tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73782735263637597762024-02-07T06:42:44.545-08:00The Westberg FamilyErin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-64510743224953904232016-06-23T20:35:00.000-07:002016-06-23T20:36:39.200-07:00Commitment<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0.14in;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Segoe UI, serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">"Commitment
is a persevering, unwavering devotion that even death itself cannot
sway, a loyal determination to fulfill what one has promised, and
ever present "we-ness" that sustains a union through the
years." In marriage we want to know and feel that our needs and
wants will be met. More importantly though we want to feel secure in
our relationships and that our commitment to each other will see us
through both the good times and the bad times. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Segoe UI, serif;"><span style="background: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Segoe UI, serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: black; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">"Commitment
has this ideal thread of someone driven by desire and devotion...
Obligation, responsibility, and dedication demand perseverance when a
commitment has been made. Regardless of your obstacles, genuine
commitment presses on." It's easy to stay committed to someone
throughout the good and happy times. However many obstacles will
happen over the course of our lives and marriages. It is </span></span></span><span style="color: black; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">through
these bad times we can have our relationships and commitment to each
other strengthened if both partners are willing to commit to each
other and work hard in their relationship.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "segoe ui" , serif;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-12565827008587049702016-05-22T18:04:00.002-07:002016-05-22T18:04:57.859-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfzk5RewAt5IdjRYdPqSXJxUauYf-3rXjljTdeBFDDUZoEzra1x6s2ebtprzOPfv8f5V-YghjhEatn_XmNUludICTlVwvsjlu81oX9FhTTWMZ_n7Zds_LDL4M7u14R0DtthZCYeHCpatP/s1600/13256314_10209674285675532_5885062017996813945_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfzk5RewAt5IdjRYdPqSXJxUauYf-3rXjljTdeBFDDUZoEzra1x6s2ebtprzOPfv8f5V-YghjhEatn_XmNUludICTlVwvsjlu81oX9FhTTWMZ_n7Zds_LDL4M7u14R0DtthZCYeHCpatP/s320/13256314_10209674285675532_5885062017996813945_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #353535; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I have learned several things since my
divorce and being back in the dating world. I promised myself that if I were to
ever get remarried again that I needed to have a clear level head when entering
into any new relationship. One thing that can be a potential problem is the
idea of that spark you feel when you meet someone and it is new and exciting.
Chemistry is an attraction and desire to be with another person both physically
and emotionally. However c</span>hemistry alone is not a good
judge of character because of the physical and emotional response it creates
you can end up truing a blind eye to bigger problems in a potential
relationship. We allow ourselves to<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>get so caught up in our feelings which can be strong that we ignore or
fail to see the red flags that create the bigger picture. <span style="background: #FAFAFA;">Even in the best of relationships chemistry can fade if the
relationship is not nurtured. If we go into a relationship with our blinders on
we will find ourselves losing the chemistry we once had as flaws that should
not have been over looked appear. I also love this quote from Sister Linda K
Burton who said, “I am convinced that a husband is never more attractive to his
wife than when he is serving in his God-given roles as a worthy priesthood
holder.” From and LDS stand point I find this to be true that if the
desires of their heart match the desires of our hearts the more attractive we
will become to our spouses. When we are actively seeking a righteous partner we
need to be in return a righteous person. Together we can than build a strong
foundation for an eternal marriage one that will require work to keep the spark
alive. </span></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-31075907161702562472016-05-12T07:23:00.001-07:002016-05-12T07:23:12.324-07:00RAM Relationship Model<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3uXPyOZ-lVHOgFQgDD_pDEGSDixgS5TEeWhHI8aBARbn04Q0kZC4w8Lx_KArUHMk8bqoHEfZdzhdpimguE-k2wlVJISUvK8LkS5sXPrk950y_X752-HeQ7EJlxYzwfoLc-g6Ule5Cfbjj/s1600/RAM-board-face_capitals_PICK-e1435077379914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3uXPyOZ-lVHOgFQgDD_pDEGSDixgS5TEeWhHI8aBARbn04Q0kZC4w8Lx_KArUHMk8bqoHEfZdzhdpimguE-k2wlVJISUvK8LkS5sXPrk950y_X752-HeQ7EJlxYzwfoLc-g6Ule5Cfbjj/s320/RAM-board-face_capitals_PICK-e1435077379914.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">"The balance of all five bonding dynamics determines the healthiness of your relationship and clarity of your perspective partner...the five bonding dynamics have a specific order and logic to them: what you know about a person determines the degree you trust him or her; this trust directs you in choosing what personal needs you can rely on him or her to meet; you should become committed only to the extent that you know, trust, and depend on that person; and finally, any degree of intimacy is safest when it matches the context of the overall intimacy reflected in the levels of the other four dynamics...when the levels of the five dynamics are out of balance, then the emotional bond becomes unhealthy, and you tend to overlook crucial characteristics of the other person that should be exposed and explored."</span></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-59352029263578500502016-03-31T17:09:00.000-07:002016-04-07T17:09:57.998-07:00Light Vs. Dark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalYqCaTdBuf_IvuSgx03pKUL3VwkgE7jwcND8bQsZ4N98iBAk0_rQObQsiCBc35fBULVaBoazFy6MrWPQx9DL4NWBDXlftvVfxDth9InDq_b8OF1rKdKVAd9k4j6qs4fjHs2m3fGhlrUT/s1600/Happiness-can-found-even-darkest-times-one-only.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalYqCaTdBuf_IvuSgx03pKUL3VwkgE7jwcND8bQsZ4N98iBAk0_rQObQsiCBc35fBULVaBoazFy6MrWPQx9DL4NWBDXlftvVfxDth9InDq_b8OF1rKdKVAd9k4j6qs4fjHs2m3fGhlrUT/s320/Happiness-can-found-even-darkest-times-one-only.png" width="232" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #353535; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">One of my favorite quotes from Harry Potter says “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light.” I thought of this quotes as it reflects us when we have the light of Christ in our lives we can repeal the darkness that comes from Satan’s temptations. Elder Robert D. Hales said, “As children, we learned how to keep darkness away by turning on a light…We understood the physical law that is also a spiritual law: light and darkness cannot occupy the same space at the same time. Light dispels darkness. When light is present, darkness is vanquished and must depart. More importantly, darkness cannot conquer light unless the light is diminished or departs. When the spiritual light of the </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/holy-ghost?lang=eng" style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); border: 0px; color: #00617f; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Holy Ghost</a><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #353535; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> is present, the darkness of Satan departs…We are engaged in a battle between the forces of light and darkness. If it were not for the Light of Jesus Christ and His gospel, we would be doomed to the destruction of darkness.” We are here to live the Lord’s plan of happiness for us but Satan wants to distract us from that. We can fight off the darkness of Satan’s power through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Only then can we truly find the peace and happiness the Lord has in store for us.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #353535; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #353535; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The light of Chrsit is very symbolic as after the Saviors death there was three days of darkness on the American continent, we read that the Nephites were unable to even light a candle to dispel the darkness. It is interesting how this is a symbol of the world in which the Savior does not exist. When he returned, he brought light back to the world and dispelled the darkness.This can happen to us when we turn aways from Christ we lose that light and will find ourselves in darkness. But the best part of the Atonement is that no matter what we can always seek and find that light again. </span>Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-23742791575093875342016-03-13T21:18:00.001-07:002016-03-13T21:18:12.021-07:00Patience<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #353535; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">Hebrews 10:36 teaches us that if we are patience
we can have the assurance that Heavenly Father will keep His promises to us. As
I have gone through some major trials I find myself getting impatient as I want
to see the trials come to an end but having patience is a big part of enduring
to the end.<span style="outline: 0px;"> President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “The
lessons we learn from patience will cultivate our character, lift our lives,
and heighten our happiness.” It seems hard to comprehend that we can be happier
if we learn to be patient especially during hardships. The trials that are
quick and over within a short amount of time seem easier to handle as opposed
to the drawn out trials that seems to have no end in sight. I have learned
however that it is during the longer trials my patient is tested which allows
for my faith testimony to grow. President Uchtdorf went on to say, “Patience-the
ability to put our desires on hold for a time-is a precious and rare virtue. We
want we want, and we want it now. Therefore, the very idea of patience may seem
unpleasant and, at times, bitter. Nevertheless, without, patience, we cannot
please God; we cannot become perfect. Indeed, patience is a purifying process that
refines understanding, deepens happiness, focuses action, and offers hope for
peace.” </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #333333; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">The Lord has always
told us that He will keep His promises but it is on his time not ours.</span>
As I have learned to be more patient in recent trials I have found more things
to be grateful for which has brought me the peace and comfort President
Uchtdorf mentioned. </span><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #353535; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">I will become a
better disciple of Christ as I allow myself the patient needed to grow and reach
my potential. </span></span></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-48828145611869097512016-02-28T19:34:00.002-08:002016-02-28T19:34:53.158-08:00His Grace<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); line-height: 17.25pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #3c424e; font-size: 12pt; padding: 0in;">Paul taught that it is not
through our own works that we will be saved but through the grace of Jesus
Christ who redeemed for us.</span><span style="color: #3c424e; font-size: 12pt;"> In order to be saved by His grace we
need to </span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #3c424e; font-size: 12pt; padding: 0in;">fully live the gospel, repent of our sins and apply the Atonement
to our lives. Elder Dallin H. Oaks said, </span><span style="background: rgb(235, 237, 238); color: #2f393a;">The miracle of the Atonement is not just that
we can live after we die but that we can live more abundantly . The miracle of
the Atonement is not just that we can be cleansed and consoled but that we can
be transformed. Scriptures make it clear that no unclean thing can dwell with
God, but no unchanged thing will even want to.</span>” Because of the grace of
Jesus Christ we can be saved when we fully do our part. Doing our part requires
us to activate the Atonement in our lives and <span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #3c424e; font-size: 12pt; padding: 0in;">is more than just keeping the commandments.
So many people feel that they don’t need a Savior and that they can do it alone.
While it does require us to put forth good works we cannot achieve grace on our
own we need our Savior. Sometime as members of the church we let our lives get very
busy and in the mist of all the chaos we lose sight of what is really important
and start going through the motions of living the Gospel but not really actively
seeking to live it. My oldest this week was a good example of simplifying his
life and putting Christ first. He plays tackle football and today after church
he came home and announced, “There’s no football practice Wednesday night because
I’m going to the temple to do baptisms with the young men’s.” I love that he
made the decision on his own. He could have used the excuse that he had
practice but he put church first. That is how we become true disciples of
Christ by putting Him first. When we are actively putting the Lord first and
using His atonement we will then be saved trough His grace. </span></span><b><span style="color: #353535; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-66767679681677215432016-02-15T21:28:00.001-08:002016-02-15T21:28:34.053-08:00The Atonement <div align="left" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: none; line-height: 0.2in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="border: none; display: inline-block; padding: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Many
people believe that the atonement of Christ is for repenting of sin.
We know that s</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">in
leads us to a spiritual death and only </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">through
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">repentance
and the power of the atonement can we </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">be
forgiven and </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">receive
the gift of eternal life.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">
</span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">But
the Atonement covers more than just sin. The Savior suffered for
every heartache, trial, suffering, and sin we may experience while
here on this earth. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">During
our many trials we are faced to endure in this life it is easy to ask
“Why me?” or say “Life isn't fair.” It is true that this life
is hard and we are meant to go through trials as a refining and
strengthening process. The
Apostle Peter
taught that if we faithfully endure our trials we have been promised
to be strengthened through
the Atonement where we can then receive
joy and exaltation. Elder Robert D. Hales stated, “Suffering is
universal; how we react to suffering is individual. Suffering can
take us two ways. It can be a strengthening and purifying experience
combined with faith, or it can be a destructive force in our lives if
we do not have the faith in the Lord's atoning sacrifice. The purpose
of suffering, however is to build and strengthen us.” While life
might not feel fair and our trials may seem to be going on forever we
are meant to have trials to make us stronger. When
we feel alone and that know one understand we can take comfort in
knowing that Jesus Christ knows as He atoned for each of us. Because
He atoned for each of us He can also help us know and understand how
to overcome our trials. The Atonement is how we can be healed
comforted however if
we lose
sight of
our faith in Christ then our trials also have have the power to
weaken our faith and trust in our Savior.
Elder Neil L. Andersen said, “When faced with a trail of
faith-whatever you do, you don't step away from the Church!
Distancing yourself from the kingdom of God during a trail of faith
is like leaving the safety of a secure storm cellar just as the
tornado comes into view.” When
we step away from Christ then Satan has won. We need our Savior and
His Atonement. We need to draw close to Him and have the faith that
we can overcome and receive Eternal life through His sacrifice
for us. </span></span>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-14732387473929719552016-01-31T16:49:00.001-08:002016-01-31T16:50:18.291-08:00Temptations<div style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; padding: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">The
power of Satan's temptations are very real and something we must be
constantly aware of. </span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">In
1 Corinthians 10:13 we are taught that through the power of the Holy
Ghost we can overcome our temptations. </span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">President
Henry B. Eyring said,</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 100%; padding: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">"With</span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 100%;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; padding: 0in;"><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">the help of the Holy Ghost, we can watch over ourselves. We can pray
to recognize and reject the first thoughts of sin. … And we can,
when we must, pray for the humility and the faith to repent.” There
are so many who have felt that there was no use in overcoming
temptations because it was too hard </span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">and
while it is </span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">not
always easy keeping the commandments </span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">we
have been provided a way. There are many who don't understand why
members of the church obey the Law of Chasity and Word of Wisdom.
They believe that life style is freedom and the church is
restrictive. What they fail to understand is that keeping the
commandments is freedom. To achieve that freedom is to not partake of
the worldly activities but even if we succumb to temptation we can
take comfort in knowing the Lord has provided us away to repent and
gain strength to resist those temptations that would drag us down.
</span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">President
Eyring also stated, “The Savior is our Advocate with the Father. He
knows our weaknesses. He knows how to succor those who are tempted.”
</span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">We
can also have peace in knowing that t</span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">he
Lord will not tempt us beyond what we can endure. However it is up to
us to use the Atonement, the Gift of the Holy, and prayer to overcome
Satan’s power. </span></span><span style="color: #353535;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">We
need to be humble and have the faith to ask the Lord for His help in
turning our weaknesses into strengths.It helps to remember that we are never alone. The Savior suffered for each of us and knows exactly what are individual struggles and weaknesses are. Remember the scripture found in Ether 12:27 which reads, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then I will make weak things become strong unto them." Have faith be humble, and remember we are not alone, and through the Savior we can turn our weaknesses into strengths. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-51166623744468942432016-01-15T10:33:00.000-08:002016-01-17T22:55:30.239-08:00Blessing of the Scriptures<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZK3Tq5_Q5DcoLBkVE2SsP-FDLK2jnrdPL8tcMdz3h-glr4w3YtTi1BtRyj_p_DAbS3BXjxJUJmhTCBfa-CA9Aco2OilUiv5AGpkx7dPtTGs4cWJVnczUMiA454LJHz2_SvQyKC24wZsaT/s640/blogger-image-2070409129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZK3Tq5_Q5DcoLBkVE2SsP-FDLK2jnrdPL8tcMdz3h-glr4w3YtTi1BtRyj_p_DAbS3BXjxJUJmhTCBfa-CA9Aco2OilUiv5AGpkx7dPtTGs4cWJVnczUMiA454LJHz2_SvQyKC24wZsaT/s640/blogger-image-2070409129.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 100%;">Sometimes I wonder why I have to raise my kids alone. It's hard and I miss being married and the family life. This quote helps me to remember that the Lord has a plan for me even if I can not see it. </span><span style="line-height: 100%;"> I am reminded of a blessing I received about 15 years ago that said,
“If you read the Book of Mormon daily the Lord will bless you and
keep you safe.” If I read my scriptures daily the Lord is going to direct my path. Elder Richard G. Scott said, "The scriptures are and excellent source of understanding and strength when pondered with faith in the Savior. They bolster faith in truth. When the truths revealed are applied diligently, they become a vital source of worthy motivation. You will increase your courage to do what is right. Your discipline to adhere to the most important priorities of life will be fortified."</span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00784314); line-height: 30.6px;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 100%;">While I may believe that some things are good the Lord knows what things are actually better. I need to put my faith and trust in Him and I do my part He most certainly will do His. He told me to read the Book of Mormon daily and He would bless me. I know this to be true and that when I feel I'm being rejected from something good I'm really being blessed and re-directed to something better. Reading the scriptures daily will give me the motivation and courage to continue to go forward knowing that the Lord will bless me, guide me, and not lead me astray. </span></span></div>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-24337701016544200882015-12-11T21:10:00.001-08:002015-12-11T21:10:25.758-08:00Traditions<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-Ul45iIoaUuHAuO6rDpL0_sLlPLUtbc3XUZ2OnAbAoh9mClmL5xYueR3TPjkivKsGz13-LuHD6u9yRFd4JF9wxfpEceL3g0cl-zZuDTHDsMwmQFOaLA9PBM8zPrxyYatFQdTMOpBx1KO/s640/blogger-image-839331240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-Ul45iIoaUuHAuO6rDpL0_sLlPLUtbc3XUZ2OnAbAoh9mClmL5xYueR3TPjkivKsGz13-LuHD6u9yRFd4JF9wxfpEceL3g0cl-zZuDTHDsMwmQFOaLA9PBM8zPrxyYatFQdTMOpBx1KO/s640/blogger-image-839331240.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hR7FDSWt7_Wajcmx5ZeDarPzVXfIJxvd9gORLa8V4KNZw0X6lyDunVahAPrHQu4ZdodQ8rvJQ1ZgRHWiLKHmJh3f6xV6AcYwDlqURevZ2ga7WIiUtF2M5ZFscuUJZb_RKxx5hygNH8aM/s640/blogger-image-197479786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hR7FDSWt7_Wajcmx5ZeDarPzVXfIJxvd9gORLa8V4KNZw0X6lyDunVahAPrHQu4ZdodQ8rvJQ1ZgRHWiLKHmJh3f6xV6AcYwDlqURevZ2ga7WIiUtF2M5ZFscuUJZb_RKxx5hygNH8aM/s640/blogger-image-197479786.jpg"></a>I believe that having family traditions is important. They are ways that bring families together and strengthen relationships. One of my favorite family traditions is to go see the play "A Christmas Carol" every year. This tradition was started with my grandparents and parents when they were newly weds. My family has gone every year for over the last 40 plus years. I loved going when I was younger and now I love sharing this tradition with my kids. They look forward to going every year too and I hope it's one of those traditions that will continue on. </div>Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-28451173056106468592015-12-03T13:35:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:22:00.089-08:00School Event<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWMuztOtVafIlyqPkdzB375B7emDyyRfR5_6A9WIltjWSHpHXuru4lMW0mmoP_dia7TpnPPhdjqSWXTEGZMgmWsZzDNMN_gCmGcruZN-tDaJq4oouwW2a_1B3SUoC2lhLr2AR2Ozmd2mZ/s640/blogger-image--430078598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWMuztOtVafIlyqPkdzB375B7emDyyRfR5_6A9WIltjWSHpHXuru4lMW0mmoP_dia7TpnPPhdjqSWXTEGZMgmWsZzDNMN_gCmGcruZN-tDaJq4oouwW2a_1B3SUoC2lhLr2AR2Ozmd2mZ/s640/blogger-image--430078598.jpg" /></a>My boys had their school Holidays Around the World event where each class put together different food, pictures, and reports from different countries and some of the holidays they celebrate. My boys were excited to show me what they worked on and the school did a great job there were was so much to see. I think it's important to go to events like this. As a family we need to show our support for each other it's one of those simple ways we build and strengthen our relationships. It also shows my children that I love them and care about they events and activities it hat are important to them. </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-56521046348332184642015-11-29T08:12:00.000-08:002015-12-12T08:15:52.475-08:00Conflict and Contention<div class="Standard" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Did you know there is a difference between conflict and contention? Often we are mistaken and believing that conflict is bad however it is
normal for opinions and beliefs to differ and conflict to arise. When conflict
arises it is our choice whether or not we will choose to remain calm and
peaceful or become angry and contentious. No one can make us angry or offended
that choice is ours and it is one that is influenced by Satan. When we become
angry we break down relationships and once we say things in anger we can never
take them back. It is our choice whether or not we will become offended. Often times we see many people
leave the church because they were offended over something simple but again
that is another one of Satan's tools and is something that can be avoided if we
learn how to have conflicts without getting contentious and becoming angry and
possibly damaging relationships. We don't have to win every disagreement and prove we are right. It's ok to agree to disagree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-14727224208840698132015-11-23T08:06:00.000-08:002015-12-12T08:09:53.090-08:00Activer Listening<div class="Standard" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I have been thinking about actively listening lately when communicating with are friends and family members. One thing that stood out to me was how we need to actively listen with
love. I believe if we actively listen with love our communication and
relationships will improve. It's important to
stop and be patient when listening to our children and family members. The
relationships we build in this life will carry with us in the next. A big part
of our family relationships is communication. If my children don't feel that I
am really listening to what they say they will go to someone else who will and
that is not always a good thing. I realize that sometimes when I'm
listening to others I find myself coming up with my response or
interrupting. It's a bad habit and I know that when I do this I'm not really
listening to what others are saying. I also realize that with my kids I'm too
quick to offer a solution or fix their problems when maybe they just wanted
someone to listen to them. This is way I feel active listening is a great communication skill to work on to help strengthen my family relationships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-77951947900084810742015-11-18T14:11:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:22:26.431-08:00What a Teenage Boy Needs Most from his MomI came across this article one day called<br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: 17px;">"What a Teenage Boy Needs Most from his Mom." I really liked this and felt it applied well to me as I have one teenager and one almost there. </span></h1>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: 17px;">I have enjoyed each stage my kids have gone through and so far I'm loving the teen years! My boys are so fun. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6XSYFGLYedahDbtHp7OhRaCLAwDlXr8VxEPM-ZPRwGJj-q-yX7z7KpMzmrbZmLDIKa17KjUjjuppsGQtj_8dvm9miaSBkGIjpZxtzEGgeRUXltjLGPp-PgCMHR_7I8b3EtVFt3AKKsx8/s640/blogger-image--1727785009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6XSYFGLYedahDbtHp7OhRaCLAwDlXr8VxEPM-ZPRwGJj-q-yX7z7KpMzmrbZmLDIKa17KjUjjuppsGQtj_8dvm9miaSBkGIjpZxtzEGgeRUXltjLGPp-PgCMHR_7I8b3EtVFt3AKKsx8/s640/blogger-image--1727785009.jpg" /></a></div>
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However as a single mom I often wonder if I'm doing enough to meet the needs of three boys especially my teenager. So in the article she shared 11 tips that teenage boys need most from their moms.</div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">1. A safe place to figure themselves out.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />It happens almost every day, and sometimes many times a day: Teenagers are always changing. They will change their clothes. Their mood. How they walk, talk or what they’re into. Some days they just need to figure out what feels right. Some days nothing feels right. Being a teenager is hard. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Sometimes our greatest job as Mom is to act like we don’t even notice.</span></em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">2. Boundaries.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Our boys need to know what is absolutely ok, and what is absolutely not. They may resist rules, but deep down they feel safe when there are clear-cut rules without exceptions. Make them clear and consistent, and have absolute consequences in place for when they break rules. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Boundaries <span style="box-sizing: border-box;">=</span>Security. </span></em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">3. Freedom.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Within those boundaries, teenage boys need the opportunity to stretch their wings. Teenage boys should be encouraged…Even pushed–to try new things, to take some risks, to find adventure. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">G</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">iven enough opportunities for healthy adventure, they will avoid a lot of trouble.</span></em> (<em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Remember–“Idle hands” and all of that…</em>)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Keep boys busy doing character building, exciting activities and watch them become men before your eyes. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">The minute my boys act in irresponsibly, they will lose freedom. So the freedoms we give are taken very seriously. </em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">4. A Listening Ear.</span></span>Boys need to talk. Even the quietest ones will open up when given the chance. Get them alone, in the car or wherever you can, and make it clear that you WANT to hear about their interests, and their lives. Be patient, and try different times and places until you figure it out. This makes it clear that I am OK with any and every topic and I will always be available and comfortable talking.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">5. A Sense of Humor.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />This is the good stuff. Teenagers…are hilarious. This may be my very favorite thing about these years. No more knock-knock jokes or bad made-up jokes that never seem to come to a conclusion. Teenagers actually GET STUFF. There’s hardly anything like the bond of a good laugh with my boys.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">When one of my boys come out laughing and want me to watch a funny Vine or YouTube Video, I drop everything for it.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Side note #1</span>: As for us–**We have a rule of “clean” entertainment only. No swearing or <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">anything off-color</em>. And they know that if I find them following anyone inappropriate, I’ll remove their Vine/YouTube etc account <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">(See #2)</span>)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Side note #2</span>**I have a “<em style="box-sizing: border-box;">I can check your phone, computer, etc anytime I want to–no questions asked.” This keeps everyone in check.</em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">There is plenty of FUN and FUNNY entertainment out there if you look for it.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">it’s a hard world: A good sense of humor will get your kid through many trials in life–So encourage it.</em></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">6. Touch.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Your teenage son will likely pull away from you physically, and that is normal, albeit painful. But even the most rigid, sulky teenage boy needs hugs from Mom. Don’t get awkward and keep a distance. Create a “hug a day” rule or something that makes it routine and normal. He’ll love it even if he refuses to show it.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">7. Genuine interest.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />What does your teenager love? Learn to love it too. Know at least enough about what they are passionate about so that you can have a decent conversation. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">This will keep doors open greater than any other gesture you can make.</span></em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">8. Forgiveness.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Teenagers will make mistakes. Lots of them. They’ll act selfish. They’ll space out. They’ll get insecure and do stupid things because of it. They are going to mess up so much you’ll wonder where you went wrong. If you know it’s coming, it won’t throw you off. Consequences may be in order, but so is a whole lot of grace.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">9. Direction.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Listen Mom: Your teenager actually WANTS you to give them guidance.</span></em> Sure, they’ll act like they don’t, but they do. Keep it relevant, and as brief as possible, but when you see them facing forks in the road, go ahead and speak some good solid words of advice to them. Share a Scripture that fits their situation. Quote someone they might respect. You are their greatest resource they have, and they need your direction. They’ll thank you, even if it takes twenty years.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">10. Encouragement.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />It’s hard to be a teenager. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">(remember?</em>) The world will yell and scream all kinds of negatives to your son. So be his greatest fan. Be his cheerleader. Believe in him with your heart, and tell him that you do. Every. Single. Day. I’m not talking about phony, contrived encouragement (<em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Everyone is a winner!</em>) but the authentic kind that finds their greatest giftings, and speaks them boldly.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">11. An example.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Our kids are watching us. They get a lot more of an idea about what is right, wrong, good and bad from what you do than what you say. So take your position seriously. No, you’ll never be perfect, and you can tell your kid that–but don’t use that fact as an excuse to be lame. If you don’t want them to swear, don’t swear. If you teach them to speak well of others, make sure you do the same. <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Probably the greatest thing you can do for your son is to model the kind of person you want them to be.</span></em></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The common key to pretty much everything named is that <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Mom is involved in the teen’s life</em></span>. </span></div>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-2682453975358442842015-11-14T10:47:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:21:37.013-08:00Goofballs<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCAVTfI4Rea-Pb_SjKjQZkciSUvmn7zHpzEzO2blM0ms29kgIkDF1XHP90bTUcHdhehBrzQzkwdFpuJWKrep1hky2kQgNtyeDoCj6TH0r5vq4iffq9GpateSBjcDcxvYeeXvFt66FYWpY/s640/blogger-image-31228680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCAVTfI4Rea-Pb_SjKjQZkciSUvmn7zHpzEzO2blM0ms29kgIkDF1XHP90bTUcHdhehBrzQzkwdFpuJWKrep1hky2kQgNtyeDoCj6TH0r5vq4iffq9GpateSBjcDcxvYeeXvFt66FYWpY/s640/blogger-image-31228680.jpg" /></a>Sometimes we can be silly but I love it! We were watching a movie together that some how turned into a goofy family selfie session. I think moments like these are far more important and more memorable to my kids than the movie we watched. I can't even remember the movie but I remember the fun and happiness felt as we had fun together! </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-22595427388752959382015-11-09T13:03:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:21:03.937-08:00<br />
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-15942004613586303612015-11-06T10:41:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:20:34.898-08:00Turn Our Hearts to The Family<br />
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It's crazy how so many people are looking for happiness OUTSIDE of their own homes and families. We live in a world of instant gratification and money will buy you happiness. But what people fail to realize is that...</div>
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A CHRIST CENTERED HOME = REAL HAPPINESS!</div>
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If we turn towards Him and build a strong foundation centered around Christ we will find the peace and happiness even during hardships and trials. </div>
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Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-35778194205606184282015-11-03T10:34:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:19:40.338-08:00The Priesthood<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmAI6_hLTfGVTKocg4_orIWrlLsH8jxKoBNrMNFPw271R6Q6ZcrSwIK35GjrQah5UU8i3kIL_T3XGrRzfC3O1GU8aNaZa-xdcOXzHNg4nHDzGTUhQkiIgDzWGQSpmCMid8MOkdWqoz7Ne/s640/blogger-image-1514996957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmAI6_hLTfGVTKocg4_orIWrlLsH8jxKoBNrMNFPw271R6Q6ZcrSwIK35GjrQah5UU8i3kIL_T3XGrRzfC3O1GU8aNaZa-xdcOXzHNg4nHDzGTUhQkiIgDzWGQSpmCMid8MOkdWqoz7Ne/s640/blogger-image-1514996957.jpg" /></a>My middle son Hunter recently turned 12 and received the Aaronic priesthood. I feel blessed that both my older two boys hold the priesthood. As a single mom I don't feel limited to the priesthood just because I do t have a husband. I know that leaders and home teachers will come and administer to my family anytime I need it. The priesthood is for everyone and I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a mom of boys in whom I can teach them to magnify their priesthood responsibilities. </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-53717978211450457382015-11-01T10:55:00.000-08:002015-12-10T17:20:11.683-08:00Happy Halloween<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQs0mRF3-mxLJn3wR9Ey08e9uS2F7U61aytvPopG4Xh_v3UmwTgIidKcO3DYClyYxHoDK5djbBF8uwO5Wwp9yuFjOb1NwcnsuqHBP2qAP9BEfJJJpxoEGuKyzGVXLyEgaKqju2g-Hnwxs/s640/blogger-image-1998808398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQs0mRF3-mxLJn3wR9Ey08e9uS2F7U61aytvPopG4Xh_v3UmwTgIidKcO3DYClyYxHoDK5djbBF8uwO5Wwp9yuFjOb1NwcnsuqHBP2qAP9BEfJJJpxoEGuKyzGVXLyEgaKqju2g-Hnwxs/s640/blogger-image-1998808398.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXxqccmI5G0qSfkhuQ2ejWugS71V2fo77YUe6kkdZOKOtlh04MbSituTnhhswSYVufg4wVu2smYagOFEvcyAQU450w9RtA9rPuSDgPjEl81bWDdHD49Dgf4mXuuF-LWD0conpvuBsPcd8/s640/blogger-image--1641062659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXxqccmI5G0qSfkhuQ2ejWugS71V2fo77YUe6kkdZOKOtlh04MbSituTnhhswSYVufg4wVu2smYagOFEvcyAQU450w9RtA9rPuSDgPjEl81bWDdHD49Dgf4mXuuF-LWD0conpvuBsPcd8/s640/blogger-image--1641062659.jpg" /></a>This year for Halloween we kept it low key as one of my boys ended up with pneumonia. We did however go to the wars Halloween party and carve pumpkins. My oldest went out with his friends on Saturday night while I tookmy youngest trick or treating and my middle son was in bed sick. I do have to say how proud I of my youngest. Without even being asked he decided to do half of his trick or treating for his sick brother so he could get candy too. </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-4295979708210702142015-10-28T13:24:00.000-07:002015-12-10T17:19:06.058-08:00Fight The New Drug<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eFEh9pVpboXRR2MlRx2iZNJepXE4OrTzXbIiG1AmRx_jwQgm7cH4VWjAAaMB-9BrLWfX7R6sf1F2sCEXXjEnOUsXyjNflEJ1qGWVw40khS6a0KVm8SLNItBUE8XvJAC_QxL8ffslX6iK/s640/blogger-image--228798433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eFEh9pVpboXRR2MlRx2iZNJepXE4OrTzXbIiG1AmRx_jwQgm7cH4VWjAAaMB-9BrLWfX7R6sf1F2sCEXXjEnOUsXyjNflEJ1qGWVw40khS6a0KVm8SLNItBUE8XvJAC_QxL8ffslX6iK/s640/blogger-image--228798433.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfPntTU3xq8Ul9j8EiwG8RSLXcieAtNJuoucHTN31cdwGVeYXQTbJOzOd7MiOp9_mAbgWaXIu29g-KmmlPU-jwhF6XD_KOEd1yZZVZHHsGQNMzqjpgceY9lq7QYLG9w96X54C29H-AFg8/s640/blogger-image-772230947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfPntTU3xq8Ul9j8EiwG8RSLXcieAtNJuoucHTN31cdwGVeYXQTbJOzOd7MiOp9_mAbgWaXIu29g-KmmlPU-jwhF6XD_KOEd1yZZVZHHsGQNMzqjpgceY9lq7QYLG9w96X54C29H-AFg8/s640/blogger-image-772230947.jpg" /></a>My stake along with three other stakes invited the group "Fight The New Drug" to come present to all the youth ages 12 and up. I was really glad my older two boys had the opportunity to go to this along with over a 1000 other youth. This groups message was very powerful. They explained how porn harms in 3 ways: It affects the brain, relationships, and society. One of their main slogans is "Porn Kills Love". At the end of their presentation they invite all the kids to sigh a banner with a pledge to abstaine from porn. They also offer resources for those youth who may already be addicted. This was a great event and I encourage others to check out their message. </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-36778512534377982602015-10-25T08:38:00.000-07:002015-12-06T08:39:09.786-08:00Love This!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtmngo935JDpiQ_wrZrHArCwyuuOde2pFBpc3SWgOrKN_yvir1n6OXm_sSkW31D1HsgzCZm6iJ-vuAcjCg7RPQLZmB7y5ewxub4_2VCCYtykP1GA97Jae6X0ZFYANNaYlpOrXzETGhEUx/s1600/11028026_10207320512032662_2223996358706415205_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtmngo935JDpiQ_wrZrHArCwyuuOde2pFBpc3SWgOrKN_yvir1n6OXm_sSkW31D1HsgzCZm6iJ-vuAcjCg7RPQLZmB7y5ewxub4_2VCCYtykP1GA97Jae6X0ZFYANNaYlpOrXzETGhEUx/s320/11028026_10207320512032662_2223996358706415205_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-67513084924304665582015-10-22T21:00:00.000-07:002015-12-06T08:37:00.854-08:00Feed My Starving Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPKZChzZvm0S3ymBLfO731D2MqaYGKEjHyo-3y75Wm0qWgmILJa6w_ManCpoLwc7h8q9VTkWadzKrxJHMc2NLKThMaVTTKEXDN70LRoJqS9zoEw7yApvvwGxCBpQgEszLr3I5Vajx15LN/s1600/Feed+my+Starving+Children.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPKZChzZvm0S3ymBLfO731D2MqaYGKEjHyo-3y75Wm0qWgmILJa6w_ManCpoLwc7h8q9VTkWadzKrxJHMc2NLKThMaVTTKEXDN70LRoJqS9zoEw7yApvvwGxCBpQgEszLr3I5Vajx15LN/s320/Feed+my+Starving+Children.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My boys and I this last week went to the foundation Feed My Starving Children with our ward for a service project. It was a great experience and fun too. We were put into assembly stations where we weighed, measured, and packed food that was going to be shipped to third world countries. My boys and I had a great time doing this and it was a good opportunity to move beyond ourselves and serve others. It also helps us to be more grateful for what we do have. My boys had such a fun time doing this that they want to go back just as a family to do it again on Christmas break. I think this might be a new Westberg family tradition.Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-62237072737015324372015-10-18T19:05:00.000-07:002015-12-05T19:09:40.566-08:00Our Eternal Families<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d5150; font-family: MinionPro-Regular, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I recently read a talk from Elder Robert D. Hales, “The Eternal Family” that I felt was really insightful. In his talk he stated, “</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d5150; font-family: MinionPro-Regular, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">How we conduct ourselves in this life will determine what we will be in all the eternities to come. To receive the blessings of the sealing that our Heavenly Father has given to us, we have to keep the commandments and conduct ourselves in such a way that our families will want to live with us in the eternities. The family relationships we have here on this earth are important, but they are much more important for their effect on our families for generations in mortality and throughout all eternity...</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d5150; font-family: MinionPro-Regular, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">t</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d5150; font-family: MinionPro-Regular, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">he plan of the Father is that family love and companionship will continue into the eternities. Being one in a family carries a great responsibility of caring, loving, lifting, and strengthening each member of the family so that all can righteously endure to the end in mortality and dwell together throughout eternity.” </span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d5150; font-family: MinionPro-Regular, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">It is scary to think that if we do not conduct ourselves properly like Elder Hales said that our family members might not want to be with us in the next life. It made me think about my relationship with my kids and how I speak to them and treat them. I felt that this was really great counsel to not only teach our children and raise them in righteousness but to also build strong lasting relationships that will carry over into the eternities. I love my boys and want to be with them in the eternities. It's important for us to remember that this life is the time for us to not only prepare ourselves but our family members as well to live with God again. </span>Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-30893627687374167672015-10-15T21:00:00.000-07:002015-11-29T08:45:54.253-08:00Family Scripture Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgrZ7NnrM08oOFBsQbilLwQS7pWpUvkKNwX9E2KhpV4aQQHgEw35AkNGagnEEZtmphAmrLsDFaIrHCTtcMro6lx83hj8VomOB7l_ConN04xgspHw83VUsYfYv-Kx7_NZBNfjK87So5ZaH/s1600/Sciptrue+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgrZ7NnrM08oOFBsQbilLwQS7pWpUvkKNwX9E2KhpV4aQQHgEw35AkNGagnEEZtmphAmrLsDFaIrHCTtcMro6lx83hj8VomOB7l_ConN04xgspHw83VUsYfYv-Kx7_NZBNfjK87So5ZaH/s320/Sciptrue+time.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So sometimes my boys are silly. Every night we have family scripture study in my room and we all sit or lay on my bed. Well the other night my boys started wrestling and dog piling on each other. In this moment I knew I had two choices I could get inpatient and upset with them or I could just embrace the silliness and have fun with them. I'm so glad I that I did not get upset or frustrated with them. Yes family scripture time took longer but as I sat there taking goofy pictures of them and laughing with them together we created a fun family memory. I love these moments together as these are the ones they will remember. </div>
Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378273526363759776.post-18266385863370245112015-10-12T17:00:00.000-07:002015-11-22T08:18:09.722-08:00Trials<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know this to be true. I wouldn't say I'm 100% healed from my divorce but I can look back and see where I was and how far I have come. I'm so grateful to have had the Gospel and my testimony to lean on during what has been the hardest trial I have gone through so far. Sure I am still lonely and mourn my temple marriage but there is still hope. While this is a trial placed on me by the choices and actions of another I know that the Lord will bless me as I continue to to live up to my covenants. I have the choice to let this experience break me or to let it strengthen me. I choose to become stronger!Erin Noelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10151889632602185993noreply@blogger.com0