Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Warrior Momma -


When I began this blog, it was because I loved to write. Lately I've gotten away from that and I've just been posting pictures and pieces of my days. As meaningless as it may seem most of the time, it has still invited you all into my life. I realize that when I make this invitation, I am open to comments, criticism, encouragement and all sorts of other dimensions ... this idea both scares me and intrigues me all at the same time ... because I'm a bit of a warrior. My children, however, were not participants in this invitation. So when I open them up to opportunities of criticism, I feel obligated to defend them and their integrity ... because I'm a bit of a warrior.

As most of you know, in our Church, our boys are encouraged to serve a two-year mission when they are 19-years-old. Because of this, we are discouraged from having serious relationships before that time, as it can create a whole list of hardships on the missionary, on the girl, etc., etc. Because our prophet has given us these guidelines, which I believe are straight from the mouth of a loving Heavenly Father, I have taught these principles to my children. They are well aware of the dangers, the teachings and their other options. Kacey has adhered to this counsel her whole life. She has never had a serious boyfriend before and she has always hung out in large groups of wonderful kids. She has had an amazing group of friends that she has been able to grow with and continue to nurture all that we have taught her. One of these best friends is Austin.

Kacey and Austin were friends long before the thought of being anything more ever occurred to either of them. This dating thing is actually pretty new. These two are the most respectful, obedient and spiritual people that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I learn from Kacey every day. The relationship that has begun between the two of them is very healthy. Austin is so excited to serve the people of Quito, Ecuador and Kacey is terribly proud of him for doing so. Hopefully this gives a different light to how I may have portrayed the situation earlier. Kacey is very supportive of this young man and I thank this young man for the healthy adoration that he showed my daughter. They are each lucky to be having this experience, and I am proud of them both.

Who knows what will happen in the next two years. They will each continue to grow in their respective directions and it will be exciting to see where they end up. But for now, they are each nothing less than individuals choosing good paths and truly striving for what is best. Unfortunately, this doesn't mean that they won't miss each other.

Thanks for all of the great advice on keeping her busy and for giving me a great topic to write about!

4 comments:

Tina McKinnon said...

This was very good... Kacey is a peach,as your dad would say, and we sure enjoy bragging about her.... and we're glad we CAN! She's everything we could ever hope for in a granddaughter!
xox

The Clawson's said...

There's nothing to worry about, especially when it comes to Kacey. She's for sure got her head on straight. I've alway admired her for doing what she feels is right and stickin to it. We love her!

Heather said...

Well said, Karen.

debbie said...

obviously, Kacey left him to go to Mexico, so she is a strong chica! I know Kacey, she will be just fine and she will write him the best letters ever...the kind that will help him be a better missionary! now she has two years to get her schooling, etc behind her....she gets to prepare herself for her future whether it be with this wonderful young man or someone else, she is making great choices. while he is learning how to be a great missionary. u rock kacey!