random thoughts and news

I have a few disjointed thoughts and some pretty big news-

First thought- congrats to Dory on her calling. I am looking forward to fabulous lessons. This ward has had female teachers for Gospel Doctrine since we've been here. I find that interesting. The last 3 wards I've attended have all had men, except one. Hmmmm-

Second thought-congrats to the DeGraw family. I was sure we'd be called to go to Harrison. It would be a terrific experience I'm sure, but the financial challenge would overwhelm us. So--congrats to you!!!!

Third thought-it's a lot easier to write this without any children talking at the same time.

Fourth thought-thanks sylli for the book. I'm really enjoying it- I guess I AM a real Mormon Woman afterall. (Take that-Ray).

Fifth thought- update on Sammy. The Dr agrees with the assessment from the school. We will be going to Children's in the spring (June) for testing for Autism.

No more thoughts-on to the big news -Yes, Katy is engaged (again). Most of you met the tall cutie with her on Sunday. I think he is planning on coming to church with her (us) from now on. They are planning a late May wedding. She is very happy. Josh is very good to her (and for her).
They make a nice match.

I think that's all. The biggest challenge in our house right now has to do with which Christmas tree we will be putting up this year. Bari loves his- it's big and bushy and (I think) hard to put decorations on. My tree is thin and sparce (it's supposed to be)- and has lots of room for decorations. Actually, I'm ok with no tree at all. I am all about just decorating the house. It's going to be a lean year at the Cruzes anyway, so maybe the kids won't notice so much without a tree.

Live-Life/Love-Life

Thanksgiving

Here is my list of thanks-for Thanksgiving. It is an odd collection. In no particular order. (And quite incomplete I'm sure).

I'm thankful for-
A loving Father in Heaven and Son, my brother, Jesus Christ
Knowledge of the true an everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ
Eternal Marriage and my Eternal companion
The love and support of my companion, his calm and forgiving spirit (esp to me )
My many and varied children
My health, humor, and spirit
My own family, brother, sisters and Mother (who still calls me the Baby)
My extended family who have embraced my children as their own
My friends - truely love unfeigned
My home, the protection and comfort that lie within
My job and my husbands job (supporting our family as best we can-)
My talents, love of reading, love of all knowledge and news
Living in a country where I have choices and religious freedoms
Being a woman at this time and in this dispensation

Many happy and blessed Thanksgivings to all of you this holiday season.
Live-Life/Love-Life

What a day

Man oh man, what a day. My congrats and all my love and support to Patty and her new councilors. What a terrific group of women. I've known and served with Patty for almost 4 years, but this blog thing has really shown everyone what we've known all along, what a spiritual giant she is. I can only hope to study and learn and glean from the word of God as she does. My Hero! She knows I love her like a sister. (and sometimes even more than my biological sisters !)---
My love and support for Shayleen in her new Primary calling. I'm a bit ashamed to say that I was still reeling from the Patty news and missed the names of the women who will be serving with her.
I love how the Lord works, and thinks. I could start every testimony with that phrase. I do love how he has organized how callings work. Other churches solicit positions and callings. People serve by volunteering for specific things. I love how the Lord chooses, and we all work together to gain a greater knowledge of the truth. Can you imagine having the same president or counselor for 10 or 20 years? I know we stretch and grow through our callings. It is an amazing and simple application of service.
I also wanted to tell you all, that you (and you too Ray) were prayed for. Yep. I prayed for you. A couple of months ago I was feeling a little lonely. Since moving to Cinci, I haven't had any close girlfriends. I loved the women I served with (you all know that), but it was not really the connection I had had in the past. We all had a very close friendship especially a special few, but it wasn't a talk-on-the-phone-every-other-day-thing. Then- along came blogging. You all seem like the closest friends and confidants I could ever hope for. See? I prayed for this blogging thing.
Live-Life/Love-Life

More odds than ends- - - -

Cute pics of Katy--- Look closely at the cake. The candles look suspiciously like the Maneuverability cones. (Her step dad thinks he's funny).