If you can't say anything nice.....

We all know the saying right, If you can't say anything nice don't say nothing at all. So what if you have something nice to say. I fear that oft times we neglect to say the nice things we are thinking especially to other women. So let me take the time to express my adoration for the women I hold dear.

To my mom- a woman who has sacrificed so much for her children. I could have no better example of dedication to one's children than the example of my mother. Her children are now well into their adult years yet she continues to make sacrifices. She has also shown me what true strength is with the passing of my father. For the first time in her life she is living and managing life on her own and she is doing an amazing job.

Karen- truly an inspiration to me. She is living proof that once you set your mind to something it can be accomplished. She has strength beyond measure and so much love in her heart for the women in her life. She has been and I have no doubt will always be the source of strength in our family. I truly could not have been blessed with a better big sister.

Cheryl- A mother beyond measure. She makes sacrifices for those she loves, and I do mean everyone she loves. She has one of the most beautiful hearts of anyone I know and shows by example so many of the qualities I image the Savior to possess.

Carla -I can't say enough about this twin of mine. I truly love the woman she has become. She is kind, loving, beautiful, and stronger than I think even she knows. She is dedicated to her family and Chandler has found a perfect balance of a mother and a friend. All children should be so lucky. She is the mother I long to be and for that example I am grateful.

MarySue- Notice her spot in my list is right next to those most near and dear to my heart. She is a mother-in-law all should hope to have. She has raised the beautiful man I have the privilege of calling my husband and is one of the women in my life I would love to be like. I can't imagine she ever made a mistake as a mom for when she interacts with my children I see only beauty. I feel there is no better gift for a mother to receive than someone to love and care for her children and MarySue does that without effort. She has become my sounding board, my consultant, and my friend and for that I am blessed.

Trevlyn- I have always said Trevlyn is a mother before she is anything else. I have watched her go through trials that would have brought out the worst in me, yet she has handled them all beautifully. I have watched her hold her tongue for the sake and welfare of her family and have stood in awe at this ability. She is an inspiration that in difficult times it is possible to remain Christ-like.

Dori & Linny- Both of these girls have shown me love from day one and for that I am thankful. My gratitude also resides in the fact that they both set such a beautiful example for my children. When I am uncool to my kids they will be cool and that makes me happy.

Aunt Jody- I feel so lucky to have become one of the Knight family, and getting to know this lady is definitely one of the reasons why. Her smile and laughter can cheer the most heavy heart. I call her at times with the prelude of checking up on her family but secretly my desire is also selfish in that simply hearing her voice makes my day brighter.

Annette- Also one of my favorite women. She is funny, loving, beautiful, and is full of life. I always say when I finally get it right I'll be as well rounded as Annette. I have always admired Annette's ability to care take of her needs as well as those of her family. She realizes the truth in the notion that a happy mom makes for a happy family.

To the Christens (Kristens) in my life. I can't believe I had to wait till I was 31 to find one of my very best friends but that is what Christen Walker has become. I miss her terribly. She is a great wife, mother, friend and has unbelievable talents. Yet she has just enough edge to her that truly makes her my friend. Christen, I love the fact that I call you friend.

Kristen Slack you are my example of dedication. You are devoted to your husband, your children, and the Lord. You became a source of strength to me during the difficult years of medical school and although you are miles away for residency I have no doubt that your friendship will pull us through again.

And to K. Applebee, you make me ashamed of myself. You are a great wife and mother and still remain abreast of current affairs. Your dedication to church and the Lord also set you apart and your living proof one can do it all.

Erica- you are my friend for life. How lucky Carla and I were to meet you in the 8th grade. I loved you then and I love you now. I can think of no better word to describe you than beautiful both inside and out. You are someone I want to know for eternity.

Emily- It seems there are so many things in your life that are done effortlessly. Being a great wife, mother, friend, and intellectual seem to come naturally to you. I always can count on being uplifted, filled with laughter or educated when I read you blog. When I grow up I want to be just like you.

Last but certainly not least- Parker and Ella- Parker, I love your intellect, your humor, and your kind heart. It makes me happy to know that you and I will spend the rest of our life together. And Ella girl, I certainly feel the same way about you. As mommy always says, your heart is what I love the most. Ella, your kindness is infectious and makes our home a happier place.

So there you go, "my blog of praise", I'm sure there are those I left out and they will have to be added later.

All my love,

Christie