Missing my kids

So I have been at Young Womens' camp with the girls at church since Tuesday. The adventures of the week deserve their own post which may or may not happen on this blog, but I wanted to blog about my coming home.

I was so excited to see Brian today. I always do better when we are together. Also, the kids have been with their Grandma and Grandpa for a week. How grateful I am that they are willing to help, and they also plan so many fun things. I have been hearing about their adventures non stop since they got home.

The main purpose of this post is to share something sweet that my Liz wrote for me. She made me a wonderful little book, wrapped it up so cute and tied it with a red ribbon. She even did the curly trick that I do with scissors and curling ribbon. The last page of the book said this:

The Joy of a Mother

The joy of a mother is your always there.
The joy of a mother is of me you care.
The joy of a mother is your big warm hug.
The joy of a mother is like a big soft rug.
The joy of a mother is you help me out.
The joy of a mother is your never to loud.
The joy of a mother I want you to know.
The joy of a mother I LOVE YOU SO!

This from the wonderful young lady who made matching bracelets so that we can each wear one throughout our week away and not forget each other. Needless to say, that tears that have been close to the surface all week flowed pretty freely.

Oh, I love having my kids home.

Pride and Prejudice

It wasn't until about 4 years ago that I was finally able to get through Pride and Prejudice. I have  seen snippets of the movie, but had never sat through all of that either. But once I finally read it, I was hooked, and I rewarded myself by enjoying all five hours of the A&E version of the movie. I think it would be safe to say that since that time I have been pretty hooked.

Not too long after that I found a Regency dress pattern and also a place that does bonnets. I bought the pattern then, but never could get up the courage to make a dress (I am not much of a seamstress) but this year I asked my friend to help me out and she did a beautiful job. (the only adjustment to the pattern was to the neckline. Now it is much more appropriate.) I love the dress. I feel so fancy when I wear it and I kind of feel like I just stepped out of Regency England. 


Another sweet friend helped me out by doing my hair and taking picture for me. She does an amazing job. And here are a few that I love. Looking at them I feel like I am exploring the grounds at Pemberley.

Brian may think I am weird, but he hasn't said it out loud. He may start to vocalize it if I start wearing my dress every time I watch an Austen movie though.

Feeling Grateful

This past weekend was a big one. Michael was baptized. This is a big deal for us as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. And it was extra special because Michael got to share his special day with so many family members and many friends who were able to attend.

Watching my third child decide to follow Jesus Christ in this way filled my heart to overflowing with joy. Looking back I don't remember much of how I felt the day I was baptized, but I bet it was similar to the excitement and enthusiasm Mike had in his face, eyes, and heart. He was so excited his walk had a little bounce in it. But now that I am the mom I have the added benefit of a little more experience. I realize that all of the best things in my life can be traced back to my baptism, and to my efforts since that time to live what I believe. I know that Michael is on the right path for a life of joy and happiness despite challenges that might come. What more could a mom want for her children?

Mike is such a wonderful boy. He has a strong desire to do what is right and he loves to learn about the scriptures and about Jesus Christ. For me, Mike is a perfect example of why Christ has commanded us to become as little children. I learn so much from him each day.