Self- Reliance = A Steenblik Vegetable Garden

This month's Visiting Teaching message is on Self-Reliance. As I visited my sisters we naturally got to talking about how we can be self-reliant and came up with a plan to start a garden, growing our own fruits and vegetables. A family in our ward has a big back yard that they cleared out to start a garden of their own. They have graciously offered for us to use some their space. I am super excited about this, it will be a fun new project, but will also help me to follow the teachings of our wonderful prophet, Thomas S. Monson.

"When we are self-reliant, we use our blessings and resources to prepare for and avoid problems. Self-reliance, however, is enhanced as we pray for the courage to meet with faith the challenges that will surely come. Self-reliance also enables us to keep our covenant to care for others."

As a young family, at school and without much money I truly believe being self-reliant will bring us many blessings and help us to handle trials that come our way. We will also be able to help those around us and find joy in that service. Hopefully our little garden will lead us one step closer to being as self-reliant as we can. Stay tuned to see the progress of the "Steenblik Vegetable Garden"

Grateful: Families Are Forever

This week one of my best friends, my in-laws and extended family members all said goodbye to someone they loved very much. Family members and friends were taken back to their Heavenly parents and I am so grateful to know that Families Are Forever. I also believe, that although not bound by Priesthood powers, that friendship can last forever too, simply due to our love for that person.

I am so incredibly grateful to know that Brett & I are bound together for Eternity and that our little boy will be born into that covenant and divine blessing. My heart is full to know that if something ever happen to either of us, (heaven forbid), that the words we spoke in the Temple the day we were married were not only for this life, but for the life to come.

I know the 3 people that passed on (all people I never met) will be missed very much, but I know those who loved them will cherish their memory, remember things they learned from them and find comfort in the knowledge they have of Eternal life and Forever Families.

My love and prayers go out to you all.