Family and Faith

 Last night we watched Kim's kids.  It was fun having a niece and two nephews around.  We entertained them by playing games.

 Kayla and Kami played connect four, while Kota and Kadin played battleship.  Kyle got to play with Kolton.  Indoor cornhole.  It was fun watching Kolton step way infront of the board to sink a shot in the hole.  Kyle kept throwing the cornhole bag in different ways, under his leg, without looking, etc; Kolton mimicked every move.

It's been awhile since our children have hung onto everything we do and want to do it "just like dad or mom."  What a responsibility we have as parents (aunts and uncles) to show the kids the best ways to live life.  Then when they get older like mine, still guide, but start pulling back and letting them decide.
They don't always chose how we want them to.  I know my Heavenly Father feels the same way as me as an adult.  He has things he prefer I chose, but I don't always make the right choices.  I'm glad He loves me anyhow.  I get it! 

Today was a mile stone for me.  I was released as Relief Society President at church.  Yaya was called in my place.  (over at Whispering Pines)  As I reflected this past week about the release, what have I learned, why now, what could I have done better, etc.  I came to terms with the emotions.  Angry because Yaya is my friend (gospel mother, more like it) I still wanted to work with her, and I didn't want her to have the burden.  Then I realized it wasn't for me to decide.  Heavenly Father was making ready for a change in my life.  I'm still not 100% sure what that change is, but I'll need the extra time to focus my attention on it.  Then I felt relief; it was such a big job, I devoted a lot of time to my assignment.  Today, I feel gratitude.  I'm at the end of a trial.  I survived.  I learned a lot.  I'm a new person, (slightly better I think, I don't always admit that to myself or out loud for that matter).  I've forged new friendships that won't dwindle just because we're not directly serving together.  Now it's time to focus seminary and scouts only at church.  School is going to be difficult, challenging and worthwhile year, and I have two very active teens that I am going to enjoy every last second of their activities and pray fervently, that we taught them enough to make right choices as they continue to grow in the faith and world.
I'm ready and excited for a new chapter.  I hope I can remember the life lessons that got me here.