Preston

April 17th would have been Preston's 8th birthday. It is amazing to see how much I have changed and learned in 8 years. I would hope that I could say that because of him I am a better person and have a greater understanding of the gospel and the plan of salvation.
I have learned that sometimes the things we feel are unbearable at the time, are the things that shape our characters for good or bad. I have learned that I can't go through life without the help of my Savior! I need him and am grateful that he loves me enough that he wouldn't want me to try. I have learned that life is fragile and could be taken at any moment, so we should embrace life, live it to the fullest, and make sure that our priorities are where they matter the most. I have learned that God truly does have a time line and if we can trust him, all will be well.
All though losing him was the hardest trial I have endured in this life so far, I would do it again for him. I am blessed to be his mother and I know he watches over and loves us. I know he is where God needs him and is doing a great work.
Today I took a blanket to the hospital for a mother who will lose a baby. I had this idea for his 1rst birthday and have taken a blanket each year since. I know he would be happy that his birthday is not a day of mourning for me, but rather a day to celebrate, and honor him in the service of others.
We also have the tradition to let balloons go at the cemetery for him. My kids like it, because they feel like we are sending Preston's birthday to him.
I am grateful for Preston and for the valuable life lessons I have obtained by having him in my life.
Preston I love you..............Happy Birthday Big Guy

Happy Birthday

I just wanted to wish my Dad and my Brother Nate a very happy birthday today!!!!!

"Did you go to Jail ?"

Today I was in the store with my 4 year old Logan. He asked me "mom are you going to steal that?" I proceeded to tell him that we don't steal, that it is wrong, and that we should always pay for the things we get. He asked me if people that steal are bad guys and I told him that they are doing something BAD when they steal. I asked him if he knew what happens to people who get caught stealing, and he said"no". I told him that the cops come and take them to Jail.
In a really loud voice and with a lot of people around us he said, " Did you go to Jail?"
I could only guess what everyone around me was thinking about our conversation about stealing.