Saturday, June 23rd, 2018

London, England

12th operating temple

Dedicated: 7-9 Sept 1958

By: David O. McKay

Jesus Christ, Condescension of

DC 122:8

The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?

Book of Mormon

Alma 20:19-30

"A More Hardened and a More Stiff-Necked People"

The record states that Aaron and his companions served among those who were "a more hardened and a more stiff-necked people" (Alma 20:30). Their experience parallels the experience of many who try to teach those who either have no interest in, or who are antagonistic toward the gospel. President Henry B. Eyring explained why we must still try to reach every soul: "Why should I speak to anyone about the gospel who seems content? What danger is there to them or to me if I do or say nothing? Well the danger may be hard to see but it is real, both for them and for us. For instance, at some moment in the world to come, everyone you will ever meet will know what you know now. They will know that the only way to live forever in association with our families and in the presence of our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ, was to choose to enter into the gate by baptism at the hands of those with authority from God. They will know that the only way families can be together forever is to accept and keep sacred covenants offered in the temples of God on this earth. And they will know that you knew. And they will remember whether you offered them what someone had offered you" (Ensign, Nov. 1998, 33).

Old Testament

1 Chronicles 7-8

7 The sons and families are named for Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher.

8 The sons and chief men of Benjamin are named.

General Conference

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Elder Gerrit W. Gong

"Together, our covenants and our Savior's Atonement enable and ennoble. Together, they help us hold on and let go. Together, they sweeten, preserve, sanctify, redeem."

New Era: "Stopping Anger In It's Tracks," "My Blessing of Love and Comfort."

Ian, Sheri, Alex Shayna, Ben, Max, Evan, Kim, Brian, and Joseph left for Europe today. What an adventure they are going to have for the next three weeks!

They already look tired.

Poor Ollie got left at home.

He went to visit Indy and Lady.

Michael is the dog sitter.

We left for our shift at the temple this morning at 5:40. 

Again I have the same schedule I have had the past three shifts.

 The Palmer's was a video on how to help the disabled in a session. 

My first assignment was in initiatory. I love the initiatory ordinances but I still don't have all the wording memorized. Everything is becoming more familiar though. I was able to be a patron for one of my own names. James took 5 sisters names and 5 brothers names to the baptistry from my family. I got them from Take A Name.  Now we will have initiatory to do next week.

My next assignment was in the Celestial Room. I love the Celestial Room this time of day. Not only is it beautiful but it is so quiet and peaceful. I read several chapters from the Book of Mormon. 

Next I had my break with James and Debbie L., two of my favorite people. 

James and I did the 9:30 session together. He was the officiator and I was the only sisters follower. There were only six sisters in the session so Sister McCleary went as a partron. 

James did not make any mistakes this time. Brother Bradshaw was the brothers follower and offered the prayer.

After the session I went back to initiatory, then downstairs to be the baptistry greeter while James checked recommends at the door. My last assignment was locker room. As I was sitting there reading from the Book of Mormon Sister Cochran volunteered to fill in for me so I could go home. How sweet,  and she didn't have to ask twice.

Oh, I forgot to mention that Sister Crane from Flagstaff filled in for Sister Cureton. She is not related to our Cranes.

We went straight home, not even stopping at Walmart. I took a nap and then started getting ready for the ward activity. Oh yes, I also put the enchiladas in to cook. 

We were supposed to meet at the church as a Relief Society presidency at 4, but we were a little late. 

The tables were all set up, but no chairs, so James set up the chairs. We found some plastic tablecloths for the tables and started setting up the memorabilia and the food. Brother Miller, the bishop's dad, had a dish labeled possum and sweet potatoes. No way. He also had some jambalaya that he said was way better than Sister Reidhead's because his was from Mississippi and hers was from Alabama and it was probably just a copy of his. I actually loved her jambalaya and was a little afraid to try his.

We had a great turnout! Lots of good food and people to visit with.

The following people set up memorabilia and told a little about their families: Tamara, the Crane's, Sister Singleton, Sister Smith, Bishop Miller, Sister Vaught, James, myself, Brother Diewald, and Brother Peeler. Brother Peeler had the coolest coat of arms, made in Peru. I wish I would have remembered to take some photos.

The missionaries did a presentation about families. It wasn't quite what we had envisioned, but it was great. 

Elder Bernecker, our new missionary and I really hit it off. Last week when Trina was here and I told her we had a new elder named Bernecker she said that her dad's best friend when he was young was Brian Bernecker. I asked Elder Bernecker what his dad's first name was and he said Brian. I told him the story and the connection was made. He gave me his dad's number and I texted him. Later he called me and we talked about the Case's and what a great friend Bob was, his very best friend. He and his wife and his mother were all at Darrel and Trina's wedding. It's a small world, especially in the Church.

James was pretty stressed because he thought he would have time to work on his talk and lesson tonight and he really didn't because he was helping me. I carried most of the things in and put them away while he studied at the table. 

A great day but I am glad tomorrow is our day of rest.

Elder Bernecker and Elder Smith

The DeWitt's are coming home!

I love President and

Sister Nelson so much!

Cool, but scary!

Huntleigh is a cowgirl through and through!

Friday, June 22nd, 2018

Hamilton, New Zealand
11th operating temple
Dedicated: 20-22 April 1958
By: David O. McKay

Jesus Christ, Condescension of

DC 88:6

He that ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth.

Book of Mormon

Alma 20:1-18

*How do you express love for your family members who are not members of the Church?

- The same way that you would for those that are. There's no difference. You love your family, no matter what. Love is unconditional. - Brian

Old Testament

1 Chronicles 5-6

5 The sons of Joseph received Reuben's birthright - Judah and his descendants became rulers in Israel - The line of Reuben down to the captivity is given - The Assyrians carry the Reubenites, Gadites, and half of Manasseh into captivity.

6 The sons of Levi, including David's singers, are listed - The responsibilities of Aaron and his descendants are given - Levite cities are designated in the areas of the various tribes.

General Conference

Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives

President Russell M. Nelson

"Without our Redeemer's infinite Atonement, not one of us would have hope of ever returning to our Heavenly Father. Without His Resurrection, death would be the end. Our Savior's Atonement made eternal life a possibility and immortality a reality for all."

New Era:"Page After Page Says We Believe," "Three Helps for Being Your Happiest and Best Self" - Elder Cornish

This was my first day back on Family Search for awhile. I have lots of suggested tasks but most of them are dead ends unless I take the time to do some research. 

I ironed two white shirts for James this morning, one for the temple tomorrow, and one for Church on Sunday. 

I swept and mopped the kitchen and dining room floor. I made 4 dozen rolls, 3 dozen for the temple, and a dozen for the Peeler's.

Brother Peeler told us that Donna likes my "buns." I call them rolls.

I contacted 23 people about the ward party tomorrow night, and I made Lois's enchiladas for the party tomorrow night and put them in the frig. James called her and got a history of the recipe. Lois said about 70 years ago right after she was first married her cousin who was married to someone from Tijuana, Mexico that owned a restaurant invited her to dinner. They served her enchiladas and they were the best she had ever tasted. She tweeked the recipe and made a casserole instead of individual servings and her family loved it. She still makes them today at 90 years of age and her children and grandchildren make them for their families too.

This evening I typed James's eight page talk for sacrament meeting. I am afraid he is going to have to cut it down a bit. The talk is on personal revelation.

I got my 13,000 steps today and also had my green smoothie for dinner.

I watched an older Hallmark movie today starring Alicia Witt, "Backyard Wedding." I watched while I was typing James's talk so I didn't feel like I was wasting my time.

This is one of the reasons I stay on Facebook

Here is another one. This was last year when

we went to Scottsdale for our weekend at the

time share. We always go to Peter Piper Pizza.

I bet these guys could make the jump.
Alpacas.

New restaurant in South Chandler.

Thursday, June 21st, 2018

Los Angeles, California

10th operating temple

Dedicated: 11-14 Mar 1956

By: David O. McKay

Jesus Christ, Condescension of

Ether 3:9

And the Lord said unto him: Because of thy faith thou hast seen that I shall take upon me flesh and blood; and never has man come before me with such exceeding faith as thou hast; for were it not so ye could not have seen my finger. Sawest thou more than this?

Book of Mormon

Alma 19:22-36

*How has Ammon's missionary experience been different thann Alma and Amulek's?

- In verse 22 Ammon is saved from being slain by the sword. The Lord promised his father, Mosiah, that he would be safe and protected.

Old Testament

1 Chronicles 3-4

3 David's sons are named - The successors of Solomon to Jeconiah and beyond are listed.

4 The families and descendants of Judah, Simeon, and others are chronicled - Various princes in their families are named.

General Conference

Small and Simple Things

President Dallin H. Oaks

"We are taught many small and simple things inn the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need to be reminded that in total and over a significant period of time, these seemingly small things bring to pass great things. There have been many talks on this subject by General Authorities and by other respected teachers. The subject is so important that I feel to speak of it again."

Russell M. Nelson 4/18 #71. Introductory Remarks

"We announce a significant restructuring of our Melchizedek Priesthood quorums to accomplish the work of the Lord more effectively."

Ensign: "A Righteous Fathers Influence," "Creating a Culture of Inclusion."

James and I went to the Howard's this morning after gospel study time to see their new filly. She was born Tuesday night.

Sleepy

Backside

White mouth 

Love the tail and ears

Loves her mama

Always hungry

On the way to the Howard's James "re-located" a pesky squirrel from our yard.

When we returned home James went upstairs to work on his talk while I went to the recliner for a rest. 

It was 95 degrees today and 109 in the valley. Summer is officially here.

The storms in southeast Texas right now remind me of my friend Kay's book.

I went grocery shopping this afternoon. When I returned home James had a smoothie waiting for me. We always have a green smoothie for dinner.

After putting away the groceries I did my walk and then took a bath. I made some phone calls/texts to sisters in Primary and YW telling them about the ward activity on Saturday evening.

James and I worked at the dining room table this evening. He on his talk and me on planning and then reading. I sure do love my grape flavored water enhancer!  James wants some pudding and I forgot to get some. Sorry honey.

Old and creepy

Near Flagstaff

Beautiful

Wednesday, June 20th, 2018

Bern, Switzerland

9th operating temple

Dedicated: 11-15 Sept 1955

By: David O. McKay

Jesus Christ, Condescension of

Alma 19:13

For as sure as thou livest, behold, I have seen my Redeemer; and he shall come forth, and be born of a woman, and he shall redeem all mankind who believe on his name. Now, when he had said these words, his heart was swollen within him, and he sunk again with joy; and the queen also sunk down, being overpowered by the Spirit.

Book of Mormon

Alma 19:12-21

*Why do you think Abish waited to make her conversion known to the Lamanites?
-In Matt 7:6 the Savior taught "neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you." Abish was waiting for the right time to share her testimony. She was waiting until the Lord prompted her. There has to be people ready to listen to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Old Testament
1 Chronicles 1-2
1 The genealogies and family ties from Adam to Abraham are given - The posterity of Abraham is listed.
2 The descendants of Israel, Judah, Jesse, Caleb, and others are listed.
General Conference

His Spirit to Be With You

President Henry B. Eyring

"My hope today is to increase your desire and your ability to receive the Holy Ghost. Remember, He is the third member of the Godhead. The Father and the Son are resurrected beings. The Holy Ghost is a person of spirit. (See DC 130:22.) It is your choice whether to receive Him and welcome Him into your heart and mind."

Russell M. Nelson 10/17 #70 The Book of Mormon: What Would Your Life Be Like Without It?

"In a most miraculous and singular way, the Book of Mormon teaches us of Jesus Christ and His gospel."

Ensign: "The Savior Heals Our Hurts" and "Place Your Trust in Him." 

I got up at 5, my regular time, for the first time in a few days. 

I asked Sheri if Ben had sent in his mission papers yet and she said President Johansen sent them in last night. I think they are sent electronically.

Here are some of the guesses as to where he is going: 

Grandma: Scotland/England or the Philippines.

Grandpa: Borneo, Mongolia or the big island of Hawaii. He remembers going to church there and how wonderful the people were.

Brian: North Carolina so he can convert the Avett Brothers.

We actually probably have relatives in North Carolina. That's where my grandpa Strickland was from. Brian also guessed Virginia.

Michael: Bulgaria or Korea

Kim: New Zealand

Adam: California or Washington

Stacy: Georgia

Anyone else want to guess?

James sent his old phone back to Verizon today. He got his mailing label in the mail but I did not get mine. Trying to get this mailing label is like pulling teeth. I tried several times to get it online and James called Verizon and they said he had to get it online. He finally went to the Verizon store and used their phone to order another one. 

James also went to the dump and did some other errands in town while I stayed home and worked on stripping the polish off the wood floor. Another task that is as hard as pulling teeth. That polish does not want to come off. Sometimes I have to scrape it off because the remover doesn't get it all. Not a fun task. I also ordered some more finish so when I get the old polish off, I can put a new satin finish back on.

James and I watched one of the Hailey Dean mysteries this evening. It was a good one. She finally found out who killed her fiance. His best friend was the mastermind behind it. The killer was supposed to have killed her. I don't usually like murder mysteries but I like these. The stories are written by the reporter, Nancy Grace and she appears in all of the episodes as a TV news commentator.

I want these purple flowers all over my yard.

So funny!

I hope this means he can feed himself now.

I want one of these for our family!

Rain and lightning over the 

Grand Canyon.

Relief Society 4th Sunday lessons

Tuesday, June 19th, 2018

Idaho Falls, Idaho

8th operating temple

Dedicated: 23-25 Sept 1945

By: George Albert Smith

 Jesus Christ, Condescension of

Alma 7:13

Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.

Book of Mormon

Alma 19:1-11

*How do common beliefs help us share the gospel?

Old Testament

2 Kings 25

Nebuchadnezzar again besieges Jerusalem - Zedekiah is captured, Jerusalem and the temple are destroyed, and most of the people of Judah are carried into Babylon - Gedaliah, left to govern the remnant, is slain - The remnant flee to Egypt - Jehoiachin is shown favor in Babylon.

General Conference

He That Shall Endure unto the End, the Same Shall Be Saved

Elder Claudio D. Zivic

"I have heard many justifications from those who have stopped participating actively in the Church and have lost the correct vision of the purpose of our journey on this earth. I exhort them to reflect and to return, because I believe that no one will be able to make excuses before our Lord, Jesus Christ."

Rowan caught another bunny and a rat last night.

So cute

Even this guy looks kinda cute.

He let the bunny out here in the yard and later James took the rat 

off somewhere and let him go.

Ben had his mission interview with the stake president in Chandler last night. We are so excited!

James had a doctors appointment this morning. We gathered everyone together and had family prayer before he left.

James got up at 2 am to use the bathroom and heard the water running upstairs. We have a toilet that has a handle that needs to be pushed up after use and sometimes the kids forget. The kids were all still up playing games. When he asked them about it this morning they said they didn't got to bed until around 4 am. 

Ruby and were playing the match game when Lola, Addy, and Kayla came over. I heard the toilet running again and went upstairs to fix it. Ruby came running upstairs crying and when I tried to comfort her she told me Addy had done something but I couldn't really understand what. She went in and laid down on the bed. I told Addy she should go apologize, which she did. I think Ruby is just emotional from being so tired.

Darrel and Trina clean the cabin and start washing sheets and towels while the kids play games. Darrel took Kreed and Rowan on a Razr ride because the girls got to go to the pit with grandpa yesterday and now it's the boys turn.

Kayla, Addy and I were playing Five Crowns when I got a phone call from Debbie at the post office. She said she had some people there who wanted to come out and visit with us. When I asked who it was she said, the Bear's. They are old friends from Chandler who have a place on Rainbow Lake and some land in Vernon. It is actually the land where Bishop Miller keeps his horse. I gave them directions on how to get here.

In the meantime, Darrel and family are ready to go so I went out and took some pictures on the front porch.

A nice looking group

Thanks for wanting to have your birthday at the

cabin Ruby!

Dog pile on Kayla!

James is still at the doctor's and also had to wait on my car. He took it to Walmart to have the oil changed. 

After waiting quite awhile I call Brother Bear to see where they are. I can tell they are lost and don't know which way to go, so I hop on the Razr and go to the rescue. They are past the Hunsaker turnoff and the wash but did not know where to go next because Brother Bear forgot to write down N3466. 

I gave them the grand tour except for the basement. They were amazed at the logs and the high ceilings. They just kept going on and on. I went outside to show them the fire pit and we were on the porch talking when James came out. They visited awhile longer and Sandy told me they have 33 grandchildren and 66 great grandchildren. She said that in their family they have an 18 piece string orchestra and when they play on their ramada at their place in Lakeside, people in boats on the lake come over to listen. They also allow their families wards to have their girls camps at their place, but first they have to go up early and get rid of the 200 geese that live in their yard when they aren't there. 
 I am so glad they came to see us today. They are wonderful people that we have known since 1971 when we moved to Chandler.

James brought lunch from LaCasita for he and I. We both had a green chili enchilada with chicken. Thanks honey!

I took it easy today and watched the latest Hallmark wedding movie. I also worked on my blog.

For FHE we listened to Elder Zivic's talk on enduring to the end and worked on "Putting Our Things in Order" for Kim and Brian who will be our will executors.

James took this photo a few years back. 

I love it!

The choices the sisters in the Galveston 3rd ward,

Chandler West Stake were given for their first

Sunday Council meetings.

Laura sent this to me. No wonder she feels

like she is in therapy.

Such a cool photo. It reminds me of Lion King.

Couch we got from the Howard's. 

It is so comfy!