New Years Eve

This post I would like to tell one of my favorite blessings of this year, since it is about to end. This year I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. Now, to back up a little bit, she was not supposed to come. I say she was not supposed to but more I mean that I was not planning on her. I know that she was supposed to come to our family and that she came at the exact time she was supposed to. Though I was not expecting her I am so grateful that The Lord did not listen to what I wanted and gave me what I needed, gave me what my family needed. She has been a blessing to have with us and I would not give her up for anything. Happy New Year!

God Loves You!

Heather

Last Monday in 2013

Today was a great day for me. RJ was able to stay home with us after being out of town. That was so nice and very much needed for me. I believe The Lord knew I needed this time with him. We got to talk and laugh and play with the kids all without the stress of run here and do this. It was wonderful. I am so grateful for the mental health day The Lord gave to our family.

God Loves You!

Heather

Last Sunday in 2013

My husband got to come home two days early from being out of town. I am sooooo grateful for The Lord helping him to come home quickly. I miss him so much when he is away. I feel a part of me is missing. He is home with me now and I am content.

God Loves You!

Heather

Last Saturday of 2013

I am so grateful that The Lord helped us get into the house we are in. It is so nice to be so close to both sides of the family. They are there when I need them and within walking distance if there is trouble. I am truly blessed to be in a house, in a great neighborhood, close to family and have it be ours. Truly truly blessed.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday after Christmas

I am so grateful that my parents share my religious views. I had a really good talk with my mom today concerning prayer and your relationship with The Lord. I love that my mother loves The Lord as much as I do. That is where my love for Him began, with my parents. They have always made it clear of their love for The Lord and it was always so natural. So today The Lord reminded me of how strong my parents are and why He sent me to them. I can say as Nephi that I have been born of goodly parents.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday after Christmas

The blessing I received from The Lord today was that I did not have to go anywhere or be anywhere or stress about anyone but my little family. It was great. We all needed a stay home day to recharge for Christmas Eve and Christmas. We stayed home, inside, where it is warm and the kids just played. It was very nice.

God Loves You!

Heather

Christmas Day

Today we celebrate the birth of our Savior. We celebrate His life and all the things He stood for. We celebrate giving and love. We celebrate family. All these things make life worth living and show me there is a God and that He loves us. He knows me and He loves me. He sent His only begotten son to live a perfect life and to atone for my sins so that I could return to Him. This is what today is about and this is Gods hand in all aspects of my life. Everyday. He is in yours too. Everyday.

God Loves You!

Heather

Christmas Eve

 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the ^aglory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you ^agood tidings of great ^bjoy, which shall be to all people.

  For unto you is ^aborn this day in the city of David a ^bSaviour, which is Christ the ^cLord.

  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

  ^aGlory to God in the highest, and on earth ^bpeace, good will toward men.

I am grateful for glad tidings in this day and age. I am grateful for this time to contemplate my Savior and His humble birth. Merry Christmas!

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday before Christmas

Today I sat and talked to my dad a bit and I am very grateful for him. A lot of my personality and who I am I got from my dad and I am proud to say that. My dad is a strong man and a good man. Talking with him today reminded me how much I wanted to be like him when I was little because my dad could do anything. I am glad I listened to him and watched him all those years ago so that I could grow. The Lord blessed me with a great man as a father and I cherish the conversations I get to have with him. Especially for his sense of humor. Not many share our sense of dry humor and my dad can get me laughing so hard. So, to sum up, I love my dad and am grateful The Lord sent me to him.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday before Christmas

Today at church I felt the spirit many different times and I really enjoyed our 3 hour block. My favorite though was during Sunday school. My father-in-law asked my husband and I to share our favorite story from Christs mortal ministry. Mine was okay and I did feel the spirit prompt me what to say and that but RJ did such a great job. The highlight of my entire day. His testimony was so powerful and the spirit was very strong. I knew The Lord was there and was pleased with RJ. As he was finishing up the spirit testified to me again what a special man I married and that we were perfect for each other, that we complete one another and that as long as we hold true to our covenants and to each other it will be that way forever. FOREVER. That is powerful and that is the power of the priesthood.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Saturday

I love how some times The Lord prompts you to out something away for later use and you don't really know why but you do and then you have it months down the road when you need it. This happened today with a phone case. I kept one not really knowing why and wound up needing it for my phone because a case broke. Small matter but when you have an expensive phone and can't replace it then a sturdy case is very much needed. The Lord is in every aspect of our lives and tries to keep up with what we need. I love it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Friday

As I was driving today (since the snow fall actually) whenever my car would start to slide or jerk I found myself automatically correcting. At first I was so proud of my ability to navigate in the snow but then I realized, once again, it was not me. I would feel prompted to turn the wheel a certain way or not apply brake or apply more break, every time doing it without thinking. I have a fast reaction time but I don't deal with snow all year so I should be a little rusty this new in the snow season. I am not and I realized it is because I have the companionship of the Holy Ghost who guides my life and in this case my driving. I am so grateful that The Lord acts as my co pilote and helps me through dangerous situations.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Thursday

With all the snow and how heavy it was today we worried about our new awning collapsing. It was made to with stand the weight but that does not mean that life always works that way. Well, the snow did not stick to it and we did not have to worry about it. The snow all piled under it. I believe The Lord helped the snow not stay so that the weight was not too much. RJ did a great job with the awning and The Lord is making sure the elements don't ruin it. Beauty. 

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Wednesday

Today I was a bit late picking up my niece from school so I was in a bit of a hurry. Well, through the tender mercies of The Lord, I was only stopped by one red light and the traffic was very light. I got to her school while obeying all traffic laws in five minutes when it usually takes eight to nine with stop lights and all. I got there just as she was walking out of the school. She got in the car and off we went. Perfect timing to do two errands that NEEDED to be done before I got my other kids from school. Those errands were completed in the perfect amount of time and I got to the elementary school just in time for the bell and to get the kids. All things aligned perfectly and I know The Lord was helping. Would it have made a huge difference time wise for the kids? No. Would anyone have died or been seriously injured? Probably not. Would my day have been upset and then would I have maybe taken it out on others? Probably. Very grateful for tender mercies.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Tuesday

Mortality is a fragile thing. The Lord has reminded me of this a lot as of late. We are here for a fleeting moment it seems. But with this realization I am so grateful for the peace that The Lord speaks to my heart today that this is not the end. Relationships go on and continue after our mortal life has ended. We will see those we love again and we will also get to know better those who are gone that we never gotten the chance to be with. Those relations who had their moment on the stage of life before we got ours. How joyful that will be! The family reunions on the other side will be awesome. There is life, there is hope and there is a true and loving God. I know this to be true with all my heart.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Monday

Sometimes I sit back and wonder how many of my good ideas are actually mine. Then I realize that hardly any are and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for how often The Lord prompts me to do or say something that effects not just my day or other peoples day but days down the road and sometimes even years. I, of myself, am not that witty or sensitive. But with the Lords help I find myself reaching out of my comfort zone often to say things and do things I feel strongly that someone needs or that I need myself for closure. I am amazed at how intelligent The Lord can make me. I have had a lot of those promptings lately and today it helped me and my daughter to iron some things out and let her talk and me talk freely about things that had been bugging us in a non confrontational manner. It was awesome. If I had not listen to that prompting and set aside my cleaning for ten minutes I would have missed a great conversation. (And if you ask anyone who knows me, trying to get me to stop in the middle of a task is not recommended and does not happen often. I'm a little OCD.) The Lord makes up for my lack so often... It makes me so proud to be His daughter and know that I too, by royal birthright, have that greatness in me. All He is doing is gently pushing me along, showing me how it's done. Awesome.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Sunday

Tonight I had the privilege to go see my sister in law in her primary program. It was a special program with special children. All of them are very near and dear to our Lord I am sure. They sang songs of His love and of His birth. They read scriptures and quoted prophets. They all did their best and were very brave to perform on stage. I am so proud of all of them, especially my little sister up there smiling for all she's worth and ringing her bell to the music. She did wonderful. It was very heart warming and tender for me. All those children know unconditional love and show it. I love their special spirit and their calling in life, To help us draw closer to The Lord. I felt that tonight as He listened to His little ones sing songs of Him and praise Him. I am grateful The Lord has given me the opportunity to love not just one of His special ones but two. My brother also is a symbol of Christ like love and meekness. These two have shown me many times how to be a better person.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday with a birthday

Today is my Mommys birthday. That is a major way The Lord had worked in my life. For starters I wouldn't be here if she wasn't born; but on a more personal day- to - day level, she is a constant in my life of love and support. Even when she disagrees with me or is unhappy with me I know she still loves me and wants what's best for me. She has always given her all and done whatever she could for all her children. We are all blessed to have her as our mother. So today I celebrate my mother and thank The Lord she is here with me still.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday again

I am not fond of being stretched to grow. I like the result but do not like the awkwardness in the middle while I am being stretched. Today I had one of those moments as The Lord showed me how to be kinder to someone I care about but don't share the same views with. I hurt this person really bad with something I hurriedly said as I was accomplishing a task. The Lord whispered to my heart as I was finishing up to go check on this person and I found that I had wounded them deeply which I had not thought of. I apologized and and tried to explain what I wanted to say and make them feel better. I hope it worked. I am grateful again that The Lord was there to make up for my rash behavior and to help me say, "I'm sorry." Two words which are not always easy to say. A little bit of growth happened I hope...

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday again

Today I got great news. My sister in law is in her second trimester of her pregnancy and heard a strong heart beat at her doctors today. Her and my brother were told that having children would be next to impossible for them and this is number three. The Lord has blessed our family with two special boys and now we have another baby on the way. I am so grateful for the Lords tender mercies in their lives that they can be parents. They love their children and take the best care they can of them. I am grateful for the love they give me and my family. They are good people and I am so excited for them. So today The Lord blessed out whole family with the strong heart beat of a little baby who is beating the odds. In the words of Han, "Don't tell me the odds."

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday again

Today I saw a bridge mended a little between two girls I love. I believe it was helped along by The Lord. He knows how important it is to get along. These two have a way to go but a plank was put down today that I hope stays in place and is joined by others.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday again

The sunset tonight was beautiful! The colors were so vibrant. I stopped and took a moment to just enjoy the sky that The Lord painted for me. The Lord has given me so much beauty all around, but today the sunset is what made me pause and be grateful to be alive. By simple things The Lord brings about great things and the wonders and beauties of nature are simple but bring about great things. Enjoy the view!

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday, get thee behind me!

I dislike Mondays very much. It is a horrible way to spend 1/7th of your life. That aside, I am grateful for inspiration that comes from The Lord that helps me to say things and do things in a difficult situation where my blood is boiling and like Gimli I want to say, "Let them come!" In those moments, I can say and do some interesting things. Even if my wrath is righteous and I would be justified in the actions I want to take..... It's not what Christ would do. He could have done lots in His righteous anger to those who dealt unjustly with Him, but He did not. He tried to give everyone a second chance to live up to the potential He knew they could attain if they wanted. Today I am grateful He stayed my tongue and actions and prompted me with better ones.

“In my ninety-plus years, I have learned a secret. I have learned that when good men and good women face challenges with optimism, things will always work out! Truly, things always work out! Despite how difficult circumstances may look at the moment, those who have faith and move forward with a happy spirit will find that things always work out.” –Gordon B. Hinckley 

Even on a Monday.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday Again

I am married to a wonderfully talented man. I am so grateful for him in my life and all the talent he brings with him. He brings so much joy to our children, to me and to others because he genuinely cares for others and what they say, feel and do. I am so grateful the Lord gave me someone who embodies the spirit of the Jolly Elf  he played tonight. And, Mommy got to kiss Santa :) Win-Win. So today the Lord again reminded me just how perfectly He matched me with the one I will be with for eternity. 

God Loves You!

Heather 

Saturday

The innocence of children. We had our ward party tonight and the children did the nativity. It was so sweet to see the innocence of those little children as they played the parts of the sacred scene from long ago. They all did so with reverence and with mildness. The Lord has given us sweet children to remind us how to be and how to love. Little Joseph was so tender to little Mary. Mary was gentle with her little baby. The shepherds were reverent and kind. The wise men were respectful. It was very well done and I give credit to their special, loving spirits. I am grateful The Lord gave me the reminder tonight of not only that special night long ago but that our children are what this life is about. Family, love, and sacrifice. He taught it and they have an easier time living it. May we all be as a little child this Christmas and always.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday

Today The Lord was kind and held back the winter storm between here and Wyoming so that my sweet husband could come home to me and not be stuck until they opened the roads back up. I really hate him being gone and to have him gone over the weekend would not be fun. Especially since he would not be paid for it, he would just be away. I am grateful for him to be home safe and warm.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday

Tender mercies all over the place for yesterday and today in that no one in my family has been in an accident with all the ice and snow! And we have had some close calls. I am so grateful The Lord has protected my family and kept them safe and warm. I love the snowy weather but it sure makes it scary out there. Glad I have Someone watching over me and mine.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday

Life is crummy sometimes. You have people who betray you, people who spread lies about you and people who look for a reason to be offended by you. Today is a day that I am grateful The Lord has given us the knowledge between right and wrong. He gives us support when we have to go up against untruths, bias, and offensive people. Even when we are being attacked for doing what is right, He does not shrink. I am grateful for that kind of support in my corner. At the end of the day if I can say I was honest with my fellow man and I did what I could for those who needed me then I know I did my job and He is pleased.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday

Today my oldest was almost late for school again. My brother gets picked up for his work program from our house in the morning and his ride was late due to weather. My tender mercy today was that my sweet father-in-law was home and could come get my oldest and take her to school. She was on time and got to spend some one on one time with Grandpa. Win-win. I am very grateful that I have a lot of family around to help. The Lord has truly blessed me.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday

So I forgot to set my alarm after the holiday week. So at 8:21 when I looked  at the clock I was a little concerned. But with tender mercies from The Lord nothing went wrong and we all got out the door in 15 minutes and my oldest was on time. That was nice.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday

December is my favorite month out of the whole year. I love lights and songs about Christ and everything that has to do with celebrating His birth. I enjoy them personally all year round (I seriously keep my tree up all year with no decorations just so I can look at the lights. I also keep a set of lights strung in our living room so I can turn them on when I get upset and sad. I used to have a small fiber optic tree in my room I turned on regularly but after 8 years of use it died and I have not replaced it yet.) but in December everyone else brings them out and I get to see lights and hear songs of Christ lots of places. I love it. So, the Lords hand in my life today is that I get to enjoy another December. Today is the kick off and The Lord will guide me through this month of tidings of great joy. December has come.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday with gratitude

Today I have been kind of frustrated because we have been so busy this holiday weekend that it feels like I have had no break. Things have been happening and movin all weekend. As I sit here thinking though, that is a blessing in my life. I have family who are kind enough to plan activities and they want me and mine to attend. A lot of people don't have a relationship with family or they are not close that they can do a lot with them. I am very blessed to have lots of family close that I can spend the holidays with those I love. So being busy and tired is the way I have seen The Lord today. 

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday with gratitude

Today we sold a car. In ten minutes. For just what we needed to pay for our new car. Coincident? I think not. I know The Lord helped us. In ten minutes. It was awesome.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thanksgiving

Today we take time to say what we are grateful for. The Lord has given me so much to be grateful for but what stuck out to me today was having one of my brothers back. I have felt space between my brother and I for a few years and this year through many acts of The Lord in our lives he was at thanksgiving again but this year he was so happy. He was the brother I knew years ago. I am so very blessed to have some great brothers and I am glad that I have one back who I felt was lost from me. I felt that connection would never again be but The Lord works miracles. So, this day hold your family close and remember that love does conquer all.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday with gratitude

Today I was very blessed after my dog made a BIG gross mess all over our floor. He did it in the girls room and other areas. Now, RJ and I were blessed and my children were protected a few ways. 1st, I woke up and found the mess before RJ got out of the shower and would have for sure walked all over in it before he realized what was happening. 2nd, my oldest got up to go to the bathroom and did not walk her normal path to the bathroom which would have been right through the mess. 3rd, my other little one who resides in that room usual wakes up earlier than she did today. So by the time she woke up I was already working on the mess and could keep her in bed since she could not get out of bed without being right in the middle of it. Last, my son always goes in and gets his sisters up when he wakes before them and he did not this morning. He went right into the play room. If he had gone in their room at all he would have walked in the mess. So I was very grateful that The Lord directed the morning so I could clean the mess without having to deal with them IN the mess.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday with gratitude

So grateful today for the power of the priesthood. My oldest went to school kind of quiet today and then I got a call to come get her because she was sick. She had a fever and was so pale and lethargic. I walked her to my in laws and my brother gave her a blessing. Just an hour later she had a bit of energy and an appetite again. She also had a little color and finally took her coat off because she was not freezing. The Lord knew we would need His help so I am very grateful He grants a measure of  His power to worthy priesthood holders. Miracles still happen, God is a God of miracles. I am in awe that He trusts us with such awesome power and humbled to be with good men who use it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday with gratitude

For some this might seem odd but where I saw the Lord's hand today was in me being able to exercise. To give a little background so you understand better- I love to exercise. You would not know it by looking at me but I do. I love to move and work my muscles to their screaming point. I am the fondest of jogging but I also enjoy and do regularly step and Turbo Jam. Well I have been sick for almost 3 weeks straight and have been unable to safely exercise. It has been killing me! Today I felt strong and the time was just kind of notched out for me and I took it and got it done. I felt so good after. The Lord knew I needed my de stressor. I believe He helped it happen and I took Him up on it. I am so grateful that I can move and do the things I do. I am grateful He helps me do the things I love.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday with gratitude

Going into the week of Thanksgiving I thought it fitting to put gratitude in the title. Today I felt The Lord very powerful actually. To the point I started shaking. I felt a very strong prompting to do something when I was going to put it off for a week. I still can't tell you why it was a must today but I know The Lord wanted it done. I am so grateful that He speaks to me, even when it does not always make sense. I know He is there and that's all that matters.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Saturday

Starting this blog has been a great experience for me. I knew The Lord worked in my life everyday. I have a firm testimony The Lord is concerned with every aspect of our lives, just as we are with our own children or family members. He is our Father. Even with that it has been an eye opener to how many times The Lord has saved me or my husband or my child from something simple. Today my littlest one chocked on a toy of one of her siblings that I gave her and did not even think it would harm her. It was a kids watch. Sturdy, fun, good to teeth on, lights up.... Fun. Not when you forget that there is a little rubber band that holds one band of the watch down when being worn. My little one found said piece and got it in her mouth and almost stuck in her wind pipe. Before I even knew what was happening she was over it. She gaged a bit, fussed and had it in the front of her mouth for daddy to take out in seconds. But in the after math I got the very distinct impression that once again The Lord stepped in and helped the little piece out of her mouth while saying to me, "Please think better about what you give this little one to go in her mouth. She needs your watchful eye a little better. But we are good, everyone is safe. Just don't do it again." Great parenting moment. I am sure this happens in all our lives more than we realize. I would not be seeing it so much if I was not doing this blog. As I said in the beginning, this is more help for me than anyone else. I love seeing how The Lord is everywhere. It brings me great comfort. It's not just in the end that The Lord steps up and makes up for our mistakes. He is doing it now and will continue to as long as we make Him a part of our lives. Welcome Him in. He is one of the greatest friends/ protectors/ comforters/ counselors/ teachers you will ever have. You will never regret being closer to Him, but you will regret stepping too far from Him. I have learned this time and again. And time and again He has welcomed me back. That is love.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Friday

And God was not in the wind..... Even though the wind storm today was an amazing thing, it's not where I saw Him today. I saw Him in the tender mercy that I did not have to leave my house at all. It is not very often that I get to just stay at my house with my kids. I am on the go a lot with the responsibilities I have. Today we all got to stay at home and just keep warm to try and get over this yuck virus we all have. It was great. Much needed. And I even got some Christmas shopping done to boot with them all here and knowing nothing :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Thursday

My RJ got to come home a day early from being out of town! That is a tender mercy from The Lord as I have needed him so much. Now he is here and I feel at peace. I am so grateful The Lord made it possible for him to come home over 24 hours early.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Wednesday

Today my mother was my angel. The Lord uses my mother as my angel often. She is such a huge part of my life and does so much for me. Today she came and took my oldest to rest at her house while I had the younger three rest here. We are all still sick. I thought it would not be that big of a deal but it was huge! My two oldest cannot leave each other alone so you can imagine having them both here sick is not good. With them apart they both got some well needed rest and so did I. It was great. I am so grateful for the great mother The Lord gave me. I am truly blessed.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Tuesday

Today The Lord was very good to me and I did not have to make my last two normal pick ups for the day. My energy is lacking with this cold and I really did not have the energy today to go get all the kids from school. My sister in law got My oldest for me and my brother got off early so he got his daughter. So grateful that they both could do that. It's when little things like this happen that I know God cares about every aspect of our lives and He really wants to help where He can and He prompts people to help. I love it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Monday

Texting has been a blessing to me today (and many a other days). It helps me to talk and feel close to my husband even when we can't talk by voice. It helps me keep in contact when he is under the weather. He caught my head cold so it has been nice to be able to check in on him and make sure he is okay. Sometimes we get too caught up in technology and we get too immersed but I am grateful The Lord gave it to us on days like this when I am anxious :) Everything has it's purpose and everything The Lord gave us can be used for good in moderation. I hope I am moderated with it but either way it was very useful today.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Sunday

One gift that not I but our family has recieved from God is my nephew. He turned 4 yesterday and we had his party today. He has fought long and very hard all 4 years to stay here. He LOVES life. He is moving and doing all the time. He is a symbol of strength to me and I am so grateful The Lord felt our family fit to have him. He is happy and upbeat even with all the medical problems he faces daily, not to mention the ones that keep coming as his body develops. He is a very special child that is a gift from Heaven. Today we celebrated that gift and I am glad I was there for it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday again

So to write about my miracle today I have to admit to a dumb parent moment. I ask that you don't judge too harshly as I am aware of my stupidity and I also have a head cold which makes it so I am lucky if I remember the day and my own name. So, because of said head cold I needed to blow my nose badly and so I put our baby in our window seat believing that I would be back long before she could ever think of rolling off it. What happened? Yes, you are correct in believing that she did, in fact, move that quickly. I walked into the room in enough time to yell "NO!" at no one in particular and watch her slide off. I was at her side about the time she made contact with the floor. To my relief and by the grace of a loving Father who understands the impairment of thinking when you have a head cold, she was fine. Not even a bump on her head. She slide softly off the cushion and then landed in such a way that her shoulder cushioned her fall. It's really not that far of a fall from our seat to the floor but I am so grateful she was not injured even slightly. Now, we were both scared out of our senses and took a bit to get calm again but she is healthy and happy still. I am grateful The Lord is there to fill in when I falter. Will I make a dumb parent move again? Yes, I am human. We all make dumb mistakes. How blessed we are to be watched over and protected by a loving Father, who does not make mistakes, for our sake and those we love.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday again

Journals. The Lord has counseled us to keep a journal. I don't do it as well as I should, once a week is about what I get, but I try. And I have been blessed because of it. Today I printed off my journal to put in a binder so I could read it whenever I wanted without having to boot up my computer. The memories are priceless and I could not have remembered all that's in there. For one, because I have a bad memory. For two, there is so much I would not have been able to keep track of it all and this was not even 2 full years worth of entries. The rest are in 3 other books that I had before I started typing it. I am grateful The Lord gave this counsel and that I listened. My favorite is to go back to the courtship of my husband and I. I read that every year the week of our anniversary. I still get the butterflies in my stomach and the twitterpated feeling reading it. It is so much fun. Back then I wrote everyday so there is A LOT of mush to go through :) There is a purpose in all that God commands and I am so grateful for the rewards.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday again

Sometimes it is hard to try to write what I feel for these blog posts. Somedays God's hand in my life is more feeling than event. Today I just have felt Him near. I have felt His love, I have felt His concern and I have felt His peace. I don't have an event or a specific feeling, just an overall 'The Lord walked with me' today. We don't need to be in times of major trial or times of great bounty to have Him near. I know I forget that sometimes. He is always there and ready to be involved. Today I noticed it and am grateful. So my miracle today..... The miracle is that me, Heather- stay at home mom of 4, can have the companionship of a King. That's pretty special.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday again

Good teachers are hard to come by and we are very blessed right now to have both of our children (who go to school) in classes with good teachers. They care, they are kind, they love the children they teach and are concerned with home life along with school life. The Lord had placed these two great women in our children's lives for a purpose and I am grateful so far for the fruits I see. Isn't it cool that even the teacher you have in elementary school is important to our Father. He loves us that much. I stand all amazed.....

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday again

I believe The Lord shows His hand in my life through other people. I know I blog a lot about him but I know The Lord sent me RJ because he fits me so well. This may seem silly but The Lord knew I would need a warm husband. As in body temperature. I am freezing about 7 months of the year. I have bad circulation so I get cold easy. RJ is very warm blooded. When I am cold he wraps his arms around me and in just a few minutes I am warm. The Lord knew I would need this. I look at my life and it seems RJ was hand picked and delivered for me. By this I know The Lord loves me and He knows every aspect of my life and He cares. He paired me with someone who keeps me warm, inside and out. As I write this I am even cold, I guess I need to go find him :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday Monday.....

The things kids say. I really believe on some bad days when I have reached the end of my rope The Lord puts it into my kids heads to say something off the wall or goofy or to just give a look that takes all my anger, all my stress, all my build up away. I laugh and it is a good full body, from the gut, melt your muscles laugh. Now you could be cynical and say that is self preservation on their part, Mother Nature making sure they survive these young years..... I believe it is The Lord. He is letting us know that it is okay. Life goes on. These little things that seem huge now will not even be remembered later. What will be is those big laughs and the fun you had. Children are fun and The Lord wants you to enjoy them. So, go.... Enjoy.....Laugh.....Be silly. He once was a child like you.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday again

I am grateful for the blessing of priesthood power in my life. I am grateful The Lord grants a portion of His power to worthy men to act in His name. I can receive blessings for guidance and strength at anytime I need it. I needed it today and I know that it helped and that I did the right thing. I know The Lord loves me and that He is pleased when His servants use His power correctly.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday with a birthday

My little princess turned 9 today. She has been a blessing in my life since the day she was born. She has helped me through many trials and when she was a baby some days I would not have gone on if it had not been for her smiling face and her little laugh. She has saved my sanity and my life many a days. The Lord gave me one of His precious daughters to raise and in raising her I have learned so much about life and what it's all about. 9 years I have been a mom and I would not take back a single day.

God Loves You!

Heather

Oh, dear

Yesterday I was under the weather and did not do my post as you could see. So I will do two today :)

Thursday - The Lord gave me strength to do the many duties I needed to. I HATE being sick because I feel sooo lazy but yesterday I still needed to get things done, lazy or not. The Lord helped me to get those things done I had to and even some extra so I could go out and have a great evening with my husband and Mimi. I was grateful for the help.

Friday - DES. I am grateful The Lord, through state agencies, gave Jacob a place it go that he can feel needed. Danville Employment Services has helped Jacob to feel like a person and not just a bump on a log. With his handicap there is little he can do in the big world but lots he can do in his little world and DES helps him realize that. It makes my heart happy to see him happy and chattering about his friends. This has been a blessing to my whole family.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday

Veterinarians. My dogs are part of our family. I am grateful The Lord has given some the gift with medicine and animals that I can take my dogs in and they can give them check ups and vaccines and cut their nails... I am grateful some have that talent and knowledge. The Lord loves all of us, including the animals He gave us. He takes care of them too.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday

Crayons. Bless the person The Lord inspired to make crayons. Crayons kept a 2, 3 and 5 year old entertained for a long time today so I could get some things done. They enjoyed creating and making colors and it was awesome. Such a simple thing yet it means so much to them. I love it. The Lord put so many things down here to entertain and to beautify. Crayons help with that and it keeps His children happy. Win, win.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday

My children are terrified of the dark. As in night terrors, wake up screaming, hysterical afraid of the dark. I am so grateful that The Lord put it into someone's head to make night lights. I love them. This house would not function without them. I will also admit to being afraid of the dark. I have conquered the irrational fear I had when I was younger but I still am not fond of it so I am sure my parents are also grateful for night lights. I looked at my sons night light as I tucked him in tonight and I am just glad it's there. So another simple, usually overlooked blessing that I thought of today.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday

A gift in my life that I have thought about a lot today is a another gift The Lord gave the whole world. I love the Book of Mormon. From a young age its words have given me strength and comfort, even before I could understand the meaning of the passages. There are many 'Get to know you' papers that I have filled out and every one has favorite book as the Book of Mormon. I am so grateful for its miraculous preservation and for it coming forth in this dispensation that I can gain so much from its pages. Although it is a gift from The Lord to everyone, I am grateful that The Lord gives me individual insight and comfort as I read it. This in itself is God's hand in my life daily.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday

I know I blog a lot about my family but that is because The Lord has blessed me with some great people in my family. Today I am very blessed to have a brother in law who is so sweet and gentle. He always is willing to help whenever I ask and he does so cheerfully (unless it is in the morning. Then he is like me, you take your life into your own hands) He made it possible for me to accompany RJ on a run he had to do tonight for work. I always stress when he goes by himself. Especially after he came up after a would be robber tried to break into the warehouse where he works. I was relieved to go with him and make sure he got home safe. Michael came last minute and sat with our kids while they were in bed. I am so grateful for his willingness to serve his family. I am grateful for his sweet spirit and his gentle ways. The Lord made Michael one of a kind and I am so blessed that I get to call him my brother.

God Loves You!

Heather

November is here

I am grateful for a good dentist. The Lord has given many gifts and I believe the gift to heal and to practice medicine effectively is from The Lord. I believe my dentist has it. He is very good and has kept my families teeth healthy. I am grateful The Lord led me to him one painful Friday long ago. He has continued to be to my teeth and even feels bad for my little son when he gets so scared he throws up on him. He has never made my son feel bad and has continued to love him. He is a great man and I am grateful for others like him.

God Loves You!

Heather

Halloween

Today I am grateful for the comfort and love The Lord helps us to express through hugs. I know the first thing The Lord will do when He sees us again is wrap us in a hug. I am grateful that He put it into our heads down here and He lets us express so much in just a simple action. RJ has been out of town and got home today. The first thing he did was give me a great big hug and I just feel the stress leave and I can feel how much he missed me and how happy he is to be home and how much he loves me. It is amazing the power that is in one simple action. So here is to the day when we can all feel that same stress release/being missed/happy/love feeling when we are wrapped in the arms of our Savior and are home again.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday too

A great blessing in my life is the Relief Society. I have learned a lot from the sisters I have come in contact with over the years. I am grateful for the message of charity and compassion they give. Woman have so much they offer the world and the Relief Society gives an outlet for some who would otherwise not know how to use their gifts. I love the organization and I know The Lord works very closely with the sisters and He takes an active role in the lives of women who let Him. He loves women and wants them to rise to their full potential. I am grateful for the friends I have made and for the opportunity I have to be a part of such a great group of sisters. I know The Lord loves and blesses woman, so I know He blesses me :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday too

Today my husband got his associates degree though work of a miracle. He has had the credits for a long time and we finally need to get his diploma and he thought it might be too late. Through a few little instances where we were given the right info at the right time and by the very grace of God, my husband now has a degree. I am so proud of him for all his work and sacrifice. It has been a fight to get this far and I am so happy for him! I am grateful for an ever present Father who watches and helps His children continually. I am grateful for Him prompting those who could help on how to help.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday too

Today I am grateful for the stubborn bone The Lord gave me. Sometimes, okay most times, it gets me in trouble but I am grateful for it when I need to do something and have no no motivation at all. The Lord gave me a 'I will go. I will do!' Stubborness that makes me get off the couch and on that treadmill, our do the dishes, or put in some laundry. Way too stubborn to be idle.  So I am grateful for the little voice that won't let me rest until a task is done.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Sunday

Today I am grateful for plumbing. As I was bathing my kids today and showering myself, I was so grateful for the ability to get clean quickly and easily. I take this blessing for granted all the time. I am so grateful The Lord put it into someone's head how to work it all out so that I have running water in my home that I can even heat and have warm water with the turn of a handle. I really am spoiled with this convenience. I am also grateful that I live in a county and situation where I get this privilege.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Saturday

Today I am grateful for a fun family. The Lord blessed me with a fun husband and fun kids. We dressed up in our Halloween costumes for pictures today so we don't have to stress about the pictures on Halloween and so I don't get upset if the kids mess up their costumes at school parties before I can take a picture (if you know me you know I am a pictureaholic and am always taking pictures, a MUST) I put together all our costumes from pieces so we have the best Legend of Zelda costumes. I could be biased :) With help from both my moms with their sewing talent and my husbands talent at making things and my talent for finding things on eBay, we looked rather fetching I think. I digress.... So what I was saying is The Lord gave me a family that was just as excited to wear their costumes as I was to see them in them (except RJ and the tights, he HATES when I make him wear tights....) It means a lot to me to be able to have fun and play with my family so I thank The Lord for a playful family that loves me.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Friday

Today I am grateful for prayer. It brings peace to my heart to know I can turn to my Father in Heaven whenever I want to. One time a day, five times a day, twenty times a day-He is always there. I am sure I get boring or whiny but I know He listens. I did not have anything major I needed to say today but I am so glad I have that constant communication and I am glad He lets me know He is listening. I can feel His love wrap around me as I pray. In times of major trail or in times of peace I know He is there.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Thursday

Beautiful fall. The Lord has given us so much beauty to behold in the changing of seasons. Fall is my favorite. I love the colors and the crisp air. I am so grateful to The Lord for loving me so much that He gave me this beautiful world to live in and to enjoy. Today I enjoyed fall.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Wednesday

A blessing we all share from The Lord is the good men and women who are willing to lay down their lives on our behalf. I am so grateful that The Lord supports and sustains these brave men and women everyday that we can have a free country that is lawful and as safe as they can make it. I had the oppurtunity to tour our city police station today and was overcome with the sense of duty these great people have and how much they care for us and our families. They sacrifice so much that we may feel safe. Law and order is the Lord's way of doing things and I am so grateful for the courage and the strength He gives to His children so that they may protect those who may not be able to protect themselves. So to those who protect us and our cities and our states and our country, THANK YOU!
And I thank The Lord for His wisdom in setting up programs to protect His children and for His constant watch and care for those who need to enforce it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Tuesday

I am grateful for sweet spirits The Lord sends to be in my life. I have so many of them. Individuals that just make me happy to be around. I know that they love me and I know I love them. They make life better. Some in my life are family, some are friends. Just being with them sometimes makes me feel at ease with wherever I am at in life. Sometimes it even feels as if life slows down and nothing is as important as being with that person right then. Whether all these great people are here to help me or I help them or we help each other does not matter to me. I am just grateful they are here. The Lord knows me and He knows who to send to love me. I am grateful for that Parental love.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Monday

Today I am grateful for The Lord giving me the gift of cooking. I am no expert but my family will eat and enjoy what I cook. He also has given me a good set of taste buds and a recipe from a book usually gets Heatherized. When I make a new dish RJ always teases me by saying, "So what will you do next time?" He knows I usually don't leave a recipe as is. I also make my own off of taking some and mixing them. I love to cook (and eat) and I am so grateful for the gift I have to love it AND do it well. The Lord has blessed me richly with that. If only it was good for my waist line....

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday, again

I am always amazed at how one scripture or one thought can open up a principle to you. You can hear lectures and read books about the subject and hear talk after talk but in one moment, one quiet moment The Lord opens your eyes when reading one verse or one paragraph and the light goes on. This happened to me today during sacrament meeting while studying about the Holy Ghost. This is a subject that is well talked about and I have heard many lessons and such on it. But when reading two verses in the Book of Mormon I grasped a principle and then when reading a quote I grasped another. I am so grateful that The Lord still speaks to His children and we can still receive our own inspiration so that we can continue line upon line, precept upon precept.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday, again

Today I am grateful for the cuteness of children. I may be biased :), but I have 4 adorable children. The Lord has blessed me with cute little stinkers. In some ways it is a blessing for them because that is what keeps them from being grounded or in time out for eternity. So the blessing works both ways :). Seriously though, countless times today my heart has melted at something they said or something they did. Whether acting there age or not they have a way of driving me up the wall or driving me to my knees in gratitude. I am very blessed to have them and I am honored The Lord trusts me enough that I can be called 'Mom'

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday, again

Miracles still happen. Today my daughters life was saved by a miracle. My youngest was in the play pen when one of her siblings, who weighs over double what she does, fell into the play pen. Hard. My youngest was not even touched. The older one fell in such a way (which by all laws of physics should not have happened) that she took up all the rest of the space in this little play pen. And as some of you know, my children are good stock. They are not small so this was a miracle. The Lord saved my youngest when her 3 year old sibling decided to do something against the rules. I am so grateful for an extra pair of Eyes and Hands when I need them. That comforts me to know He is always there for me AND everyone else.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday, again

This may sound silly but I am grateful today for the Lords protection of my material things. To go a little deeper, a few times I have almost dropped something. Well, to be perfectly honest the things should have dropped and shattered. No question in my mind that they would have broken and caused a safety issue plus, well my stuff would have been broken. But it felt as if time slowed down and gravity clocked out a minute and I could catch them or soften their fall. It was really weird but I am not complaining. I was very grateful every time. So today He saved some of my stuff when I was actually paying attention and can give Him the credit. I know it was not me who did it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday, again

Family support is what makes this life easier than it could be. I am so grateful that I have that. I know many who don't. They have good friends who help out but I have good friends and great family. I have been so blessed with goodly parents and great parents-in-love. The Lord brought me to a great man who shared his loving family with me. Add that to the already awesome parents I have and tell truth, I am spoiled rotten by both. I hope I am as much support and help to them as they are to me. So my reminder today is that The Lord provided me with the exact family I needed to be happy. I love how things work out :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday, again

I got a little insight today I believe came from The Lord. Sometimes I am not as stellar as I should be at doing everything I am supposed to. I fall behind in my daily study, I yell when I should speak softly, I hold grudges. Then I am blessed with something I need out of the blue and I think 'Why? I am not being the most obedient.' Well, today I believe I got part of the why. I may falter but I sure try and give my all. And when I do, I do it with a glad heart. With joy. I love The Lord. I love the gospel. I love to keep the commandments. I think I am blessed (I think this applies to everyone) not just by my actions but by my attitude. I believe He blesses me somedays because I may not be perfect but I sure do enjoy trying to get there. Obedience gets rewarded but I believe obedience with a smile and a happy heart gets rewarded more fully. So smile!

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday, again.

I don't know what I have done right today but I have felt an abundance of the Lord's spirit. I have felt many promptings and have felt my patience lengthened beyond my limit. I have felt a peace and joy that I normally don't have with me. While teaching FHE this evening I felt again The Lord leading me as to what to say. I did not even have to pause, the words just flowed and it was really wonderful. So, for some reason The Lord walked beside me today. I may never know in this life why I needed it today but I enjoyed every minute of it.

God Loves You!

Heather

Fast Sunday

Today I am so grateful for the testimony I have of the mercy of God and His second chances. Today as I was listening to fast and testimony meeting (part of the LDS Sunday service on the first Sunday of the month. Today is not the first Sunday but our General Conference was so we did our fast Sunday today) I felt the spirit whisper to me again that Joe was being taken care of and that he was in much more merciful hands then down here. That he was loved and he was being taken care of. I am so grateful for that. I needed that. The Lord knows each of us and He knows when we need to hear from Him.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday

Today was one of those days that seemed so laid back. We got tons done but at a speed that was normal. Every time I wanted to stress about something The Lord just whispered in my ear that it really did not matter when it got done, to just enjoy the day and time I had with all my family. I did just that and guess what? The day was full of no yelling and time outs. It was full of fun and smiles and family. For anyone who knows me when I have project or task I only have one speed - keep up or get out of my way (mostly get out of my way, I go faster alone). So to kinda waltz through the day and to not be concerned about the look of this or that and to just enjoy the act of doing something instead of just enjoying it being done... It was nice. I know me and I know I will still have my Get Out Of My Way days but The Lord taught me something today I hope I keep with me. Not all the tasks got checked off but the major things got done and everyone had a good day. The Lord wants me to enjoy the journey and not just what I accomplished at the end. No matter how much I get done, it will mean nothing without happy memeories and happy people to be there with me when I get done.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday

Family. I have seen many times today that The Lord has nudged me and reminded me how important family is and how much we need each other. Lunch with my mom, aunt and cousin; conversation about family that has passed on and what they were like with my mother while she cut my hair; dinner with my Mimi and having her here with us; sleepovers with aunt and uncle for my children. Family is the reason we are here. I love my family and am so grateful for them and ALL they do for me. I would not be who I am if not for all the great people in my life that I can not only call my family but am honored to call them my friends.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday

A sense of humor, in my opinion, is much needed to make it through this life. The Lord has granted me a good sense of humor and a family that can shine a humorous light on things. I am very grateful for this. It makes my days lighter and keeps my children alive. Today I am grateful for the humor The Lord lets me see in small things so the big things don't look so imposing.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday

NOT going in for jury duty. Yes, I see that as a sign of God's hand. I love my country and I think trial by an unbiased jury of your peers is the best way we have on earth. I also don't mind doing my civic duty and serving on said jury. So when I was summoned I did not mind. But this week I have developed a head cold and was not looking forward to having to decipher truth from error when I had a hard time deciphering what was happening in MY life. So when I called tonight and they said the case I had been summoned for had been settled and I did not need to report to the court house I breathed a sigh of relief. I did not feel up to deciding anyone's fate when I just wanted to take a nap. So I am grateful for small but tender mercies.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday with a birthday

The Lord is constantly reminding me that all my children are different and need to be handled as such. Today my little firecracker turned 3. Again The Lord reminded me just how fun she can be and how adorable. And He reminded me that though I need to celebrate every inch if growth and not dwell in the past, she will only be 'twee' for a little while. Everyday with my children is a new experience. Some quiet and tender, some not so much but each different. My cousin has a saying that I just love - days are long but the years are short. The Lord gave me these precious spirits to watch over and to teach but also to learn from and to love every minute. 3 years ago The Lord gave me the gift of life. A little bundle of life that gives meaning to my life. He has blessed me with that 4 times. With each bundle He is giving two lives a chance, theirs and mine.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday Monday

I am grateful tonight for the Lord's counsel to hold Family Home Evening or FHE. I really enjoy the time we set aside each week to teach our children. We teach small and simple concepts right now that are age appropriate like bullying, nice words, obedience, proper prayer language, who you are, etc...
These simple principles hold so much power and every time we teach, we learn. These simple things need to be taught to adults more often than they are. Some adults need to go back to the basics of being nice and not bullying, using kind words, talking to our Father in Heaven like He is a real Father and not just going through the motions. My children amaze me with their sweet and innocent insight into things some adults have not grasped yet. I know that FHE is inspired and I am so grateful The Lord chose to let us know.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday

I married a great man. Today he kept the kids so I could sleep in as I have not been feeling well. I am so grateful to The Lord for helping him become the man that he is and also I am grateful The Lord led me to him. He is perfect for me and is everything that I always dreamed of. This is a time The Lord literally made my dream come true. I love him with all I have and am grateful I get him for all eternity.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday

Everyone has a conference story, I think, were they felt the speaker was speaking just for them. Well, today I felt that way. Elder Holland looked right into the camera and said one line and I felt the Lord said it right to me. I am so grateful for modern day inspiration and for prophets today. I am so grateful that we can listen and know the Lords will concerning us. The Lord still speaks to His people today. There is still a God in Israel.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday

We went to the zoo today. I love animals! The Lord knew what He was doing when He made so many beautiful, interesting, totally awesome animals for us to enjoy. It was so fun to see the differences and similarities and to watch them play and interact and just be. I am so grateful He gave us companionship in the form of animals and for having a safe place like the zoo to see them.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday and Thursday

Sorry, I was out of town and not with internet last night so tonight I will post for both days.

Yesterday The Lord blessed me with the oppurtunity to go up to the mountains and witness all the beauty of the change of season. I love the beauty of fall and the best place to see it is in the mountains with all those wonderful trees changing color. Another testament to me of Gods love for His children by surrounding them with such beauty!

Today, more accurately this morning, the good Lord saved all our camping stuff from getting wet by turning the down pour of rain to snow. The snow did not soak through our tent as the rain was trying to and so our stuff was saved. I prayed the rain would stop and we would all stay dry. I expected something different but it DID stop, our stuff was saved, we stayed dry and got some sleep and we got to see a beautiful snow fall in October. Prayers are answered.

God Loves You!

Heather

October has arrived

Today I am grateful for being able to stay at home. I get to stay at home with my children everyday. I get to walk them to school and pick them up. I am the last they see before they go in and the first they look for when they come out. The Lord has provided the way that we can survive with me being home. I am so grateful for that oppurtunity to be there for them.

God Loves You!

Heather

A whole month!

The Lord has blessed us with so much technology. I am grateful today for being able to FaceTime. Having to use the technology sometimes makes me sad but The Lord has made it so I can speak to loved ones and see their face as I talk. It is almost like having them there.

After writing these for a whole month I am looking back and seeing how blessed I am. And all these posts are just one event in my day that I am writing about. I could write many some days of all the love and blessings I feel. I am truly blessed. Everyday. Every month. Every season. What have you been blessed with today?

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday, rest

To capture a memory with a picture is amazing. I love pictures and could be addicted to them but there is a comfort and a spirit about pictures. You can relieve some events or you can see someone who has passed on. Love pictures. Today I am so grateful The Lord blessed the world with such technology. We went through some of Joe's pictures and I am grateful to have that connection.

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday with hope

We had beautiful weather for the grave side service today. It was perfect and it made the whole service even more beautiful. The Lord poured out His spirit and comforted our tender hearts. I am so grateful for the weather to set the mood and bring some light into our darkened thoughts. The Lord showed me that there will always be light even when the world feels it all should be dark. There is always hope and there is always love. There is no end. I did not say goodbye today but see you later.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday with Hope

I am so grateful to have been blessed with so many good people in my life, some family and some family by choice. The outpouring of love and support that me and my family recieved today as we celebrated Joe's life with an open house was so great. The Lord has blessed me beyond words in this hard time and He has truly sent me angels to bare me up and be round about me.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday with love

Today my parents celebrated 40 years of marriage. The Lord has blessed me with goodly parents and they have given all they have to me and my siblings. They have been a place of refuge and security for me. So today I celebrate the blessing of love The Lord has given me which started with two people falling in love over 40 years ago.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday with hope

Grass. Beautiful green grass. We put the sod down and The Lord has sent lots of rain and cool temps that our grass is beautiful! The kids got to play on it the first time tonight and the dogs finally got their backyard back. It was fun to see. Made my heart happy to hear their laughs  and see the dogs running around like mad because of joy. The Lord blessed us with grass to play on. The beauty of nature is awe inspiring but tonight I am grateful for plain simple grass.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday with hope

Sometimes The Lord sends His peace and comfort not by heavenly angels but by ones here on earth. He has sent me many in the last few days in the form of family and friends. Today I got a card from my Mimi and it was just what I needed. I felt love and peace. I have been so blessed and am so grateful for those angels and for them listening to those promptings that make our lives a little happier  and a little easier.

God Loves You!

Heather

Monday with hope

It is so weird when something traumatic happens you expect everyone to know and act different. You expect the world to be different. It just keeps going and people keep working and birds keep singing and children keep playing. I don't know why I am so surprised by how normal life continues to be. Today went by like a normal day but only because of the added protection I am receiving. Any time a sad or negative thought would start to form it was almost like a hand was placed over my heart to protect it and peaceful thoughts would flow. The Lord has sent me the comforter in abundance. I am filled with hope for Joe and I am filled with excitement to see him again. He is not gone. Just gone on ahead.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday with a rain cloud

The Lord sent us an angel (in the form of our cousin) to save pictures that were on a computer in Joes apartment. This computer had video he had taken which is the only video that exists that has his voice or face. This meant a lot to my family as we did not know he even had such things on this computer. He has not used it in years. Our cousin got us the info and I now have it saved and have shared it with my family. He not only gave our cousin this talent with computers but he sent him to us so he could help us on our time of need. And it's not the first time he has helped us with his technical talent. How blessed we both are :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday with a rain cloud

Today we cleaned Joe's apartment. I could feel the strength of my Savior as I went into his apartment and starting going through his stuff, his life. My mother also was a rock. I felt peace that at least he was out of pain and no longer alone. The Lord sent us the comforter in our time of need. I will miss him but the knowledge that I will see him again and that he was welcomed home has brought me peace and strength to carry on. That has come from my Father.

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday with a rain cloud

By the grace and goodness of God I have hope. I have hope of a forever. I have hope of forgiveness. I have hope of change for good in any individual. Today I have held on to that hope that The Lord has blessed me with. He has helped me to see it and has given me peace today that it is real. As real as the sun that rises and the Son that laid down and rose that we can live again, we can be together again. Hope.

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday with a rain cloud

Today has been a very sober day for me. I lost someone very close to me. I have felt my Savior by me and my family today as we work through something very tragic. He has poured an abundance of His spirit our way and I am grateful. I am grateful for the priesthood and eternal families. This is not goodbye Joe. Just see you in another time. A better time. You are finally free and can rest now. See you soon.

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday again

Today I read Winnie the Pooh to my son. I thoroughly enjoyed his little head on my shoulder and his wonderful laugh as I read silly bits and did voices. I realized that I have been blessed so much. I can see. I can read. I can understand what I read and comunicate that to others. The Lord blessed me with these things so that today I could spend a moment with my son that will be in my heart forever. How often I forget how blessed I am. The Lord reminded me of that simple thing today. I can read. That is a great blessing. And it will bless me forever.

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday again

Taking care of a baby is not always easy. They cannot communicate in our language and its not always easy to pick up on their body language. They cry and flop about for most things. I have not found that they do a certain flop or such things for different agitations. It is sometimes hard to decifer what they want. As a mother you run down the check list - are they hungry, is their diaper full, are they tired, is the tag in their shirt driving them crazy? Well today as I was taking care of our youngest sometimes when she cried it would just pop into my head what was wrong and I would be right first try. As I thought about my other three and when they were babies this would happen with them as well. Now sometimes I still did struggle and went through the whole list and still could not get them to calm down but sometimes a thought would pop in and be right. I realized today that a most times this thought did not come from me. The Lord loves all His children and I am sure He sees momma getting frustrated and baby not happy. He knows what's wrong. I know He whispers to me how to calm that baby at that moment. I remember nights of walking the floor and and at my wits end and begging for help and the answer coming so clear and it being something so off the wall but that's what was wrong. Like the tag on a pair of PJs. The Lord gave us these special bundles. He did not send instructions with them because we can go to the maker at any time and find solutions. I love His hands on Fathering so to speak. He speaks for those who can't. I have seen the same apply for my brother who is special needs and sometimes can't quite communicate what he needs. The Lord knows and when I listen He tells me. I need ALL the help I can get and I am so grateful for parenting help.

God Loves You!

Heather 

Monday again

During FHE tonight I had the lesson. As I taught I felt The Lord guiding me as to what to say at the end to my children. I had not planned on saying what I did. I was instructed to tell them (concerning bullies and general mean people) that only 3 things mattered. 1st, their Heavenly Father loves them. 2nd, daddy and I would always love them and they could always come home to us. 3rd, what the mean people said was not true and did not matter. Only point 1 and 2 did. And that's what we all need to remember. We are loved by our Father and by our family (sometimes not immediate but family by choice) and that what the mean people say does not matter. When Moses was confronted by Satan after speaking with The Lord he had the strength to tell him to get lost because he knew he was a Son of God and that he was loved. He could see satan for the miserable person he was because he had that knowledge. It's the same with us. We have that knowledge. We are all children of God and God loves us. We don't need to listen to mean people. They don't matter. Only those who are kind and love us do. This was a lesson I taught my children but that my Father whispered to me because I needed it too. Maybe so do you :)

God Loves You!

Heather

My birthday!

So today we celebrated the day I was born. That in and of itself is Gods Hand in my life. He gave me life. He has sustained my life to where I could be here, happy with a great family and loving friends. He has blessed me with a healthy body and a strong mind. He grants me daily breath, He gives me hope to go on. We celebrate the miracle of life with every birthday and that miracle is a direct gift from our Father. Enjoy your birthdays, your miracles, and your life!

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Saturday

Yay for rain! I know many people have been praying for rain and I saw today as an answer to that. I also saw it as much needed help for the new sod we laid. The weather has been cool and wet. We have been so blessed in all this. So not only do I feel personally blessed but I think The Lord is blessing others with this weather too. What a time saver!

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Friday

The Lord has blessed me with a great family and I got to spend time with some of them today. We had a great time doing a craft and just having a good time. Family time was wonderful today.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Thursday

Today as I was saying my morning prayers I was concerned over a couple things which The Lord and I have conversed about but I was just a bit worried. I felt an overwhelming feeling of peace and I just got the strong impression that we would always be taken care of. If I do my bit and live how He has asked me to then He will fulfill His promise and take care of us. My favorite scripture goes along with it and comes to my mind almost daily. It's 2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." I am so grateful that in any matter I am troubled with, whether of material or spiritual consequence, He listens. He cares and He helps anyway He can for our benefit. I just felt Him say, "Be of good cheer and do not fear. I am over all." So grateful for open communication with my Father.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Wednesday

Things fell into place today that I got to go to the temple with my Mom. Last year my Momma was diagnosed with cancer. She went through painful chemo for almost six months. She lost her hair. She lost weight, she lost time but never gave up the fight. The Lord helped our family in more ways than I can count during that time. My mother was an invalid part of the time because of her treatment. It was a hard time but He was there every step. He let her live. She has been cancer free since last June.  That is a gift to me everyday I get to see her. Today I got to go and sit with her in His very House and feel and see and just be happy with her. That is a gift that almost wasn't. Today He reminded me of that gift and I am so grateful.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Tuesday

Today our dumb dog (Lady) got out of the fence and decided to go a visiting. Well I was going to let her stay out there because she is a little brat but thought better of it because she is our dog and even if she is a brat she is part of our family. I could not go looking for her with all my 3 younger ones in tow so what to do? I felt prompted to open the big blinds in our living room, which I rarely do, and I felt prompted to do it NOW. I listened and stopped what I was doing and opened them. The side ones were open so I felt kinda dumb opening the big one for no reason but up it went. From only the big window could I see our little Lady walking around on the neighbors grass. I opened our front door and called and in she ran. The Lord knew I could not chase her down. He knew she needed to be taken care of and could have been easily hurt out there with how little she is. The Lord cares for that little Mutt (an affectionate name RJ has given her) and He let me know how to find her and quickly. I am glad I listened. She is a little brat but she is our little brat.

God Loves You!

Heather

Another Monday

Today The Lord reminded me how special my Mimi is. We went to take her some muffins and as I was sitting with her and visiting and just feeling the love she radiates, The Lord whispered softly to me how blessed I am to have such a choice lady in my life. She is such a Christ like person and to be able to see her and visit with her so often, I am blessed. My life has been enriched and will continue to be because of the love and charity of this women. I love my Mimi and am so grateful The Lord directed me to this family so I can have her forever.

God Loves You!

Heather

Sunday

I got the opportunity to teach Sunday school today with RJ. The Lord blessed me with His spirit that I  was not nervous and I could say and direct the discussion how He wanted it I think. He blessed RJ with the same. The lesson went well and I felt an abundance of His spirit. Since the title was Our Father in Heaven I think He really would have been there :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Saturday

The Lord sent angels in the form of neighbors and family to help us lay the sod in our yard. We got it done in an hour and a half. The weather was perfect and after we laid it and got a new fence built for the dogs He opened the heavens and wet the sod til we were at the rodeo, then we got perfect weather for a fun night there. We were spoiled today by The Lord :)

God Loves You!

Heather

Friday

Patience. I was granted patience today that was beyond my own in a few instances. Boy did I need it! No one likes a grump!

God Loves You!

Heather

Thursday

Today The Lord reminded me that the scriptures are alive! Each time I read I get a new understanding of something or I get a better handle on things. I feel the same spirit but I feel it work through me differently. Sometimes peace, sometimes joy, sometimes sadness for sin but always I feel how alive and changing but unchanging they are. It's hard to explain but today He reminded me of that in a quiet voice as I read. They are for me and they are for you. A gift that people protected with their very lives as it was so precious. Some even lost their lives. Enjoy His gift!

God Loves You!

Heather

Wednesday

Today The Lord reminded me of one of the many reasons why I married my husband. My sweetheart sent me a sweet email and I received another witness that I married the perfect man for me and that our lives together will be eternal, no matter what happens to our physical bodies in this life. We are bound together by The Lord and He just gave me a gentle reminder of that. So grateful for the sealing power!

God Loves You!

Heather

Tuesday

I was so tired today from all the yard work yesterday that I had a hard time getting things done. I prayed for strength this morning and as I was going about my day I could actually feel another source coaxing me and pushing my body, helping me get from one task to the next. Today The Lord gave me strength far beyond my own.

God Loves You!

Heather

Labor Day

Today was Labor Day. Today I saw the Lords hand in a lot that we did but I will write about the weather. It rained just when we needed it to and stayed moist throughout the day which was great for us as we were tiling the backyard. The breeze was pleasant and the rain felt great while digging and tiling. The Lord blessed us with the perfect weather :)

God Loves You!

Heather

A new month, fresh start

Hello. My name is Heather. I have started this blog more for me than for anyone else but I hope maybe it will touch someone's heart and maybe help them too. My blog posts will hopefully be daily. They may be one word, one sentence, one paragraph or a whole page. I am going to look back on my day and write about one way I saw the Lord's hand in my life. As I said, this is more for me so I can have a quiet moment each day to look back and see how I am loved. One of my spiritual leaders said,

"Before I would write, I would ponder this question: “Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today?” As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done." (2007 October General Conference, O Remember, Remember, Sun. Morning Session - Henry B. Eyring)

So here I am at the start of a new month and I decided now would be a good time to start keeping track of such things but I feel impressed to share them with you, whoever you may be. So I hope you enjoy my posts and maybe they make you think back on your day and ask the same question, "Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch me or my children or my family today?"

Today it is early but I have already felt a prompting about a problem we are having with a family member. An answer to part of the problem came to my mind as clear as if someone had said it out loud. I know The Lord spoke to my mind as He loves this family member and He wants this family member to understand a certain principle that will help him in life. I am grateful that The Lord takes such a personal interest in our lives and not only helps us but shows us ways that we might help others.

Please enjoy your sabbath and I hope in some way today you feel His love. God Loves You!

Heather