Sun, Jan 30th, 2022: Durban South Africa Temple, No Zoom, miss mtgs, Pam's Care Pkg, Paula's phone call, James's care and indexing, Charlie and Scarlett

 

Durban South Africa

168th operating temple

Dedicated: 16 Feb 2020

By: Ronald A. Rasband

Jesus Christ, Resurrection

Colossians 1:18

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Book of Mormon

1 Nephi 19:7-24

"Come Follow Me"

Review Moses 7 "The Lord Called His People Zion"

OctGenCon

The Name Of The Church Is Not Negotiable

Elder Neil L. Andersen

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The influence of the restored Church of Jesus Christ will not only be upon those who are members of the Church. Because of the heavenly manifestations in our day, because of the sacred scripture restored to the earth and the powerful gift of the Holy Ghost, we will be a shining light on the hill as the somber shades of disbelief in Jesus Christ darken the world. Although many may allow the world to cloud their faith in the Redeemer, we will "not be moved out of our place."

Inklings

"Daily Restoration"

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf

and

4 Nephi

I had a terrible coughing spell during the night which convinced me that I would not be attending my meetings today.   James attended sacrament meeting but not the 2nd hour. I could not get the meeting on Zoom so I took a nap. I miss not going to church.

James said that Rosa and Dave Westbrook were supposed to speak in sacrament meeting but they were sick so Joe and Corrina filled in for them. Macy was the youth speaker but she was sick too so Joely took her place. Here are some notes that James took.

Sister Pam Wood was called as a ward missionary specifically assigned to maintain the missionary meal calendar.

Speaker: Joely Westbrook - Seeing God's hand in your life. Lifting others. Moses 1-2

Speaker: Bo Westbrook - How the scriptures help me when I am discouraged. Scriptures are a supplement in my life.

Speaker: Corrina Westbrook - "Keep the Change" by Becky Craven

Through Jesus Christ we are given a chance to make lasting changes. Changes to follow Jesus Christ. Keep the change. Christ has given us a desire for change. As we repent and change our hearts, our desire increases to change and keep those changes in our life. Scriptures help us keep the perspective to apply the Atonement of Jesus Christ in our lives. As we put forth the effort the Holy Ghost can help us make the changes and keep those changes.

Speaker: Joe Westbrook - Gratitude. Henry B. Eyring. Love your enemy. "Am I Not My Own Worst Enemy". We chose to be tested and to be proven. We must grow in experience and stature to qualify to live in His presence. The Lord foresaw our time. The greatest blessing is the change of our natures. As we lift others burdens we are strengthened. We will be tried and tested but we can endure.

We received a care package on our front porch this morning from my friend Pam. Pastries, salad and N95 masks. Her thoughtfulness never ceases to amaze me. I am so grateful for her friendship.

I got a call today from another member of our ward who missed me today and heard I was sick, Paula Johnson. She wanted to know if there was anything she could do for me. I told her no, but I appreciated so much her call. It made me feel good to know that someone missed me and cared enough to check on me. 

Trina texted me and ask if they could come up on March 6th during spring break. I told her that would be great and then asked if we could stay with them next Monday night. Of course we can.

I am hoping I feel better tomorrow because I am getting tired of lying around. Hopefully I am over the worst of it.

Sister and Elder Kaufmann

Our Sunday Sweeties

Sat, Jan 29th, 2022: Arequipa Peru Temple, Cough, sore throat, headache, James cares for me and indexes and fixes Cat, Hallmark movie, "Love at the Butler Academy", Charlie and Kacey

Arequipa, Peru

167th operating temple

Dedicated: 15 Dec 2019

By: Ulisses Soares

Jesus Christ, Resurrection

1 Corinthians 15:22

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

Book of Mormon

1 Nephi 18:21-19:6

"Come Follow Me"

Moses 7:62 & Moses &:60-69 In the last days God will gather His elect

OctGenCon

"Miracles Of The Gospel"

Elder Carlos G. Revillo Jr.

Of the Seventy

Repentance is a lot like soap. As a young chemical engineer, I worked in a soap factory in the Philippines. I learned how to make soap and the process of how it works. When you mix oils with an alkali base and add antibacterial agents, it creates a powerful substance that can eliminate bacteria and viruses. Like soap, repentance is a cleaning agent. It allows us the opportunity to get rid of our impurities and our old debris so we are worthy to be with God, as "no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of God" (Alma 11:37).

"Look Down The Road"

Elder Alvin F. Meredith III

Of the Seventy

Beward of distractions. When Peter turned his focus away from Jesus and toward the wind and the waves that whipped at his feet, he began to sink.

There are many things that can distract us from focusing on Christ and eternal things. The devil is the great distractor. We learn from Lehi's dream that voices from the great and spacious building seek to lure us to things that will take us off the course of preparing to return to live with God. 

But there are other less-obvious distractions that can be just as dangerous. As the saying goes, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." 

Liahona

"Smooth Into Retirement"

How Are Your Finances?

"If you're talking to your children or grandchildren about finances, remind them that they need to start setting money aside when the are you. That way they can build a reserve over time and earn interest too." The number one rule is to always pay your tithing first.

Can You Live Within Your Means

                               How Much Can You Manage?

What About Fitness and Health Care?

What Will You Do With Your Time?

What Are The Best Things To Do?

This was a miserable day for me. I stayed inside and did not do anything. I have a bad cough, a sore throat, and a head cold. 

I forgot to mention that yesterday we went to Auto Zone so James could get a battery for the Cat. He put it in today and now the Cat works. Most of the time James was inside taking care of me. I basically sat on the recliner and either slept or watched movies. 

I did put Ginger's name on the temple prayer roll and got her address for Brother Diewald. 

James also indexed today while I was laying around doing nothing. We read from "The Noble Smuggler". 

There was a new Hallmark movie on, "Love at the Butler Academy" which I watched and liked. I did not know that there were women butlers. Very interesting. Also, butlers can make 6 or even 7 figure salaries but it is a way of life more than a career.

I want one!

I love you too Sweetie!

My table and my hubby

Mountain man Ben

Ruthie is a state wrestling champion

I am wimpy

 

Fri, Jan 28th, 2022: Lisbon Portugal Temple, Show Low Cemetery Dad's headstone, Harold's table, LaCasita, Walmart, Home Depot, Home, Sick, Matt's twins, Sleeping Charlie

Lisbon, Portugal

166th operating temple

Dedicated: 15 Sep 2019

By: Neil L. Andersen

Jesus Christ, Resurrection

Romans 6:9

Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.

Book of Mormon

1 Nephi 18:5-20

"Come Follow Me"

Moses 7:28-69; Moses 7:53-59 God weeps for His children

OctGenCon

"One Percent Better"

Elder Michael A. Dunn

Of the Seventy

Will little adjustments work that "mighty change" that you desire? Properly implemented, I'm 99 percent certain they will! But the one caveat with this approach is that for small gains to aggregate, there must be a consistent, day-in and day-out effort. And although we won't likely be perfect, we must be determined to mirror our persistence with patience. Do that, and the sweet rewards of increased righteousness will bring you the joy and peace you seek. As President Russell M. Nelson has taught: "Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular, daily focus on repentance. Repentance is not an event; it is a process. It is the key to happiness and peace of mind. When coupled with faith, repentance opens our access to the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ."

"Facing Our Spiritual Hurricanes By Believing in Christ"

Elder Sean Douglas

Of the Seventy

Just as hurricanes weaken over land, doubt is replaced with faith as we build our foundation on Christ. We are then able to see spiritual hurricanes in their proper perspective, and our capacity to overcome them is enlarged. Then, "when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, . . . it shall have no power . . . to drag us down to the gulf of misery and endless wo because of the rock upon which we are built, which is a sure foundation. 

President Nelson has taught:

"Faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of all belief and the conduit of divine power. . . .

"The Lord does not require perfect faith for us to have access to His perfect power. But he does ask us to believe."

Liahona

"How Do We Let God Prevail . . ."

He wants us to choose for ourselves when it comes to our life expectations and ambitions.

Agency is a Gift

Trust in Heavenly Father and yourself.

Counsel with Him.

Be Flexible and Seek Revelation

Life will not always go the way we expect but we can exercise faith that Heavenly Father can continue to point us toward opportunities and joy.

Heavenly Father Wants Us To Have Joy

Counsel with Heavenly Father and stay on the Covenant Path. Letting God prevail increases His trust in us.

James brought me some hot tea with lemon and it feels so good on my sore throat. 

We are scheduled to meet Harold and Dennis at the Show Low cemetary at 10:00 this morning to set my Dad's headstone. We left the house about 9:15. Before we get started we have family prayer and then on the way we listen to the Book of Mormon and then part of the "Come Follow Me" lesson. I asked James why he thought Enoch, of all the prophets, was the one who was translated along with his city. Was he more righteous than any of the other prophets? He said no, he didn't think so, maybe it was just the right time, right before the flood. I agreed that could have something to do with it.  I also thought about how Enoch asked why God wept and God explained to him that it was because of those of his children who were disobedient. Enoch saw the entire world and all of its inhabitants. He developed compassion for the earth and its inhabitants and his heart became more tender towards all mankind. Maybe because of that tender heart and great love he had he was able to influence others for good. It's just a thought.

We get to the cemetery a little early so I decide to walk around to see if I can find Barbara Goodman's grave. The sun is shining but it is only 29 degrees. I need to walk or else get back in the truck and turn on the heater. I found several people I knew but no Barbara. I even found Rita's husband, Bill Solomon's grave. When I come back up the hill where dad's grave is, Harold and Dennis are there. They, along with James have on heavy jackets while I had on a long sleeve cotton shirt. I was warm from my walk. The headstone was already on the grave when I returned and the guys were talking. The headstone needs to be set in concrete but it will have to be when the weather gets a little warmer, like in April. 

Harold and James talk about their cancer treatments. Dennis and I talk about people. He told me that Eric no longer works for the government because he was tired of him checking out everyone he dated. He now does the computer work for a fitness company and makes $50,000 more a year. He told me about Kyle's wife Stacey who won a trip to the Mexican Riveria for their family at work. Rachel is expecting another baby in February and has Covid but is doing okay. I told him how much I loved working with Kim Lewis Seaman at the temple and he said how much he enjoyed her and what good friends they were growing up. Dennis also gave me $150 towards the cost of the headstone, which is about half. Thank you Dennis we really appreciate it!

We followed Harold and Dennis home so we could pick up the table that Harold gave us at Christmas time. Harold and James hefted it up into the back of James's truck and James tied it down with a strap. I was going to put it outside on the deck but instead I put it where the mini-tramp has been between two of the couches in the family room. James took the mini-tramp upstairs. 

My new table made by my

brother Harold

After leaving Harold's we went to LaCasita for lunch. I had a chicken taco and refried beans. James had a green chili enchilada and beans. I was not very hungry and James had to finish my beans.

Went shopping at Walmart and bought some cold medicine. James had something to do at Home Depot.

When we got home and put everything away I went to my recliner to take a nap. I slept until 4 pm on the recliner. I must be getting sick. That's almost 3 hours. I never take that long of a nap. 

Here are some things that happened with James today. He got a $2,400 check from Mr. Joye for his contract with him to build him a hangar at the Casa Grande airport. He also got a set of wireless earphones which he says he paid $10 for. The only problem is there is a disputed charge on the credit card from this company for $84.99. I wonder what that is for. James will check it out.

Although I am miserable I finished my blog and walked 10,000 steps. James and I are reading "The Noble Smuggler" while we walk together. We both really like this one. I was ready for bed by 9:10. Another night on the recliner.

 

 

 

 

Thur, Jan 27th, 2022: Port-au-Prince, Haiti Temple, Dr. to James, Caring for the poor, J's card & Cabellas card K&B, noodles &veggies, temple cleaning signup, coughs,

 

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

165th operating temple

Dedicated: 1 Sep 2019

By: David A. Bednar

Jesus Christ, Resurrection

D&C 18:12

And he hath risen again from the dead, that he might bring all men unto him, on conditions of repentance.

Book of Mormon

1 Nephi 17:48-18:4

"Come Follow Me"

Moses 7:41-52; 7:21, 23, 24, 69 What happened to the city of Enoch?

OctGenCon

"Giving Holiness To The Lord"

Bishop L. Todd Budge

Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric

Just as significant as the contribution of goods is the tremendous outpouring of time and energy which Church members donate to humanitarian causes. Even as the pandemic has raged, natural disasters, civil conflict, and economic instability have been unrelenting and have continued to drive millions of people from their homes. The United Nations now reports that there are over 82 million forcibly displaced people in the world. Add to this the millions of others who elect to flee from poverty or oppression in search of a better life for themselves or their children, and you can begin to catch a glimpse of the magnitude of this global situation.

"Remember Thy Suffering Saints, O Our God"

Elder Anthony D. Perkins

Of the Seventy

Heavenly Father is intimately aware of your suffering.

While in the midst of trials, we can mistakenly think that God is far away and unconcerned with our pain. Even the Prophet Joseph Smith expressed this feeling at a low point in his life. When imprisoned in Liberty Jail while thousands of Latter-day Saints were being driven from their homes, Joseph sought understanding through prayer: "O God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?" He ended with this plea: "Remember thy suffering saints, O our God."

The Lord's answer reassured Joseph and all who suffer:

"My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;

"And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high."

Liahona

"Seeking Christ & Covenants: Nephi's Keys to Reading the Old Testament by David R. Seely

Seeking Christ (2 Nephi 11:4) all things typify Him.

Jesus Christ was the Creator and the Lawgiver. He offered Redemption from the bondage in Egypt. He cared for His people in the wilderness, delivering them to the Promised Land. He sent prophets and He offers forgiveness to those who repent.

Types of Jesus Christ

Abraham sacrificing Issaac; Joseph saves his brothers from physical starvation, just as Jesus Christ saves us from spiritual starvation.

Moses freed his people from slavery as Jesus frees us from sin. Faith in Him and His Atone ment is typified in the Brass Serpent that Moses held up to heal his people if they would but look. 

Elijah and Elisha exemplified the Savior as they healed the sick and raised the dead.

Insights into the Savior of the New Testament

The stories of Passover and sacrifice in the law of Moses point to Christ. Foreshadowing Jesus's mission, the prophets in the Old Testament healed the sick and raised the dead. Through the prophet Jeremiah a new covenant was promised (Jer. 31:31). In the New Testament Jesus comes in fulfillment of the law and the prophets in the Old Testament. The new covenant was delivered in the Sermon on the Mount. The symbols of the covenant came during the Passover and the Last Supper. 

The Old Testament reminds us what it means to be a covenant people

and introduces us to the Abrahamic Covenant.

If anyone doubts that Jesus Christ is present in the Old Testament they need to read this article. It is excellent!

Yesterday when we left Walmart there was a woman sitting on a chair, holding a sign asking for money. James asked me if I had any money to give her and I said no. I did have money in my purse for the dump but I did not want to part with it. Since that time I have questioned my compassion. I told James I we give fast offerings and humanitarian offerings. There is a quote from Bishop Budges talk from General Conference that I listened to today:

"Sacrifice is not giving up but giving to the Lord." Did I miss an opportunity to give to the Lord today? In Sister Johnson's conference talk she suggests we allow the Lord to write our story. Am I ignoring the Lord when I give up an opportunity to show compassion? I definitely have some soul searching to do.

I am still fighting a cough and cold, in fact it seems to be getting worse. James has a terrible cough too. Tonight instead of bed we started out on the recliners in our bedroom but James ended up in the bed because he said he got cold.

James got a birthday card from Kim and Brian today with a Cabellas gift card in it. Cabellas and Bass Pro accept each others gift cards so now he has $100 towards buying some new shoes.

As far as what the doctor told James about his internal bleeding. She said he definitely needed to see a G.I. doctor and she would send a referral. He could check the results on his portal associated with the hospital. She said "we need to make sure it's not an ulcer from the burn."

Trina and friends at Disneyland w/o kids

Yes, and I have

These next two posts are from my granddaughter Emmy.

I never get to see Emmy and I don't know much about her except that

she loves to play soccer. These posts tell me she has a concern for others.

James and I received this letter today from our friend Kathy Booth. For those of you who don't know, Kathy is Kaitlin's mom. Kaitlin is Adam's friend. I loved that Kathy honored her mom by sending this letter out to 100 friends on her mom's 100th birthday. Kathy and Kaitlin are great friends!