Why?

I built this blog page over a year ago with the intent to use it as a sort of journal for my studies of the Gospel and to record the successes and failures of my attempts to apply Gospel principles in my life. I never wrote a single post...first major fail. At least I built the page. I also built a Facebook page called "Because of Conference I Will _____________". I have been a bit more faithful with that endeavor but could still do more there as well. you can visit it here: Because of Conference

As I have listened the LDS General Conference these last two days I have been impressed again to return to this labor. I have learned much over the last few years but have selfishly kept it to myself. Recently one of the high councilmen in our ward told me something at church. He said, "You know Sister Dimond, when you learn truth or get a new insight in the Gospel you are required to share it." the comment was made almost in passing but has stuck with me. My dear friend and one of my life heroes also just finished writing a remarkable book and allowed me the privilege of proof reading it. Her work and insight corresponded so perfectly with the personal revelation I have been receiving about making the most of my time and talents that I consider it part of the Lord's message for me. Then today in Conference we were told to STAND UP AND TESTIFY. Then the women of the church were particularly called upon to SET UP AND TAKE OUR RIGHTFUL AND NEEDED PLACE. I guess I have been chastened again but this time I am listening AND ACTING.

I cannot promise perfect regular posts nor can I promise anything too profound but I have been compiling topics and writing down the inspirations and thoughts I have been receiving while reading the scriptures, teaching primary, studying history, experiencing life, and listening to the living prophets. If I am the only one who benefits from this endeavor then I will be content but I sincerely hope that my experiences and the insights that have come to me from the Spirit may lift and lighten and inspire at least one soul.

I will start things off with a little bio so you know who I am and then I will share some highlights I got out of General Conference in my next post.

I am a mother of four young boys, aged 6, 4, 3, and 19 months. I am married to a wonderful, loving , hard working Priesthood holder. I grew up in Salt Lake City. I graduated from the University of Utah with a BA in Human Development and after completing a mission in Singapore received a Master's Degree in Family Ecology. I have spent a significant portion of my life working with children and adults with disabilities and currently work part-time, mostly from home, as a support coordinator for people with disabilities and brain injuries. I have gained many insights and perspectives from these amazing individuals and their families. I come from a family of five children and have two half sisters who I honestly don't really know. My father converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints as a young recently divorced father. He was killed by a drunk driver when I was about 9 years old. I have an incredible mother who I will talk often about. She is a true disciple a real Latter-Day Saint. My three brothers and one sister have also taught me much and given me insights and perspective that I will refer often. I married into an incredible family. My husband grew up in a very different world in Pleasant Grove Utah when it was still a "small town". His family traces its pioneer heritage on both sides clear back to the early days of the church and have that "multi-generational" family advantage. They are not perfect for sure but I can see the blessings that come from having several generations of faithful, sacrificing members of the church to look up to and emulate. That is a topic for another time though.