Mormon Monday

I have had many thoughts for the post today; however, someone linked to this article from Elder Oaks from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It is entitled, Protect The Children.  It got me thinking about all the many children who do not have all the love and care they deserve. It is hard to think about it in the broad perspective of world, so I want to narrow down my thoughts just a bit.

I came from a house where my mother was an alcoholic. My step father had a TBI that created an uneasiness between the two of us. My home life was less than desirable (however, I am grateful for the trials I did not have to face). Looking back though, it was the people that stood up to protect me and nurture me that did not have to. Te example that many of those adults set for me are what kept me going then and are often what I now reference as a mother. In some instances, I don't believe that they had any idea of what I was facing, but they still made room for me in the protection of their "wing". This is what we have the responsibility to do! To not only love and protect our own children, but to also love and protect the other children whom come into our lives.

May we take the opportunity daily to look behind the rough edge of the children that may pass through our lives and see them as our Father in Heaven sees them and show them that unconditional love.

Food Storage Friday

Food storage encompasses so much more than just the food that we will need to eat if there comes a time to rely on what we have stored.  Think about your everyday activities.  What are some of the items that you may take for granted but you would notice if they were missing?  Dish soap, paper towels, TOILET PAPER?  I can think of many items.  Those items are also things you will want to have a supply of.  More ideas include tooth paste, cleaners, diapers, wipes, feminine products...  Think about the items that you rely on.  Make a list.  When you find a good sale, buy some extra and begin your supply.  This way you not only are building your storage but you are doing it for less and without panic. 

Thrifty Thursday Clearance

I love clearance items ( sometimes). I guess I should explain that sometimes clearance isn't really a deal. For example, there are some stores that mark things as clearance but then you compare it to normal price and it is only discounted a few cents. Don't get me wrong, a few cents adds up, but don't be fooled if you can wait for a better deal....

With that said, sometimes deals come up that don't last very long. Right now THRIVE has some food storage on clearance that once is gone, is gone... Some of the deals are really good. If you live near me and would like to put in an order with me to save on shipping, let me know. If not, shipping isn't that expensive and I love that it comes right to your door :)  For anyone who would like to do an order, I will probably do it early next week....  Here is a link to the  Clearance Deals.

A time to Grow

I think it is amazing to see how we, as a society, advance and grow.  I have noticed lateley a trend in what I read (mostly on blogs) about how people have taken their trials and successes and shared them with others.  This sharing can be looked at in multiple lights.  Some may look at it and say that they are seeking attention or yearning for approval; however I say that their experiences can make the rest of us stronger!  We can take from them and learn how to overcome challenges before or during when they occur.  I love that we are no longer afraid to share the imperfections in our lives, we all have them.  We are here to learn and if we band together, we will become stronger and harder to break. 

The purpose of mortality is to learn and to grow to be more like our Father, and it is often during the difficult times that we learn the most, as painful as the lessons may be.  -Thomas S. Monson

I think by taking the opportunity to share some of our experiences, we are able to look at our experiences and see them in different lights. Often it is a way for us to document and move on as well. As I have talked with friends it has be come obvious that we are taught to put on a good face.and not let anyone see our weaknesses.  Although I do agree with this to some extent (if we are always negative all we will see in life is the dreary) I do think that we are leading the next generation into a false future.  We are here to learn. We are here and trials will occur.  It does not show inadequacy to hurt or to cry. It shows that one has feelings and is not numb. Thank you to those who have decided to share your raw stories. Who you are and why you are that person! 

Celebrations

Time seems to fly with children (and at moments stand completely still).  From the time they are infants they are learning and growing.  Each moment is an opportunity to help them feel safe, loved and to feel accomplished.  We are working daily with Snuggles on speaking (which means that Bay gets just as much). We use words constantly and give ample opportunities for him to say the words.  We encourage constantly.  It made me think about life in general.  When children are young, it is easy to celebrate with them.  Each advance seems to be monumental.  Constant celebrations takes place. 

Unfortunately, as children get older, sometimes celebrations cease to be as constant or even at all.  Children are still advancing.  They are still learning.  They yearn for that approval that they once knew and helped encourage them.  I don't think that parties need to be had for every occasion, however I do think that we need to take more opportunities to celebrate our children (at any age).  Let them know they are important and that you notice their hard work and dedication.  They are important to you; share that with them!     

Something Extraordinary

I love reading about how things came to happen in history, particularly this history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. One of my favorite people to learn more about is Emma Smith. To me, she was an extrordinary woman with amazing strength and perseverance. To be honest, on days when I think I can't go any more, I can dig into stories I know of her and know that my trials can be overcome. I was recently shown this online magazine that 4 women wrote. To be honest, I have not read the entire thing yet but what I have read I enjoyed and I learned a few new things that made being a part of Relief Society even more of a special thing.

Something Extraordinary

kristinferrell.blogspot.com

Like a Child

A video was released today that I couldn't help but talk about. It is entitled " Just Like Me". 

It is a small boy who talks about how mom cries when he cries, is broken when he is broken, shares joy when he is joyful and how really, she must want to be just like him. To all mothers who want to be just like their children, it is an honor.  On those days that seem that bedtime will never come, remember that it will be worth it. Pay offs come each and every day. Sometimes we just have to look a little harder for them. Be strong. Be the mom that cries, laughs, and breaks with your children; that is what they will remember!