Dear to My Heart

Last night, the babies and I went to Ross while waiting for Anthony to get a new phone nearby, which typically takes 57,438 hours. That's okay though, because I like Ross. We circled the aisles over and over, and Landon started to sing, "Follow the prophet, follow the prophet, follow the prophet, don't go a stray!" with much enthusiasm. As embarrassing as it was, I couldn't help but smile, and actually get a little teary eyed. I'm so happy for the gospel in our lives. I'm so, so grateful for all the tools it has given me to help lead my family to Christ.

Landon is a very strong-willed child. He is challenging, but so smart, sensitive, and loving. Lately, I've noticed just how sponge-like our little children are. Landon has been using a particular phrase lately that I'm not perfectly happy with. When I ask him to do something, his first response is, "Stuh minute."
"Pick up your toys, Landon."
"Stuh minute!"
"Come eat breakfast, Landon."
"Stuh minute!"

You get the idea.

After several days of this, I started to become quite frustrated having to wait on him for everything. And then, I realized that is what I sound like. I'm sure he's been frustrated with me! When Landon asks for something; help with a toy, a snack, a book, my time, I'm often preoccupied and respond with, "Just a minute." Despite all of the responsibilities mothers have, I'd really like to become more present for my children. If that means letting the house get a little bit messier than I'd like, so be it.

They really absorb all that we say and do, which can actually be a good thing. It's an opportune time to teach them the values we hold dear.

For the last few weeks, Landon and I have read the Book of Mormon together each night before bed. I wasn't sure how he would do because he's so used to our rhyming books with lots of colorful pictures, but he so looks forward to us reading the Book of Mormon. He'll point to the pictures in the front and tell me who Jesus Christ is, who Joseph Smith is, and then go on and on about Lehi and the liahona (or gold ball, as he likes to call it).

I've noticed a change in our home, since we've started reading together. There is more peace. More understanding. It helps remind me that they are not just my children, but children of God. And I realize what a blessing it is to have them entrusted in my care.

I truly believe that the spirits who have come to this earth in these latter days and those who are being born now, were saved for a special purpose. They are the most brilliant and the most valiant. They will have temptations and challenges that are greater than we've ever had to face. Never in the history of mankind has it been so vital to teach them who they are and what their purpose is.

I've decided to start teaching the boys the Articles of Faith. For Family Home Evening last night, we went over the first, "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and his son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." I'm so excited about it, and I'm so grateful to be a mom. Again, I am so, so thankful for the church and all the tools it has given me to lead and guide my children. My family means everything to me.

I've noticed, I have a lot of new followers on my blog. Some I've met and some I have not, but I'm excited to get to know you. If you are not a Mormon, and have any questions about this post, please see mormon.org. Or feel free to leave me questions in the comment box, or email me at kalisarah88@yahoo.com. My faith is very dear to my heart and I'm more than happy to share it. :)

*Despite all of the crazy things you may have heard, we can drink coke. In fact, Harper loves it!