Showing posts with label spiritual. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spiritual. Show all posts

November 18, 2012

A Spectacular Day in Boise, Id



Today in Boise, Idaho we were privileged to have have the Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints in our presence. He was here to rededicate the Temple which has been open to the public for the last few weeks. Here is a short video that aired on the news tonight about it. (And if you want to see my dad, you really better watch!) 

I am so thankful to have a temple close by again. I love to go there!

November 13, 2012

Our Night @ PEDS

 Sweet and Condensed Version:
Big T was taken to the ER at 4:30 AM on Saturday November 10th. He was than transported via ambulance to a different hospital and admitted in the pediatrics unit with bronchiolitis. He then got to go home on Sunday the 11th, and is doing much better!
For the whole story, read below!




Ty'Rell's parents came into town the afternoon of the 10th. We went out to dinner and Big T was doing just fine until we were almost done eating. He just became exhausted and wanted to lay down. By the time we got home he had a slight cough and was ready for bed. After going to bed he would cough in his sleep and cry out for a few seconds but all while staying asleep. I kept checking on him and he seemed fine. 

At 3:30 AM I heard him coughing again but felt the urge to run in and grab him out of his bed. As I did I noticed how hard he was working to breath. It was so hard that he couldn't stay asleep, but his eyes were so heavy and tired. After a Priesthood blessing I rocked him as he struggled to breath and became very uncomfortable. I said a short prayer and just pleaded to know what to do. After 20 minutes or so I got TyRell and told him it was time to go to the ER.

The problem with living in the country is it is a mere 25 minutes to the nearest hospital. It was a long drive. He gagged while coughing and threw up, but that was the only hiccup on our way. 

His oxygen levels were pretty good when we got there, but they did a chest x-ray, RSV and flu tests, and gave him medicine through a nebulizer twice. His O2 levels started dropping and his heart rate sped up, but he was beginning to breath a little bit easier with the respiratory treatments. His x-ray didn't show "anything conclusive"...ya. (Until the pediatrician saw it later!) The ER Dr. told us that he had called a pediatrician who wanted him admitted into the hospital. The only problem was that this particular hospital didn't have a pediatrics unit. What did that mean? An ambulance ride downtown to a different hospital. He screamed the whole way. Can I just say that EMT's are AWESOME. They are so nice and really try to make you comfortable. But it didn't really help Big T. It probably didn't help that it was 10AM by this point and we hadn't had anything to eat!

At the PEDS unit they admitted Tytan and monitored him ever so closely, confirming with the x-ray that he had bronchiolitis (bronchitis in babies). By evening time he was doing so much better that I thought we would be released. But not so much. The Dr. on call said Big T was still struggling way to much to breath and so we stayed over night. The sweetest thing that happened was when T and I said our prayers that night. I was so exhausted from running on 3 hours of sleep that I laid in bed to pray. But not T. He knelt in his crib and folded his arms. It melted my heart. It wasn't until the next morning that I realized just how bad his breathing had gotten the previous night. Sunday morning he was breathing so easily it was amazing. (Hence the smiley pictures above!)  We were released to go home Sunday afternoon and we were so happy about that. 

Big T still has a very yucky cough, but is doing well. We go on for a follow up appointment on Thursday!

It broke my heart to see Tytan struggling to breath, and then to fight getting treatment and an IV. We were quarantined in his hospital room, so it was a struggle to keep him entertained. And his little crib/cage. Oh man! Noticing that when I walked in the room caught me off guard. I was too tired to cry then, but now the emotions are catching up with me. I am so grateful for many things. First his health. But also mother's intuition, the Spirit for helping me make right choices, Priesthood blessings, and modern medicine. All of these went hand in hand in helping our Big T get better! And, thanks to those who kept us in their prayers and even paid a visit to us! An even BIGGER thanks to my in-laws who, instead of having a relaxing vacation, doted on Bristol all weekend, and took care of the house and other matters while I was in the hospital with Big T. We couldn't have done it without you!

October 21, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift: Ninety and Nine

Church. I love it. But sometimes it's all I can do to survive it. Ya know those moments? Well, that's how it was for the first hour. The kids were fighting over toys, singing out loud when everyone else was being quiet, the list goes on. So as I was trying to listen to the words being spoken I thought to myself " Well, I can't hear let alone listen so I guess I'll just feel the spirit around me as I survive this hour with the kids.

Well I made it.

Second and third hour were really busy, but I made it through them too.

On my way home i realized how starving I was. No matter what time church is, I'm always starving when it's out. So, I am almost home when I see a long line of cars stopped ahead of me.
"Oh great."
But then I saw what it was holding everyone up. 
A huge flock of sheep. Hundreds of them, following one man with another man bringing up the rear. It really took me back. First I went for my camera, not there. Then I chuckled. Who gets stopped on their road home by a ton of sheep? And then the wheels really started turning.
I looked at these sheep. All struggling to quickly follow their master. Some went astray and separated themselves from the herd but were quickly brought back by the soft whistle of their shepherd. And if they didn't move quickly enough, two sheep dogs came bounding out of nowhere and helped them along their way. (Do you see where I'm going with this?) 
I thought of a song. "Ninety and Nine" by Michael McLean. I am one of those sheep. Finding my way back to my Heavenly Father with the help of His Son, my Saviour Jesus Christ. And if for some reason I can't find my way, I have people who love me to help me find my way back. 

You can listen to this song here.
Michael McLean-Ninety and Nine
I am one of the ninety and nine
I’m not perfect but basically I’m doing fine
I have not lost my way, I have not gone astray
I’m just one of the ninety and nine
I am here in the heart of the fold
I’m not mindless but I try to do as I’m told
I’m not tempted to run and become the lost one
I am here in the heart of the fold

So why is my shepherd coming this way toward me
He’s holding his arms out and he’s calling my name
Yes he’s calling my name! But how, how can this be?

I’m just one of the ninety and nine
I have stumbled and fallen, but I’ve kept in line
I’m not one he must seek; I’m not all that unique
I’m just one of the ninety and nine

So why is my shepherd treating me like a lost lamb?
He’s searching to find me 
And he’s holding me now, yes, he’s holding me now
And teaching me who I am

So why am I feeling like I’m the only one here
It’s like I’m his favorite
And he takes me aside, and he sweetly confides
These remarkable words in my ear

You are one of the ninety and nine
Have you any idea how brightly you shine?
You are safe in this fold, and it’s time you are told
That I know where you’ve been so I know where you’ll be
Because all of your life you’ve been following me
You are more than just one of the sands of the sea
Or just one of the ninety and nine

You are mine, you are mine, you are mine
You are mine

I am one of the ninety and nine.

To make it even better, I heard this preformed live just a week ago. It was awesome!
I am one of the Ninety and Nine. And so are you!


October 15, 2012

Come one, Come All!

If you have ever driven the freeway through Boise, Idaho, you have probably seen this building. Ever wondered what it is other than beautiful? It is the Boise Temple for The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints. Or...the Mormon Temple. Usually LDS temples aren't open to the public. However, the Boise Temple has just been newly remodeled. With this recent remodeling project comes an open house to anyone who wants to come see it before it is dedicated. That means YOU can come see what is inside. Go here for more details.

What does this temple mean to me? There are a ton of reasons. But lets start with the architectural reasons. It's beautiful! And, the original architect was my Granddad, Ron Thurber. 

But lets get on to a few other reasons why I love this building. I was married there. I married my best friend for time and all eternity. My family will be together for eternity.That means the world to me. There are many times that I have used the words "heaven on earth" on this here blog. Describing certain places that I love to go. But this really is heaven on earth, one of the most sacred places on the earth. I love going here to worship. 

I am taking my little family to see the inside tomorrow night. Bristol is so excited. She has always loved driving past the temples in different cities. Now, she will go inside. The inside is breathtakingly beautiful. I hope that you will take your family there. 

August 24, 2012

Beautiful Heartbreak

I love this music video. 
Grab a tissue and enjoy!

"Beautiful Heartbreak" by Hilary Weeks

I can't relate to those featured in the video. I haven't had that kind of heartbreak.
But I do have small heartbreaks. This is a great reminder that heartbreaks can become "beautiful." My small heartbreaks (although seemingly HUGE at the time) have made me who I am today. I am so grateful for the blessings of challenges.

P.S. I also love this video because I am an avid fan of the three main ladies in it. Hilary, Stephanie, and Mariama. What great examples!

August 5, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

I sat down after church today and read an article. This quote literally jumped off of the page at me. I really needed this sweet reminder.
                  "Do your duty, that is best. Leave unto the Lord the rest."
I can only do my best, and the Lord will take care of the rest of it. And ya know what else? I will be blessed for it.
*SIGH*
The Lord knows exactly what I am going through. He knows my struggles and insecurities. He also knows how much I can handle. And He will help me through it.

Quote taken from August '12 Ensign "Answering the Call of Duty" President Thomas S. Monson

July 8, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

The Armor of God

I don't care what religion you are, or if you don't have one, but we all need it.
The Armor of God...that protection against the daily 'grime' of society.
Literally, the grime. That nasty stuff that makes us feel depressed or sad. Makes us mad at someone, or people in general. That cruelty that eats at our hearts, and chases away innocence. 
There is something in this world that we can all live without. 
Crime
Drugs
Fowl language
Cruelty toward others, even animals
We all need a barrier of protection against those things that we could live without the influence of. What is that barrier?  For me it is the Armor of God.

Ephesians 6:11,13-18

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand,
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye s1all be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I can't live without this. It gives me an eternal perspective, and the hope to go out and face the world. The world is and can be a good place, even when things seem to be going so wrong. We can put on the armor of God to defend ourselves against evil, and notice the beauty all around us.

July 1, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

I have been thinking a lot about my ancestors lately. 
Do you ever do that?
I am always thinking about my roots, where I came from, 
and how I came to be right where I am.
The more I learn about my ancestors, the more I want to know.
What were their struggles, what was life like for them, 
and how did they get through hard times.

I have ancestors that traveled west as LDS pioneers. 
I have ancestors that encountered Indians, and made peace with them.
I have ancestors that went through terrible times.
Times that I couldn't imagine going through.
But I am always reminded that they were preserved for that time,
and I for this time.
I'm sure that some of my ancestors shutter at some of the trials people face today.

We can learn so much from our ancestors. 
Don't be afraid to dive into learning about them.
It is so much fun!

June 24, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

Wow. I used to do my Sunday "thoughts of spiritual uplift" all of the time. Speaking of time, where has it gone! These are some  of my favorite posts. It is such a good way to reflect on the week and put into words all of the feelings, thoughts, and emotions that I have experienced.


A lot has happened this week. To begin with, TyRell was out of town. To all of you single mothers I have only one thing to say, "I love ya." It hasn't been easy.


With the hubs being out of town I decided to decorate a few spaces in the house. A new kiddy table, a new beadspread, etc. With those decorations came a fat lip for Big T. (his first, but probably not his last bloody experience), and some puppy problems. But it all worked out.


Most of all, while the hubs was gone, there was an accident that shook up our little community. I didn't know them personally, but knew quite a few people related to the little boy killed. I was weepy for a couple of days. I went with a friend to visit a family closely related to this little boy. Talk about testimonies built on a sure foundation. They were so strong. It strengthened me. 


While teaching in church today we talked a lot about how our Saviour, Jesus Christ wants nothing else than for us to obtain eternal life. He is there to hold our hand and help us there if we let Him. 
Alma 36 verse 3 in The Book of Mormon reads, "...I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day." 


I am so grateful that I have a family who has been sealed for "time and all eternity" that we might live with our Heavenly Father again. There is life after death, it doesn't end here. 




***To learn more about The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, or eternal families, visit    here or here.***

May 30, 2012

Visiting Teaching Tales...

I am a Visiting Teacher. In The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, all women have a special privilege to be a Visiting Teacher, and to be "visit taught." As a Visiting Teacher we watch over other Sister's in the church, help them when they need it, and share a gospel related message with each other once a month.


This month was like any other. I was off with my Visiting Teaching Companion to visit two ladies. Unlike other months, I brought my two kiddos. *Sigh*


Our first stop went ok. Bristol whispered in my ear the whole time "Mom, there is a swing outside." In which I would stroke her face and nod while still trying to direct my attention to the two other women I was with. After telling me this a few too many times, she finally decided to make herself at home by climbing up to the table and coloring.


Not bad....


Then we were off to stop #2. Tytan was screaming, and Bristol was a bit agitated. So upon her request, I rolled Bristol's window down. I had never had a problem with this before. But there is always room for something new to happen! We were driving merrily along when all of a sudden my companion yelled "Bristol just dropped Belle out the window!" *Sigh*


I pulled over, turned around, and we looked for Belle along the road and canal. But to no avail, we couldn't find her. I said a little prayer in my mind...well it was kinda a prayer. "Heavenly Father, I'm doing my Visiting Teaching, which is what you would have me do! Please don't let Belle be lost forever!" I returned to the car to find Bristol screaming as my companion explained that she would buy Bristol another one. *Sigh* 


We kept driving, but the sign that said "road closed" really meant "road closed" and we had to take a detour in which we found Belle on our way back! All in all Visiting Teaching was a success, and another prayer answered!

April 20, 2012

We met...again. FINALLY!

We made a sign. And we waited!
I am the worst at waiting. We got to the airport 45 minutes early. And I got teased about it...
Hailey(sister), Annie(sister), Natalie(cousin),
Summer(cousin),Heather(cousin)
 Ashley came running from a distance. You can see my dad in the background carrying all of her bags. It was the cutest reunion I have ever seen. She was excited, and then saw all of us and became a bit overwhelmed. She hugged us all.

Among my many favorite moments, wast this. See the very tall guy standing in the back, right in the center? That us Uncle Ernie. The beautiful people of Cambodia thought that he was President Monson when they saw him in pictures! So funny!
The whole gang that came!
 Ashley arrived in Boise at 11:53 PM. It was late, and we (they) were so tired. They had been traveling for 24 hours, and lost 12 in the process. So, the next day our immediate family got together. And more importantly, Ashley met a new niece and nephew, and was reunited with Bris and Jeffie.
And now Bristol thinks that
Ashley lives at our house!




The "Queen of Play" is back and I am so glad. I feel so blessed to have her as a sister. She is a great one, and an even better person. Her mission was amazing. My heart aches because I know that she will be missed, and even more so because I know that she will miss the people of Cambodia. I know that her love for them runs so deep. 

April 18, 2012

Feelings...

My emotions have been running wild with me today. Crying. Laughing. Nervous. Anxious. Repeat. I feel as though my stomach is in my throat. That "don't say anything wrong to me because I don't know how I'll react" feeling all day. It's been kinda hard.

Ashley comes home today. *Sigh*

She has been serving an 18 month mission for The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and the surrounding cities. My parents left to pick her up, tour the area, and bring her back. They get in tonight at 11:45 PM. I am so excited I could just about wet my pants, or cry, or...ya.

I remember writing my "18 Months and Counting" post like it was yesterday. On that day, I thought that today would never come. And here I am! Those 18 months are over. All of those things I said would happen have, and more.

We moved to Middleton, Id.
Ty has a great job.
Baby Hazel was born.
We got a dog!
I have started a few new hobbies.
I have made great new friends.

The list could go on. Which reminds me, I have a lot to update on!!!

Come back...I'll let ya know how the reunion went!

April 8, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift: Easter

The water works have been turned on today. Tears just magically fall down my cheeks. I am so grateful for today, and so emotional about the thought of what Easter truly means in my life.


Today I spoke in church about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I know that He lived, was crucified, buried in a tomb, and rose to live again on the third day. He conquered this "thing that men call death." Adam fell that men might be, and Christ died so that we might live again. This is the center of beliefs in The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, that we might all return to live with our Heavenly Father again through our Saviour. It doesn't make sense in my mind that the great Designer would create Earth and Heaven, light and darkness, plants, animals, and last of all man to have dominion over all of these things; Man, in His own image with intelligence, deity, and ability to love, and only allow us to experience life on Earth. I don't fathom only believing that we won't love those we love here on earth for this short time, and never see them again after we die. Eternal life, that is what I believe in. I know that I will see my sweet Great Grandparents, my friends, and a sweet infant cousin again. I will see all of those whom I love, and live after my death, in Heaven.


Yes, that is all a mouth full, but it's true. And it is what I have really been contemplating a lot lately. This is Easter.


On a lighter note...


Yes, the Easter Bunny did make it to our house! Hope he hopped to yours too!


Happy Easter!


For a great video on Easter, go here.  

March 18, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift: Oh Primary!

A little while ago I got a new "calling" in church. (This is when I am assigned to do something specific in church. Ex: I used to lead the music during our 3rd hour, now I teach the 11 year old girls Sunday School.) I not only teach Activity Days, but I now team teach the Valiant 11 year old girls. 


To be completely honest, I was extremely hesitant in accepting this calling. I hadn't been in primary for...14 years! And, I love being in Relief Society (meetings for just us women) so much that I didn't want to leave.


Let me just say that Heavenly Father knows exactly what He is doing. I LOVE Love love being in primary. I learn something new each Sunday, and what a refreshing 2 hours I have with such wonderful examples of Christ. 


Today we talked and learned more about the Book Of Mormon. Another Testament of Jesus Christ. And then we learned the song "Army of Helaman." There is nothing sweeter than hearing young children sing 100% doctrine. Brings tears to my eyes every time. To make it even better, these kids have this new thing going where they stand while they are singing if they are feeling the spirit. Oh it's amazing! The primary leaders (others who work in the primary...kinda like my "bosses") are absolutely a.maz.ing. at what they do. Spiritual giants! 


So looking forward to next time!


"Army of Helaman"/ "We'll Bring the World His Truth"


We have been born
As Nephi of old
To goodly parents who love the Lord
We have been taught and we understand
That we must do as the Lord commands

Chorus
We are as the Army of Helaman
We have been taught in our youth
And we will be the Lord's missionaries
To bring the world his truth

We have been saved for these latter days 
To build the kingdom in righteous ways
We hear the words our Prophet declares
Let each who's worthy go forth and serve

We know his plan and we will prepare
Increase our knowledge through study and prayer
Daily we'll learn until we are called
To preach the gospel to all the world



March 12, 2012

Sweet Sister Erekson


This is my all time favorite missionary. 
That is enough for one whole post. But that's not where I'm going with this one.


She comes home in April. I read an e-mail from her this morning. I think that she will have a really hard time leaving Cambodia. I don't even know if I'm ready for her to leave the amazing work that she has been doing. Wait, did I just say that? Ya, I did. She is doing such an amazing work, and I must say that she is really good at it. 


She is speaking in church on April 22nd here in Boise. Contact me if you would like more information!


waterskigirl5@hotmail.com

January 16, 2012

Bristolisms

Kids say the funniest things. And sometimes amazing things too, things that make you think. Well my little Bris is no exception! She talks a mile a minute. Just goes and goes and goes. I like to call her my little "informant." She tells me everything that is going on. Everything! For instance...

While playing with the stapler (unloaded): "I said, stop biting the paper! It's not nice. Stop biting!" And the stapler continued to bite the paper, in a very playful way.

"I want a treat. I want a treat. And a happy new year!"

"Tinker Bells, Tinker Bells, Tinker all the way. Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh hay!" Repeat.

As we were starting to drive: "Mom, I want the car to sing Tinker Bells!"

(Ya, we are still stuck on Christmas.)

Getting Tytan out of his crib: "Mom, did Tytan go tinkle in his pants? Or do boys go pee pee? Did he poop in his pants? Did you go poop? Boys go pee pee and girls go tinkle."
Well this might need a little explanation. You see, I have 5 sisters. We were sheltered quite well growing up. We never said the word "pee." We said tinkle. (I'll admit. It is a funny sounding word.) Then I married Ty, oldest of 3 boys. It would surprise me if he had ever heard let alone used the word "tinkle" before he married me. SO, we had a little girl. She goes "tinkle." Then we had a little boy. He goes "pee pee." And that's as far as we have gotten. ;)

While saying prayers before bed: "And please bless Mary, and Joseph, and baby Jesus, and Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus, and Jesus." 
Isn't that the sweetest thing? She is very concerned about them. 

While helping me make dinner: "Mom, I am such a good cook!"

January 8, 2012

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

I have been reading this week. Reading a lot. (Go here to see why.) It has been amazing. I am learning so much. And to report, I haven't missed a single day! My year is off to a pretty ok start! But more importantly, here is what has been on my mind.

God created all things. Even me. Not only did He create all things, but he then looked at them and knew that they were good. They were good. He looks upon me and you, knowing that we are good.

We (me, you) were created in His image. We are like Him.

After creating all things for six days, the seventh day was a day of rest. Not a day of laziness, of idleness, or vegging, but a day of rest.

I'm on to the Old Testament. I'm excited about it. Learning more of the Savior and His ministries! 



January 1, 2012

Resolution Time and Spiritual Uplift

HAPPY NEW YEARS!

I love starting a new year. Everything seems fresh, like having a clean slate. I don't like to think of myself as only making resolutions at the start of the year, but better yet trying to improve myself every chance I get. However last night as I was fighting sleep, I couldn't help but look back at the year and think about what I would like to improve. My Mr. and I shared our New Years Resolutions with each other. (And it couldn't be the same old "get in shape"...etc.)
For me:
be a better mother
be a better wife
improve my talents
grow closer to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ

Then I laughed. That couldn't be any more broad. Ha! I guess I have a lot to work on! Fortunately I have great kids, a great husband, resources to help improve my talents, and a Heavenly Father who loves me nonetheless.

And then...dun dun dun...I found this. I think I'd like to try it out. I know that it would be a HUGE commitment every day, but what is 7 pages? Well, maybe it will be tougher than you think, but I'm going to give it my all. Starting today. Today. Join in with me, let me know how it goes! I'll give you some updates along the way! The  joy, the struggles, the tears, and the tender mercies from a loving and all knowing Heavenly Father. Wondering what the Standard Works are? Go here to find out!

December 4, 2011

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

Earlier this week I was asked to help out with a Young Women's activity for our church.
I had all of these thoughts prepared, and when I got up there to say it all...
It came out a little jumbled. 
SO, here is a little bit of what I meant to say!

Excerpt from Alice In Wonderland:
Alice: "Which path shall I follow?"
Cheshire Cat: "That depends where you want to go. If you do not know where you want
to go, it doesn't matter which path you take."

I believe that it is first important to decide where you want to go and who you want to be before you make decisions. Even those small little decisions every day can be important in determining this.

Second, it is important to prepare yourself for those decisions that will arise in life.
President Monson said, "When the moment for decision arrives, the time for preparation is past."

How do we prepare?

President Monson again suggests that we:
Fill our minds with truth.
Fill our hearts with love.
Fill our lives with service.

Will the decision you make move you closer to your end goal, or pull you farther away?

For me, I would like to live in the eternities with my Heavenly Father, holding my husband and children close by. This is my goal. It's a big one, it takes effort, work, diligence and patience. My Heavenly Father will help me along the way. And my Savior Jesus Christ has made it possible. 

Sometimes you might make the wrong decision. 
It's ok. There are too many people to help you along the way to give up.
Never give up. 

November 20, 2011

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift

The unthankful heart discovers not mercies.
Let the thankful heart sweep through the day,
and as the magnet finds the iron,
so it will find in all, in every hour some heavenly blessings.

This week has been truly crazy. 
An emotional roller coaster.
And in the midst of it all, my heart is full of gratitude.
Gratitude for a Heavenly Father that loves me,
knows who I am, what my heart desires,
and who has watched over me and those who mean the most to me.
My cup overfloweth with the tender mercies from Heaven.

My sister walked away completely uninjured from a very severe car accident
The first on the scene was a first aid and CPR certified gentlemen.
He stayed with her until the police arrived.
Thank You.

My son choked at a restaurant. 
I'm grateful that I'm good at the finger swipe,
even when everyone is staring at me.
It was a close one.

My daughter was a champ at a difficult Dr.'s appointment.
She is going to be great!


Someone very near and dear to my heart was found cancer free.
CANCER FREE!
I could say the words over and over.