Week 12--the last one!

OK, we are there!  Week 12!  This has honestly been a great experience for me, and I have learned a lot!
This week:
Faith #1--already completed:

The first principle of the gospel is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Learn about faith from the scriptures and living prophets. Read Hebrews 11; Alma 32:17–43; Ether 12:6–22; and Joseph Smith—History 1:11–20. Read two general conference talks on faith. Exercise your own faith by establishing a habit of prayer in your life. Begin by regularly saying your morning and evening prayers. After three weeks of following this pattern, discuss with a parent or leader what you have learned about faith and how daily personal prayer has strengthened your faith. In your journal express your feelings about faith and prayer.

My journal:
"Faith is the converter. Faith is the teacher."--President Hinckley.

Faith really is what starts everything! Faith is the foundation of this church. Without faith, Joseph Smith would not have done what he did to found this church.

Saying my morning prayers has been a great experience that I hope to continue! I love starting out the day with prayer. I think it helps me to get on the right foot, and helps me to feel good about my day. It is just a little thing that goes a LONG way! 
Fait

 Faith # 4--already completed:

Learn more about the sacrament. Read about the Last Supper in Matthew 26:26–28; Mark 14:22–24; and Luke 22:17–20. Establish a pattern of pondering during the sacrament by listening carefully to the sacrament hymn and prayers. Think about why we partake of the bread and water. After three weeks of following this pattern, write in your journal some of the promises you make as you partake of the sacrament and remember your baptismal covenants and what you do to keep those promises. Record in your journal how your understanding of these promises has strengthened your faith in the Savior.

My journal:

The Sacrament is a beautiful ordinance that we are given every week at church. It is a weekly reminder of the atonement that Christ has suffered for each and ever  

Faith #7--already completed!

The Lord has commanded us to pay tithing. Read Doctrine and Covenants 119 and Malachi 3:8–12. Since obedience to the law of tithing is an evidence of your faith, pay a full tithe. After three months record in your journal how paying tithing has helped your faith grow. List blessings in your life, both large and small, that have come because of your faith in the principle of tithing.

My journal:
I love tithing! It is such a great law that can be lived 100, 100 of the time. Tithing has blessed my life so much. I have been able to have the spirit to be with me at all times. It is not even a question any more; we always pay our tithing!  

Choice & Accountability # 1:

A daughter of God can make wise decisions and solve problems. Read 1 Nephi 15:8; 2 Nephi 32:3; Alma 34:19–27; Ether 2–3; and Doctrine and Covenants 9:7–9. Follow a pattern of regular scripture study and prayer to receive help in making personal decisions such as choosing good friends, being kind to others, getting up on time, or other decisions. Discuss with a parent or leader how regular scripture study and prayer helped you make correct decisions. 

My journal:
I think it is so appropriate that I do this value experience in my last week. This summer has been such a good experience for me, in part because I have HAD to keep up with my Book of Mormon study. I have noticed that every time I read the Book of Mormon, I have such a better day than when I don't. It really is amazing what a difference it makes to my day. I have decided with this experience that I NEED to read my scriptures every day, in order to feel the spirit every day. Because I NEED the spirit every day!  

Choice & Accountability #2:

Read the pamphlet For the Strength of Youth. List in your journal each standard of righteous behavior the pamphlet outlines, and record why it is important to choose to live those standards. Practice living righteous standards by choosing three standards in which you need to improve. You might choose to be more selective about television, music, books, or other media, or you might improve your modesty, language, or honesty. After three weeks share your progress with your family, your class, or a leader.

My journal:

Agency--I think that is where choice & accountability fits in. We have our agency, but with making our own choices, we also make our own consequences.
Dating--Don't date until you are 16, and then go on group dates. This is such great counsel and so much safer!
Dress and appearance--Dress modestly. Be appropriate so that if Jesus came right now, you would not be embarrassed.
Education--Get one! Always!
Entertainment and Media--Be very selectful on what you watch and listen to.
Family--Love them!
Friends--Choose good ones and love them!
Gratitude--Be grateful for what you have.
Honesty and Integrity--Be honest in everything you do.
Language--Use good language.
Music and Dancing--Be appropriate.
Physical and Emotional Health--Take care of your body, because it is a gift from God.
Repentance--Oh, how wonderful it is that Christ has made a way that we can all repent of our sins!
Sabbath Day Observance--Keep the Sabbath Day holy.
Service--It makes you and the person you serve feel better, so do it!
Sexual Purity--Keep pure so that you can enter the temple.
Tithes and Offerings--It is a great law! Just 10 percent!
Work and Self Reliance--Gain a good work ethic so that you can rely on yourself.
Go Forward with Faith--  Wa-hoo!

Choice & Accountability #7:

Making choices is part of Heavenly Father’s plan for us. Read Moses 4:1–4; 7:32; and 2 Nephi 9:51. Establish a pattern of wise money management by making a budget for saving and spending your money, including the payment of tithing. Live within your budget for at least three months. Set priorities that allow you to meet your most important needs before satisfying your wants. Record in your journal what you have learned and how following these patterns will continue to bless your life.

My journal:
Money management is a huge thing to learn. This summer, my husband and I have not been the best at it. But we have seen what we need to do in the future to be better money managers, and we are out of debt! Being out of debt is a wonderful thing. As we have more kids, we need to be better with our money and not let it get out of control. It will bless our lives so that someday, we can go on a mission.  

Good Works #6--already completed:

Spend at least three hours giving service outside your family. Ask your ward or branch Relief Society president or a community leader for suggestions for service. For example, you might take care of children while parents attend the temple; collect, make, or recondition toys or games for a nursery; accept an assignment to clean the meetinghouse; or perform errands for or read to a homebound person or others in need. Record in your journal the reactions of the person you served and possible goals for future service opportunities.

My journal:
I do service every week with the young women's organization. I plan and carry out mutual activities, clean the church, and spend time with my girls. This service has helped me grow, and helped me to know the importance of service in my life.  

Integrity #1--already completed:

Integrity is the willingness and desire to live by our beliefs and standards. Read Moroni 10:30–33 and think about what it means to “deny yourselves of all ungodliness.” Read the pamphlet For the Strength of Youth. Reflect on how the Lord’s standards differ from the world’s standards. Record in your journal appropriate standards for behavior, dress, and conversation, as well as literature, movies, television, Internet, music, cell phones, and other media. Also write your plan to stay morally clean and worthy to attend the temple. After keeping your standards for at least one month, record your feelings in your journal and continue to keep your commitment.

My journal:
Because I have already made temple covenants, I always strive to keep the standards. Of course, the Lord's standards are very different from the world's standards. I love that I have a reminder of my standards, the garment, that I wear every day to help me remember what to live up to.  
  
Book of Mormon:
Ether 9- End of Moroni 
Here is the last of the journal that I wrote:
I also loved the end of the book, although it was hard to read, with all the destruction. It is a little depressing to read about two entire cultures killing themselves! But I love the words of Moroni in the end, and he truly manifests of Christ. I cannot help but think that he stayed around to be able to give us the words for ordaining that he did, and also to give us the last few statements. I love the Book of Mormon!

I am done except for ONE project that needs to be completed!  Hurray!

What I have learned through this journey:

• A lot of it is actually super easy.  You just have to do it.  If you devote one hour to it a week, it will get done in no time!
• These experiences are all meant to bring us closer to Christ, which I love.  I have felt so much of His love as I have completed these.
• Most of these are things that you already do, through just living the gospel! 

Week 11

Here are the requirements for the week:

Faith #6:
This is the requirement, but I really don't need to do it, because I have already completed Faith:

Increase your understanding of the plan of salvation. Resources for study include 1 Corinthians 15:22; Revelation 12:7–9; 2 Nephi 9:1–28; 11:4–7; Doctrine and Covenants 76:50–113; 93:33–34; Moses 4:1–4; and Abraham 3:24–27. Draw or obtain a picture that depicts the plan of salvation, including the premortal existence, birth, mortal life, death, judgment, and life after judgment. Using this picture, explain the plan of salvation to your class, your family, or a friend. Discuss how knowledge of the plan affects your actions, helps you understand your identity, and has strengthened your faith.

Individual Worth #2:
Already done!

Learn about the importance of patriarchal blessings by studying about them in True to the Faith and recent conference talks. Find out why they are given and who can give them. Discuss with a parent or Church leader how to prepare to receive a patriarchal blessing and how it can teach you of your worth and identity and be a guide throughout your life. If you have not received your blessing, prepare to receive it.

My journal:
I read through my patriarchal blessing and my husband's patriarchal blessing. It is always striking to see what has come to pass in our patriarchal blessings, and what will still come to pass. I love my patriarchal blessing and the power that it has. I also love my husband's patriarchal blessing, because it speaks to me as well.  

Knowledge #1:
 Already done, but no journal, so I will complete it:

Learn about the importance of gaining knowledge by reading Proverbs 1:5; 4:7; 2 Nephi 28:30; and Doctrine and Covenants 88:78–80, 118; 90:15; 130:18–19; 131:6. Think about why you need to gain knowledge and understanding about how to apply gospel principles to your present and future home and family life. Write in your journal what you have learned about knowledge, and discuss it with a family member or Young Women leader.

My (new) journal:
My husband is the perfect example of knowledge to me. He is always curious about EVERYTHING and loves to get new information. Before we had Davis, I got to the point where I didn't even ask him if I should take a class to further my education. I knew that the answer was always yes! He always says that knowledge is the only thing that we can take with us into the next life, and he loves learning new things! He has instilled in me a love of knowledge as well!  

Integrity #6:

 Living the law of the fast is an opportunity to practice integrity. On a designated fast Sunday, abstain from food and drink for two consecutive meals and contribute to your family’s fast offering. Have a specific purpose in mind as you fast. You might fast for a sick friend, to overcome a bad habit, to obtain a special blessing for yourself or someone else, or to give thanks. Begin and close your fast with a prayer.

Already done!  I actually have an interesting perspective on fasting, because I used to not be able to fast because I had MS.  So, I am grateful for the opportunity to fast now (when I am not pregnant!)

Book of Mormon reading:
3 Nephi 25-Ether 8
This part is not QUITE as good as last week, but still awesome!  I love reading about the Brother of Jared.  When I was in Book of Mormon in college, the teacher asked why Jared relied on his brother so much.  I had an answer.  We rely on my brother, and have ever since he was a little kid.  If we ever had a prayer that mattered, he was the one to say it.  I also think that the Book of Mormon and Book of Ether are, in part, a little depressing, because both cultures completely destroy themselves from their wickedness.

Week 10

Wahoo!  Three more weeks!  Ok, this week:

Choice & Accountability #5 (already done!):

The Holy Ghost will help you make correct choices. With a parent, leader, or friend, learn more about the Holy Ghost by reading and discussing Ezekiel 36:26–27; John 14:26; 16:13; Galatians 5:22–25; 2 Nephi 32:5; Moroni 10:4–5; and Doctrine and Covenants 11:12–14. Then record in your journal how the Holy Ghost can help you make good decisions in your daily life. Pray for and live worthy of the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost.

My journal:
The Spirit is so powerful. If we are living worthy to have the Spirit with us, it can really guide us in making correct choices. I don't think that I realize how much I rely on the Spirit until I come to a point when I don't have it in my life. Then I know that I need to do a complete turnaround to have it.  

Integrity #3:

The Savior is the perfect example of integrity; He did what He promised the Father He would do. Read 3 Nephi 11:10–11. Study the lives of other individuals in the scriptures who lived with integrity. Read Genesis 39; the book of Esther; Job 2:3; 27:3–6; Daniel 3 and 6; Acts 26; Doctrine and Covenants 124:15; and Joseph Smith—History 1:21–25. In your journal identify the ways these people demonstrated integrity. Think of a time when you had the courage to show integrity, especially when it was not easy or popular. Share your experience and your feelings about it in a testimony meeting or lesson or with a parent or leader.  

My journal:
I love these stories from all the prophets about showing integrity in all their doings. I can't really think of a time when I have been able to show my integrity when it was not popular or easy, but I always make it a choice in my life to be an integritous individual. I am grateful for my integrity, and value it very high. 

Integrity #4:

 Look up the word integrity in a dictionary. Interview your mother, grandmother, or another woman you respect about her understanding and application of the word. Make a list of ways you can make your actions consistent with your knowledge of right and wrong, and record in your journal what it means to you to have integrity.

My journal:
The definition of integrity is: adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. My mom is out of the country, so I called my grandmother. We talked about how honesty is so important, and not very prevalent in our world right now. She made the point that if you are dishonest, you need to have a great memory, so that you can remember what you have said. I think that is so true. Integrity is a very important thing, and I am so glad that I love by moral values in today's world. 

Virtue #2 (already done!):

Virtuous living “at all times and in all things, and in all places” qualifies you for the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. When you are baptized and confirmed, you are given the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide all aspects of your life. Since the Holy Ghost does not dwell in unclean tabernacles, living a virtuous life is a prerequisite to having the companionship of the Holy Ghost and receiving the blessings of temple ordinances. Read the following scripture references and identify the promised blessings: John 14:26–27; 15:26; 2 Nephi 32:1–5; and Doctrine and Covenants 45:57–59; 88:3–4; 121:45–46. In your journal record what you have learned, and write about a time when you felt the guidance of the Holy Ghost.

My journal:
I felt the Holy Ghost while I was undergoing in vitro treatment to have Davis. It was a very scary time, but I was really enveloped with the spirit, and knew that everything would be okay. Even though I had to travel for 80 minutes every other day, and it made my life a little crazy, I knew that in the end it would all be worth it. Because of the Spirit, I was able to get everything done with my job that needed to be done, and even have some extra time. It proved to be VERY worth it! 

Book of Mormon:
3 Nephi 1-24
This is by far my very favorite part of the Book of Mormon.  I have savored it this week, because I did not want it to end!  I LOVE that Jesus Christ comes to the people in the Americas.  I always wonder who the other people are that he visits.  It will be so exciting to find out!  Every time I read this section, it strengthens my testimony of Jesus Christ, because he brings such peace with him to the people.  I love it!

Week Nine

Faith #3: Already done!

Living gospel principles requires faith. Read about faith in the Bible Dictionary or True to the Faith. Faith in the Savior Jesus Christ leads to action. Choose a principle such as prayer, tithing, fasting, repentance, or keeping the Sabbath day holy. In your own home or another setting, plan and present a family home evening lesson about how faith helps you live that gospel principle. If possible, ask a family member to share an experience that has strengthened his or her faith. Share your own experiences as well. In your journal write down one of those experiences and describe your feelings about faith.

My journal:
I learned that you gain a testimony of faith by trying something out, not by just hoping to have a testimony. A testimony of a principle requires action in that principle.  

 Knowledge #4:

Select a gospel principle you would like to understand better (for example, faith, repentance, charity, eternal families, or baptismal covenants). Read scriptures and the words of latter-day prophets that relate to the principle. Prepare a five-minute talk on the subject and give the talk in a sacrament meeting, in a Young Women meeting, to your family, or to your class. Record in your journal how you can apply this gospel principle in your life.

The principle that I have chosen is revelation.  I found this talk by Elder Bednar, which discusses how revelation happens.  He talks about how there are two different ways that we see light come into darkness.  One is by flipping a light switch, where it comes immediately.  The other is the way that we most often get revelation--like a rising sun.  It comes slowly and through much thought and prayer.  It is comforting to know that even Joseph Smith had to ponder his questions in his mind for a very long time before he brought them to the Lord.  I think this is how revelation usually happens in our lives.  We have to ponder for a long time, bring it to the Lord, and then get our answer.  Sometimes I think the hardest part is acting on it, but once we do it, we are greatly blessed.

Choice & Accountability #3:

Read about repentance in Isaiah 1:18; Alma 26:22; 34:30–35; Moroni 8:25–26; and Doctrine and Covenants 19:15–20; 58:42–43. Record in your journal what repentance means to you. Study the process of repentance, pray for guidance, and apply the principles of repentance in your life.

My journal:
I love repentance! It is so wonderful that we have a tool that will bring us back to be clean with the Savior! I love how I feel when I repent, and that I have the Spirit back in my life! 

Virtue # 4: Already done!

Because the Savior loves you and has given His life for you, you can repent. Repentance is an act of faith in Jesus Christ. Read Moroni 10:32–33, the book of Enos, and the section on repentance in For the Strength of Youth. The Savior’s atoning sacrifice has made it possible for you to be forgiven of your sins. Read the sacrament prayers in Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79. Determine to partake worthily of the sacrament each week and fill your life with virtuous activities that will bring spiritual power. As you do this, you will grow stronger in your ability to resist temptation, keep the commandments, and become more like Jesus Christ. Determine what you can do daily to remain pure and worthy, and write your plan in your journal.

My journal:
In order to remain pure, I need to make sure that I do the daily "primary answers," such as reading the scriptures, praying, and attending church regularly. I also need to make sure that I am staying away from temptation. This will help me to remain worthy to have the Spirit in my life and to become more like Jesus Christ. 

Book of Mormon:
Alma 61-End of Helaman 
Once again, I love the Book of Mormon.  I am super excited to be starting 3rd Nephi this week!  I know that 3rd Nephi is the best!

Week Eight

Big week!  Here we go!

Divine Nature #2: already done!

As a young woman you are blessed with divine feminine qualities. Increase your understanding of and appreciation for womanhood. Read Proverbs 31:10–31 and two talks on womanhood from a conference issue of the Church magazines. Review what “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” says about being a wife and a mother. Then ask your mother or another mother you admire what she thinks are important attributes for being a mother. List the attributes in your journal. Then choose one of those attributes and strive to develop it. After two weeks report your success to a parent or leader.

My journal:
Attributes of motherhood:
Patience
Trust
Do Good
Strength
Honor
Not idle
Godfearing

I will be not idle for two weeks!  

I found that being not idle was great!  I was able to finish sewing some projects for last Christmas!

Divine Nature #4 (I am doing this instead of number 5):

 Memorize the sacrament prayers in Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79. During the sacrament, listen carefully to the prayers and think about what it means to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ and how doing this should affect your actions and decisions. Practice keeping your baptismal covenants. Begin by doing something each day to recognize and further develop your divine qualities and to help you always remember the Lord Jesus Christ. After two weeks record your experience in your journal.

My journal:
All that we need to do is always remember the Savior. If we do that, we will have his spirit to be with us. I think that is an awesome promise!  

Divine Nature #6 (I already completed):

Develop your divine qualities. Read Matthew 5:9; John 15:12; Galatians 5:22–23; Colossians 3:12–17; 1 John 4:21; and Moroni 7:44–48. Memorize your favorite verse from one of these passages. Identify the divine qualities mentioned in all these scriptures and list them in your journal. Select one quality, and for two weeks strive to make it a part of your daily life. Record your progress and experiences in your journal.

My journal:
I have decided to be more charitable. I don't know exactly how I will be more charitable, but I know that charity is the pure love of Christ, so I will try to show it in my actions. I will try to have more charity towards my husband and my son.  

Divine Nature #7:

Learn the definition of the word peacemaker. Then find and read five scriptures that teach about peacemakers. Become an example of a peacemaker in your home and at school as you refrain from criticizing, complaining, or speaking unkindly to or about others. Pray each morning and evening to Heavenly Father for help to do this. After two weeks write in your journal what new habits you want to develop, how being a peacemaker is part of your divine nature, and how you will continue to be a peacemaker.

My journal:
Whenever I think of being a peacemaker, I think of my younger brother. He is such a peacemaker in everything he does. He does not want anyone to ever feel bad, ever. Trying to be a peacemaker was actually a lot of fun. I love how King Benjamin states that he has been trying to establish peace in the land! What a great thing for a leader to do! The Anti-Nephi-Lehis also buried their weapons of war for peace, which is awesome! I think that if you don't have peace, you don't have the spirit with you, and that is SOOO important!  

Knowledge #2:

In your journal list talents you have and others you would like to develop. Read Matthew 25:14–30. Learn a new skill or talent that will help you care for your own future family or home (for example, playing the piano, singing, budgeting, time management, cooking, sewing, or child care). Share with your family, class, or Young Women leader what you have learned.

My journal:
I would like to be able to learn how to crochet, and I am working on that as part of my project!  

Good Works #2:

Service is an essential principle of family living. Help plan your family’s menus, obtain the food, and prepare part of the meals for two weeks. During that time help your family gather to share mealtimes. Report to your class what you have learned.

My journal:

Because I am basically in charge of preparing food for my family, this is an easy one. I have taken it upon myself to make sure that my family meets for mealtime most nights, and it is wonderful. My husband used to get home late, at 7:30, and I told him that I wanted to have him come home early so we could enjoy a meal together. Because he is so wonderful, he said that he would. It is great to be able to spend that time together, even if he goes back to work for a little bit of time after he leaves. It has helped my son to see his daddy, and helped me as well. We love dinnertime!  

Good Works #3:

Read Mosiah 18:7–10, and in your journal list three ways you can comfort others or help them bear their burdens. Do the things on your list, and tell a family member or leader about the experience and how your attitude and understanding have changed.

My journal:
Ways to help those who are suffering:
Come to the rescue when needed
Offer a listening ear
Write a note of encouragement

My husband was able to go to the rescue, when my mom called and said that she and my sister-in-law and her two little boys were stranded off the side of the road. It was a scary situation for them, and I stayed home for Davis while he went to get them. Because of his act of service, everything was safe.  

Good Works #5:

 Read Doctrine and Covenants 58:26–28. Think of ways a young woman, as well as a wife and mother, could apply this scripture in her family. Develop a pattern of service in your life by choosing a family member you can help. Serve that person for at least a month. Record in your journal your actions and feelings about how this improved your relationship with that person.

 My journal:
I serve my entire family every day, by making meals for them, cleaning up after them, and helping them on any project they need. This has definitely helped my relationship with them. 
Book of Mormon:
Alma 43-60
I love the Book of Mormon!  This week, I was able to read about Helaman's stripling warriors, and it was awesome!

I have really found, as I have worked on Personal Progress so far, that most of it is fairly simple.  It is just a matter of sitting down and figuring out what you have already done.  If you are following the gospel, all you need to do is record it!

Week Seven

I finished this week on SATURDAY!  That is a big deal.  Ok, so it is because there are no things to check off this week!  I finished Individual Worth #6:

 When you participate in family history, you come to understand your identity and individual worth. Visit with your living relatives to learn as much information about your family history as possible. Then complete a pedigree chart of your family and list the temple ordinances that have been completed for each person.

Doing this was very fun, because the history geek in me loves filling in dates and stuff!

I will also be obedient and a peacemaker.  Of course, I am the chef at my house, so "Help Cook" is not a big deal. :)

Book of Mormon: 
Alma 25-42
Alma is hard, but once again, I found some great gems in these chapters that make me happy.  Man, I love the Book of Mormon

This week, I also finished my scrapbook, so one of my projects is DONE!  WAHOO!

Week Six

Oh my goodness, this is the halfway mark!  Wow!  I am feeling great about this!

So, this week, I need to do Divine Nature #3:

Make your home life better. For two weeks make a special effort to strengthen your relationship with a family member by showing love through your actions. Refrain from judging, criticizing, or speaking unkindly, and watch for positive qualities in that family member. Write notes of encouragement, pray for this family member, find ways to be helpful, and verbally express your love. Share your experiences and the divine qualities you’ve discovered with that family member or with a parent or leader.

I already did this.  It is a little difficult to do with the small family that I have, but I was extra nice to my husband for two weeks.

And Individual Worth #3:

Read Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 and 121:45. Do all you can to build others and make them feel of worth. Every day for two weeks notice the worthwhile qualities and attributes of others. Acknowledge them verbally or in writing. In your journal write what you have learned about the worth of individuals and how your own confidence grows when you build others.

My journal:
It is definitely true that noticing the worth of others helps my own confidence grow. I have been noticing the worth of my husband especially. He is a very good husband, dad, and provider. He has been working on redoing our bonus room lately, and has dedicated a lot of himself to it. I am very impressed at how great of a man he is. This helps me to want to be a better wife and mother, and a better companion to him as well. 

And Individual Worth # 6:

When you participate in family history, you come to understand your identity and individual worth. Visit with your living relatives to learn as much information about your family history as possible. Then complete a pedigree chart of your family and list the temple ordinances that have been completed for each person.

I actually have a book that I have been needing to read about the ancestors on my mother's side, so I will do that.  I am going to finish this one next week, after we go to the Family History Center.

And Good Works #1:

Learn why service is a fundamental principle of the gospel. Read Matthew 5:13–16; 25:34–40; Galatians 6:9–10; James 1:22–27; Mosiah 2:17; 4:26; and 3 Nephi 13:1–4. Others often give service you may not notice, such as preparing meals, reading to or listening to younger children, repairing clothing, or helping a brother or sister. For two weeks record in your journal the quiet acts of service your family members and others perform. Acknowledge their service in some meaningful way.

My journal:
Acts of service:
My husband going to help my mom and sister-in-law in distress
My brothers and how helpful they are to each other.
My parents going to Virginia to help my brother and his family move.
My husband working on our bonus room
Sister Lundell helping to plan mutual
My mom and dad preparing the cabin for all of us to enjoy the weekend
My dad driving across the country with my brother  
My husband working on redoing our bonus room 
  
Book of Mormon:
Alma 7-24
I love the story of Ammon and Kind Lamoni!  This is one of my favorites from the Book of Mormon.  Even though the book of Alma is not my favorite, going through it faster makes it a lot easier to read!

Week Five

This week, I have completed Integrity #7, which says:

List the issues, trends, and problems that weaken the family. Read the First Presidency message, “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”, and the section on family in For the Strength of Youth. Then research in the Church magazines the counsel of those whom we sustain as prophets, seers, and revelators. Write in your journal your plan to strengthen your present family and the values and traditions you want to establish with your future family.

My journal:
I love the part in the Family Proclamation that states that, "Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities." That seems like such a great list to work on. If I can help my family now and in the future to focus on these principles, I will feel like a very successful mom. I am so lucky that I came from a family that has been strong at doing activities together as a family, and I hope to maintain that strength as I expand my own family. I read a talk by Elder Hales on strengthening our families. I have recommitted to having family scripture study, family prayer, and regular family home evening. Sometimes it is tough to do, but I know that it will be worth it!  

This week, I also need to record worthwhile attributes and quiet acts of service for  Individual Worth #3.
Some are: My husband going to help my mom and sister-in-law in distress
My brothers and how helpful they are to each other.
My parents going to Virginia to help my brother and his family move.

Book of Mormon reading:
Mosiah 20-Alma 6.  Man, I love the Book of Mormon!  It is so fun to read it all over again, and to do so quickly.  I am loving reading it this week.  I was particularly struck with how much King Benjamin's speech influenced the church for generations.  Wow!

Week Four

Knowledge #3:

Memorize Article of Faith number thirteen and recite it to a parent, a leader, or another adult. Then visit a museum or exhibit or attend a performance that involves dance, music, speech, or drama. Using this article of faith as a guide, evaluate what you saw and heard. In your journal write your thoughts about how you can use this article of faith as a guide for all you do so the Holy Ghost will be your constant companion. Share those thoughts with a parent or leader.

My journal:
I think that keeping ourselves pure on the inside helps us to be able to feel the spirit greater. I know that I am very unhappy when I don't feel the spirit and I hate that. I went to the Willard Arts Center at Colonial Theater. It was awesome to see the abstract art on the bottom floor. On the top floor, they had an exhibit of pictures taken of mountain tops put together. I am amazed at what a beautiful world Heavenly Father has given us, and at how much he must love us to give us such a beautiful world to look at every day. 

Knowledge #7: (Number 5 doesn't really apply to me)

At Young Women camp you learn skills in first aid, safety, sanitation, and survival. Review these teachings in your Young Women Camp Manual and note in your journal how you could apply them in your home to keep your family safe. Develop a list of basic supplies your family will need in case of an emergency. Teach a family home evening lesson or share with a Young Women leader what you have learned and what additional skills you would like to learn to be prepared for emergencies.

My journal:
First Aid:  The main things for first aid are to stop life-threatening dangers, keep the victim safe from further harm, and get proper medical help.  We need to know CPR and what to do in cases of persistent bleeding.  A basic knowledge of bandages, slings, and splints is also helpful.  Our family has a basic first aid kid and has knowledge of what to do, so I think we are okay.
Safety: Do not camp at dangerous places.  Be careful with fires.
Sanitation: When camping, keep trash separate and empty every night.  In areas where latrines are needed, keep everything sanitary. 
Survival: Know the stars and how to determine directions without a compass.  Know how to make a signal for help, and how to make an emergency shelter.

Choice and Accountability #3: (already done!)

Agency, or the ability to choose, is one of God’s greatest gifts to His children. Read about agency in Joshua 24:15; 2 Nephi 2; and Doctrine and Covenants 82:2–10. With a parent or leader, discuss the blessings and responsibilities of agency. Record in your journal your understanding of agency and the consequences of choices and actions.

My journal:
Agency is the whole reason that we come to this earth. We are sent to show our Heavenly Father what we will do with our own agency, whether we will choose his way or Satan's. Really, our will is the only thing that we truly have; everything else is really Heavenly Father's, that he has given us for trying on this earth.  

Book of Mormon reading:
I love the book of Mosiah!  I love reading about King Benjamin and Abinadi.  It is really some of my favorite stories!  Being reminded of them is awesome.  I have really enjoyed my reading this week!

Week 3

Individual Worth #4:

You are preparing now to fulfill a unique mission on the earth. Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:119. In your journal make a list of your hopes and dreams for your future home, family, and education and some important things you would like to accomplish in your life, including becoming a wife and mother. Then write a plan that will help you achieve your goals. Share this plan with a family member, leader, or friend.

My journal:
I feel like I have already attained a lot of my hopes and dreams. It has always been my hope to be a wife and a mother. I was able to find the man of my dreams and marry him in the temple over 5 years ago. I was also able to have my first baby almost two years ago, and I am expecting another one. I feel like there have been many many bumps along the road, but I have appreciated knowing that Heavenly Father has always been very mindful of me and of my challenges, and has helped me along the way.  

Knowledge #6:

Memorize two of your favorite hymns from the hymnbook. Learn the correct conducting pattern for the hymns (see Hymns, 383–85) and then conduct them at least two times at a family home evening, in a Young Women or other Church meeting, or at seminary. Read the scriptures listed at the bottom of each hymn.

My journal (I know it didn't ask for one, but here it is):

My two FAVORITE hymns. . . that is hard to choose
One would have to be hymn #19 . . . We Thank Thee Oh God For A Prophet.
I love this one because I remember a story told to me when I was younger about how President Hunter was speaking to a crowd, and a crazy person walked in and threatened to shoot him or something like that. The entire congregation started singing the hymn, and it immediately calmed him down and he was able to contain himself and the guards were able to take him away.
The other one is hymn #124 . . . Be Still My Soul
I love this hymn because it seems to be a lot of my life. A lot of times in my life, I have had to just reassure myself that everything is going to be okay. I know that God is watching over me every step of the way. 
I also read the scriptures at the end of each one.  I feel like I have conducted a lot of times (it used to be my calling), so I pretty much have that under control. 

Book of Mormon reading:
I did it!  I love the end of 2nd Nephi.  Enos is also one of my favorite books.  I love the Book of Mormon!

Individual Worth #7

It says:

Heavenly Father has given you special gifts. Read 1 Corinthians 12:4–12; 13; Moroni 7:12–13; 10:8–18; and Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–26. Ask a family member, a Young Women leader, and a friend to write down positive qualities the Lord has given you. List your gifts in your journal, and write how you can continue to develop these gifts and use them to serve your family and others.

I have really loved doing this one.  It is a little nerve-racking to ask people to help with it, but I asked my mom and Sister Meservy to make a list, and then my husband wanted to do one too, so I let him.  :)  I am not going to post my entire journal, but it was really a great experience and here is what I had to say at the end:

I love having a list of these qualities. I seriously had no idea what they would say, and their lists make me feel so good and make me feel like I need to keep making better and better decisions and choices. 

I have also decided on what three projects I will do.
1) Divine Nature: Make a blanket with stitching for my little boy
2) Individual Worth: Make a scrapbook for my family in 2013, using pictures taken through the year
3) Virtue: Read the Book of Mormon 

You know what I have decided?  Personal Progress is really not that hard!  In fact, when you get down to it, it is pretty fun and completely doable!

Week 2

OK, better this week!

Here are the value experiences:

Faith #2:

 "Discover the principles of faith taught by the mothers of Helaman’s stripling warriors. Read Alma 56:45–48 and 57:21. Review what “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” says about a mother’s role. With a mother, grandmother, or leader, discuss the qualities a woman needs in order to teach children to have faith and to base their decisions on gospel truths. How can these principles help you in your life today and help you prepare to be a faithful woman, wife, and mother? Record your thoughts and feelings in your journal."

Here is my journal:

The role of the mother is so important. I think that mainly, women need to lead their children by example. I have heard it said, "Teach your children, and when necessary, use words." I think it is important to have a firm testimony in the gospel, and to teach children that they need to live up to their heritage and ancestry. A mother needs to have a lot of patience and a lot of nurturing skills as well. She needs to be praying and reading her scriptures, so that she can know how to help her children when they need her help. I love reading about the mothers of Helaman's stripling warriors, because they must have been so courageous and such an example to their children. I hope to be that example to my children as well. 

Divine Nature #1:

"What are some of the divine qualities of a daughter of God? Read “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”; 2 Peter 1; Alma 7:23–24; and Doctrine and Covenants 121:45. In your own words, list the divine qualities discussed in your reading. Think about how you can discover and develop each of these qualities. Record your ideas in your journal. "

Here is my journal:
 
Divine qualities
Faith
Charity
Humility
Submissiveness
Confident
Kind
Patient
Nurturing 

Virtue #1: 

"Virtue is a pattern of thought and behavior based on high moral standards. It includes chastity and purity. The power to create mortal life is an exalted power God has given His children. He has commanded that this power be used only between a man and a woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife. Study the meaning and importance of chastity and virtue by reading Moroni 9:9; Jacob 2:28; “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”; and the section on sexual purity in For the Strength of Youth. Also read Article of Faith number thirteen and Proverbs 31:10–31. In your journal write the promised blessings of being sexually clean and pure and your commitment to be chaste."

Here is my journal:
Virtue and moral cleanliness are SO important to Heavenly Father. The blessings are very numberless, including being free from sexual diseases, but not only that, but being able to know that you are clean before God. When I got my recommend to get married in the temple, the stake president kind of held his breathe when he asked me about chastity. I said that there was no problem. He said, "really? None at all?" I told him that Chris and I were very good with each other. We understood that the time to have sex is after we have been sealed in the temple. We had both made covenants up to that point, and there was no reason to break them. It was a very good feeling to know that we were completely clean before him when we got married. I will continue to be chaste, because I know that there is no person on earth that I would rather be with than my husband. I know that this will bring me so many blessings in the eternities.  

Book of Mormon reading:
I finished to 1 Nephi 18 on Tuesday!  So that is good news!  As far as my assignment for this week, I was able to finish it on Sunday.  Man, I love the Book of Mormon!  These chapters were the Isaiah chapters, which I admit, are sometimes hard for me to get through, but I love them still!

In my lesson today, we talked about Virtue #3 in preparation for attending the temple.  I do not see it on the list, so I think I will do that sometime this week to check it off.

Week One

I TRIED to do week one, but it was a little difficult, because I was out of town.  There will be catch up next week!

I have already completed Individual Worth #1, so here is my journal from it:

• I have heard that when we go to the next world, we will be surprised at how well we know God and how well he knows us. I feel this all the time. I know that he knows me and loves me. I know that he is definitely mindful of me at all times. Sometimes, it is kind of unfathomable how well he knows me and everyone on this earth. But I am so grateful to know that he at least knows me individually. I have been reminded of this so many times in my life, from the time that I found my lost Minnie Mouse doll to the big things that have happened in my life. God really does know us and care about each of us. 

I am also working on Individual Worth #7.  I will not lie.  This one is hard because I have to ask other people to help me out.  I decided to ask my mom and Sister Meservy to help me.  They haven't gotten back to me, so that will have to wait.

The computer said that I had done Integrity #2, but there was no journal with it.  So I rewrote the journal:

• I have really tried lately to have personal integrity. I avoid gossip, inappropriate jokes, swearing and profanity, and being light-minded. I also try to be completely trustworthy and dependable in all my doings. I guess that I could improve myself a little bit by being more trustworthy and dependable. I will try to do so in all of my doings, especially with my family.  

I am also working on reading the Book of Mormon!  I have found more of the spirit with that than I expected.  It is amazing how much of the spirit you can feel with reading a book!  I only got to 1 Nephi Chapter 10, where it recounts Nephi's dream, and decided that I was too tired to finish.  So I will play catch up with that too!

Some observations from this week:

• Personal progress is fun, but a lot of work as well.
• It is hard to stay disciplined when there are so many distracting things around.  Especially when you are on vacation.
• Reading the Book of Mormon brings the spirit into my home so well.  It is amazing.  I am excited to continue reading it!

Introduction

I found this post about how to do all the personal progress, except for the projects, in a summer.  So, I am trying it out!  I started a little bit late, because of Girls' Camp, but hey, I am starting!  Join me on this journey.  It also includes the project for Virtue, which is reading the Book of Mormon.  Hopefully, you will follow along!