Honor, privelege, pride, and trials....all in one!

Last year, a dear friend of ours ran for a vacant seat on the School Board for our daughter's charter school.  He encouraged me to run for another seat that came vacant at the same time.  Although I was intrigued by the idea, the timing wasn't right.  Since then, another friend has been seated on the board and another vacancy opened up.  The idea wouldn't leave me alone, so a few weeks ago, I put in my application.

Last week, I was interviewed along with three other candidates.  They were so well qualified, I almost withdrew my application. It was a little nerve racking, and intimidating.  Last night, at the monthly Board Meeting, another highly qualified candidate was interviewed.  Not being all that familiar with procedure, I assumed voting on the open Board position wouldn't take place until next month's meeting.  Imagine my surprise when voting took place last night.  Imagine my even GREATER surprise when I was selected to fill the vacant seat on the Board.

Now, I have never done anything like this before.  I have been an active volunteer in my kids' schools, even my niece's school,  over the years; but have never run for or been elected to any position.  I was amazed that I was chosen - I mean...I'm just me!  Nothing special, just muddling through, doing the best I can.  All that being said, I really want to help.  I really want to make a difference, and I really want to be part of making the school a better place for the kids, teachers and families who are involved there.  I am honored at the privilege that has been offered to me.  I am also a little (ok, a lot!) overwhelmed by all that I have to learn  Thankfully, I can be taught!!! haha

Last night, after the Board Meeting, we were blessed to be able to attend the ordination of Amanda's fiancee.  Chris was ordained to be an "Elder" in the Melchizedek Priesthood of the LDS Church.  Chris has worked long and hard to get to this point in his life.  We are extremely proud of him and appreciate the blessing of adding this good, good man to our family.  

Life wouldn't be life if all these good things weren't balanced with some trials.  We JUST had my car in the shop to have the drive-train fixed (that cost over $800.00  YIKES!!!)  Yesterday, Kevin's car went in for some routine maintenance that it needed in order to pass inspection for licensing.  This morning we learned that it needs much more than anticipated.  Again, YIKES!!!  Thankfully, we've been trying to put money aside for just such emergencies.  Thank Heavenly Father for inspiring us to do that.  The cost of these repairs is more than we want to spend, but MUCH - MUCH less than the cost of replacing Kevin's car.  It's 15 years old, but still in good condition AND we don't have a car payment!

In the end, we've had our ups and downs.  In spite of the challenges, life is good.  In fact, when I think about it; maybe the good things in our life seem so good BECAUSE of the challenges.  Hummmmm...something to think about.  I am just grateful for being able to find joy in the journey.  It certainly IS one heck of a ride!