Thursday, April 26th, 2018

Nauvoo, Illinois

113th operating temple

Dedicated: 27-30 June 2002

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ betrayal of

Matthew 27:18

For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

Book of Mormon

Mosiah 17:1-20

*What take away is there knowing that Abinadi sacrificed his life and only had one convert? 

- sue_heugly: "Abinadi stood against the trends and standards of his society. His osition was not popular or well received and led to his death. Abinadi's words fell on mostly deaf ears yet that 'one conversion of Alma had a lasting impact on Nephite society for over 500 years and is still impacting millions today. Alma's outspoken defense of Abinadi forced him to flee for his life. His secret proselyting ventures back into the city of Nephi ultimately led to the conversion of 450 souls who were willing to leave their homes and society and depart into the wilderness. Without Abinadi's story, the Book of Mormon would lack continuity, and a major part of the books' message would be missing.

Abinadi: Prophet and Martyr...lds.org.

Old Testament

Ruth 4

The nearest relative declines, and Boaz takes Ruth to wife - Ruth bears Obed, through whom came David the king.

General Conference

Ministering as the Savior Does

Jean B. Bingham

"May we show our gratitude and love for God by ministering with love to our eternal sisters and brothers."

I love Emily Watts. Heard her speak

at BYU Women's Conference a few

years back. She is both spiritual and

hilarious.

"It is in commitment to true principles, combined with self-discipline, that true greatness lies." - President N. Eldon Tanner

New Era: "Getting to Know the Savior" 'As you learn about Jesus Christ, you invite His peace and presence into your life.'

I thought this was interesting regarding the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament. This comes from the Old Testament Student Manual, Volume I, 264:

"The book of Ruth contains one of the most beautiful stories ever written. Despite being set in a day when political chaos and moral degeneracy existed in parts of the land, this story contains not a single demeaning feature and is uplifting and heartwarming. The following are examples of quiet devotion and obedience from this story:

1. Ruth's marriage to Mahlon led to her conversion from the Moabite to the Israelite way of life.

2. Ruth's choice to remain with her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi, is an example of selfless concern for others.

3. The acts of kindness exhibited by Ruth and Boaz had a positive effect on those around them.

4. Ruth's virtue and integrity impressed the noble Boaz, and he was honorable in his relation to her, showing willingness to assume family responsibility.

5. The union of Boaz and Ruth produced a royal posterity from whom came King David and eventually Jesus Christ.

"No virtues in the perfection we strive for are more important than integrity and honesty. Let us then be complete, unbroken, pure, and sincere, to develop in ourselves that quality of soul we prize so highly in others." 

The Book of Ruth, even though it is only 4 chapters, was so refreshing after reading about Samson.

FYI: I have lost 11 lbs. since the first of April. Now I am in this Chunky Monkey competition and the weight is coming off a little slower. 

We have been praying in conjunction with going to the temple, to receive further light and knowledge as to how we can help our families realize the blessings of the gospel and the temple. We also want to find ways to create greater family unity. As I was praying and pondering this morning an idea came to me. We should have a couples retreat with all of our children and their spouses. The purpose would be to create greater family unity and a better support system. We would focus on Faith, Family, and Fun. When I told James about it he thought it was a great idea. Now I just have to get the kids on board and start planning, and decide on a date.

James went to town and came home and made a set of shutters and put them up all before noon. The shutters just give a finishing touch to the front of the house (cabin).

James went to town for a tractor part. He came back, put it on, and the tractor still doesn't work. 

Cathi texted and wanted to know where Burger House was. We told her it but she thought it was in Globe. Luckily they saw it when they went through Miami. They are bringing up burros for dinner.

I worked about five hours cleaning house before our company got here. I finished upstairs and even polished the floor. Then I came down and polished the floor and vacuumed and dusted in the family/living room. When everything was done and after lunch I went in and took a whirpool bath. I felt soo good. I got over 8,000 steps just cleaning.

I listened to President Nelson's talk "A New Harvest Time."
From 'Rescuing Wayward Children':

The Language of Priesthood Power

"To accomplish most things in life, mankind must exert physical effort, whereas God works by faith and the power of words." -Bruce R. McConkie

Dave, Laura, Cathi, Terry, and Lady got here around 3 pm. Dave's main concern was getting Laura settled with her oxygen. Her level went down to 83 when it should be 99.  Cathi, Laura and I talked around the entry table for awhile and then moved to the more comfortable furniture in the family room. I have missed visiting with my dear sisters!

James took Dave and Terry for a Razr ride to look for wildlife and antlers. They only saw two deer. 

We really enjoyed our burros from Burger House for dinner.

I took a long walk outside before bedtime. Laura and Dave slept on the recliners in the family room because Laura needs to sit up while she sleeps and Terry and Cathi slept upstairs in Sheri and Ian's room. Poor Lady is almost totally blind. She slept on Cathi and Terry's bed.

Cathi brought these and I think I 

ate almost the entire bag.

Monte's kids Kaytlynn and Zach. Kaytlynn

came to support Zach at his track meet.

He is quite the shotput thrower just

like his dad was.

Carter and Shayna took Alex on a

roadtrip to Yosemite for his birthday.

This is one of the pictures he posted.

Scarlett watching TV at Lolly and Pop's

(Kacey and Jared's)

Kate with Prince Louis Arthur Charles

Elder R and Ricky. Those were the days.

Teacher walkout today in Arizona

Our friends the Ellsworth's from Chandler are

both teachers at Chandler High School.

Brother Pace and his daughter Chelsea were

at the strike at the Arizona Capitol.

Marcy

  

Wednesday, April 25th, 2018

Ascuncion, Paraguay
112th operating temple
Dedicated: 19 May 2002
By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ betrayal of

Matthew 27:4

Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

Book of Mormon

Mosiah 16:1-15
*How are people living in darkness today? How can we help them?
- sue_heugly: " I believe more than ever people feel loneliness. David O. McKay said; The greatest battle of life is fought in the silent chambers of the soul.. Feeling alone or lonely leaves people grasping for light, for they only see darkness. We all need our alone time, our moments of meditation and prayer.. in fact we need our sacred grove moment. But we can do much to help others fight their loneliness. While it is part of life...We need never feel alone for service in the Church has everything to do with preventing loneliness. The world is filled with need people, and the gospel gives us opportunities to contribute, and turn those resources to help others cope with their loneliness, and in return it helps us with ours. Life is hard.. There will be times of loneliness, but the gospel of Jesus Christ is full of light. It helps us to engage in activities which help us not feel alone. When we think of others we feel less alone, and our light shines giving others a glimmer of hope wading thru dark times.
Old Testament
Ruth 3
By Naomi's instruction, Ruth lies at the feet of Boaz - He promives as a relative to take her as his wife.
General Conference

"Be With and Strengthen Them"

" Our prayer today is that every man and woman will leave this general conference more deeply committed to heartfelt care for one another."

From "Rescuing Wayward Children:"

Of the priesthood's power to protect and to guide, President Harold B. Lee taught, "The temple ceremonies are designed by a wise Heavenly Father, who has revealed them to us in these last days as a guide and a protection throughout our lives. . . . We talk of security in this day, and yet we fail to understand that here on this Temple Block we have standing the holy temple wherein we may find the symbols by which power might be generated that will save this nation from destruction. Therein may be found the fulness of the blessings of the Priesthood. Certainly, if the guidance of the temple covenants and ordinances can save the nation from destruction, it can save our children."

In the New Era I read an article by Elder Robert D. Hales, "Prayer The Key to Testimony and the Restoration," and "The Savior of You" by Charlotte Larcabal. I love the New Era and this issue is all about the Savior.

I listened to a talk by President James E. Faust from the October 1997, "The Weightier Matters of the Law: Judgment, Mercy, Faith."

"The thought is Father to the deed. Focus on the good in others and what is right."

I liked this statement from Elder Holland's talk: " The Church provides a structured way for us to live the 2nd commandment."

James's mechanics finally got here. The rats chewed the wire in to on his tractor and they also chewed the instruction manual. We tried to download a schematic of the wire configuration but it wouldn't download. The guys finally left with their $440 and we were left with a tractor that still doesn't run. They told him to order a new switch, which he did. 

Russell M. Nelson talk #27: "Endure and Be Lifted Up." "Energy and the will to endure are essential, energy is always required to provide lift over opposing forces."

Robert Millett: Chapter 8, "A Grace Awakening." 

This was my lunch. Salad and squash with swedish meatballs and noodles. James had turkey and stuffing courteous of Marie Callender. 

Well, it's time to clean. I started downstairs in the basement and ended upstairs. I only worked until 2 p.m. when I had to stop and get ready to go to the temple. We left at 2:45 for the 4 o'clock session. I was assigned the handicapped locker. I like it because it's so roomy. The session was quite full and Sister Brewer from our shift was one of the followers. Sister Sawen helped at the veil and I also saw President Scott, and the DeWitt's, Loran and Marylou.

Marylou was one of my advisors when I was a young woman.  

On the way home we stopped at Home Depot to get some more lumber for the last set of shutters. We also got gas and stopped at the post office. I was hungry and it felt like it took forever to get home.

When I got home I had a slice of Sister Grapp's homemade bread with butter, some salad leftover from lunch, and an apple. 

I went up and finished cleaning Sheri and Ian's room and bathroom and then we went to bed.

Kissee face

This is for you Jared and Kacey

Tuesday, April 24th, 2018

Campinas, Brazil

111th operating temple

Dedicated: 17 May 2002

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ betrayal of

Mark 14:41

And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

Book of Mormon

Mosiah 15:10-31
*How has the gospel of Jesus Christ brought you joy?
Talk: The Great Plan of Happiness By: Marcus B. Nash 10/06
- The gospel of Jesus Christ has brought me joy, it has given me a sense of hope, and a desire to minister. Every hour of every day I am blessed by His gospel. Every time I look at one of my children ( I include their spouses as my children), or one of my grandchildren, every time I go to the temple with James, and he holds my hand I feel the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These are the treasures I have in this life that let me know of my eternity. My eternal family brings me joy. I love His perfect gospel!
Old Testament
Ruth 2
Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, a near relative of Naomi - He treats Ruth kindly.
General Conference

Ministering

President Russell M. Nelson

"We will implement a newer, holier approach to caring for and ministering to others."

At 7:30, after my gospel study time, I made muffins to take to Sister MacArthur's house to share with her family and with Laurann, my companion.

After the muffins were done I made out a grocery list and menu plan, and then got ready to start out on my adventures for the day.

I met Laurann down by the Hunsaker's and drove her to Sister MacArthur's. Of course Laurann has her twin one year old boys and Chelsea has her 2 year old daughter Peyton and her nephew Cooper who belongs to the Umphresses. After handing out the muffins to Peyton and Cooper I asked Chelsea if I could take a picture of the mule deer mounted on her wall. I tried to tell James about it last time but I needed a picture.

Shot on Chelsea's parents ranch in Idaho.

I guess I should have taken a photo of the people, but I didn't.

We had a nice visit. Chelsea said she wanted to come and see our house and I told her just give me a warning text so I could make sure I was dressed and she could come any time. Laurann said she would like to come out and go for a walk sometime. Maybe we could walk down to "Chocolate Lake."

Just as I am getting ready to go Laurann asks me if I know Jeanne Wallen. At first she caught me off guard and then I explained how I knew her. She said her mom is best friends with Jeanne and Jeanne told her that I lived in Vernon and that I was very sweet. I told Laurann I could say the same thing about Jeanne.

I left a little after ten for my lunch appointment with my friend Pam at the Show Low hospital. Pam invited her friend and co-worker, Jennifer to join us for lunch. When I got to the checkout in the lunch line Pam swiped her badge before I had a chance to get my card out. That makes the fifth lunch in the past two weeks that I have not paid for. 

Jennifer's husband Ed had a bad accident not too long ago and has been without work. Pam got Jennifer hired at the hospital and now Ed has to have surgery and Jennifer will have insurance to cover it. Jennifer also has a 15 year old daughter that has a brain tumor. She needs good insurance! Pam is a saint. She also brought Jennifer to church on Sunday and Jennifer is very interested in the gospel.

I so much enjoyed my lunch with these two sweethearts, plus I got all three of my veggie servings!

Next stop, grocery shopping at Walmart, with my calculator because I am trying to stay within my budget of $200. I had to eliminate some of the things from my list, but my total was under $200 at $197.

When I got home James was putting shutters on the house. He had made them and painted them while I was gone. I'm glad I wasn't here to see him put them on the upstairs bathroom window. A picture is forthcoming when he finishes the ones for our bedroom.

I put the groceries away, rest a few minutes, and then blog and listen to President Nelson's talk from the October 1996 conference, "The Atonement." 

For dinner I bought a ready made kit made by Walmart. It had pulled pork, country style beans, and mashed sweet potatoes. It was delicious. I especially loved the beans. 

I finished the April Ensign today, read to James from "Stars Above Northumberland", and listened to Robert Millett's book, "The Atoning One," chapters 6 "On Calvary's Cross," and 7 "Infinite, Yet Intimate." I also walked a few steps.

Part of my gospel study today.

Eden and Winter

Here is the story as posted by their mom, Christina:

Evan and his "little brother," Oliver.

It's so nice that Oliver likes this.

What's he thinking here?

My friend Taylor looks beautiful

in her new glasses.

Those were the days!

Duddings were members of our ward.

It's changing hearts that makes a difference.

Monday, April 23rd, 2018

Monterrey, Mexico

110th operating temple

Dedicated: 28 April 2002

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ betrayal of

Matthew 26:45

Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

Book of Mormon

Mosiah 14-15:9

* Why do we do things our "own way"?

- Sometimes we think our way is easier...or the right way. But we don't see the whole picture as God does. It's hard to let go of the wheel...it can be scary too!

Old Testament

Ruth 1

Elimelech and his family go to Moab because of famine - His sons marry - The father and sons die - Ruth, the Moabitess, her husband having died, remains constant to Naomi - They come to Bethlehem.

General Conference

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Elder Gerrit W. Gong

"This is Easter Sunday. I reverently witness and solemnly testify of the living Christ - He who 'died, was buried, and rose again the third day.'"

Prophets Speak by the Power of the Holy Spirit

Elder Ulisses Soares

"Having prophets is a sign of God's love for His children. They make known the promises and the true nature of God and of Jesus Christ."

"Rescuing Wayward Children," 202: "The blessings given to Abraham flow to us by and through the Melchizedek Priesthood. What the ancients called entering into the order of the Son of God is today called entering into the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood. This can only happen in the temple. Both worthy men and women enter into this highest order of the priesthood in the temple....We obtain the power to bring our children into the presence of God by going to the house of the Lord and entering into 'the order of the Son of God' by means of the ordinances, including eternal marriage when the opportunity arises."

Russell M. Nelson 4/96 #25: "Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me" "Which way do you face? Our respect for the first commandment fashions our feelings for all the others."

Two people cancelled appointments with me today. I had an appointment to see Sister MacArthur at 9 this morning and just as I was about to open the muffin mix she called and said she was in town and could I come tomorrow. No problem.

I was going to take Sister Halcomb to have a minor surgery done on her arm and she texted me and said her daughter was home and she would take her. No problem.

James and I are really getting in to the "Kill the Chunky Monkey Weightloss Challenge. We both walked 45 minutes straight to get the 7 exercise points. 

I wrote a check for the last half of our property taxes. The check was around $1,400. 

James went to the post office today and there was a check there from Dianne Rico for $1,150. There was also a check from a life insurance company with the policy on me, for $118. The Lord really does answer prayers.

I started cleaning upstairs for our company on Thursday, Dave, Laura, Cathi, Terry, and Lady. It gets so dusty! James joined me. He moved the kingsized bed from my office to Sheri and Ian's room, their bed into his office, and the bed in his office into my office. 

He also started making shutters for the front windows today. It was a good day for him! He also did yard work and planted the iris's and hydrangea bush he bought the other day. 

We had boiled cabbage for dinner and then for FHE we listened to Brother Soares conference talk, "Prophets Speak by the Power of the Holy Spirit."

This baby bunny couldn't reach inside the 

bowl for his feed so he solved the problem

by jumping in.

Hello world!

Garden State Tortoise

Dresden, Germany

I remember President Uchtdorf giving a

talk where he mentioned how Dresden was

destroyed during World War II and then

was rebuilt to be just as beautiful as it was before.

Buffalo St., Chandler, Arizona

This is the first building where we attended

church in Chandler. It was light green in

color when we were there and before it was

torn down.

Sunday, April 22nd, 2018

Lubbock, Texas

109th operating temple

Dedicated: 21 April 2002

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

What should I pray for?

Bible Dictionary, "Prayer," paragraph 9

Book of Mormon references on prayer include 1 Ne. 18:3; Alma 34:17-28; Ether 2:14.

Jesus Christ betrayal of

Luke 22:6

And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.

Book of Mormon

Mosiah 13:5-35

How might this story of Abinadi give you courage when you face difficult tasks?

- It takes courage to respond to every situation the way the Savior would. Most of us will not have to die in order to bear testimony of Christ but we will be asked to show our loyalty and courage by living the gospel in an ever increasing world. How does the story of Abinadi give me courage when faced with difficulties? I like this quote by President Russell M. Nelson: "When we know who we are and what God expects of us - when his law is written in our hearts..we are spiritually protected." More than anything I desire to do what God expects of me. 

Old Testament

Judges 21

The people lament the desolation of Benjamin - The inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead are destroyed for not engaging in the war with Benjamin - Wives are provided for the remnant of Benjamin.

General Conference

Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives

President Russell M. Nelson

"In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

We begin our "Chunky Monkey" challenge today. I have already lost 10 lbs. so I am ready for this.

James helped me cut these out at the last minute today for my lesson. Each figure represents one of the twelve tribes of Israel

The lesson was about Joseph's brothers selling him into Egypt.

Lots of cutting and folding.

We made a set for each child in my class

and a couple of extras.

James left for church before I did. I have a meeting afterwards so we took separate cars. I got there just before 9. James had already set the chairs up in my room and carried my stuff in for me.

Pam and Rick are here. Pam grabbed me to remind me of our lunch date on Tuesday. I am so happy they are here. Pam brought a friend. Her name is Jennifer.

Ty A. was the youth speaker. He spoke on family history work and using FamilySearch. "Power comes from doing family history. There will be more closeness in your family. We can be strengthened when we do family history work."

Brother Grapp spoke next. His topic was strengthening our testimony of living prophets. He quoted Article of Faith #9. He also said that Christ spoke and gave specific instructions to individuals as well as His apostles. DC 1:38-39. The Prophet speaks to the world and to us as individuals. The Holy Spirit tailors his message to each one of us. The prophets are speaking to us. Are we listening? The Family Proclamation is a good example. Prophets show us the joy that comes from living the gospel. "Decisions Determine Destiny." This was something President Monson said. 

Obedience brings blessings. Exact obedience brings miracles.

Brother Patrick was the closing speaker. His time was cut short. He spoke about the life and mission of Joseph Smith.

Brother Grapp and Brother Patrick both started their talks with Aloha! Brother Grapp served a mission in Hawaii and Brother Patrick was stationed there in the military. He was baptized in Hawaii on December 25th, 1968.

The Vernon ward choir sang the closing number: "Where Can I Turn for Peace?"

Today is my last week to teach Primary.  These are the children that attended: Liana, Andyn, Amaron, and Colter. I don't know where Jace and Gracie were.

James came in for the attention activity and explained to the class how a pearl is made inside of an oyster. It starts with an irritant, sand, and grows into something beautiful. The analogy is that even though bad things happen to us we can turn them around for good if we have the right attitude. This is what Joseph did after he was sold into Egypt.

Once we got through the lesson we celebrated Andyn's birthday, which is today, by letting her open her birthday gifts from me. I got her some little toys from Dollar General, a jewelry box with a butterfly on top, and a beautiful heart-shaped crystal necklace. 

I also gave her a card and told her how much I loved her and how proud I was of her for her knowledge of the scriptures.

Andyn: Such a sweetheart

I walked Amaron down to sharing time and gave him a hug. He loves to sit by me and he will probably miss me the most. 

Now, on to Relief Society. I have decided I like the new arrangement of sitting in a circle because you can see everyone. Pam was sitting by Millie. I guess her friend went home. Sister Curtis gave the lesson. It was about keeping the Sabbath day holy through worship and service. She did an excellent job and had good participation. 

After the block Tamara, Laurann, Kerri and I sat around the table in the front of the Relief Society room and had our first presidency meeting. I gave the spiritual thought by quoting from Moroni 10:32. Laurann's boys played on the floor and we ate lunch and snacks while we discussed the business of Relief Society.

We  need a new teacher so Tamara is going to talk to the bishop and request Sister Skousen. We chose conference talks for the lessons this coming month. I will not have to teach until July. 

After our meeting I went home and took a short nap. Brother Westbrook is gone visiting his new granddaughter in Safford so James needs someone to go with him to visit the Woods.'

I was a little negative about going but quickly repented. The Wood's are about our age and they moved to Vernon for peace and quiet, like we did. They love to travel and went to Alaska last year. They will be going to BYU's graduation next week and taking one of their homemade quilts to a loved one, I think it's Sister Woods' daughter. She has 3 children by a previous marriage. Her first husband died. Brother Wood had two sons by a previous marriage.

We both enjoyed the visit and found we have a lot in common with them and things to admire that aren't common with us.

This evening we studied the gospel and read. I listened to President Nelson's conference address from October 1995, "Perfection Pending." 'Our adoration of Jesus is best expressed by our emulation of Jesus.'

Sister Heyman has a duck that nested in one

of her flower pots. Today some of the eggs

hatched. The ones that didn't hatch, sadly the

mamma duck left behind.

So cute! They should name one Petunia since

they were born in a petunia bed.

There she is, Petunia!

Everybody wants to see.

The following post was written by

Rebecca's daughter Christina:

I thought this was so beautiful that

I wanted to share it.

Lola looks a little stressed. Last year at the

resort she was afraid of the water. I wonder

how she will be this year.