February Challenge: Day 28

Well, today is the last day of our February Challenge.  We didn't stick directly to what we said we would do, so I guess our goal was to post every day for this month, which we did for the most part.  Another goal of ours was to have at least 1000 views by the end of the month.  We have 1,220 views! Thank you so much to everyone who has looked at our blog!  It means so much to us to have people share and read it!  Okay, so my post for today is about a quote I read today posted by the dear mother of my best friend.  It says "The best way way to predict the future is to create it."  I love this quote so much!  It encourages everyone to keep moving forward, and to never give up!  That's what I will be doing with our blog, and with my every day life!  Mica and I will try to come up with something for next month for our blog.  If you have any suggestions, please comment them!  Thanks you guys again, and remember, keep moving forward!  :)  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 27

It's kind of funny that Sky's post was about seminary because so is mine. Today in seminary today I heard a talk by Elder Hugh B. Brown titled the Curabr Bush. If you have not heard this talk listen to it! In the story Elder Hugh is denied a promotion in the Army because he is Mormon. Frustrated, Elder Hugh got mad at the Lord. He then hears the voice of the Lord say, “I am the gardener here. I know what I want you to do." The lord has a plan for each and everyone of us and sometimes the plan may not play out how we thought it should. The Lord might cut us down so we can grow. I know that everything happens for a reason and that the Lord loves us dearly. Remember next time when you don't agree with God's decision that He knows everything and that He has a plan for you. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 27

I had an amazing lesson in my seminary class today!  Seminary is a Latter Day Saints, or "Mormon", class I go to at school every day.  Our teacher is gone, so we had a wonderful substitute there to teach us.  She is very wise and loving.  I hope she doesn't mind me sharing a story she told us of when she was a teenager.  When she was younger, she stayed out late past her curfew.  She though she could sneak in while her parents were asleep, and tell them that she had come in only a few minutes late instead of the actual time she was gone.  However, this didn't work.  When she walked in, she saw her dad sitting at their kitchen table waiting for her.  He had her sit down, and he asked to her to sing him a song.  I don't know if other churches sing this song, but in our church the younger children sing a song called "The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rock", also known as, "The Wise Man Song".  It goes, "The wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock.  The wise man built his house upon the rock, and the rains came tumbling down.  The rains came down and the floods came up.  The rains came down and the floods came up.  The rains came down and the floods came up, but the house on the rock stood still."  This is the first verse, and it is supposed to represent who we should be.  If we have a firm foundation, and if we are steadfast in our church, then the bad things of this world will only be temporary.  The second verse goes, "The foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand.  The foolish man built his house upon the sand, and the rains came tumbling down.  The rains came down and the floods came up.  The rains came down and the floods came up.  The rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand washed away."  This verse is supposed to represent what happens if we are not doing the things we are supposed to be doing.  If we don't love one another, or if we don't serve others, then we are building our lives on unstable grounds.  After she sang the song, her father told her that she was building her house on the sand.  This substitute is an amazing teacher and woman, and she told us that we should learn from her mistake, and not make the same one.  Her example really touched me today.  She really made me think about what I'm building my house on.  Sometimes it feels like sand, but other times it feels like a rock.  I'm so grateful for those around me who can teach me how to better myself, and teach me how to build on a rock instead of sand.  They all mean so much to me, and I hope they know that.  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 26

To get out of German class every day, each of us students must say a "password".  For example, the password might be "Im Fruhling, spiele ich _____."  This translates to "In spring, I play _____."  We are supposed to fill in the blank.  One of our recent passwords was "Meine Familie ist______," which means "My family is______."  Many of the students ended the statement with words such as "boring," "stupid," or "annoying."  It made me sad to think that students think of their families this way.  Families are under attack right now.  Not physically, but spiritually and emotionally.  Many things are tearing families apart, or slowly pulling each member away from one another.  It's our job to try and keep our families together.  I love my family, and I am so grateful for them.  I wouldn't trade them for any other family.  I wish every teenager, or even every person, could truthfully say the same thing.  Try to show acts of kindness or patience with one another in the family.  Show them that you care.  This is something I strive to do each and every day.  I promise it makes you a happier person. :)  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 26

This morning at the temple, the temple president shared with us D&C 98:1-2 these verses talk about how the lord hears our prayer and how he will answer them. His timing to answering your prayers may not be when you wanted it, but it is when you needed it. I love being able to pray whenever I want and knowing that someone will always be there for me. Every day I pray for the oppurtunity to serve others. I may not always know how I uplifted somebody, but I know that because of praying to the Lord for help I was able to make somebodys day better.Somebody will always be there to comfort us  and to love us. Prayer us an opportunity to communicate with our father in Heaven. I have a strong testimony that the lord hears and answers out prayers and that someday we will be reunited with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 25

Gordon B. Hinckley once said, " happy is the man who can brush aside the offending remarks of another and go on his way."  Recently one of my friends was hurt by one of her friends who told her that she no longer wanted to be friends with her. My friend tried to change her friends mind never saying anything mean. This girl did and continues to offend my friend daily by calling her a jerk. Although this is hard on my friend she and the rest of our friends make an effort to be kind to the girl. It is important to be nice to your friends but it's also important to be kind to those who are not so kind. It is hard to be nice especially when the action isn't mutual but it's necessary. Jesus commanded us to love one another. I challenge you to make an extra effort to be nice to someone tomorrow. I will! ~mica

February Challenge: Day 25

I read a scripture today, and the idea behind it really stuck with me.  Sadly, I can't remember the actual verse, but the message behind it was important.  The idea behind it was that we must replace our fear with faith.  Fear is a big deal these days.  Everybody wants to fit in.  I know there are people that want to be different, and I myself am one of those people, but I still want to be seen as "acceptable" by society's standard.  This fear of not fitting in causes us to do things we wouldn't normally do, or say things we wouldn't normally say.  It is seen as cool, so why shouldn't we do it, right?  Wrong!  There was a quote on the wall of my middle school that said "What is popular is not always right, and what is right is not always popular."  These word have stuck with me ever since I read them on my first day in sixth grade.  We must not be fearful to do what is right.  Instead, we should have faith that if we do what is right, everything will be okay.  We should replace fear with faith.  I know this isn't something I did to uplift someone else, but the message uplifted me today, and I thought I should share!  A goal of mine now is to work on replacing my fear with faith, and not being afraid of doing what is right.  If you don't already do this, maybe you could try it!  If no one else supports you in trying it, Mica and I do!  Be your amazing self!  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 24

Today was gorgeous here in the Tri-Cities. As I waled home I couldn't help but smile at everything around me. Soon upon arriving home I opened my window and took a seat in the window seal with my feet resting on the roof and I began reading my scriptures. I turned to my favorite scripture in the book if Mormon "Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend."(Mosiah 4:9) I felt a sense of love and peace as I read this verse and I am thankful for God's beautiful creations. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 24

I know I talk about my German class a lot, but today's experience in German class was a good one!  I have a friend I have made in that class who loves to read like I do.  We talk about books we have read or are reading, and she, along with another girl in that class, make it very enjoyable.  Today, she brought me a book to read that she really liked.  She has done this once before, but today it touched my heart.  She didn't ask me if I wanted a book to read, or tell me she was bringing one, she just did it.  I appreciate the example she sets for me.  The example of doing.  We all say we will do something, but sometimes it never happens.  Her example of doing what she thinks she should do is amazing to me.  She probably had no intention of inspiring my blog post today, but that's what she did.  So, thanks German class friend for the great book and amazing example to me!  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 23

Recently my grandpa passed away. This was extremely hard on my family and especially my mom and her siblings. My grandpa was a man who was extremely committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and his family. He fathered 21 children and each one of them was dearly loved. He also loved each 92 grandchildren And 82 great grandchildren by name. This type of commitment is not common in today's world and a lot of kids are growing up without fathers. My grandpa was also always talking about the gospel. Not once could a conversation be discussed without mention of the church. I loved this it made it so that the spirit was always  around and the Savior's love was upon you. My grandpa was a great example and inspired everyone he met to do good. He means so much to me and I look forward to the day that we will be reunited. I know my grandpa is in a better place and I am sure that he is still preaching the gospel and spreading love to all. We need more people like him in today's world. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 23

Last week I said that I was going to do something different, and I did!  It's not anything major, but it's big for me!  I went to church on Sunday, and in one of my classes we were discussing and upcoming event we were putting together.  They asked if somebody would be willing to explain part of the event, and nobody was volunteering!  If you know me personally, you definitely know that I turn bright red when I have to talk in front of people, so I never volunteer for things like that.  However, I felt I should step out of my comfort zone and try something I never do!  I will be talking a little bit for our church event on Wednesday, and I hope I don't turn too red!  On another note, one of my dear, dear friends moved across the country, and I miss her so much.  She contacted me today, and we talked about her new house, her room, how cold it is, and how starting a new school is for her.  I miss her tons, but I'm extremely grateful for today's technology!  Without it, her and I would have a very difficult time trying to communicate with one another.  When used for good, today's technology is amazing!  It has so much good potential!  My challenge for this week is use technology in a good way!  You can do this by sharing an uplifting message on Facebook, or posting an uplifting quote on instagram.  Commenting on our blog counts as using the internet in an uplifting way too :)  This post jumped to many different topics, and I'm sorry it's so scattered, but I really am grateful for everything!  The world is such a wonder, and it's our job to take everything that comes at us with a smile on our face, and kindness in our hearts.  Loving everyone you meet, and getting to know people before you judge them is so important to keeping happy, and I know personally that doing this will help you to stay positive, as well as encourage others to be positive too!  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 22

Yesterday I was able to go to Buddy Club Prom. Buddy Club Prom is prom for kids with disabilities. I had so much fun! I spent the whole night dancing! I loved watching the kids smile and have fun. I am glad that I was able to go spend time with these wonderful people and that so many of these kids are my friends! I know that each and every person on this earth is a son and daughter of God and is loved dearly! ~mica

February Challenge: Day 22

I completey forgot to post yesterday!  So sorry!  My uplifting moment was from yesterday, though.  For those of you who don't know, I'm a paraglider.  That's not the one where you appear to being hanging on to a bar connected to a triangle.  That's hangliding.  It's also not the one where you sit in a seat strapped to a parachute tied to the back of a boat.  That's parasailing.  Paragliding is its own thing.  Anyways, learning how to handle your wing is very important in paragliding, and it's something I enjoy.  Yesterday, my dad took me to the park to do this ( the term for it is "kiting"), and I had a blast!  I love getting to spend time with my dad and kite my wing!  It was both emotionally and physically uplifting.  I'm so grateful for fathers, specifically my father, and his love for me.  I couldn't ask for a better dad!  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 20

I was invited to go to a High School Musical movie marathon after school today by Mica and three of our great friends.  I had such a fun time watching them with some of the greates people on earth!  I'm infinitely grateful for my fantastic friends and the fabulous examples they all set!  I have been so blessed and uplifted by them!  They are my second family.  Friends definitely have an influence on you, so having friends that give you positive encouragement for the right things is very important. Good friends keep us on the right track.  Keeping good friends near to me has helped me so much this past year, and I can't wait for the memories we will make in the future!  Thank you for everything, friends.  ~Sky

February Challenge:Day 20

I had the oppurtunity to share the gospel today with one of my teachers. She was talking about religion to a kid and was saying what different religions believe. When she got to Mormons she said that we believe that the husband controls whether the wife will go to heaven or not. I was able to correct her and explain what we believe. I told her gow we have agency and that we are responsible for our own actions. I am glad that I had the oppurtunity to share with her. I'm so blessed to have the knowledge of the gospel in my life. I am glad that we were given the gift of agency! ~mica

February Challenge: Day 19

On Thursdays we dance. Today my friends and I got to spend our lunch and after school swing dancing. I love it! I may not be very good at dancing, and I think I have two left feet, but I have fun! I get to enjoy spending times which my friends and then laughing at them when they fall(after I check if they are okay, obviously...). In so glad that I have such amazing friends who are willing to dance around crazy with me and give up there lunch to learn to dance.

February Challenge: Day 19

Yay we have exactly 800 views!  Thank you so much for reading and sharing our blog!  It means so much to us!  So, for today's uplifting moment for me was something that happens every day, but I thought I would share it today.  My uplifting moment was talking to my little sister!  She is so smart and brave, and she is by far the kindest young woman you will ever meet!  She always listens to me, and is always there for me, and I couldn't ask for a better little sister!  She is my role model, and I hope I can grow up to be like her. :)  ~Sky

Feburary Challenge: Day 18

A few months ago I was blessed by the kind heart of a little girl. I had had a horrible day at school nothing had seemed to go right. I was exhausted and after school I was having oral surgery. It was below freezing outside and for some reason I forgot my jacket at home. I was cold, tired ,and feeling sorry for my self. My ride was thirty minutes late and I could no longer feel my feet, fingers, or face. As I sat there feeling sorry for myself I  noticed a little girl no older than first grade walking towards me. She was wearing a big puffy pink coat and pink fury gloves. Her scarf was falling off of her, her backpack was dragging behind her, and she looked like she was going to cry. Her little cheeks were a rosy color and she looked tired, she probably had walked more than a mile, as she got closer I gave her a smile to which she returned. By this point my teeth wee chattering and i had goosebumps everywhere. When she reached where I was standing she looked up at me and asked, " are you cold?" And then she proceeded to take off her tiny gloves that wouldn't have even gone over my fingers and held them out for me to take. I bent down and told her that I would be fine and that she needed them and then she asked me to fix her scarf when I finished she told me I was the nicest high schooler she had met and that I was pretty. This little girls kindness was so simple, a girl who was probably having a worse day than I was and was really young was willing to help me. She was wiling to give up her gloves to a complete stranger to make my day better. Why can't everyone be like this little girl? Why can't we all be selfless? After meeting this little girl my attitude completely changed and warmth spread through my body at her act of kindness. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 18

As a fun project, the wards for my church in my city decided to put togethet a "road show".  However, instead of traveling, we recorded them all and watched them tonight.  It was great to be able to see how everybody came together to make the videos, and we all had so much fun together!  These videos were a great example to me of unity and friendship, and I'm so grateful for how close everyone in my church is to one another.  They are all so inspiring.  I'm grateful for friends and family, and how we can all lift one another's spirits!  Friends and family are amazing.  I don't know what I would do without them.  So, thanks to all of my wonderful friends and family for always being there for me!  You guys are great!  ~Sky

February Challenge:Day 17

Today at school I was able to listen to this guy Mike Smith tell his story. It was so inspiring. He explained how he went from this stuck up kid, to who he is today, a guy who has helped hundreds and hundreds of homeless people all around the world. Someday I want to do something amazing like he has does. Me becoming a more accomplished helpful person is not going to happen today, tomorrow, or next week, but I can work on becoming a more kind, helpful, generous person today, tomorrow, and next week by doing simple acts of kindness. A simple smile or saying hello goes a long way. So my goal is to work extra hard to uplift others. But I also challenge you guys to try hard too! Imagine the world if we would all help each other and be nice! I also challenge you to go look up Mike Smith's life sorry! ~Mica

February Challenge: Day 17

Today we had a 45 minute assembly at my school for a speaker to come and talk to us.  His name is Mike Smith and he is extremely inspiring!  He told us his life story, and explained to us how he changed his whole life around!  He's this laid back kind of guy with a passion for skateboarding who has made an amazing difference in the world with his "Skate for Change" program, which has  helped hundreds of homeless people all across America!  He definitely made my day today.  His story of change, which is kind of hard to explain and you could probably find it online, sorry, has inspired me to try and make a change in the world somehow!  I'm not really sure how yet, but when I figure it out I will definitely post about it!  I'll end this post with  a quote Mike Smith said to us, "Speak for the silent and stand for the broken."  We should all try to be brave enough to stand up for anyone who needs it, and not be afraid of what others think, myself included.  If we could do this, the world would be a happier place.  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 16

Recently, our family moved into a new ward for our church.  Wards are groups of people that go to the church building at different times.  Wards are needed so that everyone can attend church on Sunday without the building being too crowded.  Anyways, I have made some great new friends in the ward.  Today, I was invited over to one of their house's, where all three of us were going to make crepes and watch movies.  We watched a movie I have never seen called "Bride and Prejudice", which is an Indian-cultured knockoff of Jane Austin's "Pride and Prejudice".  I've never seen it before, so it was a fun experience.  There are a lot of dances throughout the movie to which my two friends danced along to, and invited me to do as well.  I had no idea what I was doing, but I had an extremely fun time trying to sing and dance along to a movie I didn't know!  This leads to my thought of the day, which is that we need to step out of comfort zones every now and then.  Many people, myself included, miss out on opportunities to do fun things because they seem too silly, embarrassing, or too childish.  While this is true in some cases, there are many times when we miss out because of our fear of what other people think.  I have been trying to work on doing what I want to do without worrying about how others see me.  I instead focus on the fun I am having or what I am learning from it.  If everyone stayed in their comfort zones all of the time, nobody would ever accomplish anything!  So, my challenge to you is to step out of your comfort zone in a positive way.  Make a new friend, try a new recipe, learn how to sew or knit, volunteer at an animal shelter, or even read a book you wouldn't normally read!  The possibilities are endless, and can range from extreme to miniscule!  I'm taking this challenge, and I will post about something new I tried at the end of this week.  I would love to hear from anyone who is willing to try it!  So, what are you waiting for?  Go out and try something new!  ~Sky

Feburary Challenge: Day 15

Today in young women we learned about how our decisions determine our destiny. Although this lesson was great it added to my stressing out about the future, like what college should I attend? What do I want to be when I grow up? Are my grades okay?  When I got home I was still thinking about my lesson as I sorted through a stack of my papers. I came across some pages of music and in this song it tells how our purpose here in earth is to serve the Lord and do his work. This filled me with peace. I m know that if we do what is right the Lord will show us the way.  ~Mica

February Challenge: Day 15

Hey everyone I'm sorry I didn't post yesterday!  I went to the same dance Mica did,and I was extremely tired when I got home.  Today my family and I were invited to have dinner with a family in the ward.  They made an amazing dinner and amazing pies and they were so friendly and kind!  I had so much fun!  I'm so grateful for all of the parents that work so hard to raise their kids with gospel standards.  Parents and families are truly amazing, and I'm so grateful for this family's example!  They definetly made my day today! ~Sky

Feburary Challenge: Day 14

Today I was uplifted by my friends. I attended my church valentine dance and I had a blast! The time soon came though where I had to give a hug and say a goodbye to my friend. Although it was hard I know it's not an ifficL goodbye. I'm thankful for all the laughs we've shared(some pretty crazy ones).I'm glad that I have such great friends and that if we are kind to each other and confide with one another we can get through anything! My friends have taught me the true meaning of friendship! I love all of my friends thank you! Happy Valentines!

Today I spent time with one of my best friends. She is moving across the country on Monday. I'm going to miss her so much but I am so greatful that I have got to know her for as long as I have. She is always so kind and is always there for you no matter what she is amazing! I love her so much and I know that Maryland is going to be a lot better with her there. She is a great example of a good friend. Thanks Mae Mae for being my friend. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 13

I had the wonderful pleasure of babysitting tonight! I love babysitting so much, for several reasons.  The reason that hit home for me tonight was the example they set.  They listen and follow directions, and believe in what you tell them.  Jesus told us that we should be "as little children" when it comes to our faith in him.  Children have this way of believing that adults seem to struggle with.  I don't know why it is, but children are usually better at believing in something, or someone, they cannot see.  I hope that my faith is like that of a child, and, that if it isn't, I can make it so.  Children are sometimes the best teachers.

February Challenge: Day 12

Today I was able to uplift my self and my ancestors. On Thursdays I get up at 4:30 to go to the LDS temple. I have gone almost every Thursday since I turned 12 and I am about to turn 15, and each week I look forward to waking up early as going to the temple! I was able to do family names today and the spirit today was so strong. I know that the temple is the house of the lord and that we can feel his spirit and love there. I love having a temple so close and I love being able to attend so early. ~mica

February Challenge: Day 12

Today I was uplifted both emotionally, and physically, by my swing dancing partner.  At my highschool, we have a club called "Swing Club", for anyone who would like to learn how to swing dance.  My friends and I all decided to sign up at the beginning of the year, and we've all loved it so far!  We are currently getting ready to perform for our school, so we are having extra practices.  Anyways, I'm so grateful for my awesome partner who is willing to put up with my shenanigans, and who never drops me!  I've stepped on his foot at least 100 times, yet he still shows up every Thursday.  He's one of my best friends, and I couldn't ask for a better swing partner! ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 11

Today I had the opportunity to attend a dance for the LDS church. When I got there I started talking to my friends. As I looked around the room I noticed one of friends who has Down syndrome standing alone. She kinda looked around sadly and then just stood there. I had my friends follow me over towards her and was able to introduce my friends to her. We spent the next little while playing "don't let the balloon touch the floor" it was fun! When a slow song came on one of my guy friends asked her to dance. I am glad that I have such great friends! I love seeing people smile and have fun! I'm glad that I was able to make her feel more welcome. 

February Challenge: Day 11

Dads are amazing.  They do so much for us.  I am so grateful for my father, and how hard he works to support our family, and the little things he does to make people's days brighter.  When I returned home from a Valentine's dance for my church a couple of  hours ago, I found a spider in my room. Ew.  I like spiders, but I don't like it when they're in my room.  So, instead of killing it myself, I called my dad and asked him to come kill it for me.  He didn't even hesitate, or ask why I couldn't do it.  He stopped what he was doing and came into my room and got it for me.  I am so blessed to have the father I have, and I'm so thankful for the love that he has for each of us and our family.  He is always there for me no matter what.  I love you Dad <3 ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 10

Yay!  Our blogging days have reached the double digits!  Thanks to everyone who is reading this right now and who has read our blog!  Okay, on another note, I have an experience of how I uplifted someone today (sort of).  Flashback to the week before Christmas; I was shopping for Christmas presents for my siblings with help from my mom (whose blog I'm following and you should go check it out :) ).  I was trying to decide on what I should get for my older sister for Christmas.  It was then that I remembered her mentioning that she had never had a professional massage.  Ever.  So, I went to my uncle's chiropractic office and bought her a certificate for an hour long massage whenever she scheduled.  I gave it to her for Christmas, and she just used it today.  She told me how much she enjoyed it, and that she was very grateful to me for getting her that gift.  I'm grateful to her for showing her gratitude towards me.  Many times people receive something, whether it be a gift or a kind gesture from another, but they do not express their gratitude.  One way of returning the favor is to say thank you.  It takes a single breath to say thanks, and I think that it would certainly not be a breath wasted.  So, the moral of my story is, don't be afraid or embarrassed to say thanks!  If you appreciate something or someone, make in known unto them!  Being grateful is a big piece of the puzzle we must solve, the puzzle which we call "Happiness".  ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 9

    Tonight while reading my scriptures I came across a verse that really stood out to me. "Verily, Thus saith the lord unto whom I love, and whom I love I also chasten that their sins may be forgiven, for with the chastisement I prepare a way for their deliverance in all things out of temptation, and i have loved you-"(D&C 95:1). I just love this! I know that my savior loves me and that Heavenly Father sent his son to die for us because he loves us dearly. 

     In one of my classes today the girl I sit next to started talking about how she felt like the ugly duckling from the ugly duckling story. Her sadness brought such sorrow to me as she explained how she had been teased about her looks. I realized after she finished her story though that she had forgotten the most important part of the story...The part where the ugly duckling realizes he is a beautiful swan. One of my favorite talks by Dieter F. Uchdorf titled, "The reflection in the water",came into my mind. I was able to share a quote from this talk to her that I have memorized, "you are not ordinary, rejected, or ugly. You're something divine-more beautiful and glorious than you can possibly imagine." I told her that she was beautiful and that she like the ugly duckling in the story just needed to look a her reflection. I am so grateful for the knowledge of the savior and his love for us and I am glad that I had the opportunity to day to remind somebody of their beauty. Jesus loves you. Don't forget.~Mica 

February Challenge: Day 9

Today is a happy day!  Why, might you ask, is today such a happy day for me?  Well, I have an answer for you!  Today is a happy day for me because I chose to make it a happy day for me!  I read an amazing quote that goes perfectly with my day today, because I started the day in a grumpy "Monday" mood and ended it in an ecstatic "Friday" mood.  Anyway, the quote I wanted to share with you guys was posted by a dear mother of one of my best friends, whose family is like a second family to me.  The quote reads, "Stop waiting for Friday, for summer, for someone to fall in love with you, for life.  Happiness is achieved when you stop waiting for it and make the most of the moment you are in now."  I don't know who said this, but they were wise!  When we are having a bad day, we can change it!  We have agency!  We can choose to be happy; to uplift and strengthen others, and if we can't see the sun because the clouds are in the way, we can clear the skies and let the sun shine through!  Amazing, right?  I hope that anyone and everyone out there in this big, wide world will turn their frowns upside-down and make the best of every moment they have!  It might not always be easy, but I promise you it is always possible! ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 8

My dad went on his mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to Brazil, and while he was there he learned how to cook an amazing meal of beans, rice, and steak.  He made this for dinner tonight, and invited his parents (my grandparents) to dine with us.  We enjoyed talking over dinner, and afterwards, they asked me to play a song on the ukulele for them.  For those of you who know me personally, you know that I don't enjoy "being in the spotlight".  Needless to say, I played a few for them anyways, and my little sister sang along to some of them.  I really enjoyed getting to spend time with them tonight, and I know it made their day to be able to come spend time with their grandchildren and family.  I love my family, and I am so grateful that I am able to be a part of the family I am in.  Families are so important, and I know that through trying to strengthen a relationship with a family member, you can also strengthen your relationship with God, so it's basically a win-win situation :) ~Sky

Feburary Challenge: Day 8

I feel so bad that I have posted recently. Sorry. How have you guys been? On Friday I had the opportunity to hangout with some of my friends. I haven't laughed so hard in a while. I'm so grateful that I have such amazing friends and that I'm close with all of them. The party that I was at was a going away party for one of my friends who is moving across the country. Although it is going to be hard to say goodbye I'm glad that I have got to know her. I'm glad that I have great friends who are always there for me and who can make me laugh until I cry. I know that my friends were put in my life for a reason and that my Heavenly Father has a plan for me. Comment below about some crazy times you have had with your friends.~Mica <3

February Challenge: Day 7

I have been sick for the past two days, and I slept terribly last night.  I woke up about every two hours until 2:00 am.  I was so fed up with feeling terrible and exhausted, and I didn't know what to do.  That was when the thought occurred to me to pray to My Heavenly Father for help.  I asked Him to help me gain the rest I needed, and I fell asleep right after I said amen.  I didn't wake up until 8:00 am.  I'm so grateful for the power of prayer, and that the Lord answers prayers.  He watches over each of us.  I love Him so much.  Without Him and his gospel, I'm not sure where I would be.  But I have the gospel, which has made me into who I am today. ~ Sky

Febraruy Challenge: Day 6

I almost forgot to post but thankfully I just remembered!  I don't really have an uplifting moment to share, but I do have a testimony that I feel inclined to share.  I am so grateful for the Lord's hand in my life.  I know he helps me out with every situation, whether it's a test or a disagreement with a friend.  He loves me, and everyone else, and only wants the best for us.  However, we cannot reach our full potential without asking for His help.  He has given us so many tools to use, like the Priesthood and the scriptures, to help guide us on the right path.  I know that if we follow his teachings we can constantly be in his presence.  I love my friends and family and everyone at school, and I am grateful for my education.  The Lord has blessed my life in an infinite amount of ways, and for that I will forever be grateful. ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 5

One of my friends is going through a hard time and yesterday I could tell she needed to be cheered up. I texted her a simple text telling her how wonderful and beautiful she is. This didn't take a lot of time or effort to text her but it doesn't mean it was not any less meaningful. I love my friend to the end of the universe and I hate to see her sad. I also hate to see other people sad. It's not hard to smile or give a nice compliment. In the song scatter sunshine it says "scatter sunshine all along the way, cheer and bless and brighten every passing day." Try to be the sunshine in somebody else's day. ~Mica <3

February Challenge: Day 5

For my uplifting experience today, I decided that I wanted to try and uplift whoever is reading this and count that!  So I decided that it would be a good day to share a scripture.  The scripture I chose to share with you is in Doctrine and Covenants.  It's verse 19, and it reads, "Every man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all things with an eye single to the glory of God."  I love this scripture because it talks about "seeking the interest of his neighbor", which basically translates to, "find the needs of those around you, and meet them."  Can you imagine what the world would be like if every single person put others' needs before their own?  There would be so much more joy! This is why I thought to do this challenge for this month, and to have this blog.  I hope that these posts can bring some sunshine into someone's day when they need it, and that by brightening your day, you might brighten someone's day, and keep the cycle going! ~Sky

the February Challenge: Day 4

Recently here in the tri-cities it has been nothing but gray skies and cold weather. I'm pretty sure I haven't seen the sun in a month. I love the rain and it is my favorite weather, but it has come to a point that I'm sick of the gray. At the beginning of this week I was challenged by my friend to wear rain boots every day (since I own enough). I don't know what it is about rain boots but they make me feel protected against anything, like I can do anything! Today my one of my best friends also wore rain boots and we had the opportunity to go puddle jumping at lunch. We both ended up with muddy clothes and soggy socks, but it was worth it! Simply having these fun times with my friends cheered me up. I'm am so thankful for my wonderful friends! I hope that I am as good of friend to them as they are to me. I challenge you to be a friend to everybody and let everyone know they are loved. ~ mica <3

February Challenge: Day 4

For my experience today, I wanted to share how I uplifted one of my best friends.  Recently, she was going through a hard time with one of her friends.  She texted me about it, and I replied to her, telling her of her worth in my eyes and in the eyes of God.  I told her I would call her every day this week, and so far have done so.  I later received a message from her mother (our families are close) saying how much she appreciated me being there for her daughter.  I know that helping other people helps me almost as much as it helps them, if not more so.  I know that the Lord wants us to serve our fellow brethren, and I hope that by trying to serve others we can be an example to them, and make them want to serve others too.  I'm so grateful for my wonderful friends, and the amazing examples they are to me, and I am grateful for the wonderful example of service set by my Savior Jesus Christ.  I hope we can all strive to be like him in everything we do, and make the world a better place. ~Sky

The February Challenge: Day 3

In my math class there is this girl who is constantly being made fun of behind her back. She doesn't talk a lot so I hadn't actually had the opportunity to speak to her until about a week ago when we got new seats and I was placed by her. I felt like I should say something, something to help me get to know her. Immediately I thought I should ask her how her day had been. I was expecting to receive a simple answer from this girl since she didn't talk a lot, but i received the opposite. She told me that her day had been horrible and she continued to explain why. I listened to her story and gave her some advise. When she finished she smiled and said thank you for listening. I'm glad that I had been able to know what to say in order to help cheer her up. We talk everyday and I've found out that she is a pretty cool person. sometimes all it takes is a simple smile or listening to somebody to make their day better. ~mica <3

February Challenge: Day 3

Today I decided that instead of sharing how I uplifted someone else, I would share how someone else uplifted me!  As you all know, I am taking a German class, which I have 5th hour.  My seminary class ,which, for those of you who don't know is an LDS class offered at my high school, is right after my German class. So, I went into German class today with the attitude that I was going to be happy no matter what was said to me!  Unfortunately, it didn't go as planned, and I walked out of the class feeling discouraged and unsuccessful.  I think my feelings were obvious because my wonderful seminary teacher asked me how I was doing, to which I replied "Pretty good."  However, I wasn't convincing, and he knew that something was wrong.  Instead of asking what had happened, though, he went into his office and returned with a Kit Kat, which he offered to me.  I gratefully accepted it, and sat down at my desk feeling uplifted.  My teacher probably doesn't realize it, but he brightened my day a lot, and set a great example to me.  He showed me that even a small act of kindness, or even just showing someone that you're there for them, can make a big difference.  Thank you, seminary teacher, for making my day brighter. :) ~Sky

On Mondays I have the opportunity to go to Buddy club and eat lunch with kids with disabilities. I love it! The kids are always smiling and always so happy when you walk through the door to eat lunch with them. Kids with disabilities are seriously my favorite people ever! They mean sooo much to me! A few weeks ago in math class the boys  in my table started making fun of people with disabilities. This all started because I was wearing my Buddy Club sweatshirt. The boys stared saying that children with disabilities were mentally and physically sick. They said that if I keep spending time with kids with disabilites I too would become disabled. I kindly told the kids to stop saying these rude remarks but they would not listen to me, they just kept being rude. I was in the verge of tears and was also about to punch them, for anyone that knows me I am not a violent person. I did not know what to do. I got up and went over the teacher to ask a question even though I already knew the answer, I just needed to leave the group. As I was walking back to my table I said a quick prayer that I would feel love towards the people in my group. As soon as I said amen peace overcame me. I sat down glad that the subject had changed and that I was no longer being made fun of. I began to work on my homework and the kids at my table acted like nothing happened. When I got home I began to cry and wondered how people could be so rude. Before I went to bed I opened up my scriptures to D&C 64:10-11 in verse 10 it's say that we must forgive all men. A sense of peace came over me and I new that I needed to forgive the boys in my math class. Although it was hard I have now forgiven these boys I even began to help  one of the boys in my group who had been teasing me the most with his math. Through this experience  I have learned that it is important to forgive everyone no matter what! Each Monday I am reminded the importance of forgiving others and that we must be kind and love one another I'm glad I have had this trial and I am glad that I have the opportunity to spend so much time with so many wonderful people! I love kids with disabilities and I know that they and every one are loved by Heavenly Father.~Mica <3

February Challenge: Day 2

For my foreign language class, I am taking German, and in that class is a group of young men that aren't usually very kind.  While in that class,  one of the young men that likes to bother me was making very crude jokes about me.  At first, I was angry, and I wanted to say hurtful things back.  However, I thought of how I would feel hours later after I said something rude, and I knew that I would feel shame and regret for acting the same way.  So instead of being unkind, I put his German book away for him.  I think this made him realize how unkind he was being because when I returned to my seat he apologized to me.  I may not have uplifted him, but I did show him that I was trying to, and he recognized that and said sorry.  I'm so grateful for the power of kindness, and for the commandment to love everyone.  I know that it blesses my life to be kind and to treat people the way you want to be treated, even if they don't treat you the same way. ~Sky

February Challenge: Day 1

Recently, my grandmother was in the hospital for several days due to blood clots in her lungs.  It was a very scary time for us because we weren't sure what was going to happen.  Luckily, she got to the hospital soon enough for them to be safely taken care of, and she was able to return home today.  My family decided to go and visit her at her house, and tell her how much we all love her.  Going over to her house today, I could see that she wasn't feeling very good, but she happily invited us in and talked with us.  I really appreciate her and how hard she works to spend time with each of her grandchildren.  She truly loves each of us, and it felt good to go and visit with her, and let her know that we love her and are thinking about her. ~ Sky

Today I was able to show kindness to my mom. I shared my testimony in church today about how much she means to me and how grateful I am that she does so much to me. I shared how when I was younger my mom would sing the hymn "My Heavenly Father loves me". Because of her kind voice singing this beautiful lullaby I have a strong testimony of God's love for me and others and that he knows each and every one of us. Thank you mom for helping me gain my testimony of the savior's love. Remember to be kind to your parents and tell them how much they mean to you often.  ~Mica <3