Blessings

There have been a lot of struggles lately, and I have seen a lot of trials in the lives

of friends and loved ones.  It is so easy to get caught up in trials and be brought down by them.  I have been very blessed lately to see God's love in my life and in the lives of those that I love.  

I am feeling a lot of gratitude for the many blessings that I do have.  I am grateful for the health and strength I have; for a body that is so capable of doing many things.  I am grateful for the jobs that my husband and I have, and for the chance for Steven to further his education.  I am grateful for my family, for their strength, safety, love, and all I learn from them.  I am grateful for the great friends we have.  I'm grateful for the home we have and for where we live.  I am grateful for my husband, for unlimited reasons.

 

Most of all at this time I am grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge and peace it brings to me.  I'm grateful for the chance to hear and watch General Conference and the messages given by a living Prophet, Apostles, and officers of the church.  The first session of Conference just ended and I am just so filled with peace, and with excitement for the Church.  

One of my favorite things about Conference is when they announce new temples.  My testimony of temples has grown greatly over the last few years. I love temples and the peace and power they hold.  I'm so grateful for our temple marriage.  I'm always excited to hear about new temples, and what that means for the members in those areas.  This time I am particularly excited for the new Provo Temple, and for the Star Valley, Wyoming temple that was announced.  My sister-in-law and her family are from Wyoming and I know they have been waiting for the blessings of a temple in their state for a long time.  I am very happy and excited for them. 

There are always reasons to succumb to the discouragement of trials, but there are many more reasons to be grateful and remain positive even though it can be hard.  Conference, what a great way to spend a weekend! I am excited for the rest of it :)