Family Work

This evening was wonderful as we canned tomatoes as a family. I wish we could have taken a picture of the moment. William handed the tomatoes to Gordon who put them in boiling water and then placed them in the cold water. I then peeled and cored the tomatoes. Alexander cut them up and placed them in the jars. As we "worked" we talked and sang. It was nice to be working together on one project and we got it done quickly. The boys felt proud of their fine work and end product. What a great bonding and learning opportunity.

My dear friend Angie gave me a lovely article several days ago which talked about family work. Here is a sample of what you will find in this article and the link. Enjoy. :o)

"As any homemaker can tell you, the work in never done. When compared with the qualities of work that are prized in the public sphere, this aspect of family work seems to be just another reason to devalue it. However, each rendering of a task is a new invitation for all to enter the family circle. The most ordinary chores can become daily rituals of family love and belonging. Family identity is built moment by moment amidst the talking and teasing, the singing and storytelling, and even the quarreling and anguish that may attend such work sessions."

http://magazine.byu.edu/?act=view&a=151

Riding For the Brand

On August 3rd our dear friend and neighbor "Bill" Siket passed away from a 4 wheeling accident. Thankfully Gordon was able to run over to give him a blessing and rub his back while his passed. He was not alone.

Our very talented Bishop, Mark Nicholas, read this poem at the funeral service the following Monday. It is so beautiful I had to share.

Once again, In loving memory of Bill.


Riding for the Brand

"What does it mean?" The boy asked
This riding for the brand
I've never heard that term before
I just don't understand.

The cowboy smiled, then reminisced
Of ranchers and their land
And when you hired on to ride their range
Then you rode for their brand.

When they sent you to a cattle drive
Through sleet or burning sand
You stuck it out and did your job
Cuz you rode for the brand.

When rustlers came to steal the heard
You stayed and made a stand
And didn't turn and ride away
Cuz you rode for the brand.

No one questioned your allegiance
The cowboy said with pride
So kid, just be committed
To the brand for which you ride

Now each of us has hired on
To ride the Saviors spread
And gather in the souls of men
The living and the dead

And when we're faced with trials
Do we stand and make a fight
Or roll our bed and pack our gear
And ride off out of sight

Cuz the work ain't always easy
It has its ups and downs
There's joy and disappointment
When there's souls that must be found

But when our work is over
And the Lord extends His hand
May it be said of each of us
That we rode for the brand.

-Mark Nicholas