Day 30 {Family}

Yesterday was the first annual Findlay Family Christmas Party. We've expanded to churches. We're now too large to be accommodated in anyone's individual home. We had the best of times. My two favorite events were our mini-talent show and picture time.

For the mini-talent show we each had 2 minutes to showcase a talent. Most talents were musical, but there were a few others as well. I sang and also joined my parents, brother and his girlfriend at the end for a fabulous rendition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on Kazoos. It was so much fun! The kids loved it.

For the picture time my brother set up a backdrop in one half of the gym where anyone could get their picture taken. We did lots of little groups rather than trying to get everyone all at once. My favorites were an all girls photo with my sisters-in-law and nieces and a picture with me and 5 of my brothers. They held me horizontally which was probably one of the scariest things I've done. My intact bones were at their mercy. I survived and the picture turned out great. Perhaps I'll be able to convince my brother to send me some copies so that I may share them here.

The month is quickly ending. Today is the last and final day of 2011. 'Tis almost time to close out my month of healing and evaluate my progress. Until then, I wish you all a Happy New Year!

Day 29 {Sealings}

Thursday evening my brother and I had the opportunity to do proxy sealings at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. It was a wonderful spiritual feast. I was so happy to have the time to be in the temple. One of the sisters in our session shared a beautiful story with us. She said that 25 years ago she was 8 months pregnant and fell and broke her back. My dad and her husband gave her a blessing and her back was healed. My brother and I were overcome with emotion and gratitude. I have always been proud of my dad. This just further illustrates the kind of man he is to always be at the ready to assist those in need. I was so touched by her story. I could tell how much it affected her life. What a blessing to have been able to learn of that experience and to learn of it in the holiest of places, in the temple.

Day 28 {Make Something Crafty}

Today I decided to be creative and work on a project I'd had in mind for a long time. Working with my hands always cheers me up. I love working with tools and doing projects....but only if I know what I am doing will turn out the way I want it to. I put together a coat rack for my bedroom using scraps and old fixtures we had at my parent's house. I think it turned out quite lovely.

Day 27 {The Power of Children}

Yesterday I was having a very difficult day. I cannot exactly pinpoint why, but nothing seemed to cheer me up. I shed a few tears and felt a heavy weight on my shoulders.

After work I went to my parent's house. I was greeted by my brother's six children. Their youngest daughter came up to me and gave me a big hug. She's the cutest little snuggler. I curled her hair and her sister's hair. I love playing beauty shop. Their smiles and happy spirits cheered me up in a matter of seconds. It was incredible. Later another brother came for a visit with is five children. I am so amazed how children can have such a power for good. I am so grateful for my family. They bless my lives immensely. The children in my life are golden.

Day 26 {Family Time}

I love after Christmas sales. Yesterday my mom, aunt and I hit up the stores to see if we could find any good deals. We didn't buy much, but we had fun being together. I need to savor this time I have because after next week my schedule is going to be jam packed with activity. But then, I think its always important to live in the present and make the most of your current circumstances.
Today most of my family is enjoying a continued Christmas break while I go back to work. This is really okay, I just need to find the good in my situation. I'm sure its there.

Day 25 {The Spirit of Christmas}

Christmas Day is always a magical one. It brings out the very best in people. I love having Christmas on a Sunday. It just seems fitting. I enjoyed attending church in my parent's ward and seeing lots of familiar faces. The musical program was very good. We waited until after church to open our gifts. The gift opening part of the day was quite fun. My favorite was giving the gifts that I bought. I do believe they were all well received. Christmas evening we had a family dinner at my aunt's house. This has become a tradition for us. I look forward to it every year. We had a nice meal then played games and visited. It was all around a wonderful day.

Day 24 {Do the Dishes}

Christmas Eve. Its a special day. This particular one was filled with many family gatherings. This evening we had dinner and traditional events at my parent's house. My mom is always concerned about making a good impression by keeping the house neat and tidy. One thing that never ends is dishes, as I'm sure you are all aware. During the holidays the pile seems to grow even higher between washes. And so I tried to be nonchalant about it by simply washing quietly at the sink. I found it very relaxing. With a little assistance from my Dad we got everything rinsed, dried and put away. The house was ready to receive the guests. Its a small thing, but I know it was a huge help to my mother, and that is all that matters.

Day 23 {The Gift}

Yesterday after some last minute Christmas shopping, my Dad got a phone call from a man in his ward who had signed up to help clean the temple. He wasn't feeling well and would be unable to attend. I could tell my Dad was sad to have to go alone. I knew he was really tired and needed rest. At first I was hesitant...I knew what I ought to do. Finally I chimed in that Josh and I would go in his place to fulfill the assignment. He was touched by our gesture and I could tell he was so thankful and relieved that he could go to bed early and get the rest he so desperately needed.

Josh and I had a really good time cleaning the temple. We were in charge of cleaning doorways and vacuuming. In true Findlay fashion, we were very thorough and when everyone else was finished up we plowed through to vacuum every part of the carpet. We were tired in the end, but pleased with our efforts. I think Josh's favorite part was wearing the white scrubs they provided.

As a quick preview for today, I'm feeling an overwhelming sense of sadness today. I love my family so much, but sometimes its hard to be the single one. Today my youngest brother is bringing his girlfriend to meet the family. This means I truly am the one and only last single member of my family. This month has been good to reach outside myself for something more. So far its been successful. This weekend is the ultimate test.

Day 22 {Optimism}

Yesterday was my one night all to myself set aside for hard core Christmas shopping. I decided to venture over to the Gateway. This may not have been the greatest plan, but I pushed through with it anyway.

I need to insert a story. Last year I attended the tree lighting ceremony at the Gateway with a certain someone. It was rainy and cold, my coat was soaked. I tried to stay positive despite the miserable weather. Three days later we broke up.

When the huge Christmas tree at Gateway came into view I cringed a little. It is hard to be surrounded by so many reminders of someone you are trying to get over. I am cursed with a very observational personality. I can't just forget things like that. There are spots all over downtown filled with memories. I think one of the hardest is that I live right by Trolley Square. It was there that we kissed under fireworks.
Okay, back to the post. I shopped around Gateway surrounded by dozens of lovey dovey couples holding hands and wearing big smiles. However, as I shifted my focus away from those type of shoppers I noticed that there were several solo shoppers just like me. I'm not so out of the ordinary as I thought. Time to stop being so selfish and focus on the good. I was able to find some perfect gifts for people I love. I had the money to pay for those gifts and the transportation to get me home. I have a roof over my head and good food to eat. I have an amazing family who loves me. What more could I ask for?

Day 21 {Friends & Elf Duty}

I love Christmas time. I love the opportunity to gather with friends just to visit and catch up. Last night I had a visit from two of my favorite people. They are expecting a baby shortly. I am crossing my fingers that the baby will come on my birthday. I'll be okay if that isn't the case, but it'd sure be cool. Its so fun to see my friends marry each other and start their own families. These two have proven to be some of the most faithful and devoted friends I have ever had. We had a delightful visit. I shared Oreo balls with them and they shared homemade caramels, candied nuts and divinity with me. Isn't it wonderful how sugar can bring us together?

Another event of yesterday included a bit of Christmas shopping, primarily for my 18 nieces and nephews. Buying for the girls was easy, but the boys not so much. I asked a couple of little boys at the store in the toy aisle what they would want. They were most helpful. After my purchases were made I dashed home to greet my guests. After our visit I went to work wrapping the gifts. I considered buying gift bags, but I loved unwrapping gifts as a child. I love the joy of tearing open wrapping paper. Its all part of the magic and joy of Christmas. I cannot wait to deliver my gifts. I think that is one of the best ways to feel the spirit of Christmas.
Giving trumps all. 

Day 20 {Renew a Friendship}

When all the singles wards were re-arranged in May, I was put back into my old singles ward, which I attended over 5 years ago. Shortly thereafter I rediscovered a friend that I knew back in my days at LDSBC. She remembered me, but I had a really hard time remembering her. Nevertheless, we exchanged phone numbers and agreed we needed to be friends again. It wasn't long before she moved up to Logan and I didn't get to see her at church anymore. We texted each other occasionally to keep in touch. She's not on FB, so it takes a little more work....Oh the world we live in.

Anyway, she has since moved back to Salt Lake and last night we took the opportunity to attend a session at the Draper Temple together. It was a wonderful experience. We had a long talk about life and dating. Single people talk about dating a lot. Turns out she has been through the ringer very similar to me, but worse. I admire her for how well she is doing. It was so good to talk to her and to have a friend who knows exactly what I'm going through right now. I love the words of the Hymn "Each Life That Touches Ours For Good"

....What greater gift dost thou bestow, 

What greater goodness can we know Than Christ-like friends, 

whose gentle ways Strengthen our faith, enrich our days. 

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim 

Devotion to the Savior's name, 

Who bless our days with peach and love, 

We praise they goodness, Lord above.

Day 19 {Raw Honesty & Emotion}

Coming to terms with reality can be a difficult thing to face. Its easy to get caught up in dreams and fairy tales thinking that's how your life ought to be. Even though life is not a fairytale, it is not without hope and miracles.

I can be good at following directions. I wish I had the manual for the life of Catie. It would sure make things a lot easier. But that is not how life works. Sometimes I get overwhelmed by the agency I've been given. Its so much responsibility. Nobody has complete control over my life but me. I don't always trust myself to make the best decisions.

Yesterday I had a very powerful manifestation of the love of Christ and how he will never, and has never left me alone. Trusting in that has been hard for me. I don't know why I struggle to accept the love of God and those around me. I constantly beat myself up for my lack of perfection. That attitude is not of heavenly origin.

The time has come to throw off this attitude and have more faith. I know that Heavenly Father loves me, and that is all that matters. I can be strong and move forward. I believe that I have value. I am capable of great things with the help of the Savior.

I am so thankful for the people who surround and support me. I have been blessed with amazing friends. They are angels from heaven. My family is the most amazing support system. I'm so grateful for all they do to show their love for me.

This change of attitude and perspective will not come all at once. Just as any gospel principle, it is learned and mastered line upon line, precept upon precept. I hope that as I draw closer to Christ that I will be able to share the things I have learned with others so that they may also know they are loved.

Day 18 {Reflections}

Sometimes my thoughts can very easily be summed up in a song. The lyrics of this song describe almost perfectly a recent incident this month.


I'M OKAY
I couldn't catch my breath. And you haven't seen me yet
I turn to hide. I caught your eye
Your face had that telling look. Reading me like a book
All my mysteries. Blown in the breeze. And my face smiles
But inside I'm a mess and I can't find the words

I'm okay, I'm okay
Just as long as you stay far away from me baby
We're so yesterday
So don't say that you'll love me tomorrow, if you don't today

The sound of your voice too soon, opens my deepest wound
As you move towards me beneath October leaves
I know just what you'll say
And you're still ten feet away
We've been here before, We've walked through this door
And with every footstep. I feel your arms pull me in

I'm okay, I'm okay
Just as long as you stay far away from me baby
We're so yesterday
So don't say that you'll love me tomorrow, if you don't today

Ohhh
Just when I think that I'm alright
I dig deep inside for the strength to say right to your face

I'm okay, I'm okay
Just as long as you stay far away from me baby
We're so yesterday
So don't say that you'll love me tomorrow, if you don't today

So don't say, so don't say
Don't you dare play this game
You can turn right around and keep walking away
Don't tell me you'll love me tomorrow if you don't today.

If you don't today,
If you don't today.

Day 17 {Acts of Service}

One of my hobbies since I was a little girl was styling hair. I would practice on my dolls for hours. I wouldn't say I'm an expert, but I am pretty good with a curling iron. 

Yesterday two of my roommates had fancy places to go for the evening, and they both asked if I'd help them with their hair. I should have taken pictures, but I was a bit scatterbrained yesterday. Both up-dos turned out quite lovely. The important thing is that they both approved. My fear is that they'll be like I am when someone else does my hair. I'm usually pretty critical, as I like it done a certain way. Thankfully, they're both a lot more easy going than me. Success!

Another act of service yesterday was preparing Christmas goodies for people at work. I decided to make a giant batch of Oreo balls. The first batch was a bit hard because I goofed and accidentally got a couple drops of water in the chocolate. This totally ruins the consistency of the chocolate. We pressed forward anyway and got them done. I think they turned out quite well, all things considered.

Day 16 {Be Positive All Day}

Staying positive is a lot easier when you have positive events happening in your life. It doesn't guarantee that type of attitude, but it definitely contributes well. I knew that Day 16 would be a final test day for one of my classes. I thought it would be fitting to make a goal to stay positive that day, not only to just have a good day, but to calm my jitters about the test and feel confident in my ability.

I showed up to take the final and mingled with the crowd waiting outside the auditorium. There were at least 150 students. We filed in and got situated. I usually prefer to sit near the front. I ended up on the second row. We had two hours to take the test. I finished in 40 minutes. It was MUCH better than I anticipated, which of course contributed even more handsomely to my positive attitude. My favorite part of the test was being done and walking up the aisle past a packed crowd still feverishly working. Let Christmas Break begin.

Day 15 {Forgive Someone}

Somehow it has been able to happen. Not much detail on this one, just know that forgiveness has occured.

Day 14 {Be Spontaneous}

The thing about spontaneity is that its not supposed to be premeditated...so planning a day to be spontaneous doesn't really work. However, I did try to allow myself to do things a little out of the norm today. I had nothing planned after work today. I thought about going Christmas shopping...but I need to plan a little more. I decided that I would go for a run right after work, as I didn't get it in this morning. I usually try to push myself to improve upon the previous workout. Today went very well. I ran a 5K (3.2 miles) in 35:12. That equals an 11 minute mile. Awesomeness.

The rest of the evening I did laundry and deep cleaned the kitchen. I hate clutter and the kitchen was in dire need of de-cluttering. By the time I was done, I was exhausted, but the kitchen looks amazing. If only it would last... I guess its just a taste of what it'll be like to be a mom someday.

Another spontaneous activity today I hesitate to share, because it will reveal one of the quirky sides of my personality. I love music, and I love to dance. Today after I closed my office, when the blinds were shut and I was alone, I cranked up some favorite tunes on my iPod and danced around my office. There, I said it.

The End.

Day 13 {Listen}

Everybody needs someone to listen to them. Sometimes you just need a good sounding board. Today I tried to be a good listener. Most of the time, the one doing the talking doesn't need advice, they just need reassurance that they're doing okay. They need someone to simply show they care. I am so thankful for the good listeners I have in my life. They have provided much comfort. I am a one on one friend. I don't do well in large groups, but I love individual conversations with people. These are the moments I live for and treasure in my life.

So this month has been a month of emotional healing. Its been an interesting journey so far. At the end of the month I plan to summarize what I've learned and share some thoughts and experiences that I shall wait to disclose until the end of the month. So stay tuned.

Day 12 {Be Kind to Someone you Dislike}

I love people. I really do... but when you work in a job where it is your responsibility to serve them and cater to their every whim... it can be tough at times. So today I did my best to be kind to everyone, even those who talked on their cell phones while I helped them. I coached myself the whole way through. I can't say I did my best at it, but I did make an effort. That counts right? I think a lot of it has to do with the way we perceive others. If we really take the time to step back and see them not as the world sees them, but as our Father in Heaven sees them, it totally changes things. I learned that lesson on my mission. Its always good to remind myself that everyone has a story. Everyone wants to be happy. Everyone wants to be valued and respected. We may have our differences, but really, in a lot of ways, we are all the same, striving for acceptance, love and purpose. So, next time you or I see someone that rubs us the wrong way, remember, they are as priceless to Heavenly Father as YOU are.

Day 11 {Make a New Friend}

Today I solidified a new friendship. I met this individual when I went to my very first fhe in my new ward, but today we clicked. Don't you love that? I love meeting someone that becomes a fast friend.

I made an effort to meet a guy today too, since it IS a singles ward and that's what you do right? So, I sat by a guy in sacrament meeting and got to know him a little...very little, but some. I know his name, where he is from and how long he's lived in Salt Lake. We've got a good start.

Day 10 {Weddings & Babies}

One of the hardest things about being a young single adult is being surrounded by people who are experiencing the blessings you long for, but have not yet been realized. It is important to learn how to be happy for the happiness of others. This is not often an easy task, but it can be done. I am definitely guilty of allowing myself to have a pity party sometimes when I get another wedding announcement or baby shower invitation. However, I am getting better at counting my blessings and trusting in the Lord's timing.

Today I had the wonderful blessing of being able to visit two dear friends of mine who recently welcomed a beautiful little girl into their home. It was so good to see them and to share with them in their joy. I love holding new babies. They're so perfect. The miracle of life never ceases to touch me deeply. I am very happy for my two friends. I love seeing them as new parents and seeing the glow in their faces. It brings me happiness to see them on this new adventure of parenthood.

I know that Heavenly Father is aware of me and the desires of my heart. I just need to trust in his timing and know that as long as I am keeping the commandments and living my life to the best of my ability, I will receive the blessings I have been promised. Until then, I live my life. I get to share in the joy of others and be happy for them. I get to hold their precious little ones in my arms and get a taste of the joy that has been promised to me. What a wonderful thing.

Day 9 {The Power of a Name}

What is it about our name that has such profound significance? It is the word that identifies us, it is part of who we are. Do you not feel a stronger connection with someone when they know you by name and use it rather than not? Everyone likes to hear their own name.

Yesterday I made an extra effort to call people by their name as I helped them at work. Its a small thing, but I believe it makes a big difference. Would you feel valued if you were spoken to by name when you went to your financial institution? I know I would.  I love to see the glimmer in people's eyes when I use their name, especially when I may not know them very well. I have a slight advantage since I have their name plastered on the computer screen in front of me, but then, I wear my name tag, so its easy for them as well.

My work situation is unique in that I help just a small group of people. However, I love that I can really connect with them, rather than just serving them and sending them out the door. I have real relationships with the members I help and it brings me a lot of fulfillment. I've been able to cultivate and nourish those relationships by starting with the seed of their name.

I invite you to take a moment and consciously resolve to make an increased effort to use people's names. You'll be amazed by the positive results.

Day 8 {Staying Calm}

Today was an exercise in staying calm. I stayed calm to study and take my final, and the biggest and most difficult staying calm time was watching my brother take my laptop apart to install a bigger hard drive and faster ram. It was a bit un-nerving to see it in pieces, but it is done, my computer is faster and much more spacious! I am quite pleased that it went so seamlessly.

Day 7 {Talk to a Stranger}

Today was a bit of a crazy day, so I am going to borrow an experience from another day and then tell you a few good things that did indeed happen today.

I love talking to strangers when you capture the perfect moment of engaging in conversation. I wrote in an earlier post about buying a pizza. When I was at the store waiting for my pizza, there was another girl there also waiting. It started out a bit awkward...just as I went to sit down on the bench I threw out some comment like "can I share your bench" and she immediately had her name called, so she jumped up off the bench, there was a mistake on her pizza, so she sat back down to wait some more while they fixed it. Trying to recover I told her she had a really cute scarf. It was a houndstooth pattern. Loved it. We chit chatted for about a minute then both went our separate ways once our pizzas were ready. Putting yourself out there to talk to someone can be a little scary, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Plus you open yourself to a whole new world of people you might not otherwise get to know.

Blessings of today: free lunch at work (corn chowder with bread), time to study for my final tomorrow, sharing my singing talents with others, reminder of dear friends' love, safe travel, and finally a warm bed.

One other quick story... every day I ride the exact same train to work. There is a gentleman who gets off the train at the same stop I do. He rides a bike. We have never spoken, but we often smile at each other and nod a hello. This morning I noticed that he particularly made a point to get my attention and wave to me as he sailed away on his bike. See, I usually have my earbuds in, so I'm a little detached from my surroundings. It always makes me smile to be warmly acknowledged by another. I was most thankful for his simple wave this morning.

Day 6 {Write Notes to Roomies}

Who doesn't love getting a little note letting you know someone was thinking of you? I love writing little thank you notes. It gives me great internal delight and pleasure. I love making people smile. I love spreading small acts of service to others. I believe it does more for the giver than the receiver. It does wonders for my mood.

Day 5 {Apartment Photo Shoot}

What is it about nesting that is just so appealing? I have loved creating my own little sanctuary in my apartment and what's more, I have loved collaborating with my roomies to create our own little haven from the world.  One of my roommates is an interior designer. She is so creative and always coming up with fun new projects and ideas. I attribute much of the success of our interior to her. And now with out further adieu, the lovely apartment in SLC. 

Nothing better than the glow of a tree at Christmas.

Day 4 {Call a Friend Just to Talk}

I love Sundays. They are hands down my favorite day of the week. Today I decided to call a friend who I hadn't talked to for several months. It was fun to catch up on each other's lives and see how things were going. I find great pleasure in human relations. I spoke to another friend today as well. It was just a day full of contacts.

Another one of my outreaches of social interaction was with one of the gentleman who wounded my heart this year. I'm not sure if this was a good or bad thing to do, but I did it anyway. Honestly I think its been alright. We've just been text messaging a bit. Nothing too overwhelming.

One big step for me today was removing one more tie from my ultimate heart breaker. I deleted him off Facebook. Its strange how hard that was. However, now that its done I feel a bit more relief and determination to move forward.

Day 3 {Write a List of Gratitudes}

• the temple
• awesome parking spaces
• warm coat
• good health
• fitness apps
• people who smile and say hello
• flexibility of online classes
• clean sheets
• time with my mom
• awesome roommates
• fabric stores
• milkshakes with Oreos
• chips & salsa
• ice water
• feel good Christmas movies
• flannel pajamas
• warm bed

These are things I was thankful for today. I am so grateful to be so abundantly blessed. I need to always keep in mind how much the Lord truly blesses me every day. All I have to do is look for it.

Day 2 {Scripting}

When I was in elementary school I remember when our teacher used to have us write for a certain amount of time. It didn't matter what we wrote, we just had to continue until the time was up. Turns out this is a very therapeutic practice. Today I wrote until I filled one lined sheet of paper. I just started with whatever was in my head at the time and began writing. I will share a small excerpt from my ramblings.

I love Christmas time. I'm learning more and more that it is what you make of it. Only you decide how you will celebrate the season. Last year I had the hope of celebrating this joyous season with someone I loved. Right before the holiday season began, he broke my heart. Since then I have been bruised and broken....I want to be with a man who I can trust. I want to be loved in return as much as I love....I need someone to share my life with who will be equally yolked. I need a man I respect and look to for guidance, one who will love me forever, no matter what.


I must say that in all of this I do not wish to imply that I cannot survive without a man, because I can if need be. All I am saying is that if a man is going to be with me for eternity, I am not inclined in the least to settle.

Tonight I spent time alone shopping. Its very empowering. I bought myself a new printer and felt very proud of myself for comparing my options and making a clear decision. After all the shopping was done, I went to Papa Murphy's Pizza and bought a pizza, because its Utah and Friday always seems to be pizza night. I even conversed with a lady waiting for her pizza about that very thing.

After my shopping was done and I had yummy pizza inside me, I drove to Holladay to visit a dear friend. We sat in front of the fire in her family room and talked for hours. It was very soothing. I am so thankful for good friends who will listen and love unconditionally. They are priceless.

Day 1 {Read a Book of My Choosing}

A while ago a dear friend gave me a book for Christmas called "A Single Voice" by Kristen M. Oaks. I've read it once before and loved it, so I recently decided I should read it again.

Today I spent some time on the train picking up in the book where I had left off. It happened to be a chapter called A Single Date. In this chapter something stood out to me quite strong that I don't remember reading before. She references the talk given by her husband Dallin H. Oaks at a CES fireside several years ago about the evils of "hanging out" instead of dating. She talks about one young man who was in a steady relationship with a girl and things were not going well. They often spent time together, but not often in the form of an actual date. After listening to the talk, they changed their ways and began to go on dates again. It completely changed their relationship.

Here is my take on it... I fear that most of the danger in relationships comes when you spend too much idle time together. I love the idea of formalizing your courtship. I am inclined to believe that it is wise to date with a purpose and make sure each date has a distinct beginning and end. None of this lingering on in the evening stuff, for it never leads to good things. Some food for thought.

My other positives of the day...

Tonight I had planned to attend my stake temple night. When I got to the temple I found out it is actually scheduled for tomorrow. Not sure how I could have written the date down wrong, but there it is. Since I was already in the temple cafeteria, I bought some dinner and sat alone happily devouring pork, mashed potatoes, veggies and a delicious slice of apple cheesecake.

I contemplated my options... I could go to a session anyway, or I had received a text earlier today of a friend who wanted to go listen to the MoTab rehearsal at the conference center. Since I was already downtown and preferred to spend time with a friend and not alone, I arranged to attend the rehearsal. We had a marvelous time. She and I got to know each other a bit better and discovered that we have many of the same interests and live quite near each other. The Lord knew I needed a friend and he provided me one. Not only that, but speaking of blessings, as we pulled up to the conference center there was a space to park on the street right in front. Pure awesomeness. I'd say today was quite a success.