November 14, 2017

I tried to be so prepared, and I tried to talk so fast, but our first presidency meeting lasted three hours!!  We all had so much to learn!  We had so many things to go over and so many questions.  I know things will get better once we get put together.  But it was a bit overwhelming.  One thing I did feel was such an abundance of love and support from my presidency.  It's going to be so great.  They all hugged me as we walked out the door.  I really felt "sustained."

I usually make my hair appointments in advance.  Arturo and I figured out it was the only way to keep me coming.  So now they just show up on my schedule and I make it work.  I had one this afternoon.  It felt a little hectic, but I decided to follow my plan and make it work.  Miles watched all the boys, since it was an early-out day.  I left them playing laser tag in the backyard and having a grand time.  The weather was amazing.

Arturo and I had a good time talking while he did my hair.  He shared with me about his daughter-in-law who passed away from brain cancer.  I told him about Jaron.  We were able to really relate.  We talked about my dad and how the funeral went for our family.  We always end up talking about the gospel with each other.  It's so great to have that in common with my hair stylist!

After dinner, I went and visited a few more sisters I was worried about.  I loved being in their homes and talking with them and feeling their spirits.  I can see so much work to be done when it comes to loving and reaching out to those around me.  I felt blessed to service.  Afterward, Rachel and I sat in the car.  We shared our deep thoughts and feelings.  We shared our testimonies and hopes.  Rachel and I have become such dear friends lately.  When it came time to choose my counselors, I knew that I should choose her.  I kept thinking, but she is my close friend, maybe I should call someone different.  And then the thought came to me, "This is why you have grown to be such good friends.  For this purpose."  I felt so grateful to have a counselor that I already feel so connected to, so comfortable around, and so ready to counsel with.  And actually, I feel that way about my whole presidency.  I am so blessed.

This sunrise is amazing!!

Sunrise...

Well, I feel like I should change the subject from Relief Society.  I'm probably sounding boring by now.  My mind is definitely occupied.  But I'm still finding time to spend with my family.  We've enjoyed family dinners together and time just laughing and playing.  I've been able to read to my boys at night and rock Lance to sleep after storied.

And one thing has been so enjoyable lately: the sunsets!!!  I should also mention the sunrises.  I don't know if it is just this time of year, but they have been absolutely breathtaking.  Someone will shout out in amazement, and we will all run to the front door to admire God's handiwork.  I have been so touched and blessed to see the beautiful colors streaking through the sky.  Oh, what a glorious world we live in.  Oh, how grateful I am to be here to see it.  Life is so very beautiful.  :)

Sunset...

Sunset..