365. Today I am grateful for this project

Being that it was a leap year this year, I end this project two days before my birthday. I am also grateful for an extra day for this year and an extra day of being 29. I am grateful that I was able to complete this project. There were many wonderful things that happened in the past year but also some trials to deal with. I was able to go to Scotland in September to celebrate my Grandma’s 90^th birthday with her and attend my cousins wedding, I moved to a new place, I went home to BC three times and Utah twice, I was in Utah when my nephew was born and got to meet him when he was just a few hours old, and I have now been working at a job I enjoy for just over a year with people that I love.  I was also sick for longer than I have ever been which was frustrating because I didn’t know why and my Grandma passed away which brought feelings of grief, regret and loneliness. It’s ok to feel sad; it’s part of the grieving process and important to acknowledge those feelings. As I have relied on Heavenly father through prayer I have been able to find peace and strength.

I have also found strength in writing in this blog and recognizing the blessings I have in the midst of trials. Although, I will admit there were times I got behind and thought that maybe it would be easier to give up. I am glad I didn’t. I feel like I am a positive and optimistic person by nature, it’s just been a bit more difficult lately. I still need to take the time to remind myself of the many wonderful things and people in my life and take time to acknowledge them. I also like to accomplish the things I set out to do so I am glad that I was able to write 365 entries ... and I bet I could write 365 more.   

364. Today I am grateful for “Thank You’s”

I love the story in the book of Luke where Jesus healed ten lepers and only one returned to thank him. Sometimes it seems that it is only about one in ten people who will say thank you. I can buy wedding gifts for ten people and probably expect one person to send a thank you card. I can give ten people a ride somewhere and probably expect one person to say thank you. I would hope it would be more though. I hope that I am always quick to thank those who help me in any way. I am grateful for the word “thank you” and for those who show their appreciation and for the opportunity I have to show my appreciation.   

363. Today I am grateful for Goals

I am a goal-oriented person and love accomplishing goals I have set. I am grateful for the goals that I have accomplished the ones I am working on and the ones I hope will be fulfilled.

362. Today I am grateful for lotion

I am grateful for foot, hand and body lotion to help keep my skin moisturized. It really helps to get through the Alberta dryness.

361. Today I am grateful for grocery stores

I am grateful for grocery stores so I can get my groceries and household supplies in one convenient location.

360. Today I am grateful that I don’t have any grey hairs

I know a lot of girls who are my age have grey hairs and I am grateful that I don’t. I don’t want to dye my hair until it starts turning grey. I like my hair colour so I am glad that I can keep it.

359. Today I am grateful for church buildings

Throughout the past year I have written posts on various gospel topics but I was sitting in church today I was thinking about how blessed we are to have buildings to worship in. I am also grateful that other religions have buildings to worship freely.

358. Today I am grateful for News Sources

I am grateful for news sources to help me connect with what is happening in my own community and the rest of the world.

357. Today I am grateful for ERSA & Smores

I am grateful for the opportunity I had this evening to spend with other girls from the ward, have a bonfire and eat smores. I am also grateful that I didn’t get lost going to a park I had never been to before.  Sometimes those River Valley roads can be confusing.

356. Today I am grateful for straight hair

When I was in BC I got my hair permanently straightened. I had it done once before over a year and a half ago and really liked it so I decided to do it again. I love that I can wash my hair and it will dry in straight and frizz-free and being summer I don’t even need to blow dry it. Being straight makes it so much easier to manage.  

355. Today I am grateful for the Ocean

One of the things I love most about living on the Coast is the Ocean, which is one thing I miss being here in Alberta.   

354. Today I am grateful for a Nap

I don’t often go for naps but I am grateful for the nap I took after work today to reenergize.  

353. Today I am grateful that I am sensitive

I have had people tell me that I am sensitive but I don’t think I’m too sensitive and I don’t think it’s a bad thing either. Sure, I might take things too personally or get my feelings hurt but I think that being sensitive also helps me to be more caring and understanding towards others.

352. Today I am grateful for virtue

I am grateful for the choices that I have made to live a virtuous life and that in a world where virtue is seen by many as “outdated”, I am grateful that there are many others who believe in virtue as well.

351. Today I am grateful for a day at the beach with my family

We got back home late last night and this morning my parents asked me what I wanted to do for my last day home (I fly back to Edmonton tonight). My answer was going to the beach so we spent the day at Crescent Beach in Surrey. It was such a nice day and the weekend so the beach was pretty busy. It was lots of fun though walking along the beach, eating gelato and drinking lemonade that two little girls were selling to raise money for the SPCA. We also took a tour of a hovercraft which was really neat. The Canadian Coast Guard had docked at Crescent Beach for a couple of hours or so and gave tours and answered questions that people had. It was a great day for the beach with my family!

350. Today I am grateful for road trip games

Last night we drove from Provo to Boise and had a lot of fun playing road trip games. My family likes to play the alphabet type of games ... “I went on a vacation and brought with me” ... and where you pick a category, for example animals, and then everyone takes turns saying an animal that starts with the next letter of the alphabet. It was pretty fun!     

349. Today I am grateful for Mountains

As we leave Utah and head back to BC I am reminded of my love for mountains. Utah and BC both have pretty amazing mountains!

348. Today I am grateful for Salt Lake City

We spent most of the day in Salt Lake City today and it was lots of fun. I especially love temple square, the visitors centre and the church history museum, not only are they awesome but there free.  I also love the Family History Library but didn't go there this time. I am grateful that the Mormon Pioneers did settle the Salt Lake Valley and that their history has been preserved.

347. Today I am grateful for hugs

I like hugs and I am grateful for its expression of love, friendship and caring. I have gotten lots of hugs these past few days from my nieces which are the best kind of hugs!

346. Today I am grateful for Ice Cream

I love ice cream and enjoy trying different flavours. So smooth and creamy ... what’s not to like? I have heard a lot about the BYU Creamery and so I decided I needed to go and try their ice cream. I went with my brother, my sister and her husband and children. I got the Strawberry Sundae ice cream with a brownie and it was really good, it lived up to its expectations! J

345. Today I am grateful for Monopoly Deal

Every family has “their game”, ours used to be Pictionary but now it’s Monopoly Deal. My sister gave me this game for Christmas 3 years ago and then soon after my brother, my Dad and my sister (who got me the game) all bought one for themselves. Now no matter whether we are in Edmonton, Surrey or Provo someone has the game and were bound to spend a couple of hours playing.

344. Today I am grateful for swimming pools

I enjoy swimming and especially on really hot days ... I am grateful for swimming pools.

343. Today I am grateful for Highways

I am grateful for Highways that stretch throughout the continent to help make travelling more efficient and get you where you want to go faster.

That is if you’re on the right highway, we actually ended up staying the night in Montana instead of Oregon because we made a wrong turn. It will prob. Add a few more hours onto our trip but we will in Utah today!  

342. Today I am grateful for longest undefended border

As we get ready to leave to head down to Utah I am grateful that the border between Canada and the USA is undefended. This international border is known as the world’s longest undefended border which I believe just means that the two countries are not at war. However, there is still a lot of security and many people have difficulty getting over the border. Here is an interesting Canadian Geographic article about its creation.   

341. Today I am grateful for the Olympics

The London 2012 Olympics started on Friday and I have been watching the opening ceremonies and events over that past few days that have been PVRd. I love the Olympics! I love cheering for Canada, other countries and athletes.  I love the display of perseverance, sportsmanship, citizenship and believing in your dreams. I also love that people are gathering from all over the world to participate.  

340. Today I am grateful that my little sister asked me for makeup advice

My little sister (she’s 12) and I were in the bathroom this morning getting ready for the day. She asked me for some make up advice and I was surprised by how happy I was to share some tips with her. I’m not a make-up expert by any means but it was nice to kind of have that big sister role of sharing advice.

339. Today I am grateful for my Mom

Today is my mom’s birthday and so I think it would be a good opportunity to share my gratitude for my mom. I am grateful that she brought me into this world, I am grateful for the opportunities we have to talk, for her support in the choices I have made and for the relationship we have.   

338. Today I am grateful that there are still people I know in the Fraser Valley YSA branch

In my younger YSA years there was a Surrey YSA branch that I attended until it was dissolved and then I went back to my home ward for a bit for before moving out to Edmonton. Now the Surrey and Abbotsford stake YSA’s are combined to form the Fraser Valley YSA branch which I attended today. They meet in the old Langley building close to the temple. Over the years most of the people I know from my time in YSA in that area are married, have moved or are no longer in YSA so it was really nice to see people today that I knew and catch up with.  

337. Today I am grateful to spend time with siblings in Vancouver

I spent the afternoon and evening with my brother and little sister in Vancouver today where we hung out until the Celebration of lights firework show. It was fun spending some time with them!   

336. Today I am grateful for a Vacation!

I don’t think I have ever needed a vacation more than I do now. I am grateful to be able to take 2 weeks off to spend with my family in BC and Utah.

335. Today I am grateful for an invitation to see George Canyon

Each evening during Capital Ex there is a free outdoor concert, well you pay the gate admission to get in to the fair. The only concert I was interested in seeing was George Canyon but everyone I had talked to about seeing it either already had plans or weren’t interested in seeing it so I figured I probably wouldn’t end up going because I didn’t want to go on my own. Then a few days ago someone was like, “hey, you like country music right? ... Do you want to see George Canyon with me?” Yeah! I was happy that I had someone to go with and it was a great concert!

334. Today I am grateful for the opportunity I had to be an EFY counselor

As I hear of people going off to EFY as a participant or counselor it brings back fond memories I have as both a participant and a counselor. However, I would say that being a counselor was one of the best things I have experienced. EFY is a BYU run summer camp that holds week-long sessions during the summer throughout North America and in a few other countries. They are mainly held at university campuses, with overnight sessions the youth and counselors stay in dorms. The program focuses on spiritual learning and growth but also encourages having fun and making new friends. As a counselor I felt privileged to be a part of that process and still keep in touch with several of the youth I had in my group. Some are married now, some have returned from missions or are currently on missions and some are in university. It is wonderful to see the progress each has made!

333. Today I am grateful for the Mormon pioneers

Today is a day recognized by Utahan’s and Mormons as Pioneer Day; a day to recognize the journey the Mormon pioneers made across the plains until they settled in the Salt Lake Valley. It`s a day to recognize Freedom and the opportunity for them to practice their religion in peace. I have met many people who are descended from these pioneers and it`s wonderful to hear them share family stories of sacrifice and perseverance. Although, I am not a descendent of these pioneers I do honour them and am grateful for the sacrifices they made so that I can practice the religion I love.

As a youth I had the opportunity to participate in a pioneer trek and it was a wonderful experience to get a small taste of what it was like to be a pioneer and pull or push a cart with all of our stuff in it. We dressed in pioneer clothing and slept under tarps. It was a cool experience but I am glad I am living at tis time in history.

I should add that my ancestors were pretty awesome people too and overcame other challenges of their time and also made sacrifices so that I can be where I am today.

 

332. Today I am grateful for the calm after the storm

Part of Edmonton and are was under a tornado warning today while most of Edmonton (including where I live) was under a tornado watch but we just ended up with a crazy storm instead. It was kind of scary, especially because of the emergency warnings on the radio. Before today, the only warnings I heard where tests. However, almost as soon as the storm ended, the sun came out and the sky was clear. I likened it to trials in our life, sometimes it can be hard to see that things will work out but eventually we will experience the calm after the storm. 

331. Today I am grateful for an opportunity to analyze my faith

This past weekend I had a conversation with someone about the gospel and what we believe as Latter-day Saints. This person had some negative things to say, not in a demeaning way but in a questioning way, which is ok. Everyone is to choose for themselves what they believe and the sources to which they want to receive that information. I am happy to be friends with people who don’t share my beliefs as long as they are respectful of it. However, I am grateful for the conversation I had and the opportunity to analyze my faith ... why do I believe the things that I believe?

We are not expected to be ‘blind’ followers, our Heavenly Father has given us resources, both tangible and divine to guide us to receive answers to questions we have. In the Book of Mormon, there is a well known scripture (to those familiar with the book) that invites all who read it to decide for themselves if what they have read is true.

Moroni 10:3-5:

Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.

This scripture can also be applied to other scriptures read and anything that is said by church leaders or others we look up to.

330. Today I am grateful for quiet time

I really am a people person and enjoy being around people and having conversations and doing this and feeling like people care about me. Lately I have felt like I have had a lot of alone time and although it’s easy for me to feel disconnected in that situation, it may be what I need right now. This time has allowed me to spend more time reflecting on where my life is going, what is going well, what changes I would like and what’s important to me. It has also given me an opportunity to spend more time studying the scriptures and in sincere prayer and relying on divine strength and comfort.

329. Today I am grateful for free tickets for the fair and to give people free tickets

This evening was my first time going to Capital Ex which is Edmonton’s summer Fair and it was pretty good, I enjoyed the shows I saw: Street Corner symphony and Side Swipe, I think they both won talent competitions. Both groups were pretty entertaining. I am grateful for free tickets I got to get into the fair. I was also given some more left over tickets that I handed out to families waiting in line. It was nice to see the look of surprise that I was giving them the tickets for free and the gratitude that they showed.  

328. Today I am grateful for sweet little Rebekah

Today is my little niece’s 5^th birthday. She is such a sweet little girl who even suggested celebrating her birthday in August when my family comes to visit. Bekah also has a sense of humour and it’s so funny when she tells jokes and when she gets jokes that adults share with each other. She loves her siblings and always wants to be a little mommy to the babies. I am looking forward to seeing her this summer and celebrating her birthday with her.

327. Today I am grateful to be short

I feel that often people seem to want to help me feel good about being short. The truth is I like being short. I can fit in small spaces, I can lie across a couch, usually without my feet touching the end, I don’t really require a lot of leg room which helps on plane trips or if a tall person is sitting in front or behind me in a car and needs to adjust their seat, I don’t have to duck when walking through doors, and I think it makes me look younger. If I wanted to avoid someone or “get lost” in a crowd, I can and I can help tall people feel good about their height by asking them to reach things for me. I am also grateful that more and more stores are selling petite sizes, particularly pants.

326. Today I am grateful to “run and not be weary”

I am actually not much of a runner; I prefer exercising with an elliptical. I love walking though and can walk a long time without tiring.  However, I mean the quote in the sense that I am grateful to be able to get through the day and accomplish many things and having the energy needed to do what I need to do.

325. Today I am grateful for the ability to multitask

It’s amazing how the human mind and body allows us to have the ability to do more than one thing at a time. It does help one to feel more productive.  

324. Today I am grateful that I graduated from Seminary

I am grateful that I spent 4 years of my High School years attending early morning seminary classes before school. Just like attending institute during my YSA years, Seminary also helped me to balance spiritual and secular education and responsibilities.

323. Today I am grateful for compliments

It’s always nice to receive a compliment from someone whether it’s something I’m wearing, my eyes, hair, etc. Many of the compliments I receive come from strangers, some come across as creepy but I feel most are sincere. Once I was in the washroom at Superstore washing my hands and a little girl standing beside me looked up at me and said, “wow, you’re so pretty”, it was really sweet and really made my day.

322. Today I am grateful for batteries

Its amazing how many things require batteries, I am grateful that they help things work.

321. Today I am grateful for access to a variety of ethnic foods

I love trying ethnic foods (as long as I know what it is) and its great having access so many great dishes and foods from various ethnicities.

320. Today I am grateful for Skype

I am grateful for technology that allows me to see and talk to my family at the same time, no matter where they are.

319. Today I am grateful or hot weather

I will take +30 over -30 any day!

318. Today I am grateful for the breaking record heat of 33 degrees Celsius

Today Edmonton reached a new record with its hottest temperature, 33 degrees Celsius today! At first I was thinking, 33 degrees is the hottest it’s ever been, that’s it?” ... but it is hot! For FHE we had a water balloon fight, it sure helped to cool off.

317. Today I am grateful for the Hymn, “Count Your Many Blessings”

We sang this hymn in church today and as we were singing I was reminded of the many blessings that I have.

316. Today I am grateful for Zumba classes

Today was my first time going to a Zumba class and although I felt really uncoordinated, I felt good after and had fun. I am also grateful for new challenges and trying something new.

315. Today I am grateful for what I have

314. Today I am grateful for the neighbourhood I live in

I love the neighbourhood I live in! It`s mainly families that live here and the people I have come across are very friendly and welcoming. People generally keep their homes looking nice with pretty gardens. It`s also by the river valley which makes it an attractive area to live. From my home I see tree lined streets and a picturesque view of downtown up the hill.  

313. Today I am grateful for summer

As I have mentioned I love the turning of the seasons and enjoy each season for different reasons but summer is definitely my favourite season. I love the warmth, long days and going outside without having to put a jacket on. I enjoy wearing flip flops and Capri’s or shorts, lightweight clothing and summery colours. My skin is not as pale and I can enjoy many outdoor activities. I love summer so much ... I just wish it was a bit longer.

312. Today I am grateful for Prayer with Fasting

On the first Sunday of the month, members of the LDS church are encouraged to fast for the first two meals of the day. A fast is done for a specific purpose whether it is personal or involves others (such as the whole family or ward) and is accompanied with prayer for that purpose to be fulfilled. My fast this past Sunday was a neat experience for me and without getting too personal I did receive an answer in a unique way through a dream. When I woke up I thought to myself, `what a weird dream`` but then almost immediately the explanation came to me. As we learn from Joseph of Egypt and other Biblical experiences, God does use dreams to guide us, warn us and to reveal his purposes.  

311. Today I am grateful for a day at the lake with friends

I am grateful to have been able to spend a day off at the lake with a friend and her family. Not having my family here, it`s nice to be included in other peoples family activities. The weather threatened to storm but ended up clearing up. I had cute babies to play with and friends to catch up with. It was an enjoyable day for sure.

310. Today I am grateful to live in Canada

As we celebrate Canada’s 145^th Birthday I want to share my gratitude for living in such a wonderful country. I love being Canadian, as I shared in this post. I love how diverse and beautiful each province is. I love the image it has; Canadians are welcome in every country. J I love that it is a bilingual country although the extent of my French is understanding what food labels say when turned to the French side (although the pictures often help too).  We have attractive looking money and compared to many other countries, our economy is looking pretty stable. I love our flag, our anthem and our pride ... Yet humility. I love Canada!

309. Today I am grateful for angels

Particularly hard days for me this week were Wednesday and Thursday, in between those days in my time zone was my Grandma’s funeral in Scotland and I really struggled with not being there. On Wednesday I signed on to the internet with my home page set to www.lds.org and saw a link to Elder Scott’s recent Conference talk, “How to Obtain Revelationand Inspiration for Your Personal Life”. It seemed to have come as an answer to my prayers. I have continued to read it several times throughout the week, particularly this section:

 “Another example of revelation is this guidance given to President Joseph F. Smith: “I believe we move and have our being in the presence of heavenly messengers and of heavenly beings. We are not separate from them. … We are closely related to our kindred, to our ancestors … who have preceded us into the spirit world. We can not forget them; we do not cease to love them; we always hold them in our hearts, in memory, and thus we are associated and united to them by ties that we can not break. … If this is the case with us in our finite condition, surrounded by our mortal weaknesses, … how much more certain it is … to believe that those who have been faithful, who have gone beyond … can see us better than we can see them; that they know us better than we know them. … We live in their presence, they see us, they are solicitous for our welfare, they love us now more than ever. For now they see the dangers that beset us; … their love for us and their desire for our well being must be greater than that which we feel for ourselves.”

Relationships can be strengthened through the veil with people we know and love. That is done by our determined effort to continually do what is right. We can strengthen our relationship with the departed individual we love by recognizing that the separation is temporary and that covenants made in the temple are eternal. When consistently obeyed, such covenants assure the eternal realization of the promises inherent in them.”

It reminded me of one of my all time favourite Conference talks, which was given in the October 2008 (was it really that long ago?!) Conference by Elder Holland, titled “The Ministry of Angels”. He speaks of both Heavenly and Mortal angels and that both have the same purpose to help in times of need. While reading over this talk again, this part is what I most needed to hear at this time:  

“My beloved brothers and sisters, I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. “[N]or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man [or woman or child] upon the face thereof to be saved.” On occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark and dreary places. Often enough that distress can be of our own making, but even then the Father of us all is watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen, known and unknown, mortal and immortal.”

I know that my Grandma will always be there for me and continue to care for me as she watches over me.

308. Today I am grateful for quiet walks in the park

I have been taking walks in the park close to my home often and it’s nice to be out in nature and have that time to reflect while getting some exercise too.  

307. Today I am grateful for my sister to talk to

I have called my sister everyday for a week now and even though she has a family with four young children she has taken the time to just be there for me to have someone to talk to.

306. Today I am grateful for people who care about me

I have been feeling pretty lonely; it’s hard dealing with grief on your own. Right now I feel like the only people who sincerely care about how I am feeling are people at work, my family (particularly my twin sister), and one friend. When I put it like that yes, I see that people care, I guess I was just hoping for more support from my friends. I am grateful for the support from my coworkers especially when I don’t feel very productive at work right now but I would rather be there than sitting at home alone.

305. Today I am grateful for cousins sharing memories

I started a thread on facebook with all of my Couper cousins and invited each of them to share their favourite memory of our grandma. It has been awhile since I have laughed that hard. So many funny memories, my Grandma provided lots of entertainment for lots of people. I don’t get to see our talk to my cousins often so it was nice for us all to gather electronically and share memories together. I have also been chatting with a cousin in New Zealand who is also on her own and she has been a good support to me as well.  

304. Today I am grateful for this memory

 

 

303. Today I am grateful for an opportunity to teach Relief Society today

I really enjoy teaching and while I did teach the Family History Sunday School class as part of my calling as Family History Consultant, I have never had a formal teaching calling. I have had the opportunity to substitute both Sunday School and Relief Society which I have enjoyed. Today in RS I taught a lesson based on Elder Neil L. Anderson’s Conference address titled, “What Thinks Christ of Me?” I love this talk and hope that the sisters in the class were able to take away something from the lesson. Our discussion included sharing examples of Christ-like people, being that my Grandma was one of the most Christ-like people I have know I talked about her example and got a bit emotional. I really don’t like crying in public but emotions are real and people know that.

302. Today I am grateful for my Dad

Although Thursday was a sad day, it was also a day to remember my Dad. It was his birthday yesterday and I did take the time to call him and wish him a happy birthday ... even if no one was feeling really happy.

I am grateful for all that my dad has done for me and I know that if I need something he will help me. One thing I learned from my Dad is to have a good work ethic; my Dad has always been a hard worker in his career, at home and in his church callings. My favourite memories with my dad were the times he took us out to do things like swimming and roller-skating. Although a businessman, my Dad is also a handyman ... fixing things, building things and putting things together. There are many times while living away from home where I have thought ... I wish my Dad were here, he could fix that.   

301. Today I am grateful for preschool graduations

I didn’t feel like going into work today but I wanted to watch the preschool graduation. I am glad I did, the children and their parents were so happy to take part in the little ceremony. The best part was listening to what the children want to be when they grow up.  

300. Today I am grateful for a wonderful influence in my life

I am grateful for such a wonderful influence in my life. My Grandma passed away today. There aren't a lot of words that come to mind right now amidst the grief I feel. The first thing that came to mind after I had processed what had happened is the scripture found in ... "And her children shall rise up and call her blessed".

This may also seem selfish of me but I am also sad that I never did get married during her lifetime. For the past several years at the end of every phone call, Grandma would say "I will pray for you that you will find someone special ... by Christmas (of whatever year it was), you will be married". Also ever since I was a little girl I have wanted to name my first daughter Elisabeth, after my Grandma. She would have been so happy to know that she had a great granddaughter named after her.

299. Today I am grateful for my Grandma

I am grateful for my Grandma. I got a call today from my sister who had talked to my mom saying that my Grandma is very week (she has been in the hospital for a bout a month) and it Isn't very likely that my Grandma will make it through the night. I so wish I could be there with her right now.

298. Today I am grateful for late night talks with roommates

Something I have enjoyed with most of the roommates I have had is late night chats. During these conversations I feel that I have come to know these girls at a deeper level which helps to strengthen relationships. I am also grateful for former roommates who I continue to be friends with.

297. Today I am grateful for food containers

I am grateful for food containers and use them often: In packing my lunch, storing leftovers and freezing food.

296. Today I am grateful for the Primary Program

I am grateful for the primary program of the church and the opportunity that I had to attend. It is in Primary where we learn some of the most important things, such as: We are all children of God and he loves each one of us, the scriptures are the word of God, Jesus taught people to love one another, Jesus died for us so that we can live with him again, Families are forever, etc.

295. Today I am grateful that for the values that I have

I feel that my values help me to make good choices and strive to be a better person. I am grateful for positive influences that have helped me to maintain the values that I have.  

294. Today I am grateful that I have a brother

I recently wrote about how I am grateful for the bond I have with my sisters. I am also grateful for the bond I have with my brother. He I was home last, he also changed is clothes e evening so that we would match. Isn’t that cute? J  

293. Today I am grateful for my body

I am often amazed by how perfectly the body has been designed with a purpose for everything.

292. Today I am grateful for books

I am grateful for good books and the opportunity I have to read them. Right now I am reading President Gordon B. Hinckley’s “Standing for Something”, which is a great book to evaluate our lives and what we can do personally to make positive changes in our life, families and communities. My favourites growing up were the “Ann of Green Gable” and “Little House on the Prairie” series, which I brought out to Edmonton with me. I also love the “Work and the Glory Series”. I would love to read all these series again.

291. Today I am grateful for a dryer

Although most people in North America have a dryer, it wasn’t that long ago when most people hung up their clothes outside to dry. I am particularly grateful for dryers because I mainly do my laundry in the evening and use the dryer to dry most of my clothes. Dryers also dry clothes so much faster in the winter. I also love putting on warm clothes straight from the dryer.

290. Today I am grateful for a washing machine

While there are a few things I own that I wash by hand, I am grateful that I can throw most of my clothes in the washing machine.

289. Today I am grateful that this Cough is finally over!

After about 3 months, my cough is finally over. I am so grateful that I can regain my health and strength and hope to never have to endure that again.

288. Today I am grateful for Weeding

Today I joined some people from work and the Kinsclub to do some weeding. My roommate also came out to volunteer her time. I enjoyed talking with the members of the Kinsclub and hear about the variety of volunteer projects they work with. I think it’s great that there are various groups dedicated to serving their community.    

287. Today I am grateful for baby news

I am always excited for people who are expecting a baby, what is more exciting than bringing a new life into this world? Right now I have two good friends expecting babies, one that I found about tonight. I can’t wait to meet these little babies.  

286. Today I am grateful for the word of wisdom

I am grateful for the Word of Wisdom. I am grateful that I don’t need to drink coffee to wake up. I am grateful that I have never tried alcohol or tobacco and have no desire to. I am grateful that most of my diet is made up of fruits, vegetables and grains.  

285. Today I am grateful to have one student loan paid off!

I am grateful that I have paid off my national student loan a year after graduating. Now I just have the Alberta student loan to pay off.

284. Today I am grateful for laws

I am grateful for laws which are in place to protect us. I hope our government will continue to make necessary changes and additional laws to protect its citizens.

283. Today I am grateful for living at this time

I am grateful to live at a time (and in a place) with a high standard of living, technological and medical advancements, access to education and a variety of jobs, and an abundance of good food and clean water.

282. Today I am grateful for a visit with my Aunt

Today after church my roommate and I headed over to my Aunts house where we joined her for lunch. It was great to catch up and talk about old memories and what’s currently happening with her and her children and me and my family. Can you see the family resemblance?  

281. Today I am grateful for my little Miriam

Today is my little niece Miriam’s second birthday! I just fell in love with her since I first saw her when she was just 2 weeks old. When I saw her last weekend I loved that she would come to me even though she would run away from other people. She is quite the chatterbox and comes up with the funniest things to say. This photo pretty much sums up how much I love her:

280. Today I am grateful for a weekend away

It’s always nice to have a weekend away from home. I was home in BC last weekend and now heading down to Calgary this weekend. I am going down for a midsingles conference so it should be a fun weekend of speed-dating, workshops, food, dancing and meeting people. Tomorrow my roommate and I are also planning on going to the zoo and see the new penguin exhibit. I haven’t been to the Calgary Zoo since I was a child so I am excited for that!    

279. Today I am grateful for my sisters

I am grateful for sisters and the special bond I have with each of my sisters.

278. Today I am grateful for cameras

I am grateful for camera’s to allow us to create images of important events and memories. I enjoy looking photos from my childhood and remembering those times. I am also grateful to also have some early photographs of ancestors.

277. Today I am grateful to have an eternal family

I am grateful to know that I can be with my family for eternity. A sealing is an ordinance which binds husbands and wives and their children together for eternity. When a husband and wife are sealed then any children born to them after are born within the covenants made. My dad was not a member of the church when my parents married, he was baptized soon after I was born, and my parents were sealed in the Cardston, Alberta temple about 3 years later. I know that “whatever is bound on earth is bound in Heaven” and that I will be with my family forever.  

276. Today I am grateful to be an auntie

I love being an auntie! My nieces and nephew are so cute and so much fun to be with. I am grateful for the time I have to spend with them; I only wish I could live closer to them. Even though distance separates us I am grateful for the influence I have on them. I am also grateful that they know how much I love them and that I know how much they love me.  

275. Today I am grateful for a new family photo ... with everyone!

It has been two years since we had a family photo and it was nice to get a new one to add to the 2012 family scrapbook page. I am grateful for a friend who took time to take some photos for us. The photo shows everyone but in reality my brother did not get the memo that we were getting family photos taken and was not there. I am also grateful for Photoshop so that he could be included in the photo. J

274. Today I am grateful that I grew up in British Columbia and have a home to return to

British Columbia’s slogan is “Beautiful British Columbia” and it truly is beautiful! I am grateful that I grew up in this beautiful province and that my family still lives here which gives me a home to return to when I come back to visit.

273. Today I am grateful for airplanes

As I sit at the Edmonton Airport awaiting my flight to Vancouver, I am grateful for planes to help us travel quickly.

272. Today I am grateful to own a computer

I am grateful to own a computer which enables me to do things like write this post for my blog, save photos and information, store my family history and browse the internet.

271. Today I am grateful for access to clean water

Much of the world has limited access to clean world, I am grateful that I don’t have to worry about the access I have to clean water.

270. Today I am grateful for new clothes

It has been awhile since I went to the mall and bought more than a couple of clothing items but recently I bought a bunch of new summer clothes and it is nice to have some new clothes to wear. Its also nice to now have a steady income so that I can afford to buy new clothes.

269. Today I am grateful for Shampoo and conditioner

I am grateful for shampoo and conditioner to keep my hair clean and smelling nice.

268. Today I am grateful for the Ensign

The Ensign is a magazine the church publishes that includes inspiration stories submitted by members, church news and the visiting teaching message. It is a wonderful tool and helps me feel connected to other members throughout the world.  

267. Today I am grateful for rivers

Although there are no oceans boarding Edmonton, I am grateful that it does have a river flowing through the city.  

266. Today I am grateful for coloured toe nails

I like to have just clear polish on my finger nails but I do enjoy having coloured nail polish on my toe nails. Usually they are pink but I recently bought a pretty blue colour of nail polish and I really like it.

265. Today I am grateful that I don’t have asthma or any kind of breathing problem

I had a breathing test today and I am grateful that I don’t have asthma or any kind of breathing problem. Back when my cough was really bad I did find it hard to breath and a DR. said that I had asthma but when none of the medication worked I was pretty sure I didn’t. I am glad to know that I don’t.

264. Today I am grateful that I don’t have any kind of immune disease

Well I have been sent for various tests just to rule things out. Yesterday was a blood test to rule out any kind of immune disease, like mono ... which was. The good news is that the cough does seem to be more sporadic now.

263. Today I am grateful for miracles

I am grateful for miracles both big and small and am grateful for the miracles I have experienced. I am also grateful to know that I can expect miracles in my life. Spring seems like a season of ‘ordinary miracles’ which reminds me of this beautiful song from the movie “Charlotte’s Web”:

All the videos I found with footage from Charollote's Web were too small to put up on here but this one is pretty. :)

262. Today I am grateful for beautiful green grass

Sometimes people complain about the rain but love green grass ... well you can’t really have one without the other (well, there are other ways but it still involves water). I love love love beautiful green grass!  

261. Today I am grateful for a day to celebrate Mothers

Happy Mother’s day to all mothers for fulfilling the most important role of raising children! I am grateful for my own mother for raising me and for all mothers who influence me. I am also grateful for the opportunity I have to be a influence in the lives of children.

260. Today I am grateful for funny experience

A funny story to share that made a trip to Hawrelak Park more than worth it. I was at the park with some friends for a mission farewell party. The girl who is leaving on a mission and her roommates thought it would be fun to make homemade root beer in a keg. After the root beer has been served we were approached by peace officers who asked what were drinking. “Root beer”, someone answered. To which, an officer replied, “You have to understand that’s hard for me to believe”. Someone gave him a cup and then he laughed and said, “This is the best site I have been to all night!”  

259. Today I am grateful for opportunities to serve ... even when it makes you look weird

Today the Edmonton YSA participated in a ‘Service Amazing Race’ activity where we were given various tasks to complete. These task included picking up litter, pumping gas for people, bagging groceries for people, and singing to people. Whyte Ave is known for weird people, this evening I am sure we won. However, it was pretty fun and my team won!

258. Today I am grateful for this talk

Every now and then a General conference talk is used in a little video production to relay the theme of the talk. I am grateful that Sister Dalton’s talk, given during the October 2011 session of General Conference is one of them. This one came out pretty recently, likely with Mothers day coming up. The talk is Titled, “Love Her Mother”. This talk is great for everyone but is mainly directed at fathers by telling them that the most important thing he can do for his daughter is to love their mother. As the talk ended I found myself desiring to marry the kind of man that Sister Dalton was encouraging men to be. I hope the single men were paying attention to this talk. J    

257. Today I am grateful to study conference talks

Today I started the spring semester of Institute where we will be studying the most recent conference talks. I really excited to do a more in-depth study of the words of our leaders.  

256. Today I am grateful for ward temple trips

I enjoy going to the temple with my ward as I feel that it brings unity to ward members who attend together.

255. Today I am grateful for rain

I am grateful for rain as it helps the flowers, food and grass, etc. to grow. It also stabilizes our water supply which is necessary to sustain life.  Rainy days also remind me of home (out in the Vancouver area). Trust me; I will take rain over snow any day, especially in the winter. Some people will disagree with me but I think a lot of it has to do with what you grow up with.

254. Today I am grateful for the Scriptures

As a Latter-day Saint there are four books that we recognize as scriptures; The Book of Mormon, the Holy Bible (Old Testament and New Testament), The Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. I have previously written posts sharing my gratitude specifically for the Holy Bible and The Book of Mormon.  I am grateful for access to all these scriptures which prove to me God’s love for all his people; In days of old in the Holy Lands and the Americas and in more current times as found in the Doctrine and Covenants. Although we do know that the Bible and Book of Mormon were written for our day when it is available to many people throughout the world. I look forward to the day when these books of scripture will be available to everyone throughout the whole world.

Learn more about each of these books of scripture.

253. Today I am grateful for a Mani & Pedi

I enjoy treating myself to a manicure and pedicure every now and then. It’s not something I do very often but I enjoy the relaxation that comes with it and how great my hands and feet feel and how pretty my nails look.

252. Today I am grateful to improve my Frisbee throwing skills

I enjoy playing sports and sporty type of games although I am not particularly good at them. I enjoy playing with people who are understanding of that and willing to help me out and teach me some new skills. Tonight I am grateful for friends who helped me improve my Frisbee throwing skills ... it was pretty fun too!

251. Today I am grateful that the warmth is finally here!

Although we had a relatively mild winter it just didn’t seem to really warm up through the spring. However today was quite warm and I can finally wear my shorts, Capri’s and flip flops.

250. Today I am grateful to have a family practitioner

For the past several weeks I have been looking for a Family Doctor and while I wasn’t able to be connected to a Doctor I was able to be connected to a Nurse Practitioner.  She seems really nice, friendly, knowledgeable and caring so I think it will be a good experience for me.

249. Today I am grateful for flowers

One thing I love about spring is watching the flowers bloom. I love flowers! They bring so much beauty and smell wonderful.

248. Today I am grateful to have made it through my first winter driving experience successfully

I think the snow is finally 100% gone! Driving in the snow has been a new experience for me and although it was scary at times.... I made it without any injury to me and only minor damage to my car, which was repaired, when I was rear-ended. You can read about my first winter driving experience here.

247. Today I am grateful to be a Christian

I have written several posts about my gratitude to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Along with people recognizing me as Latter-day Saint, LDS, or Mormon I am also grateful to be a Christian and for those who recognize and refer to me as a Christian. To me being Christian declares my desire to follow Christ and serve as he did and love as he does.  

246. Today I am grateful for the freezer

I also need to add the Freezer for keeping food preserved for even longer. It also allows me to enjoy yummy cold “food” like ice cream. I also enjoy making casseroles and lasagna and then freezing them into individual portions to reheat in the microwave on busy nights.

245. Today I am grateful for a refrigerator

I will continue my gratitude for appliances with the refrigerator which I am grateful to have to preserve perishable foods.

244. Today I am grateful for microwave ovens

I am also grateful for microwave ovens to defrost, reheat, prep and cook foods quickly. What a great convenience tool. Just to make me feel old I will share that I remember going to Costco with my parents to buy our very first microwave oven.  

243. Today I am grateful for an oven

I am grateful for ovens to bake and cook food.

242. I am grateful for the opportunity to vote

Alberta had their provincial election yesterday and I am grateful that I took the opportunity to vote. I am grateful that I have an opportunity to decide for myself what I value and what party I want to vote for.

241. Today I am grateful for nature

Today for FHE we went on a nature walk which was really enjoyable. I really enjoy going for walks and see, feel, hear, and smell the beauty around me. I am grateful for the wonderful creations of our Heavenly Father and the opportunity I have to enjoy His creations.

240. Today I am grateful for covenants made in the temple

I am grateful that I have been able to make covenants in the temple and commit myself to living the way God expects me to. I am grateful that I can return to the temple often and remember those covenants I have made and evaluate areas I can improve in.

239. Today I am grateful for soap

I am grateful for soap to help keep me clean and smelling good as well as protecting against infections and illnesses.

238. Today I am grateful for dishwashers

I am grateful that I have a dishwasher because it makes doing dishes so much easier and quicker and (usually) encourages others to clean up their dishes soon after eating.

237. Today I am grateful for my Health

I have written about some challenges with my health recently and I am happy to say that I am finally starting to feel better and more energized! It is such a great feeling. Although, I have had this cough for about 6 weeks now, I didn’t feel sick right away so it’s probably been about 5ish weeks. Still it is by far the longest I have been sick. I am grateful that despite these past few weeks, I have been really healthy and never sick for more than 3 days. This experience has made me appreciate my health even more and hopefully it is uphill from here and the cough ends soon.

236. Today I am grateful for pillows

I am grateful that pillows help make sleep so much more comfortable.

235. Today I am grateful that my parents celebrated their 30th anniversary

Dad & Mom: April 17, 1982

At a time when many marriages end in divorce and people choose not to marry at all;  I am grateful that my parents are still married and have chosen to endure challenges. I hope they will have 30 more wonderful years of marriage and memories to create. J

234. Today I am grateful for those who protect us

I am grateful for those, such as police officers, who protect our communities.  

233. Today I am grateful for miracles of family history

Today in Relief Society we had a lesson on Family History and we had a wonderful discussion on the miracles that our found through researching our family history. I am grateful to have experienced those miracles in my life.

One such miracle I would like to share was about eight years ago on a visit to Salt Lake City. I made a plan to spend a day at the Family History Library and did some prep work for some information on family lines that I was wanting to research. The night before I prayed for guidance in finding the information I was seeking and I felt impressed that I should research another family line, my grandmother’s family. I followed the promptings and found some records I could search, when I found the microfilms which were in German I then went to find a German-English translation sheet which I could not find. I decided to take a look at the records anyways and to my surprise was able to understand everything it said; it was a strange yet amazing experience and not something I can explain completely. I found a Christening record for my great grandfather that had not only his parent’s names but his grandparents (who I was looking for!). I went to photocopy the record and by the photocopier were the translation sheets. I decided I did not need one and went back to my research and could not understand the German language ... so I went back and got a translation sheet. In researching that family line,  I was able to find records for about 4 generations of the family and added six more ancestors and numerous children to my family tree.

232. Today I am grateful for the Organization I work for

Tonight we had our staff appreciation night for employees of E4C. I am grateful to work for a wonderful organization that values people, communities and families.

231. Today I am grateful for Institute instructors

Today we had our ‘Colour Night’ – a celebration of the LDS Institute Program in Edmonton. The Institute instructors acknowledged its participants and tonight I would like to acknowledge our instructors. I have taken classes from the three full time instructors and I can tell that they really care about their students and their spiritual and temporal welfare. Their love of the scriptures and the gospel is an inspiration and is a wonderful influence on the lives of their students.

230. Today I am grateful for Motherhood

The trending facebook status of the day was related to a comment made last night by Hilary Rosen who commented that Ann Romney has “never worked a day in her life” referring to her being a stay-at-home mom. Ann responded that we need to respect the choice of all women to work or stay home. Both are taking on the most important job of raising their children. I would love to be a stay at home mom someday and raise my children full time. I am grateful for mothers who love their children and raise their children how they honestly feel is best or necessary (whether that is to stay home or work).     

229. Today I am grateful for memories

I am grateful for the many wonderful memories I have and that they are stored and brought to my remembrance to reflect on.

228. Today I am grateful for the Moon and Stars

I am grateful for the moon and stars to light up the dark sky at night. They are also so pretty to look up at, especially on a clear night.

227. Today I am grateful for sunshine

I am grateful for the sunshine, the warmth it gives and the brightness it shines upon the Earth ... at least some part of it.  

226. Today I am grateful for Easter Sunday

I personally view Easter as the most sacred holiday we observe. Some say that Christmas is too commercialized but I view Easter as the most commercialized holiday, if it were not for Easter, we would not have Christmas. I do enjoy Easter egg hunts, egg decorating, cute little bunnies and of course chocolate; however, I personally like to keep this separate from my observance of Easter Sunday.

I am grateful for the resurrection, to know that the Savior lives and the promise he gives that each one of us will be resurrected as well.   

225. Today I am grateful for the atonement

In this Easter season I am grateful for the atonement. Because of the atonement I can be forgiven of my sins, I can receive peace in knowing that Christ carried my burdens and comfort in knowing that I can return to live in the presence of Him and our Father in Heaven.

224. Today I am grateful for the restoration of the Gospel

Today marks the 182^nd anniversary of the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Also know by members as a restoration of the Church established by Jesus Christ when he lived upon the earth. The story of Joseph Smith’s vision and the restoration is a remarkable story. I know that God is a God of miracles and that through the restoration; God continues to speak through prophets as he did in days of old.

If you would like to know about this restoration I invite you to watch this video:  

223. Today I am grateful for Sleep

I don’t think I will ever be able to take the ability for a full night’s sleep for granted again.

222. Today I am grateful for life’s challenges

We all experience challenges in our lives and although they may not seem to be a blessing at the time, often we learn that it is how we deal with those challenges that affects the outcome and our experience. I find that the challenges I have endured have helped me to learn and grow and to become the person I am today. Through challenges I I find comfort in knowing that I can rely on God for strength and that I am not alone because Jesus Christ took those burdens and sorrows upon himself.

221. Today I am grateful for codeine

The cough syrups, antibiotics, neocitrin and Vicks don’t seem to be helping which has been affecting my sleep. Not being able to sleep has likely been a factor in me not feeling better. I have had a few people suggest trying codeine which I picked up from the pharmacy yesterday. I tried it for the first time yesterday and last night was the first time in awhile that I was able to sleep throughout the night. I have heard of people experiencing some pretty crazy side affects after taking codeine but I am grateful that the only affect it had on me is a full night’s sleep.

220. Today I am grateful for honest people

I was recently rear-ended buy another car while stopped at a red light. It was my first time being involved in an accident although it was very minor but the guy who hit was very nice and gave me all the info I needed. Dealing with my insurance company and collision repair services went really smooth because of the guy’s honesty.

I strive to be honest in all my dealings and also desire to have others be honest with me and in my experience most of the people I have dealt with in a variety of situations have been honest. One example is when I worked for an optical store; I had several people come in to let me know that their transaction did not go through and wanted to pay for their glasses.

219. Today I am grateful for a World-Wide Church

This weekend we had our Annual General Conference which is held close to the anniversary of the restoration of the church which is on April 6. The Annual conference is similar to the Semi-Annual General Conference held in October.

The church began in 1830 with a handful of people in New York and today has a membership of more than 14 million people spread across the globe. The gospel truly is for everyone no matter their race, culture, language spoken, etc.

I love the prophesy given by Isaiah in the Old Testament, Isaiah 2:2 - 3: “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

The Mountain of the Lords house is the temples which continue to built throughout the World for all nations to come to and “learn of His ways and walk in His paths”.  

You can read, listen to, or watch the talks that were addressed to the whole world.  

218. Today I am grateful that there is much good in this world

I feel like there is often great emphasis put on things the bad things happening in the world. However, there is a lot of good in this world as this blog continues to show me. Today also marks the first day of our annual general conference and listening to our church leaders speak also gives me much hope for the future and a positive outlook on life.

217. Today I am grateful for a massage

Back to the complaining blog ... hahaha ... I have been lots of pain from coughing, particularly my back, sides and chest. I am grateful though for a massage that I had today to ease some knots in my back and a benefits plan that covers massages. As well as a friend who gave me a great referral for  a massage therapist.   

216. Today I am grateful to be able to provide for myself

I am grateful that I have a job that allows me to take care of needs, work on paying off my student loan and to grow my savings account. I am also grateful that I live within my means and spend money wisely.

215. Today I am grateful for my legs

I am grateful that I can walk and run because of my legs. I know that not everyone has this privilege and should not be taken for granted as it can change in a blink of eye. A friend of mine was in an accident a year or so ago which has left her paralyzed from the waist down. I have gained so much respect for her in the way she has handled her situation, although I am sure it is not easy. She is such an awesome person that it has made me want to be better friends with her.

214. Today I am grateful for my hands and fingers

I use my hands and fingers many times everyday ... Like right now as I type this entry. I am grateful for all the things that this part of my body allows me to do.   

213. Today I am grateful for opportunities to serve and be served

For FHE today we played a “service exchange” game which is played similar to a White Elephant” gift exchange. Everyone writes down a service they can perform which are all placed in a bowl and then everyone gets a number. Number one picks a service and reads it out, number two can choose to take number ones service or choose another one, etc. It was pretty fun and It seemed that others did as well. The service ideas were pretty simple (for example, cooking dinner, making cookies, etc.), but many times little things can make a huge difference, even if it’s just showing that you care.  It also helped me to reflect on my experiences with service, in being the one to serve and in being served.

212. Today I am grateful for priesthood blessings

I don’t want to turn my gratitude blog into a complaining blog but I have never felt sick for this long before. I feel like I have tried everything ... 3 types of cough syrup, antibiotics, Vicks, hot lemon water. It came to my mind that I should ask for a priesthood blessing so I talked to my Bishop today. Although, I don’t feel any different, I am grateful for the Priesthood authority, for a Bishop who cares about me and a Heavenly Father who is mindful of me and how I am feeling.  

211. Today I am grateful for my lungs

I am trying to remember what it was like when I could breathe properly and without coughing ... hopefully I will feel that way again ... soon. I may not feel grateful for my lungs right now but they are working to fight this bronchitis or whatever it is.

210. Today I am grateful for Sick days ... and supervisor who told me to take it

I started coughing about 2 weeks ago and on Wednesday a Dr. told me that I have bronchitis but that I am most likely not contagious. No one else around me has gotten sick so I took that as a sign that it’s ok to keep working. However, I feel worse and worse and more drained each day. I took the day off work today and I am grateful that I have a job where I can take sick days and a supervisor who encouraged me to take it. Sometimes I need someone to encourage me to slow down and rest when I need it. I hope the weekend will help me

209. Today I am grateful for clocks

I feel like my life is very dependent on times and following a schedule, as I am sure many people do. For that, I am grateful for clocks to help me know what time it is.

208. Today I am grateful for racial freedom and tolerance

I feel privileged to work with an organization that celebrated the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which is observed annually on 21 March. Although we still have a long way to go I am grateful that there is greater racial freedom and tolerance for people of all ethnicities, cultures and religions than in times past. I love living and working among a diverse group of people and that we can all learn something from each other.  

207. Today I am grateful for spring

Yay, It’s spring! Winter seems to be so long and although we had a better-than-normal winter I am still grateful to see spring come. There is still snow on the ground but I am looking forward to seeing it melt away for good and watching flowers grown and trees bloom. I love how spring symbolizes new life and growth, seems to me to be the perfect season to celebrate Easter.

206. Today I am grateful for my little princess, Sariah

My oldest niece turned 6 years old today! She is the sweetest little girl and definitely lives up to her name which means Princess of the Lord. She loves wearing dresses and princess crowns, playing with ponies and drawing pictures. The kind of little girl I want. I love hearing her call me auntie and the hugs she gives when I visit. I am so grateful to have this little girl in my life, I only wish I could live closer to her.  

205. Today I am grateful for Journals

I am not the best at writing in my journal and I was reminded of that during the Relief Society lesson today; although, this blog is somewhat of a journal. I am grateful for the journal entries I have written, the lessons I have learned and that my journals can be passed on to future generations. I hope they can find strength and enjoyment through reading them and also know I am. My grandma has given me two of her journals which I feel blessed to have. One of her journals also includes on entry from when I was born!

204. Today I am grateful for Relief Society

The Relief Society is the women’s organization for The LDS church which celebrates its 170^th anniversary today – it is actually one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world and I am grateful to be a part of it!  The Relief Society (RS) motto is “Charity Never Faileth” and there is an expectation of members to serve others both inside and outside of the church. Along with giving service, women in the relief society also strive to increase in personal righteousness and faith and to strengthen home and families.

203. Today I am grateful for a brain

Today I am grateful to have a brain to enable me to learn, think, feel and store memories. I would not be able to function without it.  

202. Today I am grateful for setting aside quiet times

I am grateful for the quiet moments I can set aside for myself during the day or the end of the day. It is during these times that I like to study my scriptures and ponder and reflect on the things that are of most importance.

201. Today I am grateful to have a warm home

Along with having a home to live in to provide shelter for me, I am also grateful that it is warm. I am grateful for a heating system that keeps my house warm and for those who are trained to properly build and insulate homes.

200. Today I am grateful for pens and pencils

I either have at least 5 pens in my purse or none. This has made me realize how essential they are. I am also grateful for the advancement of writing utensils which has enabled us to preserve records, stories, information, etc and to increase literacy.