Happy Thanksgiving!

Sorry that it has been a while since I've posted a picture. Last night I went to twilight and Dev went to James Bond with some students. I have to say that I didn't expect anything and so I fell in love with the characters and I'm excited for the next one. I love the story line so much that I'm willing to look over the goofy jumping and running around. Then we went to Panera, of course. Why do I always crave the most expensive items in restaurants.....it was amazing though. It has been so nice to have my husband back this week. It was a little touch and go with my sanity there for a few weeks. I'm really not exciting with out that kid, sad to say. And today Dev cooked me THE BEST steak I have ever had. I'm serious. It was juicy and didn't need A-1 sauce. He kept saying something about calling him chef Devin.....We are getting together with about 20 other student for Thanksgiving. I'm doing pies and mashed potatoes. So mom expect a call and prepare a pep talk for wed night! I am already listening to Christmas music to get me psyched for the season. It worked. Always does. Today we attended our branch and came home (just like every other Sunday) wondering if there is still going to be a branch next week! But, I have to tell you that there are the nicest and most genuine members I have ever met and I am confident I will ever meet. We love them and our branch, it is just stressful and exciting!
Mike and Amber Warner are in our branch. They gave some amazing talks today. Mike talked about how there were three other gifts given to Christ for Christmas. The cross, a crown of thorns and nails. The atonement is a big part of Christmas and should be a gift that we not only remember through the Christmas season but throughout the year. If I look back from last year that gift is probably the biggest change I have experienced. And if you think about what has changed in my life in the last year that is a big statement. My understanding of the atonement......where to begin. You know those cool balls with the static electric current arms running all along the glass surface. And when you touch the glass surface then you connect with the static arm instantly? Well that is how the atonement works for me. There are so many different static arms that cater to my needs and situation. The combinations are probably endless. I'm crying because of physical pain, all I have to do is access the glass surface of the atonement and a reminder of Christ's pain meets my efforts. I'm frustrated with the course of my life, I put for the effort to contact God (glass ball) and the static arm of comfort meets me half way. I have sinned, my repentant finger meets the current of forgiveness immediately. I feel overwhelmed in a calling, the current lifts my burdens so I can continue. The atonement is infinite, meaning the benefits are endless. And I'm sure that I have just touched the surface (No pun intended!). Ever time I access the atonement I attribute it to Heavenly Father's love for me. So, how could I ever deny his gospel? I can't and I can't tell you how thankful I am for it in my life. It has given me everything. I have a lot to be grateful for this holiday .... no matter how much I want to be home for Thanksgiving! A warm house, an amazing husband, a loving God and the gift of an infinite atonement is more than I can ask for. Happy Thanksgiving!