Good Friday

Nearly two thousand years ago, the Son of God was crucified for the sins of the world. I often focus too much on the resurrection of Christ, without thinking on the Atonement, the great sacrifice of our Savior that culminated in the resurrection.

Let us remember today, as well as on Easter, the sacrifice which Christ our Savior made for us. Let us remember the words of Isaiah when he prophesied of the Messiah:

"Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:4-5, italics added)

The following is a very touching video about the Atonement of Christ and the suffering He went through for us.

Spring Break

I just want to say right now...kudos to the person who thought to put Spring Break over April Fool's Day at my school. You have saved several teachers prank pain.

It is amazing how much time you can waste when you don't have anything planned. My first few days of Spring Break were jam-packed. My mother and I went to Zion's National Park over the weekend. It was beautiful. The sun was shining, it was just the right temperature, and spring was in full swing. The cherry trees in Hurricane were in blossom, as were the pear trees, and a hazy green mist was over all the trees in the park. It felt so good to get out in the fresh air, to feel the warmth of the sun on my face. We stayed at my grandparent's winter home in Washington (not state or D.C.), and my grandpa wanted me to put sunblock on and wear a hat. I didn't want any of it! The hat came off as soon as I got in the car, and I never did put sunscreen on. I didn't burn--we were mostly walking in the shadows of the mountains--but I like to pretend my skin got the slightest bit darker.

Now that I'm back, I have half a week left of vacation, and I have no idea what to do. I've read two books, watched t.v., typed up pre-written parts of my story, and written nearly two more chapters. Thankfully, I've got a great older brother who is willing to let me come to his messy home. Brandon let me play with his cat Aizeley (I think that's how it's spelled) and his dog Zuko (the biggest, most friendly dog ever) and tell him all about my book ideas while he did the dishes. I offered to help, but--as Brandon pointed out--it is a small kitchen. And, if you know Brandon, you know he is a huge giant of a teddy bear. But I enjoy his company, and I'm glad he enjoys mine.