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

Goals In Life

This is my favorite book. (Read till end to see why this book is relevant)

Hello fellow blog readers!! This week I have been blessed with lots of little tender mercies- a lot of which are helping me to set goals of what I want to be today and also someday with my own family. Sooooo let's get started!!

So on Monday my sister Rose and I went to SLC to have a sister date! After we got off work we caught the front runner up to SLC, went to the church history museum, had lunch at Kneaders, and spent the rest of the day shopping. It was a great day full of laughter and making memories. We learned a lot at the church history museum too. I highly recommend visiting this amazing museum for both members and non-members alike. I learned a lot and it's a really neat experience to see all the things that the LDS church, and families of early saints have preserved from history. I loved it. Thanks for going with me Rose!!

At the Museum! 

Kneaders for lunch!

Johnny Rockets for dessert! 

Tuesday- When I do reading help at the School, we choose some words they have been struggling with and we ask them to write them down and say them out loud. As I was doing this with one of my readers, he started to write me little notes, telling me "good job" or "yes" (for correct). I thought this was cute and hey- he was practicing writing so I was fine with it. Then he said: "How do you spell love?" So I spelled it, and he turned to me and said: "I wrote this for you.." (see bottom line)

"I love you" awwwwww sooo cute!! 

Wednesday- This was my little brothers 16th Birthday!!! We sent him balloons, he got his drivers licence, we sang to him, and he got answered to prom! It was a fun day! (Oh I also went to the dentist and passed with no problems!)

Now He can legally drive!! 

This balloon had a smiley face, so he said it was his 1st Girlfriend- and he kissed it! (He's hilarious!)

Thursday, my best friend didn't have a night class so we got to see each other for a little while! We ordered my favorite pizza for dinner because my parents were out helping the High School band for a few hours, and we got to watch my favorite TV show! It was a great relaxing night! 

Friday- We had family dinner at the mall (we got to choose our our favorite place). One of my friends gave me some of her old clothes! It was a simple day. 

Saturday- I cleaned the whole house, and went on a ton of walks because the sun was shining :) I got to spend the day with my best friend and we got to help both of our parents get things done. It was a productive day! 

Overall this week I got to witness a lot of sweet acts of simple kindness. Most of them coming from my amazing job. 

1. I get to watch kids play at recess- sometimes there will be a child who is sitting alone with their head down, and sometimes they will be crying. This breaks my heart because when I was little that was me a lot of the time. I know what it feels like to be left out and feel unimportant. When I see this I go over and ask the child if they are okay, if they'd like to walk with me, or if there is anything I can do for them. After we have a little talk, generally they ask to be left alone for a little bit so I watch them from a distance to see if they feel better after a few minutes. Every time another child will be playing with their friends, notice the alone child, and they will leave their group of friends and go over and share the toy they are playing with and invite the alone child to play with their friends. They always take them by the hand and bring them to the group, introduce them as their FRIEND, and they all play happily. This warms my heart. They are SO sweet and Christ-like. I am so lucky to witness these sweet acts of kindness. And always, those kids are friends, for not just recess, not just the day, but generally they are now friends they can count on. It is so amazing to see such young kids treating others as Christ would. I literally see angels every day at my job. 

2. When I supervise at lunch time in the lunchroom, I get to encourage kids help with clean up of tables and trash. If they are good helpers, I get to give them a "positive paw" which is a paper they write their name on and they get rewarded for getting these "paws." This week as I was handing out these "paws" to my helpers one child came back and said "I like to write other kid's names on the paws." I asked "oh why is that sweetie?" and then came this sweet honest reply "because some kids have a hard time earning "paws". Sometimes they have a hard time being good, but I want them to remember that someone still loves them. That's why I put their names on it." He gave me the "paw" and ran out to recess. I was speechless. This sweet little kid was looking out for other kids who were having a hard time just because he wanted too. And he wanted to keep it a secret too. What an amazing way for him to be Christlike. I think we can all learn from his quiet sweet example of selfless love and caring. 

At the end of my work day, I always come home wanting to be more like those sweet loving children. I pray and make goals to not just be like them, but to be the mother that teaches my own children how to treat other kids- even when I am not around. I know that these kids are like this because of their amazing parents and grandparents, and other guardians. I know they are learning from example, so I know they are coming from amazing families. Never stop teaching them to be like the Savior no matter where they are. and always remember: your actions speak much louder than your words. Speak kindly, teach and show them they don't need attention for their good deeds, just a good feeling in their hearts. Teach them the stories of Jesus and live like Jesus would. 

I know we can do this. We can change the world by changing theirs. Remember they are the most important thing in this world. Your children need you. Just like Heavenly Father needs you- His child. Never forget who's child you are, and teach your kids that too. You are heirs of the throne of the Kingdom of God. You are princes and princesses. and He loves you! (See picture at top) 

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen 

Love, Samantha  

Grown Up

You never know.. What message are you sending them? 

Hello blog readers! How are you doing?! I've got a lot going on lately and I know it's a busy time for lots so I'll keep it short!

This week I have been busy! I'm not sure how much I learned this week, but usually by the end of writing this blog every week I realize a re-occurring something during the week!

Monday was a very special day for me and my best friend. March 7, was the year mark for us dating. And can I just say it's been the craziest, most memorable, lesson learning, faith building, amazing year of my life?! Largely due to the love and support of my best friend. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father sent me such an amazing worthy Priesthood holder to help me stay worthy, and help me learn and grow closer to my Heavenly Father. My best friend is truly one of my biggest blessings and I am so proud of Him. (Here are some pictures from the day's events.)

Dressed up for dinner at the place we went on our first date! 

The gift I left Jordan! (Pretty much just food since that's what he likes best) ;) 

He brought me my favorite flowers!! 

And a stuffed bunny :) 

And for lunch: My FAVORITE! Zupas, at the duck pond!!! 

Tuesday, I went and spent my evening with my hair dresser and close friend. She lightened my hair for Spring/Summer! Not only do I love my hair, I love my hairdresser because she is SO real. She cares about me and my life, she listens and gives great advice. She is such a great friend and example to me. I love her!! I don't know what I'd do without her! Especially when my best friend goes for his mission, she will be SUCH a great friend to turn too. I LOVE HER!

Before

Before 

After! 

After! 

Wednesday I spent the afternoon working and the evening with my best friend's family celebrating grandma's birthday. It was so great to spend the evening talking and laughing and making memories with them. It was a great way to end a stressful day. I love them!

Thursday I went shopping for new, more modest clothing. (This is so stressful for me..) I wasn't having any luck and was about to give up when I looked over and saw the type of jeans I love for sale for $9! My sweet grandma knows how to sew so I knew she could cut them to where they needed to be for modest shorts. I was SO excited! (Little tender mercies right there!!)

Friday my best friend took me out to get my nails done. I was SO excited because I had been wanting them done for Spring sooo badly. It was a great time for me to relax and enjoy myself. Then we went back to my house and we had my favorite: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup!!! It was delightful! Such a great night :)

Cute fingers and toes for Spring! 

Saturday I finally got to work out, and then cleaned both outside and inside! We got a lot done and it felt so good to be able to have a clean house. Then I went and got myself a new swim suit for the summer! (This was a struggle too because I don't wear bikinis, or low cut things, so finding a modest suit was HARD!) Then I got to talk with my best friend's mom while he cleaned a car for a friend. It was awesome to be able to talk with her and just chat about things in life. I love talking with great friends; talking to a great friend, being able to confide in them and trust them will always mean more to me than they will know. (Thank you! I treasure those moments!) After that, my best friend and I ran some errands for our moms to get them groceries, then we helped with dinner. We had homemade hamburgers at my house, and breakfast at his. (2 of my favorites!) Then we went to Jamba Juice! Which I love too! We brought our smoothies home and we watched one of my favorite TV shows and just relaxed. It was a great day!

My yummy Burger was so big I couldn't bite it..

Jamba Juice! :) 

Sunday (today), I had the opportunity to go to church and partake of the sacrament; renewing my covenants with my Heavenly Father and being forgiven of my sins and wrong-doings this week. I also had to chance to speak with my bishop about things that are coming up in my life and making choices and it was great! I am so thankful that I am able to go to church every Sunday and live around so many wonderful people, members and non-members alike. I love them and I learn so much from them every day. I love this gospel!!

This week, overall I learned that Heavenly Father loves us no matter how difficult things get to be. He sends us people all along the way to help us and to learn from and with us. There are people around us every single day, and we choose (most of the time subconsciously) to either make a positive interaction with them or a negative one. All we have to do is simply smile. Heavenly Father sends us to a family, we make friends, we have teachers, leaders, peers, and all other kinds of examples.. what kind of example are you to those around you?
I realized something this week: When we are young we all have that one "older person" we look up too. That one adult that we believe to be the coolest person ever. The one that we all get really excited to talk too and we want to be just like them. Well I am that person now. I'm grown up and I know there are kids that look up to me like that. What kind of example am I showing them? Can they see Heavenly Father through me??

In closing I want to say that Heavenly Father loves you. I know that He knows you and that you are not forgotten. Please never forget that. You are HIS child and you matter to Him. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Love, Samantha

I'm In Love

Jesus loves the Little Children :)

Hello family and friends!! :)
As my subject line says: I AM IN LOVE!!! I'm in love with CHILDREN!!! As those of you who read my blog know- I just recently got a new job working at the local elementary school! And let me tell you- that job is blessing my life more than I thought possible. Being able to spend a few hours with those sweet kids every single day is seriously the highlight of my day. They are SO sweet and I learn SOOO much from them. I love them to pieces!! This week I am so thankful for them.

Some of the tender mercies I want to share this week have to do with those kids and the small simple lessons they teach me and the way they make me smile.

On Monday  I was able to spend the night with my family (Family Night!) For our activity we went to a local park that has a pond with fish and ducks and we fed the ducks! We love feeding the ducks as a family. We always have so much fun, laughing and running through the park. I love these nights I get to spend with my family.

(Skip Tuesday- I don't remember what happened that day!) ;)

Wednesday, I was able to get all the shopping done for a big project I've been working on. That was a huge relief and I also got to take my little brother with me which led to us having a good brother sister talk about school, dating, and such. (He turns 16 in 10 days so he's excited to date!) It was great to be able to help each other out and just talk!

Thursday: My best friend went to and "passed" his pre-mission evaluation!!! Which means that his mission papers will now be getting submitted for assignment within the next 2 weeks!! We are super excited for him to serve the Lord full time for two years!

Friday: (This is where the little children come into play) At work all the kids were super happy and full of energy. Which sometimes can go badly- too much energy is contagious among kids! But not today!! The kids all wanted to help with everything! They all wanted to tell me every cool thing that was happening in their life; such as- "my mom had a baby today!" "I'm writing a song for you!" "I just finished reading a book and I'm already on chapter seven of my new one!"
And then the special to my heart things they say: "Thank you for being my friend." "Can I help you wash tables?" "Did you know I think you are really pretty?" "You have cute clothes!" "Thanks for talking to me all the time." "Did you know I told my mom that you're my new best friend?" "Can I have a hug Miss Samantha?" "Thanks for keeping us safe at recess." (from the kids that know me personally cause I babysit them) "Will you come over tonight and watch a movie with me?" "You're my favorite babysitter- will you come over tonight?" etc.
Every day I go home with a smile on my face.  I LOVE THEM!!! I am SO truly blessed by them and their kind words and sweet examples.
Also on Friday we had the chance to celebrate my Brother's basketball team's season and we had a pizza party! It was super fun to be with them.

Saturday- I spent time with my older sister!

Rose and I found this cute dress we want for my dad's military events!

We went shopping and just talked and laughed and had a great time!
Then that night my family and I had our first bon fire of 2016!! I love camp fires!! They make me so happy! While everyone else had hot dogs I made a ham, cheese, and pickles sandwich cooked over the fire, and we had marshmallows and starbursts! SOO YUMMY!

My Best Friend and I around the camp fire! :) 

also- my mom made my very favorite: PEANUT BUTTER FINGERS!!
And then I got to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks with my best friend and his siblings and the youngest decided he wanted to crawl up on my lap and hold my hand while we enjoyed the movie. It was super cute!
Needless to say it was a great day!

Now today- it was fast and testimony meeting. During our the meeting a lot of the testimonies came from children. (Most of whom go to the school I work at.) It was so sweet to see these kids I work with every day- whom help me at school, share how much they love their Savior and the Prophets and the love of the gospel. I love it. They make me so happy. Of all the testimonies shared today, those were the ones that touched me the most! I always learn so much from those sweet kids. Like I said: I'm in love. They are amazing. I am SO blessed to be able to work with them every day at school.


Christ said "Become as a little child" A lot of people are confused by this- but after working with these children I am beginning to understand. Children look up to adults. They look and find adults that they want to be like someday. If this child is asked by a trusted adult to do something, they will do it no matter what: because they love this adult and they want to show them they can do what they were asked because they love them. Christ instructs us to do the same. He is the "adult" the true master of our souls and we must become as little children. We must learn to love Him and have the desire to become like Him more every day. When He asks us to do something we must be willing to submit to His will, because we TRUST & LOVE Him. Just as the Children do.

I know this is true. I know that becoming like a child is not easy. We want to be in charge and we want to do what we think is best-but we are usually not right. We need to learn that He always is right- and that if we trust Him: everything will be okay. I know He loves us and He would never lead us places that are not for our benefit, learning, and growth. I know that everything He does and asks of us is for us to become more like Him.

Coming home from my mission early- I have learned this over and over in a more unique way. As I have learned to trust the Lord- "Being led by the Spirit not knowing beforehand the things which I should do," (1 Nephi 4:6)- I have come to know my Savior, love Him and do His will in ways I have never thought I would. I thought I had a good plan for me: but the Lord has a better plan for me, even when it is a very difficult plan. Overall I have learned that if I will trust Him completely: EVERYTHING will be okay. This is not easy- and I am not perfect at it, but I am perfectly trying. He knows we are going to mess up- He knows that. We just need to know that He is not turning away from us when we make mistakes or we are having difficulty trusting His plan- rather He is turning to us more and begging us to let Him in so He can teach us His "bigger and better" plan.

Brothers and Sisters, Friends and Family, I know this is true. I want to invite you to pray to our Savior and ask Him yourself for help to be more like Him; and to become His Child being led by the Spirit. I know He will guide you. I want you to know I am praying for you- even if I don't know your name I am praying for you and I know the Lord is very mindful of you. Never give up. He loves you too. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Love,
Samantha

God Is Good

Today and always!!! 

Another week has come and gone! So many things happened this week! Let's share a few!

Monday- I was able to go to the Provo City Center Temple Open House with my family!  This was the first time I'd gone with all of them so it was a neat experience to be there with them and also my best friend! :) I love that temple so much and I can't wait to attend the dedication and then go and do temple work for those who have died without having it done for themselves! It will be such a glorious experience!!

My family and I at the Provo City Center Temple Open House! (Kaleb likes to make faces..)

Tuesday- My best friend and I decided that we wanted to start having weekly "council" with each other. Our goal for these councils every week is to get each other's schedules for the week, okay plans with our parents and friends, and also discuss any other items such as blessings from the week, or reoccurring problems (and come up with solutions!) We make goals for the week and we pray together for specific help to accomplish these goals and serve others. It is a great way for us to come unto our Heavenly Father together and "get on the same page". I love it!

Wednesday- I had a surprise visit from a friend in the ward. She is doing a challenge to visit members of our ward and see if there is anything she can do to help, and she thought of me. She is so kind and I'm so thankful for her smile and the way she is ALWAYS thinking of others. When I think of people I want to be like someday: she is definitely one of them! She brought me one of my favorite treats (chocolate coconut covered almonds!!!) and we sat and visited. She is awesome!! Thank you for making my day and for caring so genuinely about me!

Thursday- Now this is where things get really interesting.. It was after dinner and we were all minding our own business when my brother came in and told us he heard a noise in one of our military trucks and asked my dad to investigate it. My dad did so and upon doing this he found what we thought was a cat, then guessed it was a skunk, then realized it was a RACCOON!! And let me tell you: it was the size of a medium sized dog!! It was HUGE! So then our whole night (3 hours worth) was spent trying to catch this crazy animal without getting attacked! It was quite the adventure but I know that we were kept safe because of the prayers we said in our hearts, and maybe on our own quietly to ourselves, that nothing bad happened. It was definitely a night for the books! Family bonding time well spent! ;)

Our menacing little raccoon "friend" ;)

Friday- My cute little sister decided to help out one of the students I help at school by giving him all her box tops because he accidentally threw his away. It was hard for her to give up what she wanted but when she saw how happy it made him she was over joyed! Teaching her little lessons like this and getting to watch her joy of helping others, even when it's hard for her to give up what she wants, is such a great experience. So then we went out to ice cream to celebrate service!

We enjoy yummy cake batter ice cream! 

My best friend and I decided that for date night we would go to the temple and do some temple work there in the sacred house of the Lord. Our friend was visiting for a few days so we invited him to tag along. Inside the temple I always pray that Heavenly Father will teach me the things He needs me to know at the time. This time I was reading about some things that at first I thought were sorta random- but found out that night they were exactly what I needed. Heavenly Father always has a way of preparing us and helping us through. He is truly all knowing and He truly loves us.
After the temple my best friend treated us to dinner at one of my favorite places: Magelby's Fresh!

Saturday- My best friend came over and helped me hang things up in my new room! Now my room is officially done! :) I love it! (Thank you to all who helped me!!)
We went to the ward adult dinner that night and we laughed a lot and enjoyed good food and great company. I love my ward!
Then we went to Swig! (Yes I love that place a lot!) and enjoyed watching a movie with my best friend's siblings. It was tons of fun!
That night we also had the opportunity to have a heart felt talk about things that had happened during the week. I love these talks as we feel the spirit together and we confide in each other our biggest fears and hopes and dreams. The Spirit is truly amazing.

Sunday (today!)- I partook of the sacrament and I was able to feel the spirit and learn today from speakers and teachers and it was simply refreshing to be at church today.

This week I learned some lessons: (I guess they are still being learned- I mostly just realized things..)
1. I can either get really harsh and critical- which is just hurting me and others, or I can smile and think positively and I can be happy: hopefully bringing others to be happier too.
2. I can either fuel the fire by being upset, or I can take what I have and be grateful and help others with what I already have.
3. Positive thinking is what pulls me through.
4. (I always am reminded of this)


I just want to say that I know that who I am becoming today is who I will be forever. So pay attention to how you treat others, the things you say and do, and ask yourself: "IS THIS WHO I WANT TO BE FOREVER?" And if the answer is no: let's get changing together shall we? We all have room to improve and I testify the Lord will help us if we will just ask Him. "For someone who can create worlds without number (fill in the blank with what you want to change) is easy to fix." but only if we are willing to change, and change EVERY day of our lives. I know He loves us. Stay happy and positive. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. I love you, and I know He loves you. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Love, Samantha

*Bonus picture! This is Abbie and I last Sunday evening when we made cookies for our family!

PB cup cookies! 

I made it!

It's been another week... I'm surprised I made it through. HOLY COW! What a roller coaster ride of emotions this week. But here I am! Not a lot happened this week, so I'll share what did!

Tuesday: My pet fish died :( So that night I went to the pet store and got a new one! I named him Fireball! :)

This is Fireball! :) 

Wednesday: I started my new job at the elementary school! And oh boy I love it so much! Those kids are so sweet and I love helping them learn- seeing the light and joy in their eyes when they finally understand something is just the best feeling ever. They are the cutest and some of them are already sharing their favorite things with me. They are SO cute! I defiantly have the best job in the world!!
I also ended my counseling on Wednesday. I'm glad I was able to go and learn, but I'm glad I'm done- I feel I am finally going somewhere with things.

Thursday- After I got back from work my mom took me to Chick-Fil-A!! :) I love that place :) It was an awesome unexpected adventure for us.
I also had the opportunity to go and help my best friend with a school Photo assignment- which at first I wasn't too excited for, but it ended up being tons of fun! My best friend always knows how to turn my day around. I love him!

Friday- I didn't want to cook dinner but didn't want to go out and get anything so my best friend decided to surprise me and brought home some of my favorite dinner from Kneaders and set up an at home movie night for us so we could just relax and watch our favorite TV show. It was so sweet of him!

Saturday- I cleaned the house with my mom, and then we went out to my cousin's house at night so my dad could help them with a remodel! My best friend came and we had Chinese take out and we just laughed and had a great time! (Oh on our way out I convinced my best friend to get me my favorite Swig smoothie!! Which I have been wanting for FOREVER! and on the rest of the drive up we were singing our favorite songs and laughing and the sun was shining and it was GREAT!!)

I convinced him to get me this smoothie and then I was nice enough to share ;) haha!

Now we are here today. After church my mom and sisters and I were invited with our ward sisters to go to the Provo City Center Temple private showing of the Bridal Rooms. It was AWESOME! I cannot wait to be married and sealed for all time and eternity in that glorious and beautiful temple. It's gorgeous and the promises my Husband and I will make with our divine Savior and Father will be the most important promises for us and our family. I'm so excited!

Sorry the sun was in our eyes! But here we are after the tour!

See? Not a lot happened this week! But a LOT was learned. One of the biggest lessons I learned this week is Kindness always wins.  Think before you speak.
I'm not going to share examples from my life for fear of offending others, so I will just say: council with the Lord in all your doings, and treat others the way He would treat them. Christ loves all people and we should too- even when it's hard. and we need to learn to listen and to not be offended so easily. Give others the benefit of the doubt and don't judge. You have not walked in someone else's shoes, so just breathe and give other's the benefit of the doubt and be happy. We all have enough to worry about, so let's not give each other more to worry about. Let others learn and grow and BE HAPPY!!

I just want you to know I love my Savior and no matter what happens, as long as I'm doing my best: He will be by my side and He will help me, love me, and so much more. I know with Him by my side I will never be alone, lost, or forgotten. I know with Him I can do all things. I love Him with all my heart!
I know the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints is true! I hope and pray that you can find this truth for yourself too! I know He loves you and you are not forgotten. Don't give up- hard times will pass! I love you and so does He! In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Love, Samantha

A Week of Tender Mercies

Hello my dear blog readers! 

How was your week?! I hope it was as delightful as mine, and if not: Hey! We've got a new week ahead and I'm sure it will be better! :) Just always remember whom your blessings come from and whom is our biggest advocate and cheerleader! Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ LOVE YOU!

Well let's get this post started shall we? I just want to say- this week was FULL of tender mercies!! I am full of gratitude and love for everything our Heavenly Father does for us. I know that looking for, writing down, and giving thanks for our tender mercies/ small and simple blessings helps us see life through the eyes of our Father, it helps us to look for ways for be a tender mercy for others, and it helps us to be happier! I want to challenge you to look for, write down, and give thanks for the tender mercies you see in your life every single day- it really will change your life and help you in so many ways! So let's get this post started! 

Monday- My amazing mom bought me 2 essential oils to try, which I didn't really think would help that much: but oh my goodness yes they do help more than I thought! I got Lavender and Peppermint oils- and they help me with my headaches and relaxation so I can sleep at night! I love them! 

Also one of my sweet friends was getting rid of clothes and shoes so she invited me over to pick out what I wanted- which was awesome cause I needed some flat shoes, and some cardigan shirts: but I don't have much money so I wasn't going to get anything anytime soon. Well guess what she was getting rid of?? Shoes and cardigans! I was set. She let me take as much/many as I wanted and it was SUCH a blessing. I am so thankful for giving friends who always think of others! Love you guys! 

Also on Monday- I had the amazing opportunity to visit the open house of the Provo City Center Temple. It was miraculous. I loved it! Thank you to my friends for taking me! :) I cannot wait to go here and do work for those who have passed on without it. Families are Forever because of these amazing temples! 

Provo City Center Temple 

Provo City Center Temple  

My best friend and I :) 

Tuesday- I knew I needed to go to the temple. I didn't however know how I was going to get there or if I'd have enough time. I promised my councilor I'd get to the temple before our next appt. (which is Wed. mornings) so today was my last shot. Monday night I felt very strongly I needed to go to the temple on Tuesday. I told Heavenly Father: "Okay- I want to go- but I'm not sure what's going on or if I'd have a car to get there. If I'm supposed to be there: please provide a way." 

Tuesday morning I woke up and my mom came down to see what I was going to do that day. She let me know that the only plans she had was folding laundry. (My mom is a very busy mom so the fact that she only had to fold laundry was awesome- maybe she could drop me off.) I told her I wanted to go to the temple, and she said "Well do you want to go? I'll go with you and we can see if Grandma wants to go too?" I was SO excited! YES! I told her and we quickly changed and got down to the temple. I wasn't sure why I was supposed to go that day- but I saw some friends that I thought "Maybe they needed to see me here today"Well, as the ceramonies I participated in went on- I had the opportunity to sit quietly and read my scriptures next to my mom and grandma. I didn't know where to read or what to read so I said "Heavenly Father I don't even know what I need any more, I'm not sure why I needed to be here today, but you do. Please take me where I need to be today." I opened my scriptures and I was in Alma 26. I didn't want to read a whole chapter- but felt if I would just start it I would know what I needed too. Verses 3-7 were exactly what I needed from Heavenly Father. 

" ... And this is the blessing which hath been bestowed upon us, that we have been made instruments in the hands of God to bring about this great work.

 4 Behold, thousands of them do rejoice, and have been brought into the fold of God.

 5 Behold, the field was ripe, and blessed are ye, for ye did thrust in the sickle, and did reap with your might, yea, all the day long did ye labor; and behold the number of your sheaves! And they shall be gathered into the garners, that they are not wasted.

 6 Yea, they shall not be beaten down by the storm at the last day; yea, neither shall they be harrowed up by the whirlwinds; but when the storm cometh they shall be gathered together in their place, that the storm cannot penetrate to them; yea, neither shall they be driven with fierce winds whithersoever the enemy listeth to carry them.

 7 But behold, they are in the hands of the Lord of the harvest, and they are his; and he will raise them up at the last day." (Emphasis added)

I was reminded that I had given The Lord everything I could- He accepted it and now I needed too. I answered the call to go, and I gave my all- I thrust in the sickle, I labored with all my might, I did reap with all my might, and I sure did plant seeds. Even if all I see right now is the dirt, I know those seeds are there and so does The Lord and someday they WILL grow. My efforts were not wasted. I did the work He called me to do, and now it is in the hands of The Lord. I have to trust Him. This was an answer to all my prayers for weeks. The Lord truly is merciful. If I did not go to the temple that day- I probably still wouldn't have my answer: and it's all because of my amazing mom who followed the voice of the Spirit and took me to the temple. I love Her and her amazing example. Thank you mom.

Provo Temple With my mom and Grandma! 

 

Wednesday- I went to the dental lab to clean and guess what!? I got all my work done! I got to spend time with my best friend, and we watched one of my favorite TV shows. Abbie- my little sister- saw I was stressed out so she wrote me a little encouraging note and left it on my bed with some chocolate. She is so cute! I also got a sweet letter from one of my missionary sister friends!! I was so happy to hear from her! 

Abbie's sweet note and chocolate 

A letter from one of my favorite sister missionaries! 

Thursday- I did work from home for my uncle and grandpa and I got a whole entire file done (which takes 5 hours!) I was SO happy. Then my mom ordered some of my favorite pizza! After dinner my siblings decided to help me get things ready for my Valentines surprise for my best friend. We had to blow up 72 balloons and cut out paper hearts. It was so fun and I'm so thankful they helped or else it would have taken FOREVER! That night when I was reading my scriptures I felt prompted to start reading the Book Of Mormon again so I did! I love it! 

Wade- my little bro- helping blow up balloons! 

Friday- I woke up, and cleaned the dance studio. 

I was with my mom all day and at 2:56 PM my mom saw an email from the elementary school my sister attends; they were hiring for a part time position! It was perfect for me, so we ran to the school and I asked them about it and they HIRED ME ON THE SPOT!!! :) I was SO excited! I almost cried. This was such a blessing because I was asking Heavenly Father about another job that I really thought would be amazing- but something kept holding me back. So when this opportunity came up I felt so blessed and nothing was holding me back. Heavenly Father really knows what's best for us! :) 

That night my best friend took me out to dinner, but we had to pick pizza up for his siblings first. As we walked in and saw how extremely busy it was I was sad because it was already late (for me) and I was starving. They said one of their ovens were broken, so it'd be a while. We ordered anyway knowing we told the kids we'd bring them food and not knowing where else to go. As soon as we ordered we were looking for a place to wait when the person we ordered from said: "Oh wait- we have an extra of the pizza you want!" It was like someone else ordered for us before we got there. It was AWESOME! 

Then we went to one my favorite places: ZUPAS!! and he even said I could order dessert! I was so excited! Then we went home and we watched one of my favorite movies while we ate my favorite food. It was AWESOME! It was all over an awesome day! 

I recruited helpers to decorate! 

"Can we take a picture of our help?" -the kiddos 

Completed with a new stuffed animal, a letter, lots of hearts and lots of balloons! 

"Bee my Valentine?" :) 

I think he liked it! :) 

Our awesome Zupa's dinner with a movie at home! 

Saturday- My little brother won his basketball game!! My best friend and I were able to change our plans from going to the local Aquarium, which kept off the roads that there were really bad accidents on yesterday so we were kept safe!! Every single morning my best friend and I pray together for safety and today our prayers were most definitely answered and we knew it! 

Also I woke up to Valentine's surprises: my favorite chocolates, fake colorful daises! (I wanted fake ones so I could keep them in my new room forever!) He also took me out to dinner and gave me a stuffed animal. Then we got to watch a fun movie with my family. It ended up being a great day- even when I didn't think it would be. 

Couples Yoga after Olive Garden.. I think I hurt him. haha ;) 

Peach smoothies for our movie! 

My sweet gift from my Valentine! :) 

Sunday- I got to have a Steak dinner with my family! and my best friend was able to join us! It's our special valentines gift from our mom, and she gets us all stuffed animals and our favorite ice cream! I love this dinner, and I'm so thankful I was able to be with my best friend and family. :) Then one of other Best Friends brought me flowers and Cadburry eggs! They are my favorite so I was so excited to get those from her! So far it's been a great day! 

Well, that wraps it up for the week! Definitely full of Tender Mercies and learning to be happy even when things don't go as planned. I always tell myself "Trust the Lord. He does know what He's doing and He sees the whole picture even though I only see this small portion." 

Every week I am more and more thankful for my family and best friend. I don't know what I'd do without them. I am so truly blessed- and I am so thankful that I see that now. When I first came home I didn't see it, because I was so focused on me, and everything that was "wrong" with me. But now that I am choosing to seek for help, view things eternally, and try harder every day: I can be happy and I see my wonderful blessings! I am so thankful for all of you who have helped me thus far and I'm really excited to see where this journey takes us! I hope that I can help you too when you are struggling. I love you all! 

Remember- I am not perfect! This week was not perfect, but for me: it was fabulous because I chose to look for the good. Remember the way we view our adversities lies solely inside of us. No one chooses our attitude but ourselves: what are you choosing? 

I know I can't do without Heavenly Father, my Savior and the amazing Atonement of Jesus Christ. Don't be afraid to use it too. You need it. I love you all and I know They love you personally and more than you can imagine. Don't give up! They are always there for you. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Love, 

Samantha