Our Challenges Define Us

We had a wonderful stake conference a couple of weeks ago. Something that really stood out to me was the statement, "Our challenges create defining points in our lives." I've found myself pondering this a lot lately.

Almost exactly a year ago it seemed that my world was crumbling. We lost so much in such a short amount of time. But I was given a promise that if I was faithful, everything would be fine. Now looking back, one year later, everything is fine, it's better than fine! I am so grateful that the Lord knows what is best for me and my family. I am grateful for the trials and challenges that he gives me. Although I hope to never go through those things again, I'm glad that I did. I have grown so much in the past year. I have learned to appreciate all the little things and never take them for granted. I truly believe that you can't experience joy without sorrow, they go hand in hand.

Do our challenges define us? Just as I said a year ago, my challenges have helped me to become the woman that I am suppose to become. My challenges truly have defined me and I am grateful for them!

Christmas

We had such a wonderful Christmas! Jamison was so cute this year, he was so excited about Santa! Thanks to all our family who made it a Christmas we will never forget!

Jamison's gigantic remote control tractor.

Playing with Grandpa

He loves this thing!

Hangin' with the guys

Christmas Eve

This year, Mike's family came out to stay with us for Christmas. We spent Christmas Eve at Disneyland which was magical and unforgettable!

Grandpa and Jamison on Dumbo

Small World

Cinderella

Seeing the snow fall was wonderful!

December

December went by much too fast, but we did have a great time!

Boat Parade

Jamison loved seeing Santa!

California Adventure

Teacups at Disneyland

Fun with Mikelle

My friend, Mikelle, got a new camera and has been looking for opportunities to learn how to use it. I told her that she was welcome to snap some pictures of Jamison. I think she did a great job! You can check out her work here. Thanks Mikelle, we had lots of fun!

Thanksgiving

This year we spent Thanksgiving in Las Vegas with family. It was a lot of fun! We went to the Tournament of Kings show, bowling, Black Friday shopping, and swimming. We loved the Tournament of Kings, great show for little ones! The only bad part about our trip was driving home. It took us 9 hours instead of the usual 4!

IIn front of the Bellagio. Jamison was mesmerized by the fountain show!

Just hangin' with the guys!

Tournament of Kings

M&M World

Clippers Game

One of Mike's bosses owns one of the VIP boxes in the Staples Center. Whenever he can't go to an event he gives away his tickets. We were fortunate enough to go to a Clippers game there! Although neither of us are big fans of the Clippers we still had a lot of fun! I've decided that I could definitely get used to life in the VIP box!