Jonathan's Talk

We got a call this morning, not too long before heading to church, asking if Jonathan could give a talk in Primary.  The topic was keeping the sabbath day holy.  This was very last minute.  So, Jonathan and I sat down together and talked about the sabbath day.  I wrote down Jonathan's thoughts so that he could deliver them during Primary time at church.  Here is his talk:

            We can keep the sabbath day holy by going to church and reading the scriptures and The Friend.  I   sometimes watch church shows.  Today I made a card for my aunt who is sick.  That is a good thing to do on Sundays.  In the car on the way to church we listen to Primary songs.  Sometimes we play games as a family.

     Keeping the sabbath day holy makes me feel calm and close to Heavenly Father.  I think about Heavenly Father and Jesus a lot on Sundays.  Sundays are different.  I love Sundays.

     I have a testimony of Jesus.  I am glad I can come to church.  Going to Primary and singing songs are my favorite part of Sunday.

 Jonathan has become more and more confident in reading and read portions of the talk himself.  I was most impressed with Jonathan stating "Sundays are different."  Even as a little guy he feels the difference.

A Different Kind of Summer - Part 1

As usual, the kids and I headed to Pennsylvania as soon as school let out.  As usual, we stayed at my parent's place - the hundred acre woods.

But what was very different this year was that my parents were not there.  They are in South Carolina with my sister.

So, the children and I were left to our own devices in the middle of the sticks.  The nearest hospital and urgent care were 35 minutes away.  Church was 45 minutes away.  The grocery store was 20 minutes.  The big grocery store and WalMart were 40 minutes away.  It was quite the adjustment to say the least.

The first week was very rough due to me being sick.  All alone with three kids in the woods and being sick was a little intimidating.  However, my two dear aunts came to our rescue and provided food and help (including a ride to urgent care for me).

What else was intimidating was being in charge of all of that property, 9 chickens, and a big house.  But, we survived and thrived.  And it turned out to be a wonderful summer, one where I felt happy and motivated, free and unencumbered.  A summer where I felt at home and gained the knowledge of who I am.  No longer do I wonder if I could hack it in the woods.  No longer do I wonder if I truly like farm work.  No longer do I wonder if I can stand on my own.  I can.  And I did.  And I feel empowered having that knowledge about myself.

More to come of our Pennsylvania adventures!