JT’s mark on the dishwasherToday I looked around at the fingerprints and piles and decided to take President Monson’s words from his last conference address to heart: “Find Joy in the Journey.” His words are like a bright clear window to look through.
Here are some of my favorite excerpts:
“Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.
“Nothing is as constant as change.”
Day by day, minute by minute, second by second we went from where we were to where we are now. The lives of all of us, of course, go through similar alterations and changes. The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come the changes.
I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and non-existent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey-now.
If you have children who are grown and gone, in all likelihood you have occasionally felt pangs of loss and the recognition that you didn’t appreciate that time of life as much as you should have.
If you are still in the process of raising children, be aware that the tiny fingerprints that show up on almost every newly cleaned surface, the toys scattered about the house, the piles and piles of laundry to be tackled will disappear all too soon and that you will to your surprise miss them profoundly.
Our realization of what is most important in life goes hand in hand with gratitude for our blessings.
Brothers and sisters, my sincere prayer is that we may adapt to the changes in our lives, that we may realize what is most important, that we may express our gratitude always and thus find joy in the journey.”
 Cubbies – the never ending tidy |
 I dodn’t htink you can have too many books. |
 JT’s mark on the door |
 Olivia took bites out of these fake apples a couple of years ago…I just colored them in with red marker. |
 JT’s mark on the chair |
 Mason’s desk of treasures |
 Wow – look at that dust! Not sure I’m going to miss that someday. |
 I just had to document this pillow – Mason cross-stitiched it at John and Michelle’s house one conference weekend when he was 8. All of the girls were doing it so Michelle included him. I made it into a pillow. |
 Alexis’ desk of treasures |
 Alexis’ closet – she is always looking for easier ways to make sure her clothes are put away. |
 Lily’s night stand – she really does wear that mask. |
 Olivia sleeps here and is getting pretty good at making her own bed |
 Lily holds the pink and white polka dot bear Aunt Stacie made er every night |
 This crib has been through 5 kids now! |
 This piano gets used! |
Comments:
Mom and Dad Parker said…
That’s some pretty good evidence that you really lived. There is a lot of joy in the journey if we don’t overlook it in life’s telestial traffic jams.
Monday, March 30, 2009 1:39:38 PM
John said…
Let your life speak. I love how you see things as they are and can be. We are amazed at your perspective.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009 10:03:54 PM
Patricia said…
Jodi,
“Enjoy The Journey” and “Treasure the Memories”!!! It’s all about NOW! You’re doing a great job at being a mom and wife. Writing things down helps gain perspective. Isn’t it fun to look back on things? The best part is if we can have no regrets! Enjoy your family now. Each day is a piece of heaven on earth. Love you bunches, Mom
Monday, April 06, 2009 12:25:25 AM