"If you have a mom, there is nowhere you are likely to go
where a prayer has not already been."
~Robert Brault
I was thinking about the myriads of things I have learned from my own mother and the many things my own children have taught me. I was also thinking about many other women who have taught me so much by sharing their talents, their testimony, their love of the gospel. So many people have made such a huge impact on my life and I am greatful to all of you. But today, I am especially grateful for my mother and my children. I am so grateful for all that they have taught me, some lessons were hard learned, others taught by example and love and caring.
My mother taught me the value of hard work. She raised four children, kept up a home and garden in the valley and the same up at the dryfarm in the hills of southeast Idaho. She taught me how to cook (for a crowd), to can, to garden, to take care of a home and family. She shared with me her love and appreciation for the beauty of this world and she has a wonderful talent for capturing that beauty in oil paintings. She taught me to work hard, then have lots of fun. I am grateful for all the fun times we have had (and still do) camping, water skiing, swimming, playing cards and having Easter picnics on the living room floor when the weather was inclement outside. My parents taught me to be a person of honor and integrity. They are wonderful examples of good and honorable people. Thank you! I love you both!
And Mother Irene ~as seen from here, Mothers never get to retire! I so love how you LOVE life , love to laugh, and make us laugh! How you enjoy each moment, care deeply for those around you, and take such a keen interest in everyone you meet. We love your stories, your great sense of humor, your Joie de Vivre!
And my children, you have taught me so many things, I couldn't begin to list them all, but here are a few:
Arianne, you have taught me that Miracles Happen! The Lord hears and answers prayers. He Lives and loves us. You have shown me what tenacity, hard work and never giving up can accomplish. You have taught me to never set limits on what we can do with the Lord's help.
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| Arianne, Nathanial, James, Will and Charlie |
Cori, you have taught me the joy and exuberance of life and living it to the fullest. You have taught me about the importance of forgiving, the power of repentance and trying again, the joy and peace of making a new start. You have shown me how to work hard to make your dreams come true and to cheer others on to victory with enthusiasm and energy!
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| Jesse, Grant, Cori, Eden and Grace |
Brittany, you have taught me the power of following your dreams, and working hard to reach your goal. I have watched you run on, despite painful injuries, to finish the race you have begun. You have taught me the joy of giving your all, the courage to try new things, the wisdom to follow the promptings of the spirit. The challenge and joy in doing difficult things, whether it is jumping from the highest cliff and climbing the steepest rock face or delaying a successful career and choosing to be a full time mother.
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| Ashton, Cory, Brittany and Hunter |
Damien, you have taught me so many things by your kind example of patience, love and forebearing. You have taught me how to give your all to those you love, to sacrifice, to work hard, then to play hard. You have taught me about the sheer joy of enjoying the moment and living life to the fullest. You have taught me the power of priorities and doing what is right, at the right time.
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| Kourtni, Jacob, Sydni, Allyson, Damien, Mason and Danielle |
Ethan, you have taught me to have faith, to trust in the Lord and to know that His plan for us is the best plan of all. You have taught me the importance of the Atonement in our lives, the importance of continual learning, reading, and improving our life each day. You've taught me to take a few moments to enjoy that beautiful sunset, glorious sunrise, children's laughter or breathtaking beauty in our back yard.
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| Ethan, Megan and Joshua |
Tiffany, you have taught me to "give it your best shot" at whatever we do. To only compete against our own self and improve upon what we do, while cheering on all those around us. You've taught me to keep on trying, even when it hurts and is painful. You've taught me to enjoy the rainy days as well as the sunshine and to dance in the rain. You've taught me to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way and live life to the fullest.
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| Brett and Tiffany |
Napoleon Bonaparte was asked once, "What would help France the most? He replied, "Mothers."
