My Story

So, I said in my last post that this blog was going to turn into a journal of sorts, full of my thoughts and what nots, so here we go- this post is a long one.. and it is very real.

I have been dealing with a lot lately- hence the not updated blog. I have been working a full time job as a nursing assistant in a memory care unit in Provo, I have been helping my family with all the crazy adventures we are riding together, I have been supporting my sweetheart on his mission in Iowa, I have been riding the wave of health ups and downs, the holidays have started, I have been struggling spiritually, and so much more. During all of this- the hardest thing for me has probably been the major ups and downs in my testimony of Jesus Christ and His restored Gospel in these the Latter Days. This has been the hardest thing for me since returning home early, and very unexpectedly from my LDS mission in January of 2016. It is so hard because everything else I do hinges on my belief in God. Everything I say, everything I do, the places I go- it all hinges on that belief in God.

Before my LDS mission I knew God was there. I knew He was real, He knew me, He had a personal plan for me, and I was His child. I knew He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to live and die for me. I knew Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God- and that he restored the true and living Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to the earth in the early 1800s. I knew the Book Of Mormon was translated by the power of God, by Joseph Smith- and I knew it was true. I knew the power of Temples, and the power of the Priesthood was real and worked miracles. I knew all of this before I left on my LDS mission- and I did everything I could to prepare to teach these truths to the people I was called to teach in Cleveland Ohio. (I left behind my scholarships and leadership positions that I had been longing for; and I took 5 religion classes- institute- in my efforts to prepare for this mission.) I knew it was all true- and I couldn't wait to teach it. Nothing was stopping me. I knew I had to serve this mission-because the Spirit told me.

Background story- I never wanted to serve an LDS mission earlier in my life; until suddenly one night as I was praying and reading the scriptures, I heard the Spirit tell me I needed to go on a mission, and I needed to do everything I could to prepare for one. (I thought "funny joke" and tried to move on, but after nights of having the same thoughts and feelings- that would not leave me alone, even when I wasn't praying or studying; I fasted and prayed and I knew it wasn't a joke and it was time to take it seriously.) This was in December of 2014- I dropped the news to my parents in January 2015, and I started preparing to serve. I graduated from high school in May 2015, started my mission papers in late July 2015, submitted them in late September 2015, got my call in early October 2015, and left in January of 2016. Keep this in mind as you finish reading- I NEVER would have ventured on this journey if it wasn't for those nights in December 2014 that told me "Samantha, I NEED YOU to serve a full time mission for me." I trusted my Heavenly Father (God) and so that is why I was going. That is why I left everything else behind and followed Him.

Okay back to the main story- on January 5, 2016 I was set apart as a full-time missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and I left the next afternoon to the Provo Missionary Training Center to begin my Mission. I was so full of emotions- emotions I never knew I could feel. This was the hardest thing I had ever done- but I was going because Heavenly Father needed me to go. I left my family, my friends, my boyfriend, my job, my schooling, everything I had known to that point; I was excited and sacred. All my work had paid off and I was here. I was His missionary. I was following Him.

I had the best companion- she was so sweet, kind, patient, and Christlike, and most of all she was my friend. I had the best District. We all quickly became the best of friends. But things didn't go like I thought they would. Being a missionary wasn't everything it was cracked up to be- at least for me it wasn't. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, I couldn't go to the bathroom, I couldn't focus on anything, and I was constantly crying and shaking. I was SICK. What was wrong with me?

The Sisters in my district knew something was wrong- things just weren't right. One night as we were praying I suddenly felt like I needed to go home. "What the heck?? No way! I've worked so hard to get here and I thought You, Heavenly Father, NEEDED me here!" I took my thought of going home as just a minor home sickness thing.. but it only got worse. I told the sister and elders about my thoughts of going home, they all thought I was homesick too, so they all prayed for me and the Elders gave me a blessing- but it just got worse.. The Sisters told me it was time to visit our Mission President. After visiting with him, we called my parents.. I told them I felt like I needed to come home- they said "I think Satan is trying to take an amazing missionary out. We will pray for you, and it will all be okay. Get a blessing." So I did. The Elders gave me the most beautiful blessing I could have asked for at that moment. But I knew in my heart things weren't going to go like I wished. I knew I was sick- but I told myself I wasn't letting that stop me. I told my companion that we were going to work hard and that I wasn't going home. I was here to stay! So we got back to it.

We were sitting in class, it was personal study time, I was reading the Book Of Mormon preparing a lesson for our investigator that afternoon. Suddenly as I was writing in my journal about my decision to stay, something came over me. I looked at my companion, "I've got to get out of here. I don't feel well." I got up and ran out; she followed me into the empty room next door. I couldn't breathe, I was shaking tremendously, and I was sobbing uncontrollably. My companion looked at me and said "Sister Stout, we have to get you to President." I have no idea how she got me there, but she did. By some miracle President felt impressed to come look for me at the same time this was all happening, so I guess he met us on the way to his office- although I don't remember when or where or how that all took place. President saw me and said "This is worse than I thought." He rushed my companion and I to his office, and tried talking to me. Honestly all I remember is that I was shaking so badly he got on the phone with my parents, and asked them if I had experienced seizures before because he wasn't sure if I was having one or not. (This is what my parents have told me- as I do not remember this.) They told president to put me on to see if they could calm me- which they did after what felt like forever. I don't even know if I said anything, I don't know what they said, but it calmed me down enough so they could talk to president again about the situation. After they hung up- president looked at me and said "Sister Stout, you're going home." I'm not sure what my response was- but I know I wasn't happy. I had decided I was staying. Heavenly Father needed me here- and I wasn't leaving. President explained that what I had just experienced was a full blown Anxiety driven Panic Attack, and that I needed medical attention so that my health didn't worsen.

It was a Sunday night, and in order to release me with a medical release they needed me to be evaluated by their psychologist so that I could receive counseling from the church, I needed to wait till the morning to go home. The next day I met with the Dr. and he confirmed that I was indeed in a full state of "Fight or Flight" and that my health was worsening by the minute because my body couldn't respond in a normal state. I needed to go home. They confirmed with my parents, and set up my departure for 4pm that evening. I had enough time to pack my things, teach an investigator my last lesson, and say goodbye to my mission.

I was standing in the hall by president's office with all the Sisters in my District, when I saw them turn the corner. I was overwhelmed by my first wave of "your such a disappointment" feeling. My parents were crying, and I wasn't sure why. (I know now that it was because they could see that I wasn't the same person that they had dropped off, and I was sick, and they had no idea how to help me.) We hugged, they met the Sisters and thanked them for caring for me, then we exchanged final hugs and they left. I got in the car, to endure the next step of this mission- little did I know that the hardest 2 years of my life was just beginning.

Since I made the decision to serve an LDS mission, I had dreamed of the "welcome home" at the airport, with balloons, everyone I loved, signs, hugs, tears, lots of joy, and wonderful reunions.. little did I know that my missionary "welcome home" would be much, much different; no balloons, no signs, tears- but anything but joyous tears- hugs of breaking hearts, and much, much too soon..
It was January 12, 2016- my dad's birthday- and just 6 days since I had left.. I would be released the following evening- making my missionary service in full- 1 week.

The days to come were horrid for me. I have never wanted to be invisible so badly before in my whole life. From family members coming to check on me, to neighbors, to my sweetheart, to friends, and many others- I felt like such a disappointment to the world.. but I also felt so much love from these people that jumped in to come see me and see what they could do- which wasn't much- but none the less- I want to say thank you for trying. I know it was hard, awkward, and uncomfortable- but I will forever be grateful for those of you that made an effort to help me and my family- especially when I couldn't help myself.

My parents wrote a letter that they put on Facebook to announce my unexpected homecoming and to ask people to give me some space and not judge me- and to make sure they knew I was released honorably for a medical condition. This letter was read in church that Sunday- and I have never felt so many eyes, I've never heard so many whispers, never felt so much judgement. *I know now there was a lot less of that than I thought- but my anxiety wasn't about to let me believe such at the time.* My long journey was just beginning.

In the weeks and months to come, I had to figure out how to put my life back together piece by piece. I was literally starting all over. And to make it worse, for the first time ever I didn't know how to talk to people and they were scared to talk to me for fear of setting off a panic attack- which just made me feel even worse that they felt they had to treat me like I was so fragile. (Which I was.) I had counseling appointments weekly, I had to have blood tests run, I had Doctor appointments of all kinds for months, and I had endless questions for myself and God.

Let's be real for a minute- I was a mess. Ask my mom. She was with me the whole way- and is still taking me to doctor appointments and such. I was mad too. Mad at myself for failing, and mad at God for making me go on this mission I didn't even want just to sent me right back home. Mad isn't the right word... I was furious.

I almost stopped going to church- thank you mom for making me go- you knew what I needed more than I did.

I have felt so many emotions in the last 2 years. I was mad at God, jealous at all my friends- including my boyfriend- who were serving successful full time missions without much of a problem, I was defeated, I was lost, I was confused, I was in pain- literally and spiritually, I was pretty much everything you can think of except for happy.

I eventually stopped going to counseling- thinking that they could never do anything for me, because I was still mad. I was refusing all help. I was going to do this alone. Which at the time- thank heavens I did do it alone- because looking back, I needed to figure out that I simply couldn't. I needed to know for myself that all that stuff I talked about at the beginning of this long story- all that stuff that I "knew I knew"- I needed to know that it was still real, that it was still true- no matter what I was facing. And let me tell you- that, that was a hard road to walk. Being completely alone.. at least so I thought at the time. *I have never felt so alone, so abandoned, so devastated before in my life. But I wouldn't change it- I needed it. It is all a part of the plan.*

One day, well- over the course of a few days- I decided that even though I was starting to get my life together on a worldly level- I had gotten a job I was dreaming of, I was starting to plan things again, etc. I realized that if I didn't get my spiritual life together, and soon, that I was going to be in a world of hurt all over again- and I would never really "heal." I realized this- but I didn't act on it- because I was letting my anxiety control me- I had a major fear, still sort of do- that if I allowed myself to become overcome with things of the Spirit again- I would "fail" again, and my anxiety would worsen. *Silly I know- but that is what anxiety does to you.*

However, I did start seeing a therapist of sorts, although he doesn't like to be called such- I'll call him my Positive Living Coach. (If you need someone who will help you turn your life around, and help you live more positively- ask me about him- he is amazing!) Because of him, I finally started to listen to those impressions I was having to make differences in my life; I was finally realizing that what happened had nothing to do with the spiritual aspect of things, but rather the events around that. I started to believe that I could be who Heavenly Father wanted me to be- and that everything that happened- was a part of His perfect plan for me. That I was in fact supposed to go on that mission- I was NEEDED on that mission- because Heavenly Father needed to give me this experience so I could come to Him, trust Him, and do His will. It's all a part of the Plan.

Here I am 2 years later- and what I have learned is that I have Anxiety, Depression, and Migraines. (I honestly don't remember the last time I didn't have head pain.) I am still seeing doctors, I am still learning how to best treat these conditions. I have been on and off so many different medications, and tried so many different methods of healing- and quite honestly- none of them are working completely. Some doctors have told me it will just take time, because my body had such a major "Fight or Flight" reaction- that I could possibly be dealing with some PTSD as well. I still have problem days, and I know I will continue to have them. I will still have my days where my anxiety is high for some reason I may not even know, and you may say something or do something, or maybe nothing will happen at all- but suddenly I am up, and running to excuse myself from the situation before it gets unbearable. Please do not take this to offense. My anxiety and depression is not something I can always control. I do my best, but it is a mental health condition and there is no definitive answer to it. So please be patient, be kind, and try to understand- I am still learning too. There are still so many unanswered questions, there are still so many things I wish I knew, and things I wish I didn't have to deal with- but I have to remind myself that Heavenly Father has a plan, a perfect plan for me, and "things will work out."

Now that you know all of that- let me just say to you- and I don't care who you are, where you live, what you do, or anything- what I am about to say applies to every single person that has lived, ever will live and is alive right now.
If I have learned anything from this experience it is this- YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD AND HE KNOWS YOU AND LOVES YOUR PERSONALLY. HE HAS A PERFECT PLAN FOR YOU. NOTHING YOU HAVE DONE OR EVER WILL DO WILL CHANGE YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER'S INFINITE AND PERFECT LOVE FOR YOU. YOU ARE HIS, AND HE CARES ABOUT EVEN YOU.

Life is hard, I know that first hand. And I know I haven't experienced all the things in the world- I am no where near that- but I promise you, that the statement I just shared is true. I know that He will not leave you helpless, abandoned or alone. Yes, it may feel like He has, but I promise you that the Savior of the World knows you, loves you, and is waiting with open arms for you to open your door and let Him in. I know sometimes it does take time- trust me I've been there. I know that sometimes you do need to walk that path alone for a bit to discover that you do in fact need HIM. *If you have family member or friend who is struggling- please realize this truth- they need time too- God has perfect timing, even if you can't see it- you need to trust God too. Love them, and give them the time and space they need to find Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Let them turn to their Savior. All you need to do- and the best thing you can do is accept them as they are and LOVE them. Trust me it works a lot better than other methods- and remember it takes TIME. Sometimes a LOT of it too.* No matter how long you need to walk that path, please please- let Him in, because only you can let Him in your life.

Bottom line- it's a journey, this whole life is. Sometimes we think we have it all planned out- we're going places, we think things are perfect- but God "cuts up down" unexpectedly; even when we are following His plan; to remind us of a simple truth as He says: "I am the gardener here, and I know what I want you to be." So trust Him. You are becoming beautiful because God doesn't make mistakes. You are a masterpiece in the making. There will always be rough patches- I can promise you that, but the Savior of the world, and our Heavenly Father have a perfect plan for you, and "things will work out." I promise. This life is worth the fight, it's worth the journey. Life's a climb, but the view's great. So keep on climbing.

Love,
Samantha <3

Thoughts

Hey yall! So I've been thinking lately of things I want to share on here; and I've decided it may become somewhat of a "journal"- my thoughts of life. So beware ;)

Today I was able to attend a homecoming for a sister I went to the MTC with. For those of you who know my mission story- you know I only went to the MTC before becoming too ill to stay- so attending this homecoming was something I felt I needed to do to maybe gain some closure on my own serving a mission; after all- I would have come home with her had I stayed the whole mission. Needless to say- I'm glad I went; Sister Anderson said some very moving things to me; and while that is not what I am going to say now- I do want to share a video I found while looking through LDS.org today.
Watch Video HERE
This video made me think about all the people who have carried me- spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, etc. I was overcome with the love of the Savior; that He sent angels to carry me through the times I could not walk on my own- because He loves me and He was the one who ultimately carried me. So if you have been a part of my journey- especially these last 18 months, I need to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. You didn't give up on me. You didn't walk away or leave me alone- but you did what you could do to carry me in the ways you could offer- and for that I will forever be grateful for you; and that you acted on the call to serve in place of the Savior. I love you.
Love, Samantha <3

Well, it's been a while..

Life is hard. Period. No matter where we are, who we are with, what our circumstances: life is not easy. It wasn't meant to be. We are here to learn to be like the Savior, and the more I learn about His life, the more I understand why my life is no walk in the park either.

Lately I have been struggling- with everything. Work, waiting for my missionary, friends, self-esteem, helping others, studying the gospel, etc. For some reason I feel my depression is increasing and I'm not sure why.. I've been diagnosed with A-Typical Migraines, anxiety, and depression; so I've been taking meds for it, and it's helping the migraines but I'm worried it's making the depression worse. I just feel so fatigued, useless, and unmotivated. Things just seem so difficult, more than usual. 

As I talked to Jordan today I just felt even worse. The poor guy, I let him have it all, it's like word vomit- and I just threw it all at him, and he graciously just read, and responded with love, patience, and the Spirit. That boy <3 I am so thankful he loves me still, I love him more and more every day. I honestly have no idea how he does everything he does. He's a miracle I tell ya- a living miracle.  

Jord kindly reminded me that I am not alone- he sent me video and talk links for me to view when I feel I can. He told me about tender mercies and he helped me to calm down. He's always so patient with me. If I were him I'd kick my own butt and tell myself to knock it off, but he never even gets close to that attitude. Miracles. How did I get so blessed? 

Since being home, I've learned a lot about being human. I make mistakes, I'm far from perfect; and I feel lost- a lot. For a while there I quit reading my scriptures, I quit praying. I almost quit going to church, and I asked to work on Sunday mornings- I said "it's not a big deal" but it was. I slowly was allowing myself to forget the miracles of this Gospel. I slowly stopped answering promptings and just doing my own thing. I even found excuses to not attend my weekly shift at the temple.. 

One day, I was having a particularly difficult time. And I was mad at Jesus. I was so mad. "Why are you doing this to me? Why do I hate myself? Why am I not the girl I once was? Why don't people like me? Why am I always in pain? Why, why why..?" I locked myself in my room and just cried. I kept looking at social media hoping I'd find something there- people the chances of social media actually leading you to worthy and fulfilling places.. not so likely... Don't get me wrong, it could happen, but it's not too likely. Anywho, finally I threw my phone across the room and just laid on my bed crying. For some reason I felt very compelled to pray. Jordan, being aware of my struggles, had asked me to try praying again during that week. "Just say an informal prayer if that's all you can do. Just try." I said I would, but I secretly wasn't going too- until I found my bawling on my bed and feeling the need to pray. So I did... 

I probably said the most informal prayer I'd said up to this point in my life.. Not gonna like- it didn't feel like a prayer it felt like I was yelling at God. Then through my fit of yelling and being determined not to listen to anything I threw my head back and looked up. In the process my eyes caught the picture I received for my birthday of Christ praying. For some reason it crossed my mind that "He's praying for you right now." I quit talking for a minute and just sobbed, thinking of the process of the Atonement of Christ. I knew Christ prayed, and that He still does pray for us. But I had gotten this picture because it felt more personal than any of the other pictures I had of Him praying- so I asked myself "Why?" Because he isn't just praying to check it off His 'to do list', He's pleading for us. 

I finally knelt by my bedside for what felt like the first time in ages. I took a deep breath and before I could even form the words "I'm sorry Father" I cried. And I just let myself cry, while I gave Heavenly Father my heart. I just let Him work with my broken heart. "Take my heart, oh take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above." 

I fell asleep in this process. Upon waking up only a 15 minutes later I felt different. I felt a burden lifted. I felt like running, running to the temple, to His home, to be with Him. But I felt a warm calmness. As I realized "It's okay. I love you. Don't give up. It will not be easy. But I will not leave you if you do not leave me. Just keep trying." I promised myself right then and there that I would not stop trying to be like Him. It's a guarantee I will mess up again. I know I will, in fact I have since then. But, the one thing that stays different: I keep reading my scriptures, I keep praying.

Sometimes it's just 1 simple verse, one sentence or even 1 small word in the scriptures. Sometimes my prayers are as simple as "Heavenly Father, I love you. Amen" I just simply do what I can, breathe, and ask Heavenly Father to allow Christ to make up my difference. And I'm comforted to know "He already has."   

No, it wasn't a voice, no it wasn't in the scriptures, no it wasn't anything 'exciting'. It was a realization led by God. He just opened my eyes because I allowed Him into my heart again. 

Notice I said "again". Not only have I let Him in before, I pushed Him out too. More than once since I've been home from my mission- in only 19 short months. But this time, this time I wasn't going to let it be like every time before. This time- I was going to continue to try- no matter how hard, I promised myself I would give whatever I could give; whether that was 5 seconds, or 5 hours- every single day I was going to try. Knowing that "He's already made up my difference. He will always love me and my imperfections". 

Yes, I miss days. No, I am not perfect. Just keep trying, The motto from Gordon B. Hinckley that got me through coming home from my mission still gets me through every single day "It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out, don't worry. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with Faith." 

No, I'm not who I once was. But that's okay, cause I am doing my best. I am giving what I can give right here and right now. And that is enough. It doesn't matter if it's as much as I used to give or if it's more- as long it's it's my best for today: it will all work out. Heavenly Father still loves me. 

Yes, I still have miles to go. There are still many valleys to cross, and many mountains to climb. But the view- it will be great and oh so worth every valley I'll cross and every mountain I'll climb. 

It will all work out. 

XOXO, Samantha <3 

My Testimony

Hello Readers!

This week was fast and testimony week for my ward. I wanted to share my testimony so badly, but I just couldn't get my anxiety to calm down enough. (It's been a BAD week for my anxiety.) Instead I came home and made a video to share with you all!

I love you all and hope that you enjoy this simple video of my testimony. Have a great week and don't forget to share your testimony- even if it's just a simple smile to brighten someone's day!

Love, Samantha <3

It's Been A While... I'm Fixing That!

Hello readers!
First off, I am SO terribly sorry about my vacancy.. It's super embarrassing that I went from updating this blog every single Sunday to not updating for approximately SIX months.. again, I apologize..
I am trying to fix that however!

INTRODUCING.... VIDEOS!!! 😊

So there you have it folks! I will be updating our blog with videos as well as typed posts when I can. I hope to hear your feedback! Love you all so much!
Let's get this ball rolling again! I can't wait to learn together and uplift each other. I miss this. So here we go!
~Samantha

{S&J}

What a week! Proud of Him :)

Hello lovelies!

Check it out- I'm actually updating our blog before a month goes by ;)

Today is going to be ALL about Jordan!! (With a few side notes of what I did)
Jordan has had quite the busy week!

1) GRADUATION! My sweetheart is finally graduated from Orem High School! (And Seminary!) He's so cute- he walked through the "O" to receive his diploma, (I had told him to make sure he turned towards us so we could get a picture because we were right up close...) the stinker did his usual fist pumps to the air and then randomly bowed. I started to laugh really hard, and forgot to cheer! (Lame I know.) HE FORGOT TO TURN TOWARDS US! So I had to give him a hard time- he got back to his seat and he looked up at me, and I mouthed "You didn't turn.." Somehow he was sneaky and managed to text me: "Sorry- I panicked.." Then I laughed even more. Such a goof ball ;)

Jordan and our favorite Seminary Teacher: Bro. Evans! 

(Sorry it's blurry) But it's his classic fist pump! Walking through the "O" 

Proud moments! We worked hard to get him here didn't we Jessi?! ;) 

His graduation gift- new Scriptures for his mission and beyond! :) He was SO happy and surprised. (I told him there was no chance of getting new ones cause he already had some..;) Sneaky I am) 

Ps. Graduation= school's out for summer which also means I'm out of a job for 3 months till school starts again and that's only if they (the District) hires me back in the fall... So prayers would be much appreciated for that!! I need this job! And also- I miss my kids SO much already!! :( (Ps. sorry no pics here cause I legally can't share them! Sorry!)

2) TEMPLE!!! Jordan had the amazing opportunity to go through the Payson Utah temple to receive his Initiatory and Endowment! It was such a beautiful day for both of us! I received my endowment just 6 months ago, so I remember really well how amazing it is to go through for yourself to make such sacred covenants with our loving Heavenly Father. And it is just as amazing to go back and do work for those who have passed away.
Having Jordan be able to join me in the temple in the Celestial room and in the sacred ceremony of endowment was such a blessing and I cannot express the love I felt in that room. I was so happy with both Jordan and myself that we had given up the ways of the world, and stuck to what we knew we really wanted so that we could be together in the temple, not only that day but someday in the future to be untied as one. It was amazing! It is definitely a day and experience that we will never forget. It was worth everything we had to "give up" to get there. The ways of Heavenly Father are definitely worth it: with eternal joy and never ending true happiness- even when things are tough. We can't wait to go back and learn more together and be in the temple TOGETHER! :)

Us<3 Now we can go inside together and we understand the importance of our Savior in our relationship on a much deeper level. It was truly beautiful and we are so excited to go again! 

3) DATE NIGHTS: what they used to be- nice dinner, dressing up, going out for dessert, movies, cuddles, shopping sprees, having our own time, long walks, etc.
Date night now: shopping for garments, sharing Frozen Yogurt, hours of scripture & Preach my Gospel studies, Mormon message watching, not spending money anywhere without a coupon/gift card, temple trips, balancing family time, etc. Our date nights now are completely focused on preparing to enter the temple every day of our lives and getting Jordan ready for his mission in Iowa. Sometimes it gets difficult and "old" but when we think about it- there's nothing else we would rather be doing. Helping Jordan prepare for his mission helps me feel like I have a purpose in being home, and also reminds me that The Lord has a plan and that I am a missionary every day. Spending this time with him has strengthened our relationship with each other and most importantly with our Heavenly Father. It is something we will never regret. :)

quick Frozen Yogurt stop for date night ;) 

And a quick run to see the river. We like to walk by the river sometimes and talk about the gospel :) 

4) BOOK OF MORMON CHALLENGE: as you know Jordan and I are reading the Book of Mormon in a short 40 days! (We actually just finished our reading for the day a few minutes ago!) Today was day 14! We are just finishing up Mosiah and will start Alma tomorrow!
I just want to take a moment and say: without Jordan's commitment this would not be happening. We usually have to read first thing in the morning- at 6 am! I'll just say I love my bed in the mornings and hate getting out of bed before I'm ready and I'm never ready before 8... So every morning Jordan wakes up, and calls me on FaceTime until I answer, then when I finally do- no matter how much I try and tell him we can wait 20 minutes, or we can do it later, he never let's me skip without making sure that we will have time to read later in the day. It is very important to him that we sit together to read- to keep each other focused- rather than read over Face Time because we get distracted a lot easier that way. So far we have not missed a day together! He always lovingly comes and gets me carrying me down to our table where we read at his house, gets me a breakfast bar so I feel better (I usually feel sick in the morning till I eat) then he prays with me and we read. He always pauses to ask me questions making sure we are helping each other to learn and draw near to our Father and Savior. I am so blessed to be in love with such a faithful young man. He never falters and always makes sure that our relationship invites the Spirit and we choose God. He is always so amazing at making the gospel our priority. He is the perfect example to me of a worthy and willing Priesthood holder who guides his family toward the Savior.

Well Folks I think that's it! Every time I ask Jordan if there's anything he wants to put on the blog his response is always "I think you know better than me Honey." So if I left anything out, blame him! ;) Nah just kidding.

I know I've already said this- but I just want you all to know how amazing, loving, sweet, respectful, caring, Christlike, and kind my sweetheart is. I truly am so blessed. I can't wait for forever with him!! The next two years can't go by fast enough- but I'm also very thankful for his calling to serve the Lord. Heavenly Father does have a plan and now that I see this is the best thing for both of us and for our relationship I wouldn't want it any other way! (Plus sending missionary packages is SO fun!) :) Well I love you all, we pray for you and we are so thankful for your love and support in our behalf.

Have a great week and don't forget to monkey around a little bit! ;)

That's a wrap!

Love, The two of us, Samantha & Jordan <3

Graduations, Work, Mission & Temple Prep, SO BUSY!

Hey y'all! Samantha here. So Sorry it's taken me this long to sit down and update our blog... As the title of this post sort of describes- April hit, then May.. and it's worse than Christmas season with business. So I will do my very best to fill you in on what's been going with our lives!

Last you heard from us it was April 17.. so it's been about a month and a half! This might be scattered, but I will do my best!

First- Work. Jordan and I both work part-time jobs, and Jordan goes to school full time. Seeing each other is not what it used to be. We have to seriously schedule our time to know when we are even available to go on a date, and let me tell you: our schedules are always opposite! (We think that's Heavenly Father's way to help us prepare for Jordan's mission and to help us focus on serving others.) So at my job, down at the Elementary school, we have been working hard on end of year programs, testing, and fun activities, which means the teachers are exhausted! No matter how crazy it gets those sweet children always brighten our day. They are the cutest.
We just had our end of year program- which was like a mini choir concert- and the theme was "America" (if you know me you know I am in love with that theme- I'm definitely my daddy's girl.) It was so great to see these young kids singing with all their heart and soul about the country they love. It was amazing. I'm so lucky I got to be a part of it!

As far as Jordan's work goes, I just know it's busy and he's working hard! ;)

Next- let's talk about Jordan for a second: the kid is going a million miles an hour and we are all trying to stay caught up with him. All good things though. :)
1) mission! Since that boy started his papers he's been ready to jump out into the mission field and GO! He is stoked to go to Iowa in a few short weeks and preach the Gospel to those people. He has been on the ball with getting things in order to go: shopping, temple prep, Priesthood ordination, Preach my gospel & Book of Mormon studies, visiting family, etc. He's on fire.
2) Jordan went to Seattle to visit his great Grandmother. He loved every minute of it (from what I can tell) He had a blast taking pictures, going on nature walks, playing tennis, hanging out in the hot tub, going to lunch with his family, and most of all talking to his sweet grandma about her life and his. He loved it so much he got emotional. He truly loves his family and understands the importance eternal families.
3) Jordan graduates this THURSDAY!!! So that alone speaks for itself. Graduation season is BUSY and that's an understatement.
4) Temple prep! Jordan goes through the Payson Utah Temple this Saturday to receive his initiatory and endowment. He couldn't be more thrilled about this sacred opportunity with His Father in Heaven.
5) Reading the Book of Mormon! Jordan and I decided that before his mission we wanted to read the Book Of Mormon together... well we decided that with not much time left before he departs so we are reading the whole Book of Mormon in a short 40 DAYS! So far so good. We are on day 9, and have to read 13.5 pages a day to stay on top of our goal. We wake up at 5:45 AM, Jordan showers/gets ready for school and we start reading at about 6:10 AM till 7:25 AM then he's off to school! It is most definitely difficult but it is SO worth it.
6) Jordan got ordained to the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood. Which means he can now give blessings of healing and comfort, and many other things which I'm sure Jordan could explain much better than myself. But it is a very sacred duty, which power only works if they remain worthy of it.
So as you can see- all good things are going on! He's just running, which means we are too! ;)

Other than all this- we've had weddings of family members, dance concerts, sports events for siblings, car shows, church activities (which I help with a lot), Spring cleaning projects, family dinners, Mother's day, teacher appreciation week, Hope of America, getting new military trucks (for my dad's association), pedicures given by Jordan so I can save money, Prom for my little bro (Jordan was the photographer), temple & kneaders dates, Sunflowers (my favorite), and of course LOTS of Swig (that's a soda shop- but I only get their smoothies or Lemonade)! I'll just include pictures of these events so that you don't just have to read my boring writing! ;) Here you go!

Jordan brings me Sunflowers when I'm sad :) 

Temple Dates! 

My lil bro (Wade) and his prom date!

Our newest military truck! It's a DUKW- it's half boat.

Hope of America- for Abbie :) 

Just one day's worth of Teacher Appreciation week! 

Mother's day gifts for Jordan's mom! (He made it all I just put it together while he was gone)

Swig.. Yes we love it.

Relief Society Activity I decorated for!

The theme was "You are Kneaded"

The take home gift for your missing neighbors!

Back stage manager at my old studio's dance concert. (This is one of my many previous students!) 

Cleaning dad's garage. It was a whole family effort!

First car show of the season! :) 

Our annual sno cones at this particular show! 

Driving to family dinner with Jordan's siblings :) 

Well that's a wrap! We hope you enjoy reading about our adventures! More news to come, and with school ended this Friday, I hope to be writing more! Love you all:)

Love, Samantha & Jordan

Temple, Calendars, Callings, Craziness!

Don't give up! You are forming your happily ever after today!

Holy Goodness! Life is BUSY!! This is why I love what Jordan said this week: " I am so grateful I'm a part of this gospel. I would be LOST without it." It's so true. Without the faith and trust we both have in the Lord we would have given up on our craziness a looonnngggg time ago. We seriously cling to the knowledge that if we will follow Him and do His will everything will work out. Without that knowledge and desire to serve Him- it's like we are wandering in a dark forest without a flashlight and that is scary. 

Well we have some exciting news we want to share! 

Samantha was officially called as a temple worker in the Provo Temple! She will be working on Wednesday nights in the Baptistery from 7:45-11pm! (Come visit!) She got set apart on Saturday April 16, 2016 and serves her first day on Wednesday April 20, 2016! She is SO excited to serve in the house of the Lord. This is such a sacred calling for her. 

Samantha right after being set apart as a Temple Worker :) 

Samantha also got called to another calling! She is now a primary teacher in the Nursery. She loves little children so she is excited about this one too! She started that today and already loves all those kids. She feels so blessed because she gets to be with kids all week at her job then again on Sundays to teach the tiny ones! :)

Heavenly Father really knows us personally and guides us to the places where He knows our talents are needed, also to the palaces where we will learn the lessons He needs us too while developing the beautiful gifts and talents He has blessed us with. 

Today Jordan and I looked at the calendar and noticed that every single weekend till he leaves on his mission (and even some after that) are BOOKED!! Looks like date nights are being kissed goodbye a little sooner than we expected! :( But it's okay because almost every single one of those "bookings" are things with out families. (vacations, volunteer work, a wedding, graduations, etc.) So at least we will be with most important people in our lives: FAMILIES! :) Jordan and I love our families SO much. They are amazing. 

Amid Jordan getting ready to leave, and me working in the temple: Satan hates us quite a bit lately. He tries ever so hard to get us into trouble. Not like big trouble we've discovered; because we were prepared for that, so he tries to sneak in our lives in very sneaky ways: arguing, doubt, skipping a service day, feeling sad for ourselves, having a bad attitude, etc. and then that leads to bigger problems. See Satan knows if he can just sneak his way in he can plant seeds of doubt which when acted upon grow into thrones which attack our flowers of faith, hope, and love. We need to learn to cast out the bad seeds and only plant and nourish good seeds: seeds that will lead us up- to our Heavenly Home together. As Elder Uchtdorf once said: "Sandwiched between their once upon a time and their happily ever after they all had to experience great adversity... your wondrous story has already begun. Your once upon a time is now!" How true! :) I love the prophets and apostles:) 

We believe the best way to live and prepare for our happily ever after is by attending the temple together! :) 

I just want to share this 5 minute video with you about overcoming adversity- and I hope it helps you! It's called "Mountains to Climb". Watch Video here

I know we all have trials. Jordan has them, I have them, you have them. We all have our own personal mountains to climb. But you do not have to do it alone. I don't know what your mountain looks like- but the Savior does. He climbed that mountain for you already, so now He can carry you. You keep trying. Don't you give up. Don't listen to Satan's lies- only listen to God's love and hope. You are His divine child. Together, hand in hand we can lift each other and make it back to Him. 

This is my testimony and I know it is true. You are not alone or forgotten. No matter how crazy this life gets, no matter where you are, what you look like, what your job is, what car you do or do not drive, or what religion you are: you are His and He loves you perfectly no matter what. So come to Him. You do not need to be perfect- just perfectly trying. 

Well Jordan and I love you loads! Do not give up. We will continue to share our stories and mission experiences as they occur. We hope you share yours too! Those missionary moments, those answered or even unanswered prayers, that hope you have: that is your testimony. Cling to it and never let it dim. Hold up the light you have and it will grow. Of this we leave our witness and testimony, In our Savior's holy name, Amen. 

Have a great day everyone! You deserve it! (oh Ps. Mother's day is in just 3 short weeks! Don't forget to thank the women in your lives and show them your love and heartfelt appreciation for all they do!) Loves! 

Love, Samantha and Jordan:) 

It's only been 4 days..

Hey Guys!

It's funny, when I changed the blog so that I wasn't updated every Sunday, everyday I find myself saying "I want to update the blog and put this and this and this on it!" hahaha! It's sorta like a journal, so welcome to our life!!

Before I get started I wanted to say- I will be posting Jordan's general weekly email for his mission, but it will mostly be the adventures I'm having while he's out serving the Lord, along with my temple experiences. This is literally a blog for us (mainly me) to share our thoughts and lessons we learn during this time of our lives.

So in the past few days, Jordan and I have made some goals of things we want to do before he goes on his mission.
1- Weekly Temple Attendance (Thank you to our dear friends Courtney and Jake for inspiring us yet again! We love you!!)
2- We are doing a 21 day service challenge. (It started Monday and goes till May 1) We will be doing different things each day to serve someone and strengthen our relationship with our Savior and those we serve. Along with that we will focusing more on what we can do to make our temple worship more sacred and meaningful. (Join us!)
3- We want to serve our families more diligently, especially our siblings!

Our upcoming blog posts will be about the things we do for these goals. So let me share with you one that touched my heart.

On Tuesday, I skipped our morning work-outs and I felt bad about it; so the day wasn't starting out as well as I had hoped. When I got to work, I had a lot on my mind (with Jordan's mission call sinking in and what not). Upon arriving- I reported to the teacher I was to help for the day and they let me know that I needed to fix some work I'd done a few weeks earlier. They were very kind about it, I just felt awful about it, and now I was behind on things I needed to do for them. Then at lunch one of the children threw up and I cleaned it up. It wasn't bad at all- especially since I've worked in Healthcare, I've seen MUCH worse. Although it wasn't bad, it put me behind on cleaning up tables and getting the other children out to recess. I just wanted to go home and cry.
As I went to the office to pick up my stuff and clock out, one of my co-workers handed me a folded up paper and said "Samantha this was left for you." I knew it was from Jordan ;) I was going to wait and read it at home but decided I needed to read it as I walked home. I got no further than out the front doors of the school when I read "Samantha, meet me at the park for a sweet picnic. Love, your Love" I started to cry. I had told Jordan weeks earlier that a picnic after work on a sunny day would be so fun, and he remembered. I wasn't sure how to find him in the huge park full of people, but then I saw him, he started to run towards me and he picked me up in a huge hug and I cried some more. Then we walked hand in hand over to where the picnic was set up. I thought he had just made some PB&J's, but nope! He went to Zupas and got my favorites! (He's so good at remembering!) I cried again. (Yes I'm a crier- and with everything that was going on in my mind this was just heaven sent.) We sat and talked for an hour while eating.
When I asked why he decided to do this today- of all day, with no special occasion, he replied "The Spirit told me." Awwwwww if that isn't precious I don't know what is. Find me something more attractive than a young man listening to the promptings of the spirit. I dare you. (you won't) ;) Jordan is AMAZING!

The note :) 

My cutie and ZUPAS!! 

Well, that's about it! We are just working on getting Jordan all ready to go and I'm excited for my temple interview on Saturday! But I just wanted to end with my testimony that following the spirit blesses lives. Jordan didn't know that I needed a "pick me up" that day, but Heavenly Father did, so He had the Spirit prompt Jordan to do this tiny little thing for me, and it changed my whole day. It is something I will never forget. You can do that for someone too!!! Just pray for help to find the one who needs you today and don't be afraid to reach out to them when you feel the Spirit nudge you to do something. You'll know what to do. Even if it's just a simple smile or a simple note. Little things change lives and that changes the world. You can do it!
watch: Have I Done Any Good In The World Today?
What good have you done today?
Have a great day! Talk to you soon!

Love, Samantha & Jordan:)

Changes!! :)

Hello Everyone! Welcome to our new blog! :)

For those of you who read and follow this blog every time I send out an update: you know, this looks different, the name is different and the URL is different! (Hopefully you can all find it!) ;) Let me explain what's going on.

First, I wanted to reach more people. I want to share my story with more people. So I wanted to make some changes and after reading all of your great feed back here it is!

New things:
1- this blog is not just mine anymore! Most of you know my best friend JORDAN! You probably also know that we aren't just best friends. We have been dating for a little over a year! Well Jordan just received his mission call this past week to Des Moines Iowa! So he asked me to keep up a blog for him while he was gone with his mission letters and pictures, so we decided combining blogs was the best way to do it since my blog is already a missionary blog!

2- The name of the blog is no longer "Dancing in my Storms" rather it is "Our Mission Stories" because I will be posting Jordan's mission letters and pictures, and also my own experiences from temple working! (I have an interview with the Provo Temple this weekend to become a temple worker!)

3- The URL is changed!!! Please take note of this!! This blog is now:
our-mission-stories.blogspot.com If you try to use the previous URL it WILL NOT work. You need to use new URL! (Pass on the word please!)

4- The "description" of the blog has changed due to all these other reasons.

5- This blog will no longer be updated every Sunday. Rather we will update when we want to share an experience, or feel there is something worth sharing with all of our friends. So that could be multiple times a week, or once in a few weeks. (However, when Jordan leaves on his mission at the end of June, I will for sure update every week with his weekly email.)

Well there you have it! Our new blog! We are so excited to make these changes and use this blog to share with you our spiritual experiences and our enduring love story. Thank you for sharing these memories with us and supporting us through both the good, bad, hard, and easier times. We love you all so much! Have a great day!

Love, Samantha and Jordan <3

PS. Here are some experiences from the week! (It was Spring Break, so Jordan was out of school and I was off work! So there's a lot!)

Ice Skating! 

Fishing at Yuba Lake! 

Jordan learning how to work on Military trucks!

Campfire Cuddles 

Jordan shooting his bow and arrow 

Jordan practicing Photography at temple square. 

Finally got him to take a picture WITH me not just of me. ;)

The beautiful Christ statue in SLC 

Jordan after he opened his mission call! (Sorry it wouldn't let me post the video!) But we are proud none the less!  

Come Listen To A Prophet's Voice

When the Prophet speaks, it is as if The Lord spoke it Himself. 

Brothers and Sisters, 

Today I wanted to share with you a short message about Receiving Personal Revelation. Since returning home from my short LDS mission, I have felt very lost and confused as to what the Lord wants me to be doing at home. Being at home has not been an easy feat by any means and there are nights I wish I was still out having panic attacks on the mission- because then maybe people would still be proud of me, maybe then people wouldn't treat me as if I was a poisonous disease. Without the help of my ward leaders, and my amazing family I do not know what I would have done during these few months of being home. Sure, people have tried to reach out to me; only to find out they wanted to hear my story, all they wanted was to be my "friend" to hear the reason I'm home, then they didn't seem to care as much. So I quit talking about it. I didn't want to ever speak about my mission again. I wanted to pretend it didn't happen. I wanted to just "go away" and maybe people would realize I was still the Samantha they knew before my mission, I had just been made aware of some health problems that needed my careful attention. That didn't mean I was a bad influence now, it doesn't mean I can't get past this trial someday, it doesn't mean I want others to come home early from their mission, and it doesn't mean I don't want others to do serve a mission, etc. If only I could get people to understand that I still have a desire to serve the Lord, just not in that particular way. I did the mission He asked me to do, and now He has guided me back home for a reason I do not yet know. But here I am, trying to follow Him but really struggling to know what to do. 

Before my mission studying my scriptures, praying, sharing my testimony, serving others, etc. all came very naturally: and I knew where I was going. I was going on a mission. As soon as I realized I was being sent home, I was lost. I knew nothing would ever be the same. I knew that my life was different now and things were about to be even harder. I wanted to crawl into a rock and hide forever. Even now, some nights, I feel that same feeling I had that day in the MTC as I called my parents with my mission president and told them it was time for me to come home. 

Now the desire to study, the desire to serve, the desire to be the Lord's servant is still there, however it doesn't come as it did before my mission. It is more difficult, and I feel I don't have direction so the things I try to do to make a difference don't mean anything because I don't know where I am going. 

Since I've been home, I have prayed earnestly with many tears, & much want and desire to know: "Father, I am lost. I don't know what to do now. I feel like a failure. I feel like there's something you want me to do: but I don't know what it is. Please help me. I can't do this alone." Every day and night I gave this prayer, and every day and night I still wait for an answer. 

At different times I felt that maybe my answer was to become a temple worker, or to start a Youth Church Service Mission. However to this point I have not decided what the best option is for me, and what The Lord has in store for me. I have continued to pray and I'm still learning and listening.  

With this weekend being conference, I have hoped and prayed for an answer or at least a direction to go. I have been praying that I could listen with the Spirit of the Lord and I would hear what He needs me to know today. 

Prayerfully and carefully I have listened, and taken note. 

As I listened with intent to learn and grow and seek answers, The Lord has truly spoken to me. This weekend of Conference has brought me to tears. I know I am not lost, the Lord knows exactly where I am, what I need and where He needs me to go. He will rescue me if I will reach out to Him and follow Him. He will put me on His shoulders and carry me back home to our Father. I am not alone and even though my mission is not what I thought it would be, I am still a Child Of God and He still loves me more than I know. 

I want to invite you, to listen to the voice of the Lord's chosen Prophet and Apostles. They speak the words of God as if it was God Himself teaching us. They love us as our Father does. I know they care and they bring with them the messages that The Lord needs us to hear today. And all of us can and will receive revelation if we are willing to listen with an open heart, listen with the Spirit and ask The Lord to speak to you. He will. He loves you. But you must be truly listening with intent to learn and know for yourself; not with the intent to discredit the words spoken. 

I know Heavenly Father loves us more than we know. He will guide us, and He does hear our prayers and will answer us. What we desire, with out intent to come closer to Him, He will show us. We will not be left alone, and while it takes time for us to see and find answers: we must never give up and hold fast to the knowledge and faith we DO have. And always remember that He loves us. 

In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen 

Love, Samantha 

To watch conference: click here 

Listening to the Spirit Blesses Your Life :)

He loves you. You are HIS. 

Hello friends! :) Happy Easter!! I love Easter so today I want to share with you why- and it has to do with the Spirit we are blessed with in our daily Life's because of the Atonement. Let me share with you a few things that happened to me this week that strengthened my faith in the Savior and His Atonement.

This week I have been having a difficult week. I had my ups and downs and I ended a lot of my days feeling like I just couldn't measure up, like I was lacking so much I didn't even matter anymore. I prayed to my loving Heavenly Father a lot more this week, and with a lot more desperation to know my place in His plan and why I was feeling so alone and lost. Thursday night, just when I was about to give up hope, I felt prompted to go somewhere- even if it meant going all alone. (which I was sorta scared to do.)

Thursday night I felt as if everything kept going wrong. Everything was my fault and I couldn't seem to say anything right or do anything right and everyone was so busy and I just felt so "bleh" about my life I just wanted to go hide in my room. I knew there was a Relief Society conference and dinner that night but I just did not want to go. My sister and mom were busy with things for the kids and I didn't want to go alone because I didn't think anyone would want to sit by me, or if they did all they'd want to talk about was why I was home from my mission. I didn't want to go and be around people because it was just a bad day and I didn't want to spend the night talking about things that would just make me feel worse. But the fact of the matter was: the feeling to go would not leave me alone. So finally- 10 mins before it was to start, I changed and went- alone.

As I pulled up I saw lots of women with their friends, and I felt alone. I didn't want to go in. "No, I thought. I've got to at least go in and see if there's anyone who I can sit by." I got out of the car, and walked into the building. The instant I walked in the church a member from my ward saw me and said "Samantha! I am SO glad you are here." Then another member of my ward said "Hey, how are you? Do you want to come sit by me?" I was in awe. Heavenly Father heard my prayers and answered them. I finally felt like I was important.

During the dinner, I sat with some ward members and the only time they even came close to asking about my mission was when they asked how I was doing. We laughed and enjoyed a great meal- followed by a great program. I defiantly felt the Spirit that night, and learned the things Heavenly Father needed me to know-things I would not have learned had I not listened to the Spirit's promptings to go and do. Because I went I received answers to heart felt prayers and I felt the Savior's love for me personally. Here are some of the things I learned:
1- Music can be the most powerful message. (My Kindness Shall Not Depart From Thee)
2- Heavenly Father knows ME. He knows me better than I know myself. If He knows I can do something- I can.
3- There should be no question whose team you are on. The way you spend your time, money, energy shows who you are truly rooting for.
4- "Lord I believe, help thou my unbelief."
5- You can be the person He planned for you to be.
6- When you give something up to serve the Lord, He will give you back SO much more.
7- Walk through trials with the Savior hand in hand.
8- Sacrifice is painful and inconvenient; But just do it. Get your walking boots on and go. He wants to give you so much more, but you must do something. Ask him what you can sacrifice, give Him that and He will help you get there.
9- Your heart needs to break before He can make you whole.
10- Your trials are nothing more but to turn your heart to Him.
11- It's okay to wonder and doubt as long as you STAY PLANTED! in the faith you have and hold fast to what you DO know.
12- Your Father knows when something is wrong; don't wait to turn to Him.

It was a beautiful meeting and I am so blessed and thankful I went. The most important lesson I learned was that I am not alone, people do care, and following the Spirit can really change my life. I need to not be so concerned about "being alone" or worrying who I will sit by. I always have a friend in Jesus and with Him I am never alone.

Friday night I got to spend some time with my Best Friend. We went to see the adorable kids I work with at school in their school play and then we went out to get Wendy's. We ate, and we laughed so hard we almost choked on food. It was such a great way to spend the evening. Thank your Jordan! :)

Saturday was also an answer to many prayers. I had the opportunity to go to General Women's Conference with some really great friends of mine. They were so kind and invited me to dinner with them and we laughed and had a great evening together. It was so perfect and it means more to me than they know! Love you guys! :) Some of the things I learned at Women's Conference are:
1- Even when it seems all is lost, the work of the Lord is going on.
2- Prayer makes the dark hours sweet, the Lord will conduct us safely till the end.
3- Service is not a burden; rather an opportunity to learn to love.
4- Choosing to be happy, not gossip, tell the truth, smile, etc. are ways to serve. Small and simple acts of kindness are service too.
5- Think: who is under my influence? What time do I have? What skills can I offer? Who can I serve in my family or with my family?
6- Obey with gladness!!
7- It is good to nurture others, but we need to bring ourselves to Christ first.
8- Love is making space in your life for someone else. :)
9- The more we follow Him, the more we love Him, the more we teach simple truths.
10- Remember your covenants but be careful to not run faster than you have strength.
11- Remember: the love of the sisterhood of the church, love for everyone including strangers, and remember the influence of the Holy Ghost. He will guide you to find those who NEED you. and remember the reality of the love the Savior has for you.
12- Commit: to go and to serve. He will prepare the way. Commit to remember the Lord as you serve His children. "What will The Lord have me do?" Commit to be personally modest about your service and good works. Do things in secret and the Lord will reward you openly.

Overall this week has truly been an answer to prayers. I know that Heavenly Father loves us. I know that He has a plan for us and that His Son came to earth many years ago and lived and died and lives again for us. Some of us may be willing to die for our faith, but are we willing to live for it? We need to commit today to be more like the Savior in all we do and live in such a way that others can see Him through us.

On this special Easter Sunday I just wanted to share a video really quick to end. (Sorry I know that this is long.) But this is my testimony; Joseph Smith couldn't have said it better. He says in Doctrine and Covenants 76: 22-24
" 22 And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

 23 For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

 24 That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God."

I know He lives again and Because He lives I can do all things through Him. I love Him with all my heart and I want to be like Him.

He Is Risen

This is my testimony. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Love, Samantha