Thank Heaven for Little Boys!

Today was a difficult day. I don't really know how to begin to say what I want to say. I am a little rusty, and overwhelmed with emotion, perhaps I will let my heart lead the way.

The months leading up to Christmas I was deeply struggling, I was admittedly lost and off course, and then I heard about a 5 year old little boy named Ayden in my ward who was suffering from cancer and was in the hospital. I asked my friends who had been organizing meals for his family while they stayed with him in the hospital, if I could prepare a meal for them also. I knew that I needed to get out of my own head and put myself in a posistion to serve, and yet I had no idea how it would change me.

The day came for me to make a meal and I was collecting the ingredients on my kitchen counter when my an amazingly in-tune friend called and asked me if I would like to go with her to take the meal to the family, (initially I was just going to drop it to her). I had never met them, and I was nervous, but I couldn't turn down the opportunity to deliver dinner myself. We quietly entered his room in a special wing of the Childrens Hospital, the lights were dimmed and his mother sat at the end of his bed playing cards with him. He didn't speak but his spirit nearly knocked me off my feet, this little boy lay there with tubes and was so uncomfortable and yet he was sweet and shy. My favorite moments were when his mother would be speaking of him and he would close his eyes and then peek to see if we were still there, almost as if he were thinking "They are talking about me again?" His sweet mother Amber amazed me, she told us how their wish was that he would be well enough to come home for Christmas so she could play Wii with him. We stayed for just a little while and then we headed home again, but the visit stayed with me, Ayden and Amber stayed with me.

A few days later Ayden regained strength enough to return home for Christmas and then on December 29, 2010 he passed away. I was in Las Vegas when I heard the news and I cried, thinking of his mother, father and baby sister and how they must miss him so much. I felt grateful to have had the opportunity to meet him. If this little boy and his family could be so brave and filled with faith in the midst of this terrible illness and ultimate loss, I knew I needed to pull myself together. Ayden was such an example to me, I know that taking that dinner helped ME more than it helped them, I am sure. Thank you sweet angel boy.

(Ayden)

Last evening I was able to spend some much needed time with my girlfriends, and as usual I was home after mid-night. Then first thing this morning I received a text from a friend requesting me to call her. My stomach sank a bit when she answered the phone with a saddened voice, saying "Have you heard?", "No." I said and then she told me that our dear friend Annie, whom had just been sitting next to me on the couch hours before had returned home to find her sweet 5 year old son Ethan was gone, she went to check on him and he had passed away. Ethan has had medical problems since he was tiny, but he was such a joy, his smile could melt my heart. I looked forward to seeing him every week at church because he just smiled all of the time, just like his mama. My heart is broken for them and I can only imagine the sorrow Annie and her husband Justin must be feeling. Oh sweet Ethan, I still can't believe that I won't see you in the halls at church, I think he was the most popular person in our ward because everyone loved him so.

(Ethan)

These two little boys have touched my life and I am positive all those that were blessed to have met them would say the same. They are missed and loved and all I have are my prayers and love to send to each of their families.

I have a fondness for little boys, and I thank Heaven for sending one to my home. They love their mamas like no other. I didn't fully appreciate why it's so hard for mothers to send them on Missions or to College or to get married until I had my little buddy. James will be 3 on Monday and I must say that the last 3 years have been some of the best in the Kelley house.

(James playing the harmonica first thing in the morning)

Thank Heaven for little boys.

Sunday Scripture: Faithful Friends

Mosiah 18:8-9

8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;

9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—

In life there are tremendous trials, burdens, struggles and pain. These difficulties can overtake us and discourage us, and in His magnificent wisdom, the Lord will use those around us to build us up, to keep us afloat while the storm rages. There has been more than one instance in my life where the Lord has placed just the right people on either side to sustain me in my weakness. Perhaps that is the reason in which I feel the deep need to love, protect, keep up on, encourage and befriend those around me. One never knows when the Lord will need you to step in and be His arms, His help, His love, so I try to keep myself open to those promptings of when to be that listening ear or shoulder to cry on. I try to be the friend that has often been given me.

Today I give thanks for all those that have stood as my friend, my support during the storms of my life, who will continue to be so and I pray for the opportunity to be the same for you.

All My Love

Happy Sunday

Sunday Scripture: Miracle Sunday

Alma 7:23

"And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. "

Today was what I will call a miracle Sunday, it came in 4 stages, first, my husband and I were both able to sit during the entire Sacrament meeting with our children sitting quietly and reverently. You see, James fell asleep just moments before church began and stayed that way, in my arms the entire time, a miracle in the lives of parents with small children.

The next part came in the speakers and music in Sacrament, the spirit was so strong and enabled me a long needed lift from my Father in Heaven. Thirdly, as I sat in Sunday school (the second hour of church) I was pulled from class in order to speak with a member of the Bishopric and be set apart for my new calling as "Ward Photography Specialist", the blessing that was given was as if I had placed an order and all the desires of my heart were answered. I felt the Saviors love for me, His desire for me to do good, to be good and to live righteously.

The fourth stage was during Relief Society (when all the women meet) as my sweet friend Melissa gave a beautiful lesson on 'Patience'. I again was filled with the spirit, and the words seemed tailor made for me. These kind of Sundays are rare, where every moment seems to be perfectly scripted and placed just so, in order for me to feel the spirit for 3 straight hours!! In fact I don't know when the last time I had a Sunday like today.




Ok I lied, there was actually a fifth stage when our Home Teachers came for a visit after church and then we sat as a family and had a wonderful meal. It feels kind of perfect really, I almost don't want today to end because I know that this mini glimpse of peace on earth will not last.

I believe that the Lord gives us these kinds of days to keep us going, knowing that there will be another down the road, days, weeks or years down the road, but so worth the wait. It felt a little like I was the lamb that He came to find and carried me back to the fold.

There is gratitude in my heart for all those that participated, added to, and supplied me with a Miracle Sunday.

Happy Sunday

All my Love,

Sunday Scripture: Hope

Moroni 7:40

And again, my beloved brethren, I would speak unto you concerning hope. How is it that ye can attain unto faith, save ye shall have hope?

"Hope is the anchor of our souls. I know of no one who is not in need of hope—young or old, strong or weak, rich or poor. As the prophet Ether exhorted, “Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.”

James E. Faust (November 1999 Ensign)

Today I was fortunate to attend Stake Conference (a twice a year special meeting for about 6-8 wards) with my parents. My Dad was in the choir so just my mom and I sat together (children stayed home today), it was a wonderful meeting, filled with all the things I was needing to hear! All of the Bishop's wives were asked to speak and each of their talks were part of this masterful quilt, none of them assigned, all spoken from the spirit and it was amazing how they all blended together perfectly. My sweet friend Michelle spoke and the things she said touched me, she recalled the pain of losing her son shortly after he was born some years ago, and then the Hope that she was able to live on, knowing she would see him again. The reminder to hold on, even when life deals us a nasty blow, a difficult test or a road block, was very much needed in my life at this time.

I have had several things that have been weighing heavily on my mind recently. A close family member received some scary news related to their health and for me it felt like a stone to the head. It was difficult to be so far away so that is why I jumped in my car and came to Vegas, I wanted to feel some what useful and supportive. There was a minor surgery and things are looking hopeful.

Another heart ache I have is watching my parents, who have done nothing but help everyone around them for years, including but not limited to their children, extended family members, friends, strangers, neighbors, and anyone that stood in need. They are now feeling the EXTREME downturn of the economy, my father works in the Commercial Real Estate industry and has for 25 years, and has never seen it this bad before. I worry for them, I know that the Lord watches over them, yet the thought of them struggling is more painful than when we were out of a job. I truly know and understand that trials don't only come to those that are doing wrong, but it sure stinks when good people, trying to do the right things are handed a whopper and gosh darn I can't prevent it.

My mother tells me that everything will be OK, that "some how things will work out", and I wonder why she is comforting me. Where is that magic wand when I need it? Then today I was encouraged to have hope and to lean on the Lord, He has his eye on them and that there is a reason for this trial. Maybe He wants them to move closer to their amazing daughter that lives in Colorado, maybe!!?? :)

I want to bear my testimony that I know that through Christ there is Hope, there is reason to hold on and keep going. I know there are so many people in the same predicament as my parents but I know that through faith, prayer and doing what is right He will bless us beyond our comprehension. I know He loves me and watches over me and my family. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a true Prophet, that he is guided and directed by our Heavenly Father. I know the Book of Mormon to be a testament of Jesus Christ and by reading it I am able to feel the promptings of the Holy Ghost and that I grow closer to the Lord. I know these things to be true, there is NO DOUBT about it, it has been witnessed to me too many times in my life to think other wise. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Happy Sunday

All my love

Sundays Scripture: Mothers

John 19:26,27
26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the adisciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, bWoman, behold thy son!
27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy amother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.





Today is Mother's Day, I am the very blessed Mother of 3 wonderful children. I know that my most important responsibility in this life is to cherish and love these little ones that have been trusted in my care.

I am so grateful for my own Mother, for her example and love. I know of Christs love for me because he sent me to such an amazing Mother, He showed me His love through her and I pray that I might teach my children in the same way. Love you Mom!!!

How many Moms in there more advanced years do this in a skirt??!!

In the time I have spent being a Mom, I have found my greatest joys and also my greatest weaknesses and sorrows. I must admit that I reject my physical body on a daily basis as I scrutinize it in the mirror, but when my "natural" tendencies subside and I am able to see through my spiritual glasses, I recognize each stretch mark as space for my babies to grow, and widened hips to bring them here. I am blessed to be healthy enough to carry them for 40 weeks (or 43 as Grace found out), my body is always strong while pregnant and I need to appreciate it more.

My Heavenly Father sent me the children that are perfect for me, I have learned so many lessons from each one of them;

Lexi has taught me loyalty and strength, loyalty because she stands by me no matter how bad I might mess up as a parent, and strength because I realized how strong I was in being a single parent in her early years. Of course there are many other things that she has contributed to my education but those two stand out.

Grace gives me the lesson in patience and unconditional love every single day. No matter the nervous break down, I feel peace and calm much of the time I am working with her. I know that it comes from my Heavenly Father, for patience does not come easy for me. Grace has so many struggles and for whatever the reason, the Lord has provided me with the love and ability to walk with her through them. I am so blessed.

James has given me the gift of learning to be more relaxed and affectionate. I have always loved to hug and kiss on them, but Buddy will come running up to me after just moments of separation (as in me going into the other room) and wrap his arms around my leg. He loves me to just sit and hold him and watch Go Diego Go, and somehow in my old age I am able to relax and just enjoy these sweet times. I feel more capable as a parent now, than I ever have, and I look forward to every day that I am able to stay home with my children.




Happy Mother's Day to all of the Women who have spent anytime nurturing, loving, holding, cuddling, teaching or serving a child. You don't have to have children of your own to be a Mother and I am so grateful for all the family and friends who have "Mothered" my children along the way.

Happy Sunday

All my Love,

Sunday Scripture: In the Lords Time

(I chose this picture because it reminds me of the Lords timing in all things)

Doctrine and Covenants 64: 31-31

31 And behold, I, the Lord, declare unto you, and my words are sure and shall not fail, that they shall obtain it.

32 But all things must come to pass in their time.

I have had a lot on my mind lately, most of it related to what the Lord has in store for our family. If someone had asked me 3 years ago if I ever saw us living in Colorado, I would have answered with a resounding, NO. I had absolutely no desire to live in the snow or near the snow, in fact living in Colorado was the farthest thing from my mind. However I was EXTREMELY interested in living in Texas (still wouldn't mind it), I had actually been somewhat fixated on going there for some time. Spending hours, weeks, ok years, searching for jobs for Jimmy, before he was without one, looking at homes online, researching the schools, weather, neighborhoods, everything. So when Jimmy lost his job, naturally I thought "Well, that's settled, we are to move to Texas." The Lord had other plans for us and after time on my knees and in the temple I knew that my assignment was to follow my husband. I was a little annoyed because, you see, I was hoping that my "wanting" to go to Texas would be enough for the Lord to provide the way there, but as I learned I was receiving a lesson in not only the Lords plan for us, but also to rely on my husbands inspirations and promptings like I never had before.


I am beyond grateful to my Heavenly Father for allowing me the opportunity to see a side of Jimmy that I had yet to see. Jimmy is my hero, he is one of the strongest people I know, he has been through so many things in his life, I know that the plan for him is great and being chosen to stand at his side is the greatest blessing in my life. I lean on him when my burdens seem too heavy and because he leans on the Lord, our foundation is firm.

(picture courtesy Candice Simpson of Elegant Images)

(picture courtesy of Conrad Clayton Photography)

We are yet again faced with the possibility of Jimmy not having a job. For the last month we have been praying that the contract in which we thought was secure (then found out it wasn't), will be renewed, we pray that the Lords plan is for us to stay where we are. What we are hearing is promising, but we won't know for sure until the contracted is signed, which who knows when that will be. Our only constant is knowing that the Lord will lead and guide us, He has his eye upon us and we are open to His will and journey for us.

(picture courtesy of my tripod)

Sunday Scripture: Moral Courage

D&C 84:88

And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

I haven't served a full time mission, I have never had to choose between the things in which I believe and my family and I have not faced eviction from my home due to my faith, yet everyday I am tested and tried to make correct decisions.

I was lucky/blessed to have been born with a natural stubbornness and forthcoming attitude. Some might not see that as being lucky, but for me it has served me well in instances when I could have been persuaded to do wrong but because I am stubborn I withstood those temptations. Have I always made all the right choices, no, that goes without saying, I think.?.

I believe that many of our true tests are not going to be when all eyes are watching, but perhaps in the moments when we think no one will know. I have experienced first hand, as well as watched family and friends make what seems as one harmless choice turn into a downward spiral that led to sorrow, pain, frustration, fear, and unforeseen consequences for years to come.

It can be a most difficult road back, but it begins with just one right choice and then another, until the path between right and wrong no longer seems blurry. The ultimate right choice is accepting the Lords help and assistance in your life, for when we have Him the line is drawn clearly and we will more easily know where we must stand.

There can not be any amount of teetering, when you begin mingling with even small amounts of dishonesty and moral filth, there is no way to come out unscathed. Dancing with the devil for even one dance will leave you with swollen toes and a lingering foul scent.

As the Wives, Husbands, Mothers and Fathers we must give our children the example of what is right, we have to walk that walk, otherwise they will see through our words and begin defining for themselves what they believe to be right.

Everyday I pray that I might be guided, strengthened, and encouraged by my Heavenly Father, sometimes that means I am putting one foot in front of the other, other days the path is more clear and I can run for miles in the right direction. I work hard to be honest, kind, patient, happy, patient, loving, forgiving, patient, trustworthy, humble, patient and patient. Asking for help from my Heavenly Father is essential in my efforts, for with out Him I would have been mulch years ago, trodden by cows out to pasture.

"Come Follow Me"

By Dan Freed

I wanted to leave you with a little inspiration and examples where I made both bad and good choices

Hiked up shorts, full side ponytail, rolled sleeves, obviously the WRONG choice!!

Matching pink off the shoulder sweater and corduroys, fashionable charm necklace, appropriate side ponytail, posing with a tree.........clearly the CORRECT choice

Happy Sunday

All My love

Sunday Scripture: Tender Mercies of the Lord

1Nephi 1:20

And when the Jews heard these things they were angry with him; yea, even as with the prophets of old, whom they had cast out, and stoned, and slain; and they also sought his life, that they might take it away. But behold, I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance.




I pray that my intent is felt in these words today. For most of my life I have struggled with depression, it has nearly consumed me at times and yet through my Heavenly Father I am still here battling the demons that feel closer to the service more recently. I know that I am not the only one that has been dealt this hand, and I strive every day not to allow it to overtake me. I know with all that I am that the Lord has delivered me from the pain of depression multiple times and He will again, I don't know the whens or whys, but He will. I trust in Him, in His will, this is my trial and with Him I can endure. If your prayers might be offered in my behalf, I ask of them now. Even if you do not believe the same as me, I would appreciate it.

Humbled and Happy Sunday

All my love

Sunday Scripture An Example of the Believers

1 Timothy 4:12

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

I recently received this in an email from a friend and then passed it along to a few of my friends and family. Perhaps I was deeply touched because I have daughters of my own, or maybe because I work with teenaged girls in church, or possibly because some of my very best friends now and in High School were cheerleaders but most likely for all of those reasons this moved me to a few tears. I love the example that these young women set for not only their peers but for everyone. I pray that I can raise my children to have the same love and compassion for their fellow man as these ladies do. I also pray that I will have this amount of love, courage and kindness in my life as well. Happy Sunday





All my Love,

Sunday Scripture! A Day of Rest

Hebrews 4:4

"For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works."

It has been a long week and I am tired but I wanted to let you all know I have a sincere gratitude for the idea of taking one day out of the week to rest and reflect. The Lord is very wise.

All my Love and Happy Sunday!


Oh and the winner will be announced tomorrow after I get all the entries tallied!

Sunday Scripture! A House of Order

D&C 132:8

"Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion."

D&C 88:119

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;"


Today in Young Womens the lesson was on our homes and the attention that should be paid to them. It was not about having a "perfectly clean" home but making sure that it is one of order and peace, that it will be a sanctuary for our families. It really made me think about the few corners in my home that I have allowed to be the collectors of all things that I don't know what to do with. I would say overall my house is pretty organized and clean most of the time but I do have papers/pictures that have been filed away and need to be sorted through. I also tend to let my office/guestroom/sewing room go all to kook-kamunga (just go there with me) when I am working on the rest of my house and it drives me nuts. I definitely have a hard time functioning amongst clutter and messes, I know that I am more grumpy and irritable when my home is un-kept.

My goal over the next couple weeks is to rid my home of the areas that I close the door to when guests come and to get it all in the shape that I would be proud to show. I know that my home will be a more calm place when I am more calm knowing that there aren't any little areas in desperate need of my attention. I will have more time to spend with my kids, my husband and more time serving those around me. I know that the Spirit cannot reside in a place of chaos and unorganized slothfullness (I am making it a word OK).

I am grateful to a mother who taught me to keep a clean home, to find joy in organization, and pride in feeling accomplished as a homemaker.

(Do you see the joy!?!)

I hope to teach the same to my children, not just my daughters but also my son who will someday be a very helpful husband, if all my plans go accordingly :). I don't think I realized how useful learning to iron/dust/vacuum/throw away/launder etc. etc. etc. would really be until I became a wife and mother!

Thanks Mom!!!

So if I disappear for a little bit it's because I am in the depths of my closets/drawers/hidden passage ways getting them all neat and tidy! Hey just to keep my honest I will take pics of before and after!! :)

Love to you all and Happy Sunday!

Sunday Scripture! "Hold On a Little Longer"

In the January 2010 Liahona there President Dieter F. Uchtdorf speaks of why we must endure the trials of this life and that through Christ we will be given strength if we are faithful. He says

"One of the many revelations Joseph received in Kirtland was a revelation he called the “olive leaf … plucked from the Tree of Paradise, and the Lord’s message of peace to us” (introduction to D&C 88). This remarkable revelation includes the sublime invitation, “Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me” (D&C 88:63). As the Saints of Kirtland drew near unto the Lord, He truly did draw near unto them, pouring out the blessings of heaven upon the heads of the faithful."

Then when referring to the "spiritual outpouring" that took place during the time the saints were in Kirtland he said.

"Perhaps the culmination of these spiritual manifestations occurred during the dedication of the Kirtland Temple on March 27, 1836. One of those present was 28-year-old William Draper, who described the day as a “day of Pentecost.” He wrote: “There was such a time of the outpouring of the Spirit of the Lord, that my pen is inadequate to write it in full or my tongue to express it. But I will here say that the Spirit was poured out and came like a mighty rushing wind and filled the house, that many that were present spoke in tongues and had visions and saw angels and prophesied, and had a general time of rejoicing such as had not been known in this generation.”


I must say that of all the Sunday Scriptures that I have presented on my blog, today I was stuck on what to write. While I choose them by the impact they have had on my own life, I also pray that they are messages that will help and encourage those that read it. I prayed for some time to know that the things that I leave here today will be what the Lord would have me write. Then as I began studying the scriptures and articles I came across the above paragraph and I feel as though it pin points my exact feeling "that my pen is inadequate to write it in full or my tongue to express it". I am not a "spiritual giant" I don't know very much, I am still a "child" when it comes to understanding all the things of the gospel but with Christ as my interpreter I hope to present His message as best I can. Let me share an experience I had just yesterday.

I spent the afternoon doing some grocery shopping, I went to Costco knowing that I had a limited budget to spend there and then I would head to another grocery store to get the remaining and bulk of our groceries. Well as I walked through Costco I found myself looking into others carts and seeing how full theirs were compared to my very meager contents. I became jealous that they could come and buy all that they wanted or needed without a thought for the money it represented. I left holding in my hand the item I ultimately purchased, embarrassed, feeling like everyone else must know how little money I had. I sat in my car for a moment and the tears fell as I thought of how I would need to plan very carefully our meals for the next two weeks, and angry because of it. Then I thought back to a year ago and where we were, and I wanted to slap myself!

One year ago my husband had no job, we were staying with my parents and the prospects for future income was slim! Now, Here I was with a budget to work with, a car to drive, a beautiful home to take the food to, a neighborhood which we love and I am crying because other people have more food than me!! I plugged my ipod in, wiped my tears and put the car in reverse and the first song that came on was most definitly meant to get through to me, I have heard it many many times yet I knew that this time was my Heavenly Fathers way of letting me know he heard my prayers and pleading.





There are so many out there in much worse conditions and yet He knows my struggles and still cares about them. He cares about each one of us, loves us and wants us to be happy. I know this, and I am grateful for His patience with me and the kindness He shows me daily. May all of you have a wonderful Sunday

All my love (Oh and Don't forget the GIVE AWAY)

Sunday Scripture; Prayer

I have such a testimony of the power of prayer in my own life. It has strengthened my relationship with my Heavenly Father, it is how I can communicate with Him and let him know of my gratitude. It is also how I am able to talk with him and let him know of my concerns, as He is All Knowing I realize that He knows what our concerns are before we tell Him, but He would so much rather hear from us. As any would Father, He wants to be in communication with His children, it makes the distance between us feel small.

I would like to share a personal experience and testimony building moment with prayer that I had some years ago.

January 20, 2005 I entered a hospital E.R via ambulance at around 2:30am after suffering excruciating pain in my abdominal area. They ran many tests on me and pumped me with Morphine to ease the pain and then informed me that I was going in for emergency surgery because my appendix had burst! They performed the life saving surgery, and after, told me I was lucky to be alive because the infection was throughout my entire body and that it had probably burst 3 to 4 days before I had any pain (which I guess is really unusual). Well due to the wide spread of infection my stay in the hospital would be prolonged, included in my stay was a catheter and a tube that went up my nose and into my stomach to aid in pumping the nasty stuff out!!

Well on the night of my 4 day in the hospital my nurse removed my i.v because the spot it was in was getting old and she wanted to move it to a new location on my other arm. Now keep in mind I had been unable to eat anything but broth and ice chips at this point so I was EXTREMELY weak and dehydrated! Well as she poked me once, twice, three and then four times she wasn't able to get the iv back in, (which is very bad when you are depending on it to give you all the medication and vitamins). Well she gave up and called in another nurse who tried multiple times and was unsuccessful and then a third nurse before calling in a lab tech who was "Very good", they began discussing that they would have to put it in my forehead if she was not able to get the iv in! Well by this point I had tears running down my face I was extremely scared and alone, since it was very late at night and my husband and mother had gone home. The idea of having it in my forehead was not pleasant and so as I heard them say "Ok we will try one more time, but after this...." I closed my eyes and prayed harder than I ever remember NEEDING to pray in a VERY long time, I pleaded with my Heavenly Father to be with me and to enable them to get the iv started in my arm and as I opened my eyes I saw the relief on the faces standing over me and felt the iv begin to work again.

It felt as if He had just answered the most important prayer I had ever said, I knew that He was with me, that He had guided her hand with steadiness and that I was not alone! I remained in the hospital for several more days and had many more miracles take place on my behalf during that time, but that moment when I felt His arms around me, and His comfort during and hour in which I dearly needed Him, it changed me. I was never the same after that, I was better for it, more humble, more compassionate, more open to His miracles and to His unwavering love for me. Little ole me, sick in a hospital, scared, and He was there for me!

I know that through Him all things are possible, and that He watches over us and is eager to hear from us. I know personally of His mercy and love and I am grateful for His hand in my life.

Sunday Scripture! Faith, brothers and sisters, Faith

John 16:33

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."


In recent weeks I have faced, what I will call "mini trials" the kind that are mostly dealt with on a personal level or with a spouse. There have been moments of sadness and discouragement and then after much prayer and scripture reading, the overwhelming peace that everything would be ok. Throughout my life there have been "big" faith building experiences, the ones that are undeniably set right in front of your face, but the majority of the time it is through the small "mini trials" where faith is drawn from.


Today in Sacrament meeting for some odd reason my children were sitting still for longer lengths of time and I was able to really take in and listen to those that were speaking. This was truly a blessing for me because as the words came from the pulpit it was as if I was the only one in the room and that they were speaking right to me. The spirit was so strong and then it was as if someone tapped me on the shoulder and said "Marylin, I know. Don't worry everything will be alright." Shortly after, the children began to rustle a bit and I had to take James out into the foyer, but it was like I had heard what I needed to hear.

I am truly grateful for these kinds of moments, that are small and when one is in tune with the spirit, they are Faith building. It is a wonderful feeling to know that my Heavenly Father knows me and really truly knew exactly what I needed to hear today, He worked through others to teach me and to let me know He knows. He sees me and loves me. I was the lamb today that
my Savior sought out to find.

Sunday Scripture! "Shall thy Confidence Wax Strong"

D&C 121:45

"Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of

faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence

wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil

upon thy soul as the dews from heaven."

In a talk given by Bishop Richard C. Edgley in the Nov. 1994 Ensign he speaks on this very verse and the importance of it.

Today in church this verse was mentioned 3 times and it made me really think about my own life and how the choices I am making will either allow me to have confidence before the Lord or they will leave me ashamed in His presence. I do not want to be ashamed when I stand before my Father in Heaven and so I must make the correct choices in my life.

I think that as human beings we all have a desire to have our parents be proud of us, that we will not be ashamed in their presence, that we will only see approval and love in their eyes. Now while we aren't able to see our Lord and Saviors face just yet, He is aware of us none the less, He knows of our doings in our lives, so we must be cognoscente of this detail, that He knows us and loves us and only wants good for us. We must strive everyday to serve Him and to work towards seeing Him again and all those that wait on the other side of the vale.

I pray to continue on the straight and narrow path, that I might stand before Him one day and have only my confidence with me.

Happy Sunday

All my love,

Sunday Scripture ; Needed a Boost, and a Boost I Got!!

Yesterday was a very roller coaster day of emotions! It started off with a fun family photo shoot and then, I came home to an empty house because my sweet husband had taken the kids with him to get the oil changed in my car and a trip to the park. It was wonderful because I was able to get my house all clean, well then they arrived home sooner than I had thought and Jimmy says "Can you come clean up the throw-up in the car?" Turns out that Grace had gone on the tire swing (that she has already had "issues" with) and then got in the car and well you know what happened then. So needless to say I spent a little time cleaning that up and then a trip to Costco and Wal-Mart to get things for my "Girls Night".

I returned home and cleaned some more, prepared food and changed out of my nasty clothes. As I was getting ready, I received a phone call from a very good friend, but she had some slightly depressing/discouraging information and once we got of the phone I had a slight meltdown. Jimmy was kind and tried to encourage me to finish getting ready for the night. I did, and man, by 6:05 I was feeling no pain, my friends were arriving and suddenly laughter was abundant, we talked about EVERYTHING under the moon and then some!

The night had really given me a boost when I was in need, and I am so grateful for a Heavenly Father that knows what to do and when to do it. Today I received another boost when I was officially called as the 2nd Counselor in the Young Women's Presidency! I have served in this calling once before and had been sooo sad when I was released, so it is just very EXCITING to be working with the youth again!

Then tonight I was reading on LDS.org and I replayed a video on the home page entitled "Create", it hit me like a boulder this time and once again I was reminded of how close an eye the Lord has on me. I am grateful for the blessings which I have received, for the strength that is added in my life and the ability to ask for guidance and encouragement on a daily basis. This video is such a great reminder of why we must remember who we are and who loves us.

Sunday Scripture : Personal Revelation

Alma 17:3

"But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.

There have been many opportunities for me to receive personal revelation in my life, and through the Holy Ghost, have done so, through callings in which I have served, for my children, for myself, and for those whom I have served. I believe that much of the time it comes to me in thoughts or ideas that have led me to help someone who was in need, to handle a particularly difficult moment with a child, or occasions where the promptings have kept me safe. I strive to keep my direct line to the Holy Ghost open, that I might be available at a moments notice to hear and then act upon that which I have been instructed to do. At times I will have a feeling and I will not know the exact reason or purpose but I try to to rely on the knowledge that my Heavenly Father possesses, knowing that His picture is much broader and that if I will listen, He will lead me to do what is right.

When Jimmy received the job offer here in Colorado, we both prayed to know if this was where we should be, and for me the feeling was one of comfort but also the instruction to "Follow my husband" I knew that I would not be led astray if I were willing to stand beside my best friend in his decision. When Jimmy accepted the position, I knew that this was where the Lord wanted us, it was not "Our" first choice of cities we wanted to be in, but the Lord knew we needed to be in this city. Coming here with that knowledge, made it much easier and we have truly been blessed in our new surroundings, it has been such a testament to me of the power that we are able to tap into to receive answers to prayers, promptings from the Spirit, and a greater knowledge of our Heavenly Father. I know that when I allow Him to guide and direct me I am blessed and strengthened.

In the September 1999 Ensign, Elder L. Lionel Kendrick gave instructions on how to prepare ourselves for personal revalation.

Fasting

“Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me” (Alma 5:46).

The sons of Mosiah prepared themselves by the same means: “They had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the … spirit of revelation” (Alma 17:3).

Think pure thoughts. If we are to have the channels of communication open, we must clear our minds of worldly and impure thoughts. We must follow this counsel of the Savior: “Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven” (D&C 121:45).

Develop a spirit of reverence. To receive revelation, we must develop a spirit of reverence. Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles counseled, “Inspiration comes more easily in peaceful settings.” 2 He added, “Irreverence suits the purposes of the adversary by obstructing the delicate channels of revelation in both mind and spirit,” and “Reverence invites revelation.” 3

Irreverence not only shows disrespect to Deity but also makes it hard for the Spirit to teach us the things we need to know. The Savior said, “And your minds in times past have been darkened because … you have treated lightly the things you have received” (D&C 84:54). He counseled, “Trifle not with sacred things” (D&C 6:12). The process of receiving revelation is sacred. It is a divine discussion with Deity and must be reverenced if it is to work.

Happy Sunday and Love to you,

Sunday Scripture! Righteous Fathers....Speaking of which Happy Birthday Daddy!

Today in our R.S. (Relief Society) lesson we spoke about Eternal Families, it made me think about how blessed I am to have been born to great parents and to have been sealed to them for time and all eternity. The discussion was a reminder of how we must work to keep our relationships with our families as a top priority. It also deepened my gratitude for my own family, my husband, children and our temple sealing. Since today is my Dad's birthday I thought of how having a righteous father helped me in my decision to find a righteous man to marry.

Latter-Day Prophets Speak:
The Sacred Role of Fathers

Be Kind

“Let us deal in kindness and with appreciation with those for whom the Lord will hold us accountable. I never get over the depth of meaning of the words President McKay often quoted: ‘The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother’ ” [see Richard Evans’ Quote Book (1971), 11] (“Reach Out in Love and Kindness,” Ensign, Nov. 1982, 77).
Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–), Fifteenth President of the Church

Express Your Love

“We encourage you, brethren, to remember that priesthood is a righteous authority only. Earn the respect and confidence of your children through your loving relationship with them. A righteous father protects his children with his time and presence in their social, educational, and spiritual activities and responsibilities. Tender expressions of love and affection toward children are as much the responsibility of the father as the mother. Tell your children you love them” (“Being a Righteous Husband and Father,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, 51).
Howard W. Hunter (1907–95), Fourteenth President of the Church

My father is a wonderful example to me and to my husband, he is an amazing Grandfather and we miss being close to him very much! The other day I was looking through some pictures of my Dad on my computer and James came and sat on my lap, when he saw a picture of himself with my Dad on the lawn mower he began to pout his lip and then cry. I asked him if he missed his Grandpa, he nodded and hugged me, his tears brought the attention of Lexi whom joined us in looking at the pictures, the next thing I know they are both crying and wanting their Grandpa. I must admit that it also created mist in my eyes, I am so grateful for the man that raised me, for his love for my mother and the Lord. My Father is the most honest man I know, he is hard working and extremely generous of his time, talents and all that he has. I will never forget how he treated and loved his own mother, especially in the last few years of her life. My Dad has been a faithful servant while serving in any and every calling he has had over the years, never complaining about the meetings or work that has been required of him. I love you Dad and feel it an honor to be your daughter!

Happy Birthday Daddy!