Alright, it is no surprise that I haven't blogged in quite some time. I always think about it and then somehow I never get around to actually posting words here. Lately, I have been thinking about the numerous events and projects going on in my life and I can't help but feel overwhelmed and emotional on a regular basis. Today my Mom was talking to me on the phone and she pointed out that due to the large amount of stress I am under right now, I tend to be a little bit more dramatic (my word, not hers) and emotional. She had a point. A very valid point. Life is tugging at me from many different directions, and which one am I supposed to answer? That is a tough question and I don't think life gets any simpler. So, do I run? Heck no. I walk, no run, into the face of adversity, hmm... not quite adversity, more like adventure and a thirst for knowledge and growth.
I would like to think that I do this all on my own. That is is all my decision to go forward and my abilities that render results and accomplishments. Wrong. COMPLETELY wrong. What has been on my mind today? Tender mercies.
Oh boy, Heavenly Father sure does love each and every one of us and if we take the time to look, we can see it all around us. In just the past week I have seen such an amazing abundance of blessings from my Father in Heaven that inspire and comfort me. I am a list person. I love making lists, so I will now list the many tremendous tender mercies that I have received recently.

1. My family. In all seriousness, I have an incredible family. My parents came up to Rexburg this past week. They brought me medicine(yes I have been sick), came to see my cookie booth, took me, Stetson and Parker to dinner and made my day! In addition, Parker and Stetson randomly show up at my apartment to hang out and they always come with a smile on their faces. On Thursday they showed up with ice cream and a wild cherry pepsi for me... really?! Yes! They are great. Now, about Riley, he is AMAZING. He is such an example to me and always makes me so important to him and he will listen to any ridiculous story I tell him... Top notch family. Logan and Shalee... do they make the list of amazing family? Well of course they do! What an accomplished couple! They do so many things and are always a great example to me! I love them.

2. The Station. If you hear me talk about IBC, chances are I will tell you about the one person who drives me insane, or the crazy amount to homework, or how difficult it is to make the schedule or a million other things I think are causing the world to end. But in all reality, The Station has been a opportunity for me to grow in ways I never thought I could. It has helped me create new friendships and learn so much more about myself. IBC - I do NOT hate you.

3. Random people in the library. Today, in the library, in the bathroom of all places, this sweet freshman girl started chatting with me about the weather and walking to class. To be honest, I was having a pity party for Tiana for who knows what reasons and this sweet girl took the time to start a conversation with me and it HONESTLY turned my day around. Bless her heart for listening to the promptings of the Spirit.

4. The Holy Ghost. What more can I say? It is incredible, amazing and awesome, in the true sense of the word, that through the Spirit we can be directed from our Heavenly Father. I love it!

5. Sister Allen. You may be wondering who this is, I will tell you. She is a relief society adviser in my student ward. She hardly knows me, but the other day before stake conference started, she offered some very kinds words of advice to me that touched my heart and made me feel as though I could keep going because I really could reach the end. Thank you Sister Allen.

6. Cell phones = link to Mar and Par. Mar and Par? Oh yeah, that is what I call my mom and dad, just for fun. Being to be so close with my whole family when I don't live with any of them is definitely a tender mercy.

7. Ev. I work with Evelyn at the library on campus and without fail EVERY day she will listen to me tell a dramatic story, a joke, whine about IBC, whine about boys or tell her my many opinions about everything. She ALWAYS listens and she gives fantastic advice. She is a tremendous blessing in my life! I look up to her in so many ways.

8. Prayer. This is my life line. Literally. I would NOT be able to do anything that I do without prayer. Knowing that my Heavenly Father is listening to me and he loves me and he will guide me through the Spirit is the most incredible gift.

So, my list seems pretty short right now, but I am SO grateful for all the tender mercies around me everyday!

"Through personal study, observation, pondering, and prayer, I believe I have come to better understand that the Lord’s tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ. Truly, the Lord suits “his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men” (D&C 46:15)." - David A. Bednar