March Update

 I just wanted to update with some job information and how we are doing in Cedar City.  I didn't return to my job and decided that I would collect my Social Security.  I have been very busy trying to get that all straightened out, but mostly I have been so sick with the cough and elements of the flu.  I can hardly stay awake and when I do the slightest activity, I cough and cough and cough some more.  Ambur has been such a great kind person in helping me out and understanding, she still hurts some herself but she is doing what she can to help out.  

We don't have Ministering sisters and the Relief society has not contacted us at all, but our ministering elders have called a couple of times to see how we are.  Ambur is working and carrying the load for getting our groceries.  She never makes me feel low because of leaving my job, she is just very understanding and I think Heavenly Father is working and guiding both of us during this somewhat difficult time.  Fortunately I was able to get my 401K, small as it was, and that has helped.  I had my final check and was paid for PTO that I had and so we are doing OK financially.  I should be getting my first SS check soon and will see if I am able to get a part time job to supplement.

Life is good and I know I am so blessed.  I am so grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and to have a strong faith in Heavenly Father's plan.  I know that he loves me, individually and that he knows my challenges and as I continue to listen and act from that faith, things will be working out for us here.

Birthday Time for my Mom

March is a difficult time for me for many reasons.  It is also a very happy time because it is my mom's birthday.  Since she passed away, I actually don't remember when it started, my sisters have gathered together for the the 'sister luncheon'.  To remember my mom and to catch up on each other's life.  I have so many great memories from the luncheon and seeing my sisters and before mom died we would go to lunch and have a little shopping.  I loved shopping with my mom.  She was genuinely interested in seeing what we purchased and what we liked and she always gave her input as to if she liked the choices made or not.

I hope she has a very Happy Heavenly Birthday.  This family picture is one of my favorites because I am in her tummy.  My mom was an amazing woman.  I love her so much.  In my adult years and especially when I was first married and would call her for advice, she would have the best advice to give.  One particular occasion I was speaking to her about some problems I was having with my children and she said,  "don't worry about how they are feeling about your parenting choices, everyone who gets mad will eventually get glad:.  I love that and have thought of it many times since.  

I quit going to the sister's lunch a few years ago because it is a bittersweet day for me since the death of my husband and I just can't make it emotionally through the day.  I miss seeing my sisters, but since I made that choice the level of stress for me meeting expectations that I put upon myself have pretty much completely gone away.  With the help of a counselor, I have worked through the choice I have made and have come to realize that for me, not going is so much better than feeling like I ruin the day for anyone attending.  I love to hear about the fun that they have together, but I don't believe I will ever be there again.

I am so blessed to have been raised in such a good family.  There seems to always be some type of drama going on, but I love each of my siblings and I am grateful for them.  I wish I had closer relationships with some of my siblings despite differences in politics/religion/ and ideas, but it might be a little late for that.  I am just grateful for them all.  I am blessed and I love them all.