Okay, so I did my run early today. SEVEN MILES! It doesn't sound like much when comparing it to the women over at Marathon Mommies but for me it was a stretch. It took me 68 minutes so maybe that isn't really considered "running". Ten days ago I could barely run 3 miles so I feel good about it. I ran all of it on the treadmill while watching a documentary on President Hinckley. It really helped keep me going. There were times during the show that I was so touched by something President Hinckley said that I would get choked up... and then I had to breathe deep or die. It's really hard to run when you are crying. I'm very thankful for this challenge because it really made me reflect not only on the life of Gordon B. Hinckley, but also my own life. I can clearly see what it is I need to be doing... where I am falling short and where I am struggling. There are so many things! It makes me want to "try a little harder, be a little kinder, be more prayerful", say I'm sorry more.... I have so much to work on.
H and I were able to attend a Baptism today for the neighbor boy. It was nice to go and feel the peacefulness of it and see how happy little Jaron was. Then, we came home to watch the funeral and then back to the church again to clean. Our ward is in charge of cleaning the church this year and so I signed up last sunday before I knew there would be so much going on today with the Baptism and the Funeral too. S and H loved cleaning the church. I wish they would get that excited about cleaning my house. H helped me sweep and mop... oh and entertain Crew. S and Carl vacuumed. Another couple in our ward (they are expecting their 3rd boy... lol) were there cleaning too. We had a good time. H said he wanted to do it every Saturday:)
S had a basketball game. He was able to score 6 points... but they lost by one basket:( Then I was off shopping for Crew mans birthday. Two haircuts, dinner, baths, bedtime basketball (always), grocery shopping, phone calls... Good night.
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
President Gordon B. Hinckley 1910 - 2008
President Hinckley passed away last night. I am happy that he is with his sweet wife again, yet he will surely be missed. What an amazing man! I've loved his counsel, witty humour and great wisdom. I know that he was a prophet of the Lord and I feel blessed to have been led by him.
S was sitting with me watching TV when the "Breaking News" came on. S was sad and I know that President Hinckley will be missed by young and old.
How thankful I am to have had his counsel throughout much of my adult life. I've looked forward to his talks each Conference as I've tried to raise my children in the gospel and serve in the church.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
H's Baptism
Yesterday H was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He has been anticipating this day for a long time and was so excited. Their were 13 kids baptized and the chapel and overflow section was filled. H had lots of support from family and friends. After the baptism we were able to move into a separate room for the confirmation. As we were waiting for Carl and H to get dressed into dry clothes I had family members write their thoughts about the day on stationary so H will have something to remember how we all felt on this special occasion. Then he was also confirmed and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
Afterwards we all came over to the house for lunch. I love these little family get togethers. Two of my brothers and their families were there, my three sisters and kids, my three SIL's and children and grandparents from both sides. It makes for quite a houseful and I'm not really set up for that many people so I was so grateful that the weather was warm and the kids could go outside.
Last night we took the boys to FARR Icecream where we purchased 5 Quarts of one of our favorites, PLAYDOUGH Icecream. If you've never tried it I come on over I'm sure we have at least 4 quarts left;)
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Conference Weekend
Carl and I had our first experience of attending General Conference live in the Conference Center. Our bishop offered tickets to the Saturday afternoon session and we jumped at the chance. What a thrill it was to be there in person, to sit uninteruppted and absorb not only the words spoken but the warm comforting feeling present. I have so much to say about the talks given but because my feelings are so real and personal I plan to take the advice of Elder Henry B. Eyering and record them privately.
I'm thankful for the reminder to spend more time with my children and to simplify my life. Its time for me to evaluate where time and resources are being spent and
prioritize. I love my kids and it's amazing to me how fast they are growing up. I want to be involved in their lives and establish a better relationship with them before its too late.
prioritize. I love my kids and it's amazing to me how fast they are growing up. I want to be involved in their lives and establish a better relationship with them before its too late.I loved the quote by Elder Boyd K. Packer: "That just proves that you can't tell by looking at a frog how high it will jump". How true this is. We all have great potential... it's what we do with it that really matters:)
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
More about Crew
My sister, Sheri, is a long time advocate for people with disabilities. In an effort to increase awareness she presented to the sisters in our ward at Enrichment tonight. I have to say I learned a lot! It was well done and I plan to share some of what she said here on my blog at a later date. Also, we had three sisters in our ward share their thoughts on mothering a child with a disability. Naturally, I was asked to speak. Since my SIL requested that I post my talk here, I'm feeling daring so here is most of it:
Crew is 3 ½ years old and plays a dynamic role in our family. His favorite food is yogurt and if or when he has his way he eats it 3 times a day. Crew and I share guilty pleasures of ice-cream, soda pop and potato chips.
A younger brother to S and H, Crew teaches unconditional love. Even with such a limited vocabulary it was no surprise to us that Crew’s first word besides mom and dad was "HUGS" and he always uses the plural form. Crews Hugs are given out quite freely but he is the master and its up to him how often and how long th
e hug lasts. Sometimes he asks for a hug only to hug you for a millisecond, push you away, and ask for more. Sometimes his hugs last many minutes. Sometimes he squeezes and almost always he pats you on the back.
Crew loves music. Anybody who has spent time with Crew knows this is true. Almost all kinds of music excite him from classical to rock-n-roll. I’ve noticed that Crew has the talent of rhythm. He bops his head, sways his arms and kicks his legs.... always on beat and always with a smile on his face. From Crew I’ve learned that it is possible to dance while sitting in a chair. When in the car or at home I’ve gotten in the habit of turning the volume up because the louder the music the more squeals and laughter it generates.
Crew’s zest for life and simple pleasures have impacted those around him. This talent of lifting others has affected not only his family but his therapists, child care provider, teachers and even his bus driver. What a gift it is to have such an impact on people. Without a doubt, Crew has purpose to life and many talents to share.
I would like to share with you some of the medical facts that dominate our world. On a regular basis I am asked questions like, "How long before he was born did you know...?" and "How early was he?". I don’t want you to think I am offended by these questions because I’m not. In fact, it helps me to talk about it and if I am asked questions about Crew I know its because you care. There was nothing wrong with Crew in the womb and he was full-term. However, just prior to his birth Crew was with little or no oxygen for over an hour. It’s taken me a few years to be able to say this out loud but basically Crew’s brain was injured at birth.
First of all, the most significant life altering diagnosis we received was that of "Cerebral Palsy" or CP. Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by injury to the parts of the brain that control our ability to use our muscles and bodies. Cerebral means having to do with the brain. Palsy means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP can be mild, moderate, or severe ranging from an individual with a slight limp to one who is in a wheelchair, possible feeding tube, and/or a trachea. Sometimes children with CP can also have learning problems, problems with hearing or seeing, or mental retardation. Usually, the greater the injury to the brain, the more severe the CP.
When we brought Crew home from the hospital we knew he had a brain injury but we did not know what his outcome would be. Doctors and hospital staff gave countless examples of those who defy the odds. I believed then, and still do, that the brain and human body have an immense capacity to heal. The brain has the ability to "reroute" itself, finding connections and alternate paths around the injured area of the brain. However, each situation is unique and each story a different ending. We didn’t know what to expect.
His first diagnosis, at four months old, of permanent bilateral hearing loss wasn’t too hard to swallow. Four months later on the same day I found out that not only did he have Amblyopia and Strabismus (which is basically a misalignment of the eyes) but also CP. His eyes were corrected through patching and minor surgery. Since then Crew has developed a seizure disorder and in April we found out that his hearing loss is progressive.
The CP that Crew has effects both arms and legs, his trunk control, digestive system, and oral strength. In the past year Crew has learned to navigate his walker, crawl, and roll-over. The tightness in his hips and hamstrings and low tone in his trunk make it difficult for him to sit unassisted. We continue to work with therapists on increasing strength, developing motor planning and the skills needed to hopefully "pull-to-stand", "climb into a chair" and sit without support. The spasticity affects the muscles used in chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Doctors and therapists are hopeful that Crew will continually progress. Crew is very well aware mentally of where he is. He is definitely not content to just sit and watch life pass him by. This is evident by his increased frustration and strong desire to participate with his peers. I’ve noticed that Crew is happiest when he is included in activities and when he is up and moving around.
Since moving here three years ago, I’ve been so grateful to associate with you. We’ve been blessed immensely with awesome neighbors and friends. Crew has been accepted by not only the adults here but the children as well. It thrills me to know that Crew is accepted for who he is. He is loved. He has friends. I’ve often wondered what conversations regarding Crew have taken place within the walls of your homes. Many have taught their children well. Wether teaching by precept, example or both, I’m not sure but the parents here have done an excellent job.
However, I realize that its not too hard to love a 3- year old or 4-year old. But I do worry about him growing up. I wish he could stay little and cute forever. I’ve worried and fretted about how I will handle it when he is big and getting teased. Will he still drool when he is twelve? Will he get called names? Will his classmates trip him in the hall?
The last 3 ½ years have been an interesting journey. Mothering Crew has been both the hardest thing I’ve done and also the most rewarding. I’m normal. There are days when I want to scream and there are days when I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so thankful for the gospel. I’ve leaned on the power of prayer, a lot. Many times I have been so overcome that I’ve fallen to my knees and I’ve been comforted. I’ve had strangers literally pop out of the woodwork with an encouraging word. For example: Recently, I decided that I would unload the walker, strap on his braces and take the extra time to let Crew walk through the video store. It’s always easier to just pack him around but for his benefit I decided it was worth it. I parked my van and unloaded the walker, strapped him into his harness and begin the slow trek to the front door when two gentlemen jumped in front and held both doors wide open. Crew gave them a smile and walked in. People stopped to tell him "great job". One of the employees complimented Crew on his walking and then said, "I use to use a walker". I looked at him and said, "Are you serious?" and he replied, "Yes, I have CP". WOW! I felt a bit sheepish. Later as we were leaving the store I realized that the two men who had opened the doors were the father and brother of a child with Down Syndrome. It was so unusual and I couldn’t help but think that it was meant to happen that way.
I can honestly say I’m thankful for this experience. I would rather not have Crew go through this but I have grown immensely. I am not the same person I was before. I will never be the same again.
Recently, I came across a scripture that has given me strength found in Romans 15:1 " We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves". This scripture can be used in reference to physical and spiritual weakness and it does have double meaning in my life in that while I am physically strong I am not always spiritually strong. I try to be but just like you I have my days... Ironically, Crew is often the strong one. He is blessed with a strong spirit and he lifts me up.
Crew is 3 ½ years old and plays a dynamic role in our family. His favorite food is yogurt and if or when he has his way he eats it 3 times a day. Crew and I share guilty pleasures of ice-cream, soda pop and potato chips.
A younger brother to S and H, Crew teaches unconditional love. Even with such a limited vocabulary it was no surprise to us that Crew’s first word besides mom and dad was "HUGS" and he always uses the plural form. Crews Hugs are given out quite freely but he is the master and its up to him how often and how long th
e hug lasts. Sometimes he asks for a hug only to hug you for a millisecond, push you away, and ask for more. Sometimes his hugs last many minutes. Sometimes he squeezes and almost always he pats you on the back.Crew loves music. Anybody who has spent time with Crew knows this is true. Almost all kinds of music excite him from classical to rock-n-roll. I’ve noticed that Crew has the talent of rhythm. He bops his head, sways his arms and kicks his legs.... always on beat and always with a smile on his face. From Crew I’ve learned that it is possible to dance while sitting in a chair. When in the car or at home I’ve gotten in the habit of turning the volume up because the louder the music the more squeals and laughter it generates.
Crew’s zest for life and simple pleasures have impacted those around him. This talent of lifting others has affected not only his family but his therapists, child care provider, teachers and even his bus driver. What a gift it is to have such an impact on people. Without a doubt, Crew has purpose to life and many talents to share.
I would like to share with you some of the medical facts that dominate our world. On a regular basis I am asked questions like, "How long before he was born did you know...?" and "How early was he?". I don’t want you to think I am offended by these questions because I’m not. In fact, it helps me to talk about it and if I am asked questions about Crew I know its because you care. There was nothing wrong with Crew in the womb and he was full-term. However, just prior to his birth Crew was with little or no oxygen for over an hour. It’s taken me a few years to be able to say this out loud but basically Crew’s brain was injured at birth.
First of all, the most significant life altering diagnosis we received was that of "Cerebral Palsy" or CP. Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by injury to the parts of the brain that control our ability to use our muscles and bodies. Cerebral means having to do with the brain. Palsy means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP can be mild, moderate, or severe ranging from an individual with a slight limp to one who is in a wheelchair, possible feeding tube, and/or a trachea. Sometimes children with CP can also have learning problems, problems with hearing or seeing, or mental retardation. Usually, the greater the injury to the brain, the more severe the CP.
When we brought Crew home from the hospital we knew he had a brain injury but we did not know what his outcome would be. Doctors and hospital staff gave countless examples of those who defy the odds. I believed then, and still do, that the brain and human body have an immense capacity to heal. The brain has the ability to "reroute" itself, finding connections and alternate paths around the injured area of the brain. However, each situation is unique and each story a different ending. We didn’t know what to expect.
His first diagnosis, at four months old, of permanent bilateral hearing loss wasn’t too hard to swallow. Four months later on the same day I found out that not only did he have Amblyopia and Strabismus (which is basically a misalignment of the eyes) but also CP. His eyes were corrected through patching and minor surgery. Since then Crew has developed a seizure disorder and in April we found out that his hearing loss is progressive.
The CP that Crew has effects both arms and legs, his trunk control, digestive system, and oral strength. In the past year Crew has learned to navigate his walker, crawl, and roll-over. The tightness in his hips and hamstrings and low tone in his trunk make it difficult for him to sit unassisted. We continue to work with therapists on increasing strength, developing motor planning and the skills needed to hopefully "pull-to-stand", "climb into a chair" and sit without support. The spasticity affects the muscles used in chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Doctors and therapists are hopeful that Crew will continually progress. Crew is very well aware mentally of where he is. He is definitely not content to just sit and watch life pass him by. This is evident by his increased frustration and strong desire to participate with his peers. I’ve noticed that Crew is happiest when he is included in activities and when he is up and moving around.
Since moving here three years ago, I’ve been so grateful to associate with you. We’ve been blessed immensely with awesome neighbors and friends. Crew has been accepted by not only the adults here but the children as well. It thrills me to know that Crew is accepted for who he is. He is loved. He has friends. I’ve often wondered what conversations regarding Crew have taken place within the walls of your homes. Many have taught their children well. Wether teaching by precept, example or both, I’m not sure but the parents here have done an excellent job.
However, I realize that its not too hard to love a 3- year old or 4-year old. But I do worry about him growing up. I wish he could stay little and cute forever. I’ve worried and fretted about how I will handle it when he is big and getting teased. Will he still drool when he is twelve? Will he get called names? Will his classmates trip him in the hall?
The last 3 ½ years have been an interesting journey. Mothering Crew has been both the hardest thing I’ve done and also the most rewarding. I’m normal. There are days when I want to scream and there are days when I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so thankful for the gospel. I’ve leaned on the power of prayer, a lot. Many times I have been so overcome that I’ve fallen to my knees and I’ve been comforted. I’ve had strangers literally pop out of the woodwork with an encouraging word. For example: Recently, I decided that I would unload the walker, strap on his braces and take the extra time to let Crew walk through the video store. It’s always easier to just pack him around but for his benefit I decided it was worth it. I parked my van and unloaded the walker, strapped him into his harness and begin the slow trek to the front door when two gentlemen jumped in front and held both doors wide open. Crew gave them a smile and walked in. People stopped to tell him "great job". One of the employees complimented Crew on his walking and then said, "I use to use a walker". I looked at him and said, "Are you serious?" and he replied, "Yes, I have CP". WOW! I felt a bit sheepish. Later as we were leaving the store I realized that the two men who had opened the doors were the father and brother of a child with Down Syndrome. It was so unusual and I couldn’t help but think that it was meant to happen that way.
I can honestly say I’m thankful for this experience. I would rather not have Crew go through this but I have grown immensely. I am not the same person I was before. I will never be the same again.
Recently, I came across a scripture that has given me strength found in Romans 15:1 " We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves". This scripture can be used in reference to physical and spiritual weakness and it does have double meaning in my life in that while I am physically strong I am not always spiritually strong. I try to be but just like you I have my days... Ironically, Crew is often the strong one. He is blessed with a strong spirit and he lifts me up.
***This has been a long post! If you are still with me..... Thank you;)
Saturday, June 09, 2007
My Ah-HAA Moment
I've been asked to teach the lesson in Relief Society this week. I've never taught the sisters before and have been agonizing over this lesson as it is a sensitive topic, "Forgiving Others With All Your Heart".
I'm mostly prepared and wanted to share my Ah-Haa moment which I've decided to include in my lesson:
I had an experience this week with my son Crew. Crew suffers from spasticity, a disorder in which certain muscles are continually contracting. This contraction causes stiffness or tightness of the muscles, interfering with his movement and over time may result in abnormal bone growth. The spasticity which effects both arms and legs greatly reduces Crew’s rate of development. One treatment method for spasticity involves injecting Botox into the muscles.
On Thursday, I took Crew down to Primary’s for his first set of Botox injections. The procedure was simple but Crew had to be restrained by the nurse and myself while the doctor used a needle to inject the botox into his hamstrings and gastrocks. Many injections were made in each leg and it only took two minutes. However, as you can imagine Crew was quite upset. He doesn’t understand yet he feels the pain and frustration and is probably wondering why I would do that to him. During the procedure he cried and cried and I cried too. As soon as the doctor was finished I sat him up and he immediately stopped crying, wrapped his arms around my neck and gave me a big hug. He is quick to forgive and quick to trust!
The benefit of this drug will likely make it possible for him to move more freely and sit more comfortably. The botox along with lots of therapy is intended to speed his rate of development.
I liken the spasticity that Crew suffers from to the anger and bitterness that can canker our unforgiving hearts. Left untreated it is debilitating. Bitterness, like spasticity, injures the one who carries it; it hardens and shrivels and cankers. Bitterness and anger prevent us from developing spiritually. Health professionals tell us that the body manufactures "high voltage" chemicals like adrenaline and cortisone when you don’t forgive. Too many of these chemicals can result in tension-related ills such as headaches and abdominal pains. This can result in more serious problems such as ulcers and other ailments. Aside from the physical problems caused by an unforgiving heart, our spirits suffer as well. Bitterness and anger prevent us from developing spiritually.
Just like the injections given to Crew, sometimes the pain we feel is initially out of our control. Fortunately, we have our Savior to take away our pain. Through our desire to rid ourselves of this pain, with prayer and effort on our part and completely trusting the Savior, we can have the opportunity to grow and develop spiritually. Just as Botox takes away Crew’s spasticity and gives him the opportunity to move more freely, forgiving with all our hearts, eliminates that constant negative interference in our lives. Forgiving with all our hearts frees our spirits and allows us to grow and develop spiritually. How thankful I am for the gift of forgiveness which sets us free.
I'm mostly prepared and wanted to share my Ah-Haa moment which I've decided to include in my lesson:I had an experience this week with my son Crew. Crew suffers from spasticity, a disorder in which certain muscles are continually contracting. This contraction causes stiffness or tightness of the muscles, interfering with his movement and over time may result in abnormal bone growth. The spasticity which effects both arms and legs greatly reduces Crew’s rate of development. One treatment method for spasticity involves injecting Botox into the muscles.
On Thursday, I took Crew down to Primary’s for his first set of Botox injections. The procedure was simple but Crew had to be restrained by the nurse and myself while the doctor used a needle to inject the botox into his hamstrings and gastrocks. Many injections were made in each leg and it only took two minutes. However, as you can imagine Crew was quite upset. He doesn’t understand yet he feels the pain and frustration and is probably wondering why I would do that to him. During the procedure he cried and cried and I cried too. As soon as the doctor was finished I sat him up and he immediately stopped crying, wrapped his arms around my neck and gave me a big hug. He is quick to forgive and quick to trust!
The benefit of this drug will likely make it possible for him to move more freely and sit more comfortably. The botox along with lots of therapy is intended to speed his rate of development.
I liken the spasticity that Crew suffers from to the anger and bitterness that can canker our unforgiving hearts. Left untreated it is debilitating. Bitterness, like spasticity, injures the one who carries it; it hardens and shrivels and cankers. Bitterness and anger prevent us from developing spiritually. Health professionals tell us that the body manufactures "high voltage" chemicals like adrenaline and cortisone when you don’t forgive. Too many of these chemicals can result in tension-related ills such as headaches and abdominal pains. This can result in more serious problems such as ulcers and other ailments. Aside from the physical problems caused by an unforgiving heart, our spirits suffer as well. Bitterness and anger prevent us from developing spiritually.
Just like the injections given to Crew, sometimes the pain we feel is initially out of our control. Fortunately, we have our Savior to take away our pain. Through our desire to rid ourselves of this pain, with prayer and effort on our part and completely trusting the Savior, we can have the opportunity to grow and develop spiritually. Just as Botox takes away Crew’s spasticity and gives him the opportunity to move more freely, forgiving with all our hearts, eliminates that constant negative interference in our lives. Forgiving with all our hearts frees our spirits and allows us to grow and develop spiritually. How thankful I am for the gift of forgiveness which sets us free.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Gratitude and Happiness
We started having family night on Sunday because the boys have Baseball on Monday. Our Bishop asked us to use the Conference edition of the Ensign as our guide for Family night. I picked the talk by Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path to Happiness". We've all been having a hard time here for reasons I don't want to get into. There has been a shortage of patience and tolerance and a lot of hurt feelings. I've been struggling... a lot. The kids are reacting in their individual ways.. acting out, withdrawal, clinginess, whining. I'm at my wits end.
This talk jumped out at me. I shared the story of the ten lepors. In Luke chapter 17 the Savior heals 10 lepers. As you recall, only one of the cleansed lepers returned to express his appreciation. Sister Parkin points out: Isn't it interesting that the Lord did not say, "Your gratitude has made you whole"? Instead, He said, "Thy faith hath made thee whole." The lepers expression of gratitude was recognized by the Savior as an expression of faith. As we pray and express gratitude to a loving but unseen Heavenly Father, we are also expressing our faith in Him. Gratitude is our sweet acknowledgement of the Lord's hand in our lives; it is an expression of our faith.
I'm going to focus on those words this week. Maybe it will help? She goes on to suggest that with faith we should receive all things (tribulations included) with thankfulness.
Tonight, our family started our own gratitude basket. We all wrote down something we are thankful for and will add to it each day. Next Sunday we will pull the notes out of the basket and share them with each other.
DH had the treats. Sugar cones stuffed with Cookies N' Cream icecream. DH is the best at filling the cones. He packs the icecream clear to the bottom of the cone. Yum!
This talk jumped out at me. I shared the story of the ten lepors. In Luke chapter 17 the Savior heals 10 lepers. As you recall, only one of the cleansed lepers returned to express his appreciation. Sister Parkin points out: Isn't it interesting that the Lord did not say, "Your gratitude has made you whole"? Instead, He said, "Thy faith hath made thee whole." The lepers expression of gratitude was recognized by the Savior as an expression of faith. As we pray and express gratitude to a loving but unseen Heavenly Father, we are also expressing our faith in Him. Gratitude is our sweet acknowledgement of the Lord's hand in our lives; it is an expression of our faith.
I'm going to focus on those words this week. Maybe it will help? She goes on to suggest that with faith we should receive all things (tribulations included) with thankfulness.
Tonight, our family started our own gratitude basket. We all wrote down something we are thankful for and will add to it each day. Next Sunday we will pull the notes out of the basket and share them with each other.
DH had the treats. Sugar cones stuffed with Cookies N' Cream icecream. DH is the best at filling the cones. He packs the icecream clear to the bottom of the cone. Yum!
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