Growing Up

Last night, Russ and I left the twins home with our youngest two children (for the first time)while we ran to the church for the youth session of Stake Conference. The stake center is less than a mile away and we had neighbors home "on call" as well as a cell phone that the twins had in their possession if anything was needed. (We weren't gone that long either...) Anyway, I have to brag about Carter and his stellar babysitting, child entertaining, pajama changing skills.

Chandler had a late nap and was wired more than is typical at night. Taylor was tired and went to bed, leaving Carter with the responsibility of an active, strong willed little boy. When we came home, Carter was still beside Chandler (and evidentally had not left his side all evening); was frustrated because Chandler had his own idea of when it was time to put on pajamas and consistently fought and took them off each time Carter dressed him; and was personally tired and a little upset that his twin brother had gone off to bed, leaving him with the bulk of the night. Still, Carter didn't give up and proved he can be responsible!

Typically, Taylor is our more responsible twin but Carter showed him up last night. Wow, Carter, you amaze me! When we taked about his evening as he was going to bed - he told me that he stayed with Chan because I asked him to. He also realized that Taylor was out for the count and it was up to him so he knew he had to step up to the plate. Carter is growing up! While this saddens me on one level, it also makes me so happy to know Carter will step up to responsibility if pushed. (We now need to help him initiate the leadership...but that will come as well!)

There are times in my family when my kids want to know why someone else is getting preferential treatment (in their eyes). I've learned that no matter how fair I'm really being - They don't always access the situation in full view. Rather than trying to explain to them and tell them, "No, so-and-so is NOT my favorite" I've reverted to the saying: "So-and-so is the flavor of the day." They frequently ask at the beginning of the day if they can be the flavor. They're really cute about it. So, Carter, YOU are the flavor of the day! I think you're wonderful and I love you so very much. Who would have thought that my premature 2 lb. 7 oz., 13" little boy would grow up to be so awesome! You amaze me with your love of life, open acceptance of others and ability to soften the blows that come to others. You may be forgetful at times, but you are also capable of shouldering responsibility. You are amazing!

Tanner - My Hero

Tanner: You are this week's hero! I realize that you do not care for scouting and sometimes wish it would go away. Some day, you are going to be happy that you perservered through the "boring" merit badge seminars and completed necessary requirements to earn your Eagle. When that day comes, your mom will be crying tears of gratitude and immense relief! (For truly, I'll be glad this is over too!)

The past three weeks, Tanner has attended Merit Badge Seminars each Saturday and earned 4 merit badges. These badges were not without extra homework, prying and even bribing from Mom and Dad. Tanner worked hard though and secured a) Emergency Preparedness, b) Family Life, c) Citizenship in the Nation, and d) Communication - all through the Scout Pow-Wows. He also fulfilled requirements with his group to complete the Environmental Science Merit Badge. We had blue cards that were incomplete for First Aid as well as Personal Management. Tanner met with the counselor yesterday for Personal Management and I took him to meet with Dee Madsen today to have the CPR training he was required to get for First Aid. Way to go Tanner - 7 Eagle-Required Merit Badges in a long weekend is a HUGE accomplishment and we are so proud of your work. [Only three more required and 4 more electives to go....YEAH!]

Tanner, I hope you always remember that your brothers (and sisters) look up to you. They idolize you for your kindness, love, patience and the way in which you execute assignments. You are on track to become an Eagle Scout in another year (give or take a few months). The attitude you display through words and actions will help form the approach that your twin brothers take with Scouting and in turn the attitude Chandler will one day have.

Your mom and dad love you dearly, Tanner. I hope you always choose the harder path, the one less traveled. I hope you realize how much your Savior loves you as an individual. I hope you understand that you are truly of devine heritage...You are a son of a King - a Heavenly King. Continue to learn the gospel, seek to understand the scriptures, be worthy of the priesthood you bear and strive always to become the person you are meant to become. Don't sell yourself short for worldly pleasures. If you happen to make a mistake, realize that you can repent. Our Savior suffered and died so that through your efforts in life, you could repent and become clean and pure again. Keep the commandments and continue excelling so that you can Return with Honor.

I'm rewarded every day for your hard work and who you are. Just knowing you are my son and that you are working hard is fulfilling. (OK - I know I nag sometimes. I'm working on that.) I love you tons, Tanner!

(DISCLAIMER: I use my blog as a journal with the intent of publishing and binding each year. Many of the sentiments I express on paper are for my children and my wonderful eternal husband. Though my writings on this particular blog are for "all to see", they are specifically written for those I love to realize the impact they have in my life and to understand better the challenges and trials I undergo as well as the lessons I hopefully learn.)

Humbled

Yesterday was one of the most amazing, humbling, spiritual days of my life. Our family was honored to be with Brenna during a special occasion in her mortal existence. We've always felt her strong spirit, laughed at her insatiable thirst for knowledge and marveled at her quest to experience all that life offers. But after a sleepless night of pondering the day's events, promises made, and gaining a glimpse into who she really is, I can only express how humbled I am to be her mother. She is such a blessing to our family and to me personally. When I grow up, I want to be more like Brenna! Thanks for your example, for your unwavering faith, for your devotion to all that is good and pure and for loving me in spite of my weaknesses.