April 9th

April 9th has become one of my favorite days of the years. First, it is my dad's birthday. He is my hero. I remember when I was only five years old going to bed saying I wanted to be an engineer when I grew up just like my dad. He is kind, funny, smart, and very dedicated to our family and faith.

This day is also special because I got my Patriarchal blessing 12 years ago. It has become one of my greatest treasures from the Lord. I am constantly amazed by the words and inspiration that come from it and how the Lord uses it to teach me.

Then 2 years ago on this day, I went through the temple for the first time. It was one of the best days of my life as I learned more about the Gospel and God. I have tried to go at least once a week since that day because I can feel the power and protection when I attend.

And now the temple has become even more significant to me because I have been given the opportunity to serve as a worker. For the past two months, I have worked the Saturday mid-day shift. Sometimes it feels like a burden and I never know how I am going to get anything done, but the Lord is so good to me and every time my shift ends, I realize there is no other place I would rather be.

The temple is such an amazing place to find love and peace. It really is a piece of heaven on earth and the Spirit is so strong in its walls. It is such a privilege and a great responsibility to do the work of the Lord, but I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to serve.

The Lord is so merciful especially when we trust Him. He gives so abundantly and loves so completely. I am always overwhelmed with how patient He is with me and then blesses me for my tiniest efforts. And then knowing that my efforts would never be enough and I would make mistakes, He gave His Son. I am so grateful for my Savior and Redeemer.

And then two months from this day, I will be marrying Bryce! He is so smart and funny. He is very kind, loving, and thoughtful. He has a strong testimony of the Gospel and values the importance of family. Even when we first started dating, he would talk about how he wanted to raise his kids (I didn't know guys even thought about that). He loves to think about things from different perspectives (definitely the lawyer type!)  and will share his thoughts with me. He isn't much of a night person, but maybe he can help me become a better morning person.