Favorite Memories from 2015

Only a few more days left in 2015 and I'm into reflection mode here, thinking back over the events of the last year and feeling so, so grateful.  This post was originally entitled, My Top Ten Memories of 2015, but I couldn't hold it to ten, so here goes.

This list is the one that comes to mind quickly, and although I haven't really put them in any particular order, I would be lying if I didn't say that this is the number one, wonderful thing that happened to me this year.  What can possibly be better than becoming a grandma?!?  Gosh, I love this precious little girl.

 The Birth of Margeaux Kathleen

Starting and Finishing My First Knitted Baby Blanket

(for that cutie pie above)

 Learning to Make Soap

 Learning How to Use a New Camera Lens

A Visit to the Biltmore House During the Festival of Flowers

 Rails on My Deck and Outdoor Lighting

 Bike Ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail 

 Running My First 5K

 Starting a Supper Club

Taking a Trip to Italy and Greece

Working in My Garden and Being Blessed with a Bountiful Harvest

 Walking on the Beach

 Date Nights

 Hiking with Friends

 Making Memories with Family

 Being Called to Serve in the Primary

Time Spent with Long Distance Friends

It's been a beautiful year.  As I look back over these photos, I realize that the memories are special because of the relationships that were strengthened by spending time with one another.  A gathering, a trip, a hike, a party- all these things require work on someones part, but isn't it worth it?  I try to find joy in the everyday, simple activities that make up my life, but I've also learned there is great value in stepping away from those things on occasion and focusing fully on giving of your time to others.  I'm sure I won't remember the housework that didn't get done, or how many weeds were in the garden.  But I will remember the picnic with little girls, working side by side with loved ones in the kitchen, watching my adult kids hang childhood ornaments on the tree, having lunch on the Grand Canal in Venice, holding my grandchild and so many more things that are represented in these pictures.  I've loved 2015, the good and the bad, and please don't think that I haven't had my share of trials, because I have. But Heavenly Father has been so good to me through it all and I am richly blessed. Now it's time to look forward to the new year and the opportunities that await.  I'm excited and will do my best to count it all joy.