Lately I've been so overwhelmed by the Spirit. I've been brought to tears at the thought of my Father in Heaven and His very many blessings. More and more I continue to realize how blessed I am. I've always recognize my Father's hand in my life. I've always be grateful to Him for all that I have, for all He continues to give me. But lately...lately these blessings have been so much more magnified. My prayers have become so much more heartfelt. I find myself "counting my blessings" more often than not.
I questions myself and wonder, "why now?" Why are you feeling so much more grateful? As I sit and contemplate these things, I begin to realize it's because of the temple. Going to the temple has enabled me to feel so much more closer to my Father in Heaven. It has given me a sense of peace and hope. I often think of how much the temple has blessed the lives of those around me. How making sacred covenants with our Father in Heaven has changed these people for the better. How I have been touched by their examples of faith.
This summer Paaga and I were able to attend Ben and Priscilla's wedding. We had a wonderful time. Of course there was tons of laughter and tears, but one of the things that has stuck in my mind is my dear Ula. She, too has had the opportunity of receiving her own endowments. So when I talk to her, I can see and hear the blessings of these sacred ordinances she has made. I love what the temple has done for her. Thank you Ula for your example.
My own sister Paaga and her husband, Sai. They have been married for 3-4 years now (?) and I have seen how they have tried to make their family eternal. Seeing them each weekend go to the temple. Seeing how they make it a point to go together. Knowing they are constantly trying to raise their little family so they will reach their celestrial goals. Thank you for your examples of faith.
I am falling "in love" with the gospel all over again. Heavenly Father's blessings have indeed been abundant in my life. I thank Him everyday for all that I have. My hope is I will continue to be worthy to receive these blessings. :)

Lesson learned.

Alma, thank you for reminding me how important it is for us to share our blessings with those who need it most. I am humbled by your desire to serve your fellow man. My testimony is strengthened by your example. You're right, everything we have is because we asked for it. Why not help someone else who is "asking for it"? I love you.

Another great weekend.

Mom, Aunty Pela, and Bobo were with us this past weekend. It was really great to FINALLY have mom come see our house. Aunty, too. :) This weekend was a great opportunity for Mom and Aunty to get some R&R and for Bobo and I to get some new clothes. sweet! We loved having this opportunity to spend with Mom. We rarely do get this chance when we're in Tacoma because she's always working or going to the gym. Two things I don't do; work or work out. lol.
It's just really nice to have a place where my mom and family can just come and relax whenever they want to escape from their lives. Thanks Mom and Aunty for giving Alma and I a chance to spend time with you. We love you so much. Thanks a ton for feeding our faces and buying me new clothes and especially for my uber cute J.Simpson bag. :) Come back soon!
Bobo: You've got big things ahead of you. You can EVERYTHING on your list. I just know it! You're a super great guy and I love you. I can't believe you're so grown. It makes me feel so old. lol. Thank you for visiting. VIVA LA OSU!!! lol. But first, get good grades, do awesome on your SAT's, because remember it doesn't matter how pretty you are or how good you are at football, if you're a dum dum they won't take you! lol.
P.S.
Thank you guys so much for cleaning our yard! It looks FANTASTIC!!! I'd tell you we'll keep it up, but I'd be lying. I hate yardwork. haha.