Thought for the Day


"Oh, it is wonderful to know that our Heavenly Father loves us - even with all our flaws! His love is such that even should we give up on ourselves, He never will. We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we might settle for less, Heavenly Father won't, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming."

- Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Busy and Addictions

Well, I recently read an article in the Ensign about computer games and becoming addicted to them. Just so you know, I'm blushing from shame at this very moment. I LOVE playing on the computer.
Anyway, it really got me thinking. I have an obsessive personality (can we say Mt. Dew anyone?). The problem for me right now is when I drop all of my sweet kids off at school each morning. I come home and want to play my computer. And eventually I look at the clock and more time has gone by than I was expecting. :(
Also throughout the day I want to "pop" back on and just check things. Not a good idea!
Before I know it my day is all gone, my house is still a mess, and my kids are home wanting to be fed. Mac & Cheese has become a constant meal at our house and I've neglected my responsibilities.
I know that this is wrong. :( But when I read the article it put a different spin on things for me. This type of behavior is damaging spiritually! Here's a neat quote from Elder Donald L. Staheli (of the Seventy):
"Distractions and discouragement are some of Satan's most effective tools. He finds ways to help us make excuses about why we can't do this or that. He gets us involved in wasting our time and resources in things that lead us away from improving our lives and developing our talents. He blurs our focus by diverting our attention. This can happen to the very best of you."

Wow, message taken - loud and clear!! But in contrast, Elder Donald L. Hallstrom (of the Seventy) warns us that we have a choice to make.
"When we are out of balance, we have a choice. We can delay making changes and experience the tragedy of a failing family or the sorrow of losing our own spirituality; or we can be attentive and continually nudged by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit to make necessary adjustments. Seeking balance among the essential responsibilities of life is preparatory to salvation."

Well, needless to say but I'll say it anyway - I have decided to make some changes in my life. I'm entering a different phase of my life right now. It's actually a little scarey. For so long I've been sooooooo busy being a mom and a housewife, etc. Now that I've got some time to do other things I have NO idea what I want/need to do!!! I don't know what my talents are! Or even what I enjoy doing (aside from excessive gaming)! It's a little scarey reinventing yourself. I sure hope this part of my journey in life is as fulfilling as the rest has been. :)

Thursday, August 6, 2009

First Day Of School!!!

Here are the pics of this morning. The kids had mixed emotions. Elizabeth was nervous, but she was trying to be brave. I think she'll be fine once she gets into things. She's sitting near a really nice girl.
Elijah was like always. Goes where he's told whether he understands or not. He was talking to a few friends when I went to help Elizabeth find her line.
Jake was nervous, close to tears. But he is sitting right next to a friend of his from last year, Molly. She's such a cute, sweet, funny girl. Plus one of his other friends is in his class as well. He'll be fine once he gets into the classroom.
Livvy went right into class. She was so excited this morning. Then when I went to take her in she was nervous, but there weren't any tears. I told her that I had to leave because they don't let parents in today. She said, "Ok." And sat at her desk looking around. She looked so dang cute! :)
And me - I'm doing great now. Of course I cried after I dropped Livvy off. But I went into the nurses office (she's a friend) and composed myself. :)
Now I'm feeling real good. :) I'm watching some of my shows and playing on the computer. Then I'll get up and clean my house. Peaceful!

Picture of kids with G&G Little

Lake Powell Pics