Tonight we were reading scriptures has a family, we are in 3rd Nephi chapter 13. It talk’s about how the lord will provide for us if we show faith and do what we are supposed to and if we DON’T worry about worldly things. There has been way to many times in my life that I have worried about every little thing, how are we going to pay this, when our we going to be able to pay that. Can I get this? Is it ok if we do that? The truth of the matter is we don’t need any of it, as long as we have faith in Heavenly Father, he will provide. As I was reading this chapter with my family, and couldn’t help but think about how he has provided for us recently, Anthony out of a regular paid job working for himself and doing great, but also this: As you know, I am on my 6th child, and it’s a boy. My last boy I had was almost 6 years so I really had Zero boys clothes left. I gave all my little girls clothes to the D.I (won’t need them anymore) Every time I would go to the store to on a budget I would look at baby clothes and think of all I needed to buy, but something told me DON’T buy them, don’t worry about it just wait. I decided to listen to that prompting, and two weeks ago I received a phone call from a neighbor around the block that had about twenty brand new outfits her son never wore. Tags on them ALL. There was everything I needed socks, blankets, little hats you name it she just gave them to me. Then some very nice women from church throw me a little shower, and I got everything else I needed. Then two days later my neighbor told me she new someone that was giving baby clothes away, and if I wanted them… I told her sure why not. 3 boxes of 0-12 months, this kid is set. I think I have only spent maybe $25 on him plus I bought a diaper bag. It’s a miracle of how much stuff I have. I am just so thankful for the lord, and his blessings. Anyone that says there is not a God just isn’t looking very well. I see him everyday in all our blessing. And I am just so thankful.
July 8, 2009 at 9:09 am (Uncategorized)
I have been hesitant on buying Aubrey a toddler bed because I am afraid that she won’t stay in it. However tonight she figured out how to climb out of the crib, and after three times of putting her back into the crib she finally stayed. Tomorrow I will be looking for cheep toddler beds at Wal-mart when I take Devun shopping for his birthday. Then I will be moving the crib into the boy’s room. Like I said a few days ago, I hope that after Devun’s party on Saturday I will be so stressed that I put myself into labor. I will be 36 weeks. That’s how far along I was when I had Devun, but with my luck it won’t be until the end of the month. I am telling myself with this child, he will NOT be sleeping in my bed. Aubrey just started to sleep in her own about 6 months ago, and it has been so nice to have my own space. (I tell myself every pregnancy the baby will be in his/her own bed and it NEVER happens). Its really will depend on how lazy I am when getting up to feed at night. I can’t believe that I will have a ten year old tomorrow. I can’t believe how fast time goes, before I know it I will be sending him off on a mission, and then college. Anthony’s Grandparents gave me a great idea to do a lease option to buy. We have to wait two years now that Anthony is self employeed why not rent a house that we can be making payments for our down…. We looked on craigs list and only found one that would fit our family, however it was in Livermore. So if you hear about anything in our neighbor hood let us know
July 6, 2009 at 8:42 pm (Jens mind)
I am still very much pregnant, and should be for another 3 1/2 weeks. My body is starting to act like it is going into labor. And I have noticed the more kids I have to strong the “false Labor” is. It is very frustrating to me how much pain you have to go through. I know in the end it will all be worth it, but right now I just want it to be over.
We are having a little birthday party for Devun on Saturday, and then my aunt will be in town the following week (I think) so I am hoping that will be the week my body goes into labor. In the mean time I am here waiting for this baby to come out!
Slumber Party
July 6, 2009 at 8:34 pm (Uncategorized)
This year Marissa wanted a Slumber party. Anthony on the other hand was dead set against it. He doesn’t want her to grow up (he said so himself) and she is too small to have friends over all night long.
So we decided to have a Slumber Party theme. She got to invite 6 friends, and we did their nails, hair in rollers, and make up. The girls LOVED IT! They thought that they were in a beauty parlor as they got special treatment.
I did all the pink curlers in their hair, Anthony removed old nail polish, and Kim (Anthony’s Mom) painted their nails, and we both put make up on them.
This little experience made me think of my first slumber party. I was allowed to invite all the girls in my class. I remember inviting one girl who was very popular and she said “I’d love to come to your party; I think your house is so clue”. She thought my house was cool (not me) how sad…
Anyways I had like 12 girls that showed up, and everything was going well until it was time for bed.
When I said I invited all the girls in my class, I did. I even invited the girl that nobody liked, thinking she could make friends.
I guess the girls thought different, because they had some plans to do not nice things while she slept. (Hand in water trick) and putting stuff on her face. This girl wasn’t asleep, but was pretending to be. She jumped up and ran out side, and ALL the girls started to run after her. I woke my grandma up, she had to get into the van and pick the girls up a few blocks away. (Grandma was NOT happy).
That girl called her mom, and went home. I don’t think she talked to me for the rest of the year, and the following year she went to another school. Why are kids so mean?
One of the little girls that came to Marissa party has a sister that is in Devun’s grade. Now this girl doesn’t have very much friends nor does the little girl Marissa invited, so you would think you would be nice and sweet and try to make new friends.
NOTE: this was a girl only party, so Devun and Zack had to stay in their bedroom and watch a movie. They got to come out for Cake and Ice Cream, (they were fine with this).
The minute Devun came out this little girl said “Devun, My sister said to tell you she HATES you”. Devun just said so what. But you know Devun is very sensitive and this hurt his feelings.
I just hope that my girls will grow up and be more thoughtful of other children’s feelings. But I am sure everyone feels that way.
Our little kitten “Pirate”
July 6, 2009 at 2:19 am (Uncategorized)
Seeing how it is Sunday, and I finally got around to taking pictures of our little orange kitten, I thought I would share a Miracle with you all.
As my past post shared our cat had three little kittens. One was born blind.
Its one eye was covered in white, and you couldn’t see a pupil at all.
I was very nervous for this cat, and baby her tons. I had Anthony give all the kittens a blessing, but she needed a special one.
After Anthony gave her a blessing the white that was around her eye started to clear up. She then became very cross eyed, but I refused to give up faith. I continued to love her and baby her more then the others. About two weeks later her eye was starting to face front, and now she can see perfectly.
She is the most playful, trusting kitten we have. She loves to climb on our lap.
Her some pictures of her, and the other kittens.
Potty training time
June 30, 2009 at 9:43 pm (Uncategorized)
Aubrey loves to take her diaper off after she goes. I was really hoping to not start training her until after the baby comes, but I think she is ready now. Last night we took her to Kmart and let her pick out her very own big girl panty. She came home and went potty right away and earned herself a mini pack of M&M’s. She also woke up this morning and went again. I guess I shouldn’t get to excited. Because shortly after that she peed her paints. But it’s a learning experiences Right??? Yesterday I had my first REAL day at work. After doing the double bank run, (which I do often). I had to come home and return calls. We finally are getting calls on our business line. Over the weekend a few people called about some quotes. Craig’s list has finally paid off. … I made Anthony two appointments, he got one job, that he will be doing this Saturday (short and easy).. But the other one has a tone of work, so he has decided that if he does get the one, we will be hiring an employee. Possibly he’s dad? But his Dad hasn’t committed one way or another yet. Either way, I have to look into a quote for workers comp. I also had to call a few businesses and set us up a Contractors account, who new Contractors got discounts? Today, I will be taking my kids to the pool and Library, Marissa has spent her summer reading Chapter books, and has probably read 15 already. Devun on the other hand just wants to ready silly comic chapter books. I guess reading is reading…. Today feels like another hot day.
June 18, 2009 at 9:58 pm (Jens Thoughts)
Visiting teaching was an exciting experience. Before we could get a prayer in Zack had to be rushed to the Minor injury client at Kaiser. I guess he had a stick in his hand and wasn’t watching what Devun was doing. Then Devun threw a ball at his face and the stick cut him right under his eye. Zack had to get the glue and 3 sterile strips put over it. We missed Devun last Boy Scout Summer Party, Due to the fact that Zack cannot get it wet for 7 days. Anthony ended up taking Devun by himself. It was probably for the best, seeing how Aubrey is not afraid of the water and neither Anthony nor I really wanted to get wet… (Weather was too cold). But the worst part is we are going camping this weekend. All there is to do is swim…. We are going to have to come up with something cleaver so Zack can get his waste wet only. I will post pictures later. Other News, Anthony is officially working for himself. I know as long as I have faith things will all work out. He starts that Kitchen Remodel on Monday, and the following Monday he will start another Bathroom remodel. So he will have two of his own projects going at the same time. Sad news is I was starting to get used to him home in the evening again. The past week, he has worked lots of little projects just from referrals. (Thank you family and friend. WE LOVE YOU)! Anthony has worked part time for the past three and a half months, and with out these referrals & projects who knows where we would be. Thank You, Thank You! Like I said in my talk, have faith and Miracles will come! Today is the first day I have my mothers helper come and help me with my kids. I choose smartly. I had two of my friend’s children over last night and most of today. I honestly have not had to entertain them AT ALL! My room is clean (Miracle) and I was able to clean the rest of the house. Now I just need to get off the computer so I can pack our bags! Talk to you soon Jen
Week update
June 16, 2009 at 8:35 am (Uncategorized)
Devun and Ms Elliot
Kids at Toni Graduation
Anthony and Aubrey at Toni Grad
Toni at her Graduation
Zack said he would shine his trophy every night before bed!
Mt Mikes
This past week has been very eventful to say the least.
The kids had their last day of school. Devun got a few awards at her 3rd grade awards assembly, one being the Principals award.
I worked at Marissa end of the school year party. That was fun!
Said good bye to Devun’s teacher, who has taught him the past two years, that was sad.
Attended Toni (my younger sisters) High School Graduation… (Should have left the kids with a baby sitter).
Had closing Ceremonies with T-Ball/Coach Pitch… glad its over for another year.
Prepared a talk for Sacrament. (Hopefully I am good for another year).
Attended a presidency potluck. (Nice to talk to adults)
Then tonight we had our end of year Pizza Party at Mt Mikes for T-ball….. Anthony thinks he may want to be an assistant coach for both Marissa and Zack’s team next year (no thanks)!
Tomorrow I am hoping to be able to relax. The kids still haven’t realized that they can sleep in that school is over with for a few months. Instead they have been getting me up at 6:30, after a very long night of sleep.
Honestly I hope this baby comes as early as Devun did… That would have me giving birth in 3 weeks….
But I told Anthony he is not going to come until we can decide on a name for him. Still no luck L
Anyways here are some fun pictures of the past few days hope you in joy.
Up coming event this week
Visiting teaching – will be fun, I can talk to adults!
Boy Scouts end of year family pool party ( not going to have fun chasing Aubrey around the pool)
Camping- Its going to be way toooooo cold.
Marissa & Ms. Cox
Talk
June 15, 2009 at 9:05 am (Spiritual Thoughts)
I can’t sleep, I really feel like I need to post this, but I am not sure why.
Today at church Anthony and I had the opportunity to speak in Sacrament meeting.
I am going to share my talk with you, but first I ask that you please do not judge me for my grammar and spelling errors. We all know that I am far from knowledgeable in the English language.
I was given the topic of Miracles. I looked up Miracles in the Bible Dictionary, and this is some info I found related to my story. An important element in the work of Jesus Christ, being not only divine acts, but forming also a part of the divine teaching. Christianity is founded on the greatest of all miracles, the resurrection of our Lord. If that be admitted, other miracles cease to be improbable Miracles were and are a response to faith, and its best encouragement. They were never wrought without prayer, felt need, and faith. It is important to notice the different names by which miracles are described. They are called signs, as being visible tokens of an invisible power; they are powers or mighty works, because they are the acts of One who is almighty; they are simply works, or the natural results of the Messiah’s presence among men; they are wonders, marvels, because of the effect produced on those who saw them. For most of you that personal know Anthony and I, know that we have received plenty of Miracles in our Marriage over the past five years. For those of you who don’t know I will share a little about our life. I was born and raised by my Grandparents in the Clayton Valley 1st ward. I attended High School at Concord High, and my sophomore year I met Anthony. I am a perfect example of “You marry who you date”. Anthony and I got married about a year after high school. We moved to Utah very shortly after.….. I was semi active for the first years of marriage. But being a one member mom church was too hard for me to attend alone. A mistake I realize now. We moved back to CA and back into the Clayton Valley 1st ward when I was eight months pregnant with Zack, Still not knowing what I was missing, and not wanting to come to church alone I didn’t. I guess it wasn’t until Zack was born; I had really bad Post Partum Depression. I remember crying to my grandmother and really had nothing to cry for; she told me I needed to go back to church. I didn’t argue with her, I just thought about it. Was she right? But still I did nothing about it. Miracles started to happen a few months later. David Nelson came knocking at my door. He didn’t push like the others had. He was a friend I felt comfortable with; we grew up in this ward together. He invited me to church, and also offered him and Kendra to help with the small kids during Sacrament. And even though I was nervous I decided to give it a try. I remember sitting in Sunday school and sister Panick was giving the lesson. I don’t remember what the lesson was about, but I do remember the comment she made and my whole body being filled with the spirit telling me it was true. After that experience I new I could no longer doubt the church, or even no longer not attend. I started to attend weekly; Devun Marissa and I would pray every night that Daddies heart would be soften as well. Anthony was a little stubborn before he joined the church. He wouldn’t go to any activities, David asked if he wanted to play basketball at night with the men, and he turned that down… (Which by the way I can’t keep him away from now). But Anthony is a very sweet person, and loves his family more then anything else on this earth. And Heavenly father new that! I am a strong believer that trials soften our hearts and increase our faith. Which then increases Miracles? This is about when in my story the Trails began. Marissa was having a horrible time in Nursery. She would cry so hard that she would make herself throw up. I wanted to go to my classes and learn so I asked Anthony if he would give up his Sunday morning golf time with his dad and just go to Nursery with Marissa. He wouldn’t have to go to Sacrament meeting. Just show up after and hang out with Marissa in the Nursery. Anthony new how much I wanted the kids to be a part of the church, and I was lucky enough to have him respect that. He did come to church and hang out with Marissa and after two weeks of going the Missionary’s cornered him and asked if they could come over for a visit. Anthony didn’t have a problem feeding them. So we did that. Once a week. 1st Miracle- Missionaries invited into my home One night we had them over for Spaghetti. I will always remember this night, I was being far too pushy, and in front of the missionaries I kind of cornered Anthony and asked him to take the lessons. (Already knowing that he didn’t want to do this). He yelled at me, and told me I needed to decide what I wanted to do, before I started to push him. Zack then through up spaghetti everywhere and dinner was over. Those missionaries didn’t come back. But that is when I realized he was right. I new what I wanted, but due to my lack of faith in the past I needed to work on my own spiritual growth, before I started to push him into his! So I continued to pray with the kids at every meal, before bed. I read scriptures every night, some nights I would get him involved by asking questions about what I had read, and we would get into biblical discussions. Anthony still was coming to church with Marissa, But Trail # 2 came Financial Problems >>> The church helped us out more then either he or I could believe. We where both very thankful. I know that this softened his heart even more. He couldn’t understand why they would help us, with him not being a member of the church. I remember driving during all this stress wondering if Anthony was ever going to join the church maybe I was losing patients I am not sure, but I know that day the Lord step in and took over. I was driving home from Stockton. Returning my grandmother to my mother’s house. I trip I took twice a week for a few years. A voice said loud as day that Anthony was going to join the church. I looked in the back of the car, and it was only Marissa and Zack ….. Like what was going on?? When I realized after a few seconds what had just happened you couldn’t pry the smile off my face. It was the happiest day of my life. I sat there pondering what had just happened, then I had an urgent feeling I needed to go to the Church book store. So I went thinking I needed to by a book of Mormon for him to read. But while I was their I felt impressed to buy the First Vision. So I bought both. I was a little conniving and had Devun and Marissa watch the movie before Anthony came home from work. Devun loved it, and begged Anthony to watch it. He did of course…Anthony will do What ever the kids ask of him. Anthony watched the movie- And I know he felt something watching it because right after Devun gave him a present… The Book of Mormon
all wrapped up in Christmas rapping paper. By this time it is early December. For the first time he said he would read it, and he started that night. I remember him falling asleep at the kitchen table as he studied it. However he still didn’t want the missionary lessons… Miracle #3 The Bishop was meeting with one member family for the Christmas season. He came to our house for that visit. Anthony was about a week or two into the book of Mormon, and he had a ton of Questions. Bishop Christenson asked him if the missionaries could come over once a week, just to answer any questions that he may have. Anthony agreed. Having the missionaries in our home every week really brought a sweet spirit… They loved us and wanted to best for our family. We loved them and the became part of our family. I remember one night Elder Grow was making fun of me for bible dipping…. You pray for a reason and then open the bible and the first thing you read is your answer. I didn’t do it a lot, but His mom did and he was trying to wing me from doing it. I don’t know why we had that conversation, but Anthony decided that night he was going to try it. After I went to bed, he prayed and asked if the church was true. He then opened his scriptures and received his answers. As many of you remember he came to church that Sunday and bore is testimony asking to be “Sign UP” in his popular words. That next week he was baptized, and a year a half later we were sealed in the temple. The Miracles in our home have been great. I know that Heavenly Father WANTS to bless us. He wants to give us everything he can. He just wants us to have faith in him and his Son. Over the last three years we have had our ups and downs. But when we have faith everything always seems to work out. We have been blessed with food showing up at our door, when we had nothing to eat, bills being paid when there has been no money to pay them… Christmas presents at our door when we have had little to offer our children. Miracles- Written in the 1992 Encyclopedia of the Mormonism reads- God desires to bless his children, and sometimes does so in ways that require the manifestation of extraordinary power. He is restrained only by their lack of faith. Thus, the absence of miracles is evidence of the lack of faith among his children, (Moro. 7:37). “for it is by faith that miracles are wrought; and it is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men; wherefore, if these things have ceased wo be unto the children of men, for it is because of unbelief, and all is vain” (Ether 12:12).”For if there be no faith among the children of men God can do no miracle among them” I know that Modern Miracles happen. I know that Jesus is the Son of God, and he came here for me! Joseph smith did restore the Gospel on this earth. And I am so thankful for them! I am thankful for my beautiful family. I am so thankful for my husband and all he does for our family. I am so thankful for all the missionaries that give up two years of their life’s to teach and bring members to the church. I am so thankful for Bishop Carter, I know that he loves are family, and wants the best for us. I am thankful for all of you brothers and sister. You are my family, you help us more then you will ever know. I know that God lives and loves us all.
June 5, 2009 at 11:42 pm (Uncategorized)
Anthony and I have both given up on our home city. Our school district is falling through the cracks and it makes me very nervous. We have a few ideas of where we want to move too. Now we just have to save so we can move due to the fact that the house and rental price’s are a lot higher. Wouldn’t you pay more for your child’s safety, and Education?
I found out yesterday that two of my favorite teachers have been let go. My heart just aches that the people in Our school district couldn’t pass a prop that would help out our schools and only cost 100 more a year in Taxes. The class sizes will be going up from 20 to 30-31 per room. And 2 elementary schools will be closing the end of 2010 school year!
As I was dropping Devun off at school today he also informed me that the school district will not be paying anymore money on field trips so they are going to have to do more fund raisers!
Is it the end of the days? I really wish, but I think things are going to get a lot worse, and very quickly!
Next year I advised Anthony, that either he or I will be attending ALL our children’s field trips (if any). I am going to try to find a college student to watch my little kids so I can help out in the class room a few days a week.
I really wish I had enough money that I could just hire one of these teachers that got let go, to privately teach my children in my home. I know that they need friends, but its getting really freaky out there!
!
