Many of you know of our minor obsession to be prepared. Well, my testimony of putting together a year supply has been strengthened.
On Wednesday night we were trying to go to sleep when we heard a LOUD crack. We got up to inspect where the noise had come from and found that our sideboard on our bed had cracked in two. (we won't discuss possible reasons this happened, we will just leave it at that and I will assure you that we have both taken up working out again.)
What to do? We are trying really hard to stick in our budget and with no money left to purchase a new bed frame we got creative.
We now have a bed frame consisting of two food storage boxes stacked up. I even have a food storage box stair to step into my bed. It is really nice.
And, interstingly enough, there is no longer a big lump in the middle of our (less than a year old) mattress.
We are blessed for our obedience.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
I've been leading a double life...
well, in my attempt (keyword:attempt) to be more organized I purchased a Blackberry. It has actually been great. I make an appointment, put it in and voila...never a missed appointment again.
The great thing is that if I sit at my computer I can also enter appointments into my outlook. It is working just dandy!
All was going smoothly until I realized that in order for all this to work out I had to sync the two. I have neglected to do so, mmmmm, since I got the blackberry because frankly, I am lazy and it takes too much effort.
Yeah, if you don't sync the two, you end up with many days with double appointments all day long. Definitely a minor set back in said attempt to be more organized.
The great thing is that if I sit at my computer I can also enter appointments into my outlook. It is working just dandy!
All was going smoothly until I realized that in order for all this to work out I had to sync the two. I have neglected to do so, mmmmm, since I got the blackberry because frankly, I am lazy and it takes too much effort.
Yeah, if you don't sync the two, you end up with many days with double appointments all day long. Definitely a minor set back in said attempt to be more organized.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A few, neglected pics of the kids from last november.
Any of you who know Paige personally know how indicitave this is of her personality!
Can you tell he was done having his pictures taken?
Can you tell he was done having his pictures taken?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Whooo...
I am sitting in my office pretending not to know that Paige is quickly unloading cabinets and pulling toys out. I had forgotten how BUSY they are at this age. Yikes. I feel so totally unproductive with her around. I am going to attempt to keep on top of the house myself now that the busy season is past. It is nice to have someone clean the house, but I can also think of some fun ways to spend the extra cash.
The kids have been sick which means that I have had many LONG nights. Any of you who know me well know that I turn into a beast when I don't get enough sleep. That is why I try to go to bed fairly early and not get up early. Lots of sleep=happy, easy going mom. I think I am going to go to Target (I made it all last week without a trip)...that is sure to happy me up. Nothing like buying diapers to put a girl in a good mood.
I had my second photography workshop on Saturday and felt that it was a success. Of course at each one we realize some things to do differently, but all in all I felt that most people left understanding how to take good pictures. Now all they need is some practice. It is fun to share a hobby that I love so much with other people.
I am so so so looking forward to getting away with Douglas this week. I am praying that the kids are healthy by then so I can go. It will be so nice to have a little break from the kiddos and reconnect with D. With his math class and young mens and my work I feel like we haven't even talked in the last week.
Well, I guess I should go face my house. Who knows what destruction Paige has caused since I have been in here.
The kids have been sick which means that I have had many LONG nights. Any of you who know me well know that I turn into a beast when I don't get enough sleep. That is why I try to go to bed fairly early and not get up early. Lots of sleep=happy, easy going mom. I think I am going to go to Target (I made it all last week without a trip)...that is sure to happy me up. Nothing like buying diapers to put a girl in a good mood.
I had my second photography workshop on Saturday and felt that it was a success. Of course at each one we realize some things to do differently, but all in all I felt that most people left understanding how to take good pictures. Now all they need is some practice. It is fun to share a hobby that I love so much with other people.
I am so so so looking forward to getting away with Douglas this week. I am praying that the kids are healthy by then so I can go. It will be so nice to have a little break from the kiddos and reconnect with D. With his math class and young mens and my work I feel like we haven't even talked in the last week.
Well, I guess I should go face my house. Who knows what destruction Paige has caused since I have been in here.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Update
I said that "serpentine" was from "Spies Like Us", but it is actually from the old movie, "The Inlaws" with Peter Falk and Alan Arkin. It is a great show if you haven't seen it. Just had to clear that up.
Monday, January 12, 2009
a couple of thoughts.
Paige can now do all the actions for "Popcorn Popping" and it is really cute. Thanks nursery leaders. Second kids sure get jipped. I spent so much time with J teaching songs, animal noises etc. and I realized the other day that I never do it with P. Going to ruin her life, no, but I do need to make a more concerted effort to do those things with her too.
I can't figure out how to work out and shower anymore. I had it figured out when P still napped in the morning, but now that she is up all morning I don't get a chance to shower until late in the day. I hate to go to the store with no makeup and workout clothes on. I have watched far too many episodes of "What Not to Wear" for that. Oh well, here I sit in my stink.
D and I are going up to SLC without the kids in a week or so and I am feeling a little anxiety about leaving the kids for so long...almost to the point of backing out. I really want to go, but I worry too much. Is this normal?
I watched to worst Masterpiece theatre yesterday. Most Austin era books are sad throughout, but end on a high note. Not this one. It was horribly depressing. It was called Tess of the D'Urbevilles (or something close to that). Just to give you a taste or the tragedy, one of the last lines is: Tess"We need to enjoy this because it won't last" Angel (her hubby), "Don't say that. How do you know it won't last?" Tess: "Too much happiness." It re-depresses me just remembering. It was a horribly, tragic story.
Well, off to shower and go to the dentist. We need to see how many cavities I have this time. It has been like three months since my last major dental work so it is about time.
I can't figure out how to work out and shower anymore. I had it figured out when P still napped in the morning, but now that she is up all morning I don't get a chance to shower until late in the day. I hate to go to the store with no makeup and workout clothes on. I have watched far too many episodes of "What Not to Wear" for that. Oh well, here I sit in my stink.
D and I are going up to SLC without the kids in a week or so and I am feeling a little anxiety about leaving the kids for so long...almost to the point of backing out. I really want to go, but I worry too much. Is this normal?
I watched to worst Masterpiece theatre yesterday. Most Austin era books are sad throughout, but end on a high note. Not this one. It was horribly depressing. It was called Tess of the D'Urbevilles (or something close to that). Just to give you a taste or the tragedy, one of the last lines is: Tess"We need to enjoy this because it won't last" Angel (her hubby), "Don't say that. How do you know it won't last?" Tess: "Too much happiness." It re-depresses me just remembering. It was a horribly, tragic story.
Well, off to shower and go to the dentist. We need to see how many cavities I have this time. It has been like three months since my last major dental work so it is about time.
A few things I learned about rollerblading at 30 and with two kids in tow
1. Ummm, rollerblading is way harder than I remember it being. I haven't sweated that much for a long time.
2. Do not choose the black diamond course for your reentry into R.B. (especially not when you are also pushing a jogger)
3. Uphill is a beast, but really, it is the downhill you need to worry about. I had to sit and strategize for a few minutes to figure out how to do it and not seriously injure one (or all) of us. I made J buckle up for safety. Have you seen the movie, "spies like us"? Well all I could think the whole time was, "serpentine, serpentine". I probably looked like a fool.
4. Take some really good music to listen to in order to distract from the burning in your legs (is it wrong that my favorite workout music these days is Britney Spears...yeah, probably)
It was quite an adventure. I am going to stick to the flat road for a while, that's for sure. I guess I should go eat a brownie now.
2. Do not choose the black diamond course for your reentry into R.B. (especially not when you are also pushing a jogger)
3. Uphill is a beast, but really, it is the downhill you need to worry about. I had to sit and strategize for a few minutes to figure out how to do it and not seriously injure one (or all) of us. I made J buckle up for safety. Have you seen the movie, "spies like us"? Well all I could think the whole time was, "serpentine, serpentine". I probably looked like a fool.
4. Take some really good music to listen to in order to distract from the burning in your legs (is it wrong that my favorite workout music these days is Britney Spears...yeah, probably)
It was quite an adventure. I am going to stick to the flat road for a while, that's for sure. I guess I should go eat a brownie now.
Friday, January 09, 2009
I am in a non blogging phase
do you get in those? you know where you can't think of anything interesting to say? where all you can think of is that it is way too cold outside, you still need to take the Christmas lights off the house (when it heats up), your kitchen is messy from dinner still, you have been to Target 4 times this week (it is too cold to do anything else), and you feel like you haven't seen your spouse for a week.
Okay, well I guess those are all things. D enrolled in a pre-calc class at Dixie and his first test is on Monday. Needless to say, he has a lot of reviewing to do so I don't think we have actually talked this week. If you want to call I am sure I have a few pent up thoughts I can spill out to you.
Target, Target...how do I love thee, let me count the ways:
Rubbermaid
Rain boots
Toys (I may have a new addiction to pirate playmobile sets...I want them all)
Cd's
Books
Hair supplies
Clothes
Photo Props
Shoes
Popcorn
Treats
Stationery
Home Decor
Seriously...I have an addiction and it has to stop or my goal to actually stick to my budget this year will be out the window...okay, I committ not to go to Target at all next week (biting my nails with anxiety...) I can do it, right?
Oh yeah, New Year Goals. I have a few. I try to choose one in each category:
Spiritual: (I am spiritual just to list it first)-do the Gospel Doctrine reading each week. Haven't started this yet because I still don't have the study guide, but as soon as I get it I will start.
Physical: Just keep working out regularly and don't gain weight. I bought roller blades today (I have asked for them for the last to holidays and have finally determined that the only way I was going to get them was to buy them myself). I want to put the kids in the jogger and rollerblade around. I loved rollerblading as a teenager so I am excited about this.
Photography: I am so excited because I just got my first studio light and I can't wait to figure it out. Also, I am going to focus more on lighting this year...really paying attention to where the light comes from, how it hits my subjects and how I can use it for cool effects. I also want to have more fun with wardrobes (I guess this is a few goals, but I have to make sure I am still learning and differentiating myself from every other mom with a camera)
Social (I guess): I am going to make sure to send cards out for bdays (on time) and try to remember peoples bday better. I am going to send thank yous more often and other assorted cards when I am inspired to.
Financial: Actually stick to the budget (that is a life long goal, but I have to re-emphasize it each year). My main goal is to start contributing money I make to an IRA.
I think that is it. Not too hard I don't think.
So what do all of you do on cold winter days when you can't go outside. I really try to limit J's tv time, but he gets stir crazy. I would love some other fun ideas!
Well, I guess I will go and tackle the kitchen. I really would just like to bake something sweet, but it is 11pm and probably not the most practical thing to do.
Okay, well I guess those are all things. D enrolled in a pre-calc class at Dixie and his first test is on Monday. Needless to say, he has a lot of reviewing to do so I don't think we have actually talked this week. If you want to call I am sure I have a few pent up thoughts I can spill out to you.
Target, Target...how do I love thee, let me count the ways:
Rubbermaid
Rain boots
Toys (I may have a new addiction to pirate playmobile sets...I want them all)
Cd's
Books
Hair supplies
Clothes
Photo Props
Shoes
Popcorn
Treats
Stationery
Home Decor
Seriously...I have an addiction and it has to stop or my goal to actually stick to my budget this year will be out the window...okay, I committ not to go to Target at all next week (biting my nails with anxiety...) I can do it, right?
Oh yeah, New Year Goals. I have a few. I try to choose one in each category:
Spiritual: (I am spiritual just to list it first)-do the Gospel Doctrine reading each week. Haven't started this yet because I still don't have the study guide, but as soon as I get it I will start.
Physical: Just keep working out regularly and don't gain weight. I bought roller blades today (I have asked for them for the last to holidays and have finally determined that the only way I was going to get them was to buy them myself). I want to put the kids in the jogger and rollerblade around. I loved rollerblading as a teenager so I am excited about this.
Photography: I am so excited because I just got my first studio light and I can't wait to figure it out. Also, I am going to focus more on lighting this year...really paying attention to where the light comes from, how it hits my subjects and how I can use it for cool effects. I also want to have more fun with wardrobes (I guess this is a few goals, but I have to make sure I am still learning and differentiating myself from every other mom with a camera)
Social (I guess): I am going to make sure to send cards out for bdays (on time) and try to remember peoples bday better. I am going to send thank yous more often and other assorted cards when I am inspired to.
Financial: Actually stick to the budget (that is a life long goal, but I have to re-emphasize it each year). My main goal is to start contributing money I make to an IRA.
I think that is it. Not too hard I don't think.
So what do all of you do on cold winter days when you can't go outside. I really try to limit J's tv time, but he gets stir crazy. I would love some other fun ideas!
Well, I guess I will go and tackle the kitchen. I really would just like to bake something sweet, but it is 11pm and probably not the most practical thing to do.
I have to note here that the last week with J has been fairly pleasant. Time outs have been minimal and he has been pretty happy and obedient. He actually may have it in him to be my nice little boy after all.
I will remember this when next week comes and he reverts back to the other child I have discussed.
I will remember this when next week comes and he reverts back to the other child I have discussed.
my sweet little girl??
Jackson was playing with a toy at my grandma's this evening and P decided that she wanted it (her favorite phrase is "hey...mine." ) She tried to grab it and I scolded her so instead she turned to him, ballered her fist up and said "hit" while simultaneously bopping him on the head.
It made me laugh, though it shouldn't have. I am really shocked that she would do that. J really isn't much of a hitter so I am kind of surprised she came up with that. Maybe it is because I tell her that hands are not for hitting when she is being mean. Either way, it was really funny tonight, won't be so funny when she does it to someone else's kid.
It made me laugh, though it shouldn't have. I am really shocked that she would do that. J really isn't much of a hitter so I am kind of surprised she came up with that. Maybe it is because I tell her that hands are not for hitting when she is being mean. Either way, it was really funny tonight, won't be so funny when she does it to someone else's kid.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!!
I am having a little of the post Christmas blues this evening. It is over before you know it and I just feel a sense of complete letdown. Is that normal? Maybe I should attribute it to a week of little sleep because heaven knows I do NOT function well with little sleep.
Jackson loved Christmas and I loved being with him as he got excited over every single gift he got...
huge gasp, "I LOVE it. It is JUST what I always wanted. I love it love it." It was so fun. He played with his pirate ship all day.
Paige was hilarious as well. She loved unwrapping and loved running her stroller into everything she could. Oh, and anything made of refined sugar also made it into her mouth. She ran around all day with her new necklaces. She also could be found at almost all times with someone's toothbrush in her mouth. She is such a feisty little thing.
J has been such a complete struggle for me lately and I apologize for venting on Christmas day, but it was like every other...fighting about everything. For lands sake, he is only (almost) 4. I really don't know how to deal with him. Everything is a fight with him from getting dressed to getting out the door to going to a friends. I feel completely worn out from dealing with him. I need some serious, practical help and I don't know where to find it. I have done Love and Logic and it works okay, but it is so hard and seriously I think he is too smart for it sometimes. I try to have consequences, but nothing means anything to him. It this what the rest of my life is going to be because seriously, I don't think I can handle it. And I am not a nice mom to him. I pray to have patience with him, but it is so hard. What do I do?? I may end up with only two children if things don't improve.
We have had a nice holiday season. I was really busy with my photography and learned some things that will be different for next year to hopefully allow me to enjoy more of the season. I really hope to have a slow next month just to regroup and enjoy being a mom and homemaker for a while. Luckily I have the greatest hubby who never complains when he has to come home and whip up dinner because I am frantically getting Christmas orders together. Seriously, he is the greatest.
We had a really nice Christmas eve get together with tons of tasty food and company. I have felt a little sick all week so unfortunately I didn't enjoy it as much as I would like to, but I sure enjoy watching others enjoy.
I had an awesome trip to San Francisco with Anne. I am just going to copy from her blog and post since she is such a thorough story teller. Now I just need to actually post some photos.
Speaking of which...anyone figured out a way to have your blog printed? Blurb used to do it, but they don't anymore. I want somewhere that requires less work that copying and pasting into photoshop and creating my own pages.
We had the ward Christmas party last week. I am on the activities committee and so we were busy planning that. It was pretty successful minus the lack of orange juice. The red faced Santa made his appearance and I was shocked that J didn't recognize him this year either.
Merry Christmas once again...did I mention we woke up to a white Christmas? Crazy.
I can't even begin to tell you how this makes me laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh. He is such a good sport.
Christmas sunday. Such cute kiddos!
Our Christmas eve spread.
Watching a little Mickey's Christmas Carol (and calming down!!)
Santa Came!!
The kids in their Christmas pjs...we gave J a long talk about coming straight to our room before going downstairs. Did he listen? Of course not.
our white Christmas.
He really was this excited about his pirate ship. He played with it all afternoon. The pirates always win in his world.
The Horton game is a hit! Thanks Kim!
Jackson loved Christmas and I loved being with him as he got excited over every single gift he got...
huge gasp, "I LOVE it. It is JUST what I always wanted. I love it love it." It was so fun. He played with his pirate ship all day.
Paige was hilarious as well. She loved unwrapping and loved running her stroller into everything she could. Oh, and anything made of refined sugar also made it into her mouth. She ran around all day with her new necklaces. She also could be found at almost all times with someone's toothbrush in her mouth. She is such a feisty little thing.
J has been such a complete struggle for me lately and I apologize for venting on Christmas day, but it was like every other...fighting about everything. For lands sake, he is only (almost) 4. I really don't know how to deal with him. Everything is a fight with him from getting dressed to getting out the door to going to a friends. I feel completely worn out from dealing with him. I need some serious, practical help and I don't know where to find it. I have done Love and Logic and it works okay, but it is so hard and seriously I think he is too smart for it sometimes. I try to have consequences, but nothing means anything to him. It this what the rest of my life is going to be because seriously, I don't think I can handle it. And I am not a nice mom to him. I pray to have patience with him, but it is so hard. What do I do?? I may end up with only two children if things don't improve.
We have had a nice holiday season. I was really busy with my photography and learned some things that will be different for next year to hopefully allow me to enjoy more of the season. I really hope to have a slow next month just to regroup and enjoy being a mom and homemaker for a while. Luckily I have the greatest hubby who never complains when he has to come home and whip up dinner because I am frantically getting Christmas orders together. Seriously, he is the greatest.
We had a really nice Christmas eve get together with tons of tasty food and company. I have felt a little sick all week so unfortunately I didn't enjoy it as much as I would like to, but I sure enjoy watching others enjoy.
I had an awesome trip to San Francisco with Anne. I am just going to copy from her blog and post since she is such a thorough story teller. Now I just need to actually post some photos.
Speaking of which...anyone figured out a way to have your blog printed? Blurb used to do it, but they don't anymore. I want somewhere that requires less work that copying and pasting into photoshop and creating my own pages.
We had the ward Christmas party last week. I am on the activities committee and so we were busy planning that. It was pretty successful minus the lack of orange juice. The red faced Santa made his appearance and I was shocked that J didn't recognize him this year either.
Merry Christmas once again...did I mention we woke up to a white Christmas? Crazy.
I can't even begin to tell you how this makes me laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh. He is such a good sport.
Christmas sunday. Such cute kiddos!
Our Christmas eve spread.
Watching a little Mickey's Christmas Carol (and calming down!!)
Santa Came!!The kids in their Christmas pjs...we gave J a long talk about coming straight to our room before going downstairs. Did he listen? Of course not.
our white Christmas.
He really was this excited about his pirate ship. He played with it all afternoon. The pirates always win in his world.
The Horton game is a hit! Thanks Kim!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
I love google reader
except when it informs me that I have 525 unread blog entries. I have been out of the loop that long (oh me oh my). I have to say that it was a great sacrifice to give up my blogging time while I caught up (or continue catching up) on work stuff. That was the only way to do it though.
So, lest you think I don't love you from my lack of comments, I do, I am just darn busy right now.
And it continues to snow here...crazy.
So, lest you think I don't love you from my lack of comments, I do, I am just darn busy right now.
And it continues to snow here...crazy.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...
In St. George???
The snow keeps coming down and there is a thick layer of white on everything. I feel like I am in Provo with all the snow outside. It is beautiful!!
The snow keeps coming down and there is a thick layer of white on everything. I feel like I am in Provo with all the snow outside. It is beautiful!!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Can you hear the angels in the heaven singing??
I am FINALLY done editing all my Christmas sessions!! Hallelujah...now I have a few non Christmas sessions to edit, orders to put together, cards to design and a blog to update. But, I am DONE editing. Hooray, hooray, hooray.
And I get to go with my friend Anne to San Francisco on Thursday. Life is good...
minus my three year old who is really challenging me right now, but that is a post for another day. Any of you have a really difficult child who wants to fight you on everything??
And I get to go with my friend Anne to San Francisco on Thursday. Life is good...
minus my three year old who is really challenging me right now, but that is a post for another day. Any of you have a really difficult child who wants to fight you on everything??
Friday, November 28, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
my kiddos
I have been majorly burnt out the last few days and I still have 8 sessions to edit and four more in the next week. It has been a real blessing, but it is also a LOT of work. I dream about curves and layers (photoshop stuff)!! I decided to take the day off and it was nice. I took photos of what I love, the kids, made Christmas suckers with J, did laundry (what fun), cleaned off my desk and enjoyed not editing. Tomorrow of course will be back to business as usual, but for a day I needed to regain my sanity.
So, I love these from a mom perspective, but I think I will redo them tomorrow because there are a few things photographically that I wasn't thinking about and they bug me. I can be a perfectionist about my own stuff, right??
This is such a true depiction of my children--J, the happy go lucky, goofball and P, the drama baby (or DB as my mom calls her) who will only smile if she decides she wants to. Yet I still love that little grouchy face...it is so her.
I love this picture. She can be such a doll. She is talking a lot and her favorite words are "candy" and "no". Gotta love it.
This little guy us such a buddy. Tell him you need a snuggle and he comes running. He can be such a sweet thing one minute and a total pain the next. He is finally getting semi fun to take pics of again. He at least has figured out the cheesy smile bit, which I actually think is so cute.
And here is my sweet baby girl with her ghetto snuggler. I tried to switch it out, but she wouldn't have it. I have wanted to get a picture with her sucking her thumb and I finally did! Hooray!
So, I love these from a mom perspective, but I think I will redo them tomorrow because there are a few things photographically that I wasn't thinking about and they bug me. I can be a perfectionist about my own stuff, right??
This is such a true depiction of my children--J, the happy go lucky, goofball and P, the drama baby (or DB as my mom calls her) who will only smile if she decides she wants to. Yet I still love that little grouchy face...it is so her.
I love this picture. She can be such a doll. She is talking a lot and her favorite words are "candy" and "no". Gotta love it.
This little guy us such a buddy. Tell him you need a snuggle and he comes running. He can be such a sweet thing one minute and a total pain the next. He is finally getting semi fun to take pics of again. He at least has figured out the cheesy smile bit, which I actually think is so cute.
And here is my sweet baby girl with her ghetto snuggler. I tried to switch it out, but she wouldn't have it. I have wanted to get a picture with her sucking her thumb and I finally did! Hooray!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Proposition 8
So why is it that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is coming under condemnation and being called intolerant because we supported something that is CENTRAL to our beliefs?? Why is it a hate crime to support something that is Central to our beliefs?
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
"We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.
In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.
The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God's commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.
We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God's eternal plan.
Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. "Children are an heritage of the Lord" (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.
The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.
We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.
We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."
It seems to me that we are not the ones being intolerant. Democracy is democracy. The ballots were cast and prop 8 passed. Our greatest goal in this life and the life to come is to live eternally with our families. We believe the family consisting of a man and a woman is ordained of God and "central" to the creators plan. We had no ill intent in preserving this traditional definition of the family. We don't hate homosexuals. We don't agree with their choice though and we don't condone it. I gave a great deal of thought to how I would feel if one of my children chose to be homosexual and I would feel the same. I would love them, but I would never agree or condone their choice. The same would hold true with any choice my child made that went against my moral beliefs.
Our potential and sons and daughters of God is to return to live with him and be heirs eternally. That includes living together with our families forever. The greatest blessing we can receive in this life is to be married for all eternity in the temple of God. This is extremely important to us.
I also want to be the one that decides how and when moral values are taught to my children. My brother made a great argument for prop 8 that you can read HERE .
So, lay off the LDS church. We didn't do this because we hate gays. We did this because we love our families and understand their potential.
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
"We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.
In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.
The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God's commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.
We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God's eternal plan.
Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. "Children are an heritage of the Lord" (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.
The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.
We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.
We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."
It seems to me that we are not the ones being intolerant. Democracy is democracy. The ballots were cast and prop 8 passed. Our greatest goal in this life and the life to come is to live eternally with our families. We believe the family consisting of a man and a woman is ordained of God and "central" to the creators plan. We had no ill intent in preserving this traditional definition of the family. We don't hate homosexuals. We don't agree with their choice though and we don't condone it. I gave a great deal of thought to how I would feel if one of my children chose to be homosexual and I would feel the same. I would love them, but I would never agree or condone their choice. The same would hold true with any choice my child made that went against my moral beliefs.
Our potential and sons and daughters of God is to return to live with him and be heirs eternally. That includes living together with our families forever. The greatest blessing we can receive in this life is to be married for all eternity in the temple of God. This is extremely important to us.
I also want to be the one that decides how and when moral values are taught to my children. My brother made a great argument for prop 8 that you can read HERE .
So, lay off the LDS church. We didn't do this because we hate gays. We did this because we love our families and understand their potential.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Dear Blogging Friends,
I feel the need to get on a little political soapbox for a while. This is not about who won the election, but rather us as americans. First off, I am so sick of hearing people say, "we need a change". What the heck is that supposed to mean anyway? A change from what? I will tell you what kind of change I think we need...we need a change of the American people feeling entitled to anything and everything they want. Since when have so many "wants" become "neccessities"? Why are we not saving when the going is good? Why do we feel like the rich owe us something? It annoys the living you know what out of me. It is not a governments responsibilty to make sure things are always smooth sailing for us. I am not rich by any stretch of the imagination, but we make do. We budget (I am not always perfect at sticking to it, I must say) and we recognize our position. Do I hope to be rich some day, you better believe it, but if it doesn't happen I sure hope I am just happy with what I have because I recognize it is a lot and I will continue working hard to achieve our goals.
On a different vein, I am also sick of everyone bad mouthing George Bush. He has done a ton for us as a president...mainly kept our country safe since 911. I imagine that is not an easy task. I don't agree with all his fiscal policies, but you know what, he has kept us in an offensive position with the terrorists and to me, that means a ton. I am glad we are fighting them on their soil and not ours. And frankly, we need to finish the job we went over there to do. I am all for bringing our troops home, but not until we have finished the job we started. So, everyone get off his case. He has been a good president with good morals and I truly believe the desire to do what is best for this country. I appreciate that he is a religious man as well, because so am I and I want a president who prays and tries to have some divine guidance. It is not George Bush's fault that we are in an economic downturn, not the repulican party...sure there are certain factors that influenced it, but really the economy does this. It will get better and until then we may just have to forgo that new pair of shoes.
You know what change I want to see. I want all of us (me included) to be wiser with what we have, more grateful for what we have and a whole lot less selfish. There you go.
On a different vein, I am also sick of everyone bad mouthing George Bush. He has done a ton for us as a president...mainly kept our country safe since 911. I imagine that is not an easy task. I don't agree with all his fiscal policies, but you know what, he has kept us in an offensive position with the terrorists and to me, that means a ton. I am glad we are fighting them on their soil and not ours. And frankly, we need to finish the job we went over there to do. I am all for bringing our troops home, but not until we have finished the job we started. So, everyone get off his case. He has been a good president with good morals and I truly believe the desire to do what is best for this country. I appreciate that he is a religious man as well, because so am I and I want a president who prays and tries to have some divine guidance. It is not George Bush's fault that we are in an economic downturn, not the repulican party...sure there are certain factors that influenced it, but really the economy does this. It will get better and until then we may just have to forgo that new pair of shoes.
You know what change I want to see. I want all of us (me included) to be wiser with what we have, more grateful for what we have and a whole lot less selfish. There you go.
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