Gratitude

Cowboy went on his first date, he invited a sweet girl to Prom. I was pleasantly surprised to see his maturity shine as he handled all the arrangements for this event. He quietly planned and prepared himself with a tux and shoes, ordered flowers for his date and took her out to dinner. He made sure he had a clean car to drive her to dinner and the dance. He was a gentleman to hold the door for her, dance with only her and made sure she was home on time. Hubby and I were privileged to see the floor show dance performance of their class. They were very well matched for height and danced beautifully.

Another surprise for me this past month was to have the honor of escorting a dear friend from England to the temple. Elspeth was born with some mild disabilities including speech impediments. It was a blessing for me to be able to attend the temple with her and assist/translate as she participated in sacred ordinances. I felt at peace and humbled to be there in the temple with this sweet friend so full of love and gratitude.

An opportunity to see and feel Gratitude. 

Sunshine has had some challenges this year adjusting to high school. In particular she has had the opportunity to learn how to look beyond others short comings. She found herself two weeks ago signed up for Solo Ensemble by her music teacher. Neither of us knew anything about this activity and were grateful to piano teachers in our community that allowed us in their homes late the eve of this performance to gather information to help prepare Sunshine. After running all across town to get the necessary music, clothes and etiquette lessons she climbed into bed at midnight overwhelmed and feeling doomed to failure. The next morning as she left for school I prayed for her as well as her classmates that found themselves in the same position.  I ached for them feeling like we had just sent our little innocent lambs to slaughter, so unprepared for the finer details of this performance.

 Yes, she had practiced her piece for several months, so much that the rest of the household knew every note and when she would make a mistake. Sunshine came home from school beaming. She and her classmates assigned to Solo Ensemble had received Superior performances and are now advancing to State Solo Ensemble. Wow! I cried, tears of joy for her success, tears of relief that it was a good experience for her and tears of gratitude for answered prayers. 

General Conference is coming this weekend and I am looking forward to hearing inspired messages, council, and encouragement to continue striving to be the best we can despite the challenges that will come.