It's a Beautiful Day

The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and little ones are laughing.

This Thanksgiving is different than past years. The saying "home for the holidays" actually means something to me now. This is the first time that a holiday reunites us. Even though we visited Max at Utah State only a couple weeks ago, it is always special to have our entire family together again.

And on this beautiful Thanksgiving day, 

I am thankful for autumn colors and pleasant weather. 

I am thankful for my dear friends who make me laugh everyday. 

I am thankful for the seminary program and the lessons I learn each day. 

I am thankful for my family and all that they do for me. 

I am thankful for the people who, through their examples, unknowingly encourage me to be better.

I am thankful for the authorities of our church, both local and general. 

I am thankful for the Priesthood, for the assurance, comfort, and blessings it gives.

And I am thankful for my Savior and His love.

My Beacon

I feel so blessed to live ten minutes away from our beacon on the mountain. In performing baptisms for the dead this morning, I was again reminded why I like to go so much. It was early and it was cold, but I was aware of the warm Spirit inside the temple and felt it witness to me. My testimony is summed up perfectly in my favorite Primary song:

I love to see the temple, I'm going there someday
To feel the Holy Spirit, to listen, and to pray.
For the temple is a house of God
A place of love and beauty.
I'll prepare myself while I am young
This is my sacred duty.
I love to see the temple, I'll go inside someday
To covenant with my Father; I'll promise to obey.
For the temple is a holy place
Where we are sealed together.
As a child of God, I've learned this truth:
A family is forever.

I know that the work performed in the temple is essential to fulfilling the Plan of Salvation and I am strengthened every time I go. I know that I can be with my family forever. I cannot wait for the day when I go through the Lord's house to be sealed with my husband. In the meantime, I will do all that I can to prepare myself for this great blessing, and try to help others along the way.

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving...

...I'd like to give thanks.

Thanks to my teachers who understand that sometimes I have more pressing matters than school, and let me off easy.

Thanks to my best friends who tease me, help me with homework, and are incredible examples.

Thanks to my family. My dad, for singing me songs and supporting my late-night Law and Order addiction. My mom, for being my best friend and listening to me everyday. Max, for helping me through high school and reminding me of the important things in life. And all the little ones, for making me laugh.