Spring

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved springtime. It was always my favorite season, and Easter was always my favorite holiday. I'd like to say that was because, as a child, I was acutely aware of the religious meaning behind the holiday, but I'm sad to say that's not likely the case. Now, I love Easter for the beautiful celebration of our Saviour's resurrection. And along with that comes the beauties of the season that make it all the more wonderful.

For those of you who know me, you know that I am not the biggest chocolate fan. I would much rather have gummy peach rings than a snickers bar. But along with Easter comes the best chocolate of all.

One year, although I had pledged to give up sugar for two months (which I did!), I stocked up on these little minis so I had enough to last me until the end of the year. I love them that much.

But I also love the world this time of year. I saw some crocuses the other day. It always reminds me of a song I'd sing as a child: The crocuses and tulips are as bright as they could be, for spring, spring, spring is here! The flowers are telling me!

I love the new life of spring.

I love the first day without a coat.

I love the strong wind and the bright blue sky.

I love wearing skirts, and bravely breaking out the flip flops.

I love the robins returning to the morning music.

I love the smiles on faces in the sunshine.

I love the smell and sound of rain.

I love the buds on the trees.

I love the happiness.

I love spring.

If only I'd known...

After living in Utah again for the past 9 months, I have realized some key things I did not take into account before I moved here:

1. The Inversion. Not only does it bring snow, but the winter also brings unbreathable air.
2. The University is on a hill. From anywhere I park or take public transport, I always walk uphill. Both ways.
3. Residency requirements. Unlike every other state, you do not get automatic residency after a year of living here.
4. Potholes. Despite the continuous construction on Utah roads, the potholes are horrendous.
5. The division of cities, counties, and municipalities in the Salt Lake Valley. So many regulations from each one, it is nearly impossible to know if and when you are breaking the law.
6. Utah drivers. So oblivious to everything around them. Sad that I have Utah plates now too.

And yet... I had also forgotten about the beautiful mountains and how they look in the spring:

Snow against the beautiful blue sky. They don't totally make up for the aforementioned issues, but it is a start.

Unique Forecast

I don't watch the news on TV, but when I check it online, I don't check the weather. So, I rely on the basic forecast on my phone and also the unique forecast tower we have here in Salt Lake City:

Walker Center Weather Tower provides a daily forecast of the weather:

• blue: clear skies
• flashing blue: cloudy skies
• red: rain
• flashing red: snow

My favorite sight to see is coming down from the University to the blue tower in front of me. I know it's going to be a great day.

Better than a Hallelujah

I haven't really talked much about my faith here on my blog. Nevertheless, it is a major part of my life. So, please oblige me a bit of time to share some thoughts.

I was driving home last night listening to Soft Sunday Sounds on the radio. I recognize it might be a little cheesy (but I also listen to Love Songs After Dark and Delila, so I think it's low on the spectrum of cheese). Anyway, this song came on that made me think. The chorus was this:

We pour out our miseries

God just hears a melody

Beautiful, the mess we are

The honest cries of breaking hearts

Are better than a Hallelujah

I love so much how the relationship we have with God is not based on our praises alone. But rather on sharing our sadnesses, our miseries, our loneliness, our heartaches, our mistakes, our regrets, our hearts. Because He loves us. How much more powerful can we become as we rely on the Lord and His power and love? It is amazing.

And that truth is better than a Hallelujah!

Recommendation

On Hulu. In this category. Really?

Welcome Holmes!

This is long overdue, but it has taken forever for me to have pictures available and the time to write.

On February 9, 2011, Elder Lance Holmes returned from serving a mission in Argentina. Unbeknownst to him, Russ and I had booked travel from Salt Lake to Boise for the same flight on which he was traveling. We made a poster and surprised him in the airport.

We then flew back to beautiful B-Town and our awaiting family and friends.

That weekend, Shayne, Stephanie and Susie G came to town, and the whole family was re-united for the first time in four years (since Russ went into the MTC in 2007). It was so good to be home with everybody. It was a much needed break filled with love and fun for the whole family.

Thanks for being so awesome, Family!