Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Big Weekend of FAMILY!

(My Pictures are not downloading - I will add later)

We had a wonderful weekend of family, being surrounded by our kids, and reminders of family and extended family events. Dinners,bridal showers, and a Stake Conference that was full of reminders of the blessings of a righteous family. It mostly has helped me to spend some time reflecting on the goodness of life and the blessings of an Eternal family.

I once again feel deep love and have a renewed appreciation for an incredible husband and father in my Russell. He served an honorable mission, has always been obedient to the Lord. Has great clarity in doing what is right, and in so doing, has been a great example to our children. With six sons and two daughters, a dad’s roll is multifaceted. I have seen our sons follow in footsteps of Integrity, Testimony, Service, and Unconditional Love that is their dad. I know my daughters are very aware of how he treats me and them, and know that is what they can expect as they also choose well, a strong man of faith. I am so blessed.

It was great having Jackson and Heidi here. So comforting to hear my baby babble in his bed first thing in the morning. Smiling that Jackson smile as I open the door. Seeing my girl asleep here at my home at peace in slumber. They truly take a piece of my heart everytime they leave. I watch them go to get on the plane, and wonder if it is ever going to get any easier, I don’t think so. I think as the opportunities to spend time together are harder to create, I can’t wrap my mind or heart around that. So I enjoy while I can when I can. Thanks to Matt for sharing!

Having my Randi and my boys and sweet wives want to be here to spend time together with Heidi and our family was amazing. When we all sat down together last Sunday for dinner, I just sighed, and said “everyone’s here”. Jordan said “mom, not everyone”. That was so true. We missed Brendon, Stephanie, Matt, and Cody a lot these two Sundays that we ate together and relaxed and played. My mind is buzzing for creating a trip to Missouri to see my kids. That is a big undertaking, but it will happen. I need to see where their life is taking place.

Elder Russell M. Nelson in Conference said:
“The noblest yearning of the human heart is for a marriage that can endure beyond death. Fidelity to a temple marriage does that. It allows families to be together forever. This goal is glorious. All Church activities, advancements, quorums, and classes are means to the end of an exalted family.”
This Sunday Skyler was sustained to be ordained an Elder in Stake Conference. I am so grateful that this is the path we as a family are striving to be on. Any chance we have to recommit to it all is great. I feel my Heavenly Father’s love today in gratitude for this journey we have taken so far together, and pray for the outcome we are seeking for.

10 comments:

Brendon said...

Sounds like so much fun! Yay for families!

We get to see my family this weekend! And we're hoping on seeing you within the next several months.

We love you!

Grammy Staffy said...

You have such a wonderful family. I am happy that you've shared this time together.
Congrats to Skyler..

My post is still trying to upload a video.... I don't know if it ever will or not.... when it does you can meet our??? heehee

Shalece said...

You are such a great example. It is always uplifting to read your blog. Thank you so much! Families sure are a blessing, I couldn't think of any greater blessing than a righteous family!

Ashley said...

That sounds like a wonderful weekend. We missed most of conference because we were out of town, and I'm trying to catch up. I think I will read that talk next. It sounds wonderful.

Emily said...

What an uplifting post about your family! I love it and I am so glad you are all close!

Julia Holmes said...

I alwqays love looking at your blog. I should really start a blog too. I was thinking to myself about how I need to start writing in my journal again....and a blog would be the fun and easy way to do it.

We really had fun spending time with the family the last 2 weekends. Thanks so much for having us over. Love you!!

Heidi said...

we had a great time with everyone as well. I love coming and visiting, but it does get hard to say good-bye. However, I must say, when I have Jackson... it keeps my mind off of saying good-bye till we get to our gate. Not easy!

Mama Bear said...

I'm so glad you got to have Heidi and Jackson here for awhile! I can't imagine how much you miss them when they're away! I know how much I miss my mom and dad...and the rest of my family!!

Sara said...

You are a beautiful person sheryl and l love you. You are so deserving of this life you have with all your wonderful children.

Christensen Family said...

Families are the greatest. We are so blessed to live by both mine and Blake's family. It is great. And even more blessed because our families are friends and like to get together with each other and even go on vacations together. Looks like Disneyland was a blast!