A friend of mine imparted a few of the words to this song to her daughter and she had forgotten where it came from. I LOVE the words to this song and so I had to do a search. I knew it was far more than, 'Open up your heart and let the sun shine in.' I knew the lyrics had to do with chasing the blues, and the devil away. I remember as a kid seeing Pebbles and Bam-Bam sing it together on the 'Flintstones'. It was on my mind this morning when I woke up and I sent a few words of it off to Cassi with her 'good morning' text. Enjoy :
LET THE SUN SHINE IN!
Mommy told me something a little girl should know
It's all about the Devil and I've learned to hate him so
She says he causes trouble when you let him in the room
He will never ever leave you if your heart is filled with gloom
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in
When you are unhappy, the Devil wears a grin
But oh, he starts a-running when the light comes pouring in
I know he'll be unhappy 'cause I'll never wear a frown
Maybe if we keep on smiling he'll get tired of hangin' around
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in
If I forget to say my prayers the Devil jumps with glee
But he feels so awful, awful, when he sees me on my knees
So if you're full of trouble and you never seem to win
Just open up your heart and let the sun shine in
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in
- by- Stuart Hamblen
-sung by- Gail and Rosemary Clooney 1954
Fun song, inspiring message. Happiness is a choice.
~Sandi Dodge
Friday, May 27, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Texas Gardener (poem)
Oft I wonder if my efforts vain.
To till and kneel, and ready earth,
and coax a seed to begin new birth.
I read and study how best to sow,
and coach those seedlings to begin to grow
Remembering failures of the years past
Concerned for where the sun will cast.
Too much moisture or not enough,
Pinching back wither seems too rough.
Checking progress every day,
Spying new growth we shout, hooray!
One sunny morning I looked to see
Horror of horrors, that’s NOT a bee!
It is, however, an ugly bug
Oh my word! It looks like a slug!
How dare it munch and dine on vine
Doesn’t it know these plants are mine?
Upon closer inspection aghast I see,
little black spots feasting on leaves.
Insects arrived and were uninvited
declaring war, my wrath's ignited!
So down the street to Lowe’s I go,
pesticides to purchase, to spray my rows.
The lady at Lowe’s said, "It’s $40.03."
I said, “For poison, are you kidding me?"
These tomatoes must start looking better,
I could have purchased a cashmere sweater!
With all the soil, seed, and the spray,
I am thinking there must be a much better way.
Spending too much isn't too smart
If veggies are cheaper down at Walmart.
But, I'll walk the path with leisure beat,
and tend my plants from Texas heat
Leaves that wither from the vine
don't appreciate this humid clime.
When fall arrives far too soon
filled canning jars will be my boon.
Thankful for their smell and taste
preserving means there'll be no waste
With all the soil, seed, and the spray,
I am thinking there must be a much better way.
Spending too much isn't too smart
If veggies are cheaper down at Walmart.
But, I'll walk the path with leisure beat,
and tend my plants from Texas heat
Leaves that wither from the vine
don't appreciate this humid clime.
When fall arrives far too soon
filled canning jars will be my boon.
Thankful for their smell and taste
preserving means there'll be no waste
With bright red fruit on the platter laid
I’ll let you know when salad’s made
And call my family to gather near,
Sharing the stories they'll want to hear.
Like Jered wanting to water the plants
And always managing to soak his pants.
Wanting drinks from spraying hose,
giggles of laughter, and water up nose.
Sharing the stories they'll want to hear.
Like Jered wanting to water the plants
And always managing to soak his pants.
Wanting drinks from spraying hose,
giggles of laughter, and water up nose.
I pray we’re blessed with bumper crops
Then over to neighbors my veggies I’ll drop.
When growing season has come to end
Next years garden I’ll plan again.
by- ~Sandi Dodge~
by- ~Sandi Dodge~
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Race for the Cure- It's about LOVE! Mothers Day (poem)
Today was the Susan B Komen Race for the Cure in Salt Lake City, Utah. I hope you all find a way to participate in one way or another. So many are effected every year by this dreadful disease. I am posting this blog today to honor many of our family members who have suffered from the ravages of this disease. And it has touched so many in our family including my Aunts, and Jerry's sister Patty. But since it is Mothers Day tomorrow I especially have my Mom close to my thoughts, and in my heart today. So this is dedicated to her:
For the record....My Mom didn't 'lose' her battle with Breast Cancer! My Mom fought hard, really hard! To say she 'lost' is to diminish the valiance of her fight. She had 4th stage metetastic breast cancer with 14+ masses in her liver when it was discovered. This is a smart woman who got her mammograms every year. In Oct, 2005 the Dr's told her to have a really good Thanksgiving and possibly Christmas. Hah! Those cancer cells didn't know my Mom. Those trashy little blood sucking deamons didn't know how much she loved us all and how much she wanted to LIVE. She fought a great fight. No-one, and nothing BEAT our Mom. You see...we get the last laugh, don't we? We will see her again, healthy...never to be parted again. We can thank Heavenly Father for His great plan of Happiness for His Children, and that He provided a way for families to be together for-ever. FOR-EVER! No- My Mom didn't lose anything to this stinkin disease. We'll see her, and hold each other again. So STOP saying she lost her battle....she WINS! The victory is ultimately ours...together.
For this reason it has become a wonderful tradition led by our Dad to Race for the Cure each year. He realizes that for us to stay united in hope for a cure, that collectively we should use our positive energy towards something, unstead of sitting idle as victims in unrelenting dispair. Happiness is a choice.
We were taught by the BEST! Here is our Champion...the winner of the ultimate race. This blog is dedicated to you Mom. I could not be there to run...but I can write, blog, and fight on in what-ever way I can. I can be what you taught me to be...a Do-er.
For the record....My Mom didn't 'lose' her battle with Breast Cancer! My Mom fought hard, really hard! To say she 'lost' is to diminish the valiance of her fight. She had 4th stage metetastic breast cancer with 14+ masses in her liver when it was discovered. This is a smart woman who got her mammograms every year. In Oct, 2005 the Dr's told her to have a really good Thanksgiving and possibly Christmas. Hah! Those cancer cells didn't know my Mom. Those trashy little blood sucking deamons didn't know how much she loved us all and how much she wanted to LIVE. She fought a great fight. No-one, and nothing BEAT our Mom. You see...we get the last laugh, don't we? We will see her again, healthy...never to be parted again. We can thank Heavenly Father for His great plan of Happiness for His Children, and that He provided a way for families to be together for-ever. FOR-EVER! No- My Mom didn't lose anything to this stinkin disease. We'll see her, and hold each other again. So STOP saying she lost her battle....she WINS! The victory is ultimately ours...together.
For this reason it has become a wonderful tradition led by our Dad to Race for the Cure each year. He realizes that for us to stay united in hope for a cure, that collectively we should use our positive energy towards something, unstead of sitting idle as victims in unrelenting dispair. Happiness is a choice.
Grandpa arranged for Cassi to come down
from BYUI for the weekend to race with the family.
Here she is pre-race with cousin Lindsay.
Here is our family...'Team Beaujeu'
I LOVE these guys. This picture makes me
VERKLEMPT!
Cassi said how much this race has changed her
and her perspective. It's about real people who
are fighting, with their families and friends for LIFE!
Kinda poetic that this is Cassi's 1st 5k ever.
It is about LOVE!
It is about REAL people who are currently
waging war with the 'C' word. Though surrounded by
care-givers this can be a lonesome disease with
sufferers wondering if anyone really knows how they feel.
How amazing to be in the midst of an event like this....
and a little overwhelming.
It's about making cancer soldiers laugh, but at the
same time walking the walk...and racing the RACE!
Or in other words...don't SAY something...DO something!
It's theraputic for Survivors
to rub shoulders with the fighters
and their families! Someone hug
this woman for me!
This picture was taken outside of Dodger Stadium
this year- May 2011. Just LOOK at the people effected
by Breast Cancer! Incredible people who CARE!
This was on the back of one of the runners.
Wow...speaks volumes doesn't it?
Team Beaujeu had "In loving memory of
Marlene Beaujeu" on their backs.
This is.....kinda scary...not gunna lie! LOL!
Like I say...this is about positive energy, moving forward,
togetherness, unity, and above all LOVE.
Do yourself a favor...and for those
you love and who love YOU...
Marlene Beaujeu
July 1939- September 2007
For Mom:
Our dear Marlene Heaven did take.
gladsome memories left in her wake
From young to old her life did touch
in special ways we miss so much.
Her voice is often heard so near
it's like a whisper in your ear.
Reminding you of days gone by
and that our love will never die.
We all remember when she was here
fits of laughter when Vern was near.
Britney's Urkel with pants up high
She laughed so hard sometimes she'd cry.
Grandchildren could never do a wrong
especially when they'd sing a song.
Tell a story, or shoot a hoop,
and every time someone would toot.
She worried where each one would sleep
and fussed until we all did eat.
With sights, and sounds, and yummy smells
her love of us will never quell.
So happy when our Dad came home
to earn a living he had to roam.
He loved to take Mom far and near,
when kids could go we'd give a cheer
The best Mom ever, we knew we had
she often forgot when we were bad.
She stayed awake till 1am
making sure we entered in.
She camped and rode an ATV
and kept things neat as they could be.
We miss her lovely skin so soft,
goodnight smooches were given oft.
This time of year when spring had sprung
a list of chores she needed done.
Right beside us she'd help us work
She raised us never our duty to shirk.
I can't compose with melodic cords
I write instead with heartfelt words
One more time I'd love to say
"Mom, have a Happy Mothers Day."
"Mom, have a Happy Mothers Day."
I love you Mom...more than words
~Sandi
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Thoughts of Spring (poem) For my friends & family in UT (30)...TX (80)
For January has come and gone
with blast of snow instead of sun
we are ready..winter DEPART!
so anxious are we for nice weather to start
kids energetically play outside
windows thrown open fresh air to glide.
~by~ Sandi Dodge
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Texas Gardening 101= Together
I love gardening. When I was growing up all I wanted was a garden to dig around in and grow things. On my 16th Birthday I came home from school and found my sweetheart of a Dad in the back yard working fiercely on something. I went back there and found him on his hands and knees elbow deep in the dirt. He had dug up about an 8'x8' space in the rear left side of the yard. And he was edging it with a beautiful decorative brick border for me, and it brought tears. Just think, my own little plot of rich, brown, beautiful earth. A garden for my Birthday. When I opened my other presents there was seeds, a hand shovel, a spade, and a sprinkler. I don't remember how successful I was at it...after all that was 35 years ago....but I remember how I felt that my Dad and Mom would do that for me. It's one of my most memorable Birthdays.
It was so much fun to pull and eat a fresh raddish, or carrot. I remember planting beets, and cucumbers. And to this day tomatoes are my favorite vegetables (fresh from the vine, of course). Growing things in Utah was a pleasure. It's soil seemed kissed by the heavens and all one had to do is plant, and water to have amazingly fruitful results.
Jerry and I (and 6 month old Kristi) moved to Texas (1984). I tried early on to replicate the 8'x8' garden parcel in the back yard of our old home on Big Sky Drive...but the spiders, snakes, fire ants, and creepy crawlies of all kinds was a huge deterrent, as was the incredible growth of weeds that seemed to grow over night in the humidity. I had a hard time determining which was which, plants or weeds...and my weeds seemed to be winning. I remember thinking more than once that I needed to purchase a machette! It was more expensive, and flabbergasting, than enjoyable and I soon flipped in the white towel on vegetable gardening.
But I was not about to have a flower free yard. So I figured I would focus on experimenting with native plants that I liked. Jerry and I drove all around town in those early years as we watched the housing boom here, and took pictures of some of the beautiful landscaping going in on some of the upscale homes. That is how I planned my yard. I didn't even know the names of most of the schrubs and flowers. But I went to the Home Department and pointed at alot of pictures, and learned. LOL. When we built our new home we sold the one on Big Sky in one day. I know it was for a lot of reasons but I have to think that our yard was a contributing factor.
That brings us to recently. Our son Jered came home from school and was saying that the kids were hauling stone to put around their garden at school. They were preparing to plant a vegetable garden. Little pangs of sadness crept into that 16 year old girl's heart of mine. We just planted our back yard in grass intending on putting in a swimming pool. It's been a great place for the kids to play...but I didn't landscape much out back since I didn't want to have to pull out and re-do landscaping when the pool goes in. So it's just nice green grass back there. But my front yard I had landscaped just the way I wanted. And we have flowers a'plenty. :) But all this talk of veggies made me wish I had a place to plant a vegetable garden. To TRY once again. Now that it's 2011 and I have acclimated not only to the weather but to all the creepy crawlies of North Texas.
When the flowers went in I found that I wanted a few more... (I always do that). So as I was running errands last month I heard Lowes Garden Center calling my name. It's funny because I grabbed a wagon and walked straight to the vegetable starts. Oh my goodness! I was in hog-heaven. Before I knew it...I had bought 4 different kinds of tomato plants, crook-neck yellow squash, cucumbers, a bell pepper plant and a partridge in a pear tree. Where would I PUT them though? I didn't care if I had to toss a few flowers...those tomatoes were GOING IN! I waited until Jered got home and told him I had planned a really cool Family Home Evening. I asked him to come and walk with me to decide where they would go in. He seemed to share my enthusiasm and we made some great choices. There was just enough room for our little flower garden rebels.
So a'planting we did go.
(Now....where to plant cilantro....hmmmm?)
It was so much fun to pull and eat a fresh raddish, or carrot. I remember planting beets, and cucumbers. And to this day tomatoes are my favorite vegetables (fresh from the vine, of course). Growing things in Utah was a pleasure. It's soil seemed kissed by the heavens and all one had to do is plant, and water to have amazingly fruitful results.
Jerry and I (and 6 month old Kristi) moved to Texas (1984). I tried early on to replicate the 8'x8' garden parcel in the back yard of our old home on Big Sky Drive...but the spiders, snakes, fire ants, and creepy crawlies of all kinds was a huge deterrent, as was the incredible growth of weeds that seemed to grow over night in the humidity. I had a hard time determining which was which, plants or weeds...and my weeds seemed to be winning. I remember thinking more than once that I needed to purchase a machette! It was more expensive, and flabbergasting, than enjoyable and I soon flipped in the white towel on vegetable gardening.
But I was not about to have a flower free yard. So I figured I would focus on experimenting with native plants that I liked. Jerry and I drove all around town in those early years as we watched the housing boom here, and took pictures of some of the beautiful landscaping going in on some of the upscale homes. That is how I planned my yard. I didn't even know the names of most of the schrubs and flowers. But I went to the Home Department and pointed at alot of pictures, and learned. LOL. When we built our new home we sold the one on Big Sky in one day. I know it was for a lot of reasons but I have to think that our yard was a contributing factor.
That brings us to recently. Our son Jered came home from school and was saying that the kids were hauling stone to put around their garden at school. They were preparing to plant a vegetable garden. Little pangs of sadness crept into that 16 year old girl's heart of mine. We just planted our back yard in grass intending on putting in a swimming pool. It's been a great place for the kids to play...but I didn't landscape much out back since I didn't want to have to pull out and re-do landscaping when the pool goes in. So it's just nice green grass back there. But my front yard I had landscaped just the way I wanted. And we have flowers a'plenty. :) But all this talk of veggies made me wish I had a place to plant a vegetable garden. To TRY once again. Now that it's 2011 and I have acclimated not only to the weather but to all the creepy crawlies of North Texas.
When the flowers went in I found that I wanted a few more... (I always do that). So as I was running errands last month I heard Lowes Garden Center calling my name. It's funny because I grabbed a wagon and walked straight to the vegetable starts. Oh my goodness! I was in hog-heaven. Before I knew it...I had bought 4 different kinds of tomato plants, crook-neck yellow squash, cucumbers, a bell pepper plant and a partridge in a pear tree. Where would I PUT them though? I didn't care if I had to toss a few flowers...those tomatoes were GOING IN! I waited until Jered got home and told him I had planned a really cool Family Home Evening. I asked him to come and walk with me to decide where they would go in. He seemed to share my enthusiasm and we made some great choices. There was just enough room for our little flower garden rebels.
So a'planting we did go.
A couple of feet of ground was spotted behind
a row of flowers. So in went 3 tomato plants.
My helpful son.
Our little starts. Yay!
Prepping that soil.
Daddy helping.
Beneath a decorative tree...veggies!
Flowers AND veggie garden. Nice!
Okay- I bought 4 different varieties of tomato plants to see which one is successful. Look what we found last Friday already...
FIVE little tiny tomatoes! Yay!
Rejoice....Rejoice!
Since finding the tomatoes Jered surprised me last Friday by coming home from school and presenting me with a package of Cilatro seeds that he purchased in their class 'Positive Pantry' with points he'd earned that week for great behavior. He could have purchased many things including snacks, toys, etc. but he chose seeds. Awesome.
Jered's positive pantry purchase.
(Say that three times fast)
We are so excited! The cages are on, and the plants are already a foot tall. We'll let ya know how our garden grows. And, we may be stopping by with a few offerings as well. LOL! I think my favorite part of this flower/veggie garden experiment is that we are doing it as a family. I know everything will taste amazing knowing how many afternoons Jered and I sat in lawn chairs in the yard watering our little leafy friends, together.
Happy gardening!
~Sandi
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
I'm on Mormon.org!
Hi, I'm Sandi D
I'm a Mormon.
About Me I am fifty year old business professional who's favorite thing in the world is my family. I have been married to my sweetheart for nearly 30 years. We have four amazing children. I enjoy traveling, reading, blogging, genealogy, photography, scrapbooking, quilting, family gatherings, camping, sight seeing especially beautiful farms, and ALL of my children's many activities. I love the Lord and I am actively involved in my local Ward Church congregation as the Music Chairwoman. I love music and have been involved in it for many years. I have three daughters who are State Champions in their respective areas of music. I have a prescious son with special needs. I love serving others. It makes me so happy.
Why I am a Mormon Why am I a Mormon? That is a very good question, one that I take extremely seriously. It’s because of my faith in my Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. You see, I’ve come to know them…personally. Let me tell you how: Years ago I came to discover through reading the scriptures that my Heavenly Father is not some far removed entity, or merely a great bedtime story for children, nor is he a being so supernal that he has lost touch with His children. Nor is He a cruel uncaring Father who has gone to the furthest reaches of the universe and lost interest in us, or left us to our own devises. He lives, He cares, and He loves us. We are His children. God the Father is indeed my father.
But, I have an earthly father that I love very much. Who then is God to me? He is the father of my spirit, my soul, my intelligence. He has allowed me to come to this earth to gain a mortal body so that I can learn and grow and have experiences unique to this mortal existence. If He is a loving Heavenly Father then what is MY relationship with him to be like? It helped me tremendously when I examined more closely the relationship I have with my earthly father whom I love and respect very much. How do we cultivate the father/daughter relationship? Well, since my earthly father lives around 1,500 miles away from me…we communicate a lot by phone. We talk about how happy we are to be talking to each other, weather yes weather since I like to rub in the beautiful Texas winters as they are shoveling snow out west, the children’s activities, upcoming trips, our health, business, and even our testimonies, and faith promoting experiences we’ve had recently. We also talk a lot about missing Mother who passed away a few years ago. Having these conversations helps us both feel closer to the other. Sharing our thoughts and feelings solidifies our bond and love for each other.
I felt the deep need to pray to my Heavenly Father. What then, could I possibly talk to my Heavenly Father about to grow and cultivate a more personal relationship to God? Since He is an all knowing, all Seeing, Omnipotent Father then why do I have to humble myself, and reach out to him in prayer? Why can I not skip it because I know that He knows everything I’m thinking, feeling, and going to say anyways, AND what my needs are? The answer to this is actually Why I Am A Mormon.
I believe that God does care about us, our problems, sorrows, joys, triumphs, and every single detail of our lives. I know that when a young boy named Joseph Smith knelt to pray to find answers to his pure innocent prayer that the Heavens were again opened and He saw God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. It was time for a Restoration of all things. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live, they are alive today and when Jesus asks us to Come Unto Him that is exactly what He means. WE need to come to THEM. Jesus does not need to chase each one of us down and beg for our faithfulness, He came already. He paid the ultimate price, He bought us with His innocent perfect blood. And he beckons us still…to COME.
With this earthly experience they have provided us they also allowed for us to have free agency, or, the power to choose. We need to use this free agency to choose to come closer to God. To want to align ourselves with them. To try to follow Christ’s example by entering the waters of Baptism and having faith unto salvation.
I am a Mormon because it has all of the qualities, and components of Christ’s Church when he was living here upon the earth during His ministry. I invite you to look into it for yourself. Remember, the heavens ARE open. If you are looking for answers to your questions you must use your God given free agency to MOVE, ACT, LEARN, etc. Faith is an action word. His is the Gospel of DOING. I chose to study, ponder, and pray to Him. As I poured out my concerns, and problems, and gratitude to Him and established and felt that bond and relationship with Him grow…I have come to KNOW that He is MY Heavenly Father, and His wonderful Son is MY Savior and redeemer…as well as YOURS.
I have come to know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not the only church with truth…but rather when the church was restored it was restored to a fullness of truth unto salvation. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. Each and EVERY prophet since the beginning of time has testified of Christ. That is Joseph’s witness and he paid for it with his innocent blood. I am a Mormon because this knowledge has led me to a pathway that contains the Priesthood and the Ordinances necessary for exaltation and for me to do the things that are necessary for me to live with them again someday, with my family. To be CLOSE to them now. I could no longer go back and just live with the status quo. People are so right…this life is meant to be LIVED… and I want my life to be worn out is His service and in the service of others. I LOVE being a Mormon.
How I live my faith I think the most obvious today is that I believe in my marraige vows and take them seriously. So I live my faith by being faithful to my dear husband of nearly 30 years. I live my faith also by being part of our Ward congregation family , I attend my meetings and try to be exceptional at my calling as Ward Music Chair. I refrain from drinking alchohol, and do not use tobacco, or illegal drugs of any kind to try to be a healthy contributing member of not only our congregation but my neighborhood and community. I teach my children the values that we learn in church, and in the scriptures so that they too may know where to look for their help, direction, inspiration, and peace...through our Savior Jesus Christ. I live my faith by prayer, study and faith. I live my faith by trying to be like Christ in all I say and do. By treating others with respect, and true friendship and love. I live my faith by being honest with my dealings with the people I do business with, and the people who work for me and any businesses that I trade with. I live my faith by honoring my good name. I live my faith by keeping my mind and body and actions as clean as I can. Free from the filth of inappropraite media of any kind. I live my faith by being happy and finding joy in good wholesome activities with the people I love. We have a great time. I live my faith by searching my family history and doing my genealogy and keeping a journal. I live my faith by having a deep love and respect for this country and the men and women who have served us all so well. I live my faith by being a Mother whom my children will someday call blessed.
Sandi Dodge
You may visit my profile on Mormon.org by going to this link: http://mormon.org/me/17FZ/SandiD
I'm a Mormon.
About Me I am fifty year old business professional who's favorite thing in the world is my family. I have been married to my sweetheart for nearly 30 years. We have four amazing children. I enjoy traveling, reading, blogging, genealogy, photography, scrapbooking, quilting, family gatherings, camping, sight seeing especially beautiful farms, and ALL of my children's many activities. I love the Lord and I am actively involved in my local Ward Church congregation as the Music Chairwoman. I love music and have been involved in it for many years. I have three daughters who are State Champions in their respective areas of music. I have a prescious son with special needs. I love serving others. It makes me so happy.
Why I am a Mormon Why am I a Mormon? That is a very good question, one that I take extremely seriously. It’s because of my faith in my Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. You see, I’ve come to know them…personally. Let me tell you how: Years ago I came to discover through reading the scriptures that my Heavenly Father is not some far removed entity, or merely a great bedtime story for children, nor is he a being so supernal that he has lost touch with His children. Nor is He a cruel uncaring Father who has gone to the furthest reaches of the universe and lost interest in us, or left us to our own devises. He lives, He cares, and He loves us. We are His children. God the Father is indeed my father.
But, I have an earthly father that I love very much. Who then is God to me? He is the father of my spirit, my soul, my intelligence. He has allowed me to come to this earth to gain a mortal body so that I can learn and grow and have experiences unique to this mortal existence. If He is a loving Heavenly Father then what is MY relationship with him to be like? It helped me tremendously when I examined more closely the relationship I have with my earthly father whom I love and respect very much. How do we cultivate the father/daughter relationship? Well, since my earthly father lives around 1,500 miles away from me…we communicate a lot by phone. We talk about how happy we are to be talking to each other, weather yes weather since I like to rub in the beautiful Texas winters as they are shoveling snow out west, the children’s activities, upcoming trips, our health, business, and even our testimonies, and faith promoting experiences we’ve had recently. We also talk a lot about missing Mother who passed away a few years ago. Having these conversations helps us both feel closer to the other. Sharing our thoughts and feelings solidifies our bond and love for each other.
I felt the deep need to pray to my Heavenly Father. What then, could I possibly talk to my Heavenly Father about to grow and cultivate a more personal relationship to God? Since He is an all knowing, all Seeing, Omnipotent Father then why do I have to humble myself, and reach out to him in prayer? Why can I not skip it because I know that He knows everything I’m thinking, feeling, and going to say anyways, AND what my needs are? The answer to this is actually Why I Am A Mormon.
I believe that God does care about us, our problems, sorrows, joys, triumphs, and every single detail of our lives. I know that when a young boy named Joseph Smith knelt to pray to find answers to his pure innocent prayer that the Heavens were again opened and He saw God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. It was time for a Restoration of all things. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live, they are alive today and when Jesus asks us to Come Unto Him that is exactly what He means. WE need to come to THEM. Jesus does not need to chase each one of us down and beg for our faithfulness, He came already. He paid the ultimate price, He bought us with His innocent perfect blood. And he beckons us still…to COME.
With this earthly experience they have provided us they also allowed for us to have free agency, or, the power to choose. We need to use this free agency to choose to come closer to God. To want to align ourselves with them. To try to follow Christ’s example by entering the waters of Baptism and having faith unto salvation.
I am a Mormon because it has all of the qualities, and components of Christ’s Church when he was living here upon the earth during His ministry. I invite you to look into it for yourself. Remember, the heavens ARE open. If you are looking for answers to your questions you must use your God given free agency to MOVE, ACT, LEARN, etc. Faith is an action word. His is the Gospel of DOING. I chose to study, ponder, and pray to Him. As I poured out my concerns, and problems, and gratitude to Him and established and felt that bond and relationship with Him grow…I have come to KNOW that He is MY Heavenly Father, and His wonderful Son is MY Savior and redeemer…as well as YOURS.
I have come to know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not the only church with truth…but rather when the church was restored it was restored to a fullness of truth unto salvation. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. Each and EVERY prophet since the beginning of time has testified of Christ. That is Joseph’s witness and he paid for it with his innocent blood. I am a Mormon because this knowledge has led me to a pathway that contains the Priesthood and the Ordinances necessary for exaltation and for me to do the things that are necessary for me to live with them again someday, with my family. To be CLOSE to them now. I could no longer go back and just live with the status quo. People are so right…this life is meant to be LIVED… and I want my life to be worn out is His service and in the service of others. I LOVE being a Mormon.
How I live my faith I think the most obvious today is that I believe in my marraige vows and take them seriously. So I live my faith by being faithful to my dear husband of nearly 30 years. I live my faith also by being part of our Ward congregation family , I attend my meetings and try to be exceptional at my calling as Ward Music Chair. I refrain from drinking alchohol, and do not use tobacco, or illegal drugs of any kind to try to be a healthy contributing member of not only our congregation but my neighborhood and community. I teach my children the values that we learn in church, and in the scriptures so that they too may know where to look for their help, direction, inspiration, and peace...through our Savior Jesus Christ. I live my faith by prayer, study and faith. I live my faith by trying to be like Christ in all I say and do. By treating others with respect, and true friendship and love. I live my faith by being honest with my dealings with the people I do business with, and the people who work for me and any businesses that I trade with. I live my faith by honoring my good name. I live my faith by keeping my mind and body and actions as clean as I can. Free from the filth of inappropraite media of any kind. I live my faith by being happy and finding joy in good wholesome activities with the people I love. We have a great time. I live my faith by searching my family history and doing my genealogy and keeping a journal. I live my faith by having a deep love and respect for this country and the men and women who have served us all so well. I live my faith by being a Mother whom my children will someday call blessed.
Sandi Dodge
You may visit my profile on Mormon.org by going to this link: http://mormon.org/me/17FZ/SandiD
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Cassi sings in 181st General Conference- Sat Afternoon Session
Having Cassi sing in General Conference was so fun for us. I had butterflies in my stomach since yesterday when she told me she was going to be wearing a pink shirt. I said, "Oh my goodness...like, Breast Cancer Awareness pink?" I'm sure my voice cracked a little. And Cassi said, "I didn't even really think of that." And I told her it would definitely remind me of my Mom, and that there would be a whole passel of family in heaven watching with smiles.
Today my nervous stomach was worse. In a fun way, of course. I knew my Dad and Marilyn were headed up to Temple Square to see her, (they live in Nephi about 1 and 1/2 hours South of SLC) and that brought me great comfort. I am so glad they could make it. It made me so happy knowing they were there in the audience to support her. They emailed me this picture of their vantage point in the Conference Center.
Cassi sent me a text message from her seat as they waited for Conference to begin. And it said, "We are all totally bearing our testimonies when we sing. Keep that in mind when you hear us ok?" :) And I did keep it in mind...and I could feel it in my heart as well. The music was just beautiful.
I was sitting in the living room with Jerry and Jered and as soon as the camera caught sight of her my phone exploded with text's, emails, and calls from family and friends. It was so much fun. Thank you all who were so willing to share our joy today. :) Thank you so much.
After Conference my Dad and Marilyn waited for her and took her out to dinner for some Sushi which they all LOVE. :) And Grandpa knows the best places in Salt Lake City to go. Dad said they had a great time.
The messages of the day were so inspirational, and one cannot help listening and feeling the nudges from the Spirit telling you that you are doing well on some areas of your life, and also where you need to repent, adjust your course, and do better. There is so much to do in the Kingdom but there are so many happy willing good souls to share the load and work along side. I'm so thankful.
If you missed any or part of General Conference and want to see it you may visit: http://lds.org/?lang=eng
This has been a good day. A REALLY good day. Don't forget... we get to watch Conference again tomorrow too, cool. Session 3 at 10am, and session 4 is at 2pm.
Hugs to you all
~Momma Dodge
Today my nervous stomach was worse. In a fun way, of course. I knew my Dad and Marilyn were headed up to Temple Square to see her, (they live in Nephi about 1 and 1/2 hours South of SLC) and that brought me great comfort. I am so glad they could make it. It made me so happy knowing they were there in the audience to support her. They emailed me this picture of their vantage point in the Conference Center.
Dad and Marilyn had great seats. This was about 1:30pm.
so people were still taking their seats. Conference started at 2pm.
Cassi text'd me to say they had to do some rearranging and she was no longer on the isle but one person in from the isle.
The BIG picture. That is one HUGE Conference Center.
It seats 21,000 people.
The Choir for the afternoon session was a combination of the top three choirs at BYU-Idaho. She was so excited when she found out they had been asked to sing in Conference.
Their first Hymn was, 'How Firm A Foundation'.
Their second hymn was,
'How Great the Wisdom and the Love'
For those of you who have grown up in Utah and live in the shadow of Conference, Temple Square and are neighbors with Apostles, and other General Authorities you may take it for granted a wee bit. But I assure you that this little girl from Texas was so excited to not only attend a live session of General Conference but to participate. What a great thrill for us all.
A wider view of the choir.
The closing hymn was one of Cassi's favorites,
'Let Zion In Her Beauty Rise'
After Conference my Dad and Marilyn waited for her and took her out to dinner for some Sushi which they all LOVE. :) And Grandpa knows the best places in Salt Lake City to go. Dad said they had a great time.
The messages of the day were so inspirational, and one cannot help listening and feeling the nudges from the Spirit telling you that you are doing well on some areas of your life, and also where you need to repent, adjust your course, and do better. There is so much to do in the Kingdom but there are so many happy willing good souls to share the load and work along side. I'm so thankful.
Pres. Dieter F Uchtdorf, Pres. Henry B Eyring, Pres. Thomas S Monson
This has been a good day. A REALLY good day. Don't forget... we get to watch Conference again tomorrow too, cool. Session 3 at 10am, and session 4 is at 2pm.
Hugs to you all
~Momma Dodge
Friday, April 1, 2011
Cassi is singing at General Conference
Cassi in her dorm March 2011
There have been some amazing blessings as we have watched Cassi leave home and begin attending school in Rexburg Idaho at the Brigham Young University- Idaho campus. The campus is so beautiful and albeit cold and snowy since she arrived to start school in January...she doesn't complain. The campus is beautiful.
Taylor Quad BYUI campus. Notice the close proximity
of the Rexburg Temple in the background. Cassi lives in
a dorm between this building and the Temple.
I guess you could say the pro's out-weigh the con's by a huge amount. She has been having so many possitive experiences that, although I miss her VERY much...I wouldn't have her be anywhere else because of them. Let me share a few:
Cassi is in a Heber J. Grant program at BYUI and her mentor called her one day and told her she needed her to come to a special meeting that night. Cassi said she had a full schedule and had other meetings to go to that night but that she would 'try' to come. Her mentor said, you NEED to be there. Trust me...you will be glad you did! So, Cassi felt like she needed to go ahead and go to this meeting. It was in a High Counsel-type room in one of the buildings. A small setting in which only about 15 or 16 kids showed up and surrounded a large conference-type table. In walked President Henry J Eyring (Eldest son of President Henry B Eyring) and taught them for over an hour about Mission Prep. There were only 4 guys there...the rest were girls. She had an incredible experience in that meeting with him and felt another confirmation that she would certainly serve a Mission herself. She called us on a run for her next meeting and was so happy, uplifted, inspired, and encouraged.
Another special time Cassi shared was when she got out of a musical rehearsal for BYU-I's presentation of the Musical Fireside of Savior Of The World. She called, again, while running across campus and wanted to share with us the amazing practice she had just been in. She said the music is so beautiful and the Spirit is so strong that it is difficult not to weep while we sing...in fact many of the students do. She expressed that she wished we could be there. The night of the performance (March 25th) Cassi said there were about 14,000 people in attendance. A friend of hers from our Ward back home in Texas (Jace Voracek) said it was the best live performance he has ever seen in his life.
BYUI Center
One of the things she also loves about BYUI is that they pray before each class. The invitation of the Spirit and the acknowledgment of our Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ in the learning process is a natural and wonderful thing. The access to the Spirit to help the students learn, retain, and recall information is enhanced because they have invited Him to be a part of their classes.
When Cassi first got to BYUI even though she knows she wants to be a Dr...and her major is in biology she knew she needed to continue to be a part of music in some way. So she had scheduled an audition when we first got to Rexburg. She made it into the BYUI Women's Choir. They have combined with the other top choirs at BYUI and they have been asked to sing in the Afternoon Session of General Conference. That is the 2pm Session in Utah. So set your Tivo's and be sure to watch for Cassi. She is wearing a PINK shirt.
The Conference Center on Temple Square in Salt Lake City
This is a better view of what it will be like for her.
Can you imagine singing in such close proximity to the
Prophet (Thomas S Monson) and the Lord's Apostles?
Pres. Henry B Eyring, Pres. Thomas S Monson,
& Pres. Dieter F Uchtdorf
Who wouldn't be thrilled to have their daughter not only in attendance (of General Conference)...but singing in that great edifice for such an incredible audience...for the Lord. Please watch if you can and let us know what you think.
Cassi Dodge- Graduation 2010 Pic.
If you ask us how Cassi is liking BYUI, or Jerry and me, how we are doing without our sweetheart at home...the question at this point is overwhelming because my heart is so full....there is no way to explain how exhilarating it is to have our daughter there in Idaho having these amazing experiences. We feel so grateful and so blessed.
Much Love
~Momma Dodge
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Instruction
I have added music to my blog. If you want to watch a video I have posted you must first scroll to the music box at the bottom right hand side of my blog and stop the music. Then proceed to click and listen to any video.
Thank you.
Sandi
Thank you.
Sandi
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Time for friends and sewing. BOM
BOM= Block of the Month. I have posted before about our Sit N Sew group but I will bring you up-to-date periodically on what I am working on. We decided last year that we would dedicate the majority of our time together in 2011 to a project that is an Old Testment quilt. I anticipated this project like a child waits for Christmas morning. I dreamed about how much fun it would be to pick the fabric. So the creative process started for me long before January.
In January our block was the creation:
One of my very favorite things to do is choose the material and colors.
I have also already made some modifications to the quotations, as the person who made this pattern was not of our faith and though her quotes were cute...they lacked something in accuracy so I have changed a few scripture references. Which is one thing I LOVE about quilting. Although we are all making the same quilt pattern we are completely free to change things and make them uniquely our own. You should see how differently wonderful all the blocks are turning out. Mine won't be as much of an 'Old Testament' quilt as it will be a 'Scripture' quilt since in February I added a scripture from the Book of Mormon regarding the Tree of Life.
In January our block was the creation:
I know you cannot see it very well but there
are elements of sewing, applique, and embroidery.
One of my very favorite things to do is choose the material and colors.
Just the greens. :)
I have also already made some modifications to the quotations, as the person who made this pattern was not of our faith and though her quotes were cute...they lacked something in accuracy so I have changed a few scripture references. Which is one thing I LOVE about quilting. Although we are all making the same quilt pattern we are completely free to change things and make them uniquely our own. You should see how differently wonderful all the blocks are turning out. Mine won't be as much of an 'Old Testament' quilt as it will be a 'Scripture' quilt since in February I added a scripture from the Book of Mormon regarding the Tree of Life.
Check out the fabric Lois had that looks like wood.
Isn't it great? You can see that I have marked the
block for embroidery. It is finished now though.
Here's Lois working away on her new Bernina.
She is my quilting mentor.
Don't ask me what she is doing with her hand.
It must be some new technique. LOL
There is my friend Blanca (L) who came along with me.
And Janet is busy tracing patterns for her applique.
This month (March) our block is Noah and the Ark. I have been shopping for cute animal print fabric everywhere in town and have found some amazing fat quarters. I cannot WAIT. The February block was only 5 applique pieces. But this month the Noah block has probably 20+ pieces. So we will have our work cut out for us. Bahaha- Little pun there.
Guess who bought Lois's old Bernina? Hmmmm...
Happy Birthday to me. :)
Life is SEW fine.
~Sandi
Sunday, February 27, 2011
How is Cassi?
I LOVE my friends and family who always ask about my kids. I do a blog for my Missionary (Kristi) and so I don't post that much here because you can read about what she is doing at http://sistermariacdodge.blogspot.com/
I will write a little more about Cassi and Jered. Cami lives and works away from home so I don't have as much news or as many pictures of her. But, she is so loved and I will share what I can.
Today at church I must have had a dozen people (not less) ask about how Cassi is doing and how she is liking BYU-Idaho. So I will share some of the things she has been up to lately.
I will write a little more about Cassi and Jered. Cami lives and works away from home so I don't have as much news or as many pictures of her. But, she is so loved and I will share what I can.
Today at church I must have had a dozen people (not less) ask about how Cassi is doing and how she is liking BYU-Idaho. So I will share some of the things she has been up to lately.
Cassi's apartment Complex. It used to be Married
Student housing but they just built new apartments for
the married students and renovated these to become
full 'cooking' dorms. They are really nice and clean.
Cassi and Adrienne (from LA).
Sharing Texas Pride with her flag in the background.
The flag has been known to disappear and be displaced by the BOYS.
Cassi cooks Tex-Mex for everyone.
Chicken enchaladas, quacamole & home-made salsa.
Check out the kitchen in their dorm.
Yup, thats a dishwasher. Times have changed!
Time to test the fare.
(from bottom left clockwise)
Lindsey P, Cassi, Erica J, Adrienne W, Meagan J,
Ashleigh (standing), Curtis H, Spencer, and Jared W.
Going to Church with her roomie, Hannah Minkler (from CO).
There is a webcam in the testing center so she txt'd me
and told me to log-on and waive to her. She is in the
white sweat-shirt. LOL!
Road Trips to see TX besties at BYU-Provo.
Watching movies OUTSIDE snuggled with Buds-
Jannae Haug, ?, Cassi, Robin Pratt, & Debbie Horikami
Being silly at school with Kelly Stanley (from Wisc).
That's how our sweetheart Cassi is doing? GREAT!
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