13 years ago
Monday, June 23, 2008
Gigante Unwanting
It happened. He's been weighed, he's been measured, and he's been found unwanting. Reece has outgrown Redge. As of yesterday's weigh in and measure up: Eric Reece Hudson, at age 13 years, 3 months, and 15 days, is 5'8" and 183.5 lbs; Redge Reece Hudson, at 37 years, 1 month, and 20 days, is 5'8" and 181.5 lbs.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Marriage Tag (Becky Pili)
This is a fun tag, and I tag Michelle, Anna, Annie, Jenn, Nikki, Marissa, Sherrie, Downtown, Becky, Julie, Debbie, Jess, Kacey, Kim, and Lisa. Let's go, Ladies, I'll be watching your blogs!
How long have you been married? 14 years, February 26, 1994
How old is your spouse? Just turned 37, and still looks like he did in college, except for the gray in his hair, and that only makes him more handsome!
Who eats more? He does. I think.
Who said I love you first? I did. Because I love him more than he loves me!
Who is taller? He is by 6.5"
Who sings better? Neither of us have any talent for singing.
Who is smarter? I think we're equally yoked in the intelligence department. My advantage is my memory. He definitely has more common sense. I'm more emotional, and he's far more rational.
Who controls the T.V. remote? We share.
Whose temper is worse? Medicated or unmedicated?
Who does the laundry? I wash, fold, and put away mine, Redge's, and Arthur's. Seth and Taite put away their own. Generally, Redge hangs up our hang up clothes. Thanks to "Duty to God" Reece does all his own! Woo-hoo! How much longer until Seth and Arthur are 12???
Who does the dishes? The kids are supposed to. Arthur unloads, Taite loads, Seth does the table, and Reece does clean up. However, Redge has no patience, and often just does it to have it done. When it comes to my kids getting their chores done I have the patience of Job.
Who cooks dinner? Redge and Reece. They like to do it together. However, due to my choice in cutting back my outside activities I'm going to start cooking. Really! Don't laugh! I am going to start cooking! I am!
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I guess if we have to choose sides I sleep on the right side of the bed. At least that's where all my "stuff" is. We don't always sleep on the same sides.
Who is more stubborn? Are you kidding me? We're both donkeys!
Who is the first to admit they're wrong? Redge, and it's not because he's always wrong.
Whose parents do you see the most? Mine. But, Marney lives closer, and she just retired from teaching kindergarten, so we hope to see more of her.
Who has more friends? I have more friends in Vegas, but he has far more friends here in Utah. He has become more outgoing. He meets more people than I. He's more involved civically, knows many people through work, and deals with a lot of people at church. I'm a recluse.
Who has more siblings? Me. I have 3 of each: Jeff, Naomi, Quincy, Melinda, Jennifer, and Eric. Redge has only one brother, Jamie.
Who wears the pants in the family? Definitely Redge!!! From the outside it looks as if I am the boss (I am more vocal and stubborn.) However, once you get to know us it's obvious that I prefer Redge running the show. This works out well because he likes it that way, too.
How long have you been married? 14 years, February 26, 1994
How old is your spouse? Just turned 37, and still looks like he did in college, except for the gray in his hair, and that only makes him more handsome!
Who eats more? He does. I think.
Who said I love you first? I did. Because I love him more than he loves me!
Who is taller? He is by 6.5"
Who sings better? Neither of us have any talent for singing.
Who is smarter? I think we're equally yoked in the intelligence department. My advantage is my memory. He definitely has more common sense. I'm more emotional, and he's far more rational.
Who controls the T.V. remote? We share.
Whose temper is worse? Medicated or unmedicated?
Who does the laundry? I wash, fold, and put away mine, Redge's, and Arthur's. Seth and Taite put away their own. Generally, Redge hangs up our hang up clothes. Thanks to "Duty to God" Reece does all his own! Woo-hoo! How much longer until Seth and Arthur are 12???
Who does the dishes? The kids are supposed to. Arthur unloads, Taite loads, Seth does the table, and Reece does clean up. However, Redge has no patience, and often just does it to have it done. When it comes to my kids getting their chores done I have the patience of Job.
Who cooks dinner? Redge and Reece. They like to do it together. However, due to my choice in cutting back my outside activities I'm going to start cooking. Really! Don't laugh! I am going to start cooking! I am!
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I guess if we have to choose sides I sleep on the right side of the bed. At least that's where all my "stuff" is. We don't always sleep on the same sides.
Who is more stubborn? Are you kidding me? We're both donkeys!
Who is the first to admit they're wrong? Redge, and it's not because he's always wrong.
Whose parents do you see the most? Mine. But, Marney lives closer, and she just retired from teaching kindergarten, so we hope to see more of her.
Who has more friends? I have more friends in Vegas, but he has far more friends here in Utah. He has become more outgoing. He meets more people than I. He's more involved civically, knows many people through work, and deals with a lot of people at church. I'm a recluse.
Who has more siblings? Me. I have 3 of each: Jeff, Naomi, Quincy, Melinda, Jennifer, and Eric. Redge has only one brother, Jamie.
Who wears the pants in the family? Definitely Redge!!! From the outside it looks as if I am the boss (I am more vocal and stubborn.) However, once you get to know us it's obvious that I prefer Redge running the show. This works out well because he likes it that way, too.
Righteous Desires
Several months ago I began the process of applying for the librarian position at Rockwell High School. I was offered the position, and not long after I declined. A friend of mine emailed me today to ask why I declined. This is my response.
I turned down the library position for several reasons:
1~ No matter how I manage it~ working does inconvenience my family i.e. ~ scouts, dance, sports, piano lessons.
2~ When kids are sick they need their moms.
3~ I have to exercise. It is vital for my brain. I know that daily exercise is as important as daily scripture study. I have to do this for my sanity, and for the sake of my family. Reece notices my attitude change when I exercise. This is something that takes time, and time I don't have if I work.
4~ I really want to be a homemaker. Cooking, cleaning, sewing, nurturing, gardening, canning, teaching, etc. I can't do this the way I would like if I'm working.
5~ I want to be the wife Redge deserves.
6~ I want to build stronger relations with my relatives~ living and dead.
7~ Volunteering at the school is completely different from working at the school. In order to be the Mom/Wife/Disciple/Lyndee I want to be I can't commit to be anywhere other than my home at any point of any day.
8~ I want more free time with my kids. I don't want to be scheduled, scheduled, scheduled! I want my kids to have more free time to them to decide what it is they enjoy doing, with whom they enjoy playing, and discovering for themselves who they are inside by divine nature.
9~ I don't want my kids to be afraid to ask me a question, ask for my help, or ask for my attention because I'm so busy with school stuff that I answer with a snippy voice and/or tell them, "Shhhhh," "Not now," "Can't you see I'm busy?" "What?" "Ask Dad," and/or "When I'm done here."
Basically it comes down to this; James E. Faust said, "Our most holy places are our sacred temples. In addition to temples, surely another holy place on earth ought to be our homes." I don't think I can be the person who can create a temple like home if I'm too concerned with work. I don't think I have the time necessary to create a temple-like home if I have a job.
*Please note: I do not want to, anticipate doing, and/or should do all of the above now and/or all at the same time. Three projects at a time are all I can handle. For those of you who grasped this basic concept decades ago (which is most of my friends and relatives) I know you're already doing so much of this, and I appreciate your example and patience as I begin my own endeavor of "trying."
I wish I could handle more than I can. I wish I could accept the librarian position. I look at people like Naomi, Jenny Dipko, Becky Pili, Wyndee De Grey who are able to work, and maintain heathly, happy, gospel centered homes. This is beyond my current abilities. So, for now I'm at home. And, this is a good decision for me. I have not had a moment of regret since emailing the principal declining his offer! I feel such peace! I am very excited about all I now get to do because of my choice!
This whole experience testifies to me the truthfulness of the gospel:
1~ We are taught as Young Women to make wise choices in order to become a desirable wife. We're encouraged to get educations, learn to learn, learn to nurture, and learn companionship & discipleship. We're taught of the honor and responsibility of being women, wives, and mothers.
2~ We're taught to choose wisely a husband. A man committed to the gospel and his family.
3~ We're taught our entire lives of a living Father and Savior who love each of us, know each of us by name, and a Holy Spirit who whispers these truths to us.
4~ We're taught that by believing in these 3 beings we can go to our Heavenly Father and be answered!
5~ We are taught that our Father speaks to us not only through the Holy Ghost, but also through a living prophet.
6~ By following the teachings of our prophets we can live in faith, fearing nothing!
I have tried everyday of my life to remember my Savior. Don't get me wrong here. Just because I've tried, doesn't mean I've been successful. Many days I set out to think, say, and do only that which Jesus Christ would have me do, but then other things seem far more glittery and enticing. Nevertheless, the truths taught by my parents always take hold, and I remember. Because my parents continue to teach me, I do my best to obey. My desires bless me every day of my life. As mentioned previously and often, I married the best man EVER! I did choose wisely. (Sadly, my chose was more wise than Redge's.) I married a man committed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as well as his family. He supports us financially, spiritually, and emotionally. I'm grateful for the knowledge, both spiritual and temporal (although there probably isn't really a dividing line between the two, Brigham Young said,
"We cannot separate the temporal from the spiritual, but they must go hand in hand,"
and in Doctrine and Covenants 29:34-35 we read,
"Wherefore, verily I say unto you that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal; neither any man, nor the children of men; neither Adam, your father, whom I created. Behold, I gave unto him that he should be an agent unto himself; and I gave unto him commandment, but no temporal commandment gave I unto him, for my commandments are spiritual; they are not natural nor temporal, neither carnal nor sensual")that I have gained throughout my life. I am grateful for my divinely given gift of hungering and thirsting after righteousness and knowledge. I study the way I do because it is innate to me. It is a gift of the spirit. (Quite noticeably, I'm still praying for the gift of charity.) I'm grateful for the knowledge I daily gain from Redge, my kids, books, scriptures, prophets, parents, siblings, friends, and the Holy Ghost. This perpetually gained knowledge helps me become the Lyndee I want to be. I'm grateful for the desire within me to be a Righteous Woman. I am very grateful for my husband, kids, friends, family, and Savior who are so patient with me as I have not yet accomplished this. I am so grateful for the answers of prayers, which help my faith to grow.
This whole gospel thing is true! Every bit of it! I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. I know Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer. I know He lives! I know He is my elder brother, and He lives with our living Heavenly Father. I know the two of them know my heart, my pains, my intentions, my happiness, and my sorrows. They know my name! They know me! They love me! I know my Heavenly Father hears and answers every prayer. I know the Book of Mormon is true, as is the Bible, the Doctrine & Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. I know the importance of studying the pages of these books, and asking my Father in Heaven how to apply them in my life. I know Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God, sent to Earth at a specific time, with the specific duty of restoring and organizing the Church of Jesus Christ in its fullness. I know he was divinely inspired, and lead the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the ways desired and directed by Jesus Christ. I know Thomas S. Monson is a true and living prophet of God. I know he was called of God to lead all who listen along the road to returning home to live eternally with our Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. I know these things because the Holy Ghost tells me it is so, and there is no arguing truth. It is true I tell you, every little bit.
I turned down the library position for several reasons:
1~ No matter how I manage it~ working does inconvenience my family i.e. ~ scouts, dance, sports, piano lessons.
2~ When kids are sick they need their moms.
3~ I have to exercise. It is vital for my brain. I know that daily exercise is as important as daily scripture study. I have to do this for my sanity, and for the sake of my family. Reece notices my attitude change when I exercise. This is something that takes time, and time I don't have if I work.
4~ I really want to be a homemaker. Cooking, cleaning, sewing, nurturing, gardening, canning, teaching, etc. I can't do this the way I would like if I'm working.
5~ I want to be the wife Redge deserves.
6~ I want to build stronger relations with my relatives~ living and dead.
7~ Volunteering at the school is completely different from working at the school. In order to be the Mom/Wife/Disciple/Lyndee I want to be I can't commit to be anywhere other than my home at any point of any day.
8~ I want more free time with my kids. I don't want to be scheduled, scheduled, scheduled! I want my kids to have more free time to them to decide what it is they enjoy doing, with whom they enjoy playing, and discovering for themselves who they are inside by divine nature.
9~ I don't want my kids to be afraid to ask me a question, ask for my help, or ask for my attention because I'm so busy with school stuff that I answer with a snippy voice and/or tell them, "Shhhhh," "Not now," "Can't you see I'm busy?" "What?" "Ask Dad," and/or "When I'm done here."
Basically it comes down to this; James E. Faust said, "Our most holy places are our sacred temples. In addition to temples, surely another holy place on earth ought to be our homes." I don't think I can be the person who can create a temple like home if I'm too concerned with work. I don't think I have the time necessary to create a temple-like home if I have a job.
*Please note: I do not want to, anticipate doing, and/or should do all of the above now and/or all at the same time. Three projects at a time are all I can handle. For those of you who grasped this basic concept decades ago (which is most of my friends and relatives) I know you're already doing so much of this, and I appreciate your example and patience as I begin my own endeavor of "trying."
I wish I could handle more than I can. I wish I could accept the librarian position. I look at people like Naomi, Jenny Dipko, Becky Pili, Wyndee De Grey who are able to work, and maintain heathly, happy, gospel centered homes. This is beyond my current abilities. So, for now I'm at home. And, this is a good decision for me. I have not had a moment of regret since emailing the principal declining his offer! I feel such peace! I am very excited about all I now get to do because of my choice!
This whole experience testifies to me the truthfulness of the gospel:
1~ We are taught as Young Women to make wise choices in order to become a desirable wife. We're encouraged to get educations, learn to learn, learn to nurture, and learn companionship & discipleship. We're taught of the honor and responsibility of being women, wives, and mothers.
2~ We're taught to choose wisely a husband. A man committed to the gospel and his family.
3~ We're taught our entire lives of a living Father and Savior who love each of us, know each of us by name, and a Holy Spirit who whispers these truths to us.
4~ We're taught that by believing in these 3 beings we can go to our Heavenly Father and be answered!
5~ We are taught that our Father speaks to us not only through the Holy Ghost, but also through a living prophet.
6~ By following the teachings of our prophets we can live in faith, fearing nothing!
I have tried everyday of my life to remember my Savior. Don't get me wrong here. Just because I've tried, doesn't mean I've been successful. Many days I set out to think, say, and do only that which Jesus Christ would have me do, but then other things seem far more glittery and enticing. Nevertheless, the truths taught by my parents always take hold, and I remember. Because my parents continue to teach me, I do my best to obey. My desires bless me every day of my life. As mentioned previously and often, I married the best man EVER! I did choose wisely. (Sadly, my chose was more wise than Redge's.) I married a man committed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as well as his family. He supports us financially, spiritually, and emotionally. I'm grateful for the knowledge, both spiritual and temporal (although there probably isn't really a dividing line between the two, Brigham Young said,
"We cannot separate the temporal from the spiritual, but they must go hand in hand,"
and in Doctrine and Covenants 29:34-35 we read,
"Wherefore, verily I say unto you that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal; neither any man, nor the children of men; neither Adam, your father, whom I created. Behold, I gave unto him that he should be an agent unto himself; and I gave unto him commandment, but no temporal commandment gave I unto him, for my commandments are spiritual; they are not natural nor temporal, neither carnal nor sensual")that I have gained throughout my life. I am grateful for my divinely given gift of hungering and thirsting after righteousness and knowledge. I study the way I do because it is innate to me. It is a gift of the spirit. (Quite noticeably, I'm still praying for the gift of charity.) I'm grateful for the knowledge I daily gain from Redge, my kids, books, scriptures, prophets, parents, siblings, friends, and the Holy Ghost. This perpetually gained knowledge helps me become the Lyndee I want to be. I'm grateful for the desire within me to be a Righteous Woman. I am very grateful for my husband, kids, friends, family, and Savior who are so patient with me as I have not yet accomplished this. I am so grateful for the answers of prayers, which help my faith to grow.
This whole gospel thing is true! Every bit of it! I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. I know Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer. I know He lives! I know He is my elder brother, and He lives with our living Heavenly Father. I know the two of them know my heart, my pains, my intentions, my happiness, and my sorrows. They know my name! They know me! They love me! I know my Heavenly Father hears and answers every prayer. I know the Book of Mormon is true, as is the Bible, the Doctrine & Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. I know the importance of studying the pages of these books, and asking my Father in Heaven how to apply them in my life. I know Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God, sent to Earth at a specific time, with the specific duty of restoring and organizing the Church of Jesus Christ in its fullness. I know he was divinely inspired, and lead the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the ways desired and directed by Jesus Christ. I know Thomas S. Monson is a true and living prophet of God. I know he was called of God to lead all who listen along the road to returning home to live eternally with our Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. I know these things because the Holy Ghost tells me it is so, and there is no arguing truth. It is true I tell you, every little bit.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Gardening Lesson #3
Last week I missed three days of working in the yard/garden. I watered the vegetables, but the weeds and the front yard were left to their own natural instincts. Not such a great idea. I generally spend a couple of hours each day working outside, more if I can justify it. However, last week Redge and I actually cleaned the office, we had book club, and it was Rockwell's spirit week. So, sadly I neglected my outdoor projects.
Finally, Saturday I found some time to try and get caught up a little bit. WOW!!! I won't be skipping 3 days again! Not only did I have tons of weeds, but, I had tons of dead blooms to pinch, millions of sticks to pick up from our neighbors twisty willow, bent flowers to reinforce, and a couple of yellowing spots in the grass that needed some special attention. What generally takes 2 hours to do on a daily basis is still not complete due to my neglect. I worked for 3 hours on Saturday, and I have several hours of work awaiting me today. I won't be ignoring my garden like that anytime soon!
Yep, you guessed it. Another analogy. I realized my relationship with my Savior and Redge is a lot the same as my relationship with my garden. When I place my garden as priority I am able to easily stay on top of what needs to be done. I can accomplish my chores in a reasonable amount of time. I also get so much from my garden. I love being in the front yard watching Redge and the kids play football, soccer, frisbee, baseball, etc. while I water, weed, and work among the flowers. My flowers and green lawn make me happy. I don't know why. I can't really explain it, but it just makes me happy. Being outside soothes me. As we all know, I'm a bit of a spaz. I have many problems. I know I do. I can admit it. But, being outside does something for me. It calms me. It lifts me. It makes me a better Lyndee. In addition to what I get "now" from outdoor work, it is also a huge investment in the future. Everytime I come in from outside I think things like, "Woo-hoo! By thinning and spreading my irises, next year I will have even more color in the yard!" "That was so fun swapping some of my overgrown flowers with some of Jen's overgrown flowers. We had such a good chit chat, and now next year our yards will both be more beautiful!" "I'm so glad I finally have the entire garden planted! I can't wait for harvest time!" Yep, there is much to be gained from consistent work in my yard.
There is also much to be gained from consistent work at my relationship with my Savior. You know that feeling when you go to get in bed at night, and you realize you didn't read scriptures that day? I know this feeling all too well. I'm so tired, I just want to lay down. I lay in bed weighing the consequences of not studying my scriptures and/or praying, and then I began to remember the events of the day. I see it like a movie. I yelled at Taite for not loading the dishes before my visiting teachers arrived, I slammed the door because Arthur forgot to close it on his way to Caleb's, I'm short with Seth when he asks me again to explain a math problem, I freak out when I see that Reece did a load of wash with only 3 items of clothes so he could wear a specific pair of shorts the following day to school because it's free dress day, and I pout when Redge comes home late from work. I realize that if I had just taken the time to sit and study my scriptures as I should have done things probably would have gone quite differently. But, instead I rationalized, "I just need to get this load of laundry in, I'll read right after that." "I'll study my scriptures as soon as I make my bed." "I promised the kids I would take them swimming, I'll read as soon as we're back." Then, as I'm trying to crawl into bed I feel guilty that my choices effected my entire family. You see, scripture study does to me what my flowers do for me. It makes me happy. Studying my scriptures soothes me, calms, and lifts me. It makes me a better Lyndee. I feel sheepish as I kneel down, repent, and ask for more strength tomorrow because now I'm stuck playing catch up. I need to gain what I lost. Apologize to the kids, get back on track, etc. Basically, pull the weeds that grew by not remembering my Savior, pick up the sticks left by the my own howling wind, and like my bent flowers in my garden~ I need to reinforce my love for my kids. Luckily, kids seem to forgive like the Savior. They accept my repentance, and are always willing to start over. There's no need to mention the investment in my future made by consistent scripture study and meaningful prayer.
Even more importantly, I find myself neglecting Redge. A week ago last Saturday, after being at Youth Conference for several days, Redge came home to a messy house. I kept apologizng for the mess, and he finally said, "Please stop talking about the house. Just tell me you're glad to have me home." Of course, the ideal scenario would be that he came home to clean house, bathed children, and a yummy dinner. However, all he wanted was a bit of my time. Just like my garden and the Savior, all Redge needs is some attention. What would it be like if everytime I heard the garage door open (knowing it's Redge) I left whatever I was doing, and ran to greet him with a hug and a kiss? As it is now, Redge hunts me down to greet me. What if the table were set for dinner, and at least the family room was picked up? What if I had some nice music playing for him (this isn't soothing for all husbands, but music does for Redge what gardening does for me)? What if I occasionally asked Redge on a date, or to go for a walk instead of waiting for him to take care of all that stuff? I'm thinking I would find that consistent cultivation of my reltionship with Redge would bring me peace, comfort, and happiness. I'm sure seeing my pretty flowers wouldn't be able to compare to the happiness in my life if every day for two hours I placed Redge as my number one priority.
Finally, Saturday I found some time to try and get caught up a little bit. WOW!!! I won't be skipping 3 days again! Not only did I have tons of weeds, but, I had tons of dead blooms to pinch, millions of sticks to pick up from our neighbors twisty willow, bent flowers to reinforce, and a couple of yellowing spots in the grass that needed some special attention. What generally takes 2 hours to do on a daily basis is still not complete due to my neglect. I worked for 3 hours on Saturday, and I have several hours of work awaiting me today. I won't be ignoring my garden like that anytime soon!
Yep, you guessed it. Another analogy. I realized my relationship with my Savior and Redge is a lot the same as my relationship with my garden. When I place my garden as priority I am able to easily stay on top of what needs to be done. I can accomplish my chores in a reasonable amount of time. I also get so much from my garden. I love being in the front yard watching Redge and the kids play football, soccer, frisbee, baseball, etc. while I water, weed, and work among the flowers. My flowers and green lawn make me happy. I don't know why. I can't really explain it, but it just makes me happy. Being outside soothes me. As we all know, I'm a bit of a spaz. I have many problems. I know I do. I can admit it. But, being outside does something for me. It calms me. It lifts me. It makes me a better Lyndee. In addition to what I get "now" from outdoor work, it is also a huge investment in the future. Everytime I come in from outside I think things like, "Woo-hoo! By thinning and spreading my irises, next year I will have even more color in the yard!" "That was so fun swapping some of my overgrown flowers with some of Jen's overgrown flowers. We had such a good chit chat, and now next year our yards will both be more beautiful!" "I'm so glad I finally have the entire garden planted! I can't wait for harvest time!" Yep, there is much to be gained from consistent work in my yard.
There is also much to be gained from consistent work at my relationship with my Savior. You know that feeling when you go to get in bed at night, and you realize you didn't read scriptures that day? I know this feeling all too well. I'm so tired, I just want to lay down. I lay in bed weighing the consequences of not studying my scriptures and/or praying, and then I began to remember the events of the day. I see it like a movie. I yelled at Taite for not loading the dishes before my visiting teachers arrived, I slammed the door because Arthur forgot to close it on his way to Caleb's, I'm short with Seth when he asks me again to explain a math problem, I freak out when I see that Reece did a load of wash with only 3 items of clothes so he could wear a specific pair of shorts the following day to school because it's free dress day, and I pout when Redge comes home late from work. I realize that if I had just taken the time to sit and study my scriptures as I should have done things probably would have gone quite differently. But, instead I rationalized, "I just need to get this load of laundry in, I'll read right after that." "I'll study my scriptures as soon as I make my bed." "I promised the kids I would take them swimming, I'll read as soon as we're back." Then, as I'm trying to crawl into bed I feel guilty that my choices effected my entire family. You see, scripture study does to me what my flowers do for me. It makes me happy. Studying my scriptures soothes me, calms, and lifts me. It makes me a better Lyndee. I feel sheepish as I kneel down, repent, and ask for more strength tomorrow because now I'm stuck playing catch up. I need to gain what I lost. Apologize to the kids, get back on track, etc. Basically, pull the weeds that grew by not remembering my Savior, pick up the sticks left by the my own howling wind, and like my bent flowers in my garden~ I need to reinforce my love for my kids. Luckily, kids seem to forgive like the Savior. They accept my repentance, and are always willing to start over. There's no need to mention the investment in my future made by consistent scripture study and meaningful prayer.
Even more importantly, I find myself neglecting Redge. A week ago last Saturday, after being at Youth Conference for several days, Redge came home to a messy house. I kept apologizng for the mess, and he finally said, "Please stop talking about the house. Just tell me you're glad to have me home." Of course, the ideal scenario would be that he came home to clean house, bathed children, and a yummy dinner. However, all he wanted was a bit of my time. Just like my garden and the Savior, all Redge needs is some attention. What would it be like if everytime I heard the garage door open (knowing it's Redge) I left whatever I was doing, and ran to greet him with a hug and a kiss? As it is now, Redge hunts me down to greet me. What if the table were set for dinner, and at least the family room was picked up? What if I had some nice music playing for him (this isn't soothing for all husbands, but music does for Redge what gardening does for me)? What if I occasionally asked Redge on a date, or to go for a walk instead of waiting for him to take care of all that stuff? I'm thinking I would find that consistent cultivation of my reltionship with Redge would bring me peace, comfort, and happiness. I'm sure seeing my pretty flowers wouldn't be able to compare to the happiness in my life if every day for two hours I placed Redge as my number one priority.
Another Week Without Reece
Reece left today for a week at Scout Camp. I miss him already. I regress when he's not here. He keeps me on my toes. He's such a good example in our home. Last night Redge stopped by the home of one of his counselor's to discuss some final details regarding the boys. Redge thanked Brother Harley for attending Scout Camp, and Brother Harley responded, "No, thank you. Your son makes my job a lot easier! Reece is aces! He's a positive influence on the other boys, and when he's around the dynamic instantly changes."
Several years ago Naomi cross stitched for our mom the scripture found in 3 John 1:4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." What a profound statement! I testify that this true! As it is with every single parent reading this right now, I find such happiness, gratitude, and relief when other adults say things like Kevin Harley did last night. You all know what I'm talking about. We've all had many opportunities to hear praises sung regarding our own children.
However, I do need to comment that I am the first to realize the imperfections in my children. Reece left without cleaning his bathroom, and now I'm stuck doing it for him! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!! I hate cleaning boys' bathrooms! YIKES!
Several years ago Naomi cross stitched for our mom the scripture found in 3 John 1:4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." What a profound statement! I testify that this true! As it is with every single parent reading this right now, I find such happiness, gratitude, and relief when other adults say things like Kevin Harley did last night. You all know what I'm talking about. We've all had many opportunities to hear praises sung regarding our own children.
However, I do need to comment that I am the first to realize the imperfections in my children. Reece left without cleaning his bathroom, and now I'm stuck doing it for him! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!! I hate cleaning boys' bathrooms! YIKES!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Gardening Tips by Lyndee
So, you're probably getting the impression I spend a lot of time in the garden. I do. As much time as I can justify. I'm pretty new at the vegetable end of gardening, and I am learning so much! This week I learned 3 valuable lessons:
1~ Farmers wear boots, not flip-flops, for several reasons. These reasons include: boots keep rocks from hurting feet; boots don't get stuck in mud, pulled off feet by mud, swallowed by mud~ never to be seen again; boots keep dirt out~ this is good be because wet garden dirt in flip-flops doesn't feel like wet beach sand; boots protect toes.
2~ 35 watermelon plants require A LOT of garden space.
3~ 75 pumpkin plants require more garden space than 35 watermelon plants.
1~ Farmers wear boots, not flip-flops, for several reasons. These reasons include: boots keep rocks from hurting feet; boots don't get stuck in mud, pulled off feet by mud, swallowed by mud~ never to be seen again; boots keep dirt out~ this is good be because wet garden dirt in flip-flops doesn't feel like wet beach sand; boots protect toes.
2~ 35 watermelon plants require A LOT of garden space.
3~ 75 pumpkin plants require more garden space than 35 watermelon plants.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Family Pictures
We had family pictures taken recently. I think they turned out well, in that we all look exactly like we do in real life. Well, we are probably a little cleaner in the picture than we are normally. However, there are some aspects of the pictures that make Gayla and me laugh. Keep reading. You'll see what I mean.
Kisses
This is my favorite of the pictures~ for obvious reasons. It was so cute when it was taken! All four of the kids were totally laughing! I love watching the four of them having fun together.
Super Imposed
Gayla says this picture is freaky in that it looks like Reece has been super imposed. He also looks kind of like a giant. I can't even tell you how many funny looks we get with Reece. We are often questioned about his "real dad." Many people seem to think that Reece is my son from a previous marriage to an obviously huge man. I like telling these people that Reece is Redge's middle name, and all 4 kids have the same dad. Kinda funny.
The Hudson Team
This picture cracks me up because it reminds me of the bus stop billboards in Las Vegas advertising husband/wife realtors. We are far too old to have it look like a wedding announcement.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
In My Pretty Garden...
I like to work outside. I especially love to work in the gardens. Flower or produce~ I don't care. Either one works for me. I much prefer yard work to house work. Anyone who visits my house can verify this information. When we bought this house 4 years ago there was red lava rock as ground cover throughout our planters. It looked pretty from the street, but that's where the beauty stops. My kids like to play outside, and the idea of running and hiding among the many bushes and trees in our planters is far too enticing. It doesn't bother me. It's their home, too. They are pretty good about avoiding my flowers, and flowers grow back. However, the red lava rock had to go! With all the running, slipping, sliding, hiding, etc., there seemed to be more rocks in my lawn than in the planters. So, I started throwing away all the rocks~ a few shovels at a time. After a couple of months the rocks were long gone. However, the disposal of said rocks added a new problem. During the disposal of the rocks many were spilled from the shovels, and landed in the lawn. This has created the job of rock digging. So, for the past 3 Summers I have spent endless hours digging endless rocks from what seems to be (only from this perspective)an endless lawn.
Our lawn is not the most beautiful in the neighborhood, however, it does look better than it did when we moved in to our home. While de-rocking my yard I found that wherever the lawn was yellow, weeds had grown, or the grass was thin there were little red lava rocks impeding the growth of my lawn! The grass tried to grow over it. The lawn did its very best to hide the rocks, but they were still there. It has taken forever to get rid of the rocks and weeds, and to get new grass to grow in the holes. There were times after I completed working for a day that I felt I had made the yard uglier than before, but I knew my yard would never have a chance until I removed every last rock. Without getting rid of the rocks the weeds would spread, and eventually take over the entire lawn. I had to make it look worse, put in more work, and in some places start completely over before it would ever get better. It's amazing to see the change in our yard as the grass has begun to fill in the holes where there used to be rocks.
There is a definite upside in this experience. I realized how these little rocks are similar to sins in my life. Due to weaknesses in my testimony little sins find their ways into my soul, burrow in, and try to take over the place. I know they're there, but I try to to ignore them. Just like my grass tried to grow over the top of the rocks, I try to grow beyond these little progress impeding sins. I try to pretend they don't exist, but then it starts to effect more than just my soul. I stop thinking about Christ~ because I'm afraid if I do think about Him I will be reminded of my hidden sins. It effects my outlook, my appearance, my personality, my relationships, and the person I am because my relationship with my Savior has dimmed. Finally, I realize the only way to really be the person I want to be is by ridding myself of the sins. And, just like my lawn, it requires a lot of time, patience, and hard work to de-sin myself. Sometimes it even feels I'm making it worse, but that's just an optical illusion. I really am getting better. In the long run, just like my yard, my soul and appearance are once again what they should be.
I'm so grateful for the knowledge that through the atonement I can earn forgiveness through the repentance process. What an amazing and beautiful gift!
Our lawn is not the most beautiful in the neighborhood, however, it does look better than it did when we moved in to our home. While de-rocking my yard I found that wherever the lawn was yellow, weeds had grown, or the grass was thin there were little red lava rocks impeding the growth of my lawn! The grass tried to grow over it. The lawn did its very best to hide the rocks, but they were still there. It has taken forever to get rid of the rocks and weeds, and to get new grass to grow in the holes. There were times after I completed working for a day that I felt I had made the yard uglier than before, but I knew my yard would never have a chance until I removed every last rock. Without getting rid of the rocks the weeds would spread, and eventually take over the entire lawn. I had to make it look worse, put in more work, and in some places start completely over before it would ever get better. It's amazing to see the change in our yard as the grass has begun to fill in the holes where there used to be rocks.
There is a definite upside in this experience. I realized how these little rocks are similar to sins in my life. Due to weaknesses in my testimony little sins find their ways into my soul, burrow in, and try to take over the place. I know they're there, but I try to to ignore them. Just like my grass tried to grow over the top of the rocks, I try to grow beyond these little progress impeding sins. I try to pretend they don't exist, but then it starts to effect more than just my soul. I stop thinking about Christ~ because I'm afraid if I do think about Him I will be reminded of my hidden sins. It effects my outlook, my appearance, my personality, my relationships, and the person I am because my relationship with my Savior has dimmed. Finally, I realize the only way to really be the person I want to be is by ridding myself of the sins. And, just like my lawn, it requires a lot of time, patience, and hard work to de-sin myself. Sometimes it even feels I'm making it worse, but that's just an optical illusion. I really am getting better. In the long run, just like my yard, my soul and appearance are once again what they should be.
I'm so grateful for the knowledge that through the atonement I can earn forgiveness through the repentance process. What an amazing and beautiful gift!
T8 is GR8!
I love my girl, Taite! She is so much fun! 
I love listening to her while she plays house. I love watching her play with her friends. She is a party waiting to happen.
I love listening to her read. I love watching her ride her bike.
My favorite thing about her is her ability to make and keep friends. Friday was the last day of school. I was invited to attend an awards' ceremony in Taite's classroom. Each student was given an award specific to his/her abilities and/or personality. Taite received the "Friendship Award." Mrs. Varner, Taite's teacher, told us that whenever she asks anyone, "Who's your best friend?" the answer is always, "Taite!" She continued telling us, "Taite is always chosen first to be a partner, the popcorn reader, or errand companion." I love this about her~ just as every mom loves the attributes of their own children.
I love watching Taite dance. I love watching her enjoy it. I love watching her get excited as she learns and masters new steps and techniques. Yesterday was Taite's Spring Dance Recital. She received the "Dancer of the Year Award." Neither of us had any idea it was coming! Her brothers were obviously very surprised! They know she dances. Of course they know. She dances all through the house, in front of the TV screen, on the way to answer the phone and/or door, etc. However, the guys didn't get that she really puts her little heart into it.
I love watching Taite with her brothers. I love watching her brothers with her.
When Taite is sick, scared, or hurt at school she always asks, "Can I just go find Reece or Seth?" That usually does the trick for her.
I love watching Taite with Christy and Mae, her cousins. Christy is Naomi's only daughter. Mae is Quincy's only daughter. They like to play, "Sisters." They are the only sisters they have. They talk about someday having sisters-in-law, but for now they are each others' sisters.
I'm so blessed to have my Taite. She makes me happy!
I love listening to her while she plays house. I love watching her play with her friends. She is a party waiting to happen.
I love listening to her read. I love watching her ride her bike.
My favorite thing about her is her ability to make and keep friends. Friday was the last day of school. I was invited to attend an awards' ceremony in Taite's classroom. Each student was given an award specific to his/her abilities and/or personality. Taite received the "Friendship Award." Mrs. Varner, Taite's teacher, told us that whenever she asks anyone, "Who's your best friend?" the answer is always, "Taite!" She continued telling us, "Taite is always chosen first to be a partner, the popcorn reader, or errand companion." I love this about her~ just as every mom loves the attributes of their own children. 
I love watching Taite dance. I love watching her enjoy it. I love watching her get excited as she learns and masters new steps and techniques. Yesterday was Taite's Spring Dance Recital. She received the "Dancer of the Year Award." Neither of us had any idea it was coming! Her brothers were obviously very surprised! They know she dances. Of course they know. She dances all through the house, in front of the TV screen, on the way to answer the phone and/or door, etc. However, the guys didn't get that she really puts her little heart into it.
I love watching Taite with her brothers. I love watching her brothers with her.
When Taite is sick, scared, or hurt at school she always asks, "Can I just go find Reece or Seth?" That usually does the trick for her.
I love watching Taite with Christy and Mae, her cousins. Christy is Naomi's only daughter. Mae is Quincy's only daughter. They like to play, "Sisters." They are the only sisters they have. They talk about someday having sisters-in-law, but for now they are each others' sisters. 
I'm so blessed to have my Taite. She makes me happy!
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