TEMPLE.

Friday, July 15th was my first encounter with the temple. Just a few days before Gage and I were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple, I received my endowments at Mount Timpanogos.

It was so exciting and almost overwhelming to know I finally reached the day I had spent my whole life working and waiting for. Growing up, it wasn't always easy to keep the temple in focus, but today proved that every sacrifice and moment of struggle was SO worth it. I'm so glad I was raised by steadfast parents, surrounded by good examples and friends, and that I found a strong, worthy preisthood holder. The people who have blessed my life made this day possible.

Although I was giving up short-shorts and tank-tops a little sooner than I would've liked, I was SO ready to go inside the House of the Lord. I had no fear, nerves, or hesitations... The butterflies in my tummy only allowed room for excitement and anticipation. I couldn't wait to take this baby step towards being sealed to Gage and, more than anything, I couldn't wait to come to know the amazing man I call my Heavenly Father.

It was an amazing experience, to say the least.

Everyone tried to prepare me for my first trip to the temple and I was offered lots of advice beforehand. Everyone's personal experiences played a part in making me feel excited and comfortable, but nothing anybody said could have possibly portrayed just how spectacular (and sometimes baffling) the temple really is.

It was such a blessing to have my family and close friends with me as I made this incredible step in my life. In the moments I became overwhelmed or confused, all I had to do was look around and see the wonderful people who were there to support me. They have supported me for the past twenty years but all of that somehow paled in comparison to having them support me that day.

I didn't leave the temple feeling any bigger, smarter, or more entitled. I was still the same person... But I felt peaceful, grateful, humble, and happy. It brings about a very subtle, simple, and intimate feeling of happiness. It's an inward change and a personal bliss. I didn't feel invincible, I know I'll still face temptation. I didn't feel privileged, I know I'll still have trials. I didn't gain all the religious knowledge in the world, I know I'll still have to work for it. What I did feel was the spirit stronger than it's ever been, my Heavenly Father closer than he's ever come, and peace for the life I've lived and the life I have ahead of me. Not to mention, immense gratitude for being able to share it all with an incredible family, lifelong friends, and a man who loves me almost as much as he loves the Lord.

I am blessed.

I love my family.
I love my friends.
I love my gospel.
I love my Lord.
I love my future husband.


...and I'm learning to love my garments.
:)