In the Family and Church History Mission there is a definite rule: No falling! But unfortunately there are times that the planets align in the wrong way and falling is required. I experienced that last Monday leaving the elevator of the JSMB after work.
We were in a hurry because we had been in a meeting that ran us later than we had wanted to and my mother was waiting for us to pick her up to go workout. Ed and I were talking as the elevator doors opened and we quickly walked out. I took two steps and on the third step my shoe found the lone grape on the marble floor, probably dropped as part of a child's healthy snack but had no health benefits for me. I went down so fast!! The right foot shot out, I came down on my left knee then to my left side with my left arm stretched out in front of me with such force that part of my wedding rings flew off my finger! I heard a crack as I went down coming from my foot...."oh no", I thought, "not my right foot!" My first words out loud were, "Ed, get my rings!"
I stayed down for a few minutes waiting for the pain in my right foot to come. It didn't seem too bad! I wondered if I could walk but the more immediate question was, can I get up? Fortunately I had gone down right next to the down staircase so the railing was next to me. I was able to pull myself up and put weight on my foot......it was not too bad. Okay....the next question was, could I walk? As I stood up I could tell that there was something on the bottom of the shoe. I took it off and discovered the grape, greenish, clear stuff stuck in the bottom of my shoe. I asked Ed to clean it off before I walked anywhere and then I noticed the floor. There was greenish, clear stuff in several unnoticeable spots.
At this point I noticed that there were about a half dozen people standing around me. Some of them were cute teenage girls. I smiled and told them I was fine and, trying to make a joke, I asked the girls if I had gone down gracefully. They were saying yes as my dear husband came up with my shoe and just flatly told me, "No, it was not graceful!" The girls and their mother then moved on so I don't really know if I kept any dignity at all with this fall. I will have to wait for the "video in the sky" to see myself. That's okay, I can wait.
We decided that we should go into the host office and report the mess on the floor and let me sit down for a few minutes. It was at this point that the hostesses realized that I had fallen on their floor and that it was because there was something there and that it was still there. Just as that sunk in I turned around to tell them where the grape remains were and the elevator door opened with a sea of tourists getting off. I couldn't help myself and I yelled, "No, no, be careful!!" One of the hostesses headed out with tissues to clean it up before someone else fell and the other hostess must have called security because at that moment the first of three security men came through the door. It was magical! They came out of the woodwork! Where were these ninja-like men? They are invisible! I made the woodwork comment and they all smiled.....I made them very happy that day.
One of the security guys handed me a little ice pack. The other got out a little notebook and started asking me questions while he looked at my foot. As we looked down, we could see the swelling begin on the top of my foot. I was happy I wasn't feeling the pain I know goes with a badly sprained ankle. (I had experienced that on a family vacation one year with my left ankle. It was horrible pain.) But it was swelling none-the-less so we discussed what my options were for getting it looked at by medical personnel. The cute ninja man who seemed to be in charge (with the notebook) squatted down next to me and said calmly, "You have several options. You could go to the hospital on your own or we could call the paramedics and they could see you here right now." I asked if there was someone on the Square who would come and he looked at me with no change of expression and said, "No, when we call they bring the very large fire engine, the ambulance and all the other trucks with them." ^_^
I told him we would take care of it ourselves.
We were in and out of the emergency room quite quickly with an xray confirmation that the foot was not broken but that I should stay off of it for about a week and ice it every day for 20 min. an hour. (Yeah, that worked well into my schedule!)
Ed drove me each day to and from work. I iced my foot each night after returning home for the evening. I didn't get to do some of the things that we had planned for the week, but that was just fine. I believed then and believe now that I was given another blessing as a missionary in that my foot was not badly sprained or broken and that over the week it has healed rapidly.
On a happier note, we were able to go to the wonderful Pioneer Celebration put on by the Tabernacle Choir last Friday night. It was more about honoring our military past and present. It was very well done. We were surprised and touched to see our friend's daughter as one of the people who spoke about her service in the military in Afganistan. She spoke so well and told of her love for the people, especially the children there and how touched all the troops were when they left that little city and watched as the children waved goodbye and held up an American flag. After her taped interview was over she came out on stage in her dress blues and her mother came down from her choir seat and they embraced and stood for the applause of the crowd. What a grand moment for them both to hear the love, admiration and gratitude from 20,000 people in the Conference Center. It was very touching.
I have thought so much this week about sacrifice. I have been reading "Fire in the Bones" by Michael Wilcox. It is about William Tyndale, the "father of the English Bible". He was hunted and eventually tortured and killed for translating the Bible into English so the common man could read the words of the Savior. He is the one who said, "If God spare my life, ere many years I will cause a boy that driveth the plough shall know more of the scripture than thou dost. (William Tyndale, to Gloucestershire Cleric)
Even as we celebrate the pioneers coming across the plains of this country 164 years ago, I know that there were many people throughout history who were moved upon by the Spirit to do things that were contrary to the times but crucial in the shaping of events to help bring the gospel of Jesus Christ into the lives of the people of the world. Many, many people gave their lives in ways that we are often oblivious to. These sacrifices are still going on today as the gospel is taken to the peoples of the world. I am so grateful for them all.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Sunday, July 17, 2011
27 Years Together
Many of those who knew us from the beginning in Long Beach, Calif may not have believed it, but we have made it another year and we are still best friends! On Thursday we celebrated by going to work and serving in our zone, exercising together and then dinner. We went for big thick steaks since that's what we kind of miss from home. Although the steaks were good it didn't satisfy our taste buds. We will have to wait to get home. Ed gave me some beautiful red roses on Wednesday evening. We are happy to be here celebrating together while we serve the Lord. Friday morning we took our Temple and Research Day and went to the Jordan River Temple because Salt Lake is still closed. It sounds like we have been married a long time, but decided that it doesn't seem like very long because we were old enough when we got married that we remember what our lives were like before we were married. This is much better.
We continue to be busy and we feel like we are getting more accomplished each day. We had a new young Elder join us this week. He is very good and we like him a lot. He is from Baltimore but his parents are Nigerian so he can help us with the Nigerian records we have. He also speaks French and he loves languages so he will be helping on the Norway project. Additionally, the FH Library is very excited to be able to use him in the evenings on the international floor to help with French. The Lord gives us the help that is needed.
Our elevators have been out twice again this week so I guess the Lord figures we can use the exercise. I'm so happy to be living on the 8th floor but it is a long way to go when you have to do it coming home from work to change to go and workout at the gym and then again when you come home after working out..... oh my!! I guess that kind of help wasn't "needed" for me.
I did experienced a little tender mercy from the Lord myself this week. It may sound funny, but I was struggling to get some Malaysian records copied and ready to give to one of our missionaries who is ready for a new project. These typed sheets from the 70's were typed in Malaysia using the European sized paper so I need to reduce the original to make a copy and then create a pdf and jpeg files to put online. I couldn't get the machine to do it! The secretary who normally helps is gone to have a baby and there was no one who could help me. I left work that evening very frustrated that I couldn't figure out a copy machine! (I used to sell them a long time ago) But I prayed about the following morning and told Heavenly Father what I needed and what the problem was and that I needed His help because I was out of time. I went to work, organized the papers to copy and went down to the big copier. I prayed all the way there, it is at the other end of the building, and when I got there I knew exactly what I had been missing and how to find the correct command and it worked the first time. I still need to get it to work with the jpegs and pdfs, but I got what I needed for the missionary. I have since found out that many of these big machines that do all the emailing and scanning and different formats are giving others trouble too so I didn't feel too inadequate but I did feel blessed that my simple prayer was answered for what was needful.
Tuesday evening I had dinner with a friend and then we met Ed at a fireside given by Rick Turley, Asst. Church Historian. It was such a good fireside. He showed slides from recent trips to congregations in Africa and Asia. I was surprised to learn how fast the Church is growing in Rwanda and Zimbabwe. He reminded us of the statement from President Spencer W. Kimball in 1973 who said that when we have prepared ourselves to spread the gospel the Lord would make things possible. It is great to be part of helping to prepare and then watch how it happens.
As Bro. Turley showed the slides from Asia my heart leaped a little when he came to Thailand. All of a sudden there were friends of mine! Some who I had taught the gospel to 36 years ago and are now leaders in that country. One of the pictures was of a former companion of mine. What made this experience sweeter is that Friday evening we went to the home of another Thai woman who I had taught when she was 19 years old. She joined the Church, eventually made her way here, married a man from here and they have two boys, both of whom were called on missions to Thailand! She had some Thai friends to her house including another woman who was one of my Thai companions. It was great to be with them again.
After the fireside we walked home in the beautiful sunset light listening to the falcons crying for food. The birders are everywhere on the lawns watching them still. I took several pictures of the clouds and the light. It was great.
Our weekly devotional was the first time we have heard from our new mission president and his wife. They have come here after recently returning as the Temple President and Matron of the Nauvoo Temple. He told us great stories about the Nauvoo Temple and the importance of that temple to the Lord, to President Hinckley and to our history.
Sister Peterson also spoke briefly. She began by saying how she hoped we had enjoyed the morning sky with the light peeking through the soft clouds. She said it reminded her of a morning when their children were younger. The sky looked much the same with the sun coming from behind fluffy clouds and her child asked, "Is Jesus coming today?" She responded that she didn't know but that they should make sure they were prepared.
Picture is of the sky on Monday morning, July 11, 2011 at 6:15AM the day of the devotional.
Isn't that great? Every morning when we see the sun come up we should be thinking about how prepared we are in case this is the day. None of us knows when He will come. Maybe we won't be here on the earth when He does come. Maybe we will be called home before that. Either way, we must be prepared to meet Him. There are so many opportunities each day for us to review our standing in His eyes. How will I do today?
We continue to be busy and we feel like we are getting more accomplished each day. We had a new young Elder join us this week. He is very good and we like him a lot. He is from Baltimore but his parents are Nigerian so he can help us with the Nigerian records we have. He also speaks French and he loves languages so he will be helping on the Norway project. Additionally, the FH Library is very excited to be able to use him in the evenings on the international floor to help with French. The Lord gives us the help that is needed.
Our elevators have been out twice again this week so I guess the Lord figures we can use the exercise. I'm so happy to be living on the 8th floor but it is a long way to go when you have to do it coming home from work to change to go and workout at the gym and then again when you come home after working out..... oh my!! I guess that kind of help wasn't "needed" for me.
I did experienced a little tender mercy from the Lord myself this week. It may sound funny, but I was struggling to get some Malaysian records copied and ready to give to one of our missionaries who is ready for a new project. These typed sheets from the 70's were typed in Malaysia using the European sized paper so I need to reduce the original to make a copy and then create a pdf and jpeg files to put online. I couldn't get the machine to do it! The secretary who normally helps is gone to have a baby and there was no one who could help me. I left work that evening very frustrated that I couldn't figure out a copy machine! (I used to sell them a long time ago) But I prayed about the following morning and told Heavenly Father what I needed and what the problem was and that I needed His help because I was out of time. I went to work, organized the papers to copy and went down to the big copier. I prayed all the way there, it is at the other end of the building, and when I got there I knew exactly what I had been missing and how to find the correct command and it worked the first time. I still need to get it to work with the jpegs and pdfs, but I got what I needed for the missionary. I have since found out that many of these big machines that do all the emailing and scanning and different formats are giving others trouble too so I didn't feel too inadequate but I did feel blessed that my simple prayer was answered for what was needful.
Tuesday evening I had dinner with a friend and then we met Ed at a fireside given by Rick Turley, Asst. Church Historian. It was such a good fireside. He showed slides from recent trips to congregations in Africa and Asia. I was surprised to learn how fast the Church is growing in Rwanda and Zimbabwe. He reminded us of the statement from President Spencer W. Kimball in 1973 who said that when we have prepared ourselves to spread the gospel the Lord would make things possible. It is great to be part of helping to prepare and then watch how it happens.
As Bro. Turley showed the slides from Asia my heart leaped a little when he came to Thailand. All of a sudden there were friends of mine! Some who I had taught the gospel to 36 years ago and are now leaders in that country. One of the pictures was of a former companion of mine. What made this experience sweeter is that Friday evening we went to the home of another Thai woman who I had taught when she was 19 years old. She joined the Church, eventually made her way here, married a man from here and they have two boys, both of whom were called on missions to Thailand! She had some Thai friends to her house including another woman who was one of my Thai companions. It was great to be with them again.
After the fireside we walked home in the beautiful sunset light listening to the falcons crying for food. The birders are everywhere on the lawns watching them still. I took several pictures of the clouds and the light. It was great.
Our weekly devotional was the first time we have heard from our new mission president and his wife. They have come here after recently returning as the Temple President and Matron of the Nauvoo Temple. He told us great stories about the Nauvoo Temple and the importance of that temple to the Lord, to President Hinckley and to our history.
Sister Peterson also spoke briefly. She began by saying how she hoped we had enjoyed the morning sky with the light peeking through the soft clouds. She said it reminded her of a morning when their children were younger. The sky looked much the same with the sun coming from behind fluffy clouds and her child asked, "Is Jesus coming today?" She responded that she didn't know but that they should make sure they were prepared.
Picture is of the sky on Monday morning, July 11, 2011 at 6:15AM the day of the devotional.Isn't that great? Every morning when we see the sun come up we should be thinking about how prepared we are in case this is the day. None of us knows when He will come. Maybe we won't be here on the earth when He does come. Maybe we will be called home before that. Either way, we must be prepared to meet Him. There are so many opportunities each day for us to review our standing in His eyes. How will I do today?
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Fledge on a ledge
This big story this week is the famous Salt Lake Falcons. No, I'm not talking about a sports team, they are peregrine falcons the world has been watching via the video cams installed in the nest box built for them up high on the northeast corner of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Four eggs were laid in early January, they hatched the end of May and we watched with awe last week as they all fledged out of the box. The last and smallest of the bunch was not on purpose, literally falling out of the nest box but there are so many volunteers all around the Square that all is well. I thought I would share some pictures from volunteers who have posted on the internet. Their pictures are much better than mine.
Mom and her eggs.
Four hatched babies.
Three left in the nest box watching big sister go out on her own.
Big sister fledged and landed safely on a ledge of the Church Administration building. Volunteers got a ladder and picked her up so she could be checked out and banded. She didn't fight them at all.
That was some big news last week. Volunteers are still out watching for them. The biggest worry is to keep them out of the city streets until they have better control over flying. I don't think they are yet hunting for their food so they are still being fed by their parents.
We had a short week with the 4th of July off. It was fun to get to see family over the holiday. Edison is growing and changing his appearance each time we get to see him. He is starting to make deliberate sounds and cooing a little. I just love this grandparent thing!!
We have made some strides at work, moving ahead with more countries and finishing up with all the new format changes that were suggested. It seems the more we do the more we get noticed and the more changes are needed. Though it can be frustrating, it is also a good thing because it means the work is moving forward. We are very happy serving here and are excited to meet our goals before we have to go home.
Today at church our Branch choir sang a Sally Deford song: Lift Up Your Heart. It is such a beautiful song and we have been practicing it for a long time. They did a great job. We had 35 people singing today. After the meeting the Branch President asked me if there were people not from our ward singing in the choir today because we had so many in the choir but the chapel was quite full as well. We had a lot of visitors today. Summer is here and it lends itself to having family visit the missionaries. I was so proud of the choir. They always respond so well and express their love of the music. It is a real pleasure for me to be able to direct them.
I decided to record a story that was shared in our devotional last week. I was very touched by this story, perhaps it will touch someone else too. It supports my belief that there are no accidents in life...
The following event took place in a ward in Salt Lake City in 1974. It occurred during sacrament meeting and was told to me by a regional representative of the Twelve who was in the meeting.
A young man, just before leaving on his mission, stood in sacrament meeting and bore, in essence, the following testimony: "Brothers and sisters, as you know, during the past few weeks I have been awaiting my mission call. During the time I was waiting, I had a dream. I knew it was not an ordinary dream. I dreamed I was in the pre-existence and was awaiting my call to come to earth. I was filled with the same excitement and anticipation that I had before I received my mission call. In my dream, I was talking to a friend. He was a dear friend, and I felt a special closeness to him, even though I've never met him in this life. As we talked, a messenger came and gave me a letter. I knew it was my call to go to earth. In great excitement my friend and I opened the letter. I gave it to him to read it aloud to me. The letter said:
'You have been called to earth in a special time and to a special land. You will be born into the true church, and you will have the priesthood of God in your home. You will be raised with many advantages and many blessings. You will be born in a land of plenty....a land of freedom. You will go to earth in the United States of America.'
My friend and I rejoiced as we read my call,and while we rejoiced, the messenger returned. This time he had a letter for my friend. We knew it was his call to earth. My friend gave me the letter to read out loud. The letter said:
'You have been called to go to earth in circumstances of poverty and strife. You will not be raised in the true church. Many hardships will attend your life. Your land will be fraught with political and social difficulties which will hinder the work of the Lord. You will be born in Costa Rica.'
We wept, my friend and I as we read his call and my friend looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, 'When we are down on earth, you in your choice land and me in Costa Rica, my friend, please come and find me.'"
Then this young missionary, with tears in his own eyes said, "Brothers and Sisters, I have received my mission call. I am going to Costa Rica."
There is more to this story. About a year after this sacrament meeting, the Bishop of this ward received a letter from the missionary in Costa Rica. The letter had one sheet of paper in it, and on that sheet, written in inch-high letters were four words..."I found my friend"
(---from the journal of Floyd Hill)
There are many who would say this is just a nice story, but I know that these events happen. There are so many similar happenings all around the world as the gospel is taught, as family history work is done, as sacred ordinances are performed. I know that we are doing a great work and than there is a higher hand in it all. We are guided and directed and if we stay close enough we can have the promptings and confirmations that tell us that we are not alone in the work, that we made promises before we came to the earth that we must keep, that there are members of our family who will help us get through this life with our missions accomplished if we will stay close enough to the Savior. I love this work. I love being here and feeling the spirit of this place where miracles happen every day.
Here are pictures from today of the cabin vegetable and herb garden. My how it has grown. Tonight's sunset was also sweet. Enjoy!
Look at those carrots coming up!
I love the dill and the onions...
The corn has flopped over. I don't know what has happened to it but it is very green and healthy otherwise.
I just thought I would throw in a picture of the very tall hollyhocks. I don't remember seeing them this big before. They are taller than me!
Every night I get to see a beautiful painted sky. What a marvelous world we live in.
Mom and her eggs.
Four hatched babies.
Three left in the nest box watching big sister go out on her own.
Big sister fledged and landed safely on a ledge of the Church Administration building. Volunteers got a ladder and picked her up so she could be checked out and banded. She didn't fight them at all.
That was some big news last week. Volunteers are still out watching for them. The biggest worry is to keep them out of the city streets until they have better control over flying. I don't think they are yet hunting for their food so they are still being fed by their parents.
We had a short week with the 4th of July off. It was fun to get to see family over the holiday. Edison is growing and changing his appearance each time we get to see him. He is starting to make deliberate sounds and cooing a little. I just love this grandparent thing!!
We have made some strides at work, moving ahead with more countries and finishing up with all the new format changes that were suggested. It seems the more we do the more we get noticed and the more changes are needed. Though it can be frustrating, it is also a good thing because it means the work is moving forward. We are very happy serving here and are excited to meet our goals before we have to go home.
Today at church our Branch choir sang a Sally Deford song: Lift Up Your Heart. It is such a beautiful song and we have been practicing it for a long time. They did a great job. We had 35 people singing today. After the meeting the Branch President asked me if there were people not from our ward singing in the choir today because we had so many in the choir but the chapel was quite full as well. We had a lot of visitors today. Summer is here and it lends itself to having family visit the missionaries. I was so proud of the choir. They always respond so well and express their love of the music. It is a real pleasure for me to be able to direct them.
I decided to record a story that was shared in our devotional last week. I was very touched by this story, perhaps it will touch someone else too. It supports my belief that there are no accidents in life...
The following event took place in a ward in Salt Lake City in 1974. It occurred during sacrament meeting and was told to me by a regional representative of the Twelve who was in the meeting.
A young man, just before leaving on his mission, stood in sacrament meeting and bore, in essence, the following testimony: "Brothers and sisters, as you know, during the past few weeks I have been awaiting my mission call. During the time I was waiting, I had a dream. I knew it was not an ordinary dream. I dreamed I was in the pre-existence and was awaiting my call to come to earth. I was filled with the same excitement and anticipation that I had before I received my mission call. In my dream, I was talking to a friend. He was a dear friend, and I felt a special closeness to him, even though I've never met him in this life. As we talked, a messenger came and gave me a letter. I knew it was my call to go to earth. In great excitement my friend and I opened the letter. I gave it to him to read it aloud to me. The letter said:
'You have been called to earth in a special time and to a special land. You will be born into the true church, and you will have the priesthood of God in your home. You will be raised with many advantages and many blessings. You will be born in a land of plenty....a land of freedom. You will go to earth in the United States of America.'
My friend and I rejoiced as we read my call,and while we rejoiced, the messenger returned. This time he had a letter for my friend. We knew it was his call to earth. My friend gave me the letter to read out loud. The letter said:
'You have been called to go to earth in circumstances of poverty and strife. You will not be raised in the true church. Many hardships will attend your life. Your land will be fraught with political and social difficulties which will hinder the work of the Lord. You will be born in Costa Rica.'
We wept, my friend and I as we read his call and my friend looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, 'When we are down on earth, you in your choice land and me in Costa Rica, my friend, please come and find me.'"
Then this young missionary, with tears in his own eyes said, "Brothers and Sisters, I have received my mission call. I am going to Costa Rica."
There is more to this story. About a year after this sacrament meeting, the Bishop of this ward received a letter from the missionary in Costa Rica. The letter had one sheet of paper in it, and on that sheet, written in inch-high letters were four words..."I found my friend"
(---from the journal of Floyd Hill)
There are many who would say this is just a nice story, but I know that these events happen. There are so many similar happenings all around the world as the gospel is taught, as family history work is done, as sacred ordinances are performed. I know that we are doing a great work and than there is a higher hand in it all. We are guided and directed and if we stay close enough we can have the promptings and confirmations that tell us that we are not alone in the work, that we made promises before we came to the earth that we must keep, that there are members of our family who will help us get through this life with our missions accomplished if we will stay close enough to the Savior. I love this work. I love being here and feeling the spirit of this place where miracles happen every day.
Here are pictures from today of the cabin vegetable and herb garden. My how it has grown. Tonight's sunset was also sweet. Enjoy!
Look at those carrots coming up!
I love the dill and the onions...
The corn has flopped over. I don't know what has happened to it but it is very green and healthy otherwise.
I just thought I would throw in a picture of the very tall hollyhocks. I don't remember seeing them this big before. They are taller than me!
Every night I get to see a beautiful painted sky. What a marvelous world we live in.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
God Bless America
We live in a government raised up by the God of heaven. We have a constitution that was given by inspiration from God to man. I believe it is the best human form of government that was ever given to the human family. --Wilford Woodruff
We will stand by that constitution and uphold the flag of our country when everybody else forsakes it. We cannot shut our eyes to things transpiring around us. We have our reason, and God has revealed unto us many things but never had he revealed anything in opposition to those institutins and that constitution, no, never; and another, he never will. --John Taylor
As I sit here and write tonight there are fireworks going off all around the valley. I can hear and see them from our balcony windows. It is so fun. But I wonder if those setting off the fireworks which we have seen for the last couple of days now, are thinking about the reason for the celebration. I hope much is thought about the lives that have been given for us to have the freedoms we enjoy today.
I heard a woman speak today about her dismay concerning a recent law that was enforced allowing protesters to attend military funerals so they can make a statement regarding their feelings about the military and war and even the individual who is being buried. Can you imagine? So our laws allow people to shout obscenities to be heard by the families of those who died maintaining the freedom for them to be able to disrupt the grieving of the family. A low point.
A high point came from another story told of a couple visiting Rome a number of years ago. They tried to find an LDS church to attend on Sunday. There was a small group of about 11 members meeting in a small apartment. It was the 4th of July weekend, but the travelers didn't expect to hear any mention of that in Italy in a Fast & Testimony meeting. But a young Italian woman stood up and spoke in English. She told of how grateful she was for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. She testified that she knew that without those freedoms, without the constitution The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would not have been organized, the priesthood would not have been restored and she would never have learned of the saving principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tonight my family got together and listened to my brother tell about his experiences on a recent trip to Israel. As he spoke I was struck by how confused things are about most of the historic events surrounding the life of the Savior. So many years have gone by and the land has changed and traditions and wars and bloodshed and anger and power have diluted the truth among so many religious organizations. But the same question remains for many that Joseph Smith asked years ago as he knelt in a grove of trees. Elder Maines says he, Joseph, was really the first investigator and when the Father and Son appeared to Joseph they were the first missionary companionship. In answering Joseph's question of where he could find truth, they taught him the same principles that missionaries today teach.
I am so grateful for the truths of eternal life which have come to me because of the freedom established here. I am grateful that I can exercise and share these truths because of that same freedom. What a great gift freedom is.
Friday night at the Concert in the Park the Utah National Guard 23rd Army Band performed. It was hot and they were all in their fatigues. It was a fun and stirring performance. I think one of the crowd favorites was when they played and sang the songs for each of the military service groups and asked anyone in the audience who had served or had family serve to stand. The Navy was first and I was so proud when Ed stood up. There were not many who were in the Navy. Air Force was next, then Marines, then Coast Guard and they ended with Army. Half of the audience stood at that point. It was very touching. The concert ended with a trumpet player coming out and singing America the Beautiful. His tenor voice was clear and strong and it made us all have goosebumps. That concert was the perfect kickoff for a weekend of celebrating our freedoms.
Earlier I had been contemplating my week. We met our new Presidency and their wives; I have done a lot of redo of the Pacific Island Orals because of changes; our son-in-law successfully argued his thesis and is now done with his Master's; I got to hold our Edison several times this week; we attended a very funny play; the elevators in our building broke down with our friends and their 3 grandchildren in it; I was asked to "say" the prayer in the signing class I attend once a week.
What a great week!
We will stand by that constitution and uphold the flag of our country when everybody else forsakes it. We cannot shut our eyes to things transpiring around us. We have our reason, and God has revealed unto us many things but never had he revealed anything in opposition to those institutins and that constitution, no, never; and another, he never will. --John Taylor
As I sit here and write tonight there are fireworks going off all around the valley. I can hear and see them from our balcony windows. It is so fun. But I wonder if those setting off the fireworks which we have seen for the last couple of days now, are thinking about the reason for the celebration. I hope much is thought about the lives that have been given for us to have the freedoms we enjoy today.
I heard a woman speak today about her dismay concerning a recent law that was enforced allowing protesters to attend military funerals so they can make a statement regarding their feelings about the military and war and even the individual who is being buried. Can you imagine? So our laws allow people to shout obscenities to be heard by the families of those who died maintaining the freedom for them to be able to disrupt the grieving of the family. A low point.
A high point came from another story told of a couple visiting Rome a number of years ago. They tried to find an LDS church to attend on Sunday. There was a small group of about 11 members meeting in a small apartment. It was the 4th of July weekend, but the travelers didn't expect to hear any mention of that in Italy in a Fast & Testimony meeting. But a young Italian woman stood up and spoke in English. She told of how grateful she was for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. She testified that she knew that without those freedoms, without the constitution The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would not have been organized, the priesthood would not have been restored and she would never have learned of the saving principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tonight my family got together and listened to my brother tell about his experiences on a recent trip to Israel. As he spoke I was struck by how confused things are about most of the historic events surrounding the life of the Savior. So many years have gone by and the land has changed and traditions and wars and bloodshed and anger and power have diluted the truth among so many religious organizations. But the same question remains for many that Joseph Smith asked years ago as he knelt in a grove of trees. Elder Maines says he, Joseph, was really the first investigator and when the Father and Son appeared to Joseph they were the first missionary companionship. In answering Joseph's question of where he could find truth, they taught him the same principles that missionaries today teach.
I am so grateful for the truths of eternal life which have come to me because of the freedom established here. I am grateful that I can exercise and share these truths because of that same freedom. What a great gift freedom is.
Friday night at the Concert in the Park the Utah National Guard 23rd Army Band performed. It was hot and they were all in their fatigues. It was a fun and stirring performance. I think one of the crowd favorites was when they played and sang the songs for each of the military service groups and asked anyone in the audience who had served or had family serve to stand. The Navy was first and I was so proud when Ed stood up. There were not many who were in the Navy. Air Force was next, then Marines, then Coast Guard and they ended with Army. Half of the audience stood at that point. It was very touching. The concert ended with a trumpet player coming out and singing America the Beautiful. His tenor voice was clear and strong and it made us all have goosebumps. That concert was the perfect kickoff for a weekend of celebrating our freedoms.
Earlier I had been contemplating my week. We met our new Presidency and their wives; I have done a lot of redo of the Pacific Island Orals because of changes; our son-in-law successfully argued his thesis and is now done with his Master's; I got to hold our Edison several times this week; we attended a very funny play; the elevators in our building broke down with our friends and their 3 grandchildren in it; I was asked to "say" the prayer in the signing class I attend once a week.
What a great week!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
A Sweet Ride
A difficult week ended on a sweet note.
Last Monday was the last devotional of the month and our entire Mission Presidency and their wives, along with many others with whom we have become close, stood during the closing song which is always "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" on the final Monday in a month. It was an emotional day. President and Sister Simmons who have been on so many missions that they were prepared for the feelings we very solid during the song, but President Savoldi and his wife and President Boye and his wife were very emotional. It is so difficult to say goodbye because we know that this will never come again. Even if we do happen to see each other outside of the mission someday, it will not be the same as we feel right now. I remember having similar emotions when I was leaving my mission in Thailand. It was so difficult to leave not because I didn't want to return home, but because I didn't want to leave behind what I had gained...what I had come to love. Tomorrow morning's devotional will be our first introduction to our new Mission President.
I wonder, did we feel this way when we left the pre-existence? Were we sad to leave our Heavenly Father and Mother? Sad to leave our closest brothers and sisters? Or were we so excited to come to the earth and receive our body and learn the new things we knew we could only learn here that we didn't feel that sadness of separation?
On Tuesday afternoon I was able to take some time and go down to Provo and help Autumn and Derrick with Edison. They needed some help because Derrick has to argue his thesis this week and Autumn was trying to make the blessing outfit for Edison while preparing the house for Derrick's family who were coming for the blessing. Edison is having some minor digestive issues but is uncomfortable enough to need to be held a lot so I got to take care of him for about 5 hours. It was "grand". ^_^
As I held him and talked to him, I wondered what was going on in his brain. How did that separation go for him when he left and came here? Was he very anxious to come to this family? To be the oldest brother? I felt so happy that I had 5 hours to tell him how much he was loved and how anxious we are for him to come to know us, to grow, to learn. I told him lots of things.
I sang a song or two. We had a great time. But then I had to leave.
So I have thought a lot about separation and change and choice. I have been praying for some answers and I received them this week. I love how the Spirit can enlighten our minds at unexpected moments. Change is a good thing. It helps us to stay focused on the things that matter most.
Today was the sweet note to the week. Edison received his priesthood blessing from his father. Edison's cute white romper was finished and the little jacket made from the train of Autumn's wedding dress was precious. She was busy to the last minute before the Sacrament Meeting began because it was her last week to teach as the Beehive Adviser for the Young Women plus food for the luncheon after church (homemade rolls....yum!). She did really well. My mother wanted to go with us so we drove her and we sat there all together; mother, daughter, granddaughter and great grandson. Very cool. For my mom, Edison is the 38th great grandchild.
Yes, our family reunions are huge and a little chaotic but always wonderful.
Life is treasure. The earth is a fabulous gift from God. Today one of the speakers referred to a talk given by Elder Richard G. Scott in which he asked the question, "How are you using the privilege of mortality?"
I am trying to use my mortality....whatever I have left of it....well.
There is a fun adage floating around the mission I want to share:
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "Wow, what a ride."
Edison (above) in the new outfit but mom did not want to take a chance of any drool soiling the clothes before heading to church.
Edison was asleep most of the meeting and did not cry. It was a little miracle!
After the meeting Edison woke up and was ready for a refill. Derrick was happy to comply because Edison had been so good during the meeting. He did remove the little jacket (on the arm of the chair) before feeding to save it from the possible need of cleaning.
Last Monday was the last devotional of the month and our entire Mission Presidency and their wives, along with many others with whom we have become close, stood during the closing song which is always "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" on the final Monday in a month. It was an emotional day. President and Sister Simmons who have been on so many missions that they were prepared for the feelings we very solid during the song, but President Savoldi and his wife and President Boye and his wife were very emotional. It is so difficult to say goodbye because we know that this will never come again. Even if we do happen to see each other outside of the mission someday, it will not be the same as we feel right now. I remember having similar emotions when I was leaving my mission in Thailand. It was so difficult to leave not because I didn't want to return home, but because I didn't want to leave behind what I had gained...what I had come to love. Tomorrow morning's devotional will be our first introduction to our new Mission President.
I wonder, did we feel this way when we left the pre-existence? Were we sad to leave our Heavenly Father and Mother? Sad to leave our closest brothers and sisters? Or were we so excited to come to the earth and receive our body and learn the new things we knew we could only learn here that we didn't feel that sadness of separation?
On Tuesday afternoon I was able to take some time and go down to Provo and help Autumn and Derrick with Edison. They needed some help because Derrick has to argue his thesis this week and Autumn was trying to make the blessing outfit for Edison while preparing the house for Derrick's family who were coming for the blessing. Edison is having some minor digestive issues but is uncomfortable enough to need to be held a lot so I got to take care of him for about 5 hours. It was "grand". ^_^
As I held him and talked to him, I wondered what was going on in his brain. How did that separation go for him when he left and came here? Was he very anxious to come to this family? To be the oldest brother? I felt so happy that I had 5 hours to tell him how much he was loved and how anxious we are for him to come to know us, to grow, to learn. I told him lots of things.
I sang a song or two. We had a great time. But then I had to leave.
So I have thought a lot about separation and change and choice. I have been praying for some answers and I received them this week. I love how the Spirit can enlighten our minds at unexpected moments. Change is a good thing. It helps us to stay focused on the things that matter most.
Today was the sweet note to the week. Edison received his priesthood blessing from his father. Edison's cute white romper was finished and the little jacket made from the train of Autumn's wedding dress was precious. She was busy to the last minute before the Sacrament Meeting began because it was her last week to teach as the Beehive Adviser for the Young Women plus food for the luncheon after church (homemade rolls....yum!). She did really well. My mother wanted to go with us so we drove her and we sat there all together; mother, daughter, granddaughter and great grandson. Very cool. For my mom, Edison is the 38th great grandchild.
Yes, our family reunions are huge and a little chaotic but always wonderful.
Life is treasure. The earth is a fabulous gift from God. Today one of the speakers referred to a talk given by Elder Richard G. Scott in which he asked the question, "How are you using the privilege of mortality?"
I am trying to use my mortality....whatever I have left of it....well.
There is a fun adage floating around the mission I want to share:
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "Wow, what a ride."
Edison (above) in the new outfit but mom did not want to take a chance of any drool soiling the clothes before heading to church.
Edison was asleep most of the meeting and did not cry. It was a little miracle!
After the meeting Edison woke up and was ready for a refill. Derrick was happy to comply because Edison had been so good during the meeting. He did remove the little jacket (on the arm of the chair) before feeding to save it from the possible need of cleaning.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Everything Is Comin' up Roses
Wow! Roses are everywhere. It seems like overnight the rose bushes just burst. There are huge bushes and small bushes; some that have come out quickly and others are taking their time. I'm okay with that because that means we will see the roses for a long time. I grew up in "The City of Roses" but I don't remember it being like this. Everywhere we drive we see huge rose bushes loaded with flowers. I am particularly loving the rose bed I have been watching on Temple Square.
The color of these roses is luscious but I must admit I cannot choose a favorite because no sooner do I think I have found the perfect color but I see another in an obscure place that I just love... from bright florescent red to antique white with just a hint of pink.For now, I am simply enjoying the beauty of the earth. The unusual spring rains have made the mountains a vibrant green. It is so beautiful to watch the sun set and cast the shadows and light on the mountains. I am amazed at the beauty. The locals are amazed at the snow still visible. I heard that with the storm we had last night and most of the day today there was snow falling in the mountains again. Snowbird is still open I think....there will be skiers on the slopes in the morning. There are a lot of people walking around with funny looking suntans on their faces. I remember when I used to be one of them! Aww....good days gone by. I would probably kill myself if I tried to go skiing today. hahaha
It has been a fun couple of weeks on the Square. The JSMB is celebrating 100 years so there were lots of festivities and displays and a big dinner held for local church and civic leaders. The most fun thing to me is that all the hosts are dressed in period costumes. We thought they were only doing it for a few days of celebration but they were told that if they wanted to they could wear them until September. I have a few pictures below.
This woman is wearing a dress purchased by her uncle for her aunt in 1918. She was so happy she could wear it and she looks great!
My picture didn't turn out good enough to really see his hat and cane. He looked so fun!
This picture reminds me of "Pick a little, talk a little" from The Music Man! They were having so much fun. Everywhere they go, even to lunch, the vacationers (and the occasional missionary) are taking their picture!
This woman made her outfit. She told me that the hosting office gave them each pictures of what the period outfits were like and asked them to come up with something so she made this herself from the pictures. She bought a couple of skirts from Deseret Industries and went to town. She said she really had fun although she isn't a seamstress. She just put it together and it worked. I love the hat. You can't see all the flowers and feathers on it from this picture, but it is fabulous.President Monson spoke at a brief ribbon cutting ceremony and at the gala dinner (pictures of the tables below). I had an appointment so I was not able to stay and hear him, but the wonderful part of the ribbon cutting event was the Mormon Tabernacle Choir spread out on the Mezzanine and singing "Praise to the Man". Those who were there told me it was like nothing they have heard before. I'm sure it was amazing and I am sad that I missed it.
There are more and more sad goodbyes as missionaries return home after their service. Many with whom we have worked the entire time we have been here are now returning home. It is a bittersweet thing for most of them. All express how blessed they feel to have served here. Most express gratitude for how their families have been blessed. Often we hear expressions of how their lives have been changed for the better because of their experiences with the Spirit as they have served. The computer is usually mentioned. Many come here without having any computer skills and in fact being afraid of it, but they all leave knowing they have conquered the skills they needed to serve well. How the Lord does magnify us!
Our mission presidency is being changed with all of them leaving to return home.
As they speak to us for the last time they share some good thoughts. I would like to share a few that I recorded:
1. Nephi said 'I will go and do', he didn't say 'I'll sit and stew!'"
2. Pres. Monson saying, "This is our one and only chance at a mortal life" so do not waste our time on earth but "find joy in the journey".
3. This mission accepts mature seniors . . . and some immature ones.
4. Genealogy is the 2nd most popular hobby behind gardening.
5. You can teach an old dog new tricks.
6. CS Lewis said: It's hard to fly when you are an egg, but you have to learn to fly or go bad!
Today in Sunday School class we discussed what Jesus was trying to teach when He gave the parables in Matthew 25, the 10 virgins, the talents and the sheep and the goats. We learned that He was teaching us the importance of using our talents, whatever they may be, to fill our lamps with the oil we need to stand on the right hand of the Savior when He calls us. We were challenged to do something this week that is out of the ordinary for us and will help us fill our lamps...just one drop at a time. President Spencer W. Kimball:“In the parable, oil can be purchased at the market. In our lives the oil of preparedness is accumulated drop by drop in righteous living. Attendance at sacrament meetings adds oil to our lamps, drop by drop over the years. Fasting, family prayer, home teaching, control of bodily appetites, preaching the gospel, studying the scriptures—each act of dedication and obedience is a drop added to our store. Deeds of kindness, payment of offerings and tithes, chaste thoughts and actions, marriage in the covenant for eternity—these, too, contribute importantly to the oil with which we can at midnight refuel our exhausted lamps” (Faith Precedes the Miracle [1972], 256).
I also liked the list of talents that was read as part of the lesson from Elder Marvin J. Ashton: “Let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable.
“Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
Today I thought of my father as we talked about the parable of the sheep and the goats. He loved that parable and talked about it often. I certainly hope that I will be numbered among the sheep. I hope that I will recognize the Master's voice when He calls and that I will have my lamp filled with enough oil to follow and rejoice with Him.
Goodnight!Wednesday, June 1, 2011
It's a Matter of Age
This week we were reminded about the learning curve for older people serving missions. First of all some background.
Single sisters serving as missionaries in the Family and Church History Mission are not assigned "Companions", nor are they given roommates. Single sisters missionaries live alone but if, after they have been in the mission for awhile, they connect well with another sister missionary they are welcome to move in together and the mission helps them move to a two bedroom apartment, etc. Many of the sisters enjoy having their own space so they stay in the apartments by themselves but get together with their friends for meals, shopping, going to the temple, concerts on The Square, movies, etc.
Among the many papers that missionaries have to complete is emergency contact information with a person and phone number. The mission is very good about taking care of the missionaries and making sure we are all safe, healthy and where we are supposed to be at any given time.
One sister had been out with the flu for two days and her zone leader had checked on her as is his responsibility. She was fine and told him on a Thursday that she would be back at work the following morning. However, that evening her son, who lives in the area, called her to ask for her help. His pregnant wife was not doing so well. They had two other little boys and grandma (our single sister) decided that she was needed there to help so she went to spend the night. During the night her daughter-in-law had a miscarriage and went to the hospital so it was a good thing grandma was there to help.
At 7:00AM she phoned the zone leader at the office and left a message because she didn't get a live person. She explained her situation in a phone message and went back to caring for her grandsons. About 1:00PM the phone rang at her son's house and she answered it. A voice said, "This is (zone leader's name which will remain anonymous) and we are looking for Sister......" She said, "Elder.....this is Sister....!!!" "He was very happy to find her and explained that they had been looking for her all morning. In fact, this is what had happened on the mission end.
They had rallied a number of her friends, had gone to her apartment with a key and one of the sisters offered to go in first in case they would find this sister had died during the night. Finding that she was not there they looked for her car, which was not in its parking place so they wondered if she had been in an accident. They spent hours calling police, and local hospitals, etc. until finally they decided to call the emergency contact. After hearing all of this the cute sister asked, "Didn't you get my message?!" At that the Zone Leader admitted that he had not listened to his messages, that he never listens to his messages and in fact his children had been telling him for a long time that he should listen to his messages but he just hadn't done it!! ha!
Sometimes it takes a big event to teach old dogs new tricks! Some of us have gotten along just fine without some of the technology of today, but we really need to figure out when it is important for us to bite the bullet and learn something new.
So often we hear senior missionaries coming into the mission exclaiming that they don't like computers and will never figure this out!! But never have I heard someone ready to leave the mission saying, "I never did get it." Instead, we hear over and over, "The Lord blessed me and I was able to do everything that was assigned to me." I suspect this cute Elder will make checking his messages a regular part of his day from now on! ^_^ What a funny experience! The single sister delighted in telling us this story....I imagine she has enjoyed telling it many times.
The week was fulfilling, making further strides toward organizing and uploading, converting wav files to mp3 format getting ready to put them up online. We feel like we are staying on course to have all the clean up work done before we leave so that the orals will be a well-oiled process for our replacements. We want to feel good about leaving this project in new hands when our time is up.
We enjoyed spending Memorial Day visiting the graves of my ancestors who I am just now getting to know. Some are in the Salt Lake Cemetery with many of the pioneer general authorities and famous people. Titus Mousley is my great, great grandfather and came across the plains because his wife and children all joined the "Mormons". He was quite well off and outfitted his wife and family well. He was one of the leaders of a wagon train in 1857 and established himself in the Salt Lake Valley. Two of his daughters, Sarah Louise and Ann Amanda married Angus M. Cannon, brother of George Q. Cannon and the families were closely tied together in the community. George Q. and Titus are buried not far from each other in Salt Lake.
We also visited some graves in the Provo City Cemetery. My great grandmother, Mary Jane Baum Wright is buried there. I have come to really appreciate her. She was a feisty little thing. William Wright hired her to help his ailing wife with their 8 children. After his first wife died he married Mary Jane and they had 15 children together including my grandmother, Leora Wright. I have enjoyed reading stories about her life.
We also got to spend some time with Autumn, Derrick and Edison. Ed was much more at ease and ready to hold his grandson. He actually wanted to hold him and was happy to feed him a little too! It was our first hours babysitting alone with him and we had a great time. Actuallyk, I held him most of the time but when the kids returned I did some sewing while Ed held little Edison. It was a fun afternoon.
Last Friday night the Concerts in the Park began. The Pioneer Memorial Park is just a block up the hill from us so we joined some friends and went to hear the Wasatch and District Bagpipers. It was very fun. With summer here the sun sets very late so an 8pm start time is perfect. Concerts are scheduled for Tuesday and Friday through August so we are very excited.
Yesterday we went to see the new movie out called "17 Miracles". It won't get a wide audience, but I was interested to see it because it was about the struggles of the handcart pioneer companies of 1856 and the miracles that happened to help them. It was very well done and I recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to see it.
I am very excited to be here in the middle of Salt Lake to experience the Pioneer celebrations in July. Already there are preparations set up in the lobby of the JSMB to celebrate the 100th birthday of the building. I think there will be some celebrations this week so I can share that next Sunday.
Today I didn't walk to Church so I didn't get any photos but I will share some of the final tulips photos I took. They are all gone now so we are waiting for the new plants to fill in. I met a couple from Florida last week on The Square and he was disappointed because he had been here a month ago and brought his wife back to see the tulips. There were only a few places left. Of course the last place was between the temple gate and the reflection pond because that is the most photographed place for brides.
Goodnight my friends!
Single sisters serving as missionaries in the Family and Church History Mission are not assigned "Companions", nor are they given roommates. Single sisters missionaries live alone but if, after they have been in the mission for awhile, they connect well with another sister missionary they are welcome to move in together and the mission helps them move to a two bedroom apartment, etc. Many of the sisters enjoy having their own space so they stay in the apartments by themselves but get together with their friends for meals, shopping, going to the temple, concerts on The Square, movies, etc.
Among the many papers that missionaries have to complete is emergency contact information with a person and phone number. The mission is very good about taking care of the missionaries and making sure we are all safe, healthy and where we are supposed to be at any given time.
One sister had been out with the flu for two days and her zone leader had checked on her as is his responsibility. She was fine and told him on a Thursday that she would be back at work the following morning. However, that evening her son, who lives in the area, called her to ask for her help. His pregnant wife was not doing so well. They had two other little boys and grandma (our single sister) decided that she was needed there to help so she went to spend the night. During the night her daughter-in-law had a miscarriage and went to the hospital so it was a good thing grandma was there to help.
At 7:00AM she phoned the zone leader at the office and left a message because she didn't get a live person. She explained her situation in a phone message and went back to caring for her grandsons. About 1:00PM the phone rang at her son's house and she answered it. A voice said, "This is (zone leader's name which will remain anonymous) and we are looking for Sister......" She said, "Elder.....this is Sister....!!!" "He was very happy to find her and explained that they had been looking for her all morning. In fact, this is what had happened on the mission end.
They had rallied a number of her friends, had gone to her apartment with a key and one of the sisters offered to go in first in case they would find this sister had died during the night. Finding that she was not there they looked for her car, which was not in its parking place so they wondered if she had been in an accident. They spent hours calling police, and local hospitals, etc. until finally they decided to call the emergency contact. After hearing all of this the cute sister asked, "Didn't you get my message?!" At that the Zone Leader admitted that he had not listened to his messages, that he never listens to his messages and in fact his children had been telling him for a long time that he should listen to his messages but he just hadn't done it!! ha!
Sometimes it takes a big event to teach old dogs new tricks! Some of us have gotten along just fine without some of the technology of today, but we really need to figure out when it is important for us to bite the bullet and learn something new.
So often we hear senior missionaries coming into the mission exclaiming that they don't like computers and will never figure this out!! But never have I heard someone ready to leave the mission saying, "I never did get it." Instead, we hear over and over, "The Lord blessed me and I was able to do everything that was assigned to me." I suspect this cute Elder will make checking his messages a regular part of his day from now on! ^_^ What a funny experience! The single sister delighted in telling us this story....I imagine she has enjoyed telling it many times.
The week was fulfilling, making further strides toward organizing and uploading, converting wav files to mp3 format getting ready to put them up online. We feel like we are staying on course to have all the clean up work done before we leave so that the orals will be a well-oiled process for our replacements. We want to feel good about leaving this project in new hands when our time is up.
We enjoyed spending Memorial Day visiting the graves of my ancestors who I am just now getting to know. Some are in the Salt Lake Cemetery with many of the pioneer general authorities and famous people. Titus Mousley is my great, great grandfather and came across the plains because his wife and children all joined the "Mormons". He was quite well off and outfitted his wife and family well. He was one of the leaders of a wagon train in 1857 and established himself in the Salt Lake Valley. Two of his daughters, Sarah Louise and Ann Amanda married Angus M. Cannon, brother of George Q. Cannon and the families were closely tied together in the community. George Q. and Titus are buried not far from each other in Salt Lake.
We also visited some graves in the Provo City Cemetery. My great grandmother, Mary Jane Baum Wright is buried there. I have come to really appreciate her. She was a feisty little thing. William Wright hired her to help his ailing wife with their 8 children. After his first wife died he married Mary Jane and they had 15 children together including my grandmother, Leora Wright. I have enjoyed reading stories about her life.
We also got to spend some time with Autumn, Derrick and Edison. Ed was much more at ease and ready to hold his grandson. He actually wanted to hold him and was happy to feed him a little too! It was our first hours babysitting alone with him and we had a great time. Actuallyk, I held him most of the time but when the kids returned I did some sewing while Ed held little Edison. It was a fun afternoon.
Last Friday night the Concerts in the Park began. The Pioneer Memorial Park is just a block up the hill from us so we joined some friends and went to hear the Wasatch and District Bagpipers. It was very fun. With summer here the sun sets very late so an 8pm start time is perfect. Concerts are scheduled for Tuesday and Friday through August so we are very excited.
Yesterday we went to see the new movie out called "17 Miracles". It won't get a wide audience, but I was interested to see it because it was about the struggles of the handcart pioneer companies of 1856 and the miracles that happened to help them. It was very well done and I recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to see it.
I am very excited to be here in the middle of Salt Lake to experience the Pioneer celebrations in July. Already there are preparations set up in the lobby of the JSMB to celebrate the 100th birthday of the building. I think there will be some celebrations this week so I can share that next Sunday.
Today I didn't walk to Church so I didn't get any photos but I will share some of the final tulips photos I took. They are all gone now so we are waiting for the new plants to fill in. I met a couple from Florida last week on The Square and he was disappointed because he had been here a month ago and brought his wife back to see the tulips. There were only a few places left. Of course the last place was between the temple gate and the reflection pond because that is the most photographed place for brides.
Goodnight my friends!
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