By Krista Ralston Oakes

One of my favorite childhood Christmas memories started out as a moment of panic.

It occurred to me one day that Christmas was fast-approaching, and I had not yet mailed my letter to Santa Claus. I was only about six years old at the time, but I deduced that it was too late for postal service to arrive at the North Pole in time for Santa and his elves to plan and produce even the smallest wish list of gifts. I sat in my bedroom and began to sob.

Continue Reading »

By Sherrie Mackelprang

Butterflies danced in my stomach as I poked bite after bite of Corn Flakes into my mouth. It was Christmas morning and Santa had already paid our house a visit. Across the room, a new doll smiled in a pale green dress. She was mine, but I had to eat my cereal before I could put my hands on her. At last, I was released from the breakfast table. I reveled in the Christmas splendor.

Continue Reading »

by Alison Palmer

Scripture: Acts 1:11

Song: “He Sent His Son,” Children’s Songbook p. 34

Preparation: Gather a large poster board, markers or crayons for use by the family, at least twelve clear, plastic craft jewels (silver glitter is a slightly messier option), and glue.

Continue Reading »

By Brent R. Done

When I was growing up, the place to be was at my Grandpa Scott’s — the biggest reason to be there was family.

Continue Reading »

While serving a humanitarian LDS mission to Cambodia two years ago, Las Vegans Ronald and Judy Tobler saw staggering needs.
Brother Tobler taught dentistry and Sister Tobler taught English, but they were overwhelmed by the grinding poverty and lack of opportunity for the Cambodian people.
Their first desire was to bring the bright young people they met back to the United States, but they knew that would not help their struggling country. They resolved to help those living in Cambodia to obtain education and work.

Continue Reading »