It's only taken my two months to get my act together, but you don't want to hear about that. I'm so excited about sharing my ideas. I read first thing in the morning and there is no one around to talk to. By the time we're in the van, the BOM is not the first thing on our minds.

A few months ago we were in a meeting and President Peterson talked very briefly about what a difference it had made in his life when he started reading and studying every day instead of most of the time. That was about all he said, but I couldn't get it off my mind. I usually read 80-90% of the time, but there were days when it just wasn't convenient. It's kind of like exercising, I start out strong and hit a busy time and lose my momentum. I just kept wondering if I only felt like I needed the spirit 80-90% of the time. Well that's laughable. So...I gave myself a new challenge and went for it. I used to read because I felt obligated to do it. Now I can't wait to get up and get into it. I just can't put into words the difference it has made. You'll just have to take my word for it. The stories are finally fitting together in my brain and I can see the Lord's bigger pattern instead of focusing on whatever is happening at the moment.

I'm on my second time through the BOM this year and that is amazing. It used to take me a couple of years. I decided to read two or three chapters instead of whatever little amount I felt like I had time for. Luckily, I have time to do this. You may not and the other way works too. Even 1 verse is better than none. It shows the Lord you're making some time for Him. Anyway, I'll just start my musing where I am now and catch up as I read things again.

I'm in Alma and loving Moroni all over again. I've read and heard the stories countless times but I realized this time that the Title of Liberty came about not in an effort to defeat the Lamanites, but when they were once again trying to get all the Nephites back into the gospel. Sometimess our biggest enemies are the people around us that can get to us bef0re we realize what they are doing to our testimonies. We think they are friends and allies. Think how much damage Amalikiah did before he was killed and then his brother took over. They did more against the righteous Nephites than thousands of Lamanites. When people turn against God, they are out to take people down with them. What a scarey thought.

I love the army of Helaman. I hope you all know that your mother has a testimony and loves the Lord. My greatest joy is knowing that all of you share this love and are trying to live your testimonies. Watching all of you become responsible, admirable adults is a a priceless gift. Thanks for what you do and what you are. I love you!