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So many of these posts are about Kaden right now.   Don't worry, come October. January and February, they will be about the other kids.

Today Kaden had his baptism interview with Bishop Ghiz.  It was bitter-sweet for me. He is growing up so fast. I can't believe he's old enough to get baptized, yet it's an exciting milestone in his life as well.

We had a lesson today in church talking about how necessary it is for us as parents to safe guard our children from all the nasty stuff in the world right now.  Our Stake President talked to all the women in our ward and explained how so many of our youth have major moral addictions and moral sins. Listening to him as well as hearing the stories my dad tells us that he has to deal with as a Stake President in his stake, my eyes are more and more opened that there is very little hope that my little family won't be affected with moral transgressions at some point in their life. It scares me to death, but I can't let fear keep me from letting them live their lives and learn from their own experiences. It's just up to Brian and I to teach them correctly, create a temple like atmosphere in our home, be good examples, and always be there to talk to our kids... even when it's awkward or difficult.  We have to be their advocates. We have to help them fight against all the crap thats in the world, so they can enjoy all the beauty and good that's in the world.

As I was thinking about all this, I sat and watched my little boy sit in a chair in the bishops office answering almost the same questions that I am asked each time I go in for a temple recommend.  I sat there so proud of him, so in love with this little boy that is growing up so fast.  Part of me wanted to go live back in time when he was a few months old. But of course I can't do that. I can only embrace and love the person he's becoming and be proud of him.
One of the questions the bishop asked was, "Kaden, why do you want to get baptized?"
Kaden said, "Because it feels good to do it"
The bishop then said something that was so powerful, I don't want to forget his words.
He said, "Thats a wonderful reason to get baptized Kaden. You know, that's the Holy Ghost helping you feel good about the decision to get baptized. If everyone did things because they paid attention to how they felt when the Holy Ghost told them to do things, we'd live in a pretty great place".
I've thought alot about that.  It's a good lesson for me as well. I need to live closer to the spirit.  I need to make decisions based more on how the Holy Ghost makes me feel more than just reasoning.  I know if I did that, I'd make better decisions. I'd be a better mom. I'd be a much better wife. I'd be more honest. I'd be a better friend, daughter, church member....etc. etc. I would just be better in everything I do.
Kaden. I'm so proud of you. I love your innocence. I wish I had it. I wish you could keep it.  You are so special and I can't wait to see you get baptized next Saturday.