Thur, Oct 28th, 2021: Oaxaca, Mexico Temple#74:Visit to the MacArthur's, Elder Richards, Wansgard, Charlie's Witchy Party, James does dishes,

 

Oaxaca, Mexico

74th operating temple

Dedicated: 11 Mar 2000

By: James E. Faust

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

2 Nephi 11:2

And now I, Nephi, write more of the words of Isaiah, for my soul delighteth in his words. For I will liken his words unto my people, and I will send them forth unto all my children, for he verily saw my Redeemer, even as I have seen him.

Book of Mormon

3 Nephi 14:1-27

D&C

124:25-48

"Come Follow Me"

 124:25-45, 55 The Lord commands us to build temples so we can receive sacred ordinances

OctGenCon

"One Percent Better"

Elder Michael A. Dunn

Of the Seventy

Every effort to change we make - no matter how tiny it seems to us - just might make the biggest difference in our lives.

"Facing Our Spiritual Hurricanes by Believing in Christ"

Elder Sean Douglas

Of the Seventy

We face our spiritual hurricanes best by believing in Christ and keeping His commandments.

The Living Christ

#4

We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world.

Inklings

Emily's Spiritual Foundation

1.God answers prayers 2.We live in a realm of miracles. 3.Relationships matter most. 4.Grace heals & elevates. 5.Jesus meets us where we are. 6.Laws, covenants and ordinances increase the Spirit. 7.The Spirit increases capacity. 8.Scripture guides, counsels, and answers. 9.Love never fails. 10.The Gospel brings goodness.

Up at 3:58. Plan, pray, MindBody Toolkit, God Will Prevail, Self-Mastery, CFM notebooks, Book of Mormon, DC 124:25-45, 55, Inklings - study Elder Rasband's talk. 

When I was finish studying I began getting things ready to go to visit Chelsea M. I prepared CFM notebooks for her two little girls, Peyton and Scotlyn, who are 6 and 3. I also prepared a notebook for Chelsea to use to teach them. After getting the notebooks ready I went in to make them Rice Krispy treats. Last week at Walmart I had gotten to small jack-o-lanterns that light up. I took those too. 

Chelsea lives five minutes away. When I got out of my car Jared, Chelsea's husband, and Scotlyn, who is three were outside. They had lost two chickens to coyotes last night. They have 22 left. Scotlyn came over and gave me a hug. She asked me why I had those notebooks. I told her that I would show her. Chelsea was inside. Peyton is at school. Scotlyn sat down and I showed her the pictures she could color in her notebook. I gave her a set of crayons and also gave Chelsea some glue. Scotlyn chose the green folder. I gave her the pumpkins and told her one of them was for her sister. Chelsea gave her a Rice Krispy treat. When Jared came in he was preparing ribs for cooking. He was rubbing them with spices. Chelsea and Jared get their meat from Mary Maude's store in Heber. Chelsea's mom and dad own it. They sell beef which was grown on their daughter's ranch in Idaho. 

We visited a few minutes and I told them I would be bringing them dinner when she had her baby. The baby is due December 10th. 

When I left Scotlyn gave me another hug and then asked me for a kiss. We kissed each other. Chelsea says she gets upset if she doesn't hug and kiss before someone leaves. We have the same rule in our house. Whenever we leave to go somewhere we give the other person a kiss. I remember this was something President David O. McKay and his wife Emma Kay Riggs did. I have never forgotten that story and decided I wanted to do that in my marriage.

Back at home it's time to get ready for the missionaries coming over to dinner tonight. I got the chicken in the crockpot and covered it with barbecue sauce. I finally decided I was not going to make the blueberry cheesecake crumble that I had planned on. One of the main reasons is because I thought I had a springform cake pan but it's not one that the sides release from the bottom. I need to get a springform cake pan before I make this cake. I baked the Marie Callender's pumpkin pie instead. I also made scalloped potatoes, green beans and a salad. That was our dinner.

I had invited Tanna, the single young mom that James and I have been ministering to, to come to dinner. Recently she was turned over to the missionaries. I asked the missionaries if we could start somewhere between 5:30-6:00 so Tanna could come. They said that would be fine. They came after 6. Tanna didn't come because her baby was sick and she had to take him to urgent care. She said she would like to come another time. We talked to Elder Wansgard and Elder Richards about coming next month and inviting Tanna again. Elder Richards is on splits with Elder Wansgard. They are also temporary roommates. Elder Richards has only been out a month and was assigned to the Show Low Creek ward. Their apartment was infested with bed bugs so they had to move out. Elder Cluff, Elder Wansgard's companion is out with Elder Richards comp. 

The missionaries shared Alma 7:11-12 with us: 

11 - And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.

12 - And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.

I always think of these verses as President Oaks's verses because he shared them with us when he came to Round Valley. He said to always remember 7:11 and how that should be easy for us.

The elders had prepared these scriptures for Tanna. Hopefully they will be able to teach her soon.

After the elders left I started helping James clean the kitchen but I left early to work on my blog and he did the bulk of the work. 

I had about 50 minutes of walking to do. I finished "An Unlikely Match" and started listening to it again with James. We decided we had both heard it before but didn't mind hearing it again. I also started "A Heart Revealed" by Josi S. Kilpack. I determined I had read this one before too, but it is one of my very favorites so I'm reading it again because I don't remember details.

James went to bed around 9:30. I didn't make it to bed until 9:51.

 

Should have taken pictures of the elders

instead of the pots of food. 

I always forget.

Wed, Oct 27th, 2021: Temple #73 Albuquerque, New Mexico: Errands, Unshaken, Panda, BigHorn Sheep in Greer, Scarlett, Ethan Ellsworth, Ander, Mesa Temple

 

Albuquerque, New Mexico

73rd operating temple

Dedicated: 5 Mar 2000

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

2 Nephi 2:6

Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth.

Book of Mormon

3 Nephi 13:16-34

D&C

124:1-24

"Come Follow Me"

124:22-24, 60-61 The Lord wants me to welcome and accept others

OctGenCon

"Giving Holiness To The Lord"

Bishop L. Todd Budge

Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric

Sacrifice is less about "giving up" and more about "giving to" the Lord.

"Remember Thy Suffering Saints, O Our God"

Elder Anthony D. Perkins

Of the Seventy

Keeping covenants unlocks the power of Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice to provide strength and even joy to you who suffer.

The Living Christ

#3

He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of HIs great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary's cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.

Inklings

Follow the counsel of Elder Rasband and look for your own eight, nine, and ten.

Up at 4:18. After my study time and while waiting for the computer to start working I read a chapter from my book, "Written On Our Hearts."  This book is written by Emily Belle Freeman and consists of invitations from the Old Testament. In the book of Joshua the people of Israel went to war against all of the cities in the promised land. "As the Lord commanded Moses his servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses" (Joshua 11:15). I like this book because the messages are short and to the point. I must leave nothing undone as I strive to keep the commandments of God.

I finished watching "Holiday Calendar" while working on my blog. Around 10:00 I left for town. James took his truck into town and filled up the gas can. When he got home he put gas in my car so I could make it into town.  I stopped at the bank and went inside to get cash for the November birthday's, Jared and Evan. Afterwards I drove on to the Circle K across from Walmart to get gas. When I got to Walmart I looked over and realized that my wallet was still out of my purse which normally means I have not put my credit card back. I was sure I had but I checked anyway and it's a good thing I did because it wasn't there. I looked in my back pocket and on the seat and on the floor. My credit card was nowhere to be found so I headed back to Circle K. I tried to check the pump I was at but someone else was using it so I went inside instead. I asked the cashier if anyone had found a credit card. She asked me my name and when I told her she handed me my card. She said I had left it in the pump. Wow! I didn't think you could pump gas with your card still in the pump. It's a wonder James and I survive. The Lord really does watch over us. 

I listened to about 1/3-1/2 of "Unshaken" for Come Follow Me. After doing my shopping at Walmart I stopped at Panda and picked up some chow mien bowls for James and I. I got the sesame chicken and I got James the walnuts and shrimp. James had made me a list of things to get at our local health food store, "Nature's Realm", so that was my next stop. I spent $165.00. Vitamins, and healthy supplements are expensive!

When I get home I walk and clean. James worked outside until it was time to come in and get ready for his elders quorum meeting which was at six at the church. While he's gone I clean the blinds in the dining room and kitchen, sweep and mop the kitchen floor, and put a new tablecloth on the dining room table. The missionaries are coming for dinner tomorrow night so I'm getting an early start. 

I watched a movie while walking. James and I finish "The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart" while I practice my lettering and while James and I both walk. We were in bed by 9:30. James holds me in his arms and says, "I adore you." What a nice way to go to sleep.

Tue, Oct 26th, 2021: Temple#72HermosilloSonora:SholobeatsBR, Charlie,Scarlett, Rain,Wind, Christmas movies, Susan Easton Black,Cooper, Amanda,Allen, Mummy Dogs,

Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico

72nd operating temple

Dedicated: 27 Feb 2000

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

2 Nephi 1:15

But behold, the Lord hath redeemed my soul from hell; I have beheld his glory, and I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love.

Book of Mormon

3 Nephi 13:1-15

D&C

RIC: Organizing the Church in Nauvoo

"Come Follow Me"

124:12-21 I can be a disciple whom the Lord trusts

OctGenCon

"Trust Again"

Elder Gerrit W. Gong

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Trust in God and each other brings heaven's blessings.

The Living Christ

#2

He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:3). Though sinless, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He "went about doing good" (Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.

Inklings

Affirmation

I am an infinite soul capable of holding many things because my Savior Jesus Christ is holding me. He values my divinity and so must I.

Rain makes feeding Luna difficult this morning. When James went in to get his radiation treatment this morning he forgot his wallet. I had told him to be sure and get gas in the car, but since he did not have his wallet he could not. When he got home the car said he could go another 20 miles which is probably not enough to get us back into town. Tomorrow he will take the truck and get some gas for my car so I can go grocery shopping.

I listened to "Follow Him" this morning with Hank, John, and Susan Easton Black. Susan is living the life I wanted if I had not married and had children. I always wanted to be a BYU professor of religion. She was the first woman hired in the religion department. She has taught religion over 30 years at BYU and written many books. She has served four missions in Nauvoo and has a home there which I think she just donated to the Church. She is an expert on Nauvoo and loves the "City of Joseph."

Have I mentioned that everyday when James comes home he fixes himself something to eat. The last few days it has been an olive omelet. How does that sound? He says he loves them. He uses green and black olives.

"Christmas Inheritance" turns out to be a good movie, one that I really liked. 

James is working outside on the cold and windy day. It only rained a little while and so James was able to work on filling the trenches. He had something break which was going to cost him $175 to replace. He went to Pierce and Pierce was able to fix it and of course, did not charge him a dime because that is the kind of man he is. He is kind and loves to do service.

This evening I watched "Santa Stakeout" starring Paul Campbell. He is one of my favorites, and I loved it. 'Tis the season of Christmas movies.

Walked, and caught up on my blog. I started a new audio book by Sarah Eden, "An Unlikely Match."

Missionary dinner?

Amanda & Allen

Horror night

Cooper!

Italy

 

Mon, Oct 25th, 2021: Temple#71 Ciudad Juarez Mexico: Sluggish day, not enough sleep, Steps, talk to Ginger, and DWTS and Blog are my accomplishments

 

Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico

71st operating temple

Dedicated: 26-27 Feb 2000

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

Revelation 5:9

And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Book of Mormon

3 Nephi 12:25-48

D&C

Saints chapters 34 & 35

"Come Follow Me"

D&C 124 "A House Unto My Name"

OctGenCon

"The Temple and Your Spiritual Foundation"

President Russell M. Nelson

President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Whenever any kind of upheaval occurs in your life, the safest place to be spiritually is living inside your temple covenants!

The Living Christ

#1

As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ two millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the reality of His matchless life and the infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had so profound an influence upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth.

I got up at 4:02 by was exhausted before 8 a.m. I am going to have to make some adjustments to my schedule. Maybe it was because we didn't go to bed until 10:30 last night. 

I made a bit of a sham of my schedule today. I didn't clean, I didn't contact Dish about the Flex Plan. I didn't do finances, lettering, or shower. I did get 11,000 steps and that was my big accomplishment for the day. I watched "DWTS" Horror night while I walked. I did finish Saturday's blog entry and started Sundays but didn't finish.

I did not eat any sugar but I did eat alot of fried fruit and nuts. 

James worked in the trenches today. He keeps having equipment break down. He had to fill some of the trenches by hand, which takes forever. 

I did come up with a menu plan for the missionaries dinner on Thursday: Barbeque chicken sandwiches, scalloped potatoes, salad, and green beans. For dessert blueberry cheesecake crumble. Does that sound good?

Carmen's cake