Grateful

We were finally able to celebrate Noel's birthday yesterday, which turned out to be a great thing.  I knew it would be special for her to receive her first set of scriptures, but I had no idea that I would be so touched by it.  Seeing her pick out her scriptures, a cute little purse-carrier (no zipper tote for this girl!), and have her full name engraved on them helped me realize just how grown up she is getting.  I know that she isn't going to read the scriptures all in one night, but I do want to take time to show her my own set--how I've marked them, studied from them, and made them my own copy of personal revelation.  I can sense that Noel is drawn to the scripture stories, and if I can help her learn how to study on her own, she will always be able to find strength through them...even and especially in times when I'm not there.  I know that if she learns to delve into the scriptures and prayer for answers, she will be able to find strength many times over what I can give her.

Also continuing this week:  Chaim says "I love you, mom" and "Mom, I love you so much." at least 30 times a day.  It still isn't old...I hope you does it forever.

The kids are all finally healthy!  Just in time to pass it along to Scott, who is now fighting a bad cough.  I was exhausted today...not tired...just end-of-the-rope tired from a long week.  I took a nap, had a hot bath, then a second bath.  I'm not really excited or ready for another full-on week...but here it goes, anyway!  

I did have a really amazing experience earlier this week.  It was one of the mornings I was home, and suddenly, I felt this overwhelming feeling of gratitude for all that I have personally, and all that our family has.  Our home, our safety and protection, our beautiful, healthy, and smart children, our wonderful marriage, my job, our church callings, being able to find old friends and starting to build new friendships in our ward...and on and on and on.  Chaim was playing, and so I went into his bedroom to say a prayer.  It was just a morning where I was able to thank Heavenly Father for all that I have blessed with--especially the recognition that we are blessed.  I was able to step back from seeing only the trees, and was able to see the forest, so to speak--and it was amazing.  I'm really thankful that Heavenly Father is helping me to broaden my perspective of my life.  

I also have to report on my calling, because I love my calling. I am so, so blessed to be the Primary Chorister.  Last night I was overwhelmed with having to teach another song, but today I just loved it!  The children have all worked really hard to learn "I am a Child of God" in French....and starting Tagalog, and it's been so fun to do that!  One little girl (6 years old), stood and sang the French verse in front of junior primary all by herself!  It was so soft and timid, but she did it!  She knew all the words--it was so beautiful!  We also started the new song, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me", and we talked about all the ways that the Savior shows us the way:  keeping the commandments, talking time with people, praying, and being gentle.  Then, as we were singing, Chaim came up to me, asking for me to put the lid on his chapstick (again!), and my first inclination was..."Chaim!  Go sit down!  Stop making a scene!"  And then...quick as that was the thought "What would Jesus Do?  Jesus would be gentle with Chaim."  So I scooped him up--snuggling him while still leading the music.  It was such a tender mercy for me to learn that yes, I can fulfill my calling--but I can also always take time to be gentle with my own children.  

I also shared the story of my Uncle Kent giving me the umbrella in Florida.  He had an umbrella that was the same coloring as a shirt I was wearing.  I pointed that out, just for fun--and he immediately said, "Oh--you have it!"  When I tried to give it back, he was insistent that I keep it--that he wanted me to have it. Then he said something that I'll never forget:  "Everything I own is ready to be given away."  What a beautiful sentiment!  He only owns things until he can see that it will bring someone else more joy, or that another person needs it--and then he gives it away (I've seen him do this as well).  I'd like to be more like that.