#LoL

"Lol!"

When I read the part where King Nebuchadezzer said "and the king answered: Lo, I see four men loose."

My brain read "and the king answered, Lol, I see four men loose!" Should I be concerned?

Daniel 3:25

A House of... "Lived in"

I have an insatiable need for order in my home, and some most days it's just the BIG UGLY around here. With homeschooling 4 little children and my own cluttery nature, it's a bit of a losing battle.  

They say "The love of money is the root of all evil" but for me the "love of order" might be more fitting. Nothing brings out the Mommy Monster quicker than a messy kitchen or the Tower of Babel in my laundry room. While order can foster peace and good feelings, the "love of order" can produce the stark opposite.

So, I really loved this mom's take on order in the home. And, the importance of loving people more than our image or our homes. You can see her site HERE.

"Note to Mother: Why do we want a house of order? A house of order provides a comfortable, safe harbor for family and friends. But what happens if life gets in the way?  What happens if Billy has to go to the ER for stitches, when we are doing our Saturday Special Teams stuff?  What happens if Sunday rolls around or friends drop by and the house anything but orderly?

Do you think that is what happened to Martha? Jesus and his followers dropped in on a day, when the bread wouldn’t rise, the goats got out, the next door neighbor’s dog got in the chicken coop, and she was just getting over the flu. Wonderful homemaker that she was, Martha had a plan for visitors—perfect food—perfect surroundings—perfect Martha.  Even though Jesus was important to her, many things troubled her.  Her image of herself as the perfect homemaker got in the way of what was important—time with her friend and Savior. Her expectations of honor and praise got in the way of people.

While we pursue order in our homes, let us not forget the reason for that order—family, friends, and fellowship. Yes, people are more comfortable, when the house is neat, tidy, and organized. But let’s not put the cart before the horse.  When caught unexpectedly, forget embarrassment (or pride as it really is) and focus on people. Growing up in my youthful home, possessions were dearer than people. Stuff was more cherished than children. This was utterly destructive to my little psyche. In your home, put pride aside and let interactions with individuals be more important than image. This is emotional good housekeeping or the lack of emotional homelessness."

Repent ye... repent ye

There it was, 5 feet in diameter, glistening up at me. 

A shiny pool of Canola oil...

...glistening across my freshly cleaned kitchen floor and trickling down the hall. Let's just say that was the last straw of the day and I had -A MOMENT.

Everyone knew mom was having a moment, except little Fin who came happily skipping down the stairs, singing in her sweet, tiny voice, 

"If the Savior stood beside me, would I do the the things I do..."

In a moment I had been called to repentance by my 5 year old. How precious are these little ones...

Honesty is the best policy?

            
               

FINLEY: "Mom, your the best mom in the world....   

   .....even when your mean....or sassy!!"

-When is a compliment not a compliment?

Little Fin...our sweet third wheel.

If Ky and Bridgey are the first and second wheels on the bus, Little Fin is our third. 

My fun-loving, happy girl, seem a bit lost lately. Being the middle child looks tricky. I'm so glad she has Rusty. Even though he's 4 years her younger, she just adores his company and has found him to be a real kindred spirit. 

If Fin is our 3rd wheel, Rusty is our fourth and he really helps level things.

Two lists: FOCUS & IGNORE.

Until I read this I thought the goal was to prioritize my time better so I could fit more in. Answer or read the many emails, tweets, fb and phone msgs, texts, etc. But, the truth is, in doing it ALL I find myself sacrificing the things I want most in my life: PEACE, and Deep Relationships. 
       
As silly as it sounds, I think I was needing permission to say, "No." to the hurling mass of information that invades my life each day via, internet and phone. The constant stream and "dings" that interrupt the routines of family life and thereby the relationships and peace that I make my day fulfilling. I know this article is framed around the working world but I found it just as pertinent to my life at home. 

 

If you only have a bit of time at least read about the IGNORE LIST. It's a phenomenal idea! What else can I choose to let go of in my life, that isn't inline with my goals? Very insightful article.  

From a blog on the Harvard Business Review - http://blogs.hbr.org/ bregman/2009/05/two-lists-you- should-look-at-e.html

That's my girl, high aspirations.

Kyanne doing Grown Up.

Ky: "I like to carry Rusty in the store, because people think I'm really a teenager and he is my baby. " 


(Teen-mom, every kids dream?)
    
Ky: "I had a dream that I gave Oreo a utility belt, that helps her fly."  


-The words she chooses to use crack me up. Clever little thing.


Fin's funny of the day:


Fin: "Mom the moon is following me, everywhere I go on my bike!"

I love you most....

Jess: I love you more...
Fin: I love you more....

Jess: I love you most...
Fin: I love you most...

Jess: I love you because your the cutest..
Fin: I love you because your the esponsiblest....

The Battle in our Brains. How to crave gospel study.

This is just what I needed tonight. Thank you Heather. I love you, and this really was inspiring. Today I was just asking myself why I'm finding it a chore to read from my scriptures, when just months ago I loved that time and found it so nourishing or energizing. And, then I read this article: 

The Battle in our Brains

Several months ago I attended the Mormon Women Project Salon Event, at which I heard Tina Peterson speak. The title for her breakout session was, “Becoming a Deliberate Student of the Gospel.” Tina has a degree in Near Eastern Studies and has studied the Old and New Testament in their original languages from multiple sources including the Dead Sea Scrolls.
“That’s where you need to be,” I said to myself. So I chose her class. And by the end of the evening, it was Tina’s words that stayed with me most. They hung in my mind for weeks. She so revolutionized my study and thinking that, with her permission, I share what she taught here.
Tina first talked about the mechanics of effective scripture study. They were the standard “should-dos” until she got to #4.

1. Pray before you begin.
2. Read, cross-reference, immerse yourself in the texts.
3. Keep a notepad and pencil near you. Write down every impression that comes to you, without dismissing thoughts that may seem random or out of context.
4. Over time, look back at what you have written and search for patterns. Trends and themes will emerge. You will see what the Holy Ghost is trying to teach you.

Wow, I thought. I jot down notes, scribble in the margins, underline in various colors, but looking for patterns, themes, and messages over time? That hadn’t occurred to me.
Then Tina got serious, because we were short on time, and she said, “Now I’m going to tell you what I feel strongly you need to hear.” We were listening.

“The battle today, between Babylon and Zion, is being waged between the synapses of our brains.”

(I’m no neurologist, but I’ve had enough physiology to know that synapses are how our brains process messages. They are crucial to the biological computation of perception and thought.)
Tina explained that in this information age when messages, images, and information are coming at us almost faster than we can receive them, our brains are creating new neural pathways to accommodate the input. The first time we see an image on a screen (we’re not talking about pornography here, although it does apply) – like a blog page, a news feed, texts, or facebook – our brain creates a new neural pathway to process that image. It is the same with new sounds or any stimuli to the senses, but let’s use the visual image for this discussion.
Input always travels the path of least resistance. So the second time we see the new image, it will travel the same route. And before long, the new neural pathway has been stimulated enough to “desire” of itself continued activation. A habit is born.


After that, when the brain is not currently occupied, we long for that image. That is why we constantly check our phones or email. That is why, when we have a free moment, we click onto a favorite blog, check facebook, and tweets, or any other source of input we frequent. Without realizing it, we have begun to crave these places of input, hunger for them, to the point where they can surreptitiously dominate our time.
Tina said the only way to counterbalance this is with ancient and modern scripture. We must expose our brains repeatedly to the image or sound of God’s words. Printed, glowing on the page, read aloud, or discussed with friends. That is where God’s Spirit lives. It is where His mind and will can rise out of the texts we read or the conversations we share, and filter into our lives, allowing revelation to move through us.
Satan knows the physiology of the brain. He knows if he can encourage overstimulation through an overload of mundane or technical information, he can increase the odds that we will not seek more spiritual sources for input, thus making scripture study tedious.
Recent studies have also shown that when our minds are over-stimulated, we begin to make decisions without considering the consequences. Much of the time, these quick decisions are not the best ones for us. An abundance of “information” prompts reactionary responses and elevates feelings of anxiety. All of this distracts us from the peace the Lord offers through His Word, and deprives us of much needed pondering time – time when our minds can reinforce more spiritual pathways.
Then Tina said this,

“Your time with the word of the Lord is your personal Urim and Thummim. It is there that God will speak to you. Frequent the scriptures often enough that your brain craves that kind of input – that your day feels incomplete without it.”

Have you been there? That place of truly feasting on God’s word? I have. And I’m sure you have too. I love how Jeremiah describes it.

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart” (Jeremiah 15:16).

I have also been in that place where I don’t crave the scriptures, because my reading is sporadic, even neglectful. And in retrospect, I can see I have filled my precious time with things that matter much less.
After hearing Tina talk, I realized I can’t afford to neglect my time in the scriptures. I can’t risk being a voice to my children, my friends, or the Relief Society sisters I teach, if I am not partaking regularly of God’s word. Time with the word of the Lord is its own system of checks and balances for me. It’s how the Lord rights me, keeps me on course.
Naturally, the sources of input mentioned here are not bad things. But Tina’s words have helped me make a conscious effort to open my scriptures each day before computer time, reading any other book, or another leisurely activity. I have started recording impressions. And it is astounding the level of happy confidence I have felt. I am still working on the habit, but I’m getting better at hearing as I go. “The words of the Lord are pure words, said the Psalmist, and I am discovering that within them we can see things “as they really are and as they really will be” (Jacob 4:13).
What about you? How is your scripture study going? What do you think of this battle in the brain?

What will help them succeed?

*Think what will help them have success? How can I help Bridge be successful in doing his chores around the house? How can I help Kyanne be successful in today's math lesson. How can I help Fin be successful in staying in her bed after the lights go out?

When I think like this, I'm suddenly on their side, wanting them to do great. My view of them changes from, kids who don't care about obeying their mom, don't care about following directions, to kids who want to do what their asked and just don't quite know how. Suddenly I have compassion and I want to be in their corner, cheering them on, even if they only make it half way the first few times.

This is so different than the usual me, who asks Bridge to put away the shoes by the front door 3 times and wants to strangle him by time 4 but instead, I feel all controlled and good parent like when I give him a consequence instead, but is that really what will help him succeed? Sometimes yes, but other times no.

As I continue to think about our day, I find that Bridgey really does want to please me, he shows me this all throughout the day as he asks what he can do to help me, he just has trouble following through.

His little mind is amazing and so curious. I've heard him refered to as a blur, and I'd add quickly distracted as a back up. He's so interested in everything around him, it's hard to follow through on something less interesting like putting away shoes. But, the more I help him be successful the more I find he it makes him feel good and he tries to be successful all on his own.

He Said/She said... Cute kiddies.

Bridge: "Look dad, my dragon's name is Mexico."
Finley: "My stuffie's name is Mexi-Ker."

Bridge: "Mom what is your favorite thing to do?"

After telling him some of my favorite things, I asked what what some of his favorite things to do were.

Bridge: "My favorite thing to do, is everything I do with my dad. (Pause) And, I like the things I do with you too mom. (Thoughtful pause) Except when you get mad at me."

*Man, kids are cute!

How do I Tame that Mommy Monster!#@

I've spent a lot of time the past couple weeks, lecturing Kyanne about

"choosing a good attitude -even when it's hard."

 But, I know from experience, like the rest of you, a lecture is about as inspiring as a poke in the eye. Instead I'm trying to sing when I feel like growling at the innocent Littles.

Sadly for Jess and my kiddos, I can do "Martyr" really well. And, I see my sweet Ky mimicking me, Awwwwwhhh. Singing is all I've thought of at present to combat the grumps. Depending on the moment, I can be heard humming or belting out "Count Your Many Blessings..." because that just what I need to throw out those "I deserve" glasses and remember I'm so blessed.

I'd love to hear anything you guys do in the moment, to tame your Mommy Monster, mine is around too much lately.

 

(Bridgey made this depiction of me and him. 

So, cute that he made me saying "I love Bridge". 

Do you think he knows about the "Golden Boy"?)

I'm thankful for the Savior.

To help us keep our eye on the ball this year, we decided to copy a story I found at the church bookstore about a family who put a piece of straw in a manger as they did kind acts through the month. So, Jess made a manger with the kids (it's sooo cute) and they have put straw inside it anonymously for their acts of service, as their gift to the Savior. Just having the little wooden manger under the tree helped me remember the Savior more this Holiday.



And, on that note, I want to share my love for the Savior and Heavenly Father. As a little girl I loved Happily Ever Afters, and as a teen I spent a lot of time searching for the source of true Happily Ever Afters. Then when I was 16, I met a friend and her sweet family from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I can remember learning about their belief that Heavenly Father is a loving father, who's greatest joy is us and helping guide us on our way back to live with Him after this life is done. The moment I learned this, inside I felt it's truth, because I had an imperfect mortal mother here on earth that loved me so much. I've always felt like I could come to her with any wrongs and she would still be crazy about me, and would gently help me find the right way.

I learned that Jesus is God's son just like I'm God's daughter. That in the preEarth life, Heavenly Father presented His wonderful plan for us to go to Earth, get a body like Him, gain experience, and have free agency to choose. But, this would lead to mistakes and sin, and we would need a Savior that could pay for these sins, so we could return to live as an eternal family in Heaven with our Heavenly Parents and each other.

When I was younger each Sunday I attended a little white Baptist church with a neighbor. They taught me wonderful things about God and Jesus, including He atoned for our sins. But, I never understood what this really meant until recent years. Now I can understand that He not only atoned for our sins, but He also had to carry each pain, suffering, and heartache that would come to us.

As I imagine what it would feel like to know every sad heart ache, suffering, and sin that Kyanne, Bridgey, Fin or Rusty who I love with all my heart, I can understand why the Savior knows us best, and loves us most. I can understand why the sheer weight of such a burden caused Him, part God, to bleed from every pore, and, call out to His father using the intimate form of Father, Abba (Like we say Papa, or Daddy in our language), asking if there was any other way [Mark 14:34-36 ].

 34 And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

 35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour   might pass from him.

 36 And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.

I'm thankful for the Savior, I'm thankful for His love and sacrafice, especially when he felt as it was so awful "even unto death", and so awful that even though He knew that's what He came to earth to do, and still asked Heavenly Father if there was another way, but He still finished, because He loves each one of us, and when we are all done with this earth, He wants to see and hug each one of us. I really believe this.

I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday. Merry Christmas.

Our friend Natasha. Her STory.

When Jess or I first tell people about our charity, the most common response is, "That happens here?" And, the next question is: "How?"

Below is our friend Natasha telling her own story. Natasha was the all American teen, Cheerleader, honor roll, mom, dad and little brother at home. Her traffickers went to such length to abduct her, that they not only gave her their business card asking her to call if she was interested in becoming a make-up artist, but then had her meet them at an office building where they interviewed her and let her know that there were so many applicants she may not get the job. Three weeks later they called to inform her she had got the job and needed to get her travel documents in order and tell her family.

Natasha Herzig (middle)

After being kidnapped and forcefully exploited day after day, her traffickers required her to call home every few months to let her parents know how she was doing and where she currently was traveling for her work as a "make-artist".


The story of how she got out and what she's done with her life since to help others is inspiring and empowering. We feel priveleged to know her and have her advising us in matters of Child Rescue. Here's her story:  NATASHA's Story

A video of Baby Mia now, for Jessica, Jacob's Mommy.

Many of you followed the story of sweet "Baby Mia", my friends baby girl who needed a heart transplant 3 years ago. With so many prayers and donations sent in behalf of her, I thought there would be many that would love to see this tender video. It was made for Jessica, the mommy of Jacob who gave his heart to Mia. I just sobbed as I watched these beautiful babies. Here is a link to the Mcdonald family blog as well for more updates.

For Jessica from Lilly McDowell on Vimeo.

Our Witch's Pantry (inspired by cutest kid's book 'Piggy Pie')

Our Witch's Pantry. Kids are doing good at staying out of the treats

 

The kids and Abbi and I had xtra fun decorating for Halloween this year. . . because of: PINTREST.

What a beautiful thing.  

 It's like: 

finely aged wine

to my. . .craftaholic heart.

It could suck my life away if my kids would allow it.

Most the printables can be found HERE. I found most of the cute glass jars and creepy stuff at the dollar store. The labels were just baked till they looked old and then modge podged by Abbi. 

(For those who are wondering -yes, I did start a kitchen fire in the process, but only once and there were no casualties so we called it good, and carried on.)

 

Sister Hinckley inspires me.

I love this book of Sister Hinckley's life. She is such a great example of optimism, and being joyful. I love to curl up in my bed, with soft light of my bedside lamp and open this book to read before sleep.

My all time favorite stories in this book are  about how much she loves her children. She cried every Sept. when it was time for them to return to school, and once when her son got put in detention after school, sister Hinckley marched right down to the school and informed the teacher that "between 9 and 3p, he is yours but after that he is mine." And, she promptly took her son home.  

Here's some things I found inspiring last night:


OPTIMISM:

"I have a n ew project, one chapter a day from each of the standard works. I have been on it for four days and am only three days behind. Better to have tried and failed than never to have tried." (This gives me hope for my feeble attempts!)

When Pres. Hinckley proposed he regretfully let her know he only had a $150.00 to his name and sister Hinckley thought: "I had hoped for a husband and now I get a $150 too!"

"Doing what needs to be done, when it needs to be done and with a cheerful heart." -Sister Hinckley speaking of her great grandmother's character.

"Do whatever you have to do this week, do it with your whole heart and soul, and do it cheerfully. To do less than this will leave you with an empty feeling." -A letter Sister Hinckley wrote to her granddaughter.

Homeschooling: Crafting a world of social misfits, one child at a time?

Life is getting back to normal, it's been a long year and a half, with the pregnancy and little sweet hearted, -non sleeping, -picky, -non bottle drinking, Rusty. Truthfully this kid doesn't believe in nursing outside my bedroom, just the two of us (leaving 3 other littles all alone with grand possibilities of reeking household havoc).

I always thought those moms who said their kiddos wouldn't take a bottle were exaggerating too, but it's true, he won't take a bottle. I've tried starving the little babe, I've tried delicious full strength juices, breast milk, even baby food in a bottle but he's not havin' it. I've come to the conclusion that he's bottle sucking impaired.

But, with all that he's still charming as all get out, and a happy little guy. I couldn't ask for a better group of kids. They are super fun, funny, and sweet to one another.

I appreciate Ky's help more than she can understand, I'm expecting her to grow a pair of angel wings any day. Fin is a ray of sunshine, spreading cheer in her wake, and Bridge-well some days that boy's straight out of the Sunday morning comics. He's mischievous, hilarious, and so busy he's practically a blur. 

I wish I had time to blog, but here's some pix...

And, Spot makes 4. . .

Adorable Photo taken by my sweet friend Jody. J.A.C. photography

Little Nicholas Rusty came in his own good time. I went in for induction on Thursday but he must not of felt up to it, because he didn't make his appearance until Saturday.

Most people think he looks like Bridge, but Bridgey finds this offensive:

"He does not! He doesn't even have teeth!"

And, when we brought him home, Bridge kept poking at his eyes trying to see if "those grow in later" like teeth do.

The kids are enamored by little Spot, and he's just a doll. He's rarely set down between his adoring dad, sibs, and me.

Stats: Born: Jan. 29th, 2011
Weight: 7ils 13 0z
Length: 20inches
Cuteness: a perfect 10