“I have to plant some trees each spring,” President Gordon B. Hinckley recorded in his journal at age 82. “I think I have done so for at least the last 50 years. … There is something wonderful about a tree. It starts ever so small and grows through the seasons. It affords shade from the hot summer sun. It bears delicious fruit. It carries on the remarkable process of photosynthesis. … A tree is one of the remarkable creations of the Almighty.” -President Gordon B Hinckley

I am a child of God

1. I am a child of God,
And he has sent me here,
Has given me an earthly home
With parents kind and dear.

[Chorus]
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.

2. I am a child of God,
And so my needs are great;
Help me to understand his words
Before it grows too late.

3. I am a child of God.
Rich blessings are in store;
If I but learn to do his will
I'll live with him once more.

Yesterday at Sacrament meeting the kids were super wiggly and had a hard time paying attention to the speakers...but the closing hymn was "I am a child of God" and it was like the kids throughout the congregation all beamed and sang so loudly and i saw a huge grin on the choristers face! Even my kids who hardly ever sing were singing along with big smiles on their faces. A moment i never want to forget. The spirit was so thick and the ward felt so united! Young and old! There is a version of "I am a child of God" on lds.org that Oliver watches over and over again, he'll say "God, 'gain"  and watch it so happily! 

"Fifty was my favorite age.  It takes about that long to learn to quit competing-to be yourself and settle down to living.  It is the age I would like to be through all eternity!" -Marjorie Hinckley

My oldest brother just turned 50! I'm excited for him and this new stage of life he is entering. He is a grandpa of a darling and endearing one year old. He is a proud family man, a dedicated business man, and a constant disciple of Jesus Christ. So grateful to have him for a big brother.