Grateful Fast Sunday XVII

The beautiful falls

This Fast Sunday is sunny and warm. I am holding out hope that the trend of the last 40 or so days will continue and we will get rain this afternoon. It looks likely and that makes me happy. When it rains on these hot days it feels like all the air and trees get put in a giant washing machine. It all comes out smelling clean and fresh. Today I am thankful for the following:

1. The beautiful Earth. I know I talk about this a lot but I just can’t get over what an incredible gift the Earth is. This was brought into incredible clarity this month as we visited Iguaçu Falls and all the rain we have received here in Sao Paulo. Both have shown the Earth at her best. The falls showed her majesty and the rain has brought out her subtle beauty. I feel lucky to be alive to see both.

2. The kids are back in school. We are all just happier when the kids are in school. We have a routine and we all have time to explore and grow by ourselves. They are both extremely happy at school. BLP loves ballet on Tuesdays, toy days on Fridays and when she gets to stay for almoço (lunch). AJP is excited for Capoeira to start and his afterschool math class. Most days he does not even complain when it is time to do homework. I don’t think there is anything else I could be more grateful for than the wonderful opportunities that school offers and the great attitudes of both AJP and BLP (most of the time!).

3. The ability to change. As you all know, this year I set some goals to help me change. It has not been easy but I feel good about the progress of the past month. I am overwhelmed by the help and love our Heavenly Father offers us when we want to change. He often put opportunities in our way to expedite the change or to make the process at least have moments of joy.

4. The opportunity to serve others. The presidency of the Relief Society changed and I was recalled to help out the teachers in the Relief Society. I am so excited to learn from the teachers and to help them teach the other women in a way that God would want. I am also excited to have a new opportunity to serve. I have another student in my English teaching venture. (I do get paid for this but I put in so many more hours than I actually receive payment for that I feel as if it is also a service to my students.) It is exciting to see the students grow and learn. I am grateful to be a part of both of these opportunities.