On Sunday my primary secretary, Kira, was released. I hadn’t talked to her before she was called as my secretary, but now she has become one of my friends and I’m really going to miss working with her. Luckily she still lives close, and I’m excited to get to know my new secretary, Amanda! It’s funny- now the entire presidency has “A” names: Alyson, Amy, Andrea, and Amanda!
Mark and I were able to see Frozen 2 in theater on Monday. I was excited to see it, but it was even better than I anticipated! I loved it and have been listening to the music all week! It’s also been fun to talk to my students and parents in China who have also seen it.
On Tuesday I had my Brazilian baking lesson with our Relief Society President, Silvana. She’s an amazing woman who is so loving and sweet! I really enjoyed visiting with her and learning to make the yummy Brazilian bread she brings to ward events all the time! Mark was also excited I learned how to make it so he can enjoy eating them!
It was a snowy week! We got about a foot of snow. Mark was very happy he had new, warm boots from his hunting trip. I was happy whenever I could avoid going outside in the cold.
Luckily my sister, Tiffany, and her family were able to come down between snowstorms. We had so much fun visiting them, and her kids are so gentle playing with Flynn. He loved all the attention!
We had a relaxing, fun, Thanksgiving! It was nice to be with family. I’m grateful to be done with grad school, and grateful for Mark’s support as I went through school. Mark is grateful he is learning how to do hard things (aka grad school), but he hopes some day they will get easier.
After Thanksgiving lunch Mark and I stood in line at JC Penny’s to get $10 off coupons. It was so fun to be together and to get some great deals! I also did some online shopping, and later Friday morning I went to Kohl’s with my sister and niece where we found some cute clothes. We avoid the stressful crowds and just have fun being together and getting great deals on Black Friday. I love it, and I’m so excited to give the perfect gifts I’ve found for friends and family.
We also put up Christmas decorations this week! It’s my first year without a real tree, but that’s ok. This artificial one is beautiful too and we don’t have to worry about Flynn eating it.
We also began wrapping presents and handing out Christmas cards! I love this time of year–the daily reminder of our Savior, the excitement that comes from giving to others, the anticipation from looking at your presents under the tree, the music, the food, the decorations, and celebrations with family and friends.
Our Story: The Bell Family 