A Thankful Heart: #2

It's been a week already? Cool. That makes my Christmas craze seem a little bit more reasonable.

First off, I am BEYOND jealous of all the fresh powder that arrived in Utah yesterday.

I scrolled through instagram and had to catch the drool in the corner of my mouth.

Here in California, we get rain.

That actually made up for the absence of snow, somewhat. 

It was really very cold yesterday.
If the high 50's count.
I'm supposed to be on a hike with my father right now but the ground is wet, and I'm a baby.
Also mother nature came yesterday and decided to give me crazy pains in my tummy. Oh, thanks.

Nonetheless though, I have reason to give thanks :)

1) The Armed Forces
{I've actually thought about this a lot since September 11th and felt so thankful for all of the men and women that serve this country either over seas or right here in the states. THANK YOU. You may never know how much I appreciate your bravery and strength. The other day as I was working 2 amazingly friendly police officers came and talked to me about a toy drive/auction they are doing for kids in orphanages and wanted to see if we would donate gift certificates. If that didn't make me happy enough, the woman behind them thanked them for all they do as they were walking away. They exchanged smiles and briefly spoke. My heart felt so warm and happy. I was so very proud at that moment. Hence this reason to be thankful}

2) My Free Country
{I thought this one was appropriate being that we just had the election. I felt so much pride in my country as I voted. We have the freedom to decide the one to lead and protect our country. Now, I am most definitely not a fan of the president that was re-elected, but I am still thankful for all of the freedoms we enjoy in the United States of America}

3) My Patriarchal Blessing
{I don't even know where to begin with this one. It is one of the most amazing things that has ever been given to me. I can't get through reading it without bawling like a small child who's toy just got taken from them. (Okay bad analogy, because mine are happy tears... oops) I love my church with everything that I have and all of the blessings that come with being a member of it, but this is one of the best parts in my opinion. I felt the spirit so strongly as the patriarch laid his hands upon my head and spoke encouraging words directed completely to me. A little while ago I witnessed the power of a patriarchal blessing. I have been having quite terrible stomach issues that leave me feeling quite uncomfortable being anywhere other than my bed. I'm quite the social butterfly so this really put a damper on things. Then a very disgusting  serious thing happened that made me go see a doctor. They took some tests and told me it would take about 5 days to get the results back. That 5 days was more like 12 so there was a lot of worrying going on  in my mind. The internet doesn't help, I was sure I had cancer for a few days. I prayed and prayed but quickly realized I needed to read my patriarchal blessing. I did, and let me tell you, I have never experienced such a spiritual confirmation that no matter what I will be okay. So the days dragged on but my fear was disappearing. By the time I actually got my results, I was ready for anything to be thrown my way. Every single one of my tests came back negative. Negative people! Nothing was wrong with me, so far. Anyways, my patriarchal blessing really helped me though this and boy am I thankful for it :)

4) My Sweet Missionary
{This one may be last, but most certainly is not least. Being that the 10 month mark is tomorrow, I thought this would be the only time I could say how thankful I am for him without feeling like "that girl." Wow, he sure is amazing. And holy smokes are his letters perfect. Hunter is the most amazing person I have ever met. Now, I'm not just saying this because I love him without an end, but because everyone who has had the chance to get to know him would agree. Ask any of his teachers, team mates, friends, coaches, family members, probably even companions... he is an all around AMAZING person. He is so compassionate and respectful. He is kind to absolutely everyone. Something I lack and he fills the gap. His testimony is so very strong and he makes that known to everyone who will listen. He gave me my first Book of Mormon and boy am I glad he did. He has a light about him that shines to all who meet him and it draws them in. I have no doubt in my mind that he is one heck of an amazing missionary. I catch myself thinking about him a little too often and all of the times he has made me smile. I sure do miss that sweet boy, but thank goodness he is in Ohio right now. I'm so glad we have made it this far, we have had quite the journey. I'm so thankful for him and the amazing role he plays in my life. I'm so thankful for all of the memories we share together. I'm so thankful that he is a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.}

What a great November day. Enjoy every aspect of it :)
All my love,
Aleigh Joy