14 Days of Love

One very Smart Mama issued a Valentine's Challenge (here), 14 Days of love. In her words, "It's about personalizing our lives and putting more effort into the thing that matters most -- relationships." It was a great inspiration to me and I accepted the challenge. It was a simple way to make winter in the month of February more exciting, a reason to do good, motivation to keep going, an excuse to be more Christ-like.

...serving my family...

Day 1: My boys love to eat. No matter how much I cook, there are never any leftovers. Cinnamon rolls are a great way to fill their little bellies up for the night, and make everybody happy. Miller was especially happy that night as he found a fun way to sneak in a bite before the big boys knew what was happening.

Day 2: There are not a lot of options for my newly 16-ized son when it comes to finding a date, and then going on a date. He's been feeling a little blue this season of love, so we went on a date. We had tickets to the symphony orchestra. Their theme was the "Bachelors," songs written by famous composers who never married. We visited a store later, and got to pick out a V day card for someone he misses in Texas. It was a great way to show love to him.

Day 3: There has been a day that we've avoided for a long time, but it was time. We had to officially become Ohio residents. It's a day long process that entailed a trip to the State Police to take driving tests and an eye exam. Then we went to the Bureau of Registrars to turn in our tests, pay money, and get photographed. Then we went to a new car dealership to get our out-of-state vehicles inspected. Moving along, we traveled to the Clerk of Courts to turn in our car titles to get new state titles. Next, we went back to the Bureau of Registrars to pay money and receive plates. Five hours later, we have four shiny plates, three licenses, and something Tanner can do that will keep him busy and happy: DRIVE! He feels so loved!

Day 4: I took some boys while Jarrod was teaching, and plastered his office with pink and red hearts replete with cute phrases such as, I love you, As you wish, Families are Forever, Kiss me... He needed to draw attention to himself, his cute personality, and shout out to the world how much his family loves him. Don't you think?

...with my family, serving others...

Day 5: My husband, and my husband and I were able to go on splits with the missionaries. What a great way to show love for Heavenly Father, and our brothers and sisters, than serving in this capacity.

Day 6: I wanted to share the week of love theme with Jarrod's department, so every day I baked something for him to bring in and leave for others to feel the love. He made a cute sign and came home with an empty plate at the end of the day. With oatmeal raisin, chocolate chip, cinnamon rolls, peanut butter/kiss and sugar cookies, the week was very tasty.

Day 7: The young men in the church are responsible for shoveling the sidewalks at the church when it snows. Having six such capable individuals, we thought we should take upon ourselves that responsibility and let everyone else have the day off. Part of us wished we had called out the ranks, but the other half that endured three hours of chipping two inches of ice is glad that we could be of service

Day 8: One Sunday we baked and spent the day delivering cookies to homebound elderly widows in our church congregation. That has to be one of the best ways to involve children in keeping the sabbath day holy.

Day 9: This is the home of a lady that I visit teach. Visit here if you'd like to learn more about this monthly service opportunity for women. She lives under very humble circumstances. This month her need was a pair of snow gloves and size 10 shoes for her grandson. She knows I have every size of clothing and shoes for boys, so it is great when they can be put to good use. I'm glad my boys are learning to share and give

...serving others more meaningful...

Day 10: "Mom, are you 41? Is that a bad age? If you're old that means you're going to die so I don't want you to be old. You have to stay alive until I'm 91. I'd like that. I'd also like you not to yell. I'm not talking about the kind of yell where you yell for us to come eat, like dinner or lunch. I mean the other kind of yell." This is a way to show love that would make a difference. I promise to try, Sawyer.

Day 11: During the week of love, it was our Bishop's birthday. His wife wanted to do something but didn't know what. I suggested a surprise birthday party / adult game night, and thus the fun night was created! Since it was a surprise, I became the primary organizer, and had a great time getting the party ready. But, to see the support he received, and his face when he realized he was loved by his congregation, was worth all the hard work.

...serving those who can't help themselves...

Day 12: Meet Dicie Bexfield. She's 97, and a sweetie. Sometimes she needs help with her walker, which Miller is more than willing to do. Sometimes when I visit we have to uncover and dust off the organ for a hymn or two. She needed that this month. There hasn't been much sun.

Day 13: This is another house that I visit. Even before I got to the door, my boys knew what to do. It's been a great two weeks.

...serving those with no voice...

"As most of you know, we have started and finished the paperwork for another adoption. Now, we are just waiting to be picked. We are again asking for your prayers and assistance. Our chances of adopting increase with exposure. With all the ways of networking and communication that are available through the internet, we are asking for your help to let others know about us. Our hope is that someone might know someone (etc…) who is dealing with an unexpected pregnancy and thinking about adoption..." Please read more here, and please share with others. https://beta.itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/6397755/ourMessage.jsf

Day 14: These are my friends. Please share this with those who are in a situation to be of help, or those who have contacts that could be of help. Helping spirits be a part of the sealing covenant is truly a gift of love.