This morning I had the amazing opportunity to hear from Sister Bonnie Parkin (former general Relief Society President) at our stake "Relief Society Day of Service".  She shared so many things with us, but what stood out to me was her thoughts on the temple and how important service within the sacred walls is as well as the 'rough' days that we all face and finding the things in our life that remind us that our Father in Heaven loves us.

When Sister Parkin asked us to share (with the sister next to us) what things in our lives reminded us of our Father in Heaven's love, I drew a blank.  I could not think of one thing that reminds me each day that I am a loved daughter of God.  I felt so stupid as I searched through my brain files to find something. When it was my turn to share all I could think to say was my family.  I had hoped to have some miraculous answer that would be inspiring to my fellow sisters, but all I had was my family.

Now that I am home and able to ponder on this question I am no longer ashamed that the only answer I could think of was my family.  I am so blessed to have an amazing husband who knows all of my secrets and understands me.  He is my best friend and I am grateful that we are struggling through this life together. I am grateful for the temple covenants we made almost three years ago to one another and to our Father in Heaven. I am grateful that Dave understands the importance of having me in the home to raise our children. He is struggling through another semester of school and two jobs so I can fulfill my role as wife and mother and he NEVER complains. I love him so much. What a blessing children are.  My heart always breaks a little when I hear women say that they don't want kids.  If they only knew how great they are. Peyton is a light in our lives and even though she is one going on thirteen somedays I wouldn't trade her for anything.  Spure of the moment vacations or late night parties sound fun, but holding my sweet little girl is so much better.  I have never met another child who will smile at anyone she see's and frown when her smile is not returned.  She is beautiful. She is perfect. She is healthy. She is a girl through and through. She is happy. She is my little shadow.

I am grateful Sister Parkin made me think today. I am grateful for the spirit touching my heart this afternoon as I realized how blessed I am. I am grateful to my Savior and I know my Father in Heaven loves me.