Endorphines

Endorphines are a wonderful thing. When I'm sad, lonely, depressed, mildly feeling blue for no reason, or angry that I can't have my chocolate :), there are two cures that work every time. Exercise and grandchildren.

I don't always enjoy the actual process of exercising, but I do look forward to it and HAVE to do it. It's like a drug for me. I know how I'll feel when I'm done so I absolutely can not miss it. I feel better immediately upon completion of a good workout, or even just a walk with a friend. It is SO therapeutic. There is just a rush of good feelings. I feel happy and am ready to continue on with whatever the day will bring.

Then there's my grandchildren. All it takes is for them to walk in the room and my face lights up, my insides feel like they're going to jump out of my skin. My heart is so full of love for these two babies (who are now almost 20 months and almost 14 months old) that I feel as though I've been lifted to another sphere. It's the most incredible thing. I am butter in their hands. I would do anything for them, and yes I spoil them rotten. They get whatever they want, but is there such a thing as too much love and attention? I don't think so.

I know I always talk about my grandchildren and not my children, but of course I love my children. Without them, I would have no grandchildren. :)

Oh, and we now have a 3rd one on the way. Jason and Laura are expecting baby #2. Could my smile get any bigger?

Change

Our Bishopric was changed today after 5 + years. While I knew it would likely happen soon, I still felt as though I had been hit in the gut when told "soon" would be today. My emotions burst forth without warning.

I spent a full day yesterday reflecting on the past two years of my own service as Relief Society president. My association with Bishop Burton has been a great learning experience for me. My eyes were opened much wider as to the things a Bishop must deal with. There is SO MUCH that is demanded of him, and yet he seemed to shoulder it all with ease, although I know it wasn't easy.

I have watched this man evolve over these past 5 years from a capable, educated man to a loving, generous, strong, patient, kind-hearted, spiritual giant. I learned things from him that helped me in my own calling and responsibilities. We have worked side by side on numerous welfare issues and had fallen into a groove, understanding each other and working well together. That was now to come to an immediate halt.

I am just full of gratitude for the lessons he taught me, for the genuine love he gave to all, for the Christlike way in which he ministered to his ward members.

I know callings are only for a time, and I'm grateful for the time I had to serve when and with whom I did. I now have the opportunity to serve with another, and perhaps learn other lessons I have not yet mastered.

I am not worshipping man, but rather expressing my gratitude for recognizing how God can work THROUGH man.