In honor of Marian, Michelle’s mother, and in commemoration of of other breast cancer survivors in the family, we recently participated in the Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure”. It is a fund-raising and awareness-raising event for the treatment of breast cancer. Michelle’s family has participated in this event for many years. The streets of downtown Salt Lake City were packed Saturday for this 5K run/walk. I am glad I could be part of this event with my family. (And no I didn’t run the event but I did walk it.)

Michelle and I had a wonderful Mother’s Day as we were able to spend time with three of our boys. We visited the gravesite of Michelle’s mother, Marian, and found ourselves in a peaceful moment in which the boys expressed their love and appreciation for Michelle. She has been, and continues to be, an amazing mother to our five sons. I have learned much about parenting from Michelle and I am grateful for her far-reaching influence.

I am grateful for the wisdom and faith-building teachings of modern-day apostles. This is a hope-promoting quote from President Packer.

The last few years have brought financial ruin to many corporations, families, and individuals. Michelle is always saddened when the “mom and pop” stores go down.

This unique store in St George seems to defy standard expectations. It services a most unlikely combination of needs (read the sign on the store front). They seem to have weathered the financial crisis with their very unusual inventory. One success story for the little guys. Yeah!

We live in a fast paced world. Lots of pressures and many deadlines. At times we are guided by guilt, feeling like we have to fill every moment of every day wtih “meaningful activity.” Yet we run in such high gear that we may not take time to ponder and to feel. These are not lazy-man, meaningless pursuits. In many ways, pondering and feeling are the most important things we can do. I am grateful when I have quiet, peaceful moments.