Day #3: My Parents

After a handful of people told me that they were disappointed in the fact that I haven't kept up with my "blog every day" thing, I started to feel bad. In my defense, I've been in Colorado all week and just didn't feel like my time would be best spent blogging . However, when Forrest mentioned that even he noticed I hadn't done it, I decided I should probably do it. Because when even he notices my lack of keeping promises via my blog...it's a big deal ;-)

Day #3: The Parentals

At the Park Family Reunion in July of 2010. I love this picture.

I subscribe to Daily Gems, which are emails that the Church sends out a few times a week with inspirational thoughts, quotes, and stories. I always look forward to reading them, because they always have some kind of pertinent message in them to my life. I've found some of my favorite quotes and read some of my favorite articles/talks because of the Daily Gems. Lately, they've had a couple of quotes about the influence of parents. I really enjoyed them, and since today's topic is supposed to be about my parents, I thought I'd share them:

“It is impossible to overestimate the influence of parents who understand the hearts of their children. Research shows that during the most important transitions of life—including those periods when youth are most likely to drift away from the Church—the greatest influence does not come from an interview with the bishop or some other leader but from the regular, warm, friendly, caring interaction with parents.” --

Robert D. Hales

“If a child is not listening, don’t despair. Time and truth are on your side. At the right moment, your words will return as if from heaven itself. Your testimony will never leave your children. “As you reverently speak about the Savior—in the car, on the bus, at the dinner table, as you kneel in prayer, during scripture study, or in late-night conversations—the Spirit of the Lord will accompany your words.”

Neil L. Andersen

Since being at school, I have grown to appreciate my parents so much. I never realized how lucky I was to have such wonderful and loving parents that I can truly go to about everything and anything. Heaven knows I don't give them as much credit as they deserve and sometimes I'm just a downright brat, but I truly am so blessed to have been raised by such a wonderful mom and dad. My mom totally devotes herself to our family. I've been so lucky to have been able to have her be a stay at home mom the whole time I was growing up, and I'm happy that my dad was able to work so hard so that was possible. My dad is the centerfold of our family and his example and love is so apparent. They are both so willing to give of themselves for the happiness of their children and grandchildren. They aren't perfect, and neither are their children (of course, except for me), but I couldn't ask for better parents. I love how they are so strong in the Church. I never doubt their testimonies. I know that part of why I don't doubt the truthfulness of this Gospel and know it's true is because of how they taught me growing up, not only by their words, but by their example. I am so grateful for that, because it affects not only me, but my future family and life as well.

One thing that I love about my parents is the emphasis they put on family. We had family home evening, every.single.week. It wasn't a choice. And while it wasn't the most pleasant of experiences every time, I know it's part of why we are so close. They also made sure we had dinner together every night, as well as family prayer. My family is super close, closer than most, and it's because of my parents. I would choose spending time with my family and parents over anyone else :)

I love you Mom and Dad; I'm so glad I was able to go home this past week to see you guys. I miss you lots. Thanks for all you do :)