Sunday, October 28th, 2018

Brigham City, Utah

139th operating temple

Dedicated: 23 Sept 2012

By: Boyd K. Packer

Jesus Christ, Davidic descent of

Psalm 89:4

Thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations. Selah.

Book of Mormon #1

3 Nephi 14:1-27

*What fundamental truths do we learn from Christ's teachings in these verses? How will you incorporate these important teachings into your life?

- Stop judging, extend love, follow the Savior's example. Verse 7 - Pray for others and for answers. Verse 12 - Live the Golden Rule. Beware of false prophets. Build our foundation upon the rock of Christ and when the storm comes we will stand strong.

Book of Mormon #2

Mosiah 5-7

Old Testament

Ezekiel 3-4

General Conference

Choose You This Day

Elder Dale G. Renlund

"The magnitude of our eternal happiness depends on choosing the living God and joining Him in His work."

I felt the Spirit as I was reading Mosiah 5 this morning. 

We left for church at 8:40 but not receiving pictures of Charlie. Kacey and Jared are speaking in their ward today. I wish we could be there!

I'm dressed up. Oh no, that means the car seat!

Talon is leaving for Uganda this week. He spoke in church today, from the heart, without notes, about the Atonement and service. He is going to be an amazing missionary. Jackson was there to support him. 

Bishop Miller spoke about gratitude and how important it is to have an attitude of gratitude at all times.

President Beeler spoke about the great missionaries who have served from the Vernon ward. He mentioned Jackson and his worthiness to serve.

We sat by the Howard's during sacrament meeting and I went to Sunday School with them. Sister Wood taught a lesson about strengthening the stakes of Zion based on the words of Isaiah. 

Sister Curtis taught in Relief Society. A lesson on ministering based on Elder Holland's April conference talk, "Be With and Strengthen Them."

James taught about Job in his Primary class. 

I gave two closing prayers today. One in Sunday School and one in Relief Society.

We had leftover roast beef, a salad, and glazed carrots for lunch. I can't stop snacking afterwards!

I watched the new Hallmark Christmas movies, "Christmas at Pemberly Manor" based on the characters Elizabeth Bennet and William Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. It was good. I also watched one of my very favorite Christmas movies called, "Angels and Ornaments." An angel comes back and steers his granddaughter to her true love. A good Sunday movie. Is that my attempt at rationalizing. 

I did lots of gospel study today. I love the Sabbath.

 I love this picture!

Babies are being born everywhere!

The Luke's are our friends from Chandler.

What a sweet picture of our Prophet and his wife!

Another sweet couple!

I don't normally walk on Sunday but

I guess I needed it today.

Sunday, January 7th, 2018

Salt Lake City, Utah

4th operating temple

Dedicated: 6-24 April 1893

By: Wilford Woodruff

Jesus Christ Atonement through

DC 18:11

For, behold, the Lord your Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; wherefore he suffered the pain of all men, that all men might repent and come unto him.

Book of Mormon

1 Nephi 5:7-6:6

*Lehi was filled with the Spirit as he began to read the plates. Which scripture really teaches you and why?

*The Nephites understood the importance of their genealogy. How has doing your family history made a difference in your life?

Old Testament Scripture Mastery

Exodus 20:5-6

5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

Old Testament/P.G.P.

Genesis 13-14; Abraham 3

General Conference

"I Have a Work for Thee"

Elder John C. Pingree

"Some of us wonder, 'Do I have any gifts?' Again, the answer is yes! 'To every man and woman is given a gift by the Spirit of God...that all may be profited thereby' (DC 46:11-12). A number of spiritual gifts are documented in scripture (see 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, 31; Moroni 10:8-18; DC 46:8-26), but there are many others. Some might include having compassion, expressing hope, relating well with people, organizing effectively, speaking or writing persuasively, teaching clearly, and working hard.

So how do we come to know our gifts? We can reference our patriarchal blessing, ask those who know us best, and personally identify what we are naturally good at and enjoy. Most important, we can ask God. He knows our gifts since He gave them to us."

It rained in the wee hours of the morning and then quit before we went to church. It was nice to see the ground wet on a day we are fasting and praying for moisture.

Fast and testimony meeting today was a lot of reminiscing about President Monson. I bore my testimony and told how his daughter who cared for him while he was ill wondered what she could do to bring joy back in his life.  The thought came to her to take her father to visit old friends who were shut-ins. She did this and it made them and her father happy. 

These are the children in my Primary class this year: Jace, Colter, and Amaron are the boys. Gracie, Liana, and Andyn are the girls. I only have two new children. Everyone was here today. 

I sat by Amaron during sharing time and he was loaded with question. He asked me if I wore makeup, when I said yes, he said, "You are beautiful." I must say I do like him. 

"I Am a Child of God" was the only song we sang during sharing time. We are learning all four verses. During sharing time Lannie said that Heavenly Father knows us by name, just as he knew Joseph Smith by name. The bishop got up and made the same point. 

Sister Becky asked the children what it means to be reverent. Abby, from the six year old class raised her hand and said: "It means to be quiet and respectful." I thought that was a great answer to come from someone so young. I made a point to text her mom to tell her.

Liana usually comes back to my classroom and helps me cleanup and then helps me carry my things to the car. James was late. Just when I was about to text him he came running to the car and put his things in the backseat. He said he was going to go on a visit and he would see me at home.

In my readings regarding the Old Testament I came across this information. Between June 1830 and February 1831, the Prophet Joseph complete Genesis 1:1 through 6:13, which is now contained in the Pearl of Great Price as Moses 1-8.

The internet was not working very well this evening. I was trying to blog and James was doing indexing. Finally, we just gave up.

I did not watch any TV today. I spent the afternoon studying. I also made some assignments for James's party on the 20th. Stacy is doing a power point presentation and I asked if everyone could get their photos to her by Friday the 12th. We would also like everyone to share a memory and something they learned from dad. I am collecting those. 

Elder Heyman and two former missionaries he

ran into while visiting a stake conference.

A coatimundi killed by one of Jackson's friends.

(Sorry, this is not appropriate for the Sabbath.)

Interesting

Even more interesting!

I sure do love these two smiling faces!

Sunset

Monday, January 30, 2017

1 Nephi 19:7-24
Have there been times in my life when I chose not to retaliate after a wrong was done to me?  How did I feel?
Jacob 1-2
DC 18:1-10
How can we be more supportive of our leaders whom the Lord has called?
Talk: "Bishop, Help!"
By: Dallin H. Oaks
April 1997
GC:   'No Greater Joy Than to Know That They Know' by Elder K. Brett Nattress

"I am eternally grateful for my angel mother and for all angels who love children perfectly, notwithstanding their imperfections.  

I firmly believe that all sisters - I will call them 'angels' - are mothers in Zion, whether or not they are married or bear children during this earthly experience.  years ago the First Presidency

proclaimed: 'Motherhood is near to divinity.  It is the

highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind.  It places her 

who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels.'"

My angel mother.

I didn't get up until 6:30 this morning.  I guess it's because I didn't go to bed until 11.  I actually fixed James some breakfast this morning.  I read one of my favorite scriptures from the Doctrine and Covenants today: "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." (DC 18:10)

I was ready to leave for the valley by noon but we didn't actually leave until 12:20.  James had to drain all the water lines in case it freezes while we are gone.  Oh yes, something else slowed us down.  We got stuck in the driveway again! James digs us out and away we go.  Our first stop was at the Vernon post office, then it was on to the Splash and Dash in Show Low for our carwash and gas.  We also went to the Show Low post office, Arby's, and Dennis's to take him Amanda's senior pictures that Jenifer sent back with us.  James wanted to go the Globe way to pick up burros for Cathi and Terry and so we headed back towards Show Low.  

When we drove up in Terry and Cathi's driveway James started to panic.  All the tools he had left in the back of his truck were gone.  He went inside and came back with a big smile on his face.  Terry was worried about them and unloaded them and loaded them into the back of his truck which is always parked in the garage.  That is a good brother!

When Cathi asked Terry what he wanted her to fix for dinner he said: "James and Karen are coming down and James will stop and get us burros.  I am so glad we went the Globe way!

Cathi helped me carry my things in.  As soon as we unloaded the car we went down to Sheri's for dinner.  She almost always invites us when we are here.  We had salmon, rice, and asparagus.  

Sheri told us about an experience our friends the Boles's had in the temple.  They had decided to sell their house and move to Gilbert.  They had a buyer offer them a great price for their house and they found their dream house in Gilbert.  They went to the temple to verify their decision but did not feel good about moving, so they are staying in Chandler.  I love this story!

James went to Dan Taylor's to pick up the cabinet Dan made for the Bowen job.  This is why we had to come down today.  James has to be finished with this job by tomorrow.  

I have a hard time sleeping tonight because I took 3 Tramadols.  I read a chapter to James from "Boys in the Boat."

Family Photos

Rowan's pinewood car.

Two years ago.

Taken a couple of years ago.

I sure do like these people!

The newlyweds again.

I just can't get enough of them.

'

Sunday, January 29, 2017

1 Nephi 18:21-19:6
How does Nephi remind me of Christ? (Compare Mark 4:34-39)
2 Nephi 31-33
DC 17:1-9
When have you relied on the word of the Lord and felt that you have been protected from the adversary?
Talk: "Trust in the Lord"
By: Marion G. Hanks
April 1975
GC:  'God Shall Wipe Away All Tears' by Elder Evan A. Schmutz

"Many of us have pleaded with God to remove the cause of ur suffering, and when the relief we seek has not come, we have been tempted to think He is not listening.  I testify that, even in those moments, He hears our prayers, has a reason for allowing our

afflictions to continue, and will help us bear them."

Our garage door was frozen shut this morning when we went to open it.  "Superman" has to open it with his suit on.  Now the rubber guard is torn.  

The Applegates spoke in sacrament meeting today.  First they spoke together and then each of them spoke separately.  The topics: Home and visiting teaching.  

My lesson on Joseph Smith receiving the gold plates went quite well.  Jace, Lianna, Colter, and Curtis attended.  During the third hour the Primary president told the teachers they were excused to go to the bishopric adult meeting in the chapel.  Woohoo!

Bishop spoke for a few minutes and then Brother Wilhelm led the remainder of the meeting.  Here are a few notes I took:

Bishop - Take the Book of Mormon challenge seriously.  Blessings will come, your life will be changed.  Your ability to serve will be elevated.  Stretch yourself and put God first.  How sincere are your prayers?

Brother Wilhelm - The importance of Teacher Council Meetings.  How can we be better teachers?  The Savior's way of teaching came from who He was and the "power of the Spirit that He carried with Him" (Luke 4:14).  The key to teaching as the Savior taught is to live as the Savior lived.  How did He live?  The Savior was full of love.  Everything the Savior did was an expression of love.  The Savior sought and obeyed His Fathers will and taught His Father's doctrine.  The Savior was completely committed to His sacred mission - to bring God's children back to Him.  The Savior loved the scriptures and used them to teach and testify of His mission.  The Savior lived what He taught.  In every setting He was the perfect example.  He taught His followers to pray by praying with them.  He taught them how to live His gospel by the way He lived.  He was always teaching.  

Friends

Brother Bogle who passed away two years ago.

He is remembered for singing the song

"Stampede" around scout campfires.

The Kempton's, our dear friends from Chandler.

President Kempton was a mission president in the same

mission where Jared served while he was there.

For lunch today we had leftover meatloaf and potatoes.  Afterwards James went home teaching to the Wallace's.  I took a nap on the couch.  When James gets home I get up and he takes a nap in the bedroom.  

It is a little unusual to see deer in our yard.

I worked on my blog, and did my gospel study.  When James woke up we watched "Love Locks", a Hallmark movie and read from "Boys in the Boat" by the fire.  We went to bed around 11.

Jared and Kacey

Jared shared this on Facebook recently:

"Three years ago I was at the lowest point that I've ever been in my life.  I was desperate and it felt like there was no escape in sight.  One week ago I married the most amazing person I've ever met.  She has taught me about life and love and what's most important.  There were many days and weeks and years of pain and heartache.  With those days came much prayer and fasting.  I've learned that the Lord lifts us up and comforts us through our trials.  He teaches us.  He leads us, and when we turn our will over to Him then He blesses us.  No prayer goes unheard.  No heartache is given without an opportunity to learn and grow and for Him to lift and carry and comfort.  He has blessed me with the most amazing woman and a wonderful blended family that I love and adore.  I'm grateful for her and I'm grateful for Him.  I'm just grateful."

Kacey shared on Facebook:

"Exactly a week ago, I stood in a Holy temple and committed myself in marriage for eternity.  Literally the best day of my life.  

Today, a week later, I sat in a church for my grandmother's funeral.

Two very different weekends.  However, as I stood at my grandmothers casket and looked at her, so beautiful and peaceful, I was overwhelmed with a very strong sense of the eternal nature of families, very similar to what I had felt just a week prior as Jared and I were married and two families merged.  As I stood and looked at my paternal grandmother, I felt her presence, as well as the presence of my maternal grandmother.  In this moment I became so much more aware of the beauty of God's plan for families.  I felt no divisions of mom's side or dad's side or Mormon or Baptist...I felt unity.  Unity in my grandmothers. l Unity in family.  Whether in the happiest time of marriage or the saddest time of death, it all ties back to the same place.  Family.  Forever.

I love and appreciate these two so much and we are so grateful to have Kacey and her children as part of our family.

Sunday, November 13, 2016

"I am the Light of the World."

3 Nephi 28:1-24

Does anyone have any questions about these verses? (I ask this question of my scripture study group).  Does everyone understand the difference between translated, transfigured, and resurrected beings? (see Book of Mormon Student Manual, Religion 121-22, p. 339).

GC:     "For Our Spiritual Development and Learning" by Elder W. Mark Bassett

' For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, 

and my heart pondereth them,

and I writeth them for the learning and the profit

of my children.  Behold, my soul delighteth in the

things of the Lord and my heart pondereth continually

upon the things which I have seen and heard.'

2 Nephi 4:15-16

I was excited to see one of my Primary children I have never seen before at church come to sacrament meeting.  Curtis invited him to come to our class but he went home with his family instead.  I did have his cousin who was visiting from Springerville in my class.  Her name is Brodie.  I also had Zemira and Curtis.  Curtis never ceases to amaze me with his knowledge of the stories from the Book of Mormon.  Today he knew about the three Nephites and why they wanted to stay on earth.  He was not here last week for that lesson so it must have been during family scripture study that he learned this story.

James went home teaching this afternoon so I was home alone for a couple of hours.  I read a conference talk and studied my scriptures.  I also watched a Christmas movie, "Christmas Incorporated," which had a very good message to it about the spirit of Christmas and giving to others.

We had some more visitors today:

 This picture was taken on my phone.

These were taken with my camera

James calls this guy, "the Big Buck."

I do like antelope!

Oh the wisdom!

This evening we had the marriage class at our home.  It was taught by our friend Anne.  Before class James and I did our homework which was to go to the fivelovelanguages website and take the test.  My love language is definitely my spouse giving service and positive affimations.  We didn't do James's score but I think his is  physical touch and positive affirmations.

Tonight the lesson was on Fostering Equality and Unity.  In a marriage there is no inferior or superior person.  Here are some questions I ask myself: 

Do I take correction well?  (No!)

Do I follow my husbands council and advice? (Sometimes)

Be careful about correction.  It can be hurtful and destroy a relationship.  Correction is sometimes needed in spiritual matters. 

Don't sweat the small stuff.  The Spirit of God never creates contention.  

Where am I controlling?  Try to be better and learn to serve my spouse.

John 13:34-35, Ephesians 5:33, D&C 38:27, D&C 121:39.

Cammy made some delicious banana nut bread and we enjoyed visiting after the class. I talked to Sandra about Zemira's upcoming wrestling match on Thursday.  James and I are going.

No blog post would be complete without posting some family pictures:

Jared and Kacey when they went with us to the Snowflake temple.

Addy at California Adventure a couple of years ago.

Addy and Max.

They were so great together!

Friday, October 28, 2016

3 Nephi 14:1-27

What fundamental truths do we learn from Christ's teachings in these verses?  How will you incorporate these important teachings into your life?

Stop judging, extend love.  Follow the Savior's example.  Verse 7 - Pray for others and for answers.  Verse 12 - Live the Golden Rule.l  Beware of false prophets.  Build our foundation upon the rock of Christ, and when the storm comes we will stand strong.

GC: 'Serve'

"Every member is needed, and every member

needs an opportunity to serve."

James and I stopped at Sonic on the way out to Stacy's.  James had talked to Adam earlier on the phone and he was low, so we got him one too.  Jared Ammon was sleeping on the couch.  I gave him a hug.  We should have brought him a sandwich too.  Adam now has the keys to the Scion.  He will pay the payment tomorrow when he gets paid.  Jared needs a car for work and to move out of his apartment.  He wanted to keep the Scion but James said no, he could keep his truck until next week.  Adam helped James at Bill's construction yard.  James wants to clean everything out before the end of the year so we can stop paying rent.  

I went to Dr. Allen's after leaving Stacy's to get bloodwork done.  Then it was on to Deseret Book for baptismal gifts, Costco for a cake for Jared's birthday, Walmart, and the Dollar Store.

  

James and I had lunch at Pei Wei's.  We shared lettuce wraps and I had my usual Pei Wei spicy chicken salad.  At 3pm we took my car to Erik's for new brakes.  Erik stopped work to take his kids to their ward Trunk or Treat so my car was not ready to be picked up until 8:30 this evening.   

Erik and his family

Tabitha Rose

Oliver

Mabel

Aurora

Since Jared Ammon has the truck and my car was in the shop we borrowed Terry's truck to go to Burger King for some dinner.  

Colin spent the night at Cathi and Terry's and he and Terry carved a pumpkin. 

Colin is looking at the stuff in the Halloween

bucket that I gave him.  The black toothy grin

on the white paper is the pattern Terry uses for the

jack-o-lantern.

 Nathan and Allison came by this evening with a 

surprise announcement.  

They are engaged and will be married on Monday!

Nathan's engagement gift to Cathi and Terry.

Jared arrived this evening and picked up Kacey at the airport.

They made an announcement too:

They are engaged too!

No date has been set at this time.