The Spirit of Christmas

I am so happy that it is the Christmas season. This is one of my favorite times of the year; a time when the world remembers the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I love my Savior, and know that the Lord let Him come to Earth to Redeem all mankind. I want to testify that I know that He lives, and that He loves each and every one of us, no matter our status, situation, or circumstance. We are all His Children.

I light of this season, most special above all, I am putting 2 links to wonderful Christmas videos. If you have time, please watch them. They are filled with His Spirit. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ and all that He has done for me. I glory in His strength and love. I know that the Book of Mormon and Bible are living testaments of Him, and are scripture for us today. I know that President Thomas S. Monson, His prophet for His church today, leads and guides us in righteousness and by the authority given him by God. I testify of the truth of these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PURToRRq7gM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXXwtFWpAI8

Extra Treats

Okay, so these are pictures actually from way back at Thanksgiving when I went with Austin to spend Thanksgiving holiday with his family. The pictures with the fountain in the background were taken at Casa Bonita, a restaurant with cliff divers inside, a mariachi band...the works. It was really neat to go and experience everything with such a wonderful family that I get the privilege to be a part of soon! :)

This is Austin's family outside of the fountain. From left to right: Ryan, Sister Palmer, Britta, Austin, Denya, Blake, and Brother Palmer. What a great group! :)

It's been snowing a LOT here in Rexburg lately...hmm...I think the weather is trying to tell us it's close to Christmas!!! :) I can't wait to be home, but it IS fun to see all the snow (for a little while). One night when Austin was over, I went outside and wrote this in the snow...I love my fiancé!!! :)

Sorry that the pictures on Blogger don't ever post in the right order...(sigh) oh well. This is a picture of downtown Denver, in case any of you were wondering. :)

And THIS is the scenery for pretty much 1/4 of the drive from Rexburg to Denver. The other 3/4 looks just like the drive from Texas to Utah...flat. With some rocks occasionally, but mostly flat. Oh, but there were a few little rolling hills...and some pioneer wagon tracks (but I wasn't fast enough to get a picture of those). :( Hope you enjoy these extra pictures! :)

Christmastime

Okay, so this post is for you, Momma! :) This is Christmastime in good ol' Rexburg, USA. Freezing, but fun. :) Here is a picture of Austin and I, enjoying being engaged! :)

Janessa and I in front of the Christmas tree Momma got me for Christmastime away from home my freshman year away at college. Tis the season to be jolly! :)

This is (from left to right): Nikol, me, and Sarah. :) You can't see the Christmas tree in this shot, but it's there...right behind my head... :)

A better shot of Nikol and Sarah with our apartment Christmas tree. :)

I thought I would include this picture too...I love nativity sets! :) This season is one of celebration after all, because it marks the birth of the Savior who chose to atone for everyone so that we could return to live with our Father again someday. I know that Christ lives, and that He atoned for our sins. I know that He will gather us to Him, and strengthen us as we continually turn to Him in humility. I love my Savior, and my God. I am so happy every Christmas because I know that Christ made possible our salvation through His perfect life. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His church today on the earth. I know that Thomas Monson is His prophet helping to guide His church today on earth. I bear witness of these truths in the name of my Lord, even Jesus Christ. Amen.

Cleaning...

Last night was my apartment's White Glove cleaning marathon. We had our apartment checked this morning to make sure that everything was SPOTLESS (and I do mean spotless). So...I was up until 4:30 this morning cleaning my room and the apartment bathroom, and packing almost all my stuff away to come home!

I was the first to go to bed, because the kitchen was taking a little bit longer. However, there was a ward party at Craigo's pizza this morning at 10 (our White Glove check was at 8 am). NEEDLESS to say, I did not go...I was way too tired!

Today I am instead just studying for finals this next week. Since I haven't blogged in a while, I thought I would take care of that as well. :) I hope that everyone is doing well this weekend, and that everyone hopefully got more sleep than I have! :)