Ward Family

I am often unable to attend church this year because mornings are very, very difficult for me. But thanks to my sisters in the ward, I still keep in touch with the outside world. I am so grateful for the friendships, words of support and encouragement, help with Raiden and otherwise, and on and on. I am also thankful for the Priesthood. They do things that we women just could not do. Sorry women's lib, but the amount of work that got done in our yard today would not have been able to be done in that short amount of time without the strength of the men who did it! :) It was like we had 12 angels running around cleaning up outside!

My poor husband has just had the weight of the world on his back lately, and I know that getting this done and out of his mind was huge. Some days he plays both of our roles if I'm not doing well, and he worries so much about things that he makes himself sick. So what a great service that was.

We also have great visiting and home teachers. Our home teachers were here today, and we know we can call them anytime we need anything. And my visiting teachers haven't given up on me, even if it takes them 50 phone calls to get ahold of me and make an appointment. :) And I'm always glad when they visit. Because I need it. They are both such sweet ladies and have become friends I can count on.

Obviously, I am grateful to have been introduced to the church for the truth of the Gospel, but I also can't help but be selfish and think where would I be if I didn't have all of these people to lean on right now? I know for sure that I would be far worse off emotionally if I didn't have the Church. I think Rock Bottom is not nearly as low when you can feel the Spirit, know the truth, and have so many people all around you to lean on. And, despite all of the bad news I've been getting lately, at least I can take comfort in knowing that.

P.S. I know that a certain family member will read this and say, "Well what about your family?" So I have to put in this disclaimer that of course my family also really has been there for me during this trial. My brother Nick is amazing. He is only 19, but is already understanding the blessings that come from selfless service. Almost anytime I ask, he comes and helps me. And it makes me so happy to see that Raiden just loves his Uncle Nick so much. Because he reminds me of Nick as a baby in a lot of ways. I was a "little mommy" to Nick when he was a baby. So maybe that's what reminds me of him. Either way, I am grateful to see him so involved, but sad to know he'll be going off to college soon.

Also, my mom and g'ma come over as often as they can, helping clean up around my house and play with Raiden. Rai has so many women in his life! And he loves it! :) Their help, especially with the cleaning that I just never can do, really helps me feel more emotionally in control. So, yeah, my family is there for me as well, and I had to say that so I don't get in trouble. Even though this post was about my Ward family. ;) Ha!