30 Days of Blogging

I know I haven't blogged much this year, but I hope to make up for it this month.  Last April a friend gave the challenge to post for 30 days straight. I was too busy to even attempt it in the month of May.  I wanted to start in June, but I had to get my blogging juices flowing first.  I've thought about it and decided to do it during the month of July, my birthday month.  Here's the topics if you want to give it a go: 

Every day for 30 days you post something on your blog, in the following order:

1. A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself.
2. The meaning behind your blog name.
3. A picture of you and your friends.
4. A habit that you wish you didn’t have.
5. A picture of somewhere you’ve been.
6. Favorite super hero and why.
7. A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you.
8. Short term goals for this month and why.
9. Something you’re proud of in the past few days.
10. Songs you listen to when you are happy, sad, bored, hyped, mad.
11. Another picture of you and your friends.
12. How you found out about blogs and why you made one.
13. A letter to someone who has hurt you recently.
14. A picture of you and your family.
15. Put your iPod on shuffle: first ten songs that play.
16. Biggest pet peeves.
17. Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why.
18. Plans/dreams/goals you have.
19. Nicknames you have and why you have them.
20. Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future.
21. A picture of something that makes you happy.
22. What makes you different from everyone else.
23. Something you crave a lot.
24. A letter to your parents.
25. What I would find in your bag.
26. What you think about your friends.
27. Why you are doing this 30 day challenge.
28. A picture of you last year and now and how you have changed since then.
29. In the past month, what have you learned.
30. Who are you?

Now that's the original challenge.  I won't be following the list very carefully, but you'll still learn something about me.  My attitude is - at least I'm blogging.  Follow along as I turn 58.  Write on!

"Woe Unto You . . . Hypocrites!"

I better write about last weeks lesson because tomorrow is a new one.  Hypocracy - it is usually easier to see such behavior in others and yet the lesson was about recognizing it in ourselves.  That's not so easy. 

One way to identify it - John 12:43:  "For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." 

How to eliminate it - Doctrine & Covenants 82:19:  "Every man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all things with an eye single to the glory of God.

Plus a promise - Doctrine & Covenants 88:67:   "And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things."

 

“He loves the Lord with all his heart who … is ready to give up, do, or suffer anything in order to please and glorify him. He loves God with all his soul … who is ready to give up life for his sake and to be deprived of the comforts of the world to glorify him. He loves God with all his strength who exerts all the powers of his body and soul in the service of God. He loves God with all his mind who applies himself only to know God and his will, who sees God in all things and acknowledges him in all ways.”  - Elder Howard W. Hunter, Improvement Era, June 1965, 512

Happy Summer!

It's the last day of school for Sam. I usually like the schedule of school (and I'll probably be ready for it when it comes around again), but because I have been working so much I'm happy to have my days open up to summer.  Plus we've got lots to do around here at home and with the care of my father at his place. Here's hoping for a good attitude and great moments.  Have a great summer!

"Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship—the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness, and peace."

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

"Of Things That Matter Most"

Ensign, November 2010

Alzheimer or Dyslexia?

Last year on my dad's birthday, Teresa, our caregiver, asked, "Coach, how old are you?"  His reply, "28." He was 82.

This year on my dad's birthday, Cassie asked, "Poppy, how old are you?"  His reply, "38."  He is 83.

We couldn't believe it, but here's the real weirdness.  We were amused by the whole thing and then realized he's actually 84 this year.  So I asked him, "Coach, how old are you?"  He said, "62."

My dad looked good on his birthday.  Scotty and Kate came to visit over the weekend.  He had a few cards, some cake, some conversation. He said he didn't hurt, that makes it even better.  I hope so, you never know if what he is saying is true even when it comes to hurting.  It was a good day - June 11, 2011

William Reynders with grandson William "Scott" Reynders

"You know you are getting old

when the candles cost more
than the cake."

 Bob Hope

The NC Trip (May 11 - 17)

So it was off to Angie's wedding - North Carolina or BUST!

I don't travel well because I haven't done it much. Every time I go somewhere it's a new adventure, like a full body scan at LAX - YIKES! And remind me not to bring so many clothes. Like I have any to start with. Becky and I could have rented a car for what we paid to check in an extra bag each, both ways - live and learn.

It was a good thing I had Becky along to keep me straight. I thought I was there to help her. Becky was good at following signs and directions. Me, I'm always second guessing everything which only got us off track. Maybe I'll get the hang of it all someday.

Me on vacation, ironing tablecloths. There's a good time!  Really, the point of the trip was to help Beth and all with the wedding.  I stayed up late and watched two movies as I ironed.  The next day we decorated the cultural hall in Garnet.

Raleigh North Carolina Temple - May 14 

Becky at the temple.

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Anderson

All the family that came to greet the couple at the temple.

Fun reception with dancing, photobooth, food, and more.

Sister and brother reunion, Beth and Mark.

Me with the happy couple.
I was so glad I got to be there for their special day.

Becky with Edward and Angie

Off to the Bahamas, "We're outta here!"

"See ya!"

 Sunday afternoon, we drove to Pinehurst, home of big beautiful golf courses.  It was also a time of reminiscing because this is one of the places my brother Mark served as a missionary over 30 years ago.  This home is where he use to live.  It's divided into places of business now, one being a coffee shop.

Had to take a photo. 

We found an old house, now a place of business.  

It's called the BLAIR HOUSE.

 

Monday we did a little touring.  Beth wanted us to take a picture of this landmark.  Our McMullin relatives came from North Carolina.  We don't think they were necessarily Quaker, but we think they at least hung with the Quakers living in the area.  Anyway, it is Beth's assumption that our ancestors would have been at some of these meetings at Dunn's Creek.

We stopped at this old farm house for a guided tour.  It belonged to the John and Amy Harper family who definitely had Confederacy sentiments, but was taken over by the Union army and utilized as a hospital on the bottom floor while the family lived upstairs.  The hospital cared for both Union and Confederate soldiers, but when the Union army left they took only their soldiers with them.  The family cared for the rebel soldiers who were left.  The Bentonville Battle was fought on these grounds (that's why the home was taken over as a hospital).  We learned a little history and viewed a few other buildings on the property too.  Our relatives had moved away from North Carolina before the Civil War and were living in Missouri by this time.

We finally arrived home after seven busy days.  What the trip was really all about - FAMILIES ARE FOREVER. I'm grateful Becky was able to make the big trip to see her cousin's wedding and I'm glad I got to go too.

“When you look at your life

the greatest happiness

are family happinesses."

Dr. Joyce Brothers

"Thy Faith Hath Saved Thee"

Prayer was the focus of our lesson Sunday as we looked at the parable of the unjust judge and widow, the healing of a blind man, Zacchaeus receives Jesus in his home, and Lazarus is raised from the dead.  Prayer is a manifestation of our faith. We show through prayer that we look to God for help.  Our answers may come soon or late, but when they come (and they will come) our faith is strengthened.  We can be healed.  We can be whole.  He will direct and guide, strengthen, comfort, and perform miracles in each of our lives. For he loves everyone of us.  He wants to help, but we need to ask. Our thanking, our asking, shows our faith.  In turn, miracles happen and we feel the love of God.  I have no doubt.

"The passage of time has not altered the capacity of the Redeemer to change men's lives.  As he said to the dead Lazarus, so he says to you and me: '... come forth.' (John 11:43.)  Come forth from the despair of doubt.  Come forth from the sorrow of sin.  Come forth from the death of disbelief.  Come forth to a newness of life.  Come forth."

Thomas S. Monson
"The Paths Jesus Walked"
Ensign, May 1974, 50

My Shining Stars

Today I was able to attend Janna's final for her voice class.  Janna was a good show singing Gravity.  What a great experience she had.  I was inspired by her and the entire class plus Professor Jang.  It makes me want to take a singing class.

Janna at home after her performance.

In late April and early May, Tommy performed in the musical, My Turn on Earth.  It was a production popular in the 70's.  I had never seen it before.  I very much enjoyed the show.  Preparation for the production took a lot of  time.  It was a rewarding experience, but Tommy's glad to move on and focus on other things.

  Playing the part of John, Tommy(on the right)
with other cast members.

"As in Christ’s parable,

when we cultivate

the first talents God gives us,

he is ready to reveal more."

(See Matt. 25:15–21.)
The Visiting Teacher, "Talents are for Sharing",

Ensign, October 1993

"He Was Lost, and Is Found"

I got my feet wet Sunday.  It was my first time teaching Gospel Doctrine.  We covered the parables of "The Lost Sheep", "The Lost Coin", and "The Prodigal Son".  Everyone is precious in the sight of God.  He loves us all.  When we love like the Savior loves we become his true undershepherds.  We are then - off to the rescue!

Here are just part of the words of Hymn 221, "Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd," which I didn't share in the lesson, but definitely capsulizes the point:

Make us thy true undershepherds;

Give us a love that is deep

Send us out into the desert,

Seeking thy wandering sheep.

Out in the desert they wander,

Hungry and helpless and cold;

Off to the rescue we'll hasten,

Bringing them back to the fold.

Text:  Mary B. Wingate   Music:  William J. Kirkpatrick

"Ours is the responsibility to care for the flock, for the precious sheep, these tender lambs are everywhere to be found--at home in our families, in the homes of our extended families, and waiting for us in our Church callings.  Jesus is our Exemplar.  Said He, 'I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep' (John 10:14).  We have a shepherding responsibility.  May we each step up to serve." 

President Thomas S. Monson,
"Heavenly Homes, Forever Families"

Ensign, June 2006, 102

My Blog - My Notebook

I know, I know . . . . . when am I going to get back on the blogging bandwagon?  I'm all about blogging, but it just hasn't happened this year.  I've got lots of catching up to do.  Maybe, when I get done with my drawing class next week I'll have some time.  See, you didn't even know I was taking a drawing class.  Maybe, when I'm done substituting for the school year I'll blog. I have just a few weeks left and I've been working every day.  Whatever!  That's all coming to a close soon, but I do have some news.  I'm the new Gospel Doctrine teacher in my ward.  AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!  That ought to give me something to write about.  Not to mention, I went to North Carolina for a week . . . and the list goes on.  You'll be hearing from me soon.  I promise!

"Get a notebook...

write in it your goings and comings,

your deepest thoughts,

your accomplishments and failures,

your associations and your triumphs,

your impressions and your testimonies."

Spencer W. Kimball

"The Angels May Quote from It", Ensign, October 1975

Arizona Easter

Hugh and I ventured to Arizona this weekend (leaving our other children behind) to see our granddaughter, Ryan.  We saw Bill and Chelsea too.

Ryan, 2 years old - delightful and cute as can be.

Ryan, Chelsea, and others on a Saturday morning Easter Egg Hunt.
(Bill and Chelsea found out this weekend that they are having another girl.  She's due in September.)

Later Bill and Hugh went on a drive viewing the sights of Arizona.
(Bill's wearing a boot and using crutches.  He had surgery last month to repair his Achilles tendon.  He's on the mend.)

 It was a beautiful day to say the least.
(Hugh loves to drive and hike.)

It was a quick trip, but we're glad we took the opportunity.  We always have so much to do.  We are grateful we had a little break, but now we're back to our usual busyness.

“Vacation is what you take

when you can't take what you've been taking

any longer.”

--Anonymous

Mrs. Blair, Do You Cuss?

I'm always heartsick at the many sad lives of children that I encounter.  Sometimes it seems they are guided only by the negative in the world.  As much as we gripe about schools today, it is there that many children are exposed to something positive.  It might be the only place they find any good.

This conversation I share happened a few days ago. It was breakfast time at a junior high.  I was doing my usual get-to-know you stuff. I ask questions about how everyone is doing to stimulate some conversation.  I always try to see if I can remember every one's name.  And, I'm always promoting kindness and explaining how we should be good to each other.

7th Grader:  Hey, Mrs. Blair!  Do you cuss?

Me:  No.

7th Grader:  Never, ever?

Me:  Never, ever.

7th Grader:  Why not?

Me:  Because it isn't right.

7th Grader:  Do you cuss at your kids?

Me:  No.

7th Grader:  Even if they broke the television?

Me:  No!  I might not be happy about my television being broken, but I wouldn't cuss about it.

7th Grader:  Why don't you cuss at your kids?

Me.  I think cussing is wrong.  If I want to teach my children that it's wrong, then I need to set a good example. It's all about being respectful and kind.

7th Grader: (He looked at me with somewhat disbelief, shook his head and smiled.)

I found out later, from one of the para-educators I was working with, that they have a problem with this student cussing in class.  Interestingly, he never did it (at least around me) the three days I was there.

When I got home that day I told this story to my daughter, Cassie. She said, "That boy will remember that conversation forever." I hope so.

"Our speech reflects the kind of person we are, exposing our background and our way of life. It describes our thinking, as well as our inner feelings.

 

"Many times in our effort to refrain from improper speech, we find words to substitute. Sometimes they are so close to vulgar phrases everyone probably knows that we are substituting words and have not really improved our vocabulary."

"To anyone who has followed the practice of using profanity or vulgarity and would like to correct the habit, could I offer this suggestion? First, make the commitment to erase such words from your vocabulary. Next, if you slip and say a swear word or a substitute word, mentally reconstruct the sentence without the vulgarity or substitute word and repeat the new sentence aloud. Eventually you will develop a non-vulgar speech habit."

 Elder L. Tom Perry,"Thy Speech Reveals Thee,"New Era, August 1986, 7.)

OUCH!

Tommy's truck is no more.  For now he is without a vehicle, but we're counting our many blessings.  Monday, February 7th, he was out teaching his friend, Kellie, to drive a stick shift. She stalled at an intersection, no problem, just get it going again, but no time for that. A truck plowed into them from behind.  The driver admits, he simply wasn't paying attention. The impact launched Tommy's truck, but it was nothing short of a miracle that they didn't flip over or get killed. They're backs are hurting a bit, hopefully nothing serious.  WOW!  Tommy said, "I really thought we were going to die when I saw that truck coming at us."  So glad it turned out the way it did.

Click on the collage to get a closer look.

"He has set heavenly beings

to watch over us and to guard us

from the attacks of evil powers

while we live on earth."
Elder James E. Talmage 

35 Years!

My anniversary has come and gone, but I need to talk about it.  Hugh and I have been married 35 years, Feb. 12th.  I suppose a 35 year anniversary should be more eventful, but our life is so busy right now that we'll just have to squeeze the thrills in here and there to celebrate our landmark date.  We went to Dave's BBQ a week later.  We've got a little trip planned, but it's based around a family wedding (date still pending).  Do you see how we think?  It's like when we purchased a car last May, "Happy Mother's Day for the rest of your life!"  We needed the car so we fit the current event around it and make it count.  That's 35 years of such doings.  We usually go to the temple on our anniversary, but we're going this Friday, which makes it two weeks later.  Some fun thing will come our way sooner or later.  When it happens, I'll be saying, "Happy Anniversary for the rest of your life!"  In the meantime, can I say, I love my husband. And, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY (9 days later).  And, HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY (1 week later).  You're the BEST!

 

"The most important thing

a father can do

for his children

is to love their mother."

Theodore M. Hesburgh

Where Is She Now?

I haven't blogged in over a month.  What's up with that?  That's not a good sign!  This year isn't starting out very well.  Some of my goals need to be readdressed already.  I'm busy though and that's been the problem.  It seems I'm on the run every waking moment.  Between everything I need to do and want to do (if I get that far), I have been substitute teaching.  I also have been sick.

I won't bore you with my list of doings, but I look over the month and am surprised at the many things I accomplished and yet there is a lot that has gone to the wayside.  Keeping busy is a good thing - no reason to be idle, but I don't know that I can keep up my January pace.  Being sick has slowed me down.  I'm pondering my situation.  Balance and temperance are key words to live by.

"And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive."  Alma 7:23

"Learning to be temperate

in all things

is a spiritual gift

available

through the Holy Ghost."

 

Elder Kent D. Watson,

"Being Temperate in All Things",

Ensign, Nov. 2009, 38–39