However, because of all of that, I havent been able to spend much time with my friends. I am so thankful for my friends. I am grateful for those who help me out with school runs, for those who just listen to my stories (good and bad), for those who encourage me when I feel it is all too much and for those who love me for who I am. I am thankful to have friends who understand that even though I cant spend much time with them, I will ALWAYS be there for them if needed - afterall
I have learned over the past few months that it is not about how much time I can spend with my family and friends, it is about how we spend that time together. Darren and I recently managed to escape the asylum without the children. It was the first time in as long as I could remember, where we managed to go out, enjoy ourselves and to leave any worries behind. It was magical! (We only went to the cinema to watch a James Bond movie, which I don't normally like, but I had a great time!) It was also the first night in over a month where we didn't have somewhere else to go, something else to do or someone to visit. That is a long time. However I now appreciate more, the time we have together. I am grateful for the blessings which we are given on a daily basis because of the sacrifices we make. The sacrifices are made willingly and our children are learning for themselves what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is all about - SERVICE!
The best thing about being busy is that I don't have time to hold grudges or pass judgement on others. I will hold my hand up and say that I have been guilty of this in the past. Unfortunately, for the Lord to help me learn this lesson, He has had to fill my time for me, but it has worked. I see life totally differently now, I have a greater vision of what is good in life and what's just not worth wasting time contemplating. When President Uchtdorf spoke in the April 2012 General Conference and said "Stop it" - that was for me! I felt it! He is right, it only brings you down and makes you miserable. I am a much happier person now and I know our home has a different atmosphere in it, it is one of love.
I am thankful for these lessons, I am very much looking forward to our Stake Conference this weekend and wish many of you to join me! Much love, Gem xxx