Gram-tastic

He (or she) Who Sees

2012-01-19T21:00:00.005-06:00

“Every common bush is afire with God ––but only he who sees takes off his shoes.”~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

I read this recently and it has stuck with me. I'm sure you recognize the reference to the story of Moses and the burning bush: as Moses approached the bush, he removed his shoes because he knew he was standing on holy ground. I have always loved that because I really want to be not only the one who sees, but the one who figuratively takes off her shoes.

That's another goal for me this year: to be aware of God's marvelous hand in each of our lives, and going along with that, to treat that Hand with respect, reverence and gratitude.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T20:57:00.005-06:00

"Count no day lost in which you waited your turn, took only your share and sought advantage over no one." ~Robert Brault

I'm not a great resolution-maker, but I think I'm going to take the above quote and use it as my mantra for the new year. No one could have put it better: to wait my turn, to take only my share and seek advantage over no one describes perfectly the kind of person I want to be.

So, we are excited for 2012! This past year wasn't our best year, I don't think: {some hard things, some expensive things, some unexplainable things etc. etc.} although there were definitely some happy things, some fun things and much love and joy as well. I am excited to see what 2012 brings. And if I turn Robert Brault's criteria for a productive day into my own goals for the year, it will be a good one for me growth-wise.

Welcome, 2012!

It's Christmas!

2011-12-23T21:53:00.007-06:00

"You can never truly enjoy Christmas until you can look up into the Father's face and tell him you have received His Christmas gift." ~John R. Rice

Here it is almost Christmas eve {already!} and I wanted to take a minute to reflect and be grateful, once again, for the most precious Christmas gift ever given. And it was given to each of us: to all of us!

Jesus was not only the baby born under miraculous circumstances, nor was He only a master teacher. He was an exemplar, a friend, a guide, and probably most important, He is the one who willingly carried the burden of our sins, our pains, our fears, our frustrations: He is the one who understands our every fear, our heartbreak, and every feeling that we have had or will have. And because He carried those burdens for us, our yokes are easy and our burdens are light.

I am so grateful for His miraculous birth that we celebrate at Christmas but more, I am grateful for His life, His death, and His atoning sacrifice which is His all-encompassing gift to each of us: the prospect of eternal life.

Let earth receive her king! Let each of us receive our king!

Merry Christmas!

beautiful picture by Liz Lemon Swindle

Happy Anniversary!

2011-12-01T21:15:00.008-06:00

"Sometimes two people stay together for the sake of the kids -- two kids who sat under a full moon and pledged to be forever true." ~Robert Brault

I am a real fan of Robert Brault. He has a gift of words that I wish I had. Since I don't, I enjoy his gift and the above quote has been on my mind ever since I read it. I suspect it's because we (Mark and I) are nearly ready (on Dec. 21) to celebrate our (gulp!) 37th anniversary.

I was just telling our Natalie that back when we were dating (when we were those kids!), I wasn't particularly careful, cautious or prayerful about who I chose. I just got lucky and fell in love with the right man. And I was equally lucky that he fell in love with me, too.

We have had a huge variety of experiences together as we have zig-zagged back and forth across the country. Life has been full of learning together -- through all kinds of experiences, some wonderful and some not so great. I am so grateful for him in my life. He has been and continues to be the constant that I lean on in every circumstance. There are things we have been through together that I could not have handled without him.

Mark is smart, funny, spiritually in tune, a hard worker, devoted to his family, a great dad and a super wonderful Grandpa. (Who else would not only go along with regular phone calls to his office line during working hours so that a precious 3 year old can hear him say "Hi, Simey!" but be thrilled with the opportunity?!) He works so hard for us and would do anything for anyone who needed his help.

I am grateful that when we met, I was behaving well enough that he wanted to be with me as much as I wanted to be with him. And that now, knowing what he knows about me (37 years worth, and it's not all good!), I feel blessed that he's willing to go on - -as far as we can go -- together.

And I get to keep him. I am blessed, for sure.

Running Against the Wind

2011-11-06T21:48:00.008-06:00

As I did my (nearly) 4 mile run (seriously felt more like I was trudging!) yesterday, I had a bit of an epiphany. It's fall here (on the calendar, anyhow - not necessarily temperature wise) and we have cooled down slightly. We also have had a bit of wind. Not much, mind you, and not anything that someone raised in Southern Alberta should even dare to call a wind -- but enough to notice when you're running against it.

So yesterday, as I did my 4 mile run (remember? the trudge!), I was acutely aware of the wind. But I only really noticed it when I was running against it. It pushed me back and I had to work extra hard to get myself up the Austin hills (we do live in the 'Hill Country' here). I can tell you that I resented that wind. It made me cranky and (obviously) it made my tired legs more tired and there was some serious gasping going on as well.

What I found interesting, though, is that when I was running with the wind at my back, it didn't feel like much of a wind. Just a little push in the right direction.

And that's when I had the epiphany. It's just like life. When we are running against the wind, and things are hard, we are totally aware of the opposition. We are frustrated by it, we are tired by it, and it makes us want to give up.

But when that wind is at our back, gently pushing us along our chosen path? We rarely notice it. And that's my point. I want to be aware of that wind at my back, gently moving me along the path of my life. I want to be aware and I want to be grateful.

I have so much to appreciate and to be grateful for, and this Thanksgiving month is a great time to reflect on that wind that is at my back so much of the time.

Feeling Grateful

2011-10-26T20:07:00.010-05:00

I have had the privilege recently to be an accompanist for a "Time Out for Women" presenter. She has a great message to share and she tells her story both with words and with music. I have traveled with her to Nashville {which I loved because we still have sweet ties to that place}, to Pocatello {which I loved because a wonderful former seminary student from Reno lives there now and I got to spend the 2 days with her}, and recently to Reno. We have loved and enjoyed all the places we've lived, but Reno has a special place in my heart because it's there that I taught not just 1 seminary class a day, but 2 -- and I was the Primary chorister as well, in a really wonderful, loving ward that took great care of me while I was seriously ill. So we have so many sweet memories of Reno, as well as some ties that will never be cut.

It was such a gift to be back there, and to catch up with so many people that I love. I think the sweetest thing has been to realize that while I remember and love many Reno friends - -the reality is that they remember and love me too. That's not something I consider very often. I have always felt that when we leave an area, we probably don't cross the minds of those we have left behind very often. I cherish all the friends we have made but haven't ever assumed that they remember me.

My Reno visit proved me wrong. I was humbled to find so many people there that still remember me (???) and love me and it touched my heart in a way that I will never forget.

What a sweet blessing to know that these people, who mean so much to me and who I will always remember and love -- remember me too. It was a lovely weekend.

**Me with a former seminary student and friend, Amber. She's not only beautiful, but wonderful too.

I Can Do It!

2011-09-17T20:56:00.007-05:00

I am so proud of myself. I just finished week 9, day 1 of Couch to 5K - -and I flew today. Really felt like I had wings on my feet. The weather has cooled down slightly {by that I mean we are in the 90's instead of the 100's - but I do feel the difference!}and I am feeling like I could run and run and run.

I didn't do that because I am convinced that this couch to 5K program really works, so I am continuing to follow it exactly. But this week is my last one {the program ends - -and I will have finished it!} and I will be on my own after that. What I have learned over this nearly 9 weeks that I've been back running is that I can do it. And in conjunction with that, I have also realized that I can do anything I put my mind to do. Right now, that means I can run for 30 minutes without a break and that feels good.

My body might be old{er} but I am happy to announce that it will do whatever I ask it to do, as long as I take good care of it.

Great news, right?!!

I'm Still a Runner! (Who knew?)

2011-08-26T15:34:00.005-05:00

Anyone who knows me at all knows a couple of things about me - -that I was an avid runner {think 6 - 7 miles a day, pretty much 6 days a week} for many years. Like probably 15 or so. Maybe more. I loved running. I started out walking and eventually, just to make things more interesting, would challenge myself to 'run to that tree' or 'run to the corner'. After that, I got competitive with myself and would see how much faster I could do my regular route than the day before. And I got hooked. I loved running.

Fast-forward to our move here in 2004: heredity + years of running = foot problems. I had a couple of surgeries and decided I could not keep running as my feet hurt 100% of the time. So I switched my allegiance to the elliptical machine which is great exercise, and is weight-bearing without impact. I learned {after quite some time} to love the elliptical too. I pretty much spend an hour a day 5x a week on our elliptical machine.

But recently, my Natalie decided she wanted to be a runner, so she got herself the Couch to 5K app for her phone and took off. It was hard for her at first, but she persisted - - and now {you can see it coming, right?} she is hooked on running and loves it. She's training for a half-marathon in December. I am so proud of her.

So then, she encouraged her dad to try that same program. Not to be left out, I got it on my phone, and we decided to do it together. Mostly, I was doing it to encourage Mark and to spend a little more time with him. We did great for the first 4 weeks, but at that point, Mark's knee pretty much gave out on him and he is seeing an orthopedic doc on Monday. So he's out.

But me? About that same time {4 weeks in} my body made it clear to me that it remembered that I am a runner. And I am. I am still a runner. I have now nearly completed week 5 and plan to continue and will do a 5K in October. Natalie is encouraging me to train for that same half-marathon in December.

Not sure if I will get there or not. But what I am sure of is that I have missed running and my body knows it. It makes me happy. And my feet? Well, they hurt all the time anyhow and it's no worse when I"m running.

So I am running again, and loving it.

It's my Birthday!

2011-08-18T15:21:00.001-05:00

I guess that last post about aging leads right into this one - it's my birthday today!

I can't say that I'm 'happy' to be another year older but I do appreciate being another year smarter, despite the wrinkles that seem to accompany anything I do anymore. I have so much to appreciate and to be grateful for and it just seems to get better.

I have a wonderful family: parents, siblings, in-laws (I pretty much just count them all as siblings, I think!), husband, children, more in-laws (again, just family in my mind) and now grandchildren. The older I get the more I appreciate the great family I came from, the great family Mark came from, and the fact that we have been able to create a great family of our own. I love them all dearly.

I have so many dear friends. I kind of consider myself a bit of a hermit -- but over time, I have made so many wonderful friends -- again, people I pretty much consider family. Another thing that I have learned is that people are what really matter in life. Things are fine, but people are what make our lives fuller and richer in every way.

I'm grateful for pretty good health at this point. I've definitely had my share of ups and downs in the health area, but I am so thankful that right now, I can do whatever I choose to do, as long as I put my mind to it. I am running again and that makes me more happy than I would have thought. I'm so grateful to Natalie for encouraging both Mark and I to try it (for me, again -- for him, the first time) and that my body knew all along that I was a runner -- I've just been on hiatus!

So happy birthday to me! And I'm hoping for a zillion more!

Aging

2011-07-22T14:46:00.007-05:00

"Aging seems to be the only available way to live a longer life." ~D.F.E. Auber

I found this quote on one of my calendar pages recently and while it made me laugh at first, it kind of struck a chord with me. My dad will be 88 on August 3 and my mom is 86 and they are not enjoying aging because of all the things that go along with it. They both use walkers now, Dad is in pretty much constant pain and has a hard time getting around. Mom is on oxygen 100% of the time and has a pacemaker along with other physical limitations. Neither of them is loving this season of their life, as it's frustrating to them to not be able to do everything they'd like to do.

I really hate seeing them be this restricted at this point. After all, they were (and are) wonderful parents, active, responsible members of the Church and always made a great contribution to whatever they were involved in (and it was a lot!). I wish for them that they could do more of the things they'd like to do.

But on the other hand, I suspect (just from my own personal experience in this area!) that what they are experiencing is exactly what comes of living a long, full life. And the alternative is not a great one.

It makes the reminders my mom gives us very real: "Make sure you do everything you want to do and see everything you want to see before you can't do it anymore." She is grateful that they did go and do a lot of things while they still could.

I intend to do that, and for now, I'm grateful that I have both of them still here on the earth with us.

*picture by Mary Engelbreit

Dinner

2011-07-11T14:07:00.004-05:00

I'm consistently amazed at how much I hate fixing dinner. Really, though, the actual fixing isn't my biggest problem {although it definitely is a problem!} -- mostly it's deciding what to fix that is my biggest problem.

To be fair to Mark, it's not his responsibility to fix dinner {he does go to work all day, every day!} -- but this little cartoon is a great illustration of how we both seem at dinner time. Mostly we'd rather eat nothing than have to fix something {anything!}.

Lame. We are lame.

Home is Where the Heart Is

2011-07-01T09:29:00.010-05:00

I just returned from a week up in Alberta {or as Natalie calls it, being called back to the mothership!} with my family. I had a wonderful time visiting with my mom and dad, my sister, brother-in-law, nephews and niece-in-laws and even got to help celebrate baby Oliver's 1st birthday.

I know I've said it before but there is truly something that draws me back to that area and it's not just family although that is without a doubt the most important thing. As I drove around Lethbridge with my parents and saw the change and growth there, I realized that that area is my heritage. There is a part of me there and always will be, even though I know I will never live there again.

And when Val, Keith and I spent a day and a half in Waterton I realized even more {despite the fact that Billy the Goat and his family, the mountain sheep as well as their deer friends had invaded the townsite} that there is something of me there as well.

So today, on Canada Day {Happy Canada Day!}, I am grateful for the heritage that I have, the family I was raised in, the love that I feel for them all and from them all, and the fact that I have now two wonderful countries to call home.

Here's Billy!! The sheep were everywhere -- places I'd never seen them and they were pretty aggressive. Made me quite nervous!

Looking down on Waterton from above -- as we drove back down from Cameron Lake.

Gorgeous blue water.

Val and Keith - my cute sister and her husband at the still {surprisingly} frozen Cameron Lake.

Beautiful!
See Old Chief Mountain? Lovely!

Clearly I can love both the US and Canada.

Again, just lovely.

Prince of Wales Hotel in the distance, where I worked, more years ago than I can believe.

Val and I. Isn't she gorgeous?

More of us. I love her!

Me, standing by Cameron Falls in the Waterton townsite.

Keith and I, with the mountains in the background. He's the best.

**all pictures taken by my sister, Val Walker

Changing Hearts

2011-06-01T10:03:00.006-05:00

"We discover he is more than the babe in Bethlehem, more than the carpenter’s son, more than the greatest teacher ever to live. We come to know him as the Son of God. He never fashioned a statue, painted a picture, wrote a poem, or led an army. He never wore a crown or held a scepter or threw around his shoulder a purple robe. His forgiveness was unbounded, his patience inexhaustible, his courage without limit. Jesus changed men. He changed their habits, their opinions, their ambitions. He changed their tempers, their dispositions, their natures. He changed men’s hearts."~Thomas S. Monson

I'm such a slacker -- no posts in such a long time! I guess I feel like I don't live a terribly exciting life although I do love the life I am living, for the most part.

I also love the above quote and it spoke so clearly to me today. Our Savior Jesus Christ always focused on what really matters: what happens in our hearts. He is the only way a heart can change.

I continue to strive to be more like Him: more forgiving, more patient, more kind, more courageous and more loving.

And I need those changes.

picture by Greg Olsen

We are the Easter People

2011-04-18T14:09:00.007-05:00

"Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people, and hallelujah is our song."~Pope John Paul II

I can't begin to say how much I love this quote. We are the Easter people! We really are, and hallelujah really is our song.

It's Easter week {finally - -seems like it's very late this year!} and I have had my Easter thoughts bubbling up for the past few weeks. I had a sort of epiphany recently as I was saying my morning prayers, expressing my gratitude for all that I have. But it hit me that I need to be grateful more for what I know, rather than what I have. I have many blessings, and I am grateful for all that I do have, but more, I am grateful for what I know.

I am so thankful at this time of year that I know that the story we read in the scriptures is more than just a story. The fact is that Jesus was born on earth {in a miraculous way}, He was raised by a mortal mother and father, He taught, served and loved the people on the earth at that time, and eventually, as His mission neared the end, He was taken by unbelievers and crucified.

But the glorious fact {here comes the hallelujah part!} is that after 3 days in the tomb, He rose again. And because He did, we will too. And not only that, before he was put to death, he atoned for our sins. Every one of us. Every one of our sins.

I am one of the Easter people and hallelujah really is my song. I am SO grateful.

At this beautiful time of year and always, I hope everyone will take a minute to reflect and be grateful for a truly magnificent gift. Happy Easter week to all!

The Love of a Good Book

2011-04-09T21:18:00.005-05:00

"I would be the most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves." ~Anna Quindlen

I love reading. I love books. I love the library. And now, I love seeing our grandkiddoes all curled up with their noses buried in good books or chuckling over something that tickled them or hearing their excitement over a book they love. There really isn't much that makes me happier than that. I love reading to them, I love reading with them, and I love hearing them read to me.

Books opened a whole new world to me when I was a child, and they still do. And it makes me so happy to see the children I love loving books like I do.

A New Career -- Clowns! (?!)

2011-04-04T08:47:00.004-05:00

This past Friday, the Cottam kids and their neighbors threw an awesome carnival for charity. The kids came up with the idea and with the (awesome) help of several mamas, they ran with it. It was amazing. Booths with games, fortune-telling, food, fun -- and (wait for it!): a fabulous clown show.

Yes, we were the carnival clowns. Maya came to us the week before the carnival and requested that we put together a 'clown show'. We looked at each other dubiously and then agreed because seriously, when a 7 year old and her cohorts think you can be funny, you suck it up and do your best.

I was a bit nervous -- I have been sick for the past couple of weeks and while I was feeling better, I wasn't sure I was going to be very energetic or very funny. But we pulled out the old Raggedy Ann and Andy costumes, found some jokes, got a helium tank for regular balloons, got Mark trained to make a few balloon animals with the skinny balloons (yay for the internet!), and figured if we danced the chicken dance and threw out some necklaces, all would be well.

But the chicken dance wouldn't play on the CD I burned and when we tried to do the helium balloons, that didn't work either. Sigh. But the (very corny) jokes were pretty well received, the necklaces were popular, and Grandpa was a hit with his twisty balloon animals. (actually, only wiener dogs -- he's going to up his skills for the next time around.)

Because you can be sure there will be a next time. And if we get asked, we will try harder to be funny. As it was, I heard from a neighborhood mom that 'the clowns were our favorite part of the carnival, mom!'

I love seeing kids put their minds to something and really do it.

Wrinkles

2011-03-29T10:36:00.008-05:00

Life gets busy -- there is always something going on, that's for sure. We've had some beautiful weather here lately, almost too hot for March (complaining already?!) but it's cooled off a bit the past few days. That makes it perfect for this time of year. I've had a round of sickness -- cold that turned into pneumonia and bronchitis so I'm on antibiotics and steroids for that. (maybe I'l lbulk up! ha!) Starting to feel like I can see the light at the end of that tunnel, thank goodness. It is certainly true that you need to lose your good health for a bit to be grateful for it - I will be so happy to feel good again.

Natalie took this picture of me with Lucy and I love her little face -- but I hate my wrinkly eyes. ("Grandma said the 'h' word!" Sorry kiddoes!) I know I've earned every wrinkle I have -- lots of smiles and laughing as well as too much sun and too little sun protection. The things we learn, right?!

Anyhow, it took me to this little cartoon which put a happy spin on it -- I can wear wrinkly clothes too because I coordinate!!

Have a happy week - I plan to, cold, wrinkles and all.

Love and Compassion

2011-03-08T08:14:00.012-06:00

"Whatever the intellectual quality of the education given our children, it is vital that it include elements of love and compassion, for nothing guarantees that knowledge alone will be truly useful to human beings. Among the major troublemakers society has known, many were well-educated and had great knowledge, but they lacked a moral education in qualities such as compassion, wisdom and clarity of vision." ~Dalai Lama

I read this quote this morning and it has been food for thought. I have always hated hearing people say that we live in a terrible world because truly, I believe we live in a wonderful world in many ways. My grandkiddoes would never believe the world I grew up in -- no computers, no cell phones, even cordless phones arrived after I got married, I think. {And I know I am old, but I'm not that old!} Just the difference in the two time periods I was a college student was amazing. On Round 2, it was so easy to do research and write papers because of the computer and the internet. But I do agree that we live in a complicated, difficult world as well. Which means it's ever more important that the children in our lives are taught well, raised well and loved well.

The concept of the moral education is something that I love, and I love to see it happening in the lives of my grandkiddoes and their friends. When you can see 7 year olds, 5 year olds and even 2 year olds with more compassion, insight and love than many adults, you know their parents are doing something right.

And us grandparents? We watch, we hug them and we cheer them on.

On My To-Do List: Floor Mopping

2011-02-23T21:08:00.000-06:00

Yup. That's me.

The Gift of Loving

2011-02-15T21:03:00.012-06:00

"There is an instinct in a woman to love most her own child -- and an instinct to make any child who needs her love, her own."~Robert Brault

I have lots of 'children'. We've lived in many places, and I have had countless opportunities to be a part of so many different lives: at this point in my life, I count that as one of my sweetest blessings. Loving all the Primary children, seminary students, elementary school students, Young Women (and the list goes on) that have passed through life and been in my care has become something very precious to me. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had to love all of them and pray that there will be just as many (or more) in my future.

Just the other day I was referred to as "the singing lady who sings Head Shoulders Knees and Toes BACKWARDS'' and got a big hug as an extra bonus, and later, was the recipient of a sweet visit from a former Primary (now moved on into YW) child, and also was handed the nicest note and cookies too (!) to go along with the visit.

I will always take the chance on loving. It is an opportunity to open my heart, my life, and my arms and it is gratifying to see those I love blossom under my care.

picture via Robert Duncan Studios

God is Awake

2011-02-02T13:29:00.005-06:00

"Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily tasks, go to sleep in peace. God is awake." ~ Victor Hugo

A lovely thought, no? It takes courage to get through those great sorrows (and we all have them - if we haven't, we know that we will) and it takes patience to endure the small ones. And when we have slogged our way through the day, sorrowing and worrying and praying, we can go to sleep in peace because we know that God is awake.

He is involved in each of our lives. He knows us, He loves us, and He is in control. I need to remember this, especially when I am feeling most stressed, least peaceful and entirely out of control.

He is awake.

You Never Know

2011-01-30T08:21:00.005-06:00

I looked at this little cartoon today and laughed because it's so true. You truly have no idea what your influence is going to be on anyone, especially children.

That's something I have totally enjoyed about Facebook: getting back in touch with people I knew and loved at some point in my life, but (sadly) may never ever see in person again. They may be old friends, former students or even family members who are now spread out across the world.

It's such a gift to hear that maybe, something you did some time ago made a difference to someone. It lifts up my heart and helps me to move on in the day-to-day grind to know that something I did may have made a difference. Reminded me of a little poem I read long ago:

You Never Know
Author Unknown

You never know when someone
May catch a dream from you.
You never know when a little word,
Or something you may do
May open up a window
Of the mind that seeks the light
The way you live may not matter at all...
But you never know - it might.

And just in case it could be
That another's life through you.
Might possibly change for the better
With a broader brighter view.
It seems it might be worth a try
At pointing the way to the right.
Of course, it may not matter at all,
But then again it might.

Which in turn inspires me to be more vocal and verbal about the gratitude I feel for those who have been and continue to be life-changers for me. There are many and I am so grateful.

I Can Do Hard Things

2011-01-26T10:32:00.008-06:00

If I am to be totally honest, I will say that 2011 has not started out to be such a great year. There have been some hard things going on, including not feeling all that well, which seems to affect everything in life. Mark and I have both had colds/allergies/complications - he has been sicker than I have (he went to see the doc and came back with steroids, antibiotics and asthma meds) and I haven't (thank goodness) had the cough that he has had. I've just had the congestion, the difficulty catching my breath (yay for already having asthma meds! ha!) and the headaches.

Add to that just the everyday frustrations and tough issues that we all deal with and well, I am feeling like I'm probably not doing as well as I could. As I pondered this, (and prayed too, - doing a lot of that lately) I remembered what Julie B. Beck, the General Relief Society President said once - -"We can do hard things".

Yes, we can. And I am. Not very gracefully yet, but I am trying. And I know I can do it, with the help of dear loving family, good friends, and a loving Heavenly Father who will guide every one of us.

I'm so thankful for that knowledge, and I will keep on trying.

New Year's Resolution #2

2011-01-06T20:07:00.006-06:00

I want to spend time every day this year enjoying small {but important} things. Like today. First I spent a few minutes with Maya, as I dropped her off at school. Pure pleasure to chat with her first thing in the morning, and I am 100% committed to sending her off with a happy start to her day. {It's sure a happy start to mine.}

After that I spent an hour in her classroom, reading with some not-so-proficient readers. Again, low-key but fun. Then after a few minutes hanging out with the first-graders in the school cafeteria, I left to have lunch with a dear, wonderful friend. We didn't eat anywhere fancy {Galaxy -- good but not fancy, and we both had their mushroom-swiss burger. Far from fancy food, just plain yummy.} We chatted about this and that and just generally enjoyed each other's company.

From there, I got to go spend time with my little Mason - while his mama ran an errand, we read 10 books together I think. And while we read, we visited and snuggled. Another little thing that really was a treasured part of my day.

I have so many wonderful people in my life, and as I enjoy each one of them, this year I also intend to let them know how important they are to me and how much they are loved.

This is when the small things really turn out to be the big things. And they make me happy.

New Year's Resolution #1

2010-12-27T21:17:00.003-06:00

Love it!! And my fuzzy slippers too.

Happy New Year!!

A Christmas Prayer

2010-12-20T21:34:00.004-06:00

A Christmas Prayer

Loving Father, help us remember the birth of Jesus,

that we may share in the song of the angels,

the gladness of the shepherds,

and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate

and open the door of love all over the world.

Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings,

and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children,

and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts,

forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.

-- Robert Louis Stevenson

There's not much I can add to this because it encompasses every thought I've had about the approach of Christmas this year. The blessings of Jesus can't be counted but they include the kindness, good desires, happiness and gratitude spoken of above.

At this very hectic and busy time of year, I always have to take a minute to read through this prayer. It quiets me, it centers me and it reminds me of what it is we are commemorating: the sweetest, most important gift we have ever been given.

Love and Christmas blessings to all!

December

2010-12-05T22:08:00.007-06:00

At the risk of becoming (boring and) redundant, may I just say that I am amazed that it's already the first week of December? Again, where has the time gone?

We have one of our busiest weeks ever: I had my yearly physical (I'm healthy!), a dentist appt., a hair appt., Natie had a hair appt, (which involves me as the play-mate for the kiddoes), and the biggest time-sucker was our Stake Christmas fireside. I was the accompanist for the stake choir as well as another musical number -- and when you factor practice time into that, (both with the groups and on my own) it adds up to a lot of time, especially the week before the event.

But it was wonderful. The program was lovely, the spirit was strong, and the music was beautiful. I was so grateful to have been able to be as involved as I was in making beautiful music. It filled my heart and my soul and made all the work and time worth every second. I loved it.

And now we are looking at Christmas -- and if it happens like the rest of this year has, it will be here tomorrow. And there is so much to do. I feel the pressure building already. But this is when I have to remind myself of what it's really all about. It's not about finding the perfect present. In fact, it's not really about the presents at all. It's not about the lights, or the buying. It's about love. It's about sharing. It's about kindness and friendship. It's about Jesus, that baby in the manger, truly the greatest gift ever given.

There's still a lot to do, but I am reminded of the sweet poem by Christina Rosetti -- "What can I give Him? I'll give Him my heart." And that's what I really want to give to my loved ones. My heart. Sure, I will give them the gift I picked out, but mostly what I want them to know is how much I love them, and how much they matter to me in my life.

Jesus was the perfect example. He was a teacher, a doer of loving deeds, and a friend. This is the example I want to follow. I want to be like Him.

And that's what I want my friends and loved ones to receive this year, along with their gift. The knowledge of that love and the remembrance and gratitude for that miraculous birth and life, so long ago.

So during these next few weeks, let's all slow down, take a few minutes and remember the reason we celebrate. It's what really matters.

Grateful

2010-11-22T11:15:00.004-06:00

It's nearly Thanksgiving, (how did that happen? Time is flying by at amazing speed!) and I have had gratitude on my mind and in my heart ever since General Conference. Pres. Monson's talk about gratitude spoke clearly to me and while gratitude is something I always try to cultivate, I know I"m far from perfect in expressing it. But I have so much and I truly am so grateful.

I'm grateful for all the 'usual' things - -friends, family, a wonderful husband, grandma-hood, a home that I love, and so many things. But I have been recently introduced to a new favorite song (appropriately entitled "Grateful") and there as a verse that spoke to me so clearly that I'm pretty sure I've already committed it to memory.

"I feel a hand holding my hand,

It's not a hand you can see.

But on the road to the promised land

That hand will shepherd me.

Through delight and despair,

Holding tight and always there.

Grateful, grateful,

Truly grateful I am.

Grateful, grateful.

Truly blessed and duly grateful."

(John Bucchino)

I am so grateful for that hand, which I feel often in my life. I have (finally) learned that giving thanks for the things I have makes me so much happier than keeping score and missing the things I don't have.

Happy Thanksgiving! I'm grateful for all of you.

True!

2010-11-16T21:01:00.002-06:00

As I've said before -- the hope is that we love and honor much more than we annoy. I just know that my 'annoy' factor is pretty high and Mark's tolerance level is also pretty high and that's a good thing.

For both of us.

Ben's Posse

2010-11-02T09:46:00.005-05:00

This is our grandson Ben. He is 5 years old now - -and has been diagnosed with autism. Ben is funny, smart, creative and sweet, and he and his family have been working together to find him the most help he can get so that he can have the best life possible. He, his mom and dad and his big brother Daniel are amazing. The things they have done and gone through to help Ben have made me so proud of them and have also humbled me tremendously. They love each other deeply and are truly a team. Not every child with autism has a family like Ben does and they are a big advantage for him.

We love them all and over time, I have learned to despise autism and all that it represents. And that is why we are joining them to walk in support of Autism Speaks. I have tried to figure out what I can do to help and there isn't much - -but I can do this. And you can help.

Please click here to go to my walking page and donate: anything helps and it all adds up. Help us support Ben and his posse. Yes, Ben has a posse and I'm a member. Please help us.

(Thanks to all of you who even made it through this post -- emotional grandma's pleas probably aren't all that fun to read.)

Beach Time

2010-10-29T15:15:00.006-05:00

"The cure for anything is salt water - sweat, tears or the sea." ~Isak Dinesen

We decided about a month ago that it was way past time for a trip to the beach, so we loaded up the cars and headed down to Port Aransas for a quick weekend visit. This time we rented a condo that didn't really have beach access - but was walking distance to the center of town and that worked great. Our theory was that when you take kids to the beach, you need a car anyhow, to haul all the things you need for a good time: towels, beach toys, umbrellas, drinks, snacks, etc. etc. etc. And it worked out very well.

Port Aransas is a great little beach town -- kind of quiet really but everything you might need is there. It was a wonderful (if a little too quick - we could have stayed for days and loved it) trip and once again, I came back feeling kind of filled up and relaxed.

Also with the feeling that I need a beach house. Seriously. I love that place and am ready to go back as soon as we can figure it out.

But this is what I really want to know: why is it that someone who was raised on the prairies of Southern Alberta and spent many years in mountainous areas so loves the beach? All I know is that there is something there that I need.

Hair

2010-10-22T21:39:00.003-05:00

I'm in the 'grow it' phase right now but am moving quickly into the 'get sick of it' category. I always want longer hair, but after a relatively short frustrating time of growing it out - I'm ready to chop it off.

If I thought it looked good I might be able to hang on a bit longer - -but I'm struggling at this point.

Already. Sigh.

Update (or where has the time gone, anyhow?)

2010-10-15T08:38:00.008-05:00

It's pretty much been a whole month since I've looked at my blog -- amazing how the time is flying past. There's been plenty going on, that's for sure, but probably my favorite things involve the kids in my life.

Natalie called the other night to report that Simon had said his first intelligible prayer: "Heavenly Father, please bless Grandma. Amen!" Made my night to hear that one.

We had a quick beach trip a few weeks ago (need I say again that there is something at the beach that really restores me? I love it there). It was fun to spend time looking for shells and playing in the warm water with the little guys.

I got to sub for Primary music in our ward on Sunday and had such a good time with the children there. I don't mind admitting that I miss them a lot. Stake Primary is a whole different area and while it helps to know that I am where Heavenly Father wants me (that much is very clear), I sure do miss the children. It was a breath of fresh air. And there is some more music subbing on the horizon which is something to look forward to.

Miss Maya turned 7 and we celebrated with a skating party (see the above pics for proof), Simon is coming up on his 2nd birthday (Sesame Street party in the works, I think), and we are all going to be in Dallas for a walk for Autism Speaks (if you want to contribute, go here -- we can use all the help we can get). Our grandson Ben has autism and as I watch their family and what they are dealing with, I loathe autism more all the time. Ben is doing great but autism needs to be wiped out.

Halloween is next, and then we are onto November celebrations: Natalie's birthday, Chris and Tara's anniversary, Chris Cottam and Chris Mason's birthday (same day!), Thanksgiving and that will wipe out November. Add to that lots of wards to visit (watching their Children's Sacrament Meeting Presentations will be pure pleasure!) and I'm tired just thinking about it.

And then Christmas? Seriously?! Where is the time going, anyhow? I need to get moving!

How to Stay Married

2010-09-17T08:37:00.004-05:00

Mark and I have been married a long time (to be exact: 35 years and 9 months) and recently I was talking to someone about how people manage to stay together that long.

I have made no secret about the fact that when I was younger and was making the marriage decision, I wasn't especially careful, prayerful or smart. Yes, I was somewhat prayerful, but mostly, I was just head over heels in love. And that's how I chose Mark.

Fortunately for me, I was also lucky and probably a better descriptive word would be blessed. He is calm, funny, smart, loving, tolerant and patient (seriously, if you know me, that is a requirement) and best of all, he loves me. He is a great husband, a wonderful father and now a fabulous grandpa.

And I think this says it all. We do irritate the heck out of each other at times, but the love we share is stronger than the irritation. Romantic, huh?

He's a keeper!

The Road Not Taken

2010-08-30T09:07:00.014-05:00

Simon - nearly 2

Daniel - 7
Ben - 5

Mason - 4 1/2 (the half is very important)

Maya, nearly 7, with Lucy, 3 1/2 months

"Yes, it would be fun to go back and travel the road not taken, especially with the grandkids." ~Robert Brault

I ran across this thought today (Robert Brault is a writer whose thoughts seem to connect well with my own, only he has the facility to put things much more clearly than I do!) and loved it. Anyone who knows me knows that the topic of grandkiddoes speaks to my heart. I knew long before I ever had any that I wanted grandchildren. I love children in general, love my own children so much -- but I knew somehow that the grandma experience would be exceptional and I wanted it badly. And as I have had that experience (with the most precious of children, I might add!) my heart has surprised me by the strength of the emotion I feel for them.

They make everything better. It's always fun to do even the simplest things with them because to them, life is an adventure. And being included in those adventures is what makes my life rich and full. I often muse about the road not taken and I love the thought of the fun exploring it with a grandchild. They have such curiosity and that wide-eyed excitement that pulls a willing grandma right along with them.

They are all different, they are all funny and bright, and they are all loving. And they are all loved immensely by their grandma, who is grateful for them every day of her life.

Which makes me even more grateful for the knowledge I have of the eternal nature of the family -- to be with these precious family members forever is one of the greatest blessings I can claim.

A New Start

2010-08-23T10:53:00.007-05:00

"God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me". ~Author unknown, variation of an excerpt from "The Serenity Prayer" by Reinhold Neibuhr

How can it be the first day of school? (and I know that it's already been the first day of school in other places!) The summer has flown for me. And I am having this fall-ish feeling that I love -- sort of the feeling of a new start (you know what I mean) and time to get back on a schedule etc. Which is weird considering I have no one who lives at home with me except Mark -- and he's on the same schedule he's always been on.

But I do love that feeling. It's the right time of year to step into the routine, to feel the steadiness of scheduling, to get back to (trying, anyhow) being better about keeping dinners fixed on time, to stay up on my church calling, to get my house in order. That's what fall says to me -- even when the temps here are over 100.

And the above thought spoke to me today so loudly and clearly that I couldn't not post it -- the person who always needs the most work is me. And what better time than now to work on that?

Happy First Day of School, wherever you are!

(it doesn't look like the picture here -- but it sure says fall to me!)

Road Trip!

2010-08-09T20:46:00.003-05:00

Looking forward to a Mason family reunion in Missouri - we leave on Thursday and I think I'm as bad as the kids are: the anticipation makes it twice as much fun!

To Be Useful

2010-08-01T20:57:00.005-05:00

"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and have lived well." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mason loves Thomas the Tank Engine. Maybe not quite as much as he used to, but still -- a lot. So we have gotten to know Thomas and those who populate his world. What Thomas really wants is to be a 'really useful engine'. Which to me means that he wants what he does to count for something. I like that. Because that's what I want too. I want what I do to matter. I want the things I do to be pleasing not only to myself, but more, to my Heavenly Father.

So as I go through my days, I remind myself to look for opportunities to be an instrument in His hands. Because I want to be like Thomas: 'a really useful engine.'

New Phone

2010-07-31T14:15:00.005-05:00

So recently our Chris decided he wanted one of the new Iphones. I think he figured that the only way he'd get one was to get rid of his (perfectly good) 'old' one. So he offered to sell it to me. I wasn't so sure I needed a new phone, but was willing to go along with him.

Tara, however, heard about our potential arrangement, and absolutely let him have it: "You don't sell your phone to your Mom!! She was in labor with you for 3 days! You GIVE her your phone!" She cracked me up and I loved it. (Chris has a good wife!)

So he gave it to me. He got his new one (loves it), and I got his 'old' one. Recently I got it all hooked up and am learning how to use it. And I am finding that the above cartoon is 100% accurate.

I am getting behind in my TV shows. (And I am loving the Iphone)

Going Home

2010-07-28T16:34:00.008-05:00

Welcome to Alberta! (pic is not great -- taken from a moving car - -but still -- you get the idea!)

My cute sister and her first grandbaby, Oliver. She couldn't keep her hands off him, with good reason. He's beautiful.

Oliver and his daddy, my nephew Eric. So fun to see him grown up, and being a husband and a daddy (and doing a great job!).

Val and Keith - my only sister and together, one of my favorite couples (and relatives!)

Ian and Ashley, just after exiting the Alberta Temple in Cardston. Aren't they gorgeous?

Val pinning Ian's flower on him after the temple ceremony. He's a married man!

"Where we love is home -- home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts." ~Oliver Wendall Holmes Sr.

Mark and I just returned from a week in Alberta. The purpose was two-fold: to visit with my parents who live in Lethbridge (where I grew up) and to attend my nephew Ian's wedding to his beautiful new wife, Ashley. There's something that happens to me every time I get back there -- there's a pull for me to drive by the house I grew up in, to check out the schools I attended, to look out over Henderson Lake (3 blocks from our house), and to soak up the family that I don't get enough of.

The wedding was wonderful. Ian and Ashley were so ready to spend their lives (and beyond) together and it was a gift to be able to watch them make that commitment to each other. It was wonderful to spend time with my sister and maybe be of a little bit of help in her involvement with the wedding. It was great to be with her husband Keith and son Eric (with his wife Jacquie and new baby Oliver -- both wonderful!). I even ran into some seriously old friends (from way back when -- probably haven't seen them for nearly 40 years -- amazing) and had a little visit with them.

I loved spending time with my parents. I get bothered because they don't get around as well as they used to (or as they'd like to), and I wish there was something I could do to change that for them. But it's fun to be able to spend time with them, even if we aren't doing anything especially exciting. Just being together is really what it's all about.

That week in Alberta has brought out that Canadianism that isn't buried as deep as I thought it was. My feet may have left Lethbridge, but not my heart.

Good Grapes

2010-07-14T09:01:00.007-05:00

"Wisdom doesn't come automatically with age. Nothing does -- except wrinkles. It's true, some wines improve with age. But only if the grapes were good in the first place." ~Abigail Van Buren

I have heard it said that learning is an ongoing process and I'm finding that to be true. There isn't a day that passes (super-quickly, I might add!) that I don't pick up something that I really hadn't known before. And I love that. Time is passing and I am learning.

The wrinkles are definitely there. And I want to improve with age -- which means I need to be good grapes. I'm working on it.

Phases of Life

2010-07-02T08:44:00.004-05:00

This is the truth! As I look back (which is easier to do all the time, because there is more and more to look back on!) I wish I had enjoyed every phase of life more, even when it was a hard, frustrating phase.

I think that's the key - -to enjoy where you are while you're there. Like Mason says, "you get what you get and you don't throw a fit!". Just love it while you're in it.

I'm so loving the grandma phase I'm in right now.

Missing the Children

2010-06-24T10:12:00.014-05:00

“Every member of the Church is important to us. Indeed, every person—member or not—is important to us, but surely among the most significant of all our responsibilities is the responsibility to protect and nurture the children of the Church. . . . We care so much about you and about the children you are teaching. Prepare well to bless these little ones. Give it your best effort. Your influence will, quite literally, affect these children for eternity. Enjoy the assignment that you have, and discharge it faithfully. . . . However much we love and admire children, I am certain we underestimate who and what a child is and what in the hands of God he or she may become. May God bless you always in your sacred opportunity to help save the children of this Church” (Jeffrey R. Holland, Message to Primary Leaders, Mar. 2006).

Not long ago I was called to a new position -- counselor in our Stake Primary presidency. That of course meant a release from our ward Primary, where I had served for nearly 5 years, 1 year as the chorister and nearly 4 as the President. I love our Primary, the children and their teachers more than I had imagined possible. I loved being with them and serving them. I loved feeling the spirit with them and talking about the gospel with them.

I also knew that Heavenly Father had something else in mind for me. I know that I am where I am now for a reason. I know that His hand was in this change. But I miss the children and teachers of our ward.

Stake callings are different. I know this because I have had them before. You are dealing with the adults, training them, and helping them to love their Primary (or whatever organization you are serving in) calling. It's very different from serving in the ward. I had a dream presidency when I was released, wonderful teachers and Primary workers to serve with and children that I will always love. And change is hard.

Now I have a new presidency to learn to know and love. The fact that most of us are in different wards makes it harder. And that it's summer doesn't help either, with many people traveling. And have I mentioned (ha!) that I miss the children?

I have such a testimony of Primary and the love that the Savior has for the children. That's where I have been planted, and that's where my heart is. Working directly with the children.

And now I have to figure out how to help other adults love serving in the Primary. I hope I can do it.

(picture of our Primary in a Christmas Sharing Time)

New House

2010-06-09T11:32:00.007-05:00

family room

Front door, looking from living room into family room

Upstairs playroom (ours looks a lot the same as this)

Other side of playroom -- our TV is there along with the elliptical

kitchen

Dining nook (not very big - -not sure what we'll do when we have big dinners here -- like Christmas. We'll figure it out, I'm sure!)

kitchen

Front yard (don't you love those trees?!)

Things are (finally) slowing down - -and I have had numerous requests for pics of the new house. I want to make it clear that these pics are not of us moved into this house - they are the pics that were posted when the house went up for sale. So it doesn't look like this anymore. I am not ready to take pics of it yet 'cause it's still in a mess. But here's what it looks like in general.

We love it.

Moved In

2010-06-02T16:31:00.006-05:00

I am finally feeling like there will be a time (still in a fairly distant future - but now there is hope) that we will be all moved in and settled. Even though we've moved a lot, I had forgotten that when you change houses, everything changes. The rooms don't work with your furniture, or the places you used to store stuff don't exist anymore. You know what I mean. So we've bought new shelving, new TVs (yup, you read that right -- we figured we deserved it since our newest TV was over 10 years old), new organizers for the drawers, etc. etc. etc. We still need to get a cabinet to hang over the toilet in our bathroom (where else am I going to store the TP?!), the king guest bed takes up the entire guest room so I think we're going to go to a full instead, and bunk beds are what we want for the room for the little people who visit.

Mark has a lot of things to put together or to hang or to do something to and then I can continue what I need to do. More, I need help with trying to figure out how to set up our family room. I'm so not good at that - but what I do know is that it doesn't look right. And my Candice has moved! Ack! So we're kind of still in a mess - -but progress has been made. And that's good.

Just another little (sort of) funny note: as we were clearing out the storage unit on Saturday, we made one last trip and in our zeal to be done, we over-loaded the back of the pick-up we had borrowed from Mark's work. Math was riding back there, keeping his hand on a purple chair (that's why it it was in storage - - no purple at either house anymore) that was a perched just little bit precariously. Just as we came down Slaughter (quite a busy street here in Austin, especially on a Saturday afternoon), a breeze came up, pretty much swept the chair away and it landed in the middle of that busy street. Math said that he felt it coming, but if he had held onto it, he would have gone along with it. (Good call on that one!) Math's friend Kim was driving behind us and she managed to stop, and everyone else around us managed to do the same, thank goodness. Math and Mark leaped out and put Little Purple (didn't know we named our furniture, did you?) onto the median and then we just kept on going. No one knew what else to do and I think it was the right answer.

We rushed home, unloaded the truck, formulated a plan and headed back to rescue Little Purple. But in that short time period (no more than 30 minutes, I think), Little Purple had been kidnapped. So RIP, Little Purple. We hope you like your new home!

'Cause we like ours. A lot.

Change - and Frustration

2010-05-27T14:01:00.006-05:00

Who was it who said that there is nothing in life that is as constant as change? Whoever it was was right. This has been a 3 month period full of change.

We did get the move done. It wasn't easy - complications with the IRS and their missing paper (that was needed by the title company) and our buyers (first-timers who were extremely difficult to work with - our agent Nolan was amazing which made a big difference) as well as rain (not good for a do-it-yourself move) and a deadline to get our truck emptied that I was sure we were not going to be able to meet. But we have amazing friends and family and every one of them (it seemed, anyhow) came through for us in ways I couldn't have predicted. We got the closings done (eventually, anyhow), the move made, the truck returned (in time!), and then we began the settling-in process.

After nearly 2 weeks we finally have a home phone again, internet (woohoo!) but no TV yet. The biggest down-side of that is that all the shows I've followed have ended -- without me. Sigh. Interestingly enough, though, I seem to have survived it. Who knew? We should have our TV going within the next week. Apparently we have to trim a big old tree out front for that to happen. What?!

It just seems that everything that has to do with this move has been complicated, and if something could go wrong, you could count on the fact that it would (and did). But we have come out on the other side and the house is wonderful. We love it and look forward to staying here forever.

And our family have been joined by Miss Lucy, who is beautiful, sweet and calm. What a gift! Add to that the MBA our oldest son Chris received last week and I have to step back and count my blessings. There is so much to be grateful for -- and I am.

But I need a trip to IKEA to buy some things so I can get this house organized -- and then, I think I'll feel settled at last. And you should come visit.

Sad Day

2010-05-05T22:06:00.005-05:00

Yesterday we got word that Mark's mom, Mary Lou Mason, had passed away in her sleep. This was totally unexpected and utterly heartbreaking for our family. Grandma Mason was a precious, special lady who has a tender place in all of our hearts. She has been an example of kindness, patience, long-suffering and good humor and good cheer for as long as I've known her (35+ years now).

She had been confined to a wheelchair since she contracted polio back when Mark was 2 years old, and we have all only known her that way. But not one of us has ever heard her complain. On the contrary, her comments about polio are positive: she feels like she would never have been humble enough to accept the gospel if she hadn't had polio. She was and is an amazing, loving, wonderful lady.

We will miss her terribly. We will never forget her, and we will think of her often because there is something of her in each one of us. We are grateful and happy that we had the privilege of being a part of her life.

And we want to live so that she would be proud of us.

Re-Tox

2010-05-03T10:39:00.007-05:00

There is a lot happening right now, and if you look at my face, you can see a mouth covered with cold sores (ack!). I have rarely had a problem with them so I did some looking online -- and I found that stress is one of the biggest factors in a cold sore breakout (beyond the viral connection, of course). Stress? Any going on here? Maybe so.

A lot of the stress doesn't belong to me personally, but there is a lot on my mind. First, of course, the move. The house sold quickly, we found another (that we love) quickly, and now we're trying to make the arrangements between us, our buyers, our new house and the current owners, two title companies -- it makes my head spin. We need to close on this one first so that we have the $$ to put into the new one, and then we need to be able to stay here for a day or two so that we can do the closing on the other one and get moved in. Timing is everything and our buyers have been difficult to work with. Whenever I get ready to tell them to forget it, I look out my window and see the other houses that are still for sale and suck it up and try to move on. We do know that we will be moving 'on or before May 14'. We are just hoping it can be a little before then.

So in preparation for that move, we spent the weekend packing and got a lot done - but now we are living in a mess. Add to that chaos, the knowledge that our Chris is getting his MBA (yay!! I know they will all be so happy to be done with that) and will graduate here May 21. I'm hoping we actually have a room/rooms for them to stay in at that point. Baby Girl Cottam is due to arrive on May 17. And the Father/Son campout is (of course) scheduled for the weekend of May 14. We may be moving with just the 2 of us! And Chris C. had his tonsils out last week and is really suffering -- we're trying to do everything we can to help there as well.

Anyhow -- add to that the regular stuff: Visiting teaching, temple visit for May (which is closed for 2 weeks, further complicating scheduling), learning and trying to function in a new calling (it's going to be fun!), and just generally keeping my head above water.

I do need a re-tox - bring on the Diet Coke!

picture via everyday people cartoons

Tender Mercies

2010-04-22T20:44:00.007-05:00

"I have come to better understand that the Lord’s tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ. Truly, the Lord suits “his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men” (D&C 46:15). ~David A. Bednar

It's been an interesting few months. Probably about 6-8 weeks ago, I started having the very distinct and strong impression that my time in our ward Primary was coming to close and that I should take it in and enjoy everything in the time I had left. I dismissed that impression because it wasn't something I wanted to even consider. But the feeling would not be dismissed. Eventually I said something to Mark about it. We happened to be eating Chinese food in a neighborhood place and we both sat there with tears running down our faces as we discussed it.

It was the following Sunday that the Bishop called me into his office to let me know that I was being released, and told me that the stake had asked for me and told us the story of the inspiration the Stake Primary President had received. He said his first response was 'absolutely not!' but then decided he needed to honor her request by praying about it. The answer he received was that she was right and it was time for me to move on. So they began the process of replacing us and our presidency, and I was called as a counselor in the Stake Primary.

What's really wonderful is that when the Bishop asked if I had any recommendations for a replacement, only one name came to me and I passed that name on to him. My counselors and secretary all came up with the same name. And when the new presidency was sustained, the new president was the person whose name was so clear to me. It made it very easy to sustain and support the changes.

But I wanted that feeling about my new calling too, and I've been praying for inspiration about it. The feelings I have had are very specific and very clear: that I need to pay attention, listen, work hard, and learn all I can. Also, that I need to love the ward primary leaders, and do everything I can to help them love their Primary children and their callings.

Last night, I was set apart by the high councilor who supervises the Stake Primary and it was truly a tender mercy for me to hear the things he said as he set me apart. They were the very impressions and feelings I've had already. He reinforced those things, reminded me that I am loved by our Heavenly Father, and that I need to seek out the one, whether it's a child or a Primary leader. He also told me that I had a job to do that no one else could do - that it was something only I could carry out. And he ended by telling me that Heavenly Father had great confidence in me and loved me.

What a gift! And now I am ready to go. I'm so thankful for that specific tender mercy in my life.

Bittersweet

2010-04-18T18:36:00.005-05:00

Time does change things. Life has been moving right along, with lots going on here. So here's the updates:

We have sold our house. It was on the market for 5 days, with lots of traffic and then we had an offer, negotiated and accepted it. After that, we had the inspection which went quite well, but we have buyers who are first-timers and want everything fixed. Everything. Bear in mind that there was very little of consequence wrong with the house -- but that too has now been negotiated and we are coming up on completing the list.
We found a new house! It's not too far away but it's wonderful. Slightly bigger than this one [although that was never the purpose of a change] and a perfect layout for people like us who want to sink roots in and stay put. It has everything on the main floor except a huge playroom [for the kiddoes] upstairs. The back yard could be a little better, but it's much better than the one we have now and Mark admits that it's workable. And the inside is exactly what I wanted.
I was released as Primary president last Sunday. It was a sad, sad day for me -- those who know me know how much I loved the opportunity I've had for nearly 5 years now [1 of them as chorister and nearly 4 as president] to learn to know and love our Primary children and their teachers. They are all so dear to me and I will miss them more than they will realize. And my presidency? Oh, so loved and will be so missed.
But -- I was sustained in Stake Conference today as a counselor in the Stake Primary presidency. My specific areas of responsibility are the music [yay!], the nursery, the Activity Days for girls -- and probably other things. We haven't met together yet as I was just sustained and the president is out of town. But I know the other ladies I will serve with and am excited about a new challenge.
But again - I will miss my Primary children and our Primary people know that I want to be #1 [in big letters and on speed dial] on their sub list. I'm hoping I get to spend lots of time in there doing all kinds of different things.
We are going to meet Baby Girl Cottam soon. Her tentative name is Lucy -- and she is due to arrive in the next 3 - 4 weeks and we are excited to meet her. Babies are so wonderful.
The wildflowers here are spectacular this year. So much beauty, everywhere I look. What a gift!

So between houses, Primary, and babies, life is full and rich. Bittersweet, yes. But lovely in all ways. I am so grateful!

Bringing out the Best in Others

2010-04-05T19:33:00.006-05:00

"To find someone who will love you for no reason, and to shower that person with reasons, that is the ultimate happiness."~Robert Brault

True? Oh, yes. I truly believe that when someone loves me and I know it, it brings out in me an intense desire to prove them right. And I believe that even more strongly about children. They will rise to the level you have set for them if they know you love them.

How wonderful, then, to give someone that opportunity -- to love them so strongly and so clearly that they have no doubt about the way you feel about them, and then to prove you right. Again and again and again.

And that adorable boy above? I know he loves me. And he makes me want to be the best Grandma in the world, for he and the rest of the precious grandkiddoes that are our privilege to love.

He is Risen!

2010-04-03T21:16:00.013-05:00

"In a way that we may not fully understand, even when we are very old, Jesus set us free. It was as though He had the only key to the prison door and that only He had the strength to swing it open. In doing so, He saved our lives so our families can be kept together and so we can someday return to our heavenly home. But He paid a terrible price to do this for us, a price for which we must give Him honor and reverence by keeping His commandments. He suffered a horrible death on a cross. In that anguish of physical and spiritual pain Jesus, too, momentarily thought He was all alone and without help, and yet He did not turn away from helping us. I would especially like you to remember our Brother Jesus Christ to whom we owe everything, for He came to heal our wounds, calm our fears, and bring us safely home when we really, really needed Him." ~Jeffrey R. Holland [in the Friend, April 1980]

At this beautiful time of year, I love this clear reminder that we do owe Him everything. I am so grateful for His willingness to come as He did, healing, calming and making it possible for us to return with our families to Him.

I rejoice with the rest of the Christian world this Easter time - - He is risen!

[picture by Simon Dewey]

Laptops

2010-03-31T08:32:00.004-05:00

"All children need a laptop. Not a computer, but a human laptop. Moms, dads, gra[mm]ies and grandpas, aunts, uncles - someone to hold them, read to them, teach them. Loved ones who will them and pass on the experience, rituals and knowledge of a hundred generations. Loved ones who will pass to the next generation their... expectations of them, their hopes, and their dreams."~General Colin Powell

There's really nothing I can add to this one - it's perfect, isn't it? Every child needs people who love them, who will teach them and lead them along. I'm so grateful I've had the chance to do that not only for my own family but for our Primary children as well.

picture by Greg Olsen

Making Me Smile Today

2010-03-30T08:26:00.004-05:00

I'm so not a fan of a lot of the current TV commercials - -this says it all!

Ice cream for everyone!

Helpers

2010-03-25T13:42:00.007-05:00

"Every day offers us the gift of being a special occasion if we can simply learn that as well as giving, it is blessed to receive with grace and a grateful heart." ~ Sarah Ban Breathnach

I had to laugh at my Natalie recently when, after moving into her [beautiful] new home, she was expressing gratitude for all the help they received. She was overwhelmed by the generosity of family, friends and ward members, including those who physically helped pack and move, those who kept the kiddoes, and those who brought in meals [for a long time] after. Her comment was this: "I'm so thankful for all the meals and help I've received, but I'm scared that now no one will want to bring in meals after I have this baby -- in 9 weeks!"

First of all, I was astounded to realize that Baby Girl will be here that soon. And then I thought about what else she had said - - and realized that we are blessed to live in a ward and an area where people love to help others. She will have more meals than she can use, I'm sure, when that little girl arrives.

We have lovely friends, ward members, and so many people who help in so many ways. It does make every day a special occasion when we are willing to do something nice for someone else - but also when we are willing to accept what someone else wants to do for us.

Easier said than done, but worth the effort.

Beauty

2010-03-22T11:54:00.004-05:00

These are very poorly taken [straight from the car window, obviously] pics of the beauty we are seeing here. I love these trees -- they make me think of the Primary song "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree", never mind that these are flowering pear trees. And I have two roses now blooming in my front yard.

It lifts my heart every time I see them. And it fills me with gratitude to live in such a beautiful place.

Smiles

2010-03-12T08:20:00.004-06:00

"If you smile at me, I will think of ten good things you might have heard about me -- and spend the rest of my day happily trying to decide which it is."~Robert Brault

A smile is contagious, and the uplift a simple smile creates [as alluded to above] spreads like wildfire. You know - you smile at him, he smiles at her, she smiles at others - and it's everywhere. And the positive, happy, uplifted thoughts go along with those smiles.

How rare and how precious the opportunity could be: to give someone else the chance to think about themselves and feel good about what they come up with.

Happy weekend! Smiles to all of you.

I CAN be productive!

2010-03-08T13:39:00.005-06:00

So is there anyone else out there at all who kind of dorks around in general -- but when there is a deadline, they can really kick it into gear and get stuff done?

That's me. Anyone? Anyone?!

Little Blessings (that are really big blessings!)

2010-03-05T07:30:00.017-06:00

"Let your eyes light up when your (grand)children are around. Laugh more. Tell them how empty and quiet it is when they're not there. Enjoy the things they bring to your life. Attend their activities, not as if they were compulsory for (grand)parents, but throw yourselves into their lives." ~Valerie Bell

I can truly say that I love grandma-hood. I knew I wanted grandchildren long before I had any, and they have all far exceeded any anticipation I might have had. They make me laugh, they make me think, they increase my capacity to love, and they have enriched my life and filled it with joy.

My days would be very empty and quiet without these 5 (soon to be 6) precious little people in my life. I can't imagine life without them now, and I'm so grateful for the chances I have to be a part of their lives.

And now we are waiting (with excitement!) to meet another little girl who will arrive to be part of our family in May. We are truly blessed.

Snow? Here? Really?!

2010-03-01T09:23:00.004-06:00

"Snowflakes are kisses from heaven." ~Author unknown

"A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of rain." ~Carl Reiner

Clearly there are mixed opinions on snow. I for one have had my fill of it. I grew up in it in Alberta, I lived in it in Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Indiana, even in Nashville, and of course in Reno. I am done with snow. I truly don't care if I never see it again.

But I have been so taken with how much the children here love it. It's such an anomaly for them -- they can't wait to get out in it and play.

Me? Not so much. But it was very pretty when it happened last week. I'm just grateful it didn't stay long.

Snow Scrooge. That's me. Give me the beach any day. I'm with Carl.

Pics are scenes from my back yard -- which don't come close to capturing how pretty it really was as it came down.

Living for those We Love

2010-02-24T11:46:00.007-06:00

"We can lay down our lives for those we love not by physically dying for them, but rather by living for them -- giving of our time; always being present in their lives; serving them; being courteous, affectionate and showing true love for those of our family and to all men -- as the Savior taught." ~Elder Claudio R.M. Costa

This reminds me of something that Erma Bombeck said once [I think it was her and I'm paraphrasing here] that I liked a lot: that when she died, she wanted to be used up and worn out, and not just have made her way through her life not doing things for others. I love that thought. I'm always grateful for another opportunity to make a difference [small or large] to someone else. Maybe a Primary child who needed a smile and a hug. Maybe a family with a new baby who needed a meal. Maybe just being there when someone needed me -- and never even really knowing it.

Understanding the Savior's life makes it clear: He did die for us, but He also lived for us. He is our best example of patience, teaching, loving, healing and sharing.

All we have to do now is to follow.

picture by Liz Lemon Swindle

Peace and Happiness

2010-02-16T19:23:00.006-06:00

"God can't give us peace and happiness apart from Himself because there is no such thing." ~C.S. Lewis

I've been feeling very peaceful and happy lately, and today was pondering on what it is that has made me feel this way. Family, of course. The love I have for a wonderful husband, the happiness I feel as I spend time with my adult children and their spouses, and probably most especially, the joy that I have been blessed with as I love and enjoy our precious grandchildren and Primary children all add up to peace and happiness, for sure. Extended family and friends that feel like family make life nearly perfect.

But I stumbled upon this quote today and it all clicked and fell precisely into place in my mind. The peace and happiness I feel is because I have God in my life. And clearly His presence in my life is manifested in all the things I love and cherish: my family, the beautiful place I live and the opportunities and challenges that are placed in my path. I am more than blessed, I know.

And how grateful I am to know what I do: that He lives, that He loves us and that we can have peace through Him.

[picture found here http://www.warmfrogstudio.com/art/happiness.html]

An Attitude of Gratitude

2010-02-11T14:12:00.010-06:00

Isn't this the truth? I am so grateful for the happy life that I lead. Of course there are problems, there are frustrations and mistakes. And we all know that nothing is perfect. But in general, I am very blessed and I know it. Which, in comparison to the things I know go on in the world and in other people's lives makes me feel guilty. I mean, why me, really? I'm not so good or so special.

I've come to understand that I will never understand the differences that I see in people's lives. I don't have that kind of eternal vision - -but I also understand that it's important for me to be kind, helpful and understanding, even when I don't really understand. And I need to be always remember to be grateful.

That's my goal.

Look What Came to My House Today!

2010-02-04T16:57:00.006-06:00

Can you say 'beautiful'? This is an amazing book. I found it browsing online and decided on a whim to order it. I didn't need it. I have the Primary song book, and several that precede the current one [because I'm old!] But I wanted it. A lot.

It came today and it's even better than I had thought. It's not only got lots of favorite Primary songs in it that are not in the regular Primary book [do note that this is not a Church publication, just a compilation that someone did], like 'Scripture Power', 'Holding Hands Around the World', 'My Eternal Family' and 'If the Savior Stood Beside Me', it also has old favorites like 'Book of Mormon Stories', 'Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree', etc. It also has little write-ups by the authors and composers of those songs, explaining how the song came to be, which I love to read.

And the pictures? Heavenly. By such well-known names as Liz Lemon Swindle, Greg Olsen, Simon Dewey, Del Parson and others -- how do you go wrong? It's a hard-cover, spiral bound book that you can find here.

Anyone who knows me will know that this was a no-brainer for me. Children + music + gospel + heart-touching pictures = something I needed. Check it out. Children too young to read willl love paging through this, looking at the pictures [me too!] and singing the songs. And those old enough to read will enjoy reading the stories behind the songs. And us old people will just love all of it.

Looks like something to add to the family library.

I Know He Lives!

2010-02-01T08:46:00.008-06:00

Yesterday I got to sub for our chorister Joan [who is wonderful, by the way] and realized once again, that music + children + the gospel = wonderful. The new song we are learning [which pretty much presents the theme for the year] absolutely brings an outpouring of the spirit and I know all the children could feel it.

It starts with the story of the Savior with the children [as found in 3 Nephi 17, which is one of the most tender and sweet stories in the Book of Mormon, I think], telling about how the children there were able to sit on His knee and see the tears on His face. But the thing I like best is that after telling this wonderful story, it goes on to apply those teachings to our children, here and now.

The chorus is pure and simple testimony, being borne through song by the purest and sweetest singers of all: the children. There hasn't been a time that I could get through that part of the song without tears of my own -- but yesterday, I managed to do it as I directed the children as they sang it. Their voices just soared over the chorus: "I know He lives! I will follow faithfully. My heart I give to Him -- I know that my Savior loves me!"

It doesn't get better than that and I was so thankful for the opportunity to not only be there with the children yesterday, but to take part as they sang their testimonies. What a precious gift -- and once again, I am so grateful for the blessing of the Primary in my life.

The Perfect Life

2010-01-20T10:25:00.003-06:00

Mark just got an invitation to his high school reunion -- they've never had one and I'm 100% sure he doesn't want to go, but it has definitely made me think.

The cool part is that I already think I have the perfect life. I don't care what anyone else thinks, and I love it that I don't need to invent something different. I love what I have and that's a gift.

OLD? Really?

2010-01-16T09:11:00.004-06:00

"To me, old age is always 15 years older than I am." ~Bernard M. Baruch

This week, I've had an [unasked for and definitely unwanted!] opportunity to think about my age. I pick up 2 neighbor children every day from school, and one day this week, the six year old looked up at me as he was getting out of my car and said, "Mrs. Mason, why are you so old?" And he said it with no malice, no teasing, no naughtiness at all - -it was just a question.

I, of course, gulped, swallowed hard and resisted the urge to smack him -- and after I gathered my thoughts and stomped on my temper and hurt feelings, managed to say, "Well, I guess it's because I was born a long time ago and I'm a grandma. You can't be a grandma without being old, right?"

And he smiled his funny little smile, shrugged and said, "Yup. I guess so!" And that was that.

I needed Miss Maya with me at that point to jump in [using her outdoor voice!] and rescue me by saying, "Grandma! You're not old. You're NEW."

It's good to be new, right? Especially since inside, I do feel new! Much better than old!!

New Outlook on Eating

2010-01-14T09:22:00.006-06:00

"One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating." ~Luciano Pavarotti

I have this love-hate relationship with food. I love food -- but I have always had an issue with weight. Over the years, I have been able to balance my love of food with a love of exercise - but right now I'm sidelined with a torn ligament in my right ankle. So today it made me smile to see this quote -- by someone who obviously enjoys his food.

Maybe if I actually did stop what I was doing and devote my full attention to eating [instead of grabbing a bite on the run all the time, or reading or watching TV at the same time], I might be able to share his attitude. At any rate, I like it a lot!

And cake? Cake is necessary! Right? Right?!

Playtime

2010-01-13T07:38:00.006-06:00

"Allow children to be happy in their own way, for what better way will they find?" ~Samuel Johnson

We now get more Sunday time with the kiddoes because of our [fabulous] new church schedule. We go from 9-12, then have choir practice, come home for lunch and a change of clothes, and then we get to have Maya and Mason here to play in the afternoon.

I was fascinated [but not surprised, because kids traditionally prefer an old cardboard box over just about anything else] to watch them having fun with not the big blocks that we store in this tub, but the tub itself.

Kids are the smartest. Ever.

2010-01-07T09:43:00.004-06:00

Our new Primary theme this year is wonderful: "I Know My Savior Lives". Just the thought of addressing this topic [in many different ways and aspects] this year humbles me. What a blessing to be able to teach this concept to a group of Primary children that already have hold of my heart. To share my testimony and insights with them will be a gift, and to help them grasp that concept and testimony will be even better.

I do know He lives, and I know that He loves each one of us, imperfect as we are. But what I really know is that He has a special place in His heart for the children. There are so many children who don't know Him and won't be taught about Him and that thought hurts my heart when I consider it. But it makes me so grateful for the chance I have been given to work on internalizing that concept even more deeply for myself, and the chance to help the children I love so dearly learn to take it into their own lives and hearts.

I'm excited about our new Primary year!!

picture above by Liz Lemon Swindle -- and just an FYI -- it now hangs in my family room, a thoughtful and precious Christmas gift from Chris and Natalie. I kind of get a lump in my throat every time I look at it!!

2010

2010-01-04T08:35:00.004-06:00

"I complain that the years fly past, but then I look in a mirror and see that very few of them actually got past."~ Robert Brault

Happy New Year!! It seems to me that 2009 has been a rough year in many ways: unemployment, illness, family problems, *(and the list goes on!) but there has been so much to be grateful for as well. We have a wonderful family, we've been pretty healthy, the Church is still true and in general, life is a happy time for all of us.

My hopes for 2010 includes more time with Mark, our family and especially the precious little grandkiddoes we already have - and enjoying a brand new little girl who will arrive sometime in May. Also to continue to be blessed by the gift of Primary - I love and appreciate the opportunity I have to be with some of the most outstanding leaders and teachers in our ward (you know who you are - -love you!), and especially our Primary children. There truly is a spirit there that you won't find anywhere else. I honestly believe that if the Savior came to church, he'd check in at the Bishop's office and then head down to the Primary room to be with the kids. I am so thankful that I still get to be a part of Primary in our ward. Other things? A visit to see my parents in Alberta, a Mason reunion in Missouri - -and who knows what else? Hopefully a new house that we can love and never have to move again.

I just know that I am richly blessed, I am utterly grateful and can't wait to see what happens next. Except on my face, of course!! (*see above quote!) Ha!

Belonging

2009-12-25T11:03:00.004-06:00

"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other." ~Mother Teresa

Happy New Year to each one of my friends, in-person or blogging friends. It doesn't matter -- I do feel that we all belong to each other. My wish and hope is that we all remember that. We truly are all family.

Love you all!

** The above pic is exactly how I feel about New Year's Eve parties -- this year, we are doing a movie and dinner with family and early to bed. That's my idea of fun!

It's Christmas??

2009-12-23T14:44:00.006-06:00

Holy cow, the time has flown [again!]. And in 2 days, it will be Christmas. I'm not sure how it happened. There has been plenty going on: we had Maya, Mason and Simon with us for 5 days while their mom and dad took a trip to Utah and we had a wonderful time. They were very glad to see mom and dad when they returned, but I like to think they felt pretty comfortable here too.

Our ward choir did a truly beautiful program on Sunday. I have the privilege of playing for the choir and privilege is the right word. Our director Becky is amazing. She gets things out of this volunteer ward choir that no one else could - and I will tell you that the program and the music were both touching and beautiful.

Then on to Primary, where I did Sharing Time. I wanted it to be so special, since it was the Sunday before Christmas. I got an inspiration and went with it and the spirit was so strong. Music makes such a difference, and I know the children feel it too. Again, the word 'privilege' is the one that comes to me -- it is such a gift to be with our precious Primary children every week. I love them all.

Then it was our anniversary -- a big one. I have no idea how we got to this point but on December 21, we celebrated our 35th [gulp!] anniversary. We have had such years of adventure together and I'm always grateful for the blessing that Mark is in my life. I love him so much and am so thankful that I got so lucky all those years ago. He's definitely a keeper. Add to that the family we have together, and again, I feel so blessed. We have wonderful children, in-laws and grandchildren who are the frosting on that cake for sure.

Dinner at Chuy's with the Primary presidency [minus Kristen, who was having her baby -- a little girl, as yet unnamed] is another wonderful tradition. I love these 3 women that I have the privilege [there's that word again] of working with. They are dedicated, dependable, creative, funny and loving -- and they put up with me. It doesn't get better than the 3 of them. Do you hear that word again? What a privilege it is to be with them.

So in the middle of all the shopping, celebrating, planning, preparing, I need to make sure I don't forget why we are doing all this. Because that baby was born so long ago, who came to live His life so we could follow Him. And then he willingly gave up that life so that we could live with Him again. I am so grateful.

No greater blessing than that. Merry Christmas, everyone!

[pic is our Senior Primary doing their nativity program several weeks ago]

The Love of a Child

2009-12-05T09:41:00.006-06:00

"It is not a slight thing when they, who are so fresh from God, love us." ~Charles Dickens

The love of a child is a precious thing. I am thinking of the times I arrive at the homes of our grandchildren and am greeted at the door with a shining face and the world's biggest smile and a huge hug with "Grandma's here!" ringing in my ears. I am thinking of the times when I run into our Primary children somewhere other than church and see the light in their faces as someone says, "It's Sister Mason!" I am remembering the smiles of the neighbor children that I spend each weekday afternoon with. I am thinking of the sweetness of the feelings I have for each of those wonderful children that are such an important part of my life.

They are, even as they grow older, so much nearer to the presence of God than I, at my age am. I feel that divinity in them as I work with them, grow to know them and love them. It's such a blessing and gift to me to be able to be part of the lives of these precious little ones.

And it is surely not a slight thing to be loved by them.

Example

2009-11-30T10:36:00.007-06:00

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ~ Winston Churchill

I did Sharing Time yesterday in Primary and we talked about example: the fact that we are all examples, like it or not, aware of it or not. Someone is always watching, taking mental notes, and in many cases, doing what we do. It's a little frightening to me to think that someone somewhere is following, doing the things I do, simply because I'm the one doing them.

Made me think hard that it behooves [I do love that word!] all of us to make sure that the examples we set are good ones, and that if someone followed in our footsteps, they would be on a good path.

The lives we are building are important -- and especially at this time of year, our awareness of others and their needs should be at an all-time high. I want to make the best possible life that I can -- both for myself and for others.

Protection from Aging

2009-11-24T10:58:00.007-06:00

Natalie and Simon

Chris -- who is eternally young too!

Maya, Chris and Daniel {boy in foreground is a stranger}

Mason, Maya and Daniel

Mason and the Rainforest Cafe frog

Mark

"Age does not protect you from love. But love, to some extent, protects you from age." ~Jeanne Moreau

So true. I may be in my mid-50s {OK, I am in my mid 50s!} but I feel young. I really do. I love to race, to chase, to tackle and tickle, and to do whatever it takes to keep up with our precious grandkiddoes. I do have some aches and pains, but they are minor in comparison to the joy I feel when spending time with family. The smiles I earn from the kiddoes are the best medicine for any ache or pain that might rear its ugly head. And it always brings a smile when I hear "Grandma, you're not old, you're new!" And I am new.

The love I feel for my children, their children, my parents and siblings, our Primary children, our dear friends -- is truly what keeps me young. That love makes me want to take good care of myself, to be fun to be with, to cherish every second I get with them, and is behind every prayer I pray for as much time with my family as possible.

If love is the measure, then I will always be young. Just look at the above pics -- oh, how I am blessed! {and young! ha!}

Update

2009-11-20T12:42:00.009-06:00

Melanie and I outside the Houston temple.

The happy bride and groom - Melanie and Ramon

Mr. Simon - -celebrating on his 1st birthday

"Praise to thee, oh Lord, for all creation;
Give us thankful hearts that we may see,
All the gifts we share and every blessing,
All things come of thee." ~ John Rutter

Holy cow, it's been that long since I have posted? Mark has been harrassing me about it and I've been ignoring him. Mostly, I guess, because I feel like I have nothing to say. And who wants to read the ramblings of someone who really has nothing on their mind?

It's been busy times here - we've had Halloween (including a fun trunk or treat), the Primary program (wonderful program -- great kids, and full of the spirit), Simon's BD., Natalie's BD., a wedding to attend in Houston (former seminary student and current friend Melanie and her new husband Ramon), and a bout with the flu. So there has been plenty going on.

And now, we are looking Thanksgiving in the face. There is so much to appreciate and be grateful for, and I am. I am so thankful for my family, for the dear friends that feel like family, and for the blessed life that I live. The above words come from a song that our choir sang yesterday and it was beautiful. Beautiful because of the lovely melody and harmonies, and beautiful because of the words. I want that thankful heart and that memory that all we have comes from our Heavenly Father.

Take a minute to reflect and to be grateful -- and happy Thanksgiving!

Grandma-Hood

2009-10-24T09:25:00.007-05:00

"We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today." ~Stacia Tauscher

Isn't that a true statement? I remember when my children were small, worrying about how they would make it as adults, what they would do with their lives, trying to help shape the kind of people they would become. Duh. The reality was that they arrived in my life as someone. And those 3 someones were already smart, talented and unique.

That's another something I'm loving about grandma-hood. I don't work, worry and wonder, trying to fit these precious little people into some kind of mold -- I just enjoy them and love them. At the risk of becoming repetitive, grandma-hood is my favorite thing about this stage of my life.

It's a gift. The best one ever.

**Big thanks go to Daniel and Ben who gave Grandpa the fabulous marble roller-coaster-builder set for his birthday. Because I seem to be camera-challenged, I didn't think to take a pic of them enjoying it with him - with the roller coaster strewn all across their dining room and back. This is Maya and Mason enjoying the gift with Grandpa as well.

Primary Song Bakery

2009-10-16T10:01:00.006-05:00

Our Primary chorister is wonderful. She has fun ideas and {even better} she lets me join in the fun. Every single time.

This past week, we reviewed the songs we've learned this year for the Children's Sacrament Meeting Presentation. There are a lot of them and there are a lot of words to remember. In the past, we've done a Song Hospital, where Joan and I wear our scrubs and decide if the songs need to stay in the hospital or if they are ready to be discharged. This year, however, Joan decided on a Song Bakery. She made little gingerbread men, each with the name of a song on it, brought a small toaster oven, and signs that said 'gooey', 'half baked' and 'ready to serve'.

The fun part {for me, anyhow - and I think the kids liked it too} was that Joan had her apron and chef hat on and I wore my chefs' coat and hat. We chose names from our choosing jar, and then the child chosen got to wear an apron, a chefs' hat and an oven mitt and helped direct the song. We had stirring spoons with smiley faces on them {because you always sing better when you are happy, right?!} and then we sang the song, listening to see if was 'ready to serve' or not.

The kids loved it, we now know what songs need a little work {not many! just the second verses of a couple of them could use a review} and Joan and I had a blast. I love it that she lets me play along with her every time.

Prayer

2009-10-12T06:02:00.006-05:00

"I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time- waking and sleeping. It doesn't change God- it changes me."~ C.S. Lewis

It's hard to get to the point in life where you realize that you really can't help yourself. I still struggle with this - - I was born independent and will no doubt die independent. I want to do everything myself and I don't want help. But to make full use of the atonement of Jesus Christ, I have to humble myself and admit to Him that I can't do it alone. I do need His help.

And in the end, the very act of praying, humbling myself and recognizing the need I have for Him in my life literally changes me. For the better.

Thank goodness.

Birthdays

2009-10-07T12:57:00.004-05:00

"In childhood, we yearn to be grown-ups. In old age, we yearn to be kids. It just seems that all would be wonderful if we didn't have to celebrate our birthdays in chronological order." ~Robert Brault

Miss Maya celebrated her 6th birthday this week and it's got me thinking about age. The above quote really spoke to me -- isn't that the truth? I'm finding there really are some things I like about being older, but there are probably equally as many things that go along with it that are not so much to my liking. I like being able to look back and really see the hand of God in our lives, as He has moved us around. I like the perspective I have gained with time. I really like having a better understanding of myself. And grandchildren? The best gift I've ever received, since the original gift of my children.

The wrinkles? Not so much. Or the alarming downward slide of body parts that have always been up higher? Nope. And I really don't like the minor aches and pains that seem to creep in as time goes on. The gray hair is something that my hairdresser Jake takes care of so that's not so much a problem.

So does it even out? For sure. Time is something I have a little bit more of, time to play with little guys, to help our our grown children, and time to think. Time to serve in the church, both with children and with music. Time to reflect and to try to do better.

Old-er age is a gift -- especially since the way I feel inside has never changed. Inside, I'm still young. Really young!

Yay!!

2009-09-28T09:36:00.003-05:00

Can't wait for Saturday and Sunday and lots of great insights, inspiration and words of wisdom from our General Authorities.

I LOVE General Conference, and am excited to see and hear Pres. Monson speak to us!!

Who We Really Are

2009-09-24T16:57:00.006-05:00

"As children of God we are somebody. He will build us, mold us, and magnify us if we will but hold our head up, our arms out, and walk with Him." ~Marvin J. Ashton

I spent an hour in Miss Maya's classroom this week, and as I did, I got a little time with every kindergarten student in that class. It was so interesting to come away with a very specific feeling [in one way or another] about each child. I left wishing that every one of them could be sure of who they are. We teach in Primary that they are literally children of God, that He knows them, loves them, and will help them.

Each one of us is somebody and can be more than we could begin to imagine with God's help. I need to remember keep my head up, my arms out and to walk beside Him. Then maybe I can help someone else realize that they too are somebody.

Keeping Time

2009-09-21T12:04:00.004-05:00

I'm such a freak. This is me to a T -- every clock in our house is different. Some of it is not my fault, like when the power flickers off and on and the clocks on the microwave and oven start flashing and have to be reset. I'm purely guessing at those when I do the resetting.

But honestly, I have such an inner need [is that the right word?] to be on time that the clocks in the bedroom are set probably close to 10 minutes ahead. Except, of course for the atomic clock that projects onto the ceiling -- it's accurate. Both my watches are 10 minutes fast too.

I'm not sure it makes any difference, because when I look at those clocks, I immediately know how fast they actually are and prepare accordingly. But I am pretty much always on time.

I'm a weirdo. You knew that already.

Happy Sunday!!

2009-09-20T08:25:00.005-05:00

Here's hoping we can all find these three things - happy Sunday!

Have Patience

2009-09-18T09:32:00.008-05:00

"Patience is tied very closely to faith in our Heavenly Father. Actually, when we are unduly impatient, we are suggesting that we know what is best—better than does God. Or, at least, we are asserting that our timetable is better than His. We can grow in faith only if we are willing to wait patiently for God's purposes and patterns to unfold in our lives, on His timetable." ~Elder Neal A. Maxwell, "Patience", Ensign, Oct. 1980, 28

Years ago, we had an old vinyl LP called "Music Machine" that our kids loved. I think Mark bought it from a door-to-door born-again hippie Christian [yes, really] and I remember being pretty mad at him for spending money on something as stupid as that [in my mind, anyhow] when we could barely afford food for our family. But I was surprised by how much we loved it and I have since tracked down the CD and have gotten a kick out of listening to the songs again.

But I digress. What does that have to do with the Maxwell quote? Well, there's a song on the CD entitled "Have Patience" that's sung by a snail named Herbert. That's where the quote took me.

Having patience isn't easy but I loved looking at it in the way that Elder Maxwell does -- that if I am impatient, I'm trying to tell the Lord that I know better than He does. And that's one thing I'm sure of -- He always knows better than I do.

So I will try to have patience, just like Herbert.

Refill, Please

2009-09-15T09:49:00.005-05:00

"We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is, knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out." ~Ray Bradbury

I've been reflecting on this thought -- especially since life has been pretty busy [I've even had the feeling of too busy] lately. But if I can view myself as a cup being constantly filled and refilled, it somehow feels less overwhelming and more along the lines of being an instrument in the Lord's hands. He knows what He wants of me and He is filling me in ways I never imagined.

So now I just need to tip over, let the good stuff out and get another refill.

Busy is Good

2009-09-10T09:06:00.004-05:00

"The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more." ~Jonas Salk, M.D.

After a crazy busy[but really good!] Sunday, I figured things would just coast for a few days. Not true. Yesterday was more of the same. When I got home at about 8:45 last night, I told Mark that I had had a busy, busy day. He raised an eyebrow and said "But that's good, right?".

And it was good. I love being busy. It's all about being busy in a good way -- doing the things that make me happy, that help others, that at the end of the day, make me grateful for my busy, funny, tiring, wonderful life.

Yay for the opportunity to do more!

And Along the Same Lines . . .

2009-09-04T11:31:00.010-05:00

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." ~Albert Schweitzer

Our lives are full of people who have lit a flame within each of us. My love of music goes back to my childhood. My love of reading came from parents who read to us and encouraged us to keep reading. One of my favorite memories is of finally being old enough to be able to ride the bus all the way downtown to the library by myself. I loved that old building. [and if you know Lethbridge, you'll know that it wasn't much of a trip but I thought it was wonderful!] How thankful I am for those [and many other] sparks that really set me alight.

And don't forget that sometimes it's our job to light the flame for others. We need to be aware of the opportunities we have be the spark for someone else. Whether we are conscious of it or not, there is always someone whose flame is flickering. Our job is to lend them our light and help build theirs back up.

And then they can be that spark.

Jumper Cables of the Heart

2009-09-01T09:02:00.005-05:00

"We, more than others, should carry jumper and tow cables not only in our cars, but also in our hearts, by which means we can send the needed boost or charge of encouragement or the added momentum to mortal neighbors." ~Neal A. Maxwell

How true this is! We do have an added responsibility, I think -- to help, lift, inspire and recharge not only ourselves but our family, friends and neighbors. I loved this image of the birds huddled so close together -- keeping warm, supporting, encouraging and uplifting each other.

Lovely thought for today.

Check it Out!

2009-08-29T21:21:00.007-05:00

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was to find this in my mailbox yesterday: an amazing, handmade, personalized checkerboard. I was lucky enough to win it -- and here's where it gets fun. I even sort of know Britta and Clint -- but not really well. I just got lucky.

What I love most is that each checker has a picture of one of our precious grandkiddoes -- [I emailed the pics to Britta], and a handpainted crown [so that you can king yourself and/or your opponent] on the other side. The board itself is fabulous -- folds open and closed, stores the checkers inside and Britta even made a cute little bag to keep the checkers in.

Miss Maya and I broke it in this afternoon, and after a [very] little instruction and practice, she proceeded to understand the strategy perfectly and beat me 3 times running.

I just loved playing with her and seeing the pics of the kiddoes all the way through.

You should check them out here and take some time to browse around -- they have tons of fun stuff. You will see the checkerboard and a description if you scroll down just a little bit.

And they'd love to customize something just for you. Christmas is coming, and I can tell you that all grandparents would love a gift like this one!

Thanks, Clint and Britta! You guys are the best!

Happy Birthday to Me

2009-08-23T12:29:00.013-05:00

"A true friend reaches for your hand and touches your heart." ~author unknown

I had a birthday this past week and I can truly say that my heart was touched by the genuine outpouring of love from both family and friends. I had friends bringing over warm monkey bread and warm cinnamon raisin bread, Diet Coke and beautiful jewelery. I had a wonderful lunch with Natalie, the kiddoes and Jessica [our new adoptive family member!], I had a great dinner with family and friends, and I even had a bundt cake [my all-time favorite - white chocolate raspberry!] that was not easy to procure and I know it.

I have had thoughtful gifts, cards, and flowers handed to me by friends and family who love me. I have coupons and gift cards to redeem. I had a trip to the Melting Pot with my wonderful Primary presidency, and I can't tell you how many loving hugs I received. I had gifts left on my doorstep and I had visits that included treats and more gifts. And don't forget cookies. Lots of yummy cookies! These family members and friends really know me. I am the most blessed, luckiest person I know.

Why? Not so much because of the gifts, but more because of the message of love those gifts sent. My heart has been touched. I know I am loved. And that truly is the greatest gift that anyone can receive. Thanks, everybody!! You made my day, my month and my year.

Love you all.

[notice one cookie missing? Yup. I ate it immediately].

The Best Example

2009-08-19T09:17:00.004-05:00

"Life isn't a race. God isn't waiting at some mythical finishing line, tapping his foot, glancing at his stopwatch, and muttering, 'Hey, get a move on, will you?' . . . In fact, far from waiting at the finishing line, he's there, right beside us, encouraging us and sometimes even lifting us over the rough spots." ~Chieko N. Okazaki

What a beautiful thought! And there's a lesson for me in it as well. That's my job too, as a mom, as a grandma, as a Primary leader, as a wife, as a friend. It's not for me to be standing at the finishing line wishing everyone would hurry up and get things right -- it's for me to be beside them lifting them, encouraging them, helping them and loving them.

I love having the perfect example to follow. I just need to pay attention and make sure I follow perfectly.

picture by Greg Olsen

Ode to Tara

2009-08-14T15:52:00.005-05:00

A truer statement was never written. And I am living proof.

We had Tara and the boys staying with us this week while Chris was in class down at UT. They had planned originally to all stay together in their hotel room very near campus - - but given some time and proximity, it seemed better for those of us not in school to be here and to let the student alone. [we did get time with him in the evenings!]

But since I wasn't expecting company, I didn't clean. Sigh. And Tara is the best housekeeper I know - she's amazing. And now I think she's more amazing because she never batted an eye at my tidy-ish but not very clean house.

Gotta love a daughter-in-law like that one. And I do.

Change

2009-08-10T10:31:00.008-05:00

"Childhood is a time of indelible impressions, mostly left by children on their parents."~ Robert Brault

Change is in the air, isn't it? School will be in session here in 2 weeks, and in our family, that will mean big changes for 2 precious grandkiddoes. Daniel and Maya will both be starting kindergarten and they are both so excited and so ready. The rest of us? Not so much.

For me, I'm taken back to the [very recent, it seems!] year when they both arrived in our family - -so wanted, so precious, and so loved. Now their parents will be sending them off to school every day, all day. And those of us who love them will miss them as part of our daily lives.

Daniel and Maya will do great as they both have great parents who love them and have prepared them well. For me, it's another of those bittersweet times where you're thrilled with their progress, excited for their new adventures, and sad for the changes that are on the way.

The indelible impressions spoken of above have been made not only on the parents of these two wonderful children but their grandparents too.

Hair Day

2009-08-06T08:47:00.003-05:00

Just discovered to my amazement [it was on the calendar, but I didn't notice it till I found the phone message reminding me] that today is my hair appt. with my man Jake. He is a genius, but the above says it all.

Honestly? I don't think there is an ideal hairstyle, at least for me!! Sigh.

Be Happy

2009-07-30T11:26:00.005-05:00

"Be of cheerful countenance, and the first thing you will notice is that people approaching you on the street are smiling."~Robert Brault

So true and so well put!

Here's wishes for a happy weekend.

I'm Thankful for Air Conditioning

2009-07-27T10:07:00.011-05:00

It's hot here in Austin. And normally, I'm good with that. I'd much rather be hot than cold and I remind myself of that fact often -- especially often as the temps here have been over 100 for a zillion days in a row now.

So yesterday, I went down to set up the Primary room and realized it was HOT in there. Well, duh. I knew what to do about that. I went to the back of the room to turn on the AC and got nothing. No lights came one. No cool air. Nothing. My next thought was to grab Mark [who supervises the buildings and their maintenance in our stake] and have him come see what he could do - - which turned out to be nothing as well.

End result? A room full of Primary children [and teachers too!] from 3 - 5 p.m. on a sweltering Sunday in Austin, Texas. Hot, sweaty, lethargic -- all of us!!

We did OK though, really better than I thought we would. Our Primary kids and teachers are champs.

But I am now even more grateful for AC than ever before.

Facebook

2009-07-22T08:41:00.005-05:00

I'm as big a fan of Facebook as anyone, but in the past few days, I've been 'friended' by people I can barely remember. [barely being the operative term here]. As I rack my brain to try to remember who the heck they are/were and what they might have meant to me, it sort of takes away some of the joy and fun I've experienced as I've re-connected with some people from the past that really were my friends.

This one spoke to me today!

Friends

2009-07-17T08:49:00.011-05:00

"In friendship . . . we think we have chosen our peers. In reality, a few years difference in the dates of our births, a few more miles between certain houses, the choice of one university instead of another. . . the accident of a topic being raised or not raised at a first meeting -- any of these chances might have kept us apart. But for a Christian, there are, strictly speaking, no chances. A secret Master of Ceremonies has been at work. Christ, who said to the disciple "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you," can truly say to every group of Christian friends, "Ye have not chosen one another but I have chosen you for one another." The friendship is not a reward for our discrimination and good taste in finding each another out. It is the instrument by which God reveals to each the beauties of others." (C.S. Lewis)

I'm quite sure I have posted this quote before, but it was long ago and it has been on my mind again lately. As I muse about my life, there are so many things that seem to have happened by chance, whether it is the fact of meeting someone that the likelihood of it happening seems low, the actuality of living somewhere seemingly completely foreign to you and your experience in life, or being able to find common ground with someone that truly surprises you. It's pretty amazing to find someone either a fair bit older than you or younger and become great friends. You wonder why would that be - after all, with an age difference that great, it probably shouldn't have happened.

The concept of the "Master of Ceremonies" is a sweet one to me -- because that's exactly what is in place. He is our Master, He does know us and love us, and He puts us in places where we can learn to know and love others.

And I am grateful.

photo by Greg Olsen