Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025: Up @ 5:18 to feed kitties, Anniversary gifts from James: garage, clean car, Iris's, his sweet note, temple, and Persnikkity's, notes from Grounded,

Columbia River, Washington

107th operating temple

Dedicated: 18 Nov 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 10:17-32

D&C

58:17-29

Come Follow Me

D&C 58:1-5; 59:23 "After much tribulation come the blessings."

Follow Him

April General Conference

'Right Before Our Eyes'

Elder Ronald A. Rasband

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Matthew 27:41-43

'The Infinite Atonement' p. 44

Forgiveness

'Forgiving What You Can't Forget' p. 162-64

Up at 5:18 to feed the kitties and get my day started. 

Some quotes from my morning gospel study:

"Seek to know and do the will of the Lord, not just what is convenient or makes life easy. - Richard G. Scott

'Commandments are the way we get to become.'

Another gorgeous morning. I am treasuring my anniversary gifts from James: the garage, my car, the iris's, his sweet note and expressions of love, the temple, and Persnikkity's. 

James went in to town to mail the letter to the Registrar of Contractor's that I typed for him, Shayna's graduation card, and to order a new tire for me. 

I listened to Grounded today with Barbara Morgan Gardner and her guest Amy Antonelli. Amy had a non-profit business called HXP. She and her company send teenagers around the world to do humanitarian service. Here are just a few notes that I took:

"Wisdom comes from the mix of tragedy and joy." "If you are in the temple the Lord will give you the miracle you need." - RMN

"Vision of the woman I will be in 10,000 years.

D&C 59:2 "There has got to be purpose in this sad/bad"

Be obedient, and have your hearts prepared to bear testimony, prepared for a feast of fat things. 

"White knuckle moments help us become the women we are to be."

Amy spent 7 years in India among leper colonies. 

"Finding our purpose is never a one time event."

"Trust Him. He always has something better."

D&C 58:3 Be anxiously engaged. The Spirit promotes action. "Do it."

Gather Zion. Be a Light. D&C 58:64 - For, verily, the sound must go forth from this place into all the world, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth - the gospel must be preached unto every creature, with signs following them that believe.

Be covenant confident. "In the temple you learn who you are."

"There will be miracles. The Lord always show up with fireworks.

Commandments are the way we get to become.

Joshua is going to invite Evan to do baptisms with him and his parents. Ro posted a scripture on Instagram. I love it when he does that. 

Quotes and Verse

"God is aware of you."

-Elder Patrick Kearon

OGC 2024

"May we share our love even more abundantly with those who need us so desperately."

- Elder Neil L. Andersen

OGC 2024

D&C 58:3

Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation.

Grounded with Barbara Morgan Gardner

and Amy Antonelli (Amy is blonde)

Cute Charlie memory

Rain, rain, blessed rain!!

 

Monday, June 2nd, 2025: It rained during the night, It is wet, misty & cool outside this mrng! Overcast, road construction, Persnikkitty's, Wlmart, Circle K, Dollar Tree, James spends 4.5 hours detailing my car, it looks like new, except for the flat tire,

 

Perth, Australia

106th operating temple

Dedicated: 20 May 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 10:1-16

D&C

58:1-16

Come Follow Me

"Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause" D&C 58-59 Introduction

April General Conference

'Spiritually Whole in Him'

Camille N. Johnson

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Matthew 27:38-40

'The Infinite Atonement' p. 41

Forgiveness

'Forgiving What You Can't Forget' p. 160-62

Lesson

Ordered Jesus heart buttons

It rained during the night. It is wet, misty, and cool outside this morning and I love it!

As I was reading from the D&C I read this in my study guide on page 309: "If we are serious about our covenants, we will each strive to be of one heart and one mind, to live in righteousness, and to have no poor among us." - Sharon Eubank ("The Lord Called His People Zion," Liahona, Mar 2020, 27. 

It was overcast today as we drove into Show Low for lunch and some errands. They are finally starting construction on the 60. 

We had lunch at an old favorite that we haven't been to for awhile, Persnikkity's. I had the Asian chicken salad and it was so delicious! They even warmed up the chicken. I ate half and took the other half home where I finished it off for dinner with a smile. 

James had the twisted cheesesteak which is cheesesteak with Korean BBQ sauce. He ate all of it so I guess he liked it. 

We went to Walmart and Circle K and then we stopped at Dollar Tree so I could get my monthly supply of birthday cards. I even got an anniversary card for Paul & Stacy. Each card was $1.25. June birthdays: Emmy, Ian, Brian, Dallin, and Ruby.

Tom was asleep on my recliner blanket but when James came in to take a nap he quickly moved to his spot next to James.

James's nap was short. He got up and began washing my car. We were going to go to the car wash and wash the car inside and outside together but he said he would do it when we got home and we would save some money. Bless his heart, he worked 4.5 hours cleaning it inside and out. The inside looked like a new car and I was so happy! Everything was great, except for the flat tire.

Tinkerbell's face is clean!

Oh dear

I read from "Isadora Bentley", listened to "The Best Kept Secret", James and I listened in the car and worked on doing two blog posts, May 19th and 20th. I need to do 2 posts a day to catch up. 

Tom finally went outside this evening after being inside all day. James called him in at bed time. Tom came in, ate a little, laid on the floor by me and I brushed his hair, we said goodnight, then he went back outside into the dark. Does he have flashlight eyes? Is there a "party in the pines" that he goes to? 

I texted Emmy asking for her address so I could send her a birthday card.

Quote and Verse

"Burying our weapons of rebellion leads to a unique joy."

-Elder D. Todd Christofferson

OGC 2024

D&C 58:2

For verily I say unto you, blessed is he that keepeth my commandments, whether in life or in death; and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven.

Addy drew me this duck awhile ago.

I keep it on my computer.

Cute book

My cat rug looks a little angry.

Maybe he doesn't like having his picture taken.

Sunday, June 1st, 2025: Gorgeous morning! RS releases & callings, Fast & Testimony mtg, I bear my testimony, SS the Beach's, SS notes, J's sweet love note, Dessert contest, drive to Pinetop, FaceTime w/ Jared, Kacey, and Charlie,

 

Guadalajara, Mexico

105th operating temple

Dedicated: 29 Apr 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 9:19-34

D&C

Heading to 58

Come Follow Me

Sunday School discussion

April General Conference

'As A Little Child'

President Jeffrey R. Holland

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Matthew 27:35-37

'The Infinite Atonement'

Forgiveness

Forgiving What You Can't Forget

Such a gorgeous morning as I feed the kitties. 

Today is fast and testimony meeting.  Wendy DeWitt was released as a Relief Society teacher and Amy Reynolds was called. I am excited because I love Amy! The entire Relief Society activities committee was released. Michelle Sandoval was called as the committee chairman. I didn't get everyone called to the committee but I did get Theresa Smith and Teresa Hine. Wow! I'm excited to see what these sisters plan for us.

A thought I had after partaking of the sacrament:

Help me to stand in Holy Places by being holy myself. Help me to feel God's presence and love in my life.

I bore my testimony. I mentioned that today was our 57th wedding anniversary. I expressed my gratitude for James and said that he is my protector, provider and priesthood strength. I also shared something that I read in 'The Infinite Atonement' regarding feeling fulness of joy. When Adam & Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden they must have felt so bleak and lonely, having had to leave the warmth and love they felt in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus. I testified that they only way we will ever feel 'fulness of joy' is when we are back in their presence. As we strive to come back into their presence we overcome and become more like them through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Jimmy Applegate taught the gospel doctrine class. Our new friends, Rod and Linda Beach sat by us in the front row and contributed much to the class. They really are awesome people. Here are a few notes I took. Our main topic was the law of consecration

 "Ecuador, where the people are temporally poor and spiritually rich." - Linda Beach

"Thomas Edison said: 'I learned more from my failure than I ever did from my successes.' - Wes Smith

"Taking from the rich to give to the poor is socialism. The law of consecration requires the rich willingly and voluntarily give to the poor." - Amy Bowen

"If I can give, I will give." - President Monson

"Even manna from heaven gets boring." - author unknown

The Lord's law creates opportunity, not money. The Lord's law of work is a form of charity. 

The Lord wants us to thrive, not just survive. - Pres. Hinckley (I think)

"Currency is money flowing. If I use my money, others thrive too." - Susan Crane

There were lots of other great comments but it was hard to catch them all. It was a great class today.

During Sunday School I heard pounding on the roof. Is that rain?

Yes! It was raining so hard we had to wait a few minutes for it to let up. This Tropical Storm Alvin that I was telling James about. It is so wonderful to have rain the first day of June!

James wrote me the sweetest letter/note. I put it in my scrapbook with the many other notes he has written to me. I feel loved. I wrote James a note too. I hope he knows how much I love him and appreciate him.

We had stew for lunch and then took naps. When we got up from our naps I suggested we have a dessert contest, choosing something from the pantry. James chose a brownie mix and I chose lemon poppyseed muffins. One thing that James did, or didn't do, gave me an edge...he forgot to spray the brownie pan before putting it in the oven so the brownies were a little difficult to get out of the pan. My muffins won for presentation but the brownies won for taste.

We went for a ride this afternoon after the rain. We drove passed George Wallace's old place and looked for Bridgett Jordan's but couldn't find it. James wanted to show me Matt Hipps' place in Pinetop so we headed to Lakeside and then on to Pinetop. While we were driving I got a text from Jared asking if we could FaceTime with them. I told him our situation and that we would hurry back. I was worried because they are two hours ahead of us and it was getting late. This Facetime call was at the request of Charlie which made us feel really good.

We had a nice visit. Charlie is so awesome and wonderful. I love and miss her so much. I am concerned that both Kacey and Jared are suffering health issues right now. Kacey has plantar fasciitis, and Jared's feet are hurting him because of the pain in his back.

 Next Saturday is Autumn's baby shower with Kacey in charge and it's also their stake conference and Jared has back to back meetings. We told them we would like to come out in October for Scarlett's baptism and to see the baby. Kacey said Scarlett was going to be baptized on the 18th and the baby would be blessed on the 19th. That is just like Autumn to be so organized a head of time! I love the name they have chosen for the baby, Benson McKay! Two of my favorite prophets! Jared, Kacey, Charlie and Scarlett are all going to Bentonville, Arkansas the week of the 9th for a few days. I think they are in need of a vacation!

I also spoke with Stacy today. We were talking about how she and Kim teach Primary together. Since the block is only two hours now instead of three lesson time has been cut down to 15 minutes. She said Kim prepares so much, probably from her days of teaching gospel doctrine, and always seems to run out of time. Stacy taught today and this is what she taught. Leman Copley owned land in Ohio and he said that the Saints coming from New York could stay on his land. He had actually covenanted with the Lord and when the Saints that were going to stay on his land actually arrived he changed his mind and said they couldn't stay. He broke his covenant with God, something you never want to do. Have any of you made covenants with God? (Some of the kids raise their hands). Wait a minute, I think all of you have made covenants with the Lord when you were baptized. Do you remember what they were? (Discussion) It is very important to honor our covenants and stay true to Heavenly Father and Jesus. That was her lesson. I was impressed. Short and sweet but personal and very effective!

Stacy and Paul and Joshua are checking in to our time share today. They will stay until Thursday when Sheri's family is coming. She also talked to me about how difficult it is to make an appointment at the Gilbert temple for baptisms. She and Paul want to take Joshua and I asked her to please invite Evan too.

Quote, Verse, & Notes

"Covenants ... connect us to God, our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ."

-President Dallin H. Oaks, OGC 2024

D&C 56:16

Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches will canker your souls; and this shall be your lamentation in the day of visitation, and of judgment, and of indignation: The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved!

Wedding/Sealing Day

June 1, 1968

 Temple selfies taken in 2016

at the Snowflake temple

I love what Jared wrote about us, it was so

sweet, but I don't particularly like this photo.

I look like a blind person in this picture 

and James is leading me around

Our Iris's are back!

Yes, his legs are sticking straight up in the air.

Saturday, May 31st, 2025: A gorgeous morning! J saw Tom chasing32-34Harry away, Temple lot in Independence owned by Church of Christ, James clean garage behind garbage cans, Kaylynn's baptism in Snowflake, Pioneer 6th ward, pay bills, J works in yard, new ice maker, Fasting for Rowan, Joshua & Evan

 

Winter Quarters, Nebraska

104th operating temple

Dedicated: 18 Mar 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 9:7-18

D&C

57:4-14

Come Follow Me

D&C 56:14-20 Blessed are the pure in heart.

April General Conference

'Confidence in the Presence of God'

President Russell M. Nelson

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Matthew 27:32-34

'The Infinite Atonement' p.38-39

Forgiveness

'Forgiving What You Can't Forget' p. 156-57

What a gorgeous morning! Every morning, first thing, I open the door to feed Sammy and let Tom in if he has been out all night. I can't help but notice how beautiful it is this time of day. James says he saw Tom chasing Harry away today. Harry is a cat that shows up from time to time begging to be fed. He seems pretty tame so he must have once belonged to someone.

I am reading about the temple lot in Independence, Missouri in my D&C Study Guide by Thomas R. Valletta on p. 303. The spot dedicated for a temple is owned no by the Church of Christ. In due time I am sure the Church will obtain it. 

This is a quote from the book "Forgiving What You Can't Forget" by Lysa Terkeurst: "Your life right now is an answer to prayer." I love this and realize how true it is!

For our anniversary James worked on cleaning the garage. He asked me which section he should work on first. I told him I would love it if he would clean behind the garbage cans. He did and it looks wonderful. He also did another section where he hangs tools.

I guess you can't really appreciate it unless

you had seen it before. I should have done

before and after pictures.

While James was cleaning the garage and working in the yard, I went to my friend Sue Hubble's granddaughter's baptism in Snowflake. The granddaughter's name is Kaylynn. The Morris', who officiated in our session yesterday at the temple are Sue's neighbor. Sister Morris, Claudia, gave the talk on baptism and her husband did the program. 

When Sue saw me she said: "You just made my day." I told her that she and Kaylynn had made mine. I met Jason, Kaylynn's dad. I think their last name is Edward's. 

Scott, Sue's son who baptized Sue, also baptized Kaylynn. Kaylynn had to be dunked twice because her toe came up the first time. Sue had nine great grandchildren at the baptism. Sister Morris gave a wonderful talk on baptism. We sat together and visited just like we were old friends.

Bishop Darrell Peterson gave the talk on the Holy Ghost. He quoted 2 Nephi 32:3 which says: Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of  Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.

Bishop Peterson also told the story of when Joseph F. Smith met some hoodlums who asked if he was a Mormon. Unafraid he said: 

Yes siree, died in the wool true blue through and through. "We need courage and confidence today to stand up for what we believe in.

Sue's bishop is John Reidhead who is Steve Reidhead's younger brother. James will be disappointed he didn't get to meet him. He seems like a very nice guy.

After the baptism I did some shopping at the Walmart in Taylor. I bought an ice maker and called it our anniversary present. I absolutely love it!

Other things I did today: Read from my Isadora Bentley book, paid bills, blogged for May 17th. James and I are fasting for Rowan, Joshua and Evan. We are still praying they will be more converted to the gospel and will serve missions. We prayed that Rowan would start filling out his papers.

My hardworking husband working on the fence

Our friend Jen Coffey spends her birthday

in Florida. She took this picture.

I ordered this bedspread for our bedroom

So sad. This is why there are very few

eggs at Walmart.

 

 

Friday, May 30th, 2025: 9:30 temple session w/James, prayer circle, Eva's, chili relleno, UPS Amazon return, Book Barn necklace for Kaylynn's baptism, Tom sleeps w/ J, a crown falls off Pierce & Susan restore,

 

Montevideo, Uruguay

103th operating temple

Dedicated: 18 Mar 2001

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 8:18-9:6

D&C

56:8-57:3

Come Follow Me

D&C 54 I can turn to the Lord when I am hurt by others' choices.

April General Conference

'The Love of God'

Elder Benjamin M. Z. Tai

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Matthew 27:30-31

'The Infinite Atonement' p. 35-37

Forgiveness

'Forgiving What You Can't Forget' p.152 - "The Resurrected King is resurrecting me."

Lesson

'Receive His Gift'

Elder Patrick Kearon

As part of our anniversary celebration James and I attended the 9:30 session at the Snowflake temple. A member of the Flake family was going through for the first time so lots of family members were there with him. Many of them were tall and were in the prayer circle. We were by far the shortest couple in the prayer circle. I always feel such peace when I attend the temple. Today was no different. 

We went to Eva's for lunch. I ordered a chili relleno but it was so big I gave part of it to James. On the way home we went to the U.P.S. store in  Show Low to return a T-shirt I ordered that ended up being too big. We also stopped at the Book Barn so I could get a baptism card and gift for Sue Hubble's granddaughter Kaylynn who is being baptized tomorrow. 

I noticed that when we left Snowflake it was 91 degrees and when we got to Vernon it was 85. 

Tom took a nap with James. I napped on the family room recliner and before going to sleep I read from "The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley." 

Tom loves the way James rubs his tummy

Before nap ritual.

Such a spoiled kitty

As I was walking into the bathroom to brush my teeth I noticed one of my crowns felt loose. Sure enough, it fell off. I met with Pierce and Susan at Goodman's Dentistry which is approximately 2 miles from our house. Pierce reinstates my crown with "stronger" glue and Susan is his assistant. He said he had been paint their FRC because a group of 32 leaders and young men were coming up to camp. I asked what the FRC was. Silly me, it's the Family Recreation Center that Pierce built. It has two pickle ball courts inside and is quite large. 

Whitey Pierce's dog was there with him. He hurt his leg trying to get to Pierce while he was painting. 

We had scriptures and gospel study this evening because of our trip to the temple this morning. Tom is still "hanging around."

Quote, Verse, and Notes

" Jesus Christ wants nothing more than for us to repent and come unto Him so that He can justify and sanctify us."

- Elder Dale G. Renlund, OGC 2024

D&C 54:10

And, again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. Even so. Amen.

Paul gets out in nature a lot more than I do.

I am grateful that she shares her adventures.

Church History 

Thursday, May 29th, 2025: Up @ 6:30, James walks outside, James showers, prayer that the compliance order will go his way, he leaves, "The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley", Inklings w/ Emily & Michelle Craig, J finishes Jayson Wolfe story, Inspection doesn't go too well, Tom so happy to see us

 

Porto Alegre, Brazil

102nd operating temple

Dedicated: 17 Dec 2000

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 8:1-17

D&C

55:1-56:7

Come Follow Me

D&C 52:14-19 The Lord helps me avoid deception.

April General Conference

'Receive His Gift'

Elder Patrick Kearon

Before James left to go for a walk around 6:30 this morning we had family prayer. I prayed that the compliance inspection would be fair and just. James left for the meeting around 8:00 in case he could get in early and make sure everything was done. 

I got dressed and ready to go so as soon as James got back we could head for home. James got a taste of one of the lemon bars before he left. It was up to me to decide which lemon bar was the best. It was a pretty easy decision. I like the crust on Courtney's bar but loved the lemony flavor of the other bar. This is what I told Kim and she totally agreed with me.

It was after ten when James returned. I asked him how it went, and he said, not so good. Here is what happened. Armando hurried in and did the two things that needed to be done but he failed to do the touch up painting that was on the list. James thought he had done it because he assured him everything was done except two small tasks. This was a shock and a big disappointment to James. The Registrar said to James: "You only had a little touchup paint to do and you filed to do it so now I have to issue you a citation. This is the first time in over 50 years James has had a citation issued. Also, the work was supposed to have been done by May 14th. Now it is up to James and Darryl to resolve the issue. This is going to be difficult because Darryl is so hard to work with. James depended too much on Armando to do something so important even though it seemed so trivial. I remember telling him in the very beginning that this was something he needed to take care of himself rather than depending on Armando. If Armando can find other work where he can make money that is going to be his priority. James realizes he should have been the one to take care of this problem.

As we were traveling through the desert I looked out and thought how dry and rocky everything looked with no sign of flowers. James made the comment, "so many flowers." I looked at him as if he were crazy and said, "where"? He said, "On the top of the cactus." As soon as he drew my attention to the top of the cactus I had fun finding all of the blooming flowers.

Look for beauty everywhere

Okay, I got this one off the internet,

but isn't this beautiful!

We went home through Payson. We stopped at Walmart so I could get an eyebrow pencil as I thought I had lost mine. Afterwards we went to Culver's for lunch. We actually ate inside so James got the cod fillet meal. I had my regular chicken tenders.

We unpacked and then I read from the book I borrowed from Kim:

"The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley." Here is a quote from the book:

"The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you."

James and I listened to the Jayson Wolfe story on the way home so he could finish the series.

I also listened to Inklings. President Freeman and Michelle Craig discussed Elder Cook's talk, "The Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides the Ultimate Rescue." During the discussion Emily mentioned a talk Michelle gave in General Conference called, "Wholehearted" about pioneer women journeying to Utah. I remember that talk and how much I loved it.

When we got home Tom was so happy to see us. He ran through the house and sticks close to me until I go to bed, then he lays on my feet.

Quote, Verse, & Notes

"I urger you to devote time each week, for the rest of your life, to increase your understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ."

-President Russell M. Nelson

D&C 52:15

Wherefore he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine ordinances.

Rowan sent this picture to James

Yes Tom, let's make sure you are comfortable.

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025: Trip to valley, James points out: dead pine trees, huge gamble oak tree, eagle's nest with a black head sticking out, a Harris hawk, cactus in bloom, Chandler Eyecare, Bama Barbershop, Cafe Rio, AARA, Kim's, Stacy's, Costco

Recife, Brazil

101st operating temple

Dedicated: 15 Dec 2000

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Book of Mormon

Alma 7:14-27

D&C

53:1-54:10

Come Follow Me

D&C 52:9-11, 22-27 I can invite others to come unto Christ wherever I go.

April General Conference

'Receive His Gift'

Elder Patrick Kearon

James and I left for the valley at 7:30 this morning. On the way we stopped in Payson for gas and at the Beall's Outlet for some Skinny Syrup, Mermaid flavor (coconut and pineapple). It's fun traveling with an outdoorsman like James. Between Heber and he pointed out all of the dead pine trees because of the lack of moisture in the trees and the attack of bark beetles. "Look at that huge Gamble oak tree. That eagle's nest has a black head sticking out of it. Their heads don't turn white until they are 4 or 5 years old. There is a Harris hawk.

My infusion is not until 1:00 but James wanted to go by Bama Barbershop to see if all of the work that the Registrar of Contractors ask Lambson Construction to do was done. He contacted Armando and Armando said that he needed about 10 minutes to finish up. He had to straighten a crooked plug cover and remove some paint off of one of the door's hinges. At 11 o'clock in the morning the barbershop was closed. Armando said he talked to Darryl and Darryl said someone would be there this afternoon. No time given.

James and I had lunch at Cafe Rio. We decided it is too expensive to go on a regular day and from now on we need to go on Taco Tuesday when we can get tacos for $2.49. I will be changing my infusion appointments starting in July to Tuesday.

From Cafe Rio we went to Chandler Eyecare to pick up James's two new pair of glasses. We hit the jackpot. Not only did we see Sheri, Addy, and Nancy but Ruby was having her eyes checked so we go to see her and Trina and give them both a hug. The only people we missed were Ben & Cayli. They went to a convert last night so the took the day off. We also saw Dr. Vanover and Hillary Jiminez and Cayli's cousin, Sariah.

James dropped me off at AARA a little early and went back to see if the barbershop was open. Amanda took me right back although I was about 30 minutes early. Ang was there and so was Frances. Frances is going on vacation next Monday. She and her husband are taking their family to Orlando, Universal Studios. Frances is very excited!

I finished my infusion before James got back so I started walking across the street to Costco. He joined me before I got to the entrance. We bought shakes, pomegranate and acai juice, and a white blouse for me. After we were finished shopping we headed for Tempe to see James's mom. We called and told Dawn we were coming and she said they would be happy to see us.

It was a little chaotic when we arrived at Mom's. The hospice nurse had just left. Dave, Laura, Cathi, Terry, and Gail were there. Mom seemed tired. We said hello and then I just sat and talked with Laura a bit. Oh yes, Cathi's Yorkshire terrier, Wally, was also there. Cathi assured us that Mom liked Wally. Cathi and Terry had spent the night, I guess they are taking turns with Dave and Laura. 

Dave wanted to talk to Cathi and Terry about something financial and he finally said, "we can do this later." Dave and Laura were leaving and said they would be back this evening. As they were leaving mom asked David to get her a half a cup of Pepsi. I said I could do it, and I did. Cathi, Terry, and Wally left soon after Dave & Laura. Things certainly quieted down after this mass migration.

I sat by Mom, held her hand for a minute, and then just sat by her as she dozed off to sleep. We visited with Gail and Dawn a few minutes and then we hugged Mom goodbye and were on our way. Later, on the family thread, we received this text from Laura:

"Here's an update on Mom from my perspective. She had a day filled with visitors and a hospice visit. While she powered through all of that, the result is she got overstimulated. She is now sleeping after getting both Lorazepam and morphine. She was uncomfortable and felt like she was having a hard time breathing and her oxygen level dropped. David and I came back earlier than planned to assess the situation. I feel the day overwhelmed her and her body responded in kind. So, if you plan to come see Mom, please ask if she's got anything else going on that day and use your judgment as to whether another time might be better. You know Dawn will not tell anyone "no" (you know I'm right, Dawn). Not trying to keep anyone from seeing her, just trying to keep her from getting so worn out, she is still actively recovering from pneumonia. I know we all want her to feel better as quickly as she ca, so I give you my perspective from that point of view! Love you all!!!

When I first read this I felt it was pointed at us and Gail and I was offended. We came from out of town and our time with Mom is limited. After thinking about it for awhile I realized that Laura is coming from a place of love and care for Mom. She, Dave, Cathi and Laura had shared caring for her because they are concerned about Dawn's ability to do so. Now I am over those original feelings and I hope everyone understands that we did not stay a long time and while we were there we allowed Mom to sleep rather than trying to talk with her when she was so tired.

We left Tempe and headed for Stacy's house where we are staying. James needed a nap and so did I. After our nap we headed for the closest Texas Roadhouse on Gilbert Rd. just north of Germann. We have a gift card that Darrel & Trina gave us for Christmas. 

James had ribs and I had a steak. Even though I am trying to stay low-carb I had to have one of their rolls with honey butter. It was worth it. My steak was very tasty and I love their green beans!

I also had a salad with honey lime dressing

When we were finished eating James wanted to go back over to Bama Barbershop which is located on Alma School and Ray. I asked if he could drop me off at Kim's for a visit, which he did. He came back reporting that no one was there, yet again. Armando had been by a couple of times too with no luck. We visited with Kim for awhile until Brian came home and we said hello to him. Before we left Kim gave us two different lemon bars to try. We are to report back which one we liked best. I told her I wouldn't be eating mine until tomorrow. James is pretty stressed because he couldn't get in to the barbershop. His compliance inspection is in the morning at 9:00.

Armando has been sick with upper respiratory problems and he went to the hospital to see if he had pneumonia. They didn't admit him so he must be okay.

Before going back to Stacy's we went to Walmart to pick up a few items. By the time we got back to Stacy's she was home from work. She works from about 3-7 delivering packages for Amazon. 

James went for a walk while I got a political lesson from Stacy and Paul. She introduced me to Charlie Kirk and Laura Trump. She said it was because of these two people and other hardworking people in the Trump campaign that he got elected. Charlie Kirk is winning over the kids on college campuses with his straight shooting politics. He is pretty amazing. He says that 60% of voters under 30 support Trump.

I talked with Joshua awhile earlier before he went to work at George & Gather. He says he makes about $300 a night bussing tables.

Stacy's fridge. She also has several inspirational

quotes on index cards, just like I used to do.

Dallin after high school. Mary, Paul's mom, bought

him this outfit.

Janna and Patsy love this place. I want

to try it out.