Narcissistic Recap of 2014

I sacrificed a lot of fun during college to get into dental school. I recall declining invitations for weekend outings because there was always an organic chemistry, a physiology, or a microbiology exam. The first year of dental school was more time consuming with studying... now it's more relaxed and I can just make up for lost time and have some FUN.

I finally made it down to the Orpheum Theater for a wonderful performance with the Phoenix Symphony.

Sedona for a hike and some prickly pear ice cream. 

I had my first date with Tina to the Grand Canyon. This marked the beginning of our friendship. She can make me laugh like no other. The Grand Canyon took my breath away. I have rarely been in the presence of something so gorgeous. 

Every Sunday was spent in the best company of Jen and Mike for "Once Upon a Time." dinner, and an intense game of Qwirkle. 

Dentistry brought joy as well: 

Those are some snazzy lookin' dentures right there. 

Singing some meat with a laser.

Phoenix

Gilbert

TWO temples were dedicated in the area: Gilbert and Phoenix. The Phoenix temple is 10 minutes away  from home!

I went on a phenomenal ladies trip to Charleston, SC and the beach house in North Carolina. So much good food, beautiful lakes and trees, and laughter.

Then we packed our bags again for a spontaneous 3-day weekend trip to Los Angeles and San Diego.

Ladies and I enjoyed a lovely stroll along Malibu beach, dropped by an art museum, and had a fabulous Moroccan meal in downtown L.A.. 

I got the news that my best friend from college was moving to Arizona.

Past-times: I completed two more oil paintings to add to my home, a third is almost complete. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Inferno, The Jungle, Sense and Sensibility, and The Work and the Glory. 

At the end of the year, I can proudly say I turned one of my weaknesses into a strength. I was FINALLY able to read my scripture every day. On December 31, 2013 I got fed up with my inability to consistently read. It was time grow up and put some action where my words have been. Once I made the cognitive commitment to read everyday it became second nature and I have fallen in love with the scriptures. The goal for 2015 is to not only continue with daily readings, but increase quality. This means no more bedtime readings for me... if I don't study dental material when I'm tired, why am I studying God's word when I'm exhausted? Scripture reading has now been moved to the afternoon.

Now, let's be honest here on social media. I became really tight with Netflix this year. And I enjoyed every minute of it. 

YOU ALL: I have received so many handwritten notes, phone calls, flowers, hugs, and emails from my dear friends when I have needed love and wisdom. I have cherished every thoughtful outreach from friends near and fear. Thank you!

Last thoughts of 2014:

- Things that bother us often have no weight in the following weeks. 

- A smile is powerful. Give everyone who crosses your path this gift.

- Everyone around you has at some point felt inadequate. Take the time to write a note of appreciation, to even the person whom you deem as the happiest person in the world. And don't read this and think, "Aww. That's nice." Go do it!

- God's love for you can be found in every moment of every day.

Happy New Year!