Better Take a Turn

Hi Ladies!
I have been thinking about this since Jenni first sent it out. And let me tell you I get a little nervous hearing how hard is has been for all of you to leave Glen Courts. That doesn't mean I want to stay longer than needful but I can see it will be a major life changing event. I'm glad you could all brave the way before me and perhaps you'll have some good advice when my turn comes. I feel intimidated offering you all advice but I've appreciated all of yours so I should donate something to the cause so here goes...(keep in mind I'm terrible at writing so I made this as simple as possible)

In answer to Jenni's questions:

What makes being a stay-at-home mom hard for you?
Being needed 24/7 by my kids! That there well being physically, mentally, spiritually, etc. is dependent on me being able to care for them. If that's not overwhelming I don't know what is!


What makes it worth it to you?
Pretty much what everyone else has said...the small moments. When I get to talk to Emma about the gospel or when we all sit around the table at lunch time and laugh about something. The spirit often touches me at these times and reminds me that if I worked these moments would not have happened and that my life and my kids lives are better because of these moments.

What gives you daily satisfaction?
The small moments but also I think spiritually is soooooo important as I know you all know. I've often noticed that after a hard day I am much more rejuvenated if I sit and read my scriptures for ten minutes rather than run to the mall "to relax" and drown my sorrows in shopping! I feel satisified at the end of a day if I feel at peace at the end of the day. At the end of a day I sooo much want to just do whatever I want to do. But I've found if I take a couple minutes for spiritual things I feel so much peace and no matter how hard the day was I go to bed feeling okay.

Where does your inspiration come from?
I guess for me my inspiration to stay home and raise children comes from the knowledge that I know what I am doing is right. That's what it boils down to for me. I have a friend back in UT who has a passion for this topic and has done some serious research on it. Here are some of her words:

Mindy Thornley

In all my experience of teaching youth (four years of EFY, two years of Seminary) I have learned a very profound truth. God will always take care of His children. If I am faithful, obedient, and rely on Him and His atonement, He will not allow my weaknesses or inadequacies interfere with taking care of His children. I experienced this countless times in the settings I have been in with His children. I cannot even begin to comprehend how much more He is able to offer His children's earthly mothers.

I cannot even begin to fathom the blessings that will come in the life to come when mothers approach our loving Heavenly Father, having played a vital role in returning His children to Him. What feeling can compare with that even in the most successful career?

A career generally will have the opportunities to bring about the praise of man and the world, while many mock the idea of staying at home. But remember, motherhood brings about the praise and glory of God.
Then she gives this quote:

“[The] ability and willingness properly to rear children, the gift to love, and eagerness … to express it in soul development, make motherhood the noblest office or calling in the world. She who can paint a masterpiece or write a book that will influence millions deserves the admiration and the plaudits of mankind; but she who rears successfully a family of healthy, beautiful sons and daughters, whose influence will be felt through generations to come, … deserves the highest honor that man can give, and the choicest blessings of God,” (David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals [1954], 453–54).

Thanks for all of your advice!
Amber