Tonight David and I went to the Stake Center to see Benjamin receive his Stake President's Honor Award. He was one of only a relatively few students who receive this award each year. It is earned by completing these requirements: Grade of "A" and "H" for the year; 90% attendance; Consecutive Scripture Reading; Read the entire text for the year; Memorize 25 mastery scriptures; demonstrate personal worthiness. We are so "Proud" of him. OOPs...I'm not supposed to use that word. We learned in R.S. today that there is no "good" use of that word. We should change any feeling of pride that we have into a feeling of gratitude. So... I am so "Grateful" that Ben is worthy to receive this award. I am so "Grateful" that he is setting a good example for his younger brothers and sister. I am so "Grateful" that he has a desire to do what is right and is willing to do what it takes to accomplish his goals. I am a "Grateful" Mom!!!!

Sometimes I think I'm the meanest Mom ever! Like today when I told my 8 year old son he couldn't go to his friends birthday party because he was grounded for bad behavior in school. I don't like being the "bad guy" and taking away his fun. It's hard! But...I wish there were more mean Mom's in this world. Teaching school would be a whole lot easier if Mom's were meaner. If Mom's would only teach their children respect and then have consequences when their children are not respectful. If Mom's would teach their children to be kind to each other and then have consequences if they are not. If Mom's would teach their children to be responsible for their own actions and then have consequences when they don't. Life would be so much easier--and then I wouldn't feel like I'm the only MEAN MOM in the whole world.!!