Wednesday, October 31st, 2018

Gilbert, Arizona

142nd operating temple

Dedicated: 2 Mar 2014

By: Thomas S. Monson

Jesus Christ, Davidic Descent of

Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Book of Mormon #1

3 Nephi 17:1-25

*Why do you think Jesus Christ told the people to ponder the things that He taught and to ask Heavenly Father for understanding? How often do you do this:

My answer: The dictionary says that ponder means to weigh mentally, think deeply, deliberate, and meditate. Pondering is, in my feeling, a form of prayer. Pondering the things of God helps to keep us from becoming complacent in our approach to Him. Elder Neal A. Maxwell explained the dangers of not regularly internalizing the gospel in our lives. "The worshippers at Rameumpton so ritualized their religion that they never spoke of their God again until they had assembled themselves together a week later at the stand. (Alma 31:23) Note the contrast in how Jesus instructed His followers on this hemisphere. (3 Nephi 17:3). See how the Master focuses on the family, on pondering, praying, preparing together! It should not surprise us, if we routinize our religion and do not assign the highest priority to the kingdom, that our hearts and minds will quite naturally drift to other things."

Book of Mormon #2

Mosiah 14-17

Old Testament

Ezekiel 7-8

General Conference

Becoming Exemplary Latter-day Saints

President Russell M. Nelson

"I leave my love and blessing upon you, that you may feast upon the word of the Lord and apply His teachings in your personal lives."

I got an email this morning from our ward Relief Society president: Message from bishop - Elder Robbins has asked that our stake include in our fast this coming Sunday "a blessing on missionary and ministering efforts of our stake. Specifically that the spirit will be poured out upon all this area and its people as part of the Lord's great Gathering." President Beeler said: "I have faith that when we align with the Brethren with exact obedience, the Lord will grant us blessings beyond those for which we are asking." 

James and I had scriptures and prayer in front of the fire this morning while it was snowing outside. The snow did not last long, melting as soon as it hit the ground. 

I looked for book trades today but didn't find any. I am still waiting to find where the book arbitrage software is located where I can buy and sell books for a profit.

I paid bills that are due tomorrow online today. Apache county gets us again. It costs $30 to pay online and they call it a "convenience fee." Maybe this is there slush fund to go out to lunch.

I got out my fall decorations for the front porch this morning since I have people coming over tonight. Presidency meeting is here and the Grapp's are coming trick-or-treating.  

James and I went to the post office together and listened to another chapter from "Saints." I had ordered the 1 volume of "The Work and the Glory" because mine is missing and we got that today. 

I watched, while doing other things, two Christmas movies today, "Help for the Holidays," and "Christmas List."

I got a new windshield today from Crystal Glass. They are the ones that opened the car when James locked the keys in the car on Saturday. Not only did they replace my windshield, they left me a $100 check. I will definitely use them again.!

I cut James hair this evening before my meeting. He wanted to have it cut before he went to visit the Peeler's. 

Our presidency meeting lasted almost 3 hours because we worked on our ministering chart. Also, the Grapp's came trick or treating so we stopped and visited with them. Poor little Emsley had a toothache and couldn't enjoy her Halloween candy.

The four of us enjoy one another's company so we had to do a little visiting. I told Tamara I was impressed that Jimmy had gotten her tickets to the ballet for her birthday. She said doing things together works best for them because they have opposite tastes in clothes. One year he got her a purple turtleneck nightgown with horizontal stripes that she did not like. We had to laugh about that one!

After the meeting and everyone had left James and I walked together around the kitchen and dining room. I did not even had 10,000 steps yet. I ended up with over 11,000.

Happy Halloween!

Got her shots yesterday and is sleeping today.

Happy Halloween from Sleeping Beauty!

Saw this video on Facebook. Ben is reading 
3 Nephi 27:8 where the Savior tells what the
name of His Church should be.

A "Fancy" Minnie

Cowgirl R.J.

 Most handsome Nerd I've ever seen

 Harley Quinn of Batman fame

The Queen of Hearts
The year Addy won for "Best Home
Made Costume" thanks to Trina.

 Spiderman making his getaway (Evan)

 Spiderman the Thinker (Joshua)

The Umphress kids
Love Gracie as a hotdog!

 Patrick and his crew

Case kids, Bryce, Bob

Glemsers'

Geiger kids

Boles'

Evie, Rachel's little girl,
Denise's granddaughter.

The Rays' with their twins

Hardings'

 The Pope boys'

Bishop Wilson and his "hive"

Cutest little strawberry I've ever seen!

Tuesday, October 30th, 2018

Tegucigalpa, Honduras

141st operating temple

Dedicated: 17 Mar 2013

By: Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Jesus Christ, Davidic Descent of

Psalms 132:17

There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed.

Book of Mormon #1

3Nephi 16:1-20

*What is the purpose of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon?

- It is a sign to the entire world that the Lord has begun to gather Israel and fulfill covenants He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (3 Ne. 29:1; Ether 4:17). Who is the House of Israel? The House of Israel generally refers to the descendants of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel in the Old Testament. (Gen 32:27-28). In the Book of Moron the Savior expanded this definition to include no only the literal descendants of Israel (3 Nephi 20:25-27) but also all Gentiles, or other people, who repent, are baptized, and come unto Christ. (3 Ne. 21:6). The Gathering of Israel is taking place in preparation of the Savior's Second Coming. In recent years it has been accelerated as missionaries are being called at a younger age. Heavenly Father loves all of His children and wants us to be gathered and united when the Savior comes to redeem the world. What an exciting time to be alive!

Book of Mormon #2

Mosiah 11-13

Old Testament

Ezekiel 5-6

General Conference

Shepherding Souls

Elder Gary E. Stevenson

"We reach out in love to others because it is what our Savior commanded us to do."

As I was reading in the book of Mosiah this morning I realized there was a temple both in Zarahemla and in the land of Nephi. I am sure I knew this, but for some reason it was impressed upon my mind as I read.

I bought my first book on Amazon today to trade back in to Amazon for a profit. If all goes as planned I will make $7.80 after all expenses. I am excited!

James went out on the Razr for an hour or so today to look for deer but had no luck. I think he missed his chance yesterday.

The weather has turned cold and rainy after being in the 70's this weekend. That's okay, it's a good time to stay home and watch Christmas movies. I only had a chance to watch two today.

I started work on my council session I am to lead in Relief Society on Sunday. It is based on President Nelson's message in the women's session of conference, "Sisters' Participation in the Gather of Israel," and his four challenges in that message. 

1. Ten-day fast from social media and other negative media.

2. Read the Book of Mormon again and finish by the end of the year.

3. Attend the temple on a regular basis.

4. Participate fully in Relief Society. Study the purpose of Relief Society and the Relief Society Declaration which was presented almost 20 years ago. (I was in the training meeting when it was presented).

There are some wonderful blessings attached to these challenges. President Nelson says: As you prayerfully study and read the Book of Mormon, I promise that the heavens will open for you. The Lord will bless you with increased inspiration and revelation. As you read, I would encourage you to mark each verse that speaks of or refers to the Savior. Then, be intentional about talking of Christ, rejoicing in Christ, and preaching of Christ with your families and friends. You and they will be drawn closer to the Savior through this process. And changes, even miracles, will begin to happen. 

Establish a pattern of regular temple attendance. This may require a little more sacrifice in your life. More regular time in the temple will allow the Lord to teach you how to draw upon His priesthood power with which you have been endowed in His temple.

I bless you with the ability to leave the world behind as you assist in this crucial and urgent work."

I testify that President Nelson is a prophet of God and he has been called of God to help gather Israel before the Second Coming of the Savior.

Sheri sent me a copy of part of the email Elder Trezise (Ben) sent her this week. It is about his prayer journal. I would like to share it on here so I will always have a record of it.

"I started doing something called a prayer journal. It has really helped me. Basically you find a time and place to be completely alone. You get down on your knees and pray, whether out loud or in your mind. You pray for everything you are thankful for. EVERYTHING. it should be a long list if you really think about it. Then you ask God if there is anything He wants you to know at this point in time. You open up the journal you have with you and just start writing. Don't think. Just write. When I was told about this, I thought that would be the most difficult part, not thinking and just writing. It seems like it wouldn't work, but it does. It is like a section of the Doctrine and Covenants designed specifically for me. It's amazing! Some of it is personal, but I figured I would share a little of my last experience with you."

"Looking back, I can see how little my faith was, even just a month ago. I need to have the faith as the prophets of old. I need to have the testimonies of the prophets. Do not look at them as if they are better than you, because they are not. All souls are equal in the sight of God. I have the same divine potential as the Apostles and Prophets. I have the agency to choose to have the faith they have. I need to be able to stand before my loving Father and say, 'I believe in You, and in your Only Begotten. I had the faith in mortality to move mountains, to part seas, and to commune with angels. I had the faith not only to die for You, but to live for You. I did not simply devote 2 years to You and then say to myself, 'It is finished. I did my part.' No! I served You my entire life. I dedicated everything I have to building Your kingdom. And yes, I faltered. I stumbled and fell. But I got back up and continued to press forward with faith. My work is never finished. I did all I could to bring souls unto Christ, and I did all I could to come live with You again, and I relied on the Atonement of my Savior to do the rest because I cannot return to You without the saving act of the Atonement."

"I would like to invite you to try the prayer journal. Don't try to do it too often, and spiritually prepare yourself before doing it. It is a draining experience."  - Love, Elder Trezise

This missionary of ours is so very spiritually mature. He will be a leader in our family, a shining light and others will look to him for guidance in their own lives. I know I do. I have three bright spots right now. One is Elder Trezise and the other are Charlie and Scarlett. (Actually I have several "bright spots" but these 3 come to mind.)

James made a trip to town this evening to pick up some material and wanted me to go with him. I started home to work on the book business but I regretted my decision afterwards.

 I can't stand the cuteness!

 Definitely a "bright spot"

McKell's baby's name is Maxwell Alexander.

I couldn't have chosen it better myself.

 Interesting schedule

Elder Wilhelm's biggest fan club

 Stacy's graduation day

 There to support there Mom.

Monday, October 29th, 2018

Calgary, Alberta

140th operating temple

Dedicated: 28 Oct 2010

By: Thomas S. Monson

Jesus Christ, Davidic Descent of

Psalm 132:11

The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.

Book of Mormon #1

3 Nephi 15:1-24

*Why is it so important to keep the commandments? How does keeping the commandments allow us to be a light to others?

- Keeping the commandments can help us avoid a lot of sadness, misery and really hard things. "If ye love me keep my commandments." (John 14:15).

Every commandment has a promised blessing. Obedience brings growth, protection spiritual and temporal blessings, and ultimately Eternal Life. The most important reason is we show our love, gratitude and devotion when we keep His commandments.

Book of Mormon #2

Mosiah 8-10

Old Testament

Ezekiel 3-4

General Conference

Now Is The Time

Elder Jack N. Gerard

"If there is anything in your life you need to consider, now is the time."

I have a notebook where I keep favorite scriptures. Right now I am working on the Old Testament. The scripture for today was Isaiah 53:3 - He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

I felt the Spirit as I read this scripture and was filled with gratitude for all the Savior has done for me.

I read the first couple of paragraphs of my Patriarchal blessing. I was impressed with this promise in paragraph 2: In accordance with my righteousness I will surely be blessed.

I emailed Ben today and this is the email I received in return:

Dear Grandma, Thank you so much for your love and support! I can feel the influence and of family and friends in my life. I am glad you got everything figured out with your car. That sounds like a hassle. THE TEMPE IS THE BEST. I had the opportunity to go this week, and it was amazing. I wish I could go more often. You are so lucky to be able to work in the temple. I definitely want to work in the temple after my mission. I see pictures of Charlie on Facebook sometimes, and think it's awesome. There was a song back home that I listened to, and every time I see her I think of it. It's called "Charlie" and it's by a band called "The Milk Carton Kids." You should look it up and if you like it, show it to Jared. 

I love being a missionary. Of course it's hard to deal with the negativity of getting doors slammed in my face, and curse words thrown at me, and so on. But, it doesn't bother me too much, because I know, for myself that this Church is true. Nothing will take away my testimony. I have seen miracles in my life and in the lives of those around me. I have felt the Spirit in an undeniable way, and will not fall away from what I know to be true. Elder Gay came to the MTC and talked to us while we were there, and in part of his talk he said, "It's funny how the Lord knew that many people would struggle reading the scriptures. Often times we read from the beginning up until the Isaiah chapters in 2nd Nephi, and then lose interest. Shortly after, they restart at 1st Nephi again. The Lord knew many people would do this. Have you read and really paed attention to the pages leading up to that 'restart point?' Most of the pages before it describe the Gathering of Scattered Israel. Over and over again. The Gathering of Israel is the most important work in these latter days. He gave us the Book of Mormon in the latter days, and put that at the beginning, knowing that we would read it time and time again." That is so true. The work of gathering God's children in the world today is second to no other work. It is called "The Work of Salvation" for a reason. One of my stake president's, President Hall is a very spiritual man. He was in the mission presidency when I got here, but shortly after, got released and became a stake president. He gave a training to his stake about this. He recited Mosiah 28:1-3 (because he basically has the entire Book of Mormon memorized) which talks about how the sons of Mosiah HAD to go and preach the Gospel, not only because they were called to, but because they "could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble." We need to have the desire to get out there and bring souls to Christ. Bruce R. McConkie once said, "if we are to have faith like Enoch and Elijah, we must believe what they believed, know what the knew, and live as they lived." It goes beyond belief and knowledge. "Faith without works is dead." We must have action. We must stand up for what we know to be true. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to be a missionary. Thank you for your support. 

-Elder Trezise  

I am so grateful for our missionary!

I watched Christmas movies today while working on the computer. Here is the list: 1. I'm Not Ready for Christmas, 2. A Christmas Wish (filmed in Mapleton, Utah and the guy from The Best Two Years is in it), 3. Most Wonderful Time of the Year, (love Henry Winkler in this one!), 4. Charming Christmas, 5. Farewell Mr. Kringle. All of these movies are about people overcoming trials and others serving and loving them. All are "feel good" movies with good endings. They bring the Christmas Spirit into my heart and home.

I made cookies for Talon today. I heard he was leaving for his mission on Tuesday, but I was mistaken. They left for the valley this afternoon and he leaves on a plane at 10 am tomorrow morning. He will be serving in the Uganda mission.

James went hunting today between Eagar and Big Lake. He saw a small buck that was quite close but when he went to shoot he heard a noise and turned around to see a bigger buck. He shot at the bigger buck and missed. He's kicking himself for not shooting the smaller buck which was a sure thing. (Almost anyway).

All is not lost. He brought home tacos from Aliberto's again.

For FHE we worked on our book business together.

 Before pooping face

After pooping face

 Happy Monday Gma & Gpa!

Charlie loves her bath!

Look who has pink boots!

 Blessing day for Madison and James

Geiger's baby boy

 Talon and Alice 

Fun on the River

Sunday, October 28th, 2018

Brigham City, Utah

139th operating temple

Dedicated: 23 Sept 2012

By: Boyd K. Packer

Jesus Christ, Davidic descent of

Psalm 89:4

Thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations. Selah.

Book of Mormon #1

3 Nephi 14:1-27

*What fundamental truths do we learn from Christ's teachings in these verses? How will you incorporate these important teachings into your life?

- Stop judging, extend love, follow the Savior's example. Verse 7 - Pray for others and for answers. Verse 12 - Live the Golden Rule. Beware of false prophets. Build our foundation upon the rock of Christ and when the storm comes we will stand strong.

Book of Mormon #2

Mosiah 5-7

Old Testament

Ezekiel 3-4

General Conference

Choose You This Day

Elder Dale G. Renlund

"The magnitude of our eternal happiness depends on choosing the living God and joining Him in His work."

I felt the Spirit as I was reading Mosiah 5 this morning. 

We left for church at 8:40 but not receiving pictures of Charlie. Kacey and Jared are speaking in their ward today. I wish we could be there!

I'm dressed up. Oh no, that means the car seat!

Talon is leaving for Uganda this week. He spoke in church today, from the heart, without notes, about the Atonement and service. He is going to be an amazing missionary. Jackson was there to support him. 

Bishop Miller spoke about gratitude and how important it is to have an attitude of gratitude at all times.

President Beeler spoke about the great missionaries who have served from the Vernon ward. He mentioned Jackson and his worthiness to serve.

We sat by the Howard's during sacrament meeting and I went to Sunday School with them. Sister Wood taught a lesson about strengthening the stakes of Zion based on the words of Isaiah. 

Sister Curtis taught in Relief Society. A lesson on ministering based on Elder Holland's April conference talk, "Be With and Strengthen Them."

James taught about Job in his Primary class. 

I gave two closing prayers today. One in Sunday School and one in Relief Society.

We had leftover roast beef, a salad, and glazed carrots for lunch. I can't stop snacking afterwards!

I watched the new Hallmark Christmas movies, "Christmas at Pemberly Manor" based on the characters Elizabeth Bennet and William Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. It was good. I also watched one of my very favorite Christmas movies called, "Angels and Ornaments." An angel comes back and steers his granddaughter to her true love. A good Sunday movie. Is that my attempt at rationalizing. 

I did lots of gospel study today. I love the Sabbath.

 I love this picture!

Babies are being born everywhere!

The Luke's are our friends from Chandler.

What a sweet picture of our Prophet and his wife!

Another sweet couple!

I don't normally walk on Sunday but

I guess I needed it today.