine laughter on their faces showed that they didn't mind the sweat, and found joy in helping us move! They all had a great attitude, and they certainly will be blessed for their service.

It is my hope that as our son grows up, and when his time comes to serve a mission that he will always be willing to serve with his heart, and a good attitude! The way he helps me in the house today makes me believe that he's off to a great start! 

If you're interested in contacting the missionaries from our church to meet with them, and to find out more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints just log onto LDS.org. 

Have a wonderful weekend!! 

General Conference in Washington D.C. '16

General conference gives us the opportunity to think about the things that are on our mind which are in need of nourishment in hopes that we receive answers to our prayers. And at any given moment when we are praying our heart out that through the words of our prophet, and his apostles those answers to our thoughts, and prayers will come. Many of us listen with pure intent with a prayer in our heart hoping that by the end of conference our faith will be restored, and that we can fix the things that need mending. If we are truly focused on that still small voice to the trial, or conflict at hand, and are prepared to listen with an open mind, and heart, I know that it will be given. Answers may come the moment an apostle speaks, or much later when we re-read the talks in the church magazine, or when someone else voices testimony. Turning to the Lord in mighty prayer, and reading the gospel are number one strengthening tools that help guide us in prayer, and manages to keep us on that righteous path. I know that we as a family, and me as an individual are in constant need of prayers. We all are. It's something that is never ending so when general conference arrives that is our perfect moment to have our minds open, and to be attuned with the spirit. 

This year we decided to drive to Washington D.C. temple and watch conference inside the visitor's center. It felt as if I was inside a mini conference center except without the mormon tabernacle choir, and all the leaders sitting in the front with a teleprompter. It was a great experience, and even talked about making this a tradition. Hey, the two and a half hour drive twice a month isn't too bad! We are already talking about coming in the fall, and are already looking forward to it!

While we were there we met some of the nicest senior missionary couples, but this couple was the cream of the crop! Sister Burgon and I instantaneously became the best of friends by the end of the fourth session. Sister Burgon, and her husband are from Utah, and being that my husband is from there, and how we lived there for 10 years it's always nice to converse with anyone who is from there only because we have a lot in common! In a conversation we were having I told her my conversion story, how I met my husband, and how I aspire to go on a church mission with him once our kids are on their own. She encouraged me to keep that goal. We exchanged personal information, and told each other how nice it would be if we were in each other's wards because it's members like her whom we need in our life who are compassionate, welcoming, loving, fun, and super real! Lexie also mentioned how she reminded her of grandma. So fun, and super pleasant! 

Conference this year was very emotional for me, and watching the leaders of our church speak with such love, and devotion trying hard to hold their tears didn't help either! Or maybe it's because I was away from all the troubles of the world, and being inside the conference center visitor's center listening to conference in the auditorium near the temple made for a perfect weekend filled with numerous "heavenly moments." (Thank you  Elder Holland for those words!). To know that I was in a building next door to the temple brought perfect peace to my heart. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland talked about having "heavenly moments" in our lives such as attending a sweet session in the temple, having a spiritual sacrament meeting, or spending time with family in nature, or at the temple. And how we can attain those moments once we enter back into the "real world", and hang onto them? I think that if we remember the feeling we gained in living those precious moments in our life, and know that it comes from Heavenly Father, and constantly do good that we will become stronger into hanging on to those heavenly moments, and to never forget them.

Kent F. Richard talked about serving, and attending the temple often. I whispered to Jon how ironic it was listening to conference inside the visitors center of the temple, and how most of our leaders topics were on temple work! The Lord definitely knows our hearts, and what we long for.  

I love my family, and I'll tell ya that if it wasn't for my soul searching heart, or striving to find that light that would undim the dark world I was surrounded in 23 years ago I would not be standing in this photo, in front of the temple with this sweet family of mine that the Lord has so blessed me with. I have gone through many ups, and downs in my life, and know that there are more to come. I'll never reach perfection, and that's okay. But to understand that I'm worthy enough to know that I'm a pretty good soul, and worthy of God's love is something that brings sure confidence to my well being. I know that if I make "living the gospel" a high priority in my life that I'll be okay. I chose this life, and was willing to accept all the trials that were given to me so I can learn, and spiritually grow. So that I can find the truthfulness of the gospel, marry my husband, and build my family. I chose to allow myself to discern right from wrong, and face all the opposition that would come my way. I chose to follow Christ in the pre-existent world because I was ready to commit to all the things that would come before me in my mortal life. And because I know I'm a daughter of God, and believe in the Savior Jesus Christ, and know that He lives, I will strive to endure to the end until the second coming. So that I become perfect just like Him.

And that is my hope and prayer for my children, and their posterity as well! 

Hope y'all enjoyed conference, and that your weekend is wonderful! 

**You can listen to all the talks here. They were absolutely amazing, and inspirational! Every talk was so needed for my ears! 

Called To Serve.

Well, the time has now arrived for our daughter to begin the life to serve as a full time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I will never feel the full effect of what it's like to serve a full time mission because of becoming a member so late in age, but I know this...I love the gospel. I know it is true, and that it is the key to everlasting happiness. I know that the Lord has placed missionaries on the path of those who are seeking light, knowledge, joy, and truth. And I'm so grateful to have a child who will be experiencing in sharing this wonderful work of The Lord.

I appreciate the missionaries, and all that they stand for. Leaving their place of comfort surrounded by familiar territory, friends, and family is not easy, but in the end, it will all be worth it. They will be blessed beyond measure for doing so, and will be unimaginably rich in blessings...and so will their families. 

I love how the gospel changes people, and believe me it does change you. I am a testament to that change. I know that Sierra is going to be a loving, guiding, caring, and understanding person in the mission field. I know that she will love the culture of the filipino people, and that in return will gain new families as she teaches the gospel. She radiates a lights so bright that she will be loved by everyone. I know that things will not be perfect for her, and I know that even in the mission field trials will occur, and that she'll have the strength to get through them. I only hope they're not huge! I know that the Lord will guide and watch over, and that He will always be there to help her. The only way He can help her as a missionary is if she reaches out to Him in prayer. To ask, be still, and listen. To keep busy, and work hard. I know that she will plant many seeds, and pray hard to bring those who are lost back to remembering what the light of Christ felt like. And reach out to those who are in search of truth, and everlasting happiness. I know that she'll reach out to those in need of service, and make many friends. And that's the most important part of missionary work. Is to love, and be a friend. It's not about the numbers, but about the quality of love that is given to any one who is placed on her path. And she will be great at that!

I wish her the best in serving, and learning the language of tagalog. I pray that she will bring all her knowledge with her while training at the MTC, and in all that she accomplishes while on her mission. 

And so I end this post with the lyrics from a hymn that I first heard at church when missionaries would be sent out. Sure it pertains to full time missionaries, but at the same time...I believe it's meant for me too! 

Every member a missionary right? 

"Called to serve Him Heavenly King of Glory. 

Chosen e'er to witness for his name. 

Far and wide we tell the Father's story, 

Far and wide His love proclaim. 

Onward, ever onward, as we glory in His name. 

Onward, ever onward, as we glory in His name. 

Forward, pressing forward, as a triumph song we sing. 

God our strength will be; press forward ever, 

Called to serve our King. 

Called to know the richness of His blessing

Sons and daughters, children of a King. 

Glad of heart, His holy name confessing. 

Praises unto Him we bring. 

Onward, ever onward, as we glory in His name. 

Onward, ever onward, as we glory in His name. 

Forward, pressing forward, as a triumph song we sing. 

God our strength will be; press forward ever, 

Called to serve our King. "

Address for those who want to write to her. I know she'd appreciate any kind of mail while in the MTC! 

Provo MTC address:
Sister Sierra Jorgensen
MAR30 PHI-URD
2005 N. 900 E. Unit 204
Provo, UT 84602

Love & Appreciation For The LDS Missionaries.

Having the LDS missionaries in my life is vital to my well-being. I love being around them, and the spirit that they carry. The fact that sister missionaries taught me about Christ's love, and eternal life 23 years ago, makes me love, and appreciate them even more. Every six weeks we have missionaries come, and go in our area. Some stay for months at a time, and some transfer way too soon. Luckily for us, we were able to have Sister Jensen serve in our ward for six months!! That was a great length of time that flew by way too quick! We have had Sister Nutting, her companion for a few months now, and we've grown closer to her as well! I tell ya, the more you have the missionaries over your home, and take them out on their p-day the more you love, and want them in your life! Having breakfast with the sisters this past Monday was a great beginning to my day! Their spirit rubs off on me so strong, and urges me to want to share the gospel even more, and never forget my conversion. I love every single missionary that comes into our ward, and have always tried to welcome them with open arms. No matter what state or country their from, or their culture, I always strive to make the time to welcome them in my home, and do my best to fellowship them. They are thousands of miles away from their families, and I know exactly how it feels to be away from family. The only difference is I'm 20 plus years older, and am able to talk to my family whereas they are only allowed to make a few phone calls throughout their 18 months of service, email once a week, and write letters. Since I now have a daughter who will soon be serving in the Philippines it is my hope that the families in the church out there will help her feel welcomed, and loved. From what I heard about the Filipino people is that they are the most kindest, and humbling folk out there so I'm not worrying at all! 

Sister Jensen reminded me so much of my own daughter with her bubbly personality and all. She was always so willing to participate with the members, and teach in Relief Society. Such a great example of missionary work. I love that she got along so well with Sister Nutting, and can tell that it was real. There truly was a genuine companionship there, and that they treated each other as Christ would treat others. Although Sister Jensen will be missed we look forward to meeting new sisters, and hope that they will feel of our love, and support. I sure do love these girls, and try my best to make them feel at home. My son has grown to love them, and every time they come over our house he always wants to talk their ear off, and tell them about his day, toys, and school. It's too cute! He knows that they carry something special with them that will brighten anyone's day.  

And when they come inside our home, they always brighten ours! 

To know more about the missionaries you can log onto lds.org , and for a free book of mormon you can go here to request one! Or, you can always contact me, and I can send you a free copy!

Celebrating 45 With Cupcakes, & The LDS Missionaries.

One thing that brings relief not only to myself, but to my family especially in this day and age, in the midst of all the somewhat hustle, and bustle I feel that I've been doing is having the sister missionaries over from our church to come into our home. They bring such a unique light, and truly have the gift of making one feel comfortable, and real all at the same time while eating good food, and having a few laughs. No matter their personalities, or how different one sister may be from the next I always manage to love them all, and make them feel at home. They are, after all away from their families for 18 months, and knowing that my daughter will soon be sitting in the homes of families makes me want to treat all my sister missionaries better!

Noah has been sick this past week, and aside from all the running around I've been doing with thinking of others during the holiday season I have realized that I need to make time for myself. I'm grateful that I acknlowedged the hustling and bustling a couple of years ago, and somewhat learned to balance all that I need to do when it comes to the holidays. The thing is that I'm never prepared to have a sick kid because we never know how bad the flu will hit our home come winter time. Luckily Noah's fever goes down, and I'm praying that he doesn't have pneumonia because with this crazy weather that we've been having you never know! He feels better after taking medicine, but if his fever persists, and cough gets worse off to the doctors we go. Sierra developed pneumonia in her freshman year of high school, and missed 10 days of school! That was not fun, and I pray that no one else in our family gets that again!

Having the missionaries coming over is such a spiritual treat to my family, and I see how much my kids love, and appreciate them. Since Noah missed church yesterday they totally brightened up his day, and were the remedy to making him feel better that evening. Even though it was Jon's birthday weekend he ended up being the one to stay home with Noah from church. Lexie had a solo for the Christmas program, and I didn't want to miss it so it was just us girls at church. It was a beautiful service, and I really appreciated all the lessons that were taught during class, and the fact that it was all focused on the Savior makes me extremely grateful that I belong to such a wonderful church where I am taught about Christ's life, and all the goodness that He brings in hopes that I can be an example of His light to others.  

I'm so thankful for all the missionaries who are serving around the world, and especially the ones who are in our area. It's so important to include them in our lives. They give so much of their time, and efforts in bringing new members into our congregation. Their energy is contagious, and being that I'm a convert to the church understand what kind of people they may be teaching, because at one point in my life I was an investigator myself learning, and figuring out if this was the right church to join, and if this is what I really believe in, and you know what...it was, it is, and I do! My passion in welcoming those who are new to the church is solid, and pray that no matter how tough life gets they will never give up on the Lord, or coming to church to be strengthened, but most of all to learn more about Him. 

The missionaries are such a joy, and after the week I've had with everything that I do that deals with the world, motherhood, and overall life, knowing that I am able to refresh myself on Sunday, and take in the lessons of Christ, and to sing beautiful songs of praise makes every chaotic week I've had worth it! And having the sisters over on the weekend of Jon's birthday made it even better, and that was the icing on the cupcake.

So thankful for the missionaries, and all the good that they bring. If you have any interest as to who they are, and how you can learn more about the plan of salvation please don't hesitate to reach out to them. You can log on to lds.org to learn more too!

Have a wonderful Christmas week! 

Thankful For The LDS Missionaries.

^^^This is one of Sierra's childhood friends from Utah. Jordan Watchman served in San Diego where he recently returned home from his mission with honor. We are very proud of him. And soon it'll be Sierra's turn! ^^^ 

In the church I attend we have what you call missionaries that go out and share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Although we believe in the bible we also believe that there is another testament of Jesus Christ titled the Book of Mormon. 23 years ago I became a member of this wonderful church and my whole heart became more focused on the Savior Jesus Christ. Without the help of the missionaries of the church there would've been no way that I would've been strong enough, or taught proper enough in learning true principles of the gospel. To love, cultivate compassion, forgive, and most of all turn my heart over with sincerity to the Savior and leave my old life behind, and turn to a new one. To turn my heart over to Him so that in the end I can have eternal life, and reign with my Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ for eternity. So these wonderful missionaries are important in today's society, and whether they are 18 or 80 these missionaries are dedicated to sharing the gospel to anyone who may be searching for truth in a happier way. They are the ones who help those who want to learn about eternal happiness and the purpose of life. They are the ones with the knowledge of Christ's teachings, and His restored gospel. 

I am extremely thankful for the sister missionaries that had a huge part in my conversion. I will never forget them, and will always appreciate their kindness, love, and the patience they had in putting up with my stubbornness and all. It's been a pretty great life for me and I am so thankful to be a member of this church. I know that this church is true, and that we are guided by living prophets. I know that it has helped my family become more bonded than ever. It truly is the way to lasting happiness. No matter the trials we've faced as a family, I know that leaning towards the Savior will help guide us through a better life, and help us to be more Christlike. 

So here's to the missionaries who have served, who are about to serve, and who are currently serving all over the country. You are amazing, and even if you find one family, one person to come unto Christ, you're mission will be worth it. The Lord knows your hearts, and your reasons as to why you are serving. Keep on keeping on with finding those lost sheep who were on the same wavelength as I was 23 years ago. They're out there, you just got to have the patience, and faith to seek them. It may be tough at times, but I know that with sincere prayer you will find those who want so desperately to belong to a better world with light in it, and want to change. To have a new life, and be cleansed. 

First I want to recognize Hermana Schmidt who I met on the internet when I wrote about this post in regards to our former stake president. Turns out that she is serving in the Dominican Republic where he is currently serving as her mission president! Definitely a small world, and she is lucky to have President Corbitt as her president! 

^^^ Daniel Poaletti returned home from his mission earlier this year. He dedicated two years of service in Brazil. ^^^

^^^ Elder Hubner is currently serving in Missouri, and Elder Dapp is currently serving in California. They both grew up in the church together, and are the best of friends. How awesome it is that they are both serving missions at the same time! ^^^

 ^^^ Sister Alexandria Spears is currently serving in California. ^^^ 

^^^ Sister Vogel (the one doing the peace sign) is currently at the MTC, and will soon be serving in the Vanuatu/ New Caledonia which are the islands in the South Pacific! ^^^ 

There's a few more missionaries that I'd love to put on this blog, but don't want to make this a super long post! Know that I'm thinking of y'all! I love these people so much! I would say kids, but they are almost 19, & 20!! So never ever give up on the work! You will be so blessed for doing so!

***If you are interested in learning more about the missionaries, or want a free Book of Mormon please don't hesitate to contact me! You can also log onto our website at lds.org to find out more about the missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  

missionary love.

There is something very special about having the missionaries who serve for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints come into our home to give a special, spiritual message of Jesus Christ our Savior.

They instantly become family members & are guaranteed never to be forgotten even after they get transferred, and/or have gone home. Just ask this beautiful girl, this lovely lady, and this spunky girl whom we miss so much. Every time they come over you definitely feel a 'happy' spirit (as my youngest daughter calls it.) You immediately want to share your life story with them, offer your services in any way that you can when it comes to missionary work, and just want to be there for them in any 'spiritual' way.  

These lovely girls are between the ages of 19-21, yet I feel so comfortable talking to them about anything and everything (even though I'm in my 40's). Perhaps it's because I was their age when I got baptized, and the remembrance of that special day will never be forgotten. I sometimes feel as if I'm still 'investigating' the church because every time they come over I get these flashbacks of when I used to have them over my house as an investigator. I love, love it when they come over with a spiritual thought, and then add a fun game to it! The spirit is especially fun as we converse with them over dinner, and if you have them over for a Family Home Evening it's even more fun because our kids can pick on them instead of us parents to read, & comment on the lesson they are teaching.

We recently had the sisters over this past Monday for dinner, and FHE. It was a bittersweet 'farewell dinner' because one of the sisters was transferring to a different area. I am so glad we were able to have her over two days before her departure (& the day before the storm hit!) She is amazing, and the love she has for the gospel & in serving her Heavenly Father is unique. All missionaries no matter how old they are or where they're from whether they're new in the field, or about to return home carry a uniqueness within them that in some way surpasses my own. I love bringing it into our home. I love conversing with them, laughing with them, playing spiritual games with them, learning more about Jesus Christ, and discussing ways on how we as a family can be strengthened in keeping a gospel centered home. 

No matter how old I get, I know that having the missionaries over will help me to continue to learn, grow, and to be reminded of the promises I made to my Father in Heaven 21 years ago. Having them over never gets old. It's not an obligation, and when I don't have them over for awhile my withdrawal kicks in. That's when the spirit nudges me to let me know that it's time to have them over, & to never forget them. How grateful I am for the missionaries who leave their families for 18 months or two years to serve the Lord for free! 

Blessings will be fulfilled throughout their lives for doing so. 

And that is very humbling to a woman like me.

**If you are interested in meeting with the missionaries you can go to this website. They serve all over the nation, and can be contacted anytime! 

Have a wonderful weekend & stay warm! 

A week in review.

On Monday...

Chelsea came home from school, and asked if Lexie can take her and Noah to the park. Normally I don't allow them to go to the park on a school day, but I felt that Noah needed to get out of the house to release some much needed energy, and since I didn't take him out earlier Lexie obliged.

On their way home she found these caterpillars. She was begging me to put them in a jar, and I felt so bad that I said no. I know I wasn't a fun mom on this day so I told her the next time she finds more we will definitely put them in a jar with leaves in hopes that they will transform into a beautiful butterfly. I'm not sure if that will happen, but I guess there is only one way to find out next time she puts them in a jar.

On Tuesday...

This beautiful floral arrangement was sent from grandma and grandpa who live in Utah. The kids always get excited anytime anything arrives with a Utah address. They sent these to her for her winning "Best Piano Soloist" for her high school in her last jazz festival competition. I'm so grateful that they have thoughtful grandparents, and that my husband comes from a wonderful family. We sure are all proud of her. Notice Noah crashed on the couch!

On Wednesday...

Sierra's dress came in today from Utah. Grandma Sue never ceases to amaze me with her talent. She managed to change a "Goodwill" dress into an "ooh la la couture". Her church prom is later on tonight, and you'll see what I mean by the "ooh la la". She really worked a miracle on this one, and it only cost me 15 bucks for the dress, and less than 30 for her to enhance it into a brand new dress. She is going to look so beautiful! She's so excited. Sorry for the teaser picture!

On Thursday...

My day was just not going well.  Ever had days like that? Days in which the weather is not cooperating, and you snap at your children because you only got four hours of sleep the night before. A day in which your mind feels weakened by unresolved issues, and no matter how hard you pray you still feel so vulnerable. A day in which you snap out of it, rely on your spiritual sensitivity, and hope that tomorrow will be a better day with a prayer answered. I've definitely had plenty of those days, and this day was one of them.

I found this plate of chocolate chip cookies on my doorstep along with a sweet note. The LDS sister missionaries were so kind to come by and drop them off. They were really in tune with the spirit because on this day I really needed a reminder that Heavenly Father was indeed listening to my voice, and He did. Receiving something as simple as a card or a plate of cookies can make a huge difference in someone's life.

On Friday...

Noah was a little naughty. While I was blogging I heard the kitchen chair scraping across the tile floor, but I ignored it.  I ignored it because I assumed Noah was just finishing up his lunch, and scooting the chair back into place. What he did was scoot the chair towards the kitchen sink, and I found him a soapy mess! He was trying to get some chips that I keep in a white bread box. He's obviously a little too independent, and didn't want to bother me while I was on the computer. I laughed and hosed him down in the deep sink. He used a lot of dish soap, and a lot of it went inside his mouth.

He also learned that dish soap doesn't taste so good! It does make me feel good that he is even more independent than his sisters when they were his age. Each of them are strong willed and independent in their own way, and that makes me on happy mother. That tells me that I'm doing something right!

Note to self:

*Next time Chelsea (or Noah) come home with a critter I won't be to quick to say "no".


*Next time I'm blogging I need to make sure that the chairs are up on the table, or blog while Noah takes a nap. No more assumptions. 


*Next year I want to attempt to save money again on Sierra's prom dress. It'll be her Senior year, and I want  to make sure that even though it might be second hand, or a dress designed by Grandma Sue that she will LOVE it.


*Always, always pay forward the blessings that I have received.