Saturday, July 15th, 2017

Tijuana, Mexico

149th operating temple 
Dedicated: 13 Dec 2015 by
Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Atonement

Philippians 2:8

And being found in fashion as a man, e humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Ama 33:1-11

Why did the Lord hear Zenos's prayer?

DC 101:63-74

63-75, The Saints are to continue gathering together;

Why should we always be prepared before we go on the Lord's errand?

* "Let all things be prepared before you." This same idea is repeated about three times in these verses. We've all heard the popular saying haste makes waste" and surely it does! On the other hand "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." (DC38:30)

Being prepared for anything takes the anxiety and fear out of whatever we are asked to do. If we prepare ourselves spiritually, temporally, physically and mentally, we can go forward in the confidence of the Lord.

General Conference

Overcoming the World

Elder Neil L. Andersen

"Overcoming the world is keeping our promises to God - our baptismal and temple covenants and our oath of faithfulness to our eternal companion. Overcoming the world leads us humbly to the sacrament table each week, asking for forgiveness and pledging to 'remember Him and keep His commandments that we may always have His Spirit to be with us.'"

Before going to Ruby's baptism this morning I had to make a trip to Walmart to find a necklace to wear. I didn't have much to choose from but ended up buying two cheapies. 

As I am getting ready to go, I knock over something on the bathroom counter and it lands on my glasses frames and the frame breaks.

I ended up wearing my sunglasses at the baptism

and at the luncheon afterwards at Darrel and Trina's.

Later this afternoon Sheri takes the to Chandler Eyecare

and she and Nancy put on a new set of frames for me.

This is the second time this dynamic duo have come to my rescue!

Ruby's baptism was very special because she is such a sweet and loving girl. 

I wish I would have gotten a picture of her 

and Darrel together.

I was worried the flowers in her hair would

come out when she went under the water but they didn't.

Holding her new scriptures.

The luncheon at Trina and Darrel's was attended by our family and Trina's. 

Trina's dad visiting with Darrel, Trina,

Lexy and Brice. He mentioned to us what

great friends these four are.

I had an enjoyable time visiting with Trina's mom. She really is an awesome grandma. She takes all of her grandkids school shopping before school starts and then out to dinner.  She says she has so many now that she does them by families.

Denise's daughter Rachel had her baby girl today. She was a couple of weeks early.

Evie Lynn Pfeil

Today is also Laura's birthday.

She is spending it in Boise, Idaho

with Jon's family.

Happy Birthday Laura!

When we get back to Cathi and Terry's it is time for a nap. The first thing Cathi does is apologize for how warm it is in their home. It is 83 degrees. The repairman can't come until Monday afternoon.

We have two fans going in our bedroom and it is tolerable.

James goes to Dickey's Barbeque for takeout. Michael work's there and they got to have a quick visit. I told him to take a picture but he forgot. 

He brought me back a pulled pork sandwich. It was delicious. We will definitely go back. 

A monsoon storm is brewing outside. A lot of wind blowing the dust around but no rain in our area. 

Terry and Cathi went shopping at Walmart and Terry bought James some cream for his hands called "Working Hands." How very thoughtful of him. 

I gave James a haircut this evening and a darn good one if I do say so myself. He has to look good when he ordains Max a teacher tomorrow.

James's cousin Curtis got married today to his fiance' Joie.

These two are my new heroes.

Not only are they adopting three boys,

the are also raising Curtis's five grandkids.

Pretty amazing.

They rented a cabin in Flagstaff and

were married in the backyard.

Joie's son walked her down the aisle.

He is living with them too.

Kyra's daughter

Today was a day filled with wonderful memories. I am truly grateful for my life and the many people who make it so special.

This made me laugh!

Friday, July 14th, 2017

The Hague, Netherlands

114th operating temple

Dedicated: 8 Sept 2002 by

Gordon B. Hinckley

Atonement

Ephesians 2:16

And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

Alma 32:21-43

*How do we plant spiritual "seeds?"

27 But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.

DC 101:51-62

63-75, The Saints are to continue gathering together;

How can we stay stronger amid the chaos that is around us?

*"Peace, it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart." We can gain that peace by doing those things that make our soul happy...reading scriptures, praying, service, going to church, etc...When we are at peace, it doesn't matter what chaos is billowing all around us. We are grounded and strong because of our choices.

General Conference

The Language of the Gospel

Valeri V. Cordon

" Verily, verily I say nto you, The Son can do nothig of Himself, but what He seeth the Father do: for what things soever He doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise." -John 5:19

I had my infusion this morning at 9:30. 

Afterwards James and I went to lunch at Pei Wei. I have been craving their lettuce wraps and spicy chicken salad. Both were delicious!

When we got home we took a nap and then I had a date with Ruby. 

When I get to Darrel and Trina's I am bombarded with hugs and kisses from four sweet kids. Trina was at work and Darrel was with the kids. I should have taken some pictures.

Ruby and I headed to Deseret Book to get her some scriptures. Ruby is getting baptized tomorrow. We saw Cathi while we were shopping and Ruby invited her to her baptism. 

Ruby picked out the maroon leather quad. While we are waiting for her name to be imprinted We do a little more shopping and then as we leave I suggest that we go to Kneader's and get everyone some brownies. 

Ruby is so worried that I am going to spend too much money on her. I love that about her. We buy a dozen brownies and head back to take Ruby home. On the way Ruby says: "Oh grandma, these scriptures are so soft." Such a sweet girl. 

I called my friend Charlotte and talked with her while driving home. When I tell her I need to go she says a quick goodbye and hangs up. It makes me feel bad.

James painted his water trailer and is getting ready to sell it. I work on my blog for July 1st and 2nd. It is so hot, something is wrong with Cathi and Terry's air conditioner, they go to bed at 8.

James was hungry so I asked Cathi if he could have some ziti. Of course she said yes. 

Jared and Kacey got a house. They move in tomorrow.

Random Photos:

Lola enjoying her brownie.

She was asleep when we got home.

Darrel sent me this picture.

Tea Party 2015?

 I couldn't agree more.

2015

Jared and Emmy having scriptures together.

Emmy's date.

I'm a sucker for a beautiful sunset.

Thursday, July 13th, 2017

Tegucigalpa, Honduras

141st operating temple

Dedicated: 17 March 2013 by

Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Alma 32:1-20

*What do you think it means to be "poor in heart?"

*What do these verses teach about receiving and strengthening a testimony?

*Why is humility essential in the process of receiving and strengthening a testimony?

*What do you think it means to humble yourself "because of the word?"

*What false idea did many people have about obtaining a testimony?

DC 101:39-50

43-62, The parable of the nobleman and the olive trees signifies the troubles and eventual redemption of Zion;

Why do we always need to be watchful and have faith?

*We never know when the enemy, (Satan), will strike.

General Conference

Stand Up Inside and Be All In

Gary B. Sabin

" Standing up inside in spite of difficulties is possible because of a clear conscience, the strengthening and comforting assurance from the Holy Ghost, and an eternal perspective which surpasses mortal understanding."

James had a meeting this morning with Zaki. Zaki and his wife want to build a new home, a smaller one, in either Cave Creek or Queen Creek. Zaki's wife thinks their house is too big. He then goes to a meeting with Crissy and then one at Desert Highland Golf Course. 

Cathi and Terry leave for the center and I am left home alone with the pets. I had wanted to go to the temple, but it didn't happen.

James is gone all morning and doesn't bring back any food. He stopped at Elmer's but they were closed for remodeling. I am pretty grouchy and hungry until I remember I have a Jersey Mike's sandwich in the frig. James is working on a concrete bid for Paul's sister Michelle. They are building a big house in Queen Creek.

Terry and Cathi's grandson Colin is here to spend the night. Cathi made baked ziti for all of us for dinner. It was delicious! Colin didn't like it because it didn't have chicken in it. I have never heard of ziti with chicken.

Random photos:

A friend posted this on Facebook.

The fugitive was later shot down and killed.

He started several fires in the Forest Lakes area and then

shot at rangers and officers.

Trina's nephew Kreed jumping off Fossil Springs falls.

He is pretty brave for an 8 year old.

Alex's post.

I love the expression on this koala's face and the

fact that he has his paw on this person's arm.

Wednesday, July 12th, 2017

Tampico, Mexico
83rd operating temple
Dedicated: 20 May 2000 by
Thomas S. Monson

Atonement

2 Corinthians 5:18

Jesus Christ

Philippians 2:10-11; 2 Timothy 2:8

Alma 31:24-38

*What was the focus of the Zoramites' prayer?

*What was the focus of Alma's prayer?

*What elements of Alma's prayer would you like to incorporate into your personal prayers?

*How has the Lord given you strength to bear your infirmities?

DC 101:25-38

22-31, The nature of life during the Millennium is set forth; 

32-42, The Saints will be blessed and rewarded then;

How can we better take care of our souls?

* By coming unto Christ, repenting of our sins, being baptized and receiving the Holy Ghost and enduring to the end in obedience and righteousness.

General Conference

Songs Sung and Unsung

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

"The declarations of heaven cry out to us that the only way complex societal issues can ever be satisfactorily resolved is by loving God and keeping His commandments, thus opening the door to the one lasting, salvific way to love each other as neighbors. The prophet Ether taught that we should hope for a better world."

Our friend Grady E. from Chandler got his mission call. He is going to Quito, Equador. He leaves in October. We are excited for him. We had Grady in our Primary class a few years back.

James worked on finishing the fence this morning while I got ready to go to the valley. We left at 10:50. I read three chapters of "The Reluctant Duchess" before we stopped at the Taco Bell in Payson. 

I made it to my appointment at Dr. Douglas's at 2:30 a few minutes early. Sheri got James an appointment with Dr. Carpenter at 3 so I dropped him off there before going to my appointment.  It did not take Dr. Douglas long to fill my tooth. I was out in 30 minutes. James was still waiting to see Dr. Carpenter so I decided to go to Target and get some Dr. Pepper 10. 

It was a quick shopping spree but I bought four small notebooks, four DP10's, four bathtub scrubber refills, and a few more items before James was ready for me to come and get him. I grabbed a mini pizza at the snack bar and shared it with James. 

At Cathi and Terry's James unloads the car while I tell Cathi about our cousins reunion, and all of our kids visiting. 

I hang out in the bedroom most of the evening. James got me an In-n-Out Burger and a Jersey Mike's. I am saving the Jersey Mike's for tomorrow. We read another chapter from "The Reluctant Duchess" before going to bed.

Random Photos

Today marks 27 years from when Mario, a friend of ours from Chandler,  died in a tragic airplane accident. Brennan, his oldest, was only 15 but he and his mom and brothers keep Mario's memory very much alive in their family by sharing the memories of him. This is all of Papa Mario's grandchildren except Adam and Gabby.

38 years of marital bliss for these two.

Ray and Dianne.

This is my dear friend Analee.

I would have never recognized her from this photo

as it was taken several decades ago.

I need to show this to James.

Tuesday, July 11th, 2017

Taipai, Taiwan

31st operating temple

Dedicated: 17-18 Nov 1984 by

Gordon B. Hinckley

Atonement

Romans 3:25

Jesus Christ

Romans 6:3; 1 Cor. 2:2; 12:3; Ephesians 2:20.

Alma 31:1-23

*How is the word more powerful on the minds of the people than the sword?

DC 101:13-24

16-21, Zion and her stakes will be established; 

What did I learn from today's verses?

*13 Scattered shall be gathered.

14 All who mourn shall be comforted.

15 They who have given their lives for Christ shall be crowned.

16 Let your hearts be comforted. All flesh is in the Lord's hand. Be still and know that I am God.

24 Every corruptible thing shall be consumed.

General Conference

Becoming a Disciple of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Elder Robert D. Hales

"Peter explains, 'add to your faith virtue.' This virtue is more than sexual purity. It is cleanliness and holiness in mind and body. Virture is also power. As we faithfully live the gospel, we will have power to be virtuous in every thought, feeling, and action. Our minds become more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost and the Light of Christ. We embody Christ not only in what we say and do but also in who we are."

Again Sheri and I made a big breakfast this morning. She did bacon and eggs and I did hashbrowns. 

When Sheri went for her run this morning the temperature was in the 70's, a little different from the valley runs.

Before they leave for home Ben, Sheri and I play another game of Five Crowns. I was ahead most of the game but again Ben pulled it out in the end. I am beginning to think that he is unbeatable.

Everyone gave me a hug before leaving except for Sheri and Evan. Ian even gave me his yucca walking stick.

Trezise's and one Lambson

Alex is in England visiting with his

aunt and uncle and his cousins.

James had to pick up some poles in town too big to fit in the car so he took his truck, which basically has no brakes. He wanted me to go with him but I declined. I was exhausted and didn't feel like putting my life on the line. I stayed home and watched a couple of Hallmark movies.  I didn't ask for them, but I am sad when James gets home and doesn't have any tacos. It is taco Tuesday after all.

The rest of the day is pretty relaxing. At one point we read from "The Reluctant Duchess" out on the deck.  I think the last week or so is catching up with me and tomorrow we have to go to the valley.

Joshua in his Dr. Who t-shirt that Uncle Jeff

and Aunt Tara gave him.

I love this thought.

I am looking forward to this day.

Monday, July 10th, 2017

Sydney, Australia

28th operating temple

Dedicated: 20-23 Sept 1984 by

Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ

Acts 10:38; 13:23; 18:5; 19:15; 22:8; 26:15

Alma 30:46-60

*In Alma 30:46-50 Korihor, still not accepting the signs he had been given, demanded that Alma show him a sign of God's existence. In response, Korihor was struck dumb by the power of God. Convinced of God's power, Korihor wrote about why he had been preaching against God the Father and Jesus Christ. Read Alma 30:51-53.

*What do you think Korihor meant when he said that he taught things that were "pleasing unto the carnal mind?"

*In Alma 30:54-59 Korihor asked Alma to pray so the curse could be removed from him. Alma refused, saying that if Korihor received the ability to speak, he would again teach false doctrine to the people. Korihor was cast out and went from house to house, begging for food. Eventually he went to the Zoramites, who had separated from the Nephites, and was trampled to death.

*Read Alma 30:60 and look for the principle Mormon teaches. What principle does Mormon teach in this verse?

"The devil will not support his children (followers) at the last day."

*How is this different from the way Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ care for us? (Read Alma 36:3.)

DC 101:1-12

1-8, The Saints are chastened and afflicted because of their transgressions; 9-15, The Lord's indignation will fall upon the nations, but His people will be gathered and comforted;

General Conference

Brighter and Brighter Until the Perfect Day

Elder Mark A. Bragg

" We read in the Bible Dictionary that "only the home can compare with the temple in sacredness." We now have 155 operating temples and more coming soon. More and more families are sealed for time and all eternity. Members are submitting more and more names of ancestors to the temple to perform their saving ordinances. We truly are experiencing great joy and celebration on both sides of the veil! In a darkening world, the light of the gospel will shine brighter and brighter until the perfect day."

Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives

President Russell M. Nelson

" The importance of the Savior's mission was emphasized by the Prophet Joseph Smith, who declared emphatically that 'the fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it."

Sheri made bacon and eggs for breakfast and I made pancakes. After breakfast Sheri and the younger boys went for a walk. Stacy and Paul got ready to leave to go to Dorina's hearing in Show Low. Joshua is staying here with us and when the hearing is finished, I told Stacy I would take Joshua into town so they wouldn't have to come back out here to get him.

I guess Joshua is meditating

Nice photo!

Sheri, Ian, Max, Evan, Rowan, and Joshua took a drive to the top of Green's Peak. It is one of Sheri's favorite places in Arizona, and mine too, and it's only 15 miles away.

Ian with his cowboy hat.

Sheri takes this picture of the boys every year.

I should make a collage.

I love how Evan has his arm around Rowan.

I am so glad that Ian went with Sheri. They had a flat tire on the way back down.  Ian had a really hard time getting the lug nuts off because they were stripped.  When they finally return James, Sheri, Joshua and I go in to town. Stacy, Paul, and Paul's sisters and their families are having lunch at Pizza Factory. Paul put this picture of Tara on Facebook.

I like how it says awesome on the wall behind her.

When I dropped Joshua off Stacy introduced me to Tara's husband Jeff.  He shook my hand, spoke to me in a British accent, and kissed my cheek. I was charmed and impressed. Stacy says he is a great guy. He works on the TV show, "Dr. Who".  Sorry I didn't get a picture.  I ask how he liked the U.S. and he said he loved it.

We drop Sheri's tire off at Discount and pick up our Razr tire.  James goes to Home Depot and Sheri and I go to Walmart to kill some time. They said it would be over an hour before the tire was fixed.  James also stopped at American Fence. I ordered a thin crust veggie pizza from Dominoes for Sheri and I. James said he didn't want any. He opted for KFC. We stopped there too to take home some chicken for Sheri's family.  After picking up Sheri's tire we head for home making one more stop at Conoco for ice. 

It rained while we were at Walmart, but no rain in Vernon.  

Five Crowns with Sheri and Ben and I lose again. Ben wins.  We just can't beat him. Last time he got six points. After family scriptures and prayer, Sheri, Ian, and Ben watch the movie "Love and Mercy" which is the life story of Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys.  The boys play upstairs. I go in my bedroom to study and take a nap. James and I read a chapter from "The Reluctant Duchess."

Ben helps James fix the tractor. Stacy, Paul, and Joshua arrive home safely. Joshua said thank you and said he had a blast.

I found this list to be both

extensive and amusing.