Monday, June 26th, 2017

San Diego, California

45th operating temple

Dedicated: 25-30 April 1993

Gordon B. Hinckley

3 Nephi 17

Jesus directs the people to ponder His words and pray for understanding; He heals their sick; He prays for the people, using language that cannot be written; Angels minister to and fire encircles their little ones.

Alma 22:15-26

This is one of my favorite stories in the Book of Mormon because of this kind and what he was willing to give up to know God. He set a great example for his people.

*Search Alma 22:15 looking for what the father of King Lamoni was willing to give up in order to receive joy and eternal life.

* Although he was willing to give up all his possessions, Aaron taught him of a greater sacrifice that he needed to make. Alma 22:16.

* Read Alma 22:17-18, looking for the king's response to Aaron's instructions.

* What do you think it means to "give away" our sins? Why do you think it is necessary to repent of all of our sins, not just some of them? How long do you think it will take?

* What can we learn from King Lamoni's father about preparing for eternal life?

DC 93:1-18

1-5, All who are faithful will see the Lord; 6-18, John bore record that the Son of God went from grace to grace until He received a fulness of the glory of the Father;

How can we bear record of the Son?

*By emulating His example.

General Conference

The Voice of Warning

Elder D. Todd Christofferson

" Remember the Lord's promise: 

'I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your souls with joy.'

I love that assurance. Joy that fills our souls brings with it an eternal perspective in contrast to day-to-day living. That joy comes as peace amidst hardship or heartache. It provides comfort and courage, unfolds the truths of the gospel, and expands our love for the Lord and all of God's children. Although the need for such blessings is so great in many ways the world has forgotten and forsaken them."

To the Friends and the Investigators of the Church

Elder Joaquin E. Costa

"I realize now that I had expected to receive revelation without paying the price. Until then I had never truly spoken to God, and the idea of speaking to someone who wasn't present seemed foolish. I had to humble myself and do what I was being asked to do even if, in my worldly mind, it seemed silly."

It is 90 degrees but is overcast so it isn't too bad.  I had an appointment with Dr. Moffat this afternoon to get my thyroid prescription renewed.  Afterwards I got tacos at Aliberto's, and an ice cream cone and diet Coke at McDonald's.  

I cleaned the dining room and kitchen floor today with my Hoover Floormate.  It did a great job!

James pounded his Cat into submission today so he could work on the fence.

For FHE we listened to Elder Costa's talk and read from "The Lost Heiress."

Random Photos:

Somewhere in Arizona

The Rockband Boys

So funny!

I Love Lucy

This is Curtis Lambson's daughter Kyra when she was young woman.
She is now 32 years old and has 5 children. She was in Pinetop
with her children and ex-husband. Now she is missing.

Ivy and Lola asleep in the boat.

Friday, January 20, 2017

The San Diego temple is Kacey's favorite.

This is a picture she has in her home.

1 Nephi 15:1-18

Why is it important to avoid the spirit of contention?

2 Nephi 9:45-11:7

DC 10:34-43

How can we prepare to receive wisdom or counsel from the Lord?

Talk: "Thou Shalt Receive Revelation"

By: Bruce R. McConkie

October 1978

GC: "The Great Plan of Redemption" by Linda S. Reeves

'Amulek testified, "I would that ye would come forth and harden

not your hearts any longer;...if ye will repent...

immediately shall the great plan of redemption be

brought about unto you."

Today was Donald Trump's Inauguration as President of the United States.  There were women protest marches all across America.  I am not sure what they are protesting.

In Arizona a huge storm has moved in with lots of rain in the valley and snow in the high country.  Wouldn't you know we would get snow when I am gone.

Sedona

I had an early morning blogging session this morning before James got up.  I don't blame him for sleeping in.  Jared's bed is really comfortable.  Thanks Jared for letting us stay in your cozy house!

We had breakfast, showers, and studied this morning before leaving.  I ironed and decided that not only do I like Jared's bed but I also love his iron!  We left at 9 a.m. for San Antonio.  We hit rush hour traffic going through El Paso and it was a very slow race getting out of town.  

When we went through Van Horn I had to text my friend Hailey because Van Horn is her hometown. 

 I read from "Not a Word" while James drove.  Our friend Stephanie is the author.  Stephanie comes from Mormon Royalty.  Bruce R. McConkie is her grandfather and Joseph Fielding Smith is her great grandfather.  Stephanie and her husband and children were in our ward in Chandler over 20 years ago.  She was the choir director and that is the only time I ever sang in the choir.  You would think Stephanie might write church books, but she writes murder mysteries, the non-gory type.  We are really liking this book.

The speed limit going to El Paso was 75 mph.  From El Paso to San Antonio is has been 80 mph through basically flat, dusty country.

We stopped in Ft. Stockton for lunch at Sonic and Taco Bell, and gas.  We looked for a Whataburger but could not find one.  Funny, because Texas is the home of Whataburgers.  

We stopped again on the outskirts of San Antonio for gas.  When James started up the car again it made a horrible clanging noise.  He called Erik and held the phone up to the engine for Erik to listen.  Erik thought for sure our engine was gone.  James put in a quart of oil and we started back down the freeway sounding like the Beverly Hillbillies.  Kacey was lining up a mechanic that her ward members had suggested.  I said a prayer and talked to Heavenly Father about the fact that we were far from home, attending the temple marriage of our son and we needed His help.  Soon the noise stopped and we have not heard it again.  A tender mercy or a miracle for sure.

James, Anna, James, Tanner, Michael, McCoy, Albert, Lauren,

Christina, Molly, April, Emmy, Summer and Macy.

The two families that will be joined together tomorrow.

As soon as we arrive at Jared's and Kacey's Jared has to go pick up James from work so we go with him but not before Molly tells me all about Rosa Parks.  

Molly and her friend Rosa.

James works at Bill Miller's BBQ where he is in charge of frying the chicken.  He has burns on his arms to prove it. 

We found a Whataburger and stopped there for some dinner.  Kim and Brian gave James a gift card for Christmas.  Back at the house Kacey's family arrives.  Albert invites James to Jared's bachelor party.  He says they are going to Wendy's to get vanilla frosty's and to talk about family history.  

I gave Anna her birthday card, Young Women's necklace, and a hug.  When it came time to go to bed we are sleeping in Kacey's room.  Molly slept in the room to and Emmy was supposed to but she ended up sleeping in Summer's room with Kacey.  Kacey said she talked all night long.  

Kacey's House

 Beautiful piece of furniture

New table minus the chairs.

I love the frig and the things on top of the cabinet.

I also love the guy sneaking food.

Brick'em Young 

San Diego temple.

The backyard had a hot tub which was a big

hit with the kids.

Kacey has four sisters and three brothers.

Saturday, January 14, 2017

My most favorite castle/temple.

1 Nephi 11:31-12:10
What are the mists of darkness that I encounter in my life?  How can I overcome them?
2 Nephi 5-6
DC 6:33-7:8
"What desirest thou?"  How would I answer this question?  what things would I do to build up His kingdom?
Article: "To Be Loved By Perfect Love: John's Special Message of the Savior"
By: Sheryl Condie Kempton
July 1976
GC: "Emissaries to the Church" by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

"Now, as for what counts as home teaching, every good thing you do counts, so report it all!  The report that matters most is how you have blessed and cared for those within your stewardship."

James and I went to the church this morning and cleaned it by ourselves.  The Carroll''s were going to come later but we told them we finished.  Sister Carroll seemed very appreciative.  I like doing things for people when they appreciate it.  James spent a very long time vacuuming the chapel.  The seats we pretty dirty.  I think people who bring snacks need to be a little more careful.

While we were cleaning the church, Evan had his first flag football game.  Yes, he made the catch!

After cleaning the church we made a trip to town to get the oil changed in our car for our upcoming trips to the valley and then on to San Antonio for Jared and Kacey's wedding.  We went to Walmart and James ask them if they would rotate the tires but they said they couldn't because they didn't have enough help.  When he ask them why they didn't get more help they said: "We have tried but no one can pass the drug tests."  How sad.

From Walmart we went to Licano's for a late lunch.  I had a chicken taco and a beef taco.  They were both good.  James was eavesdropping on our neighbors and had to tell me all about what they said while we were there.  And he gets upset with me for using my phone while we are together!

Ruby a few years ago playing on her mom's phone.

Terry, Alex, and Adam picked up tile for James's job today.  They had to make more than one trip.  Terry was the driver and the other two were the tile lifters.  They made several phone calls to James because they couldn't find where the job was even with the address and the fact that Alex and Adam had both been there before.  Of course Adam and Alex were getting paid but Terry was volunteering his time.  Next time we come down we are Terry him and Cathi to dinner.

Today we read from "Adam-ondi-Ahman."  We are about to finish this book!  When we got home I took a nap and James went to work.

When I called Cammy G. to teach my Primary class next week, her response was: "I would love too!"  I so much appreciate the fact that she was so willing.  It is always hard for me to call people to teach my class.  Her daughter Liana is in the class and she is a delight!

It rained this evening and James wanted to sit by the fire.  We did for awhile and I read to him.  We also watched "Al Dente: The Gourmet Detective" starring Dylan Neal and Brooke Burns.  Dylan is Henry and Brooke plays Maggie.  Maggie and Henry finally kiss!

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.

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Alma 34:1-16

1 - Amulek begins to teach.

5 - The great question which is in your minds is whether the word be in the Son of God, or whether there shall be no Christ.

6 - My brother has proved unto you, that the word is in Christ unto salvation.

7 - Zenos said that redemption cometh through the Son of God, and also Zenock and Moses.

8 - I will testify unto you of myself that these things are true.  I do know that Christ shall come among the children of men, to take upon Him the transgressions of His people, and that He shall atone for the sins of the world.

9 - There must be an Atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish.

10 - There must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice made.

12 - There can be nothing short of an infinite atonement which will suffice for the sins of the world.

13 - After the great and last sacrifice there should be a stop to the shedding of blood; then shall the law of Moses be fulfilled.

14 - This is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of god, infinite and eternal.

15 - He shall bring salvation to all who believe on His name.  The intent of the sacrifice is to bring mercy unto men that exercise faith

unto repentance.

16 - Thus mercy can satisfy the demands of justice, and encircles them in the arms of safety, while he that exercises no faith unto repentance is exposed to the whole law of the demands of justice; therefore only unto him that has faith unto repentance is brought about the great and eternal plan of redemption.

GC: "In Praise of Those Who Save" President Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

I did my usual early morning Primary preparation.  This is my lesson for today:

It's the story of Helaman and the 2,000 Stripling Warriors

and how they saved the Nephites and not one 

of them was killed.  It's a pretty amazing story

of faith and courage and I think the kids really enjoyed it.

Braylin, Curtis, Zemira, and two visitors, Rusty Allen's nieces, Bentley and Brinden were in my class.

Rusty and Jackson when Rusty left and then

when he returned.  Jackson has grown so much,

and so has Rusty, only in a different way.

Rusty with all of his siblings.

Rusty Allen gave a report of his mission to Guadalajara, Mexico today in our sacrament meeting.  He has such a sweet spirit about him and his talk was amazing!  He has become a spiritual giant.  The bishop spoke after Rusty and he spoke about his mission and a prayer that he gave as to whether he should stay on his mission and go home which became the turning point and the source of all this blessings in his life.  What a wonderful meeting.  I am so glad Sheri's family was here but I especially wish Alex would have been here. The Trezise's went home after sacrament meeting and took Joshua with them.

In sharing time today we talked about temples.  The San Diego temple, to me, is the most beautiful.

It is so beautiful and white.

Last week we had 8 children in sharing time.  This week we had 20.

After church it was nice to go home and have a bean and cheese from Burger House waiting for me and a green mixed burro waiting for James.  Thank you Sheri and Ian!

Sheri also made meatball subs for dinner.  They were delicious!

Sheri making her homemade meatballs.

I began preparing for next week's Primary lesson about Lehi and Nephi in Prison and I also played a couple of games of Five Crown's with Ben and Sheri. I was the big time loser both times.

James participated in the Worldwide Indexing Day.

Here is an idea for a kids clubhouse I would like James to build.

Simple but nice.

It rained hard just before Church got out and was overcast and rainy most of the rest of the day.  To me, it was the perfect day.

Friday, October 31, 2014

San Diego temple

"To be in harmony with heaven's divine purposes,

we sustain the prophet and choose to live according to his words."

-Carol F. McConkie

"God and Christ are literally a Father and a Son -

separate, distinct, individual beings who are wholly unified

in Their purpose."

-Elder Robert D. Hales

How appropriate that on Halloween I would have blood drawn and spend the morning at the doctor's office getting an infusion.  

I got out around 11 and went home to have some lunch, a salad, cottage cheese and strawberries.  James joined me and then we drove to Tempe to return my rental car.  

After packing we met Sheri at Elmer's for a late(second) lunch/early dinner.  I had a machaca taco and saved my burro for the ride home. 

On the way home we passed Darrel in Rye.  He's going home to his family after spending the last four days in Show Low working.

I wanted to spend Halloween with some of my grandkids but since that wasn't possible, pictures are the next best thing.

Rowan did not want his picture taken.

Joshua and Evan

Ben got glasses today.

Show Low football team

Harold and Monte in the back row