Thursday, December 29, 2011

Prophet's Blessing

President Thomas S. Monson left us with these powerful words at the end of October 2011 Conference. I want to burn them into my heart and remember them forever.
"I bear testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He guides and directs His Church here upon the earth. I leave with you my witness and my testimony that God our Eternal Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He is personal and real. May we realize and understand how close to us He is willing to come, how far He is willing to go to help us, how much He loves us, and how much He does and is willing to do for us.
May He bless you. May His promised peace be with you now and always."

Monday, December 26, 2011

SavvySavings Book Review

Savvy $aving by Melissa Jennings and Shelly King, from the hit blog www.stockpilingmoms.com is a great way to get your family budget under control and give you peace of mind because you’ll never have to run to the store when company is coming again.
This book is easy to read, has great suggestions from coupon clipping to budgeting your spending dollar. It will help you with monthly menu planning. It gives you specific tips for savings at individual drug stores, grocery stores, specialty stores and mega superstores.
I love the little tips scattered generously throughout the book.
Blogs and web sites are suggested to augment your spending dollar. These authors include everything from twitter to your AAA card.
Check this book out. It’s worth its weight in gold, literally. I loved it. Christy

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

That of Most Worth

For many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you. . . .that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to . . . bring souls unto me. D&C 15:4,6

I ask myself this question daily. What will I do today to further God's kingdom? Genealogy, temple work, loving my children and grandchildren, giving to the needy in body and spirit?

What will you do?

Monday, December 19, 2011

Aassassination of Governor Boggs

“After an attempted assassination, Governor Lilburn Boggs couldn’t prove who’d taken a shot at him, leaving the identity of his assailant a mystery. Twenty-five years later and after the passing of Gov. Boggs, Detective Calvin Pogue has been hired by the Boggs family to open this cold case and find out the truth about the assassin. From Missouri to California and into the heart of the Utah territory, Detective Pogue relentlessly seeks clues that lead him to the legendary Mormon gunman Porter R ockwell—who still isn’t making things easy for anyone!” Back cover.
Anyone who loves good historical fiction and sleuthing fun will love this book. The characters are well-developed, and picturesque descriptions along with great imagery augment this delicious mystery. Miller’s subplots add depth to the story as he looks at all sides of the somewhat complex issue.
Rod Miller is a noted writer of the old west, and his style brings this story to life. The only things wanting as I read the novel were end notes and original-source references. As a student of history, I’m always looking to primary sources for more information.
This book will make a gift to the history buffs in your family. Happy reading!

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Fractured Light

I’m dying, I thought. This was unexpected and not at all how I envisioned my death. I was supposed to die gardening in a flowerbed as a hundred-year-old woman, not as a seventeen-year-old trapped in a lake beneath inches of ice.

Llona Reese is used to living on the run. After the Vykens killed her parents, she knew they would eventually come for her too. She can’t take any chances. But when she starts to make friends for the first time in her life, she gets careless and lets her guard down. Big mistake.

As an Aura, Llona can manipulate light and harness its energy. But if she wants to survive, Llona will have to defy the Auran Council and learn to use her power as a weapon against the Vyken whose sole desire is to take her light. Now she’s caught in something even bigger than she can understand, with a power she can’t wield, and no one she can trust, except, just maybe, a mysterious stranger.

In this breathtaking and romantic adventure, Rachel McClellan delivers a truly mesmerizing story that will keep you guessing to the very end.

Llona is a strong, compassionate protagonist that must learn to manage and work with her gift of light.As she becomes stronger this light is her survival weapon against the fear that haunts her.

The plot is fast-paced as the Auras and Vykens square off. Good story development and writing, along with a great dash of twists and turns to keep the readers attention.

YA readers will love this debut fantasy novel. Well done!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Carving With Angels

Carving with Angels is a delightful Christmas story. Yes, it’s about one of Santa’s elves. Elderly and blind, Papa Adam has given up on his great carving skill and life itself. All he can think about is his aches and pains and when dinner is coming—until a five-year-old Angel comes into his life.
Diane Tolley’s writing skill is superb. Especially cute is the conversation between Papa Adam and Dasher. She brings the reindeer to life with grunts, nudges and slobbery kisses which will enchant the entire family.
Papa Adam and his little Angel create a special surprise and save Christmas. But, more important than that they learn lessons about love, service, enduring to the end and the special gifts of forgotten handicapped elves. This charming book will delight young and old alike and will be a great addition to your Christmas collection.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Righteousness

“The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.” Isaiah 32:17

Monday, December 12, 2011

Friendship

I have some very dear friends that I've been with this past weekend. We have laughed and cried together. What a blessing love is in our lives. I bask in it's nurturing warmth.

Friendship is the breathing rose, with sweets in every fold.
Oliver Wendell Holmes

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Heritage

Heritage is passed heart to heart. Henry B. Eyring

When I read this quote, I had to think about it a little. The things I love about my grandmother and great-grandmother are the things I came to love. They both had a committment to the Savior; they both loved to read; they both lived by the Spirit.

It made me think about the things I'm teaching my grandchildren that are important to me. What is important to you? Are you passing your values on to those who come after you? I hope I am.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Carving with Angels

Carving Angels - Behind the Wood Shavings

I love a background story.
Just as I love the secondary characters in a movie.
Each adds . . . substance.
And, let's face it, the lead story and the lead characters have all been done to death. The world is looking for something fresh and new.
But who says that fresh and new can't be siphoned off of the old and overdone?
Carving Angels came from just such an idea.
I was looking at a picture of Santa Claus, riding in his famous sleigh.
Pulled by his equally famous reindeer.
And the thought struck me - 'Huh. I wonder where he got his sleigh?' It is such an integral part of the whole 'Santa' story, but no one has ever explained where it came from.
Did he mail order it?
The number of stamps alone would be mind-boggling.
Visit 'Sleighs R Us' on one of his weekend getaways to New York or places south?
Possible, but doubtful. For one thing, I've never seen a 'Sleighs R Us' store.
Even in Edmonton.
I sincerely doubt that one could find a Sears or Costco at the North Pole.
The only other solutions seemed to be either union-made (elves), or non-union 'constructed in someone's shop' (also elves).
Bingo.
I had my premise.
Santa's sleigh was constructed by elves.
Or more particularly, by an elf.
A very gifted elf.
But what kind of gifts?
A metal worker/welder?
I'm sure they have them in abundance at the North Pole. After all, who else could construct the plethora of things metal that appear under our tree on Christmas morning?
Okay, that's one possibility.
Computer whiz.
Handy, especially when it came to interior bells and whistles.
But, let's face it, a virtual sleigh, though it might look good on the silver screen, really couldn't pass muster when it came to actually carrying the big guy and serving as a repository for the all-important toys and gifts.
Computer whizzes - out.
Wait. What about a wood carver?
We're talking about a night spent in an open sleigh in sub-zero temperatures.
Okay, yes, I know that many of Santa's deliveries are to tropical and sub-tropical locales, but we should plan for the frozen-est, rather than the warm-est, right?
Moving on . . .
Hmm. Wood vs. metal.
Wood is so much warmer than metal.
Anyone who has done the all important/stupid frozen metal-tongue test (and I'm not saying I have) knows that wood, even when frozen solid, simply does not have the sticking power of super-cooled metal.
A definite plus for the wood argument.
Let's go with that.
So. A wood-carving elf.
Now, how can we make him (or her) special.
And at the same time make his (all right, I've decided he's a guy) accomplishment just a bit . . . tougher. Harder to imagine.
Or believe.
We'll give him a handicap.
Something to overcome.
Something that will make his achievement that much more astounding.
Age?
Good.
Infirmity?
Better.
Blind?
Perfect.
And we'll drag in his tiny little granddaughter because she is so sweet and cute and because she is equally handicapped by age.
And because we need someone to help on the rare occasions when our carver actually needs to 'see'.
So now, all we need is a bit of background: A former career as Santa's chief carver, followed by ten years of despair.
And the story is set.
Carving Angels is born.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Work

Work enables us to survive disappointments and tragedies of the mortal experience. Hard-earned achievement brings a sense of self-worth. Conference report Elder Todd Christofferson, November Ensign, 2010, p. 17.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Privilege of Work

“Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift, that power to work is a blessing, that love of work is success.” David O. McKay,

Monday, November 28, 2011

Work

I love this quote from Daughters in My Kingdom. It says just what I feel. I love thinking that I am part of the branch.

“If we only half do our work we will have no pleasure, if we do it from a sense of duty we will have no joy but if we feel we are a branch of this vine, and that our Father in Heaven has felt us to be worthy to be a member of that branch, and that we can carry this work when it is here to do, then we will have joy.” Louise Y. Robison, 7th General Relief Society President, RS Magazine, Nov 1933, 649. Daughters in My Kingdom, p. 70.

Friday, November 25, 2011

Be like Him

48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.
Moroni 7:48

This is one of my favorite scriptures.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Charity

45 And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—
47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.

Moroni 7:45 - 47

I have a friend who just has a stroke. Her physical body is fine, but she can't talk or read. I can see the frustration in her face. She thinks it inside, but can't say it. I have to guess what she's thinking. How hard that must be for her. Feelings of love and charity boil out of me for her. I hope I can always have charity.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Meekness

43 And again, behold I say unto you that he cannot have faith and hope, save he shall be meek, and lowly of heart.
44 If so, his faith and hope is vain, for none is acceptable before God, save the meek and lowly in heart; and if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and confesses by the power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ,
Mormoni 7:43 - 44
Sometimes I don't feel meek. I'm working on meek this week. To me it means a soft heart. I hope I have one. I'm trying.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Faith and Meekness

38 For no man can be saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name; wherefore, if these things have ceased, then has faith ceased also; and awful is the state of man, for they are as though there had been no redemption made.
39 But behold, my beloved brethren, I judge better things of you, for I judge that ye have faith in Christ because of your meekness; for if ye have not faith in him then ye are not fit to be numbered among the people of his church.
Moroni 7:38-39

I love this scripture because I don't usually think of Faith and Meekness together. I'm going to remember this concept this week. If I am meek, maybe my faith will grow stronger.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

God's Perspective

God's creations are numberless. The vastness of his handiwork is great. Yet, His work and His glory is to bring to pass our individual exaltation.

"This is a paradox of man: compared to God, man is nothing; yet we are everything to God." Uchtdorf Conference Address

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Carving with Angels

Carving with Angels is a delightful Christmas story. Yes, it’s about one of Santa’s elves. Elderly and blind, Papa Adam has given up on his great carving skill and life itself. All he can think about is his aches and pains and when dinner is coming—until a five-year-old Angel comes into his life.
Diane Tolley’s writing skill is superb. Especially cute is the conversation between Papa Adam and Dasher. She brings the reindeer to life with grunts, nudges and slobbery kisses which will enchant the entire family.
Papa Adam and his little Angel create a special surprise and save Christmas. But, more important than that they learn lessons about love, service, enduring to the end and the special gifts of forgotten handicapped elves. This charming book will delight young and old alike and will be a great addition to your Christmas collection.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Gordon B. HInkley Quotes

Here are some 'wisdom quotes' to help all of us live a better life.

"Life is to be enjoyed, not endured"
- Gordon B. Hinckley

Respect for self is the beginning
of cultivating virtue in men and women.
- Gordon B. Hinckley

"You can be smart and happy or stupid and miserable. . .
it's your choice"
- Gordon B. Hinckley

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Gordon B. Hinkley Quotes

President Hinkley had such wonderful common sense.

Our kindness may be the most persuasive argument
for that which we believe.
- Gordon B. Hinckley

I am totally in the hands of the Lord.
- Gordon B. Hinckley

"Good books are as friends,
willing to give to us if we are willing to make a little effort."
- Gordon B. Hinckley

Monday, October 31, 2011

President Gordon B. Hinkley

I've just been reviewing some of President Hinkley's quotes. What a great man he was. He had a way of saying this concisely and right to the point. This week I'll share a few of my favorite.

Without hard work,
nothing grows but weeds.
- Gordon B. Hinckley

"Get on your knees and pray, then get on your feet and work."
- Gordon B. Hinckley

"If Life Gets Too Hard To Stand, Kneel."
- Gordon B. Hinckley

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Christ

In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Psalms 62:7

Beautiful blessings, beautiful poetry, beautiful chiasmus.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

The Lord

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalms 27:14

This says so much in so few words. May I keep these words close to my heart.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Christ

One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Psalms 27:4 - 5

David's great testimony of the Savior inspires me. What love and protection we have from Him, who is my Lord and Savior.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

The Covenant

The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. Psalms 25:14

Sometimes my gratitude for my covenants with the Lord is overwhelming. What a blessing they are in my life.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Testimony

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
12 For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield. Psalms 5:11 - 12

What a strong testimony David had. May mine be the same.

Monday, October 17, 2011

David

I love thinking and pondering about David and his life. He was a very talented man. His artistic talents are admired by many. He had the ability to reflect deeply on life. I'd like to share some of my favorite Psalms, that he probably wrote, in the coming days.

Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; . . . Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Psalms 3:7 - 8

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Failure

Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.
- Truman Capote

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Faith

"yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them." Alma 56:47

How strong is my faith? Does it ever waver? May I seek God and come to know He will deliver me.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Dreams

Those who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night.
- Edgar Allan Poe

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Blessings

I just spent the afternoon with a group of people that are as dear to me as life itself. They are kind, loving, fun, happy and caring.

"Let brotherly love continue. . .for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." Hebrews 13:1 - 2

Being with these wonderful men and women is like being with angels. What a blessing to have angels in my life!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Roses

I love my rose garden this time of year. When other flowers are wilting and at the end of their existence, my roses are vibrant and strong. They will weather the winter storms and bring their beauty to the world again in the spring.

Trials and thorns litter my path, but the beauty of the journey is worth passing by through the hard times.

But he who dares not grasp the thorn
Should never crave the rose.
- Anne Brontë

Monday, October 3, 2011

Patience

If you are irritated by every rub, how will your mirror be polished?
- Rumi

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Families

When Moroni raised the title of liberty, he said this:

In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole. Alma 46:12

I'm glad he mentioned families. My family means so much to me. They are my life. True joy comes from the time we spend together and the love we share.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

God's Protection

"And they shall go out from all nations; and . . . I will go before them."

Why do I love this scripture? Because of our missionary grandson in Argentina? Because I love that the gospel is spreading over the whole earth? Because I love my God? Because God will protect those I love, and me.

Maybe all these reasons. Maybe more reasons I haven't even thought of yet. All I know is that I love this scripture.

Monday, September 26, 2011

What Do You Live For?

Everything that lives, lives not alone, nor for itself.

-William Blake

What do you live for? Sometimes I ask myself this question. The answers have varied in my life.
My religion
My family
My children
My husband
Myself
And now my writing

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Contest Winner

Judy has won the September Blog Contest! She receives "Tales from Huntsville Eden and Liberty and Beyond." Congratulations Judy!

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Writing

I just finished reading Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan. It was published in 1942 by Dutton. The book is still in print! It's a World War II thriller where the children outwit the Germans.

What a legacy to write something that children have enjoyed for almost 70 years.

Sometimes I imagine being in that magical space of a child's imagination, engaging a child in a story he can't put down. If I could do that even once or twice, I would feel well paid for my writing.

Friday, September 23, 2011

Life

Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect.

- Margaret Mitchell

Sometimes I would love to order the world as I would like it to be, but I'm not in charge. And I really don't want to be. That's too much responsibility for me :)

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Contest

Welcome to the September Blog Hop! Celebrate the beginning of fall with me and my blogger friends by hopping around, visiting our sites, and entering our contests! There are no limits - you can enter the contest on every blog. With over 40 blogs participating, that's over 40 prizes you could win. Just click on the links below to move on to the next blog.

On my blog, you can win …

A book of ghostly "Tales from Huntsville, Eden and Liberty."

Would you like to win this prize? You just need to do two things.

1. Become a follower of this blog.

2. Leave me a comment in the trail and tell me why you'd like to win this prize.

That's it! You are now entered. The contest ends on Saturday night, September 24th, at midnight MST, and the winner will be contacted shortly thereafter. Please either leave your e-mail address in the comment trail or make sure it's visible through your profile so I can contact you to tell you that you're the lucky winner.

Now go visit my other friends ...

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Friends

Sometimes our light goes out, but is blown again into instant flame by an encounter with another human being.

Albert Schweitzer

When my light gets dim (I don't think it ever goes completely out) I organize a day with dear, dear friends. Last Thursday I met a group at the temple and enjoyed every minute with them. It's a peaceful place to be with those you love, and then we laughed and talked over lunch.

In the eveying I met my writing group. They are the greatest people in the world because they keep my head on straight (and it has a tendency to get crooked at times). I trust their judgment and feedback on my stories above all else.

What a gift I've been given to associate with those who help me become better than my best self.

How do you keep your light bright?

Monday, September 19, 2011

Gifts

My business is not to remake myself, but to make the absolute best of what God made.
-Robert Browning

I found this the other day, and it rings true for me. I love writing, giving service, working hard and many other things. I can enhance the gifts I've been given, but not become someone different.

Who are you? What are your gifts? Make the best of them.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Your Truth

The moment we begin to fear the opinions of others and hesitate to tell the truth that is in us, . . . the divine floods of light . . . no longer flow into our souls. 

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Compassion

If you have no compassion for yourself then you are not capable of developing compassion for others. ~ Dalai Lama

Monday, September 12, 2011

The Spirit

3 Nephi 12:2  
blessed are they who shall believe in your words.  Yea, blessed are they who shall believe in your words, and come down into the depths of humility and be baptized, for they shall be visited with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and shall receive a remission of their sins.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

The Spirit

Eliza R. Snow, “The Spirit “satisfies and fills up every longing on the human heart, and fills up every vacuum.  . .  And is it not our privilege to so live that we can have this constantly flowing into our souls?” Daughters in my Kingdom: The History and Work of Relief Society (2011), 46. 

My constant goal and prayer is that I can do this in my life. Sometimes I am more successful than other times, but the blessing is always before me, and I try not to forget it. Daily scripture study keeps it always in my mind. 

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Listening

Sometimes I just need to quit complaining and listen.

That happened to the people in 3rd Nephi 10:2. There had been darkness and destruction upon all the land, and they heard a voice. The people were so astonished that they: "did cease lamenting and howling for the loss of their kindred . . . there came a voice again unto the people, and all the people did hear, and did witness of it, saying: . . . how oft have I gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and have nourished you." 3 Nephi 10:2 - 4

And again the third time they did hear the voice, and did open their ears to hear it; and their eyes were towards the sound thereof; and they did look steadfastly towards heaven, from whence the sound came.
3 Nephi 11:5
What a blessing it is to have the capacity to listen. I will listen more diligently in my life.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Comfort

When my children have trials, where do I turn for comfort? Will they turn also?

I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:18

Monday, August 29, 2011

Comfort

In my need I find comfort in this scripture. Do I have faith to really believe it?

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive  Matthew 21:22

Saturday, August 27, 2011

All Things Come from God

Sometimes I forget this and am reminded in my want. Oh, that I might keep this thought with me forever.

Wherefore, all things which are good cometh of God Moroni 7:12

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

All Things

When I am discouraged, I love reading this scripture. It comforts me.

. . . but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever. Alma 26:12

Monday, August 22, 2011

Temple Time

When we do a family reunion, we like to spend some time in the temple. We took everyone to the Idaho Falls Temple this year. The love being together doing baptisms for the dead. We adults had a great time participating in other ordinances.

It seems like the Spirit draws us together with more love than we had before. I am so grateful for the love of family. Wwhat a blessing!

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Family Reunions

Family reunions are a lot of fun, but they are also a lot of work for the person organizing them. I love my kids because they are really good help. Everyone pitches in to do their part.

We love to play together. This year we took everyone to Yellowstone Park. What a fun place to be! The teenagers had so much fun together. They all piled into one car. We followed behind them and could see them laughing and joking with each other. What fun memories!

Monday, August 15, 2011

In Christ We Can Do All Things

Paul is in prison, but does not complain.

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
12  I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13  I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:1113

In Christ we can do all things.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

In The World

God will not take us out of the world.

I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. John 17:15

Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full. Section 101:36

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Trust in the Lord

False Assumption #2 We can Trust in Our Own Efforts

            For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do. 2 Nephi 25:23

And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done?  Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. 2 Nephi 31:19

Monday, August 8, 2011

Be of Good Cheer

False Assumption #1 We can Avoid Tribulation
For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.
7  And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8  For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  2 Corinthians 12:69

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Be of Good Cheer

I just read an article by Camille Fronk Olson in the July Ensign, 2011. She talked about finding happiness in our lives.

And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.
 Matthew 9:2

And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
27  But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
Matthew 14:26 - 27

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Nourishment

During this time when I'm not going to the temple two days each week, I must guard myself to keep my testimony growing. Each day I must take time for spiritual renewing each day. The seed is still good. I must continually nourish and strengthen my testimony.

But if ye neglect the tree, and take no thought for its nourishment, behold it will not get any root; and when the heat of the sun cometh and scorcheth it, because it hath no root it withers away, and ye pluck it up and cast it out.
39
(Book of Mormon | Alma 32:38 - 39)
Now, this is not because the seed was not good, neither is it because the fruit thereof would not be desirable; but it is because your ground is barren, and ye will not nourish the tree, therefore ye cannot have the fruit thereof.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Light versus Dark

I have always known that light is stronger than dark, but I came upon a scripture than shows it so poignantly that I wanted to share it.

And it came to pass that the Lamanites did hunt the band of robbers of Gadianton; and they did preach the word of God among the more wicked part of them, insomuch that this band of robbers was utterly destroyed from among the Lamanites.
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We can irradicate our "wicked" parts by immersing ourselves in the word of God. What a blessing!
Book of Mormon | Helaman 6:37 - 38)
And it came to pass on the other hand, that the Nephites did build them up and support them, beginning at the more wicked part of them, until they had overspread all the land of the Nephites, and had seduced the more part of the righteous until they had come down to believe in their works and partake of their spoils, and to join with them in their secret murders and combinations.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Friends

As I serve with dear sisters in the temple, I have grown to love them dearly. They are like family to me. Our temple is closed so I haven't seenn some of them for quite a while. I met a few of them the other day in the Bountiful Temple.

I miss them so much I felt like crying I was so happy to see them. We picked up right where we left off a few months ago. What a blessing friendship is. Heavenly Father has given us a lot of blessings, but friendship is one of the greatest.

The greatest friend we have is the Savior
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12
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(New Testament | John 15:10 - 14)
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Thanksgiving

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. D&C 78:19

I would that ye should do . . .  all things with prayer and thanksgiving. D&C 46:7

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Death

A dear friend who worked with us doing compassionate service at the hospital as just died. She was ill two weeks ago when I was out of town. She was in intensive care at the hospital and was sent home to die. When I got back and found out about it, I felt sick. I was so sad inside and it all felt so sudden. I couldn't see her, but I was able to talk to her on the phone.

I was impressed by her peacefulness. She was looking forward to being with her husband who had been gone quite a few years. A hint of excitement and anticipation was in her voice. She will truely die unto the Lord.

I will miss my friend, but I know she lives in a better place.

She believes as Martha:
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.
(

New Testament | John 11:25 - 26)

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Sunbeams

I spent some time with dear friends in the temple this week. (I really LOVE doing that.) We were talking about the church callings we enjoyed most. My favorite is teaching the Sunbeams in Primary.

They are so cute and little and innocent and love to listen to what you say. They have such wonderful ways of doing things and say such funny things.

Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

(New Testament | Matthew 18:4 - 5)
And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Summer is being with family

These next couple of weeks are crazy. We have a grandson that will be blessed in Phoenix, and daughter that may have back surgery in Portland, Oregon, and children and grandchildren coming to visit inbetween.

Aren't families wonderful? I LOVE spending time with all of them. They are the light of my life.

Remember, O Lord . . . thy church, that thy right hand may exalt them, with all their families, and their immediate connections, that their names may be perpetuated and had in everlasting remembrance from generation to generation. Remember all thy church, O Lord, with all their families, and all their immediate connections, with all their sick and afflicted ones, with all the poor and meek of the earth; that the kingdom, which thou hast set up without hands, may become a great mountain and fill the whole earth;
(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 109:71 - 72)

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Pioneers

Brigham Young's door was always open to those around him. Heber J. Grant records:“I was almost as familiar in the homes of President Brigham Young as I was in the home of my own mother. In one home … if I was hungry I felt as free to go in and ask for something to eat there as in my own home. … I knelt down time and time again in his home in the Lion House at family prayers, as a child and as a young man.” 

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Gratitude

At this time of year, I'm especially grateful for my pioneer heritage. I do love the devotion of the pioneers of the Church. As I am writing about John  Taylor, I know he didn't have many nails to build his house or many matches to lite a fire. All the little things we take forgranted--things we don't even  give a second thought to were precious to them.

That first winter the pioneers supplemented their meager diet with sego lily and camus bulbs. They added thistle root when they could find it. How many of us would even consider eating those things now? I don't know if I would.

What faith they must have had to endure the trials before them.

Bathsheba Smith records that she swept the floor of her home in Nauvoo and set the broom in its accustomed place behind the door and walked into the unknown to journey west where her faith in God could grow.

I am grateful for her testimony.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Divinity

“Man, as the offspring of God, is the greatest of all his creations.  He is greater than the moon, the sun, and the stars, which are the work of the fingers of God.”  Joseph Fielding Smith, quoted by Bruce R. Mc Conkie.

Do I know of my divinity? My greatness? At times I capture a glance of it fleetingly, but mostly I can’t comprehend it. How about you?

Monday, July 4, 2011

Testimony

And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
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I love this scripture. It is one of my favorites. When I read it, I can feel it's power, and I am grateful.
Doctrine and Covenants | Section 76:22 - 23)
For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Testimony

I have just been getting ready for a granddaughter's baptism. I have collected written testimonies from all our family and will give them to her in a small booklet so she can read them whenever she wishes. I've also gathered testimonies from her ancestors that were converted to the church.

As I put the booklet together, I feel such overwhelming gratitude for the strength of our family. I am thankful to be so blessed to belong to such valiant spirits of our Father in Heaven. What a great gift. It is more precious than anything else on the earth.

Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.
(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 62:3)

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Power

Power shall rest upon thee; thou shalt have great faith, and I will be with thee and go before they face. D&C 39:12

What a blessing to know that the Lord will go before me.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Loved Ones

I met a dear friend at the temple this week. I haven’t seen her for a few years, and it was so good to renew our love for each other. She is happy, upbeat and full of testimony and spirit. Her life has not been easy, and that has given her strength. It was an inspiration for me to bask in the maturity of her spirit.

She talked of angels being with her. Our conversation caused me to wonder about my own life. Do I acknowledge the angels in my life—on both sides of the veil. There are many times I feel their presence.

D&C 38:1, 2, 7 “I am . . . the same which knoweth all things, for all things are present before mine eyes; . . . I am in your midst and ye cannot see me.”

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Service

Usually I show my love of God and my willingness to keep the commandments through service to others.

I always ask myself what I have done to help those around me? What is your answer today? What is my answer.

A Boy Scout is to do a good turn daily.  I like that motto and try to live by it.

Man is a knot into which relationships are tied. –Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Live by Covenant

"When we live by covenant rather than by convenience, we direct our lives toward our heavenly home."

Elder Donald L. Hallstrom

Heavenly Father is with us.

Read this this morning. It's my mantra for the day.

D&C 38:1, 2, 7 “I am . . . the same which knoweth all things, for all things are present before mine eyes; . . . I am in your midst and ye cannot see me.”

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Service

St. Frances of Assissi said "Preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words."

Monday, June 20, 2011

A Willing Heart

A dear friend's granddaughter was baptized today. The new convert is a young adult that has just blossomed as she has studied the gospel.

I shared with her today the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 64:34: "Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind..."

The Savior told us "Thou shalt love the Lord they God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." Matthew 22:37.

My grandmother was baptized in the Spree River in Berlin, Germany, the end of January. It was freezing cold, and she was wet--chilled through, but she had a willing heart. I'm grateful for her willing heart. She has given me a great gift.

Will I pass my gift of a willing heart on to those around me and those who follow after me? I hope through my actions that I will.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Reunion

We'll have our family reunion in August. We'll begin by going to a nearby temple so that all those over the age of 12 can participate in an ordinance.

It will take some travel, 'baby sitting' arrangements, and extra food assignments, but it's worth it.

I am grateful for the opportunity of teaching my children and grandchildren to love the temple.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

True Joy

Our youngest daughter and her husband took their four-year-old son to a nearby temple open house. It was a ways away. They had to travel and stay over night, but they wanted this child to experience the sacred spirit of the temple and this was a good opportunity.

As a grandparent, I am so very grateful for the testimonies of these good parents. I love them for it. What greater joy could we have in our lives than righteous posterity.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

The Temple as a Testimony

As I entered the Bountiful Temple yesterday, I thought of my father who has been dead for over sixty years. I know he is near and that he loves me. I've known that all my life. Each time I'm in the temple, I think of him and his influence over me. I think he has been as great an influence from the other side as he would have been had he lived.

"Each of our temples is an expression of our testimony that life beyond the grave is as real and as certain as is our life here on earth." Thomas S. Monson

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

The Temple as a Beacon

I love to see the temple.

"Each one [temple] stands as a beacon to the world, an expression of our testimony that God, our Eternal Father, lives, that He desires to bless us." Thomas S. Monson

Monday, June 13, 2011

Temple Attendance

President Joseph F. Smith said,

"Through our efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall from them [ those beyond the veil], and the darkness surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine upon them and they shall hear in the spirit world of the work that has been done for them by their children here, and will rejoice with you in your performance of these duties."

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Temples

I love the temple. One reason is because I feel the Spirit so strongly there.

"Temples are more than stone and mortar.  They are filled with faith and fasting. They are built of trials and testimonies. They are sanctified by sacrifice and service." Thomas S. Monson

Saturday, June 11, 2011

The Temple

Found this quote on the Brigham City Temple page. Went to the Salt Lake Temple yesterday. I love the spirit of that building.
 
"I know your lives are busy. I know that you have much to do. But I make you a promise that if you will go to the house of the Lord, you will be blessed; life will be better for you."
—Gordon B. Hinckley

Friday, June 10, 2011

Be of Good Cheer

President Thomas S. Monson has said:
"I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sistain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments . . . My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith."

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Our Battles

The battles we and our children have today are varied. Satan creeps into our lives in many ways. God promises to save our children.

And I, the Lord, would fight their battles, and their children's battles, and their children's children's, until they had avenged themselves on all their enemies, to the third and fourth generation.
(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:37)

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

The Lord will Fight our Battles

The Lord has promised to save our children. What greater blessing could we have!

Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.
(Old Testament | Isaiah 49:25)

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Faith

If we are faithful, God promises us blessings more than we can receive.

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.(Old Testament | Malachi 3:10)

Monday, June 6, 2011

Love

Several of the sisters I met with in the temple had difficult trials during the past year. One had both her knees replaced, yet she could kneel. Another had by-pass surgery, yet she talked of working in her yard. A third was in a head-on collision when an oncoming driver fell asleep at the wheel and came across the median. She is fine, but her pinky on her right hand doesn't work as well as it could.

All of these sisters bless the lives of others, even through their own trials.

Therefore, he giveth this promise unto you, with an immutable covenant that they shall be fulfilled; and all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name's glory, saith the Lord.
(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:3)

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Light

This week I met with dear friends of mine in the temple. To be with loved ones who add light to your life and to be in a place of light fills one with feelings of great joy. God has promised us all things if we have faith and believe.

And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.
(Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:88)

Saturday, June 4, 2011

The Temple

I find joy in many things in my life, but one of my greatest joys comes from serving in the temple. I not only love bringing blessings to others, but I bask in the goodness of my fellow workers. They are wonderful righteous servants of our Father in Heaven, and I am grateful for the light they bring to my life.

Friday, June 3, 2011

Enriching our lives

“It is not what we receive that enriches our lives, it is what we give.” George Albert Smith

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Service

"May we show our love and appreciation for the Savior’s atoning sacrifice through our simple, compassionate acts of service." M. Russell Ballard

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Giving

·         "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." Winston Churchill

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Service

Send out in abundance and abundance will return to you.

"For that which ye do send out shall return unto you again." Alma 41:15

Monday, May 30, 2011

Doing Good

I just reread President Eyring's talk in the last Ensign. I hope and pray that I can do a small measure of good each day. I want to help make the world a better place so this week my quotes will concern service, which I know I spend a lot of time talking about, but I do love giving.

"A person cannot give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return." Melvin J. Ballard.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Joy

I embrace joy daily; it replenishes my soul.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Light

I hasten toward the light; it nurtures my spirit.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Children of our Father

 Matthew 5: 44-45 "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven:"
 

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Children

Psalms 127:3 "Children are an heritage of the LORD."

Even if they are up a good part of the night, I will be grateful.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Children

Psalms 82:6 "Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the most high."

I am grateful for my heritage.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

New Baby

Our new grandchild is tiny and precious and smells so sweet. Heaven is all around him.

I Samuel 2:21. "And the child . . . grew before the Lord."

This child will grow before the Lord, and I am grateful.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Abundance

Epicurus - “Not what we have But what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance.”  

Friday, May 20, 2011

Abundance

Wayne Dyer - “Everything you need you already have. You are complete right now, you are a whole."

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Abundance

Therefore, will I not make solitary places to bud and to blossom, and to bring forth in abundance? saith the Lord. D&C 117:7

Am I not at times like a solitary place?

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Abundance

Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days. D&C 64:34

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Abundance

The fulness of the earth is yours, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the air, and that which climbeth upon the trees and walketh upon the earth; D&C 59:16

Monday, May 16, 2011

Abundance

We have a new grandson in our family. He wasn't due until the end of May, but he was anxious to begin his new life and made his grand entrance yesterday. We have all rearranged our lives to welcome him here. He is precious, perfect and reminds me of the abundance of love in my life.

"For that which ye do send out shall return unto you again, and be restored." Alma 41:15

As we love him, he will love us and others. Love will abound.

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Meekness

Are we better than our Lord? I search daily for meekness in my own heart.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29

Friday, May 13, 2011

Humility, My Companion

I cannot follow this scripture unless I have humility as my companion.

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Colossians 3:17

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Humility

before honour is humility. Proverbs 15:33
 

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Anger

When I am irritated with someone else, I think of this scripture because I think, in anger, we put ourselves above another. I try to remember my brethren (especially those close to me) with mercy. This scripture helps me.

Alma 38:14 Do not say: O God, I thank thee that we are better than our brethren; but rather say: O Lord, forgive my unworthiness, and remember my brethren in mercy—yea, acknowledge your unworthiness before God at all times.

Then I am able to remember my own unworthiness before God. I reconnect with my humility.
 

Monday, May 9, 2011

Small things

Mother Teresa - “There are no great things, only small things with great love. Happy are those.”

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Small things

 Mother Teresa - “We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Small things

All great things are only a number of small things that have been carefully collected together. Unknown

Friday, May 6, 2011

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Small things

Be positive in all your relationship, expecially with small things

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Small things

Even the largest avalance is truggered by small things.Vernor Vinge

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Small things

The true and strong mind is the one that can embrace equally great and small things. Johnson

Small things

it being a small voice it did pierce them that did hear to the center, insomuch that there was no part of their frame that it did not cause to quake; yea, it did pierce them to the very soul, and did cause their hearts to burn.
(Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 11:3)

Monday, May 2, 2011

Small things

And it came to pass that as my father [Lehi] arose in the morning, and went forth to the tent door, to his great astonishment he beheld upon the ground a round ball of curious workmanship; and it was of fine brass. And within the ball were two spindles; and the one pointed the way whither we should go into the wilderness. 1 Nephi 16:10

. . .And there was also written upon them a new writing, which was plain to be read, which did give us understanding concerning the ways of the Lord; and it was written and changed from time to time, according to the faith and diligence which we gave unto it. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things. 1 Nephi 16:29.

Faith can bring about great things.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Small Things

I was reading my scriptures this morning in Alma 37 where Alma is giving his son Helaman the plates. In verse six, he tells Helaman that "by small and simple things are great things brought to pass." If he keeps the plates, which he does, what great thing have come to pass from that? How much joy has the Book of Mormon brought to the world?

So I've been thinking about the small and simple things in my life. The millions of meals I have cooked have sustained me and my family. The little time I spend reading my scriptures daily, sustains me and fills me with love and the Spirit. Spading up my rose garden brings me beauty all summer long and memories through the long winter.

Think of the small things you do daily. How do they impact the big picture of your life?