Its already been a year ?

I dont know about you all but 2008 flew by. I can't beleive we've lived in Louisiana a year already. I feel like I have learned so many things this year. Whats important to me , how to deal with a Hurricane and how to not lose my mind after the 200th "Mommy" !
As you all know I never thought in a million years I would EVER live in Louisiana! This last year has been a humbling experiance for me. I was called as Young Womans President about 6 months ago and though it is challenging sometimes I am so greatful for the girls in YW. They are such great examples to me. I was nervous at first to be in such a small ward. I was used to "Blending in" in Utah and kind of hiding under the radar. But out here I have had an opportunity to "grow" much,much more. I feel so much more needed and appreciated. Since I do have such an important calling I have had to rely on The Lord much more for guidance and for that I am greatful. I know he loves me and guides me in all I do.

What I have learned living in Louisiana :

It is possible to live without power for a few days or weeks during a hurricane but IMPOSSIBLE to live without air conditioning.
It really is important to have food storage (which we still do not have).
It can be pouring rain and 85 degrees outside.
It can be 40 degrees on Monday and 80 degrees on Tuesday.
Your grass really can grow 2-4 inches in 1 week!
It rains at least 1 or 2 days a week.
There are at LEAST 200 different types of bugs in Louisiana.
Alligators, turtles, and frogs really do cross the road.
Because of the humidity MOLD grows everywhere!
Everyone worships LSU Tigers football and the world stops for the games.
The most commonly worn colors are Purple and Gold
99 out of 100 houses have LSU flags hanging out front.
Every man , woman and child HUNTS and HUNTS everything from Deer to Squirrels
Grocery carts are called Buggys !
Its an all day event to go to the mall or any where good to shop.
Southern people can talk and TALK ALOT !
Southern people HUG everyone !
Every activity involves eating crawfish, jambalya, or anything fried.
Most people are happy with what they have, its not a competetion to see who can have the biggest house or the nicest car.
Southern people are simple !
Im greatful for the opportunity to live somewhere different and experiance different ways of life. I love that it doesnt matter if I have the latest instyle clothes or if I dont wear makeup for 2 days. Its a simple way of life. It gives you so much more time to focus on the important things in life.
I hope you all take the time to reflect on 2008 and make the necessary changes to make 2009 an even better year for you and your families.