Miriam Caldwell's comments

Are You in a Unfriendly Ward? - Blog Entry

19 Dec 2006 08:22 PM

I've also been in a ward where I didn't feel welcome at all. It was really tough. We moved out of the ward quickly, and then moved back several years later. When I moved back I made a concentrated effort to be the one to reach out.

I think your best move is to show a genuine interest in friendship, and as you build that, her feelings towards church will improve. Also you need to be consistent. She may try to brush you off, and you need to let her know that she really is a friend and not an assignment.

When you meet new people in your ward, ask about them and their family. Try to remember something to ask them about the next time you see them. Make sure to remember them. Nothing is more frustrating to be asked to introduce yourself as new, after you have consistently been attending for more than two months.

Home, Family and Personal Enrichment - Blog Entry

19 Dec 2006 08:17 PM

I assume that you have read the official guidelines that the church has issued. I know that there are to be four scheduled Enrichment meetings a year. These meetings are to be more formal, and every sister is encouraged to attend. There is no longer a lesson requirement (if you remember the opening lesson from previous Enrichments) but you may have a guest speaker or classes can be offered.

Enrichment activities are designed to meet the specific needs of the sisters. There is no pressure to attend these activities. These can be classes or interest groups that meet on a regular basis.

It is up to each individual ward to determine what is best for them. The activities can help to build friendship between sisters. If you haven't read the guidelines, this is the link. http://www.lds.org/pa/rs/HFPE_Guidelines.pdf I've heard of many different interpretations. It is up to the president and the Enrichment counselor to determine which route their ward will take. I hope that helps.

Do You Forget to Pay Your Bills? - Blog Entry

14 Dec 2006 09:46 PM

I agree. I also check online to make sure that the direct deposit has gone through. We are paid monthly, so not as much motivation to sit down more often.

Primary Time: Primary Theme for 2007 - Blog Entry

14 Dec 2006 09:43 PM

I think that the bracelet sounds like a good gift. I would also think about purchasing a small picture of Christ to give as well. I know you can purchase 3x4 cards inexpensively. You may want to scroll around. Since I haven't served in the Primary for about four years, I really do not know any site that is directly related to Primary, but the LDS Forum here http://forums.families.com/christian-lds-families,f19 can give you some good ideas. If you have any specific questions, or topics you would like me to write about, feel free to PM me. Thanks.

Primary Time: Helping Your Children Transtion to a New Teacher - Blog Entry

14 Dec 2006 09:35 PM

Wow! Your branch is small! But I have enjoyed my time in a smaller ward. A branch means a lot of work by all of the members. It is great growing experience. My current ward usually has an activity in January that introduces the teachers and the kids. It is a good idea.

Do You Forget to Pay Your Bills? - Blog Entry

14 Dec 2006 12:13 PM

The online email reminders are a great tool. In my family I am the one that pays the bills, because my husband . . . well, he just doesn't remember. But lately I've been so scatterbrained, (pregnant, we moved, and now the holidays) that I've almost been late a few times. I am very lucky to remember the day before or so. Usually I have the bills paid the day they come in. I pay online, so that gives some extra time. Thanks for your comments!

Are You Behind on Your Bills? - Blog Entry

14 Dec 2006 12:11 PM

Most companies will waive late fees once, and many are willing to work with you if you have a legitimate hardship. It is better to be upfront and contact them with your circumstances, then it is to ignore the problem and hope it will go away. If they know you are making every effort to repay, they are less likely to send you to collections, or report you to a credit agency. Thanks for your comments and sharing your experiences!

My Financial Sacrifices Are Worth It! - Blog Entry

12 Dec 2006 02:24 PM

Maya, I agree that there is nothing wrong with her wanting to be wealthy. Hopefully she will learn from us the importance of giving and helping others along the way. I was just touched that she would rather do without now, to have the extra time with me.

Michelle, I totally agree that being home with the little ones are worth the sacrifices. I know that decision is personal for everyone. Thanks for your comments.

Preparing for a Trip to the Emergency Room - Blog Entry

11 Dec 2006 06:43 PM

It is good that you are doing better. Pumping is not very conducive to producing a lot of milk. I found with my oldest (I worked for a short time after I had her) that the more regularly I pumped and the more I was used to it, the more milk I could pump. With my son I pumped only when I knew I needed a bottle, it was not the same at all.

When Will You Stop Supporting Your Children Financially? - Blog Entry

11 Dec 2006 06:41 PM

It is nice that you are in a place that you can provide that for your children. A house can finance an education, by selling or renting as you said. I also like that you are expecting them to help to manage the properties. This will teach them a lot, plus help them "earn" part of the money. Great idea!