2011 Year in Review

Even though I have a blog with more frequent updates, it’s still nice to put a summary of the year together. Plus, it’s a tradition! I’m still working at the Census Bureau and am definitely grateful to have a job. I purchased purple couches and purple drapes this year. I’m afraid my living room might be a little too purple, but I still love it. I have had a few transitions with church. From the Potomac singles ward, I went back to my Belle Haven family ward briefly before it was dissolved. I am now in the Mount Vernon ward and enjoy my calling as a Gospel Principles co-teacher. Teaching just part of the time allows me to travel some, yet have the opportunity to bear my testimony regularly. I love it. I also help schedule the building, which has been quite educational, but I like the opportunity it allows to work with others and stay connected.

We had a Johanson family reunion in Las Vegas in May to commemorate my parents’ 40th anniversary. I’m so glad that everyone was able to make it. There were 26 of us. I got to meet my youngest niece and nephew, and the big announcement from the reunion was that Josh and Alyssa are expecting their first.

Several of my activities this year were musical – including singing in Michael McLean’s “The Garden” in the spring and playing with the bell choir for Christmas. I lived by myself for the first half of the year, before I realized that my house is a little too big to live alone and I decided to take on roommates again. I thought I might organize my life, but alas, I still haven’t unpacked all my books, even after being back from Arizona well over a year.

I did do a lot of exploring again this year. I saw lighthouses in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, Washington, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware. I even had a great trip to Moab, Utah (without the lighthouses!)

I have been dating a lot this year. I find that absolutely amazing. Amazing that there are good single men around. Amazing that they were actually be interested in me. It may not be easy when things don’t work out, but only takes one to be the right one. It’s always a miracle when you can find someone who truly cares about you. It’s even better when that someone is smart and humble and handsome and faithful. I must say I’ve been quite happy the end of this year.

The biggest news of the year is of course that James Butikofer asked me to marry him, and I said yes.  We plan to get married early summer 2012.

I know that we will each be blessed as we learn to trust in our Father in Heaven and learn to live by faith, not fear. May the beauty of earth and the gift of love touch your hearts this season.