Thursday, September 27, 2018

Snowflake, Arizona

108th operating temple

Dedicated: 3 March 2002

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Crucifixion

Mosiah 15:7

Yea, even so he shall be led, crucified, and slain, the flesh becoming subject even unto death, the will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.

Book of Mormon

Helaman 11:1-20

*I these verses the Nephites did being "to remember the Lord their God." What blessings have you seen come into your life when you choose to remember Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? How do you feel when you ponder about what the Savior has done for you?

- I feel like going to church is like going to the hospital. We are all hurting or sick in some way. I feel healed as I partake of the sacrament. I know that as I repent and re-commit to keep the commandments the Savior forgives me and accepts of my offering, and I feel His love for me. I have the strength to face the challenges ahead of me for another week. During the week when I feel myself losing it, I offer a prayer to calm me down. I ask for peace, comfort, strength and love and to have the Spirit to be with me. I need Him every hour. I also try to repent immediately or at night during my prayers. 
Old Testament
Isaiah 34-36
General Conference

Behold the Man!

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf

"The Savior's refining light saturates our souls. His grace uplifts us. Our burdens are lightened, our peace deepened. When we truly behold the Man, we have the promise of a blessed future that inspires and upholds us through the bends and bumps in life's journey. Looking back, we will recognize that there is a divine pattern, that the dots really connect."

James worked at the Howard's most of the day with Anthony. After work they came here, showered, and we had dinner with the missionaries. When I say "they" I mean James and Anthony.

I made stew, rolls, and a salad for dinner. James made lemonade. The stew cooked all day in the crockpot and made the house smell so good. I got a call from Stacy today, and Charlotte, which means I was on the phone listening for a good while today. 

I finished my book "The Lake House." I loved the ending. 

James has been waiting for his check from National Turf. They said they mailed it Monday but we have not yet received it. I hope they have the right address for us.

Just before James went in to take his shower I broke the top off my cake stand and it shattered everywhere. About that time Anthony came in in his stocking feet and I told him to be careful. James went in to take his shower and Anthony helped me clean up the shattered crystal. He said I could probably find a cake platter top at one of the thrift stores in town. I will certainly look because I do want it replaced.

We always enjoy Elder Bernecker and Elder Bingham, and so did Anthony. We talked about lots of different things, including missionary work. After dinner they shared a message and then had to leave. They are teaching Cameron Kenyon. He has had the lessons before but his parents never let him be baptized. Such a nice kid. I had him in my Primary class and he came a couple of times. I felt he would come all the time if he got some support from his parents. The missionaries have challenged them to come to church.

We love and appreciate the missionaries and Anthony!

9 lbs 4 oz of pure joy!

 Love those eyes!

 Tom Hanks as Mr. Rogers

 We ready for you Kim!

 This is the family that is moving to Georgia.

I will miss them.

Wednesday, September 26th, 2018

Columbia River, Washington

107th operating temple

Dedicated: 18 Nov 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Crucifixion

Acts 2:23

Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
Book of Mormon
Helaman 10:1-19
*How did Nephi qualify for this great power? Can we have this same power? How are you an everyday missionary?
- The answer to the first question is found in verses 4 & 5. The last sentence in verse four says: "Thou hast not feared them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments. The blessing is promised in verse five. Can we have this same power? If we are willing to put forth the effort to love and serve our fellowman as Nephi did and if it is the Lord's will, I would say yes. I think apostles and prophets and worthy missionaries who are doing the Lord's work full time can certainly have great power as they serve and bless the lives of others. How am I an everyday missionary? By trying to live the gospel and serving. When I serve I don't want it to feel like a burden or an interruption but like I am doing the Lord's will. When I serve I feel the Spirit. When I feel the Spirit it fills me with great power to love and care for others. As we live the gospel, people will notice. They will judge our religion based on our actions.
Old Testament
Isaiah 31-33
General Conference

Ministering as the Savior Does

Jean B. Bingham

"I gladly bear my personal witness that these revelatory changes are inspired of God and that, as we embrace them with willing hearts, we will become better prepared to meet His Son, Jesus Christ, as His coming. We will be closer to becoming a Zion people and will feel surpassing joy with those whom we have helped along the path of discipleship."

"

"The gospel ordinances are part of the specific means outlined by the Lord whereby one can overcome his natural state, receive a spiritual rebirth, and become like God." - OTSM, Vol.2, p 162.

James left for Howard's this morning with the request that I wait until he gets back so he can go to town with me.

I worked on my blog, changed the sheets on our bed, worked a little in my office, and did some ministering interviews today. 

Our first stop in town was at Aliberto's for lunch. We ordered the two taco plate and shared it. It was yummy. Afterwards I went shopping at Walmart while James made some phone calls. 

On the way home I read to James from "Loving Lieutenant Lancaster." This afternoon was spent walking, talking to Sister Butler on the phone, and watching a little of "Dancing with the Stars." I am starting to become disenchanted with this show.

At 7 p.m. I had a Relief Society presidency meeting at the church with Tamara, Maxine, and Kerri.

Tamara had us listen to a song called "Blessings" by a Christian composer, Laura Story. Laura won a grammy for this song. My favorite line: "What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise."

Ben flew to Idaho today and met his mission

president and his wife.

She did not like the bow!

Lola

 You can track anything with a dot journal.

Ollie, you are such a poser!

Tuesday, September 25th, 2018

Perth, Australia

106th operating temple

Dedicated: 20 May 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Crucifixion

John 20:25

The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.

Book of Mormon

Helaman 9:18-41

*It isn't always easy to stand up for what you believe. What do you do to stand strong and defend your beliefs?

- Are we seeing the damage being done to our nation because we don't want to offend anyone? Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, past General Young Women's President said: "Members live in such an atmosphere of avoiding offense that we sometimes altogether avoid teaching correct principles. Of course we should use sensitivity, common sense and our understanding of the plan, to be bold and straightforward, but if we don't teach true doctrine - and teach it clearly - the world will teach those we love Satan's lies.

Old Testament

Isaiah 28-30

General Conference

"Be With and Strengthen Them"

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

"Our prayer today is that every man and woman - and our older young men and young women - will leave this general conference more deeply committed to heartfelt care for one another, motivated only by the pure love of Christ to do so. In spite of what we all feel are our limitations and inadequacies-and we all have challenges-nevertheless, may we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. If we will do that, we will be more like the true disciples of Christ we are meant to be."

This from my novel, "The Lake House":

"Boredom is the province of the witless."

James went out this morning and took pictures of the six bull elk that live near us. Hopefully he will get them downloaded so I can share some of them on here.

We had a nice rainstorm today. I love how fresh and clean everything seems after it rains, except for the mud of course.

I am tired today as I usually am the day after a trip, but I just kept moving, albeit slowly. 

James went to Springerville this afternoon to pickup the slabs of wood he had cut from our juniper tree. He also picked up some poles to replace those worn out on our railing. He had wanted me to go with him but I needed to do my ministering interviews for my district. 

I am not so sure the sisters are catching the vision of what it means to minister. Most of the interviews I had today went somethig like this, 'Yes, I spoke to all three of my sisters but I didn't contact my partner.' Maybe we need to do some training.

This evening as I was reading from the Old Testament Student Manual I became extremely tired and had to go lay down on the coach. Of course, I had to turn on the TV, DWTS. I just watched a dance or two and fell asleep. James said it was time to go to bed, and he was right.

 Sleepin' like a baby

Cutie Pie!

Ben and friends 

Ben's last day in the MTC. When his friend,

Elder Goodman, Peter and Sarah's son, left

for Washington today, Ben said he cried like a baby!

 I like this card, except for the color.

Maybe the photo is in black and white.

 I hope these are the fabrics I get this month!

My journal is not this artistic.

  

Monday, September 24th, 2018

Guadalajara, Mexico

105th operating temple

Dedicated: 29 Apr 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Crucifixion

Deuteronomy 21:23

And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.

Book of Mormon

Helaman 9:1-17

*Some prophecies like Nephi's in this chapter, are difficult to believe. How have I gained my testimony in President Nelson and his teachings?

-When President Nelson became the prophet I read all of his conference talks. The Spirit has borne witness to me that he is a prophet of God.

Old Testament

Isaiah 25-27

General Conference

Prophets Speak by the Power of the Holy Spirit

Elder Ulisses Soares

"On this Easter day I solemnly testify that Jesus Christ is risen, He lives, and He directs His Church on earth through His prophets, seers, and revelators. I testify that He is the Savior and Redeemer of the world and that through Him we can be saved and exalted in the presence of our dear God. I love Him; I adore Him. I want to follow Him and do His will and become more like Him. I humbly say these things in the sacred name of our Lord Jesus Christ, amen."

Ministering

President Russell M. Nelson

"The First Presidency and the Twelve are united in endorsing their messages. Gratefully and prayerfully we open this new chapter in the history of the Church. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

James and I took Lola to IHOP for breakfast this morning. She said she liked waffles better than pancakes, so we ordered her a waffle. She wanted strawberry syrup and would not try the maple syrup Grandpa offered her.

Grandpa helping Lola cut her waffle.

She ate most of them, but grandpa

did offer some help.

I ordered the cream cheese crepes

with raspberry sauce. It looks more like a dessert.

Grandpa dropped us off at home and then hurried to a meeting he had in Phoenix about building some houses for Salvador J.

Lola got her hair done by her mom and she and I went to the bicycle shop with Trina to get a flat tire fixed. Trina is doing a Sprint Triathalon on Saturday and needs that bicycle. 

Afterwards Trina was nice enough to take me to Hobby Lobby. 

I got most of the things on my list but not all because I was already over my budget. Trina wanted to take Lola to the Christmas section while I was shopping but Lola said, no, she wanted to wait for Grandma. Such a sweetie!

James got home before I did and was waiting for me. He helped me pack my items. We said goodbye to Lola and Trina and left for Costco. Trina said there was a Costco on Sossaman and Southern which was closer than going back to the one in Gilbert, so that's where we went.

We were disappointed to find that this Costco does not have Alpine Valley bread, the main thing we wanted to buy. They also don't have a gas station. We did manage to spend all of my rewards check, all $97 and then some. I got a mirror on a stand with a light, jumper cables, etc. for the car. We also got three watermelons, raspberries, blueberries, and mango. It sure is easy to spend money at this place.

We left Costco and went back to Fry's to get some gas and then we were on our way home. We didn't even have to stop for lunch because we got a hotdog and a drink for $1.50 at Costco.

The trip home was pretty uneventful except for one thing. While traveling between Globe and Salt River, a mountain lion jumped off a cliff right beside our car. I yelled and James asked me what was wrong because he hadn't seen it. When I told him, he looked in the rearview mirror and caught a glimpse. Be still my heart!

For F.H.E. James had me listen to a business opportunity on the internet. It involves buying textbooks off Amazon from third party sellers and then selling them back to Amazon. I told him I did not want to be in charge but that I would help him do this. We signed up for a seminar for Friday morning at 7 a.m.

 Another card by Kelli

 A blurry birthday calendar

Greg Trimble's sacrament meeting program.

As he looked into President Nelson's eyes

a warm powerful feeling came over him and he knew

President Nelson was a prophet of God.

Such sweet photos!