Trials

Right now Mitch is getting ready to take his exam for healthcare administration. He is busy with work and studies, and I am working nights to supplement our income and trying to be a good mom even though I'm tired and having a hard time keeping up. We are tired and stressed, and often overwhelmed. We live far from family and don't have the time or money to visit often. We don't even see each other often-so yeah life feels tough sometimes. BUT in the midst of all that-there is so much to be grateful for. I know that sounds cliche but I honestly don't know what I would do without the gospel. When I get overwhelmed when I turn to Christ I feel so much peace and all the weight of the world is completely gone even though the stresses are still there. I know Heavenly Father loves me. I know He knows what we are going through. Tonight I listened to a conference talk by Elder Uchtdorf and cried the whole time because it couldn't have been more perfect for what I needed to hear. I feel so strengthened by Him-when I look at all the good things my kids are learning despite all of our shortcomings I know that Heavenly Father is helping us raise them and I am so grateful for that. So even though I hope life evens out a little soon and we don't feel stretched so thin all the time-I am grateful for the chance to really have to rely on the Lord, and know that he is there making up the rest when I just can't do everything. And I am so grateful for the learning and growth that comes through trials. I keep reminding myself-this is like my spiritual workout. When I'm in the middle of a tough workout and it hurts and I want to quit-I usually hate it. But afterwords it feels so good! And I know right now I'm right in the middle of all the painful stuff-but i know there will be a day when all the stresses and disappointment will be gone-and I will be so grateful I endured so I could grow.

Cole has been having a bit of a hard time lately. He has been kinda disobedient and difficult. I have been struggling with how to make him feel loved but still be tough enough on him that he knows he can't act like that. In Elder Uchtdorf's talk he talked a lot about the Savior's love for all of us, and the parable of the lost sheep. I really felt like that is my answer for Cole-is I need to just love him, and help him find his way. I am going on a little date with him tomorrow and I am just going to hope and pray that he finds realizes he's loved and learns how to behave more appropriately.

Well thats it for tonight-fingers crossed Mitch passes his test this month. It would be so HUGE for us.