Monday, February 26th, 2018""

Anchorage, Alaska

54th operating temple

Dedicated: 9-10 Jan 1999

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Hebrews 1:2

Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 19:1-20:11

*Four evils denounced and four warnings pronounced.

*How do you combat the four evils Isaiah denounces - pride, errant leaders, wickedness, and neglecting the poor and needy.

Old Testament

Numbers 1-2

1 Moses and the princes in Israel count from each tribe (except Levi) those males twenty years of age and older - They total 603,550 - The Levites are appointed to attend the tabernacle.
2 The order and leaders of the tribes and armies of Israel in their tents are given.
Old Testament Favorite Scriptures
Exodus 20:7
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
General Conference

Do We Trust Him? Hard is Good

Elder Stanley G. Ellis

" At one point, some Book of Mormon people suffered 'great persecutions' and 'much affliction' (Helaman 3:34). How did they react? 'They did fast and pray oft and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation' (Helaman 3:35). Another example occurred after years of war: 'Because of the exceedingly great length of the war between the Nephites and the Lamanites many had become hardened,... and many were softened because of their afflictions, insomuch that they did humble themselves before God (Alma 62:41)."

Happy 28th Birthday Adam!

Adam, Kaitlin, Kyle, Chris

Fixing breakfast burritos this morning

Happy 21st Birthday Joe!

The Thinker

The Guitar Player

Posted by Kim

We said goodbye to our guests this morning after breakfast. They cooked, cleaned, and washed sheets before they left. They were the model guests. 

James spent the day working on the Memon bid but he still had time to walk over 15,000 steps. I paid tithing, blogged, worked on my Primary lesson and watched a new Hallmark movie, "Royal Hearts" and walked over 12,000 steps.

This was our view Saturday morning

Sunday, February 25th, 2018

Monticello, Utah

53rd operating temple

Dedicated: 26-27 July 1998

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Romans 14:9

For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 18:1-22

* What new insights did I find?

Old Testament

Leviticus 27 

27 How properties are consecrated unto the Lord is explained - Israel is commanded to pay tithes of their crops, flocks, and herds.

The heart of Leviticus is the commandments "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." -Leviticus 19:18

General Conference

Apart, But Still One

Elder Joni L. Koch

" Father did not get to see the new chapel, as he passed away before the conclusion of this work. But we in the family, led now by my mom, continued doing our part until it was finished, and that kept us united with my father, with the Church members, with our leaders, and, most important, with the Lord!"

James went to ward council at 7:30 this morning because Brother Curtis is out of town. 

When it was time for me to leave I missed James loading all my stuff in the car for me. When I get to the church, he unlocks the door and carries in my stuff. 

Today was our ward conference. Adam and his friends all made it to sacrament meeting and stayed for the 2nd hour and then went home. Kris and Kristina went home last night because Gail is in town and they wanted to see him.

Bishop Miller and President Shumway both spoke in sacrament meeting and did an excellent job. Bishop spoke about the importance of marriage and so when James got home he asked Adam and Chris about getting married. They both said they wanted to but neither one of them is dating seriously. 

I had President Shumway's daughter was in my class today along with Jace, Andyn, Liana, Colter, and Amaron. Gracie was not there. 

Sister Knight from the stake Primary did a sharing time on 3 Nephi 17. It was really good and she had the kids look up scriptures. She gave them all bookmarks afterwards. I got one too.

On the back

Bishop Miller and all three members of the stake presidency did a portion of sharing time. President Shumway said that his family's motto is: "Be Kind." 

When I got home I finished my Big Jake burro from yesterday. Kaitlin said she was very impressed with our stake president.

Kaitlin gave us a gift today. Two walking sticks that her dad made from dead Saguaro cactus.

Max has one to from the family

Christmas party 

At 3 o'clock this afternoon James and I attended Amaron's baptism. 

Such a sweet boy!

After the baptism we stayed for refreshments which was basically dinner. I sat across from Sister Tieman who told me that Mary has gone to the hospital to have her baby. She is watching Jayden and Jace because Sister Singleton went to the hospital with Mary.

Kristina and Kristofor

Moon over Boston

Is this real?

Saturday, February 24th, 2018

Preston, England

52nd operating temple

Dedicated: 7-10 June 1998

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Acts 17:31

Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 16:1-17:25

*Why would the Lord send a prophet to a people he knew would reject the message?

Old Testament

Leviticus 25-26

25 Each seventh year is to be kept as a sabbath year - Each fiftieth year is to be one of jubilee, in which liberty is proclaimed throughout the land - Laws are revealed for the sale and redemption of lands, houses, and servants - The land is the Lord's, as are the servants - Usury is forbidden.

26 Temporal and spiritual blessings will abound in Israel if the people keep the commandments - Cursing, scourging, and desolation will be theirs if they disobey the Lord - When His people repent, the Lord will show mercy unto them.

According to the Old Testament Student Manual, Leviticus 26 is one of the most powerful chapters in the Old Testament.

General Conference

God's Compelling Witness: The Book of Mormon

Tad R. Callister

" The Book of Mormon is one of God's priceless gifts to us. It is both sword and shield - it sends the word of God into battle to fight for the hearts of the just and serves as an arch defender of the truth. As Saints we have not only the privilege to defend the Book of Mormon but also the opportunity to take the offense - to preach with power its divine doctrine and bear testimony of its crowning witness of Jesus Christ."

When we left this morning for the temple, there was 2" of snow on the ground. In the town of Vernon there was just a skiff. There was some ice on the highway until we got to the Maverick in Show Low. There was no snow after turning onto the 77.

President and Sister Reidhead were in charge of preparation meeting today. We had two films about the initiatory ordinances. Sister Palmer and Sister Brimhall are both sick so I wonder if the Reidhead's have been doing double duty. 

My first assignment was in initiatory. Sister Bowers is still the co-ordinator. I started in clothing then rotated into anointing. Clothin is the easiest. Next I was assigned the locker room after the 8 a.m. session had already started. We were short handed today and I knew the sister assigned next was not here today so I stayed when I noticed three sisters coming in. I'm glad I did because they were here to do initiatories before the 9:30 session and they had never been here before. I assigned them lockers and then showed them was to go for initiatory. 

During my break I visited with Sister Elmer and ate some of her delicious beans and ham. I also visited with Sister Shelton from Eagar who told me that he daughter is married to Neal Lambson's son. 

I was the second follower in the 9:30 session. We had 26 sisters and 16 brothers, with one sister here for her own endowment. Sister Sauwen was the first follower. They Reynolds' from our ward were in this session. 

After the session I was assigned to the celestial room where I could just sit and relax for 30 minutes. After my 30 minutes was up I went back to initiatory. One of the patrons, Sister Broadbent, thanked me for being here so she could come and do work for her ancestors. I think that just made my day. 

My last assignment was downstairs behind the recommend desk as greeter one. Sister Elmer was greeter two. Since it was a quiet time and we go home in 30 minutes she told me she would watch my post if I wanted to go get dressed. She didn't have to ask me twice. I thanked her and told her I would cover for her next time. She just smiled because she knew I might not never have the chance.

We went to El Cupido's for lunch. We got a booth before it started getting really busy. Just as we were about to leave the Elmer's walked in. I told them they could have our booth so Brother Elmer came over and sat down while Sister Elmer went and placed their order. James asked Brother Elmer earlier today if he had any relatives who lived in Chandler and he said he did not. He could be related because he is tall and blonde.

On the drive home the mountains looked beautiful coated in snow. When we got home we took naps and then I worked on my Primary lesson. 

Adam and his friends went into town to get some dinner. They came back with frozen pizza and cookie dough. After we go to bed they play a game upstairs with their phones. Kyle doesn't have a smart phone so he borrows my ipad. I am glad the internet works so they can play their online game.

I got 5,000 steps today and James got 20,000. He takes his phone with him around the temple while I leave mine in my locker. 

Sheri did her half marathon today. I am very proud that she set this goal and then followed through with it.

Sheri's stats

The finish line, always a welcome sight.

My lesson tomorrow is on Noah's Ark

Curtis's family. Can you tell where they have been?

Joshua is amazed at all the flavors.

First In n Out Burger and then Cold Stone.

Spoon lickin' good.

Friday, February 23rd, 2018

Vernal, Utah

51st operating temple

Dedicated: 2-4 Nov 1997

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Acts 10:42

And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 15:1-30

*In a world virtually overflowing with knowledge, how is there a famine of spiritual knowledge?

Old Testament

Leviticus 23-24

23 Israel is to hold a holy convocation on each weekly Sabbath - Israel is to keep the Feasts of the Passover, of Unleavened Bread, of Pentecost or Firstfruits, of Trumpets, of the Day of Atonement, and of Tabernacles.

24 A perpetual fire is to burn outside the veil in the tabernacle - A blasphemer is put to death by stoning - Israels law is one of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

Old Testament Favorite Scriptures

Exodus 20:4-6

4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:

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.

General Conference

Fear Not to Do Good

President Henry B. Eyring

" That desire to bless is the fruit of people gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ His gospel, His restored Church, and His prophet. That is why the Lord's people doubt not and fear not. That is why missionaries volunteer for service in every corner of the world. That is why parents pray with their children for others. That is why leaders challenge their youth to take President Monson's request to immerse themselves in the Book of Mormon to heart. The fruit comes not by being urged by leaders but by the youth and members acting on faith. That faith, put into action, which requires selfless sacrifice, brings the change of heart that allows them to feel the love of God"

The Trek Continues

Elder M. Russell Ballard

" Stay on the gospel path by having 'faith in every footstep' so you can return safely back to the presence of Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord is our precious Savior. He is the Redeemer of the world. We must honor His sacred name and not misuse it in any way, always striving to keep His commandments. If we do so, He will bless us and lead us safely home."

Denise called today to tell me about Aunt Gene's 90th birthday party. It is going to be held in Gilbert on March 31st. That is the day before Easter and we had planned to have our annual Easter Egg Hunt and potluck at Sheri's between conference sessions.

Oh yes, she also told me that Gary's son is graduating from Harvard with a law degree in May and Gary is taking Aunt Gene to Boston with him.

Our company went out on the Razr this morning and most of them came back covered in mud. The washer and dryer were busy most of the rest of the day. 

James wants me to go to Sister Dye's with him to take her a load of wood. I have rolls rising that need to be baked in less than an hour so I can't go with him. 

Adam asked to use the truck but James says the brakes are leaking. What??

Early this evening I began making Adam's birthday dinner. Kristina asked if she could help and I said yes. She peeled potatoes, cleaned off and set the table, and did several other things to help me. 

I made Stacy's recipe for chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans and rolls. Actually Kristina and Kristofor made the stuffing and green beans while everyone else was playing a game. James helped "rice" the mashed potatoes and get them ready for eating.  I also made two dozen rolls for the temple tomorrow.  James and I did the dishes and were in bed by 9:30.

The dinner was well liked although you

couldn't tell by the look on Chris's and Kyle's faces.

Kristofor knew I was taking he picture 

hence the smile.

Kaitlin is smiling for the camera too.

Adam is contemplating whether he needs to

eat more mashed potatoes.

I actually got a photo of Adam helping

in the kitchen this morning after breakfast.

Thursday, February 22nd, 2018

St. Louis, Missouri
50th operating temple
Dedicated: 1-5 June 1997
By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

Acts 4:27

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 13:6-14:6

* Ezra Taft Benson explained that verse 12 is about Satan targeting the family. How do you see this verse coming to pass?

Old Testament

Leviticus 21-22

21 The priests are to be holy - The high priest is not to marry a widow, a divorced person, or a harlot - Descendants of Aaron with physical blemishes may not offer the bread of God upon the altar.

22 Those of the priests and their families who may eat of the holy things are described - Sacrificial animals are to be perfect and without blemish.

Old Testament Favorite Scriptures 

Exodus 20:2-3

2 I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

General Conference

Lord Wilt Thou Cause That My Eyes May Be Opened

Elder W. Craig Zwick

" Our Savior frequently opened eyes of the physically and spiritually blind. Opening our eyes to divine truth, literally and figuratively, prepares us to be healed of mortal shortsightedness."

We had more snow this morning. James has to shovel the walks again but at least he is getting some steps and exercise. 

I forgot to mention something that happened to Trina and Lola on the 12th, Trina's birthday. They were traveling down the freeway to go to the gym when the car started wobbling and soon Trina saw her tire go spinning past. She immediately pulled over and stopped. Thank goodness the tire did not hit anyone and no one was hurt. Darrel had changed the tire a few days ago and didn't get the lug nuts back on tight enough. He felt so terrible. I would have teased him about it but I knew it wouldn't be a good idea.  Now that's a birthday Trina will never forget!

I cleaned the bedroom and bathroom in the basement this morning. Adam and his friends are coming late tonight and I know someone will want to stay down there. 

James is still working on the Memon, Muneer job, trying to get an estimate as to how much it is going to cost. 

I went visiting teaching after lunch today. I met my partner Laurann at Cammy's. Of course she brought her twins and all of Cammy's kids were there. I gave both of them my quotes on love and a box of candy. Here are the quotes:

I think I know which twin is Anakin and which is Thesen now. Anakin is the noisy one. Laurann stayed at Cammy's while I went to visit Catherine. Her son Amaron is getting baptized on Sunday and Cammy is helping her with the program. 

Catherine is so happy to see me. She is an 84 year old widow that lives with her daughter who is gone to work all day. She is new in the ward and doesn't know everyone yet and I think she is lonely. We had a good visit and she told me she was going to friend me on Facebook. She says she loves Facebook because that is how she stays in touch.

Her daughter works for Brother Allen. She was saying how much she loves it up here and we got to talking about the weather. She says she doesn't care for the wind and I told her about our big tree being toppled by the wind. She said that the Allen's roof blew off. 

That's all they need after his bad accident. I hope it wasn't too serious.

When I returned home I fixed some sandwiches and then went upstairs to clean. The first thing I did was clean the common area and reorganize the toys. I was still working at 8:30. It was around 10 when I finished. Everything looks really nice and the bathrooms are re-stocked. 

James and I watched an episode of Heartland where Amy was kicked in the head by a crazed horse and was air-vacced to the hospital. 

We went to bed before the kids got here. They stopped at Walmart so it was after midnight. There is Adam, Kaitlin, Chris, Kyle, Kristina and Kristofor.

  I did alot of climbing up and down stairs today.

Paul's sister Nicole as a flower girl

for the Chandler Service Club when

she was in high school.

The Heyman's baby, Taylor, turns 25.

Another Carmen cake. I think I am

recycling them. This one is from 2013.

Trina is the proud mama of this radish!

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Mt. Timpanogos

49th operating temple

Dedicated: 13-19 Oct 1996

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ Authority of

John 14:31

But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Book of Mormon

2 Nephi 12:1-13:5
*What are t hings I tend to idolize in our exciting day?
*What kind of idols did Isaiah see in verses 7 and 8?
- Silver, god, horses, chariots, idols that they make with their own hands.
Old Testament
Leviticus 19-20
19 Israel is commanded: Be holy, live righteously, love your neighbor, and keep the commandments - The Lord reveals and reaffirms sundry laws and commandments - Enchantments, wizardry, prostitution, and all evil practices are forbidden.
20 The death penalty is prescribed for sacrificing children to Molech, cursing father and mother, adultery, homosexual behavior, bestiality, spiritualism, and other abominations - Various laws and ordinances are listed.
Old Testament Favorite Scriptures
Exodus 19:5
Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people:for all the earth is mine.
General Conference

Turn to the Lord

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell

" Like the ancient Israelites, we are also invited and encouraged to look to the Savior and live - for His yoke is easy and His burden is light, even when ours may be heavy. Alma the Younger taught this sacred truth when he said, 'I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.'"

I got up at 4:30 this morning. Today is Bishop Waddell day. Not only did I read his conference talk but I started reading an article in the Ensign about the Book of Mormon by him. The article in the Ensign was so good that I took notes and it is going to do me a few days to finish reading it.  

Preparing hearts should be a part of my prayers each day.

James went to the temple this morning. He has several names to do and he also is still observing the officiator because he knows he is going to get that assignment soon.

As I was walking today and went passed the kitchen window I noticed something different outside. I looked out and our big dead tree, the one that was James's favorite was lying on the ground. It must have blown over in the heavy winds we've had lately. 

James brought us back green chili burros from LaCasita for lunch. He also brought chips, salsa, and refried beans. It was a delicious surprise!

I left to go grocery shopping at 3:45 p.m. today. I've decided this is too late. Store was busy, shelves were bare and large bundles of items were waiting to be stocked. I wasn't home until 7 and by the time I put groceries away and ate, it was time for Heartland and bed. 

There was a threat at Joshua and Evan's school today. Stacy is contemplating whether she should home school Joshua.

James was pretty miserable today. His upper and lower back hurt so much that it is difficult for him to walk. 

In Olympic news, the U.S. Women's hockey team beats Canada for the Gold for the first time in 20 years. Go USA!

Rebecca's Tea Party

Rebecca sent invitations to her 4 oldest

grandchildren to come to a tea party.

They were so excited to get an invitation

in the mail.

This is Eden, Christina's oldest.

A serious moment

This is Ander, Eden's brother

The other two children are Jason's, Christina's

brother but I don't know their names.

Our friends the Westbrook's in their

younger years.