Impressions

I entered the chapel Saturday night about 20 minutes early to take my place up on the stand in the stake center.  Anthony had come home from high council meeting a couple weeks ago and announced that he had been asked to ask me if I would mind saying the opening prayer at the adult session of Stake Conference. 

YIKES! 

But I’m always willing to do something scary if it’s truly inspired.  Surely this was.  Besides, I didn’t really have a choice because Anthony told me, “Don’t worry.  I already told them you would do it.”  And then he laughed and strutted away. 

PUNK!

As I sat up on the stand waiting I started looking at the clock then at the congregation.  Fifteen minutes until the conference started and my heart was beating a bit faster than normal.  But I thought, no big deal.  This chapel seems even smaller than the one in my own ward.  I can do this.  No sooner had this thought crossed my mind than they opened the curtain past the overflow to the gym.  They had tricked me!  They were only waiting for the chapel to fill before opening that part so people would sit closer.  That’s when my heart started pounding. 

What if I said the wrong thing?  What if I pray for Heavenly Father to bless the food… when there isn’t any to bless?  What if I ask for us all to ‘have a good night’s rest’?  The pressure was mounting and I was watching my shirt move to the beat of my heart.  It was hard and fast.  Not only that but it was loud!  I could hear it pounding in my ears.  The clock was ticking closer to 7:00 much faster than it should have.  The second counselor in the stake presidency came up to take his spot on the stand.  As he was about to sit down in front of me he turned, shook my hand, and said, “Thank you for accepting this opportunity.”  To which I leaned forward and said, “I don’t think I did.  I think my husband did it for me!”  He laughed agreeably and sat. 

All too soon the first counselor, stake president, and two presiding general authorities took their places on the stand and the meeting started… TWO MINUTES EARLY!  At least according to the clock on the wall.  Not fair. 

The opening song was sung and then it was my turn.  I would have rather given a talk in my home ward than give a simple prayer in front of all these people, most of whom I don’t know from Adam.  But it was too late to turn back now.  My legs carried me to the pulpit without my even realizing it was happening.  I tried hard not to look out.  I knew if I looked all the way to the back it would be too much for my nerves and I might end up with nothing to say at all.  What’s worse… praying for nothing at all or blessing imaginary food? 

I don’t remember the words of the prayer that I gave and I know it was simple and very short but I also know that I didn’t end up blessing any food or asking for us all to be patient with each other and get along as I do in many family prayers.  Come to think of it, maybe that wouldn’t have been so bad.  We could probably all stand to be a little more patient with our fellow men. 

All I knew was that it was over.  I was relieved.  I walked, or scurried rather, down the stairs to head to where Miss K was sitting (all youth 12 and older were invited to this particular adult session… Anthony was busy doing council stuff) I found myself practically running to the seat and tripping all over the feet of the ladies I had to get past in order to get to where Miss K was.  Nerves were still unsettled.  I leaned over to K and whispered, “I am SO glad that is over with.” 

This was only the second time I have ever been to a stake conference in my life.  I never grew up going to them.  We always counted it as a Sunday off.  I thought that was pretty typical so I continued the tradition into my marriage.  I hadn’t learned to fully appreciate the gospel until more recently.  Now I desire to go but don’t want to deal with the kids.  Now that I have kids old enough to stay home with the littles it is becoming a reality. 

That session Saturday night was so neat.  We had two presiding general authorities there because today (Sunday) they were calling a new stake presidency.  Elder Don R. Clarke was the officiating authority and boy was he funny!  The spirit in the meeting was strong and many different people were called upon to bear testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel.  People from all walks of life…. lifelong members, converts, and former inactive members.  There was a man that was a minister.  He was transferred to Utah as a Baptist minister.  He was sure he would get here and convert all the Mormons.  And he admitted that he actually had turned many away from the church.  He was sad about this.  He had asked a simple question of his Mormon dentist one day and that got the seed planted in his mind.  Then there was a Mormon gal working at 7-11.  He had asked her to come to his church.  She agreed under one condition.  He had to come with her to HER church.  There were neighbors that befriended him and made him feel loved and wanted in the community even though most of his neighbors were Mormon.  He once ordered a free King James version of the Bible.  Guess who showed up at his door to deliver it?  Mormon missionaries.  He sent them away but kept the Bible.  ;)  But eventually, he came around.  He was baptized three years ago.  His testimony was LOUD.  I don’t know much about other churches or religions but he sounded like the ministers you see in the movies.  Very passionate!  It wasn’t the more reverent, peaceful type of testimony that we are used to within the church but WOW!  It was powerful.  The spirit was strong.  His passion didn’t drive it away like it may have had it been someone like myself yelling into the microphone the way he was.  Somehow he was able to pull it off. 

There was a sweet woman from another ward that had moved from West Jordan just because.  She didn’t really know why.  She just felt that she needed a change.  She was inactive in the church but quickly became active again after moving into our stake.  It had brought her family back together again. 

A man that had been in and out of jail and prison for the past 10 years was able to feel the spirit while in his prison cell.  His third baby had just been born and he had missed the birth.  The mother of his baby wrote and told him that she was in a relationship with his best friend.  That was his breaking point.  The night he received the letter is the very night he hit the floor.  He prayed and received inspiration… in his cell… that he should attend the church session that Sunday, and so he did.  He has now read the Book of Mormon 3 times and is reading it again.  He is 30 years old and says that he now recognizes when the spirit is speaking to him. 

A panel of youth was called up as well to talk about what they can do and have done to help in the Lord’s cause and build the kingdom of God.  Elder Clarke mentioned that some sister missionaries had gone to the seminary at the high school and done a little presentation of sorts.  From that alone they were able to collect over 400 names of friends and family members of these high school students.  Two of the seminary students weren’t even members of the church and took seminary just because.  They asked for the missionaries to teach them and now they are getting baptized. 

Elder Clarke was adamant that we be missionaries within our own stake.  He had us in stitches at times.  He also had us in tears.  There is so much work to be done within the boundaries of our stake and we are leaving it all up to the full time missionaries.  But Elder Clarke warned us that it is absolutely essential that we get involved. 

I had two very distinct impressions during that meeting.  First of all, I need to be more proactive about sharing the gospel.  It is my sure foundation.  The one solid thing that is never changing.  It is the very rock that I lean on when I feel need, doubt, fear, shame, guilt, broken.  The gospel takes all of that away and makes me feel happy, sure, calm, forgiven, whole.  Jesus Christ is the reason that I am able to work toward living with my Heavenly Father again.  I need to make sure that the people I love know my testimony of this gospel. 

Secondly, I need more friends.  Elder Clarke let us know that we can’t call anyone our friend until they’ve eaten dinner at our table.  That’s when they become a friend.  And if they are our true friends, they will be ok with us sharing the very thing that makes us who we are.  The gospel makes me whole.  Without it I am nothing. 

What are you doing to bring others to the gospel of Jesus Christ?  Is there something holding you back from embracing the gospel yourself?  Maybe someone offended you and you are determined to stay away because of it.  As Elder Clarke said, “Are you going to sacrifice your salvation because of something someone else said or did?”  Elder David A Bednar said:

“When we believe or say we have been offended, we usually mean we feel insulted, mistreated, snubbed, or disrespected. And certainly clumsy, embarrassing, unprincipled, and mean-spirited things do occur in our interactions with other people that would allow us to take offense. However, it ultimately is impossible for another person to offend you or to offend me. Indeed, believing that another person offended us is fundamentally false. To be offended is a choice we make; it is not a condition inflicted or imposed upon us by someone or something else.”

Please remember, we are all human.  There was only one perfect being and He is aching to have you back in His presence.  And remember that to be offended is a choice.  You can choose to be offended or you can choose to rise above that and realize that imperfect people are all that Heavenly Father has to work with.  The gospel is true even if the people aren’t.   

 

New Beginnings

Why does the title look misspelled?  Beginnings… hmm, I guess that’s right.  Spell check knows all.  ;)

K was invited to New Beginnings at church.

NEW BEGINNINGS!!  Do you know what this means?  I’m OLD!  It also means that K will be 12 this year and entering Young Women’s. 

So weird.  (I swear I was just entering Young Women’s a year or two ago. :/)

Anthony and I were invited (as were all the other parents).  It was so fun to see K be presented with a crown and beads.  The theme was ‘royalty’.  We are all royalty in God’s eyes.  We are his princesses.  There were a couple of talks given and they were powerful.  Integrity and Virtue…. what are they and how do we apply them to our lives and our character. 

The program was short and simple. 

K with the other two girls being welcomed this year.  One of them is her best friend, on the right.

And this is the other best friend.  They can’t wait to join her in YW. 

You can’t tell from the picture since they are sitting down but they are both significantly taller than K.  She’s not short, just average.  They just happen to be super tall!

I’m pretty sure I look amazing in this one.  Do you love the bunched up skin on my neck/cheek?  Me too.

We were supposed to do a silly one first then we BOTH would kiss her on the cheek in the next one.  Anthony totally ruined it!  The punk!  :)  K is absolutely embarrassed about this picture.  Don’t tell her I used it… she’ll be mortified.  **Enter evil laugh**

We’re both so stinkin’ proud of the beautiful young woman that K is becoming.  She is talented beyond measure and knows how to make anyone feel loved and needed.  She’s a shining example of how to be a real friend. 

Keep it up, K!  We sure love you!!

Baby’s Blessing

Our little man received a name and a blessing a couple weeks ago.  January 6th to be exact. 

For those who may be unfamiliar with my faith, we have our babies blessed in order to give them an official name within the church.  They are not only receiving  a Father’s blessing along with having a priesthood ordinance performed, but they are also put upon the records of the church.  It’s really a neat thing. 

The blessing was beautiful, as they all have been.  I never remember anything that was said but I remember the feeling I get every time Anthony is able to perform this ordinance.  It’s a very special event to watch your husband or other priesthood holder walk up to the front of the chapel along with a whole slew of other invited priesthood holders, stand in a circle around your baby with all of their hands supporting the baby, and listen to the words of the blessing and it’s meaning.  One of my favorite things! 

I also love when Anthony gets up to bear his testimony.  He’s done it with each of the kids as they have always been blessed on Fast Sunday.  Always emotional and sentimental.  Love that man! 

My mother-in-law also bore her testimony which was really neat.  She expressed her pride in Anthony and the man that he has become.  She also thanked my parents for the way that they raised me.  Made me feel good.  :) 

It was a great day filled with lots of spirit and lots of food after church.  I had my dad snap a few pics of my family.  Apparently I forgot to remind him that he could zoom out or take a few steps backwards to make sure more of the kids in the front row would show… you know, more than just their shoulders and head.  :/  But whatever.  I had a friend fix one of the pics to make it somewhat usable.  Some of us are cut off in weird places but it works.  I’m just grateful to have pictures at all.  

H looks a little silly in this one.  She had just lost a tooth and was in the middle of laughing at my uncle.

  

After everyone left I tried to get a little mini session with Baby in his blessing outfit (my mom made it, she’s so talented!) but he was not cooperating.  So I tried again a few days later but no matter how hard I tried to get him to stay asleep after nursing him, he kept waking up every time I laid him down for a shot.  This was the best one.  We didn’t get any sleepy ones :(.  Hopefully it doesn’t have ‘the alien look’ my friend, Cari, warned me about.  Not sure what that looks like… 

A Special Day

A while back Anthony was called in for a Stake interview with a counselor in our Stake Presidency.  Little did he know what he was in for.  Since then, he’s learned so much and I’ve watched his testimony of the gospel grow along with his devotion and loyalty to just about everything.  He’s my hero!  I love that man and can’t imagine going through this crazy life with anyone else.  I aspire to be more like him in so many ways.

The day that Anthony was made a High Priest was a pretty special day for him.  Only one thing could have made it better.  You see, Anthony’s dad had not been called to the office of High Priest.  Therefore, he was unable to ordain Anthony to that higher priesthood.  Instead, Anthony asked one his good friends in the ward to do it. 

As we sat there in the room and Anthony was being ordained, Mark (Anthony’s dad) was overwhelmed with emotion.  I personally have only seen him that emotional one other time.  (When Anthony’s sister passed away.)  The tears were flowing and we all just knew that he was so happy for Anthony, yet at the same time he wished so badly that he had been able to perform the sacred ordinance himself. 

Well, a couple weeks ago Anthony got a phone call from his dad informing him that he had better make plans to go to church with him that coming Sunday.  He played it down for a minute and then finally announced that he had been called to the office of High Priest!  I think Anthony was just as excited about it as his dad was.  And the neatest part for them both was that Anthony was able to ordain Mark! 

It became quite the ordeal as all of Anthony’s sisters who could make it were there.  One even drove up from Arizona for the occasion.  Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the ordination being that my kids had already gone to church in our own ward and I knew attempting a second Sacrament Meeting with the boys would turn into a major nightmare!  We waited at my in-laws house for everyone to come back and then we partied the best way we know how… lots of Mark’s favorite foods! 

It was a day of celebration, indeed!  Mark was on cloud nine and everyone else had no choice but to be right there with him.  You just have to know the guy.  He puts a smile on your face without even trying when he’s in a good mood.  So what if he’s a lot little stubborn and likes to argue about which foods are healthy and which ones are not…. it’s only extremely slightly frustrating!

I totally won that argument, by the way.  He just doesn’t realize it.  ;)

I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus

My all time favorite Primary song has always been I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus.  It’s just a song that has really touched me ever since I was very small.  Just recently I discovered this video of David Archuletta singing it and I am totally in love! 

Any other David fans out there?  I love his voice!  (And I’m super ecstatic that he is going on a mission!)

But this post really isn’t about David.  It’s really about this song that I love and how beautifully it can be portrayed.  There’s a little bit of talking in the beginning so if you want to skip that, skip ahead to about 1:05. 

Scripture Study

Up until this past October, I had never really had a plan for studying my scriptures.  Anthony and I decided when the last session of General Conference rolled around that we needed a real plan.  Something that we could both stick with and even work on together. 

The plan…

Anthony reads and studies during lunch at work.  Yes, he’s had a few snickers and laughs about that from co-workers but unlike in years past, it doesn’t bother him.  We’ve been deeply humbled by circumstances in the past few years and while it certainly hasn’t been easy, I can honestly say that it’s been worth it!  The ‘world’ has much less of an influence on both of us and we just don’t really care what the ‘world’ thinks.  We are a PECULIAR people!  :)

I read just after lunch when the boys go to bed.  The girls have quiet time and I am able to sit and read with… minimal interruptions.  There are always a few.  I mean, c’mon, we’ve got a gazillion kids! 

Yes, five is the new gazillion.

As a couple, Anthony and I study together after family scriptures and once the kids are all in bed.  In addition to our scriptures themselves, here’s what our ‘study’ looks like. 

We’ve started scripture journals!  Mine is on the bottom.  Anthony even takes his to work and fills it out.  He is NOT a journal guy.  The only journals he’s ever kept are the two from his mission.  Other than that, nothing!  I found this fabulous blog (scripture journal tips here) that has really helped in so many ways.  She is amazing!  I can’t tell you what her blog has done for my study of the scriptures.  Remember, I’m a first-timer here.  I’ve never made it through the whole BOM… don’t judge.  

If you’re interested in starting your own scripture journal, the above links are FABULOUS for ideas on what to include and how to do it but there are some awesome pages (along with more ideas) to print from Latter-Day Homeschooling (which I am a contributor for on the 16th of every month ;)). 

I have to admit that Anthony is actually far more dedicated about scripture journaling than I am.  He comes home and tells me about things he wants to ponder and epiphanies he has.  They’re all right there in his big ol’ binder full of inspirational thoughts and wisdom.  Everything from the Higher Priesthood to temple sessions to parenting to likening the scriptures.  I’ve never seen him more excited about studying the scriptures.  He loves having somewhere to write his personal thoughts and insights. 

Guys, it’s like I have a new husband!  One that keeps a journal… of sorts.  It’s always bothered me that I am not even mentioned in any journals of his because he hasn’t kept one for the whole time I’ve known him.  Guess what… I’m in his scripture journal.  He really does think about me!  Oh, the kids are there, too.  He loves us!!

As for me, I’m working on utilizing my scripture journal more.  I guess I’m just not as insightful. 

 

What about you?  Do you keep a scripture journal or any journal at all for that matter? 

Scripture Power!

K is my HERO!!

 

When she turned 8 years old, Anthony and I challenged her to read the Book of Mormon.  On December 30, 2011 she finished.  It took her just over two years and I am so darn proud of her!

She’s accomplished something that most kids her age have never done.  She took Moroni up on his promise (Moroni 10: 3-5), prayed about what she had read and has determined that it is true.  She started all over again on January 1st!

I have a confession… Not only has she accomplished something that most KIDS have never done, she’s accomplished something that I have never done.  I’m pretty sure that I’ve read the whole thing in pieces and parts many times over but I’ve never sat down and read it from beginning to end.  Never in order.  It’s a work in progress though and I’m going to be finished soon.  How embarrassing to admit that I’ve never read the Book of Mormon myself!  However, even without reading it front to back on my own, I have a testimony of it’s truthfulness.  I have no doubt that it is Another Testament of Jesus Christ!  But I look forward to the day when I am able to pray about it again and gain an even stronger testimony of it’s truth.  That day will come soon, you’ll be sure to hear about it when it happens. ;)

K has been such an inspiration to me.  Every morning for about the past three months or so, when I thought she was still sound asleep, I’d peek in her room and there she would be.  On her bed, scriptures in hand, reading away.  Meanwhile, her little sisters were sawing logs! 

(A has started reading it now that she is eight.  Can’t have that older sister showing her up!  A’s goal is to finish before she’s 9.)

**K, I can’t express how lucky I feel to have you as my firstborn.  You have been such a great example to me of how the gospel works and how to truly live it.  Thank you so much for your quiet example.  You truly are my hero!  I look up to you in so many ways.

A’s Baptism

We are so proud of our little A.  She was baptized on New Year’s Eve (Saturday) in order to accommodate for family that was in town for the holidays.

 

There was a slight scare on Friday morning when Anthony received an email from the Stake President informing us that the fire department was on it’s way to the Stake Center after someone called in reporting smoke coming out from the roof.  Anthony hadn’t gone to work yet so he hopped in the car to rush over there just after we heard and saw the fire truck whiz by our house. 

Luckily, the fire was small and was only in the attic area.  There is now an arson investigation because it appears that someone was tampering with the a/c unit. 

After the building was cleared, we were told that we would still be able to hold the baptism the next morning. 

PHEW! 

Later that day, my mother-in-law called to inform me that A’s aunt, who was supposed to give the Baptism talk, wouldn’t be able to do it because she was really sick and had absolutely no voice! 

I asked A to hurry and choose someone to replace her.  She chose my cousin so I started to dial her on the phone and then…

“WAIT!!  Can you do it, Mom?”

Hmm, considering that it’s Friday afternoon, I still have to run to the store for a few things for the party to be held after the baptism, the missionaries are coming over for dinner tonight, and once the kids all go to bed I need to get the house ready for company…

Umm, NO! 

But how do you tell your sweet little girl no? 

I had absolutely NO time to prepare anything.  I was going to wing it! 

Saturday morning was chaotic trying to get all the last minute things done, get everyone dressed, and make sure that WE weren’t late for our own event.  It happens sometimes. 

I was maybe severely a little panicked about what I was going to say for my ‘talk’ and then a miracle happened!  A MIRACLE, I tell you!  My sister-in-law walked in, sick as a dog, and handed me her already prepared talk. 

What a relief!

I gave my her talk, A was baptized, Grandpa gave his talk on the Holy Ghost, and A was confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  What a wonderful thing!  I can’t even explain the great feeling it gives me as a mom to watch my kids be baptized and know that they’ve made such an important, significant decision. 

A, I’m so very proud of you!  You’re such a sweet and sassy girl with so many talents.  It really is mind boggling!  I love you very much.  Please remember how you felt on this very important day. 

Love,

Mom

My mom made her dress.

 Just before changing into baptism clothing.

All of us on that very special day!  (And yes, I have the largest forehead in history.)

The Stranger

I don’t think it’s a bad thing to get excited about Santa Claus and presents, but I think it’s most important to remember our perfect brother, Jesus Christ, for whom we celebrate the glorious holiday in the first place.

I heard this poem several years ago and it has been my favorite ever since. It reminds me of the real reason for the whole Christmas season.

At Christmas time there was a man,
who looked so out of place.
As people rushed about him,
at a hurried sort of pace.

He stared at all the Christmas lights,
the tinsel everywhere.
The shopping center Santa Claus,
with children gathered near.

The mall was packed with shoppers,
who were going to and fro.
Some with smiles, some with frowns,
and some too tired to go.

They rested on benches,
or they hurried on their way.
To fight the crowds for purchases,
to carry home that day.

The music from the stereo,
was playing loud and clear.
Of Santa Claus and snowmen,
and funny nosed reindeer.

He heard the people talk about,
the good times on the way.
Of parties, fun and food galore,
and gifts exchanged that day.

“I'd like to know what's going on,”
the man was heard to say.
”There seems to be some sort,
of celebration on the way.

“And would you tell me who this is,
all dressed in red and white?
And why are children asking
"him" about a special night?”

The answer came in disbelief,
”I can't believe my ear.
I can't believe you do not know,
that Christmas time is here.

“The time when Santa comes around,
with gifts for girls and boys.
When they are asleep on Christmas Eve,
he leaves them books and toys.

“The man you see in red and white,
is Santa Claus so sly.
The children love his joyful laugh,
and twinkle in his eye.

“His gift packed sleigh is pulled along,
by very small reindeer.
As he flies quickly through the air,
while darting here and there.

“The children learn of Santa Claus,
while they are still quite small.
When Christmas comes he is
the most, important one of all!”

The stranger hung His head in shame,
He closed a nail pierced hand.
His body shook in disbelief,
He did not understand.

A shadow crossed His stricken face,
His voice was low but clear.
"After all these years they still don't know."
And JESUS shed a tear.

 

~Author Unknown~

 

In case I don’t get a chance to blog tomorrow…

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! 

I hope it’s a great one!  And please, remember Him!!

 

Our Advent Calendar

Before I get into the calendar, I need to announce the winner of the Hand Vibes giveaway… (It’s still Friday ;))

The winner is Briana!  Congratulations!  I hope you enjoy them.  (P.S.  I always got Lipsmackers in my stocking, too!)

And now on to the calendar.

---------------------------------------------------------

This year, we are trying to focus more on the Christ aspect of Christmas.  Don’t get me wrong, we are huge fans of Santa Claus around here.  I believe Santa is a very Christ-like ‘being’ and we try to focus on those aspects.  We just wanted to integrate more of Christ himself into our holiday this year. 

That’s why we decided to study the Names of Christ for the days leading up to Christmas.  To be honest, I had no idea that Christ actually has so many names.  I found the idea on a blog that I absolutely love.  Here is the link.  She’s got TONS of other great ideas, too.  Just look around, you’re bound to find something you love there!     

I was able to find some free printable Christmas tags here that I copied and pasted onto Word, printed it out (duh!), then I wrote all the names on each of the 25 tags before cutting them out.  On the back, I wrote all the dates.  So far (last night and tonight), the girls have really enjoyed it.  We’ve learned that Christ, Messiah, and Anointed One all mean the same thing.  They just originate from different languages.

 

As much as I would have loved to have them at a height accessible for all the kids to reach and actually participate in the flipping of each days’ name, I have two little monkeys (C and B) that would have the whole calendar torn apart quicker than I could say… anything, really.  **Sigh** Someday we’ll have nice things.  Maybe. 

But until then, we must keep advent calendars up high. 

You really should go check it out.

**P.S.  Please forgive me for not posting as often lately.  It’s been a crazy few weeks for us and our insane December has just begun but I plan to post every day for the month of December.  Stay tuned, I’ve got lots of recipes, gift ideas, and real life stories to share.** 

Callings

I am a member of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  It is our belief that we are called to certain positions, within the organization of our church, by the Lord.  He calls us to where we need to be whether it be to help others or because we need to be there to learn something for ourselves. 

We are called to these positions after careful consideration and prayerful thought by our leaders.  There may be times that we are surprised by the positions we are asked to take on and in those instances we are certainly entitled to our own personal revelation.  Take for example my calling to be a Relief Society teacher.  Hi, I’m Brooke and I don’t teach women!!  I teach kids.  I’m comfortable with kids.  Let me teach kids!!

However, I was glad to accept this RS calling after fretting and stewing over what I thought I was going to be called to.  I knew of two positions that were opening up…. Achievement Days Leader (which I could handle) and Primary chorister.  THAT one I would definitely NOT handle well.  I don’t do music… even if it is in the Primary, with the kids.  I am not musically inclined in any way, shape or form.  The Relief Society teacher position was a surprise.  I was soooo nervous.  However, I knew the moment I was asked that it was right.  That’s where the Lord wants me right now.  For the life of me I can’t figure out why but I know that’s where I need to be.    

I believe that sometimes even the leaders themselves are a bit surprised at who the Lord wants in certain positions.  And sometimes, even if the leaders aren’t surprised, you wonder how in the world you might cope with a particular calling.  (Just FYI for those not of my faith, none of these positions are paid.) 

Let me paint the picture:

Anthony gets a call on his phone to go meet with a member of the Stake Presidency.  Leading up to the day when they would actually meet, I repeatedly asked Anthony over and over what he thought they might be calling him in for.  He was sure they were just going to release him from his Stake sports calling.  After all, if it had been a new calling, they would have called me in too.  That usually isn’t done on a ward level but we know from experience that when a Stake calling is given, they usually try to include the spouse to make sure he/she will be supportive of said calling. 

He went in that Thursday night and I anxiously waited for him to arrive home so he could tell me that they were relieving him of his sports duties. 

I knew as soon as I saw him through the window walking up to the house.  He had that look.  The look of bewilderment and overwhelming astonishment.  I think it is commonly referred to as ‘deer in the headlights’.  I knew it!!  He was being called to …..

I would wait for him to tell me.  Although it was still strange that they hadn’t called me in.  Hmm, no matter.  I was sure to hear the words “Elder’s Quorum Presidency” momentarily. 

Except that it wasn’t those words that I heard.  Instead, it was “Stake High Council”. 

Say What?!  

I thought he was kidding.  Surely not! That’s for old guys. I mean, we’re no spring chickens any more but we’re certainly not old!!  Besides, they would have called me in for sure for that, no doubt!  When I inquired about that he said that they realized it would be tough with the five kids. 

But no worries… so, he’ll be giving talks in other wards once in a while, no biggie.  That’s what I thought.  But I was quickly informed that it’s much more than that.  I still don’t know all the details but I know it’s a calling with quite the load of responsibilities. 

Speaking honestly, my first thought (once I realized it wasn’t a joke) was something along the lines of ‘What Yahoo would put a man, with five young kids (two of whom are VERY high maintenance) and an already frazzled wife, on the High Council?’

And I admit, I asked Anthony to seriously pray about this calling to find out if it truly was right.  He did, and it was.  I prayed as well and wasn’t completely comfortable with the whole thing until Sunday when he was sustained as a High Priest, ordained, and set apart for his new calling.  That’s when the Spirit testified to me that it truly was right and that the Lord really does want/need him in that position.

Sunday morning he had meetings.  He was gone for over three hours which left me to get all the kids ready on my own.  Normally, that is a task that would frustrate me to no end and be nearly impossible.  However, everything went quite smoothly.  I felt the Spirit in my home… on SUNDAY!  Sounds weird but I swear the adversary makes himself very well known here on many Sundays.  Not in a big way.  It just seems that on any given Sunday, there is a lot of bickering (amongst the kids) and whatnot going on.  And church itself seems like a daunting task so to think that Anthony will be away often at other wards or on other assignments is a little scary. 

His new calling is Stake High Councilman… Mine?  Survivor!  (and Relief Society Teacher ;))  ‘I WILL SURVIVE!!’  

Maybe it seems silly but I can already feel the Spirit stronger in my home.  Things seem to be running a lot smoother than normal and I feel like we are well on our way to receiving some much needed blessings.  I believe we are blessed when we accept and magnify our callings, whether it be Relief Society teacher, Primary teacher, Visiting Teacher, Bishop, Stake High Council,  Primary Chorister or anything else.  It doesn’t matter what the calling is, we will be blessed.  There truly is no calling within the Church that is more important than another.  Some may hold more responsibility than others but “God is no respecter of persons.” 

He only wants us to magnify whatever calling we have, no matter how small it may seem!

Linking up here!

 

My Scriptures

It seems that in my religious culture (LDS) there is an unwritten rule that you receive your very own set of scriptures when you are baptized, usually at the age of eight.  Often it’s the parents of the child that give the scriptures and sometimes it’s the grandparents or someone else that is close to the child. 

In my family, the precious gift was given to each grandchild by my Grandma.  Yet, somehow, I was skipped.  Maybe Grandma didn’t have money at that time or maybe it just slipped her mind.  I’m not completely sure, to be honest.  I just know that I did not receive my own set of scriptures until I was 11 or 12.

 

It was Sister Kearney that bought them for me.  She was my Merrie Miss teacher and she told us at the beginning of the year that she would buy a set of scriptures for every child that brought a set with them to class each week.  They didn’t have to be our own, they could be borrowed.  And borrow I did!  I made sure that I had a set of scriptures with me every single week.  Whether I was in my home ward or visiting another ward, I had a set of scriptures with me.  I wanted those scriptures!

At the end of that year, if memory serves me correctly, I was the ONLY student to have earned the prize.  I don’t know how much it really mattered to the others because I believe they all owned their own sets already.  Probably given to them for their baptism. 

I was so excited when Sister Kearney called to confirm which color I would like.  I chose black.  Black is safe. 

They were beautiful!  My name was engraved on the front and I set to work!  They were well used, especially throughout my seminary years.  They were marked up, written in, scribbled on, and wrinkled.  I LOVED them.  In fact, I still DO love them.





Grandma actually ended up giving me another set of scriptures for my 16th birthday to make up for not giving me a set at baptism.  I was afraid of that set.  Sounds silly, I know.  I didn’t know what to do with them!  They were so NEW!  So crisp, so clean, so sacred.  I was afraid to DO anything to them.  And they meant almost nothing to me aside from the fact that Grandma had given them to me.  They didn’t make any sense. 

I tried marking a few verses and making them my own but they weren’t as readable and understandable as my hammered, well worn set of black scriptures from Sister Kearney.  The words were the same, of course but it just wasn’t the same.  After trying to make them work, they were finally set aside (and eventually given to my sister) and I turned back to my old set.

Fast forward several years to 2006.  Anthony bought me a brand new set of beautiful green scriptures for Christmas.  My ‘new’ married name engraved on them and everything!  I was giddy!  It’s just what I had asked for.  I wanted a new set with my name on it and there they were.

 

Fast forward again to today…. guess how many scriptures have been marked.

 

ZERO, ZILCH, NADA!

I am scared to death to mark in them.  I’ve had them for almost five years now and they are still waiting to be loved.  They go with me to church every Sunday and they are used for personal scripture time and family scriptures but they are still unloved.  I love the words, the meanings, the messages, the stories, the people… I just don’t love those green books… yet!  I just don’t fully ‘get’ them.

I ran across my old black ones the other day and took a peek at them.  It made me a little bit sad to see how loved they once were and how neglected they now are.  It made me sad to think of the new (five year old) ones sitting in their case, practically untouched.  It’s time for a change. 

My new goal is to LOVE those green scriptures like I’ve never loved before.  I’m going to mark them up with pen, pencil, scripture markers, stickers, tabs and everything in between. 

I can’t wait to love them!  I’ve found a fabulous resource for all of the above and I can’t wait to share that with you also.   

Testimonies

I promise this post is about something other than our new eating plan.  Not because I have nothing to say about it, because I do.  I'm just too embarrassed to talk about it.  

I won't tell you about how we were doing so great and then flubbed it all up, or that we are allowed only one 'cheat meal' per week and we ended up having about 3 (or 4 if you're Anthony).  

What I can tell you is that since we are perfect and have followed the rules to a T, we were able lose a few pounds.  Anthony lost 6 pounds, and I have lost 4.5! 

But wait, this post is about something else, entirely! 

Today was Fast Sunday and, although we forgot to fast, it was a great day! 

Side note:  We have made it on time for church (meaning we made it to Sacrament Meeting) 6 WEEKS IN A ROW!! --- That is if you count the Sacrament Hymn as 'on time'... If you know us at all, you know that this is quite the feat for us.  Thank goodness for 11:00 church.  I think we make it to Sacrament once every 6 weeks when it's at 9:00. 

Anyway, being that it was Fast Sunday, we had our Fast and Testimony Meeting.  That is, by far, my favorite meeting of each month.  I don't know why.  Just one of those things, I suppose. 

As we entered the chapel and sat down, I realized that I had forgotten my lesson book at home for Primary.  Since it was my week to teach, it was kind of an essential item.  I leaned over to Anthony and asked him if he would mind running home to grab it since he usually ends up walking out of the meeting with C anyway, as he is not a huge fan of anything to do with Sacrament Meeting.... except the microphone on the stand.  His idea of sitting still and being quiet involves screaming, haning on the pew in front of us (as though it's a jungle gym), or running up to the front and onto the stand where the bishopric sits.  That's always embarrassing.  I'm sure the whole ward loves to watch as C runs, at full speed, up the aisle with me half speed walking/half jogging to catch him before he reaches the front.  I'm sure it's quite the sight!

After the Sacrament was passed today, Anthony and C made their exit.  They were quick to come back with my lesson book in hand.  What nice boys they are!  

A few testimonies in, many of the people bearing them had birthdays this month (it seems to be the theme of our ward), Anthony very bravely decided to walk up to the front.... with C.... where the mic is.... and bare his testimony!  **Often times, C can be found standing at this very mic, begging to be able to say a prayer... he LOVES that thing**

Anthony was wise to place a disclaimer before beginning his testimony.  He said, "This could get ugly really quick!"  

C quickly wanted down from Anthony's arms and Anthony obliged... he's a brave soul.  

Anthony bore a very strong testimony of how he has recently realized how much his relationship with C is very much like that of his relationship with our Heavenly Father... or should be!  You see, not only is C a major Daddy's boy, he actually idolizes Anthony.  This may sound like an exaggeration but I kid you not!  He observes every.little.thing that Anthony does and tries to do the exact same thing.  He may look more like me but he wants to be exactly like his father.  

I am not allowed to do ANYTHING for him if Anthony is around.  I can't change his diaper, fill his cup, put him to bed, read him a book, get him a pillow, or even touch his toys if Anthony is there.  

Well, as Anthony was bearing his testimony, C decided to walk over to the piano on the stand.  Thank goodness Anthony was able to coax him away before he started playing.  About that time, B was acting up and I had to exit the chapel.  But I heard Anthony finish his testimony about how he knows the Church is true and how grateful he is for the Plan of Salvation.  

It made my heart tingle.  At that moment, my love for him grew even more.  

Then, after he closed his testimony, what did I hear?  

A little C voice!  He bore his testimony too.  It was so sweet, it really was!  Mostly it was just some little kid babble.  But at the very end, I heard Anthony whisper, "In the name of Jesus Christ..."

And C said, "Christ..... AMEN!" 

My love for him grew at that moment as well. 

And then C was done for the rest of the meeting.  He wanted nothing to do with going back to his seat in the overflow area.  It just wasn't going to happen.  But it was great while it lasted! 

At one point, a Sister in our ward got up and said that Anthony had inspired her to bare hers as well.  She spoke about how she watches our family and (I don't remember exactly) thinks that THAT is how it should be.  She's such a sweet sweet woman!  We all love her! 

It was really sweet but I had to laugh a little thinking, Hmmm... if only she knew....  We are far from what the gospel is all about.  We have so much to learn!  But it did feel good to have someone recognize our efforts. 

callings

Is it so strange that I get anxiety with each new church calling, no matter what it is?  My very first calling as a married woman was my choice.  The bishop called me in and said that two auxiliaries were requesting me.  The two choices were A) Relief Society Teacher or B) Primary teacher.  Guess which one I chose.  Did they really expect me to get up in front of a room full of women, of which I was sure to be the youngest, most inexperienced one?  I don't think so!  First of all, I was new to the ward and secondly, my grandma was in the ward.  I couldn't very well get up there and teach my grandma!  It was just too strange of a thought.  Actually, I didn't give it much thought at all.  Once the choices were presented, it was an instant reaction to shout "Primary, please!" without a second thought. 

I served as a Primary teacher for the six and seven year olds up until K was born.  It was so scary.  Sounds silly but it's true.  I was so scared of those little kids.  Eventually, I got used to the thought of standing in front of a small group of young children and I started to enjoy myself.

Since that first calling in my first ward, I have been called to a number of different positions in many different wards and even a branch (South Carolina).  Some have been easy, some I've done well, some were emotionally draining, and some I did not give my best effort.  But each one has taught me something. 

The most recent calling I've been given is that of Primary Teacher... again, but this time it's for the eight and nine year olds.  I even get the privilege of having K in my class.  She and a little boy are the only active ones in my class.  Unfortunately, our primary is not very big at all.  So far, I've only had to teach once.  Tomorrow will be my second time.  I co-teach with another lady with whom K is already well acquainted since she taught K last year.  K loves her! 

I have to say that my nerves still get me when I think about having to teach.  Sometimes it's just scary to stand in front of these two (sometimes one or two more) kids who are so eager and ready to learn more about Jesus and the scriptures.  K already knows far more than I do about that kind of stuff.  Just the other day I overheard her telling A and H all about the Bible stories she knew.  Moses and the basket, Daniel and the lion's den, Noah and the Ark, and even some people I didn't even know.  Isn't that sad?  I'm supposed to teach her?  Thank goodness for lesson manuals!  It's going to be rough but maybe it will force me to get to know my Father in Heaven a LOT better.  K really is a great example to me.  She is one of those self-motivated people that sets her mind to something and it just gets done.  You know the type, right?  She truly teaches me so much.

As for Anthony, he just received a new calling as well.  He and I have taught the 12 and 13 year old Sunday School class for over a year now.  Let me try that again.... Anthony and I were both called to that position but the truth is, I only taught once by myself and one other time with Anthony present.  Other than that, Anthony has done all of the teaching.  I was just there for moral support!  That should be a real calling, don't you think? .... 'Moral Supporter', it's got a nice ring to it.  Then I received my calling in the Primary so I guess the figured they ought to move him too.  I'm pretty sure I can spill the beans since they told Anthony that he is just basically being reassigned.  Technically, it's still a Sunday School Teacher calling.  He's going to be a Gospel Doctrine Teacher.  He he!  I laugh only because it's the one calling that he's scared to death of.  He's had that calling before, several times actually, but it still gets the best of him.  His lessons are always great and people always tell him he's a wonderful teacher so I never know what he's always crying about. 

There are only three callings in the church (that I can currently think of, anyway) that I have no desire to hold. 

1) Nursery Leader:  Man oh man, am I ever grateful to the nursery leaders!  But I am home with little ones all.day.long every day and I need a good break on Sundays.  I'm pretty sure I would cry if I were ever called to that position.

2) Relief Society President:  HOLY COW!  That's a huge responsibility.  Insane, that's what I would be.  No, thank you! 

3) Primary Music Person (not sure of the technical name):  You know, the one in charge of "Music Time" in Primary.  This calling is probably really fun but I also know that they have to sometimes 'demonstrate' parts of new songs being learned so the kids will pick up on it.  They also have to sing very loudly for all the kids to hear.  All the kids would end up crying after my attempts at singing.... by myself!  Seriously, it would NOT be good.  Put me in a group and let me attempt to 'blend in', quietly, and maybe no one will notice.  Solos just aren't my thing. 

For the record, if I were ever called to any of these positions I would not reject it.  I would simply fall to my knees and pray and pray and pray some more that I would either have LOTS of patience for the nursery kids, superwoman powers as the RS Pres (and more than 24 hours in a day ;), or a suddenly magical voice for the poor Primary kids. 

Having a calling sure does make me think.  I'm excited to see what things I will learn in my new venture as a teacher. 

Speaking of... I better go prepare my lesson for tomorrow. 

Schooling the big kid! ~Part 2~

Now, where did I leave off in part 1?  Oh yes, I believe I ended when we started praying about homeschooling.

Anthony and I prayed both together and individually about this and each time, we both felt good about the decision.  I have to say that just the very idea of keeping K home put many of my other worries at ease, not just the worries about the school itself.  Most of those worries had to do with the social aspect.  I mentioned before that school is considered "the only way" to truly socialize a child, right?  But, in my research, and from my own experience, I came to realize that the social aspect of public school is often times extremely negative.  The bullying, the superiority, the inferiority, all of it can be so trying on a child's self worth. 

I recognize that K's personality is very similar to what mine was at that same age.  Often times it still is.  Our feelings are hurt very easily.  We don't take it well when someone is mean to us, it usually ends up that we are in tears.  That part has been easier now that I am older but it still happens.  For K it still happens all the time.  It breaks her heart to learn that someone doesn't like her.  These are all things that mean kids feed on.  I remember crying each time someone would say anything mean to me while some of my friends would fight back with a feisty attitude when something was said to them.  Can you guess who they continued to pick on?  Yep, it was me.  I gave the reaction they were looking for.  Did you ever have a moment during your grade school years that you just wanted to go home and have your mom give you a big hug so the world would make sense again?  I felt that way all the time.  As great as my teachers were, they couldn't console me the way my mom could.  She was the only one that would fight for me and make sure that everything in her power was done to make me feel whole again. 

I imagined my little girl going to that same great big playground at the same great big school that I attended and having those same sad, lonely feelings.  Her personality is such that she gives the bullies something to feed off of.  It gave me a sense of peace, once we decided to homeschool, knowing that I would be here for her when she needed me.  I would be here to comfort her and help her know right from wrong. 

I know there are critics out there saying, "How is she supposed to learn to defend herself?  How do you expect her to grow?  She can't come crying to Mommy every time she gets her feelings hurt!"  Rest assured, I know all of this.  But I looked at my then five year old little girl and I recognized that she doesn't have her wings yet.  She wasn't ready to be thrown to the wolves.  I still had time to nourish her soul, help her figure out who she is, and be the best K she could be before throwing her out there for the world to mold and shape the way the world sees appropriate.  Looking at the world's view of what a little girl should grow up to be is not my idea of what our Heavenly Father would want for her. 

The feelings I grew up with during grade school were not positive for the most part.  I felt inferior to my peers as a result of the relentless teasing I endured.  I hid my face hoping no one would see me only to figure out later that 'hiding' made me more apparent.  However, I did find one way to feel superior to some of my peers.  Did you ever have reading groups and math groups?  We had groups that ranged from low, medium and high which translates to below average, average, and above average.  They always called each group a color such as yellow, blue, and red (I don't remember exactly which colors were used) so as not to identify them as the low group or the high group.  I'm not sure who they thought they were fooling, we all knew which group was which.  Lucky for me, I was in the highest group for both math and reading.  THAT, right there, made me better than all those mean kids that made fun of me!  I loved looking down on them in this manner!  As an adult, I realize now how foolish I was.  But at the time, it was my way of feeling superior when in fact, I felt very inferior.  After all, wasn't it more important to be popular than it was to be smart? 

I remember the first time I realized that I never was smarter than those fools.  Sadly, it wasn't until I was out of school and dating Anthony.  Anthony was one of the most intelligent people I had ever met.  He could rattle things off that I could never have known.  Since I didn't know him during our school years, I had no idea how he had struggled in school.  Unlike me, he was always in the lowest reading groups and even went to resource classes.  He had a 'learning disability', which, by they way, I now have a very different view of after all of my research.  I believe everyone just learns in different ways.  Anthony never had a 'disability' at all.  He needed to learn in a different manner, that's all.  Yet, all through school, he felt inferior to his peers.  He was never as smart as them and never got good grades.  Funny how drastically our attitudes about education have changed.  I never want my children to feel either inferior or superior to those around them, especially their friends.  I only want them to know how and where to find the answers to the questions they have.  I want them to know that they are capable of learning anything they want to learn, simple or complex.  No one needs to tell them what they have to know by a certain age or how they have to learn it.  Textbooks are not the only way to learn.  BORING, if you ask me. 

In our quest to find the right educational path for our family, we've learned a lot.  One of the main things I've learned is that you can't take one curriculum, plug every child into that curriculum, and have it work for every child.  That is why I don't like the idea of the public school system for my family.  I believe that the public school system has it's place in society, I really do.  Homeschooling is NOT for everyone.  It can be hard and trying at times but I am absolutely loving that I get to learn right along with my kids.  History, a subject I always loathed, is actually more interesting and fun than I ever knew.  One of the the best things about it is that I can see that K is developing a love of learning at the same age that I had started into my hate of learning phase.  It's so different when it's your own idea and not someone else's.  Being forced to learn something is never the fun way to go about it.  But having a question and being able to find the answer on your own is great fun! 

This post has gone in a different direction than I had planned but we'll go with it.  I know I'm kind of jumping back and forth, it might be a little hard to follow.  I'm sorry about that.  Just grin and nod your head....

Well, after deciding to homeschool for sure, it was time to go to the Utah Homeschool Conference.  There was so much to figure out!  What method should we try?  Should we try a whole curriculum?  Are we going to be the only 'normal' people there?  Anthony was very concerned about that last question.  Doesn't it seem that when you think of homeschoolers you think of the weird ones?  They're out there, for sure!  Come to think of it, there were weird public schoolers also!  There are just weird people, in general.  Lucky for Anthony, at the conference, it was about 98% 'normal' people and only 2% 'weirdies'.  Those are his stats, not mine. 

By the time we left the conference, I had flyers and brochures from every vendor and workshop we attended.  I was armed with more information than I even knew what to do with.  Where was I supposed to start?  It was crazy!  At that point, it all started to feel a bit overwhelming and I wondered if this was just a nonsense idea.  I prayed some more and still felt good about it, so we continued. 

Before I knew it, it was time to break the news to K that she would be staying home for 'school'.  I must admit, she was not very happy when I first told her.  She cried!  It made me so sad and I thought about letting her go to school anyway.  But when I asked her what it was that made her sad, she said, "I just want to ride the bus!"  Perfect!  Problem solved, she though that she would get to ride the bus to school everyday.  Being that the school was only down the street, that wasn't going to happen anyway.  Once I explained that to her, she was more at ease with the idea. 

In the end, I decided that a full curriculum was not for us.  Refer to a few paragraphs above....  I really like the Charlotte Mason method and the ideas presented in A Thomas Jefferson Education.  (That's one thing I need to be reminded of... do I underline the name of a book or does it go in quotation marks?  Hmm... I'll do neither until I figure it out :)  These two methods compliment each other very well.  So, our homeschool looks a lot like either of these two methods.  We're still working out some bugs, there are always bugs to be worked out in life.  We still have things we would like to add to our homeschool and things that we've tried that haven't worked well at all.  It's a learning process for everyone but we're having a great time doing it. 

K, and all the other kids, have had many opportunities that they wouldn't have had otherwise.  Liberty Girls (ages 6-9) has been such a wonderful thing for K and A.  They have learned so much and made some great friends.  The equivalent for a boy would be Knights of Freedom.  I can't wait for C to be involved in this.  H will be involved with LG next fall.  K is also involved in a homeschool drawing class.  She is in the advanced class where she is the youngest artist.  She is absolutely loving this opportunity.  Her teacher says she's doing very well. 

My favorite part of this whole experience is that my kids get to socialize with kids of various ages.  They aren't exclusive to only kids of their own age.  School is just about the only time that you are forced to be in a room with 30 other kids that are your same age.  At work, at church, at the grocery store, etc... you most likely deal with people of various ages.  At school, you are made to feel inferior to those in the upper grades but superior to those in the lower grades.  Forget the fact that some of them are reading on a completely different level than their peers, either higher or lower, or that some have the desire to move ahead much quicker in some subjects than the others.  And some wish things would slow down so that they have a chance to catch up, knowing that if they don't catch up quickly, they will fall so far behind they will be pegged as a lost cause. 

I love being able to move at a pace that each child is comfortable with.  Is K at the same level as her peers?  I don't know, nor do I really care.  We are moving at a comfortable pace for her, only moving on once I know she really understands what she was already working on.  She will learn everything she needs to know in this life because she wants to, not because she was forced to.  She'll remember it because she wants to.  And it doesn't matter if she learns about The Boston Tea Party in first grade or in ninth grade, the point is... she'll learn it.  Actually, that was a bad example because she already knows about The Boston Tea Party.  You get the point, though. 

Do I worry about the socialization?  NOT AT ALL!  Here's an interesting tidbit of info for you.  Did you know that public schools are only between 150 and 200 years old?  And that they were formed for the benefit of poor people who were unable to afford material to educate their children at home or a private tutor to educate their children.  Over the years, it just became a convenience for most people to send their children to the public school no matter what their status was.  And I'm pretty sure that 200 years ago, before public school, there wasn't a socialization crisis!  My kids see and talk to plenty of people on a daily basis.  They know how to speak to children and adults alike.  Not to mention, most people comment on how polite they are toward everyone.  I think they speak to adults with more ease than most of their peers. 

This is not to say that all kids in the public school system are improperly socialized or that my kids are somehow going to be better off in life than yours.  As I've said before, this is a lifestyle choice and it is definitely NOT for everyone.  It works for us, for now.  Will we do it forever?  I get asked this questions all the time and my answer is always the same, "We'll do it as long as it works."  When it stops working for us, we'll figure out what works whether it be public school or some other means of education.  I hope that it continues to work forever but I just don't know.  I imagine that in high school, the kids will have some topics of interest that the local high school will be better equipped to teach than anything else we can find.  At that point, they can enroll in those classes and learn the rest on their own at home.  Maybe drama, sports, band, choir.... who knows!  All I know is I'm excited to see what happens in the future. 

I'm sure there are a lot of things I didn't cover in this 2 part homeschool post so please let me know if you have any other questions. 

Schooling the big kid! ~Part 1~

Maybe you already know, or maybe you don't yet know, that we homeschool our children.  It was a decision based on many different things.  Was it something I had always known I would do?  That would be a big fat NO!  In fact, I was appalled at the idea when Anthony and I moved out of state to South Carolina with my parents and my mom decided she was going to homeschool my younger brother.  He was in the 4th grade if I remember correctly.  This came about after first being put into the school system there in SC.  Things are a bit different there than they are here in Utah.  Needless to say, it wasn't going well for my little bro.  He was having a hard time socially and the academic side was not coming any easier for him.  So, the decision was made. 

My thought was, how dare my mom take an already socially awkward child out of the public school system.  After all, isn't that why we go to school?  To socialize?  You would think so considering that is the first question out of almost everyone's mouth when you mention the fact that you are homeschooling.  "What about the socialization?" 

I was no different.  Having grown up in the conveyer belt system, I believed that the only "correct" way to be socialized is to go to school, get picked on, bullied, made fun of, and make sure you find someone weaker than you to do those same things to after it's all been done to you.  Then, once you hit junior high and high school, make sure you have a bunch of classes with all your friends so you can goof off and just be together.  Who cares what the subject is or what the teacher is lecturing on today.  Just make sure we all have fun!  That's what school was for me, just a big, daily social event.  Grades were never very important until the end of high school when I realized that I barely had enough credits to graduate.  Phew!  That was a close one!  I had the potential, it was there!  I tested into the "gifted and talented" programs but didn't care enough about them to do my homework like I should. 

No matter how many times my teachers tried to tell me how important it was to get good grades and learn as much as I could, I didn't want to hear it.  To be honest, the only things I remember from school are the things I was interested in.  If I was forced to learn it, I retained the information long enough to pass the test and then it was gone.  

So, when the time came and my mom pulled my brother out of school, I thought she would ruin him forever.  He was already an awkward kid as it was.  Little did I realize, school itself was only making it worse for him.  Just a few short years after my mom pulled him out of school, he was diagnosed with autism.  He's high-functioning but it explains soooo much.  We now know why he was socially awkward to begin with. 

Well, when the time came for K to go to preschool I had no issues with it.  We found a great one to put her into and she absolutely loved it!  She went for 2 years, did great and Kindergarten was just around the corner.  K was so excited at the prospect of a new backpack, new school, new teacher, new friends, and field trips.  I had even registered her at the local public school already.  But the more research I did about the school she would attend (and consequently, the school I attended as a child), the more I realized what a detriment this could be to her.  The school had a very low report card and the testing scores were horrendous!   

As I asked other parents about their experiences with the school, I heard a lot of people report frustration at the pace of the learning.  So many of the kids were ready and longing to move ahead but were held back because of the fact that the teachers were only allowed to move at the pace of the "average" student.  This meant that even though some children were ready, others were further behind.  So moving ahead too quickly would mean the kids that are behind get even further behind and the "average" ones would fall a little behind as well.  

At that point, I decided to look at my other options.  There was a charter school that I had heard good things about.  They did a lottery pull for enrollment and K was not chosen.  The next thing I did was borrow a whole bunch of books from the library about how children learn best and educational options.  After reading and seeing that homeschool was mentioned several times, I borrowed a bunch of homeschooling books.  Not only that but I researched online.  I probably read a good 12-15 books on homeschooling alone.  And some of the websites I found were incredible!  I learned about so many different methods and curriculums, it was mind-boggling!  During all of this, I had remained pretty quiet about my findings only to surprise Anthony with it one day. 

I remember it was summer and Anthony was up on a ladder outside our garage doing something.  What is was has escaped me but I do remember him on the ladder.  My nerves were getting the best of me at the time as I prepared to ask him what he thought of the idea of homeschooling.  Once the question left my lips I anticipated the answer with somewhat of a hopeful demeanor.  What I got was the look of insanity!!  YEP!  He thought I had gone loony for minute.  His thoughts had been the same as mine when my mom had homeschooled so the idea of doing such a detrimental thing to our own children was outrageous! 

Anthony looked down at me from the ladder and said, "Are you serious?"  Once I told him that I was, he gave me what we commonly refer to around here as 'the stank face'.  I then proceeded to tell him about the research I had done, the methods I had learned of, and the benefits it could have for our family.  The more I talked, the more on-board he was with the whole idea.  This 'talk' of ours went on for more than just the few minutes on the ladder.  He told me to keep researching and we would pray about it and decide what was right for our family.  I was so excited!  I read and researched for several weeks and told him of my findings.  Some GREAT findings, and some not-so-great findings.... opposition in all things, right?  Each time, he would react a little bit kinder to the thought of homeschooling and the prayers began. 

This post could end up being pretty long and I'm super tired to we're going to call this a

~To Be Continued~

My New Year's Resolutions

Well, here goes nothin'...  I always get the heebee jeebies (is that a real word, because if it is, I'm sure it's spelled wrong :0) when I try to make goals for myself.  I don't know why, I just do.  And each year, I make the same goals.  The same ones that everyone else makes. 

--Excercise every weekday--
--Get organized--
--Read my scriptures every day--
--Write in my journal at least once a week--

This year, though, I am not going to set those goals.  Let me explain.  I still want to do those things but maybe not the way I always plan them in my head.  Because in my mind, it always works out perfectly.  I start and I'm perfect about it for about a week, then the second week I'm ok, and by the time the third week hits, I've all but given up on myself.  Better luck next year. 

So, here's my plan...

• Exercise -- You'll probably die laughing but I'm really not an exerciser.  I'm just not.  I hate it, I hate it, I HATE IT!  It's not my friend and I think running is of the devil.  Just sayin'...  But dancing, I looove doing that.  My mom and dad got the XBox Kinect for Christmas and they have a dance game that is soooo dang fun!  Don't ask the name of it because I can't remember to save my life.  If I had it at home I would never leave my living room and my kids would never get to play.  I would get every turn and they would have to make their own meals.  Ok, probably not but it really is super fun.  So, the plan is to buy a Wii dance game (because I don't have a Kinect... or an XBox for that matter) and dance my life away.  I'm not going to commit myself to running (evil), or workout videos, or some other boring way of sweating.  But give me a score to beat and I'll die trying. 
• Get Organized -- Guess what!  I've already got a great head start!  Remember I told you about my runs to the DI (part 1) (part 2)?  This is as close as I've EVER been to where I want to be in that area.  My new hobby is throwing things away.  Even my kids are developing this hobby (well, some of them anyway).  We can BREATHE!  We're not drowning in .... STUFF! 
• Read My Scriptures -- That's it!  I don't know what goal to set other than just do it.  By the end of the year, and hopefully much sooner, I better be doing it without thinking.  It'll just be second nature. 
• Write in My Journal -- Well, I think my blog counts, no?  I'll still occasionally write my deep thoughts in my real journal but if I'm being honest, how often do I have deep thoughts?  I mean, really...  It's a rarity.

Other goals that I have are:

• Say yes to my kids more often (sometimes I feel like such a "no" mom)
• Get our homeschool History timeline going ASAP
• A scrapbook for each child.  I have one for K... I got up to age one, go me!  And she loooooves to look at it.  So do the other kids and they always wonder why they don't have one and she does.  Isn't that sad?  Poor kids!  I'm sure they think I love K the most.  It's really a sad story!  

I guess that's about it!  Keep me posted on how you are doing with your goals!  I'll keep you posted on mine.