Graham Crackers

This year, a new tradition of sorts started in my house. A lot of times, I get caught up in homework and being stressed out. But I'm not the only one in my family who has a stressful life. My dad often works harder than I do and still finds time to be happy and loving and kind. What a good dad.

My dad loves graham crackers. And here is where the tradition of sorts became a necessary part of coping with life.

One night I leaned over to my dad as we were sitting downstairs working on the computer. I said, "Dad, do you want to go have a treat with me?"

"Sure! Let's go have some graham crackers and milk. That sounds good."

Immediately the image of soggy graham crackers and milk with floating crumbs came to my mind. "Well, I was sorta thinking doughnuts. . . "

Nevertheless, we trooped upstairs and got out the said condiments and endulged in a happy light-hearted and enjoyable snack together.

This is one of my most favorite memories ever. I highly encourage each of us, amidst the rush and stress of the day, to take time to spend time with those who need our time. Whether this is time spent with yourself or your family, you will build memories that one hundred pictures can't capture and one hundred dollars can't buy. They are priceless.

In honor of this concept, I wrote a poem. I hope it makes you smile :)

Graham Crackers.
When it becomes tough to understand math
And physics and English and classes like that;
When you've crumbled up homework, thrown books at the wall,
Sealed with the statement you don't like them at all;
Then it's time for a break - a well deserved snack.
One that can give you your happiness back!
Graham crackers and milk is the best kind of treat,
For nothing like this gives you strength as you eat!
With each tasty crunch and milk on the side,
You won't be so stressed when on crackers you ride.
Each morsel and crumb and honey-like bite
Will help you in setting your hardest day right.
So when you feel lost in hopeless defeat,
It's time that you get a graham cracker treat!

Well, there it is :) If you feel like any of the afore mentioned emotions, maybe it's time for a break :)

And with one closing thought from Elder Holland, I leave you with my personal testimony that, no matter how hard or dismal life can be, happy days await you. Oh, so many happy days.

"Don't you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead. Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come till heaven. But for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come. It will be alright in the end. Trust God, and believe in good things to come."

Love, Sunshine