Discovering Joy in the Journey

Trekking

2010-07-12T13:33:00.001-04:00

Back in May, my school put on a “trekking”…I’m not sure why they didn’t call it a hike..but sure. So we trekked through the beautiful mountains here in Ipatinga!

What we did was actually a competition. There were nine groups, with crazy looking maps, compasses, and timers…the goal was to find our way through the woods, using the exact amount of time to get from point to point, where there were people waiting to clock us in. Whoever did things at the correct time were the winners.

Guess who won????

Well it certainly wasn’t my team. Where did we place? Last. Dead last. Why? Because instead of letting the kids take over and have a good time, we bunch of controlling Moms, who wanted nothing more than for their babies to win. Who also thought they knew better than the instructors and anyone else who tried to help them. But, I digress.

We managed to have a good time despite all the competitiveness. Here is proof:

My cute group before we started

The Mommas helping us win

After we reached the summit

One of the other teachers and I

*Also let it be known I’m all about national pride, but that color yellow, on my pasty white skin…not cute.

I didn’t get a picture of us when we finished, but let’s say it had been raining all night the night before and stopped just in time for us to start our trekking. So the way down was slippery and quite treacherous. A lot of people fell, a few got hurt. After close to five hours, we were tired, muddy, and hungry. Thankfully for the winning team and the professors (woo hoo!) we went to a FABULOUS rodizio, and it was all paid for. We were definitely grateful for that! It was well earned!

Monkeying Around

2010-07-07T09:41:00.001-04:00

So the other day we decided the weather was beautiful and we were going to take the dog for a walk. We picked a little path by the river. It was beautiful, green, peaceful, and picturesque. I loved it! As we were nearing the end of our walk, I discovered these:

Look how cute! We saw them in the trees above us and stopped to look at them! They came down because they thought we were going to feed them. And I probably would have (though Sidnei says it’s not the best idea) but I had no food. Anyway, they were really interested in my camera. This guy kept tilting his head when my camera would click and it made me laugh!

I really had fun taking pictures of them and playing. They got so close and truth be told they made me a little nervous, but it was so fun to see them playing. Their curiosity was so funny! This guy made me laugh, I took a couple of pictures of him, but he’s what we nicknamed “the blinker”! He couldn’t keep his eyes open!

So it was a fun little day! Gracie had a good time too, though she had to go wait in the car while we played with the monkeys! She was so sad!

Thankfully her hair is growing back….albeit slowly.

And I couldn’t leave you without a photo of us!

Madness

2010-06-28T09:33:00.001-04:00

World Cup Madness reigns supreme here in Brazil. Businesses are decked out in yellow and green. People have decorated their homes, are flying their flags, and pimping out their vehicles. All the patriotism is nice to see .

In all reality, I love the World Cup. It has really been nice to experience it with a country that really has love for the sport that is unmatched by just about anything I have seen. Because seriously watching 3 games a day…that takes dedication people. I wouldn’t know, I bowed out. It was too much for me in one day. I just catch snippets walking in and out now.

One thing I don’t really love about World Cup, or I should say this particular World Cup is the vuvuzela. Seriously, there weren’t enough noisemakers already? Don’t worry the adult here love it just as much as the kids. And they are driving me absolutely insane…at all hours of the day. And with Brazil playing today, it has started that much earlier, with that much more intensity.

Today I leave you with a video made by some kids at the school I work for. Not our particular school, this one is in Belo Horizonte, but I thought it was cute! Enjoy!

She has arrived!

2010-06-23T08:27:00.001-04:00

On June 9, Ana Beatriz arrived at 11:45pm! Her original due date was June 24, but no one was surprised she came early! Poor little girl had a rough start coming in! My SIL’s placenta detached, she started hemorrhaging, and the baby swallowed a lot of blood. She had to be in the nursery for the first 5 day, but she is doing great! And Momma is too! They both came home one week later! I feel like I waited so long for her to get here and at the same time, she got here so quickly! Without further ado, I introduce you to Ana…

Here she was just a little yellow and had to take the “light bath in the hospital!

And here she is with Tio Sidnei!

She is so cute and tiny! I’m sure as the months pass there will be more and more about little Ana!

Talk about a bad haircut…

2010-06-03T08:27:00.001-04:00

Okay, so there are lots of things I want to tell you!

But that will have to wait. Because I am traumatized. (but not more than Gracie..)

This was my cute. fluffy dog just one month ago.

How could you NOT love that face??

I’ll tell you how.

When it looks like this:

or this:

That is some scary face people.

Look at her, she is just plain defeated by this cut.

And quite honestly, I have just gotten to the point where I can talk about this, because on Friday, when she came home..there were nothing but tears. Seriously, she’s so ugly, I cried.

SO how did all this happen? I’ll tell you how. This is what happens when you ask your husband to call the groomers, but you don’t sit there listening to exactly what he tells them. So when they ask how much they want taken off and he says everything, this is what happens. It’s supposed to be everything but the head and the tail. They just get a trim. We have all learned a good lesson. And it’s cold here now. And she is freezing. My poor ugly, E.T. baby.

Do you see it??

2010-04-07T08:38:00.001-04:00

You know that HUGE white thing I’m all cuddled up to…..do you understand what this means people? Ignore the zit, the fact that I haven’t brushed my teeth or my hair…concentrate people..!

It officially felt like winter here last night. And by winter I mean it was a cool 65 degrees. Alright as night set in, it was probably 60. Hence the need of the big white cover (for me, not for Sidnei). I cannot even describe the happiness that this makes. I miss sleeping with blankets. And I have been SO SO SO hot. Thank goodness for the reprieve that is “winter” here. And honestly, we kind of just got the perfect storm of weather because it had been hot and humid all day. But a great thunderstorm blew in, bringing all kinds of rain and the blessed WIND! The wind was cold and cooled everything off. 60 degree weather is about as cool as we get…at night. During the day it hoovers somewhere between 75-90. More towards 75 if we’re lucky!

Anyway, I’ve never been so grateful for winter. Just thought I’d share my enthusiasm.

Just a reminder…

2010-03-16T15:26:00.001-04:00

I found this on a blog I was reading and absolutely LOVED it!

Feelings on Employment

2010-03-16T15:23:00.001-04:00

Ummm…

I LOVE IT!

Yesterday was my first day as an English Teacher! Sunday when we got home from vacation, in a slumber induced coma, I got a phone call from the coordinator, asking if I was still interested and if I could start the next day. Heck yes I can! I was so excited. Before we went on vacation, I had went to interview with her again, take an english placement test-which is really just protocol since obviously my english skills are advanced being “native” and all.

Anyway the kind of crappy part is that I teach in the evenings. Which I didnt want to do since that’s what Sidnei comes home, but I also really wanted to get my foot in the door. So right now I am working 8 hours a week. Mondays and Wednesdays 5:40-7:40 and Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:45-8:45. I am teaching the business english class to some professionals from the big steel company here called Usiminas. In my class yesterday I had 3 men in their late 20’s, early 30’s, who were engineers and researchers. Meaning they are geeky and eager, which I love!

It was absolutely thrilling to start yesterday. Really we just did icebreakers, and then some exercises. On Friday and Saturday I have my official training which will certify me as an ESL teacher for anywhere in Brazil (which is great since the company is paying for it..it costs $600 reais!)

I figured out that I loved yesterday SO much because I was the one teaching. Not learning. I’m tired of learning. I like to be in charge. I have been in a constant state of learning since I arrived and it was nice to flip gears.

Sidnei is not really thrilled..I mean he’s happy that I like it and that I’m working. He just doesn’t want me to feel like I have to or need to work. He wants to take care of me-- Fulfill his masculine, bread winner, head of the household duty. But he understands it’s not really about the money (although let’s face it, extra money is ALWAYS a plus), but I need to have a little direction, a purpose, even if it’s only 8 hours a week!

Anyway so tonight is my second night with my second group of students! I have 4 in this class and I hope they are as much fun as the students I had last night! They were so cute! They all said, “bye teacher” when they left! It made me want to laugh out loud. And just as another side note, I really, really love the coordinator and director at the school. They are both women, have been incredibly flexible, and seem to have nothing but the best interest intended for me!

Let’s hope it continues to be such a great experience! Good stuff happening all around! Love you all!

Vitória, Espirito Santo

2010-03-16T14:15:00.001-04:00

On Saturday night, we made the trip from Ipatinga, Minas Gerais, to the coast of Vitória, Espirito Santo!

In light of recent events (the death of some members of our church who made the same trip) we decided it would be safer if we took the bus instead of driving. The road to Vitória is two lane most of the way with many, buses and tractor trailers. But we are so glad we did! The buses are VERY nice, comfortable, and VERY air conditioned!

Our bus makes an overnight trip so here we are at 11, getting ready to leave the station! The bus was SO COLD, we ended up using our oversized beach towels as blankets! Next time I’ll remember to bring a blanket!

A little after 6 AM, we arrived in Vitória, though not well rested…it’s not easy to sleep on the bus..not for me anyway. We took a Taxi to our hotel, checked in early, and slept most of the day away! Not before taking some pictures of the view of course!

For the next couple of days, we took in the beach…

We played in the pool…

We had a great 2 year anniversary dinner at a stuffy Italian Restaurant (we both agreed that we miss Carrabas!)

We also did things like eat pepperoni pizza (which I can NOT find in Ipatinga! It was so greasy delicious! Sidnei opted for catupiry (a soft cheese, very good!) and ham)

We were giddy at the fact that Vitória had a Sam’s club! I thought maybe they would have some American things, and they did have some, but it was mainly bulk Brazilian things, which I should have expected. We were excited none the less! It also happened to be Women’s Day, so I got a rose too!

We also went to Vitória’s big shopping mall, that had a BIG Cinemark! Woo hoo! (we have a theater in Ipatinga, it’s small, and we’ve just never been) We went to see Avatar in 3D! As a bonus, it was in English with Portuguese subtitles! It was a really good movie and we both really enjoyed ourselves!!

On Wednesday morning we checked out of our hotel, and headed for a town about 20 minutes from Vitória, called Serra. Sidnei’s aunt lives there. We stayed with her and her family until Saturday night, when we had to take the bus back home! Since they had to work, it was pretty low key, but we had a good time!

One day we took a bike ride. I LOVE this picture below. I was hot and sweaty and did NOT want to take a picture. Is this not the perfect picture of my disgust?

Followed by my fake smile…

We went to a beach called Jacaripe, which we’ve both decided we like better than the beaches Vitória and will be coming here next time!

We had SUCH a great time! I was so sad to come home! I have missed the beach so much! We definitely spoiled ourselves and it felt so great! Sidnei’s is much more rested and the quality time we spent together was much needed! Needless to say we thought about you all a lot, especially since the beach is so similar to back home! (We are still on the Atlantic and not quite far enough south to be that pretty blue color..the water was cooolldd!) Hope you enjoyed our vacation recap! Sorry it was so long! We love you and miss you all!

Driven to Distraction…

2010-03-04T14:21:00.001-05:00

I love getting my nails done here in Brazil. While I don’t do it as often as I should, mainly because I’m lazy and it takes the better part of two hours, it is definitely an experience. Here I get my hands and feet done for 10 reais…or about $6 give or take. Usually I’m pretty boring. I like french manicures. It’s simple, it’s safe, it goes with everything. Today I got a little crazy and told the girl to do whatever she wanted.

And she did just that.

I got hot pink, decorated with flowers, topped off with a healthy coat of color glitter, and toes to match! I have a hard time not looking at them, they are the busiest thing in the room! I feel so very…Brazilian. Though maybe I should say Minera…or Ipatingian…Is it just here? Everyone seems to have VERY busy fingers here. Here More is More. And Less is Less. Though I must say I am impressed with her hand painting with her teeny tiny paint brush! I think though next time I’ll stick with my boring french manicure…I’m so easily distracted….

New Cell Phone!

2010-03-01T21:03:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone! Sorry, no photos today! But I have made a comittment to blog weekly, so here is my latest!...I have a new 3G Motorola Click with ALL the Bells and Whisles! It is so up-to-date that I am in the learning curve "warp"!
At first I was "wigging out"! Fearing I would never figure out how to use my phone! Even the simplest of things seemed far beyond my reach! Thanks to Chelsea's encouragement that "I would figure it out in no time" and tech support from T-Moble encouraging me!

Well, I have to say, It is getting better with each new day! I have learned how to make calls, add contacts and groups, added some new apps and even some widgets! Yes, it is an Android phone! It combines all my facebook, twitter, gmails and everything you can ever imagine! Now the only problem is...I don't have a facebook and have never "twittered"!

So, here is the bottom line...I have bought the phone that I want "to become" not the phone which fits the "who I am"!! Ha! Ha!

I think I am going to love it, but the key word being "think"!
However, all the guys on tech support for my Motorola Click (I think It is spelled, clique?) they tell me how "awesome" my phone is and give me tips on how to show it off and tell me the latest widgets and apps to add to make my life easier! For example, it has a voice search for Google! I can just say, "pizza" and all the local pizza places suddenly appear on my phone with phone numbers, addresses and even the latest reviews of each! Talk about Information NOW!

I think I am falling in love all over again! I hope by the year end...I will be able to REALLY impress all you young techno savy "chickies" all my new skills! Ha! Ha!

Yes, you just wait and see! I will continue to have all the latest and Greatest with all my continued updates and gizmos on my new phone!
Now I know you all impressed with my ambition...don't be...because I am still doubting! I guess I am still of the "wait and see" kind of girl!

But I am also holding out hope for becoming the technologically savvy woman of 2010! So, if you find any great widgets or apps that I absolutely have to add...just let me know!

Today I added "imusic and a movie app" I LOVE them!
This little phone is becoming my little hand held computer!
OH!! I almost forgot...it also has a 5 mega pixel camera AND an excellent MP3 player! Can't wait to start downloading all my music!
The camera is pretty awesome...it has all different options for photos, backgrounds, sending live postcards and printing. So very cool!
I am officially giving Jaime the old camera now that I have my own--as soon as we download all the current photos on the old one!
Well, enough of my braggin! It is time to start downloading some songs....I love you all...See you on Facebook soon!

Guess who I get to play with every week?

2010-02-26T01:54:00.007-05:00

This is Walter Radvansky. Sean and Susan's first son. My life is pretty boring right now. Long shifts at Red Robin with an occasional day off, if I'm lucky. On those day's I'm usually over playing with Walter. He has the biggest blue eyes you've ever seen.

He wasn't so sure what to do with me, when I first started to come around. He'd scrunch his forehead up and give me a very serious look that said, "And WHY are you hear?", but eventually he warmed up to me and now I can get a smile or two in minutes. He's almost three months old and makes the cutest baby noises! He can't do much, of course, but Susan has all these little tricks. Like if you roll him on his stomach he'll start kicking then eventually push himself up on his stomach and do this superman pose. It made me laugh the first time I saw it. I'll post a picture above.

Susan and I love to play with him and talk about the future. Though its hard to switch from talking to Walter to talking to Susan, because I can't turn the baby voice off sometimes. You know what I'm talking about. That high pitched, "Your so cute! Lets see that smile!" kind of voice to the regular adult conversation. The funny thing is, she has a problem with it too. So we're having fun with Walter, but trying not to talk to each other like we're both two year olds. It's funny! And it makes me wonder, if Sean hasn't lost his mind yet. Because if Susan does it with me, you know she does it to him all the time.

I know that Jaime, Rachael, and Steph don't really know Sean that well, but I'm sure everyone can understand when I say, I'm still in shock that Sean's a father! I still remember him as the rowdy boy that tricked me into wrestling, when I was younger. Now he's got a youngen of his own! How fast time flies! I know this time in my life is a time of change, but boy do things change!

Not that I'm complaining, I'm just excited, I guess, to see what the future holds. Here's to looking towards new horizons and brighter days!

Snow Day!

2010-02-13T09:41:00.011-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Well here is my first attempt to post on our family blog! I hope all goes well! I am going to promise to be more regular than I have been.! I must really thank Stephanie for keeping this idea "live"! Thank you Stephanie! My hope is that more of us will begin to share more through this blog!

On to more excitement....Last night it began to snow in Myrtle Beach! We (mostly me and Ashlee) were eagerly awaiting the snow flakes to appear! And around 7 pm, the snow flakes began to fall! The only thing better would have been for the snow to come on Thursday night so we could have a day off! (You know what I mean!)

Ashlee had a friend over, her name is McKayla. Both she and Ashlee spent most of the night outside playing in the snow.
Then first thing this morning, Jaime and I were first to go outside and take photos of the undisturbed snow!
Then of coarse we got the girls up around 7:30AM to enjoy the snow some more before it melts!
They ganged up on me and covered me in snow balls! I know one thing...I have TERRIABLE aim! I know why I never played softball! I stink...they creamed me! It was fun!
I think it has been about 8 years since we have had snow in SC!
Here are our pictures....I hope you like them!!

Aerobics- Take One

2010-02-12T09:22:00.001-05:00

Recently while visiting with Sidnei’s Aunt, she mentioned that she was starting a water aerobics class. Since I have been feeling rather homebound lately, I decided I would join and invited my MIL to come with us as well. I figured that this was a good thing for me, as I have been rather inactive lately. (Read: Couch potato) Not only that, but it’s been HOT, and I couldn’t think of anything better than getting in a pool!

So this past Monday, we all dragged ourselves out of bed…Israel’s Mom now stays home with him, so he hasn’t been here…and thus we have taken full advantage by going back to bed after the men go off to work. It has been full of wonderful, heavenly, lay in the middle of the bed spread eagle, sleep. But never mind that, off we went because our class started at 9. We arrived, stripped down, and hopped in the pool. The water was absolutely delicious at that time in the morning. I was thoroughly enjoying myself as it has been quite a while. Though the pool rapidly became FULL, we had about 30 people in the water. Almost everyone was 50 or older.

So first, let’s start out with the obvious. I am WHITE. And everyone here notices and is always concerned. Did I put on sun block? Where is my hat? I really need to shade my face. And my eyes are sooo beautiful, but my light eyes need to be shaded from the sun, I need to use sunglasses! Okay, they were right about the sun glasses, I completely forgot and was pretty much blind with the rising sun. I did use sun block…70 spf. And for only being in the pool for one hour, I still burnt my shoulders and back a little. At 9 AM. Now don’t get me wrong, in the states I burnt pretty easy as well, however, it was usually after a couple of hours, and somewhere between the hours of 12-3.

The actual workout was not challenging AT ALL. Which is alright, it was challenging for a lot of other people there, including my MIL, and I am glad. Part of the problem is the teacher. She only had about 5 different exercises, which we just repeated over and over and over. And over. So I was pretty disappointed by that. She rode in on her motorcycle (literally), she is very fit, and looked very promising. Maybe she doesn’t do more because the women are older? That is very likely, but I still think she could have included some different exercises. Really the only thing we did, was running in place. To the front. To the back. To the front again. And then the opening and closing of the legs…all the while using our arms to push the water. And I am sorry I don’t know more technical terms for these exercises.

Anyway, truly I was slightly disappointed. I had done water aerobics back home and it had surprisingly (for me my first time) kicked my butt. I was hoping this would do the same. But anyway like I said, it helps my MIL who has a lot of back pain, and if I go, she’ll go. And plus on Mondays and Wednesdays, I get to play in the pool. When it’s over, everyone scurries out, I do a couple of laps, play around like the little fish I used to be and climb out happy!

Fast and Testimony Meeting

2010-02-08T14:03:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, after trying to explain what the Godhead is and how the Holy Spirit helps us in Portuguese to a 2 and 3 year old, helping color and glue, stopping tears, getting snacks, singing songs, I was tired. Not only was I tired, but I was alone. (Poor Sidnei had over worked himself all day and night Saturday and when I tried to wake him up on Sunday, he literally just didn’t even stir. Not even a little bit. So I let him be.) Walking up the stairs to the (hello I am drawing a blank here..the more I learn Portuguese, the more I forget English words) place where we take Sacrament (isn’t there a word for that room?) I had decided that I would just take the Sacrament and drive home.

As I was sitting in Sacrament, I was watching the same little boys that I had just taught, running up and down the aisle…and I thought, I should pull him aside and ask him if he thought the Holy Ghost would like him running around during Sacrament. And then what do you know, that all knowing little voice said, “Maybe you should ask yourself the same question.” Meaning, should I really be taking off after Sacrament? Crrraappp.

So I stayed. Honestly, I’m so glad I did. Every month I’m always pleased that I listened to everyone’s testimony. I love watching how eager the kids are (primary and YM, YW) to get up and share their testimonies. I love the simple, yet profound statements that come from them. I honestly, really love listening to these people, so different from myself in so many aspects, who know and profess the same things I know and believe.

I am so grateful to have the gospel in my life. This gospel that creates similarities, that gives me a home away from home. It creates a love and friendship that I wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else. And I take comfort knowing that no matter where I am, no matter where I go, the gospel will be the same and I will always have instant family and friends.

Please be advised…

2010-02-05T11:43:00.001-05:00

This is a long post…with lots of pictures…I’m going to introduce you to all the family that is close to us here. It is all Sidnei’s Mom’s side of the family and she has a lot of brother’s and sister’s. But it was my birthday and we had a lot of fun! Here goes!

My roses! Aren’t they pretty?

This is Sidnei’s oldest brother (2nd oldest sibling) Nei and his nephew Israel!

Israel is so cute and loves me to pieces! I sing him all the nursery rhyme songs in English and he loves it! Especially baa baa black sheep. He always comes to me and says baaaaaa! When Sidnei gets home from work, he runs over to me and starts yelling ‘Minha titia’! Or ‘my aunt’! He does NOT like Sidnei to hug or kiss me. It is hilarious!

My birthday cake! It was sooo good! It was chocolate marble frosting, chocolate cake, doce de leite and rasins in the middle. Sounds odd, but it was really good!

I love this picture of Sidnei with his Dad!

I never know quite what to do while people sing to me…

But it was so funny, they sang to me in Portuguese and English!

This is Sidnei’s Aunt Sonia (Mom’s sister), her daughter Sabrina, and Sidnei’s sister Lucinha (aka the beast…but don’t tell anyone I said that)

This is Julianne (She is married to Sidnei’s brother Lucelio and she is Mom to Israel), Sidnei’s cousin Gardiner and his fiance Amanda.

Alright from R to L: Gil (soula’s wife), Soula (his name is Sidney too, and he is Sidnei’s Uncle born a couple of months before Sidnei), and the next two are Gil’s brothers, but I don’t remember their names!

These girls are my neighbors and were childhood friends of Sidnei as well! They have been really sweet to me. The girl on my left is Juliana (she also does my mani/pedi) and the girl on the right is Miriam!

Okay, the girl in the front is Reggiane (Sidnei’s cousin), then L to R, Andrew and Junior (cousins and they belong to Sonia (see above)), then Poliane (cousin and sister to Reggiane), Zenia (Sidnei’s Aunt, his mom’s other sister and mother to Poliane and Reggiane), me, and Mary Luisa (who is the serious girlfriend to Junior. She also never smiles, is always pouting, even in pictures).

I love this picture of Sabrina, it is absolutely her personality! She is crazy fun (can you believe she is 21?) and I think she’s gorgeous!

Me and the beast. (I really do like her. I just will like her more when I don’t live with her. I hope.)

I really did have a great birthday! Everyone has been so good to me and have accepted me into their family with open arms! It is so nice to have family to celebrate with…but it just doesn’t come close to celebrating with you all. I miss you more than you can imagine!

Belo Horizonte in Pictures

2010-02-04T11:18:00.001-05:00

We actually stayed in a suburb of Belo Horizonte called Sabara…here is the view from our hill top. The ultra blue sky, puffy white clouds, against all the green amaze me. I seriously don’t ever remember the sky being so blue at home!

This is Sidnei’s Mom, her Aunt, and me. Her Aunt is in her eighties and the sweetest lady. She kept calling me her white rose. She cried the day we left, which made me cry too.

This is the sun rising on the day we left! I was the first one up and ready to go! Despite the tears, I was NOT missing that train!

Though out of chronological order (sorry) this is on the way to Belo Horizonte. This is the sun setting and the train crossing a big bridge. I really loved this picture!

This is (from L to R) Corinne (my American friend!), Taina (Sidnei’s cousin, she’s beautiful!), Marlene (MIL), Lete (Sidnei’s Aunt-Dad’s side) and me! It was an American sandwich! On white bread! HAHAHAHAHA I crack myself up!

Here I am at Praca do Liberdade! In front of me was the Governor’s Mansion. It was a really beautiful part of the city. It was still decorated for Christmas.. again, note the blue sky!

The view at night in Sabara!

All in all, I want to go back and experience more of Belo Horizonte! There is a LOT more to see and do.

The New Do

2010-02-03T09:11:00.001-05:00

Gracie finally got her hair cut! She got her first one in October and her hair had gotten so long!

Not to mention the crazy heat all day…! Let me just say, it was time.

The people did a really good job this time. They used the machine instead of the scissors. In fact they did such a good job, she’s practically naked. Look! You can see her freckles!

Needless to say, she was not thrilled with me and would not “speak” with me upon her arrival. But she did give me the stink eye…see?

Of course I wasn’t very nice either. I think there was some comment about my dog now looking like a bobble head. But I have no idea who would have said such a thing.

Now ignore the mess and tell me these two aren’t precious?

Christmas Nostalgia

2009-12-23T15:42:00.005-05:00

I was looking through old photos and found some pictures from last year! I love you all so much and I am missing you and your Christmas spirit this year! Christmas is definitely not as commercialized here in Ipatinga. In bigger cities they do more, but there are no town decorations. My in-laws, I have since found out, belong to a church that doesn't believe they should commemorate Christmas, because we should be celebrating his life everday. I say that's hoo hocky. But only because they are ALL about their own birthdays. And shouldn't we be celebrating our lives every day if we are going to have that attitude? In my oh so humble opinoin. Anyway my MIL was fine with me decorating. I put up a nativity, a couple of santa clauses, our really cute stockings (Thanks Kim! Sidnei loves his still!), and just a few things here and there. We bought a table top tree and didn't use the big one because of my nephew, we were afraid he'd be into everything. It is pretty, I am just really missing all the good Christmas spirit we have. I made sugar cookies, which helped me :) and my in-laws loved them! I also made them for the ward party and people went crazy over them! I was so proud of myself. I made a little over 150 sugar cookies this year!!

I just want you all to know how much I miss you. Sometimes I dont feel like I convey it very well. I feel like sometimes I clam up on the phone, but honestly, it's only because I'm usually choked up. I get so emotional because I just have so much 'saudades' (the portuguese word for missing someone or something...but this word doesnt translate well, because it is so much deeper than missing...maybe a mixture and missing and yearning) I am so grateful for all the support you have given me these last couple of years. I would never have done as well as I have without you all. I don't want anyone to be upset either. I have been here for almost 7 months (next week!) and things are going really well. I am so proud of myself for how well I've adjusted, how quickly I've learned, and how independent I am already! I grow by leaps and bounds every day and we have a good life here. I am grateful to be with Sidnei. He is my best friend, he is so wonderful to me, and I couldn't imagine my life without him.

Merry Christmas to you all. Of course I will call, but I wanted to express just how much you all mean to me. Love you all more than you can imagine!!

Here are pictures from last year! This was the weekend before Christmas!

Sorry Rachael...I just couldnt resist!

Gaining Perspective

2009-12-14T10:28:00.002-05:00

There are things that happen in our lives, that alter the way that we think. Sometimes they are BIG and sometimes they are small, but the completely change the direction of our lives. They make us stop at think, they help us to remember to be grateful for what we have, and more importantly who we have. And life continues on. We fall back into routines, go on about our daily lives, forgetting to stop and remember. To stop and think. For Sidnei and I, it has been almost seven months that we have been back together. Already there are times when we grate one another's nerves and forget about how much we longed to be together. How much we longed to have the opportunity to simply be together.

Why am I saying all this? Today I ran across Stephanie Nielson's story. Please if you have a little time, go and read her story. I am reeling, thinking and remembering about how moments and instances change the directions of our lives. I am also recommitting myself again to remember the things which I am truly grateful for, to remembering how quickly the direction of our lives can turn, and to live in this moment, as happy as I can be no matter what the circumstances...simply because we can and we deserve.

Thinking of you all and sending my love your way.

Hey there!

2009-12-13T23:44:00.002-05:00

Okay here we go....
Let me just say this was a good idea. I love reading Stephanie's posts and Jaime's was very touching. Because I'm getting close to the end of six months away from home, I'm really missing my family! I just want to go home and snuggle with my mommy! Stephanie, I wish you were going to be there. You always make everything so much fun. I miss you, Syd, and Gracie so much! I just want to play with her! Haha, but according to everyone I've got a nice miniature pony waiting to see me in Myrtle Beach.
(Alright, everyone but Rach and Steph already knows this part; So if you want you can skip to the next paragraph feel free.) Life out here in Orem has been wonderful. I'm really close with my roommates and I still keep up with my friends in Provo. One of the girls I'm closest too has my name. We always play around that we have a Chelsea connection. She's from southern California and took a bunch of us down there for Halloween. AMAZING! The pacific ocean is dang cold, but once I lost all feeling in my body, it wasn't that bad.
I haven't written yet because nothing really notable happens up here. A lot of working and laughing going on, but that's about it. Though this week something worth mentioning actually happened.
Grandma and Papa Radvansky were in town this week and it was really nice to see them. It was like a little preview of my trip home.
They let me tag along with them all day Wed and I got to meet some of their friends from their first mission in SLC. They are the cutest older people i have ever met. They were singing songs and telling stories. This one woman was from England and I was amazed to hear her stories of growing up in London during World War Two! Being the history buff that I am, I loved every minute of it. Then later that night they took me to see the forgotten carols. It was a really sweet day. Most of my life lately has been work (though not nearly enough to compete with you adults) and it was nice to just kick back with my family.
Well I don't know how regular I'll be, but I'll try to keep up with the rest of you. Stay safe! I love you!

2009-12-05T15:19:00.004-05:00

Well, my dear Family, I do not know yet if I am doing this right yet or not, so I may be wasting a lot of time doing it, but, it leads to a bit of reflection. If.... it posts correctly, then I will start posting a bit of myself everyday. I feel it is important for you to know, what is in my heart, and it is really important for me to know and feel what is in yours..... after all, you know how nosy I am!

It is Saturday 3:30 PM. I should be doing many things in this day, but I decided to take a moment; there is not too many of those lately. I came to the office to work in a couple of proposals that I promised a couple of days ago, but circumstances kept me from completing them. Today is quiet, the phone only rang about 10 or 12 times, so it is a really good time to seat down for a minute and try to say something coherent. Kim is at Church in some in service training, I know she is "loving" it, poor thing she is being pulled from a hundred different directions every week, and lately she did not have any significant time off to speak of.

The holiday season is coming fast. You all know how much I enjoy all the shopping and decorating, and all the coming and going brought about by Christmas and such....but, enough sarcasm. This will be a different one I think; lately I been feeling different, I cannot put my finger on it, I wonder if it is because I am slowing down, because I have had a "annus terribilis", with the condition of the economy and other things that this year has brought, or because finally I am getting some sense into me. The truth is, that even me, sooner or later will grow up and get some sort of common sense, at least I keep hoping.
I feel surprised about how I am taking on things, I am not letting things get to me as I once did. For example, this week, we were out of funds, and amazingly enough, came friday and I was as calm as a pond. A miracle ocurred. Yesterday morning, I discussed with Suzie the condition of our accounts and what we needed to collect and what we needed to pay, I realized that, ooopps! we are in trouble, but I kept on going. The people whom owed us money, weren't going to pay, is not the right week for that. I said a prayer like I ussually do in the morning in my office. I took my frustration to The Lord, I was a bit blunt, maybe. I told him that I felt I deserved better than suffering as much.... I repented of that feeling a few minutes later, but I pleaded, I did all I could do, and knowing that I could not do anymore, I left it up to Him.
Well, in the afternoon, late, I got 2 phone calls from some of our customers whom offered me to pay me ahead of schedule if I wanted to come pick up the checks. I was speechless, it hasn't happen before, I usually have to plead with them, and threaten, and argue to get some relief, this time, the relief came to me without asking.... to them. Like I said, a miracle, and proof of the power of prayer and faith. Great lesson for this week.

As I was saying, this year seems so different, Steph is "really" away, Rachael will be "really" away soon enough, and so will Chelsea once she is called to her Mission. Poor Ashlee is the only one left to hear "my opinions" as so elocuently Stephanie put it in her post. Thank goodness she has a good network of friends to give her relief from concentrated parenthood.
The fact is that Rachael will be here before Christmas comes, since she has to work very early the day after, and in Christmas morning will only be Kim, Chelsea, Ashlee and I. Like I said, it will be different. I hope one day, we can all be together again, including Sidnei and James of course. I guess I will be feeling some of the same thing Abuela feels every year.

Anyhow, I don't think I am making any sense, but is ok, I will learn. I had a talk on Church last week, but the Missionaries spoke over their time and I only had time to give my testimony, so, a very opportunistic Bro. Guskewicz asked me to speak this coming week about "The Light of Christ". I feel is a good subject, and one appropiated to the time of the season. I take any advice, materials and ideas you may wish to contribute. I am not too concerned, I hope I can teach something worth listening to. ( I think I am not suppose to end a sentence like that, but you will forgive my lack of english knowledge...no?)

I am suppouse to go home and paint the room over the garage..... I feel a wave of procrastination coming over me. I also need to go to Gtown and put my eyeballs on Southern Cross. She's been by herself for a long time now, I got all kind of goodies to put into her, but it will have to be next week.... maybe, like I said, the procrastination thing, plus the weather is not good for the umphteen week end on a row it seems like.

I enjoyed the thanksgiving holiday. Of all the times of the year, besides Easter, I feel it is the most special. I wish to express to you my gladness and gratitude for each and everyone of you. I know you have been raised at this time of creation to help me and guide me, and to make my journey in this life more meaningful and full of joy....warts and all! Thank you.
I am glad to have such a wonderful life. When I take the time to look back, indeed realize how magnificent it has been so far. It hasn't been perfect, but I do not think any life is. I feel that unless we try and work hard and fight for the things we want, and gain a testimony of the need of sacrifice and develop the faith to keep on pushing on for the things we want, then the journey is not nearly as meaningful as it should be. I keep remind myself, that The Lord will not put in my way any more that I can stand and deal with. I just need to keep believing and asking after all I could do is done, and He will take it from there, and if it doesn't happen the way I envision, there is learning in that too.
I have been shown many times that there is not coincidences, just consecuences to decisions we make and opportunities that present themselves to us. We just need the map, the compass, the guidance.

Well, I overstayed my welcome here, I promise I will write again really soon. I love you all deeply. I miss you and think of each and everyone of you a lot more than you can imagine. I hope I am bless with the opportunity to be close to you... forever.

Jaime

Follow Up

2009-12-03T12:33:00.005-05:00

I know you have all been ~~refreshing the browser every twenty minutes~~ waiting to hear about my much anticipated appointment...so I apologize for the time it has taken me. Apparently we have entered into rainy season, which means the Internet is either VERY slow, doesn't work, or the power is going in and out. Oh the joys of living here in this third world country (that was for you Dad)!

So without further ado...it was not what I expected AT ALL. Which shouldn't surprise me. Things here rarely are what I expect, but of course that is as much with life in general right? Basically I felt like this guy, who is the general manager of a very big company in Ipatinga, wanted to talk to me so he could show off his great English skills, talk about his life in the states, and try to force his political views on me. He is a big fan of Michael Moore, he thinks he is BRILLIANT...which honestly, I have no words for. In fact when asked (repeatedly), I told this gentleman that Michael Moore was a little too left, a little to biased for my taste. Of course then he wanted to talk to me about how unfair it was that we (the US) treat our citizens so unfairly by giving the banks billions of dollars (because we were all gung ho for that right? and let's not forget avoiding a WORLD crisis shall we? is what I wanted to add in, but better sense has taught me not to involve myself in someone else's political agenda...girls (Rach, Chels, Ash...just leave the politics alone! Always! If you want good relationships with family, friends, and co-workers..let the thoughts remain with you!), that our health care system was absolutely ridiculous (preceded by ridiculous, false stories), and how up and coming a world power Brazil is. And all the while here I am thinking, yes, Brazil the big and mighty...your corrupt government, politically incorrect president, and your blessed impoverished citizens will dominate. (Am I being 100% fair? No, but neither was he, and I get hot headed now when defending my country. Everyone has an opinion and if you've been around Daddy enough, you know what opinions are like.

So anyway, despite me trying desperately to keep my hot headed mouth shut, I did learn some valuable information. His company is called Bairro Minas and they produce hair care products. They have just partnered with a company in North Carolina to produce ethnic products and over the next year they have lots of visitors/investors arriving from the states. His thought is maybe I could help with them. Actually he mentioned it in passing, not sounding as serious as I would have liked, because I think he would love to get another opportunity to talk to more gringos. Anywho, but it got me thinking, there are a couple of big companies here in Ipatinga (Ipatinga is very industrial) that have English speaking investors that come here frequently. I need to somehow find my way in and see if I can't play host with these people. Sort of like a hospitality supervisor. I'm not really sure what the official job title would be, but I'm sure they are in need for people who can do that efficiently. So that was my big idea, that I am excited about. I am still going to create and send my resume over to my GM at Bairro Minas. He also knows a couple of owners of English schools here and wants to see if he can't get me set up in one of the schools. I have also found out about a school that teaches English to children and I would much rather do that then teach adults.

So bottom line: I am still unemployed. But I am not without hope. I have ideas. I will keep plugging away! Thanks for all the comments and support! Things are going well. It has cooled off A LOT because of the rain, which I am thankful for and love! I have been busy this week and so has Sidnei! He didn't get home from work until almost 11 last night! But his business is going great and I am really proud of him! Gracie is doing well, she plays with Israel (my nephew) most of the day, chases bugs, lizards, and birds. And she sleeps A LOT. In fact she is passed out on my bed right now. Like this:

I am getting in the Christmas spirit, though I am missing you all, cool weather, the Christmas commercialism everyone complains about-but truly loves, and decorating a big tree! We decided not to put up my tree this year because of my 2 year old nephew. He is here every day and into everything. So we are going to buy a little table top tree and some lights(my in laws have no decorations, they don't really celebrate...so odd to me! But most of the city seems to be in agreement! Thank goodness they have a real live Gringa to bring them a little holiday cheer! My goodness!)! I have put up other decorations (with my Disney princess Santa hat and Christmas music going!) and I am thinking about baking sugar cookies to decorate! I am missing decorating a ginger bread house like last year! We had fun last year :) Anyway more pictures another day! Beijos from Brazil!

Noticias Boa

2009-11-30T10:22:00.002-05:00

Good things come to those who break beyond the circle of comfort. Meaning, Saturday I walked down to the store to go buy some juice (and some cheap, cute flip flops...did I mention I LOVE that I can wear flip flops every day?) and coming home, I saw my neighbor, whom I've never really talked to. So I decided to say hi. We struck up a conversation trudging up the hill to our street. She asked about life back in the states, how cold it was there now, if I missed it, if I liked Brazil, what I did for work in the States, what I went to school for, and I was telling her how much I was missing working. It was nice to talk to her and she is really sweet. It is always nice to meet people who aren't afraid to try and talk to me (so many people talk around me instead of to me...which I understand, it's just frustrating).

So today I am sitting down, eating lunch with minha sogra (my mother in law) when she tells me she has noticias boa (good news)for me! Turns out Joni (the neighbor I talked to) talked to a guy she knows (at the company she works for I think) that speaks English really well. And he wants to talk to me tomorrow about coming to work for them! I am SO excited. I wish I had more details, however, sometimes it's difficult for me to follow exactly what my mother in law says. So I will have more details tonight when Sidnei comes home. But I got the gist of it and I am so excited!! So good things come to those who talk! Not only that, but I just thought it was really nice that she would go out of her way to try and help me find work. No matter where you go, there are always good people to help you find your way.

So why am I telling you all this since I have no concrete details? I'm hoping you will say a little prayer for me, that all this will work out, that it is a good opportunity for me, and that I will soon become one of the employed! So send up prayers, keep your fingers crossed, and send me good employed vibes across our 6,000 miles! Much love to you all and have a good week!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-19T12:11:00.001-05:00

Today I watched this video on Mormon Messages from Youtube. I don't know if you all watch the ones that they put out regularly, but I LOVE them. I have watched them all, every single one. Every single one has pulled at my spirtual heart strings and they inspire me to be a better member of the chruch.

So today, I am grateful for the Church, who makes it a point to give members all around the world opportunities to be immersed in gospel lessons every day. I am grateful for simple reminders of how to live life and with what purpose.

On facebook, people have started posting every day what they are grateful for in the spirit of Thanksgiving. It has been so fun to see what people come up with. So here is where I go Hallmark Special on you. When I came to Brasil, I started my 'optimism journal'. (I believe it was after I had watched one of the Mormon Messages, but now I don't remember which one-- I'll look) It forces me to look at the good that has happened in that day and recognize the blessings I receive daily (and be grateful for them! Cue Thanksgiving). This has really helped me a lot. I believe that I have the tendency to be a complainer, to focus a little more on the negative. This helps me to remember, that whether I choose to see it in that moment or not, positive and good thing happen every, single, day. And sometimes when it has been a bad day, it helps me to reflect and see the good that came from having the bad day. I try my best to write every day, some days I just don't get there..but it has honestly shifted my focus to embrace and discover the joy in the journey.

Finding Joy in the Journey

2009-11-17T14:15:00.005-05:00

I thought it only appropriate to start this blog by sharing this talk by President Monson!
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Thomas S. Monson, “Finding Joy in the Journey,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 84–87

Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.

My dear brothers and sisters, I am humbled as I stand before you this morning. I ask for your faith and prayers in my behalf as I speak about those things which have been on my mind and which I have felt impressed to share with you.

I begin by mentioning one of the most inevitable aspects of our lives here upon the earth, and that is change. At one time or another we’ve all heard some form of the familiar adage: “Nothing is as constant as change.”

Throughout our lives, we must deal with change. Some changes are welcome; some are not. There are changes in our lives which are sudden, such as the unexpected passing of a loved one, an unforeseen illness, the loss of a possession we treasure. But most of the changes take place subtly and slowly.

This conference marks 45 years since I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. As the junior member of the Twelve then, I looked up to 14 exceptional men, who were senior to me in the Twelve and the First Presidency. One by one, each of these men has returned home. When President Hinckley passed away eight months ago, I realized that I had become the senior Apostle. The changes over a period of 45 years that were incremental now seem monumental.

This coming week Sister Monson and I will celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary. As I look back to our beginnings, I realize just how much our lives have changed since then. Our beloved parents, who stood beside us as we commenced our journey together, have passed on. Our three children, who filled our lives so completely for many years, are grown and have families of their own. Most of our grandchildren are grown, and we now have four great-grandchildren.

Day by day, minute by minute, second by second we went from where we were to where we are now. The lives of all of us, of course, go through similar alterations and changes. The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come the changes.

This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now.

I am what my wife, Frances, calls a “show-a-holic.” I thoroughly enjoy many musicals, and one of my favorites was written by the American composer Meredith Willson and is entitled The Music Man. Professor Harold Hill, one of the principal characters in the show, voices a caution that I share with you. Says he, “You pile up enough tomorrows, and you’ll find you’ve collected a lot of empty yesterdays.”1

My brothers and sisters, there is no tomorrow to remember if we don’t do something today.

I’ve shared with you previously an example of this philosophy. I believe it bears repeating. Many years ago, Arthur Gordon wrote in a national magazine, and I quote:

“When I was around thirteen and my brother ten, Father had promised to take us to the circus. But at lunchtime there was a phone call; some urgent business required his attention downtown. We braced ourselves for disappointment. Then we heard him say [into the phone], ‘No, I won’t be down. It’ll have to wait.’

“When he came back to the table, Mother smiled. ‘The circus keeps coming back, you know,’ [she said.]

“‘I know,’ said Father. ‘But childhood doesn’t.’”2

If you have children who are grown and gone, in all likelihood you have occasionally felt pangs of loss and the recognition that you didn’t appreciate that time of life as much as you should have. Of course, there is no going back, but only forward. Rather than dwelling on the past, we should make the most of today, of the here and now, doing all we can to provide pleasant memories for the future.

If you are still in the process of raising children, be aware that the tiny fingerprints that show up on almost every newly cleaned surface, the toys scattered about the house, the piles and piles of laundry to be tackled will disappear all too soon and that you will—to your surprise—miss them profoundly.

Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most important—and what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.”3 We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.

Send that note to the friend you’ve been neglecting; give your child a hug; give your parents a hug; say “I love you” more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of “what if” and “if only.” Said author Harriet Beecher Stowe, “The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.”4

In the 1960s, during the Vietnam War, Church member Jay Hess, an airman, was shot down over North Vietnam. For two years his family had no idea whether he was dead or alive. His captors in Hanoi eventually allowed him to write home but limited his message to less than 25 words. What would you and I say to our families if we were in the same situation—not having seen them for over two years and not knowing if we would ever see them again? Wanting to provide something his family could recognize as having come from him and also wanting to give them valuable counsel, Brother Hess wrote—and I quote: “These things are important: temple marriage, mission, college. Press on, set goals, write history, take pictures twice a year.”5

Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family. One day each of us will run out of tomorrows.

In the book of John in the New Testament, chapter 13, verse 34, the Savior admonishes us, “As I have loved you, … love one another.”

Some of you may be familiar with Thornton Wilder’s classic drama Our Town. If you are, you will remember the town of Grover’s Corners, where the story takes place. In the play Emily Webb dies in childbirth, and we read of the lonely grief of her young husband, George, left with their four-year-old son. Emily does not wish to rest in peace; she wants to experience again the joys of her life. She is granted the privilege of returning to earth and reliving her 12th birthday. At first it is exciting to be young again, but the excitement wears off quickly. The day holds no joy now that Emily knows what is in store for the future. It is unbearably painful to realize how unaware she had been of the meaning and wonder of life while she was alive. Before returning to her resting place, Emily laments, “Do … human beings ever realize life while they live it—every, every minute?”

Our realization of what is most important in life goes hand in hand with gratitude for our blessings.

Said one well-known author: “Both abundance and lack [of abundance] exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend … when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that’s present—love, health, family, friends, work, the joys of nature, and personal pursuits that bring us [happiness]—the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience heaven on earth.”6

In the Doctrine and Covenants, section 88, verse 33, we are told: “For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift.”

The ancient Roman philosopher Horace admonished, “Whatever hour God has blessed you with, take it with grateful hand, nor postpone your joys from year to year, so that in whatever place you have been, you may say that you have lived happily.”

Many years ago I was touched by the story of Borghild Dahl. She was born in Minnesota in 1890 of Norwegian parents and from her early years suffered severely impaired vision. She had a tremendous desire to participate in everyday life despite her handicap and, through sheer determination, succeeded in nearly everything she undertook. Against the advice of educators, who felt her handicap was too great, she attended college, receiving her bachelor of arts degree from the University of Minnesota. She later studied at Columbia University and the University of Oslo. She eventually became the principal of eight schools in western Minnesota and North Dakota.

She wrote the following in one of the 17 books she authored: “I had only one eye, and it was so covered with dense scars that I had to do all my seeing through one small opening in the left of the eye. I could see a book only by holding it up close to my face and by straining my one eye as hard as I could to the left.”7

Miraculously, in 1943—when she was over 50 years old—a revolutionary procedure was developed which finally restored to her much of the sight she had been without for so long. A new and exciting world opened up before her. She took great pleasure in the small things most of us take for granted, such as watching a bird in flight, noticing the light reflected in the bubbles of her dishwater, or observing the phases of the moon each night. She closed one of her books with these words: “Dear … Father in heaven, I thank Thee. I thank Thee.”8

Borghild Dahl, both before and after her sight was restored, was filled with gratitude for her blessings.

In 1982, two years before she died, at the age of 92 her last book was published. Its title: Happy All My Life. Her attitude of thankfulness enabled her to appreciate her blessings and to live a full and rich life despite her challenges.

In 1 Thessalonians in the New Testament, chapter 5, verse 18, we are told by the Apostle Paul, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God.”

Recall with me the account of the 10 lepers:

“And as [Jesus] entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

“And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

“And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

“And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

“And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

“There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”9

Said the Lord in a revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith, “In nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things.”10 May we be found among those who give our thanks to our Heavenly Father. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues.

Despite the changes which come into our lives and with gratitude in our hearts, may we fill our days—as much as we can—with those things which matter most. May we cherish those we hold dear and express our love to them in word and in deed.

In closing, I pray that all of us will reflect gratitude for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His glorious gospel provides answers to life’s greatest questions: Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where does my spirit go when I die?

He taught us how to pray. He taught us how to serve. He taught us how to live. His life is a legacy of love. The sick He healed; the downtrodden He lifted; the sinner He saved.

The time came when He stood alone. Some Apostles doubted; one betrayed Him. The Roman soldiers pierced His side. The angry mob took His life. There yet rings from Golgotha’s hill His compassionate words, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”11

Earlier, perhaps perceiving the culmination of His earthly mission, He spoke the lament, “Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.”12 “No room in the inn”13 was not a singular expression of rejection—just the first. Yet He invites you and me to receive Him. “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”14

Who was this Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief? Who is the King of glory, this Lord of hosts? He is our Master. He is our Savior. He is the Son of God. He is the Author of our Salvation. He beckons, “Follow me.”15 He instructs, “Go, and do thou likewise.”16 He pleads, “Keep my commandments.”17

Let us follow Him. Let us emulate His example. Let us obey His word. By so doing, we give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.

Brothers and sisters, my sincere prayer is that we may adapt to the changes in our lives, that we may realize what is most important, that we may express our gratitude always and thus find joy in the journey. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.