Friday, January 13, 2017

I am a little obsessed with castles.

1 Nephi 11::12-30

Why didn't the angel just tell Nephi the meaning of the vision?

2 Nephi 3-4

DC 6:22-32

GC: Be Ambitious for Christ by Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita

GC: Sharing the Restored Gospel by Elder Dallin H. Oaks

James went to town to do a little shopping for me this morning.  As I was unloading the groceries I noticed a pound of hamburger that I did not have on my list.  When I ask him why he bought hamburger he said it was on my list.  I said: "No, Honey.  That was a hammer, not hamburger."  

No.  I did not seek elk today.  I just like this picture.

I didn't go to town because I am still sick.  I think it is taking me so long to get over this cold because my resistance is lowered as a result of my Actemra infusion.  

I love this picture of our dead tree.

I watched lots of movies today. Two gourmet detective movies starring Dylan Neal and Brooke Burns.  "Second Chances" starring Allison Sweeney and "Cloudy with a Chance of Love" starring Katie LeCleric.

Chocolate Lake in 2013.

James got his camoflauge outfit on and went coyote hunting this evening.  He needs to get out more, and this is his idea of getting out.

Addy in December 2013 on Chocolate Lake.

Rowan 2013.

Ruby at Golden Corral with Grandpa in 2014.

Kim's birthday 2013.  I love Joe's haircut!

Rowan and Evan at California Adventure

in November 2013.

Mt. Montoso 2013.

This picture was taken from our backporch.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Gilbert Arizona

1 Nephi 10:11-11:11

How has the gift of the Holy Ghost blessed me in my life?

2 Nephi 1-2

DC 6:11-21

How does it make me feel that we have the knowledge to ask God, receive revelation and know that He loves us?

Talk: "Approaching the Throne of God with Confidence"

By: Jorg Klebingat

October 2014

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

"Nephi's example of seeking knowledge included (1) a sincere desire, (2) humility, (3) prayer, (4) trust in the prophet, and an exercise of (5) faith, (6) diligence, and (7) obedience.  This method of seeking is in great contrast to my 'prying at the plates,' or trying to force an understanding of things meant to be revealed according to the Lord's timetable and through the power of the Holy Ghost."

Some notes from my scripture study of 2 Nephi 1-2:

2 Nephi 1:20 - "Keep my commandments and prosper in the land.

2 Nephi 1:23 - "Awake, my grandsons; put on the armor of righteousess.  Shake off the chains with which ye are bound, and come forth out of obscurity, and arise from the dust."

2 Nephi 2:2 - "Karen, God shall consecrate thing afflictions for thy gain,"

2 Nephi 2:11 - "There must be opposition in all things."

Mooney Falls

James had an appointment in the valley with his heart doctor, Dr. Memon.  It went well and Dr. Memon wants James to bid on the new medical center he is building.  He says the architect still has the plans so it will be a little while.  What a great opportunity!

Whimsical Gazebo

James's texts to me before he leaves the valley:

J - When I leave, do you want me to pick up some burrows?

K - Sure.  When are you leaving.

J - Within the hour.  I also have to stop by CVS in Show Low.

K - Ok.  I am going visiting teaching at 3:30. Text me when you leave.

J - What can I pick up for you so you won't have to go to town?

K - I have quite a list but you could get a card for Anna, some shakes and cough drops for starters and maybe some hot and sour soup.

J - Hot and sour?  I am at the Walmart in Chandler.

K - Ok, never mind.

J - Never mind about the soup?l  Cause I already got the other stuff.  I'll be happy to get your soup.  Just trying to get a reaction.  Sorry.

K - Honey, it is ok.  It is the only thing that sounds good to me to eat.

J - So forget about the burrows?

K - No.  It is burros btw.

J - Yes, my fingers and brain clash.

K - Burrown means to dig deep in the ground.

J - I know ad right now that's what I feel like doing.

K - Why?

(Next he sends me several pictures from inside Walmart.)

K - Why did you send the Walmart pictures?

J - This is so you won't feel left out.  I wanted you to share in the Walmart experience.  

K - Oh, now I get it. I am having withdrawals for the Walmart experience.  Have you seen any "people of Walmart?"

J - It was almost empty, but I did see a lady with a beard.

K - Oh dear.  Too bad you didn't get a picture.

J - No, I really felt sorry for her.  I didn't want to make fun of her situation.

K - You are developing charity!

J - I hope so.

K - I am so proud!

J - I am on my way.

K - Please be safe and say a prayer.  I will pray too.

J - Thank you sweetheart.

When James arrived home he brought me this, along with the other things I asked for.

It's a Simply Fit Board just like Sheri's.

I visited Clair this afternoon with Kaeli as her visiting teacher.  It was an interesting visit.  She saw an herbalist in Snowflake who is helping her with her rash.  In January she is going to see her daughter Marlie who lives in Washington and in February she is going to pick her up and bring her back down here to live.

This evening James and I watched "The Lost Valentine."  We both cried.

Family Memories

Evan's pinewood derby car from last year.

Sheri and Lola two years ago.

Addy and Rowan three years ago.

Ruby three years ago.

Wednesday, January 11, 2017

1Nephi 9:1-10:10

Have you ever felt like you were doing something the Lord asked you to do "for a wise purpose in him, which purpose you knew not?"

1 Nephi 21-22

DC 6:1-10

Why is the principle of repentance so important to teach people?

Talk: "The Key to Eternal Progression"

By: W. Gibb Dyer, Jr.

May 15, 2001

GC:  Abide in My Love by Elder D. Todd Christofferson

"From the Book of Mormon we learn that the intent of Christ's suffering the ultimate manifestation of His love - was 'to bring 

about the bowels of mercy, which over powereth justice, and bringeth about means unto men that they may have faith unto repentance." (See Alma 34:15-16)

I love that we are studying the Doctrine and Covenants

this year in Sunday School.

I cleaned and polished the family room and living room wood floor today.  It looks beautiful!  I also swept and mopped the kitchen and dining room floors.  

Tom Thumb Peak

I wonder if that's Tom's dog.

I still am afraid to use the wifi.  The 14th starts a new cycle so only two more days.  I have not blogged, got on Facebook, or played Solitaire.  You would think I would have withdrawals but I am doing ok.

I love Evan's artwork!

I have these notes in the margin of 1Nephi 22 in my scriptures:

"The fruit of keeping covenants is the companship of the Holy Ghost and an increase in the power to love.  That happens because of the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ to change our very natures."

Also, I love this line from Elder Christofferson's talk:

"Each of us can experience the ecstasy of divine potential unfolding within us."

This is a picture of Hilary Anderson.

Her mom has Harry Potter parties.

She came as Professor Trelawny.

I think she looks just like her.

This evening I watched the Hallmark movie, "The Lost Valentine" starring Betty White.  I had seen it before and still cried like a baby.

James sent me a text to go outside and look at the moon.  It was huge and situated right over Mount Montoso.  Gorgeous!

Family Photos:

Oh Ruby, I love you!

Max doing his homework.

Two years ago in El Paso helping Jared's ward do a service 

project at the cemetery for Billion Graves.

James Hayden was at a basketball game.

James

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Home Sweet Home

I went to temple 35 times in 2016 to do ordinances.

More if you count the times we cleaned.

1 Nephi 8:16-36

How can we choose to partake of the fruit Lehi saw in his dream in our lives today?

1 Nephi 19-20

DC 5:25-35

Has there been a time in your life when the Lord has protected you?

Talk: "Trust in the Lord"

April 1989

GC:     Look to the Book, Look to the Lord by Elder Gary E. Stevenson

President Benson taught:

"The Book of Mormon teaches us truth and bears testimony of Christ...

But there is something more.  There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book.  You will find greater power to resist temptation...

You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path."

James left this morning for the valley.  He picked up his trailer at the repair shop which cost over $1,000 and then on to the tow yard for the Scion which cost $394.  No wonder we never have any money.  

There were about 20 elk in our yard this morning.

Of course I had to tell James.

James went to the Gilbert temple this morning and picked up the cards for the baptisms that Jared did.  He also did the initiatories for the men.

So true.

James went to Tom's BBQ for dinner and had a bbq chicken sandwich with swiss cheese and mushrooms.  Here at home I had hot and sour soup and a couple of rolls.  

Don't you just love Arizona!

Things I am worried about right now: Jared Ammon, Jared selling his practice, my lack of wifi and inability to post on my blog because of it, getting the Scion fixed, and our lack of funds.  Thank goodness James has this job doing a tenant improvement for Jerrod Bowen.  

When I am lonely I stay up late and watch movies.  Tonight I watched "The Love Letter".  I had seen this movie before but loved it again the second time.  A new episode of "Signed, Sealed, Delivered."  I loved this episode.  Gregory Harrison plays Oliver's dad and I really like him.  "Hello, It's Me" starring Kellie Martin.  Another oldie but goodie.

Photo Memories:

Soccer with these three two years ago.

I love these boys!

Carmen's amazing Yoda cake

Monday, January 9, 2017

I am not sure where this is, but I love the flowers.

1 Nephi 7:16-8:15

After being beaten, mocked, and persecuted by his brothers, Nephi did "frankly forgive them."  How can we find it in ourselves to forgive those who have hurt us?

1 Nephi 17-18

DC 5:14-24

How can we be more diligent in keeping our covenants?

Talk: "Steadfast In Our Covenants"

By: Susan W. Tanner

April 2003

Elder Marvin J. Ashton said, "When we truly become converted to Jesus Christ, committed to Him, an interesting things happens: our attention turns to the welfare of our fellowman, and the way we treat others becomes increasingly filled with patience, kindness, and a gentle acceptance."

GC:  A Witness of God by Elder Neil L. Andersen

President Thomas S. Monson has said:

"Now is the time for members and missionaries to come together, to work together...to bring souls unto Him...He will assist

us in our labors if we will act in faith to fulfill His work.'

GC:  Valiant in the Testimony of Jesus by Elder Quentin L. Cook

"If we elevate anything above our devotion to the Savior, if our conduct recognizes Him as just another teacher and not the divine Son of God, then we are looking beyond the mark.  

Jesus Christ is the mark!"

We started taking the Christmas stuff down today.  Kim and Brian are doing the same thing today.  They always leave their Christmas things up until after January 8, Elvis's birthday because that is what Elvis did, according to the Elvis expert, Brian.

James had an appointment with Dr. Moffat today in town.  He brought me back some hot and sour soup, the one thing that I crave when I am sick.  He also went by Walmart and got stevia, Malt-o-Meal, and a new item, Grits.  Grits might be delicious but I just don't like the name.  

I watched a couple a movie while James was gone.

"The Seven Year Hitch".

Our fasting and prayers were answered today.  We had unscheduled rain!

Darrel texted me today and ask if I could watch their kids on the 25th.  Even though I was not planning on being in the valley that day I will never pass up a chance to watch his kids if I can help it so I said yes.  We will just be getting back from San Antonio and I will just stay in the valley a couple of extra days.

Grand Canyon

I paid our timeshare fee today which was over $1,000 for the year and I also paid tithing.  

For FHE we read Elder Andersen's conference talk and then read from Adam-ondi-Ahman.  We also watched "Garage Sale Mystery: The Novel" starring Lori Loughlin.

Photo Memories:

Darrel reading to Ruby's class.

I love this!

Stacy and her new Seaworld friend.

Paul and his new buddy.

Addy on a boat in the ocean for her sixth grade trip.

It looks like a baby stingray.

From my Vernon Mutual days, and nights.

Sunday, January 8, 2017

Mesa, Arizona temple in 1940

1 Nephi 7:1-15

The Lord softened Ishmael's heart so much that he and his family left their home to join Lehi.  Has the Lord ever changed your heart to make something difficult more achievable?

1 Nephi 15-16

DC 5:1-13

Why does the Lord use multiple witnesses to testify of the truthfulness of the gospel?

Article: Becoming A Witness of Christ

By: D. Todd Christofferson

GC:  The Lord Jesus Christ Teaches Us to Pray by Elder Juan A. Uceda

Jesus prayed intensely and spoke with His Father: 

"It came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened" (Luke 3:21).

When you pray, do you feel like heaven is opened? 

When was the last time you felt that connection with heaven?

Jesus prepared Himself to make important decisions by praying to 

His Father.

GC: Am I Good Enough? Will I Make It? by Elder J. Devn Cornish

Elder David A. Bednar said:

"Most of us clearly understand that the Atonement is for sinners.  Im not so sure, however, that we know and understand that the Atonement is also for saints..."

..."The Atonement provides help for us to overcome and avoid bad and to do and become good...

..."It is through the grace of the Lord that individuals receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise

would not be able to do.  This grace is an enabling power."

Today was our fast and testimony meeting and our stake president, President Shumway ask that we pray for moisture.  

A brother in our ward gave James a book to read. It is called, "The Lost Language of Symbolism" by Alonzo L. Gaskill.  He spoke so highly of the book that I went online and ordered one for James for his birthday.  Here are some quotes from the book:

"Lie all on the altar."

"Live the law of sacrifice."

"Our garments are to be a protection from the effects of the Fall."

"Strive to have a righteous posterity."

I also read the first lesson in the Gordon B. Hinckley manual, "The Apostasy and the Restoration."

My Primary lesson was: The Apostasy and the Need for the Restoration of Jesus Christ's Church.  It's nice how the Church correlates their lessons.

This picture should have been posted in December.

This was at our December Relief Society activity and

these are the women in Christ's life:

Teresa, Patsy, Kaeli, Amy, and Tamara.

Kaeli was Mary, the mother of Jesus.
One was the innkeeper's wife, and the shepherd's wife.
I don't remember the other two.

My Sweetie just served me lunch while I am doing the rest of my gospel study.  I went to my meetings today even though I did not feel well.  

Part of my lunch were these crackers,

our new favorites.

This evening James and I watched a couple of Hallmark movies.

Family Memories:

I posted this in January 2015.

Joshua working on his pinewood derby car.

I think he has won every race he has ever been in.

Michael and two of his heroes.