Jacob

We were reading in Jacob tonight, about the parable of the olive vineyard. While reading his verses, Joe pauses to insert, "Wow, these vineyard dudes really cared about their trees, huh?" When he had finished his section, I asked him who the Lord of the vineyard in the story was. He said Jesus. I asked him who the trees were, and he didn't know. I told him that the allegory was about Israel and the Gentiles, but reminded him that we are supposed to apply the scriptures to ourselves. I reread to the children that some of us are planted in good soil, some of us are planted in poor soil. The Lord always knows the condition of the soil where we are planted. Those planted in good soil can still bear no fruit, or bear sour fruit. Those who are planted in soil can produce lots of fruit. Whether we produce a little or a lot of fruit depends on us!

I needed to hear this story today. Life is always full of trials, as well as full of blessings. Which am I going to concentrate on? Will my fruit be sweet or sour? I know the Lord provides everything I need.

Today was fast and testimony day. I felt the spirit so strongly today that I spent a large portion of the day crying. I wanted to bear my testimony, too, but I was so emotional, and I hesitated too long. I wanted to talk about Primary, and about how frequently the Lord communicates to my spirit about the needs of particular children. I wanted to testify of his love for each of them, and how strongly I have felt the spirit with the children as we give our lesson during sharing time. I feel so blessed by my calling, by the joy that singing in the choir brings me, and by the stewardship of priesthood leaders in our ward. I am so grateful.

Thankfully

I think I've said before that Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love having a holiday dedicated to counting our blessings! I feel so blessed, and this year I have felt especially aware of the kindnesses of others as well as the tender mercies of my Father in Heaven. He knows me and provides things in his wisdom that he knows I need. This month, I have felt that he has answered my prayers very specifically in several regards. I have confidence that I can trust him. My heart has been touched several times in just the last week.

Some specific gratitude:
--First, that Erin and Nick made the drive safely from Davis, arriving at 4 a.m.
--Second, that all of my children are safe at home with me and all together for Thanksgiving for the first time in several years.
--For the men who fixed my heater yesterday, and for the friend who arranged it. An unexpected blessing!
--For the friends who shared our meal...Keith Levery, JoAnn, and Keith's roommate (and our new friend) Darrel. (JoAnn will be invited every year since she LIKES doing dishes! Ahh---I'm just teasing. I invite her every year because she's great company!)
--For good health and healthy bodies for my children.
--Last week, I was having such a tough time keeping it together and my good friend Keith Lawniczak brought by a fabulous lasagna dinner, salad and yummy bread that kept my family fed for more than two days.
--I'm so grateful for our home and the land around it!
--I'm thankful for education and the opportunities it will give me and my children.
--I'm so glad for our pets, who are an extension of our family.
--I'm thankful for my faith and all of the richness it provides in my life.
--Most importantly, I'm grateful for my Savior and his loving example of all that I should strive to be. It will probably take me an eternity of striving to become anything like him, but I refuse to give up.
--I'm grateful for this week of service at the storehouse and for one of the most special experiences I have had at the Bishop's storehouse on Wednesday.
--On a personal note, I'm thankful for the privilege of knowing and loving the Scoffield family.
--For men like David DeButts and Bill Scoffield, who teach my young men about being men of God, and teach my young ladies about the qualities that are most important in a future spouse.
--For the scriptures, especially 2 Nephi 4:15-35.
--I feel so blessed to be able to see and experience the beautiful earth and all it's glories! I can't wait to see the world when it has been restored to its perfect form...it's already more beautiful than my heart can take sometimes.
--What would I do without the internet and the ability to stay connected with friends and family around the world?
--We are blessed every day by the leadership in our church at all levels!
--We are thankful for the men and women who serve in the armed forces, and their families for giving up so much so that the rest of us can have so many freedoms and blessings.
--We are so blessed to live in the USA!
--For my friend Tom, who I've loved since high school, and who always pops back into my life (over the phone) at just the perfect moments with encouragement, friendship and joy.
--I have wonderful friends!

My list could go on forever. Gratitude is what keeps my heart turning back to the Lord. I hope each of you have a blessed and tender Thanksgiving!

Terrific Tuesday!

Well, we had a terrific morning at the Bishop's Storehouse today. We helped package up fruits and vegetables, and after those were done, spent the bulk of the morning bagging nuts. There were a ton of people helping, and it was amazing to see everyone working so hard. All of our favorites were there, and some new people, too! I so much appreciate Brother Scoffield for his example of service, love and hard work for my boys, who are slowly coming around to the idea that life is hard and it's time to get over it and get to work.

At home, the kids spent some time enjoying some computer time while I worked on homework. More good news: Fortunately a friend of mine arranged for a heating "specialist" to come and look at our heater tomorrow, so hopefully our home will be able to get over 53 degrees during the day if they are able to fix it. If not, the kids are preparing firewood to keep us warm during the rainy weather ahead.

I also finally went shopping for food items today, and there are happy tummies in the Cavanaugh home.

We finished off the day with a wonderful trip to the temple for baptisms. It was the first time I was able to go with Laine. Kelly was unable to go because she was ill. It was so special to me to have Laine and Joe both there. (Someday soon, I hope to have all five of the children there at once with me!) We enjoyed our quiet evening at the temple. The spirit was strong, the smiles were big, and the joy was tangible!!

Vacation Week!

The kids are glad to start their week off for Thanksgiving vacation. Each of them have projects they are supposed to be working on this week for school. The girls still have piano lessons and Johnny has to get ready for his first concert performance coming up in early December. Then there's the dreaded holiday homework.

I myself have class today and tomorrow (though tomorrow's classes are online at my leisure and I won't have to go anywhere!). I have a ton of homework and quizzes that I intend to do ahead of time so that I can start getting ready for finals. I also have a lot of reading to do for the national foundation I sit on the board of. Our conference call is happening a week from Tuesday.

Kelly has a date today. Can I just say, "Yikes!" Her second one with the same boy since she turned 16. Tuesday and Wednesday, we'll be working at the Bishop's storehouse. The kids have been looking forward to it.

We'll probably stay on a bit of a routine...not let the kids sleep in too late and keep them off of the computer for most of the day. We have a ton of projects to work on at home, too...not the least of which is restoring order to the boys' room. I'd like to paint their bathroom this week and investigate how to put tile backsplash up behind their sink in the bathroom. I also need to finish the unfinished bookshelf I purchased and move things around in their bedroom so that it will be easier in the future for them to keep things orderly.

And as the leaves are beginning to fall from the trees, we'll be busy working on yard work as well. We have mowing, edging, and weeding to do. The chicken coop needs a good cleaning (no more eggs till spring because my chickens are too old.). I'm debating about whether or not to eat the chickens...or rather, let others eat them since my kids probably wouldn't.

For thanksgiving, we invited our good friend Keith and his roommate and several others who might not have a place to go for the holiday. We'll be eating early so that Erin and Nick can join us if they would like. I haven't had the kids at my house for Thanksgiving in about 5 years, so it feels a little weird to be celebrating ON thanksgiving. I've been the person without a place to go on Thanksgiving for several years, though last year my friends Kelly and Dave invited me to their family's home in Visalia.

I'm sure we won't get to do everything we planned. And I'm hoping that there will be lots of unplanned moments of joy!

Gifts

Today after church, my phone rang, and when I answered it, it turned out to be a young lady from primary. Her family is fairly new to the church, and she has told me a number of times that she has a lot of trouble coming to church because she hasn't felt like she had a testimony. She had a dream that she didn't understand, and had been praying about this dream, trying out God, so to speak, to see if she could get an answer about this question of faith. Her phone call today was wonderful. The first words out of her mouth were, "Guess what happened, Sister Cavanaugh? I got a testimony!!" My heart was full of joy for her! I told her that when we pray and ask God for help, he answers and gives us inspiration, and that now, she needed to make sure her testimony remained strong by continuing to pray and read the scriptures.

I was also really touched during primary. I was assigned to give the lesson, what's called sharing time. My lesson was on reverence and feeling the Holy Ghost. I just love the things the children come up with when invited to participate, and I consider their smiles and affection to be tremendous blessings of working in primary. I'm so grateful for my calling...I'm grateful for children and their closeness to God. I'm grateful that I get to be witness to moments like hearing a young lady begin to grow her testimony. The biggest joy of all is feeling the love that our Father in Heaven has for these sweet spirits.

Sunrise, Sunset

I realized recently that I've been experiencing more sunrises and sunsets. During the summer, I seldom see these dramatic moments because the days are too long. But this time of year, I get to see both! Mind you, it's not in the way I'd like to experience them (snuggled up somewhere far from civilization with someone special!)...in fact, I'm usually in the car during these dramatic moments.  Nevertheless, I've enjoyed watching the play of light and color over the clouds and the horizon. (I'm a skies person, remember?)

In literature and daily language, sunrises and sunsets are often used as metaphors for the beginning and end of things, so when I experience them both in the same day, sometimes it makes me reflective. It makes me realize that in this world, all things have a beginning and an end. It serves as a reminder that some of the more difficult challenges I face are temporary and will pass away. It also reminds me that the blessings we have should be treasured while we have them, because our lives are short.

Someone I interviewed recently for a class, a beautiful lady in her 80's, commented that she didn't know how the years had passed so quickly. She said that inside she still felt the same, that the passage of years had gone largely unnoticed, but externally, her body, her face, her life was so different. She was startled every time she looked in the mirror. Her advice for aging was to treasure the moments and beauty in life, serve everyone you can throughout your life, love God and others, stay active, and be kind to yourself.  Enjoy more sunrises and sunsets. I'm grateful that I get that chance right now!

Tuesdays at the Storehouse

This month, we celebrate thanksgiving. Of all the holidays, this one is my second favorite (for inquiring minds, Easter is my favorite!). Although I still need work on expressing gratitude, I love that we have a holiday that is about being grateful. I feel I have been so richly blessed by the Lord in all areas of my life. I really have no right to complain at all about my life, even though I do from time to time. Maybe more than I should.

Yesterday in the mail I received a newsletter from the Poverello House. In the newsletter, they discussed the programs and opportunities for families and individuals that find themselves in tough circumstances or homeless. They also discussed street corner beggars. As I read through this material, I thought about all I take for granted. I complain about all the repairs and hard work I have to do in my home, or the yard work that needs to be done on my property. Yet, I have a home to live in with space to spare, unlike so many others. I complain about having to plan, cook and clean up after meals, yet my children and I have plenty to eat and some to share. I could go on and on about all that I grumble about. I need to improve!

When I went to the Bishop's storehouse today, as I try to do every Tuesday, I had a another learning experience. As I saw the familiar faces of my friends at the storehouse, my heart was lifted in joy. Although completely out of it at moments from staying up nearly all night to study, I felt so happy for the opportunity to serve those who have less, people I may never meet, but to whom my little bit of service can bring some relief and peace. I treasure my time there because it helps me to repay the tiniest portion of all that I have been blessed with. It reminds me that man "does not live by bread alone" but having a full tummy helps people to focus on the words of Christ and living a good life. Serving at the storehouse blesses me on another level, too...it keeps depression and darkness at bay as I lose myself in the work. I only wish I could do more to help others, but this small offering still provides me with perspective and peace.

Making Pumpkin Muffins

Johnny informed me that he needs a large can for something at his school this week. An empty can, to be precise. By tomorrow morning, to be even more precise. So in rummaging in our cabinets, I've discovered I have two options: Enchilada Sauce, or canned pumpkin.

And while enchiladas are one of life's best pleasures, I've decided to make pumpkin muffins, in honor of the fall that I wish were here already. I'm anxious for the senescence that brings with it crimson, yellow, purple and red. Great big leaf piles perfect for watching my kids jump into (while they're still young enough to want to!). Beautiful dynamic skies with clouds that visit just long enough to remind us that summer has left the building. The occasional camping trip that breaks up the monotony of school days. The beauty of a season that continues to shout in the perfect symphony of color that God is real and that he loves us. I'm longing for the smell of chili, soups and stews and that special scent that comes with autumn. Perfect temperatures...no longer hot enough to bake apple pies on my patio, and just enough cool to require the occasional sweatshirt and socks.

Yes, if I bake some muffins, I might just survive until fall.

Summer of Service

Last week was a busy week! On Monday, the two youngest kids went to a humanitarian project to make hats and toys for people around the world who have been hard hit by natural disasters. Then Monday evening, we helped a friend load up her moving truck. On Tuesday morning, we went to the Bishop's Storehouse to help package food for needy families in the central valley. That same afternoon, Kelly and I went and helped a friend to clean up after their move. Wednesday was faith in God for girls, as well as mutual for the older three kids. Thursday, we went BACK to the Bishop's storehouse (just can't get enough!) and Friday, we served at the Poverello House.

Someone asked me what we were doing all this for. Like most things in my life, I decided to do it for my children. My goal is to raise healthy, independent, self-reliant, grateful, happy adults who contribute and give back to their community. I don't want them going out into the world asking, what's in it for me? I don't want them thinking the world owes them anything. I want them to develop their talents and their gifts, to work hard for their dreams, and to always remember that someone is worse off than they are.

I felt that we needed to spend some time helping others who have less or who need more help than we do currently. I want my kids to grow up grateful, with a sense of self-worth that is unrelated to their score or level on some video game they mastered this summer. I want them to know that every person is a child of God, and deserves dignity and respect. I also want them to develop faith and a testimony of God's love for all of his children, to have a testimony of paying tithing and of service. I want them to love each other.

Another reason is to help the children realize that despite all the things we do without, that we are very blessed. I'm working very little right now and going to school. I'm trying to make a better life for myself and the kids...to set an example for them to finish their education. That means our budget right now is very tight, and getting tighter daily. Taking this step has required a lot of faith for me. I'm not comfortable living so close to the wire. Yet because of prayer, I know it is what I am supposed to do: go back to college, really serve others with all my heart, grow my testimony and be the best mom I know how to be(not necessarily in that order!). I'm not certain of much beyond those goals. However, I know that the children and I are feeling closer and more thankful for all that we have. I wanted the children to know that when we complain about what we don't have, we are forgetting all that we DO have.

We enjoy our time together in these service projects. We have witnessed God's hand in our lives and in the lives of others.  I hope to establish an eternal pattern for myself and all of my kids...serve, serve, serve, with all of our hearts.

Nick, Joe & Johnny

Just wanted to share this cute photo of the boys...Nick (Erin's husband), Joseph and Johnny, taken in early November.

My Grandfather: Isidore Arthur Vermette

This is a photo of my Grandmother, Agnes and my Grandfather, Isidore. I never called them that, though...to me they were always Memere and Pepere.

Pepere never finished school, but I still think he was a genius. He could fix nearly anything, make nearly anything. Some of my fondest memories were watching him work with wood and make lovely things for my grandmother. I also enjoyed watching him weld, though I was not allowed to get too close during that process to protect my eyes.

He made one room houses into large homes. He fixed vehicles and altered them when necessary. He made at least one mobile home that I know of. When I was young, he made me a dollhouse and a nightstand, both of which I loved immensely. He couldn't sit still to save his life.

He was a prankster to the extreme and loved to "get" people. He was also a fantastic storyteller with a great sense of humor. He read Reader's Digest faithfully (and left it on the back of the toilet along with Guideposts so the rest of us could enjoy it, too!). He was lovable, but also fiercely tempered. I learned early on not to make him mad or break any rules around him. He was one of the hardest workers I knew. He could swear in two languages. He always knew how to do everything, and felt free to tell you how to do it.

He was a Catholic, and attended church every Sunday he could. His favorite hymn was "How Great Thou Art" and I loved to hear him sing it.

He and my grandmother raised six children...four girls, and two boys. Their names are Jeannette, Rita, Gloria (my mom), Richard, Norman and Susan. His biggest fights were with my Uncle Norman, their disabled son who lived with them their whole lives. Both were stubborn as mules.

When they were older, Pepere loved to watch HSN with my grandmother and buy her little trinkets. When my grandmother was at the end of her life, he cared for her the best he knew how, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

He was imperfect and riddled with faults and failings, and blessed with many talents. I love him with all my heart.

(Those cabinets behind my grandfather were built by him.) He died April 4, 2006, 4 years after his sweetheart died. He was 89 years old.

Dear God

Dear God: You know I have always loved trees, and I can see that you have placed a number of beautiful ones in close proximity to me so that I will be reminded of your love, and I am so thankful! Today, I'd like to thank you for three in particular. For example, my neighbor's tree across the way is so huge, and has the most beautiful structure I have ever seen. When I see it, I think about how strong you are, and how I can rely on your presence in my life.

Thank you so much for the beautiful tree just a block away that you decorated with so many stunning colors. It gladdens my heart and makes me think of you every time I see it, and reminds me that being able to see is a tremendous blessing. There are so many people who cannot see. Seeing all of those colors on the same tree reminds me, too, that there is a place for everyone in your kingdom, and that every person of every "color" belongs to you.

And that lovely gold tree on Shaw Avenue is a joy to my eyes. When I'm driving home from dropping the kids off at school in the mornings, it's almost always lit from behind and it looks like angels are aiming a spotlight at it. It's so tall it makes me look WAY up to see the top. It reminds me that you are the source of everything good in my life. You are amazing!

Being Grateful

I've started trying to put one or more posts up each day on facebook about things I am grateful for. I find it easy to find things to be grateful for but sometimes I find myself being repetitive in my prayers about the core things that make me thank God, and I'm trying to branch out and see his hand more effectively in all that I do.

This week, I misplaced an important file. I normally keep this file in a safe because it has so many critical things in it. But I took it out to put some items in, and got distracted while doing so. When I went to put it back, the other items in the safe got jumbled, and I knew it would take some time to put it all back together so that the file would fit. I didn't want to leave the file on the table because I'm paranoid about losing it. I brilliantly thought of a place that the thieves would never think of looking, and then went to pick up the kids.

It was one of those days where I was running back and forth between schools, activities, events, and getting my daughter ready for camp. I forgot about the file, and didn't think of it again until I went to the safe to retrieve something and realized my file wasn't there. I scoured the house from top to bottom and couldn't locate it. I thought of who might have moved it. I even dug through the trash (and found my pampered chef knife in amongst the pumpkin mess! Thank you Father for knowing that I would have lost my mind without it!) and the recycling bins. I queried the children. I even wondered if someone had managed to steal it after all. I had prayed many times, including prayers that I might regain my former "brilliance" and remember where I had put it. Finally, instead of just praying, I listened. I had the feeling to go look in the kitchen. I began looking inside of things, under things, behind things. I gave up once, but then felt that I needed to keep looking in the kitchen. At long last, I found where I had put it!

I loudly and with great heartfelt gratitude gave God all the credit for locating the file. It's clear that I've lost way too many brain cells over the years (maybe I gave them all to my smart children!). The only way I found it is by finally having the faith and humility to rely on God to guide me instead of my aging and tired brain. When we rely on God to guide us, the results are always better than if we try to rely on our own faculties.

I'm so grateful for my boys who helped me search for the file. I'm grateful that in the process of looking, Heavenly Father spared me from losing a kitchen tool I use every day. I'm so thankful for prayer. I appreciate being taught humility and faith, even though I have to keep learning those lessons over and over. I'm grateful that I found the file! I'm also thankful that in the process of looking for the file that a little cleaning got done.

See what one little incident can do for gratitude?