Fourth of July

Yesterday was busy and I didn't get a chance to update this blog but I am going to take the time now... I am grateful for the freedom that we have in this great country, for the men and women who are serving and have served this country. I am grateful for the time that we have to celebrate, that we can take the time to spend with friends and family without worrying so much about life. I am grateful for fireworks, parades, smiles, and the Gospel that allows me to more fully understand my purpose. I am grateful for God and his hand in what happens to me on a personal level but also for his hand in what happens in this country. There is evil around us but if we put our trust in God we will not fail. I hope your Independence day celebrations were enjoyable.

I don't know that many people are aware that the Star-Spangled banner has more than one verse (because that is all that is ever sung) but the last verse is my very favorite. I love the message that it conveys. 

"O thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

 Between their loved home and the war's desolation.

 Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the Heav'n rescued land

 Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!

 Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

 And this be our motto: "in God is our trust."

 And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

 O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"

Yesterday I was able to go to the Provo Temple with my ward before they close for the Summer (For those of you who are wondering what the Temple is look here). My grandparents found out I was going and emailed me some family names that they found that needed to be done soon. I felt the spirit so strongly in the Temple, I love having that connection with my ancestors. I am grateful for this gospel and the blessings it brings me as well as the proximity of the temple to my house.

I am thankful for the church in my life. Today, church was just what I needed to hear. The whole time I was listening and learning from those around me as they shared their experiences. I am grateful for a Father in Heaven who knows of me and knows how to help me to become the best I can be.

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

I am so grateful for the women in my life, especially my mother and my grandmothers. Today was my first mother's day without my Grandma Fiso. I am so thankful for the knowledge I have of the Plan of Salvation, it makes her death so much easier for me. My grandmother's have always been such good examples to me. It is rare to see either one of my grandma's in a bad mood and I hope someday that I can develop that trait. My own mother is amazing! I am so glad to have her as my mother and I love knowing that when I am having a hard day she will be there. Sure we have our off moments but I sure love my mom and I hope she knows that!

My Grandma's (Grandma Fiso on the left and Grandma Dickson on the right)

We went to England

Once upon a time. . .

It may sound strange, but...

I'm thankful for adenovirus. When else but during a discussion about disease could you get references to the gospel, dancing, war, and fencing all in 10 minutes? I'm grateful for the smiles it brings.

Plus look how pretty it is!

I am grateful for the accessibility Gospel. I am grateful for the knowledge that I don't have to be perfect and I don't have to know everything. The truths of the gospel are shared each Sunday in a way that allows me to learn from others what I need to learn. I am not expected to know everything I can learn as I grow and I can learn in layers. I learn what is important for me at the moment and those ideas can be strengthened over time. I love this church and I am thankful for it in my life.