Learning

I'm learning a lot of things here in Portland. I know that this is where I need to be right now and that this is what I need to be doing, but I search every day for the actual reasons why I am here. I think a huge part of it is that I've learned so much about myself since I moved here.

1. I've learned to trust my abilities and to have the courage to develop my talents.
2. I've learned to appreciate the sun and it's warmth, while still loving the rain.
3. I've learned that I am a suburban gal and feel a little claustrophobic and hectic downtown, but I still appreciate the character and excitement that downtown holds.
4. I've learned to appreciate what I had in Las Vegas. It's actually a pretty clean city.
5. I've learned to appreciate good hygiene and taking pride in my appearance (though not being high-mai)
6. I've learned to appreciate the high number of LDS church members and single adults in Las Vegas and the strength of the church there.
7. I'm so thankful for a roof over my head.
8. I'm so thankful for food in my cupboards (even if it is minimal).
9. I'm so thankful to have a place to shower and clean clothes to wear.
10. I'm so thankful for a close, loving family.
11. I'm thankful that I was raised with good morals and high standards.
12. I've learned to really appreciate big Sunday dinners and time spent with family. I really miss that a lot on Sundays.
13. I'm thankful for a warm, comfortable bed.
14. I'm thankful for modern day luxuries - dishwashers, washers & dryers.
15. I still love the rain and I love how it changes the ambiance of the city.
16. I love that there are so many beautiful gardens and trees here.
17. I love that people here are relatively courteous drivers.
18. I've learned to relax more and take life in stride, rather than trying to plan it all.
19. I hope I'm learning to trust in my Heavenly Father more, and what he has in store for me.
20. I love that the church is the same all over the world and that I can feel comfortable, and welcome, and part of the ward family in less than a day.
21. I've learned to try and accept people from all walks of life.
22. I've learned to appreciate the stability and reassurance of a steady job and a regular paycheck.
23. I really appreciate and miss the comfort of good friends.
24. I've learned that doing everything alone isn't that much fun, and isn't really part of the plan.
21. I know that I am learning and being tested here, and I hope that I'm catching it all, and I hope that I'm strong enough to pass it all.