Gratitude

I am slow on my Thanksgiving gratitude list, but after this holiday season I feel the need to express my gratitude for the many blessings I have in my life.  Here is a short list of my top five blessings for 2013.

I am first and foremost grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  It is my rock and my foundation.  Without it, I would have no sense of direction and no ambitions for the future.  I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who has a plan and is allowing trials to come my way so I can learn and develop into a qualified Daughter of God.  I am grateful for a Savior who died for me, so I can repent daily.  I am grateful for the knowledge that my Savior knows who I am and what trials I am facing.  I am also grateful for the whisperings of the Holy Spirit.  I have been led and guided by that quiet voice many times.  I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given to serve in the temple.  I am grateful for opportunities I have been given to serve in other callings in the church.  They have all stretched me and given me opportunities to learn and grow.

I am grateful for my family.  I have been blessed with the most wonderful family!  We were able to spend many hours together during the holidays, and every time we get together I feel so much joy.  I can't wait to spend eternity with them!  They show me how to live, how to work, how to play, how to love, and how to share the gospel.  They are my best friends!  I am also grateful for sweet nieces and nephews ~ these kids mean the world to me.  They have a wonderful capacity to love and lift in any circumstance.

I am grateful for sweet friends.  I have been blessed with many different friends throughout my life.  Some have stayed for only a short time before moving on, and a select few have stayed since the moment they entered.  I am especially grateful for these few friends who have remained through thick and thin.  No matter how many months or weeks go by without having contact, when I am with them it feels like we never skipped a beat.  These friends are great examples to me, and I am forever grateful!

I am grateful for a job where I get to learn from amazing children.  I am now into my fourth year of teaching elementary school.  Every morning, I am excited and anxious to get to work because I know what I have to look forward to.  These kids teach me so much every day.  They teach me how to play, how to make fun, how to work, how to learn, and how to love with an unconditional love.

Lastly, I am grateful for a healthy body that allows me to learn, teach, love, and develop into the person I want to become.  I am grateful for opportunities to learn and grow.  They sometimes come at inconvenient times or bring challenges that I don't want to encounter, but as I grow I know I am becoming more polished and prepared to meet my Heavenly Father and Savior someday.

Doctor's Check-up

These sweet kids make me smile everyday!  I am so blessed to have them around ~ I don't know what I would do without them to make me smile!  I was their patient on Saturday - here they are "checking me out."  I am so blessed!

The Next Step

I finished my Master Degree in April 2012.  It is hard to believe that it has been a year and a half since then.  Time has simply flown by!  Well as of recently, I have been trying to figure out what I am supposed to be learning and doing during this phase of life.  I have prayed and tried several different paths only to feel like it wasn't right.

I started researching doctorate programs last spring.  Every time I would get somewhere with a program or test, I just got a feeling that it wasn't right.  So I left it alone.  Then a few months ago, I felt like maybe I should get a second master degree since the doctorate didn't feel right.  Again I prayed and started pursuing more information only to feel like it wasn't right.  So when the feeling came again this last week, I almost just ignored it because it hasn't been right.  Well I finally got around to calling Walden University to see what options they had since I had already earned my master degree.

I called during lunch and was told that since I had my master degree, I didn't have any other options through their university other than a doctorate program.  I graciously hung up the phone and had the feeling of, "Well, there's the answer again...I guess I will just wait."  Well not even five minutes later the counselor from Walden called back and apologized that she didn't tell me about their Graduate Certificates.  I can complete 12 specialized master credits and earn a Graduate Certificate.  I have prayed and attended the temple, and it just feels right.  So I will be completing my application here in the next few weeks, and will most likely start my 12 credits in January.

So I'm going to hang on tight and get ready for a crazy few months.  But I know that if I turn my heart to the Lord, I will receive the strength and energy I need to complete this.  I don't know what the future will bring, but I feel like this extra certificate will give me a boost in being successful wherever I end up.

I'm so grateful to know that I can receive direction in my life.  Often times I am left wondering why or when, but there is always a reason.  I don't know why a doctorate or second master degree isn't right, but I do know my Heavenly Father knows better than me, so I am going to put my trust in Him and keep on keepin' on.

The Flu

I discovered first hand this week that the flu is making its way through Burton Elementary School.  I have had students absent here and there, but just out for one day - usually with a sore throat or cough.

To spare the graphic details, this poor boy in my class made it until 2:00 when he couldn't hold the throw-up any longer and spewed it across the room...Spraying me, three or four other students, the whiteboard, my iPad, two tables, 4 chairs, seat pouches, reading books, and about a 6 foot diameter floor space.  It was EVERYWHERE!  Needless to say, I spent the last 30 minutes of the day trying to clean and keep some order in my classroom while the secretary took the poor boy to get him cleaned up and ready to go home.

I don't do puke ~ the second I see or smell it I'm ready to grab a garbage can and leave the vicinity.  So it took a lot of will power to get the gloves on and scrub the tables, chairs, whiteboard, iPad, students' faces and arms, and my clothing.

Well it happened to be a Thursday - the day when I was giving a presentation during faculty meeting, and the day when I needed to rush out of the school and be at the Temple for my Ordinance Worker shift.  I felt disgusting, but I did it.  I scrubbed my skirt and boots, hoped I got it off, put some oils on to keep me from getting sick, and went on my way.

Sadly, the next day I had five students absent.  They must have caught the bug ~ which makes me sad for them.  But I am so grateful they caught it and are getting over it at HOME!  Now I'm left hoping I have dodged it and don't have to clean up any more puke for a long, long time!

The Single Life

I have had a lot of feelings and emotions running through my head this last week.  Being 24, single, with a masters degree and a career, and living in Rexburg, Idaho is an interesting experience.  Many people assume I must be doing something wrong, or maybe I'm too picky, or I just don't want to be married.  And most of the time the topic is so dear to my heart that I just let them think that because I don't want to show how bad it hurts.

I have learned several things in the last few weeks.  First, when I focus my thoughts on myself, the biggest emotion I feel is loneliness.  Second, I discovered that by thinking of myself I couldn't find true happiness.  Last, being a one-person show is not fun at all!  I have learned that in order to love this period in my life, I need to serve and be grateful and mostly learn to trust my Heavenly Father and Savior with all my heart.

It is hard to look around and see friends and family dating, getting married, and having children.  It is hard not to be jealous because those blessings are truly the righteous desires of my heart.  But I know that Heavenly Father has a plan.  I know that He is taking care of me.  I know that someday I will get to meet the wonderful young man He is saving for me.  And I know that in the meantime, He wants me to put a smile on my face and live my life as an example to others.  And with the strength of my testimony, I know I can do it.

I have the strength to serve.  I have the strength to love.  I have the power to change lives for the better.  I have the courage to get up each morning and put a smile on my face.  I have the testimony to share the wonderful message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  And most importantly, I have the faith to trust whole-heartedly in my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ.  They love me as a daughter and sister, and they truly want the best for me.

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October 2013

October has been a beautiful fall month!  I love the beauty that fall brings ~  the leaves changing colors and the mornings growing crisp.  Life has been busy, as always, but I have had several special experiences I want to document.

I started the month off with Fall Break.  The first two days of Fall Break were actually Teacher Inservice days.  I taught a writing class with another teacher from my school.  It was nerve-racking to get up in front of master teachers who know so much more than I do and teach them what I know!  The class went well, and I am so grateful for all the amazing teachers who took time to thank me for the work that was devoted to the presentation.  It is a special feeling to think that I maybe helped someone become a better teacher.

After Inservice, Deidre, Tate and I headed to Salt Lake for the DoTERRA Convention.  We got to Salt Lake on Tuesday evening and got all registered for the convention.  On Wednesday morning, we got up bright and early and headed to the Salt Palace.  I learned so many new and interesting things at the convention.  I was very impressed by the Executive Team.  They truly felt prompted and guided in their decision to create the company.  We had a great time learning and trying new oils!  I am so grateful for Deidre's thoughtfulness in inviting me.  At first I was worried about leaving during my break and not accomplishing my to-do list.  But I was able to complete everything before we left, and it was rejuvenating to have a few days away from work.  I feel so blessed to have brothers and sisters who I truly love being around!  I enjoyed every minute spent with Deidre and Tate.

Last Friday my parents and all of my siblings were able to be in the Temple together and unite as a family in the Celestial Room.  What a special experience ~ to be in a most special place with the people I love the very most!  Chelsea went through the Temple to receive her Endowment on Friday, October 18, 2013.  I went through the Temple on Friday, October 19, 2012.  So it was extra special for me to be there exactly one year later.  When I ponder back on the last year, I am truly grateful for that blessing and those Priesthood leaders who knew I would need those blessings in this last year.  I have relied on the Temple for strength and light in times of trial and discouragement.  I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had to  attend and work in the Temple in the last year.

This last week I had Parent Teacher Conferences at school.  As the time for conferences got closer, I started to get nervous about some things I was going to need to discuss with parents.  I found myself praying through the day and the conference to know how to tactfully and professionally bring up interesting topics.  I am so grateful for the influence of the Holy Ghost in helping me know what I should say, when I should say it, and the best words to use.  I have a testimony that I can be led in all decisions and conversations that I lead.  Heavenly Father is aware of me, and He sends His love and guiding hand whenever I am in need.

Fall Happenings

The last month has felt like one big whirlwind of work, church, family, and many different emotions!  I have been blessed to work with 22 sweet children this year in my fourth grade classroom.  I have to say that they have a different "personality" to the group, but we are learning to make compromises and adjustments so we all can be happy. : )  I have been amazed at their ability to love and welcome our autistic classmate.  As I spend each day in their presence, I learn more of Christ's admonition to become as a little child.  They have an amazing ability to love unconditionally.

I have been working in the temple as an Ordinance Worker on Thursday evenings and then twice a month on Saturday morning playing the organ.  This work in the temple keeps me busy.  There are days when I wonder if I can keep it up, but then I think back to the blessing President Hoopes gave me when setting me apart as an Ordinance Worker.  He told me I would have to make sacrifices in order to work at the temple, but the blessings that would come from being in the temple would greatly outweigh the sacrifice.  I feel so blessed to have an evening where nothing matters other than to love and serve others in the temple.  I have been reminded time and time again that my Heavenly Father knows and loves me.

Two weeks ago, I went to the temple and was feeling completely overwhelmed and frustrated with happenings at work.  I had tried to make it to the temple to participate in Initiatories all week, but I kept getting stuck at work until 6:30 or 7:00 each night.  I walked into the temple seriously wondering how I was going to make it through a six hour shift.  As I grabbed my schedule for the night, I found myself in tears thanking my Heavenly Father for his awareness of me.  I had been scheduled to participate as an Iniatory Patron for 45 minutes during my time at the temple, and I was scheduled to finish my rotation around 8:00 instead of 10:00.  I was then reminded several times during my shift that my Heavenly Father and Savior know how I am feeling, and they are doing their best to help me through.  I am so grateful for wonderful people who are listening to the whisperings of the spirit and are willing to follow through with those promptings in order to bless my life.

On Friday, Chelsea got a big, white envelope in the mail calling her to serve in the Gilbert, Arizona Mission.  I am so excited for her, and I am excited for those people of Arizona who will get to meet an amazing young lady ready to share the Gospel with the world.  She has been a great example to all of us as she is ready and willing to serve the Lord.   As she read her call to our family, I felt such a strong assurance that Gilbert, Arizona is where the Lord wants her.  She will be great!

So life is busy, but this life is great and I wouldn't have it any other way!  I am blessed with an amazing family and wonderful friends.  And I have a knowledge that my Savior and Heavenly Father love me, and they are aware of my every need and care.  I love this Gospel and the knowledge and strength I receive from being a part of it!

Summer in Pictures

Last week as I started my final year of summer science class, I came to the realization that summer is over!  I am sad to see it end, but I am anxious to get busy in my classroom and fill my time caring for and serving 21 wonderful children.  I was transferring photos onto my computer, and I found several that I wanted to have saved on this blog.  So this post is more for my sake of memories than anything!  Enjoy...

Swift Creek 5k

Several weeks ago I decided I didn't want to be the "lame" sister who didn't join in the Swift Creek 5k in Star Valley.  So I committed to run, and then trained a grand total of around 5 days!  The race was on the weekend of Dad, Jodee, and Kenley's birthdays.  So we decided to make a fun weekend out of it.  Chelsea, Dad, and I headed to Star Valley on Friday morning and spent the day playing with the kids and relaxing.

We woke up early on Saturday and headed to Afton where they shuttled us to the start line.  We were freezing, and we made the mistake of getting in the first shuttle instead of the last, so we were at the start line for awhile.

We came in right under 35 minutes, and I for sure was just thankful that I made it all 3 miles after minimal training!  We had a great time with our "Star Valley Family."  After the race, we came home and enjoyed a fun birthday celebration for Kenley!  It is hard to believe that she is already 2!  She is super happy, and loved every minute of her party.

 I am blessed with an amazing family!  They keep me going from day to day, and I am forever grateful for them!

July 24th

Chelsea and I headed over to Star Valley on Wednesday afternoon to watch Cody play soccer and just spend some time with the Nelson family.  We had a great time playing, relaxing, and visiting with them.  I am so grateful to have strong relationships with all of my siblings...they truly are my best friends!

On Saturday night, we went to the movie Ephraim's Rescue.  There were several different parts in the movie that really stood out to me and made me want to do better and be better.  In my scripture study and reading this week there has been a universal message of "Obedience Brings Blessings," so the movie struck close to my heart.  I was reminded of several principles that I hope to improve upon.

I was first impressed with Ephraim's willingness to obey with exactness when President Brigham Young asked him to shave...what a small thing, but he was immediately obedient without even asking one question.

Then next scene that touched my heart was when President Young asked the men to bring the Saints in from the plains.  There were several men who accepted and said they could be ready later in the week, but when Ephraim accepted he was prepared and ready at the moment.  He lived his life to always be worthy and willing whenever he was needed.

The last scene that particularly touched me was when he told Sister Dobson that he makes so many mistakes, but he tries.  And the Lord blessed him and all those around him because he tried to always do his best and be the man God would have him be.

I felt like these were three things that I could really work on in my life.
1) Obey with exactness
2) Be worthy, willing, and ready at all times
3) Try my best

I know as I strive to become more like Christ, the Lord will provide.

July 2013

Summer always seems to work the same way...the month of June trudges along and I spend my time reading books and enjoying nice afternoon naps!  Then July hits and is over before I can hardly blink my eyes!  I have a class that starts the first week of August, so I know that as soon as August hits, summer is basically over for me.  So I have been working to get all my summer projects and summer fun finished these last few weeks...

I have reorganized all my reading units for 4th grade.  I am hoping that this will make life during the school year a little easier as the units are all put together in binders and ready to go.  I have a few more school projects that I need to finish in the next few weeks, but overall I am feeling ready for another year of sweet 4th graders!

I decided last week that I wanted to join my sisters in a 5k the first weekend of August.  I haven't been very motivated this summer to get out and run in the mornings, but I did survive a 2 mile run last week, so I think I will make it!  

I spent a wonderful 2 days with my friend Amanda and her family in Utah.  They were so sweet to let me be part of their family for a few days.  Sometimes a change of scenery is all I need to get going again!

And my biggest summer project is almost finished...

During the last week of June and the first few days of July I was really dreading the 4th of July.  For me, it is the worst holiday to be a single person and I was not looking forward to it.  But the Lord saw an opportunity to bless my life, and I will forever be grateful.

On the morning of July 2, a neighbor knocked on our door and asked for my mom.  She was playing the organ at the temple, so I took a message for her.  The Cartmill's basement had flooded and they were looking to donate their piano to someone in need.  I took the message and relayed it to my mom.  I went boating with some friends that afternoon, so I didn't get to talk to my mom about it until I got home.  When I got home, I was telling her that I would love the piano, but I didn't really NEED it.  She convinced me that it wasn't a need right now, but it would become a need when I move out.  Only minutes after this discussion, Brother Cartmill came to the door and asked if we wanted it.  I immediately said, "Yes!" He had the cleaning and restoration employees load it up and bring it to the house.

I started looking for ideas of what I wanted to do, and I found this beautifully refinished piano on Pinterest.  So I followed the instructions and started in on my project.  Here is what it looked like from the start...

 
With the help of my dad, we took it all apart and started cleaning.  I was actually very surprised at how easily it came to pieces.  I took each key out and vacuumed and scrubbed the inside.

Next, I covered the insides and started in with the primer.  After the primer, I sprayed all the pieces Ivory.

I called my wonderful brother-in-law and received "Glazing 101"  over the phone!  I added a black glaze to finish it!  Lastly, I painted the pedals to match the glaze.

Here it is!  I will have a tuner come in a few weeks to get it ready for playing and lessons.

I truly have felt like this project has been such a blessing for me.  It has given me something to look forward to each day.  And on the 4th of July, when everyone was out enjoying the fireworks, I was in the garage spray painting away and I enjoyed every second of it!  Another small reminder that my Heavenly Father is aware of me, and He is anxious to bless me in any way He can!