OUR FAMILY

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Tuesday, July 24th, 2018

Las Vegas, Nevada

43rd operating temple

Dedicated: 16 Dec 1989

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Creator

Helaman 14:12

And also that ye might know of the coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and of earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and that ye might know of the signs of his coming, to the intent that ye might believe on his name.
Book of Mormon
Alma 38:1-15
* How does one use boldness, but not overbearance?
- Using boldness is teaching the word of God without fear. Being overbearing is the manner in which we teach. Are we pushy, loud, insensitve? Or are we tolerant, friendly and neighborly while sharing our beliefs? While it seems that Shiblon is one of the good sons, commended for his good work and ability too withstand persecution well it seems Alma is trying to curb Shiblon's tendency to be prideful and to be overbearing. If we discuss the gospel with someone making them feel that we think we are better than them or they are ignorant to the truth, making others feel like they have to defend, argue their position then perhaps we are overbearing. Shiblon had personality flaws like all of us. Alma was reminding Shiblon that he needed to trust the Lord instead of his own strength, and that it's Christ who does the saving, and builds testimony.
Old Testimony
Nehemiah 7-9
7 Provision is made to protect Jerusalem - The genealogy is given of the Jews who returned from Babylon - Priests without genealogical records are denied the priesthood.
8 Ezra reads and interprets the law of Moses to the people - They keep the Feast of Tabernacles.
9 The Jews fast and confess their sins - The Levites bless and praise the Lord and recite His goodness toward Israel.
General Conference

Prophets Speak by the Power of the Holy Spirit

Ulisses Soares

"Isn't it a blessing to have prophets, seers, and revelators on earth in these days in which we live, who seek to know the will of the Lord and follow it? It is comforting to know that we are not alone in the world, despite the challenges we face in life. Having prophets is a sign of God's love for His children. They make known the promises and the true nature of God and of Jesus Christ to Their people. I have learned that through my personal experiences."

From my morning browsing of Meridian Magazine:

The Problem with Bribing Kids: "Rewards can sometimes buy compliance, but they don't build character. Research underscores the long term negative consequences of using rewards to motivate children. An astute child will become a mercenary. 'I shouldn't do anything without a reward.' Children don't learn the oy of goodness but the value of resistance."

From the book "Covenant Hearts" by Bruce C. Hafen:

"Our homes are laboratories where we test and develop our religion."

I remember that one of the things Elder Bernecker mentioned in his talk Sunday was his seminary teacher telling him to be mindful of the tender mercies of the Lord in his life. He said that doing that helped prepare him to serve a mission. I have decided I would like to do that too. Here goes...in my patriarchal blessing I am told that I will never want for the necessities of life and that the way will be open for me and my companion to help others who are not so fortunate as ourselves. This has been true in my life and I am so grateful to the Lord for this tender mercy.

I talked to Elder Bernecker about Kylie Long today. She is 14 and my friend Pam says she is interested in the church and was going to go last week with her friends the Westbrook girls, Joe and Corrina's daughters. I told Elder Bernecker about her and that she has a brain tumor and that he should speak with the Westbrook's and see if they could meet her at the Westbrook's home.

Happy Pioneer day. On Family Search Sunday one of my pioneer ancestors was featured. Her name is Martha Jane Mathias. She was married to William Bailey Maxwell, my great, great grandfather.
Martha traveled with the Uriah Curtis Company. They departed Kanesville, Iowa in June 1852 at which time Martha was 7. They traveled for 93 days before reaching their destination.

I also learned today that Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is the great, great grandson of Heber C. Kimball.

James is doing backbreaking work at the Howard's and he is pretty miserable. The good news is they were able to find floor covering in the valley that they can bring home with them. Ordering from Home Depot was going to take two weeks.

James tracked dust all through the house from the grinding he is doing at the Howard's. I cleaned floors this afternoon.

I am gathering all framed family photos and trying to find places to hang them on our walls. Some of the glass in the frames got broken and I either have to replace the glass or get new frames. Sad that the glass in this frame got broken. One of my favorite family photos.

James is holding the photo and it's

a little crooked. Probably taken in 1994.

June, July centerpiece

August/Sept will feature sunflowers

Monday, July 23, 2018

Monday, July 23rd, 2018

Portland, Oregon

42nd operating temple

Dedicated: 19 Aug 1989

By: Gordon B. Hinckley

Jesus Christ, Creator

Ephesians 3:9

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Book of Mormon

Alma 37:26-47

*What things does Alma ask Helaman to teach the people? Why are those things important?

- In Alma 37:33-47 we see the same counsel most of our Fathers have tried to teach us. The basics beginning with repentance, and faith in our Savior...to be humble, fight temptation and don't be weary in good works. Prayer is big on the list.."Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good."

Verse 33 "Teach the an everlasting hatred against sin and iniquity." Stan wraps sin in colorful wrapping paper and gently whispers to us that every one loves his presents and we will be happier once we open his presents. Alma is using the strongest words he knows to warn his son of the dangerous traps of sin. It is the difference between a life of freedom or slavery. Alma teaches Helaman the answers to all of life's questions. "Look to God and live."

Old Testament

Nehemiah 4-6

4 The Jews' enemies seek to prevent them from rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem - Nehemiah arms the laborers and keeps the work progressing.

5 Many Jews are in bondage to their fellow Jews - At Nehemiah's direction they are freed, their lands are restored, and the taking of usury is discontinued.

6 Sanballat engages in intrigue against Nehemiah and the building of the wall - The Jews finish the construction of the wall.

General Conference

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Elder Gerrit W. Gong

"Said the Prophet Joseph Smith: 'It may seem to some to be a very bold doctrine that we talk of - a power which records or binds on earth and binds in heaven. Nevertheless, in all ages of the world, whenever the Lord has given a dispensation of the priesthood to any man by actual revelation, or any set of men, this power has always been given.' And so it is today. Sacred covenants and ordinances, not available anywhere else, are received in 159 holy houses of the Lord in 43 countries. Promised blessings come through restored priesthood keys, doctrine, and authority, reflecting our faith, obedience, and the promises of His Holy Spirit to us in our generations, in time and eternity."

FHE:

Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives

President Russell M. Nelson

"One of the things the Spirit has repeatedly impressed upon my mind since my new calling as President of the Church is how willing the Lord is to reveal His mind and will. The privilege of receiving revelation is one of the greatest gifts of God to His children."

Happy 17th Birthday Summer!

Summer got her birthday card from us,
but Molly didn't. We mailed them together.

Jared frosting Summer's cake.
Is that Coolwhip or whipped cream Jared?

Looks delicious! We used to also make a chocolate
cake with bananas and Coolwhip.

Cute picture!

After James left for the Howard's today I decided to work on my blog and then get out some framed family photographs and make an arrangement on the wall in the hallway. Before I started on my blog I called Sister Scott to see if she would be willing to loan her wheelchair to Sister Peeler. She was more than happy to do so and said she had already made the offer but Brother Peeler had turned it down. I told her I didn't think he would turn it down this time because Sister Peeler had told me she wanted it.

As I sat down at the computer the phone rang. It was my friend Jean. She wanted to know if I was going to the valley tomorrow. I told her I hadn't planned on it. She has a doctor's appointment and her husband wants to stay here and help James with the remodeling he is doing on their house. Jean had severe injuries that will not allow her to drive herself. I told her that I would be glad to take her. She seemed excited.

Jean and her husband Tom came over this morning to look at our wood flooring since they need to pick some out for their remodeling. They loved our house, especially the logs. Tom said he hasn't seen a better house up here. Well, it's not fancy but it is rustic and we love it too.

James left with Tom and Jean to go into Home Depot to pick out their flooring. I stayed to get some things done and boy am I glad I did. We had the best rain storm around 1 p.m. I mean it rained hard and we even got some hail. So much for the weather report that said 20 % chance!

I have had a guitar in the hall closet for a long time. I finally took it out today and put a picture of it on Facebook asking who it belonged to. Stacy said she didn't know but Michael said it was there. He was ready to give it to Joseph. Jared Ammon said it was worth what it would take to fix it and Dallin made some comment I didn't fully understand. Come to find out, the guitar belongs to Stacy, according to Paul that is. She didn't remember. Since Talon played the guitar in church on Sunday I thought maybe Andy, his younger brother, might like a guitar for his birthday. Oh well, it was a nice thought. Nobody would have even known if I hadn't said anything and just gave it to him.

Stacy's guitar. I want to her her play it.

Since I thought I was going to the valley tomorrow with my friend Jean I decided to go grocery shopping this afternoon. We are having the Peeler's over this week for dinner, either Wednesday or Thursday, and I want to be prepared. Just before I left for town Jean called and said Tom had decided to go down with her. I guess their granddaughter wants them to come and stay with her. I went to town anyway.

This evening I read to James, finished my steps and a Christmas movie and then we sat down and listened to President Nelson's conference talk on revelation.

First Day of School in Chandler

Max is a freshman in high school this year.

He just turned 15 and will be going to

Chandler High.

Evan is in 6th grade and so is Joshua.

They both go to Hancock Elementary.

This will be their last year there.

Posted by Christina, Rebecca's daughter

This photo came up today and I just had to post it

again. This is President Shumway and his wife.

He is my favorite stake president of all time.

Floating market in Indonesia.

I love the colors and design.

Sunday, July 22nd, 2018

Frankfurt, Germany

41st operating temple

Dedicated: 28 Aug 1987

By: Ezra Taft Benson

Jesus Christ, Creator

Mosiah 4:9

Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both i heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.

Book of Mormon

Alma 37:11-25

*How do you stay diligent in keeping God's commandments?

- Commandments, like everything else God gives us, are for our benefit. It's easier to be diligent when you see the commandments as loving gifts to guide us to where and how God lives.

Old Testament

Nehemiah 1-3

1 Nehemiah mourns, fasts, and prays for the Jews in Jerusalem.

2 Artaxerxes sends Nehemiah to Jerusalem - Sanballat and others oppose Nehemiah in rebuilding the walls and gates of Jerusalem.

3 The names and order of those who help to build the walls and gates of Jerusalem are listed.

General Conference

Small and Simple Things

President Dallin H. Oaks

"There is a powerful effect over time of the small and simple things we are taught in the scriptures and by living prophets. Consider the scripture study we've been taught to incorporate into our daily lives. Or consider the personal prayers and the kneeling family prayers that are regular practices for faithful Latter-day Saints.

Consider attendance at seminary for youth or institute classes for young adults. Though each of these practices may seem to be small and simple, over time they result in powerful spiritual uplift and growth. This occurs because each of these small and simple things invites the companionship of the Holy Ghost, the Testifier who enlightens us and guides us into truth."

We began reading the book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament today. Nehemiah was one of the noble men of the Old Testament. As he fulfilled a necessary mission in his day, he demonstrated the highest level of dedication and courage, both in the practical matter of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and also in the spiritual matter of rebuilding the religious life of his people.

Sacrament Meeting:

Elder Bingham: Dropped out of school when he was a junior to travel and to surf. Ended up in Australia where he met someone LDS that talked to him about life. This is when he started thinking seriously about going on a mission and then his mom called and asked him if he would go on a mission. That was the deciding factor, along with the feelings he had and his desire to do something outside of himself. His family lives in Coeur d'alene, Idaho.

Spoke about the Gathering of Israel and the importance of saving ordinances. Ordinances necessary for salvation are done in the temples of God for ourselves and for those who did not have the opportunity while in this life.

"Temple are an indication of our belief in immortality." -Pres. Hinckley

Helping others to Come Unto Christ is the way we gather Israel.

T. Wilhelm Guitar solo of "Come Come Ye Saints."

Elder Bernecker: Grew up in Seattle, Washington. Now his family lives in Springville, Utah. Trina says they moved their so he could study ballroom dancing. I believe Utah is the ballroom dance capital of the world.

This was an amazing talk!

Do I appreciate my blessings and the gospel in my life? What would my life be like without the gospel?

Brother Bernecker's seminary teacher quote 1 Nephi 1:20 to him and told him to look for the tender mercies in his life. He said this made him more mindful and grateful for his blessings.

Scripture study was vitally important to his decision to serve a mission.

A missionaries purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ. That should be every members purpose. He then mentioned important scriptures: DC 88:81 - Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor. AF#10 - We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory. Romans 8:16-17 - The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Mormon 3:20 - And these things doth the Spirit manifest unto me; therefore I write unto you all. And for this cause I write unto you, that ye may know that ye must all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, yea, every soul who belongs to the whole human family of Adam; and ye must stand to be judged of your works, whether they be good or evil; 1 Nephi 10:21 - Wherefore, if ye hve sought to do wickedly in the days of your probation, then ye are found unclean before the judgment-seat of God; and no unclean thing can dwell with God; wherefore, ye must be cast off forever.
2 Nephi 31:17-20; Moses 1:39; Rev. 19:10.
In closing Elder Bernecker gave three things we as members can do to help missionary work move along. 1.) Associate with non-members. This is the hardest thing for members to do but it is critical to the work. 2.) Live and share life beliefs and invite others to find out more. Remember fear, comes from Satan. 3.) Bear testimony and stand as a witness.

The gospel doctrine class was taught by Brother Smith. The lesson was about Elijah but he turned it into a Q&A about what we do when we hit a low spot. How do we exercise faith and turn to the Lord.

Sister Butler taught RS lesson on ministering and the worth of souls. She did a good job and told the story from Pres. Nelson's talk on ministering about his visit to the Cox family. I love that story.

After the block we went to the Peeler's again for the sacrament. We had quite a group, Sister Crane, the Smith's, us, and Brother Westbrook.

Brother Smith offered a prayer after the sacrament for help in Sister Peeler's recovery. I told her I would try to find her a wheelchair.

I spent the afternoon working on Family Search. I discovered that my grandma's brother, Walter and his wife Edna Mae have never had their temple work done. I need to get permission from the closest relative but I don't know who that would be. I contacted Family Search and am anxious to hear from them.

Uncle Jerry, Grandma Verdie, Aunt Mildred, Aunt Rita, Uncle Walter, and Aunt Garnet. My grandmother and her brothers and sisters.

Somehow we made it until 6 p.m. when Ben was supposed to open his mission call. Paul had it on Facebook Live. We had to wait about 15 minutes or so for everyone to get there, but finally the moment came:

Ben was so cute. He opens the letter, starts reading to himself and says, "Oh this is so cool" before he says anything to us. Long story short, he is going to Idaho Falls, Idaho mission. I am sure because of his sleepwalking issue the brethren wanted to send him somewhere nice and safe. When James asked him if he was happy about where he was going he said: "I would be happy to go anywhere." He has such a great attitude and I know he will be a wonderful missionary. BTW, Rexburg and BYU-Idaho are in his mission and that's where all his friends are going to school.

The cute girl on the side is Lyndsey,

Ben's friend.

Love the smile!

Idaho Falls, Idaho mission

He looks so happy

World traveler

Awesome brother

Wonderful son

First missionary in our family of this generation!

Sunday, July 22, 2018

Saturday, July 21st, 2018

Denver, Colorado

40th operating temple

Dedicated: 24 Oct 1986

By: Ezra Taft Benson

Jesus Christ, Creator

Acts 7:50

Hath not my hand made all these things?

Book of Mormon

Alma 36:25-37:10

* How has God delivered you from your trials?

- He sent someone to save our concrete on July 18, 2016. God delivers me from my trials everyday. When I turn to Him and follow His ways my anxieties, doubts and fears disappear. I feel peace, love, and hope. He provides everything good in my life. When I stop focusing on worldly things and focus on Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, my life is happy.

Old Testament

Ezra 7-10

7 Ezra goes up to Jerusalem - Artaxerxes provides for beautifying the temple and sustains the Jews in their worship.

8 Those who go up from Babylon to Jerusalem are listed - The Levites are called to accompany them - Ezra and the people fast and pray for and gain guidance and protection in going to Jerusalem.

9 Many Jews intermarry with the Canaanites and others and follow their abominations - Ezra prays and confesses the sins of all the people.

10 The Jews covenant to put away their wives taken from the Canaanites and others - Ezra assembles the people at Jerusalem - The Levites who married non-Israelite women are listed.

General Conference

His Spirit To Be With You

President Henry B. Eyring

"This time of year helps us remember the Savior's sacrifice and His rising from the tomb a resurrected being. Many of us hold images of those scenes in our memories. I once stood with my wife outside a tomb in Jerusalem. Many believe that it was the tomb from which the crucified Savior emerged as a resurrected and living God. The respectful guide that day motioned with his hand and said to us, 'Come, see an empty tomb.' We stooped to enter. We saw a stone bench against a wall. But into my mind came another picture, as real as what we saw that day. It was of Mary, who was left by the Apostles at the tomb. That is what the Spirit let me see and even her in my mind, as clearly as if I had been there."

We attended Ruthie's baptism this morning and Lanel's baby blessing. It has been a great week for this family! Talon and Trenda gave the talks on baptism and the Holy Ghost and did an awesome job. Trenda likened the Holy Ghost to a flashlight, and a comforter (blanket), and Ruthie got to keep both of those things. Brother Crane conducted the meeting and Brother Thompson gave the closing remarks. Bishop Miller is out of town. Before the closing prayer given by Ruthie's sister Alice, John blessed baby Lanel who had on the most beautiful blessing dress made by her grandma Ruth and Aunt Lannie. Ruthie also had a beautiful baptismal dress made by them and another dress she was confirmed in.

Afterwards there was cake and ice cream to celebrate Ruthie's birthday. Brother Goodman and Sister Goodman, Ruthie's Primary teachers were both there. Brother Goodman played the piano. Brother Grapp was there with his four oldest children so Cammy could stay home with the baby and get some rest.

Lots of family there and some non-member friends that John invited. It was a wonderful experience for us. We love this family so much!

Ruthie, John, Lanel, and Sandra

It was neat that Talon could help confirm Ruthie and help bless the baby now that he has the Melchizedek priesthood.

After the program when everyone was either serving or eating cake and ice cream James went out to the car and brought in Ruthie's gifts and gave them to her.

Ruthie and her great big CTR cake

Journal and charm bracelet.

She really like the "pony"

This afternoon James went to the Howard's and to the dump. Thank goodness for the dump because our garage was being taken over by garbage.

We got a little, and I mean little bit of rain this afternoon. Most of the clouds just passed us by.

This evening the missionaries came by while I was giving James a haircut. He told them to come back in about a half an hour, which they did. We got to meet the new Elder, Elder Bingham from Coeur d'alene, Idaho. He seems very humble.

Elder Bernecker did most of the talking. First he went on and on about how much he loves our home and how he wants one just like it someday.

Before they left we talked about our family mission plan and then Elder Bernecker shared one of his favorite scriptures from the Book of Mormon, Alma 7:23. He has it memorized and says that someday he wants to frame it and hang it on his wall.

Alma 7:23

And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.

Afterwards Elder Bernecker told why this is his favorite scripture.

He seems to have a very strong testimony and I am sure he is a great missionary. We really enjoyed their visit, they always bring a wonderful spirit into our home.

We reminded them that we are feeding them next Saturday and since we are working in the temple that day that it would probably be take out. Elder Bernecker said he would prefer Panda over pizza and that he likes orange chicken. Elder Bingham said he would eat whatever Elder Bernecker wants.

Finished the day with another Christmas movie and two new songs on my phone, "I Cross My Heart," by George Strait and "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran.

Saturday, July 21, 2018

Friday, July 20th, 2018

Buenos Aires, Argentina

39th operating temple

Dedicated: 17 Jan 1986

By: Thomas S. Monson

Jesus Christ, Creator

DC 93:9

The light and the Redeemer of the world; the Spirit of truth, who came into the world, because the world was made by him, and in him was the life of men and the light of men.

Book of Mormon

Alma 36:1-24

*In what ways do you relate to Alma's conversion story?

- Brian Horak: "I'm only going to say this; conversion is real, repentance is real, FORGIVENESS IS REAL!! None of us are past forgivenss and the joy of our Redeemer's embrace. All you have to do is want it. I testify that this is true."

Old Testament

Ezra 4-6

4 The Samaritans offer help, then hinder the work - The building of the temple and of the walls of Jerusalem ceases.

5 Haggai and Zechariah prophesy - Zerubbabel renews the building of the temple - The Samaritans challenge the Jews' right to continue their building work.

6 Darius renews the decree of Cyrus to build the temple - It is finished and dedicated, and sacrifices and feasts commence again.

General Conference

He That Shall Endure unto the End

"Attendance at sacrament meetings is one of the key ways we can evaluate our determination to serve Him, our spiritual fortitude, and the growth of our faith in Jesus Christ.

Partaking of the sacrament is the most important things we do on the Sabbath day. The Lord explained this ordinance to His Apostles just before He died. He did the same on the American continent. He tells us that if we participate in this ordinance, it will be a testimony to the Father that we always remember Him,and He promises that, accordingly, we will have His Spirit to be with us."

James worked at the Howard's again today. Brother Howard told him he planned on paying him for his work and to keep track of his hours. James thought he wouldn't be paid but his work would go toward's paying Brother Howard back for destroying his Cat. Now that our Cat is fixed James is going to give it to Brother Howard, along with the tractor which is worth about $16,000 the cost of the tractor that was destroyed.

This is a big week for the Wilhelm family and James is one of their ministering brothers. This evening we went to the temple when their oldest son took out his temple endowments. He doesn't leave for his mission until November 1st but nowadays they have young people work in the temple until it's time for them to leave on their missions.

On the way to the temple we stopped at the Book Barn and picked up the pink journal James picked out for Talon's younger sister Ruthie who is being baptized tomorrow on her birthday.

We got to the temple a little early and so I read another chapter from "Abby's Crossing." This book is getting good. It takes place in the Utah territory around 1860.

These are the people who were at the temple for Talon:

His parents, his grandparents, his sister Trenda and her husband Emery, Bishop Miller, the Thompson's and the Crane's, Sister Tedder, a cousin and an aunt, and James and I. There may have been more, but those are the friends from our ward.

James spoke to Talon about working in the temple. He said he is going back to his uncle's in Washington to work and he asked if he could work in the temple up there. He was told only if he transferred his membership. He doesn't want to do that. He wants to leave from Vernon.

It was a great session and a wonderful reunion in the Celestial room. I can hardly wait for Ben to go through the temple. Just two more days and Ben will open his call.

The July 24th celebration has begun in Snowflake and Taylor. There was something going on at the rodeo grounds in Taylor and they were letting off fireworks.

We stopped for pizza at Pizza Hut so it was quite late when we got home. We finished walking and went to bed at 10:30.