This life is a test

Tonight for Relief Society we had a class on education opportunities.  The sister from our ward who taught works and teaches at Utah Valley University as a career counselor.  She had a panel of three women who are currently in school answer questions about their experiences.  Each of these three women have eight children, some married, some teenagers still at home.  Each of them are over the age of 50.  They all said how vital it is for them to read the scriptures each day, attend the temple, and ask for the help of the Holy Ghost to be successful in their studies, especially on test day.
The sister teaching said, "And that's great life advice, too!"  I've been thinking about how right she is.  How can I ask for more specific help from the Godhead to do the things I need to do?
One thing that has become an incredible experience in our family is having a circle of prayer.  It has been needed two weeks in a row.  We each take a turn praying for the same thing, with our own words.  It was so powerful!  And I love the unity that we had from those experiences.

Fruit Trees!

We are turning our backyard into an orchard, apparently.  We already have an apple tree, two peach trees, and an almond tree.  Plus there are grape vines and blackberry bushes.  All but the almond tree were put in by the previous owners.  Yesterday I purchased two pear trees, two apricot, and a cherry, along with four blueberry bushes.  The garden will be going in next week.  I'll never have to make a meal come harvest time - the children can harvest their own!
Even more importantly, we'll be learning about preserving.  I've never canned in my life.  But I have dehydrated, and I think that might be healthier.  Either way, I look forward to enjoying the bounties of our own backyard throughout the winter months.
I love the book Laddie by Gene Stratton Porter.  The example of family unity, work ethic, and self-reliance is incredible.  I learn more everytime I read it.

Finding One on One Time

Last week I was thinking it was about time to teach the children how to wash dishes by hand.  Last night, our dishwasher blew up!  What a blessing!
Today, my 8 year old daughter and I spent 30 minutes washing dishes together.  I taught her the tips and tricks I knew.  She asked where I had learned them, and I answered, "From my mother."  The significance of that caused me to pause and think for awhile.
I loved, loved, loved, sharing that 30 minutes with my daughter.  We had a great discussion.  I look forward to more with her, and with my other children.  I am not in a hurry to buy a new dishwasher.

I have also been amazed at how the passages I read in the scriptures each day are so timely and helpful in my life.  I'm nearing the end of the New Testament, a book I thought I didn't know too well.  But there are many familiar verses and great food for thought.  I'll share some soon.