We love our ward

  Isaac and I love our ward (church organization) here. The ward is full of a ton of genuine, friendly people, and the lessons are wonderful. So far, we both agree that we've never felt so welcomed. Each Sunday we've had at least 2 or 3 people come and say "hi" just because they are super excited we're there. There's a lot of leadership in the ward, so it's not like the really "need" us, but even all of the leadership goes out of their way to say hi to us. I feel like every ward should be like that.

  Anyway, so seeing as today is Sunday, Isaac and I went to church. We both enjoyed all of our lessons. Isaac is loving his Elder's Quorum. He says that they actually talk and participate in the discussion, which he's never experienced before. I guess today was about home teaching and things got pretty animated. Isaac, during a particularly tense part of the lesson raised his hand and said, "One of the blessings I received through home teaching is my wife!" I guess everyone gave a chuckle at that.

  My relief society lessons are always good as well. I feel like they are somewhat the "typical" relief society, so I have to let myself give into it a little. But I've found that as I let my guard down and stop judging so much, these Relief Society ladies have a lot to offer. Today, our lesson was about gratitude. It was accompanied by homemade refrigerator magnets complete with the phrase "Gather here with grateful hearts"

Yes, there was also a floral center piece, the doily table cloth underneath them all. I was somewhat disappointed because 2 weeks ago, we got treats as well. I guess because it's Fast Sunday, they didn't want to mess with those.
   So, though the Relief Society is really as stereotypical as is can get (I'm hoping for an ice sculpture centerpiece next week!), it's also pretty great. Today, I was just chilling by myself (I'm not the most naturally outgoing person. Why force it, you know?) and a lady who was already sitting somewhere else just came over, sat next to me, and starting talking to me. She was completely genuine, and it was nice.
   So that's our ward. We're really excited to be here. Also, we went to choir practice for 2 hours tonight for this annual presentation. It looks like it's kinda a major thing. We're singing the Halleluiah Chorus and stuff. It should be pretty boss, and Isaac and I are very excited to participate. 
   Anyway, so that's all for now. Just a wonderful Sabbath Day full of a bunch of wonderful people.