Why?

Why do we judge? What is it in us that makes us look at something or someone and immediately make a decision about it without giving it the benefit of the doubt? Why is our society one that looks at outward beauty instead of the heart first?

I know too many people that have been shunned or unincluded because they were "different" and it hurts more deeply than superficial wounds.

I am ashamed to say that way back in grade school I was one of those who didn't participate, but didn't stand up either, for a girl who was teased because she was "too smart" and acted a little differntly. The teasing and exclusivity got so bad that she transferred to a different school. I don't know where she is now, or how she's doing, but I only hope that she was able to overcome the emotional scars that were underservingly forced upon her. I hope she was able to arise above it and see herself as a daughter of God.


A friend of mine sent me a link to this video and it made me cry because of how people (including myself) prematruely misjudged this amazing woman.

Easter Thought

Christmas is by far my most my favorite holiday. I love the lights, music, decorations, the hustle and bustle of it all. I love decking the halls and trimming the tree. I really get into the shopping and wrapping and all that. I love that everyone spends more time being a little more Christ-like. I love Christmas!

Easter is easily my second most favorite holiday, yet I celebrate it very differently. I don't decorate the house with bunnies or Easter eggs or stuff like that. (okay, I do make one easter basket for the whole family and get them some chocolate and a new Easter outfit, and my kids still like to decorate eggs).

Instead, I start celebrating a week before by reading passages in the scriptures about Christ's last week in His ministry here on earth. I am quiet and ponder the unmatched love of His atoning sacrifice and marvel at the miracle of His resurrection. I am in awe of His sinlesss life, yet he agreed to take my sins upon him. He bore my burdens and felt my pain. This has taken on such a deep meaning throughout my life as I have come to rely on my savior, and I'm so grateful for his atonement. As someone once said, "without Easter, there'd be no Christmas!"

I have been enlightened by a conference talk I heard last Sunday by an apostle of the Lord, named Jeffrey R. Holland, titled None Were With Him. From his talk, I gained a new perspective of the antonement. Have a wonderful Easter.

El Tour de Phoenix

Despite the minor setback the day before, Dad and Ricky completed the 25 mile ride in the El Tour de Phoenix on Saturday.

The race almost ended for them before it began when on Friday Rick battled diarrhea, vomiting, and a fever of 102.7. It took all the power he had just to get to registration that afternoon without passing out. But amazingly, with a will to ride (and a 13 1/2 hour nap), Rick woke up Saturday morning almost completely recovered and ready to give the 25 mile tour his best shot. (Sorry Ricky for blabbing all your personal bodily functions, but it comes with the rite of being a mom).

Well, with the help of Tylenol, great weather, and an enthusiastic support team (thanks Kristy and JD for joining us with your motivating signs and cheers on the side of the road), Rick and Dad finished the race in 2 hours and 18 minutes.

Maybe I'm a crazy mom and should have forbid him to ride, but one quality Ricky posseses is determination. He doesn't give up just because something is hard. How could I deny him the chance to try? (Besides, I practically followed them the entire route in my car, just in case).

Way to go Rick! And thanks to my Dad for going so slow and sticking by Ricky's side. I know he could have easily finished this race in half the time, but he sacrificed his record for his grandson. Thanks Dad! And congratulations Ricky!

April Fool

Annika is our little jokster in our family. She has a fun sense of humor and loves to make people laugh. I think that's why April Fools Day is one of her favorite holidays.

She had a list of tricks to play on her family today. Here are the highlighs....

1. Her first trick was to put shaving cream on her sleeping dad's hand, then tickle his nose, so when he slapped his face he would get shaving cream all over his face. Fortunately for him , Serge got up early this morning and went to the gym, so Annika didn't get to pull this one off.

2. She emptied her dad's sugar shaker and replaced it with salt. Serge hasn't used his sugar yet today, but we know he will eventually!

3. Annika stuffed her brother's shoes with toilet paper. When he put them on this morning, it took him only a couple of seconds to realize that Annika was up to something.

4. She emptied the Sprite soda bottle in the refrigerator and filled it up with plain water. This one got me!


I finally got her back with the classic "your shoes are untied" trick. I can't beleive she fell for it! She's been on her guard all day, but I got her at the right moment I guess.