Day 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162 - Way 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162

I must start this post by saying that the following days were very emotional for me. Many of the things that happened in these few days were very personal to me, so I will not go into much detail. I apologize for the short descriptions.

Thursday (151) Today I visited a couple doctors offices to try to get some understanding about why I have been sick the last three months. Although they were not able to answer all of my questions, I have faith that if I will put my trust in my Savior, I will find peace and comfort.

Friday (152) I got to spend a little time with a friend today for his birthday. I took him a birthday cake and that made him pretty happy! I also got to continue the tradition of volunteering at my high school with my brother as spotters for the home football games. I'm grateful that my parents taught us the importance of volunteerism.

Saturday (153) Thank heavens for the miracle of my BYU football team. Although my mommy and daddy weren't physically at the game, I felt like they were there in spirit. I also got to take a couple pictures with me to the game, as I will for all of the games. These pictures were taken at the very last home game that my parents went to before their mission. Although to some it may not make much sense, I feel so close to my parents when I am at these games, because my parents made sure that for MY ENTIRE LIFE, literally from the year I was born until now, I was able to go to ALL the BYU football home games. I am grateful for my parents for giving me this great tradition!


Sunday (154)In Sunday school today we learned about the things we must do to keep the spirit with us in our lives. Our Sunday School teacher asked us to contemplate the question: How safe am I? We were asked to think about the things that we do in our lives and decide if those things are helping us to grow or if they are harming us. I really liked that question How safe am I? I hope to ask myself that each day as I make decisions that will have an effect on my future.

Monday (155)Labor Day. I really could have made better use of this free day. Oops.

Tuesday (156)A new employee started at my office today. I got to train her on all the important things to remember in our office. It was a little bit bitter sweet to train her though, because I realized that meant I wouldn't be doing all the things that I was training her to do. I only cried once though, and luckily not in front of her! I am grateful that my Heavenly Father has given me the peace and comfort I needed to be able to accept this change in my life.

Wednesday (157)I trained our new employee some more today. I also got to go to a movie in the evening with my roommate Mandy. We saw Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. I really enjoyed the movie and want to read the books now. I was grateful to be able to spend time with Mandy. It really helped me and cheered me up after my day of farewells to more of my old job.

Thursday (158)Got a lot of reading done at work today. I feel more prepared to build the website for my work now. I am grateful for this opportunity because I know it will help me to develop my resume and help me to know what I want to do with my new skills!

Friday (159) I took the day off today. Didn't do really much of anything! In the evening I went with my friends to a German restaurant to celebrate Germany Day! Then I went to my friend Tim's house so he could show me pictures from his trip to Peru. It was really awesome to see the places he visited and the mountains he climbed. I would love to visit those places some day. He also brought me back a rock from the top of an active volcano that he climbed in Peru. It is really awesome!

Saturday (160) I went to my friends soccer game today, then my best friend Beezer and I got to get her wedding pictures printed for her wedding album. Then I went to the state fair with my roommmate Mandy. It was really fun to look at my brothers pictures and then we watched for a few minutes to listen to the comments of people that noticed his pictures. I love my brother and am proud of him for finding something he loves and working hard to develop his talents.

Sunday (161)We had a family get together this evening. Each month our extended family on my moms side gets together to have family home evening. This month the theme of the evening was "getting to know Robby" Robby is my cousin Erin's fiance. We were all so very excited to meet him and visit with him. I had not made a decision about how I felt about Erin marrying him, but after meeting with him and being able to talk with him for a while, I felt an instant connection with him. I know he is supposed to be the man my cousin marries. He is not anything like the guy I would have guessed she would eventually marry, but he is soooo perfect for her. I am so excited to have him as a cousin! Also at the family home evening, I brought along a man that blessed our families lives a few months ago. I asked that Jay, the Elder that baptized my brother-in-law Tony, come to meet our extended family. I know that he means a lot to this family, so I wanted to make sure that the family could get to know him better.

Monday (162) Today I mailed the tape of the BYU vs. Washington game to my parents. This game was really intense, down to the last second! Then I took Doug to the bank so he could cash a check and pay his rent. When I got home, I spent the afternoon typing this blog post! I am grateful for the opportunity I have to reflect on the blessings in my life each day.

Day 147, 148, 149, 150 - Way 147, 148, 149, 150

Sunday (147) Today I witnessed the miracle of the restored organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Today I was given a calling, which in this church means that I have been asked to fulfill a necessary role in establishing and improving the Lords kingdom on earth. The calling which I have been given, I believe is meant specifically for me at this time, because of faith and prayers and communication I have had with my Heavenly Father the last few weeks and months. I truly believe it to be an inspired call. Boyd K. Packer gave an address on callings. I have included it as a link within this post.

Monday (148) I was able to apply for and get a job today that will help me as I prepare to further my career. I believe it is the perfect job for me at this time and I am so excited to get started. I will be substitute teaching! YEAH!

Tuesday (149) I am grateful for family. Isn't it great! I think I've used this blessing at least 2 times a month, since I started this blog. But it is so true. I can't think of anything more perfect than that. I just love all of them and today I got to talk to each of them for a minute and that was great!

Wednesday (150) Can you believe it 150 days since my parents left! Just about 5 months ago! I do not know how time can fly so fast. Every day, has been a struggle, but every day I hope I have been growing stronger. I have learned to do a lot of things for myself that I wasn't expecting. I have also learned to take care of others in a way that I was not expecting. Today, for just a brief moment, I got to talk to a cousin whose parents served in the same mission that my parents are currently serving in. I asked her how she and her siblings did it. She (thankfully) admitted that it was HARD. That it took a toll on her family. Her sister especially. But they made it. She told me that she would have her sister call me once she gets out of the hospital! She just had a baby!!! I can't wait! Hopefully I can go visit with her and her new baby and chat about the stresses of having parents on a mission and the joys and blessings that inevitably come! I know that I have been blessed, and I am soooooo very grateful for Elder Ballard's challenge to share the gospel by "joining the conversation" about the church and the blessings we receive as we live faithful to the Lords commandments. Whether or not anyone ever reads these words, I will have a wonderful record of the blessings I receive from living faithful and allowing my parents the opportunity to go and serve the Lord and his children in Japan.

Day 145, 146 -Way 145, 146

Friday (145) Today I am again grateful for my friends in the geography department at the University of Utah. I am proud to say that I am a geography department Alum. I know that I learned so much there and I am grateful for everyone in the department that had some kind of influence on me. I went to our department fall picnic today and just felt so at home with everyone there. Throughout the picnic many people encouraged me to start grad school at the U, so now I've got that on my plate to consider!

Saturday (146) Good friends, good roommates, good uncles, good pets. I am grateful for all of them. I am also grateful for my parents and their encouragement and advice. I wish they could see my perspective more often, but I know there will always be a blur between what I see and what my parents see.

Day 143, 144 - Way 143, 144

Wednesday (143) Wow, I can't believe I am about to say this, but today I am grateful for the University of Utah. Let me quickly clarify. I am grateful for the University of Utah Geography Department. I feel like I am part of a family of geographers whenever I am around anyone from the department and I feel so blessed to be part of that family. Today I went shopping with the geography department secretary and the student president of geography club. There is a picnic in the park on Friday and I volunteered to go with them to do shopping for the picnic. It was a lot of fun and I was very happy to do it, even at 8:30 in the morning! I am also grateful for Beezer, Bryce, pirates and wheelchairs!

Thursday (144) I feel so blessed to have a safe and well built home to come home to. I got a sign at the thrift store yesterday that I put on the front door of my house. It reads "My house is clean enough to be healthy and dirty enough to be happy!" Although, it would be cool to have a room or two that look like Better Homes and Gardens rooms, I am so grateful that I don't feel pressure to make this house like that. I am grateful that my house can look and feel like a home! I am also grateful for prayers, humility, patience and forgiveness.

Day 141, 142 - Way 141, 142

Monday (141) I am grateful for inspiration. I wish I could be more in tune and listen more intently to the inspiration I receive, however. I want to be more aware of what the Lord would have me do and not do, so that I don't have to make mistakes to find out I was wrong.

Tuesday (142) Today more than ever, I am grateful for my roommate Mandy. She is in my house for a reason. She is a strong rock to hold me steady and remind me where my focus should be. I am grateful for our friendship. She has given me hope when I need it the most. She reminds me daily of the strength I can have and need to have to get through this life.

Day 138, 139 - Way 138, 139

Friday (138)
The most important and significant thing that happened today is the simple inspiration I received so that I could find my scriptures, which had been missing for a few months. I was just about to go buy new ones, but I prayed about it one last time, and immediately knew where to look to find them. I am grateful for that miracle in my life.

Saturday (139)
Today I was able to spend time with my roommates from college. I love these girls and their spouses and children. We will be friends forever, because we have been with each other through ups and downs. I am so glad we got to spend time together!

Sunday (140)
If I could rewind today, I probably would have made more of an effort to see that miracles could happen. As it was, I woke up very sick and stayed in bed late intot he morning. Then I sat at home for the remainder of the day doing things of little significance. I will try to sleep well tonight, so that I can go to work refreshed tomorrow.

Day 135, 136, 137 - Way 135, 136, 137

135 (Tuesday) Today I am grateful for family. I love my extended family and I am grateful to be a part of their lives.

136 (Wednesday) My parents are so great and I am grateful for their faith in me. They encourage me to be better and stronger. I know that I can be a great person, because of their trust in me.

137 (Thursday) Today I am grateful for home cooked meals. My sweet grandma spent the day helping me with some errands for my parents that they really needed me to do. Afterward, she offered to bring me dinner. She is one of those ladies that finds joy in feeding her family. She is wonderful!

Day 133 and 134 - Way 133 and 134

Day 133 (Sunday)

I find comfort in knowing that the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was set up in such a way that we can lean on certain people for strength, because they have been given extra power and strength to help us in our times of weakness. I am grateful for a Father in Heaven that recognizes our needs and helps us if we will let him.

Day 134 (Monday)

I am grateful for friends in the gospel that are good examples to me of who I can become. I love knowing that there are people that understand the true principles of the gospel and embrace others and help them to see the light of Christ. I hope to be that kind of person!

Day 132 - Way 132

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It takes a village to raise a child.

Now obviously this is not a ploy to get you to buy Hillary Clinton's book (by the same title) instead, this is my attempt to report on the miracle I have discovered that is most valuable to all people around the world.
I would like to change the verbiage of this proverb slightly, to read:
It takes a relative, a friend, a neighbor, a village, a country, and the world to allow one human being to be their very best self.

I honestly believe that we are not in this thing alone and we are not meant to face any of it alone. I believe in a loving Father in Heaven that wants to be with all of his children always. Directing them, leading them, giving advice, protecting them, providing love and support to them. I also believe that in order for him to allow us to use our agency, he knew he couldn't be here face to face, telling us exactly what he expects us to do and exactly what will make us happy. So in his wisdom and love, he gave us family, neighbors, friends, villages and people around the globe to be his hands, his voice, his love. It is up to us to reach out for his help through those he has provided in our path that will lift us and strengthen us. John 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

In his love and mercy he has given us people, other human beings that struggle and have challenges and at times will need you for support, but will also be there for you to buoy you up and give you peace in your heart in your time of need. I am grateful that this week, I was able to realize that I am not in this alone. I can and must lean on the strength of those that love me to give me hope in times of weakness. For any of my friends or family or global readers, please lean on me when you need strength. I want to be His hands, His love.

Day 129, 130, 131 -Way 129, 130, 131

August 6(129)
I am grateful for hard work and the opportunity to grow as I develop skills at work.

August 7(130)
I have been so blessed to have a job that has allowed me to be flexible and do the things that I needed to do to finish school and travel and grow. Today, I had a rough day at work, but I was reminded that I have received so many blessings fro this job, that this one day cannot hold me down.

August 8(131)
The miracle of the Olympic Ideal, is one of the most amazing miracles I have ever heard of. I can not believe that people from all over the world can step aside from their worldly differences and embrace the humanity that is within us all. I am grateful that my parents taught me to love allpeople as they are all Gods children and my brothers and sisters.

Day 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128 - Way 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128

Day 123 (July 31) Time sure does fly when your friend gets a new job and leaves you! :( Today is the last day I will see my good friend Kelly at work. About a month ago, I helped him as he was applying for a job. Today, I threw a party for him to say goodbye. I am grateful for his friendship and I hope that it will continue even though he will be far away.

Day 124 (Aug 1) I am so grateful for the gospel and for the lessons I have learned about charity throughout my life. I feel like this life is one big opportunity to show our Heavenly Father just how much we care for all that he has given us. I hope that I spend enough time every day giving of myself to be worthy to return to my Heavenly Fathers presence.

Day 125 (Aug 2) Today I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given to be a missionary. In visiting the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors Center today, I was given a strong witness of the truthfulness of the gospel message of eternal families. After receiving this witness, we were asked by a sister missionary if we knew of anyone that might be ready to hear the gospel message. I normally hesitate and usually don't put any names down. On this occasion however, I felt strongly that I should put down two names. These two people mean a lot to me and I hope that one day they will be receptive to the spirit as it bears witness of the truth. Although at times we may believe that people will be angry with us for giving their names and phone numbers to missionaries, I know that they will be more upset with me in Heaven if I decided they didn't deserve a chance to hear the messages of the restored gospel here on Earth.

Day 126 (Aug 3) This was a very long day. I started driving home from Phoenix at 9am Arizona time. We didn't arrive home until 11:30pm Arizona time. That's 14 1/2 hours for those that didn't want to count! You would think that I would have been absolutely exhausted, but I wasn't, in fact, I felt very alert and in control the entire day as I drove across the Arizona desert and through Las Vegas and up the majority of Utah. The miracle could easily be the fact that I stayed awake, but I would also like to point out the miracle of the sacred temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After visiting the Mesa temple yesterday, I decided that I wanted to see the Las Vegas temple as well. The Las Vegas temple has become one of my most favorite places to stop, because I believe the spirit is so very strong there, even on the outside. Once we stopped there, I couldn't hold back the feeling that this was a sacred Sunday and so I wanted to make the most of the Sabbath, since I couldn't make it to church. So, I stopped at the St. George temple as well. After that, we had really made this trip much longer than it should have been, so I wasn't able to stop at the Provo, Mt. Timpanogos or Jordan River Temples, but I got to see the two in Utah county with their lights on as we drove by. I am grateful for the temple. I know that it is designed by our Heavenly Father as a place where we can strengthen our commitment to him and we can be the Lords hands in fulfilling his promise that all would be given a chance to return to live with him again.

Day 127 (Aug 4) I am grateful for the miracle of having a job that I love. I feel so blessed to be able to go to work and enjoy what I do.

Day 128 (Aug 5) I am grateful for creativity. I am grateful for opportunities to be creative in what I do, in order to be more efficient and more effective. I am grateful that my job is flexible enough that I was able to work a 14 hour day today, it really helps to make up for missing 2 weeks of work due to illness.

Day 122 - Way 122

Miracles can come in all shapes and sizes. Today the miracle is that my moms years of hard work at home and my dads years of play at work, to make sure that I got an education finally paid off big time. I took my very last test today and it is now official, I have graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelors degree in Geography.(OK, still technically not yet, cause I don't have the piece of paper to prove it)I know, I know a few of you out there are saying, wait she posted about graduating back in May. That is true, I did. But that is when I walked, cause the U only let's you walk once a year. I had 12 more credits I had to finish, but now I have finished them. So, in 3 months when the paper diploma comes, I will probably have to bring it up again, but for now, this is huge. I feel like I have made my daddy proud today. He always told us that getting his degree was so important, so to be the first of his kids to do it, I am a little (OK, a lot) proud of myself. But I have to say, it is not all on me. I know this took MANY amazing people to get me to this point, so today I wish to honor and celebrate them. I am full of gratitude for everyone that got me through this. Now, can I go to Disney World?

Day 121 - Way 121

It was a miracle to me today to get sooo much work done at work. I have been sick for a while, so I missed a lot of work. Well, today I was able to go to work and I worked for 10 hours! I got so much accomplished and I feel really good about what I did. I am grateful that the Lord knows how much I love my job and want to do well, so he helped me to stay focused and on task so that I could get so much done!

Day 120 - Way 120

Well, I don't know why but no one corrected me for the last ten or so years when I would say that Mark Monsens daughter married my cousin. A Monsen girl married my cousin, but her uncle is Mark, not her dad! Today I learned that so now I know.

Anyway, my miracle today is the clarity that comes from making the right decision about the path you will take in life. I know that when you are able to receive a confirmation from the spirit about your decision, that you are on the right path. Today I felt a strong witness that I should be making some important changes in my life and in my career/job decisions. I am now preparing myself to understand those changes more so when the time comes to make them I will be ready. I am grateful that the Lord is mindful of me and he knows that I need and want his help as I make important life decisions.

Day 117, 118, 119 - Way 117, 118, 119

117 (Friday) Today I am grateful for my mother and her dedication to her call to serve. I know it isn't always easy to do what you are called to do, because sometimes our callings are difficult for us to understand. But I testify that the Lord knows us on an individual basis and he would not ask my mother to serve in a capacity that she is not right for. I love her for working hard to be the best she possibly can be.

118 (Saturday) I am so thrilled that the Lord has given me so many blessings. I know that he blesses each of us as we strive to be obedient to his commands. I am very unworthy at times for the blessings he has in store for me, but the moment I decide to choose his path, the blessings flow. There is a scripture in Malachi (3:10) where the Lord speaks about paying tithing and how we will not have room enough to receive the blessings from doing as the Lord asks. Although he is specifically talking about tithing, I think he would also say something very similar about obedience to all his commands. If we will prove to him our faithfulness, we will not have room to receive the blessings he has in store.

119 (Sunday)Today the Lord worked mighty and powerful miracles. The voice of the Lord is not still. He continues to make revelations that bless our lives. First of all let me just say that I love and honor and sustain my Stake Presidency and the Stake Presidencies that serve in our area. Today they told us that the East Mill Creek 19th Ward of which we have been a part of would be divided in to 4 wards. This revelation came because the activity rate of Young Single Adults in the church is alarmingly low and it is important that there be more priesthood accountability and stewardship. I received confirmation of this revelation and feel so excited to be a part of this new change. Although I am terribly saddened that my uncle and his amazing counselors have been released from their callings, I am thrilled with our new bishopric. I know that they are called of God and that they have been chosen for this time and this ward. I am terrible at names, so I will have to post the other two names after our ward activity tomorrow, but the new Bishop is Bishop Steve Bowman and his first counselor is Brother Monson (who I like to call uncle Monsen, cause my cousin married his daughter!) I had a wonderful spiritual experience that allowed me to know that Bishop Bowman was the right person for the job and I am so happy that I was prepared to receive this witness. I really haven't been a good member of the church the last year or so and I know that it has not been easy for those that were stewards over me to see me faltering, but I want them to know that I am sorry and I am grateful that they are forgiving men that can understand that I would not have been able to handle the last few weeks and months without every single one of them. I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is on the earth today in all of it's fullness. I know that the priesthood has been restored and I also know that the Lord has established a church whereby men and women may be edified together (Doctrine and Covenants 84:109-110) so that they may get through this probationary state and return to live with our Heavenly Father. I am grateful that I could be a part of this miraculous day.

Day 116 - Way 116

I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father that knows me and knows when I need his help. I am grateful for priesthood blessings that I have received at various times in my life that have all reminded me of a sacred responsibility and capacity I have. I am grateful that the spirit can remind me, at my darkest hour, of the blessings that have been promised to me through my faith and obedience. I needed my Heavenly Father today, and he did not let me down, once I turned to him.

Day 115 - Way 115

My best friends give me so much support and strength. The prophets have counseled us to sorround ourselves with peoplw that help us to become better and set high standards ans examples. My best friends do just that. I am grateful for their unending love!

Day 114 - Way 114

I am grateful for my family. We are so awesome together. I think we absolutely picked each other in Heaven, cause we really are just too awesome together. I love the quirks that we each have and I love the honesty we can share with each other. I want my daddy, my mommy, my sister, my older married in but not the less special brother, my older younger brother and my younger brother to know that I sincerely love each and every one of them and could not do this life without all of them!

Day 112, 113 - Way 112, 113

(112) Sunday July 20- My opportunity today was to rely on the spirit. I didn't do the best I could have so I am praying to learn to rely on the spirit more. I know that I can be a righteous and worthy daughter of God, and I know that if I put my faith in my Saviour he will lead me down the right path for my life.

(113) Monday July 21- This sickness is really wearing on me now. I feel really good when I sit still or lie down. So, of course I make myself believe that I am much better and I stand up and try to do something. My energy is drained in seconds. I am grateful for my best friends mother today. She is a doctor and she convinced me that I need to just rest. I need to stop trying to do things that I don't have energy for and I need to just wait until I'm better before I do anything.

Day 109, 110, 111 - Way 109, 110, 111

I thought I was doing much better with keeping track of my blog, but being sick means some things get unintentionally forgotten. I will just list three miracles that I've experienced over the past few days, which are not necessarily day specific.
First, when I needed to talk to my mommy and daddy, I was able to. I really just needed them and so thanks to Skype, I didn't have to fly over to Japan to see them. The second is the miracle of forgiveness. My oldest brother and I DO NOT usually get along, we just can't seem to see eye to eye, but when I really needed a hug, I asked him for one and he said of course. Finally, I have been worried sick about my little brother because he is working away at a camp in Colorado, where he gets no phone service and he can only use the internet once a week. Just as I started to really get nervous about whether or not he was ok, he was online and I was able to chat with him for about an hour. I am grateful that a loving Heavenly Father knows the desires of my heart and blesses my family with his love.

Day 108 - Way 108

The miracle today is "my parents were right". Yes, hold the phone, stop the pressses, this is a phenomenal testament that may only be given this one time! My parents said the dogs would be fine if they were kept outside all day, well today I was home all day to see that they were right. My dogs survived. I love taking care of these dogs and spoiling them, but I am also VERY HAPPY to see that they are capable of taking care of themselves outside for the day! Mom and Dad, I love you and perhaps I'll take some of your other advice now!

Day 107 - Way 107

Today I am grateful for the miracle of the restoration of the priesthood to the earth. I am especially grateful for the exercise of that priesthood by righteous priesthood holders in providing much needed priesthood blessings. I have been very ill today and needed the strength that comes from receiving a blessing. I am grateful to my cousins for living worthy to provide that blessing to me today.

Day 105 and 106 - Way 105 and 106

105- Sorry I counldn't post on time. I didn't have access to the internet. Today my blessing was family. I got to visit with my family for a small party for one of my cousins that will be leaving to serve a fulltime mission in Brazil at the end of this month. We got to talk with his older sister who just recently got engaged. She told her whole engagement story and told the younger cousins about her desire to be sealed in the temple. i am very grateful to be a part of an eternal family and hope that I can be obedient and live righteously so I can be with my family forever.

106- Today I am grateful for the miracle of patience. I had to learn a lot of patience today. My cellphone decided to act up this morning, in fact, it decided to erase EVERYTHING! I hadn't backed it up since the last week of June, so all of my 4th of July photos and more importantly my pictures I took at my best friends wedding, were all erased. After sitting with computer techs for about 3 hours, we determined I could not get any of it back. It was difficult to understand why this had to happen. I know that I am learning so much patience and even more, understanding of the insignificance of technology and little bits of data. I may actually miss a few appointments over the next couple weeks, because all of my calendar was wiped clean, but I will learn that it doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things. So, for those of you out there that I may have made appointments with, please remind me of them. Also, send me your contact information again, either by calling me or emailing me, because it is literally all gone.

Day 104 - Way 104

Ok, I tried this a couple days ago and I am thinking it might be helpful to any of my friends or family or other readers that may not be familiar with the terms I use to describe The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so when I use a term that you may not be familiar with, click on that word or phrase, and you should be directed to LDS.org, where the topic is discussed in the Gospel Topics section.(I have created direct links to that specific topic.) If somehow I skip a word or phrase that you may not be familiar with, please post a comment and I will attempt to find a link that will explain the concept. Enjoy!

Todays miracle is simple. I love the gospel and the organization of Christ's church here on the earth. I gain so much strength from learning by the Spirit. I am grateful for a loving visiting teacher and friends that encourage and support me. I am grateful for the opportunity I have to pay tithing. I pray that I will not have a selfish desire to do it, but that I will honestly be able to say that I pay to the Lord, what little he asks, in order to pay back the debt I owe to him. I am grateful for my little brother for his example of righteous living and for his willingness to attend church with me!

Day 103 - Way 103

Today I am grateful for the blessing of family and friends. I have been so blessed with people who surroud me and love me. The best part of it is that I love them as well. I have been blessed to know some pretty exceptional and fantastic people that show so much kindness to me. They provide me so many opportunities to grow and become stronger and I am eternally grateful for them. I want to tell my friends that have truly been there for me over the past three months, just how much I love and appreciate all that they have done for me. I can't be as strong as I am without the support and strength from these amazing people. Once again, I am also grateful for Beezer and Bryce for their neverending friendship and love. I am so happy for them and can't wait for their return in just over a week!

Day 102 - Way 102

Ok, the long awaited and anticipated question is answered here. What is the miracle I believe has changed and blessed my world? Read on.

The miracle today is the blessing of the Lords sacred house. Today, my very best friend in the whole world, went to the temple with her eternal sweetheart where they became eternal companions. I really believe there is significance in my life because if this. I honestly believe that the choice to go to the temple is the most important and sacred decision a person can make in this life. It truly signifies a persons understanding of the great eternal and everlasting plan of a loving Heavenly Father. I believe you can find pleasure in being married in this life for time. However, I also firmly believe that to be sealed in the temple to the one you love, for all eternity, will bring you eternal happiness, greater than any pleasure or "earthly happiness" you will experience. I am so very grateful for my best friend and her husband for setting that example for me. I am honored to call them my friends.

Day 101 - Way 101

Today I am so grateful for patience, for compassion, for forgiveness. I am ever so grateful that I have been blessed with the very best of friends. I am grateful that I have an amazing boss that just helps me to keep going. I am grateful for my friends at work and for their amazing lives that they have lived. I am grateful for my community for the feelings of charity that we have one toward another. I am grateful that I have been taught to look beyond the insignificant and love people for the good inside. I am grateful that I am so blessed to have a home to come home to every night and an adorable dog that is so loving. Miracles surround me and I am truly grateful.

Day 100 - Way 100

That's right, we are 1/7th of the way! It's incredible how fast time flies. This morning I got to talk to my mommy for a long time and it was so nice. I think that the miracle today is three fold. First, we have the technology to allow us to communicate instantly from opposite sides of the globe. Second, my mommy can still be there for me when I am trying to figure out dating and love and relationships, third, my mommy knows and I know that although we love each other, we don't have to spend all of our time together! I am grateful for these miracles.

Just as a way to keep track of what I'm up to, I went to work today, then to school (web design and classical guitar) and then home to practice guitar. I also took a friend to the airport between my classes. He will be gone to Peru until August 10th. I will actually miss him quite a bit. Also, another one of my friends just got a job yesterday, so he will be moving to Southern Utah in August. I guess this is the time in my life where a lot of changes are going to happen.

Day 99 - Way 99

Today was a rough day. To be completely honest, I didn't feel like I had much of a day at all until about five minutes ago. Although I could ramble on about the things that I wish I would have done today, I won't. Instead I will say that I got through the day. I have only 2 full days left until the most exciting thing in my world happens, so the miracle today is that I made it through this day long enough to get tothispoint where I could ponder and reflect on the last year and the amazing journey I have been on and the thrilling journey that lies ahead! I'd say more, but it would ruin the excitement!

Day 98 - Way 98

Today was an awesome day. I seriously feel on top of the world. I spent most of the afternoon and all of the evening with a great friend that is so much fun to be around. I feel like I can be myself, stubborn, quirky, sarcastic, caring me when I am around him. Talking to him never gets old. If I could pick a miracle for the day, it would be that I have someone around me that I can talk to for hours on end and never get bored with. He is smart and funny and calls me on all of my quirks. It's just awesome to be around someone that gets me, no strings attached. My friend is leaving on Wednesday for 32 days, to go to Peru to climb a few mountains. I am grateful that I had time available today I could spend with him before he leaves.

side note

DeLacy- You are falling behind on your comments! Let's get it together! :)

Day 97 - Way 97

Today the miracle is friendship. My best friend in the whole world is getting married on Friday and it will be one of the biggest moments in my life. I am getting the best best-friend-in-law ever. He is so amazingly perfect for her. I am so happy for them. Now, that is a miracle in and of itself, but the bigger miracle is the way our friendship has gotten stronger through the past couple of months. I have had friends get married before and honestly, I expected the same thing to happen this time, slowly and gradually your friendship fades, because there is a new priority in your life. Well this hasn't been the case. In fact, my best friend has become a better friend than I could ever imagine. She can see when I need her help and she gives me the best encouragement and support when I need it the most. I am so grateful for her wisdom and love. We are only two months apart in age, and I'm the older one, but she never lets that stop her from putting me in my place and giving me advice. I am grateful for the gospel and the knowledge I have that she will soon be sealed to the best man for her, for all eternity. I am so thrilled to have a new best friend!

Day 96 - Way 96

Ok, four miracles today that I want to bring up.

First, I am grateful for the miracle of integrity and honesty and self discipline. My parents taught me well. They taught me to trust myself in situations where the right thing to do isn't always the most fun or exciting thing to do. We counted money today after our Lions Club 4th of July, although most of the money pays for the food and supplies that ran the event, the opportunity I faced was remembering my integrity and protecting that money from people who might selfishly hoard it, including myslef. The money I counted today was literally more than the money I made total for all of last year. I could have gone on a huge trip with that money, but it wasn't mine, and thanks to parents that raised me right, the Lions Club had all of their money deposited today!

The second miracle is 30 bottles of ketchup! Today I returned about 30 bottles of ketchup to the stores I had purchased them at on Thursday night. I am so grateful that Walmart and Target will take bake unused merchandise.

The third miracle is the miracle of flight. I got to go up to the Univesity of Utah residence halls tonight to watch fireworks, while we were watching, the airMed helicopters kept taking off and landing, right in front of us. It was so awesome to see them I can't believe how they do it!

The fourth miracle, probably the most exciting, just because it is such great news. My cousin Erin is getting married October 2nd and my best friends Kenny and Syd are getting married late September or early October. They just got engaged this morning! I am very happy for them and wish them the very best!

Day 95 - Way 95

Perhaps it's technology, but I believe it's a miracle that a mothers intuition can span the globe and even go beyond time zones. Today, I was having a pretty good time celebrating the 4th of July through a spirit of service. I volunteer in the East Mill Creek Lions Club and for our 4th of July Family Celebration, I had a whole lot of work to do. During the day, I checked my phone pretty frequently, and I had no new emails all morning. Then suddenly I received an email from my mother in the middle of the day. She reminded me of something really important and helped me to be patient in a difficult moment at the park that occured about 3 minutes after I read her email. I believe that her intuition told her to write me when she did, so I could read the email when I really needed it. Thank you mom for the reminder!

Day 94 - Way 94

Miracles come in some crazy packages. Today the miracle was 80 bottles of ketchup!
We have our annual East Mill Creek Lions Club 4th of July Family Celebration tomorrow, and surprise, surprise, we forgot to buy a few things, so I took the responsibility to go to Walmart and Target to buy those things. So, into my shopping cart I put: masking tape, permanent markers, poster board, creamers, sugar, Splenda, tent stakes, pens, pickles, lettuce and 80 BOTTLES OF KETCHUP! I am grateful that I had the ability to help the club in this way. I had enough money in my bank account to buy this stuff, and I can get reimbursed tomorrow. Let's just hope that 500 or more people don't need more than 80 bottles of ketchup for breakfast (I guess I should say, with their breakfast so it doesn't sound like that's all we're offering!)Happy Fourth of July!

Day 93 - Way 93

A simple miracle. Today I really learned that the first fret on the second string on the guitar is a C. I have been struggling to pick up the guitar and all the notes and techniques that you need in order to play anything decent. Well, today, after weeks of coaxing, I finally internalized C. It sounds stupid as I write it, but it means something to me. I am learning, just a whole lot slower than everyone else in the class. I'm proud of this accomplishment!

Day 92 -Way 92

Today I had time to send a package to my parents. They have been asking for this package for over a month now. And it seemed that every free moment I had, I was preparing this package for them, but it wasn't until today, that I really has time to just send it. I think it's a miracle that my boss went out of town this week and suggested that I also take some time off while she is gone. I got a lot accomplished today (bathrooms clean, laundry room clean, fertilizer for lawn finally purchased, and I got Doug to come help me with some other much needed things. the miracle today, was that i had time for what needed to be done.

Day 91 - Way 91

It’s not that usual when everything is beautiful
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

The sky knows when its time to snow
You don’t need to teach a seed to grow
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

Life is like a gift they say
Wrapped up for you everyday
Open up and find a way
To give some of your own

Isn’t it remarkable?
Like every time a raindrop falls
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

Birds in winter have their fling
And always make it home by spring
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

When you wake up everyday
Please don’t throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
Cause we are all a part
Of the ordinary miracle

Ordinary miracle
Do you want to see a miracle?

It seems so exceptional
Things just work out after all
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

The sun comes up and shines so bright
It disappears again at night
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

It’s just another ordinary miracle today

(Sarah Mclachlan, Ordinary Miracle)

I have included a video with this song, at the bottom of this post. Tonight I went to a benefit concert for a loving couple in our neighborhood who is facing cancer head on. One of the men from my singles ward sitting next to me said, "I'm amazed by this community. I haven't lived here very long, but this community just does so much for each other, its amazing." I couldn't be more proud of my neighbors and friends that really are there to support one another, especially in the tough times. One of the performances was a dance by a group of 7 sisters and it was to this song. Somehow in the last few months, this song has come back to me over and over, reminding me that there are miracles occurring everyday. Ordinary miracles that make life extraordinary. I love the line in this song, " Life is like a gift they say, Wrapped up for you everyday, Open up and find a way, To give some of your own."

Today's miracle is this, over 200 people, most of whom had never met this sweet and cherished couple, came to a park on a hot Monday evening and donated hundreds if not thousands of dollars to a loving family, because......it was the right and better thing to do. Isn't it a miracle that so many people can see, that among all the good things to do, there is a better part, we just have to choose it.

Although most of these people that gathered together will never read this, I want to "publicly" thank them for giving away their ordinary miracle today.

Day 76, 77, 78, 79,80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,86, 87,88, 89, 90 - Way 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,86, 87,88, 89, 90

Day 76- My cousin Josh had on opportunity to speak in church today before leaving for his mission. Although I was unable to attend because I was sick, we did go visit his family afterward to express our support for him.

Day 77- I got to spend all day with my bosses kids today. We spent the morning at the house just playing and doing artwork and practicing letters and numbers. Then in the afternoon we went to Lagoon. I love Lagoon. I especially love going to Lagoon with kids that still find joy and happiness in the little things. I really had a ton of fun and we were only there for the afternoon.

Day 78- Not really sure what i did on June 17th. Either I spent time with an old friend today, or it was the next day, whichever, I was grateful to have time with her.

Day 79- Today I got to experience the miracle of sibling love. A good friend of mine Aaron Conder had his birthday party today. He had music and dancing and tons of food, but the best part of the whole night was when his brother, my good friend Clay got up and proposed a toast to his brother. He was so sincere and honest about the great qualities he can see in his brother. I cried because I felt so honored not only to be friends with both of these amazing guys, but especially to be there when they demonstrated true brotherly love.

Day 80- I went hiking up near Brighton ski resort with a great guy. This guy has been around the world climbing mountains wherever he goes, so I asked him to please help me get in shape so I could do more hiking this summer. We had so much fun. I really enjoyed our conversations. We have so much to talk about, it was just awesome. Of course, I didn't think to put sunblock on my legs and arms, so I was burnt to a crisp. Somehow especially around my ankles. Anyway, it was a great day, that I won't soon forget.

Day 81- Today I just kept ice and aloe on my burns, otherwise I was so tired, I forget what else I did.

Day 82- On Saturday, I was able to go on another date with another guy! Yikes two dates in one week! We went to breakfast and to the farmers market! It was great. This was really only the second time I had met this guy, so it was good to go out and do things together that allowed us to talk and get to know each other better. It will be great to get to know him better.
This afternoon, I threw a Bridal Shower for my best friend Beezer. It turned out pretty good. I had help from Beezer's parents and sister as well as Bryce's sister. I had fun seeing her being celebrated. It was great to see her so happy. After the shower I went with my roommate Sarah and her parents to the Manti Pageant. We were really late, but we got to see the end of it. After the pageant we stayed in Ephraim at the Willow Creek Inn.

Day 83- We got back to Salt Lake just before church was about to start, but my ankles hurt real bad from my burns, so I didn't go. I just spent the whole day at home.

Day 84- Another one of those days, where I just don't remember what I did. Mostly I was in pain from my ankles.

Day 85- Today was election day. I served as a poll manager in West Valley City. I love the opportunity to serve my country in this capacity. I prefer doing it in my own area though. I need to try to get assigned to my neighborhood. I like seeing people I know.

Day 86-Just went to school today.

Day 87- Today I ran a lot of errands. I am trying to get caught up on all the things I've been falling behind on.

Day 88- I went to my bosses house to create layouts for our website that I will be working on for the next month. It was great to finally get it all down on paper. The rest of the day I worked on a paper for one of my classes.

Day 89- I got to babysit for my neighbors today, with my roommate Mandy. It was a lot of fun. After babysitting I talked with my neighbor for about an hour or two. I am so grateful that I have friends that I can talk to and be able to spend time with.

Day 90- Sunday, June 29th I went to church today. While I was at church, I came to an understanding, I was blessed to have a paradigm shift in my thinking about life and I feel like this change in thought is a real miracle. I have had this realization that although I am an adult, I can and must ask for help. I can not be expected to face all of my problems and struggles and trials alone. The Lord will continue to bless me, but I must be willing to accept the blessings however they come.

Often time in life, we are asked to be the instruments in the Lords hands, so that he might provide blessings to others. I am frequently trying to be that instrument. I never realized that I would need to learn to accept that other people will need to be the instruments blessing my life. I must accept the miracles that will come into my life, and sometimes I'm going to have to ask for them. I know I need help. Today, I finally took the first step toward asking for help. I am still an adult and I am still capable of doing things independently, but as an adult, I am also accepting the reality that I CAN"T DO EVERYTHING ON MY OWN. I am so grateful for this miracle.

Day 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66,67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 - Way 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75

OK, I apologize again, I would like to get better at this...

Here we go, let's get started!

Saturday (61)May 31- We flew to Florida today! In Mini Soda we were delayed due to lightning on the airstrip. We arrived safely in Florida around 11:30pm. It was great to have all of my siblings together! It's interesting how well we can get along as adults!

Sunday (62) June 1- Today DeLacy, my oldest sister and Tony's wife bore her testimony in sacrament meeting. She bore witness that there is safety and happiness in the gospel. After church, we went to the primary room for Tony's baptism program. The program included an opening hymn and prayer. Then I spoke on baptism and the covenants that are made at baptism. I based this talk off of the article on baptism in True to the Faith. Following my talk a friend of Tony's spoke on the Holy Ghost. Afterward, Tony was baptized by Elder Holloway. Then we heard a musical number that had been tape recorded by Grandma Maxwell. The closing hymn was "How Great Thou Art" which is one of Tony's favorite hymns. After the closing prayer, we visited with a few members of the ward. Then we went to a members home for dinner with the missionaries. After dinner, we spent the evening with the missionaries. It was a really nice way to end the day.
I am so very grateful that we were able to show Tony support and love this day as a family. I am grateful to our loving Heavenly Father for giving Tony the spiritual guidance he needed to make this decision. I am grateful that my parents are setting the example of making the gospel their number one priority, as that is a true testament of the significance of the gospel in their lives.

Monday (63) Today we all flew back home from Florida, it was the shortest trip we will probably ever take to Florida, but definitely the most important and meaningful trip.

Days 64-75 Although a lot happened during these days, I didn't really keep track of what happened on each day, so I will not be writing these things here. What I do want to mention is attitude. A young women's president from when I was younger, used to always say ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING!
I couldn't agree more. Let's discuss this here.

What has happened the past 2 months while my parents have been serving their mission:
Arthur Jr. and Douglass (my siblings) separated their shoulders
Douglass and Tony (also siblings) got HIT BY TWO SEPARATE VEHICLES while riding their bikes on two separate days in two separate states
Tony discovered he likely has diabetes
Douglass was fired for missing work, due to being HIT BY A CAR
Arthur Jr. had a MAJOR change in one of his important personal relationships that he could not do anything to improve the situation.


And yet:
My family is stronger, more united, more humble, more grateful, more prayerful, and truly more blessed! None of the things that have happened to us that might be considered negative have changed our commitment and love for our Savior Jesus Christ. I believe we know now, more than ever before how much our Savior loves us. We are grateful for the support that we receive from those around us that have buoyed us up and helped us to see the positive in all the opportunities and challenges that we have faced.




Monday (63)

Day 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 - Way 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60

Thursday (52) This was a long day and for most of it, I was with Doug. He had a rough day, so we just hung out together. We went to his doctor appointment and then went to his house and watched a movie together. Just outside of his house there was a big fiberglass canoe that had a cardboard sign attached to it. It said ”FREE”, so of course we took the boat to his front yard. It fit perfectly! I’m grateful for family and the time we can spend with each other.

Friday (53) Today was also a busy day because I went to work and threw a birthday party for Beezer! We saw the new Indiana Jones movie, which was awesome! If you have seen it and have other opinions about this movie, please know that some people reading this blog, may not have seen it yet, so please no spoilers! The birthday party went really well and Beezer was surprised and had fun!

Saturday (54) I went to Logan with my roommates from college to visit one of our roommates that lives there. It was so great to spend time together. I really hope that this friendship lasts forever. I know relationships take work, so I will try to always put the work in so that I can keep these friendships, ‘cause they are the best!

Sunday (55) Sunday, I went to church. My brother Arthur taught the lesson in Sunday School. He talked about service. He told the funniest story. I’m going to attempt to tell it now.
There was a man who was sent to prison. One day his dad sent him a letter. It read, “Dear Son, I’m not sure what I’m going to do this year. It’s almost time to till the field and without your help, I don’t think I’m going to be able to do it. I really wish you were here to help me. Hope you are alright. Love, Dad”
The son, wrote back. “Dear Dad, I know that you are troubled with your farm, but I just don’t know what to say to help. I need to ask that you not till the field this year though. That’s where I buried the bodies. Love, Your Son”
Obviously the dad didn’t wait long to share the information from the letter with the authorities. Within a couple days the field was full of police officers and FBI agents, digging and scouring the field for bodies. After a few days, the entire field had been searched, but no bodies had been found. The dad received a second letter from his son a few days later. “Dear Dad,” he wrote, “I hope that helped!”
The moral of the story is that whatever situation we are in, we can always find ways to help those in need! I think it was a great story!

Monday (56) Memorial Day is usually a day to honor our relatives that have gone before us, but also to honor the members of the military who have served our country and are no longer with us. With the rainy weather I did a lot of things indoors instead. First I reorganized our kitchen. Next, I helped Kenny set up a website for his soccer team. That was a lot of fun, and it was great practice for my class and for my work. Afterward, Kenny, Syd and I all went to Plato’s Closet and Ikea. I wish that I had been able to spend time honoring my relatives, but I am grateful that I was able to spend time with friends.

Tuesday (57) Today I went to class and work, when I went home, Mandy got a phone call that her mother was ill and was being taken to the hospital. I decided that I could help Mandy and offered to take her to the hospital to see her mom. It was a good experience to be able to provide help to Mandy and her family. I was grateful that I had the time and the ability to give them what they needed in order to feel like they could provide care for their mom and still be meeting their own personal needs.

Wednesday (58) This morning I went with my friends Ben Guile, Robert Welsh, Kelley Stowell, and Mo Coble, to present opinions and advice to Senator Orrin Hatch on the bills currently going through congress that would modify the existing Mongomery GI Bill. I was proud to be there to show support for the veterans in our nations armed forces. I am grateful that I have family and friends who have been willing and able to preserve the good in our society by serving in a public service capacity.




Thursday (59) Today in our natural resource conservation course, we did a waste audit. Basically, since Tuesday, the 20 people in the class collected all of the waste that they produced. That did not include the food scraps and hygenic items.
As a class we created 21 lbs. of waste in 48 hours. I think this was a valuable lesson in understanding the impact of our decisions in what we choose to purchase, consume or use. I valued this opportunity, because as we did this assignment, I considered the weight of my choices as I made them over the course of two days.

Friday (60)I had a plan for today, and basically 75-80% of my plan, didn't happen. However, I did accomplish a lot today. I was able to get most of my work done at work, I was able to get Doug to the airport, I got some shopping done for my parents and then get to my non-profit governance class, which is where I am right now!

Day 50, 51 - Way 50, 51

Monday (50)- I am really excited to be in my web-design class. I learned a few tricks on photoshop today, and I know I'm going to LOVE this stuff! I also went to work today and tried to prepare myself for the training that I was in charge of on Tuesday. I feel so blessed that I have the opportunity to grow professionally right now. I really feel like I am finding a great place for myself.
Today was also Banana Eve! Beezer, Bryce and I went to visit our friends in Magna. We took two banana cream pies. The first one we ate with Clay, Kenny and Rob. We also gave them each a beach towel with monkeys and bananas in the design. It was great to see them react when they realized we were being nice to them, because banana day is usually a day full of pranks. They were TOTALLY FOOLED! After we ate the first pie and visited for a while, we all said goodnight and were heading out the door, when Beezer grabbed the other pie and smashed it in Kenny's face! Then he wiped his face all over Beezer's face and then she wiped it on Rob! It was great. I am so blessed to have friends with th ability to laugh and have fun, and to carry on a tradition for 8 years!

Tuesday (51)- This was a long day. First, I had to go to my geography class. Which was fun, but I was a little stressed out about the afternoon, so I didn't really enjoy it like I should have. I did training with a few students at noon. It went alright, I realized during the all, that I still have too much work to do still for our Summit on June 10th-12th. After the first training I worked on a lot of loose ends in the office and moved our entire library and supply area to the opposite side of our office, to make room for new cubicles being put in.
After work I came home and did some gardening until the wind got so strong it knocked me over. I went inside and after a few minutes, the power went out! I had to do my evening conference call training outside on my cell phone because it was too dark inside for me to see my notes. Mandy and I had to run to the grocery store after the call to buy D batteries, because half the flashlights in the house didn't work. We got them just in time for the power to come back on!
Now here's the miracle that I want to share.....My parents listened to the prophets counsel to be prepared for emergencies. No, they didn't have enough of the right kind of batteries for the flashlights I wanted to use, but if we had to, we had plenty of candles and other flashlights to see whatever we needed. I also knew that they had prepared our home if we had needed emergency food supply, blankets and first aid. I am grateful for their faith and trust in the Lord's appointed, because I am reaping the rewards of their hard work. Now my challenge, if you do not have a 3 year supply, 1 year supply, or most importantly a 72 hour kit, make a promise to your self that you will do something about that in the next week. If you do something, please leave a comment telling me what you did. Even if it's buying one box of Band-Aids, do something, you will not regret it. Mom and Dad, if you are reading this, thank you for preparing for so long for emergencies, too bad it's all here in the United States. Go to the store this week and buy some extra food and supplies in case your emergency hits! Please! Thank you!

Day 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 - Way 45, 46, 47, 48, 49

Wednesday (45)- I enjoyed my classes today. I am taking 2 classes on Wednesday, first is a web design class and second is a guitar class! I am so excited for both! I was blessed to have the time I needed to do all the things I needed to accomplish all of my goals for the day.

Thursday (46)- Today I went to Cedar City for a student retreat for work. I felt really sick to my stomach all day, but I also had a really great day. I think that the students this year have the best energy and enthusiasm for our work. I can see them accomplishing a great deal.

Friday (47)- The rest of the retreat went really well! Then I had to fly home from Cedar City to get to a class in time. It was pretty scary for me. I am really a nervous flier in large planes, with family or friends beside me, so to fly alone in a propeller plane was nearly horrific. But I did it, without crying! That is a miracle!

Saturday (48)- I am signed up for an MPA course that is all day on Saturdays as well as Friday evenings for the next month! It was fun, but the day was long! After class, I came home and started taking care of my yard and home. I will do better as time goes on, but for now, it's one step at a time.

Sunday (49)- Today was a hard day for me. I didn't sleep well, I didn't feel well, and I missed church. I did a lot of thinking and home arranging though.
Now, the most important thing I will ever write on this blog. My dear sweet brother-in-law, the perfect guy from the moment I spoke to him, has challenged himself to receive and partake of a wonderful blessing. He has decided to be baptized a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is such a smart, spiritual and truly amazing individual and I know that this choice was one he made with sincere faith and courage. I am so thrilled that he has made this choice. My brother and I will be flying out to Florida to see him.

I apologize that I have not been on top of this like I imagined I would, hopefully I can begin a routine so I can do better.

Day 44 - Way 44

Today was a special day for Douglass, my youngest brother. It was his Birthday! Of course, he didn't get to enjoy it quite the way he probably would have liked to, but he did have a good day. I guess anything is a positive experience after you've been HIT BY A CAR! He has been so patient and kind through all of this. I haven't been the best sister for him, but I am sure trying. I hope his boss will continue to be patient with him as well. Today I went to my first day of class, I think it should be fun. I really like the instructor, he is by far one of the best teachers I have ever had. He is tireless in his efforts to help every student achieve success. I am grateful to have the opportunity to take another course from him. I also went to work today. I had a lot to accomplish and by 8:30pm I almost finished it all. Tomorrow morning I will have to go into work early to finish up for our retreat on Thursday.

Day 39, 40, 41, 42, 43 - Way 39, 40, 41, 42, 43

A few things I remember from this whirlwind weekend.
Thursday May 8th (39)- A few people from my work took my friend and co-worker Carrie and myself out to lunch. Carrie and I both received diploma covers this past week from the University of Utah. Carrie is finishing her masters degree in educational leadership and public policy (I think that's right???) and I am finishing my bachelors degree in geography. It was a great lunch with great friends.

Friday May 9th (40)- A friend of mine knows that teaching is one of my most favorite things to do in the whole world, so when she found out she needed to go to her parents ward for Mother's Day she asked me if I would like to teach her Relief Society lesson. I was thrilled and so grateful for the opportunity. I also went to a wonderful concert with a friend and her husband. It was so much fun. I just loved the music and the company.

Saturday May 10th (41)- For those who don't know, technically this was Mother's Day for my mom, because Japan is about 13 hours ahead of Utah time. After experiencing this day, I have to be honest, my first thought was, "Wow someone must really hate my family, to allow so many bad things to happen." After I explain what happened, I will explain what I realize now in hind sight.

For me the day wasn't all that bad. I had a lovely Lions Club induction meeting, where myself, my roommate Mandy, my old friend Bob, and my new friends Rose, Julie and Bryson were all inducted into the East Mill Creek Lions Club. Then I went to lunch with Mandy and her sister and mother. Afterward, I did some very productive shopping. Between shopping trips however, the three dogs currently "hanging out" at my house decided to take a little run when I opened the front door to move items around. Sparky, the smallest of them all was the ring leader. Abbey and Bosco followed suit. I chased them as they ran down my street, across a pretty busy street, then across a highway, against traffic until finally a lady stopped to help me. She drove Bosco home and then I carried the other two dogs. If that wasn't enough of a stressful panicked day, my brother Arthur was organizing his room and setting up his brand new bed and he sliced his finger open on the bed frame and had to get six stitches("WARNING: This frame is sharp and may cut you", is not a joke, that sticker on the bed frame is actually serious).

OK, so that was pretty rough for me and him, and then we were reminded that we aren't the only two people in the universe with tests and trials. We received phone calls and text messages from our brother Doug around 10pm. Doug was HIT BY A CAR! He was riding his bike in a bike lane and a lady swerved onto the road and into his lane, causing him to flip over the front of his handle bars and face plant in the middle of the road. That's right, Doug was HIT BY A CAR! Paramedics checked him out and told him that he could decide to go to the hospital or just see how he felt later. He of course decided to tough it out. The lady was cited and to her credit, both of my brothers said that she was a kind woman and they feel bad that she has to suffer for her mistake.

Now, you have to understand how I could feel like this day was someones way of showing us how much they hate us. But now let me tell the story the way I see it now. I KNOW THAT MY PARENTS WERE CALLED TO SERVE THE LORD AS MISSIONARIES FOR HIS KINGDOM ON THIS EARTH. I KNOW THAT THEY WERE PROMISED THAT IF THEY WOULD SACRIFICE THEIR TIME AND CONSECRATE IT TO THE LORD THEIR FAMILY WOULD RECEIVE BLESSINGS BEYOND THEIR CAPACITY TO RECEIVE THEM. WHAT A BLESSING IT MUST BE FOR MY FATHER, BUT PARTICULARLY MY MOTHER TO SEE THAT ON HER MOTHERS DAY, ALL THE LESSONS SHE TAUGHT US GROWING UP HAVE PAID OFF, SHE HAS LEFT HER ADULT CHILDREN TO MAKE DECISIONS AND CHOOSE THEIR OWN REACTIONS TO THE MANY TRIALS AND CHALLENGES THAT WILL COME UPON THEM AND THEY HAVE OVERCOME. We may have each struggled through this trying day, but at the end of the day, we are all alive, we are closer to each other as brothers and sisters, we have been blessed and protected beyond measure and we know that our parents would be proud of us for how we handled ourselves and will continue to handle ourselves. So, Mother, I know you are reading this, please know from the bottom of my heart, we wish you the very best Mother's Day, but more importantly, as you always reminded us every year at this time of year, it's not so much how we treat you on Mother's Day that matters to you, but it is how we take what you have taught us and apply it to EVERY SINGLE DAY AND MOMENT in our lives. We love you, you have raised all of us well.

Sunday May 11th (42)- My lesson in Relief Society went very well. I have to say though that my favorite part of teaching is the feeling you get when you know you have prepared and studied out the lesson in your mind and in your heart, and then you allow the spirit to take over and tell you what portions of the lesson that you prepared will apply to and be effective for those who are receptive to the spirit. I would say that half of the lesson was what I planned to teach and the other half came from promptings by the spirit to leave out an idea here and there, or add a personal testimony in other places that I hadn't thought of sharing until I was standing there in front of the room. I am grateful that as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we are given the opportunity to learn and to teach by and through the spirit and that we don't have to be scholars or great thinkers by the worlds standards to be able to present to one another plain and simple gospel truths. This was truly a blessing for me as I experienced the spirit throughout all of the meetings in my ward today.

Monday May 12th (43)- Today I got to spend the day with Doug. We went to the hospital so that he could find out what was wrong with his shoulder. After the adrenaline wore off and the shock of being HIT BY A CAR, he realized he was in much more pain than he imagined. We also had his face looked at, because there is still a lot of swelling. One of the medical professionals said that he likely broke his nose and that he tore a joint in his shoulder. Basically he has a separated shoulder. Which means Mandy and I are having Arthur, Doug and my other roommate Sarah sign a contract stating that they will not pass on the separating of shoulders like a contagious disease, because Mandy and I are not interested.
After the hospital we went to the pharmacy and then Doug came with me to work so that I could get a few things done and then we could file his claim with the lady's insurance company. I know this is going to be a lengthy process, and I literally feel so blessed to have just recently experienced the physical pain and mental suffering that comes from an accident caused by someone else. Although I am sure this accident will in a way, haunt the lady that HIT Doug with her car, I think that the real pain comes from the emotional and pretty much annoying process of getting a claim settled with an insurance company. I suffered from that process for over a year and now I feel as though I can sympathize and assist Doug in this process so much more now, than if I had never experienced a slightly similar experience to his.

Now, there you have it. The weekend that kept on giving! If you had asked me 5 days ago what I had in store for the weekend, I would not have included ANY of the details I just mentioned above, but tonight I feel stronger for all that I have seen and felt and experienced, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Someone once asked me how we could possibly send young missionaries out into the world and be OK with talking to them only at Mother's Day and Christmas, or how we could send our Mother's and Fathers out on missions right at the time when our lives are changing the most and when we may need them to be there through our ups and downs. Today I have the answer. If you asked me if I could choose having my parents on a mission, or having them here, I absolutely would firmly declare that I know that more blessings and opportunities are coming to my family as my parents serve than we would ever recognize if they were here. My family will be stronger and more united in purpose than we have ever been before.

Now, I feel as though I need to write a letter to those who may be approaching the time to serve or the time to splurge.....retirement!

Dear parents, grandparents and grown adults,

If the Lord has whispered to your soul that you are needed in the mission field, do not hesitate to answer the call. All of the things that you see standing in the way will surely be taken care of as you forget your own worldly desires and turn to the Lord. Lately there have been a lot of retirement commercials on the air describing how baby boomers are still active and full of energy and enthusiasm for life as they prepare to retire. What better servants can the Lord be given than those who have experience and wisdom and the vitality and energy to get to work? Please, for the sake of the young people looking for direction in their lives, we need the wise and energetic to show us how happy life can be when we turn our lives over to the Lord's service instead of choosing the worldly pleasures that so often come with retirement these days.

If you are still questioning your ability to serve, do yourself a favor and remember that your ability is not what is required. All that is required is your willingness and desire to serve. The Lord no doubt will find a place, time and people suitable for your circumstances. Trust him, he knows his children and he knows his kingdom.
It's HIS work you are being asked to do.

Sincerely, TRacy- a recipient of many missionary miracles.

Days 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 - Way 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38

Looking abck on this past week, I wish that I had taken just 5 minutes each day to write down my thoughts or feelings, but I just couldn't do it. I couldn't stop myself long enough to truly reflect on the little miracles that dotted my path. Now, the time has passed and I feel as though I would be unfair to my intentions for this blog if I were to go back and try to guess and catologue the blessings I can see in retrospect. So instead, tonight I wish to say, that I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for giving me the air to breath and the spirit of peace that got me through this last week. I'm not going to lie, I made this last week difficult on myself over the past few months, when I procrastinated and ignored the deadlines that I always knew existed. I can also not lie and say that graduating was easy without my parents there with me. I AM A VERY DEPENDENT LITTLE GIRL. I still need my mommy and daddy. I was grateful to have the support that I did have, but it didn't come close to being the kind of love and care that I have grown up expecting from my parents. I guess the miracle is that I didn't stay curled up in a ball in my bed crying all week. The miracle is that I didn't use a scam quick loan company to get enough money to fly to Japan to be with my mommy. The miracle is that I did it! I graduated on my own, and although I will always remember the feeling of loneliness that I felt that day, and I will never forget the tears I cried knowing my mommy wasn't by my side, I can say that I am capable of enduring alone. I'm not all grown up just yet, but I'm a lot further along than I was a month ago.

Day 31 - Way 31

Sometimes you have to look back to see miracles. This morning was awesome! I couldn't be more pleased with the way my presentation turned out. I really felt like I gave it my best and people responded well. I would have loved for my day to end after the workshop, because it seemed like the rest of the day just went down hill. I have been very discouraged the rest of the day. But as I said, miracles don't always come at the end of the day. Sometimes a morning miracle reminds you to be grateful for what blessings you have and to not selfishly expect them to come when you want them too!

Day 30 - Way 30

I got through a final I never thought I would get through on Tuesday. It wasn't due until Wednesday, but i knew that I wouldn't have time to finish it on Wednesday, so I just worked really late and got it done. I fel really good about it too. This week is tough, but I'll keep pushing through. I am grateful for my brother who supports me and encourages me. (DeLacy, I'm grateful for you too, Bud is just being especially helpful these days!)

Day 29 - Way 29

My Monday Miracle made me motivated! Ha, Ha, that was fun! My Dad was able to help me figure out what I could do to get the car taken care of so that I could get to work and my finals! I am so grateful for modern technology that can help me get through these first few months without my parents. I am grateful for the opportunity I have to start thinking and acting like an adult. I know I still have a lot of growing up to do, and a whole lot more tears I'm going to have to shed, but I appreciate this learning opportunity.

Day 28 -Way 28

The blessing or miracle on Sunday was that the lessons in all of the meetings in church on Sunday confirmed the things that I have been saying in the last few posts. We even discussed the scriptures that were mentioned in the posts and that I included with the video. I am grateful for that confirmation that I am choosing the right and making good decisions.
As a disclaimer, I just want to add that I am overly swamped with finals this week, so if I do not post right away, I apologize. I will try to stay on top of it, or add posts at the end of the week.

Day 27 - Way 27

There was a lot that I could write about today. But the most important thing I want to share is this. The light of Christ is in us all. When we choose to go against that light, the light gets dim and we falter and stumble on the things that we've put in our path. I know that when we give our best and trust in the one who will shine light in our dark places, we will get through. Don't ever feel lost, there is one who will always be there, just look up, look up and live in him. I have included a music video at the bottom of this blog. I love the part at the end of the video. Watch it and see when the smiling faces come and be reminded that when you are in the service of your fellow man, you are only in the service of your God.

Day 26 -Way 26

On Wednesday my Dad got a letter in the mail. I open all the mail so that I can tell my parents if there is anything urgent. The letter said that my dad would be receiving an award from the Salt Lake City Police Department. I was so excited to share the news with my parents. I scanned the letter so that I could email it to them. I was able to see them as they read the letter on their email. It was great to see them smile. I know that my dad gave a lot of himself to the department over the 30+ years that he served, so to see him receive recogntion for that, especially when he has decided to continue to give service after retirement is something any kid should be proud of. I am grateful that my parents taught us the importance of service to your fellow man over all else. I also want to say, congratulations DeLacy. I have always wanted to run a 5k, so to hear that you did it is even more motivation for me to get off my behind and at least run a mile!! : )

Day 25 - Way 25

I am grateful for the Earth in all of her majesty. Yesterday I went to bed thinking how it had been such a warm day and I thought I should pick out a fun sunny outfit for the morning. Something inside me said, "no just wait until morning to decide what to wear." This morning I woke up to the beautiful snow. The most beautiful part was the light that reflected off of the snow and made the blossoms on all of the trees sparkle. While my brother and I were outside getting the cars cleaned off to go to work, I remarked how amazing it all looked. I spent most of the rest of the day indoors, so I didn't get to enjoy the ever fluctuating weather, but I do know that there was some strange weather patterns especially after the heat wave that hit yesterday.

Day 24 - Way 24

Wednesday went surprisingly well for how terribly it actually went. I had car trouble all day. I had to go to school and a work meeting (that went long). I had to drive all over the valley. I had to make lists and get to appointments and stuff envelopes.....and I survived it all. I'm not saying i didn't complain and suffer through it all, but at the end of the day, I got in bed and went to sleep, and woke up the very next morning. Really how selfish could I get if I asked for anything more.

James E Faust wrote ("Gratitude As a Saving Principle," Ensign, Dec. 1996, 2), "One of the evils of our time is taking for granted so many of the
things we enjoy. This was spoken of by the Lord: 'For what doth it
profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the
gift?' (D&C 88:33). The Apostle Paul described our day to Timothy when
he wrote that in the last days 'men shall be lovers of their own
selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy' (2 Tim. 3:2). These sins are fellow travelers, and
ingratitude makes one susceptible to all of them."

I am grateful for the little things like waking up each morning, knowing it's ok that I wasn't perfect yesterday, God will give me another chance today!What a blessing!

Day 23 - Way 23

Overwhelming and full. These are the two words I would use to describe Tuesday. I have too many commitments. I have too many things that get in the way of what really matters. I wish that I could see inside the mind of someone who prioritizes their life in an effective manner. I know that I certainly try, but somehow, I always get to the end of a semester or project and then it hits me just how much work I have left to do. I learned that sleep helps you get your priorities straight though, so I am grateful today for the miracle of a warm place to rest from the cares of the world.

Day 22 - Way 22

Today I was reminded of how quickly your mood can change. I've never been a "Moody Monday" kind of person, but I can see why sometimes people are. I am just grateful that I wasn't asked to do more. I know that I am given the struggles in my life that will challenge me and teach me. I am always blessed to see what I have gained from trying times in my life. It is my hope and prayer that the priorities that really matter most will out shine the lesser things.

Day 21 - Way 21

Sunday morning the house was filled with a lot of activity as everyone prepared for church and for the trip home. We filled half of the chapel with our family. Cindee and Blake spoke in sacrament meeting. Cindee spoke about prophets and apostles and how they can be compared to a GPS unit in your car. They provide the most direct path to home. They also are influenced by a higher power that is fixed and steady, so the directions that you receive are not just from them, but are from someone that can see the whole picture. Blake spoke about the restoration of the gospel and how we can relate the process Joseph Smith took to receive the gospel as the same process that we can use to find answers to our own struggles. He spoke about the importance of being aloof, when you are unsure of what you should do.

After church the family mat back at Rob and Cindees to have some dinner. Then each family left to begin the trip back home. Doug, Buddy and I said our goodbyes and talked with Rob and Cindee for a while before we finally left. Our trip was quite an adventure.

In Fernley, I started to feel really sick. We took a little break from our trip so that I could get some fresh air. The car started to give us some trouble and I began to get worried that we would run into more car trouble. After we left Fernley, we had a pretty pleasant drive, I took some medicine so that I would be able to continue the trip. There were many miracles along our way, with the car working, with the timing of everything, we were able to be blessed along our trip in many ways.

One miracle that really stands out was the timing of our travels. We happened upon a man who had just moments before we arrived on the scene, rolled his vehicle 2-3 times in the median. He was able to walk around, but his hands were bleeding because of all the glass that had flown into them as he rolled. We gave him some water to clean his wounds off. A police officer arrived about 10 minutes after us. We asked him if he had some bandages in his vehicle. He went back to his truck and searched all over, but he had no first aid kit. Our mother, the emergency preparedness queen, had a 72 hour kit in her car, so we were able to provide an alcohol wipe and bandages for his hands, at least until the paramedics could arrive. We stayed with the police officer for a while until his backup arrived. Then we were on the road again.
In Elko, we found a gas station selling gas for $3.49/gallon. The station right off the exit was $4.00/gallon. We saved $8. When we reached an intersection down the road, the engine stopped on the car. I was so worried that we would have more problems, but as we prayed together, we knew that we would be ok. The car started again, and we continued our trip. We didn’t get home until 1:30am, but we felt so blessed to have been able to make it home safely and to have been able to be there for people in need.

Day 20 - Way 20

This morning I woke up to people in the living room saying goodbye to my parents online. I ran into the room so that I could go talk to them, but it was too late, they had already disconnected. I spent the rest of the day with many of my cousins. We went to garage sales, had a barbeque, went bowling and went out to dinner. After the dinner we went back to Rob and Cindees home. Buddy and I then shared the video that he created to celebrate the great work our grandparents have done to share the gospel and share the importance of family. This video shows how important family and the gospel have been to our family. Which brings me to the blessing today of opportunities that we have been given to celebrate our family and the love we have for one another. Also, I got to see mom and dad on their webcam, before I went to bed and that helped to lift my spirits.

Day 19 - Way 19

I drove across the Nevada desert on Friday. Buddy, Doug and I went to Minden NV, to visit our cousins. One of our cousins is leaving for a mission in a week so we came to hear him speak in church. He is going to Brasilia Brazil, which is my favorite city in the world, even though I've never been there. The miracle today was the fact that I had little to no sleep last night and yet I was able to go to class and understand and learn from my lab instructor and then I was able to drive all afternoon and evening without trouble.

Day 18 - Way 18

I struggled a little today to make time work in my favor. I had a lot to do at work, but my head just wasn't clear. It was really frustrating to know how and what to do at work and not be able to do it because my brain wouldn't make my body do the work. After work, I had a pretty good evening. I baked cookies for a ward activity, but by the time Buddy got out of class the activity was over, so we took the cookies to a friends house. When we got home, I found that the contents of my purse had been scattered all over the floor. Abbie had eaten all of the gum in my purse. Hopefully the most expensive pack of gum I will ever have. I had to take her to the vet because she was acting really sick and the vets that I called said that she could get worse if they didn't get the gum out of her system. So, I spent a few hours at the Pet ER while Abbie was forced to throw up all of the gum. She seems to be doing much better now, but the doctor told me to keep my eye on her for at least the next 8 hours to make sure that the xylitol(sugar substitute) didn't hurt her liver. I guess the miracle today is that my Doggy is ok and I knew what to do to take care of her. I know we couldn't really afford to take her, but I would've hated to see her die if I hadn't taken her in.

Day 17 - Way 17

Wednesday went really well for me. I somehow got everything I needed to do done and had some time left over to spend with my brother. I apologize that I haven't been writing at a consistent time. I will try harder to be better at that.

Day 16 - Way 16

I was able to finish a ton of work at my job today as well as finishing a paper that was due today. I really feel blessed that I could have the strength to accomplish all of these things. I also feel blessed by the creativity that has been flowing to me today. It has inspired some great work!

Day 15 - Way 15

On Monday I didn't die from the headache that made me feel like I was dead. That's my blessing. Although I'm sure my readers are wishing for something more, I feel like that was the greatest blessing.

Day 14 - Way 14

Today my blessing has been my brother. I basically spent the entire day with him today. We went to church together, we went to my grandmas house and had dinner together, and we spent the evening taking care of the house together. He is a great brother and I am blessed to have the chance to get to know him better. I know that we have a lot of time to make up for, because I was not the best sister while we were growing up. I hope he can see how grateful I am for this time we get to spend together.

Day 13 - Way 13

I was reminded today to be grateful for the little things: A baby that smiles at you, a friend who will tell you what's up, a relationship that doesn't die with time apart(no I'm not talking about a guy, I'm talking about a friend from years back that is still sincere after 4 years of not seeing each other), a sister that will drop her needs to help me with mine, a good decision made months in the past that serves as a reward in the present. I could go on and on. Basically, I know that I am blessed. I know I need to work harder for my blessings and show more humility and gratitude for them.

Day 12 - Way 12

Without a doubt, the blessing that was brought to my attention on Friday is the fact that I am surrounded by amazing friends who are always there for me. They give me so much strength and courage to just keep on trying every day.

My friends help me, not only in obvious ways, but in little things, simple encouragement or a kind word. They never cease to amaze me.

I was also reminded about how important it is to be there for your family. I am grateful that I have family who will forgive me when I let them down, and who are there for me when I need help up.