sisters dear

The Caravan Moves On

2011-10-11T13:16:00.005-06:00

Regarding all of the recent news and publicity that the Church is receiving regarding being or not being Christians, being a cult, etc.... Doug's wonderful aunt sent this article to the family email group and I wanted to share. This was a talk given by Elder Bruce R. McConkie in 1984 and well worth reading in it's entirety, but I'm only sharing the analogy to the news of late. All of this recent news brings to my own mind, President Hinckley's encouragement to "stand for something". I'm determined to stand taller myself! Enjoy.

The Church is like a great caravan—organized, prepared, following an appointed course, with its captains of tens and captains of hundreds all in place.

What does it matter if a few barking dogs snap at the heels of the weary travelers? Or that predators claim those few who fall by the way? The caravan moves on.

Is there a ravine to cross, a miry mud hole to pull through, a steep grade to climb? So be it. The oxen are strong and the teamsters wise. The caravan moves on.

Are there storms that rage along the way, floods that wash away the bridges, deserts to cross, and rivers to ford? Such is life in this fallen sphere. The caravan moves on.

Ahead is the celestial city, the eternal Zion of our God, where all who maintain their position in the caravan shall find food and drink and rest. Thank God that the caravan moves on!

from General Conference...

2011-10-01T16:04:00.000-06:00

Photo by my favorite niece, Brooke Snow.

fall 2011 General Conference thoughts

2011-10-01T11:07:00.007-06:00

I've spent the week pondering the talks that I so enjoyed last weekend at General Conference and felt impressed to add my two cents.

A new temple in Provo! Doug and I sat in tears, both agreeing that there had been a reason for that horrific fire last winter. What a gift! And a temple in Star Valley, Wyoming could mean that the members in Soda Springs will now be in the new temple district, rather than Logan. How wonderful is that!? And! A temple in Paris, France. I remember a friend being sent to France on his mission when I was a teenager. The mission saw two baptisms during his entire two year mission. This moved me to tears.

Elder Scott's talk on the scriptures was my favorite in the Saturday morning session. It was my sentiments exactly! I can't wait to help the kids learn and memorize more scriptures! The scriptures bring me such joy! I want them to have the same love of those sacred words.

Elder Perry's call to share our beliefs was awesome! I have never been one to hide my thoughts or feelings about the gospel. I mention the gospel, my testimony, our lifestyle as members of the LDS church often and have never been ashamed of it. I've had many opportunities in the past several years of blogging to answer questions about the gospel and our faith. Most of my blogging friends know that I'm open book and as a result, I do get asked a lot of questions. Elder Perry's reminder was just what I needed!

I imagine a lot of us will be spending a little less time playing Angry Birds after conference. For me, it's Words with Friends. I'm certain that the quote from Elder Aidern touched many of our hearts... Be as quick to kneel as we are to text. I've often caught myself dialing a friend when I realized I should be on my knees. Beautiful.

Elder Packer's words were powerful and strong. Elder Packer reminds me of Samuel the Lamanite, standing on the wall, preaching and teaching truth, without fear of the arrows and stones being aimed in his direction. He reminds me of the verse in Alma, "Never have I seen so much courage." Elder Packer is fearless.

I was touched by Elder Anderson's comments about raising a family. Again, this was one of those "fearless" talks because it is indeed such a personal decision. His thoughts on it being okay to scrimp and save for the sake of having a family hit home. I often think about going to work to lighten our load. It would simplify things, financially, immensely. But, it wouldn't simplify the fact my life at all. Or my children's. They need me so many times during the day, even now that they are in school. I'll find other ways to cut back. Even if it means not going out to lunch.;) But, the comment made that struck me the most was at the end of his talk when Elder Anderson stated, "We should not be judgmental in the sacred and private responsibility." I hope that those who were listening to this talk, and thinking of people who they feel should be beginning their families sooner, heard this part of the talk, as well.

President Uchtdorf, as always...is amazing. He is a people builder and reminds us that we are indeed, children of God with immense value and import. I love this man.

President Eyring's tenderness during his talk touched my heart. Again, another reminder to read the Book of Mormon. There were so many. I'd say that reading and studying the Book of Mormon was the theme of this conference. It was mentioned so many times. I was grateful to have just completed a long study, not just a reading, of the Book of Mormon weeks ago. As a matter of fact, I finished reading the Doctrine and Covenants between sessions of conference on Sunday and have begun a Relief Society challenge to read the Book of Mormon again before the end of the year. Loving it!

On Sunday, each and every talk touched my heart. I loved being with my family in our cozy little family room enjoying it together. The babes captured so many things. Quayd, particularly. A few thoughts that come to my mind :

The most surprising talk was Sister Dalton's. Expecting her comments to be more directed to the youth, hearing her address the fathers caught everyone's attention. She was so direct and yet, so tender. The best way a father can teach his daughters is to love their mother. It doesn't get any clearer than that. I've told my girls all their lives to look for a man half as wonderful as their dad and they'll do well. I immediately thought of Doug dancing with Gracie on the temple grounds on the day of our niece Becky's wedding and put one of my favorite conference quotes on the picture. Beautiful!

As I listen to the talks of General Conference, because of my calling as the Teaching for our Times teacher in Relief Society, I listen to every talk with "teaching ears"... will I teach this one, Oh this one would be fun to teach, oh this one would be hard to teach..."

President Eyring's talk would be a fun lesson to prepare! We promise to: 1 ~ be charitable… Service 2 ~ witnesses of God… 3 ~ endure

Elder Hales talk would be a sacred and growing experience to teach, no doubt. It was beautiful ~ the purpose of our life is to grow, develop and be strengthened through our own experiences. “We wait upon the Lord.” Mortal challenges allow us to see whether we will exercise our agency to follow His son. All these things shall be for our experience and our good. Joy cometh in the morning. Let us be kinder to one another and even kinder to ourselves. How could we all not benefit to study that talk in depth.

With the elections around the corner and all of the negative talk about the church, I get so frustrated when I hear criticisms of the LDS candidates, simply "because their Mormons". It makes no sense to me. We are Christians. I loved Elder Ballard's explanations of the title of our church ~ the Saviors name is the only name by which we can be saved.
THE ~ specifies and sets apart
CHURCH of JESUS CHRIST ~ HIS church of Latter-day ~ the same church that was in Christ’s ministry
SAINTS ~ as members, we follow him and strive to keep his commandments, those who seek to make their lives holy by covenanting to follow Christ.

This tells us exactly who we are and what we believe! I want to stand up and shout from the rooftops, "We are CHRISTIANS!"

Elder Yamishita's 3 things to bring on your mission ~ a desire to serve the Lord , developed testimony , love others were great advise for three attitudes to wake up with every day. A goal for me to work on!

The kids loved Elder Randall K. Bennett's story of his poor choice, swimming against the current. We're always quoting, "The choices we make today determine our happiness tomorrow." President Monson was quoted: “Decisions determine destiny. You can’t make eternal decisions without eternal consequences.” The kids captured that immediately!

A favorite quote from Elder Cornish ~ Much like medicine, prayer only works when used as directed.

There were so many great quotes and encouraging thoughts, but I'll leave the Ensign and Church Website to print those. These were some that really made strong impressions for me.

And last but not least, President Monson is always just delightful. His description of today's attitude~ "Buy it, wear it, spend it, flaunt it because you’re worth it." So true! I remember when we were first married learning the opposite, "Use it up, Wear it out, Make it do or Do without." It's amazing how that attitude has been forgotten. President Monson's comment that morality is not passe ran deep. This is the prophet speaking. I thought of Noah standing on the ark as he spoke these words, "We are responsible for our actions. Although the world has changed, the gospel has not. The commandments are COMMANDMENTS...they are not negotiable." You can't turn the tv on and find that opinion anywhere today. But, as always, comes a promise that Heavenly Father's is constancy is something on which we can rely. Stand strong and firm in righteousness.

My birthday and the fall General Conference usually fall at the same time. Our anniversary and Spring Conference are usually together, as well. In my younger days, it was sometimes frustrating because there's not a room to be had if I wanted to spend either weekend celebrating in the big city of Salt Lake. In the wisdom of my fifty-three years, I find myself looking at the calendar before scheduling anything during Conference. I live for it! I love it! I download it onto my iPod and listen to Conference daily, usually at least one talk before bedtime each night, often when I walk, and daily, I listen to the talk that I'm preparing to teach in Relief Society. What a gift, to have modern prophets and apostles teaching us the Word of God today, in our world of modern conveniences and modern challenges. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. I love my Savior and elder brother, Jesus Christ. I love the scriptures, both old and new. I bear this witness that they are true. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Book of Mormon

2011-09-18T13:02:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, on a Sunday morning, I was having some health issues and had to stay home while Doug and the babes were off to church. I was happy to use that three hour window of time to complete my reading the Book of Mormon, which I'd begun over a year ago. I can't count the times in my life that I've read the Book of Mormon. I remember reading it the first time, cover to cover, in Seminary when I was a sophomore in High School. I read it again, the year after Doug and I were married and again while expecting Liza. I remember reading it when Liza was in kindergarten. In 1994 , I got a new set of scriptures. I still remember opening the box just to smell the fresh leather, but that smell disappeared quickly my new scriptures were out of the box often! Each time that I read the Book of Mormon, I find different insights and understanding because I am at a different place in life myself, both spiritually and circumstantially. I love that!

Since getting that "new set", I read the book of Mormon several times until I hit the ripe age of 45 and my eyes began to weaken. As the eye doctor told me, "It's a little thing I like to call old age." Old age necessitated the need for me to get not only a dozen pair of "readers", but I found myself needing another new set of scriptures with larger print. However, I fought that need for five years. Since 1997, I'd taken all of the classes possible at the Utah State University LDS Institute of Religion and my scriptures were colorful with markings, pages filled with quotes and thoughts from my own personal revelations and impressions to quotes from the General Authorities of the Church to lectures from great teachers who'd taught me much about the gospel.

I had become so familiar with those pages that I could pick up my scriptures and the pages would fall open to exactly where I needed. I could be sitting in a class in church and immediately recall notes and quotes written near verses that went along with the lesson I was hearing. HOW could I learn to love new scriptures as much as these? However. Seeing those pages and notes became more and more impossible. And so. For Mother's Day 2010, Doug gave me a new burgandy Large Print version of the LDS Standard Works.

I immediately began marking the scriptures with first, the Scripture Mastery verses, taught to the youth in seminary. (I feel every member of the church should be fully familiar with these!) Next, I marked the Joseph Smith Translation notes, which is a must, in my opinion. Next, I went through and marked all of the Hebrew footnotes blue, the OR footnotes for idioms orange and the Greek footnotes in green. It took me until the end of summer to transfer the notes, quotes and thoughts that I've had in my lifetime and then I began again to read the Book of Mormon once more.

This time, I determined that I would not just "read" it, but truly study it. I found reference books and used the church's website, LDS.org, to enhance my studies. This took me over a year. Oh, how I learned and captured, with this new method of study and discovery, all on my own.

As I read the words of the ancient prophets, my heart was touched, my mind was sharpened and my testimony was strengthened. I grew to love the prophets and their messages more than ever before. I became familiar with the patterns of faith and hope, as well as repentance and apostasy, divulged throughout the Book of Mormon. And this time, spending weeks and weeks in 3 Nephi, I grew closer to my Savior than I've ever felt before. As I approached the end of the the book, studying about the Jaredites in Ether, and reading those final words of Mormon and his son, Moroni, my heart ached for their challenges and sufferings.

On that Sunday morning, I was listening to my most favorite Sunday piano music, that of my niece Brooke and of Paul Cardall. I read those last words in Moroni and closed the book to the ironically but perfectly timed last note on that particular playlist of my iPod. This silence was powerful. I knelt down immediately, and with tears, gave thanks for the words that I'd been so invested in for the past year, for the prophets and sacrifices that were made so that I could read and learn from them, for the gospel of Jesus Christ on the earth today and for my own testimony.

Shortly after my prayer, the family came in from church, ready for Sunday dinner and activities. I was still in tears and gathered them together in the living room. They knew that this was important, whatever it was. I then bore my testimony and gratitude to each member of my family of the importance and truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and expressed my love for it. I also encouraged each of them to gain their own testimonies by studying it themselves. They all commented later that they'd felt the spirit when I'd spoken. Doug thanked me for my testimony again, as we were getting ready for bed that night. For the next few days, I literally missed Moroni and Mormon.

I love the scriptures. I love the Book of Mormon. I played a game recently where the question was asked, "What's something that you want to be remembered for?" I hope that my children and family and friends will always know and remember that I have a deep love and appreciating and testimony of the truthfulness of the scriptures. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and the words are true. Oh how I love the scriptures! Enough said.

The Parable of the Cat, by James Talmage

2011-05-22T12:32:00.001-06:00

As I prepared my Relief Society lesson on Service, I happened onto this story. It's been around for decades, but somehow, I'd missed this gem. It's beautiful and poignant. A perfect reminder.

During his daily walk, a naturalist encountered two boys with a basket near the edge of a pond. In the basket were three whining kittens; two others were drowning in the pond; and the mother cat was running about on the bank, rampant in her distress. In response to the naturalist's inquiry, the boys, respectfully, explained that their mistress had instructed them to drown the kittens, as she wanted no other cat than the mother cat, her particular pet, the boys explained.

The naturalist assured the boys that he was a personal friend of their employer, and that he would be responsible for any apparent dereliction in their obedience to her orders. He gave the boys each a shilling and took the three living kittens in charge.

The mother cat seemed to immediately recognize the man as the deliverer of her three children, who, but for him would have been drowned. As he carried the kittens, she trotted along-sometimes following, sometimes alongside, occasionally rubbing against him with grateful, yet mournful purrs. At his home, he provided the kittens with comfortable quarters, and left the mother cat in joyful content.

Next day, the gentleman was seated in his parlor, in the midst of notable company. During their visit, in walked the mother cat carrying in her mouth a large, fat mouse, not dead, but still feebly struggling under the pains of torturous capture. She laid her panting, well-nigh expiring prey at the feet of the man who had saved her kittens.

What think you of the offering and of the purpose that prompted the act? A live mouse, fleshy and fat! Within the cat's power of possible estimation and judgment, it was a superlative gift. To her limited understanding, no rational creature could feel otherwise than pleased over the present of a meaty mouse. Every sensible cat would be ravenously joyful with such an offering.

Are not our offerings to the Lord-our tithes and our other free-will gifts-as thoroughly unnecessary to His needs as was the mouse to the naturalist? But remember that the grateful and sacrificing nature of the cat was enlarged, and in a measure sanctified, by her offering.

Thanks be to God that He gages the offerings and sacrifices of His children by the standard of their physical ability and honest intent rather than by the gradation of His exalted station. Verily, He is God with us; and He, both, understands and accepts our motives and righteous desires. Our need to serve God is incalculably greater than His need for our service.

2011-05-10T16:46:00.000-06:00

guilty pleasure gone

2011-02-18T09:08:00.002-07:00

I have a confession to make. Since the first minute of the first episode six years ago, I've been a Grey's Anatomy fan. It was my guilty pleasure. I LOVE the cast, love the humor, love the medical aspect, love the story lines. Without a doubt, it's been my favorite all-time TV show and in my opinion, one of the most well-scripted shows ever. However. Without a doubt, it's also the trashiest, most offensive to my Spirit thing that I've ever watched on TV. I confess, I have never watched one single episode without feeling guilt for indulging in it.

For the first few years, I tried to overlook the immorality and enjoyed the characters and stories and humor of it all. However, the show continues to steadily become more immoral, more sleazy, made more political statements, become more just plain offensive. For years, I have justified that this show was "okay" because I could fast forward or just ignore certain scenes. No more.

I teach lessons to sixty women in Relief Society each month and I teach my children each day to "make good choices". I know that, for me, watching this show is not a good choice. It's definitely not uplifting or inspiring. I would be mortified if my children or Doug's Mom, walked in and saw much of what happens on that show. That being the case, it makes me somewhat of a hypocrite to watch it myself.

And so.. I stopped watching the show several episodes ago, stopped surfing the Internet blogs and updates and have fast-forwarded through any tempting commercials for upcoming episodes. However, I continued to record the show on TiVo...just in case. Just in case what? Just in case I want to make a poor choice again and fall off the "Grey's Wagon"? I've seriously felt better on Thursday nights for not watching it. Over the past few weeks, I've debated with myself and decided that I was not truly committed to this decision if I were still keeping the shows on my TiVo. So, yesterday, I cleared 38 hours of Grey's Anatomy off my TiVo . I tossed my complete DVD library of previous seasons. (I decided not to pass on my guilty pleasure to someone else.) I cancelled the Season Pass on my TiVo. I'm done. Completely done.

When I missed that first episode, the first moment I'd ever missed, I thought it would be painful. It wasn't. It's been weeks. And I'm still alive! I believe with all my heart that when we are truly trying to make good choices, we are blessed with capabilities that we otherwise might not have.

This has been my guiltiest pleasure for all these years and I'm over it! Everyone has their guilty pleasure. Some are a little more guilty than others. To some, this may even seem minor. But, this has bothered my soul for years and I feel great about the choice I've made. That's what it's all about... here a little, there a little, improving precept upon precept, bettering ourselves every day.

Finally, this thought from the lesson that I'll be teaching in a few weeks, keeps coming to my mind. Sister Mary Cook said regarding the example we set for our children, "If our example is confusing, we lose the confidence of our children because of our bad examples... Our message must be clear." This quote from the last LDS General Conference touches me deeply. This is one of the most important principles, that, especially as a mother, we can learn. Gee, now I can start deciding which one of the many other guilty pleasures do I want to conquer? Enough said.

Invisible

2011-02-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

From my friend, Jamie's blog, she shared this great reminder:

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'

Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more! Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this??

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude -but now, they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone!?

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and received no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, No one will ever see it. And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place.

It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become. At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3 hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'You're going to love it there.'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

2011-02-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

Neglect

2011-02-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

With the holidays, sicknesses and a major renovation/room redo, I've neglected this blog. It's time to focus again!

He Lives!

2010-11-07T13:34:00.004-07:00

Read and ponder these words. Really ponder them. I recommend that you grab a tissue first.

I know that my Redeemer lives.

What comfort this sweet sentence gives!

He lives, He lives, who once was dead.

He lives, my ever living head.

He lives to bless me with His love,

He lives to plead for me above.

He lives my hungry soul to feed,

He lives to bless in time of need.

He lives to grant me rich supply,

He lives to guide me with His eye.

He lives to comfort me when faint,

He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.

He lives to silence all my fears,

He lives to wipe away my tears,

He lives to calm my troubled heart,

He lives, all blessings to impart.

He lives, my kind, wise, heav’nly friend,

He lives, and loves me to the end.

He lives, and while He lives I’ll sing,

He lives, my Prophet, Priest and King.

He lives, and grants me daily breath.

He lives, and I shall conquer death.

He lives, my mansion to prepare.

He lives, to bring me safely there.

He lives, all glory to His name!

He lives, my Jesus, still the same.

O the sweet joy this sentence gives,

“I know that my Redeemer lives.”

He lives, all glory to His name!

He lives, my Jesus, still the same.

O the sweet joy this sentence gives,

“I know that my Redeemer lives!”

I'm just saying...

2010-10-19T22:21:00.002-06:00

I am so blessed. Enough said.

2010-10-02T15:54:00.002-06:00

We were able able to attend the Saturday morning session of General Conference in the Conference Center. Driving into the area of the Temple and Conference Center, I realized that we'd not warned the babes of those who would be standing, calling out, bearing signs against the church. We quickly instructed them to just ignore them. It was a bit frightening for them. Once inside the building, the protesters were quickly forgotten as we enjoyed the paintings, statues, waterfalls and fountains. And then, of course, the anticipation of seeing, not only our beloved prophet and apostles, but "Aunt" Sally Jones, our dear friend who performs in the Tabernacle Choir and "Uncle" Larry, Doug's first cousin, Lawrence E. Corbridge, who is now serving as a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy. To say that they were thrilled about it all was an understatement.Suffice it to say that Conference was wonderful... the talks, the music, the overall feeling of peace that accompanied it all.

And then, we walked outside of the building. We encountered protesters every few feet on both sides of the street. I'm guessing that the fact that there were only a few there when we arrived at conference at 7:45AM means that protesters like their sleep, because there were hoards of them at noon! One protester,in particular,was right in our faces, with his huge sign bearing a negative message. His words were horrifying for this mother to hear. I will spare this detail, as it is one that I won't forget but would love to. The blessing of this interaction was that ZJ misunderstood his words and didn't capture the venom that he spewed. Thankfully.

However. This experience did frighten the children. It was eye-opening to them. Gracie was very concerned, "What if some of the members believed the things those people were saying, Mom?" I explained that those who'd gotten up at 5AM, traveled long distances to be there, been in line at 8AM, waited two hours for conference to begin and then... and then felt the Spirit that we'd felt in the Conference Center when President Monson and the brethren entered the room, when the Choir sang that beautiful arrangement of "We Thank Thee, Oh, God, For a Prophet", when Elder Holland shared that beautiful and touching story of his parents efforts to support his mission as a young man... those people had been strengthened by all of this. Those people were feeling strong and powerful and were not in jeopardy of falling into the mistaken attitudes of these protesters at that time. We were all wearing our shields of armor as we walked outside! I asked them if they felt more power or less after the experience. They felt more. Of course they did!

We drove the two hour trip home, with fun stops for lunch and quick shopping and then listened to the afternoon session on the radio for the remainder of our trip home. We had treats and snacks and talked and laughed and shared our thoughts about the entire day as we got home. Several times throughout the day, one of the kids would ask, "Why did those people have to do that?" ZJ even said that she wanted to "tear that mans sign right up!" It obviously had affected them.

Later that evening, came the highlight of my day. Doug and Quayd were off to Priesthood Meeting together and then out for their traditional icecream date. The girls and I did some more shopping and came home for our own fun girls' night. I was cleaning up a bit in the kitchen while they were making the popcorn and melting the butter before we watched a Disney movie together. This was when I heard ZJ singing softly to herself, "We Thank Thee, Oh, God, For a Prophet" and then, Gracie joined and began singing with her. My eyes filled with tears. Of all the songs in the world for them to have "stuck" in their heads, it was this hymn. I commented on how beautiful their singing was and ZJ said, "I really am thankful for President Monson, Mom."

The words of the church leaders and the Tabernacle Choir all, so powerful, were a testimony to me that day. But, the words of my girls singing this hymn, in their own simplicity, brought peace to experience of the angry protesters... "While those who resist this glad message... and threaten our peace to destroy..." and then brought an even stronger resolve to try harder and be our best, "We feel it a pleasure to serve Thee and love to obey Thy command." It was a perfect end to an amazing day. Enough said.

celebrating the Family Proclamation

2010-09-25T22:26:00.002-06:00

My post from the Celebration of the Family Proclamation at Jocilyn's Blog:

Life brought our biggest surprise nine years ago when we suddenly “inherited” our three beautiful grandchildren. After the end of a struggling, teenage marriage, our oldest daughter, in the depths of her own despair, went off to “find herself”, leaving my husband, Doug and I, with legal custody of her three children, ages four and under, all in diapers and with very few developed language skills.

When Doug and I married in the Idaho Falls Temple, (I was the ripe old age of 18), we expected and planned that, after raising the perfect exemplary family, we would be empty nesters in our early forties, still young enough to play and live out our life’s dreams to the fullest. We looked forward to our dreams of being grandparents, paying off our home early, serving as full-time missionaries in our fifties and many other goals.

We could have never guessed that on the same year that our independent youngest child, then 19, stepped out into the world on her own, we would be welcoming three high-maintenance children into our lives and starting over. Surprise! I quit my full-time job to be, once again, a stay-at-home-mom. My life went from lunch dates at Chili’s to playdates at McDonalds. Romantic getaways with my sweetheart and fun weekend scrapbooking retreats with girlfriends were quickly replaced with bedtime stories and Primary hymns, speech therapy, toddler art and piles of laundry.

Our lives changed immensely in every way possible. Financially, it was like starting over as young married parents…one income, diapers and doctor bills all over again. Socially, we suddenly felt displaced…not sure where we belonged ~ with parents of young children, who once had been friends of our own grown children or with our empty nested friends, who’d, long ago, traded in picnics at the park for cruises and remodeling their homes. Physically, though still healthy, being a middle-aged parent was much more exhausting and tedious than doing it in our twenties. Spiritually, we found ourselves on our knees more than ever. The thoughts of raising children in this world with even more danger than there was our first round as parents, twenty years ago, was humbling. However, the question never arose, “Can we do this? Should we do this?” Never. Not once! There was no question!

We’ve been taught through the scriptures and by the prophets of old and modern prophets today that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. We believed in that with all of our hearts!

From the Family Proclamation, we read, “Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. The proclamation continues, “Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities…Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.”

If parents have this sacred duty, shouldn’t it be expected of grandparents, as well? Especially under these circumstances. If ever there were “other circumstances that necessitate individual adaptation“, it was then, for our family. We were humbled by the opportunity and have been more than blessed for it! Having had infertility issues in my twenties, we’d never felt that our family was complete. Our prayers had been for more children and those children had never come. Yet, in Heavenly Father’s own time and fashion all things fell into place. Although, not how we’d planned it, our prayers had been answered.

Almost ten years and many miracles later, we were blessed with the privilege of legally adopting the children. Two days later, Doug and I were able to kneel at the altar of the Logan Temple, with the children, holding hands and looking into each others tear-filled eyes and realize the blessing that our family was truly complete after so many years. Words could never do justice to the happiness that we each felt that day. Our children, who were all old enough to remember the experience, relive the sacred occasion often and are anxious to return to the temple themselves with their chosen mates, when the time is right. On each anniversary, we look forward to walking the temple grounds as family, taking another family photo and revisiting the memory of that sacred experience.

Has it been all easy, perfect and wonderful? Hardly! From potty training to back to school nights, learning math facts to going through the entire scouting program a second time around, every day is a new adventure! But, it’s worth it. And when the going gets tough, we have that beautiful day to remember and cling to. Today, photos in every room of our home remind us of that momentary glimpse into eternity that we experienced that special day and that, regardless, of the ups and downs, we are “stuck together with eternal glue”!

Often, we encounter someone who, without realizing the impropriety, will offer condolences or sympathy, “I feel so sorry for you.” or ask “Do you ever regret it?” I do not take offense, but assure them that we’d do it all over again today in a heartbeat! We accepted this responsibility with open arms and even more, open hearts and our rewards have been immense, thus far. Hearing their nightly prayers of gratitude for being an eternal family are worth more than any other “toys” in life. Hearing them bear their testimony of our Savior or taking a stand for something that they’ve learned in Family Home Evening or Primary, those are the real rewards in life, joys that can not be measured. Children are the greatest blessing life has to offer.

This earth life is, but a moment, on the eternal calendar. We may be foregoing building the cabin at the lake, the cruises and other things of the world that often come as a reward to empty nesters. The babes are a blessing in our lives, not a burden. We love them. We cherish them. We appreciate the opportunity to teach them the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our sacrifices pale in comparison to that which was made by our elder brother, Jesus Christ, for each and every one of us. How grateful I am for my testimony of His Plan of Salvation and the blessing of the eternal family!

2010-09-23T07:28:00.003-06:00

Today, I'm celebrating the Family Proclamation as a guest blogger at http://beinglds.blogspot.com/. I've loved reading every word of others' thoughts on the Proclamation all month long. If you've got an hour and want to feel uplifted, check it out!

If Mama ain't happy?

2010-09-19T08:29:00.006-06:00

As I was reading these verses in Doctrine and Covenants 78 , I had a little personal reminder of the power and influence of the mother in the home.

17 Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are a little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
18 And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
19 And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more...

22 And he that is a faithful and wise steward shall inherit all things. Amen.

As I read these verses, thoughts of motherhood touched my heart. We, the mothers are still little children, daughters of our Father in Heaven. We are still on the journey, trying and yet to understand all that is ours or our complete roles and responsibilities in eternity yet. It's a process.

I love these verses. "Be of good cheer, for I will lead thee along." We're not on this path on our own. Our Father in Heaven and our elder brother, Jesus Christ want us to return to them. The Plan was set forth that this could be accomplished. They want us to do and be our best, to succeed at whatever we do...with our biggest responsibility being our part in helping teach and raise the children that we've been blessed with. And, trust me, any woman who's ever spent an hour getting children ready for school or church, tried to have a family devotional time, tried to prepare meals, do homework and get kids off to scouts or lessons or sports... you know... we do bear all. We're not alone in this. When we are working hard at doing our best, with gratitude, all things will be added upon us as we go. I know that I, personally, could name countless times that this promise had been made true in my own role as a wife and mother.

Ironically, a teasing conversation, last night, led to the humorous statement, "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy". It's a joke in this home because it's oh-so true! My attitude and influence determines the mood of our home everyday. When reading these verses this morning, the funny quote took on new meaning. When the mom is working as a team, along with the guidance of our Father in Heaven, cheerfully, diligently, faithfully, the entire family is happy. Forgetting the promises of these scriptures, trying to do it without the guidance of the Holy Ghost, the joy and happiness are missing for everyone involved. So the saying should not be interpreted as "keep Mama happy or else", but even better, "If Mama is working hard at being happy herself , everyone benefits and is happy too!" enough said.

woman power

2010-09-15T08:46:00.008-06:00

Today, I'm pondering this quote:

"Let the women seek for wisdom instead of power and they will have all the power they have wisdom to exercise." Eliza R. Snow

As a woman:

I have the privilege of being a mother, raising and teaching children of our Heavenly Father, in a literal partnership with Him.
I am blessed to be a wife and partner to a husband, walking through life hand in hand, not ahead of or behind, together toward eternity.
I have a home wherein I can fill my own needs for creativity, comfort those in need of comfort, meet the physical needs of family and friends, and share my testimony, talents and spirit with all who enter.
I can seek to understand my own divine and individual worth through reading and studying and pondering the Words of God in the scriptures.
I am entitled to my own personal revelation as I seek it through sincere prayer.
I can continually grow into the person that Heavenly Father sees and knows that I am through a process of learning and continued education and development.
I am blessed with intuition and a "sixth sense", a divine gift that comes with being a woman. I have power and eternal influence through my calling to motherhood and womanhood.

My role in life is often remarkable, seldom boring, sometime tedious and stressful, sometimes joyful and full of bliss. I am a woman. I am a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend. As Sister Snow suggested, I can make the most of it because, first and foremost, I am a daughter of God.

A Family Proclamation

2010-09-14T08:41:00.007-06:00

This was the best Christmas gift that I 've ever found for both Doug's and my mom. (You can click on the photo for a closer look.) I created these large family collages for both Mom's a few years ago. They both cherish them and hung them in prominent places in their home! It was a little more work than I’d anticipated (just trying to make sure that each family member got equal attention on the mat), but it was worth the effort! It truly is a Family Proclamation!

HOW TO: I purchased these 16x20" frames with wide mats from Michaels during one of their big sales. Collect photos from all of the family. (This was the hardest part of the project!) Crop photos and attach them to the top of the mat using photo adhesive or double sided tape. I mounted a wedding photo of Doug’s parents that I'd printed on vellum over top of a free copy of the LDS Family Proclamation (picked up at the LDS Distribution Center). Place this in the center and voila! A most memorable and appreciated gift for Grandmas who have everything!

I remember that as I completed this project, I, literally began to cry. Doug’s dad was killed in a car accident in December of 1972 when Doug was a senior in high school. I'd never had the opportunity to meet him. Creating something so deeply related to him, this photo collage of his posterity made me feel a strong closeness to him. I love my testimony and knowledge of the Plan of Happiness and the gift of eternal families!

Christ went about doing good

2010-09-13T17:25:00.003-06:00

my Sacrament Meeting Talk, given on 9/12/2010

In our last General Conference, Elder Neal Anderson brought to our attention, the importance of reading and studying the stories of Christ and speaking of them often. Elder Anderson said, “The stories of Jesus shared over and over bring faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strength to the foundation of testimony.”

We’ve been reading the NEW Testament each morning as a family. Following Elder Anderson’s encouraging words, we’ve been trying to “make Christ real.” Last week, after reading the parable of the house built upon the rock and the house built upon the sand, we discussed the differences between a rock and sand. The kids suggested that a rock is immovable and solid, where the sand can be easily manipulated, moved and changed. Then, we compared ourselves to the rock and the sand. Each morning, as the babes go off to school, after I call out, “I love you! Make good choices!” and now they’ve added, “And be a rock! They got it! Making Christ our rock, keeping the commandments and being obedient like Him, we can be Rocks too!

I add my own testimony to Elder Anderson’s that the more we speak of Christ and rejoice in Christ, the more our testimonies of Him grow! As we study His life, we discover many of his marvelous traits and characteristics. Our own personal study of His experiences in life help us understand that He was real, he lived life, just as we are and his experiences helped Him understand our feelings and emotions.

I’d love to share just a few examples from the life of our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, that are applicable to each of us in the world today:

As Christ was teaching his disciples, we read “Mark 8:1-3. He could have sent them on their way to fend for themselves. He had just spent 40 days and 40 nights on a mountain, fasting himself. He could have said, “I did this for 40 days, you could go one more.” Yet, he fed them. We all know the story. He took the five loaves and the two small fishes and blessed them and he fed 5000 people with seven baskets leftover. Imagine how tired He must have gotten from the hours of preaching, serving and listening to everyone’s issues, even just the effort of being surrounded and pressed by the crowds would have been draining on him, physically and emotionally, Yet, he never said, “Enough.” He put the needs of those around him before his own.

What can we gain from this story? As members of the church, we’re asked to “feed the hungry“, to serve and sacrifice of our time and talents. We’re frequently asked to step out of our comfort zones, to give when we are tired or feeling poor or hungry. Most everyone in this room would be willing BUT. do we make it conditional? I’m so busy, I’m so tired, I’ve got other things that are more important, Why can’t they do it themselves? Why do they always ask me to do everything? OR. Do we do it, willingly, without murmuring. Do we do as the Savior taught and “go the extra mile”?

When my mother thought she had the flu and was diagnosed with Phase 4 Colon Cancer, there were many extra miles spent in behalf of my family. Within 30 minutes of the doctor’s shocking phone call and for the next 12 days, while I was by Mom’s side in the hospital in St. George, not once did I have to worry about my family, nor did I have to even ask. Meals were brought in, kids cared for, help was rendered. Mom came to live with us, during her recovery and chemotherapy, to have family near. When I approached Mike Lynch and asked him to “keep his ears open” for a possible home for Mom. Done! A home just five houses away.

Two weeks later, while Doug and I, along with friend, Denise, who left her family twice to help bring Mom home and then to help move her belongings, were in Mesquite, to move Mom’s things here to Smithfield, we called upon a quorum of Elders in a ward where we knew no one to come and assist. That same morning, who pulled up but Scott and Hollie Downs and their children, who live right up the street from us here in Smithfield. On their way home from DISNEYLAND over spring break. It was as though they were in fastforward speed, helping us finish packing and the entire truck was loaded before the Elders Quorum even arrived. Up since 5AM, driving from California, working all day, then driving another seven hours in time to make it to church the next morning. That’s more than going about doing good. That's even more than the extra mile.

Doug hates when I talk about him, but I share this example from my good husband. Yesterday, Doug’s brother called and asked for some help. While I was thinking of all the things on my to do list that I needed Doug’s help with, he didn’t hesitate and said, “I’d love to, Danny. Thanks so much for asking!” I appreciate my husband’s good example in appreciating the opportunity to serve.

I would like to mention another story and example from our Savior’s life. As Christ entered the temple courtyard, a group of scribes and Pharisees brought a woman who was caught in an adulterous act to Him. They asked Jesus if she should be stoned to death for her sin.
Jesus stooped down, as though he hadn‘t heard them and finger wrote something on the ground . When they pressed Him for an answer, He said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her”. One by one her accusers left, “being convicted by their own conscience“, until Jesus was alone with the woman. Jesus stood up, looked around, and turned to the woman. “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
“She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. And the woman glorified God from that hour, and believed on his name.” (John 8:7–11)

The Savior did not condone the woman’s sin, but neither did He condemn her. He acknowledged her wrongdoing, but did not judge her to be an evil person or wish to see her punished. Jesus Christ set the pattern when He said, “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven”.

Do we turn our backs on one who has sinned or point an accusing finger or gossip about another’s transgression? Christ reached out in love to the woman, as we should reach out to others.

Christ went about doing good… teaching us love, compassion, and understanding. His entire ministry exemplified love of neighbor. He healed a blind man, he raised the daughter of Jairus from the dead, he cleansed the lepers.

A few weeks ago, our family read the story of Jesus healing the leper. We discussed how the leper’s life must have changed…he could work again, he would no longer have to beg for food. He could return to his family and friends. Imagine his joy!

I can’t help but think of those that are inflicted with maladies of today’s world. Not a physical illness, like leprosy, but the spiritual illnesses that occur in the lives of those who’ve fallen away from the gospel or never found it yet. Do we reach out and touch those people? Or do we stand back in judgement? Not even judging that they are “bad”, but assuming that they would “never even listen” or be interested in the gospel?

Years ago, I had the opportunity to serve as a stake missionary. While tracting, the elders met two male partners who were living together. One had never heard of the church of them . The other actually been had been baptized as a child and they welcomed the Elders to return. I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in teaching them the discussions. When we got to the Law of Chastity, the elders, being young 19 year old boys, were mortified at the thought of sharing the importance of chastity to these two men who were living such a contrary lifestyle. I will never forget the words that one responded after the young Elder had explained the law of chastity to him and asked him, “Will you follow the teachings of Jesus Christ example by living the law of Chastity?” He began to cry and said, “If the Savior can do what he did for me, how could I not do what he’s asked in return?” He was baptized shortly after that. Like the leper and the adulterous woman, his life was changed because of the touch of the Master's hand.

Sometimes we alienate others, albeit ever so subtle, for whatever reasons…physical appearance, lifestyle, poor choices… without even considering that our acceptance of them could be the very thing that invites them back or into the gospel. Think of the leper and the many touched by the Savior's hand and how their his life changed by the touch of the Saviors hand. Those same affects can take place in the life of someone who’s been welcomed, accepted, loved. Their lives, too, can be turned toward the light of gospel by our touch.

Jesus taught us, by his example, over and over, to love our neighbor. And everyone was a neighbors to Christ. The woman at the well. The blind man. The man who had many devils. The hungry. The poor. He extended His hand to all. I could not give this talk without sharing the scripture ,“Mt 25:40. “In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

We learn of his compassion, love and tenderness, as we read in Third Nephi when the Savior visited the Nephites after his crucifixion and resurrection. He prayed unto the Father. And then, in verse 20, he said unto them, “Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now, behold my joy is full. And when he had said these words, he wept.”

His joy was full. He wept with love and compassion. Think of times in your own life when your joy was so full that you wept. I remember the joy and love that I felt the day that Doug and I watched our daughter Liza, kneel at the altar in the Logan Temple to marry her eternal sweetheart. Anyone who’s seen their children marry in the temple, knows of this joy.
When we were able to finally kneel around the Holy Altar with our babes to be sealed as an eternal family, after all the years of waiting for the adoption to be completed. Words could not describe that experience. That day, we, too, wept with joy. And we all grew from the experiences that brought us to that point.

Christ, himself, grew because of the things that he experienced in His life upon the earth. He IS real. He lived upon the earth, faced challenges and pain and joy, just as we do. He lived then and he lives still in His exalted state.

His love for us is unconditional and individual. He loves and cares for each and every one of us. He willingly wore the crown of thorns for us because he’d made promises to His Father.

The example of the Savior to keep his covenants with Heavenly Father set the bar. We can never match Him in this life, but we can attempt on a daily basis, as we serve others, as we accept and willingly are not only “called” his people, but act like them as well, so that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon us.

And finally, we can not discuss the Savior “going about doing good” without mentioning his generosity…the ultimate gift and sacrifice…the Atonement. He was the only sinless person to ever live, yet He gave the ultimate sacrifice, his life, so that we could all return to Heavenly Father. As we sang during the Sacrament today, "A sinless ransom for our sake."

Each of us needs to gain our own testimony of the reality and importance of Christ’s mission. As we do, we can appreciate how Christ has made eternal life possible for each of us. Only through service, study and obedience to his commandments can we come to know Him ourselves.

Quoting President Monson, "He was the teacher of truth. He was the example of the perfect life. He is the literal Savior of the world, the Son of God. He is the light and the life of the world. He is our advocate to our Father in Heaven." He is all this because he went about doing good.

viewing pleasure or the real treasure

2010-09-04T21:40:00.010-06:00

This past few weeks, obviously, I've really been focusing on the Proclamation of the Family. I've read it, reread it, prayed about it, studied it, written about it, pondered it and am working on memorizing it. I've honestly felt the Spirit guiding me in all things, family, during this time. It's been a blessing.

And then I saw that dang movie. Over the weekend, I had a fun girls' date with my daughter and a best friend and her daughter. (all adults) We had a lovely breakfast, did some fall shopping and then went to a movie. Often, I don't even know who's in a movie because I do not watch previews. We went into this movie, that I'd never even heard, just because it was non-R and it fit into our time frame. BIG mistake. There's no doubt, we are raising our families in an R-rated world.

That was Saturday. It's Wednesday. I'm still disturbed. The premise of the movie was that a woman wants to have a baby without marriage and all the "strings" that go along with it. It was offensive, to say the least. Of course, in the end, it all works out and they live happily ever after.

Whenever we watch a movie like this, my husband always says out loud, "You know that the missionaries knocked on their door, baptized them and they went to the temple a year later. Today, they are one big happy eternal family." That always gets a laugh and I appreciate his gentle reminder of what life is really about. He never says "television", only "teleSatan".

I'm SO frustrated! I love movies. For years, I've been a secret movie shopper, so I get into the shows for free. We've always had a large and current movie library in our home. However, this past year, we've added only one movie, a childrens' movie, and even it was disturbing enough to question. I honestly can't think of the last movie that portrayed the tradition family in a good light. Why, Hollywood, why?

Our Saturday movie was not acceptable. Two weeks ago, I left my friends in the theater and walked out of another show. I wish I'd done that Saturday, as well. Sadly, I admit, that after that first fifteen minutes, the movie turned into a sweet and tender story between the father and son. However, regardless of the cute little boy and the fact that there was no skin or language or or or... the entire premise of the show was contrary to every single thing that I've been focusing on for days and weeks now. Entirely.

The saddest thing is that we find ourselves excusing that the language was pretty decent, there was no skin, there was no violence, that "Except for that one scene, it was really a good movie" even though it is totally totally opposite of everything we stand for and profess to believe.

We teach our children to prepare for opposition by knowing what they will do in a situation. We tell them to "stand for something". We encourage them to avoid temptations and the appearance of evil. In our family, having memorized the Articles of Faith, we ask often, "Is it virtuous, lovely, praiseworthy or good report?" In choosing entertainment, a new consideration, directly from the Family Proclamation, "Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities."

Was this movie a wholesome recreational activity? I think not. Did I let myself down. Most definitely. I've sent myself to the "repent corner" for the past few days. In my own self-appointed time out, I've considered that entertainment pleasures matter very little compared to what really matters. Our DVD library may not grow much more. Our television viewing time is becoming less and less. But, the good feelings in our home will increase. The Spirit in our home will be stronger. We will benefit from more wholesome choices. Of this, I am certain. Enough said.

Rock or Sand

2010-09-03T08:30:00.004-06:00

So, as we do scripture study each morning, I'm always fascinated by the kids interpretation of the scriptures. This morning, we were reading in the New Testament, where Christ shares the analogy of the Wise Man building his house upon the rock.

As we discussed it, I asked the kiddos to tell me about rocks... they are hard. They are strong. You can't move them if they are really big. They don't bend or break easily. And tell me about sand...It's squishy. It is wet and soggy at the beach. It moves and disappears when waves come up on it. It can be shaped into whatever you want it to.

Then, I shared that Jesus Christ is our Rock. He's our example, our strength. We can be like the rocks or the sand ourselves. If we are like rocks, we are strong and immovable and will not bend. Nothing can move us or change us. We can determine to keep the commandments, then be rocks and never change! If we are like sand, we can be easily swayed and changed by the choices we make. We can be squishy and not strong in our decisions and we can disappear when the water comes rushing over us. We need to be like Jesus Christ and be like rocks in our lives everyday!

The whole lesson went over very well. They captured it. I knew this, for certain, today. Each time our children leave, we always say, "Make good choices! Love you, bye!" This morning, I called this out to Quayd and Gracie as they were heading out the door to the bus stop. He turned around, grinned his big grin and said, "And be ROCKS!!" Maybe we have a new catchphrase! Love those mommy moments!

pioneer stock or woodstock

2010-09-02T18:25:00.003-06:00

As a child, I witnessed, from my earliest memories, an unhappy marriage between two people who loved each other, but niether were as committed to the marriage as they were to their own purposes. For my father,who never really grew up, life was a party, a game, with no time for settling down. For my mother, an orphan at 14, life revolved around her two children and seeing that we had everything she had ever gone without.

My parents divorced when I was thirteen. After years of unhappiness, they parted as friends and went their separate ways. Between both of my parents, I witnessed several marriages and divorces over the next ten years. As a teenage girl, I determined that my own marriage, when it did happen, would be a success. I wanted to have a marraige that would be respected by others, a home where the love could be felt by all and I wanted to be married to my best friend.

I met Doug when I was sixteen years old. We married when I was eighteen, out of high school for less than a year. He was five years older, had served an LDS mission and was in his third year of college. Doug had been raised in a righteous and loving family. We joke that Doug is from Pioneer Stock and I am from Woodstock. At first, some doubted that our marriage would ever last because of our many differences. While our differences did bring their own challenges, our belief in each other and ourselves made us strong and determined to make our marriage a success. Thirty-three years later, we face different challenges, but we face them with a "can do" attitude together!

A few things that have worked to enhance our relationship:

Laughter ~ Doug and I laugh a lot. Doug is more of the silly one and believe it or not, I'm the serious one when we are alone. He can tease at just the right moment to make me laugh just about the time I'm ready to start to cry. I love this about him! Bedtime pillow talk is my favorite time of day. I'm sure that there's been many nights in our marriage that the neighhbors have wondered "What's happening at the Corbridge's?" because we are laughing so hard!

Prayer ~ There's something about kneeling together and praying with your spouse that connects you in a way like no other. I remember hearing a talk once at BYU Ed. Week about symbolism in the temple. The speaker mentioned that the chandelier in the sealing rooms of the temple always hangs very low and close to the altar. The symbolic meaning behind this... the chandelier represents Christ. Hence, there, at the altar are three people, not two. The bride, the groom and the Savior, who should be a third party in every marriage. I heart this idea. Prayer keeps Christ in a marriage relationship more than any other thing that I can think of.

The three C's ~ One of Doug's most common comments is "Corbridge's don't complain, condemn or criticize!" If we all could stick to that, how much better would we be, not only in our marriages, but in every aspect of life!

Touch ~ Touch is so so important in a relationship. I lucked out! I get a lotiony footrub every night and then once in bed, Doug rubs my back softly to help me wind down. (I think it's so that I'll relax and stop talking!) We hug and kiss hello every single time we leave or enter. We hold hands during prayer. We hold hands while we are watching the news. I have one friend who, when angry with her husband, puts her arms around his waist tightly and tells him, "Oh! I'm so angry right now!" But there's no need to scream since they are already in each other's face. I love this!

Expressing love ~ Again, we never ever hang up the phone or leave each other without saying, "I love you", just in case. Not morbid, just one way to keep the connection. Expressing appreciation and gratitude for the simplest of things is a way of saying "I love you!" Doug never fails, when his sock drawer is full, to say, "Thanks for doing the laundry!" Little things like that make doing something as tedious as laundry feel less of a burden and more of a labor of love!

Communicating ~ Tell each other what's on your mind. Another of Doug's frequently stated thoughts is "Help me out here." He reminds me often that he's a man and men are basically "not too bright" when it comes to women. After 33 years, he'll still say, "Help me out here. Did you want to go out for dinner tonight or would you like me to help in the kitchen or what?" Rather than get upset because they don't get it, just tell them gently and kindly what's on your mind. Things will be a lot happier for everyone if one of you isn't sulking and the other one is clueless as to why!

Remember that most people are well meaning and good. ~ In a marriage, this makes all the difference in the world. If you keep that thought in mind, you will be reminded that they didn't mean to forget to stop and pick that thing up on the way home, that they would never have intentionally forgotten your anniversary, that they didn't mean to not notice that you got a haircut - three days ago! In other words, be forgiving. And then forget!

My values and beliefs, today, may be different than those that I was raised by, but they were not useless at all. They've taught me, along with a loving and patient husband, that no matter what the differences are in the union of two completely different people, if you're both giving 120% and keeping Christ at the center of your home, you can't go wrong...even pioneer stock and Woodstock can make each other happy! Even very happy!

Myth: The Perfect Family

2010-08-30T10:35:00.008-06:00

The aspiration was to be “The PERFECT family”. The reality was that there is no such thing. I just didn’t recognize this until much later in my life.
Perfection is described in the dictionary as “an instance of excellence”. This moment in our lives, on the day that this photo was taken, was what I look back on, and even then, considered to be near perfection. This family portrait captured a moment in time when life was excellent. There is that moment in every life, that you always think, “If I could go back to any given time in my life and live from there on.” This would have been that moment for me.

Dale was thirteen years old. Gerbauds, Nikes, hairspray were priorities in his life. His social circles were those that every mother dreams of. His goals were high, his life was charted and mapped and he was following the course. Kelly and Liza were still young enough to wear what Mom told them to, to want to spend time learning from and helping their mother. Makeup, boys, media were not yet an influence. They were my sweet girls, innocent and pure. Doug and I were in our prime in every way. Financially, we were doing great and right on track. Socially, our world was filled with friends and much laughter. Our marriage was strong and solid. Life was really and truly excellent.

In looking at this photo, I still recall my strong desire to be General Manager of the Universe at the time. I was involved… PTA President, counselor in the Relief Society Presidency, involved in American Mothers, speaking and teaching classes on home management and organization. It felt like I had it all “together”. Life was moving right long in the direction that followed my plan.

I studied and read and learned all that I could about parenting and having the model perfect family and applied it. We held family prayer, daily scripture study, Family Home Evening. We were doing it all "by the book". And so, why would I expect anything other than perfection for our future. I had no clue what would lie ahead in the next decade. But, I imagined that it would all be nothing short of “perfect”.

And then, reality taught me a most valuable lesson. I realized that it was not about me controlling my own destiny. A source much higher than myself, Heavenly Father, with a plan much farther reaching, eternity, was where the “shots” were really being called. I had a lesson in humility ahead of me and a rocky course that we lead me to that lesson learned. I would learn that life doesn’t always go exactly as planned. BUT, that my attitude would be what determined my own personal happiness. That no matter what Life offered, I could find success in achieving goals that often had to be reset, working around the circumstances, whatever they may be.

Several years after this photo was taken, after Dale and Kelly had taken turns of their own in far, far different directions than I’d hoped and dreamed of, an acquaintance asked me, “Aren’t you embarrassed by the way your kids have turned out?” I was stunned that anyone would be so bold or so rude! To this question, I answered, without hesitation, “No, not at all. First all, they aren’t done “turning out” yet. I have much hope for them both. And second of all, I know that I can feel good about what I’ve taught them and how I’ve raised them. Now, if I hadn’t have done all that I should have to raise them well, then I would be concerned." Did I feel like a failure? No! Not at all!

My lesson learned… Shooting for the moon and stars will get you higher than shooting for the tops of the trees. I aspired for greatness in our family. I believed in it. I counted on it. Not achieving all of the goals that I’d hoped for was a disappointment, yes, but, certainly not a stopping point. We’re not done!

Reach high. Work toward excellence. Perfection is not expected of us. Not in this lifetime. We can aim for perfection in specific principles…being a perfect tithe payer, studying scriptures regularly, praying faithfully daily, perfect in our attendance in Sacrament Meeting… But, never be discouraged because you are not the “perfect” family, a “perfect” mother or a “perfect” wife. We can’t be everything all the time. It’s just not possible in this life. Just work at it. Work hard. That’s all that is required. Don't fall short because of a myth.

“Line upon line, precept upon precept; here a little, and there a little…Go forward, and not backward. Courage, sisters, and on, on to the victory!” D&C 128:21,22

A big event!

2010-08-29T07:18:00.000-06:00

About thirty years ago, I met a friend, who would influence my life for eternity. Susan, ten years older than I, had it all together, in my opinion. Mother of a growing family family, she kept a perfect home, had beautiful, intelligent and faithful children, was a fantastic entertainer, was musical and had a strong and exemplary testimony of Christ, of which she was never afraid or timid to share. To Susan, there was right and there was wrong. She always chooses the right. Period.

At the time that we met, we'd moved back east to live for two years. During that two years, she taught me much about mothering, homemaking, friendship. I cherished every moment spent together. When it was time for us to return home to Utah, I brought her with me in my heart and mind. For years, we kept the phone companies in business. This was back before free long-distance, when it cost an arm and a leg for a five minute phone call, let alone an hour! Many times, our husbands referred to us as "kindred spirits"...sometimes, probably not appreciating that connection while paying the phone bills!

Today, Susan is a grandmother with beautiful grown daughters and a son, who are following in her and her wonderful husband, Robert's, footsteps. I've been so impressed by the accomplishments of her adult children. Susan's daughter, Jocelyn, who was at the beginnings of a successful journalism career in Washington, DC and is now a full-time mom, who just blows me away with her own version of AMAZING!! Recently, Jocelyn shared the details of one of her latest projects and I get to be a part of it. Now, I share them with you...

You Are Invited to a Family Proclamation Celebration...
What: A month-long blog party celebrating The Family Proclamation - with link-up parties, guest posts galore, and lots of giveaways
When: September 2010
Where: "We Talk of Christ, We Rejoice In Christ" and "Chocolate On My Cranium" and all across the blogosphere!
Why: Because we love The Family Proclamation and want to encourage you to share it, to live it, and to teach it to your family. Also because it has been around for 15 years now!

I hope that you'll find the next month of blog reading uplifting, motivating and inspirational! Feel free to share your thoughts on your own personal discoveries here. Thanks!

a new beginning

2010-08-16T15:49:00.003-06:00

This blog began as a request of two Relief Society presidencies past to keep the sisters in our ward in touch. Through the two changing presidencies and a division and realignment of our ward and stake, the blog was no more. However, I've felt this strong impression to continue the blog as my own, since I owned the name and site to begin with. So, I've removed all of the Relief Society announcements of the past and left a few of the thoughts that were really worth taking time to read. It's time to begin again.

I have a cooking blog and have written a daily blog on Typepad since August of 2005. I've kept that blog open to the public and have had as many as 1100 readers in a day at times. I've tried to be open book about my life on the blog, but often, there's been topics that might leave a non-LDS reader wondering what in the world I'm talking about. Not wanting to leave friends in the dark when talking about things like Visiting Teaching, stake boundaries, missionary homecomings and temple sealings... I've offered simple explanations and as a result, often receive interesting email from readers who know that they can ask me anything about the LDS Church and that I'll be happy to give the best answer I can. I have actually developed some pretty special cyber-friendships because of this.

Over the past few months, I've felt impressed to begin writing a blog that says a little more than my daily to-do lists, recipes and movie/book reviews and sentiments about parenting and marriage and life in general. This blog will be more focused on the experiences in my life that strengthen me as a daughter of God, as a wife and mother, as a teacher of the gospel. Hopefully, it will be a strength to others, as well. I won't write daily, I'm sure. My crazy life keeps me running in so many directions that I often am not sure which is up. However, as we all do, occasionally, we have experiences., or even simple thoughts, that "ground" us and remind us of who we are, why we are here and where we are going. That's what I want to write on this blog. Who knows where it will take me? So, stay tuned and be patient as I begin this new journey. Thanks.

Mothers Who Know

2010-05-11T00:06:00.004-06:00

Here is a post Mother's Day thought that I wanted to share, inspired from my friend, Mary Ann's blog. Love, Sophia

Mother's Who Know

Mothers who know are nurturers. This is their special assignment and role under the plan of happiness. To nurture means to cultivate, care for, and make grow. Therefore, mothers who know create a climate for spiritual and temporal growth in their homes. Another word for nurturing is homemaking. Homemaking includes cooking, washing clothes, and dishes, and keeping an orderly home. Home is where women have the most power and influence; therefore, Latter-day-Saint women should be the best homemakers in the world. Working beside children in homemaking tasks creates opportunities to teach and model qualities children should emulate. Nurturing mothers are knowledgeable, but all the education women attain will avail them nothing if they do not have the skill to make a home that creates a climate for spiritual growth. Growth happens best in a 'house of order,' and women should pattern their homes after the Lord's house (see D&C 109). Nurturing requires organization, patience, love, and work. Helping growth occur through nurturing is truly a powerful and influential role bestowed on women..............julie beck

a lot to learn

2010-03-22T22:33:00.002-06:00

Inspired from my friend, Mary Ann's fabulous blog:

"We women have a lot to learn about simplifying our lives. We have to decide what is important and then move along at a pace that is comfortable for us. We have to develop the maturity to stop trying to prove something. We have to learn to be content with what we are.

As you create a home, don’t get distracted with a lot of things that have no meaning for you or your family. Don’t dwell on your failures, but think about your successes. Have joy in your home. Have joy in your children. Have joy in your husband. Be grateful for the journey." ~Marjorie P. Hinckley

Sister Kristen Oaks

2010-01-31T08:09:00.003-07:00

SALT LAKE CITY -- Sister Kristen McMain Oaks, wife of Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve, addressed the Westminster College institute, urging students to turn their personal mirrors into windows. "Most (people) are mirrors reflecting the moods and emotions of their time," Sister Oaks said. She quoted Emily Dickinson's line: "The soul can split the sky in two and let the face of God shine through."

The whole purpose of our earthly education is to start looking outside of ourselves, said Sister Oaks. "When you're in the minority, you have to stick up for what you believe; you have to know who you are," she said.She showed a graphic of a six-pane window. In each pane was a precept from the book "Preach My Gospel" that new Mormon converts should understand before they are baptized:

We have a Heavenly Father who loves us.

Sister Oaks recalled speaking to a group at the University of Utah with twice the number of people; she asked them, "How many of you know that Heavenly Father loves you?"Only one hand went up."At your age," said Sister Oaks, "it doesn't always seem crystal clear."She pointed out that young people need to remember that the real conflict in life is not between the rich and the poor or the slim and slimmer. "It's between good and evil."

Satan, she said, will make us think negatively -- especially about ourselves. God would never do anything to debase or confuse us. In order to recognize his voice, his presence in our lives, we must do as President Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve says and "immunize ourselves through the scriptures.""We can't recognize God's voice if we're not familiar with the scriptures," Sister Oaks said.
Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer

Sister Oaks pointed out that many of us may have "broken windows" in our lives because of broken promises, delayed blessings or opportunities lost. Perhaps someone close to us passed away or someone we trusted betrayed us, creating feelings of emptiness and despair. "You have your whole lives ahead of you," Sister Oaks reminded students.

"Call on the Atonement. There's no broken window that can't be repaired through the Atonement."Sometimes we may find ourselves wondering "Why is this class so hard for me?" or "Why am I struggling so much financially?" or "Why is my family falling apart?"Sister Oaks explained how Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Twelve has said that salvation is not a cheap experience. We will have to walk something of the path Christ walked."We live in a very dark world full of sadness and discouragement," she said. "But you are all little beacons, and I want you to know that."
Joseph Smith was a prophet of God

Sister Oaks talked about being married in her mid-50s and becoming, overnight, a wife, a mother and grandmother to 29. She had never had to cook for so many people in her life. "I thought, 'all right, I can do this,'" she said. Many people, Sister Oaks said, have asked her about how lonely it was to be single for so long. She pointed out how we all have tests and "when we come to understand our religion," we can pass them.

Also important is understanding truths such as Joseph Smith being called of God. She quoted Joseph saying, upon being asked who he was: "Noah came before the flood. I have come before the fire.""When we believe something, it can be very lonely," Sister Oaks said. "I think Joseph Smith was so lonely. I think the loneliest person in this world, right now, is (LDS Church president) Thomas S. Monson. We also need to rise to the challenge of learning our religion."
The Book of Mormon was translated by the gift and power of God

Sister Oaks shared that Elder Oaks once said he "read the Book of Mormon this morning and I know tomorrow morning I'll get up and read it (again).""It's a pattern we'd all do well to follow," she said.Sister Oaks said she used to carry a copy of the Book of Mormon with her everywhere, thinking of it as a literal shield. "I'd think, 'I have the Book of Mormon with me, I'm safe!'"
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is Christ's true church on the earth

When Elder and Sister Oaks lived in the Philippines, she said the church grew there like a "big mushroom." However, she feared the people didn't have an in-depth knowledge of the gospel."I felt like (Elder Oaks and I) were sent there to really teach them about the church," she said.As a convert -- "the only wife of an apostle who's a convert!" she said -- she had to gain a testimony of the principals that many Mormons grow up with and take for granted.

She said the biblical scripture Malachi 3:10 on tithing and the Lord opening the windows of heaven is particularly special to her. She recalled how her first bishop was frustrated with her as she struggled to write her first tithing check."I had written it to him!" she laughed. But that as soon as she finished it and handed it in, she had a strong impression and knew the church was true.

"For me, tithing and testimony are indelibly tied together," she said. Sister Oaks reminded us that we have two gifts: agency and time."I would ask you not to get buried in technology," she said. "Don't be so preoccupied with texting that you don't hear the spirit."

She advised being judicious about time, for a person could have 60 more years, or 60 days. She shared that missionaries are now having to be taught how to make eye contact, how to lean in and nod when teaching, because they are so used to sitting in front of a screen."We're not baptizing many X-boxes," she said.
Thomas S. Monson is the living prophet of God

Sister Oaks told of a father who lost his two children in a car accident. He became depressed and despondent. President Monson attended the funeral. As he was leaving, he took the grieving father by his shoulders and said: "Accidents happen. Let it go. Accidents happen."

The Christmas after the accident, the father and his wife went caroling. As he sang of Christ, the spirit touched him; he remembered he had an eternal family.He and his wife went to the home of the truck driver who had crashed into them while driving drunk and sang his family carols. The truck driver wept; the young father wept. In his mind, he heard a voice whisper, "Accidents happen, let it go.""People abuse us, mistreat us, cheat us," said Sister Oaks.

Yet we need to forgive one another as well as ourselves -- which was the quiet lesson President Monson sought to teach the young father. As Sister Oaks spoke on each topic, the six panes of the window graphic revealed a portion of a painting. Put together, the image was of the Savior. Sister Oaks said if we remember these six precepts, we will gain a powerful testimony of God. "I love this church," she said. "And I love you. You are such brave souls."

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T22:12:00.001-07:00

"Life's journey is not traveled on a freeway devoid of obstacles, pitfalls, and snares. Rather, it is a pathway marked by forks and turnings. Decisions are constantly before us. To make them wisely, courage is needed: the courage to say, 'No,' the courage to say, 'Yes,' Decisions do determine destiny. The call for courage comes constantly to each of us. It has ever been so, and so shall it ever be."

Thomas S. Monson

A Real Gift

2009-12-17T20:05:00.001-07:00

J. Reuban Clark, Jr. said, "A testimony is a sacred gift. It is not a matter to be boasted about; it is a matter in the greatest humility; to be used whenever the cause of the Lord requires it to be used, to be cherished, nurtured, fed by righteous living."

Bring the true spirit of Christmas

2009-12-08T08:59:00.005-07:00

By Sarah Jane Weaver, Deseret News, Monday, Dec. 07, 2009

As people contemplate how they are going to spend money to buy gifts this holiday season, let them also plan for how they will spend their time in order to help bring the true spirit of Christmas into the lives of others, said President Thomas S. Monson."The Savior gave freely to all, and his gifts were of value beyond measure," said the Mormon leader. "Throughout his ministry, He blessed the sick, restored sight to the blind, made the deaf to hear and the halt and lame to walk. He gave cleanliness to the unclean. He restored breath to the lifeless. He gave hope to the despairing and bestowed light in the darkness."He gave his love, his service, and his life."What is the spirit we feel at Christmastime? It is his spirit -- the spirit of Christ."

Speaking during the annual First Presidency Christmas Devotional, President Monson offered a message of peace and hope to thousands gathered in the Conference Center, which was adorned with Christmas lights, trees and poinsettias. His counselors in the First Presidency, President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor, also offered holiday messages centered on the Savior.Hundreds of thousands of LDS Church members around the world heard the devotional, broadcast on the church's satellite system, BYUTV.Music for the evening was provided by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square.During his address, President Monson said no other time of the year yields as many poignant memories as does Christmas.

"The Christmases we remember best generally have little to do with worldly goods, but a lot to do with families, with love and with compassion and caring."This thought, he continued, provides hope "for those of us who fear that the simple meaning of the holiday is diluted by commercialism, or by opposition from those with differing religious views, or just by getting so caught up in the pressures of the season that we lose that special spirit we could otherwise experience."He said that usually, however, the special spirit of the season somehow finds its way into people's hearts and lives despite the difficulties and distractions that occupy their time and energy.

For example, he spoke of having read of an incident that occurred in December 1970, when an ice storm caused thousands of travelers to become stranded in the airport in Atlanta, Ga. The midnight hour had tolled and passengers clustered around the ticket counters, conferring with ticket agents."When an occasional plane managed to break out," he said, "more travelers stayed behind than made it aboard. The words 'standby,' 'reservation confirmed,' and 'first class passenger' settled priorities and bespoke money, power, influence, foresight -- or lack thereof."

President Monson said Gate 67 in Atlanta was a microcosm of the whole cavernous airport. Except for a few passengers traveling in pairs, there was little conversation. A salesman stared into space, a young mother cradled an infant in her arms and a man in a finely tailored gray flannel suit seemed impervious to the collective suffering. A person observing this busy man might have identified him as an Ebenezer Scrooge.

"Suddenly the relative silence was broken by a commotion. A young man in military uniform, no more than 19 years old, was in animated conversation with the desk agent. The boy held a low-priority ticket. He pleaded with the agent to help him get to New Orleans so that he could take the bus to the obscure Louisiana village he called home."The agent wearily told him the prospects were poor for the next 24 hours, maybe longer. The boy grew frantic. Immediately after Christmas his unit was to be sent to Vietnam -- where at that time war was raging -- and if he didn't make this flight, he might never again spend Christmas at home." President Monson said the agent was clearly moved but could offer only sympathy -- not hope.

Finally, the agent announced that the flight was ready for boarding. Travelers, who had been waiting hours, shuffled onto the plane until there were no more seats. The agent turned to the frantic soldier and shrugged."Inexplicably the businessman had lingered behind. Now he stepped forward. 'I have a confirmed ticket,' he quietly told the agent. 'I'd like to give my seat to this young man.' The agent stared incredulously; then he motioned to the soldier. Unable to speak, tears streaming down his face, the boy in olive drab shook hands with the man in the gray flannel suit, who simply murmured, 'Good luck. Have a fine Christmas. Good luck.'"

President Monson said no more than a few among the thousands stranded at the Atlanta airport witnessed the drama at Gate 67. "But for those who did, the sullenness, the frustration, the hostility, all dissolved into a glow. That act of love and kindness between strangers had brought the spirit of Christmas into heir hearts.

"Finding the real joy of the season comes not in the hurrying and the scurrying to get more done or in the purchasing of obligatory gifts, concluded President Monson. "Real joy comes as we show the love and compassion inspired by the Savior of the World."During his remarks, President Eying said it is wonderful to remember the Savior always, "but especially as we celebrate his birth."

"We can choose this Christmas and every day to create a small part of the Christmas story in our own lives. We can accept the invitation of living prophets to help those who are lost along the pathway and have wandered to come back to it. We can offer the gospel, which is the only way home, to all we meet along the way. We can lift up those who are tired and hungry and lonely, as the Savior did and now invites us to do with him. As we do, they can feel how much the Savior loves them and wants to lead them on the way to the God he loves."

President Eyring said the story of Christmas is a story of love."True stories of Christmas always increase that faith in him and in his mission," he said. "And with that faith our determination grows to join with him to help in his loving mission of mercy and rescue.

"President Uchtdorf also asked that this December be a season of seeking the Savior."I promise that if we unclutter our lives a little bit and in sincerity and humility seek the pure and gentle Christ with our hearts, we will see him, we will find him -- on Christmas and throughout the year."

He said the spectacular displays and decorations of Christmas can be beautiful and uplifting, "but if that's all we see, then we're missing something that's in plain sight. Sometimes, despite our best intentions, we become so preoccupied with responsibilities, commitments, and the stress of our many tasks that we fail to see with our hearts, that which is essential and most sacred. "This is a season of rejoicing, he said, "a wonderful time when we acknowledge that our Almighty God."

on this busy, busy day....

2009-11-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

Homemaking is one of the sacred tasks of life, for the home is the FAMILY TEMPLE, consecrated to the service of parents and offspring.

gratitude

2009-11-16T09:05:00.001-07:00

The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving.

Friday thought

2009-11-13T11:07:00.001-07:00

To the world, you may be just one person, but to one person, you may be the world.

a test

2009-11-11T09:01:00.002-07:00

"In our hearts, do we feel a sense of gratitude and devotion to the Father? Are we of one heart with Him to whom we owe everything? The test of our devotion to the Lord seems to be the way we serve Him."

Message for us ALL, no matter what our age!

2009-11-10T08:26:00.003-07:00

In an address on November 1 to young adults all over the world, originating at BYU's Marriott Center and broadcast via Internet and satellite, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, said, "Discovering who we really are is part of this great adventure called life."

President Uchtdorf told of how airline pilots, though possibly fascinated by the sight of billowing storm clouds flashing with lightning, avoid them and the danger they present to their airplane.
"Isn't the same principle true when you see things that could cause spiritual harm?" he asked. "Temptation wouldn't be temptation if it didn't appear attractive, fascinating or fun. But, like the pilot approaching a storm, you need to learn to avoid it, no matter how beautiful or intriguing it may appear."

He told the young members that there are always voices that will insist that they are ugly ducklings who cannot be anything else. "But you know better," he said. "Because of the revealed word of a merciful God, you have seen your true reflection in the water and have glimpsed the eternal glory of that divine spirit within you. You are no ordinary beings, my beloved friends. You are glorious and eternal."

His reminder was that God's purpose for them is that they should be happy. He said, "It is my earnest prayer that the knowledge of who you are and what you may become will fill your souls with the peaceable love of God and that this will ignite within you a happiness worthy of your true heritage, for in truth you are princes and princesses, kings and queens."

dedication

2009-11-09T11:24:00.002-07:00

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of John Rowe Moyle. John was a convert to the Church who left his home in England and traveled to the Salt Lake Valley as part of a handcart company. He built a home for his family in a small town a valley away from Salt Lake City. John was an accomplished stonecutter and, because of this skill, was asked to work on the Salt Lake Temple.

Every Monday John left home at two o’clock in the morning and walked six hours in order to be at his post on time. On Friday he would leave his work at five o’clock in the evening and walk almost until midnight before arriving home. He did this year after year.
One day, while he was doing his chores at home, a cow kicked him in the leg, causing a compound fracture. With limited medical resources, the only option was to amputate the broken leg. So John’s family and friends strapped him onto a door and, with a bucksaw, cut off his leg a few inches from the knee.

In spite of the crude surgery, the leg started to heal. Once John could sit up in bed, he began carving a wooden leg with an ingenious joint that served as an ankle to an artificial foot. Walking on this device was extremely painful, but John did not give up, building up his endurance until he could make the 22-mile (35-km) journey to the Salt Lake Temple each week, where he continued his work.

His hands carved the words “Holiness to the Lord” that stand today as a golden marker to all who visit the Salt Lake Temple.

Gratitude

2009-11-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

"Mercies and blessings come in different forms--sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, 'Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things' (D&C 59:7). All things means just that: good things, difficult things--not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love."

Sister Bonnie Parkin

from General Conference

2009-11-05T10:14:00.002-07:00

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve gave three suggestions at the Saturday morning session of general conference for being more diligent and concerned at home:

Express love — and show it.

Bear testimony — and live it.

Be consistent.

How are we doing?

Regional Conference Report: Trust in the Lord and serve faithfully

2009-11-04T10:01:00.003-07:00

This article was taken from the LDS.org news website.

President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency encouraged members to place a premium priority on building up the kingdom of God on the earth. President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, spoke to members in 77 stakes Oct. 25 during a Northern Utah Stake Conference Satellite Broadcast emanating from Logan. He advised members to put the kingdom of God first in their lives and trust in the Lord for the rest, and that if they do so they will have the Lord's help while confronting life's inevitable difficulties.

"Jesus Christ reigns in the affairs of men, even though many or most people fail to recognize His hand," President Eyring said. "He does not give an assurance of all that we might want, but we have a sure way to gain His assistance even in the worst of times. The kingdom of God in the earth is His Restored Church."

In addition to President Eyring, other speakers included Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Presidency of the Seventy and Sister Cheryl C. Lant, general president of the Primary. Elder Rasband conducted the conference, which took place in the Spectrum on the Utah State University campus. Eleven Logan stakes attended the event on-site, and it was broadcast via satellite to 66 additional stakes in the Utah North Area.
President Eyring said economic concerns presently envelop many in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. An antidote to economic difficulty, he said, is paying a full tithe and earnestly serving in inspired callings.

"Even in difficult times we should pay tithing, which is the financial law of His kingdom," President Eyring said. "We can help Him by giving service to our fellow members in the kingdom and to those outside if in need. Sometimes we may not be able to find employment, but He always recognizes our willingness and capacity to help in His cause.

"Fulfilling a calling faithfully in the Church may not lead immediately to finding a job, but it will magnify your power to qualify for one and to find it. … Most of the Lord's pay will be in the next world, but enough of it comes in this life to give the financial security which is best for us."
President Eyring provided a warning for students with spiritual struggles together with a companion prescription for healing — noting that, in a general sense, the same counsel would be applicable to a man who has been unemployed for a time or a woman whose search for a happy family life has not borne fruit.

"If you are not careful to resist it, your troubles will turn you inward," he admonished. "You can become centered on yourself, your own unmet needs and the difficulty of achieving your dreams for your own future. It is easy to become both selfish and discouraged as you pursue your education.

"The great antidote to selfishness and discouragement in your college years is to put the kingdom of God first in your life. It is easy to do as you recognize and accept the part that God plays in learning whatever is true. He can send us, if we qualify for it, the Holy Ghost, which is the spirit of truth."

In order to obtain the companionship of the Holy Ghost, President Eyring said, two qualifications exist: be purified through the Lord's atonement and be a trusted and faithful servant of God. Both of these requirements "come by consistent and prolonged service in the Lord's kingdom," he said.

"Like you, I often feel that learning comes hard even after study, prayer, the exercise of all the faith I have and diligent service in the kingdom. But I keep trying. The God we serve in His kingdom can send the Holy Ghost to us as we qualify by our faithful labors to study and to serve Him."

Elder Ballard detailed his family's roots in northern Utah. He recounted how his great-grandparents, Henry and Margaret Ballard, immigrated from England and Scotland, respectively, and met in Ogden. They became early settlers of Cache Valley. Elder Ballard also noted Logan is the birthplace of his grandfather, Elder Melvin J. Ballard, and father, Melvin Russell Ballard Sr.

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke about how the examples of early Church pioneers can be modern guideposts. Elder Ballard said an irrevocable connection exists between the strength and fidelity of early Mormon settlers and the blessings enjoyed by modern members of the Church.

"I feel the pioneers of yesteryear would be smiling to see what has been accomplished in this great state and in your cities and towns," he said. "We owe them much and must never forget that the success of today is built upon the shoulders and courage of the humble giants of the past."

He emphasized that compelling, inspirational examples can come from lesser-known Church pioneers — or "the faithful who followed the early leaders," as he called them. Elder Ballard cited three such examples: John Tanner, "probably the equivalent of a millionaire in the 1830s, perhaps the wealthiest man in the Church, [who] sacrificed everything so that the Kirtland Temple could be built and the Church established"; Artemus Millet, a stone mason and Canadian convert who left behind a thriving business because he "was asked to leave Canada to supervise the work on the Kirtland Temple"; and Phoebe Carter, the eventual wife of President Wilford Woodruff who at age 28 left her native Maine for Kirtland "when she determined to gather with the Saints even though she had to make her [750-mile] trek alone."

Times may have changed, but Elder Ballard nonetheless likened the experience of Mormon pioneers to the unique challenges of modernity.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Presidency of the Seventy speoke. He also conducted the conference.

"We all face rocky ridges, with the wind in our face and winter coming on too soon," he said. "Sometimes it seems as though there is no end to the dust that stings our eyes and clouds our vision. Sharp edges of despair and discouragement jut out of the terrain to slow our passage. … Today, we are all pioneers in a world where technological advances come faster than we can assimilate them, and in a world that seems to be spiraling out of control into an abyss of wickedness.

"If we are to survive and keep our families safe, we must remain anchored to the word of God as taught by the scriptures and modern-day prophets and apostles. We cannot afford to be caught up in the deceit of worldly logic."

Elder Rasband spoke of temples. He recalled the experience of leading the media, interfaith groups and government officials through open-house tours of the Draper Utah and Oquirrh Mountain Utah temples earlier this year.

"As I took guests through the spacious baptistery, beautiful ordinance rooms, the Holy Celestial Room, and sacred sealing rooms," he said, "I can tell you without any reservation, the Spirit of the Lord was already in these temples, and left a deep and wonderful impression on all who visited."

He suggested temple-building will be one of President Gordon B. Hinckley's great legacies, noting 77 temples were built during the almost 13 years President Hinckley presided over the Church. To illustrate the blessings that accompany faithful temple attendance, Elder Rasband quoted an October 2004 general conference address by President Hinckley wherein the Church leader said, "I would hope that we might go to the house of the Lord a little more frequently. … It will refine your natures. It will peel off the selfish shell in which most of us live. It will literally bring a sanctifying element into our lives and make us better men and better women."

Elder Rasband issued an invitation to temple attendance that echoed President Hinckley's.
"Certainly in a day and time like we live in," he said, "the importance of every temple built and dedicated to the Lord cannot be overstated. … I invite all of you to attend more frequently, as your circumstances permit, and claim your blessings and protections that have been promised to you by Prophets of God."

Sister Lant's remarks dealt with obedience, which she said, is "the first law of heaven. This is because while our Heavenly Father has given us a plan of happiness that was designed to help us return to Him, has provided the Savior to atone for our sins and has given us the gospel and commandments so that we would know how to live, we have to be willing to do it — to be submissive and obedient to all that He has given to us in order to make it work for us."

She cited the 2,000 stripling warriors led by Helaman in the Book of Mormon as an example of exact obedience. Sister Lant also posed probing questions about obedience in three specific areas: Sabbath observance, prayer and moral integrity.

"The degree we keep the commandments is the degree we love the Lord," she said. "Our obedience must come from our hearts, from our desire to follow the Savior's example as He gave His will entirely over to the Father. In the same way, we can give our will to Him. We can give our hearts. Because we love Him, we can be obedient, exactly obedient."

Gratitude

2009-11-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

"Gratitude is a mark of a noble soul and a refined character. We like to be around those who are grateful. They tend to brighten all around them. They make others feel better about themselves. They tend to be more humble, more joyful, more likable."

Joseph B. Wirthlin, Life in Thanksgiving Daily, Ensign, Sept. 2001

President Monson's Influential!

2009-11-02T02:42:00.000-07:00

"In addition to guiding more than 13 million members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Thomas S. Monson now leads Slate.com's annual list of the nation's most powerful octogenarians....the church has announced a total of 14 temples since President Monson became LDS Church president Feb. 2, 2008." Deseret News

Others on that octegenarian list include: Newscaster Barbara Walters, Author Mary Higgins Clark, Henry Kissinger, Senator Robert Bird, ex-President Jimmy Carter, Musician BB.King, Actress Betty White, Singer Tony Bennett, Dr. Jack Kavorkian, Author Maya Angelou, Entertainer Mel Brooks, Senator Bob Dole, Gameshow Host Bob Barker, Minister Billy Graham, entertainer Carl Riener, Jack LaLane, actor Kirk Douglas and editorialist Andy Rooney. Pretty impressive group of influential seniors and the Prophet is listed as "THE" most influencial. Hmmm. Someone got it right!

“I testify that with God, all things are possible. He is our Heavenly Father; His Son is our Redeemer. As we strive to learn His truths and then to live them, our lives and the lives of others will be abundantly blessed.” Thomas S. Monson

Eliza R. Snow

2009-11-01T15:13:00.004-07:00

April shared a beautiful Presidency Message about previous General Relief Society President, Eliza R. Snow. What an excellent opportunity for us, as sisters, to learn of and from the lives of these previous great women who forged the way for us today.

A few quotes from the lesson that we could all benefit from:

"Take care of the things at home first and everything else will fall into place. "

"Be of good cheer and light the burdens of others."

" Walk not in the borrowed light of others."

Eliza presided over the Relief Society for sixteen years without counselors. She was truly an example to us all of faith and dedication. Eliza's goals in life after joinng the church were "Cheer the Saints and Teach the Doctrine. Eliza Snow was an amazing and heroic woman, who led by example and her outspokenness, in word, example and music.

Next month, we'll be studying about Zina Young, the third Relief Society President. The main source of studies for these lessons is "Faith, Hope and Charity" by Janet Peterson and LaRene Gaunt.

a few notes from Stake Conference

2009-05-03T14:12:00.007-06:00

We were truly fed at our Stake Conference meetings. Each talk at each session was filled with the Spirit and inspiration from our leaders, including Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Elder Nelson's relaxed guidance in the Saturday evening session was a pleasure. His comments on Sunday morning were from the heart and guided by the Spirit. Elder Nelson said that he'd left his notes and his scriptures, intentionally, behind to speak to the members of our stake, being led by the Holy Ghost, specifically for the needs and concerns of the members of the Smithfield Stake. From my notes, he counseled us to "Remember the things of eternal consequence" and then reiterated the fact that Elder Choi (pronounced Ki, as in Why), our other visiting authority, had been a student here in Cache Valley at USU over twenty years ago. Who would have expected that a generation later, he would return as a visiting member of the Quorum of Seventies on his first speaking assignment as a General Authority of the church. We never know, which is why we need to remember to teach our children and those around us. He then listed "what we should be teaching now" in our stake...

That we are, literally, children of God, with divine nature and divine potential. That we should see beyond the here and now.

that we should make prayer a meaningful part of every day.

The reality of and divinity of Christ.

About the Sacrament... that the emblems are more than bread and water, but that they are symbols of our covenant to "remember Him always".

That this is His Church, set up before the foundation of the world...which is why we have temples.

That we should prepare our missionaries to be faithful and worthy and ready to share the gospel throughout the earth.

That we help them understand about Prophets of God. That this dispensation differs from every previous dispensation. That every previous dispensation was limited in time because they ended in apostasy and that this one will not because it will be followed by Christ. This dispensation is also not limited in location because this time, the gospel will fill the entire earth.

Joseph Smith prophesied that the gospel would fill the world. We need to help understand the prophetic mission of Joseph Smith. Elder Nelson shared that, today, the translating committee works on the translation of scriptures with the miracle of modern technology an at a rate of one page per day on a good day. He referred to Joseph Smith as "amazing" as he translated, with no education or technology at a rate of 8-10 pages per day. Elder Nelson's comment was that we are so proud of ourselves if we read 8-10 pages a day and Joseph was translating it at that rate. He bore witness that Joseph was a true prophet of God.

That Thomas S. Monson is a living prophet at the head of the church, that he is real and normal, that he gets hungry and tired, but that he responds to the Lord because he is His prophet on the earth today.

Teach about the Restoration of the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthood and the blessings of the temple.

Elder Nelson recommended that every child should have a picture of the temple in their room and that our homes should have photos of the temple.

We should help our sons and grandsons and neighbors to be worthy of mission calls, being men of faith, stamina and worthiness.

We should help honor mothers and fathers. Big plugs for Mother's Day to the husbands and children!

As parents, we should make it easy for our children to love us by making happy homes and happy memories in the home. We should never "whip" our children. We should reprimand and discipline them in private and praise them loudly in public.

We should pay tithes and offerings and set the example for our children. We should allow them to go into tithing settlements too to claim the honor of obedience.

We should teach the Word of Wisdom. "It's wonderful to be free from the addiction of substances!"

In reference to the fact that we are so very aware of the H1N1 Flu, he said that we are also being plagued by another type of plague... the plague of pornography. "It is highly addictive and contagious and destructive." Do not let it enter into the sanctuary of our homes."

We should encourage our children to get an education in anything that interest them... from piano to dance to becoming a medical doctor, we should do all that we can to encourage them to be all that they can!

Teach them to be good citizens of country and of the kingdom of God!

Elder Nelson then gave an apostolic blessing to those in our stake. He encouraged us to be devout disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, to feast upon His gospel and apply it in our lives. With love and peace in our lives, our homes will be a happy place. We should remember our prayers to be missionaries and good examples so that others will be attracted to also be worthy of all the temple blessings. He also promised a blessing of healing to those in need and counseled us once again to follow the faithful leaders in our stake.

Other talks were given by Elder Yoon Hwan Choi, our incredible stake presidency, two youth speakers ~ a missionary who had just received his call to South Africa and a young Single girl. Great and impressive talks. President and Sister Kerr, the Logan Temple President and Matron, spoke of attending the temple. The entire experience was remarkable!! Enough said!

General Conference

2009-04-07T18:44:00.002-06:00

We were all blessed to have a fully uplifting and edifying weekend watching General Conference. I blogged about Conference on both days with the comments that really impressed me. What touched your heart during conference? We'd love to know?

From the kitchen of... Christie Schow

2009-03-30T21:32:00.003-06:00

Everyone's still talking about Christie's wonderful french bread and pulled pork from the Birthday Social. Here's her recipes....

French Bread

1 1/4 C very warm water
1T yeast

Dissolve yeast in water and add:
3 cups flour
1 T oil
1 T sugar
1/2 T salt

Christie mixes this in her kitchenaid mixer with the dough hook until dough is smooth and elastic. Then, she leaves it in the bowl, and cover it with a towel until doubled (about an hour). Punch it down, and flatten it down on counter top, (use olive oil on your hands and counter to keep from sticking) and roll it up (like cinnamon rolls, except Christie doesn't roll it out, she flattens it with her hands, maybe about 1-1 1/2 inch thickness). Pinch the seal together and tuck under and pinch the ends together. place on a greased cookie sheet, and let rise until doubled. Cook at 400 for 20 minutes (the browner it gets, the crustier it will be :) ) Christie also recommends adding 1-2 t dried rosemary, crushed, with the flour too. This is awesome with it. She has also added garlic and cheese after flattening it out, then roll it into the dough.

Pork shoulder roast with rub:

2 C roasted minced garlic (Christie just bought the minced garlic in a jar)
5 T salt
1/4 C Coriander seeds/ toasted and ground
2 T mustard powder
4 T dried chipotle peppers
2 T dried thyme
5 T dried rosemary
5 T lemon zest
2 1/2 t black pepper
1 C rub does a 6 lb pork shoulder roast Rub on roast. Cook roast at 250-275 for 6-8 hours, fat side up. Let stand 15 minutes before shredding.

2009-03-25T11:22:00.001-06:00

"When we consistently follow the Holy Spirit, in a continuous, constant spirit of prayer, the world of miracles is open to us now, in this life. A life of adventures, of constant, growing amazement, of surprising vision, of new aspects of life, of new dimensions of joy and peace will be the consequence."

Sisters and Strawberries

2009-03-05T09:23:00.003-07:00

Last night, our Relief Society Board Meeting was a big success! Toni shared a President's Message from her heart, mentioning that the Relief Society does so much in the lives of so many. Toni mentioned that in this first year of their presidency, we've had seven funerals in our ward, more meals that could be counted taken in, service rendered in unmeasurable ways. We truly do live in an amazing ward! Toni also told of sisters in other countries making quilts, raising guinea pigs and all sorts of other "projects", making these sisters from across the world, very much like us here at home in Smithfield. What an amazing organization and blessing the Relief Society is!

After her message, the sisters broke up into their own departments for a bit then gathered in the cultural hall for refreshments. Many asked for the recipe to the stuffed strawberries. I've put that recipe on my cooking blog for easier access but will also include it here.

Stuffed Strawberries

2 cups powdered sugar
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. vanilla

2 quarts fresh strawberries

Mix the frosting until fluffy. Do not removed the caps from the berries. Cut strawberries in fourths from stem almost to the cap. I use my Pampered Chef Decorating Press to stuff the strawberries with the frosting. If you don't have a press, you could put the frosting in a heavy zip-lock bag and cut one tip off the corner of the bag. Open the strawberry a bit and fill with frosting. The close the strawberry back enough that the frosting oozes out the sides a tiny bit. Chill until served. Note: You can make these about four hours in advance but make sure the place the filled strawberries on a few layers of paper towels to store because the sugar in the frosting will cause the strawberries to become a bit juicy. Enjoy!

2009-02-17T19:09:00.002-07:00

The Godfrey's Fireside

2009-02-09T13:06:00.005-07:00

For anyone who didn't make it to the Fireside on Sunday Evening at the church, you missed a truly inspiring experience. Wes and Erin Godfrey shared their amazing journey leading up to the day that an F5 Tornado completely destroyed their home while they were hiding in a Safe Shelter underneath it. Wes and Erin spoke of the tender mercies, the experiences where they knew that Heavenly Father was watching over, preparing and protecting them from what was about to happen even two years before the actual tornado. They both bore testimonies of prayers being answered, tender mercies being extended and gratitude for lessons learned from this challenge.

The slide show with photographs of the damage along the 47 mile path of the tornado, was chilling. Miracle after miracle took place in that small Iowa community that week. Wes told of the dedication of home teachers and men in the ward and encouraged each of us to recognize the importance of this program of the church. Erin spoke of food storage shared with their family... food storage that is generally thought of for our own families, but that had been shared by their Relief Society sisters in the emergency. The outreach of the ward members in a ward much smaller than our own was phenomenal.

No doubt, Erin and Wes experienced a miracle. Being preserved through this experience was not just a blessing to their families and loved ones, but, it was truly evident last night, that their safe return was and is a gift to us all.

Note: Click here to read the Ensign article about their experience.

The world is always ready to receive talent with open arms.

2009-02-06T21:51:00.001-07:00

on testimony

2009-01-16T09:59:00.002-07:00

"The gaining of a strong and secure testimony is the privilege and opportunity of every individual member of the Church. Service in behalf of others, study, and prayer lead to faith in this work and then to a knowledge of it's truth. This has always been a personal pursuit, as it must always be in the future."

President Hinckley

Faith in Action

2009-01-13T06:27:00.004-07:00

Last night, at the Senior Singles Family Home Evening, Brother Dee Barrett from the LDS Institute filled our buckets with wisdom! His profound message one faith was touching and heartfelt as he shared the importance of leaving our legacy to the youth.

Brother Barrett told stories of his own grandfather, who'd served a mission in England and been, literally, fed by an angel. After his companion had had "enough", given up on serving a mission and left him, Elder Barrrett continued on his journey alone. Cold and hungry, he approached a door in the middle of nowhere. A women answered, welcomed him in, gave him dinner and a warm place to rest for the night. When he awoke, there was a napsack filled with biscuits for his journey, but the woman was nowhere to be found to thank. He continued on his way, walking miles before meeting the next neighbor. When he shared his experience of the past night and asked about the woman who had been so kind and generous, he was told that the home had been empty for over twenty years since the passing of the woman who'd lived there. Truly, an angel had helped him through this trial.

Brother Barrett also shared that his own father had served in the military during his youth and had been stationed in the DC area, where he had the opportunity to share many meals and time with, then, Elder Ezra Taft Benson, who was the U.S. Secretary of State. It was over the holidays this year that Brother Barrett's father shared these stories with his grandchildren, strengthening their testimonies. It was the best gift that he could have given his posterity ~ words of wisdom, example and testimony.

Brother Barrett encouraged our senior singles to share their stories of faith, of how they gained their testimonies, how they endured and came out stronger during hard times, about the truth, as often and precisely as possible to our children and grandchildren. "These times are hard and getting harder. The youth need our strength as well as their own."

He continued that the more we know about the Savior, the more faith we have in Him. It's our responsibility to share our faith with our posterity. As he shared the story of Nephi, his words were powerful that Nephi did all that the Lord commanded because, not only did he do all that the Lord commanded, he did it because, as Nephi said, "I know" that the Lord giveth no commandment to his children except he prepare a way."

What we know needs to be shared... no matter what age we are!

The entire evening was wonderful. The message, however, was not specific to the seniors. While Brother Barrett did encourage them to leave their legacy in word, deed and example, it could have been meant for even the youngest of us!

Better safe than Sorry!

2009-01-11T14:51:00.005-07:00

Recently, our valley has experienced several home burglaries, including one family in our own ward. We often think that things like that "don't happen in our neighborhood", but they are possible anywhere, even here in our wonderful community of Smithfield. Here are a few suggestions on protecting ourselves from home theft. Please take a minute to review them and discuss them with your family. Safeguarding your home would be a great topic for review in Family Home Evening this week!

Most home burglars do not give great amounts of thought to planning the job and assessing the benefits vs. dangers. Most burglars look for:

Something worth stealing
Easy access combined with low visibility
A home that is unoccupied

Did you know? More residential burglaries occur during the day because homes tend to be vacant more often. In short, make your house look the same whether you are away or at home.

A few simple pre-cautions:

Lock all doors and windows when you leave the house.

Do not hide spare keys outside your home, instead give one to a trusted neighbor.

Do not have valuables lying out in view from a window. If possible, keep jewelry and other small valuables and important documents in a hidden safe deposit box.

If you are at home working outside, leave all other doors that are out of sight locked.

Avoid telling others about the valuables in your home.

If you have children, discuss home security with them, such as not talking with strangers about their home, its contents or family schedules.

Inventory and mark your belongings.with an engraving pen so that they can be traced and return them to you if stolen. Never mark them with your social security number.

Hiding money is an age-old practice. The key is to remember where you put the cash and keeping it safe from the elements. Here are some great places to store your cash, jewelry or medications... here are a few affordable tricks:

A Tampon or Sanitary Pad Box – Leave a little “product” in the box for authenticity, and taping a wad of cash to the inside, you can be sure a robber won’t think to look in there.

A large food container with a plastic lid - Store valuables inside and keep it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Remove the back of a painting or photograph frame. Place cash behind the photo or art and then put the back on the frame, hang it back on the wall.

A Return-Air Vent – If you have a room in your home that heat does not matter, remove the vent, store your valuables in the duct work and replace the vent

Frozen food – Several people already keep their credit cards on ice, but what about cash? An ice cream carton in a freezer ca , you can be converted into a hiding place.

Tennis ball – Cut open a tennis ball, stash your valuables inside, and then placing the ball back between two others in their original tube container. Just make sure that the goods don’t rattle when you shake them. (You can stuff some tissue paper in with jewelry or coins to hide their sound.)

Some places you really shouldn’t hide cash:

Under Your Mattress – This is one of the first places thieves are going to check, and it is hardly conducive to a good night’s sleep.

In Your Toilet-Tank – Several websites still list this as a good place to hide money. Too many movies lead the thieves right there.

A purse – This totally-out-in-the-open hiding place is a little to available for many thieves. (And what if the thief has a penchant for Prada, Kate Spade, or Jaclyn Smith by Kmart?)

A few other pointers for those who want to conceal cash in their home include:

Be aware that many homemade safes (including those mentioned) won’t make your valuables immune from fire damage. If you are concerned about the possibility of your nest egg going up in flames, a fire-proof safe or bag is the solution.

Leave a clue to where you keep it. If you should happen to die or disappear for a really, really long time, would your loved ones know where you keep your cash? Unless you want your valuables to be of no use to anyone else in your passing, let a few close relatives or a trusted friend know your plans. Or have it clearly explained in your “top-secret” will.

Make sure you have the value of your cash added to your home owners or rental insurance, if at all possible. Some companies will have specific regulations as to what they can and can’t cover. If you have large amounts of cash on the premises, however, see how you can best minimize loss in a bad situation using your insurance plan.

Be safe, be smart. Look out for yourself and your neighbor. Call 911 if something looks or feels suspicious. Let's protect each other!

Safety is not a gadget but a state of mind.

A different approach to your New Years Resolutions

2008-12-31T11:15:00.004-07:00

This past Sunday, Sister Marilyn Lindley taught us from the Conference talk, Finding Joy in the Journey, given by President Monson. Her personal touch to the lesson was greatly beneficial in understanding the meaning behind his words. I was also impressed by President Monson's words in thinking about the goals that I want to set for the next year.

"This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and non-existent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now."

Sister Lindley made us all laugh when she said, "I know how old I am, but it just sounds so strange when I say the words!" She encouraged us each to take a look at our own lives, to find gratitude for the little things in our life and "Rather than dwelling on the past, we should make the most of today, of the here and now, doing all we can to provide pleasant memories for the future."

"We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.
Send that note to the friend you’ve been neglecting; give your child a hug; give your parents a hug; say “I love you” more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of “what if” and “if only.”

President Monson closed his address with, "Brothers and sisters, my sincere prayer is that we may adapt to the changes in our lives, that we may realize what is most important, that we may express our gratitude always and thus find joy in the journey."

As the New Year arrives, we all tend to be a bit more mindful of our goals, accomplishments, successes and failures of the past and thinking of the future. If you've not taken the time to set some goals for the new year, review President Monson's words first. His wise counsel is perfect guidance in thinking about the things that we want to accomplish this upcoming year, personally and as families. What better way to follow the prophet than by including his wisdom in our own planning and goal setting for the new year! Enough said!

Angels among Us

2008-12-28T10:09:00.001-07:00

On the morning after Christmas, I was moved to tears as I walked down the street from my mother's home. At the intersection in front of Bryson's home, I could see three different tractors/snowplows in action. Craig Bryson stopped in front of Mom's to snowblow her walks when a stranger, to me, pulled over in his pick-up and offered Craig a hand in unloading the snowblower from his pick-up truck. No sooner that I got home, Scott Downs pulled up in his tractor to dig us out. Jeff Bair was out plowing the neighbors on their street. Ruth Williams shared that they discovered a wonderful welcome after their unplanned sleepover with family on Christmas night, due to the storm... Mike Weber had cleared their driveway for them. Many others were out doing good works after the storm. Travis Porter experienced the same welcome! Most everyone was blessed by the kindnesses shown. Was it simply the holiday spirit? Doubtful! What a tremendous blessing to live in a ward where we truly are "our brother's keepers". Enough said!

Norma Watts Doughnuts!

2008-12-23T10:16:00.003-07:00

At the Senior Singles Family Home Evening last week, we talked about family holiday traditions. Norma Watts' daughter, Marcia was visiting and shared that one of their favorite traditions was making homemade doughnuts using her mom's recipe. I couldn't wait for Norma to share her recipe with me. We had Family Home Evening with friends last night and began our own tradition. Here's Norma's must-try recipe from my cooking blog. Norma will forever be remembered in our family at Christmas time as we make her tasty donuts!

How Good and How Pleasant It Is...to Dwell Together in Unity

2008-12-21T21:49:00.003-07:00

I was privileged to teach the lesson on Unity today. This had to be one of the most simple lessons I've ever prepared...made simple because our ward is so focused on serving each other! From our lesson, Joseph Smith said:

"Let the Saints remember that great things depend on their individual exertion, and that they are called to be co-workers with us and the Holy Spirtit in accomplishing the great work of the last days."
"By a concentration of action, and a unity of effort, we can only accomplish the great work of the last days."
"Therefore, let those who can freely make a sacrifice of their time, their talents and their property for the prosperity of the kingdom, and for the love they have to the cause of the truth...unite with us in the great work of the last days, and share in the tribulation, that they may ultimately share in the glory and triumph.

After the wonderful lesson/President's Message that Toni Bryson gave a few weeks ago, in which each sister in the room was specifically mentioned for a service or kindness that they'd offered to others, Sister Joy Pitcher commented that the feeling in the room was so phenomenal because we were all so focused on thinking of all of the good in each other. There's never been a better feeling of unity. What a blessing to live in a ward so filled with service and love and unity amongst the sisters. Can you hear me humming "As Sisters In Zion" right now?

What's your favorite holiday tradition?

2008-12-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

Just as a way of getting everyone used to visiting the blog, I thought that it would be fun to talk a bit about Christmas. From now until Christmas Eve, I'll just ask one question a day. You can answer it or just read others' answers. We can learn a bit about each other and maybe pick up a new idea to try with our own family! Today's question is: What's your favorite holiday tradition?

I'll start us off. I'm just pasting this from my blog, but it's, honestly , it's our best tradition of the season.

Our favorite Christmas tradition for the past almost thirty years is the Circle of Light. Each December, we have twelve candles on the dinner table. I used to use a wooden candle holder, which I'd made, but it got tired. Now, I use 12 star-shaped individual holders (Pier One) that I place on a round tray in a circle (a large silver pizza pan). Beginning on the 13th of December, we light one candle at dinner time. Each night after that, we light the original candle and one more until Christmas Eve, when we have our formal dinner, and all twelve candles are lit. (Was that as clear as mud? So, on the third night, three candles are lit, the seventh night, seven candles are lit...) The candle stays lit during dinnertime. It's not very bright to eat by on the first few nights, but as the twelve days progress, it gets brighter and brighter. During dinner, as we light the candle, we discuss Christmas, the life of Christ, His teachings, why we have this special season, what Christmas means to us and really try to focus for, at least a few moments, what Christmas really all about. On Christmas Eve, with all twelve candles lit, it is actually warm and glowing. We discuss how his life brightens ours. It's been an important part of our Christmas for almost three decades now and I hope that one day, my own children will carry on the tradition. If you'd like to try it, pick up twelve candles and holders and a silver platter, pizza pan, or something to fit your decor today. It's a tradition worth remembering!

What's yours?

The love in your heart wasn’t put there to stay. Love isn’t Love till it’s given away.

On knowledge

2008-12-14T15:48:00.001-07:00

Brenda Low gave a fantastic lesson today from the Teachings of Joseph Smith about gaining knowledge from eternal truths.

A quote from the lesson, "When you climb up a ladder, you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step by step, until you arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the gospel—you must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles of exaltation. But it will be a great while after you have passed through the veil before you will have learned them. It is not all to be comprehended in this world; it will be a great work to learn our salvation and exaltation even beyond the grave."

One of my favorite points in the lesson was that we don't have to, nor will we ever be able to, learn it all in this lifetime. Everything comes a little at a time. The more we study, the more we can learn and know.

Whenever Doug's amazing aunts get together, one of my favorite questions asked is "What are you learning these days?" The answers always fascinate me. From languages to preparedness to some new talent or book that they've just read. When this question gets asked, it's one time that I like to sit quietly and listen! Ask someone you meet this week, "What's something you have learned about the gospel recently?" You'll be surprised at the answers you'll hear! It may even send you in a new direction of study!

“Study the Bible, and as many of our books as you can get; pray to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ, have faith in the promises made to the fathers, and your mind will be guided to the truth.” Joseph Smith