Satan's Power

Today my favorite student came out to work with me and said "I have a secret to tell you." And I got really excited that she was going to tell me something great. Then she said really quietly "My mom and dad got divorced."

I was instantly devastated for her.

She is 10 and her sister is 8 and their dad is gone. Her parents divorced on Sunday and he moved to California. My heart just started to ache for her and her family and I can especially empathize because of the situation my family finds itself currently.

Watching my parents and siblings go through pain has been one of the hardest things lately. I didn't realize just how hard divorce is until we found out that is what my parents would be going through.

My little student said she was alright, but I know that isn't the case. She is normally bubbly and full of life. She is the one that always brings a smile to my face and if I could adopt her, I would in a heart beat. But today, she just wasn't herself. And I know she isn't alright, because I'm not alright most of the time and I am 21 years old.

I can seriously sit here and just cry at the pain I know my family is feeling and the pain that this little girl's heart gets to go through now. I wouldn't wish this kind of pain on anyone. When I told my mom about my student she said "I wonder if the world is going to hell in a hand basket? Satan just seems to be winning lately." And my instant thought was "He only wins if we let him in long enough."

Going through these trials could make me wonder whether my marriage will survive over the years and triumph over all the trials that will be thrown our way. But ya know what? I don't worry about not making it because I have a husband who is strong in the gospel. His testimony is like a rock and I know he won't ever budge for Satan to come creeping in. And because I have him by my side I know I can do anything. I can be a strong person, have a strong testimony, and have the courage to share it with others and teach my children what is right.

Satan may be winning in many places and situations of the world-but he isn't going to win at my house!

Valentine's Day

As most of you know, I absolutely love Valentine's Day! I get so excited weeks in advance and find myself drawn to anything that may be pink or red. Sadly this year I don't get much of a Valentine weekend because Josh is busy with work.

So I indulged myself and got an early present: cute red glitter toes! My very own dorothy nails bring a smile to my face whenever I look down. I even wore flip-flops to work today and risked my job (not really) so that I could show the sparkles off.

I also had a delicious giant cupcake from Costco that had hot pink frosting on top and lots of sprinkles.(See picture below, ha ha) Yum! I'm a frosting kind of girl and just loved my Valentine treat. So far I have had a great Valentine celebration despite my husband MIA.

I think what really helped bring the spirit of love this year was making Valentine's to send out to our family and closest friends. I am going to post the digital copy with our letter soon so if you don't get one in the mail don't fret! And secretly...I am making a really cute Valentine for my one and only sweetheart.

Even if you are single, or hate a holiday that pressures you to spend money on a loved one enjoy Valentine's Day this year. Do whatever you can to tell those around you that you love them and make someone's day. That is the best Valentine present anyway and will make your heart grow a few times bigger!

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Strangers

Today I was feeling very overwhelmed with school. I just can't seem to stay on top of anything this semester or find success on tests. I wandered over to some chat boards I am part of and explained my frustrations. I am so glad some women there were in tune with the spirit, even though they may not know it. Their comments and sweet encouraging to keep on going really helped me to pick myself up and get going. It's amazing how total strangers can be answers to our prayers. I am grateful to the Lord for his tender mercies that bring me peace and comfort in little ways each day.

Sunshine

Dear Mr. Sun,

Thank you for coming out today. Your beautiful shining rays made me so happy! I can't wait for you to come out everyday so I can enjoy your warmth and light. You are the best!

Sincerely, Libby
 

I just love the sun and how it makes me feel. After the dreadful winter it brings such life and I love it. I have tons to do today and it doesn't even feel stressful because I am sitting in the sun doing stressful things. Summer couldn't come fast enough! I'm so ready for snow cones, flip flops, swimming pool, Strawberry Days, and everything else that makes summer great. Hope everyone has as great a day as I am having!