The Count of Monte Cristo

I am really intrigued with the story of "The Count of Monte Cristo." There is such mystery, injustice, poetic justice, anguish, guilt, and redemption. I've read the book years ago, and I've watched the movie and seen the musical more recently. Wonderful, gripping story, and I am grateful that it exists in the world.

Track Meet...and a Job!

Today, I am grateful that I was able to support a friend in a track meet.

Today, I am also grateful to finally land a great full-time after graduation!

These two blessings occurred at just about the same time today.

Make it a great day, everyone!

Personal Nosebleed Doctor

I got a nosebleed today, and then I took care of it until it stopped. I may not know very much about medicine, but I do know enough to take care of myself every day. I am grateful to know how to cure a simple nosebleed. I am grateful to be able to take care of myself everyday.

Genealogy 101

I am not a licensed genealogist, nor do I have a job in genealogy (although I would really enjoy such a job), but I know enough to help those who know less than I do. Today, I had the opportunity to help a friend who knew very little about family history research and yet wanted to get started on it. The sort of beginner knowledge she needed was the sort that I could share. I am grateful for the time I took to help someone learn the basics of genealogy.

The Stories I Know, and the Stories I Have Yet to Know

I participated in a family history activity today, in which people shared stories and facts they found after about half an hour of searching online. I am grateful to know several inspiring stories about my ancestors. These stories range from early Mormon converts in Europe to westward-bound American pioneers to Civil War veterans, and many more. I look forward to the many other stories I will discover as I continue to search my family history in the years to come.

Capture the Flag

I got to play Capture the Flag with friends for an hour and a half today. I had forgotten how tough that game is, especially since I'm so out of shape! Somehow, my team had smaller numbers than the other team, but we coordinated our efforts to distract and outrun them in their field. Alas, to no avail. No team really won, but I had a lot of fun. For me, it wasn't about winning, but the journey towards that hopeful victory.

I am grateful for a great hour and a half of Capture the Flag.

Skype Song

I can never adequately thank my mother for all she has done for me, nor can any gift I give truly add up to the value and significance of her influence in my life.

However, when I joined all of my siblings in singing one of my mom's favorite songs to her, she said it was the best gift she could have received. What was truly remarkable was the fact that this occurred over a four-way Skype call. We sang as best we could, and according to my mother, it was enough.

I am grateful for my mother, as always, and I am grateful that my siblings and I could sing to her over Skype.