October 23: International Snow Leopard Day!

 That's what today is! It's been a wonderful Sunday.  Ryan slept most of the day because he was working until 4am this morning! So crazy! The maintenance was long and intense, but sounds like it was a success, so far, and he learned a lot.  We missed him yesterday.  I missed spending time with him, and talking with him about all the things that were going on yesterday.  William went, in costume, to the tri-stake dance, and was super-brave, and kind and said it wasn't his thing, but he was glad he went! And Peter went to Homecoming Dance! He went by himself, as many kids apparently do these days.  And had so much fun dancing, apparently.  And danced with Afton, which made his night! Plus, James, seemed like a teenager yesterday, in a way he hasn't yet before.  He's still only 11, I keep reminding myself, but he is approaching puberty and I remembered that yesterday a few times during the day.  Nothing to fear, just good to be aware of.  James and I took a trip to Walmart, and we got started on his costume, and Will and I got dinner from Chipotle for everyone.  Peter and I had a good chat driving to the dance.  Each boy is amazing and good and creative and unique.  They are growing so quickly and I don't want to miss a single day.  I have loved spending time with them this weekend, and time with all of us today.  I was so happy when I came home from church and meetings and Ryan was awake.  We all were. We missed him.  

I had a great bit of personal revelation today in our Ward Council meeting while Brother Godfrey was saying the closing prayer.  I just realized when he was praying that I needed to quit my job.  I need to be home more, and be more available for the kids.  I need to be available to listen, and aware of how they are doing and what's happening for them at school.  There is so much at stake, and I want to help them as much as I can, to strengthen their faith in Christ, to have joy and peace in their lives, and to know how the Spirit speaks to them.  We're going to focus as a family more on scripture study--- particularly looking for all the references to Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon.  And listening to a conference talk daily-- as a family.  I think as we incorporate these Spiritual habits into our lives we will feel the Spirit more abundantly in our home, and in our individual lives and be better able to discern truth and have the guidance and direction we need.  

So I need to look at our budget.  I need to figure out how to quit with kindness and love.  And I need to see what jobs are available that will not be so stressful, and distract me from my most important job-- as a wifey and mom to the amazing Keyes Guys!! I am the kelda, after all.  And I am so thankful for the inspiration and guidance today.