The State of the Family

This was read at the Watson reunion by Barry and I wanted to remember it, luckily they gave me a copy. This was written by Grandpa to his children.

The Family Touch, November 1980

"The State of the Family"

We are happy to report that all the family is in their own house. Julie and Kerry are temporarily renting, hopefully for a short time before they can close their deal. Everyone is working at good jobs and moving up. Craig has taken his 6 months interview and is on steady with Idaho Power and got a raise to boot. We are proud of everyone and feel all of us are really blessed with all of our good fortune.

Now that we are all settled there are a few things we should all consider and implement into our family planning.

1. Stay away from unnecessary debt. Debt places great stress on a marriage. Statistics reveals one of the greatest causes of divorce in American today is debt. Learn to live on what your husband earns. We all realize that we all can't be equal in luxuries to, maybe, our parents or even other brothers or sisters. Make the best of what you have and above all don't nag or ever belittle your mate on his deficiencies in earning more money. Isn't it nice to know that none of the family 'wives' have to work. That's great!

2. Do the best you can to store up a year's supply of food, clothes, and fuel if you can. It isn't easy to accomplish in today's economy. But we can all be trying to put something away every month. We are also advised to save a little money - "to pay ourselves first."
3. Be sure above all things we try our best to keep our personal lives in order, to do our best to keep all of the commandments. If we can manage the little things the big ones will take care of themselves. Keep your journals, study and read the scriptures, have your family prayers and have your family home evenings. You all realize that if we are doing these things that our Heavenly Father has promised us certain blessings which we cannot do without.

May the Lord bless your homes! We pray for each of you every day, we hope you are doing the same for us.

Love, Dad and Mom