Being Happy is a Choice!

The moment i entered into this world i was crying! I understand the physical pains i might have received as i entered this mortal existence, but i also believe i was sad because i had to leave my Heavenly Father's presence! I came here to fulfill a personal mission and i agreed to this idea! I know it looked attainable! What i don't remember are the things that would happen to me along the way that would help me to grow and progress! We may have heard at some point in our lives that we gain our strength when things get tough! I know this to be true also! So if i agreed to come to earth, i must have understood God's purpose and plan for me. I couldn't become like Him or enjoy all the blessings He enjoys without the experience of living in mortality with a physical body. With that physical body also comes pain, sickness, and experiencing challenges. I must have understood the plan of happiness to come here. Yes, i said happiness! We are all given our own agency, which is one of God's greatest gifts to His children. Our eternal progression depends on how we use this gift. You mean it's my choice to be happy? Of course! I know that life on earth is a wonderful opportunity and blessing. I know in my own life, especially recently, i've had to humble myself and rely on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I know that the Savior suffered and triumphed over both spiritual and physical deaths. This helps me to endure hard times and fills me with joy, peace and consolation. It's through this incredible gift of the Atonement that we can return to live with our Heavenly Father again. Now, i mentioned we have our agency. It's making those daily choices that can sometimes seem overwhelming. Okay-it's always overwhelming! I've been praying more feverently then i ever have because things seem so challenging, and then it dawned on me that i should be praying this way in good times and it not so good times!! The hymn "I Need Thee Every Hour," comes to mind. In Preach My Gospel i looked up the word patience and it says, "Patience is the capacity to endure delay, trouble, opposition, or suffering without becoming angry, frustrated, or anxious. It is the ability to do God's will and accept His timing. When you are patient, you hold up under pressure and are able to face adversity calmly and hopefully. Patience is related to hope and faith-you must wait for the Lord's promised blessings to be fulfilled." I know that a kind and loving Heavenly Father loves me and wants me to be happy! I also understand that my faith is strengthened as i trust Him during times of difficulty and simplicity! I get to choose happiness! I've had a ton on my mind! I'm just so grateful that I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It's an active religion, it's a way of life. I don't have much time to sit around & feel sorry for myself, but when i do feel this way- i make phone calls or write letters! I've had the wonderful opportunity this past year to serve as president of the Relief Society with a wonderful & divine organization of women. Was i feeling a little uncomfortable with this responsibility? Oh yeah! I just had baby Jerika and had only been in Primary (children's organization) for 10 years! I've learned a tremendous amount from every family! I love you all! I've also learned to smile and genuinely love it! It takes constant effort- and yet I know as i continue to serve with these beautiful women and their families i will continue to learn and love so much more! Now that's happiness!!

I have made the decision (after much research & prayer) to Home school my 5 children! I'm extremely excited about the opportunity. I went to school years ago to be a teacher and feel that now is the time! The Lord knows our desires and our circumstances. It's coming together so well. I'm still looking for support groups out here, and if there aren't any i'd love to create one. The more my kids and I discuss and coordinate our efforts, the more exciting it gets! Justin is so very supportive-he's amazing. He'll help out with much of the science projects, out-door (scouting) events and sports nutrition (P.E.)! My focus in teaching will be built upon the principles of the Gospel. Anything that follows will be on a solid foundation! I'm open to any experiences or wisdom in this area!

Justin has had much on his mind too, regarding our family. He left his construction job a couple weeks ago after being with them for 16 years. The construction industry is facing some very troubled times. We've known this for a while, but again after much prayer and fasting, he felt he needed to move on. He's looking at being more involved in working with people!! He's continually learning leadership skills. He knows he has my support! Many adventures ahead for us! We love you all!

Our dog Viper passed away June 25, 2008.

This picture was taken December 2007, only 6 months before his death.Viper was with us almost 12 years. Justin and i got him when we were dating. He was a big part of our family. He loved it when it rained. In this picture it's raining, & the day he died-just after he was buried it rained really hard!

This picture was taken exactly 2 months before he died. He didn't stand much after this picture because his body was too tired - so this picture is special!
Sire, our puppy is 4 months old in this picture. He loved Viper too!