Kansas

Well. We have been her for 3 weeks. It has been fun being with my family everyday. But it sure isn't home. First of all, I am still living with family. I am beyond words filled with gratitude for my family that is helping during this HUGE transition, but I cant wait to have my own place again. Secondly, I miss my friends. (country song isn't it?), but I do. I have realized that I was blessed with amazing people in my life.

Today I was asked by the relief society to go visit a sister who just sent her husband to the desert for 12 months. Oh gee! Just what I love to do..."Hi, I am Anna, you never met me, can I come in and chat?" That is exactly what I said at the door too! She is a sweet lady, and we talked... for hours! It was nice. She says people have been coming by everyday (6 days in) but it is still hard. We played 20 questions: Where you from? How did you meet your husband? how many kids? Ages? and so on. It is nice to know that I now know one person at church on a first name basis! And I am rather proud of myself for taking the opportunity to stop by. The best part was, I got there just as she was finally crying about him being gone, and I could give her a big hug. Now... I just have to keep it up.

As for the New Year. I have set some common goals... exercise regularly (4 times a week), cook a homemade meal, not out of a box 5 times a week, take time to read (something besides twilight), grow closer to the Lord, and be patient. This year has a lot in store, and so many changes. I am scared. When am I not scared about big changes. I can handle Randy being gone for 2 weeks, but can I really handle 6 months??? What about the financial changes?? What do I do about ticks, and scorpions, and snakes?? The girls are being wonderful about everything. They love the new ward, and friends to play with. Kimber started a Dance class, and loves to go. I joined the ward book club, hopefully allowing me to make some friends.

2009 taught me a lot. I have always had a testimony of Heavenly Father and his love for me. But it has been re testified to me so many times this year. I learned about my peek of stress I can handle. I also learned how to accept help and ask for it.

I am excited to see how I learn to handle what is in store this year.