Friday, December 26, 2008
Merry Christmas from the Prophet
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Grateful Hearts
Then today, we got a package in the mail from Jason and Kristen. They had sent us some Christmas presents, just because. We were amazed that they did this for us even though everyone agreed not to do presents for siblings this year to cut back on costs. They are such a good example of being willing to share and give to others. They have always been this way. They have taught us so much. We also got a check in the mail from the Robisons. Jill had told me that she wanted to pay for us to go see Twilight because she knew how much I wanted to see it...so she and Aaron gave up a date night to go see it and sent us the money instead. For something that might not seem to be a big deal, it sure was to me. This gesture of kindness showed me how much her family cares about my family and how unselfish and kindhearted they are. I hope someday, I am half the woman Jill is.
Then tonight, we got a loud knock on our door. Jaren opened it briefly, then closed it again. Then I heard him call my name. I went into the other room and he said that someone had left presents for us. He called J.J. and Ryan to get out of bed. When we were all gathered, the kids opened the door. There was a large basket of presents and two smaller gift baskets filled with gift certificates, candies, and other items. I won't go into too much detail, but it was obvious that a lot of thought, money, and effort went into these presents. Someone had gone WAY out of their way to do something very incredible for us. We both couldn't stop crying. I cannot even begin to express what we feel about what has happened today. I went from feeling discouraged and disappointed in society, to feeling overwhelmed by the amazing generosity of others close to us. My intentions for praying that people would feel inclined to help others was not for us to receive that help. But, as always, Heavenly Father answered my prayers in ways that I did not foresee in order to help our family as well as restore my faith in humanity. If by some chance, the people who did this for us ever read this blog, I hope they know just how much they touched our little family. It's not so much the money that they spent on us (although goodness knows it was a lot), it's that someone wanted to share the blessing that our Father in Heaven had given to them, and I'm sure were guided by the Spirit in doing so. We will remember this great kindess for the rest of our lives, and they have provided us with a sterling example of service. As Jaren and I talked about it, we have decided that these are the people we want to emulate. We are trying to rededicate ourselves to service...whether that be with our time, money, talents, or anything else. We want to be the people who give liberally to all and do it with a happy heart. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope that if you have, you will also feel touched to help someone else this season, and for the rest of your lives as well.
Jaren's Birthday - 32!!!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Christmas fun for the boys!!
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