Temple Day

Today I got the chance to attend the temple with one of my best friends.

Heather was my first roommate at college at USU. She was not a member of my church, and had no interest in being one.

We soon became best friends. And we've stayed that way for the past 9 years.

Last year I was ecstatic when she decided to be baptized. It was a very happy day.

Today I had the privilege of being her escort as she went through the Bountiful Temple for the first time.

I'm so proud of her and the choices she's made.

I know it hasn't been easy for her.

Even though she had no family support, and went through a pretty awful marriage and annulment, she hasn't lost the new faith that she found so recently.

She's a pretty strong woman. And I can tell she's happy.

Even when she's stressed, she's happier than when I first met her.

Congratulations Heather!

Ward Bear Lake Outing

Our family reunion ended the same day as the ward Bear Lake outing, so we decided to drive straight there instead of home.

It was a nice day to just sit outside and enjoy the lake. Since we had been camping the past two days, I didn't change into my suit, but still had a good time chatting and being with our friends that we've made the past few years.

Our bishop and his wife are so generous in allowing us all to crash their home, and we all had such a good time.

We're definitely going to miss this ward!

Garage Sales, General Conference & an MTC preview

Saturday morning I went garage sale-ing with my friend Marci. I didn't find much, but I just like to go and look for good stuff. Marci on the other hand found lots of good stuff. I can't wait for the weather to get better so there are sales on almost every corner.

When we got home I enjoyed the Semi-annual General Conference for our church. I enjoyed Saturday morning by myself and then went out to my parent's house for the afternoon session.

Saturday evening I went over to Marci's house during Priesthood session where she invited a bunch of girls over and we had shakes and talked. After Brian got home, we went to his grandparent's house and had more ice cream.

On Sunday morning we went out to Brian's family's house and had breakfast and watched the morning session.

During the break there was a special about the MTC, so we went to my parent's house to watch it together. My mom started crying when it first started and at one point I went to laugh at something and started crying. I don't know what came over me.

We watched the last session and then had dinner with my family and watched How to Train Your Dragon.

I loved the talks given and can't wait for the Ensign to come so I can read them again.

We love Nursery!

I have to admit, I'm liking our new calling more than I thought I would.

I was nervous at first.

I mean, I'm 12 years older than my youngest sibling, so I did quite a bit of babysitting in my day.

But that was a long time ago.

I was nervous that I wouldn't know how to handle a 2 year old again. Let alone 6 of them.

But from the first day, when one little girl just wanted to be held on my lap, or today when a little boy just wanted me to kiss his finger that was hurt and then went off to play again like I had totally fixed it, I have loved it!

~~

That first Sunday I kept asking Brian what time it was, worrying that the kids would get bored with their toys or the lesson or snacks. (What was I thinking? Who gets tired of snack time?)

We quickly learned that you don't put out the whole bucket of crayons, it'll end up on the floor.

And you help the younger kids drink their water, or it'll end up all over them.

And in order to have a successful lesson, you need pictures.

~~

This last Sunday, due to the time change, I was a little nervous.

I've heard the horror stories from moms about how it totally throws their kids schedule off and they're grumpy all the time.

But our kids are awesome.

There was no crying or screaming or throwing of things.

In fact, at one point, they all just kind of stood there, staring at the toy in their hand, or nothing at all.

So Brian said, "I think it's nap time."

And then, without a word, they started cleaning up their toys. With an hour left of class!

Like, putting stuff back in buckets and putting the buckets back on the shelf.

Two little boys worked together trying to put a castle back on top of a bookcase. (They didn't succeed, but ended up putting it half on/half off the bottom shelf.)

In my opinion, I think they thought Brian said "snack" time.

We didn't want to discourage the cleaning up behavior, but we did manage to keep them playing for a few more minutes.

Then we had a lesson. An actual sit-down, look at the pictures, copy what the teacher's doing, lesson.

Then we colored. And no one threw any crayons. (One kid did try to eat them, but that's to be expected.)

And then we had snack time & singing time.

And most of the kids actually sang. (Or at least did actions.)

~~

I love our nursery kids.

Playing Catch

Today was a good Sunday.

Despite the fact that I woke up hungry, which is never a good sign on Fast Sundays.

But I went to church, and listened to the testimonies, and the wonderful lessons prepared.

I heard a bunch of little things, that maybe weren't even part of the lesson, but that I needed to hear.

I love when that happens.

And then I came home and read this:

Playing Catch with Jesus

And it made me cry.

I cried for the man who went through that.

But I also cried, because it helped me understand how to use the Atonement, in a way that I've never really understood before.

I know how the Atonement helps with our sins.

And I know that my Heavenly Father and Jesus love me and are always there for me.

But like this man, I didn't fully understand how the Atonement worked to take away the everyday, sometimes little, sometimes big, things that aren't caused by anyone doing anything wrong. They just happen and can cause grief and heartache and sorrow.

And then I read this article.

And I had to read it to Brian.

And we both just sat there, smiling, feeling that wonderful feeling of understanding and love.

It all of a sudden made so much more sense.

And I immediately put it into practice.

And it works.

New Calling

Yesterday Brian and I were released as Ward Mission Co-Leader and Ward Missionary (I was also released as Primary Pianist). But the Bishop didn't give us much of a break. We were also called as Nursery Leaders.

I was a little hesitant about this calling at first, but after the bishop set me apart and gave me a blessing I know that this calling is from God. The bishop gave me a very personal blessing, addressing concerns and issues that I hadn't even discussed with him. It was a huge testimony builder that God knows me and that he communicates directly with bishop's about their congregation members. I cried and the bishop cried and the Spirit was very strong.

Today the bishop sent Brian and I an email reiterating his love for us and expounding on the blessing he'd given me the day before. It made me break down in tears at work (thankfully my boss wasn't here). I love our bishop and really appreciate the concern and love he has for our ward.

After this experience I have decided that I need to focus more on having faith that when we ask, we shall receive. Brian's been telling me for months to be positive and I finally made the connection that being positive is the same thing as having faith. So that's what I'm going to do.

Be Glad & Have Faith.

Sad Things/Happy Things

Things making me sad today:

I'm sore. So very very sore. I started the One Hundred Push Up challenge yesterday. I'm a weakling so I started on the easiest level. So in total I only did 13 push ups yesterday, and I'm so sore. Sore enough that it's really hard to reach up to put on my bra. Because I'm sure you wanted to know. Thankfully, Brian's willing to help me take it off. Because I'm sure you wanted to know that too.

I think I'm getting a cold. 

Things making everything better today:

The Aggies Beat BYU!!!!

Sadly, I couldn't see it on TV because we don't get the channel, but I was happy all night long. Condolences to the BYU fans out there.

General Conference is this weekend! I'm way excited.

I started my own "Happiness Project". I'm very hopeful that it will be a good project for me to focus on.

What's making you happy today?

Elder Bednar Fireside

Tonight we had a fireside with Elder Bednar. He did this specifically for our stake. We went expecting a talk and then he was going to answer a few questions at the end. He ended up spending the whole 2 hours answering questions. It was amazing! His wife helped with some, and both did a great job. I felt so great the whole time. I took lots of notes about promptings that I got and I hope I can put some of those into practice. I feel very lucky that we got to learn directly from an Apostle in that kind of forum.

Bear Lake w/Ward

Our Bishop has a "cabin" at Bear Lake, so this summer they invited the ward up to spend the day. It was a beautiful place and we had a great time. Lots of good food, and we spent a couple hours on a boat as well, just enjoying the lake. I didn't get any pics, but we were having so much fun, we didn't even worry about it. Hopefully they do it again next year.

Ward Campout

Each year our ward does a campout. We camped out one of the times, but last year we missed it due to a wedding reception. This year we decided to just go up for the dinner and games. Mostly because Brian had to work on Saturday. Ok, honestly it's because I don't like camping.

We had a really yummy dinner provided by the ward and then played fun relay games.

We also had a great time playing with our friend, Aria.

We had a short devotional by the Bishop and roasted marshmallows before heading home. Our friend Marci was the main authority on marshmallows. :)

Overall, a very fun time, though I'm glad I got to sleep in my own bed.

Heather's Baptism

Today one of my best friends, Heather, was baptized. She was my first roommate in college, and we've been friends ever since. I won't say I never thought this day would happen, but I'll admit I didn't think it would happen so quickly. But I'll also admit that I am so so so so so happy that it did.

The service was great. There were some great talks given by her boyfriends sister-in-law and mother, her boyfriend baptized her and his brother confirmed her. I didn't think I would, but after she was baptized I really teared up. I was so happy to see her so happy.

Afterwards we went over to her boyfriends house for food. It was great to see all the people there to support her. She's had some trouble with some of her family accepting her decision but I'm happy that she's been strong enough to know that she made the right choice.

CONGRATULATIONS HEATHER! WE LOVE YOU!

Randomness

So usually after something happens, or we go somewhere, I'm too tired to post about it right away.

This then leads to me procrastinating posting.

Then I get overwhelmed thinking about "catching up" the blog.

So eventually I do an overload of posts and start all over.

But I just realized, I keep a regular journal. It may not have pictures or fancy fonts, but I keep it pretty up to date. So why am I stressing about the blog?

So I'm not going to anymore.

I'll get to things when I get to them.

Hence, the following:

Spring Break was awesome! I loved being in St. George and the weather was beautiful.

Brian got to ride his bike lots, I got to do crafty stuff with my sister and cousin, and we talked A LOT. :)

We got to hang out with my sister and brother-in-law, and my cousin and her husband. Always fun.

We got to hang out with my grandparents, who I think are amazing and so cute.

One morning when we were still in bed and my grandpa was leaving to play golf he said to my grandma, "See you later. Love you." She said, "Love you too, love you more." He said, "No, never." She said, "Yes, always." That is the True Love Elder Holland talked about. 50 years and going strong.

I got to have my teeth cleaned by my sister, who's in dental hygiene school. Yes, it took all day, but it was worth it. And now my teeth feel so nice again. Sadly, I haven't been to the dentist since before we got married. That's what happens when you get married and have no insurance.

I also chopped off my hair! (I'll post a pic of that soon.)

It's a bit shorter than I planned but I like it. Brian likes it too.

Sadly, we had to come home to this awful cold. blech.

I really wish it would stop snowing. I'm ready for it to be spring.

Speaking of, we also did lots of crafts in St. George so I'll post pics of mine soon.

My whole family went back down to St. George for Conference weekend. I missed being with them.

I loved Conference! Amazing! As always. I can't wait until then Ensign comes and I can read the talks all over again.

I've decided I hate public restrooms. I just hate the whole idea of sitting next to someone while you take care of business. Gross.

I also have an irrational fear of toilets. I'm always worried they'll overflow after I use them, just because they don't like me.

Gross, I know, but the title is "Randomness".

I got to help my little brother-in-law dye eggs on Friday night. I don't think I've done that in years. It helped me get into the holiday mood a little more.

While we dyed eggs, Brian, Derek, Paul, Nancy, and Nathan, all worked on Nathan's physics homework.

I'm glad I chose the egg job.

Only a few more weeks of school. I can't believe it's gone by so fast.

The first two years of the Architecture program DID NOT go by that fast, while we were in them.

Brian says it's because we were awake for more of them. This year we've gotten more sleep. :)

I still can't believe that we only have one more year left of school.

Kind of scary because I have no idea what we're going to do after he's done. I guess we'll figure it out when we get there.

Brian said his favorite talk in the Priesthood session was Pres. Uchtdorf's about Patience. He rushed home to tell me all about it.

I get it, I get it.

I liked a lot of the talks, but I can't pick just one favorite. But I did love Elder Holland's talk. He's hilarious and so strong.

I also love Elder Bednar because he can make his talks flow so smoothly and he gives practical applications on whatever his subject is.

I love that I always leave conference feeling like I should, and will be able to do better.

Happy Tuesday! Here's to the snow melting quickly!

General Conference

For this last conference, our Relief Society had a goal. We were to think of one or two questions we have and then pray about them and listen in conference for answers. I've had seminary and institute teachers recommend this before, but I always forgot to do it or didn't really have a question. But this time, I took the challenge. I thought for about a month ahead of what I wanted to know and what I needed help with. I prayed by myself and with Brian. I was ready (and hopeful) to get an answer.

The first talk on Saturday morning confirmed to me that Heavenly Father is really listening. By the third talk that session, I was thinking, "OK, OK, I know now. I know what you're trying to tell me." I was so grateful for those speakers and for their topics that day. It's amazing to me how all-knowing Heavenly Father is. He knew that I would need to hear those talks on that day and so he prepared those speakers months in advance.

It was an amazing experience.

I loved the rest of conference as well and also enjoyed all of our conference traditions. For the Priesthood session, Brian's brother's and dad and grandpa and uncles and cousins come out to our stake center and watch it there. Then after, they have ice cream at his grandparent's house (about a mile away from ours). Because I happen to be the only one close enough, they've started including me in the tradition. (Also because of my love of ice cream.)

On Sunday morning we go to breakfast at Brian's parent's, and watch the morning session with them. Then we go to my parent's and watch the afternoon session and have dinner with them. Brian thinks I'm a little silly for thinking we have to do it the same way every time, but I'm all about tradition. :) And it's a great weekend to spend with family anyway, to listen to the prophet and other general authorities and be uplifted together.

I love it! And I can't wait until April!

President's Day Weekend

The rest of our long weekend went really well. On Sunday I had to teach the lesson. I'm getting more comfortable teaching I think, though I still feel like throwing up the hour before I actually teach. This week's lesson was on the First Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel. There was SO MUCH to cover. But I think it went well. Lots of people made comments so I think i did OK.

After church we had to book it out to Draper. Brian's mom's side is planning a summer vacation and needed everyone's input on what dates and things like that. Eventually it was decided that we should go to Bear Lake, and then I was volunteered to help them look online for places to go. My dad's family goes every year and so I suggested the same place we stay, because it's the only place I know. Well, it ended up that one of the only weekends available that worked with everyone's schedule is the weekend right before my family is going up there. So we might be having an extended stay at Bear Lake this summer. I won't mind. We'll see if everything works out though.

On Monday, Brian & I cleaned our entire apartment. I don't know why this is so hard for me, because it's really not that big, but it seems to get away from me. I think since I've gotten pretty good at planning meals and cooking each night, my next goal will be to make a schedule of what to clean in my house each night so it doesn't pile up. We'll see how it goes.

Anyway, it only took us about 3 hours, which was nice. I love when everything is clean and organized. Then Brian had to go to school for a few hours. Shocker.

We invited Brian's family to come over for pizza, FHE, and to play our Wii. I had asked Brian to make sure he was home in time to run to the store to pick up some more ice cream, so I could make chocolate shakes for dessert. Well, he got home around 5:30 and he had ridden his bike down to Smith's and back just to get ice cream! (Smith's from our house is down this really really steep hill about a mile long.) I think he's crazy, but I appreciate that he'll do that for me.

His parent's and brother's came over and we had a quick lesson which actually morphed into a cool conversation about how each of us feels the Spirit differently, because his littlest brother wasn't sure if he'd ever felt it before. It was pretty interesting.

Then we played the Wii. His brother's went crazy. It was a lot of fun and we had a good time getting his parent's on there, too. We did decide though that it'll be a little easier when we have more room to play in. Our living room is a little small even if we take the coffee table out.

Overall it was a good night and a good, and much needed, long weekend.

Shocking

Our apartment shocks us. I don't mean it's shocking in that it is messy, or the dishes aren't done, or that laundry is on our bedroom floor (all of which is true unfortunately). What I mean is that we receive electric shocks from our apartment. I guess I could blame it on the colder/drier weather, because I don't remember this happening in the summer, but who knows?! I just know that every time I get up from the couch, where I've been messing around on my laptop, and I go to set it down, it shocks me! Or when Brian will come home from school and I go to give him a kiss, we get shocked! (A shock on the lips or nose is SO not fun.) Anyway, we've resorted to touching hands first before any contact with our faces. :)

That wasn't really the point of my post, but it happened right before, so I had to write it down. Moving on.

Today was a good day. Church was good, and I especially loved our Relief Society lesson on Visiting Teaching. I didn't share anything but I did have good feelings about my experience with visiting teaching, so I thought I would share them on here. I was never really good at going visiting teaching, and when we first moved into this ward, my partner wasn't either, so we were lucky if we even discussed going. Luckily, I did have good teachers coming to visit me. I think this helped me realize how important it was. Then there came a point when I didn't really feel like I had any real friends in this ward. I knew some of the sisters, and I liked them, but I didn't feel like I connected with any of them. I just didn't feel like I fit in. Then one Sunday, after having complained to Brian the night before of the very things listed above, we got a new visiting teaching assignment sheet. I had a new partner and new ladies to visit. And it just so happened that these two ladies were two of the very ones that I had wanted to get to know better when I discussed it with Brian the night before. It was a pretty cool experience for me and strengthened my testimony that the Lord knows me and is aware of my struggles and desires. So anyway, ever since then I've tried to do my best to go every month. Also, I love my current visiting teachers, and I love the fact that they'll stay and talk with me for so long because I really need that sometimes. Even when I'm not feeling very chatty myself, it's just nice to sit and listen to conversation. :)

After church we headed over to my parent's house for dinner and my cousin's that are down at BYU came up & ate with us. It was really great to see them and just have a good time.

We got home around 9:30 and spent the next 1 1/2 hours helping Brian write a book review that's due tomorrow. 1,000 words. About the theory of architecture. It's a good thing I was an English major because I totally just b-s-ed my way through it. I actually think it sounds pretty good, and Brian does know what he's talking about. I just tried to make things a little longer, used big words, things like that. :) Now he's back to school and I'm contemplating bed myself. It's hard to go to sleep when he's not here though and I worry about him driving home so late. At least it's only a 3 minute drive instead of the 20 minute drive it was when we lived in Bountiful. :)

I saw this on another blog and thought it was a good idea. I'm going to list one thing I love about Brian every day in honor of Valentine's Day. But then I thought I should do it next month because it's our anniversary so maybe I'll keep going. We'll see how I actually do at it.

This is Brian last night when he got home. (11:30, actually a little earlier than planned.) He was so tired that he couldn't stand up to brush his teeth.

I love how hard Brian works. He puts so much into school and I know it wears on him. But I know he does it because it's what he loves and because he wants to provide for our family later on. Even though I miss him when he's gone late at night, I appreciate all he's doing. I love you Brian!

Uno on Crack, babysitting, etc.

In trying to be better about writing more often, I find it harder and harder to come up with interesting titles. So, that explains that. Moving on.

This weekend was a pretty good one. To begin with, it rained. Some may not see this as good, but I do. I love the rain. I love the rain more when it's hot outside, but I'll take it when it's cold outside and the rain means it's actually warmer. :) And it melts the snow.

Friday night we went out with some old friends of mine from Logan. I'm sad to say, I have no pictures. Owell. My friend Richard came down to Salt Lake because he was meeting his fiance (yay!) so they could spend time together since she lives in Provo right now. Of course, I insisted that we meet her. :) So we went to Chili's along with our friend Matt.

I totally loved her! I'm so happy that he's found someone so great. They're getting married in April in St. George. I don't know how she'll survive in Logan if she's from St. George, but I guess love is worth freezing your toes off everyday. :)

After dinner we went back to Matt's house and played Ultimate Uno. It's basically Uno on Crack. :) It's pretty fast moving and has lots of fun tricks to it. I loved it. And I tied Matt for winning the most times. Brian came in second and poor Richard didn't win once. :( But we had a good time. I hadn't seen him since my wedding reception so I was happy we got together.

Saturday we got a call early that Brian didn't have to go to work, so that was nice. He hasn't been feeling well this week, just sore all over. I think he's fighting getting a cold. And then he needed to catch up on the sleep he hasn't be getting. So he rested while I did laundry. We were then going to go to the store, but a lady I visit teach needed me to watch her kids for a few hours. She's sick too and just needed to get some rest. So we brought her two little boys over (1 1/2 and 5 months) and had fun with them. The 5-month-old slept most of the time and was content to watch his brother play the rest of the time. The 1 1/2 yr-old was energetic. :) Brian was mostly in charge of entertaining him. To do this he had him spin the tires on his bike and then showed him how to use the brake. Then he showed him how to let the air out of the tire. (It makes a cool noise and feeling when the air comes rushing out.) After only a couple of times pumping the tire back up, Brian soon came to regret that teaching. He left the tire flat after that. :) I told Brian that'll have to be something I teach our kids how to do. ;) Just kidding!

After their dad came to pick them up we did make a quick trip to the store to get groceries for the week. One of my goals is to be better at making dinner each night, and planning ahead. So I plan the meals Saturday morning and then we go shopping. Yesterday we spent only $40. I was pretty happy. I know I could probably do better, but I'm still working on it. This helps us not to eat out as much as well as gives us lunches for the days after.

Sunday it snowed! Boo! I was hoping to skip over the rest of winter and get to spring. Owell. In church the choir performed and I loved being able to actually sing instead of play the piano like always. (Did I mention I was released as choir pianist?)

After church I had a Stake Sunday School Training Meeting. It was so good! I took lots of notes and there was some really good discussion. I was even the first to ask a question during the discussion portion because no one else was stepping up. I enjoyed it.


After the meeting Brian went Home teaching, by himself, and then our home teachers came over. And then finally at 7:00 we got to have dinner. Brian was definitely "church-ed out". (He starts church at 10 because he has meetings before our 1:00 block.)

We ended our nice, mostly relaxing weekend with chocolate shakes. I love chocolate shakes! I know, snowing outside, but I'd eat ice cream anytime!

All in all, it was a good weekend. I hated to see it come to a close this morning.

Our Long Weekend

Well we started off the weekend going to dinner with my parents and brother Friday night. My mom also informed me that Nat and her husband got 5 tickets to the Draper Temple Open House for Feb. 20th, so they're coming up from St. George that weekend, and we get to go with them. And Phil. :) I'm excited.

Saturday we had the fun opportunity to take our car into the shop once again. Yes, the very same car that we had to get a whole new engine for this last summer. The "check engine" light came on about a week before but he doesn't drive the car that much and didn't have time to take it in until this weekend. So we drove out to the mechanic that replaced the engine (on 27th S. & 27th W.) and he did a couple tests. I had also driven because we didn't know if we'd need to leave the car there. He finally reset the light and said it was the Catalytic Converter, and that the whole problem may be that it's just too cold, so it doesn't think it's working properly. I don't understand completely, but owell. He said drive it a few more days, if it turns on again we need to bring it back in for some more tests.

Shortly after getting home and then leaving again to go to the store, it turned on again.

The mechanic said it should be OK to drive as long as the light is not flashing. If it starts flashing we are to pull over immediately and get out of the car. How reassuring. I'm getting kind of sick of all the problems we've had with this car. My Jeep is older and sounds like it's falling apart and the only problem we've had with this is something to do with a belt and we fixed that ourselves. (Well my father-in-law did, for which I'm eternally grateful.) But I don't want to sell it because we still have a lot to pay off on it and I don't know if we'd get any profit on it. We'll figure it out though.

The one good thing on Saturday though was that Brian got a call from work saying he didn't have to come in. It's a bike shop. It's winter. They have 1 customer per 2 hours. So that was nice for us.

After taking the car in we went to help our friends Matt & Val move into their new/first home. Well, the car stuff took so long that we missed the moving part, but we did get a tour of their new house and then went to lunch with them at Zupa's. If you haven't been there, you should go. I love it!

Then we went home and did some grocery shopping and then Brian had to go into school to do Bishopric stuff and I did laundry. Exciting I know.

Sunday was my first time teaching for this year. I was pretty excited all week long because the lesson was about Joseph Smith and the First Vision. But then of course, come Sacrament Meeting, I was a nervous wreck. But I think the lesson went well. I had lots of comments from people and I love that! Then I know that I'm at least getting through to someone.

After church we went over to some friends' apartment and played games with them and another couple. We had a blast! I love to just get out of our apartment, and especially to hang out with other couples. I always want to invite people over, but I feel like our place isn't big enough for more than one other couple. I guess no one's is. :) But it was fun nonetheless.

Oh, I also got a book recommendation for Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling. I've already reserved it at the library & I'm going to get it tonight. Anyone else read this? Any thoughts?

Yesterday, even though it was a day off from school and work, Brian still had to go into school for most of the day. I thought it would only be a few hours, but I forget how much they have to do sometimes, & Brian likes to stay ahead of things so he doesn't get more stressed later. So I spent most of the day folding laundry and watching Gilmore Girls, and cross-stitching. I know, I'm lazy. But I enjoyed my day off from work.

When Brian got home we did our Wii Fit workout. We haven't been perfect at it, but we've done pretty good. I'm not as sore afterwards as I used to be, so I count that as progress. :) I've also been able to up the reps on certain exercises so I think that counts for something too.

Then we went to Training Table for dinner. I know, all that hard work down the drain because of Ranch Burgers and Cheese Fries. They're too hard to resist though. :)

Then we came home, watched one TV show & went to bed. Ahh, the exciting life of the Glads.

This morning, Brian didn't have his first class, because the teacher believes that Inauguration Day should be a holiday as well. I happen to agree. Especially because I had to come into work and I can't get the speech to come up on my computer so I missed it. :( I'll have to watch it later.

That's all that's going on with us. Hope everyone had a fabulous holiday weekend!

Last Semester of Undergraduate Degree

Well, Brian started school again today. I meant to take a "first day of school" picture, but we ended up accidentally sleeping in, so that didn't happen. Owell. He seems pretty chill about this semester. I think the whole program is a little less stressed this semester. While it's still important to do well, they've already been submitting applications to Grad schools, and they should all know where they're going by March. So no one is quite as concerned about perfection as usual. I think Brian's really happy to be finishing his Undergraduate degree and graduating in May. True, he'll be graduating again in a couple of years with his Master's, but it's still exciting. He's the oldest in his family, and I think the first on either side of his parent's families to graduate from college. I'm very proud of him.

We enjoyed this last week of freedom though, as I posted earlier. We found a Wii, and have used it almost every night. It's really fun and we even like the Wii Fit better than the regular Wii games. We haven't tried them all but we'll get there.

I also forgot to mention, that the other week in Sunday School, when I was teaching, I shared about my divorce (because it applied to what we were talking about). I hadn't done so before, because I wasn't quite ready to share that yet. But I love our ward and I've started to feel even closer to the people in it, so I felt comfortable sharing. It was kind of amazing to do so, because another sister came up to me and shared that she had been through a similar situation. You never think you'll find anyone that's been through something just like yours, but hers was pretty close. I really appreciated that she would share that with me.

Yesterday we had a really good Sacrament Meeting. The talks were about personal conversion. We recently had a couple move into our ward that spoke, and the husband spoke about his personal conversion story, which was amazing. And the wife spoke about the differences of the church here and in England, which is where she's from. The other couple that spoke, talked about some of the conversions they saw on their missions. They all did a very good job and I loved listening to their talks. I also played a musical number.

The last speaker was talking about love and how when he's doing what he's supposed to be doing he feels more love for his wife, because God is love. (I probably slaughtered his thought, but it's been a day and I should've written it down sooner.) Anyway, he also mentioned that he & his wife have been married for only 2 months and they're still all schmoopy (constantly holding hands, hugging, kissing, etc.) And people tell them it'll wear off eventually. I think that's dumb. I'm sure it gets a little less frequent with the arrival of kids and such, but I think it'd shouldn't just wear off. Brian and I laughed a little though, because we've almost been married 2 years and we still are schmoopy, and I love it! I'm very lucky to have him.

Until next time... Don't get mad, Get Glad!

I am thankful for...

I had already been working on this list, but due to recent events and holidays it seems more appropriate. So here's my list of 100 things I'm thankful for. (Don't feel obligated to read the whole thing.)

1. Brian. He has taught me how wonderful marriage can be, and how extremely happy I can be practically every moment of every day.
2. My job for being so flexible and paying well.
3. Being able to work full time and support our family so Brian can focus on school.
4. Being graduate/Having a degree.
5. Having the little extra money to go out to lunch occasionally.
6. Working close by my mom so we can go to lunch together.
7. Our apartment. Even though everyone complains that they're small and cinder block, I worked for Housing at USU so I'm totally used to it and I love ours!
8. My car so I can drive to work every day even though it guzzles gas.
9. That gas is down under $2 again!
10. That we live close enough to school that Brian can ride his bike.
11. That we live close to family (20 min).
12. That both our families live within a mile of each other, so we can usually visit both when we do holidays.
13. Extended family dinners - any reason to get all the cousins together is great.
14. How close I am with my cousins. I love that we would go out on group dates together & that we still get together now that we're married (though not as often as I would like).
15. My little sister Dani, because she reminds me of myself (in good and bad ways).
16. My little brother Brad, because he always gives me a hug and says he loves me when I see him, even though he'll be 17 in February and is too cool for that anymore.
17. My little sister Nat, because she allowed me to be her "twin" and relive high school when I needed to retreat and recover from life.
18. My little brother Phil, for always debating with me. We end up angry at each other half the time but we can be the best team as well.
19. My brother-in-law Adam for taking good care of my sister.
20. Brian's brothers because they allowed me to steal Brian.
21. Brian's mom because she raised a really wonderful son.
22. Brian's dad because he continues to be a good example for Brian.
23. My mom and dad for doing more for me than I can list. For teaching me to be responsible, to have faith, and for telling me when to leave. For loving me despite my mistakes.
24. My faith. It helps me through everything.
25. My Savior because He died and lives for me.
26. Our ward for welcoming us so quickly.
27. My calling - even though it terrifies me to teach, I do feel like I'm getting a little better at it.
28. Our neighborhood/court.
29. My country that allows me so many freedoms.
30. My love of writing so I can express myself.
31. Working with Housing at USU. I had a ton of great experiences and made some really good friends.
32. My sense of humor.
33. Ice cream - almost every kind. I'd eat it all the time if I could. (I'm craving Ben & Jerry's Half Baked at the moment.)
34. Molten Lava Cake - if you're ever at Chili's you have to get it.
35. OK, let's just say sweets in general.
36. My strong teeth - never had a cavity.
37. Health.
38. Thanksgiving. I love getting together with family and eating all that really good food.
39. Christmas. I love the reason we celebrate it and I love the time of year when people seem a little bit nicer.
40. All of my family traditions. I love all the things we do together for Christmas especially.
41. Warm clothes. It's one of the reasons I like winter, because I can wear warm cute clothes.
42. Manicures and Pedicures.
43. Restaurants - Winger's, Chili's, Zupa's, Red Robin. I love eating out and not having to cook.
44. Good Music. Music always seems to affect me deeper than anything else can.
45. Good books. After reading awful things at the U to get my degree I'm so grateful for the chance I have to read good clean literature.
46. Computers/My laptop.
47. The Internet.
48. My journals.
49. Pictures, because they help me remember all the good times.
50. Good Movies.
51. Good TV shows. I love Jon & Kate Plus 8. They have adorable kids and it helps me remember that if she can do it with 8 I can handle 5 someday.
52. My extended family. We have such great times together.
53. Airplanes. I love riding in them and I love travelling.
54. Hotels. I love to stay in hotels for a few nights.
55. The scriptures. I love when I'm reading and I think of a new understanding of a verse I've read before. The scriptures are great that way.
56. Conference. I love listening to the General Authorities and learning from what they have to say.
57. President Monson. I think he's a great man that loves the Lord.
58. Electricity.
59. Heat.
60. Clean water.
61. Razors. It's the nicest feeling to have smooth legs and soft sheets. And I don't mind it too much when Brian is clean-shaven as well. :)
62. Nail polish. My nails feel so much prettier when painted.
63. The library. It's a great thing to be able to go "rent" books instead of buying everything.
64. Cute shoes. I wasn't really into shoes before I got married, but I love finding cute shoes on sale now.
65. The gift I've been given to have the opportunity to have children. (No I'm not pregnant.) But I look forward to it every day.
66. The mountains. I miss them whenever I leave Utah.
67. Warm hot chocolate when it's cold outside. It's even better with ice cream in it.
68. The stars. Brian and I used to stop in Sardine Canyon on our way home from visiting Logan and just look at the stars for a few minutes. Very romantic.
69. "Movie Moments" Brian has always given me moments that seem like they could be in a movie, and as the former drama queen I am, I love every second!
70. My Ipod. I love being able to listen to my own music, or even books on CD.
71. The free furniture that we got for our apartment when we first moved in. It fit perfectly and filled up the entire front room.
72. Being able to hit the snooze button.
73. The days when I am able to complete everything at work quickly and correctly and my boss notices what a good job I've done.
74. That my parents were willing to get me braces, so now I have a great smile that I love.
75. Indoor plumbing. I hate camping for this reason especially.
76. Clean clothes. Another reason I hate camping.
77. The opportunity and beautiful places that we have available to go camping, even if I don't enjoy it like Brian's family does.
78. The times when I feel confident enough to sing out loud.
79. Pen & paper. Writing things on paper just feels so much better than on the computer.
80. The nights when Brian doesn't have to go back to school after dinner.
81. The scholarship Brian got that paid for his tuition this year.
82. The blessings that come from paying tithing. Even when money seems tight, we always seem to make it to the next paycheck.
83. How close I am to my brothers and sisters.
84. The similarities I have with my mom. She's a great woman and I'm thankful I'm turning out to be like her.
85. How creative Brian is. He makes things happen that I can only imagine.
86. That my mom taught me how to cross-stitch. It's a skill I'm grateful to have even though it makes me seem old-lady-ish.
87. Modern medicine.
88. Being able to play the piano.
89. My comfortable bed.
90. The jean quilt Brian made for me for Christmas the year we were engaged.
91. The Temple.
92. My best friend/twin Val, who helped me survive Middle School, High School, and College.
93. Heather, my first roommate in college, that I'm still friends with to this day.
94. Megs, the "good twin" roommate. We'll always have the Depot.
95. Anyone still reading this!
96. The house Brian will someday build for us.
97. The Relief Society.
98. Good hair days.
99. Cuddling. I love to cuddle with Brian as I fall asleep.
100. The times I know I've helped someone or made a difference in their lives.

Nat & Adam

For those of you who know my sister Nat & her husband Adam, this is a brief update on them. We found out yesterday that Adam's brother James was in a 4-wheeling accident in which he broke his neck. As of last night he had made it through surgery but only had feeling or use of his upper body. He works as a contractor so it is imperative that he be able to walk for his job. While we understand that things will work out as they are supposed to, it never hurts to have some extra prayers.

He & his wife have 5 young kids, the youngest being under a year old. Just for an example of how wonderful the church is: He was life-flighted to Flagstaff because the weather wouldn't permit them to come to Salt Lake or Provo. Adam happened to have a companion from his mission that lives in Phoenix. He has family that lives close to Flagstaff. That family member then rallied the Relief Society to come help James' wife with the baby because the hospital wouldn't allow the baby into the ICU and she didn't have anyone else there to take the baby, so she wasn't able to see her husband. It's amazing that people are so willing to help when they don't even know the people they're helping.

From some of the signs of his recovery already happening last night we're very hopeful, but their families will be fasting on Sunday for him. He'll probably be wearing a halo for 3-6 months and has had 4 vertebrae fused together in his neck. Please keep him, and Nat & Adam in your prayers. They are struggling because they are up here this weekend and not even able to be with the rest of the family or able to join him in Flagstaff to give support. This hits especially close to home for them as we worried about Adam being paralyzed when he broke his back last year.

As stated before, they know that whatever is supposed to happen will happen, and that everything is in the Lord's hands, but a few more prayers never hurt. Prayers to help him recover, prayers to help his family stay strong through this trial, and prayers of thanks that he is alive.