Happiness

In the last month I have been told on several occasions that I radiate happiness...

What do I have to say about that?
Thank you!
I am flattered to know they think that.
But what is happiness?
To me, it's the fullness of the restored gospel. Nothing makes me happier.
In a world where sometimes I feel lost, unsure, and inadequate it's nice to know that I can rely on the gospel to buoy me up.
I am happy because I know that no matter what happens, I can "be still and know that [He] is God" (Doctrine and Covenants 101:16).
He loves me, and is guiding me, I have no doubt about it. I don't need to see miles down the road, I am happy focusing on one stepping stone at a time.
There is so many more things to be happy about than there are to despair over.
Life is good. Really good.
Best,
Sydnie Juniper

Ten in Ten

At the beginning of last year, 2010, my mom set a resolution for herself and invited the rest of the family to join her. Her goal; Ten temples in 2010. Cool goal? Yes. How could I say I didn't want to participate? There is nowhere on earth I'd rather be than in a temple, so naturally I was in. Over the course of the year, we slowly made our way around the state to do baptisms for the dead in ten of Utah's thirteen temples. Although sometimes riding in the car got long and boring, it was well worth it to participate in the Lord's work at the following temples.

(In no particular order):

Oquirrh Mountain

Provo

Vernal

St. George

Logan

Salt Lake

Manti

We also visited the Draper, Mount Timpanogos, and Jordan River Temples, but I couldn't find the pictures for those.

I have such a strong testimony of temples and the work that is done inside of them. I know that in the temple I am as close to heaven as I can get on earth. Although I only have the opportunity to do baptisms for the dead right now, I know that I am making a difference to a lot of people. Not only those who I am standing proxy for, but also people like my brother, who are serving as missionaries on the other side of the veil. I am sure that at some point in my temple service I will have had the opportunity to be baptized for someone my brother has taught. Isn't that cool to think about? There are opportunities for missionary work everywhere, and I am blessed enough to be a part of them.
I love the temple, I love the gospel, and I love my Savior Jesus Christ, and my Heavenly Father. I am not perfect, but the church is and I am proud to be a member of it!

Best,
Sydnie Juniper