Friday, December 4, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Warning this is long, but I have a lot to catch up on. . .
The fact that it has been over a month since my last post illustrates just a fraction of the busy-ness of my life. It's kind of sad that when the most things are happening, I don't have time to write it all down somewhere. Someone is going to think my life is pretty boring some day.
This past month I have subbed in Rockdale and gotten to know the kids in town pretty well. I think they like me or so they've said. A few weeks ago, my name came up in conversation to fulfill a district need for a homebound teacher. I took on two girls who I will be serving for up until Thanksgiving. Then it's back to relying on Substitution as far as I know - until another teenage mother gives birth.
Last week, my husband found another posting for a counselor in Middle School - in Georgetown. As much as I would love to transfer my family to Georgetown some day - I don't think the timing is right and taking a job out there would mean that much more time away from home and family.
My kids miss me too much as it is. I can tell. When Lily wants to play games with me and I'm playing the "mom" and she's the "baby", that can only mean she's not getting enough mommy time. She is in transition. This is a tough year for her. She REALLY needs to be in school, but we can't afford it. She REALLY needs to have friends and something to constructively occupy her time that doesn't involve destroying my house. Her curiosity and imagination are out of control. Mostly I see a pretty uncontent girl who doesn't know what to do with all her thinking.
Gavin is right behind her. He's babbling - hasn't really said many words that are comprehensible, but acts like he's talking all the time. He finally mastered the art of walking, running, and climbing - not in that order. He is also throwing stuff pretty good. He still has a charming smile that melts any heart with those dimples. He is also extremely curious. He likes to get into stuff and fiddle with it until it does something. Mostly cell phones, computers, drawers, pens and pencils, TV's, remotes, etc. Toys? Not interested really - except maybe for a bag or something to carry around and push something - modeling after Lily I think. He still enjoys being thrown in the air. We're working on using utensils and not throwing plates on the floor. (Did it take this long for Lily and Jessica?)
Jessica is blossoming into a beautiful young lady. She is preparing herself for baptism next year. She enjoys playing computer games, watching Disney Chanel - especially Selena Gomez, and reading. She scored an 82 words per minute on her reading test. The teacher said the goal is 90 by the end of the year. She's zooming through chapter books that are 1 to 2 grade levels above hers. She has always loved books. I can't keep her in them long enough for her to AR test on anything. Jessica made some new friends at school. One girl rides the bus and gets off at the same stop as she does. Her friend has a sister Lily's age and the four of them love to get together for play dates.
For Halloween, we spent Friday night at the KC hall with the community for a carnival. The kids had a good time. The next night we joined the Ferguson's on their farm for the annual Halloween Party. When it was time to go, Lily still hadn't cleaned her playroom. So as hard as it was, she got left home with dad while the rest of us went to the party. I was glad that she finally got busy and finished cleaning so Jhonny and her could join us later. They made it just in time for trick or treating around the campfire. She chose to wear the monkey outfit that was identical to Gavin's. The night before she was Rapunzel. Jessica was a mermaid.
After eating all that candy, Gavin and Lily started getting congested. By Friday they passed it along to me and I woke up Saturday with a sore throat and congestion as well. I hope it wasn't the flu, but it sure hasn't been fun. We went to church today for Sacrament Meeting since it was the primary program and I didn't want to miss it. Right after, I took the two little ones home for a much needed nap and to stay away from others at church as much as possible. I probably didn't do a great job going in the first place. . .oh well.
Today was the primary program. They always do such a great job. I love the spirit that comes when the kids speak about the basic principals of the gospel. The theme was about eternal families and how they are a part of Heavenly Father's plan. I enjoyed the songs and talks. Jessica did a great job. I knew she could even though yesterday she refused to practice for me. I was told that she knew every word to the songs as well. I didn't see that part since I was too busy translating everything in ASL and their voices sounded all blended to me. The spirit was strong though and it was beautiful as usual.
This next month is a busy one as we get the Nativity under way, prepare for the holidays and plan for next year. It's been almost a year since I received this calling as a RS President. I'm not sure how well I'm doing, but I've been blessed in many ways as I've strived to listen to the Spirit and pray for the sisters in my branch. The challenges of living in a branch can be daunting as the few of us that are active strive to fellowship the many less active sisters and take care of the needs of those in our branch.
I am frequently reminded of the scripture in 3 Nephi 13 about putting the Kingdom of God first and all these things shall be added unto you. Not to worry about food, clothing or shelter and all will be taken care of. When I feel the burdens of life coming down upon my shoulders, I just try to change my focus on what is needed right now. There are some things just out of my control that can't be fussed over for too long. I am constantly reminded of the tender mercies of the Lord. My testimony of my Savior and a loving Heavenly Father are strengthened daily.
Life has been hard. When I look back on the past year I start to remember the heart aches, the losses, the sacrifices, the readjustments, the refining fires, the tests of faith, and the rescueing. I feel like Peter walking on water some days. How is it possible? Is there anything too hard for the Lord? I guess not. Trusting him and his wisdom is key. As for me - I'm really nothing in all this. Just one more instrument trying to help build Zion in my little corner of the universe - wondering if anything I'm doing will make a difference at all.
There are so many others dealing with so much more than me. And yet - my problems are just as important to the Lord. I don't know how he does it. I have enough trouble keeping up with just 3 kids. How does he handle the problems of billions? And yet he does. Individually and personally. It's amazing.
I feel incredibly lucky to have the knowledge I have about the plan of salvation and the atonement. As I associate with these good people in Rockdale and hear their testimonies I can't help but think - "There's so much more. Why don't you want to know the rest of the good news? How can you be content with the skeleton of knowledge you have and not want the whole picture?" How can I share it with people who are afraid of my beliefs and my church? If they only knew how incredibly simple their lives could be with this knowledge. Life is easier when you have purpose and understand the grand plan of things. As my wonderful secretary says, "Life without the gospel just doesn't make sense."
And I think of those who don't attend on a regular basis. What has cropped up into their lives to distract them from what is essential and most important? Why would anyone give up the blessings of membership in the true church of Christ? Why would anyone throw away the peace of the Spirit in their lives? I don't get that. I hate missing church even when I have a good excuse. I love renewing my covenants, taking the sacrament, hearing the talks, feeling the spirit, learning what Heavenly Father wants me to know for the week. Who would give it up so easily? And yet so many do. And then there's the temple - I LOVE the temple. Who would throw away their right to enter that incredible place? When temptations come as they will, I am reminded of the peace I feel in the temple. There are just some things not worth giving up. Any reasons are merely excuses. Because - when you put God first, everything else falls into place. So - got faith?
This past month I have subbed in Rockdale and gotten to know the kids in town pretty well. I think they like me or so they've said. A few weeks ago, my name came up in conversation to fulfill a district need for a homebound teacher. I took on two girls who I will be serving for up until Thanksgiving. Then it's back to relying on Substitution as far as I know - until another teenage mother gives birth.
Last week, my husband found another posting for a counselor in Middle School - in Georgetown. As much as I would love to transfer my family to Georgetown some day - I don't think the timing is right and taking a job out there would mean that much more time away from home and family.
My kids miss me too much as it is. I can tell. When Lily wants to play games with me and I'm playing the "mom" and she's the "baby", that can only mean she's not getting enough mommy time. She is in transition. This is a tough year for her. She REALLY needs to be in school, but we can't afford it. She REALLY needs to have friends and something to constructively occupy her time that doesn't involve destroying my house. Her curiosity and imagination are out of control. Mostly I see a pretty uncontent girl who doesn't know what to do with all her thinking.
Gavin is right behind her. He's babbling - hasn't really said many words that are comprehensible, but acts like he's talking all the time. He finally mastered the art of walking, running, and climbing - not in that order. He is also throwing stuff pretty good. He still has a charming smile that melts any heart with those dimples. He is also extremely curious. He likes to get into stuff and fiddle with it until it does something. Mostly cell phones, computers, drawers, pens and pencils, TV's, remotes, etc. Toys? Not interested really - except maybe for a bag or something to carry around and push something - modeling after Lily I think. He still enjoys being thrown in the air. We're working on using utensils and not throwing plates on the floor. (Did it take this long for Lily and Jessica?)
Jessica is blossoming into a beautiful young lady. She is preparing herself for baptism next year. She enjoys playing computer games, watching Disney Chanel - especially Selena Gomez, and reading. She scored an 82 words per minute on her reading test. The teacher said the goal is 90 by the end of the year. She's zooming through chapter books that are 1 to 2 grade levels above hers. She has always loved books. I can't keep her in them long enough for her to AR test on anything. Jessica made some new friends at school. One girl rides the bus and gets off at the same stop as she does. Her friend has a sister Lily's age and the four of them love to get together for play dates.
For Halloween, we spent Friday night at the KC hall with the community for a carnival. The kids had a good time. The next night we joined the Ferguson's on their farm for the annual Halloween Party. When it was time to go, Lily still hadn't cleaned her playroom. So as hard as it was, she got left home with dad while the rest of us went to the party. I was glad that she finally got busy and finished cleaning so Jhonny and her could join us later. They made it just in time for trick or treating around the campfire. She chose to wear the monkey outfit that was identical to Gavin's. The night before she was Rapunzel. Jessica was a mermaid.
After eating all that candy, Gavin and Lily started getting congested. By Friday they passed it along to me and I woke up Saturday with a sore throat and congestion as well. I hope it wasn't the flu, but it sure hasn't been fun. We went to church today for Sacrament Meeting since it was the primary program and I didn't want to miss it. Right after, I took the two little ones home for a much needed nap and to stay away from others at church as much as possible. I probably didn't do a great job going in the first place. . .oh well.
Today was the primary program. They always do such a great job. I love the spirit that comes when the kids speak about the basic principals of the gospel. The theme was about eternal families and how they are a part of Heavenly Father's plan. I enjoyed the songs and talks. Jessica did a great job. I knew she could even though yesterday she refused to practice for me. I was told that she knew every word to the songs as well. I didn't see that part since I was too busy translating everything in ASL and their voices sounded all blended to me. The spirit was strong though and it was beautiful as usual.
This next month is a busy one as we get the Nativity under way, prepare for the holidays and plan for next year. It's been almost a year since I received this calling as a RS President. I'm not sure how well I'm doing, but I've been blessed in many ways as I've strived to listen to the Spirit and pray for the sisters in my branch. The challenges of living in a branch can be daunting as the few of us that are active strive to fellowship the many less active sisters and take care of the needs of those in our branch.
I am frequently reminded of the scripture in 3 Nephi 13 about putting the Kingdom of God first and all these things shall be added unto you. Not to worry about food, clothing or shelter and all will be taken care of. When I feel the burdens of life coming down upon my shoulders, I just try to change my focus on what is needed right now. There are some things just out of my control that can't be fussed over for too long. I am constantly reminded of the tender mercies of the Lord. My testimony of my Savior and a loving Heavenly Father are strengthened daily.
Life has been hard. When I look back on the past year I start to remember the heart aches, the losses, the sacrifices, the readjustments, the refining fires, the tests of faith, and the rescueing. I feel like Peter walking on water some days. How is it possible? Is there anything too hard for the Lord? I guess not. Trusting him and his wisdom is key. As for me - I'm really nothing in all this. Just one more instrument trying to help build Zion in my little corner of the universe - wondering if anything I'm doing will make a difference at all.
There are so many others dealing with so much more than me. And yet - my problems are just as important to the Lord. I don't know how he does it. I have enough trouble keeping up with just 3 kids. How does he handle the problems of billions? And yet he does. Individually and personally. It's amazing.
I feel incredibly lucky to have the knowledge I have about the plan of salvation and the atonement. As I associate with these good people in Rockdale and hear their testimonies I can't help but think - "There's so much more. Why don't you want to know the rest of the good news? How can you be content with the skeleton of knowledge you have and not want the whole picture?" How can I share it with people who are afraid of my beliefs and my church? If they only knew how incredibly simple their lives could be with this knowledge. Life is easier when you have purpose and understand the grand plan of things. As my wonderful secretary says, "Life without the gospel just doesn't make sense."
And I think of those who don't attend on a regular basis. What has cropped up into their lives to distract them from what is essential and most important? Why would anyone give up the blessings of membership in the true church of Christ? Why would anyone throw away the peace of the Spirit in their lives? I don't get that. I hate missing church even when I have a good excuse. I love renewing my covenants, taking the sacrament, hearing the talks, feeling the spirit, learning what Heavenly Father wants me to know for the week. Who would give it up so easily? And yet so many do. And then there's the temple - I LOVE the temple. Who would throw away their right to enter that incredible place? When temptations come as they will, I am reminded of the peace I feel in the temple. There are just some things not worth giving up. Any reasons are merely excuses. Because - when you put God first, everything else falls into place. So - got faith?
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Life in the fast lane - time to pull over
General Conference has brought with it a chance to slow down and contemplate. These past few months have thrown us into the fast lane of life. Jhonny has taken off on his job as a kindergarten teacher and that keeps him pretty busy. He always has great stories to tell about his sweet students. He is lucky to have such a supportive staff and principal.
I have kept busy substitute teaching in Rockdale and Cameron. I've enjoyed being back in the schools. This town is getting smaller for me. I recognize more people at Walmart and have now seen the faces of kids that my neighbors have bragged about. I am still asked if I am new to Rockdale. Although we've been here for two years, comparatively that's new I suppose. I'm not sure how long we have to live here to not claim being new anymore. Tis the way of small towns I guess.
Yesterday I reveled in the Spirit and found myself moved often by stories of faith and testimony. I could relate as one speaker talked of the steps of deliverance from adversity. "And he lightened their burdens insomuch that they could not feel the burden upon their backs." How often I have felt that way. It is only in retrospect that I realize the gravity of the burdens on our little family this past year. I am overcome with gratitude for the hand of the Lord that has guided us and carried us through it all. I don't know that we have been delivered yet - but the way is always being prepared. And I can say as Eve said, "It is better. . ."
I am more committed to live a life without hypocrisy. I see a need to work on my "temperance" at home. I'm also grateful for the counsel to be consistent and diligent in our efforts to teach our children the gospel. How often have I wondered if family prayer, scripture study, and Family Home Evening are doing any good when my kids are screaming, whining, wiggling, and for the most part not even paying attention? It's good to know that even if they get nothing out of the lesson that the habit is the key.
How comforting to know that Heavenly Father is mindful and still loves us in spite of the difficulties that have swept our nation. He has and will provide.
I have kept busy substitute teaching in Rockdale and Cameron. I've enjoyed being back in the schools. This town is getting smaller for me. I recognize more people at Walmart and have now seen the faces of kids that my neighbors have bragged about. I am still asked if I am new to Rockdale. Although we've been here for two years, comparatively that's new I suppose. I'm not sure how long we have to live here to not claim being new anymore. Tis the way of small towns I guess.
Yesterday I reveled in the Spirit and found myself moved often by stories of faith and testimony. I could relate as one speaker talked of the steps of deliverance from adversity. "And he lightened their burdens insomuch that they could not feel the burden upon their backs." How often I have felt that way. It is only in retrospect that I realize the gravity of the burdens on our little family this past year. I am overcome with gratitude for the hand of the Lord that has guided us and carried us through it all. I don't know that we have been delivered yet - but the way is always being prepared. And I can say as Eve said, "It is better. . ."
I am more committed to live a life without hypocrisy. I see a need to work on my "temperance" at home. I'm also grateful for the counsel to be consistent and diligent in our efforts to teach our children the gospel. How often have I wondered if family prayer, scripture study, and Family Home Evening are doing any good when my kids are screaming, whining, wiggling, and for the most part not even paying attention? It's good to know that even if they get nothing out of the lesson that the habit is the key.
How comforting to know that Heavenly Father is mindful and still loves us in spite of the difficulties that have swept our nation. He has and will provide.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Catching up
This past month has been something of a marathon. It was about a month ago that we started getting Jhonny ready for his new classroom. He's doing very well by the way and is realizing that there's a lot of work that goes into teaching. We're happy to see him home by 6 or 7pm. It's late, but it was much worse with Halliburton. Not quite the 4pm he was dreaming of, but he's enjoying it nonetheless. I was starting a new job, then quitting a new job, interviewing for more jobs, and finally settling on substituting.
Meanwhile I had to juggle getting a babysitter so I can sub and then getting things rearranged for her to move in. School started, and I had to make sure I remembered to get pics of Jessica and Jhonny on their first day. Then I got called to work on the first day of school too. I got pics of Lily on her first and last day of Mother's Day Out - (I was still in transition of quitting). She was so excited that it broke my heart to quit and not let her go, but she said she was okay with just doing school at home for now. Too bad 3 is too early for Pre-K. She could have gone for free in Jhonny's district if she were 4.
The next week, Jess and Lily started dance lessons. They both love it. Gavin is walking everywhere and getting into everything. He can now climb up the ladder to Jessica's bunkbed, get on top of tables, etc. He loves to pull out all the CD/DVD's that are supposed to be "hidden." Yesterday he was babbling at me and I said, "Is that so?" He nodded his head and turned away. So cute! He is perhaps the most happy to have "Nana" here and is sad when she goes home on the weekends to be with her family until they move to Washington. She has been an answer to prayers and has fit right in with the family. It's obvious Gavin loves her and I don't have to worry about him crying for me when I'm gone.
This weekend we finally had nothing planned. So we had our Family Friday movie, pizza, and rootbeer float night. This morning we had pancakes and everyone is chilling and hanging out.
It's been a good weekend. Somtimes you just gotta chill out.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
chase all the clouds from the sky. . .
Monday we were in Jhonny's classroom again trying to put the last finishing touches on everything. Gavin climbed up onto a table by himself. I put him down on his feet, but he wanted back on the table so he walked back over to it. I was so surprised that I had to pull him back and see it again. He did it three times before he tumbled and hit his head on the chair he was reaching for. I have bitter sweet feelings about his walking. He isn't proficient yet - but won't be long now. My baby is officially a toddler! A toddler with lots of adventure locked up inside and no fear!
Count all the bees in the hive. . .
Gavin is growing so fast. It's hard to believe my baby is a toddler. I bought him this outfit for his birthday - just getting around to letting him wear it. He'll be 14 months on Sunday. Perhaps I'm biased, but there is something special about this boy. I think Heavenly Father sent him to me to make up for the trials of my life. His smile brightens my day.
Whatta ya know there's so much to be done. . .
I've been trying to understand why I have suddenly become the human jungle gym of my home. Perhaps it's time for "lone time with mommy." Then maybe they'll stop fighting to be the one sitting closest to or on top of me? Maybe all those bills will pay themselves, and the laundary will take care of itself, and the bathroom, living room, kitchen and bedrooms will clean themselves and the toys will magically get picked up on their own; kids will bathe and dress and feed themselves and put themselves to bed. . . ahh wishful thinking. Maybe Gavin shoving the keyboard onto the floor and ripping the paper out of the printer or unplugging the computer is a big enough hint. . .
For Jhonny porque no lo hace
In July, O'Neal came for a visit from California. We left the kids at home and toured San Antonio with one of Jhonny's former missionary companions. It was great to meet you David! Thanks for the memories.Sunday, July 19, 2009
Another day at the YMCA
Yoga - inspiring isn't it? I had to get back to my yoga class. It had been ohh at least a month since I've been to my favorite yoga class at the YMCA. So even though we got there 5 minutes late, I sunk right in and started breathing away. At the end we conversed and one of the ladies was shall I say it - boasting - about working at the YMCA. I said, "That's what I need to do. I need to work here." My beautiful teacher with whom I've discussed my economic woes with in the past said, "Yes! You do!" I confided that I've not had much luck elsewhere apply as I might. She said, "Because we need you here of course!"
I inquired further and filled out an application similar to ones I haven't seen since acquiring my Bachelor's degree. You can't imagine how excited and relieved I could be about getting hired for slightly more than minimum wage. Never thought I'd go back to that day. I couldn't even put down a reference to my former employer for the mockery I'd sure to recieve. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
However I'm not too proud to say that it's the perfect job for the here and now. I can take my kiddos with me and I'll actually be doing something productive for my part time hours. After looking at my application, my other friend and teacher of the last kickboxing class I attended said, "I've got plans for you!" At my interview if we can call it that - she informed me almost before I could sit, "You know I want you, so you're hired if you want it." YES! I've been wanting to hear that for a while now. I know, I know - David and Sharon are still asking, "Why? oh why? oh why?" Afraid I have no answer to that. . .
And though the pay isn't exotic, it's sufficient for my needs and the hours are flexible enough for my tastes. So look out YMCA - here I come! And the best part - I get to keep my MOPS membership current.
Motherhood is so underrated. Good thing I'm not too proud to accept the perfect situation to continue my PhD in motherhood. Lovely expensive masters degree - someday you'll come in handy again. . .
I inquired further and filled out an application similar to ones I haven't seen since acquiring my Bachelor's degree. You can't imagine how excited and relieved I could be about getting hired for slightly more than minimum wage. Never thought I'd go back to that day. I couldn't even put down a reference to my former employer for the mockery I'd sure to recieve. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
However I'm not too proud to say that it's the perfect job for the here and now. I can take my kiddos with me and I'll actually be doing something productive for my part time hours. After looking at my application, my other friend and teacher of the last kickboxing class I attended said, "I've got plans for you!" At my interview if we can call it that - she informed me almost before I could sit, "You know I want you, so you're hired if you want it." YES! I've been wanting to hear that for a while now. I know, I know - David and Sharon are still asking, "Why? oh why? oh why?" Afraid I have no answer to that. . .
And though the pay isn't exotic, it's sufficient for my needs and the hours are flexible enough for my tastes. So look out YMCA - here I come! And the best part - I get to keep my MOPS membership current.
Motherhood is so underrated. Good thing I'm not too proud to accept the perfect situation to continue my PhD in motherhood. Lovely expensive masters degree - someday you'll come in handy again. . .
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Next Stop: Family Reunion followed by Utah detour on the way home
Lily, Sydney, Samantha, & Jessica playing in the SLC Temple fountain
Smile, Lily. "I am!"
President Hinkley's podium
Jessica in the "I am a Child of God" Exhibit
Lily had a little lamb
Gavin is a Child of God
Church History museum
Boat bunker in Church History museum 
Reception tent after Temple open house
Oquirrh Temple Open House
My sweet kids
Lily
Gavin
Wesley, Jessica, Lily, Lily, Maddie
Floating the Canal
Garrin getting ready to float the canal
Gracie, David, Julianne and the baby 
Sylvia, Kevin, Jeff, Diane, Mindy, Stefanie, Garrin, Chris, Randy, Grandpa Ellis, Grandma Ellis, Harold, Merrily, Kim, Lanet
Kevin, Garrin, Grandpa Ellis, Randy, Grandma, Merrily, Lanet, Kim
Shelley, Samantha, Spencer, Sydney, Chalice, Jessica, Mom, Jhonny, Lily, Gavin, Dad
David, Gracie, ?, Julianne
Lily, Aspen, Troy, Elden4th of July Flag Retirement ceremony
Retiring the Red Stripes
Retiring the White stripes
Retiring the Stars
Salute
Friday night FHE
Listening to Grandpa's storiesSpencer, Barry, Sydney, Samantha, Shelley, Dad, and Dawson
Jaycee, Jessica, Sydney swimming 
Competative Ellis Volleyball Tournament - Janet, Garrin, Matthew
Lily, Jessica, and Wesley
Jaycee, Jessica, Sydney swimming 
Competative Ellis Volleyball Tournament - Janet, Garrin, Matthew
Lily, Jessica, and Wesley
Listening to Reality CSI - Idaho per Sherriff Ellis
Great Grandma Ellis
Gracie and Preston
Some have said Gavin has Cody's eyes. Mom said I needed a picture to compare. I don't know. Maybe. . .
Grandpa takes Gavin for a ride on the old tractor. Look at those country boys!
The two Lilies
Gavin and Maddie These are just the highlights that were caught on camera during our family reunion and trip to Utah. Other memorable moments were putting up our tent in a thunderstorm before leaving for a temple session with the family in Twin Falls. What a beautiful experience to be in the temple with so many family members. Also we had the chance to stop and visit with Grandma and Grandpa Wickham. Tyla and her kids came over too. Jessica and Lily had a great time playing with Kaylee. On Sunday we picked up Tanya and brought her to Spencer and Shelley's house where we ate dinner and hung out. Spencer shared a little bit more about his work in the Church Philanthropies department. Very interesting stuff. We managed to stop and see Fred and Trudy just before our deadline to leave for home Tuesday morning. I wish we could have stayed longer and visited with more friends and family. We miss you all so much and enjoyed the time we spent up north. We especially didn't miss the HEAT down here in Texas. Back to 105. Hope that fast for rain last week works soon. . .
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