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I Have Terrific Kids!!!

I got to spend the day with Spencer at the State Capitol.  He got to participate in a mock committee hearing where he along with other teens from around the state heard other teens argue for and against a real bill that will passing through our state legislature.  I got to observe.  It was great. Spencer was on the committee who voted unanimously to kill the bill; a wise choice on their parts.  It was great to hear the arguments and watch them learn as they tried to abide by the Robert's Rules of Order.  We then heard a wonderful motivational speaker and had a delicious lunch while we were entertained by members of the State House and Senate who played "Family Feud" against one another.  The youth city councilors were the surveyed and the host was none other than Chuck Woolery, an actual "Family Feud" host.  In spite of the technical difficulties it was fun. 

Spencer and I left at 6:00 this morning which meant that the rest of the family was still sleeping.  Emma jammed her toe and is using crutches because she is in too much pain to bear any weight on it so I asked her to make sure her alarm was set and that she got her sisters up by 7:00. I asked Estelle to help Sarah get her breakfast and to make sure Sarah at least brushed her hair.  I knew I wouldn't be back until they had already gotten home from school so they were instructed to have a snack and start on their homework. 

When I got home, Emma was listening to Sarah read and Estelle was working on her homework.  They had had a snack, as I could see by the state of the kitchen.  Everyone looked presentable.  I found out that they were ready early and watching for Ryan Hepworth to pick them up.  They said family prayer together, just the three of them.  That was the best part. I am so proud of my children and their righteous choices.  Taylor was very ill today, but was still alive when I got home.  I would have taken him to Dr. Yeates today had I not already been committed to escort the youth city council to the activity today. 

I had a wonderful experience and look forward to attending next year.  The kids seemed to enjoy it as well.  My Friend Anne Harrison also went so that added to my enjoyment.  The best part, however, was when Spencer told me that he was glad I was there and that he was glad that I am the adult advisor to the youth city council.  He sat by me most of the time and we walked together even thought his friend, Brevin Harrison was also in attendance.  What a blessing it is to be a mother who is loved! 

I had a little moment that reminded me how much our children watch and mimic us as parents.  I am a slow standing ovation giver.  When the motivational speaker was invited to give a brief recap of his longer speech during lunch when the state legislators were there, he was greeted with a standing ovation.  I clapped as I watched everyone stand.  I could see Spencer watching me out of the corner of his eye and he did not stand until I did.  I stood because I could see him watching me and I decided that I should be a better example of giving thanks and credit to those who share their talents, experiences or wisdom with us.   It was a powerful reminder that even though he could have followed the rest of the crowd who stood up quickly, he waited for me.  I better set a good example!

Even though my heart is aching for my sweet Taylor to whom I administered 20 mg. of prednisone because two consecutive breathing did not provide him with the ability to breathe properly, it is full because of the example and love I feel from all of my children.  I am writing this now because I am waiting to check Taylor's blood in an hour before I go to bed for three hours until the next blood check.  How lucky I am to be able to know and love the spirits that Heavenly Father sent to me.  They teach me so much.  They are learning and growing and setting and example for me.  This year for their birthday posts I am going to write about what makes each one of them my hero.  I can't wait to get started!

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