Simplicity Sunday

Life at Walden Pond

As I attended the Ward Conference today in our Home Ward, and listened to the Relief Society lesson, I was reminded that my goal for the year is holding nicely. Simple. calm, slow down. Those were my goals for 2009, so far, the last week of the month, and I feel a great pleasure in knowing I am still reminded of this very difficult goal in my life. I am a very Do do do person, hardly taking a moment to stop and "smell the roses" so to speak, but as the lesson pointed out, by Elder L. Tom Perry, to earnestly seek ways to simplify our lives, I was reminded it's a goal, that is totally attainable. The wonderful poet Robert Browning's words,
"The best is yet to be" sticks in my mind, and I continue to pause, reflect and heal, as Henry David Thoreau did at Walden Pond many many years ago. The necessities of life are so simple, and very easy to obtain, I will continue, to obey the commandments, that will help me to accomplish is goal.

CHRISTMAS 2008

Vanessa, Bryan, Logan, Rylie, Dylan & Layla



Krystal, Erik, Bailey, Kaitlyn & Matthew




Kevin, Brandi, Ema, Dane, Ella & Abby


Clayton & Kristie

ENJOYED A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS

All the kids came home. what a wonderful surprise some left. We all enjoyed the excitement of the season, with the old traditions, and some new ones. It was great having all home again with their families. I didn't get Christmas Cards out, I didn't get some gifts sent as I normally do, I didn't fix the candies of the past, (but I did try) I didn't buy Kenneth a big expensive gift, I didn't even wear the Santa hat on Christmas Day! BUT.... I along with Ken did host many Christmas Dinners serving over 300+ people, lost count, I(we) did read many Cards of dear friends and family, I(we) did read the account of the babe born in a manger, I (we) did have the most spiritual end to 2008 as you could imagine. I am forever changed with the happenings of the many events which took place. We are so very thankful for all who have taught us to live in the moment, to strive to become more like our Savior and to be grateful for what we do have. We love our family, and would do anything for any one of them. We love our calling in the Church, to serve the Young Single Adults is so wonderful. The new year will take on a whole new meaning, as we finished this year with a very sorrowful ending, that of one of our beloved children. Our dear baby Jack. We send our most heartfelt emotions out to our dear niece Elizabeth and her very sweet family, Adam, and Megan. We love you all, we are here for you, and we will continue to always pray for ways to continue to be faithful for the day we will all be together again, Forever. Regardless of what happens our salvation is secure, if we remain faithful. That is our goal for 2009. Happy New Year to one and all.