Papa

My dad has always been one of my biggest heroes. I have some of his best qualities. He's funny. I'm funny. He's kind. I'm kind. He's thoughtful. I'm thoughtful. 

This father's day, we had visitors from Michigan and my dad wouldn't let them go until they sat down to eat dinner with us. That reminded me of this one Thanksgiving, where we had some workers show up to work on our yard. They were landscaping our yard. My dad invited them in for turkey dinner, but they declined. So my dad gave them a turkey to take home for their family. It's these types of things that make me proud to be his daughter. 

So many people love my dad, because he's so kind and funny. He once served in a YSA ward and the young adults would come talk to my dad. They loved my Dad. He's also a hard worker. I don't know anyone who works harder than my parents. They are always working, whether it's their business or yard work- they are always working. 

Speaking of work, when I was little, I used to go to work with my dad occasionally. We'd drive up to Tremonton where he would work on the church buildings. And we'd always stop at Big Ben's for a burger, fries, and shake. I always loved that time sitting in my dad's big truck. There was one day when we drove my dad's truck to Arizona to pick up a new trailer. It was supposed to be a father/daughter trip, but my mom ended up coming too. I was slightly bitter about it at first, not gonna lie. 

I hope my husband is half as great as you are, Dad. I love you! Happy Father's Day!

Plain & Precious Truths #4

"And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions." Mosiah 24:14 

This scripture is one of sweet, sweet comfort. I feel like this year has been one of many trials. It seems like when one problem is solved, two more pop up. God has pulled me though each trial one by one. All of this so that I may stand as a witness and testify of God and His goodness. This scripture really puts that into perspective.

Read part 3 here: http://itsnottheworst.blogspot.com/2016/05/plain-and-precious-truths-3.html

NOTE: No blog tomorrow, because Sunday will be my special post all about my Dad! You know, since it's Father's Day...

It's Wednesday

I need one giant whiteboard. You know those whiteboard stands that are on wheels. On side is a whiteboard and the other is a cork board? I need one of those! I've been brainstorming like mad lately. I'm coming up with new content for this blog while simultaneously trying to put together my vision board and goals. 

The past week has been one whirlwind of...creative chaos, adjustment, and stress. I feel like a crazy woman. It's not the worst. I wish I was more organized in my head.

26 Years

Last week was my birthday. It was pretty low-key. I think I took one picture that day. I moved into my new apartment, worked, ate dinner with my family, and finished with ice cream with my fave girls. It was good.

I reflect on year 25. It was a hard year for me. A lot of learning. A lot of grieving. A lot confusion. And the trials...oh the trials... It was a good  year though. I spent a lot of time in the Temple. I spent a lot of time stretching myself. I spent a lot of time on my knees praying. It truly was a year of growth.

I've made some personal goals for year 26:

• Smile 
• Serve my community
• Daily 'Me' time - Unplug from the world to tap into my spiritual time (meditation)
• Transition into a 60% vegan lifestyle. (I put 60%, because I know myself and food.
• Explore one new place

Here's to making more memories this year!

New Transition

God stood in the way. I wanted to stay, because it was a familiar place. But God stood in the way. I felt attacked with depression and anxiety. I was confused. I tried everything to make it work. But God stood in the way. Usually He lets me choose. I can feel His gentle hand guiding me. Not this time. He stood in the way and threw me into a whole different situation. The transition was quick and flawless. I only felt homesick my first night, but that quickly went away. I don't know why I am here, but here I am. I'm closer to work. I'm socializing. I feel confident, safe, and loved. A renewed hope and joy has filled my heart. I feel like myself--something I haven't felt in so long. Things have been so much easier. All of this goodness has been so much sweeter after walking a hard path this year.

New transitions in life aren't the worst. Some may be easier than others, but it's these moments that help our development. So whatever your lot, whatever your transitions are, may you remember that they always lead to true greatness. And your God will be there with you.

A road less travelled

The Lord paved a road for me. One specifically for me. A series of events occurred that helped me solidify that the path I chose was not the right one. The moment I made the decision to not follow my own will, but His, I could see where to go.

New housing. New area. New friends. New ward. Same city. Same job. Same girl.

It all feels so right. Also, it's birthday week. (And I keep forgetting that I have a birthday.) Good week. I shall now finish devouring my oatmeal and fruit and do some reading before the work day begins.

Moment of Honesty: Burning Wood

I had a realization the other day why wood is significant to me. I always thought it was because I grew up with parents who built their own houses and would spend much time around framed wood. However, I realized that wood is easily burns. It burns quickly. I like the idea that you can build something frame by frame, but if needed, you can burn it down and fast. And if it comes to it, you can build it again. As it is with my relationships with others and things that I do.

I realized how unhealthy this is. Now I know and now I can press forward.