What Matters Most

"What matters most in my life right now?" I have asked myself that question a lot since Tuesday morning. We, (as in those in my office at work) had quite an interesting start to the work week. We learned that a coworker, who some of us were closer to than others, had unexpectedly...passed away. I was not one of the people who knew him very well but had a few laughs and conversations with him. I have come to realize that no matter how well you know someone, the decisions and events in their life can affect you personally. His passing has made me think about what I have in my life that maybe he didn't. Well, maybe he did but didn't know it. What do I have in my life that I look past every day? Probably a lot. I wake up, go to work, come home, go to bed, wake up and do it all over again. Is it too late for a new years resolution??? Cuz mine is to recognize, everyday, something or someone that makes my life GREAT! I thought of 5 things, just off the top of my head, that make my life great! Not necessarily in this order either except the first one of course!!
1. My husband. He is the greatest. The other morning I was running late, he was sound asleep in bed and I went to put my deoderant on and the top of it got stuck in my lid! I tried to get it out so I didnt have to wake him up but I couldn't get it. So I quietly walked over to the bed and gently said "Jer....my deorderant is broken. Will you fix it??" Instead of rolling his eyes and complaining (like I probably would have done) he opened his eyes, looked at me, then the deoderant and just laughed. And of course one try and he got it. So I went back to the bathroom and a few minutes later was attacked by some huge mosquito bug!! It came out of nowhere! So I once again went to Jer, not so gently this time, and asked him to kill it for me. Without complaining, but with some laughter, he got up and killed it while I hid in the bathroom. There are lots of other reasons he is great but it's the little things that he does for me like these that really matter to me!! I love you honey!!!
2. My Furry Friend! There is nothing better than a fuzzy little furball greeting you everyday! Any bad day can be erased by a slobbery kiss or a nice cozy cuddle with Koda!!
3. My Family. It is so great to be able to be with a group of people who love you no matter what! (even when you are camping and playing QUELF at 1:00 in the morning and doing a hula dance humming a hawaiian song!!) My best memories are with mine and Jer's family. I love being able to turn to our parents for ANYTHING! They are always so willing to give what ever we need. Whether it's advice or a good laugh. It's always a good feeling when we can be of help to our family too. Especially our Brothers and Sister (and sister in laws).
4. Living close to my brother & sister in law. I know his is kinda a break off from the last one but I love having my brother and his family so close. I can literally run to their house. And I can't run very far! We have had some GOOD times! Their home is our second home. We especially love being close to our HILARIOUS nephew, Dawson. That kid cannot fail at making you smile! And cute little baby Emmy. She doesn't know us very well yet, but she will get used to us. Hopefully she will be cool like me and her mom. Then we can all pick on the boys!!
5. Church/Temple. This is a given. I would not have joy in my life without the gospel! I don't know how people live without it! I am not a strong person and I coudn't rely on myself to get through this life! There is no way. Jer and I have been good to go at least once a month to the temple but I missed last month because something came up at work and I couldn't get off. I have definitely felt the difference from not going just that one time. It's influence is AMAZING! I am so glad I can share it with my husband and family.

There really are so many other things that make me glad to be alive, in the place that I am and with the people I am with. I feel so sorry for those who can't see everything they have. These experiences are saddening but it is a reminder to never take anything you have for granted and enjoy everyday you have!