136. Today I am grateful for getting back to a daily routine

I love having time off and vacationing but there is also something great about getting up at the same time everyday and going to work and participating in other activities throughout the week.

135. Today I am grateful for a calling

The Sunday before I left for the Christmas holidays I was asked if I would accept a calling to serve as a family home evening group leader and today I was sustained and set apart to serve in that calling. I haven’t had a calling since September (when I moved into my current ward) and I really enjoy serving in the church so I am excited to have this calling. Also, a funny story: I told my roommate back in September that I thought it would be fun to be a Family Home Evening group leader and the next Sunday a few were called. Then every time I would mention a calling I was interested in having someone would be called to fill that position that Sunday. Although, it is funny that I ended up with the first one I suggested.

134. Today I am grateful for a friends’ wedding

Tonight I went to a wedding reception of a friend of mine. Actually, I am friends with both the guy and girl but more so the guy. He is from my stake in BC and we both moved out to Edmonton at the same time. I was really happy to see him marry such a great girl, and although he doesn’t remember, I actually told him that he should date her about a year before they did start dating.

133. Today I am grateful for my bed

I got back to Edmonton today and although I had a wonderful trip, there isn’t quite anything like sleeping in your own bed. I am not much of a napper but I did enjoy a nice nap in my own bed this afternoon.

132. Today I am grateful for my dad driving to and from Seattle

I am grateful for my Dad, who took time out of his day (twice) to drive me to the Seattle airport on Friday and then come back today to pick me up. Thanks Dad!

131. Today I am grateful for the innocence of newborns

I love newborn babies! There isn’t anything else like holding a newborn baby in your arms, knowing that not too long ago the spirit inside this tiny little baby was living with our Heavenly Father. There is a sweet sense of purity and innocence about them. It is wonderful to know that we start life free of sin and free of responsibility, being totally dependent on others. It is also wonderful to know that we can be forgiven of our sins and that we have the opportunity to make choices for ourselves, to learn and grow. Hopefully most of those choices bring us happiness and joy.

Here is my new favourite newborn:

130. Today I am grateful for paid vacation

Since moving to Edmonton, I have taken at least 2 weeks’ vacation between semesters to go home. However, this is my first time not being a student but luckily I work for a place where I was able to take 2 weeks off for the Christmas holidays. It is also my first paid vacation!