Seven on a Special Sunday

Today was an exciting day as we attended the dedication of our new temple in Langley.  Well, we didn't go to Langley, we watched the broadcast from our Stake Center in Burnaby, but close enough.  President Monson, President Uchtdorf, and Elder Christofferson were all in attendance and gave wonderful addresses.  Pres. Monson seemed to really be enjoying himself.  Apparently last night at the Youth Celebration he had a flashing Canada pin.  He told the audience that his wife, Francis, had asked him not to turn it on, but he couldn't resist.  Unfortunately, he couldn't make it work, so Pres.  Uchtdorf helped him out and all the youth cheered when he got it going.  He was right at home, just one of the youth.  This afternoon at the dedication he said how grateful he was to see so many youth and children in attendance and told us he likes to "high five" them when he goes by.  He is definitely looking older, but his youthful spirit shines right through.

Madi really enjoyed the fact that she was old enough to attend.  She waited the whole time for the white handkerchief part, and then it was only about 30 seconds, but it was exciting for her to know that the prophet and apostles were right in our own city and she got to hear them speak.  This is something these kids will always remember - being able to see the temple and feel that spirit.  Clayton told me this was the best Sunday of his life because there was no church.  But then he asked if they would rededicate the temple next year after he turns eight.  I guess there's still hope.  One funny thing when we went through the open house - we got to the baptistry and as soon as we walked in the room Spencer clapped his hands and cheered, "Oh, a pool!"  I hope he keeps that enthusiasm for that experience, even if it really isn't for swimming.

Our bishop gave the tickets for attending the dedication inside the actual temple to the youth of our ward.  I think that was a great idea.  This is something the youth in this area need to be excited about and always remember how wonderful it is to receive the blessings of the temple so close to their home.  I guess that's something I have always taken for granted.  I realize I have really missed being able to attend the temple over the last year while we were waiting for this building to be completed.  I can't wait to go.

So, the seven for this week.  And I know it has been a while.  Here goes:
1. The temple is now open.  Yeah! 
2. The distribution center is now open.  We can finally get some new garments.
3. Work keeps surprising me in very good ways.  I even got some compliments this week, so that always makes you feel good after 15 years in the biz.
4. Dan has decided he like making bread.  And he does a very good job of it.  Thank you Inalee for a white bread recipe that does not fall apart, cuts well, freezes well, makes great cinnamon buns and is an all round crowd pleaser.  We have been looking for so long and I guess I only needed to ask you.
5. Things have slowed down enough for Dan to read a book, and he decided to read The Lightning Thief.  It's always nice to have someone to talk to about a series I am enjoying and share that with each other.
6. I am grateful for kids who are willing to help out and who want to take the next step in responsibility.  This week Madi and Clay both made meals and helped get kids dressed while Dan and I were sick and it was such a nice change.
7. I no longer have strep throat.  Dan either.  What a tough haul when both of the adults in the home are feeling under the weather!  I guess we're just used to that cold weather that kills all these bugs, because at least one person in our home has been sick since February.  Oh well, what doesn't kill ya makes ya stronger - or so they say.