Every night, when we finally get them asleep, it is such a rewarding feeling! Not only because bedtime can be a big challenge, but also because it means we have successfully survived another day of parenthood. It is such a miracle to have these little boys, so every day we spend with them is a blessing. They learn and grow and change every day, and I know that childhood will vanish quicker than I realize. I love to watch them discover new things and to listen to them as they are piecing together the mysteries of life. They get so excited when they finally catch on to a new concept that was not previously understood.

My favorite thing is to listen to Solomon teaching Jeremiah about something he learned at school. He has a special voice he uses, it is the "I'm teaching my little brother something very important" voice. Garrett tells me I have one of those every time I start talking about the gospel. I guess it is my, "I'm talking about something very important" voice. Well, that is enough musing for one evening. Time for me to go join the little boys in the land of peaceful sleep. In the words of a beautiful Christmas hymn, "Sleep in Heavenly Peace." Goodnight all.

Inspiration

Today I Will Make a Difference” by Max Lucado

I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let petty inconveniences such as stoplights, long lines, and traffic jams be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference.

I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference.

Shaped by God, I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It’s OK to stumble… I will get up. It’s OK to fail… I will rise again. Today I will make a difference.

I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family. A man can own the world but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today I will spend at least five minutes with the significant people in my world. Five quality minutes of talking or hugging or thanking or listening. Five undiluted minutes with my mate, children, and friends.

Today I will make a difference. (Thanks Lisa Reed for introducing me to this poem)

Stevie Wonder

Just had to share a funny American Idol moment. I tend to get fairly obsessed with the show, especially when we get to the top 12 part. So, we were watching the performances last night and I was very impressed with the talent of Scott, the blind guy. I made the comment to Garrett, "I bet Stevie Wonder would love to see him perform". Garrett had a good laugh at the irony of that statement.