Ending on a Clea[n] Note

Day 365--The Last Day of 2010!

It's an odd joy. Especially for the last day of the year.

But considering what the last 16 days have been...

...poor health

...long-distance apartment hunting

...packing

...running around all over the place

...claustrophobia in my own home

...things to do, things to do, things to do.

It is so relieving to have everything packed, in piles ready for loading, and the floors vacuumed.

Miss

Day 364

It was a difficult dinner, because I had to say good-bye to friends I have made and loved over the last 3 years. But it was also a very uplifting and flattering night (though this is going to sound as if I'm bragging about myself). I was told that more people RSVPed to my farewell dinner (and donated money for a farewell fund/party) than anyone else has had before. And when I look at the 18 people who were there and know of at least 6 more people who couldn't make it because of being sick or on vacation, it leaves a tender mark in my heart.

Because I really was loved at my job--for what I did, and for who I am.

Nice to See You

Day 363

Well, I may have felt horrible. And trying to figure out if this is a cold or the flu. So, the last thing I wanted to do was see people.

But I'm still grateful I was able to see some friends whom I was worried I wouldn't get to see before I moved.

Before the First is Over

Day 362

Well, if this is a second cold coming on, I'm grateful for tissues, hand sanitizer, food, and my afghan to snuggle up with.

Rubber Ducky

Day 361

An unanticipated day off which aided in having more time for packing while still having moments of fun and relaxation (aka "watching movies") was quite a happy thing.

But there was something that trumped that. I was given some bath things for Christmas. You know--bubbles, salts, caviar (huh?), etc. Things I never have at my disposal. Indeed, I even had to look them up just to know the difference between them all. But this was a perfect present, especially as I'd been wanting to take a bath. All of this stress, sickness, packing, move prepping, etc.....I just needed something relaxing and de-stressing. Baths help. Period dramas with the baths are great.

However, adding in some of my Christmas present? Oh my whoa. It was so different. I can't describe it.

But I am loving that I still feel calm, relaxed, and just...fabulous!

P.S. And I will admit that I am a little embarrassed that I so "publicly" talked about taking a bath, but it was the joy for today!

Joy & Gratitude

Day 360

It has been a very, very snowy day.

I've been loving it! Lots of snow, and barely anyone going out to mar it by driving or anything. The back lot behind the apartments is off limits to anyone, so it is still completely untouched.

And absolutely, gorgeously breath-taking!

I love it. I love new-fallen snow. Lots of it.

The world covered in white always makes me think of the Savior.

Which right now reminds me of my birthday gift (aka promise) to Him. I've been thinking throughout the day on what mine should be for this upcoming year. But it also put me in mind of what it has been this past year--writing down a joy/gratitude every day. I think my original intention was that I believed doing so would help me in recounting the Lord's tender mercies, cultivating a more positive attitude, and not just being more grateful but also acknowledging my gratitude and for what I the gratitude was for.

I was not wrong, and because of that I know even more that this promise was inspired by the Lord. This was one of the most uplifting, best kept, and most obviously rewarding promise I have yet given my Savior. Months ago I thought about continuing on. I've tried this recording in my gratitude journal, and was successful in spurts at various times. But something about putting it here--where any one could read it and thus making me more accountable in completing the task. It has made so many differences in my life.

And the promise overall has been one immense Joy and Gratitude for the entire year.

Believe

Day 359

It is Christmas!!!!! I love this day--whether I am with others or, like this year again, I am not. Because while family and friends add to the celebrations, joys, and traditions, it is not what makes Christmas.

Christmas is my Savior. Christmas is my wonderful Heavenly Father giving His Son to and for each of us. Christmas is the Atonement which saves me and allows me the chance to return to my home in heaven. It is not where I am or who I am with.

Christmas is believing in my Savior, and what I do to remember Him and keep His commandments.

A scripture I love which happened to be part of this week's scripture study:

"Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.

"And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them."

-Mosiah 4:9