Goal

I have a new goal. My goal is to be able to run a 5K in September. I'm a little nervous, mostly because I don't like running, but I think this will be a good thing. You're probably wondering why I am making this my goal if I don't like running, but I do have a very good reason. Amanda and I want to be on the Amazing Race someday and so we must start preparing now. (I know you all thought it was to become healthy, but that is just a nice bonus.) We figure in order to have a fighting chance, we have to be able to run for a few miles. Maybe after achieving this goal, we will have to start practicing with heavy packs too.

Wish me luck!

Today

I went to Ray's funeral today. I have to admit, it was tough to go. It wasn't tough because I felt particularly close to this student but because I knew I would see my other students there. I look at this group of kids as though they are mine and I didn't want to see them in pain. I wish that I could shelter them from this. I wanted so badly to just hold them all and give them some comfort. I did hug several of them, but it didn't erase their tears.

I wish they could all feel the love of our Savior right now. I think that is the only thing that can ease this pain. I think that was the one thing missing from the funeral. I didn't feel the hope that comes from understanding the reality of the atonement. It is a blessing to know that there is life after this and we can all be together again. For my kids and Ray's family, I wish them that knowledge and comfort.

It was a tough day. I am grateful to know there is a purpose behind all of Heavenly Father's actions. That gives me great comfort!

FHE

Are you ready to be shocked and awed? Okay, so it's not really that amazing, but for me it is. I actually went to FHE by myself this evening. Not only did I go, but I talked to people and participated. Did I mention, I had fun? For a normal person this would be a whatever moment, but for me it was wonderful. So far, my ward is still looking pretty good.

Just Heard

I was contacted by a former student today via myspace to learn another one of my former students died on Saturday. You know, I thought I would be much older when something like this happened. He was only in 8th grade. It seems so young to be taken from this life. I am not sure what happened only that he died in his sleep. I am not going to question Heavenly Father's reasons, but it is just so sad. I hope his family is coping and his friends are okay. I taught this group of kids for 2 years and I see their faces now and wonder how they will handle this. I hope they can rely on each other.

New Ward

I just went to my new ward. I can't believe it, but I am excited that this is my ward. I was greeted at the door by a girl named Amber. She welcomed me and assured me this was the right ward and seemed genuinely excited I was there, I believe she even clapped a little. I introduced myself to the Relief Society and immediately someone (Heather) behind me tapped my shoulder, said hi and told me she also lives in my complex. I met two other sisters, Megan and Mallory, after Relief Society. In Sacrament meeting Amber came and sat with me and Amanda. I felt very welcomed.

The ward is pretty small, which I think will be nice. Hopefully I will be able to meet more people that way and find a place to fit in. I also think it is a little older of a ward. I am still on the old side, but it seemed to be made up of people in their mid to late 2o's. The girls looked like average wonderful people, not super models. I didn't see many guys, but I did see at least 2 who were pretty cute.

I feel like I have found a place where I can meet people and enjoy the activities. I am being realistic though, I know I will have to put forth effort but I actually want to. I have hope for this ward and that is something I haven't felt out of a singles ward for a few years. Happy, happy, joy, joy!

One Thing

I want to be in love! I don't just want to be in love, I want to be loved back. I want to know that I am capable of feeling that for someone. I just want to be in love!