Example

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ~ Winston Churchill

I did Sharing Time yesterday in Primary and we talked about example: the fact that we are all examples, like it or not, aware of it or not. Someone is always watching, taking mental notes, and in many cases, doing what we do. It's a little frightening to me to think that someone somewhere is following, doing the things I do, simply because I'm the one doing them.

Made me think hard that it behooves [I do love that word!] all of us to make sure that the examples we set are good ones, and that if someone followed in our footsteps, they would be on a good path.

The lives we are building are important -- and especially at this time of year, our awareness of others and their needs should be at an all-time high. I want to make the best possible life that I can -- both for myself and for others.

Protection from Aging

Natalie and Simon

Chris -- who is eternally young too!

Maya, Chris and Daniel {boy in foreground is a stranger}

Mason, Maya and Daniel

Mason and the Rainforest Cafe frog

Mark

"Age does not protect you from love. But love, to some extent, protects you from age." ~Jeanne Moreau

So true. I may be in my mid-50s {OK, I am in my mid 50s!} but I feel young. I really do. I love to race, to chase, to tackle and tickle, and to do whatever it takes to keep up with our precious grandkiddoes. I do have some aches and pains, but they are minor in comparison to the joy I feel when spending time with family. The smiles I earn from the kiddoes are the best medicine for any ache or pain that might rear its ugly head. And it always brings a smile when I hear "Grandma, you're not old, you're new!" And I am new.

The love I feel for my children, their children, my parents and siblings, our Primary children, our dear friends -- is truly what keeps me young. That love makes me want to take good care of myself, to be fun to be with, to cherish every second I get with them, and is behind every prayer I pray for as much time with my family as possible.

If love is the measure, then I will always be young. Just look at the above pics -- oh, how I am blessed! {and young! ha!}

Update

Melanie and I outside the Houston temple.

The happy bride and groom - Melanie and Ramon

Mr. Simon - -celebrating on his 1st birthday

"Praise to thee, oh Lord, for all creation;
Give us thankful hearts that we may see,
All the gifts we share and every blessing,
All things come of thee." ~ John Rutter

Holy cow, it's been that long since I have posted? Mark has been harrassing me about it and I've been ignoring him. Mostly, I guess, because I feel like I have nothing to say. And who wants to read the ramblings of someone who really has nothing on their mind?

It's been busy times here - we've had Halloween (including a fun trunk or treat), the Primary program (wonderful program -- great kids, and full of the spirit), Simon's BD., Natalie's BD., a wedding to attend in Houston (former seminary student and current friend Melanie and her new husband Ramon), and a bout with the flu. So there has been plenty going on.

And now, we are looking Thanksgiving in the face. There is so much to appreciate and be grateful for, and I am. I am so thankful for my family, for the dear friends that feel like family, and for the blessed life that I live. The above words come from a song that our choir sang yesterday and it was beautiful. Beautiful because of the lovely melody and harmonies, and beautiful because of the words. I want that thankful heart and that memory that all we have comes from our Heavenly Father.

Take a minute to reflect and to be grateful -- and happy Thanksgiving!