All the thoughts

I've got so many things racing through my head right now. Thoughts I want to write down but I am far too slow these days to grab a pen. Anyone else try to be the fastest note taker when they were growing up? I have neat writing when I want to and felt like I'd accomplished big things when I could be the first one done writing down what the teacher said. That's super irrelevant to anything in my head but a memory that came as I began typing.

I am known to call my Mom every day. I like keeping up with what's going on in her life but also just the company when I am driving somewhere. We chat like she's right next to me, filling each other in on everything under the sun. I made a comment about how busy life has become since moving and she reminded me to simply slow down. Without it sounding negative, I feel like I haven't stopped since we got here and my mind is moving faster than light speed. Always something I want to accomplish or need to do. Whenever I think I'm ahead, I realize I am three steps behind.

The girls had ballet pictures this weekend and my mind was in a far off state of thought as I drove them to the studio. I went from thought to thought when I suddenly felt punched with a realization about motherhood. Growing up it felt like my Mom had all the time in the world to devote to me. Whenever I needed a ride, she was there. Whenever I needed a meal, she was there. When I needed help, she was there. Whatever I needed, my Mom was there. She has always made me feel like I am more important to her than anything else and that she had nothing else she needed to do. Little did I realize, she had lots she probably wanted to do and chose to spend her time with me to help me grow into the person I am today. I experienced my own taste of such sacrifice today as I put aside my to-do list to take my girls to their picture day. Sure, we could have skipped it and been fine but I want to give them all the experiences I possibly can. I want to be the great Mom that I have been raised by, even if it means my kids think I have absolutely nothing to do ;)

I had another realization yesterday, this one regarding perspective. I went to switch our registration back to Alberta license plates when I was informed I needed an out of province vehicle inspection first. I was less than impressed by the unenthusiastic employee who told me this and left the registry office feeling grumpy. From there I took the car to get the inspection done, only to find out not only did I have to pay $200 for the inspection but my car needed the windshield replaced and the rear brakes replaced before they could give it a pass. My bill quadrupled and all I could say was here, take all my money. I went home feeling a little on edge when the thought came to my mind that money aside, I am so grateful I needed this inspection done. I've been putting off the windshield for ages and it definitely needs to be replaced. Brakes are obviously important and without being forced to have that inspection I'm not sure how soon the car would have made it in to be checked. My grumpy mindset was quickly overcome by a feeling of gratitude for how directly blessed I was with such an experience, especially where we are planning a little road trip in the next few weeks. It is amazing how a shift in perspective changes everything.

Last thing for today is this quote that came to mind from Jeffrey R. Holland. He said "some blessings come soon, some come late and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come." I am feeling and seeing the blessings all around me lately. It is no coincidence as I strive to create a stronger spirit in my every day life and the way I interact with others that I am reaping the rewards. If you are feeling discouraged, look for the blessings big and small. They are there and they will bring joy. Tell the people you love that you love them and keep moving forward. Life is too beautiful to sit idle and miss out on what it has to offer. Happy Saturday!