#5

So I don't have a current picture of what I'm thankful for today, so I found this one to help illustrate my point.  Today, I'm thankful for my musical talents...well, for my piano playing skills {cuz, I ain't got no skills in the singing department}.

My Mom started teaching me piano, I think, when I was eight-yrs-old.  In order to play the flute, I had to learn the piano.  I did regular lessons for a couple of years, and then we kind of stopped.  After that, I started learning & playing the hymns in the songbook.  I am very grateful for my piano-playing ability {although I'm not as talented as some of my cousins-who are awesome!}, it has given me a chance to serve others.

Playing the piano has been a main calling & a service that I'm glad to offer.  A little over two years ago our Bishop approached me & asked if I knew how to play the organ.  I said no, but would be willing to try because my Mom had told me that playing the organ was no different than playing the piano.  She was right...really no difference.  Many of you know that I played the organ for little over a year until Madi was born; never actually being called to that position.  I did it because: A.  I love playing.  B.  The ward needed my talent, because there was no one else.  A year later, and I'm back to playing the organ {and again, not official} because again I am the only one.

I also get to play the piano for Jordan's kindergarten class-well, all the classes since they all sing together.  When they asked for parents to volunteer, I immediately wanted to help.  It's so much fun playing for these 5-6 yr olds who are so enthusiastic to sing.  Plus the kids {at this age} think it's pretty cool for a parent to come in and help out, so , points for Jordan.

I love playing the piano.  There have been times where I have just sat down & played to release stress.  My parents knew how much the piano was apart of my life; they bought me mine for a wedding present {I don't think I would have one if it wasn't for them}.  I'm excited to pass along this talent to my kids in the coming years.