I was released from my calling as the 1st Counselor in the Relief Society Presidency on Sunday, April 14, 2013. I served in that position since November 7, 2010. Just under 2 1/2 years. I know the exact date because I was sustained and set apart on Sunday, and on the following Thursday I delivered my third child. ;)
I was a little nervous about going into such a demanding calling with a newborn and two young children to care for. The president, Kitty Ford, told me that I could take the time that I needed after having a child and then I could start on my calling. That was very kind of her, and she meant what she said. I never felt pressured to get started on anything (visits, meetings, etc..) until I was ready.
I learned so much from my calling during this time, but was not prepared for the emotional burden that would come with the calling. It opened my eyes to all of the real life problems that we all deal with. Divorce, Death, Abuse, Poverty, Greed, etc...Most of the time it made me realize how lucky I am for the life that I have. Sometimes it made me sad, though, because I tend to have a lot of sympathy for people that are suffering. Almost too much sympathy to the point where it affects me negatively and I feel like I am going through the same trial that they are. Not a good thing.
Well, now I am in calling limbo and waiting to find out what my next calling will be. I've been pestering Austin about it because he attends the bishopric meetings and I know they talk about the different callings they want to give me.
Kitty and Shaunna (other presidency members) already have callings in the Primary, and I am still waiting. Will update later about that!
Kalli: Then and Now
This picture of Kalli was taken quite a few years ago (I think she was barely two years old), but it is one of my favorites. I thought I would add it, because in this picture she is the age that my youngest currently is, and I can't believe how quickly my family is growing up.
Time is going by so quickly (yet slowly at the same time...(is that even possible?)).
Kalli is now six years old and is enjoying first grade. Her teacher told me that she is a great student. Very studious, well-mannered, and she is excelling in all aspects. I love how easily she is reading now. She is so fun to listen to while reading. She is gaining so much confidence in sounding words out that she doesn't know, and she comprehends really well. It is so fun to watch children learn and grow. It brings me a lot of joy!
Social Media
I have such a love/hate relationship with social media networking platforms. I love most of them, but I hate how much time they can consume (especially when trying to keep multiple platforms up to date).
My newest time-consuming social platform is Instagram. As always, I was a little late to the game in joining Instagram, but one thing I have loved about it is how instant it is. It gives my (limited) followers a quick glimpse into my life. I like that. The downside (with most social platforms) is that I always debate whether or not it should be public or private.
With my job as a blog designer, I want most of my social platforms to be accessible by my clients. But, when it comes to posting pictures of my children, I want it to be private. So, there is always a debate about it.
Right now, my account is public, so if you are on Instagram, look me up. My username is: kjules701
My newest time-consuming social platform is Instagram. As always, I was a little late to the game in joining Instagram, but one thing I have loved about it is how instant it is. It gives my (limited) followers a quick glimpse into my life. I like that. The downside (with most social platforms) is that I always debate whether or not it should be public or private.
With my job as a blog designer, I want most of my social platforms to be accessible by my clients. But, when it comes to posting pictures of my children, I want it to be private. So, there is always a debate about it.
Right now, my account is public, so if you are on Instagram, look me up. My username is: kjules701
Kalli: First Day of 1st Grade
My little girl is a first grader. I can't believe it! Where has the time gone? I feel like the summer just flew by in a blink of an eye, and here we are starting school, again. Crazy!!
Kalli's first grade teacher is Mrs. Maren Broadbear. I don't know her personally, but I have heard great things about her as a teacher. It is my understanding that she has great classroom control and doesn't put up with any bad behavior. I look forward to getting to know her better throughout the school year, and can't wait to volunteer in the classroom, since I enjoyed it so much last year with Kalli in Kindergarten.
Kalli is very excited to be back in school. She loves to learn, and to be challenged with new things. She really needs the structure of a school setting, since we struggle with the structure at home, with two little brothers interrupting all the time, and mom's attention being pulled in multiple directions throughout the day. She has been ready for quite a while, actually.
Austin gave Kalli a father's blessing last night to help her get a great start for the school year. I love when he uses his priesthood to bless our family. It gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling. ;)
I helped Kalli find her desk this morning on her first day, and gave her a kiss on the forehead, then walked out of the room. As always, she welcomed the new environment like she had been there before and started making new friends with her surrounding desk mates. She didn't really even say 'goodbye' to me (just like last year). She is growing up so quickly, and is so well-adjusted. I am super proud of my not-so-little girl!
