Tuesday, May 5th, 2020

Seoul, Korea

37th operating temple

Dedicated: 14 Dec 1985

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, King

Psalms 95:3

For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.

Book of Mormon/"Come Follow Me"

Mosiah 12; Sunday journal; study guide

April General Conference

"Spiritually Defining Moments"

Elder Neil L. Andersen

"Eighteen years after the First Vision, the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote an extensive account of his experience. He had faced opposition, persecution, harassment, threats, and brutal attacks. Yet he continued to boldly testify of his First Vision. 'I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true. ... I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it.'"

"Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ"

Dallin H. Oaks

April 1994

"Grateful in Any Circumstances

Dieter F. Uchtdorf

April 2014

"Live by covenants, not convenience."

 My leg is still hurting this morning, behind my knee. The thought occurred to me that it could be a blood clot from sitting so long yesterday. James was so worried he wanted me to text Trina at 6 a.m. and see what she thought. Of course I did not do that. James had me take an aspirin and another pill that is supposed to help thin blood. Honestly, within a couple of hours, the pain was gone. 

Today is what I call a "Recovery" day. I worked on my blog and listened to Kris and Kathy on the book webinar, and rested. James was gone most of the day working at the Goodman's back filling the trenches to their amazing greenhouse. He wore the Star Wars mask Catherine H. made him but by noon it was so dirty he brought it home for me to wash. For lunch I made him a tuna melt sandwich and some tomato basil soup.

Today is my brother Dennis's 66th birthday. I called to wish him a happy birthday and asked what he was doing to celebrate. He said that he and Denise were in the valley waiting outside of Chili's trying to figure out how to order their food. Someone came out to take their order so our call was cut short. I love my brother Dennis, he is a great guy and lots of fun to be around.

I went with James over to the Halcomb's this afternoon to see about some stumps Kerri wants removed and some post holes she would like for him to dig. While Kerri showed James what needed to be done, I stayed inside and visited with Catherine. Catherine always has some interesting story to tell and today it was about being on the foster care board in California. She said being a foster parent is the best way to adopt a child. Her granddaughter wants to adopt but the $40,000 fee is too costly. Three of Catherine's children are adopted and all she paid for  two of them was the cost of the birth certificate. The other was through LDS Social Services and they had to pay $300.

James went for a Luna ride this evening while I did my gospel study. On the way home from the Halcomb's we stopped to talk to Chuck Crane. They think they finally found out what is causing Cathy's pain, it is her gall bladder. She is having surgery tomorrow.
Thank goodness! Hopefully this will do the trick. She has been through so many tests, and pain since the beginning of the year.

After James's ride he came back and grilled a couple of steaks for dinner. I put together a salad and warmed up some Busch beans and that was dinner. 

After dinner we watched a couple of episodes from season 1 of "Lark Rise to Candleford."

 Such beauties: Scarlett, Ivy, Lola

 I love the expression on her face

 Such wisdom

Great idea, if I was more organic

 James called me out to look at the moon

 May is concert month

Wednesday, December 11th, 2019

Spokane, Washington

59th operating temple

Dedicated: 21 Aug 1999

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Jehovah

Genesis 28:13

And, behold, the Lord stood above it, and said, I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to they seed;

Book of Mormon

Ether 8:18-26

New Testament

Revelation 4-5; SS Lesson; "DMT" with Emily and Dave's handout

 10/19 General Conference

"Come Follow Me - the Lord's Counter-Strategy and Proactive Plan"

Brother Mark L. Pace

"As Latter-day Saints, we seek a firm and sure foundation in our lives - a spiritual foundation needed for our journey through mortality and back to our heavenly home. That foundation is established on the bedrock of our conversion to the Lord Jesus Christ."

I read the following quote in this month's Ensign in the article on the Book of Revelation: "This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice, patience, and love for each of us are revealed. We are all lambs seeking our Shepherd."

James is a little upset that Anthony called the Grapp's about getting a new heater. He was going to go into town tomorrow and pick one up for him. Anthony called this morning with another problem though. He was having pains in his chest and stomach and had to go to the emergency room. He called Brother Goodman and asked if he would take him in to the hospital, which Brother Goodman did. James said we would pick him up. 

This morning I blogged, and got a shipment of books ready to mail. A little before noon I left for a luncheon I was invited to at Catherine Halcomb's. She is putting this luncheon on for the sisters she ministers to. Since Lynda and I are her ministering sisters she also invited us. Lynda did not make it back from Texas in time to attend. She was busy in the valley picking up things at Sam's and Walmart for people. She picked up four pumpkin rolls for me. 

Catherine calls her house "The Christmas House." She has lots of decorations. I was the second one to arrive, Ruth Wilhelm was already there. Kerri, Catherine's daughter went to pick up two of the other sisters that were invited, Ellen Kostusiak and Lucretia Barton. Lucretia is Catherine's partner. The last sister Nadine Singleton, just found out her sister, Lorraine is dying of kidney cancer. Lorraine used to be in our ward and was my visiting teaching companion for awhile. She went to live with her daughter in California a few years ago. Nadine either went to see Lorraine or just did not feel like socializing because she didn't come.

Before we ate lunch Catherine gave each of us a white stocking with a poem inside about the Savior.

After receiving our stockings we all sat down to the meal that Catherine had prepared for us. We had homemade chicken noodle soup, chili with crackers and cheese, rolls, orange slices, a veggie tray and for dessert cherry cobbler with whipped cream. It was a very nice meal and so thoughtful of Catherine for doing this. She is 85 years old. 

The Halcomb stockings: 

Catherine, Kerri, the dogs,

Shelly and Star and the cats,

Inkus and Dinkus.

After the meal and visiting with the sisters for awhile I excused myself. I told them that James was waiting for me and we were going to pick up our new computers at Walmart.

James met me at the church and we drove into town together in my car. We picked up our computers and I did some shopping. When we were leaving the Walmart parking lot James said Anthony called and he needed a ride home from the hospital. Perfect timing. Anthony was outside in the parking lot waiting for us when we drove up to the hospital. He asked us if we would take him to the Grapp's to pick up his new heater and some gas, which we did. While at the Grapp's I got to see Liana's new Australian shepherd pup.

 His name is Bandit

Now the entire family can go to rodeos

in the same vehicle.

I took James and Anthony to the church where James's truck was parked and James took Anthony home with his new heater and the gas that Cammy bought for him.

When I got home after putting the groceries away, I began setting up my new computer. I chose Google Chrome as my browser and downloaded it and the extensions I need for my book business. 

When James got home I fixed us each a cheese crisp for dinner.

I left a little before seven to go help decorate at the church for the Christmas party on Friday night. President Grapp, Brother Finnell and Brother Woodruff were setting up tables and chairs. Kathy Crane, Lynda Finnell, Tamara, Kerri, Maxine were the decorating crew. Amy Reynolds came a little later. Lynda gave me my pumpkin rolls and I paid her for them and thanked her for picking them up for me. 

Most of the decorations are pretty old and the oil cloth tablecloths barely cover the round tables. We made center pieces and even decorated the bookshelves where the hymnbooks are stored. I was pretty tired and was the first to leave. Kathy Crane really takes charge of these activities. She is a hard worker.

The young women were having an activity at the church and I saw someone I have not seen for probably over a year, Jennifer Deatherage. She and her husband have both had health issues and as a result become totally inactive and really not responsive to people who have tried to reach out to them. She gave me a big hug. I asked her if she was coming to the ward party on Friday and she said, "Yes, and to church on Sunday." I told her that was wonderful!

Brother Brewer has been in the hospital and was not expected to live but his wife ended up bringing him home. Hospice will be caring for him.

We watched a Lifetime movie when I got home, "Mistletoe and Menorahs." It is one of my favorite new movies for this year.

These two love each other!

 James took these pictures of the moon

One of the things I love about living here.

Thursday, March 1st, 2018

Bogota, Colombia

57th operating temple

Dedicated: 24-26 April 1999

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Hebrews 7:24

But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 23:1-22

*While we might be living in "Zion," do you still stream content from "Babylon," shop from their clothing line, or weave their teachings into "Zions'" gospel?

*How else might we have a foot in Babylon?

Old Testament

Numbers 6

The law of the Nazarite is explained, whereby the children of Israel may consecrate themselves to the Lord by a vow - They drink no wine nor strong drink and if defiled must shave their heads - The Lord reveals the blessing to be used by Aaron and his sons in blessing Israel.

General Conference

Turn On Your Light

Sister Sharon Eubanks

" The prophets are calling on us my sisters. Will you be righteous? Will you articulate your faith? Can you bear being distinct and different? Will your happiness in spite of your trials draw others who are good and noble and who need your friendship? Will you turn on your light? I testify the Lord Jesus Christ will go before us and be in our midst."

Happy Birthday Trenda. I know I posted her picture yesterday but today is her birthday and tomorrow is her mother's. I sure do love both of these lovely ladies.

James had an early appointment at Legacy Golf Course and then an appointment to discuss the results of his endoscopy proceedures. The doctor says his colon looks really good. But on the down side he said his throat was pre-cancerous. I am not sure how dangerous that is so I texted my experts, Darrel and Trina. Hopefully I will hear from them soon. Trina just got back from me she said it depends on the context and that we are all pre-cancerous. The doctor did give him more antacid pills to take. He was back by 10:30, he's a little early. I asked him to be back by 10:45 because I have to go to Deseret Book before my lunch date with Karen S. 

Trina was working on her baby rattles and he was helping her when I came downstairs. 

I got Karen two books, "The Infinite Atonement," by Tad R. Callister and a new one by John Bytheway, "Moroni's Answers to Life's Questions." I wanted to get "Life Everlasting" but it is out of print. I could probably get it on Amazon but I ran out of time.

Karen and I met at the Olive Garden on Gilbert Rd. instead of Firebirds which is our regular place for lunch because she didn't want to leave he new puppy at home alone too long. We had a nice visit. I ordered one of the lunch specials, rigatoni with pesto sauce and shrimp. Karen had gluten free pasta with pesto and shrimp.

She said she has stayed home most of the winter because she does not want to get sick. She still have a cancerous liver but the chemo was ruining her ammune system so they now have her on immune boosting drugs. 

On my way home I called Charlotte. I also stopped at McDonald's for an ice cream cone since I didn't get any dessert at Olive Garden.

James, Trina, Rowan, Lola and I walked to Trina and Darrel's dream house. We left Ruby and Darrel at home getting ready for their dinner and daddy daughter date at the school. 

It looks pretty ordinary on the outside, but

it is amazing!

I caught Lola in a private moment.

This house has it all, inside and outside, 

including a pool. I think Lola is picking her

nose in this picture.

Trina gives it one last look. The thing I loved

the most about this house was the pantry. 

It's almost like a second kitchen.

Darrel and his date, Ruby

Lola went to school this morning but she was home this afternoon when I got home. She wanted to fix my hair, which she did. And then I fixed hers.

I used all the accessories that she gave me.

We wanted to take Addy out to eat while we were here but she just wasn't feeling up to it so we took Rowan. We had $100 worth of gift cards at Red Lobster and Rowan said he had never had crab legs but he would like to try them, so off we went. 

Love that smile!

Of course g-pa had to help in the man vs 

crab battle.

I think maybe thought they were more work

than they were worth although he did eat

most of them himself.

James and I took a walk when we returned from 

Red Lobster. It was a beautiful night for a walk, 

with the full moon.

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, September 16, 2016

Paul posted this picture. 

Early morning baptisms with the young men.

A great way to start the day.

Helaman 5:5-17

Helaman chapter 5 is one of my favorite chapters in the Book of Mormon.  The word remember is used at least seven times.  This is what President Kimball says about the word remember.  "when you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is?  It could be remember.  Because all of you have made covenants - you know what to do and you know how to do it - our greatest need is to remember.  That is why everyone goes to sacrament meeting every Sabbath day - to take the sacrament and listen to the priests pray that they 'may always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them.'  Nobody should ever forget to go to sacrament meeting.  Remember is the program, remember is the word."

Nephi and Lehi devote themselves to preaching.  Their names invite them to Remember and pattern their lives after their forebears - Christ redeems and Remembers those  who repent - Their father Helaman reminds them to do that which is good, to lay up treasure in heaven.  Remember, Remember the words of king Benjamin and Remember your Savior Jesus Christ.  Remember Amulek's words about the Savior.  Remember, Remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.  These are the things Helaman taught to his sons.  The did Remember his words, kept the commandments and taught the people the word of God.  They even taught among the Lamanites in Zarahemla.  Many of the Nephite dissenters did come forth, repent and were baptized.  They returned to the Nephites and tried to repair the wrongs they had done.  There were 8,000 Lamanites in and around Zarahemla who were baptized.  As the go to Nephi , Lehi and Nephi are cast into prison.  They were encircled about as if by fire and protected from their captors.  The earth shook and the walls of the prison did tremble.  So many miracles in this chapter.

What does this remind you of?

It reminds me of the CTR shield in Primary.

GC:  'The Greatest Leaders Are the Greatest Followers' by Stephen W. Owen

"Your ability to lead does not come from an outgoing personality, motivational skills, or even a talent for public speaking.  It comes from your commitment to follow Jesus Christ.  It comes from

your desire to be, in Abraham's words, 'a greater follower of righteousness.' (Abraham 1:2)  If you can do that - even if you aren't perfect at it, but you're trying - then you are a leader."

James is in Chandler doing a concrete pour for President John Ballard's son, Michael.  Adam and Erik both helped with the pour.  He got home this evening and brought me a couple of burros from Burger House. (Insert smiley face).

Courtney and Dakoda Pannell

The Pannell's were in our ward when James was the bishop.  When I told him about this, he was so happy to hear that Dakoda is going to be serving a mission.  

I got a text from Jared today.  The other day I had a picture of a temple on my blog and I did not know the location of said temple.  Jared texted me and said it was the Dallas temple.  He said he knew because he had just been there with Kacey.  Thanks Jared!

He is going to San Antonio this weekend to see his kids and for James's birthday.  Kacey will be going too. (She has to drive eight hours to get there).  She will also be going to the San Antonio temple while she is there.  I am really impressed with her.  She is pretty amazing!

I actually put away one box of stuff today from my office closet.  It was filled with memorabilia and photos from the trip I took with Adam, Jeffrey, and Vickie to Washington D.C. back in 2005.  I need to make a photo album.

I know the Golden Gate bridge isn't in D.C.,

but this is such a beautiful picture, I just had to post it.

Here is another bridge:

This one is called Devil's Bridge trail.

While James was in Chandler Cathi and Terry told him all about their trip to Salt Lake.  Cathi loved the live endowment session in the Salt Lake temple.  They also loved the family history building and the Church history museum. They were kept very busy attending meetings, etc., but had a wonderful time. 

 The authorities over them, I am not sure who they were, wanted Cathi and Terry to come up to Salt Lake on a mission and run the ROC in Salt Lake.  (ROC stands for Records Operation Center where they do research and work preparing documents to be digitized for family history research).  Cathi and Terry said they would like to open one in Chandler and they have already spoken to President Johansen, the stake president for the Chandler West stake, and he loves the idea.  So did the Salt Lake people.  So instead of going to Salt Lake, Terry and Cathi will be serving another year right at home in Chandler!  (When you have a talent, you can work anywhere).

I spoke to two of my Chandler friends today, Charlotte Mattice, and Karen Schneider.

The moon was gorgeous tonight.  A camera doesn't do it justice.  

Someone said this will be the last Harvest Moon

until 2024.  Does anyone know what is meant by a

Harvest Moon?

Home Sweet Home