Today I was thinking about the Atonement and all that it entails. I marvel at all that is promised because of this one noble act. I can't even begin to to comprehend all that has been promised to me personally because my Savior was willing to give His life for me and all my weaknesses. However, tonight I want to look at the Atonement in a different light. Yes, He atoned for my sins but I think part of the Atonement must include all the good things we have been blessed with. Sis. Watson in her book, Change your Questions Change your Life challenges us to ask ourselves: "If I really were to remember that there is power in the Atonement for me (healing power, enabling power, purifying power, saving power), what difference would that make in my life? What would I be able to do that I can't do now? If I really were to remember that there is power in the Atonement for me-- What questions would I stop asking? What questions would I start asking? How would my life be different?" I love that part about the enabling power. Because of the Atonement we are enabled (allowed) or it is made possible for us to grow and become like Him. We are not only given the opportunity to be forgiven but we are given the ability to forgive others. We can purify ourselves and become clean. Without the Atonement none of those things would be possible. I know that when I stand back and look at all the wonderful things that are possible because of the Atonement I am eternally grateful to a loving Heavenly Father and for His Son.

Happy Valentines Day! Hope everyone enjoyed their day. Last evening Janet (Nicole's Mom) called and said, "If you were my valentine tomorrow, you would fix Navajo tacos and if I were your valentine, I would fix everything that went on the top." So guess what? I made Navajo tacos today. YUMMY! Now I will have to pay Juanita because I went off the plan we are on. However, it was worth it. Kirk came shopping in our pantry twice today. He still wanted to go to Red Apple but as Whitney said, "No, not today!" He had to be satisfied with what he found in the pantry. Of course Janet cleaned out his 'hoard box' and brought the supplies over here so he could gather a few of his favorite things. I think I like this recycling thing we've got going for him. Wilson has been so cute lately. He loves music and so whenever he hears it he starts dancing. This morning we started singing Chicka, Chicka boom boom and he started mimicking us. He is growing up so fast. Shawnee came home for the weekend. It has been nice to have her home. My brother, Richard was released from being the bishop today. I will miss not having him serve us in this capacity. He was an outstanding bishop but I know he will serve well in whatever position they call him to. He is so sincere and loving to everyone. Love you brother! I am trying to get use to the nursery. I have to admit it has been a challenge for me and I am not sure why. I guess I liked going to Sunday School and Relief Society. I do miss the learning each week from these organizations. However, I do enjoying the little ones.

New Calling

After years (eight I think) of being the ward chorister I was released last Sunday. Sad day for me. No more arm waving, no more pleading or making others feel guilty for not coming to choir, worrying about who will show up for choir and if I will have enough people to sing, asking people to do special musical numbers even though they are frightened to death, me singing the wrong verse louder than the whole congregation, or choosing songs no one knows but me, just to name a few. Actually I loved my calling and was challenged trying to find music that would help bring the spirit into the meeting. Now where will I sit? Now, don't think I have been put out to pasture because when I was released I was also called to a new position. Assistant Nursery leader! You heard me, nursery! Anyone who knows me knows that I love children so this will be a great calling for me, but two hours! I will miss attending Relief Society and Sunday School but hopefully we will rotate so all of us can attend at least once a month. I will have to tap into my creative genes (if I have any) to keep the little ones learning about who they are and about their Heavenly Father. During the setting apart Bishop told me seek for understanding of what my purpose is. Now the question is: What is my purpose and what can I teach these precious little ones?

I had a great week taking care of two of my grandchildren. What joy they bring. It is fun to see how they play, sleep and eat. They were so good for me. Thanks Mike and Nicole for trusting me to care for them. One thing I realize is that I am not as young as I once was. Wanted to wish Nicole a Happy Birthday also.