tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-125824662024-03-12T23:19:16.349-05:00The Music of Our LifeJohnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.comBlogger236125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-79709819488488687742015-04-14T02:02:00.002-05:002015-04-14T02:43:58.278-05:00Grace and Cement Walls<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<img src="http://zoov.co/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/cement-wall-imspirational-ideas-1-on-wall-design-ideas.jpg" height="560" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="747" /> <br />
When My Darling David and I moved from Tucson to Mesa, we
were excited for our next great adventure. Promises of great wealth from the
new company kept us motivated and we knew the many hours that each week
demanded would be worth it. After three years of researching antidepressants, I
finally decided it was time to start. Too many nights of unsolicited tears soon
came to an end and a new journey began. I had joined weight watchers and lost
40 pounds, being thinner than my high school days. I felt great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we started looking we had a house that
found and claimed us. We knew it was our home. We also knew it would take a lot
of work to restore it. Our home needed a lot to be practical for living. When
we got ready to move in, and much to our surprise, the bank had painted the
inside and the outside of the home. One financial burden lifted from our very
limited budget was pure grace. We were offered something we could not provide
for ourselves at that moment. </div>
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Seven months after promises of great wealth David’s company
unexpectedly let him go. The next morning David was at the temple and by the end
of the week he had applied for 35 jobs. Four months into the year we still had
no job and things looked bleak. We never lost faith and we felt like we would
be taken care of, though the stress of looking forward was sometimes quite
overwhelming at times. Here you must note the faith of my Darling David. He is perfect for me. In 11 years of knowing him he has never once spoken an unkind word to me. I do not say that because this a beautiful moment to make extreme comments. The man I married is everything and more that he promised to be. I often wonder how I got so lucky to be his wife. Through the kindness, compassion, and generosity of
unknown givers during this year we survived a year making a grand total of $18, 000. We truly
came to understand the things that you really needed to keep on going. </div>
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We kept going. As I look back I see the way that depression crept
in. Weight gain was slowly creeping up on me. Exhaustion hit and my life felt
out of control. I felt completely unable to help. I know my husband felt the
pressure of providing. Our Bishop at the time looked at me in an interview and
said “Sister Johnson, you are not going to get a job. You need to be in your
home.” He had no idea that I even considered that, but he loved the Lord and he
counseled so clearly from above. There were many tears on my side. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we kept on going. In August of 2013, my in
laws came to visit. They are magical. They love to serve and my kitchen was
transformed into happy colors. My freezer was filled with freezer meals. Breakfast,
lunch, and dinner was ready and clothes were ironed by the dozens. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often I sit at the table and think about the
time and energy they spend loving others. We stayed up late and I was able to
talk freely and listen. I came away that night realizing I was conflicted. Not eternally.
Not in my faith. Just conflicted in how to fight an internal battle. David’s
dad gave him a father’s blessing. Father's blessings are one of the most sacred tender mercies.</div>
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2014 was better and after 15 months of being self employed David’s client base continued to grow. Lincoln got baptized
and family came to support us. I went through some experiences that were
personally devastating. My husband knew. My mom and dad knew. I knew. I read my
scriptures, said my prayers, and went to the temple. This is when I realized
that depression cannot always be cured with just a little more faith and
prayer. Last July, my Dad sent me and my mom on a trip. They knew I was
struggling. One day, I remember my sweetheart being in court and so I called my
dad. I told him I was sad. I told him I didn’t want to do anything except
sleep. He talked to me with the Spirit and guided me. MY dad has a way to cross
states with his priesthood power and touch my life. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My trip with my mom was
great. I believe this is a time that mothers wait for throughout the lives of
their kids; the time you can be friends; the time you can just be together
without any expectation other than you are here for me and I am here for you. I
was once again reminded that there are angels all around us all the time. Sometimes,
for the lucky ones, they come in the form of our mothers. No judgements. Just sincere
concern and love.</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In September 2014,
Ana and Bobby Ray came into our family. Two young kids raised in the foster
care system. They had both found themselves homeless. They both individually
investigated the church and were baptized. Heavenly Father taught me how to
reach outside myself and love others how He loves me. The only thing is, is
that He is perfect, and I am not. But I am learning. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The internal war
still and often continues in my mind. I feel sometimes like I am
standing in front of a large cement wall with only two picks to use to climb. In
my mind they seem like plastic picks that really won’t get me anywhere, but in
my mind the logic outweighs this because I have to be able climb using those
picks so I know they are sturdier than I think. Some days I feel like I grab
those picks and start climbing the large cement mountain. I feel like I make
great progress and then I look up only to feel like the little mouse in
Cinderella where looking up makes you realize how much farther you actually have
to go. To hold on and to keep going is always an option, but so is climbing
back down and sitting for a minute. That’s the beautiful thing about minutes. I
have sat for many minutes. Sometimes I only make it back to the last place I climbed
and then jump down (I haven’t made it far enough where danger follows the jump)
and rest (to clarify rest: plead, cry, sleep, don't sleep,) again. Digging in cement with a pick is hard. Making a big enough hole
for one foothold; continuous footholds sometimes seems impossible. I have those
days; the days where the footholds are not strong enough to get me any higher
on my own. The atonement has strengthened me through countless nights of crying
and pleading with the Lord to help me. Sometimes He eases my burden by calming
my body with sleep before I can even finish asking. Sometimes He keeps me awake
and communicates with me when my spirit has reached the point of submission and I have no other choice but to listen to Him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Sometimes I stick one more pick in the wall. Sometimes I hold
the picks and ask why? Sometimes I cry and tell Him how frustrated I am that I don’t
have a demolition machine to just knock down the cement wall where I am sure
the blessings I seek are waiting.</div>
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He reminds me to look in the rear view mirror just long enough to see
how many other cement walls I have climbed and conquered with His help. </div>
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He lets me climb. </div>
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Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it makes me angry. Sometimes I cry. Sometimes it seems it might break me. Sometimes I am certain the climb will never end.</div>
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But,</div>
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He lets me climb. </div>
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<br /></div>
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and when I allow my spirit to communicate with Him</div>
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He climbs with me. </div>
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I love the Lord. I love Him. I know He loves me. </div>
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-Brandi </div>
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Music that has lifted me during the darkness of cement walls: </div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLLMzr3PFgk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLLMzr3PFgk</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII</a><br />
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Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-39353121595796783612015-04-14T01:43:00.003-05:002015-04-14T01:43:24.048-05:003 yearsI have kind of dropped off the blogging world for a long time. Here's what has been happening.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Lincoln:<br />
<br />
Lincoln turned 9 on Sunday February 8.. He is in third grade and his teacher adores him. I am forever grateful that Heavenly Father gave us this handsome boy. He made me a mother, a mom, a mama. He is funny and has a quick wit. He is a good boy. He is starting to skateboard and he is pretty awesome. <br />
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Henry:<br />
<br />
Henry is almost 7. He is in kindergarten. Henry is brilliant at math. He is learning to say his "L"s because of two darling twins in his kindergarten class. He LOVES swimming; even in April. He is very interested in his beautiful birth mother. we are grateful he loves and adores her. <br />
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Jacob: Jakey Snakey; Jake is 4. I can't believe my baby is four. He is in the very top percentile for height and weight. He is speaking fluently and we are so grateful for the people that have been placed in his life to help him achieve the goal of speaking. <br />
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This is Ana Gonzalez. She has lived with us since September 2014. In November 2014 she decided on her own that she wanted to get baptized. She will graduate from Westwood in December of 2015. She has had a rough life and seeing her now compared to September is just beautiful. <br />
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This is Bobby Ray Johnson. He moved in with us in October, and got baptized in January 2015. He got married on February 15th and he has made great strides in his desire to be a good husband and father. </div>
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Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-77734307025247814352012-03-23T17:47:00.000-05:002012-03-23T17:47:53.185-05:00Be RealYesterday was filled with many emotions.<br />
<br />
But, I should probably back up.<br />
<br />
A few months ago, a dear friend came to me with news of a possibility to adopt. Of course, my heart grew really big with just the idea of another sweet baby; and a boy! We adore little boys around here! We felt as if the heavens had parted and handed us this little miracle-to-be. Birthmom's due date isApril 13th, but has delivered all her other babies 2 weeks early, so more likely March 30th. We have kept in contact with her, and she has been solid about placing this baby. Until yesterday.<br />
<br />
I chatted with her via facebook, and she has decided to parent the baby. We truly hope the best for her. We hope that she gets the help and guidance she needs as she starts this new adventure.<br />
<br />
And yes, at the same time, we are sad; but not hopeless. In fact it is exactly opposite. We have been filled with so much love and peace from Heavenly Father. I call this the "hard peace," because we don't know to which aspect of this situation it applies; will she change her mind last minute or will we be taken care of if she truly chooses to parent.<br />
<br />
So yesterday, there were tears. Tears of sorrow and grief for what might have been. And then there was peace. I went to a meeting last night where I was instructed on how to be a better leader The speaker, President Porter, asked us a hard question. He said,<br />
<br />
"Are we real enough with those we teach (in this case groups of young women 12-18)?"<br />
Then he answered<br />
"I don't think we are."<br />
He taught that trials and afflictions come for two reasons; because of our choices and just because they come. We don't get to tell people that everything will be easy, and simple, and it will all work out according to plans because that isn't the case. Instead, we are to teach that we make covenants; promises with our Heavenly Father and He remembers them. Instead of promising things we hope will come to pass, we are to teach things that are true.<br />
<br />
I was filled to the brim with love and joy. My heart aches today, but I know that Heavenly Father has promised me great blessings if I am obedient. I trust in Him. I love Him. I am grateful for the tender mercies He has shown me each day of my life.<br />
<br />
I have been blessed with a best friend who stands as a pillar of strength for our family.<br />
I have a valiant 6 year old who loves to read and play.<br />
I have an energetic almost 4 year old, who healed my heart on the day he was born.<br />
I have a 1 year old who brings more joy than I ever could have imagined.<br />
<br />
I know that “Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.” <br />
― <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/158936.Jeffrey_R_Holland">Jeffrey R. Holland</a>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-16099583495158764162012-02-15T12:52:00.000-06:002012-02-15T12:52:29.683-06:00Welcome Back BrandiI used to be so dedicated and so diligent with writing on my blog. Then, life got busy. Who knows when I will be back, but for now, I wanted to post about welcoming a new member to our family. His name is Anthony. He is Henry's birth father. We see so much of Anthony in Henry. Our dear Joanie Girl set up a time for all of us to meet, and we are so grateful for her. We love her to the ends of the earth. Not many I have met have been able to love more completely than our birth moms, and we have infinite gratitude for their goodness.<br />
<br />
Anthony is a potato farmer and has a beautiful dog who follows him everywhere. After three hours of eating, playing at the park, and hot chocolate, Anthony said, "I didn't know what to expect today, but I feel like I became a better person today. I am so happy Henry is with you." We love you too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADPJ30eW4JO2Gg3eG4V52GYeRvEgOE2mMYDerYykLdPloRWSD1NzS0pM7gDPacGiYqn3yQFgajchOU_tvAUxgR22jEGOHpdo3EX0CE7GQdmk_z4Isqj6UN5VUqW8SMKOVea6_Cg/s1600/IMG_7426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADPJ30eW4JO2Gg3eG4V52GYeRvEgOE2mMYDerYykLdPloRWSD1NzS0pM7gDPacGiYqn3yQFgajchOU_tvAUxgR22jEGOHpdo3EX0CE7GQdmk_z4Isqj6UN5VUqW8SMKOVea6_Cg/s320/IMG_7426.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Henry on the road trip to Ogallala!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5uTUoS5SrCOoIhyaWhhKgUFU310L5dljxF3P-Dn_EbJ2I4Bk0FlIo3aYt-_BUfDDlu6CdyZdTOwVBANcZUaucREQSTMJ9bvn-nKyWtUOjIVySQpP22XLlIp-jkAc3AcbzVQ5eIQ/s1600/IMG_7432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5uTUoS5SrCOoIhyaWhhKgUFU310L5dljxF3P-Dn_EbJ2I4Bk0FlIo3aYt-_BUfDDlu6CdyZdTOwVBANcZUaucREQSTMJ9bvn-nKyWtUOjIVySQpP22XLlIp-jkAc3AcbzVQ5eIQ/s320/IMG_7432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This is one of my favorite pictures.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLueHVKNzkX7ICq6G7Auz4N1lMmmVlNa4hL_sk1HSwwexVyCmFIt4bVILOG20ipDbiDjwDJKxg3mBngR0FnO4EjVJngbDiRvCSg8dpB72oUS5jX-wxptHk9mlbeRDkctVuaz_rQ/s1600/IMG_7433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLueHVKNzkX7ICq6G7Auz4N1lMmmVlNa4hL_sk1HSwwexVyCmFIt4bVILOG20ipDbiDjwDJKxg3mBngR0FnO4EjVJngbDiRvCSg8dpB72oUS5jX-wxptHk9mlbeRDkctVuaz_rQ/s320/IMG_7433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It's hard to see, but they have the exact same eyes. In fact for the last 6 months each time we turn on the living room light Henry has told us to turn it off so he didn't get a headache. It just made me giggle because he is 3 and I didn't think he knew what a headache was. But, when we asked Anthony to take off his sunglasses so we could take his picture he said he had a high sensitivity to light! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRWhGDn9LjgFtOkP4XcovtoMtZ2CDYyiZdmW9IJGDA8uafGy6VbdJB0mMgtgq_2wcB-aKbvVMgruYmfZtfJAqOUQGl2IXJuTvNM2R0XjE-cOq0Aykmr3K9mMuWyktEU3DHBb6JA/s1600/IMG_7435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRWhGDn9LjgFtOkP4XcovtoMtZ2CDYyiZdmW9IJGDA8uafGy6VbdJB0mMgtgq_2wcB-aKbvVMgruYmfZtfJAqOUQGl2IXJuTvNM2R0XjE-cOq0Aykmr3K9mMuWyktEU3DHBb6JA/s320/IMG_7435.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenmieMpJZ1_mW38wh0SJ0vvnSX-aVk96a9uNG2aWL3llPA2mxx7M6z6ZZ8TbYgV49GrjFPpAEPYQLDeB_KUq5qWWwndqCNmkky_fugcdmucJYSVoY3N0On6OutLPfSGdl0BuZEw/s1600/IMG_7436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenmieMpJZ1_mW38wh0SJ0vvnSX-aVk96a9uNG2aWL3llPA2mxx7M6z6ZZ8TbYgV49GrjFPpAEPYQLDeB_KUq5qWWwndqCNmkky_fugcdmucJYSVoY3N0On6OutLPfSGdl0BuZEw/s320/IMG_7436.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> FAVORITE picture of our trip! Love this girl!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSEMKZqgznwlNEXUA1qBgedAk8nLAhvR__M2WjtbFMaXqlFZLPRprbqaY2Mj6gEnsreRhIFwXn2sPyT2SdpCJVnwV-9KAeK0vdRy-1O7U4jA94itnFKpFHDmnvOvmIOOyqDQV0Q/s1600/IMG_7439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSEMKZqgznwlNEXUA1qBgedAk8nLAhvR__M2WjtbFMaXqlFZLPRprbqaY2Mj6gEnsreRhIFwXn2sPyT2SdpCJVnwV-9KAeK0vdRy-1O7U4jA94itnFKpFHDmnvOvmIOOyqDQV0Q/s320/IMG_7439.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4fxkC7B-uKBdheNxm9LDoKMUYBuJd51dhQ5X6nkWQ38tgQb9u28lUOW7Qk3WXGafWpgg72jHybQasiWGb37UWeoP6ccKqZti8fFDU09dM83PNzkISv-vRL5DjLiDQUFU7IdeIQ/s1600/IMG_7441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4fxkC7B-uKBdheNxm9LDoKMUYBuJd51dhQ5X6nkWQ38tgQb9u28lUOW7Qk3WXGafWpgg72jHybQasiWGb37UWeoP6ccKqZti8fFDU09dM83PNzkISv-vRL5DjLiDQUFU7IdeIQ/s320/IMG_7441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyv3W6HgsUhzZKU3V62MZ6E8wYYaDzvJvd2UAK09sZI1dDQjcL7rKatjFzlCrWVQtb7B-3_RgpKvwOdcTF1bWHcaVk0EhqdNOaFVMsaFDsOKLnmEuISuw2xPqoi-mNxPyJ4WB6sg/s1600/IMG_7446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyv3W6HgsUhzZKU3V62MZ6E8wYYaDzvJvd2UAK09sZI1dDQjcL7rKatjFzlCrWVQtb7B-3_RgpKvwOdcTF1bWHcaVk0EhqdNOaFVMsaFDsOKLnmEuISuw2xPqoi-mNxPyJ4WB6sg/s320/IMG_7446.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> Henry has always loved moving. He rolled consistenly at 5 weeks, crawled at 5 months, walked at 10 months, and doesn't stop. He just started preschool where they work especially with kids who have ADHD. We found out that Anthony was exactly the same when he was young, and he loves being a potato farmer because he gets to move all day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHaauIfteZt5QkfFRJsA6tjWancLUBCTalWFxgIrhF1IwBshczo6g3bX_H_zxhDvodcgAHafArJfEouWAnMxZQj1pDt4eEMryuVNHBtRHDm3B7KHg2UA9QzpbjlIMwRUcdrjREA/s1600/IMG_7447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHaauIfteZt5QkfFRJsA6tjWancLUBCTalWFxgIrhF1IwBshczo6g3bX_H_zxhDvodcgAHafArJfEouWAnMxZQj1pDt4eEMryuVNHBtRHDm3B7KHg2UA9QzpbjlIMwRUcdrjREA/s320/IMG_7447.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Welcome to the family Anthony!Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-49633674940243494672011-10-03T14:56:00.028-05:002011-10-05T22:00:52.643-05:00BearingFirst, let me start by saying that I loved <a href="http://lds.org/?lang=eng">General Conference</a>. For those unfamiliar with General Conference, this is a time where we are invited to listen to the words of a prophet of God, and those who serve with him.This conference takes two days, and I am always buoyed up with the knowledge that God has not forgotten His people, and that because of His perfect love, He has given us a prophet on the earth today.<br />
I was struck with many emotions at the same time as I listened to Elder Neil L. Andersen's talk, on Saturday afternoon. As a woman I have enjoyed the luxury of pregnancy, I have longed for more children through the battle of infertility, and I have been blessed with motherhood through the magnificent blessing of two adoptions.<br />
<br />
And yet, unexpectedly, infertility sometimes stings. As I listened, I was homesick for pregnancy, which is not a feeling I have been plagued with since we adopted Henry, three years ago. Strangely enough, as Elder Andersen talked about the <i>bearing</i> of children, infertility sunk its teeth in and held on tight leaving bite marks that stung for a few minutes.<br />
<br />
I kept hoping for peace as I allowed my heart to listen intently for anything to grasp on to.<br />
<br />
As I have contemplated the glorious gift of bearing children, I have felt my heart led to the Book of Mormon, a book which I know testifies of Christ just as does the Bible. In the Book of Mormon we read the prophet Alma's words "and now, as ye are <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/18?lang=eng#" id="footnote6" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=mosiah&chapterUri=18&noteID=8a&lang=eng">desirous</a> to come into the <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/18?lang=eng#" id="footnote7" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=mosiah&chapterUri=18&noteID=8b&lang=eng">fold</a> of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;" (Mosiah 18:8)<br />
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Peace filled my heart as I watched the way in which the Lord used the word <i>bear</i> in this context, and in three different contexts of my life.<br />
When I was pregnant, my husband helped bear my burdens by succumbing to hamburgers and cheeseburgers, and chicken three meals a day for nine months. I loved being pregnant, and I didn't know my first might be the only personal pregnancy I was given. As I have gone through infertility, our marriage has been strengthened, and our burden has been borne by our families and friends through prayer, fasting, and constant support. In the miracle of adoption, I have seen the Lord's use of <i>bearing</i> in a different way. To <i>bear </i>does not just mean to give birth or produce<i>. </i>To <i>bear </i>also means<i>: </i><i> </i><br />
<br />
To hold up; support<br />
To carry from one place to another; transport<br />
To carry in mind; harbor<br />
<br />
<div>To transmit at large; relate<br />
To have as a quality; exhibit<br />
To carry (oneself) in a specified way; conduct<br />
To be accountable for; assume<br />
To have tolerance for; endure<br />
To offer; render<br />
(answers.com)<br />
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As I have thought about the gift of bearing children, and those who have not been blessed with pregnancy, or children as of yet, I have felt strongly that there are miraculous ways in which we can take part in the Lord's plan for us to <i>bear. </i><b> </b><br />
<b><br />
</b></div><br />
As I listened to Elder Andersen's talk, I was filled with such peace; a peace I know comes from a loving Father in Heaven. <br />
<div style="color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; color: white; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">As to personal bearing:<br />
In my own life I have been able to assume this sacred responsibility by means of supporting, transporting, harboring,relating, exhibiting, conducting, assuming, enduring, and rendering.<br />
<br />
I have been able to hold up and support all of my children, regardless of the way they entered our family. I have been able to render love and compassion to others children. <i>In these ways, I have borne children</i>. As we entered the world of infertility coupled with the miracle of adoption, I was able to harbor small glimpses of hope that our family was not done and that the Lord had not forgotten my family. <i>In this way, I have been allowed the privilege of bearing.</i> Twice, we have been blessed with responsibility of caring for beautiful birth mothers and assuming the responsibility for the beautiful children they entrusted to our care. <i>In this way, I have been offered the responsibility of bearing.</i><br />
<br />
Truly, I have been given many opportunities to bear.</div><div style="color: white;">I believe that the Lord has provided ways and intends for each of us to bear children in the way He sees fit. To those who bear children through pregnancy, and to those bear children through adoption, or to those who are bearing the hope that they will someday have children, or to those who bear all the qualities of motherhood even without the blessing of a house full of kids, I believe our obedience is looked upon kindly by the Creator of the Universe. I believe that through righteous living we will not be denied any of the promises we desire. </div><div style="color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="color: white;">Yes, infertility can sting.</div><span style="color: white;">But, I know that the Lord crosses the </span>galaxy to do what He wants us to do :<i> bear</i>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-34268611272510617332011-09-27T12:01:00.005-05:002011-09-27T12:27:03.729-05:00Beautiful Life...In the last 5 months life has been more than pretty crazy. I remember about 5 and 1/2 months ago not being able to sleep. I knew what I had to do. I felt it so strongly. I had to quit teaching piano lessons. I got up and wrote a letter to my students and then I slept peacefully. 13 days later, after three years of research and debating with myself , I decided to start taking prozac. It had been recommended to me by two doctors, but I was conflicted. (Do I want to take a pill every day, forever? Shouldn't I be able to cope with this on my own?) I am very open about this because I want my kids to know that this can be a real struggle, and if they are ever wondering why they have feelings of sadness for no reason, they do not have to suffer alone. It has also opened my mind to be a lot more compassionate and understanding of others around me. My life has changed completely. I sometimes go to bed with my laundry and dishes undone. But, I play with my kids a lot more, and I have not felt stress like I used to. I have not had any break downs in 4 months. I have laughed a whole lot more, and <i>joy</i> is a word that I feel more and more.<br />
<b>TENDER MERCY ONE</b>: My life runs smoother, I am happier, I enjoy my roles as wife and mother, and I find it easier to be in tune with what the Lord would have me do. I started taking prozac the day before we decided we needed a career change which would require us to move.<br />
<b>TENDER MERCY TWO</b>: Heavenly Father knows me so well, that had I not started taking the prozac before we made the big decision to move, I wouldn't have started. I would have let stress consume me, and it would have been miserable. Intellectually I understood all the talks about enjoying the little things right now, but the world war in my head was so consumed with trying to control things out of my control. I couldn't meet my own expectations, and that constantly left a brick wall that I would run into at full speed. But, when David and I talked about moving, I was filled with immense peace, and I had no worry.<br />
<b>TENDER MERCY THREE</b>: Had I not listened to the still small voice about quitting piano, I wouldn't have quit. <br />
<b>TENDER MERCY FOUR</b>: David got a job offers within three weeks, and Heavenly Father opened my mind to moving to Mesa. 6 months ago when we first started talking about looking for a better career opportunity, Phoenix area was not on my list.<br />
<b>TENDER MERCY FIVE</b>: I knew before we left Tucson that two years there had been a short time, but time enough to allow Jacob Ladd to join our family. I will be forever grateful for those two wonderful years I got to take my family back to spend some of our beautiful life in my hometown.<br />
<br />
So, we moved to Mesa. David moved 7 weeks before we did, and it was wonderful finally being reunited as a family.<br />
<br />
<b>TENDER MERCIES: </b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHhSoEyT-v3UEmXMqL0JDolaKKyk0oWZZoOzI0TEb3QSxpqDfBl1Gn3KO6VlOKtLw7H1r_gXO9SxV_wkDQYMqyCbDJIq328yimL10yz6GHWGyPqybjEDWVb-r2xRENlEl6fxJ8w/s1600/Handsome+Happy+Jacob1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHhSoEyT-v3UEmXMqL0JDolaKKyk0oWZZoOzI0TEb3QSxpqDfBl1Gn3KO6VlOKtLw7H1r_gXO9SxV_wkDQYMqyCbDJIq328yimL10yz6GHWGyPqybjEDWVb-r2xRENlEl6fxJ8w/s320/Handsome+Happy+Jacob1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Jacob Ladd at 10 months</div><div style="text-align: center;">walking</div><div style="text-align: center;">smiling</div><div style="text-align: center;">eating everything</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYE_bFB8RZfBhdvgF5nwsgf7eA_qj_uafj6YE_GO7szVtCZB40dLDSCSpPnMYAcZjiVChLJvsJ6V09oqdei_nrSHlIWRcN7fnH_5ETV3_aG76dmkCTlXoUcwijFk53nfzgEK4HA/s1600/IMG_6724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYE_bFB8RZfBhdvgF5nwsgf7eA_qj_uafj6YE_GO7szVtCZB40dLDSCSpPnMYAcZjiVChLJvsJ6V09oqdei_nrSHlIWRcN7fnH_5ETV3_aG76dmkCTlXoUcwijFk53nfzgEK4HA/s320/IMG_6724.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Lincoln Daniel at 5</div><div style="text-align: center;">started kindergarten</div><div style="text-align: center;">reads well</div><div style="text-align: center;">loves imaginative play</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3eky-DQxOgOd2M3eZdOo1ud_0t1hmtyuYiROfkGWs3HtjC-mwmsGe1wvadRizJAXYJPca4xuebNUS8Sabk_z-OgtjxwXmux-ISe280F0nWPbK8i3BShRwT2ESDFwSiIlSjZk6A/s1600/IMG_6750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3eky-DQxOgOd2M3eZdOo1ud_0t1hmtyuYiROfkGWs3HtjC-mwmsGe1wvadRizJAXYJPca4xuebNUS8Sabk_z-OgtjxwXmux-ISe280F0nWPbK8i3BShRwT2ESDFwSiIlSjZk6A/s320/IMG_6750.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Henry Louis at 3</div><div style="text-align: center;">feels peaceful in the water</div><div style="text-align: center;">loves his puppy Molly</div><div style="text-align: center;">loves the park</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0jvuw3JBM78BVbaHdr43thmX16U5nLRb9RFtx3VKyIrwuf6G4TAlRGtTaAc3RRtdRbyqo1ttrIpbnwQV8I-A08yH0aSaS5-WIBNvSHWGIiEbhh8POL7n7XO7JhyphenhyphenRPfO1-5fcdw/s1600/IMG_6811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0jvuw3JBM78BVbaHdr43thmX16U5nLRb9RFtx3VKyIrwuf6G4TAlRGtTaAc3RRtdRbyqo1ttrIpbnwQV8I-A08yH0aSaS5-WIBNvSHWGIiEbhh8POL7n7XO7JhyphenhyphenRPfO1-5fcdw/s320/IMG_6811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">David is now preparing to take another bar (required by his firm)</div><div style="text-align: center;">he is loving being a subrogation attorney.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Loves working on our home</div><div style="text-align: center;">and taking care of the pool.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I have felt the Lord's hand daily in our life, and I am so grateful for His gentleness, and His kindness in remembering our family.Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-73012744319922310102011-04-21T12:51:00.000-05:002011-04-21T12:51:44.831-05:00FridayThis coming Friday, our fearless two year old turns three. He has been such a joy in our family, and I am blessed to be his Mama. A lot of people have a lot of opinions about the rambunctious nature of Henry. If they could only see what I see. I love that Henry is outgoing. I love that what you see is what you get. He is active, fearless, and non-stop. But, he is equally gentle, kind, and loving without condition. I love that he gives me hugs and kisses. When I come home after a date he runs to me and yells, "Mommy, Mommy you are back?" I giggle that he tells me to stop singing so he can have a turn. I love that he wants to crawl in bed with Jacob and sing to him. I love that he follows Lincoln around. I love that he wants to be the leader of scripture study and he thinks he is so funny trying to get us to repeat what he says:<br />
<br />
"And "<br />
"Toot"<br />
"poop"<br />
"stupid"<br />
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We don't repeat most of those words, but we love that he knows he is part of our family.<br />
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I especially love when he looks at his picture on the wall and when I ask him, "Who is that?" he says, "My Henry." I giggle as he looks int he bathroom mirror and when I tell him to get off the counter he says, "I seeing who is handsome." <br />
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I listened and was filled with understanding and gratitude during Lynn G. Robbins talk at <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/what-manner-of-men-and-women-ought-ye-to-be?lang=eng">LDS General Conference:</a><br />
<br />
"...Could it be possible that you need this child as much as this child needs you?..." (Lynn G. Robbins)<br />
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I needed Henry. He came as a tender mercy at a very dark and lonely part of life. The Lord took me in a semi-broken state, and he filled me with sunlight. And the sunlight Henry brings is a daily reminder of how much Heavenly Father loves me. He loves me.<br />
<br />
One thing we cannot neglect to mention is our deep and abiding love for Joanie; Henry's birth mom. She is beautiful. She is amazing. She did not have an easy life, but she has defied all odds. On May 13th, she is graduating from college. She is engaged to a wonderful man who we love so much. He takes care of Joanie and he loves her. Joanie is kind, thoughtful, strong, and our family is so grateful for her courage three years ago to make such a selfless sacrifice. We have loved Henry for three years, and we couldn't have had him without our Joanie Girl. (We love you Joanie!)<br />
<br />
This year we were so happy to finally get in contact with Henry's birth father. When I saw his picture, it was like seeing Henry. We are unsure if he wants any contact, but it was good to have one more piece of his missing puzzle. <br />
<br />
To Henry:<br />
We love you Good Boy.<br />
Tons Bit.<br />
Happy Birthday <br />
Mama, Daddy, Lincoln, and JacobJohnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-65831070767737448402011-04-06T01:14:00.000-05:002011-04-06T01:14:38.425-05:00CounselIn the last four months I have received some much needed counsel.<br />
The counsel came from two different people; both men of God who have my best interest at heart.<br />
<br />
My dad was first. I have a special relationship with my dad. I know that he is a man of God. I know that he loves my mom, and I know he loves me. So, I took it to heart when my dad counseled me to enjoy my family.<br />
Second, and not long after my dad's counsel, my bishop counseled me to enjoy my time at home with my family.<br />
As I have pondered this counsel, I have been blessed. Enjoying the monotony that sometimes is everyday life can be challenging. But, as I have allowed myself the humility to listen, I have received great tender mercies from the Lord.<br />
<br />
Lincoln has offered me some of the greatest learning experiences of my life. Lincoln made me a Mama. I often look back at the pictures of his birth day, and I marvel at the newness of life; his new life and mine. <br />
On the way to preschool one morning Lincoln told me, "if you do bad everyday you'll be sad and your heart glow will go down to darkness."<br />
It makes me giggle a little but I know it's a beautiful description of eternal truths.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64iiIFy_KAjQxiLu5iBC8zB6nAlIHTfeUP4g0y_ug71I1T_8TTjb_J5fzTZQo2abSSJu0fzYZPIjOYxPI_6zyxe154fC6Uh3jHQV02Zv0HoJ6mG2IqKUMlsbbsFNyakrwZXUiLQ/s1600/IMG_6371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64iiIFy_KAjQxiLu5iBC8zB6nAlIHTfeUP4g0y_ug71I1T_8TTjb_J5fzTZQo2abSSJu0fzYZPIjOYxPI_6zyxe154fC6Uh3jHQV02Zv0HoJ6mG2IqKUMlsbbsFNyakrwZXUiLQ/s320/IMG_6371.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>a heart full of happy. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I have had an abundance of tender mercies given to me regarding raising our beautiful, boisterous, and very busy Henry. It is often hard, and almost impossible to find a quiet minute. But, I learned an invaluable lesson one day as I was seeking the Lord's counsel, meanwhile chasing Henry. The thought came, ' Kick the ball with Henry.' Even though I was not on my knees pondering, the Lord instructed me on how to reach my two year old. As we kicked the ball, my heart was so filled with gratitude that a loving Father in Heaven could reach me with a still, small voice even amidst the earthquake. <br />
<br />
Tonight, as I put Henry to bed we had this conversation:<br />
Me: Henry, when you grow up do you want to be Peter Pan?<br />
Henry: I can't be Peter Pan. I can't fly.<br />
Me: You can't fly?<br />
Henry: I can't fly. It's much too dangerous. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZ7ClyMzJo2k-xXKkB4D246pLLopnATF987DfuCPmw3C0UuGPWTtG_qYLzIA_MVMD4YRoeNe3S0FsQRAkd-zobbS3F-jDJlYn-U6MadRBSDrcBRHZUjdt_iaM4ANN8AGx5BbIHg/s1600/IMG_0256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZ7ClyMzJo2k-xXKkB4D246pLLopnATF987DfuCPmw3C0UuGPWTtG_qYLzIA_MVMD4YRoeNe3S0FsQRAkd-zobbS3F-jDJlYn-U6MadRBSDrcBRHZUjdt_iaM4ANN8AGx5BbIHg/s320/IMG_0256.JPG" width="213" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Someday soon you will realize you </i><i><b>can</b> fly</i>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg79s4hwpCNVW3IJZkZIHe0PjMBPK6OAUqpJiH7LLq8LJxitoMn-IyQuyMxEfDMQud_b5ruWl_kgybwcQoj-Un8pgJvUVbsObSi0s3PxdRt5A7B3lQVl3R0RtTxecG-rPuUZU2HKA/s1600/IMG_0252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Now, I am willing to bet that Jacob is the happiest baby ever. He has given me a bright glimpse into the future needs of my refrigerator. At 4 months, he was 17lbs, 8 oz. He loves to eat. He is full of smiles and laughs, and he doesn't cry unless he is hungry. He wakes up happy and laughs at his brothers. He loves the bathtub and he loves to roll himself over. He will be crawling within a month, and we look forward to July when he is sealed to our family forever. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg79s4hwpCNVW3IJZkZIHe0PjMBPK6OAUqpJiH7LLq8LJxitoMn-IyQuyMxEfDMQud_b5ruWl_kgybwcQoj-Un8pgJvUVbsObSi0s3PxdRt5A7B3lQVl3R0RtTxecG-rPuUZU2HKA/s1600/IMG_0252.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg79s4hwpCNVW3IJZkZIHe0PjMBPK6OAUqpJiH7LLq8LJxitoMn-IyQuyMxEfDMQud_b5ruWl_kgybwcQoj-Un8pgJvUVbsObSi0s3PxdRt5A7B3lQVl3R0RtTxecG-rPuUZU2HKA/s320/IMG_0252.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>In awe of the world.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, today I am grateful for the love that these two men have given me through their righteous counsel. I have simplified my life, and have taken more moments to enjoy the beauty that so readily surrounds me --even when it surrounds me at 2 a.m. when they crawl in my bed.--I love my beautiful family, and I could not say all of this without remembering this beautiful day, which we will soon celebrate as 7 years.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2WPfA5-JmTO0IGZxspFriRa2YdCuelZU1F-hhGcsgJ0OZQbsLldKS1ltSiLp7qVbTxFzfZKHkWcZCEyFouuBNPZi9rTSFPoDAJ3PzIghgxWs5uUovqjhSOsDkblPGyCq5d7iew/s1600/photoBB570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2WPfA5-JmTO0IGZxspFriRa2YdCuelZU1F-hhGcsgJ0OZQbsLldKS1ltSiLp7qVbTxFzfZKHkWcZCEyFouuBNPZi9rTSFPoDAJ3PzIghgxWs5uUovqjhSOsDkblPGyCq5d7iew/s320/photoBB570.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Eternally Yours.</i></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-312506272166869002011-03-08T15:06:00.000-06:002011-03-08T15:06:27.784-06:00I know.Today, I was overcome with a lot of emotion as I watched this video. I went to visit one of my friends who shared this with me. As we cried together we shared a moment of beautiful peace that comes from believing in a Supreme Creator who loves us more than we can understand in our mortal probation.<br />
<br />
The music bore solemn witness to my soul that He lives. He lives.<br />
<br />
It is a witness of the love of a dad who loves his son.<br />
<br />
<br />
It is a witness of the love of a Father who loved his children so much He sent His Son.<br />
<br />
I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know that He loves me, and He stands waiting to help me succeed at my own race. <br />
<br />
(Copied from youtube:)<br />
<i>There are no words to describe what you're about to see. It's all about HIM!<br />
<br />
A Son asked his father, "Dad, will you take part in a marathon with me?" The father who, despite having a heart condition, says "Yes". They went on to complete the marathon together. Father and son went on to join other marathons. The father always saying "Yes" to his son's request of going through the race together. One day, the son asked his fater, "Dad, let's join the Ironman together."<br />
<br />
To which, his father said "Yes".<br />
<br />
For those who don't know, Ironman is the toughest triathlon ever. The race encompasses three endurance events of a 2.4 mile (3.86 kilometer) ocean swim, followed by a 112 mile (180.2 kilometer) bike ride and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 kilometer) marathon along the coast of the Big Island.<br />
<br />
Father and son went on to complete the race together!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/OBjR1-0GVkI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-57219856506411153632011-02-02T14:15:00.001-06:002011-02-02T14:22:13.529-06:00Pull-UpsHouseparty.com has selected me to host a Pull-Ups Party! This means they send a big box of supplies and we have a toddler party where we share all the goodies!<br />
If you have not received an invite and would like to come, leave me a comment!<br />
<br />
Here are the details:<br />
<br />
<b>WHAT: A Pull-<i>Up</i>art Party!</b><br />
<b>WHO: You and your toddlers, me and my toddlers, and Pull-Ups!</b><br />
<b>WHERE: Brandi's house</b><br />
<b>WHEN:March 5, 2011, 3:00 p.m.</b><br />
<b>WHY: A perfect excuse to eat good food, enjoy great company, and take home potty-training supplies! </b><br />
<br />
For more information go to :<br />
houseparty.com/party/451376Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-35335239384928745062011-02-01T10:37:00.007-06:002011-02-01T15:21:05.225-06:00I've Been Watching You... My oldest son is getting ready to start kindergarten. By<i> getting ready</i>, I mean in August. I have watched him grow, and have been with him every step of the way. This will be the first time that I turn the control over to someone else for entire days, filling most of his weeks. This is only the beginning.<br />
<br />
This is really hard for me.<br />
I cry.<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(A lot.)</span><br />
I have thought a lot about why this is? Why is this so hard? Why so many tears? Why the panic?<br />
<br />
I'm not ready for the world to have such a big impact on my son. I'm not ready for all the hurt feelings of getting left out. I'm not ready for bullying and for kids making fun.<br />
Mostly though, I wonder if I have taught him everything he needs to know before he goes. (I realize this sounds like he is leaving forever.)<br />
I love this little boy, and I am not ready for him to grow up (at this point I know my mom is reading and she is crying with me because she knows this is hard for me, but she is also laughing because of how much we teased her during Sunday Sacrament Meeting meltdowns over her 14,13,11, and 9 year old kids who would be leaving the house in 4,5,7, and 9 years!)<br />
Lincoln promises that he will always snuggle me, but I realize this won't be true forever. As he grows, he will get too tall to sit on my lap. Yes, I understand this is healthy and quite normal but today I love those snuggles and hugs where we decide afterward <i>who</i> is the bear. <br />
<br />
On the positive, I look forward to PTA meetings, and being a class mom. I look forward to making treats, and accompanying class field trips.I look forward to spelling bees or baseball games; whatever he chooses to do. I look forward to watching him excel and take on challenges. And even though it seems far away, I'm sure blowing the air horn at his high school graduation will be an incredible moment in life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="youtube-player" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IAENe6nCg5A" title="YouTube video player" type="text/html" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Today we were dancing in our living room, and this Rodney Atkins song came on the radio. We danced and tears were in my eyes because I realize that we have done our best. WE have taught Lincoln how to be kind, sharing, compassionate, loving, and respectful. We haven't been perfect but hopefully we have been enough.<br />
Enough growing up for one day!!! <br />
Right now I have a future five year old to love, another future five<br />
year old to get dressed, and a third future five year old who needs <br />
a bottle<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQB4GGa2K53OMI8ujYN8EUH5U2XrruZT6nCEzAki24xzx0r_SgMgNehiH954CfLYWhaAKLPexChEiTRokVav8CV6vFjUlGrS2vACCW3MA9zNG-Poy4mJ-VGZvCWS_8jZUTplrFQ/s1600/IMG_1399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQB4GGa2K53OMI8ujYN8EUH5U2XrruZT6nCEzAki24xzx0r_SgMgNehiH954CfLYWhaAKLPexChEiTRokVav8CV6vFjUlGrS2vACCW3MA9zNG-Poy4mJ-VGZvCWS_8jZUTplrFQ/s320/IMG_1399.JPG" width="240" /><b style="color: black;">We love you Lincoln Daniel! Tons Bit</b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxaga7ywaD7jbO_aUHW4UpdBQvSSaPJ72NAqRmRgDJ-GH7oq5xGsSpGbSJeksjZfOl9AkVw5pwc6KnGEZezqkBDzCJVfX_487K21QADTlWbaV6nb0xmttB4VB_onKhvxMmUDgLQ/s1600/IMG_4595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxaga7ywaD7jbO_aUHW4UpdBQvSSaPJ72NAqRmRgDJ-GH7oq5xGsSpGbSJeksjZfOl9AkVw5pwc6KnGEZezqkBDzCJVfX_487K21QADTlWbaV6nb0xmttB4VB_onKhvxMmUDgLQ/s320/IMG_4595.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-62683960003173377772011-01-26T13:05:00.000-06:002011-01-26T13:05:22.235-06:00Sweet Two Year OldOne time someone, with my best intentions in mind, said to me, "Maybe the reason Heavenly Father isn't sending you any more kids right now is because you have Henry." That being said, my feelings were not hurt. I know that while Henry is an energetic, lively, on-the-go, rambunctious, non-sitter-downer, he is also wonderful, grateful, polite, kind, and loving.<br />
Today when we were sitting down (yes, we were sitting down for lunch) I was feeding baby Jacob a bottle, and Henry in his precious two-year-old voice started to sing,<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Go da sweep</div><div style="text-align: center;">Go da sweep</div><div style="text-align: center;">Go da sweep, Baby Jacob</div><div style="text-align: center;">An angel</div><div style="text-align: center;">um um heh-ven</div><div style="text-align: center;">Go da sweep, go now.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I giggled that instead of singing Go To Sleep <i>Right Now</i>, that he sang <i>go now</i>! But, David and I sat at the table, and as we looked at each other ,we just cried because of the strong spirit inside our Henry's body. Henry is the first to kiss things better. He loves to lock me out of the house, and ask for the password. He loves to chase me for his fruit snack and his blanket. He loves to climb out of bed and ask me to lay by him. he loves t give bear hugs, and he was born with a mischievous smile, that sometimes gets him in to trouble! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f2Wf3_5CzmaZNnk2Q8QUHvHjE2bXlo1xPwkSy9qTAkS6Ywq-b0W_PPseetfZarKaAFyKA5obolD_sH8MLqqruFgpOJt9WmDWf3b5uKegyL4sps-kLMZyEyjSV9ieyEoA4syzcg/s1600/IMG_4873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f2Wf3_5CzmaZNnk2Q8QUHvHjE2bXlo1xPwkSy9qTAkS6Ywq-b0W_PPseetfZarKaAFyKA5obolD_sH8MLqqruFgpOJt9WmDWf3b5uKegyL4sps-kLMZyEyjSV9ieyEoA4syzcg/s320/IMG_4873.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Henry, we love you so much. You are our constant reminder that God is a God of miracles, and that He loves us very much. You are a good boy Henry Louis. </div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-32143888070171661852010-12-22T16:32:00.000-06:002010-12-22T16:32:49.091-06:00Jacob LaddWe have now had Jacob in our family for 6 weeks. Our home feels complete for the time being, and the beautiful spirit that accompanies a new baby is present every day. There is something magnificent about a new baby still so connected with heaven<br />
.<br />
Last year on New Years Eve, my husband and I pleaded once again with the Lord for more children. Through the power of the <a href="http://www.mormon.org/learn/0,8672,1083-84,00.html">priesthood</a>, I was promised that in the upcoming year we would be blessed in the way of growing our family. I remember laughing (which I have repented for numerous times) and saying, "Just watch! He is going to make us wait until next December," to which my faithful husband replied, "Well at least He didn't say soon, meaning in this lifetime some time."<br />
<br />
We got all of our adoption paperwork done, and our profile went live on my birthday in May. When we put our paperwork in for our first adoption, we were chosen three weeks later, so when three weeks passed, and then 3 months passed, and time kept going, I started to panic. I wanted another baby, and I pleaded countless times for the promise to come to pass.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, we presented to a group of birth mothers at an adoption conference and we met <a href="http://wewantchildren.blogspot.com/">Gayla</a>. She and her husband had adopted, but they had also gone to the Czech Republic to do in vitro, and had conceived and had a healthy baby boy. In Vitro in the Czech Republic meands two weeks in Europe, in a hotel, with medications, and the procedure for cheaper than starting costs in America. So, even if it didn't work, who can complain about two weeks in Europe? Mom Johnson bought a ticket to come spend those two weeks with our boys. We were headed to Europe!<br />
<br />
At the same time our medications got held up in California by the FDA, who would later destroy or send them back, our social worker Hannah called us.<br />
"Brandi, this is the call you've been waiting for."<br />
In a little disbelief, I kept great control of my emotions. "Really?"<br />
"We have a birth mother who wants to meet you."<br />
At this moment I think,' by the time I get back from the Czech Republic, hopefully pregnant with twins, and she is ready to deliver, she won't choose us because I will be pregnant."<br />
Hannah continued, "She is due in ten days on November 8th. She is having a girl,(hee hee!) and she wants to meet you this Saturday." (it was Wednesday)<br />
<br />
I was filled with so much peace. I called David, and we marveled at the tender mercies of a loving Heavenly Father. We debated going or staying, and finally settled on what Mom Johnson called, "a baby in hand is better than two in the petri dish." So true!<br />
<br />
Nicole and Toni came to visit, and the time together was meant to be. The baby started to kick and Nicole said, come here and feel the baby kick. This was a tender moment for me, and I cried at the beauty of life that would soon join our family. Nicole looked at her tummy and said, "This is your new mommy." No words can express the moment that another individual offers you something you can't give yourself.<br />
<br />
Nicole later told us that when they left, Hannah offered to give her other profiles to look at, but she declined and said that she already knew what she wanted.<br />
<br />
We were able to go to two ultrasound appointments with Nicole before Jacob was born.<br />
<br />
In the plan of happiness, as it relates to our family, miracles have never ceased. We have been blessed more abundantly than we could have ever asked for.<br />
<br />
We love you Nicole. This year as we watch our big boys open their Christmas presents, we will be holding ours in our arms. We love you Jacob Ladd.Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-3307935622638548212010-12-14T11:09:00.002-06:002010-12-17T17:37:15.942-06:00PeaceIn our family, each of our boys has taken on a song that we sing to them every night. With Lincoln we chose, <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jW5bKEc8hQg">"I am a Child of God,"</a> </b>at the hospital, and for four years we have used that as a lullaby for him. He knows all the words, and I love that when we needs soothing or comfort, he doesn't first ask for a bandaid, he asks for "Child of God." He knows there is a peace found within a song that teaches of the plan of salvation; the plan we believe brings eternal happiness.<br />
When we had Henry join our family, I could not stop thinking about the blessings of eternal families.<br />
We at the Johnson house have a strong belief that marriage and family does not end at "till death do us part." We believe that a loving Father in heaven wants us to be bound together forever. My name is Brandi, and I am a Mormon. (For more information about eternal families and our beliefs, visit<b> <a href="http://mormon.org/">mormon.org</a></b>) When it was time to have Henry sealed to us, I wept as I listened to the song, <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhialLmt9JQ">"I Love to See the Temple."</a></b> When it talks about the eternal nature of families, I knew that this was his lullaby. He knows all the words, and it soothes him.<br />
<br />
I was originally conflicted on songs when we brought Jacob home, because we will also have him sealed to our family next summer. But, the Lord has gently directed us through the last month. Jacob has added an incredible amount of peace to our family. He is a happy and gentle baby. During this Christmas season, I have held him so often. I am in love with this baby. I am awed at the ability of another brave young woman to make such an instrumental sacrifice, allowing our family to raise Jacob. The last few weeks as I have held him and kissed him, the words to<b> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXLIT1tOK7s">"Silent Night,"</a></b> have run through my mind. I know it is his song. I hope as we sing it and as he learns it, that he too will be soothed by the gentle message of the Savior.<br />
<br />
Music has always had a major impact in my life. It has soothed me through my most trying times, and provided peace through the troubled waters. The Lord has softened my hearth through beautiful music.<br />
<br />
I am so grateful for the calming power of music. I believe that "music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest, heals the heart and make sit whole, flows from heaven to the soul."<span class="sqq"> </span><br />
<br />
<span class="sqq">Sleeping in Heavenly Peace 6 hours at a time,</span><br />
<span class="sqq">Brandi</span>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-13830593902559532272010-11-19T23:26:00.003-06:002010-11-20T02:32:17.254-06:00Surrounded by a righteous generationThere is a beautiful feeling in a home when a new baby arrives. Regardless of how our babies have entered our home, the newborn baby spirit is miraculous. They are so fresh from heaven, and it is easy to feel the love of a wonderful Heavenly Father, as you hold one of His precious children. This last week in our home has been filled with countless reminders of the Lord's tender mercies to our family. Miracles have been handed to us, and we are forever grateful.<br />
<br />
My BOYS:<br />
<br />
When we married, and started talking about children, Jacob was at the top of our pick of names. Shortly before Lincoln arrived, we knew he wasn't Jacob. We knew he was Lincoln Daniel. Abraham Lincoln and Uncle Dan are two men that he can learn from, and follow in their footsteps. They are men who have a deeply rooted belief in a Supreme Being. By following the examples they have set, he will have the ability to make the right choices; even if he is doing it alone. By learning from them, he will become a righteous young man who loves the Lord. When we found out about Henry, we talked about the name Jacob again. It was still the top of our list (and the rest of America's list too!!!), but we knew he wasn't Jacob. We knew he was Henry Louis. By being named after incredible men who love the Lord, we know that if he becomes even half as wonderful as his Papa, and Henry B Eyring he will become a righteous young man who loves the Lord. <br />
<br />
When we were sitting in the waiting room at the hospital waiting for our little girl to be born, I had an inner conflict. I kept asking David, what do you think about the name Jacob? He kept reminding me that we were having a little girl. This conversation went on for over an hour. I could not rid myself of talking about a baby we would welcome to our family someday, even though the little girl who was coming was not yet born. The hoping for a little boy who would not be here for, what I thought was a long time, should have felt selfish but it didn't. It felt right. When Grandma Toni came to get us and said, "There is a surprise! It's a boy," peace flooded my entire body, and I know the Lord had prepared me for our beautiful Jacob. He has a strong spirit; one that I can feel as I hold him close to me. When I looked at his 10 lb 15 oz body, I knew we had our long-awaited Jacob Ladd. Not that this should come as a surprise, but he too is named after two incredible men. Grandpa Jay Ladd (Ladd being one of my favorite names for the last 6 years) and <a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/2_ne/11">Jacob, a prophet from the Book of Mormon,</a> have incredible faith. I know as Jacob learns from the teachings in the Book of Mormon, a book I know to be true, and as he follows the love of God found in Jacob and Grandpa's examples he will grow up to be a righteous young man who loves the Lord.<br />
<br />
Above all, I hope my boys follow the example of my Sweetheart, David. He is a righteous man, who loves the Lord above all else. He loves me, and he loves our boys. I know as they follow in his footsteps, they will be following the example set by Jesus Christ. I know that as my sons follow the example of their daddy, they will become the men the Lord intends them to be.<br />
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Today, I find myself surrounded by an incredible army of righteous spirits. These young boys, that I get to raise, and the wonderful man that I get to spend eternity with are more than I could have ever asked for.I feel the Lord teaching me daily about the things we need to teach our children to prepare them for eternity. I feel the beautiful burden that comes with raising future missionaries, and future husbands, and future daddies. I feel the rewards of being a wife and a mother, and ...<br />
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I feel humbled by my beautiful life.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qVQN1MV3rPo/TOda_z7SNrI/AAAAAAAAAvc/WZ7jH_XataA/s1600/IMG_4797.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qVQN1MV3rPo/TOda_z7SNrI/AAAAAAAAAvc/WZ7jH_XataA/s320/IMG_4797.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-59044272858962537862010-11-14T14:24:00.000-06:002010-11-14T14:24:25.669-06:00November 9th, 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUXQ6EhM3r0Bd2G5hC7yDVtZdgwCX8VnP_QDc882THeavq1StoE8UggtigzidaC6AtcWUItq_FUFXf6aD-FVIGp29PxsluxAeMEPYQqrmu5UfeZGdhosGRHxMSdShYFU0razN6g/s1600/IMG_3653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUXQ6EhM3r0Bd2G5hC7yDVtZdgwCX8VnP_QDc882THeavq1StoE8UggtigzidaC6AtcWUItq_FUFXf6aD-FVIGp29PxsluxAeMEPYQqrmu5UfeZGdhosGRHxMSdShYFU0razN6g/s320/IMG_3653.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DqnpvvamLzyZzFV0k8grwvOMRVjpmy2DLNBEbM5DI1GF0GZos3HTJZvH19EXgpo8eiAuLuw8sJvgi2BnWWyGEF_PP1eWfL8YXbeI3ZDR4l_-s8_sXT-1SiSoDZYOQIUYOG7MBw/s1600/IMG_4716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DqnpvvamLzyZzFV0k8grwvOMRVjpmy2DLNBEbM5DI1GF0GZos3HTJZvH19EXgpo8eiAuLuw8sJvgi2BnWWyGEF_PP1eWfL8YXbeI3ZDR4l_-s8_sXT-1SiSoDZYOQIUYOG7MBw/s320/IMG_4716.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8iU8rrJ1OtNagHSowAQgp5fwvUCzBjfXE-eoalI013DqFIYCIPSeMtB1FFgShI02w39Ry3Iev-sfaa5N6Na69tbFebWpXKGEghIjMt13-UYbyBhhX5xlO2eFmE1uSYWiHX2RZA/s1600/Jacob+Ladd+Smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8iU8rrJ1OtNagHSowAQgp5fwvUCzBjfXE-eoalI013DqFIYCIPSeMtB1FFgShI02w39Ry3Iev-sfaa5N6Na69tbFebWpXKGEghIjMt13-UYbyBhhX5xlO2eFmE1uSYWiHX2RZA/s320/Jacob+Ladd+Smiling.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-67999392980543665032010-11-01T00:11:00.001-05:002010-11-01T00:11:50.444-05:00A day to Remember, and a Day never to forget.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A day to Remember...</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9sYH_vKit63wXPnKCIULxM-8mlJX0SjqrSyaIJzodYPPEVjzVS6S2X_oqXXDGI8RMGJHbwt4RHq4ZAjHbA2RQPCk-R7B-N8LVfp9NX1iO0-CA3ZTZH5pJqqBBXQLK4E1udKhew/s1600/IMG_8240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9sYH_vKit63wXPnKCIULxM-8mlJX0SjqrSyaIJzodYPPEVjzVS6S2X_oqXXDGI8RMGJHbwt4RHq4ZAjHbA2RQPCk-R7B-N8LVfp9NX1iO0-CA3ZTZH5pJqqBBXQLK4E1udKhew/s320/IMG_8240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Do you remember in April 2008 when I wrote <a href="http://johnson-n-johnson.blogspot.com/2008/04/in-other-words.html">THIS</a> post? I remember. It is a day that is forever etched in my heart. It was a day that filled us with hope, gratitude, and it was a day that reminded me how much love Heavenly Father has for his children. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>WELL...</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yesterday was a beautiful day in Arizona. The sun was shining, the temperature was in the mid-70's. It was the kind of weather that people all over the country wish they were having in late October. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>AND... </b></span>It was a beautiful day because we met Nicole. Nicole is 38 weeks pregnant, and has made the selfless decision to place her baby girl, due November 8th, with our family. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>It was a day never to forget.</b></span></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiK5yRLjEybUXCVBmlcucc__ZVLgowTIdmQv-TAeLPudRgozrGiaHsj3Arq958ZPJurOQ18oduzPynCCHdZwfww5uvBAZ6INkGqBK1_Cj_kB90ABNIZ09psmz_EQaKfdutlt58yg/s320/IMG_4643.JPG" width="320" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brandi, Nicole, Toni, David, Lincoln </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpBpmzDD6_IF6wlGqzChhBY2qR5xccYmH-hTnlfDcrrADZkco13sUt1kvm6hsQt7voQtot8owxv-W0RBN92nwiIFzKhuZvonUKI73gT0FNOzIGBqx1s2aLxJb8Bxg4_0qkx8fXw/s1600/IMG_4642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpBpmzDD6_IF6wlGqzChhBY2qR5xccYmH-hTnlfDcrrADZkco13sUt1kvm6hsQt7voQtot8owxv-W0RBN92nwiIFzKhuZvonUKI73gT0FNOzIGBqx1s2aLxJb8Bxg4_0qkx8fXw/s320/IMG_4642.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">David, Nicole, Brandi,Lincoln</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Having Nicole, and her amazing mom Toni, in our home was a dream come true. Nicole is filled with happiness and joy. She has incredible dimples in both of her cheeks (which we hope baby girl has too!!!), and she has a desire to succeed. She has been through culinary arts school, and she wants to be a vet tech. She is a major daddy's girl (also hoping for this one) and she was 14 pounds when she was born (for her sake at 5'3, definitely not hoping for this!!!) She has lived a well traveled life. She told us she burns easily in the sun. But, this also shows off her cute freckles.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Meeting Nicole yesterday was another testimony of the miracle of adoption. In our home birth mothers are placed on a pedestal. Our Joanie Girl, and our new Angel Nicole will be a part of our family forever. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">We already love you Nicole, and we can't wait to see what the future holds. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Love,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">David, Brandi, Lincoln, and Henry</div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-63498508167788145622010-10-13T15:51:00.001-05:002010-10-13T15:52:58.010-05:00Double PostI wrote this post for the Mommy-blog I post on, and since it was a post that I couldn't stop thinking about for two weeks, I thought I would re-post it here.<br />
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<b> Martha And Mary</b><br />
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Sorry for the brief hiatus. We, at the Johnson household have been struck with the flu, and with the wonderful world we call chaos. However, I have been thinking about this post for quite some time.<br />
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I have been an avid reader since I was four. When we were little kids, my mom would read stories to us on the couch at night time. She read many novels, and she would always stop at pivotal points and make us wait until the next night to hear what was happening.<br />
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Incidentally, my mom always made time to play with us, cook with us, read with us, and be with us. She was an exemplar of sacrifice.<br />
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Today, I wanted to write about a story out of the Bible. Regardless of your religious affiliation, the Bible is a wonderful piece of literature from which to gain invaluable life lessons. I believe the Bible to be the word of God, as far as it is translated correctly.<br />
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In the Bible, in the book of Luke, we learn a great lesson; a lesson that has offered me insurmountable wisdom as I have entered the world of motherhood; and I believe it teaches me what my Mom spent years and years trying to impart to her children.<br />
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Jesus had come to the village where Martha and her sister Mary were, and Martha invited Jesus into her house. While He was there, Mary sat with Him and listened. Meanwhile, Martha was busy working; probably doing all the things she felt should be done. (Any one else suffer from this???)<br />
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Then, she said (if I had said it, it would have been in a very martyr-like tone) <b>"Dost thou care not that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me."</b><br />
<b>Jesus answered and said unto her, "Martha, Martha thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part...."</b><br />
<br />
Many days of my motherhood, I have spent my time cleaning my house. I have spent time, doing laundry, dishes, ironing, and putting things away. I have really started thinking about Jesus' comment to Martha when he says. "But one thing is needful."<br />
<br />
One thing is needful.<br />
<br />
Right now, I have one needful thing, in the way of two beautiful children and a husband. When I am busy washing the dishes, and my four year old asks, Mama, can you play guys with me? Or my two year old asks Mama, can you get me? WHAT IS NEEDFUL?<br />
<br />
I had a girlfriend who reminded me recently that the reason we clean is so that we don't get sick. Being troubled about many things because we are too busy doing the things we think we should do, and not enough time doing the needful things can be exhausting; Believe me.<br />
<br />
But, I believe as we come to pay attention to the needful things, and to sit with our children and read to them, or play with them, or cook with them, or talk with them, or...you get my point, that we learn the lessons as mothers we are intended to learn.<br />
<br />
My mom told me recently that there is plenty of time when the kids are older and leaving home to worry about the needful thing of having a clean house. But, right now...<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>What is needful?</b>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-61939755928888696502010-10-01T01:41:00.000-05:002010-10-01T01:41:48.693-05:00While Lincoln goes to Preschool...<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uGQI3xr7WRyC32PXsyBfv7IHxXsnOnBUjDzw3sU0pZNIoZbf7hLfyLQgfMCWp_MZ0ZXO7ecQ9gU0gw2SX5w3x2a13s2CO3jCvr4YROwmRk-sOkadP65edPLLdHmrFTXjdbk4Nw/s1600/IMG_4350.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uGQI3xr7WRyC32PXsyBfv7IHxXsnOnBUjDzw3sU0pZNIoZbf7hLfyLQgfMCWp_MZ0ZXO7ecQ9gU0gw2SX5w3x2a13s2CO3jCvr4YROwmRk-sOkadP65edPLLdHmrFTXjdbk4Nw/s320/IMG_4350.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I get to spend my day with this handsome fellow!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcIzgg5JqyZepYSeegjYlOK7fWA-qYwRgRAedZtgUPniLWMzoPBTHKiFFXUCu50K_Lh6OADtTtuVhSc5Nwo5Hp4FZWBXxNSR8QSIqro1NpMDLEooxiWcJiitbFZ-wRb_ObQuVww/s1600/IMG_4363.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcIzgg5JqyZepYSeegjYlOK7fWA-qYwRgRAedZtgUPniLWMzoPBTHKiFFXUCu50K_Lh6OADtTtuVhSc5Nwo5Hp4FZWBXxNSR8QSIqro1NpMDLEooxiWcJiitbFZ-wRb_ObQuVww/s320/IMG_4363.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Who does a lot of this (RUNNING!!!) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGbL9yzeFizGS68jZB234lHAJEshrtV5M4yFvgK-AfsNOVt8yMFj3S5VS4yeD-feWUFt3Ge9RTm1B4SOg8FeRTd5W5JjjwSmgh_dBTJG6oJ5CyNGFKadXwSFAVqXgYB5Gl_wZaw/s1600/IMG_4452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGbL9yzeFizGS68jZB234lHAJEshrtV5M4yFvgK-AfsNOVt8yMFj3S5VS4yeD-feWUFt3Ge9RTm1B4SOg8FeRTd5W5JjjwSmgh_dBTJG6oJ5CyNGFKadXwSFAVqXgYB5Gl_wZaw/s320/IMG_4452.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Who doesn't do a lot of this!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJM8ufKtvxPelLIuwUv21LVbB6MqaFNEueY7DgmncZggpuaGssxkQQHrY66KbUsMiqsqVRKukfybEqhNDGyMX1mZxBbSLt1QxZqWdH9qHNvv1vDW2iJBGFM_k3Bq8_T8fhYRJ7nw/s1600/IMG_4455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJM8ufKtvxPelLIuwUv21LVbB6MqaFNEueY7DgmncZggpuaGssxkQQHrY66KbUsMiqsqVRKukfybEqhNDGyMX1mZxBbSLt1QxZqWdH9qHNvv1vDW2iJBGFM_k3Bq8_T8fhYRJ7nw/s320/IMG_4455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Who needs a lot of these!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQhIXJkqch_Mt0eDLqBZFFu1ob9kSe3r0qhdvE1cOvDdqr3nHWwkArBA9xkOHABI54nLhpPpF72sgJ-w5DTRXwf9Eik2kOK6wS18fqt1rbiqjRqcdccH4_iXRS0zFhbXRthLm4tQ/s1600/Family1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQhIXJkqch_Mt0eDLqBZFFu1ob9kSe3r0qhdvE1cOvDdqr3nHWwkArBA9xkOHABI54nLhpPpF72sgJ-w5DTRXwf9Eik2kOK6wS18fqt1rbiqjRqcdccH4_iXRS0zFhbXRthLm4tQ/s320/Family1.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And who adds so much joy to our little family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I LOVE YOU HENRY LOUIS.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">TONS BIT.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-45306572706069994142010-09-11T22:41:00.001-05:002010-09-11T22:45:34.226-05:00First Day of Preschool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> "It turns out Mama,<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">that I'm growing up</div><div style="text-align: center;">and going to Pre-School."</div><div style="text-align: center;"> That's what he said to me. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And then he went. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And, he loved it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnrVDjD5zrewq-YYYkVLYmi0Ey7zgTcl7I7fja2I_SJEy6iFo0b6pNUWNeQdETC_nbB1by-TRVJXXdOQ4YwU3lJQBeJvYUc7lHdwPdPQ7urludUiGLh286Da62-6M9g1q10P1ww/s1600/IMG_4339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnrVDjD5zrewq-YYYkVLYmi0Ey7zgTcl7I7fja2I_SJEy6iFo0b6pNUWNeQdETC_nbB1by-TRVJXXdOQ4YwU3lJQBeJvYUc7lHdwPdPQ7urludUiGLh286Da62-6M9g1q10P1ww/s320/IMG_4339.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QlazyX0TLAI8AaD_LTon34sxvChycbNJH_7yCn8YN_E6B35rohz3eXh-WMih_huXOQnLbMRf68tq2s-N87zfQz1UEOGr2v2RFp_wQcx0BduQ-hGYs8gGWLvUhYqOm4yXmR6M2Q/s1600/IMG_4345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QlazyX0TLAI8AaD_LTon34sxvChycbNJH_7yCn8YN_E6B35rohz3eXh-WMih_huXOQnLbMRf68tq2s-N87zfQz1UEOGr2v2RFp_wQcx0BduQ-hGYs8gGWLvUhYqOm4yXmR6M2Q/s320/IMG_4345.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(outside Mrs. Malia's house)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lincoln was born smart. I am not worried about him excelling in school, as he can already write his letters, and some of his numbers. He can read quite a few sight words, and he is really, really good at sounding out new words.</div><div style="text-align: center;">If I was to worry about anything, it would be the classroom stats: 11 boys and one sweet girl. Other than that, no worries. </div><div style="text-align: center;">He is growing up. I don't get a choice.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I hate it </div><div style="text-align: center;">and I love it</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">But, for as long as I can I'm holding on to this sweet boy who still lets me sing him to sleep.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I love you Lincoln Daniel.</div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-38795670261417341462010-09-09T15:07:00.004-05:002010-09-09T23:28:20.414-05:00Dear Job,Forewarning: Please understand that if you are fertile or pregnant or capable of creating children, I am happy for you. What I envy is not <span style="font-style:italic;">your</span> child. I don't really envy actually. I desperately want my incapable body to be capable. This does not make it hard for me to be happy for you. I am honestly thrilled to see so many family and friends have beautiful children and enjoy the role of parenthood; especially motherhood. So,don't be offended or think I am incapable of feeling happy for you as I face my personal sadness. That couldn't be further from the truth. <br />
<br />
<br />
Dear Job,<br />
<br />
Yesterday I told my husband that I was starting to retreat into the dark spot that infertility so alluringly offers. I told him I didn't understand exactly what the Lord had promised us, even though I really did. My faith was tested, and I was a sucker for the easy way out; the way that puts all the blame on someone else, when really no one is to blame. I was disheartened and realized that I had chased away the good feelings that come when you plead with the Lord for peace. I didn't even ask for peace. Instead, I just walked down the path, deeper in the darkness, and camped out for the night. When I woke up you came to my mind so vividly. I haven't read your story for quite some time, but I knew a few things about you. First, I knew that you would never sacrifice your integrity in a moment of weakness. Second, I knew that you lost everything and still relied on the Lord. <br />
About you it is written, <span style="font-style:italic;">In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.</span> You grieved so much; for the loss of so much. Sometimes I ask the Lord if I have waited long enough to be blessed, and today I am humbled when I read about you. Through the loss of everything, you put your faith in the Lord.<br />
How did you do it? How can I do it? <br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
<br />
Brandi<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style:italic;">As we live on earth we must walk in faith, nothing doubting. When the journey becomes seemingly unbearable, we can take comfort in the words of the Lord: “I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee.” Some of the healing may take place in another world. We may never know why some things happen in this life. The reason for some of our suffering is known only to the Lord</span>-- James E. FaustJohnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-1952291694672045802010-08-26T19:52:00.005-05:002010-08-26T23:07:13.648-05:00Thirty at 30When I turned 30 I decided that instead of mourning the loss of my twenties, I would celebrate the birth of my thirties. In my plan for life, I would have all the kids I wanted by 32, and I told my husband that was my cutting off point. Hmmmm....two adorable kids later, I am far from done, so either I need to get pregnant with quadruplets, or someone needs to pick me to adopt a sibling group, or I am going to have to change my goal. I am still undecided on that one.<br /><br />I also made the goal to do 30 new things during my thirtieth year. <br /><br />So far I have:<br /><br />1) re-upholstered a chair<br />2) learned to can (I canned apple pie filling, ground beef and chicken)<br />3) learned how to piece a quilt together<br />4) learned to make homemade lasagna with homemade noodles<br />5) started taking a French class.<br />6) made it to Lifetime Member at Weight Watchers<br /><br />I still want to:<br /><br />1)Take a CPR class<br />2)learn to drive a stick shift- anyone not scared from my teenage years who can teach me??<br />3)learn to play the organ<br /><br />That is only 9 new things. <br /><br />Any ideas???Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-76903090311566420402010-08-17T19:01:00.005-05:002010-08-17T21:20:57.998-05:00The Giving Tree...The other night I read "The Giving Tree," to Lincoln per his request. It hit me that the tree was always there waiting for the little boy to come back. The tree was constant.The little boy grew and changed, went through a selfish period, and finally ended up back at the tree. He always knew the tree was there and where to find him. Yes, the tree was constant. <span style="font-style:italic;">It reminded me of infertility</span>. I'm pretty sure that any given topic could be related to infertility in my life. Haha!<br />For many months, I counted every day only to be disappointed at the end. I became angry, bitter, and spent quite some time in a dark spot. People tried to comfort me, but I refused the help; especially from those with numerous children. I went away from the constant, but I always knew He was there. <br />I occasionally went back, like the little boy, and told the tree I was too busy to listen but I needed blessings. The Constant always blessed me; even if it wasn't with the<span style="font-style:italic;"> money </span>I was asking for.<br /><br />Recently, I have felt the anxiety that comes with realizing my youngest is a potty-trained two year old; not a baby anymore. And, the anxiety that comes with knowing my family isn't complete. I have felt the anxiety of "oh no! What if my Constant decides that these prayers that seems to be on the Heavenly layaway program finally get paid off when I'm 50, and ready to be a grandma?" <br /><br />I had an HSG last week, where they gave me valium and lots of Advil. I asked if I could have a prescription for valium because it was awesome. (Consequently irrelevant, it reminded me of when my mom took valium for a surgery one time, and she said the funniest things. She also asked for more.) For some reason neither her nor my requests were granted. Consequently relevant, nothing was wrong with my body. Nothing is wrong with my husband's body. Nothing is wrong! Nothing.<br /><br />So, I'm back at the tree, ready to stay planted near Him this time. I realize that all I have is because of Him, and He has always been here. There is nothing I can ask for without fully realizing that He has a plan, although, i have often informed my Constant that if His plan doesn't work out, I have an awesome plan He could look in to.<span style="font-style:italic;"> No takers on that one either.</span> <br /><br />It's all in His hands. But, this presents the hard part. When the little boy grew up and realized that he was just going to stay planted by the tree,he sat there. BUT WHAT HAPPENED NEXT? I'm sitting at the tree, trying to be happy, and wondering what I do. <br /><br />What do I do?<br /><br />WHAT DO I DO?<br /><br />Planting myself next to the tree<br />wondering what happens next<br /><br />BrandiJohnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-11183223615318360232010-07-21T20:22:00.002-05:002010-07-21T20:37:19.482-05:00TodayDear Heavenly Father,<br /><br />Today would be a great day for a miracle. The last time we prayed for this same blessing, to have more babies, I was broken. I had cried almost every imaginable tear, and I was falling apart. I remember the day we held Lincoln the first time. It was a miraculous and beautiful day. His birth was the reason we were welcomed to the world of parenthood. He was perfect. Equal to that beautiful day was the day we met Henry. He was perfect. He was a tiny piece of heaven, and we felt again the miracle that comes with a baby. When I picked him up and held him close to my heart, I remember the peace that came. I remember hearing, "I have not forgotten you," and I promised that day not to let myself get broken again; not to end up in that dark spot where so many hurtful tears were shed. And, for the most part, I have kept that promise. I have expressed time and again my willingness, alongside my husband, to have faith in Thy will. I have tried to show gratitude. I have prayed earnestly for more children, and have waited month after month for another miracle. I'm not broken, but I am anxious. I'm just saying today would be a great day for a miracle.Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12582466.post-44098542958407162102010-07-13T15:49:00.003-05:002010-07-13T16:04:08.202-05:00Before and Almost After<div style="text-align: center;">In October of 2009 I joined Weight Watchers.<br />My fertility doctor told me,<br />"You are obese... All I'm saying is if you don't want to have any more kids, and look the way you do, then stay the weight you are."<br />Now, as harsh as it seems, she was right.<br />I had extra weight.<br />I liked me.<br />My husband liked me.<br />I didn't want to start bringing<span style="font-style: italic;"> dieting</span> in my home<br />because I wanted my kids to grow up and like themselves.<br />But, I also wanted us to be healthy.<br />So, I joined weight watchers.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What's so funny, is the cliche-ness of the <span style="font-style: italic;">before</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">after</span> pics. In the before pic, I am wearing old clothes and no make-up (I think I had been swimming. It was definitely not intended to be a <span style="font-style: italic;">before</span> picture.) In the after pic, I was a bridesmaid at a beautiful wedding, so my hair was done, I had on a new dress, and makeup. But, nonetheless, here they are, in all their contrasting glory.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyOqDGK6soViKYsXsZKLF4JtI413tvZMPV10Levu2TQBPTw6VZ306TiaqX5TruAXyyKHFW-nlUpJJeeW53dqYdNOGuynfHZdHpa_PPWJQvyIS7nVCs37-zQwfsT9c_5j0DvjCng/s1600/IMG_2707.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyOqDGK6soViKYsXsZKLF4JtI413tvZMPV10Levu2TQBPTw6VZ306TiaqX5TruAXyyKHFW-nlUpJJeeW53dqYdNOGuynfHZdHpa_PPWJQvyIS7nVCs37-zQwfsT9c_5j0DvjCng/s400/IMG_2707.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493497754709935298" border="0" /></a>August 2009<br />165.6 lbs<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzP6skjuOMly2_57jPNFE_em9EJ3psdIm5BRvz_7nNEY2zz_USZO6zMATUk6PjWVRv1L7ZZi8JkR8a23y_aM76ARAno-z9Lt07i_djhsLIGFo-U5rTGEsQ5FVOkNpAH_Dnk7kYw/s1600/IMG_4018.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzP6skjuOMly2_57jPNFE_em9EJ3psdIm5BRvz_7nNEY2zz_USZO6zMATUk6PjWVRv1L7ZZi8JkR8a23y_aM76ARAno-z9Lt07i_djhsLIGFo-U5rTGEsQ5FVOkNpAH_Dnk7kYw/s400/IMG_4018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493497741335481042" border="0" /></a>June 2010<br />127 lbs.<br /><br />Now, this post is called before and Almost after,<br />because I am almost done.<br />I want to lose about 10-15 more pounds.<br /><br />Thanks for all the support and the love through this journey.<br />I have enjoyed buying smaller pants.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Johnson-n-Johnsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12503292024479635189noreply@blogger.com11