Reflections

It seams like there have been so many anniversaries of sort the last couple of weeks. We had Christmas, our wedding anniversary the 27th, when Bret was hired and I quit my joy on the 28th, New Years, and today it the one year anniversary of moving up here. So I have had many opportunities to reflect on my life and the year.

I am so happy that Bret got a job up here. This is such a wonderful place to live (I can't believe I am saying this in January). I love my neighborhood and ward. I love the farms and the all around good feeling up here.

And of course, I am so happy to be able to be a stay at home mom. It is such a blessing. I love being around my child all the time and seeing the little and big changes every day brings.

I am also glad to no longer be working as a social service worker. I am glad to no longer be dealing with child abuse and neglect. When I watch the news I don't have to worry about seeing my current or potential clients. I don't have to worry about removals, graphic details of child sexual abuse, or any of the many secondary trauma inducing things I spent 3 years doing. I am grateful for the experience, the amazing people I met, the resilient children I watched overcome the greatest of trials, and the opportunities I had. But I am so grateful that chapter of my life has closed. I respect the people make a careers out of a high stress job where the pay makes teachers look rich. I was growing so bitter and worn out by the end, and I am so happy to be free.

I am so grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. No matter what changes or challenges occur, and I know that Christ lives. I know that he will provide help, comfort, and guidance. I am so much happier when I am following him and doing the things that keep me close to the Spirit. I am grateful for my calling as a Sunday School teach of 12-13 yr olds. What a wonderful age where they are really starting to have a better understanding, and where their questions are deeper and more thought filled . I am grateful to be able to go to church every Sunday. One year ago we were taking turns staying home with the baby, but we've been able to go as a family for awhile now. I love being able to take the sacrament every week and be up lifted by the wonderful talks and lessons.

I am so grateful for temple marriage. It is such a joy to know that I will be with my family forever.

I am so happy for my home. I love being able to decorate it. I love working in the yard. I really like that my house is green. I love that it is the perfect place for my family.