Dear Love of My Life,

I gave my first 40 minute talk in sacrament today. Being the only speaker was a little intimidating but luckily there was only about 10 people at church so it wasn't too bad. I talked about "heroes" and "turning lemons into lemonade". I tend to pick crazy obscure topics when I do talks so they also tend to be a hit or miss when they turn out. As long as the Spirit is there, right?

Sunday also means Sunday brunch at the difac, which means waffles baby! Splurged and had two waffles and bacon on top of one waffle with chicken and strawberries and whip cream on the other (no I didn't mix those). Pretty exciting. Thought you'd be excited too!

Called Mom. Said she enjoyed having y'all visit (like what else could she say? I didn't like having the kids and they stink?!) But really, they were very happy to see y'all (twice in one paragraph). I told them about our woes/concerns with the 'eldest' and feel it is something we should follow up with - regards to the poisoning talk. I just think we need to be actively trying to show him he is loved and prayerfully find how to do that.

Afterwards I've been watching videos about the middle east and the Ottoman empire. Totally am into it and is really fascinating. Wish I could have you snuggled up by me as I watch and you inevitably fall asleep.... you know it's true.

Tomorrow I plan to go to the gym at 3am and work with my trainer for the first time. It's leg day tomorrow. I plan on taking pictures in the afternoon so I can send them to you of the uniform. I'm restarting my diet and planning on paying someone to pick me up lunch. I can't stand walking across the desert for lunch and then also losing a whole 1 1/2 hours when I could do some CE or something. I plan on starting my first CE class tomorrow. I need to buy Cora's horse and send out the package. I also need to start on my application by printing off the checklists and directions and make a plan. Hopefully with all that I can then get to bed early...

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What I learned today is that we can't do it alone. I got this from my talk. I spoke about all the great heroes from the scriptures that turned bad situations into good ones. I started with Joseph of Egypt and how he turned his slavery, then imprisonment into victories. Then how Moses showed the children of Israel that every dire situation can be overcome with faith (parts the seas, water from rocks, manna from the sky, healing serpent stick...). Nepali relied on the Spirit to help him when there was no obvious way, and then built a boat against criticism, and navigated to the promised land amidst storms. The people of Alma had their burdens eased and were able to work cheerfully and be freed miraculously by the Lord. Ammon was wise but harmless when he used his experience protecting the flocks to convince Lamoni of the power of God. Moroni had faith that couldn't be shaken that led him to victory. The stripping warriors were true at all times and though more upon others and were preserved. Joseph Smith against constant persecution restored the gospel and built up the kingdom of God. And most importantly, the Savior turned all bad things into good as he healed the sick, and blind, and maimed. He fed thousands with 7 loaves and fishes. He turned water into wine. He raised the dead. And ultimately raised himself from the dead. A talk I read stated that this ability to turn bad things into something good is a godly trait. What I learned from reading each story is that 1. Each of these heroes had great faith that the Lord would protect and deliver them 2. Each hero thought more of those around them than them self.  3. Each humbly gave credit to the Lord.

I know I also can't do anything without you. We are a great match and when together can do great things. I'm glad you made it back from the wedding safe and the chance to go with your family. Don't miss any moment because we don't get many of them. Take advantage of each opportunity. I know that you can turn lemons into lemonade because you've certainly made me feel sweet!

You be the sugar, I'll be the lemons.

Love you sweetheart!

Your pucker face