Portraits of Mormon Women: Valerie J. Fulmer

We’re excited to introduce another Mormon Women contributor, Valerie J. Fulmer.

I was raised in Washington state. My parents, siblings and I were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We had joyous times and we had challenges, but the gospel remained a beacon to and foundation for our family. I love my parents, my brothers and my sister. I love their spouses and children. I miss them because I do not get to see them very often.

My husband, Scott, and I met while I was attending Ricks College (now called BYU-Idaho).  We were married and sealed in the Dallas, Texas temple. We have been blessed with three wonderful children. President Boyd K. Packer said, “The ultimate end of all activity in the Church is that a man and his wife and their children can be happy at home.” I can say firsthand that I know what it’s like to be a part of a happy family. In this regard, I feel that I am one of the luckiest women on the planet. I treasure my husband and children more than I can say. I have also married into an amazing family, and I love all of them dearly.

I have numerous other blessings as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have a strong desire to share my testimony of the gospel. Although I struggle with weaknesses and various different trials, it helps me to remember the good moments outweigh the bad ones. Oh how they do! The gospel of Jesus Christ enables me to have this perspective, regardless of the difficulties my family and I are going through.

I enjoy reading (mostly for secular and spiritual learning), journal writing, photography, going to church, spending time with family and friends, attending the temple, going to the movies, helping others, social networking on the internet, and blogging.  I love chocolate.  If I’m listening to Michael Buble, one might catch me dancing.  I love listening to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir‘s music. I have taken numerous college classes on different campuses and online. I absolutely love learning. My husband is a private investigator. Due to the economy, he and I are both contemplating going back to school so that we have better job opportunities later on. Currently, I do not work outside the home. A great deal of my time and energy is spent towards my family and taking care of our daughter who has special needs. She has over 15 doctors. My sons have some health care issues as well. But I am grateful that my children have doctors and medication to help them. The inconvenience of doctor’s appointments is a small price to pay for necessary health care. Somehow, our children rise above their trials and keep on going. They each have accomplished good things and I am proud of them, especially for the good choices they make. I am so grateful to my husband, and for the love and patience he shows to me. He is also one of the funniest people I know. I love him dearly. I am excited for this opportunity to share my beliefs about Jesus Christ.