little miracles.

Before I go any further, thank you soooooo much to everyone for all of your sweet comments and words of encouragement! It's been an overwhelming month to say the least, so it was nice to read through all of your congratulations. Thank you! Some days it feels totally normal that I'm pregnant, and then other days I still have those moments of, "What?!!?? Is this really happening??" It has been a crazy time. Pregnancy is not my favorite thing – but I could definitely have it much worse than I do . Now, when I say that, it doesn't mean I'm not grateful...I know there are many out there who would give anything to be pregnant. My back’s been ‘out’ for almost three weeks and I’ve had more nausea this time than ever before (maybe it’s a boy? :))   And I've especially felt the weight of that this time around while trying to take care of 3 little ones as well as myself. Let's just say that my husband is a lifesaver and the most patient guy ever!! He does way more than his fair share around here, so we are very very lucky girls!! We've had many a laugh about our situation right now...sometimes it's just easier to laugh about it all!

I've been so focused on getting through feeling so blah and just asking myself the constant question, "Can I really take care of 4 children?" that I needed to be reminded of the absolute miracle that having a baby is. I loved all of my hospital experiences and remember the birth of each of my daughters perfectly. It is hard to believe that we'll be having another baby in August, but looking at these pictures of my precious little newborns is giving me something to look forward to.

 

 

Ellie Ashlyn – June 29, 2005

Adelyn Cate – May 25, 2007

Macie Abigail – August 31, 2008

And one of my favorite things ever – when they meet their new sister for the first time (look how stinkin’ little and cute they were back then!).

one little word 2011.

 

Last year I started doing “one little word” for the year (you can read about it here). It was great. Although I didn’t achieve all of my goals 100%, I made some definite progress, and am glad that I did it. This year, my one little word is smaller, and a bit more focused. With life getting even crazier this year, I needed something simple but important. My one little word is 

PRAYER.

According to the Gospel Library:

‘The Lord Jesus Christ commanded, "Ye must always pray unto the Father in my name" As we make a habit of approaching God in prayer, we will come to know Him and draw ever nearer to Him. Our desires will become more like His. We will be able to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that He is ready to give if we will but in faith.’

I can’t think of anything more helpful in my life, my relationship with my husband, and in raising my kids than the blessings from sincere prayer promised here.

I also want to be super consistent with family prayer, and truly teach my kids how important prayer is.

Gordon B. Hinckley said:

‘I feel satisfied that there is no adequate substitute for the morning and evening practice of kneeling together—father, mother, and children. This, more than soft carpets, more than lovely draperies, more than cleverly balanced color schemes, is the thing that will make for better and more beautiful homes.’

I am so excited for the new year and all of the adventures and experiences it will bring. And I know it will be even better with consistent, meaningful prayer. 

Do you have one little word for 2011?