This was a lesson on following the spirit and a reminder of God's tender mercies.
Sometimes I'm really good at following promptings, and at other times I'm really bad at it. About three weeks ago I had taken our car to the mechanic shop to have them check on a sound that it had been making. On my way down the sound stopped (kind of like when your tooth magically stops hurting on the drive to the dentist). They test drove the car and couldn't get it to reproduce the sound, but they mentioned to me that the "clutch was all the way at the top and should be replaced soon."
That night I talked to Kevin about the clutch and we decided that we should get the clutch replaced. The plan was to have me call on Monday and schedule it. Monday came and I had a prompting reminding me to call. I was taking care of my daughter at the time and decided to wait until a more convenient time. Later that day I was trying to plan a trip to the thrift store to get some warm baby clothes and had a thought that I should invite my sister-in-law and her daughter to come with me. We set up a time to go on Wednesday.
Tuesday, I again did not call the mechanic. The car was running well and the sound hadn't returned (this could be likened to a "false sense of security").
Wednesday we arranged the carseats in the back seat of the car and headed to the thrift store. We found some great winter wear for our little girls and then headed home. We were about 3/4 of the way back to my home and coming to a stop light when the clutch gave out. Thankfully it happened in neutral, so the car continued running and I was able to come to a complete stop. The growling noise returned along with a terrible squeal, a smokey smell, and the inability to shift. We both began praying to know what to do. The light turned green and I waved to people to go around us as I worked on trying to get the clutch to a position where I could shift. Slowly, like moving a stuck piano key, the clutch rose with pressure from my foot. By just barely tapping it I was able to shift into first and we continued on our way. At each intersection I would barely tap the clutch and force the stick into gear amidst squealing, growling, and terrible smells. I felt that I should just drive it down to the mechanic shop without going home. So, I dropped my sister off at the corner by our house and continued driving while she ran to her car to follow us down. We (two sleeping babies and myself) made it to the shop without incident. My sister arrived shortly after and began transferring babies and shopping bags to her car while I went in and, a little embarrassed, arranged to have our clutch replaced.
The end of the story is that they had to order in the part, and we all arrived home safely.
In hindsight, if I had followed the prompting to schedule the clutch replacement on Monday the part would've been already on order and maybe even at the shop. Thankfully I followed the prompting to invite my sister-in-law to go shopping with me that day, so that she was able to have a car to help us out and so I wasn't going through it all on my own. The day could've been very stressful, but it ended up being an enjoyable adventure with her there (yes, having a clutch go out is NOT enjoyable, but having a positive person with you can make it so).
One of the other big blessings of the day was that the two babies fell asleep as we were driving home and remained asleep through all of the car crazziness. I have found that my stress levels rise very quickly when my daughter is upset. Having her asleep during this time helped me to remain calm and focused.
I know that Heavenly Father loves His children and provides us with many opportunities to grow and learn. He had given me several reminders to call the mechanic and I had not heeded them. However, He still blessed me and provided a way for me to get that car into the shop safely.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Our Miracle Baby
My daughter is over two months old and the time has come to tell of our greatest miracle; her birth!
Today Kevin was talking with her and said, "Did you know that you are our miracle baby?" Her blue eyes were watching him as he continued, "There were a few times earlier this year that we thought we had lost you, and then when you had the cord around your neck that was scary too." I reflected back on those early moments in my pregnancy that had us so worried. "But you are here, you are happy, and you are healthy," he finished. It was a good reminder to me of how she really is our "miracle baby".
On July 20, 2015 I was sitting at work helpng with a major file audit. I'd had a backache that was progressively getting worse throughout the day. By lunch it was almost more than I could handle, but I knew that I couldn't go home. I was needed to assist in the audit. As I prayed over my lunch I asked Heavenly Father to help me make it through the day. I explained my situation and that I was doing all I knew how to manage. Shortly after ending my prayer I heard a voice say, "This would be a good time to use those relaxation techniques that you have been practicing." I was surprised by this answer. Those techniques were supposed to be used to help me when I was in labor and my baby wasn't due for 11 more days. Willing to try anything I followed the counsel and allowed my tense and painful back and body to relax. Almost instantly the pain lessened to a very dull back ache. I was able to eat my lunch and then return to work. As the day progressed I would work until I could feel the pain intensify and then I would stop and relax and breath. About 7 pm I realized that I could time the surges (for they were no longer painful contractions) every 5 minutes a part. This was great because I could relax just before the surge would start and practically avoid the pain that threatened to come. Somewhere I had the presence of mind to have Kevin come pick me up so that I wasn't trying to drive through the surges (I figured that having to pull over about every 4 minutes would be a hard way to get home). I finished work about 8 pm and Kevin found a ride to come get me.
On the way home we stopped and bought me some dinner to eat (so glad we did that because I wasn't in a mood to eat the rest of the labor and when all was done I was starving!) and stopped at the store to purchase some snacks (I ate dinner in the car while Kevin did the shopping). Once home we read scriptures and packed a hospital bag. The surges were about every 3 minutes apart now, and I was having trouble walking, so we headed to the hospital. The nurse that we were assigned was an angel in disguise. We had not been able to tell anyone our preference for a natural birth before being ushered into a room. After the exam and being admited, she sat down with us and read over our birth plan. We were overjoyed to learn that she had helped in several natural births and had worked with many HypnoBirthing couples. She was amazing and very supportive. Our next nurse was a similar story, and the third nurse as supportive even though she didn't have much experience with HypnoBirthing. Through the several hours of labor Kevin was always at my side reminding me to relax and breathe. He would read over the scripts we had practiced, as well as making up his own scripts. He told me I was beautiful, that I was made to give birth, and that he loved me. Even though I labored for several hours, I wasn't in pain (except for the added intensity of the back labor), I wasn't afraid, and I really had little concept of time. The moments were peaceful and spiritual in that hospital room.
I had been dilated to 8 cm for several hours without further progression. The nurse and my doctor kept asking if they could release my membranes (break the waters). I knew that once that happened thing could get vey intense. I had been laboring very well up to that point. I prayed after each time they asked and felt like I needed more time. After about 4 hours at 8 cm I felt that it was right for them to release my membranes. I prayed that I would continue to labor well and have the strength I needed. Less than an hour later everthing became very intense and I knew that our baby was trying to come. Our daughter was born in the late morning of July 21. A beautiful, red-haired, perfect little girl. Holding her immediately after birth with Kevin right there with us was a truly beautiful experience. I could feel such love in that room. I could feel a little bit of what heaven feels like. I had felt Heavenly Father and other heavenly influences helping me through the most physically and spiritual intense moment of my life: giving birth. I could feel those same influences surround my little healthy family as we bonded together. It was amazing that I could feel so alive (and starving) after giving birth. Even though we had been up the entire night, Kevin and I were filled with energy to get to know our little girl.
I know that every birth is a miracle. Children are part of the great plan of our Heavenly Father. A plan aptly referred to as "The Plan of Happiness". I am so grateful for the many miracles that I witnessed on the night/day of my daughter's birth. She truly is "our miracle baby".
Today Kevin was talking with her and said, "Did you know that you are our miracle baby?" Her blue eyes were watching him as he continued, "There were a few times earlier this year that we thought we had lost you, and then when you had the cord around your neck that was scary too." I reflected back on those early moments in my pregnancy that had us so worried. "But you are here, you are happy, and you are healthy," he finished. It was a good reminder to me of how she really is our "miracle baby".
On July 20, 2015 I was sitting at work helpng with a major file audit. I'd had a backache that was progressively getting worse throughout the day. By lunch it was almost more than I could handle, but I knew that I couldn't go home. I was needed to assist in the audit. As I prayed over my lunch I asked Heavenly Father to help me make it through the day. I explained my situation and that I was doing all I knew how to manage. Shortly after ending my prayer I heard a voice say, "This would be a good time to use those relaxation techniques that you have been practicing." I was surprised by this answer. Those techniques were supposed to be used to help me when I was in labor and my baby wasn't due for 11 more days. Willing to try anything I followed the counsel and allowed my tense and painful back and body to relax. Almost instantly the pain lessened to a very dull back ache. I was able to eat my lunch and then return to work. As the day progressed I would work until I could feel the pain intensify and then I would stop and relax and breath. About 7 pm I realized that I could time the surges (for they were no longer painful contractions) every 5 minutes a part. This was great because I could relax just before the surge would start and practically avoid the pain that threatened to come. Somewhere I had the presence of mind to have Kevin come pick me up so that I wasn't trying to drive through the surges (I figured that having to pull over about every 4 minutes would be a hard way to get home). I finished work about 8 pm and Kevin found a ride to come get me.
On the way home we stopped and bought me some dinner to eat (so glad we did that because I wasn't in a mood to eat the rest of the labor and when all was done I was starving!) and stopped at the store to purchase some snacks (I ate dinner in the car while Kevin did the shopping). Once home we read scriptures and packed a hospital bag. The surges were about every 3 minutes apart now, and I was having trouble walking, so we headed to the hospital. The nurse that we were assigned was an angel in disguise. We had not been able to tell anyone our preference for a natural birth before being ushered into a room. After the exam and being admited, she sat down with us and read over our birth plan. We were overjoyed to learn that she had helped in several natural births and had worked with many HypnoBirthing couples. She was amazing and very supportive. Our next nurse was a similar story, and the third nurse as supportive even though she didn't have much experience with HypnoBirthing. Through the several hours of labor Kevin was always at my side reminding me to relax and breathe. He would read over the scripts we had practiced, as well as making up his own scripts. He told me I was beautiful, that I was made to give birth, and that he loved me. Even though I labored for several hours, I wasn't in pain (except for the added intensity of the back labor), I wasn't afraid, and I really had little concept of time. The moments were peaceful and spiritual in that hospital room.
I had been dilated to 8 cm for several hours without further progression. The nurse and my doctor kept asking if they could release my membranes (break the waters). I knew that once that happened thing could get vey intense. I had been laboring very well up to that point. I prayed after each time they asked and felt like I needed more time. After about 4 hours at 8 cm I felt that it was right for them to release my membranes. I prayed that I would continue to labor well and have the strength I needed. Less than an hour later everthing became very intense and I knew that our baby was trying to come. Our daughter was born in the late morning of July 21. A beautiful, red-haired, perfect little girl. Holding her immediately after birth with Kevin right there with us was a truly beautiful experience. I could feel such love in that room. I could feel a little bit of what heaven feels like. I had felt Heavenly Father and other heavenly influences helping me through the most physically and spiritual intense moment of my life: giving birth. I could feel those same influences surround my little healthy family as we bonded together. It was amazing that I could feel so alive (and starving) after giving birth. Even though we had been up the entire night, Kevin and I were filled with energy to get to know our little girl.
I know that every birth is a miracle. Children are part of the great plan of our Heavenly Father. A plan aptly referred to as "The Plan of Happiness". I am so grateful for the many miracles that I witnessed on the night/day of my daughter's birth. She truly is "our miracle baby".
Sunday, August 2, 2015
He Felt That Too
I was excited when I opened the Ensign in January to discover that the visiting teaching messages were still focused on the attributes of Christ. I had loved the focus on individual attributes during 2014 and was pleased that it would continue.
January was on how Jesus was an obedient son. As I read through the lesson, in preparation for sharing it with the sisters I visit, I felt the spirit strongly testify that Jesus really did feel everything that I had been feeling and everything that I would feel. He was the only man who had felt what it was like to have a baby. This thought was truly amazing to me. I found myself returning to this realization several times throughout the remainder of my pregnancy and during labor. He had been there, and because of that he would be there to bear me up.
I know that I felt His presence, especially just before my daughter was born, during labor and delivery. I am so grateful for the atonement. I am grateful that Jesus Christ was an obedient son and that He did all that the Father asked of Him. I know that no matter what we may go through in life we can be assured that He experienced it and, because He did, He can help us through it if we let Him.
January was on how Jesus was an obedient son. As I read through the lesson, in preparation for sharing it with the sisters I visit, I felt the spirit strongly testify that Jesus really did feel everything that I had been feeling and everything that I would feel. He was the only man who had felt what it was like to have a baby. This thought was truly amazing to me. I found myself returning to this realization several times throughout the remainder of my pregnancy and during labor. He had been there, and because of that he would be there to bear me up.
I know that I felt His presence, especially just before my daughter was born, during labor and delivery. I am so grateful for the atonement. I am grateful that Jesus Christ was an obedient son and that He did all that the Father asked of Him. I know that no matter what we may go through in life we can be assured that He experienced it and, because He did, He can help us through it if we let Him.
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Two Books
It has been just over a week since my little daughter was born. As I sit here holding her, I am reminded of so many little miracles that took place during pregnancy and during her birth. Since I was terrible at recording them in the moment, I will attempt to share some of them in the next few blogs.
During the first trimester I experienced a lot of anxiety. I had two episodes of severe bleeding, routine morning sickness, and I was dizzy enough that I couldn't walk without the room spinning. Added to the phisical side-effects were my own fears and concerns about childbirth, particularly about the hospital and about pain. One day at work I mentioned a few of my concerns to a friend. I was surprised as she responded to my worries by telling me what a beautiful experience giving birth could be. She then asked if I would be interested in borrowing some books on natural childbirth. I felt some of my anxiety calm at her encoraging words and I looked forward to reading the books.
A few weeks later I was speaking with a good friend in my neighborhood. She was prompted to ask how I had been doing emotionally and if I knew the kind of birth that I wanted to have. I mentioned that I had been thinking of going natural, but that I had a lot of concerns. She then introduced me to a book called "The Gift of Giving Life" written by several LDS co-authors. The book was filled with positive, beautiful birth stories fromm every kind of birth experience. It also had essays on gospel topics and related them to childbirth. As I read the pages of this book my heart grew lighter, I felt peace, and I felt Heavenly Father's love for me. I knew that somehow everything would be okay.
When the books from my friend at work arrived I was curious about the one titled "HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method" by Marie Mongan. As I opened to the first pages and began to read, something about this book felt right. I stopped reading and asked my husband if he would be willing to read the book with me. One of the big things that HypnoBirthing focuses on is replacing fear with joy and calm. As we read together we would discuss the things we were learning and then pray to know if the techniques were what we should be using to bring our daughter into the world in a calm and gentle manner. We both felt strongly that the breathing and relaxation techniques we were reading about were worth pursuing. We eventually took a five week HypnoBirthing class and set to practicing.
As I read from these books the fear and anxiety left. Instead of worry about the future I felt excitement and anticipation. I knew that everything would work out the way that it needed to and that Heavenly Father was watching over my little family. I am grateful for two inspired friends who introduced me to the two books I most needed during my pregnancy.
During the first trimester I experienced a lot of anxiety. I had two episodes of severe bleeding, routine morning sickness, and I was dizzy enough that I couldn't walk without the room spinning. Added to the phisical side-effects were my own fears and concerns about childbirth, particularly about the hospital and about pain. One day at work I mentioned a few of my concerns to a friend. I was surprised as she responded to my worries by telling me what a beautiful experience giving birth could be. She then asked if I would be interested in borrowing some books on natural childbirth. I felt some of my anxiety calm at her encoraging words and I looked forward to reading the books.
A few weeks later I was speaking with a good friend in my neighborhood. She was prompted to ask how I had been doing emotionally and if I knew the kind of birth that I wanted to have. I mentioned that I had been thinking of going natural, but that I had a lot of concerns. She then introduced me to a book called "The Gift of Giving Life" written by several LDS co-authors. The book was filled with positive, beautiful birth stories fromm every kind of birth experience. It also had essays on gospel topics and related them to childbirth. As I read the pages of this book my heart grew lighter, I felt peace, and I felt Heavenly Father's love for me. I knew that somehow everything would be okay.
When the books from my friend at work arrived I was curious about the one titled "HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method" by Marie Mongan. As I opened to the first pages and began to read, something about this book felt right. I stopped reading and asked my husband if he would be willing to read the book with me. One of the big things that HypnoBirthing focuses on is replacing fear with joy and calm. As we read together we would discuss the things we were learning and then pray to know if the techniques were what we should be using to bring our daughter into the world in a calm and gentle manner. We both felt strongly that the breathing and relaxation techniques we were reading about were worth pursuing. We eventually took a five week HypnoBirthing class and set to practicing.
As I read from these books the fear and anxiety left. Instead of worry about the future I felt excitement and anticipation. I knew that everything would work out the way that it needed to and that Heavenly Father was watching over my little family. I am grateful for two inspired friends who introduced me to the two books I most needed during my pregnancy.
Sunday, June 7, 2015
The Rainbow Miracle
Last night we witnessed a reminder that God is in charge and sometimes our faith needs to be tried before we can witness the miracle.
We both have teenage siblings living within the Payson Temple District who have worked very hard in preparation for the Payson Temple Cultural Celebration. We were very excited to go the Lavell Edwards Stadium at BYU and watch the performance. Neither of us had seen a temple celebration performed in person before. We arrived at 5:40 (the gates supposedly opened at 5:30) and already the stadium was filling up. Just as we found a seat it began to hail nickel-sized hailstones. Everyone quickly ran to cover. The hail stopped and a light rain began. With the rain came thunder and lightning, and with the lightning came an announcement, "Due to the weather, tonight's performance has been temporarily suspended. Please return to your cars or take shelter within the stadium. Updates will follow." The show was scheduled to start at 7 pm.
For the next two hours, we waited below the stadium with the rest of the crowd and watched as torrential rain poured over and through the portals. Waterfalls fell through the cracks creating rivers and small ponds where we waited, but everyone stayed relatively dry. Some of the 13,000 youth performers went and found their families, while others stayed with their ward groups and prayed that an umbrella would be put over the stadium so that they could perform. We eventually located Kevin's parents and joined them in the wait. There was a boy waiting with his family behind us, and around 8 pm said, "I just got a text saying to line up. We are back on." I watched as he hurried to get to the other end of the stadium where the youth were gathering. Not long after, the crowds were able to return to their sopping wet, but beautiful seats. The rain had stopped and the storm was heading north. An announcement came over the loud speaker that said, "The performance will begin in 10 minutes." A loud cheer went up from the youth that was quickly picked up by the spectators. Then the message on the monitor, which up 'till this point had been the warning about the temporary suspension, returned to the picture representing the program and an even bigger cheer went up. Then things began to move. Elders Eyring, Nelson, Oaks, Cook, and Anderson along with their wives and several members of the seventy and general auxiliaries rode in covered "golf buses" to a waiting pavilion. When Elder Eyring spoke his opening remarks he was wearing the biggest smile I think I have ever seen on him. It was clear, that they had been praying for this miracle, too.
The performance was spectacular. Each city in the temple district was represented through song and dance. It was fun to pick out our siblings who were performing and to get caught up in the magic of it all. At the end of the performance all of the youth returned to their seats on the east side of the stadium. They filled nearly every seat. They then began to sign the song "Fill the World With Love" and as they sang they began removing their white dress shirts to reveal a colored shirt beneath. The result was a beautiful rainbow represented by 13,000 youth. It was the perfect way to end the evening with that reminder of God's promises to his children. A miracle had truly taken place, and everyone there knew it.
I know that in life we have to face challenges and tests, and sometimes they can leave us unsure of which way to go or what to do. Like the torrential rains, thunder, and lightning it can seem overwhelming to face these challenges and we can feel like we are facing them alone. As we look around us we can see that others are also facing challenges, perhaps even a similar one to what we are going through, and we can stand together and pray for strength to make it through. God always keeps His promises (D&C 82:10) and if we do our part we will be blessed with the miracles. The rains will stop, the lightning will leave, and we will see the rainbows of God's love.
We both have teenage siblings living within the Payson Temple District who have worked very hard in preparation for the Payson Temple Cultural Celebration. We were very excited to go the Lavell Edwards Stadium at BYU and watch the performance. Neither of us had seen a temple celebration performed in person before. We arrived at 5:40 (the gates supposedly opened at 5:30) and already the stadium was filling up. Just as we found a seat it began to hail nickel-sized hailstones. Everyone quickly ran to cover. The hail stopped and a light rain began. With the rain came thunder and lightning, and with the lightning came an announcement, "Due to the weather, tonight's performance has been temporarily suspended. Please return to your cars or take shelter within the stadium. Updates will follow." The show was scheduled to start at 7 pm.
For the next two hours, we waited below the stadium with the rest of the crowd and watched as torrential rain poured over and through the portals. Waterfalls fell through the cracks creating rivers and small ponds where we waited, but everyone stayed relatively dry. Some of the 13,000 youth performers went and found their families, while others stayed with their ward groups and prayed that an umbrella would be put over the stadium so that they could perform. We eventually located Kevin's parents and joined them in the wait. There was a boy waiting with his family behind us, and around 8 pm said, "I just got a text saying to line up. We are back on." I watched as he hurried to get to the other end of the stadium where the youth were gathering. Not long after, the crowds were able to return to their sopping wet, but beautiful seats. The rain had stopped and the storm was heading north. An announcement came over the loud speaker that said, "The performance will begin in 10 minutes." A loud cheer went up from the youth that was quickly picked up by the spectators. Then the message on the monitor, which up 'till this point had been the warning about the temporary suspension, returned to the picture representing the program and an even bigger cheer went up. Then things began to move. Elders Eyring, Nelson, Oaks, Cook, and Anderson along with their wives and several members of the seventy and general auxiliaries rode in covered "golf buses" to a waiting pavilion. When Elder Eyring spoke his opening remarks he was wearing the biggest smile I think I have ever seen on him. It was clear, that they had been praying for this miracle, too.
The performance was spectacular. Each city in the temple district was represented through song and dance. It was fun to pick out our siblings who were performing and to get caught up in the magic of it all. At the end of the performance all of the youth returned to their seats on the east side of the stadium. They filled nearly every seat. They then began to sign the song "Fill the World With Love" and as they sang they began removing their white dress shirts to reveal a colored shirt beneath. The result was a beautiful rainbow represented by 13,000 youth. It was the perfect way to end the evening with that reminder of God's promises to his children. A miracle had truly taken place, and everyone there knew it.
I know that in life we have to face challenges and tests, and sometimes they can leave us unsure of which way to go or what to do. Like the torrential rains, thunder, and lightning it can seem overwhelming to face these challenges and we can feel like we are facing them alone. As we look around us we can see that others are also facing challenges, perhaps even a similar one to what we are going through, and we can stand together and pray for strength to make it through. God always keeps His promises (D&C 82:10) and if we do our part we will be blessed with the miracles. The rains will stop, the lightning will leave, and we will see the rainbows of God's love.
Sunday, May 3, 2015
The Miracle of Living Prophets
The following post is one that I wrote at the beginning of April. I had it in a draft state and forgot to publish it. Enjoy!
I have been thinking recently back to General Conference. As I sat in church last sunday listening to the testimonies being shared, I noticed that many individuals mentioned how President Monson only spoke twice this time and how sad they were that he didn't give his usual opening and closing remarks. As I sat listening, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the fact that his health is still permitting him to speak at all. It is a great blessing to be able to listen to a living mouthpiece and witness for God. The church news mentioned that over the years several different formats have been used in General Conference and there isn't a right or wrong way. Personally, I think the change of format helped me to pay a little more attention to who was speaking. From the testimonies of the many who mentioned general conference, I think it helped them to do so as well.
My husband and I are in a state of transition these days, and with transition comes questions. I am not very good at writing questions down before conference, but this time around I decided to at least keep some questions in mind as I was listening. Preparing to give birth to our daughter this summer has had me wondering about many things, but one of the things I have wondered is "can I do this?" "Am I made to do this?" As I sat listening to the talks on Saturday on the importance of the family and the power of procreation, I had the overwhelming assurance that YES women are created in God's image and we ARE able to fulfill our role in bringing His children to this earth. Elder Christofferson mentioned that we are more in God's image at that time than at any other time. God knows the questions of our hearts and sometimes He uses living prophets and apostles to answer those questions. What a marvelous time we live in!
I have been thinking recently back to General Conference. As I sat in church last sunday listening to the testimonies being shared, I noticed that many individuals mentioned how President Monson only spoke twice this time and how sad they were that he didn't give his usual opening and closing remarks. As I sat listening, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the fact that his health is still permitting him to speak at all. It is a great blessing to be able to listen to a living mouthpiece and witness for God. The church news mentioned that over the years several different formats have been used in General Conference and there isn't a right or wrong way. Personally, I think the change of format helped me to pay a little more attention to who was speaking. From the testimonies of the many who mentioned general conference, I think it helped them to do so as well.
My husband and I are in a state of transition these days, and with transition comes questions. I am not very good at writing questions down before conference, but this time around I decided to at least keep some questions in mind as I was listening. Preparing to give birth to our daughter this summer has had me wondering about many things, but one of the things I have wondered is "can I do this?" "Am I made to do this?" As I sat listening to the talks on Saturday on the importance of the family and the power of procreation, I had the overwhelming assurance that YES women are created in God's image and we ARE able to fulfill our role in bringing His children to this earth. Elder Christofferson mentioned that we are more in God's image at that time than at any other time. God knows the questions of our hearts and sometimes He uses living prophets and apostles to answer those questions. What a marvelous time we live in!
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Lessons from Pie Crust
This weekend as I was unthinkingly pouring enough strawberry pie filling for two crusts into one and then bailing it out, I was reminded of a miracle I witnessed back at Thanksgiving.
I volunteered to make the pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving dinner at the in-laws. I love pumpkin pie, especially my Grandma's recipe, and I have made the filling many times. The funny thing is that I had never really had much experience in making the pie crust. The filling is so good in and on a variety of desserts that the pie crust part was never a problem. However, if you are going to bring pumpkin pies then they ought to be in a pie crust. I decided to make a "real" Grandma's pie and asked my dad for her pie crust recipe. He found the recipe and then suggested I contact one of his sisters to get the details on how to make the crust.
After getting the instructions as well as the "what-not-to-do" notes, I figured that I had everything that I would need. Kevin suggested that I try making a crust Tuesday night to see how it turned out, so that night after work I made my first attempts. Nothing worked out well that night and the fact that we even ended up with a crust was thanks to my husband’s patience and his willingness to make a crust out of my failed attempts. Many tears and lots of frustration went into Tuesdays crusts, and I’m sure we were both thinking that making four more crusts on Thursday was going to be a challenge.
Wednesday night I slept very well and I woke up on Thanksgiving in high spirits. Kevin was getting the laundry started at the laundry mat while I braced myself for another round of pie crust. This time I started with a heartfelt plea for heavenly help and then I set to work. It went perfectly. The dough was the right consistency and held together like it really wanted to become a crust. When I went to put the crust into the pie pan it went in without crumbling into hundreds of pieces and didn’t even have a crack. By the time Kevin made it back to the apartment a beautiful pie crust was ready to bake and I almost had a second one finished. I am pretty sure there must be pie making angels in heaven. I kind of wonder if my Grandma was there overseeing the process since it was her recipe that I was trying so hard to make. They turned out flaky, golden brown, and yummy.
Lessons learned? 1. Sometimes, well most of the time, heavenly help makes even the hardest things easier. 2. Sleep is a must. Never make pie crusts on a lack of sleep! 3. If at first you don’t succeed, try again on a different day when life is brighter.
I volunteered to make the pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving dinner at the in-laws. I love pumpkin pie, especially my Grandma's recipe, and I have made the filling many times. The funny thing is that I had never really had much experience in making the pie crust. The filling is so good in and on a variety of desserts that the pie crust part was never a problem. However, if you are going to bring pumpkin pies then they ought to be in a pie crust. I decided to make a "real" Grandma's pie and asked my dad for her pie crust recipe. He found the recipe and then suggested I contact one of his sisters to get the details on how to make the crust.
After getting the instructions as well as the "what-not-to-do" notes, I figured that I had everything that I would need. Kevin suggested that I try making a crust Tuesday night to see how it turned out, so that night after work I made my first attempts. Nothing worked out well that night and the fact that we even ended up with a crust was thanks to my husband’s patience and his willingness to make a crust out of my failed attempts. Many tears and lots of frustration went into Tuesdays crusts, and I’m sure we were both thinking that making four more crusts on Thursday was going to be a challenge.
Wednesday night I slept very well and I woke up on Thanksgiving in high spirits. Kevin was getting the laundry started at the laundry mat while I braced myself for another round of pie crust. This time I started with a heartfelt plea for heavenly help and then I set to work. It went perfectly. The dough was the right consistency and held together like it really wanted to become a crust. When I went to put the crust into the pie pan it went in without crumbling into hundreds of pieces and didn’t even have a crack. By the time Kevin made it back to the apartment a beautiful pie crust was ready to bake and I almost had a second one finished. I am pretty sure there must be pie making angels in heaven. I kind of wonder if my Grandma was there overseeing the process since it was her recipe that I was trying so hard to make. They turned out flaky, golden brown, and yummy.
Lessons learned? 1. Sometimes, well most of the time, heavenly help makes even the hardest things easier. 2. Sleep is a must. Never make pie crusts on a lack of sleep! 3. If at first you don’t succeed, try again on a different day when life is brighter.
Monday, March 9, 2015
A Hospital Miracle
Yesterday we were blessed while we served. Kevin's sister and her husband were in the hospital waiting for their first baby to be born. They had been there for awhile and were a bit bored, so they called us late Sunday afternoon to see if we could bring them some DVDs that they could watch to pass the time. We put together a collection of DVDs and headed for the hospital which is near our home. Admittedly, hospitals make me nervous and thinking about our own baby that is on his/her way hasn't helped to lessen that nervous feeling. As we walked into the hospital everything was very quiet and calm, which is in contrast to all of my hospital memories which are very chaotic. We found our way to the information desk without a problem; Kevin has a much better sense of direction than I do, which is a very good thing. We made it up to the Labor and Delivery unit and to the room where the expectant parents were waiting. It was nice to be able to visit with them for a few minutes and to hear about their experiences leading up to going into the hospital. Before we left, we offered to bring some french bread pizza later for dinner.
While making the pizza that evening, Kevin texted to make sure that our brother-in-law was okay with the pizza toppings. The response text said, "I think we are about to push, hold that pizza delivery!" We waited for about three hours before texting again to see how things were going. Shortly after, we received a call from Kevin's mom, now "Grandma Black", letting us know that the baby was born and healthy and that we should come down. We packed dinner to take to the new father and headed back to the hospital. This time we went to the Mother/Baby unit. Again, the experience was very pleasant and peaceful. We arrived in time to watch the new baby girl getting her first bath. She looked healthy, although not happy about being scrubbed. We were then able to hold our new niece and learn a little bit more about how things work in a hospital when a baby is born.
The miracle for us was the entire experience. It brought us a lot of peace to be able to see the hospital and where we will be this Summer when our baby is born. The feeling in the hospital was very different than I had expected to feel, and I know that it was God's way of letting me know that everything will be okay. I'm still nervous, but not so worried about it.
While making the pizza that evening, Kevin texted to make sure that our brother-in-law was okay with the pizza toppings. The response text said, "I think we are about to push, hold that pizza delivery!" We waited for about three hours before texting again to see how things were going. Shortly after, we received a call from Kevin's mom, now "Grandma Black", letting us know that the baby was born and healthy and that we should come down. We packed dinner to take to the new father and headed back to the hospital. This time we went to the Mother/Baby unit. Again, the experience was very pleasant and peaceful. We arrived in time to watch the new baby girl getting her first bath. She looked healthy, although not happy about being scrubbed. We were then able to hold our new niece and learn a little bit more about how things work in a hospital when a baby is born.
The miracle for us was the entire experience. It brought us a lot of peace to be able to see the hospital and where we will be this Summer when our baby is born. The feeling in the hospital was very different than I had expected to feel, and I know that it was God's way of letting me know that everything will be okay. I'm still nervous, but not so worried about it.
Monday, March 2, 2015
What is a Miracle?
In a world of social media, where we have been somewhat slow to join, we decided that it was about time that we caught up with the times and began a blog. Our intent is to share some of the many mini miracles that we have witnessed in our lives and continue to witness daily. We hope that this snapshot of miracles will be a blessing to you and help you to also recognize the miracles in your own life.
The Bible Dictionary states that "Miracles should not be regarded as deviations from the ordinary course of nature so much as manifestations of divine or spiritual power."
In Mormon 9:19-21 it states that "And if there were miracles wrought then [when Jesus Christ lived], why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles.
"And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust.
"Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth."
We believe that miracles, whether small or great, are real and continue to happen even now.
The Bible Dictionary states that "Miracles should not be regarded as deviations from the ordinary course of nature so much as manifestations of divine or spiritual power."
In Mormon 9:19-21 it states that "And if there were miracles wrought then [when Jesus Christ lived], why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles.
"And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust.
"Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth."
We believe that miracles, whether small or great, are real and continue to happen even now.
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