Today, I had it verified that we are expecting our seventh child. Now, many people out there may think that having that many children it crazy and I am sure that they have their reasons for thinking that. But for me, my children are everything. There is nothing more rewarding than being a Dad. I love it. There is something about having the unconditional love and trust of another human being. For them to look at you and call you Dad, fall asleep on your shoulder, run up and hug you when you come home from work and ask you questions thinking you know all the answers. I also understand the responsibility that is associated with raising children. Many people associated having lots of kids with government assistance, income schemes, multiple marriages, etc. This is not the case either. I work hard for my family and we receive no assistance, not that in the current economic condition it isn't someday a possibility but as of yet just hard work. Also, I have been married to the same wonderful woman for 14 years and the children are all ours. She has been a good sport about having a large family as I realize she carries the burden and the children. We made the decision long ago that to be good parents and have a large family it was best that she not have to work outside the home. The work at home is quite enough. Now before anyone condemns me for the amount of work seven kids puts on a stay at home mom, let me tell you, I also understand the importance of helping out. I love to cook dinner and do so most nights; I also try and make sure I get at least a load of laundry and dishes done every day, at least every other day. I believe that raising a family is the greatest thing that we can do. I wish more people were convinced of that, it has taught me to be less self-centered, more patient, more caring and more helpful. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
I thoroughly enjoyed this years First Presidency Christmas Devotional. If you haven't has a chance to see it you can watch it here:
2008 First Presidency Christmas Devotional
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I am sitting watching my daughter at basketball practice and I can't
help but think about how lucky I am. I see so much of me in her. She
really works hard to be the best she can at things. I am so proud of
her and who she has become. At thirteen, I know that I don't have much
time before she's completely grown up and won't need dad around. Right
now she's still my little girl, I hope that she will some day look
back on her dear old dad and not judge him to harshly, I hope she will
realize how important she is in my life.
I also hope she figures out how to dribble...just kidding. ;-)
Ok, so this may come across the wrong way but, oh well.
I am truly baffled by the lack of modesty at the gym, and not where you may think. I don't have to much of an issue with what people wear when they work out. I think at least a bathing suit's worth of clothes should be the minimum, but most wear more than that.
What I have an issue with is the men that walk around the locker room naked, most with a towel draped over their shoulder. Now, I know some of you may think that it's a locker room and I shouldn't be bothered, but I disagree. I actually saw an old man standing in front of the mirror coming over is hair naked. That's not a site anyone should happen upon.
I think that people no matter how good or bad they look should have a level of decency in public places. I am totally for do what you want in your own home. But, I pay good money for a gym membership that I want to keep using. Keep your gym porn to yourself!
I have the greatest respect and admiration for Joseph B. Wirthlin, Elder for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was a wonderful man and a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Though we will all mourn his passing, I think we should honor him by reviewing his life and the inspiration and direction that he has given us.
Thank you Elder Wirthlin for your time and service.
