Remembering to Remember

Hi Me and whoever else might read this.....I'm never sure how to begin my post. I usually feel like I owe my blog an apology for  neglecting it. I am sorry...I do neglect this and I really don't do it intentionally. One of my most persistent wishes these days is to be more organized, in all aspects of my life...but it just doesnt seem to be happening enough. ( except when Karen comes and does her magic)

So...I often was heard to whisper that I could hardly wait for September this year when all the stress and drama facing our family would be done. That's a laugh...because September is here ( almost gone) and while stresses of a move ( Kathy and Jeff) and a wedding ( Laura and Jeremy) are both behind us.....other stresses were waiting in line.( nothing quite as dramatic though) It has been quite the year....what a year indeedy.....and I haven't posted....so here goes.

January....we were certainly enjoying our sweet little Olivia. Our Christmas gift and oh such a happy baby. All of her cousins adore her and she is such a delightful addition to our family. She's now nine months old and cuter than cute.She is always smiling. She loves to roll everywhere, although last night she did demonstrate some cool crawling !! Karen and Brandon are awesome parents....she's one blessed little girl.

Hi....this is my cool Mommy



I might look silly but I do love this photo

Despite the smiles of Olivia, January had some sad days too as we began a journey of change for Kathy and Jeff. Jeff left for six months in Regina and the beginning of his RCMP career. Six hard months of training for him...and six months of separation from his family. YES...SIX months ( I have a whole new appreciation for careers that send spouses from their family) This also was the beginnings of a tough time for Kathy as she managed her home and five kiddies on her own. It was also the completion of major home renovations..which Kathy and many friends completed during that six month time. The end results were spectacular....Jeff graduated in July and Kathy sold the house the same month...and we know what came next....I tear up still reflecting on this major move within our family. January to July saw lots of sleepovers, playgrounds,family dinners, birthdays....and so much more....

February...birthday(mine)and more sleepovers.....



Me and 5 of my 6 girls....where were you Olivia



My big boys

A winter outing with my big girls



Precious sleepovers

 

Author note....I'm still having some challenge with the writing on this blog....stay tuned...to be continued

 

 

 

Long overdue

August 2.2012.....this has been one crazy summer....and I won't even begin to write about it.Maybe tomorrow LOL...I have spent the past few hours writing to my children...I am copying this letter to my blog as my post today... I treasure each of my children....

Good morning to my favorite child...

Yes it's your momma with thoughts from the pool. As I swam this morning I was feeling reflective and as often happens I think of my family. Stop Jackie...let them know that I'm healthy and not writing a farewell letter. Hope that you like my greeting because as you all know and believe...YOU are my favorite.

Part of this letter began last week. I was preparing for my Sunday School lesson; Alma 36-39 where Alma speaks to each of his sons. Those are full

of some beautiful teachings, and pure testimony. It made me think that it's been awhile since I spoke to each of you. Now Alma chose to speak individually

to each of his sons, and that's probably what I should do. I do enjoy my individual times with each of you and I have been blessed to have many good times and conversations with

each of you on more personal levels. Don't ever stop having these with me, as I love them most.

Like Alma I want you each to know how proud I am of each of you!!! I'm proud of you on so many levels.

Michael....you continue to make me grateful for having you as my son. You are so much fun to be with.... a great game player, a thoughtful son, and a great husband and father. I love watching you and Keah with your girls. You are doing an amazing job together. I love how you individualize with each girl. I am grateful that you honor your priesthood, and that you are raising your children in the gospel. I see you exhibit your love to Keah so openly and tenderly and that brings me much joy!!!

My counsel to you...magnify your priesthood constantly. Come to value it for the great gift that it is in your life. Search out your family ancestry and do this with your father. I know that this is important to do and it will help your father return to the church. Also Michael...return to the Temple with your wife. This is a challenge for many young couples and I know how much strength, regular attendance at the Temple has been for me. Just as you are learning to keep your physical body healthy, always seek to be spiritually fit too.

Kathryn....what a growing year this has been for you!!! Probably your biggest ever and you have accomplished so very much already. Well done daughter, wife and mother!!

You held your family together, despite deep challenges ( especially financially), you renovated your home from top to bottom ( beautifully) and sold it in record time, you continued to work for Stampin Up..inspiring many ladies, you served as Primary President, and you did many things with the children's school community. You have also been a strong support to your husband as he made a huge career change. Your children and husband are lucky to have you!!! You continue to be lots of fun, and a special friend to many!

My counsel to you....when the dust settles...is listen to your children. As they grow older they need to know that they are heard and understood. Organize your home with order, and dedicate it as a home of holiness. Family Home Evening, family prayer, and scripture time are so valuable in raising your children. They will need these in the small LDS community that they are in. You will want them to be strong as they make new friends, and as they grow. Work as a strong team with Jeff to help them make good choices. Encourage more priesthood in your home, and don't settle for less. The Temple is now farther away....but not out of reach...return.

Karen....another growing year....this time as a mother and you glow in this role. It is so evident as we see what a happy little person Olivia has already become. You continue to be such a support to your family, to your siblings, your friends and your momma. How deeply I appreciate your thoughtful ways. You are an amazing teacher, especially in Relief Society. You are not without your challenges and I admire the positive attitude that you demonstrate !!

My counsel to you.....support your husband and call on his priesthood...come to the Temple....read your scriptures and look for answers in them....Set goals for you and you family.Continue to serve the Lord...follow your Patriarchal blessing.

Laura.....miles have never separated us and I deeply appreciate your constant contact with me. ( even at 2 in the morning) What a year you've been having and what impresses me most how automatically you turn to the Lord for answers. You are preparing for a huge change in your life and you are ready. Jeremy is very lucky to have your love. He loves you deeply and you two will be strong in the Lord! I have been so thankful for your focus towards the Temple, and your righteous choices that have brought you there. You are very independent and in setting up your home away you have made many sound choices.

My counsel to you....be patient always and willing to listen. Support the priesthood in your home, and value family. Visit the Temple often and begin many special traditions with Jeremy. Pray often...individually and as a couple. Be supportive as your husband completes his studies and give praise often.

Children....I have just written as I have felt impressed. You are all very blessed and we should always acknowledge our many many blessings. Face your trials ( and you will have many) with a positive attitude. Value the family that you came from and especially the one that you are creating. Raise your family in the gospel....be obedient....keep the commandments...and serve. My mother's last words are deeply imbedded in my heart...."Be kind to each other"....I echo this to you.....especially with your siblings and with your spouses!!!

I want to share my testimony with you. It is deeply important to me. I found the gospel at a young age, and gradually heard the Spirit whisper the truth of it to me. With experience, time, and service I have come to gain a better understanding of the gospel and of my Father in Heaven. I am thankful for the Savior and his part in the plan. I am grateful for repentance,forgiveness, and opportunities to grow. How I love our prophet, and I know that he, and those who serve with him are truly called of God. The ordinances, and covenants of the Temple are very precious and my attendance there constantly reaffirms

how true this all is. How I wish that we all could be together in the Temple.....it is a prayer in my heart always!!! I face many trials and tests and it is my testimony of the gospel and the Plan of Salvation which always always gets me where I need to be!!!

Love you all deeply and forever,

Be Kind to Each other, always.

Love Mom

Dear.....

Dear Reader

My mind has been writing this post for several weeks...reflecting on my life and those who I love so much. My heart is very full of gratitude for the amazing family that I've been blessed with. I also ponder a lot the role of my motherhood, and what a choice choice role that is. It is also a never ending one, that can be exhausting, frustrating, joyful, amazing,  and so so so much more.   With my motherhood has come the role of grandparent...'Nanny" to eight beautiful children. I love them each with every fiber of my heart!!!

Now that was an emotional statement to open with. I'm 61 years old, and  have been a parent for over half of those years....35 actually. I have always questioned how good a parent I have been and I know that I have ranted about my shortcomings before. ( and I won't now)

Whats new in my life. I have continued to have numerous sleepovers with my fab five to give Kathy some help as she prepares for her western adventures. For the most part this has been a great time to have special times with these kiddos. I cry often at how much I will miss them....I can't even write that without tears flowing. Each visit reminds me of how grateful I am to be a Nanny. I also prove the old quote...there is a reason that we have them when we are young....it's hard work at this age and I usually need a few days to recoup after each visit....oh the energy!!

I have to record a funny ( one of hundreds that come from Georgia)....today she kept belting out the words to'  It's my party...and I'll cry if I want to. After she sang the line...You would cry too if it happened to you....I ventured the question....what happened to make her cry ??? Georgia looks at me with a mischievous grin and says...Nanny it was the boyfriend....says me...what about the boyfriend...Nanny he farted at the party...giggle giggle.....oh my adorable Georgia!!!

Laura came home.....and it was wonderful!! She even pulled off a surprise arrival coming four days early and this momma won't complain. She planned this with Kathy who picked her up at the airport and kept her hidden all day. I had kiddies to return and when I got to the door it was locked. I rang the bell and Laura opened the door...I love surprising people myself...but I was totally shocked. Her visit home rejuvenated my sad soul.
It was just so nice to have her come into the kitchen each morning, and to have lots of family time gatherings ( tiring at times but so worth it!!!!) I loved having her friends drop in, play lots of games, visit fun places...the market, the candy store,the beach, Aunt Mays,church, Bridgewater, and just hanging out in our house. I love and miss Laura so much.....bring on momma's tears.

Thinking alot about Michael this week. He has been diagnosed with Ciliac Disease and I think this Mom is having sympathy symptoms...tired, crampy, and turned off of food....it will be a big food challenge for him to go gluten free but it's good to know what is  behind the way he has been feeling, and this challenge will improve his life once his diet adjusts.

I've been released from my library calling of the past 5 years. I was ready for this, and I'm excited to be teaching the Adult Sunday school class. It answers my prayers to motivate myself to better scripture study habits.

I'm continuing to enjoy my card making and sewing. I finished the girls quilts and have been making lots of doll clothes, and ruffled skirts. I really want to have more time to work on these activities. That's something that I'm determined to do!!!!!

I'll close tonight's post with a note about the special little spirit that our newest Olivia is. She visits with us often and her happy little person just lifts me so high. ( as does her thoughtful Mom) I had her to myself tonight. We went for a beautiful evening walk, played on the living room rug, popped on our jammies and fed her, rocked her, and then just cuddled her for the rest of the evening. Thanks Olivia...you are beautiful.

Can't close without a picture or two.....

cuddling cousins

he's so sweet with her

my delightful 11 year old

precious

jammie time!!

five in the bed.....and the little one said

Don't Think too Much

This may be short but I'm determined....not even sure why...but I feel like a need to leave a mark on today. I woke up with a wretched headache, skipped my swim ( big mistake) and rolled over and went back to sleep. Kathy woke me next to see when I'd be over for the little ones. I might have slept the day away...but I promised to help and since I'm not a painter, I'll do the grandma thing. The kiddies and I headed home and pretty much spent the day at home. I had some sewing to finish for Jessica's birthday, so I set up a play dough station in my craft room and the three of us worked along together. It was a good day until I  started to fade and so I  headed off for a nap...leaving kiddies with Bill ! ( another big mistake)...an hour or so later Georgia wakes me to tattle on Cooper who had done some body drawing...arms, stomach and facial hair!!! Oh dear Cooper....I washed him up, and parked him in a timeout spot...he promptly fell asleep, then fell off the chair....oh Cooper.

After a long ,slow dinner the kiddies had some downtime and fell off to sleep!!
I finished my trio of crazy quilts and four outfits for Jess' A.Girl doll.

I think that I just needed to see that I did accomplish something today.

I want to also mention that one of my V.Teachers directed me to read a conference talk by Elder Anderson....it was a very inspiring talk...and I quote from it...

"Even with His love for all mankind, Jesus reprovingly referred to some around Him as hypocrites, fools, and workers of iniquity.He approvingly called others children of the kingdom and the light of the world.He disapprovingly referred to some as blinded and unfruitful. He commended others as pure in heart and hungering after righteousness.He lamented that some were faithless and of the world, but others He esteemed as chosen, disciples, friends. And so we each ask, “What thinks Christ of me?”

I testify that as you love Him, trust Him, believe Him, and follow Him, you will feel His love and approval. As you ask, “What thinks Christ of me?” you will know that you are His disciple; you are His friend. By His grace He will do for you what you cannot do for yourself."

There was so much more.....What does Christ think of me??? This matters so much to me, and I could list so many ways that I know I fall short of being who He wants me to be. I am so deeply thankful for the Atonement that he made to make up for my weaknesses and the powerful forgiveness that He offers.

I talked with someone recently who told me that they doubted that their was a God. I want to testify in this post that God lives and his presence comes to us each day with the rising of the sun...and the many evidences that abound in our daily lives. The scriptures testify of him, miracles happen, and the great Plan of Happiness has been restored to the earth once again.

The gospel is my strength and direction every day.

I have much to give thanks for....most especially the great family that I am apart of....the grand Durnford clan, and my own wonderful children and husband. Each of them are a big part of my heart and soul.

A closing note...my dear cousin Edith died recently. She was a grand lady and touched soooooo many lives. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community!! Francois will never be the same. Love and miss you Edith!

I'll close with some photo memories

Quote for today

Someday he will have to shave

self xray!

timeout snooze

doll clothes

for Jessica's 11th Birthday!!

Good night.

Always playing catch Up....or Laura Inspires !!

I am determined to make a mark on my old blog today. Every night before I head off to bed I check to see if Laura posted on her blog. She rarely disappoints me, and she always inspires me to write....then I get sidetracked and here it is 11:25 and no post done!!!

I have such a full, busy life and something happening everyday. I can never say that I am bored. But look folks...I last wrote April 6th!!  So what have I been doing....here goes

-grandparenting...sleepovers a plenty with the most adorable kiddies on the     planet snuggles with dear Olivia, and not enough visits with our country girls.
-reading.....several interesting books...Change of Heart, Homecoming....and some others
-sewing....two special quilts finished and the third half way there
            ....doll clothes....thanks to my friend Kathy for sharing some awesome patterns
                they are quick and so cute
-knitting....completed eight pairs of slippers for you can guess who
-card making.....love making mass sets....love sending cards out!!!
-swimming....I try to get there at least 4 days a week....hit and miss some weeks
-biking....got my bike finally out of the basement and have had one ride.
-travelling....Bill and I drove from home to suburban Boston...some great shopping
                ....some serious conversation....and no resolutions
                ....good food, some rest, and way too much rain.
-church work....love my library service BUT far better has been my time at the Temple
                .....I work with the most amazing people
-general service......when needed
-cooking....as little as possible....Bill has such great talents in this area
-cleaning....I try...I really do....this topic depresses me.

I'm sure that I'm forgetting other things.....but let's move on to news

-Laura will be home on May 28th....and I'm sooooo excited
-Karen had a trip to Ontario for the burial of Brandon's Grandfather...It was a special family occasion for her and Olivia
-Kathy is transforming her house ( and boxing up a lot of it) She had a great Easter visit with Jeff, and we had the 5 bunnies, I mean kiddies with us!!
They hope to hear soon some idea of where this adventure will lead them
-Michael had a successful school trip to Quebec.He's been investigated for celiac, and we're all anxious to get some answers on this one.
-Jessica is growing lots ( size 8 shoes...ladies) she sure can pound out the notes on the piano
-Sarah likewise is having a growth spurt...and just gets more gorgeous every day
-Jacob....my tender Jake....I love watching him be a big brother to adoring Cooper.He's recovered well from last months dog attack ( in the neighborhood...9 stitches to his head)
Georgia.....oh my wise little Georgia....reminds me of the importance of prayer...even when my sewing machine comes unthreaded!!! A tender moment. She's writing her letters everywhere!! She also had her first official time in school and loveeeeed it
Cooper- has potty trained himself...loves underwear....and standing when he pees!!! He works hard on his speech...and prays so deeply over our meals....to help us be healthy and wrong!
Finley- she has a very social side that is blossoming everywhere. she loves to be outside, running and digging in the dirt.
Emmy- so gentle and caring. She is a little quieter but so loving....loves books and drawing with chalk. shes also great with puzzles.
Olivia-is sunshine everyday....the happiest baby alive!! rolling, chatting and laughing

Finally, general news....
  My sweet cousin Edith died on May 11th and will leave a huge hole in the heart of her dear community
   Lots of babies on the way to some special fiends....Jessica S, Jessica M, Karlie and a few others I think...its getting late.

I want to end with a couple of photos....and I will post again soon. Thanks for the inspiration Laura Beth....you are amazing

at the frog pond...Easter weekend

Olivia with her favorite cousin

Mass card production

doll clothes

riding to the playground together April26

Okay.....I know that I have other pictures that I could post but the computer is tired and giving me some grief....for a minute I actually lost my whole post and that wasn't a pretty moment.....so I will stop and say good night for now.

How can I not count my blessings

Hi Blog....you're on my mind lots lately, but unfortunately my life has been slightly crazy. I just posted an album on facebook, and the pictures upload so nicely there....wish it did here too. Sorry not meaning to be negative. I do want to write about what a nice day it has been. My Fab five have come to spend Easter with us ( while Mom is visiting Dad out west), and so today ( being very beautiful outside) I organized a fun picnic for us at Point Pleasant Park. The Park was alive with many walkers, runners, bikers, and puppy dogs.....it was wonderful. After out yummy picnic( even with Cooper's sandwich being left at home) we explored for more than an hour...then headed to a 'new to us' playground. After climbing, sliding and swinging we then headed to the church. While the kiddies enjoyed the gym, I produced the bulletin for Sunday and then we had a quick visit with Karen and Olivia. Home to a yummy fish dinner,baths, and some time infront of a lovely fire, and then off to sleep. here are a few peeks into yesterday and today

Enjoying Poppy's not so chilly chili!!

playground traditions

Easter pose

Good Friday breakfast

Point Pleasant Park

My fab five

I love to add captions to my photos....but I'm growing weary and I want to post.....it's been a great day and I AM tired!!

Press On

This has been a beautiful peaceful day. I started the day, very early ( 5:20) and was at the pool before it opened at 6am. I had a great swim, and short visit with my friend ML. I especially love swimming with my snorkel on, and just feel so removed from everything in the silence of the deep pool!

After a quick stop at Aunt Mays, and a dress change I headed off to pick up two friends  ( Lynn and Joan) to go to the Temple. How I wish that I could express the deep spiritual strength that comes from attending the Temple. I would use words like peaceful, calm, loving, renewing, happy and knowledge. While I was surrounded by many other Temple goers, I was able to have my very own personal visit with my Father in Heaven....through prayer and meditation. I am so thankful to have a Temple here in Nova Scotia, and the opportunity to attend.

Back home, and abit more 'spring cleaning'. It was indeed a spring day as the day was blue sky sunny, and temp. hit between 23-28 C. My visiting teachers came by and we had a delightful visit. They are both such special friends, and they continued the loving feeling of the Temple. Thanks Monica and Jennifer.

Bill and I cooked a yummy dinner together, and then watched some TV together. It's been a good day.

Now as a post script I must write about how wonderful RS celebration last night. We celebrate the birthday of our Womens group every March and last night was delightful. We had a lovely dinner, and a sweet program/power point about the angels in our lives. Background music to the PP was 'Angels Among Us' by Alabama....a song that I love. It was an evening of fellowship, and remininces about those who have served us, and the effect that this has had on our lives.

What came to my heart when asked to share was the angels who attended my family at the deaths of my parents. I will never forget those who held me up, and fed my body and soul. I also feel that one  sister in my life, Gail is an angel. She writes notes to me and many others just because. Little does she realize how her thoughtfulness has such a profound effect on those who receive them. Many times they have been just what my stressed soul needed. Gail has here on challenges in life but she is such a giving person, and I think the world of her. My third angel is a very humble friend who has been my VT companion for the past fourteen years. Dear Joan, has been such an example to me. She is so kind and caring.

Throughout my life I have been attended by many angels. From notes, calls, emails, visits,smiles, tears,hugs and the prayers of others I am constantly reminded that I am the daughter of a Heavenly Father who loves me, knows me, and has a plan for me. How deeply grateful I am for this knowledge and the great plan of Salvation.  ( Oh and Monica poured!!)

Thank you for a great day.