So much to be grateful for this day. I bore my testimony today. I was not going to because time was running out and I was just going to ignore that prompting. But the sister bearing her testimony said that sometimes we ignore promptings or wait too long and it's too late. Kayla kindly looked at me and said go. As you may know, 2012 wasn't my favorite year. But as I look back, there were many great things that happened, even on a daily basis. I testified of Abaraham 3 when we were in the pre-existence that we would be tried and tested in all things. And then in second Nephi 2 it says men are that they might have joy. So...tried all the time...and have joy. I spoke of the few times in the scriptures when it teaches us how to have a fullness of joy. Only by living the fullness of the gospel can we have a fullness of joy. In John 16 Christ is teaching his Apostles about the Comforter that will come to them after he is killed. He tells them they will have great sorrow but that their joy can be full through Him and then he ends the chapter telling them that in a world of tribulation, we can have peace, commands them to be of good cheer...because he overcame the wold. 
I can't tell you why it's hard at times or how see your big picture. You have an appetite for big nice things. We all like these things but some more than others. But that is not my observation. You also both love the simple things. A snowy day to stay inside and snuggle your kids or each other. Cold weather, which is depressing to me. You love family time. Road trips across the country, a camping trip, going to each others games, floating a river, skiing together, movies, having people in your home to entertain, and on and on. In all of our lives there are chapters. I learned this early on in my marriage from Brett and Sherri. Some chapters are so clear and fun. Others seem like we are treading too long or rowing all night. I have personally told the Lord, enough rowing, please come to me and help, after all, you promised you would. Well guess what, I then learned I can't tell the Lord when I'm done rowing. He gave me more strength but I was not out of the boat yet.So many times we row longer than needed because of our own choices of disobedience or pride. as Kayla has said while we were rowing what seemed forever, if the Lord stops the storm too soon, we would not have the necessary strength to get out of future storms. 
I want to tell those posting frequently what great joy it gives me. I love reading each of your post. I hope we continue to do so and get David and Sherri on board.
As for references of weather. I am freezing here and it's hitting mid 50's but when I go to seminary it's like 32ish so....freezing is accurate. We are enjoying Cru's first basketball season. Cru is running the point and Kayla is head coach. Cru is best at defense, that's a Hall trait. We are good at D because of soccer but we are not known for being shooters. Kayze and McCoy continue being fans for all of Cru's games. We live n the gym on Saturdays. It reminds me of being at my older brothers soccer games and tournaments every fall and spring. Great times and great teams. I love you all and pray for your fullness of joy...even if you are in a frozen tundra of death. 
Oh yea...I laughed out loud when I read moms post "what if his car breaks down". That vintage mother right there. Love it