A New Year

I have always found something so magical and hopeful about a new year. It's like a new box of crayons. So many possibilities yet to be explored and experienced. The past year (with all of its blessings, memories and challenges) is all tucked away and the new year feels so fresh and hopeful...usually. But, for some reason I am just not feeling it this year. I am not completely sure why. As we rang in the new year, I felt a sense of optimism and hope. But, then the blues settled in. And I have had a tough time shaking it this time around. I am usually a very happy and optimisic person. When I get down, which is usually only for a day or two at a time, I tend to pull inside myself. And that is what I have been doing. So, if I haven't been very visible in the blogging world, Facebook, etc., that's why.

I am working on having more faith, being more hopeful and finding more joy in my daily experiences. I feel such gratitude for the beautiful life I have been blessed with. I am surrounded by loving family, wonderful friends and a Father in Heaven who loves me. I have faith in my Savior who helps to bear my burdens and struggles. And who rejoices with me in my triumphs and joys. I am working on learning patience. That has always been one of my greatest challenges.

I was reading a random blog a few days ago and came across this picture and thought, which I really liked. The writer invited people to copy it and post it if they wanted to, so that's what I tried to do here. But, I can't figure out how to get it to post...so you'll have to use your imagination here.

There's an image of a lone, bare tree out in the middle of a snowy field (with snow-covered mountains in the background). The quote says:

"Everywhere in nature we are taught the lessons of patience and waiting. We want things a long time before we get them. And the fact that we want them a long time makes them all the more precious when they come."

Joseph F. Smith

Keep me in your prayers as I learn (and re-learn) patience and faith. You never know how much your prayers and positive thoughts lift and help another.