My job

My last day of work was Friday. It was getting physically too much so I had to say adios. They have been so gracious and accommodating to me for 4 years. I've been carrying around my oxygen in my mini backpack more often these days and when I do, my back hurts worse so it’s just a domino affect. A few days before I left we had a staff Christmas luncheon. They had gotten a cake made and a card signed by everyone for me. (there was another lady leaving too) They are so thoughtful! Everyone said the nicest, sweetest things… it made it even harder to say goodbye. They kept telling me I’d have to come visit. I promised a few of them I would so I better keep my promise and get back there in the near future.
Now your wondering what am I going to do with all this time on my hands. Well, I'm going to find another part time job, but one where I can sit and not be pushing 40+ pound carts around. I'm also going to volunteer at a few places as well.
This was a hard decision, but after much thought and prayer it's what I'm suppose to do. It makes it a little easier knowing I'm following the many promptings I was given and I know everything will work out the way it's suppose to. There's not a doubt in my mind about that. Since I'm following the spirit I know Heavenly Father will bless me. Now it's on to what's in store for me next!!

Each group (adult, circ, and youth) had to decorate their pods. This one was the best. If it had been a contest I think Youth would have stolen the trophy hands down.

Puzzles Galore

I LOVE puzzles. I always do a puzzle during thanksgiving time. This year I did three 500 piece puzzles. It took me a while, but it was fun to do.

Noel Concert

A few weeks ago I went to the East Valley Mormon Choral Organization Christmas Concert. It was beautiful! I LOVED it! They have all kinds of choirs—sunbeam chorus ( 4-6), children’s chorus (6-10), youth chorus (10-14), concert choir (high school, 14-16) and East Valley Mormon Choir (Adults). They also have an orchestra. Everyone volunteers their time and talent. This makes it even more special.

Random girl sitting next to me.

My roommate and her boyfriend sat on the other side of me.

Temple Flowers and Nativity

My friend and I went to the Temple last week and I had to stop and take pictures of the pretty flowers again. I can never get enough of them.

This is one of the nativity's that are on display during the Christmas seaon.

And me, just for kicks

Down Syndrome Christmas Party

I helped with this party again this year. It’s always a fun time being Santa’s little helper, dancing with the kids, and seeing the kids' faces light up. That's the best feeling in the world. It’s also awesome to watch my bishop DJ. That’s his side job. He is so great at it too.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

The Monday after Thanksgiving my house had their own Family Home Evening. We bought a real tree, decorated it and the house. Well, to be honest we were listening to Christmas music even before Thanksgiving. We just couldn't wait! We have enjoyed having the tree the last few weeks. Three of us left to go back home for Christmas so it was nice to enjoy while we were there.

Thankful

I have a new favorite song this Christmas. It's called Thankful by Josh Groban from his Noel album. I love love love it! I love the words he expresses. It helps me remember the true meaning of Christmas. But it doesn't have to apply to just Christmastime... It's everyday life as well. With the new year were all setting goals for this upcoming year and one of mine is to be more thankful for what I've been given and recognizing the little blessings that come my way. We've all heard when you forget yourself and serve others your own problems are diminished and you see things more clearly. I love helping people... Seeing smiles on their faces is priceless; the feeling is amazing. I am so thankful for everything I've been blessed with this year. This week I've been thinking back through this year and I'm in awe of the blessings that have been poured out upon me. Heavenly Father has definitely spoiled me. :) With that being said I need to be more conscious with those around me and find someone to help everyday. As Josh Groban says, "There's so much to be thankful for."

(After Christmas I'll leave the song, but set it to only play when you want it to. That way it's not annoying to those listening to other music on their computers)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!