"I hoped they call me on a mission, and they did!"

Sunday, July 31, 2011

The Time Has Come


We'll I did it, my 30 days of blogging.  I think I'm back in the swing of things.  I use to do between four and seven posts a month.  I'm good for that.  I'll keep you aware of my dad, his house, the program, and anything else that hits my fancy.
I consider blogging as life through my eyes.  Someone could write about the same thing and have a different take.  We did some journaling at a family reunion many years ago.  We had paper and pencil available throughout the event and promoted the idea that everyone should write or draw a picture about their experience at the gathering.  Everyone had input, giving a more clear picture of the total reunion.

When it was all said and done and I had put the book together, Grampy Blair (Hughie's dad), looked through the book and said, "No one wrote about going out in the kayaks!"  We had rented a beachhouse and had a lot of the activities involving the beach, ocean, etc.  He thought that was an incredible experience being out on the ocean with dolphins dancing around him.  He was upset that it hadn't been covered and included in the book.  Everyone else wrote about their highlights, but evidently the kayaks weren't high enough on the priority list for anyone else to write about it.  Grampy should have wrote about his experience.  He's gone now and wouldn't we all delight knowing about how he felt about it other than what I have written here.
I have used this experience in journal presentations and at other family reunions when I've tried to encourage people to write. What you have to say is important.  So many people are intimidated about writing. (I know, I'm am.) If you can't write, have someone write for you.  I remember my grandmother dictating letters to me to send to her friends because her education was so limited and she felt awkward writing; yet letters were the mode of the day and she wanted to communicate with her friends and family.

I keep a journal, but I add blogging as kind of a way to communicate with friends and family or I suppose the world for that matter.  It's kind of like a journal.  It can be an avenue for me to voice my opinion, share pictures, all sorts of things. I can even put it in book form if I want to. I am spurred on by the fact that I know I would like to read something an ancestor wrote, and no doubt, I'll be an ancestor someday.

What could you do better for your children and your children’s children than to record the story of your life, your triumphs over adversity, your recovery after a fall, your progress when all seemed black, your rejoicing when you had finally achieved? Some of what you write may be humdrum dates and places, but there will also be rich passages that will be quoted by your posterity.

We hope you will begin as of this date. If you have not already commenced this important duty in your lives, get a good notebook, a good book that will last through time and into eternity for the angels to look upon. Begin today and write in it your goings and your comings, your deeper thoughts, your achievements, and your failures, your associations and your triumphs, your impressions and your testimonies. We hope you will do this, our brothers and sisters, for this is what the Lord has commanded, and those who keep a personal journal are more likely to keep the Lord in remembrance in their daily lives.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Chewed Up and Spit Out

 
Years ago I saw someone wearing a t-shirt that read:
You know how you have one of those days,
Well, I have one of those lives.
I've been riding high with my niece in town, but she's left and we're back to the daily grind of rotating in and out of my dad's house again.  Between my father and my late mother I've been dealing with their care for a long time.  So long, that I can't remember when I haven't been dealing with it.

The day Kate left I was at Poppy's for the night.  I didn't get much sleep.  He was awake and I was so worried about him getting out of bed.  We don't have carpet on the floor right now and that won't change for another month while we're renovating the place.  I certainly don't want him falling on carpet let alone a hard floor.  So I was fretful all night as I tried to sleep in a chair next to his bed.  Tom and Sam went over tonight.  I had to sleep.  I have some haggard moments, but in spite of being tired we're all patiently hanging in there.

I've been going to the temple weekly again. Kate even came with me the weeks she was here.  I know that taking the time to go to the temple has helped deal with my hectic schedule.  I'm so grateful for the peace the temple brings.
"The world can be a challenging and difficult place in which to live. We are often surrounded by that which would drag us down. As you and I go to the holy houses of God, as we remember the covenants we make within, we will be more able to bear every trial and to overcome each temptation. In this sacred sanctuary we will find peace; we will be renewed and fortified."  President Thomas S. Monson, "The Holy Temple - A Beacon to the World", Ensign, May 2011

Friday, July 29, 2011

I Had Pie

It was chocolate in spite of the picture.

Life is uncertain.
Eat dessert first.
Erestine Ulmer

Really I didn't eat dessert first, but I did late tonight.  Dessert is not on the program.  But my friend, Lisa, came to visit while I was watching my dad and brought me pie.  She didn't twist my arm, but instead, I chose to indulge in her generosity. My weight has stayed the same for he last three days.  I don't know what a piece of pie will do to it.

Kate left this morning so my family and I are back trading in and out watching Poppy.  We're not only watching Poppy, but we've been fixing up the house this summer. There are a lot of opinions on how and what to do to get things in order, but we're moving forward. Wish I had some pictures, but I don't. That will come later.

My brother, Mark, and his family have been here off and on to help.  Hopefully next month things will be good enough for our caregiver, Teresa, to move in with her family.  This is the next step in the care of my father.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Happy Anniversary!

Last Summer
Rick, Wendy, and the kids
The last time I saw this group was last summer when they made their move from Okinawa to Pensacola.  They made a visit to Lancaster along the way.  Sure wish we could see everyone. The kids are getting so big.  Rick and Wendy are celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary this week on a cruise.  Aunt Heidi is watching their children.  Wishing everyone the best.  Happy Anniversary!

True love stories
never have endings.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

I've Got A Smile On My Face

 
I've lost 6 lbs. and counting
I know I said I would report on August 20th, but the reality is I'm desperate for a post.  I've lost 6 lbs. so far - "On the program!"  I hope I can keep it up.  Feeling good and hopeful.

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up.
The most certain way to succeed
is always to try just one more time.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Pioneer Children

Pioneer Children
Were Quick to Obey
Words: Viginia Maughan Kammeyer
Music: Lynn Shurtleff - CS 215

Pioneer children were quick to obey,
Walking along by the wagons all day,
Then in the firelight, kneeling to pray,
Little pioneer children.

Carrying water and gathering wood,
Building a campfire and cooking the food,
Learning and helping the best that they could,
Little pioneer children.

Children today can be pioneers too,
Willing and cheerful in all that we do,
Walking our pathway with heaven in view,
Little pioneer children.

Are these the cutest little pioneers you ever did see?
 Celebrating their pioneer heritage.
*My niece's two oldest children - Ryan and Natalie Jo

*I guess this is how I'm going to get through my final 30 consecutive days of blogging - use stuff from other peoples blogs. Oh well, whatever it takes.

Pioneer Day was July 24th.  I don't really have pioneer heritage like lots of Mormons do, crossing the plains, the persecution, etc.  I'm grateful that I can share in their heritage because it is they who built the firm foundation of the gospel in these latter-days.  Because of their efforts I am here today, enjoying the benefits of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I guess I have my own pioneers, my dad being one of them. In fact, if I think about it, there are a lot of first members in my history and on Hughie's side of the family too. Its gotta start somewhere. They too laid a foundation for us to have the gospel in our lives. We are so blessed because of their commitment. As we build on what we have, we all become pioneers for the next generations.

Monday, July 25, 2011

“To This End Was I Born”

Burial of Jesus by Carl Bloch

Our lesson this week was on the Crucifixion. Jesus suffered and died for all of us.  It's a MIRACLE!  Elder C. Scott Grow spoke last conference on "The Miracle of the Atonement".  I chose some excerpts to share here:

We access the Atonement through repentance.

Everything in the gospel of Jesus Christ points toward the atoning sacrifice of the Messiah, the Son of God.

The plan of salvation could not be brought about without an atonement.

The atoning sacrifice had to be carried out by the sinless Son of God, for fallen man could not atone for his own sins.

Through His suffering and death, the Savior atoned for the sins of all men. His Atonement began in Gethsemane and continued on the cross and culminated with the Resurrection.

Because of His infinite love, Jesus Christ invites us to repent so that we will not have to suffer the full weight of our own sins.

When we sin, Satan tells us we are lost. In contrast, our Redeemer offers redemption to all—no matter what we have done wrong—even to you and to me.

There is no sin or transgression, pain or sorrow, which is outside of the healing power of His Atonement.
The healing and redemptive power of the Atonement is available to each of us—always.

Jesus Christ
is the Great Healer
of our souls.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

The Arizona Fam

Chelsea's Pyper family had a family reunion in Idaho this summer and part of the event involved taking family pictures.  If you can't visit someone, seeing a picture means so much.  Bill and Chelsea live in Arizona so we don't see them very often.  I was all about seeing this picture they shared on their family blog so I wanted to share it. Makes me want a visit even more.

Chelsea + one on the way, Ryan, and Billy

"As parents in Zion we are responsible to teach our posterity the gospel of Jesus Christ, including the necessity of keeping the commandments of God and obtaining the saving ordinances of the gospel."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Saturday, July 23, 2011

God Is Our Father

I watched, I listened, and in a way, was bombarded by testimonies. To have so many different people declaring this one truth - God is our Father, was inspiring to me.   Watch the video by clicking on the link:



I rejoice in the great plan of salvation that is big enough for all of our Father in Heaven’s children.

A loving Father has provided a comprehensive and compassionate plan for His children “that saves the living, redeems the dead, rescues the damned, and glorifies all who repent.”

Elder Quentin L. Cook, "Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children", Ensign, April 2009 quoting, Orson F. Whitney, Saturday Night Thoughts (1921), 323.

Friday, July 22, 2011

On The Program

You've heard me say it before and here I say it again, "I'm on the program!"  It's kind of a joke around here.  I need to lose weight so when I'm committed and heading in the right direction it's, "I'm on the program!"

This was one of my goals this year (not that it isn't a goal every year), but I actually put it on the blog, hoping the accountability to the world would some how keep me motivated.  It hasn't.  I've gained weight since I've posted my claim of - I will lose weight this year.

I was somewhat spurred on by my son, Billy, who called me one day and asked why I was blogging so much.  I told him I took on this challenge of blogging for 30 days straight to get the blogging juices flowing again.  He had a vision of me sitting for 30 days in front of the computer.  He said, "I'd rather have you be on the program for 30 days."

So here's committing once again.  I'll be reporting on August 20th (30 days from yesterday).  Put it on your calendar.

Inside some of us
is a thin person
struggling to get out,
but they can usually be sedated
with a few pieces
of chocolate cake.
Author Unknown


Celebrating on my birthday - July 4th.
Here's hoping for a healthier lifestyle!

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Old News

Master, master, old news!
And such news as you never heard of!

These are just some of the things I should have been blogging about when I wasn't blogging earlier this year.

Becky's Birthday - "Beauty and the Beast"
at the Pantages

 
Rick and Sam over 20 years apart.
Rick visited after a San Diego business trip. He was the last of the siblings to see Tom since he returned from his mission. Glad he had the opportunity.  We all enjoyed seeing him.

Becky and Dexter - The Cutie Bug

Lisa and Me
LA Temple Visitor's Center
Young Ambassadors Performance


Sammy - Principal's List Award


Janna and Alex
Super Hero Birthday Party
Dress up as a real super hero or a made up one.
Obviously no super powers here.
Janna (Trash Girl with Lady GaGa flair)
Alex (Fitness Girl)
Fun times!


Scouterrific!
Ryan and Me with Bubbles

Last, but not least of all my "old news" - we're going to have another grandbaby.  Ryan (Bill and Chelsea's little girl) is going to be a big sister.  Chelsea is due in September with another girl.  She'll be No. 9.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Sam

 On a camp out (shooting activity)
with the ward young men.
Sam's been busy all summer with this and that.  I'm glad he's had some activities to keep him going.  I've been busy with Poppy and Poppy's house.  Sam's helped us there too.  Sam went to Scout Camp, swimming yesterday, Harry Potter last weekend, cousins, friends, the usual.  He even got his room clean.  YEAH!  He's got another 6-weeks of summer before he starts junior high or I guess these days the proper terminology is "middle school".  Hope he keeps busy.  Looks like he's ready for the challenge.

"Change of any sort
requires courage."

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

“Not My Will, But Thine, Be Done”

Last Sunday's lesson - Christ in Gethsamane

“Christ’s agony in the garden is unfathomable by the finite mind, both as to intensity and cause. … He struggled and groaned under a burden such as no other being who has lived on earth might even conceive as possible. It was not physical pain, nor mental anguish alone, that caused him to suffer such torture as to produce an extrusion of blood from every pore; but a spiritual agony of soul such as only God was capable of experiencing. … In that hour of anguish Christ met and overcame all the horrors that Satan, ‘the prince of this world,’ could inflict. … In some manner, actual and terribly real though to man incomprehensible, the Savior took upon Himself the burden of the sins of mankind from Adam to the end of the world.”
Elder James E. Talmage
Jesus the Christ, 3rd ed. [1916], 613

What Christ suffered in Gethsamane is amazing.  I literally stand all amazed.  Next week we'll be covering the crucifixion.

Monday, July 18, 2011

The Young Adults

 
What am I going to do with these two?  I felt the same way about my other kids once they finished high school. They are adults wanting to make their own way in the world and yet they live in my house.  I pretty much let them do their own thing as long as their own thing is moving forward.

Janna is in hunt for a new job this summer and plans on school again next semester at AVC.  She's registered, but she didn't get exactly everything she wanted. It is because of budget cuts she lost her job at the college art gallery.  It is because of budget cuts they are offering fewer classes.  I'm hoping everything pulls together for her.

Tom has been working full-time since school ended this semester.  He has decided to go ahead and sign up for a carpenter's apprenticeship.  He's been wanting to do it for a long time, but their just wasn't the work out there to support him.  Hopefully he'll continue to get the work he needs to make it all happen to become a journeyman carpenter.

Yesterday they made some changes in the Amargosa YSA (Young Single Adult) Ward.  The three stakes had their own wards and now they have combined them all making one.  They also got a new bishopric and the ward will be within our stake.  Sounds exciting!

"For tomorrow belongs to the people
who prepare for it today."
African proverb

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Happy Birthday Dear Daddy!

It's Hughie's birthday.  We're now both "58".  WOW!  Two more years and we're both 60.  Doesn't seem possible, but we're feeling it and looking it. 

You've heard of the three ages of man -
youth, age, and "you are looking wonderful."

"Look out tonsils, here comes the cupcake!"

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Beware - I Blog

"Activities can help unify wards and branches
and bring people to Christ."

Last night our ward had what they called a "Hillbilly Hoedown".  I needed blogging material.  I'm running out of ideas, so I brought my camera along.

You can always rely
on one of your visiting teachers
to give you a big "Cheese".

There were also some other nice sisters,
who were very hesitant,
but still patronized me and my camera.

Our ward missionaries - Elder Norton and Elder McMullin
Yes, I fancy I am related to Elder McMullin
because my mother is a McMullin.

Lots of entertainment, including
"Bony Hawk" the skateboarding dog.



Dancing girls, plus singing Cub Scouts,
and a skit from the Boy Scouts.



My Sammy Boy

Sister Johns - always a good show.
"Y'all come back now, ya here!"
It was a enjoyable event.  I should have took more pictures.  Food, entertainment, games, water fights and socializing were all part of the agenda.  The weather even cooperated.  It was a breezy cool evening.  NICE!

Friday, July 15, 2011

More Facts

"I've come to understand
that there's always
something positive,
even in a negative situation."
Leif Garrett

10 negatives with a plus:

1.  I can't hear very well, but than I can be very tolerant of noisy situations.

2.  My allergies are way over the top.  I'm always fighting with this, but things could be worse.  I'm happy to suffer with a runny nose compared to something else.

3.  I don't like being gray, but I've accepted my grandmahood.  Eight grandbabies and one due in September.

4.  I don't have a very good memory.  Thank goodness for pencil and paper for reminders . . . Now if I could only remember to look at the paper with my notes.

5.  I wish there was a temple in Lancaster, but at least there's one in LA.

6.  My weight - I've always got a goal to work on.  "I'm on the program!"

7.  Working (my sub job) takes up valuable time and is stressful, but I make cash.  It's a paid service gig.  I make new friends.  Even though I'm the teacher, I'm always learning something new. (Maybe this isn't as negative as I think.)

8.  I don't travel well, but at least I get out of the house once in a while.

9.  I hate split pea soup, but then there's asparagus, YUM!

10. I had a hard time thinking of negatives in my life, that's a good thing!

         BEES MAKE HONEY!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

The FACTS

"Just the facts ma'ma,
just the facts."
Sgt. Joe Friday, Dragnet

You probably already know this from other posts on my blog, but I'm fulfilling my daily blogging duty and have listed 10 facts about myself - things I love.

1.  I love red.  I remember declaring it was my favorite color when I was five years old.  It has been my favorite even though I have fancied other colors here and there.  The color red looks good on me too which is a plus or maybe I just think I look good in it because I love the color so much.

2.  I love art.  I've always had an attraction to it, but have not developed it.  I've had a few classes in recent years and have learned so much.  I wish it was something I pursued earlier, but I'm not so sure that wish could have been fulfilled.  I'm so busy with so much.  I'm happy to participate in it now.  I'm not going to take a class this semester like I hoped, but maybe next semester.  I'll just have to keep drawing and painting on my own which isn't as often as I like.

3.  I love music.  My latest effort is playing the organ.  Berkeley Price gave me a jump start about a year and a half ago, but I'm ready to expand my understanding.  (That's partly why the "art" is taking a backseat.)  Anyway, they offer some organ classes through BYU Independent Study and they're free - YEAH!  I'll get to go at my own pace and my pace will be very slow no doubt.  I'm looking forward to gaining a greater understanding of the instrument.

4.  I love cooking.  There is something especially delightful in serving a good meal.  It's not always just the food, but what happens when the food is served.  It's not just filling your stomach.  It fills your soul.  It's a time for improving relationships not just eating.  I'm always on the hunt for a good recipe.  It's a constant quest to be better at it and, of course, I really like it if it's simple.  It better be really good if it's difficult.

5. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ - the good news.  It encompasses my life.  It effects everything I do as well it should.  My life is better for it and I want to share it with others because it is through Jesus Christ that my source of happiness springs.  Why wouldn't I want to share what brings me the greatest joy.  Ask me the golden question?

6.  I love crochet.  My grandmother taught me.  She just showed me because of my interest.  It's only in more recent years that I've learned to follow a pattern.  I don't really do anything too elaborate.  It's more a time filler.  If I have to think to hard, I wouldn't do it.  The reason is, I'm just picking it up while I wait in a doctors office or sitting in the car to pick up a Sam.  It's up and down while I have some time.  I can carry on a conversation with the little bit I do.  I delight in the activity and I delight in the little gifts I can share.  It's in competition with my drawing.  They both weave in and out of my life depending on what's going on.

7.  I love gardening.  I'd rather be outside than in.  Meaning, I'd rather putter around in my yard than clean house.  I get a big thrill having my gardens in order.  They are always a work in progress.  The front for flowers.  The back for food.  And then there's my potted plants too.  They have all been a little neglected this year because of my busyness, but I try to take a little time each day to improve on what's out there.  I would take great joy in a big yard and property, but it takes time, money, and help.  All three I have little of and so my tiny yard is a reflection of my age and circumstance.  I imagine someday it will come to a halt.  I remember when my dad quite working in the yard.  What an incredible thing to not see him working anymore.

8.  I love to read.  I've never been a good reader or a big reader so it might seem very odd to say that I love to read, but I know I'm better for it and so I like to do it.  When I enjoy a particular book it seems to possess me.  I delight in reading particular lines over and over again.  They make me giggle, laugh, cry, and inspired.  I also like reading aloud to children, making a drama of it all.  It's very fun to captivate young ones with a book, not to mention big ones too.

9.  I love physical activity - exercise.  To run faster, climb higher, be stronger was just part of my programing as a kid.  I had an athletic family who liked to play, ride bikes, climb trees, ect.  Like eating brings more than food to your stomach, it nurtures relationship as you gather for a meal.  Physical activities including competition in games means spending time with others.  Sharing common bonds as you achieve physical goals together include talking and enjoying each others company.  You wouldn't look at me now to think I was the least bit wired that way.  I've grown tired and my abilities fail me with age, but I still enjoy activity even though my activity has definitely slowed.  I'm more in the stroll department now.

10.  I love the beach.  It might seem odd that I'm all about the beach.  It's not like my skin is tolerable to it.  It's not like I'm all about the Pacific cold water.  I even have a phobia of what's swimming around in the water with me.  But I do love the waves.  The rhythm of the waves, listening to the sounds as you walk along the beach - I could live with that 24/7.  Maybe I just need an ipod and plug in, but the atmosphere soothes me, not to mention it's very easy on my sinuses.


I love roses too.  More facts tomorrow.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

RELIEF

I've had some extra help come my way.  I'm so grateful and feeling a sense of relief.  I just can't get it all done and having this help made things easier for me.

My daughter, Cassie, got back together with her husband and they moved to a little house around the corner from my dad.  That meant we had to take care of Poppy (senior sit) with our caregiver coming in the morning and the evening for a few hours.  Sometimes we're all going every which way and it ultimately comes back on me.  Everyone in my family is very helpful, but I also want them to go to Institute, Mutual, activities, work, ect.  I'm not complaining, just explaining the situation.


Kate, one of my lifesavers!
Last week, my niece Kate (Mark and JoLinda's daughter), came to help.  That meant I could get some needed things done at my own house.  JoLinda and Mark joined her for for a few days this week helping in a variety of ways.  Besides watching Poppy we're trying to get the house fixed up so our caregiver can move in with her family.  We've got lots to do.  We've done a little bit here and there, but we had a big garage sale last Saturday which is the kick off to hopefully getting this job done soon.

My friend, Lisa, helped put the garage sale together.  I was ready to dump everything, but she had the vision to pull it off because I was just too overwhelmed with everything else.  She sorted, she cleaned, she organized - again, RELIEF!  We didn't make a lot of money, but the stuff is cleared out and we're ready to tackle more.

"Whether our service
is to our fellowmen
or to God,
it is the same."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks,

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

“This Is Life Eternal”


We talked about two gifts on Sunday. The Holy Ghost is a gift from God that guides us to the greatest gift of all - eternal life.  Learning to follow the Spirit may be difficult at times, but it is the guide we must follow.

"And this is life eternal,
that they might know thee
the only true God,
and Jesus Christ,
whom thou hast sent."
John 17:3

“The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice that you feel more than you hear. It is described as a ‘still small voice.’ And while we speak of ‘listening’ to the whisperings of the Spirit, most often one describes a spiritual prompting by saying, ‘I had a feeling …’ … Revelation comes as words we feel more than hear.” (President Boyd K. Packer, "Personal Revelation:  The Gift, the Test, and the Promise", Ensign, Nov. 1994, 60).

"But learn
that he who doeth
the works of righteousness
shall receive his reward,
even peace in this world,
and eternal life
in the world to come."
Doctrine and Covenants 59:23

Monday, July 11, 2011

An International Artist

At the yard sale, Lisa and I put out some of our art work. Surprisingly, it all went. Of course, the price was right! This one guy came by in a big truck making the garage sale rounds. He was buying all sorts of stuff. He said he was taking it down to his family in Mexico. Lisa was out among the customers working the crowd when he saw a bunch of our pictures and said with a voice of admiration, "Are these done by local artists?" Lisa, totally amused, quickly responded, "Why yes, they are!" He took them all and off to Mexico they went.

 
Some of the pictures I painted four years ago.
Lisa picked these out early in the day to keep for her home.
Or I should say, at least she'll keep them until the next garage sale.

There's no retirement for an artist,
it's your way of living so there's no end to it.
::: Henry Moore :::

Sunday, July 10, 2011

JoJo's Party

This summer we were looking for an excuse to go to the new Chuck E. Cheese and JoJo's birthday was the ticket.  His birthday is actually today, but we celebrated it last Thursday.  There were 10 of us and seven were kids run amok.  I'm glad it was so enjoyable.  JoJo was happy to be there, have pizza, and have fun.  We gave him a little golf set.  It was a nice time and a happy day.


The Six-year old - JoJo

"Happy Birthday!
I'm so grateful you're my grandson."

Saturday, July 9, 2011

The Yard Sale

My friend, Lisa, has been diligent in helping clear out my dad's place.  I'm not one for garage sales, but she hasn't had any problem orchestrating this one.  We actually made some money.  It was a hectic and great day! We (Lisa, me, and the rest of the family) got a lot cleared out.

 Lisa and me cashing in.
“Buy, buy,
says the sign in the shop window;
Why, why,
says the junk in the yard”

Friday, July 8, 2011

“Love One Another, As I Have Loved You”

"If ye love me,
keep my commandments."
John 14:15
At the Last Supper the Sacrament is instituted by Jesus.  We partake of the emblems of his body and blood to renew our covenant of baptism.  As we participate in this weekly ordinance, we REMEMBER HIM.  I believe this remembering helps us keep our perspective humble, teachable, ready to serve, and always striving to be more diligent in keeping the commandments.  We look to God and live.  We take the Holy Spirit for our guide. I am grateful for this special time of reverence.
There was a strife among the Apostles about who would be the greatest in the kingdom of God.  Jesus' act of service, washing the Apostles feet, showed that a great leader serves.  When we serve others, we lead people to Christ.  He is the true vine.  We gain strength through Him to serve.  We bear fruit that is purified by Him and we continue to bear more fruit.  Our fruit glorifies God.
"I am the way, the truth,
and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father,
but by me."
John 14:6

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Pensacola Trip

Our oldest son called a few weeks ago informing us that he was going to be ordained a high priest.  Hugh and I both wanted to go, but the last minute flight price was holding me back.  My dad's caregiver was going to be out-of-town during the same time frame I would be gone, so I opted out in spite of my desire to be there.

Hughie went alone getting to see Wendy and the grandkids we haven't seen in nearly a year.  (We saw Rick earlier this year because of a convention he attended in California.)  Hughie also went so he could be the one to ordain Rick a high priest. Rick was also made the new bishop of the Perdido Ward.  He's one busy guy.

Anyway, Grampy (Hughie) loved Pensacola and loved getting to see everyone.  Unfortunately, everyone was so excited to see each other they forgot to take any pictures to keep a record of the visit or give the rest of us a thrill on the west coast.  Anyway, I snatched this photo off Facebook. Even though Wendy and Grampy aren't in the picture it will have to do.  It was taken the week before Hughie's visit.  And yes, a visit to Pensacola Beach with it's white sand was part of the festivities while he was there.
Will, Rick, Eddie, and Evelyn - Pensacola Beach

"Yes, the bishop is a busy man. He has his family and his profession to look after, as well as the ward. He has to help people solve a great many problems. But remember that he loves you and wants to help you succeed in your eternal goals."

Robert D. Hales
"The Bishop"
Ensign, June 1986

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

My Birthday

"Age is an issue of mind over matter.
If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
 ~Mark Twain

July 4th, with my home crew.  (Hugh was watching my dad.)
58 years and counting.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

“Inherit the Kingdom Prepared for You”



















Being prepared for the second coming was the emphasis and I like these verses in the Doctrine and Covenants. I used them for a brief recap of last weeks lesson.

And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins.
 
For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day. --Doctrine and Covenants 45: 56-57

Monday, July 4, 2011

Why "The Book of Martha"?

In the scriptures we read about the life of or the writings of an individual and they title it:  The Book of Jacob, The Book of Ruth, hence . . .  The Book of Martha.  Not that my writings are scripture, but they are a representation of me.  I do have a testimony of Christ and I'd like to think that my joy of such truth comes shining thru in all that I do.

 
"Let your light so shine before men,
that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven." 

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Ammon Can Fly

Grandma and Grandson
 
In May I had the opportunity to see my grandson, Ammon, play basketball. At only four he is competing with the best of them. I was so impressed with his skills and competitive spirit.  He was a delight to watch.
"People ask me if I could fly,
I said, "yeah.... for a little while."

Saturday, July 2, 2011

“What Is the Sign of Thy Coming?”

During this lesson (June 19, 2011) we talked about the many signs of the times, but the real point is to be prepared.  The signs are an indication that His coming is nigh.  Fear could well grip us as latter days prophecies are fulfilled, but we can have peace in spite of tragedies.  "Keep the commandments, for in them there is safety and peace." - Barbara A. McConochie, CSB 146

“Where do we find hope in the midst of such turmoil and catastrophe? Quite simply, our one hope for spiritual safety during these turbulent times is to turn our minds and our hearts to Jesus Christ. … Armed with the shield of faith, we can overcome many of our daily challenges and overpower our greatest weaknesses and fears, knowing that if we do our best to keep the commandments of God, come what may, we will be all right.”
Elder M. Russell Ballard