Love the Bliss: March 2011

Thursday, March 24, 2011

What is this Bliss?

I can remember as a little girl dreaming of the day when I would be a mother. I didn't come from a particularly large family but knew that I would have a "bunch" of kids. One of my earliest memories was watching a movie entitled, "Cheaper by the Dozen" with David Niven. I remember that entire family of 12 kids and their parents all around the dinner table and it was crazy! But, with all that chaos around that big table, I knew that's what I wanted. And, sure enough I got it...a gob of kids (although not the 12 I originally wanted) and that chaos that sometimes comes with it. It hasn't always been easy and there have sure been some challenges and tears, but I can't think of a single moment that I would ever want to return or take back. We've become a very disposable society and when things aren't exactly as we thought, or hoped they would be, we're done and we walk away. The moment I became a mother I committed to being the best mother I could be...through thick and thin. It takes work...lots of it. The rough times strengthen us and prepare us for the next rough turn. Challenges are inevitable. My kids know with every fiber in their body that I will be there for them until...forever. My kids, and just the thought of them, bring me my Bliss. I am grateful that God has blessed me with the sacred calling as mother and entrusted me with these beautiful children. I promise to do my best to help them to reach their greatest potential. I am so happy that we are a forever family!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Latest from Elder Dixon

Ian has transferred to Santiago. Today he told me a bit about the city. It's the largest in the mission but second largest in the country. He's been fortunate that every apt/house he's lived in has had running water and plumbing. I think I may have mentioned though that the people in DR don't take hot or even warm showers...it's all cold!! Ian tells them they don't know what they're missing with a nice hot shower. This pic is a reunion of Ian and his first companion...his trainer Elder Tams. He really liked Elder Tams and was glad he got to see him as Elder Tams is heading home after this final transfer. Ian is almost to his year mark...on the 21st it'll be officially one year! He's doing well and has had several baptisms and loves the work. He's reading Jesus the Christ and is encouraging me to read it too. Ian looks good doesn't he!! I'm quite proud of him!

Relatively Inexpensive Pleasurable Addictions

A thought occured to me that a discussion of alternatives to less desireable addictions would be good. I do realize that some pleasures are relative...these are just some of my ideas. A final note is that I believe passions are great! But, all of us need to become the master in bridling all of our passions...or addictions.
Number 1: Chocolate...lets all eat Dark Chocolate! I have heard that it's very healthy to eat a tad everyday! Remember though...just one square a day...and I don't mean a giant chocolate bar square...the itty bitty square that makes up the big one!
Number 2: Run...get outside and run and don't stop until you want. LOVE those endorphins!! So addicting and so much healthier than alternatives. Okay, there is a bit of expense in the beginning because you need a good pair of shoes, and you should probably wear some shorts at least...and a top.
Number 3: Walk...it's not as hard on the knees but as beneficial as running!
Number 4: Read...a good book is downright fun! If you've gotta do something everyday or all night long, reading a good book can do no harm!
Number 5: Lift weights, ultimate frisbee, swim, practice yoga or pilates or any sport! If you gotta do something, exercise...again, those endorphins make you happy!! And, they're free!!
Number 6: Get a hobby...photo books, knitting, crafty stuff, sewing, geneology...whatever...just do it. I realize some of these things will cost some money, but none of them should compromise your health.
Number 7: Hang out with someone you love! Everyday!
Number 8: Eat veggies...or fruits...have them at your disposal all day just to keep from reaching for something not so healthy or that could potentially kill you and your loved ones!
Number 9: Play games...video, internet, gameboy. I've seen some people have a really difficult time tearing themselves away from the TV, computer or whatever device...but, if it keeps you away from serious alternatives that could cause harm, a little or maybe a little more than a little can't kill you. Remember though, too much of a good thing, can be too much! So, limit yourself!
Number 10: Remember that if something is causing you harm, using up all your resources of money, taking you away from things that are good, perhaps it's time to reevaluate your addictions. I think the key is to find pleasure in your addiction and not over-do or abuse it!