Hardest time of my life?

Everyone said that the time between getting my call and leaving on my mission would be one of the hardest times of my life.  I was warned that that time would be filled with

temptations 

and trials

and more men than I could handle.

But I have not found that to be the case at all.  Men have not been rushing to my door, or falling at my feet, I have received no marriage proposals in the last three months, and I don't expect any will come in the next 10 days...  In fact, since I moved home a month and half ago, I don't even think I have seen any eligible men my age, let alone talked to one.  

And I must admit, I'm a little disappointed. 

I mean really, what was all the hype about?  On a more serious note though, these past few months have been wonderful.  I got to see my entire family this summer and spend more time with each of them than I have got to in a long time.  What a blessing it was to be with them all.  I am so grateful for eternal families!!  I have taken the challenge of my bishopric to write down in a journal each day how I have seen the Lord's hand in my life that day as President Eyring talked about in his talk "O Remember, Remember" given in General Conference a few years ago, and I have seen it make a difference already.  As I take the time to ponder over the happenings of my day I have recognized the Lord's hand in my life.  I realize, now more than ever, how aware He is of me and how much He loves me and wants me to be happy.  I have always believed that I have a Father in Heaven who loves me, but that point has been driven home as I have accepted this challenge to look for His hand each day and to not only recognize it, but acknowledge it. 

So where are all those trials and temptations I was warned about?  I'm not really sure... but I happily embrace their absence and the love and growth and learning that have filled their place instead.  Though I wouldn't have minded a little romantic intrigue.  Just to mix things up a bit ;)