The Right to Not Say Anything

I have been trying to avoid Facebook today, as the barrage of negative posts have been flowing in from my Liberal Facebook friends, who have continued with vigor to weigh in on their disappointment and disgust with last night's election results - basically attacking Trump's supporters with accusation of bigotry, sexism, racism, etc . . .

I told myself last night, after learning of Trump's victory over Hillary Clinton, that I was going to refrain from commenting on or engaging in any political commentary throughout the day today, as I knew emotions would be heightened, and tensions would be magnified - and to be quite honest, it's not worth losing friendships with people I've known for years because of a difference of political opinion.

There were several times throughout the day, however, that I saw a post and almost could not refrain from defending myself and my choice of candidate. I just don't understand the hypocrisy that I've been seeing all over social media today; to call ALL Trump supporters bigots, racists, sexists, etc. is to engage in the very same behavior that these people claim to have been oppressed by. Type-casting works both ways, my friends, and it does nothing to build bridges, mend fences, or to extend an olive branch. Besides, do these people not realize that I am someone THEY know in real life? Come on, friends, let's sit back and think about what we're posting on social media.

I, for one, did not chose to oppose Clinton because she is a woman. Just like I didn't choose to oppose Obama (four AND eight years ago) because he is black. Their race and/or sex had NOTHING to do with my disdain for their policies, nor my decision to rally against them . . . and I could have chosen to stand from a rooftop (or on my Facebook soapbox) and shout my disapproval of these facebook posts, continuing to stir the pot and perpetuate the anger and outrage, but what would that have accomplished, really?

In the end, I decided that it was best to simply utilize my right to not say anything, and chose rather to unfollow a few people for the next week or so until emotions settle and the hype of this election dies down. This choice was not made with the intention of cutting anyone out of my circle of influence on a permanent basis. I just need to separate myself from the dissention and the hateful posts to maintain my own sanity. So yeah, today I am grateful for the right to not say anything.

I voted. My voice was heard. My candidate won . . . and I have a sense of peace that we are headed in a direction that will make America great again. So, why would I need to get on social media and say anything about yesterday's election results, perpetuating the discord?

I know there are many who disagree with my choice of candidate, and that is perfectly okay. After all, this is America, and I choose to continue to respect those who disagree with me all the same; otherwise, I would not be friends with them - on Facebook, or in what we like to call "the real world."

So, here's to hoping that Trump comes through with the promises he made to make America great again. In the meantime, I will continue to pray for him and for the healing and unification of this great land. God bless the U.S.A.  

Photo Credit: The Purple Lady

He doesn't love me the way I want him to

Today is my husband's birthday, so I would be remiss if I didn't express my gratitude for him today. I have been struggling with how much I miss my mom lately, and how alone I have felt since her passing . . .  combine this struggle with crazy unpredictable pregnancy hormones and I feel like I have been a little hard on him, as a result. Sometimes I get frustrated because I don't think he appreciates me, or loves me the way I think I deserve to be loved, and I allow these misconceptions to fester inside and create a bitterness that perpetuates contention and a lack of charity.

Now, we all know that's a bunch of malarky . . . that my husband does, in fact love me and appreciates me, and I was recently reminded (again) of such as I came across one of my favorite quotes:

"I've learned that just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to, doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have." -Unknown

I've been praying a lot lately for revelation on how I can be a better wife - how I can better communicate my needs, while still being compassionate toward my husband and finding ways to foster acceptance and forgiveness in our relationship; to be more loving and supportive toward him, that I might gain a better understanding of how I can strengthen our relationship and perpetuate love instead of resentment . . . and as I came across this quote again, I was reminded to reflect on all the ways he does show his love for me. It's just amazing how in the course of a few short days, my attitude has changed to one of gratitude, and I actually find myself at a loss for words at how lucky I am to have him in my life.

So, here is a list of 10 reasons why I am grateful for my husband:

1. He recently revealed to me that he has a playlist that he listens to regularly, which he titled, "Love My Wife Better," and it is filled with songs that encourage appreciating what you have, and loving the ones in your life more fully. This may sound silly, but I thought it was one of the greatest romantic gestures he has ever shown me;

2. When I express my frustrations with him, he rarely ever lashes out at me, or gets angry. He just takes it all in, as if to process what the problem is and how to fix it. I often mistake this for failing to communicate with me, or shutting down emotionally, but I've come to realize that just because he isn't outwardly giving me the validation I seek in the moment, it doesn't mean he isn't internalizing the problem, trying to think of ways to improve, and make my life easier. I love him;

3. He is not too prideful to admit when he is wrong;

4. He honors me and our commitment to each other with his integrity, and by being loyal in thought and action;

5. He values my happiness;

6. He loves our children unconditionally, and though he often comes across as being the tough disciplinarian (especially with our teenager, and our son), he is usually the first one to show them an increase of love.

7. He is always telling our children to respect and obey me, and to act when they are told (by me) to do something. This may seem like a simple thing, yet to me it is huge. I have seen first-hand how some parents undermine each other in front of their children, but I feel like I have his support and respect 100% in this area.

8. He values physical intimacy. Let's get real for a minute . . . when you've been married almost ten years and you've got four kids (with one on the way), This. Is. Huge.

9. He makes me laugh; and

10. He is genuinely good, and he seeks after righteous things for me and for our family.

I truly am grateful to have this man in my life, and I am committed to focusing on his goodness as I thank my Heavenly Father for blessing me with such a devout eternal companion.

I love you, Babe. Happy Birthday.

Photo Credit: The Purple Lady

Playing Catch-up

I have been a little bit of a slacker the last few days, and have been remiss in posting for the 30-days-of-Gratitude Challenge, so here is my attempt to reconcile this shortcoming:

Day 3: I am thankful for date night. Because of our fun, little birthday perk email from Fogo de Chao in Downtown Summerlin, my hubby took me to a nice dinner on Wednesday night to celebrate our birthdays. This place is absolutely amazing. Their food is delicious, the service is incredible, and they made the night super special by writing, "Happy Birthday" on my dessert plate (and on Hubby's to-go box that he ordered his dessert in). They even lit a candle for me, and comped both of our desserts. We went there for our anniversary back in April, and they comped our dessert then too. And did I mention their food is insanely delicious?

Anyway, with my husband's crazy schedule, we aren't always able to spend a lot of time together, so date night is one of my favorite things. Date night isn't always as fancy as dinner at Fogo de Chao; sometimes, we escape for a quick meet-up between Philharmonic rehearsals. Sometimes, it's not even on a weekend (like our Wednesday night birthday dinner celebration). Sometimes, date night is something as simple as a quick trip through the drive-thru, and a night of playing Pokemon Go - but it gives us an opportunity to unwind, and to spend one-on-one time together. I truly love my husband, and I am grateful that he has always placed value on something as important as date night.

Day 4: Today, I am thankful for power. We had an outage on the 4th, and it quickly became evident how often we take something as simple as electricity for granted. We had no access to the internet, the tv, and couldn't even turn the light on to use the restroom. It was a "fun" few hours with all the kids home (and no power), to say the least.

Day 5: A competent, teenage-daughter. This girl saves my life some days. She is usually the one that helps me out around the house, and often steps in to help with the kids when she can see that I am feeling overwhelmed. There were a few nights this last week when the hubby was working late and she offered to take the kids while I went out for some alone time. I didn't take advantage of her offer at the time (kids needed baths and had homework to do), but she did watch the kids a few times last week while the hubby and I went on our birthday date, and ran some errands another day. I don't know what I am going to do in a few years when she leaves the nest and starts on her own adventure into adulthood. I am truly blessed to have her in my life, especially with a new baby due in January.

Day 6: The sacrament. I read recently in the Book of Mormon about the time when Christ visited the American continent after he was resurrected, and how the multitudes of His disciples waited in reverence as he touched and blessed each one of them. I've read this story plenty of times before, but this time, I found myself reflecting on my own relationship with the Savior, and how I treat the time that I have to partake of His Atonement every Sunday when I take the sacrament.

With three small kids to keep our hour in sacrament ever-so-interesting (along with a few other primary aged children that usually sit with us during sacrament because they live with their less-active aunt, and come to church alone with their 13-year-old sister), I often find it difficult to maintain reverence while the sacrament is being passed, and usually feel like it is nearly impossible to feel the spirit. This scripture story has helped me to truly reflect on the importance of that time honoring our Savior, though, and I have actively started looking for ways to keep the kids engaged in activities that remind them of the Savior, allowing me to think of Him during that time as well.

It's a work in progress, but I am truly so grateful for the opportunity that I have each week to partake of the sacrament, and renew my covenants with Him.

Day 7: Tomorrow is Election Day - so today, I am thankful for the ability that I have as an American (and as a woman) to vote. I think of all the men and women who sacrificed so that I could have this freedom, and I feel it is truly my duty to let my voice be heard. It probably sounds cliche, but it's something I take very seriously.

My husband and I voted early this election, and there were a few issues on the ballot that are very important to us. So, even though I was not 100% satisfied with the candidates we have to choose from this election, I still have a great sense of pride knowing that I participated in such a meaningful event, and that I did my part to honor our forefathers in their mission to make this country great.

Photo Credit: The Purple Lady

Birthday Perks

Today is day two of the 30 Days of Gratitude, and today, I am grateful for birthday perks. As a kid, having a birthday on Halloween was always so awesome because here in Nevada, we celebrated Nevada Day on October 31st, so we always had the day off of school. Now, if that isn't a birthday perk, I don't know what is. It probably spoiled me to a degree, though, because as I became an adult, I always felt like birthdays were an excuse to have the day off from work. Unfortunately, not every boss I ever had always agreed with me, and I was denied the request for the day off on more than one occasion. Boo. This was the beginning of the birthday disillusionment, I believe.

Shortly after I graduated high school, the party-pooper bureaucrats in the school district decided to change the day the holiday is observed to the last Friday of the month, so while having a three-day weekend at the end of October is fun, it only falls on my birthday once every seven years or so.

Being a stay-at-home mom of four, with three of my kids already in school, I always think it would be much better if the kids didn't have to go to school at all on Halloween, and we could just stay home spending the day carving pumpkins, watching corny Halloween movies . . . and maybe baking and frosting some halloween-shaped sugar cookies, while frolicking in our costumes until the time came to go trick-or-treating. Is that really too much to ask for on a girl's birthday? Hehe.

So, let's get real for a minute. Growing up is hard to do. Some days, it just plain stinks. Being an adult isn't all bad, though, and it definitely has its perks too. My husband, whose birthday happens to fall eight days after mine, messaged me today asking if I got a birthday email from our favorite (not so cheap) Brazilian steakhouse, that we usually reserve for special occasions - like birthdays and/or our anniversary.

I checked my email, and sure enough, I did in fact have an email from them for $25 toward a lunch or dinner. The best part is that Hubby got one for his birthday too, so he totally gets to take me there for a belated birthday dinner with a $50 discount toward our meal. Score. Now, that is a birthday perk that I can get behind.

Photo credit: The Purple Lady

Thankful for Tender Mercies

Since my mom passed away last February, I have really been dreading this upcoming holiday season, and with the official kickoff of the holidays this week (the festivities start with Halloween around these parts), and my birthday yesterday, I have been feeling her absence something fierce these last few weeks. I knew that this holiday season was going to be a particularly difficult one for me - it being the first of many without her, but as my birthday approached, I started to feel myself dipping into a depressed emotional state - one that I know has been affecting my ability to be a good wife and mom. 

I am not going to lie . . . I’ve been having a little pity party lately, entertaining thoughts that since my mom is longer here, there is no one left that understands me like she does, no one who loves me like she does, or takes a genuine, sincere interest in my happiness like she does. I don't doubt that pregnancy hormones had a role to play in all of this emotional chaos, but I also know these negative thoughts have been contributing to my unhappiness lately. 

My sister-in-law, The Purple Lady, recently extended an invitation for me to join in on her traditional 30-days-of-gratitude challenge, and I knew it was a message from the Lord that I needed to focus on the things in my life that I am thankful for, and that doing so would bring me joy this holiday season. So, here it goes . . . 

Today is day one of the challenge - and today, I am thankful for tender mercies. Just tonight, I attended my daughter’s Young Women in Excellence program at church, and I was reminded by a special guest speaker that I am a daughter of a loving Heavenly Father who knows ME, who understands my struggles, and wants me to be happy. 

During the speaker’s talk, we read 1 Corintians 10:13, which says:

“There is no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

I think in this scripture, it’s safe to say that we can also replace the word, “temptation” with “trial” or “suffering,” and it still holds true, and reflecting on this scripture tonight reminded me that this IS true in my own life.

I know the Lord allows us to endure certain trials because they are meant to strengthen us. I can’t tell you how much my testimony of the Savior’s Atonement has grown since my mother passed away - because I have seen first hand how the Atonement applies in my life - and I know that I HAD to experience this trial for that growth to be achieved. Despite that knowledge, however, the trial has not always been easy to bear, and I am grateful for the simple reminder I received tonight that the Lord is on my side, and that with his comfort to fortify me, I can and will get through this too. 

When I got home from the program tonight, I hopped on Facebook and soon found myself reading an old post that I wrote a few months back, where I spoke about a tender mercy I had received regarding a playlist I had put together after my mom’s passing - how listening to it that day brought such a tremendous feeling of comfort and peace, and how I was also reminded then of God’s love for me. 

It was almost as if by reading this post, the Lord just wanted to remind me (once again) that He has always been right there beside me . . . to guide and comfort me in my sorrow, and to strengthen me when I think I can’t possibly bear the weight of it all on my own.

I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who does hear and answer my prayers. I am grateful for my knowledge that because of His perfect Plan of Happiness, I WILL be together with my mom again, and I am grateful for the tender mercies I receive daily to remind me of His love for ME. 

Photo Credit: The Purple Lady

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 30: Family Time

Photo by The Purple Lady

Today is Day 30 of The Purple Lady's Thirty Days of Gratitude challenge, and I can honestly say that it has been a truly humbling, eye-opening experience. I honestly have so much to be thankful for, and reflecting on all of my many blessings over the course of this past month has really changed my thinking. I could probably participate in a 365 days of gratitude challenge, and I'd still be able to come up with new things every day for which I am grateful. Being that today is the 30th (and final) day of the challenge, I wanted to focus on something that is really significant to me; you know, saving the best for last: my family.

So, for those of you who don't know, my husband's schedule is absolutely ridiculous. He works full time, goes to school, plays tuba for The Las Vegas Philharmonic, and gives private instruction to middle school and high school low brass students. He is stretched extremely thin, so it's not often that we get to spend a lot of time together as a family. Friday is the ONE day of the week when he doesn't have work or school (although he usually has a lesson in the late afternoon), so Friday is usually family day. We often have day-dates while our daughter is at school (lunch and a movie, etc.), and then try to do something as a family in the evening.

Being that today is Friday, we took advantage of the time we were allotted to be together and spent a good part of the afternoon...wait for it...at the doctor's office. Haha. Yes, we've all been sick, so my husband and I went in to get checked out. Afterward, we did a little shopping (got a few more Christmas presents checked off the list. Woot), indulged in some yummy egg nog milk shakes from McDonalds, picked up some elderberries to make elderberry syrup, and then ended out the night with stromboli from The Tap House...YUM! When we got home, we FINALLY finished decorating the Christmas tree, which has been standing bare since Wednesday. It was awesome; too, because  my 2-year-old really showed interest in participating for the first time. :)

His first time hanging ornaments. He was so excited. :)

It may seem silly to get excited about the things we did today, but I am grateful for the time that I am blessed to spend with my family - in any capacity. My family is truly the center of my life - my reason for living - and I genuinely thank Heavenly Father for them every day, for I know that I am so abundantly blessed to have them in my life. <3




Related link:

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 29: My Babies

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 17: My Daughter

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 15: My Husband

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 11: Food That Heals

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 29: My Babies

Photo by The Purple Lady

Seeing as how the baby turns 7 month old today, I thought it would be appropriate to express my gratitude for my two babies. They are both such an enormous blessing in my life, and I thank Heavenly Father eternally for the opportunity to be their mother.

My two-year-old is such a little character. Our journey to bring him into our family was truly an amazing gift. It strengthened my testimony of prayer tremendously, and taught me that through faith in the Lord, anything is possible. It also strengthened my individual relationship with our Heavenly Father. There were so many times when I literally felt his comforting arms around me, letting me know that my prayers would soon be answered - that a beautiful, little bundle of joy would be headed our way soon. And boy...did we get what we asked for. Haha. Though he definitely has an independent spirit and a temper that would make The Birthday Girl (from Word Girl) blush, he has an equally big heart, and loves genuinely and unconditionally. Every day with him is an adventure, and he adds such incredible depth (and spice. hehe) to our lives.

Baby Cakes (our 7-month-old), on the other hand, was a complete surprise. I think Heavenly Father just knew that she was ready to come into our family, even though we were completely unaware of how much we really needed her. Her sweet disposition is the perfect complement to our family dynamic; though, and she has a smile that can melt any ounce of worry or heartache away. She hardly ever cries (only when she legitimately needs something; a diaper change, food, etc.), is pretty easy going (my mom and I are constantly being blown away by what an incredibly well-behaved baby she is. She literally always just chills and entertains herself), she has the most infectious laugh, and has the uncanny ability to make everyone fall in love with her. Our two-year-old is even wrapped around her finger. She has only been a part of our lives for a short while, but it is honestly hard to imagine a time when she wasn't a part of this family.

I could seriously go on for hours about what a blessing it is to be a mother and to have both of these sweet "babies" in our lives. I am just grateful that Heavenly Father found me worthy to be their mother, and I pray that he continues to bless me with the wisdom and patience to do "the job" justice. ;)

Love these two! <3

P.S. The Purple Lady's Thirty Days of Gratitude challenge has completely changed my thinking. I feel like I am constantly in a state of gratitude, trying to think each day of all the things I am grateful for. As a result, I am dedicating a #ThankfulThursdays section on my blog to continue the spirit of gratitude throughout the year. Please feel free to participate here on the blog - and on Twitter and Facebook too. :)



Related link:

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 17: My Daughter

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 28: My Vacuum

Photo by The Purple Lady

While re-arranging some things in the living room to put up Christmas decorations today, I had to use my awesome new-ish (we've had it for a few months now) vacuum cleaner to vacuum the carpet under the furniture I was moving. Suddenly, I was reminded of what a luxury it truly is to have a vacuum cleaner. This past summer, our vacuum cleaner broke and we went for a period of several months without one. The only method by which I had to clean the living room carpet was to sweep up any visible dirt/debris with the broom and dust pan - and let me just tell you, that is NOT fun in the heat of the summer in a house with no central air conditioning. It's amazing; too, how quickly you realize how often you used to vacuum once you no longer can, and you suddenly notice how quickly the carpet gets dirty again.

Well, when the baby was blessed back in July, we had some family coming into town and I wanted to shampoo the carpets before they got here. I didn't wanted to shampoo carpets that hadn't been vacuumed in several months; though, and we still weren't in a position to buy a vacuum, so I ended up borrowing one from a friend. What a silly thing to have to borrow, right? I sure felt silly calling her and asking to borrow it, that's for sure.

Anyway, being able to vacuum the living room today was such a blessing, and I am so grateful to have a vacuum again - especially with a toddler who is going through a food-spitting stage, and a 6-month-old baby that is now a pro crawler and has the eyes of a a hawk. She can spot the tiniest speck of food or dirt anywhere on the floor. And wouldn't you know - her fine-motor skills are getting quite proficient as well. She puts anything and EVERYTHING in her mouth these days. I vacuum the floor practically every day now, and I can't imagine how stressful life would be if I couldn't. :)

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 27: Grandparents

Photo by The Purple Lady

Okay, so yesterday was absolutely insane, and I had every intention of posting Day 27 last night after putting the babies to bed, but I was so exhausted. I straight up passed out in bed with them and didn't wake up until well after midnight to nurse the baby for the first time. So, I apologize for the late post, but today's #DailyGratitude is an important one, so I didn't want to just skip it. ;)

Today, I am grateful for grandparents. Ya see, when I was a kid, my Grandma Ruby was seriously the coolest. I used to have sleepovers at her house and she was always letting me help her cook (maybe she is part of the reason that I love to cook and bake so much today). Whenever we went to Grandma's house, she was always stocked up with our favorite cookies, and  any time that my "horrible, mean, parents - who just did not understand me, and were on a mission to ruin my life" (bahahaha...funny how kids think that. I guess if they don't, then we're not doing our job as parents. Hehe) would do something incomprehensible (you know, like send me to my room for talking back, etc...), I would call my Granny and she would be so understanding - so loving - and the tears would just melt away. Her home was always a place where you felt welcome, comfortable, and loved - a sort of home away from home. I loved spending time with her and I loved being at her house. 

Now that I am a mother, and I happen to have children who think that I am the meanest mom in the whole world (hehe), I appreciate the value of grandparents even more. I see my mom stepping into the role of "the loving savior of the grandchildren" and it warms my heart. ;) My mom always says that being a grandparent is the best because you can spoil the child and love on him/her profusely, without having to ever be the bad guy. And, you get to give the child back to Mom when he/she needs a diaper change. Hehe. My mom's favorite line (in referencing one of my children) is, "You know that he (or she) can do no wrong in my eyes." ;)

I am seriously so grateful for my grandparents and for the grandparents that my children have. I am grateful for all that my parents do for my children, and for the relationship that they have with them. Grandparents truly are the best! I only wish that my husband's parents were still alive so that my children could reap the rewards of a relationship with them as well. I guess that is just one more reason to look forward to eternity. ;)

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 26: Patience

I don't necessarily pride myself on being someone who comes by patience easily. It's something I pray for on a daily basis. But man...am I grateful for the patience that I was able to muster tonight after finding my 2-year-old on the living room floor with a black, permanent Sharpie marker. Not only did he take it upon himself to cover his lips, hands, legs, and arms, but there are now giant squiggle marks all over a huge section of the carpet in our living room and on the area rug. It was all over his building blocks, on one of The Drama Queen (my 12-year-old)'s sweaters, and as I walked into the kitchen with my jaw on the floor, I discovered that it was all over the tile AND on the kitchen wall as well. The most annoying part is that I was in the room with him while he created his masterpiece. I had just been preoccupied with Christmas shopping on my lap top. Doh!

Let's just say that the boy is lucky to be alive. He IS alive though - and it is only due to the patience, which I had to harness with every ounce of energy I could muster. He is lucky that I love him so much. For real. Oh, the joys of motherhood!

Photo by The Purple Lady

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 25: Forgiveness

Photo by The Purple Lady

One of my most favorite quotes of all time is when Mark Twain said, "Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heal that has crushed it." How beautiful, right? To think that we, as human beings, are capable of such wonderful, Christ-like love for others, that we could be able to forgive them for their trespasses against us.

Christ himself stood on the cross as he was being crucified and prayed to the Lord asking him to forgive the men who were actively in the process of persecuting him, saying, "Forgive them for they know not what they do." I can't think of a better example of someone who loves more freely and forgives more effortlessly than the Savior.

I know that none of us is the Savior, but I do believe that we should try to emulate His example - and one of the most amazing gifts in the world is the human heart's ability to forgive. It gives us the power to heal broken hearts, mend relationships, put an end to feuds, and vanquish grudges.

The scriptures tell us of the Lord's commandment to forgive all men, and I know that there are some circumstances in this life when others transgress against us and their actions seem unforgivable, but I think that the Lord requires us to forgive not only because we are in no position to judge others, but also because the Lord wants us to be free of the burden and bitterness of holding a grudge. I can't tell you how many times I have literally felt a weight lifted off of my shoulders when I made the decision to forgive another for some offense they committed against me. To truly forgive another is to find peace; Not only with others, but with yourself.

Now, I know that I am not perfect. And though I never aim to injure others intentionally, there may have been times that I've offended others in ignorance. If you find yourself in this category of people, I ask in all sincerity for your forgiveness, and pray that these experiences will allow us to grow in our friendship, creating stronger bonds and a deeper appreciation for each other. <3

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 24: The 2nd Amendment

My husband took me on a date to a gun range tonight, and it was seriously the best fun I've had in a long time. It was the first time I've ever shot a firearm, so I was really nervous at first, but in a giddy, school girl kind of way. The experience was so amazing though. By the time we left, I felt so empowered, so strong. I know I still have a lot to learn when it comes to holding my own on that front, but today, I am grateful for the 2nd Amendment, - the right to bear arms. I am a firm believer that we should be able to maintain this right - to have the ability to protect ourselves and our families from those who would mean to cause us harm, and I am grateful that my husband loves me enough and cares about his family enough to arm me with this form of confidence and protection, should the need to apply it ever arise in his absence.

I truly hope that the occasion to actually have to utilize this skill (one that I know will only increase with continued practice) will never be necessary, but I am looking forward to the fun that we'll have in the learning process. Personally, I am already ready for round two (pun intended. hehe). ;)

Photo by The Purple Lady

Related link:

All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 23: Sleep

Photo by The Purple Lady

Being that I am the mom of three children (two of which are under three), opportunities to get a good night's sleep are few and far between. I try to take naps with the babies during the day when I can, but that doesn't always work out, as random, unexpected factors usually prevent me from doing so.

Today was a rare occurrence, though. After taking part in some casual black Friday shopping, lunch with my family, and an outing to the movies, we all came home and crashed. I personally was so exhausted after hosting Thanksgiving dinner for 20+ people at my house yesterday. I think all of the physical and mental effort that was exerted over the last few days in preparation for the festivities, plus the fact that I've been so sick, finally took it's toll. I was so tired on the car-ride home from the movies that I literally could not keep my eyes open. It's a good thing my husband was driving. ;)

I cannot tell you how great I felt when I woke up. I was so rested and refreshed - I actually went out and did some more Christmas shopping. :-D

For real though, I am grateful for days like today when the stars align and I am able to get caught up on some precious, much-needed sleep. With the unpredictability of life, you have to seize every opportunity like this that is afforded to you. Heaven knows that the next one probably won't be for a while. :-/

Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving. Happy Holidays!



Related link:

All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 22: Life

On this beautiful Thanksgiving Day, I have so much to be thankful for. In addition to the list of things that I have already mentioned over the past several weeks, I am grateful for my life and the opportunity that I had to come to this earth, to gain a body, to be a wife and mother, to experience pain, failure and heartache - but then to find the strength through the Savior to get back up again and continue "swimming." I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from my mistakes, for the chance to strengthen my testimony through the things I experience in this life, and for the peace and comfort that are exemplified by the Savior through His grace. Most of all, I am grateful that I had the agency to choose the Savior's Plan and that I did choose to be apart of His great work.

Photo by The Queen of Purple

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I Can Do Hard Things!

All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 21: Callings

Photo by The Purple Lady

Callings are a constant reminder that the Lord is omniscient. He sees the big, eternal picture in all things and knows the challenges and blessings that each of us needs to experience at any given point in our lives - those that will test our faith and inevitably make us stronger - and accepting a calling is such an incredible example of faith in the Lord's Plan for us.

Oftentimes, we don't understand the magnitude of the blessing in a particular calling until after we have served in it for a time. And I don't know about you guys, but in my experience as a member of the Church, the person who has benefited most from any calling I have held has been myself.

My husband and I served as Sunday school teachers for the 16-17-year-olds in our ward for four years, and I absolutely loved that calling. When we were first called to serve in that facet; however, I couldn't have felt more unqualified. But through study and prayer, and attempting to magnify my calling in faith, I grew not only to love the youth in our ward, but also to love the scriptures and the prophets of old whose lives we studied. My testimony was constantly being strengthened, as was my faith in the youth of the Church. Their testimonies are so incredibly pure and powerful, and I know without a shadow of a doubt that they were preserved for these last days because of their strength.

Upon being released from that calling, I felt really sad because of how much I would miss that one-on-one time with the youth in our ward. I was soon called to be a nursery worker; though, and I am excited about this new chapter in my life as well as the many life-lessons that I know I will learn from this experience.

I am so grateful for callings and for the faith that our Heavenly Father has in us when he calls us to serve. :)

Source: twowritingteachers.wordpress.com via The Purple on Pinterest

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I Can Do Hard Things!

All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 20: Temples

Photo by The Purple Lady

Words cannot express the amount of gratitude I have for the temples on this earth, especially for the beautiful temple that we are so fortunate to have in our midst. I think of all the people in the world that have to invest their life savings to make one trip to the temple - just to have their own work done, and here I am - five minutes away from the Las Vegas temple, and I recognize what an amazing gift that truly is.

I am grateful for temple ordinances, and I know that the work performed there is ordained of God. I am grateful for the ability that I have to be sealed to my family for time and all eternity, a blessing which we would not be able to partake of without the presence of a temple. I am also grateful for the opportunity that we have as members of the Church to return to the temple often. When I am in the temple, I feel the presence of the Lord so profoundly, and it is impossible not to feel His love for us as we receive blessings through performing temple ordinances.

The temple is such an amazing place to be - a place where you can find true comfort and peace in a world that is otherwise filled with chaos and confusion, and I am grateful for that little piece of Heaven on earth. :)

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All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 19: My Health

Photo by The Purple Lady

Today, I am grateful for my health. All of my life, I have been lucky enough to have had a pretty healthy constitution. Though I do get the occasional cold (once or twice a year), I've never had any real health concerns. Each of my pregnancies has been pretty healthy, and I've never had to take medication for anything for a prolonged period of time. I count my blessings on this score daily, and pray that Heavenly Father will continue to bless me where my health is concerned. :)



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All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 18: SAHM

Photo by The Purple Lady

While cuddling with my 2-year-old today, I had a moment where I started to feel almost sad in reflection of how fast he is growing. It seems like just yesterday he was learning how to sit up on his own, how to crawl. And now, he has a baby sister that is making all of those mile stones. Now, he is the big brother that is learning to talk and communicate like a big boy. It just blows my mind how fast time flies when you have little ones.

Then, I think about Miss [M], my 12-year-old daughter. I mean, it feels absolutely unreal to even say that I have a 12-year-old. How did that happen? I remember her first day of kindergarten like it was yesterday. And when I stop to think that I only have six short years left until she is an adult - old enough to vote, old enough to go off to college and leave home - it's unbelievable. I mean, what is six years? It's the beat of a heart, the snap of a finger. And in the blink of an eye, that time will be gone.

Sometimes, thinking about it and realizing how fast it all flew by makes me feel almost desperate to hang onto every single fleeting moment I have with my children. So today, I am grateful for the ability that I have to be a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), that I am able to be around for all of the milestones my children experience - their first steps, their first words, their first day of school (I was working when [M] started kindergarten, and would have had to miss it, had I not had an extremely understanding boss that let me come in late that day); to just be able to be here when they get home from school in the afternoon, and ask them how their day went.

I am grateful for a husband who works hard so that I can have the opportunity to stay home with my children, and for his income that affords us all the things necessary to provide for our children's physical needs. I am also thankful for all of the other factors that make being a SAHM possible.

I know that what I do is significant. I love my job and wouldn't trade it for the world. :)



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All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 17: My Daughter

My 12-year-old daughter came into this world at a time when I was facing some serious challenges, and she continues to bless my life each and every day. This poem is for you, Munch Munch. :)

Beautiful Child

Beautiful child, remarkable child

From Heav’n you descended, a mom I became.

Beloved child, celestial child

I feel of God’s love when I but speak your name.

Beautiful child, radiant child

Your spirit so eager, your smile so bright.

Glorious child, innocent child

You sing to the heavens and bless us with light.

Beautiful child, intuitive child

Bestowed with your wisdom, your intelligent mind.

Courageous child, faithful child

Our friendship eternal, our souls intertwined.

Curious child, creative child

With a book in your hand, and ideas running wild.

Artistic child, inspired child

Enchanting, romancing, an essence beguiled.

Beautiful child, benevolent child

Your heart so forgiving, compassion aflame.

Beautiful child, significant child

Without you, our family would not be the same.

Photo by The Purple Lady

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All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude

Thirty Days of Gratitude - Day 16: Prayer

Photo by The Purple Lady

Throughout my life, I have been blessed with so many experiences that have solidified my testimony of the power of prayer. I know that Heavenly Father loves each of His children, and that he hears and answers our prayers.

I was reading the scriptures with my family this morning and read in 2 Nephi 4 where Nephi is praying to the Lord after his father, Lehi, passed away. 2 Nephi 4:33-35 says:

33 O Lord, wilt thou encircle me around in the robe of thy^arighteousness! O Lord, wilt thou make a way for mine escape before mine ^benemies! Wilt thou make my path straight before me! Wilt thou not place a stumbling block in my way—but that thou wouldst clear my way before me, and hedge not up my way, but the ways of mine enemy. 

 34 O Lord, I have ^atrusted in thee, and I will ^btrust in thee forever. I will not put my ^ctrust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his ^dtrust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. 

 35 Yea, I know that God will give ^aliberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ^bask ^cnot amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the ^drock of my^erighteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.

I have been feeling a little overwhelmed lately by fears and doubts regarding certain aspects of the world, and how those aspects will affect my family; specifically my children, but in reading Nephi's prayer to the Lord, and realizing that his prayer was not all that different from words that I speak in my own personal conversations with Him on a daily basis, I felt comfort and peace, for I knew that Heavenly Father had heard my prayers and was answering them through the words of the prophet, Nephi.

I am so grateful for the gift of prayer and for the ability that we have to communicate with our Heavenly Father directly on a daily basis, and I know that if we put our trust in the Lord and pray to Him in faith, our prayers will be heard and we will be blessed. :)



Related link:

I Can Do Hard Things!

The Road Less Traveled

All Things Purple: Thirty Days of Gratitude