A few weeks ago, my university hosted a Poverty Awareness Day, where we had an Awareness Fair on our student union’s lawn. At every table, there were pictures of starving children and their ailing mothers or over-worked fathers. The people I talked to told me about their dealings in some of the world’s poorest countries, and it really got me thinking.

They are those two words that make even the bravest parent want to run and hide: POTTY TRAINING! That marvelous joy has come to our house in the recent weeks as our daughter Abigail is now 2 ½ and ready to move into greater levels of independence.

Continuing our food-related Miracle Monday theme for November, we're sharing two experiences submitted by Sister Flo Perri. We can still use a few more food-related experiences to see us through the rest of the month, so please email your story to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Here's your good word for the day. Share it with someone!

A while back, we did a fun event in my branch on a Wednesday night. We put together snack packs for the homeless. These handy snacks-in-a-sack are great to keep in your car, backpack, or purse to give to those in need on the street.

Heat of the battle. This phrase has been on my mind lately. I’ve been inspired recently by various writers to this blog who encourage us to follow through on our promises to pray for one another. And it got me thinking to not only pray but to pray fervently (Colossians 4:12) and continue with those in need through the heat of the battle.

Before I begin, I want you to know this is not a political blog post. With that said, unless you have been living under a rock (see, there I go again with the clichés) for the last few years or you just decided to not turn on a TV or read any type of news article, you know that the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obamacare) was made law, and some of it started to go into effect on October 1.

This month, we're focusing on Miracle Mondays that have to do with food. Today's story is submitted by Sister KarenJo Pandone. It's actually an experience of her father's, which she took directly from his journal.

Here's something for you to share with others today.

It's Halloween, and we're re-blogging the poem that Sister Erin Light wrote last year. Enjoy and be safe tonight.

By Sister Natalie Pezzenti

I’ve always been a lover of words. Big words and small words alike, I’ll take them all. Put those words together into a meaningful statement and you can bet I’ll remember it when I need it the most. Take one of my favorite quotes, for instance:

“Linger too long in the stench of your hurt and you’ll smell like the toxins you despise.”

Now you can read the Bible and Book of Mormon on your smartphone or tablet.

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we reflect on how grateful we are for everything God has given us.

While thanking God is our No. 1 priority, it's also important for us to express thanks to one another. Jesus said, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matt. 25:40). When we thank others for what they do for us, we're showing the love of God.

Today's testimony-related Miracle Monday is an answered prayer submitted by Brother Anthony Scolaro.

A couple of years ago, my family moved from New Jersey to Arizona. Among the neighbors we left behind was a man two doors down who was legally blind. He and his wife were always very warm and friendly, and when we heard that she was battling cancer, we gladly told them we were praying for her. He was from the Philippines and she was from Chile.

Spread the good word, everyone. And have a great weekend.