tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77577054331875748332024-03-12T21:45:33.053-06:00Becoming LDSPokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.comBlogger397125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-14914871634392899952022-10-06T10:05:00.005-06:002022-10-06T10:05:52.912-06:00A Community to Share and Discuss the Gospel of Jesus Christ<p dir="auto" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">It has been years since I posted here but I thought I'd pop by and invite you to join me:</span></p><p dir="auto" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p dir="auto" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I have just taken over a month off of Facebook and Instagram. It was eye opening and oh so good for my soul! I intentionally spent a lot more time in the scriptures and reading conference talks and other inspiring texts. I feel different because if it! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">In this process I have desired to have a place where I and others can share thoughts or questions from our personal studies. A place where we can have dialogue and feel unified in our effort to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ. A place where we can ask Gospel questions among like minded and striving Saints. And a place free of other distractions and time sucking pulls. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">After asking around a bit I’ve decided to try the BAND app. I know another app and another place to check won’t be a great fit for everyone but if any of you would like to join I’d love to have you! If you’d like to join the link is below! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Hey, join our 'Striving to Overcome the World' group on BAND - The app for groups and communities!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://band.us/n/a5af7eV3E7s20&source=gmail&ust=1665158211851000&usg=AOvVaw3IAUIgPU30uOs8bTlWSQlJ" href="https://band.us/n/a5af7eV3E7s20" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://band.us/n/<wbr></wbr>a5af7eV3E7s20</a></span></p><p></p>Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-69586363386988225972017-10-05T14:32:00.002-06:002017-10-05T14:32:54.766-06:00Turning Point Stories: Do you have one to share?Think of a time or a season in your life when you felt somehow stuck. Stuck mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. But then something simple that you or someone else did, or said, or learned, or discovered was the catalyst to creating a positive turning point in your life.<br />
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We all have had these experiences. Some are turning points that effect us for a lifetime and some are more simple moments on any given day. Many of these turning points are not fully within our control and come because of someone else. But then there are many, many times when we can be the catalyst to creating our own turning points.<br />
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Most of us at some point in life have felt immovable and paralyzed in sorrow, inadequacy, sadness, negativity, grief, depression, poor choices, comparison, bad habits, anxiety, or in many other patterns of struggle.<br />
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Sometimes overcoming these feelings and experiences require professional help beyond our personal scope of relationships. Sometimes simple words said by a friend or family member, or a simple daily change, or a book we read, among many other simple life moments are the catalysts for a turning point that gets us back on track to a more happy and directed path.<br />
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Some turning points come from profound life moments but I would venture to say that most turning points in life begin with one small experience, thought, decision, or change followed by a series of small and simple things.<br />
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If you have a turning point experience that you would be willing to share on <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/">my new blog</a> please email me your story at <span style="color: #ff6600;">cheerblessbrighten@gmail.com</span> and I will follow up with you about your submission.<br />
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As we read how other people have and continue to transform their lives one simple step at a time I think we can be inspired to carry on and make our own simple improvements just a little at a time. As we continue on each day doing small and simple, good things we will find that we are led to bless others on their quest to turn things around in their lives and we will find that we have greater power to make changes in our own lives. I strongly believe that sharing these stories can bless many.<br />
<br />Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-81085987263247189252017-09-25T22:24:00.004-06:002017-09-25T22:24:52.223-06:00ForgivenessCome check out the fourth post in the Know You Love You Series about forgiveness <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/2017/09/25/know-you-love-you-4-forgiveness/">HERE</a>.<br /><br />If you are interested in following along for more posts to come scroll to the bottom of the screen and click the follow button.Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-15374034922225127852017-09-22T08:17:00.001-06:002017-09-22T08:17:26.650-06:00Want to Change Your Negative Thoughts into Positive Ones?Just posted about a little tool that can help train your brain to think more positively! Check it out <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/2017/09/21/clicking-our-way-to-positive-thinking/">HERE</a>.Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-30840176396591557562017-09-04T22:31:00.001-06:002017-09-04T22:31:11.889-06:00Know You Love YouJust getting started in a series of posts called Know You Love You over at <a href="http://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/">cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com</a>. You can read the first post of the series <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/2017/09/05/know-you-love-you-series/">HERE</a>!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-59890406424989113602017-09-01T21:14:00.001-06:002017-09-01T21:14:31.343-06:00Come Follow Along on my New Blog<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know how many of you are actually still following this blog since it has been so long since I have posted anything here but I wanted to share that I have recently decided to start a new blogging adventure over at <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/">cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com. </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is my first post to kind of give you and idea of the avenue I will be taking. I would love to have you join in and spread the word to anyone you know who could use a little boost in life.</span><br />
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I have noticed that so many right now are feeling stuck in life. Stuck mentally. Stuck physically. Stuck spiritually. Stuck emotionally. Many feel stuck in hard circumstances and many feel stuck within. Each day passes and just like the last we wake up and too often we are just where we were yesterday. Stagnant. Blank. Going through the motions. Nothing changes.</div>
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Sometimes these life halts are staggering and long-lasting and sometimes they are brief and yet in the moment feel just as paralyzing. We all deal with our own struggles that are the framework for our personal stuck-ness. For some it is sin. For some it is not being true to ourselves. For some it is mental illness. And others it is priorities gone amiss. The list could go on. No matter the reason for this numb and lonely place there is no better day than today to start where we are and make small and simple changes that will cheer, bless, and brighten our lives.</div>
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“Ordinary people who faithfully, diligently, and consistently do simple things that are right before God will bring forth extraordinary results.”<br style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0px;" />—Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles</div>
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I know that we can all do just that…consistently do simple and good things and bring forth extraordinary results. My hope is to share some simple ideas, thoughts, and tips to move us away from stagnant and stuck and closer to full of life, love, and joy.</div>
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If you want to consistently follow along and see all of the posts as I write them then click the follow button at the bottom of the page on my blog at <a href="https://cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent;">cheerblessbrighten.wordpress.com</a> or follow along in your RSS feed. I hope something simple will ignite a little fire in each us and help us to press forward and rise a little above where we are today.</div>
Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-18127182629157391752014-12-09T08:39:00.000-07:002014-12-09T10:11:01.547-07:00#SharetheGift: A ChallengeOn Sunday I taught the lesson in our Relief Society. I had been strongly feeling for months that I needed to teach on a certain topic. My month to teach was nearing and then I found out I would no longer be able to attend that Sunday due to a baby blessing. It was strange but I actually felt a little torn. It was my sisters first baby and I definitely needed and wanted to be there but because I felt the urgency in my message I had feelings of uncertainty about not sharing the message I was supposed to in a timely manner. However, I knew that I needed to be there with my family and I was. Over the next month my lesson morphed into something I wasn't aware it would become and I believe it was the exact message that I was meant to share with the Relief Society and Young Women of our ward (women that are 12 years and older). With the help of several who were willing to share their testimonies and experiences the Spirit was very strong and the direction the lesson took was guided heavily by the direction of the Holy Ghost. <br />
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On Sunday I felt nervous to teach, as usual, but I also felt a feeling of calm that doesn't always accompany my lessons. During fast and testimony meeting I kept feeling pushed to stand and share just a glimpse of my lesson with the entire ward. I pushed it aside for a time rationalizing that I was already doing something "scary" or that made me nervous in Relief Society and that that was enough. It most certainly was not because I felt pushed again and again and I stood. And now here I am again as I have felt prompted to share the message I was guided to share Sunday here on my stagnant blog. I hope that someone will come along and read and join in and #sharethegift this season. <br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>First watch this beautiful video:</b></span></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/uzjFEMmM0Xs" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Birth of our Savior</span></b><br />
Years
ago a babe was born in a manger; A baby that came to bring His Father's
children back to Him.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif";"><br />“For
God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, <br />
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”
(John 3:16).</span></div>
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He lived as a perfect example and died to save
us all. Jesus Christ made it possible for all of us to have salvation. "He is the Christ. He is Christmas. He is the Gift."
He came to Earth to do his Father's work, "to bring to pass the
immortality and eternal life of man (Moses 1:39)". In turn, as members of the church we have been given a 3 fold mission to help in the work of saving souls.We are to Perfect the Saints, Redeem the Dead, and Proclaim the Gospel. Each of these directs us to share the gift of our Savior Jesus Christ. What greater gift to give our brothers and sisters then to guide them back to their Father by sharing with them the Gift of Christ. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Now go and <u>#SharetheGift </u>by following the directions below:</span></b></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Choose a Goal to Help in the work of Saving Souls</b></span>
<br />
Choose a prepared goal below or create your own to fit one of the three sections. Select your goal prayerfully and with the guidance of the Holy Ghost. Your goal may not be what you expect. Listen to the Spirit and God will direct you to know how and to whom you might share the Gift of Christ.
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Perfect the Saints (You, Your Family, and Your Ward Family)
</b></u><br />
<i>Potential Goal - If you are not a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints make a goal to learn more about our Faith. (<a href="http://www.mormon.org/chat">Chat with Missionaries Online</a>, <a href="http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon">Request a free Book of Mormon and read it</a>, or <a href="http://www.mormon.org/eng">Read more at Mormon.org</a>.)</i> <br />
<br />
Elder Bednar said, "When we invite you to attend church with us or to learn with the
full-time missionaries, we are not trying to sell you a product. As
members of the Church, we do not receive prizes or bonus points in a
heavenly contest. We are not seeking simply to increase the numerical
size of the Church. And most importantly, we are not attempting to
coerce you to believe as we do. We are inviting you to hear the restored
truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ so you can study, ponder, pray,
and come to know for yourself if the things we are sharing with you are
true." <br />
<br />
<i>Potential Goal - Make a personal goal to hold a current temple recommend. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>President Monson encouraged, “If you have not yet been to the temple or if you have been but currently do not qualify for a recommend, there is no more important goal for you to work toward than being worthy to go to the temple. Your sacrifice may be bringing your life into compliance with what is required to receive a recommend, perhaps by forsaking long-held habits which disqualify you. It may be having the faith and the discipline to pay your tithing. Whatever it is, qualify to enter the temple of God. Secure a temple recommend and regard it as a precious possession, for such it is.”<br />
<br />
<u><b>Redeem the Dead (Your Ancestors and Others Who have Passed on)</b></u><br />
<i>Potential Goals: - Work on your family history, find a name, and take it to the temple.<br />
- Attend the temple more often to redeem the dead.
</i><br />
<br />
Elder Scott said, “Any work you do in the temple is time well spent, but receiving ordinances vicariously for one of your own ancestors will make the time in the temple more sacred, and even greater blessings will be received. The First Presidency has declared, “Our preeminent obligation is to seek out and identify our own ancestors.”
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Proclaim the Gospel (Everyone)
</b></u><br />
<i>Potential Goals: - Share the gospel (Bear testimony, give a Book of Mormon, share a Mormon message, etc.)
- Extend an invitation to a neighbor, co-worker, acquaintance, friend, or family member.
(Invite to Church, missionary discussions, an activity, Family Home Evening, etc)
</i><br />
<br />
President Eyring warned, “Well, the danger may be hard to see, but it is real, both for them and for us. For instance, at some moment in the world to come, everyone you met in this life will know what you know now. They will know that the only way to live forever in association with our families and in the presence of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, is to choose to enter into the gate by baptism at the hands of those with authority from God. They will know that the only way families can be together forever is to accept and keep sacred covenants offered in the temples of God on this earth. They will know that you knew. And they will remember whether you offered them what someone had offered you. It’s easy to say, “The time isn’t right.” But there is danger in procrastination."<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Unified Deadline
</b></span><br />
If possible, set March 1st as your deadline to reach your goal. That gives you 12 weeks in your efforts. Also try to make the goal you choose be something that is attainable, something that can be completed. (Ex. make your goal to go x number of times to the temple per month not just to go to the temple more often or to find a name to take to the temple not simply to just do family history.) As we are all working and praying to fulfill our goals I know the Lord will bless us in our unified efforts.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Share and Learn Together </b></span><br />
To create a little accountability to learn and grow from each other the sisters in our ward will be reporting back with their experiences and testimonies in a follow up lesson on March 1st. If you'd like to join in and take this challenge with us you can come back to this post on or before March 1st and share your experience in the comments. If you would like to be held further accountable to carry out your goal or simply to share your experience you may email your typed experience/testimony to becominglds@gmail.com and put “March Lesson” as your subject. If you send it to my email your giving me permission to share your experience in my Relief Society lesson on March 1st.<br />
<br />
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<![endif]-->Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-64331354624494169702014-11-04T07:26:00.000-07:002014-11-04T07:29:11.370-07:00Everyone Plays a Piece<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GytW_rgr0RM" width="560"></iframe>
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<br />
"There are times when you might feel aimless
<br />
You can't see the places where you belong
<br />
But you will find that there is a purpose
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It's been there within you all along and when you're near it
<br />
You can almost hear it." <br />
<br />
He is Glorious! You are His child! You are a child of God!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-84552303157984023522014-06-01T21:54:00.002-06:002014-06-01T21:58:19.687-06:00Dustin's Testimony and Conversion...<div style="border-top-left-radius: 3px; border-top-right-radius: 3px; border-top-style: none; padding: 16px;">
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">I was sent this amazing conversion story and had to share it with all of you. His testimony has made mine grow. I hope you will read through his experience and reflect on your own testimony and conversion. It made me think of where I am at now and where I'd like to be. I know that each of us can grow and be strengthened by the testimonies of others and I am grateful that he has taken the time to share with all of us. </span></h2>
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Unto all who reads,</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
I
am a convert to the Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints. I grew
up in a loving family that taught me good morals and supported me from
day one. I love them! We were not very religious however, so I really
had no solid spiritual foundation. Friends in elementary and high school
spoke to me about Jesus and the Bible, but I did not understand Their
importance at that time in my life. When I was about 15 years old my
kidneys began to fail, and I eventually ended up on dialysis by the age
of 18. I was a very miserable teenager during those high school years.
It was a difficult challenge having a chronic disease, and I was
depressed because of it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Fumbling
through life, I partook of anything and everything the world had to
offer. You could say I was quite comfortable in the presidential suite
of the "Great and Spacious Building" (what the world has to offer). At
the age of 19 I received kidney transplant, selflessly donated by my
grandmother. It was like night and day with my health. I had been sick
for so long that I had forgotten what it was like to be healthy! I had a
new lease on life (or so I thought.) Not only did I have a new kidney, I
was now also of legal age and could go to the bars and clubs -
involving myself foolishly in them. I began to hang around people whom
you could consider modern-day Gadianton Robbers (bikers and gang
members). I began to have a chip on my shoulder, thinking the world owed
me respect. The false sense of security I had around these "gentlemen"
had also puffed up my pride even more.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Then,
one morning, my mother woke me up and told me to turn on the
television. It was September 11, 2001. My heart sank into my stomach. I
was scared, confused and ashamed. Ashamed at how I had been living my
life up to that point. Ashamed by my selfish recklessness and utter
disregard for the sacrifices my family and friends had made for me over
the previous years. Something stirred inside of me. I had a deep
yearning to know the TRUTH. What was I doing with my life? Why had I
gone through so much? What was the meaning of it all? I had been given a
second chance at a healthy life, yet I was literally wasting it away
with frivolous living. I was also troubled because those who allegedly
crashed the planes said they did so in the name of their God and their
religion. This did not sit right with me. From the little I knew about
God, I was under the impression that He loved us - or He at least liked
us enough to not have us kill each other! From that point on I began a
“spiritual binge“. I quit cold turkey all of the substances, places and
people that had been a negative influence in my life. I had no desire
for ANY of it. I went to the library on many occasions and studied the
different religions and beliefs of the world. Islam, Buddhism, Taoism,
Sikhism, Hinduism. I LOVED it!! I was soaking it up. I was a sponge.
Eventually, I began to learn about Christianity. I cracked open an old
bible and began to read.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
"In
the beginning..." As hard as I tried, I couldn't really understand it.
And to make things even MORE confusing, there were many, many different
denominations and sects within Christianity itself. Catholic, Baptist,
Methodist, Seventh-day Adventist, Presbyterian, Evangelical,
Episcopalian... You get the idea. I was overwhelmed! And who WAS this
Jesus? My answers soon came.</div>
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<br /></div>
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About
mid-October I was at a "friend's" house, sitting on a couch. Whilst
sitting, I had an unmistakable feeling that I had to leave, NOW!!! -
that it was not safe to stay. I abruptly left and got into my car. I
began to drive home, wondering if the impression I just had was real.
Then, all of a sudden, a thick warm blanket of pure love and light
enveloped me from head to toe. To describe this experience with mere
mortal words cannot do it justice. The feeling was like having all of
the best times of my life wrapped into one joyous, happy moment. The
feeling was like having every birthday party, Christmastime and
colourful dream coming true - all at once - multiplied by infinity. My
heart burned within me. It was so familiar. Someone or Something not of
this world knew exactly who I was, and loved me with a love that is
indescribable. I began to ball like a baby and wept with sheer joy. I
then began to weep with sadness, realizing that the life I had been
living was not what I was put on this earth to do. I felt encouraged to
continue seeking, searching and I would find the answers I was so
desperately yearning for. I experienced peace in my heart, comforting me
and urging me to continue to the Light - to continue to fight for good.
That moment changed me forever. I know that what I felt and experienced
was real and true. I also know that God knew it, and I could not deny
it - neither dared I! From that day on I continued my spiritual journey.
I learned more about the different denominations and doctrines, but
they were more confusing than comforting. I even went to a bible study
group. They spoke about God and Jesus, which was good, but something was
missing. Where was that feeling that I had previously experienced -
that burning within my heart that had filled me full of hope, faith,
love and light? I was starting to get frustrated.</div>
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<br /></div>
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November
13, 2001 was my father's birthday. That evening, my family decided to
go out for dinner to celebrate. I wasn’t feeling too well so I stayed
home, alone. I turned on the television to one of my favourite shows. A
woman on the show explained to a man that she was a Mormon. What was a
Mormon? Was it another religion I could study? I was getting excited.
And while I was pondering this new topic, the doorbell rang. Oh, who
could that be?! I was watching my show, just beginning to process this
new information about Mormons.</div>
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I answered the door...</div>
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<br /></div>
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Two
missionaries from The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints stood
before me, The Book of Mormon in their hands. These two young men
introduced themselves, both curiously named "Elder". They explained to
me their message about the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ,
Joseph Smith’s First Vision and the purpose of the Book of Mormon. What
touched my heart the most was their invitation to read passages from the
Book of Mormon, and then ask God MYSELF to know if it was true. We
talked in the doorway for about 20 minutes. They gave me a copy of the
book and said they would contact me in a few days. I felt like I was
walking on air.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I
immediately went upstairs and began to read. I did not understand
everything right away, but I knew in my heart that I had to pray to God
to know if this was what I had been searching for. Besides, it just
couldn't have been a coincidence that the Mormon missionaries showed up
at my door at the EXACT same time there was a Mormon on television,
right? I got down on my knees, not knowing how to pray, but prayed
silently nevertheless. I offered up the sincerest desires of my heart
and asked God to show me what was true. I asked Him if it was right to
meet with the missionaries. I prayed to know if the Book of Mormon was
true. I got up, poured myself a bowl of cereal and opened a magazine to
an article in the back. I began to read. The article was about BYU's
football team. It explained how players on the team sometimes left
football for two years to serve throughout the world as missionaries for
The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints. This was NOT a
coincidence any more. This was divine intervention. This was an answer
to the prayer I had said only minutes before.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I
met with the Elders the next day. They taught me many truths - plain
and precious truths that had been lost due to the Great Apostasy – that
were restored once again to the earth through the Prophet, Joseph Smith.
They boldly testified of living Prophets and Apostles upon the earth
today, teaching me how I could find out for myself if what they were
telling me was really true. How? By sincerely studying, pondering and
then praying to my Father in Heaven. I learned about the Holy Ghost. Who
is the Holy Ghost and what does He feel like? He is a Personage of
Spirit – the third member of the Godhead. He testifies and bears record
of God the Father and Jesus Christ. He reveals all truth. He can cause a
warm burning within our chest and heart - like purifying fire. He can
cause sudden strokes of ideas and quicken our understanding about
scripture and doctrine. He can fill us full of hope, faith, love, peace
and light - all of the things I had felt that day driving home!! The
Holy Ghost is also a still, small Voice. If we are too preoccupied or
distracted, we can drown out that Voice. After a couple of meetings, the
Elders then asked me to pray aloud for the first time. I had never done
that before! Nervously, I bowed my head and crossed my arms. I began to
pray to my Heavenly Father. And you know what? My chest burned within
me! I felt pure warmth and peace. I had received a witness from the Holy
Ghost! I had found what I was looking for! Over the next two weeks I
participated in the concluding lessons, and prepared myself to enter the
waters of baptism. I was baptized November 29, 2001 and received the
gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands a week later. The
Spirit of the Lord has been my constant companion – my guiding light (so
long as I remain worthy of His companionship). Entering into this
sacred covenant with God has been the greatest and best decision I have
ever made.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I testify
that God lives, and that the Heavens are open. He is the Father of our
spirits and Jesus Christ is His Only Begotten Son - the Redeemer and
Saviour of the world - our Advocate with the Father. Through His
Infinite Atonement, He has made it possible for us to return to the
Father’s presence by obedience to the Gospel principles of faith in
Jesus Christ, repentance and the ordinances of baptism and confirmation
(receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands) by
proper Priesthood Authority. God the Father and His Beloved Son have ALL
power. Their timing is perfect. Jesus Christ is the Light and the Life
of the world. My greatest of joys is knowing exactly who I am, where I
came from and where I am going – that there is a plan for each and every
one of us. I testify that Joseph Smith truly was a Prophet called of
God, and that angels ministered to him (and to us) continuously. Joseph
was an instrument in the hands of the Almighty in restoring the Fullness
of the Everlasting Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Church of JESUS CHRIST
of Latter-day Saints is the only true living church upon the face of the
whole earth - God Himself bearing witness of it. This knowledge has
opened and softened my heart. I love and care for EVERY human being upon
the face of the earth. We are ALL God’s children – each and every one
of us! It’s magnificent! The Bible AND the Book of Mormon are true. They
are the Words of God – both witnessing and testifying of the glory of
Christ. I invite all to exercise faith by reading these scriptures,
(especially The Book of Mormon) and you will come to know that they are
true for yourself. Come; humbly learn what The Church of JESUS CHRIST of
Latter-day Saints has to offer. God is faithful, and will not leave us
alone in the dark - if we but reach out and seek Him. This humble
testimony I leave before the entire world, in the most sacred name of
Jesus Christ. Amen.</div>
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<br /></div>
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My warmest regards,</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
Dustin Lee Burnham</div>
</div>
</div>
Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-91920864262763769022013-05-12T15:05:00.000-06:002013-05-13T10:34:22.402-06:00Wishing a Happy (Not Guilty) Mother's Day to You!You feel like you are the only one who is snapping at your kids and the only one with goldfish crackers smashed into your carpet. You feel like you are the only one with kids who don’t listen or who seem to be bickering non-stop and the only one who forgot about a meeting that you should’ve been at or something for your kid’s school project. Sometimes you feel like a lousy Mom and everyone else has it all together. You’re the one with a kid screaming as your dragging them out of the store. You’re the one who always has more laundry in the basket, whether clean or dirty, than you do in the dresser drawers. You’re the one with a to-do list the size of Texas and only a few things crossed off. Sometimes you feel alone and cumbered with the so many roles you carry and sometimes downright stressed, overwhelmed, and frankly not like the Mom you thought you’d be. You may feel that way at times. I know I do. I have felt like the only one and yet time and time again I am reminded that I am not. Maybe all of the descriptions above don’t fit you to a tee but you could take away a few and add a few others and still another slew of women would join you in the battle.<br />
<br />
I recently had a conversation with a good friend and neighbor about how we often forget that others are real and we are determined that they have it all together. She said that she would think that our home was pristine. Well, she was wrong. :) As we type, behind me sits a room waiting for me or someone to come a long and bring it back into order and a similar scenario rings true for almost every room in the house. On another occasion I discovered that someone thought that I listened to Church music and only church music every day of the week. When they found out I rocked out to the radio while doing dishes they were surprised. I too was surprised at how I am perceived. Church music every day would be great but that is not the real me. We like dance parties at our house. If we think we know the kind of Mom that lies behind the doors of each and every home, we are mistaken. We are all real and we are all trying but none of us is the perfect wife, or mother, or woman.<br />
<br />
Today, I had the opportunity to sit in Relief Society and listen to a lovely lesson. I am in primary and it was nice to have a spirit-filled adult driven lesson (I do love primary but it was nice today:). I ended up making a comment about how today, Mother’s Day, can be a day full of guilt and we can be too hard on ourselves. I talked about how we are not the only one and we need to recognize that everyone else is real, we are all human, and no one has everything all together and perfectly in order. We are all trying and we all fall short sometimes. I shared portions of the conversation that my friend and I had had. As I expounded on this idea I felt how much it resonated with so many other sisters in the room. There were tears and there was no question that many had felt the way I described. We need to be real with ourselves. We need to realize that we are doing just fine. And that so-and-so down the street is just as real as you and sometimes they feel lousy and frustrated and completely behind and rundown just like you do.<br />
<br />
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland ( “Because She Is a Mother”) gave this encouragement, “Do the best you can through these years, but whatever else you do, cherish that role that is so uniquely yours and for which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones. Yours is the work of salvation, and therefore you will be magnified, compensated, made more than you are and better than you have ever been as you try to make honest effort, however feeble you may sometimes feel that to be.”<br />
<br />
All we need to do is make an honest effort. Sometimes I think that things are too hard to get done with 3 demanding little ones but I don’t give it my best effort and some things fall short. In saying that we are all real and we all struggle I am not saying we should justify our behavior as mothers or let things slide that really matter because so-and-so struggles with that too. We do need to try our best. We shouldn’t join in the comparing that sometimes goes on among women but we can recognize that no one is perfect and not beat ourselves up over our imperfectness.<br />
<br />
President Gordon B. Hinckley continually counseled, “Do your best.” And then he added: “But I want to emphasize that it be the very best. We are too prone to be satisfied with mediocre performance. We are capable of doing so much better” (“Standing Strong and Immovable,” World Leadership Training Meeting, 10 January 2004 [Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2004], 21).<br />
<br />
So on this Mother’s Day, recognize the good that you do. Recognize the good that others do. Recognize that you’re not perfect and that is okay, just try your very best and you will be “made more than you are and better than you have ever been”.<br />
<br />
This is just as much counsel to me as it is to anyone else. My hope this week as I am down on my knees picking up the goldfish smashed into the carpet, and trying to hold my tongue when I feel close to snapping, and dragging my 3 year old out of the store screaming, and trying to make our dressers fuller than our baskets, that I can remember that I may not be perfect but if I am trying my very best that angels will be watching over me and my little ones. I hope they feel invited because I need them and so does so-and-so down the street.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-75657211304544102242013-05-07T13:47:00.000-06:002013-05-07T13:47:52.309-06:00To every woman...<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/10/are-we-not-all-mothers?lang=eng">...for every woman is a Mother. </a><br />
<br />
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Thank you to all of the wonderful women in my life!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-42387076687033607162013-04-24T13:43:00.000-06:002013-04-24T13:43:49.329-06:00We're All In This Together!Although we all go through different experiences and trials and we all live in different circumstances we are all living on the same world with chaos going on all around us just trying to do our best. We really are all in this together, or at least we should be. <br />
<br />
It can be easy to get caught up in our own little worlds, with our own troubles, and our own agendas. It is easy to only see the long list of to-dos that we have or the sometimes blinding trials, whether big or small. At least it is for me. But in one way or another I am always reminded of how much we all really need each other. <br />
<br />
I recently randomly fell upon a post of someone who had just had a house full of kiddos with a stomach bug that just wouldn't go away. She too was hit with the yuck and thus her home had become a bit of a mess. When finally the sickness seemed to be leaving them and she was ready to tackle her neglected house she had a feeling that there was someone who needed her that day. She felt like she was supposed to make someone dinner that very night and she was directed to who it was to be. Her house was left for another day and someone who needed it was blessed that night with a nice dinner. (You can read the <a href="http://chadandrach.blogspot.com/2013/02/dont-you-know-ive-had-diarrhea-since.html">whole post here</a>.) But sometimes for me it is all too easy to direct my attention back at my own struggles and push those promptings aside.<br />
<br />
A day or two after reading this post I read a post by one of my roommates from college. She wrote about how one of her best friends had just found out that her 5 year old son has cancer. My roommate currently lives in Australia and her good friend in Utah. Through some amazing promptings and a very long flight she was able to come home to be with her friend during this difficult time. (You can read the whole post <a href="http://augerfamilyblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/cancer-sucks.html">here</a>.)<br />
<br />
And here is where my connection comes in. As I followed the link in that post to her <a href="http://www.rileysmithrocks.blogspot.com/">friend's blog</a> that details the journey of this last month's battle with cancer I was struck with great emotion. She took her 5 year old son to the doctor on the very day that<a href="http://becominglds.blogspot.com/2013/04/lifes-journey.html"> I took my 6 year old to the doctor.</a> She headed to the hospital for blood tests and a CT scan that very day, as did we. The following day I received news that our son did not have a brain tumor and she heard the devastating news that her son did have cancer. As I read these similarities and thought about how her situation could so easily have been ours I couldn't help but feel a connection with their family. While we were feeling relief, they were feeling heartache. I prayed for them, I cried for them, and I felt that the least I could do was to donate a little bit in their behalf. If you are willing you can head here and donate, even $5 will help them along their way. :)<br />
<br />
Behind closed doors and inside hearts everyone has something that wears at them. Sometimes big and sometimes small. Sometimes it is for a moment and sometimes it is for a lifetime. My hope is that we will look beyond ourselves and see that we need each other. That we will see that in the walls of each and every home and in the chambers of each individuals heart their is a need for love, compassion, understanding, and the following of promptings of the Holy Ghost. Let us pray for, see, and act on the promptings that will allow us to be the person that someone else is longing for. Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-65868696856974760222013-04-21T14:16:00.001-06:002013-04-21T21:40:13.129-06:00Life's JourneyI just recently past the year mark of my last post. Time and time again I have thought that maybe I'd add a few words and the timing never felt right and I never had something I felt needed to be said. The year long break started at a transitional time when our third child had recently been added to the bunch. Sleepless nights, adjusting to life with three little ones, and helping three little ones adjust to life with each other, sending my oldest child off to his first day of school (adding many trips to and from), and other numerous tasks and experiences and trials have filled the time.<br />
<br />
The past month has felt personally transitional. It has felt transformational. I have felt taught. My heart has been stirred and learning has taken place.<br />
<br />
Several weeks back I sat in a doctor's appointment with my 6 year old son. He had been experiencing shooting pains in his head, through his eyes, and sometimes down to his toes. He mentioned that his hands felt "itchy" on the inside and I wondered if he meant that were fuzzy, asleep. Some things were bothering his tummy and he was extra emotional, among a few other ailments. In this case, Google is not your friend. I searched and of course came up with some scary options. Namely one, one really scary one.<br />
<br />
Brain tumor.<br />
<br />
I often blow things up to a level that is not necessary and I hoped that this was the case this time, more so than ever before because this time it wasn't about me it was about him, my son. As we sat in the office and rattled off symptom after symptom to the doctor it became apparent that my ideas weren't so far fetched. It was an option. The doctor explained that he didn't think it was a brain tumor but with all of his symptoms it needed to be ruled out. An appointment was made for that night to get a CT scan and some blood tests at the hospital.<br />
<br />
In the car on the way home, I explained that we would be going to the hospital that night and what would take place. He, of course, did not like the idea. His scope was small. He was worried about the blood tests and I was terrified about the potential outcome. The nurses who were drawing his blood were amazed at how he carried himself. They held his arm but they didn't need to. Not a tear was shed. The CT scan was easy and kind of entertaining to him. I held his hand and he tried to hold still. He was so brave. I was seriously a Mommy kind of impressed. I expected more drama but he was a amazing.<br />
<br />
We were told we would probably hear the results back about the CT scan the next day and if we hadn't that we should call in the day after. Of course, I called the next day because I just couldn't wait any longer. I prayed and prayed and prayed. I tried to prepare myself mentally, and emotionally, and spiritually for what could be some major changes in our lives. I thought both about the things that would take place immediately if the results were not in our favor but I also thought about the possible end result. I paced. I waited. I tried not to let my whole world be consumed by not knowing but my day was a day of hoping, praying, and waiting. <br />
<br />
I received a phone call from the doctor's office with some of the blood results but no word about the CT scan that the doctor hadn't had a chance to look at yet. I felt like the nurse was TOO nice on the phone and thus the results must not be good. I worried that the reason the nurse didn't tell me the results of the CT scan was because the doctor wanted to talk to me personally. Again, I started to blow things up. The day was long. Definitely the longest day I've had as a Mother and maybe my longest day ever.<br />
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Finally nearing the closing hours of the doctor's office I received a phone call and headed to a room to hear the results away from little voices. I was glad to hear a women's voice on the line and not the male voice of the physician and even more glad to hear these words, "He was able to look over the CT scan results and everything was perfectly normal."<br />
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Perfectly normal. <br />
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I can't even begin to tell you the feelings of relief and pure happiness that came over me as those words were processed. Although this all happened over a 36 hour span between doctor visit, to hospital visit, to results I felt like I had been on an emotional and spiritual journey. Amidst my prayers of hope that everything would be fine with my son I also prayed for faith to face whatever happened. The reminder of what is most important was all so real and the encouragement to be a better Mother, a Mother of children of God was needed and accepted. <br />
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Has everything been perfect since. No. Have I immediately become the Mother that I hope to be, of course not. I will continue on my journey. A journey that continued as prophets and apostles spoke to me personally at General Conference and as local leaders the following week shared their insights with me at our Stake Conference. I am trying to remember that that is what life is, a journey and that I need to start where I am. In my journey I hope to fill my life with things that matter most. <br />
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Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-66231048603256952332012-04-05T20:56:00.000-06:002012-04-05T20:56:07.099-06:00Easter Video: He is Risen<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bAuaSpJ7zGs?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-66266431885158151792012-01-08T15:14:00.000-07:002012-01-08T15:14:36.936-07:00Simple FHE Plan for 2012 and Some Additional Family Scripture Study Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fc7TMp5vC6g/SSzESXI4j8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/1TT2Hlms1rY/s1600/Scripture+Power.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152px" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fc7TMp5vC6g/SSzESXI4j8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/1TT2Hlms1rY/s320/Scripture+Power.bmp" width="320px" /></a></div>So we have our <a href="http://becominglds.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-years-resolutions-and-new-family.html">new scripture plan rolling</a> and so far so good, although I did change from making a poster to using a 3 ring binder for our characterisitics instead. Right now it is filled with blank pages and we will add characterstics and our characteristic sentences as time goes on and we discover them. I think it will work well but we are still in the new transitional period and I am sure things will be revamped as time goes on. I also realized that we are going to bite off even smaller chunks of scripture each day. More along the lines of somewhere between 2-8 verses rather than 5-15. We just took about 6 days to get through the introduction to the Book of Mormon and the 3 and 8 witnesses and I also planned out our readings for the next month and by the 5th of February we are only going to be at 1 Nephi 6. Nice and steady. I think it will work, I guess we shall see. It may take us a year and a half to finish this scripture plan or maybe it'll go quicker than I think and we will head into the Bible after this. :) Who knows. If anyone wants more details I'd be happy to share if you have specific questions, that is if I have answers. Hey, I'll take additional suggestions and thoughts too. <br />
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Now onto our simple FHE plan for the year....<a href="http://lds.org/manual/gospel-principles?lang=eng">Gospel Principles manual</a>. Yep, that's it. Nothing fancy or over the top but something so perfectly simple and essential that I don't think we can go wrong. There are 47 lessons total which gives us leeway on 5 weeks out of the year. We plan to go in order cover to cover but that may change as we see the need for a specific chapter as we go along. We'll each just take turns on our week to take care of the lesson and can do whatever we wish with our chapter. The first week went well. Our almost 5 year old sat and listened intently about our Heavenly Father. He asked good questions and I could tell that he got something out of it. When it is his turn I'll help him write a lesson, more like a talk to give. He always does a great job when we do this. He actually loves to stand up on our step ladder as he presents his lesson like he is giving a talk in church. Sometimes he even gets out his play microphone to add to the fun. It is good fun. I am excited to continue to learn from this great resource and to teach our children these simple, essential gospel truths. <br />
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Do you have a plan for your family FHE and scripture study in 2012? I feel like I am usually floating from week to week and haphazardly figuring things out so I hope that these plans stick it out for the whole year and we gain something from it all. Here's to a good year!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-521348202030210352012-01-01T16:28:00.002-07:002012-01-01T18:53:08.785-07:00BINGO New Year's Resolutions and a New Family Scripture Study Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xm_H3CTtJkI/TwDsG7P9JaI/AAAAAAAACDg/t_uEmyhf0rQ/s1600/happy+new+year.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xm_H3CTtJkI/TwDsG7P9JaI/AAAAAAAACDg/t_uEmyhf0rQ/s1600/happy+new+year.bmp" /></a></div>So with a strike of the clock at midnight and a change from December to January a new year has begun. Time to transition from writing 2011 to writing 2012. Time to check in with yourself and say out with the old and the ugly and in with the new and the more worthy. I really enjoy this new period of freshness. Of course each day can be a day of resolving to be better or the change from each month or week can bring a newness that stirs up change but there is still something about a brand new year that is so liberating. I am excited. <br />
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How do you make resolutions at your house? Do you think up one giant goal and go forth? Do you write it down in your journal? Do you list off so many that there is just no way you could ever complete it all? Do you involve your family or is it totally individual? <br />
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How do you keep yourself motivated? Do you tell your spouse or child so that you have some accountability to someone? <br />
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I'd love to hear your New Year traditions. I'd love to hear how things roll at your house.<br />
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This year we decided to try something new and kind of fun. I read in a comment on a blog during the last week or so someone who puts their resolutions onto a BINGO card. I am not sure of any details. They mostly put on their board simple things that they wanted to do as a family that year like build a snowman, or go to the beach, etc. It sounded like a fun idea and I thought I'd try our own version of their BINGO idea. <br />
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I thought about doing a card together but my son really wanted to do individual ones, so today we are all thinking about what our 24 squares will contain. They must be measurable. Something we can put a sticker on to say we've completed it or vastly improved. We are going to see who can get BINGO first and then who can get black out first. <br />
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Now 24 resolutions could be quite unattainable if made too large so we plan to have our BINGO cards contain a few more difficult and needed resolutions and somethings we'd like to do this year just for fun. <br />
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For example, I'd like to dejunk and organize our entire home but that is quite a lofty goal and thus I have turned it into 7 different squares on my BINGO card and mixed in there I'd like to read a parenting book or two, run a 5k this summer after baby arrives, etc. <br />
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Among the list that is slowly developing is this very important resolution of a <strong>Revamped Family Scripture Study </strong> - Yeah, so we have been in need of a change for a while. In the past we have done topical scripture study, gospel art kit scripture studies with direction, and more, but things have become a little laxed. We have been reading (mostly telling) the scriptures every day but for the past little while it has been without much thought or real investment or purpose and that is about to change. Now I don't have all of the kinks worked out but our plan will go something like this:<br />
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We are going to READ from the Book of Mormon directly. We will focus on a particular scripture story or block each week. In the January Friend they have <a href="http://lds.org/friend/2012/01/book-of-mormon-feast?lang=eng">THIS</a> weekly reading schedule but I am not sure it will fit what I am looking for. I'd love a schedule that covers the main stories and characters of the Book of Mormon but that does not require a cover to cover read. I'd love to read anywhere from 5-15 verses a day but still keep some continuity in story lines and such. Does anyone have a family plan you've created or something you've seen online that would work? <br />
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Unless one of you sends me a perfect schedule I plan to use the Book of Mormon Stories book to guide me in my verse selections for each week. Then we will read from the pages of the actual Book of Mormon, 5-15 verses each day. I will sometimes use pictures for the Gospel Art Kit or Book to give visuals. At the end of each week we will review the story we have just learned from the scriptures by reading the story in the Book of Mormon Stories book. <br />
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Now so far this sounds like a typical family scripture study regimen but here is the twist. We are going to be focusing on CHARACTERISTICS of people in the Book of Mormon. I am going to create a poster (yea still have some work to do :) and as we discover worthy characteristics then we will add them to the poster in this fashion:<br />
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OBEDIENT:<br />
Nephi was obedient when he built the boat.<br />
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And as time goes on our list will expand and be added to. We will also add how we have seen those characteristics in people in our family or people we know, for example the obedient characteristic may grow to look like this:<br />
<br />
OBEDIENT:<br />
Nephi was obedient when he built the boat.<br />
Bob was obedient when he cleaned his room.<br />
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I am hoping that this will help our little family to see the things we can improve in, how we are like those in the scriptures, and motivate us to be better.<br />
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I am excited to try out this year long Book of Mormon reading feast and to put this promise to the test:<br />
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<strong>President Marion G. Romney said:</strong> <br />
<b> <br />
'I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness' (Ensign, May 1980, p. 67).</b> <br />
<b> <br />
"These <u><span style="color: #666600;">promises</span></u>—increased love and harmony in the home, greater respect between parent and child, increased spirituality and righteousness—are not idle <u><span style="color: #666600;">promises</span></u>, but exactly what the Prophet Joseph Smith meant when he said the Book of Mormon will help us draw nearer to God."</b><br />
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<center> <b><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://library.lds.org/library/lpext.dll/ArchMagazines/Ensign/1988.htm/ensign%20november%201988.htm/flooding%20the%20earth%20with%20the%20book%20of%20mormon.htm?fn=document-frame.htm&f=templates&2.0">"</a><a href="http://library.lds.org/library/lpext.dll/ArchMagazines/Ensign/1986.htm/ensign%20november%201986%20.htm/the%20book%20of%20mormonkeystone%20of%20our%20religion.htm?fn=document-frame.htm&f=templates&2.0">The Book of Mormon - Keystone of our Religion" - President Benson - Oct. 1986 Gen. Conf.</a></span></b> </center><center> </center><br />
<div align="left">We could use that!</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">So there is a little bit of what is going on at our house, so what's happening out your house this year?</div>Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-86758071555593735672011-12-21T09:03:00.000-07:002011-12-21T09:03:37.110-07:00Turn the Radio Off and Turn This On...Okay so the radio has a slew of Christmas music playing right now, mostly all of the commercialized stuff, Santa, and some old songs you hear every year and don't get me wrong I like a good dose of Christmas music but this, this is good! Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/e9GtPX6c_kg?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Obviously don't forget the classic Christ-centered Hymns but I love instrumental bits of goodness.Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-74340530863537051782011-12-18T07:00:00.001-07:002011-12-18T07:00:12.016-07:00Teaching Charity?<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cp3IH8ZNviQ?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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What a beautiful video and what an example Heber J. Grant is to us all. What do you do to teach your children to be more charitable amidst all of the wants, the constant "need" for more or better, and the feelings of greed that sometimes can accompany this season, among other times of the year? <br />
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Really, I'd love to hear how you mold the young minds and hearts in your home to think less of what is under the tree and more about others. Please share.Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-78882833321629665312011-12-17T13:46:00.000-07:002011-12-17T13:46:23.633-07:00And the Winner Is...I used random.com and #5 was the winner so...<br />
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That makes Mrs. Mordecai over at <a href="http://be-it-ever-so-humble.blogspot.com/">http://be-it-ever-so-humble.blogspot.com/</a> the winner of the Happy Little Artist Temple Print giveaway. Congratulations!<br />
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Here is what she had to say in her entry:<br />
"I like the one with the power lines and the blue background! Although I have to admit I wouldn't mind having a matching set to all hang up somewhere."<br />
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I'll be getting in contact with you! As for everyone else, the prints are really quite reasonably priced so still <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/happylittleartist">consider heading over to buy yourself or a loved one a little gift</a>, the headbands are adorable as well. Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-73788209708106612312011-12-15T13:46:00.001-07:002011-12-15T13:50:32.365-07:00For Strength of Youth Pamphlet Revised<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6LnAADCb_E/TupcS9RqohI/AAAAAAAACDU/veizX_sYBhg/s1600/For+the+Strength+of+Youth.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256px" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6LnAADCb_E/TupcS9RqohI/AAAAAAAACDU/veizX_sYBhg/s320/For+the+Strength+of+Youth.bmp" width="320px" /></a></div>Additions and revisions have taken place in the For Strength of Youth Pamphlet. You can read the additonal text and changes online now <a href="https://lds.org/youth/for-the-strength-of-youth?lang=eng">HERE</a>. I am excited to read through and study the new pamphlet. I think it is wonderful for youth and adults alike. <br />
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Here is what the <a href="http://lds.org/church/news/for-the-strength-of-youth-updated-and-refreshed?lang=eng">Church News</a> has to say about it:<br />
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<div class="article" sizcache="1154" sizset="0">Today, youth.lds.org launched a <a href="http://lds.org/youth/for-the-strength-of-youth?lang=eng">newly updated version of <em>For the Strength of Youth</em></a> that addresses issues and challenges youth face today that were not specifically addressed in the previous version of the booklet.<br />
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“The standards have not changed, but times have changed,” said Young Women general president Elaine S. Dalton, explaining the update. “<em>For the Strength of Youth</em> has been revised to address the issues youth face today—to teach them the doctrine behind the standards and the promised blessings of obedience.”<br />
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<em>For the Strength of Youth</em> was last updated in 2001. The revised pamphlet will contain the addition of current prophetic counsel in areas such as the <a href="http://lds.org/liahona/2010/06/things-as-they-really-are?lang=eng">wise use of technology</a>, <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/come-let-us-go-up-to-the-mountain-of-the-lord?lang=eng">virtuous thoughts</a>, <a href="http://lds.org/ensign/2010/09/dating-and-virtue?lang=eng">dating</a>, the importance of gender roles, and <a href="http://lds.org/ensign/2011/09/preparing-for-the-future?lang=eng">preparation for the future</a>.<br />
Other changes of note include:<br />
<ul class="list-decor" sizcache="1154" sizset="0"><li>Additional emphasis on following the guidance of the Spirit, keeping covenants, and being worthy to attend the temple</li>
<li>A new standard entitled “Work and Self-Reliance” offering counsel on smart money management, frugality, industry, and becoming a contributor.</li>
<li>The addition of emotional health to the section previously titled “Physical Health”—now called “Physical and Emotional Health”—encouraging youth to seek healthy solutions to problems.</li>
<li>Increased clarity and emphasis on doctrine in each section</li>
<li>The inclusion of questions to invite further pondering and discussion</li>
</ul>Hard copies of the revised pamphlet in English will be mailed to Church units toward the beginning of 2012. Priesthood leaders will receive a copy for each youth ages 12 to 18 and all priesthood and auxiliary leaders who work with youth.<br />
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Young Men general president David L. Beck emphasized the value of this resource for youth, parents, and leaders as they strive to live faithfully.<br />
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“It is our hope that these standards will be thoroughly studied in our homes and in Church classes, and that the principles taught in them will go down into the hearts of the youth of the Church,” he said.<br />
Language versions of the revised pamphlet will follow both online and in print as they are completed.<br />
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PS - Don't forget to enter the Giveaway below. It closes on Saturday morning and the chances of winning are looking pretty good right now. :)</div>Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-3707826167597523732011-12-12T14:31:00.004-07:002011-12-12T18:11:15.835-07:00GIVEAWAY: Happy Little Artist TempleThis could make for a Merry Christmas surprise. The <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/happylittleartist">Happy Little Artist</a> would like to Giveaway one of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/happylittleartist?section_id=5914584">THESE</a> beautiful Salt Lake Temple Prints to one of you. The winner gets to choose the size and style that you like best. The print can only be shipped in the US. Sorry to everyone who lives outside the US. <br />
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Annie Wheeler hand carved linoleum blocks to create these three color lincout prints of the Salt Lake Temple. Don't you just love this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t78EwvhvnA0/TuZvG9c1lrI/AAAAAAAACDM/gm_9TGEmjhc/s1600/salt+lake+temple+lin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t78EwvhvnA0/TuZvG9c1lrI/AAAAAAAACDM/gm_9TGEmjhc/s320/salt+lake+temple+lin.jpg" width="241px" /></a></div>To Enter the Giveaway<br />
<ol><li>You just need to head over to the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/happylittleartist">Happy Little Artist Etsy Shop</a> and find the temple print that you like best (while you're there check out the adorable headbands as well ;) then jump back over here to Becoming LDS and leave a comment letting me know which temple and size you would like to win. </li>
<li>Please also leave the beginning of your email address (ex. becominglds@) so I can verify that you are the winner. </li>
<li>Merry Christmas!</li>
</ol>The Giveaway will end on <strong>Saturday, December 17th at 10:00 am</strong>. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be posted here on my blog shortly thereafter. If you are announced as the lucky winner then please contact me at <a href="mailto:becominglds@gmail.com">becominglds@gmail.com</a>, using the email address you provided, by Monday the 19th at 5:00 pm. If the winner has not yet contacted me then another winner will be chosen in their place. Then I will get you in contact with the Happy Little Artist to claim your beautiful temple print. :)<br />
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Good Luck everyone!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-62214752440013730272011-12-05T13:48:00.000-07:002011-12-05T13:48:13.798-07:00Simple Christ-Centered Christmas TraditionsThe First Presidency Christmas Devotional last night was wonderful. The music was beautiful and the messages were great reminders. If you and your family didn't get a chance to watch it you can do so <a href="http://lds.org/broadcasts/languages/christmas-devotional/2011/12?lang=eng">HERE.</a> It would make for a great FHE tonight. Also, a neat announcement was made and a <a href="http://lds.org/bible-videos?lang=eng">new page born on lds.org with Bible videos to be added monthly. </a> They are free to download and are a gift to the world. You can watch the video that was shown last night below: <br />
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The Christmas Devotional is such a simple way to remember Christ during the Christmas Season. A tradition that takes little planning, no running to and fro, and no gifts to be purchased.<br />
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I also thought I'd share two Christmas Traditions that our little family started this year. So I guess they are not techniquely traditions yet but I hope to continue them each year and turn them into traditions.<br />
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First, we put up this little tree next to our bigger tree. It was my husband and I's very first Christmas tree. Now it is our Service and Kindness tree. When I catch my children serving or being kind I let them pick out an ornament to add to the tree. Sometimes I send my 4 year old to preschool with service in mind and he'll come back and tell me something nice he did. It was been good. It's also nice to have a tree that is free for them to touch and move ornaments around on. :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COQ0x9shW3E/Tt0qFZD-vXI/AAAAAAAACC0/3ysEc0kSuOA/s1600/December+2011+059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COQ0x9shW3E/Tt0qFZD-vXI/AAAAAAAACC0/3ysEc0kSuOA/s320/December+2011+059.jpg" width="240px" /></a></div><br />
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Then Secondly, we tweaked <a href="http://lds.org/friend/2011/12/for-little-friends?lang=eng">this idea from the Friend</a>. We have this nativity picture hanging on the wall in our living room and each morning we are adding a star to the wall. We write something about Jesus on the star and tape it to the wall. By Christmas we should have one starry night. My son is already excited about putting the biggest star above the picture on Christmas Eve. <br />
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Our 4 year old (soon to be 5) has come up with things like:<br />
Jesus helped people to see.<br />
Jesus was crucified for us.<br />
Jesus was born in a stable.<br />
Jesus helped raise people from the dead.<br />
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And our 2 year old has said things like this (with a little help sometimes :):<br />
Jesus hugs me.<br />
Jesus loves me.<br />
Jesus made animals.<br />
Jesus holds me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z88nQxzOa0/Tt0qOl42-sI/AAAAAAAACC8/VyrODBb7_gg/s1600/December+2011+058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z88nQxzOa0/Tt0qOl42-sI/AAAAAAAACC8/VyrODBb7_gg/s320/December+2011+058.jpg" width="240px" /></a></div><br />
It has been a great way to keep us thinking about Christ every day this December. What are some Christ-Centered traditions that your family has?Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-73886950512646201992011-11-14T13:17:00.001-07:002011-11-14T13:19:42.317-07:00FHE Idea: Thanksgiving - Gratitude TreeOkay, so I am finally back to posting...I think. ;) <br />
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I am sure that many of you have seen or done something similar to this at your homes but just in case I thought I'd share something we started last FHE at our house that would work just as great to start tonight or next Monday as well.<br />
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First, we told the story of the Ten Lepers and how only one came back to tell Christ thank you and how it might have made Him feel. We talked about how we feel when someone thanks us or maybe when they don't. We talked about specific things we could say thank you for and how we need to always remember to thank Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and others for all of the things we are blessed with in our lives.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T29026Ek-o/TsF18dXg23I/AAAAAAAACBM/wTHDIZSKAWA/s1600/November+2011+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" nda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T29026Ek-o/TsF18dXg23I/AAAAAAAACBM/wTHDIZSKAWA/s320/November+2011+022.jpg" width="240px" /></a></div>And then we created this beautiful Thankful or Gratitude Tree. I had previously cut out all of the leaves (I'd highly recommend sticking with simple patterns or just cutting out free hand.) We created the tree on the spot. I cut out random shapes and sizes of branches and my husband and two little ones created this masterpiece of a tree. It was fun to create the tree together. <br />
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We each chose three leaves that night and wrote down something we are thankful for on them and shared them with each other. Since last Monday each morning as part of our <a href="http://becominglds.blogspot.com/2010/12/morning-devotional-saved-by-bell-style.html">Morning Devotional</a> we have added a leaf or two to the tree.<br />
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It is fun to hear what my 4 and 2 year old come up with. We have things on the tree like, <br />
<ul><li>When people say I love you.</li>
<li>Smiles</li>
<li>Temples</li>
<li>My little sister.</li>
<li>Friends.</li>
<li>Family.</li>
<li>Baby (doll)</li>
<li>The Priesthood</li>
</ul>It has been good to stop each morning and think of something we are thankful for as we start the day. I hope we all can have an enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday and one filled with gratitude!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-77299826953783506382011-10-18T14:09:00.000-06:002011-10-18T14:09:08.818-06:00HiatusSo I have been MIA for the last little bit and this my friends is why. Well, about a month back I had a lagging in posts because well, I was sick, not just a day sick or a few days sick, but weeks and weeks of sick, which turned into months. Then I started to feel a little better but not great but it felt good to sit at the computer and do something somewhat productive and thus posts began again. Then I got EVEN better and well, I could ACTUALLY leave the house, with kids in tow and everything.. What an amazing thing! And I could clean, yes I said could. I could do laundry. I could play and laugh with my children. I could go shopping. I could do anything I wanted and, well, blogging has taken a back seat to all of that. I am going to jump back in sometime. I do have a slew of Book of Mormon posts I promised. But it may take me a day or two or a week or who knows maybe sooner but for now I am going to enjoy this little one in my tummy and do anything and everything a not sick person can do. :) Are you with me? Hip-Hip-Hooray for health!Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757705433187574833.post-69635536829331413072011-09-27T12:56:00.000-06:002011-09-27T12:56:16.704-06:00Recent Relief Society Media Available in Many Languages<h2 sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">I was recently sent this information and thought it amazing how quickly these great sources could be made available to so many. I hope this helps some.</span></h2><h2 sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2011/10?lang=eng">Archives for the General Relief Society Meeting</a> have been posted in more than 60 languages. To choose your language, simply select it from the drop down menu on the top right hand side of the page, as shown below.</span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SNC72ecAB2E/ToIbl1TOXWI/AAAAAAAAB9w/5O4k6P0D_Y8/s1600/image004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SNC72ecAB2E/ToIbl1TOXWI/AAAAAAAAB9w/5O4k6P0D_Y8/s320/image004.jpg" width="244px" /></a></div><h2 sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"></span> </h2><h2 sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Also, PDF files for the book Daughters in my Kingdom are now available in 18 languages:</span></h2><a href="" name="addlang"></a><div sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><ul class="list-decor" sizcache="1587" sizset="0"><li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/cebuano/pdf/language-materials/06500_ceb.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Cebuano</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/danish/pdf/language-materials/06500_dan.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Dansk</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/german/pdf/language-materials/06500_deu.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Deutsch</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/relief-society/daughters-in-my-kingdom?lang=eng">English</a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/spanish/pdf/language-materials/06500_spa.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Español</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/french/pdf/language-materials/06500_fra.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Français</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/samoan/pdf/language-materials/06500_smo.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Gagana Samoa</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/italian/pdf/language-materials/06500_ita.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Italiano</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/tongan/pdf/language-materials/06500_ton.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Lea Fakatonga</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/norwegian/pdf/language-materials/06500_nor.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Norsk</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/portuguese/pdf/language-materials/06500_por.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Português</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/tahitian/pdf/language-materials/06500_tah.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Reo Tahiti</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/finnish/pdf/language-materials/06500_fin.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Suomi</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/swedish/pdf/language-materials/06500_swe.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Svenska</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/tagalog/pdf/language-materials/06500_tgl.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Tagalog</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/fijian/pdf/language-materials/06500_fij.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Vosa vakaviti</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/russian/pdf/language-materials/06500_rus.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Русский</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/ukrainian/pdf/language-materials/06500_ukr.pdf?lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">Українська</span></a></li>
</ul></div>To learn more about the book visit <a href="http://lds.org/relief-society/daughters-in-my-kingdom?lang=eng">HERE</a>.Pokemonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16880788926930516661noreply@blogger.com0