Uncle Charlie

I write this with permission from Charlie.

My brother Charlie, who is a brand new Army Lieutenant, just deployed for a one year to Afghanistan. I felt bad that he had to deploy so quickly after joining the Army. Mario was able to wait 12 years before a deployment. But Charlie had a good attitude and was anxious to get out there and get to work. He is a hard worker, quick learner, and go with the flow kind of guy. I don't recall him ever complaining about anything, ever.

So I was shocked and sad to find that his new commander in Afghanistan has been in Charlie's words "hazing" him. With fast Sunday approaching, I asked my mom and dad if they would like to join Mario and I in a fast for Charlie. I also asked Eric and Erin to fast with us for Uncle Charlie. I have found with Erin that we need to plan out our fasts and come up with a meaningful fast (to her) and then she willingly and happily joins in. She fasted almost monthly for Mario while he was deployed. Even Zachary fasted several months (one meal).

I was brought to tears when the next day (Monday) when I received this first email from my brother:

Appreciate the prayers and fasting. Yesterday, it seems the way the Commander (CDR) has been treating me has been noticed and brought to the attention of the Battalion CDR. The BN CDR talked to my CDR last night and told him he needs to be more of a mentor to me. The 1st Sergeant told me this morning. So things look like they are getting better. He actually showed me some stuff today, so let's hope this continues. I've have definately learned a ton since getting here so I know where and who to go for things.

This email was from Tuesday:

I worked a long day today, but that's because I worked out tonight with the CDR. Things were night and day difference today for the most part. I'm figuring out my place here, which has taken awhile.

What wonderful blessings from Heavenly Father...one that my brother was being treated so much better, but second that my children had their prayers answered so quickly. Hopefully this was a testimony building experience for them.

Zach on the Ripstick

Eric sold his Ripstick to Zach for $5 last Saturday. Then Erin taught him how to ride and he has been practicing in our garage ever since. Today he asked me to come watch him because he learned a new trick. He learned to dribble the basketball while riding. Then he and Erin started passing the ball too. I am amazed at his balance.

Zachary's Apologies

My family asked me to blog this so we never forget it.

When Zachary gets in trouble for hurting or offending a sibling, we often ask him to apologize. His apology sounds sincere when he says it but then when he hugs them, he stomps on their foot at the same time.

It sounds really mean and Eric and Erin should be even more upset with him. But it often leaves them laughing.

I see so many older siblings that are annoyed with the younger siblings, and I am so glad that Eric and Erin find so much humor in our crazy little boys.

Answered Prayers

An email from Mario:

Terri,

Every day I see the hand of the Lord in my life at work. I got a research project I was completely in the dark on yesterday afternoon which was due this morning by 8:30. Well, I ran into a guy that knew exactly what I needed, he sat with me for about 15 minutes, looked over my notes to correct them, and the presentation went without a hitch this morning.

Remember the website project. Guess what. Imagine my surprise when I found out we already have one up… a bit out dated, but up. I was even referred to a comm troop that works for 12 AF that manages it. All I have to do is tell him what I want on it. It’s gone from a huge project to a very simple and fun job.

I think He is answering my prayer asking that I can have more time with my family. "But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." I have a story for nearly every day. The Lord takes care of me with small miracles. I’ll be home on time today now that I don’t have the website project to tackle anymore.

Love,

Mario

Daddy Daughter Hoedown

I love these pictures of Erin and Mario from the Activity Day Girls' Hoedown. I wish I could take pictures as well as these. Maybe one day I will make time for that photography class.

Zach's writing

I realized that I haven't written about Zach recently. So here's a blog just for him.

Thank goodness the school didn't call the police since he wrote "Murder" in his paragraph and he has a man laying down dead on the ground. I try to teach my boys that they can't use words or pictures like that in school. Apparently they don't listen. Regardless, we are proud of how well he is doing in school.

Primary

Erin was the Primary spotlight yesterday.

Our Primary Program was also yesterday. I don't know if the policy was changed at the Stake level or the Utah level, but now the kids no longer each get a primary part in the program. I liked it better this year. We are usually in wards with well over 100 kids, so it is always a challenge to give all the kids a part. The focus was more on the songs this year. There were only a few (like 3) talks and Nathan was chosen to given one. We were so proud of him. Erin got to play the prelude music before Sacrament Meeting. She did awesome too. Here is a copy of Nathan's talk.

Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel Lead Me to Jesus Christ

When Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ ask us to do something, it is called a commandment. When we obey, we show Heavenly Father that we trust him and we show our faith.

It makes me happy to know that if I make a mistake, I can repent and Heavenly Father will forgive me.

I am excited to turn 8 next year so that I can get baptized and also get the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

I know that I can live with Heavenly Father, Jesus, and my family again someday in heaven if I obey the commandments and follow Jesus Christ.

I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.