The Last Day of 2010

* Hand knitted mittens mitten to keep hands warm grace this wooden mantle, a glow with candles, strung with cranberries and fresh holly. The best things in life are humble and simple.
* I am thankful for snow that will help the fields to grow this spring, warm clothes, mittens and boots. I am thankful for energy to shovel, sweep and care for our home; for Glen and snow plows that dig us out. I am thankful for this last day in December that says Ahem to 2010.
*What will 2011 bring?
*Resolutions, 1. Say more "thank yous" in different ways 2. Learn more about charity 3. Pray more humbly 4. Study the things that are most important 5. Love Tom unconditionally 6. Spend more time with my family 7. Find more time for Mom 8. Look in the mirror and like what I see 9. Learn how to discern better 10. Laugh more
* "If you judge people, you have no time to love them." Mother Teresa

Snow

*So much snow. I keep shoveling and it keeps coming. Instead of little bodies, the tramp is heavy with snow. I shovel and slide and laugh at my slipping self.
* Sam wants to sneak in always.
* I am thankful for quiet time to study.
* Kimmy is going to Cancun with Jason.
* Both Kim and Kelly are speaking on Sunday, wish I could be there for both.
* The propane is filled again, oh the luxury!
* We are snowed in. The roads are deep, no where to go, no hamburgers to buy, I love it!
* Whenever we feel we are in charge of our lives, we just need a good snow storm to humble us and help us to see how dependent we are on the Lord for every single thing.
* President Uchtdorf tells of a time when he was in a car with President Faust. He warned Elder Uchtdorf that people might praise and say nice things about him but, "Dieter, be thankful for this. But don't ever inhale it." President Faust

Sisters

*I think this picture is a rare glimpse of who we really are, sisters. Every one's eyes are bright. Diane looks beautiful, Mom looks young and happy and I am so glad that Paul fixed my camera and took our picture.
*Jane and Roland told us a story about a man that was so abusive that he would lock his children in an old dirt dark cellar if they did something wrong. One little boy was so frightened. His older brother secretively dug a small hole to the cellar so that he could lay on his stomach and reach down into the cellar to hold his younger brother's hand. He would lay there for hours trying to comfort his brother. Diane would do that for me. I would for her. I am trying to hold Mom's hand until Dad comes and gets her. When will that be?
* I have a whole arm full of library books. Can't wait!
* Matt called.
*"I am your refuge and strength. My compassions never fail--they are new every morning. I have chosen you and you are my child."

The morning after

* I think back on the morning after having a baby. Everything is so new, and so sore. That first little sucking is such a gentle relief. You can see the miracle in the face of the young angel, and even the donkey wants to get included.
* Mary now needs to face real life with a new baby. Long sleepless nights, many needed baths for both of them. I am grateful for a bathtub and hot water.
* We slept in new soft blue sheets last night, with two new soft towels. I live like a queen. What an honor it would have been to be able to offer Mary my bedroom, and set by the door yummy meals for them to eat.
* "We will need to be like Mary and keep some things in our hearts and ponder them trustingly, for we too know more than we can tell." Neal A Maxwell

Christms Morning

* "And she brought forth her first born Son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7
* Christmas is here the morning is quiet. I couldn't sleep all last night just thinking of the grand Christmas Eve we had at Bret's home.
* We ice skated at 7 Peaks. They had these little walkers the younger kids and myself could push around. It took all the fear out of falling, because you couldn't.Tyler kept his eyes out and would bring us more when people were finished with them. Little Lucy was so darling. Dad thought she looked like Bambi learning to walk. Her left leg would cross back behind her right leg. But she was a trooper and in the end she could out skate us all. and Nic's house was so homey and beautiful. We had wreaths on the chairs, candles on the tables, Christmas Coloring Books for the kids. The food was Fabulous! Nic had a Christmas Book for both families, which we all signed, that told the nativity story from the Scriptures. The art work was my favorite.Bret had a fire blazing. Sharing of gifts was so comfortable!

* Matt called and my heart wanted to reach through the phone and hug the tar out of him. I hope he can somehow teach his body to sleep! My feelings are tied to his feelings, always.
*Kelly sent her so loved book of family pictures. . . always the best. Bret and Nicloe gave us a movie going pop corn popper, and new movies to boot. We need to have a few movie nights. Kim gave me the dearest gift! My gratitude journal in book form. I had wanted to make one but didn't have a clue how to go about it. It is big enough for me to write in and use as a journal. I know why I love it so much. I have a giant fear of forgetting everything. I don't ever like to say it out loud for fear it might happen sooner. I think when I can go back and hold on to a book and read about the things that I love (my family and the gospel)it will help me remember. Organization is my greatest challenge. My closets, the art room and my brain tends to always be cluttered, and confusing. But I am going to prevail! When Dad wakes up we still have two presents under the tree to open from Jamie and Matt. Jamie has the gift of doing all the bussel of Christmas with ease. I want to learn that from her!
* Merry Christmas Dear Family. You are all my everyday gifts!

Mary

* Tom made chili for an army.
* There is more snow than I have ever seen in my life. I had to take three shovel fulls each time to get down to the sidewalk.
* Mom thought it was Christmas eve last night and wanted to know what to wear. Oh my heart. I must spend some time with her today. Dad where are you?
* My heart is aching for Matt.
* The TV didn't work yesterday because there is too much snow on the roof. It was so nice. Tom helped me with some stars.
* "We will need to be like Mary and keep some things in our hearts and ponder them trustingly, for we too know more than we can tell." Maxwell

Humility

* With each difficult experience in our life we learn humility. I think we have to learn humility before we can witness the grand.

* Kim's Paper Whites are bursting.

* The snow is so so so deep this morning.

* "The new star would have had to be placed in its precise orbit long,long before it shone so precisely! There is a personalized plan for each of us. Like the Christmas star, each of us, if faithful, has an ordained orbit, a prescribed path. . .

Were We There?

* I keep thinking about Friday night and temple square. It was so nice to be with the Clarks. It felt like Christmas. It was there in the music, the pictures, the lights and little children. Holding on to Tyler and Shawn occasionally shifted what is important. Tyler can play Christmas songs on his guitar. Shawn has a Polar Express chugging around his tree. Katy has the prettiest blue spruce Christmas Tree. Jenny smiles with her big dimples and happily joins in the fun. She doesn't seem to have any of the "Don't Bug Me" feeling that most teenagers grow in and out of. Bret and Nic are powerfully in charge of the good life. I love them. Thanks for including us.
* It rained all day yesterday, a sad rain, the wind blew for ever, but now it is snowing softly and life feels better again.
* I am drawing the Nativity
* "Yes, the larger Christmas story is clearly not over. It is not solely about some other time, some other place, and some other people. It is still unfolding, and we are in it! Like the wise men who persisted to Bethlehem-and we too shall be led to Him. " Maxwell

Watching for the Star

* We are having Christmas Eve Breakfast all by our selves. No waiting in crowded restaurants. I must think of something fun for Mom. Wooden shoes filled with pictures of the kids? Maybe a Christmas story.

* I am grateful for warm flannel sheets.

* I just had sour dough toast topped with honey butter and fresh raspberries, Delish!

* I can feel Christmas in the air!

* "We should emulate the shepherds who "made known abroad" all that which was told them. And we have been told so much more! We too must be willing to leave off other tasks in order to declare the glad and good tidings of Christ's gospel and Church fully restored. The scriptures say the shepherds "came with haste." Their lengthening of their stride is a sermon in itself." Maxwell

Humble Flowing Elegance

* I love the grace of this picture. Beautiful Mary and baby, wrapped in the knowledge of the love of Joseph and the Lord. Joseph is driven and strong. What weight lay on his shoulders.

* We shopped with Matt last night. It felt so good.

* The snow is coming down so hard.

* So nice to have a day at home.

* "There was none to give room for them in the inn--a problem of the heart."

Archie

* This picture always reminds me of Dad. There is something in his wrinkled kind face that I love. The humble people of the earth know things that we are all searching for.
* I found the perfect surprise for Millie's Birthday. A little doll with Maizie's smile, and purple hair. Hopes she likes it as much as I do. I want to find another one for Marion.
* Many of my temple friends are so sick. Life is hard. I must be thankful each day for good health.
* Tonight is Tom's family dinner. We are taking a White Elephant, the tea kettle that Randy found up at Windy Pass. It is the one the brothers used up there years ago. I am excited to see everyone.
* "In a stable for animals, into darkness the light of the world had come."

The Bread of Life

* Christmas is everywhere.
* I am reading my Israel Journal. Each Christmas it brings the real and important things to my heart.
* Friday night was just the best. My family was all together. We sat by candle light for a long time and talked and laughed. Mom seemed comfortable. Diane looked healthy and happy. Brent has such a good memory, he could remember all of our old neighbors. Mark made us yummy Marcela sauce for the steaks. We sat by the fire and the tree lights for a long time. So nice!
* I am trying to finish the Book of Mormon by the end of December.
*"And Joseph also went up from Galilee. . . with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child." Luke 2:5

Soulwarming

* Christmas is everywhere, Kimmie's Dr Suez's Christmas Tree is so magical. I loved spending time with Lucy and Jayne! We visited the real Santa with a perfect beard. He was dressed in a soft blue flannel shirt with red velvet pants. I wanted to jump up on his knee. While Jayne was napping I layed on Kim's big soft bed, so comfy. I love Kim's home and family, they always make be grateful for life.

* Last night Tom and I watched the rodeo until 2:00, eating purple grapes and toast with honey butter on it.

* I love the bedroom stars.

* Today I am making nutty popcorn, hope it is yummy.

* "There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way." Buda

Sanctuaries of Christmas

*I just finished the book Women Food and God. It made me see life differently. I want to remember those thoughts. It is a re-read!
* We finished Mom's Christmas. She seemed relieved and happy. I love her!
* I am looking forward to having my brothers and sister up for our Christmas Dinner. How can I make is a memorial one? How can we talk about the important things instead of small talk? Jamie's Game!
* The sky is crystal clear.
* "Sometimes it is necessary to reteach a thing its loveliness." Galway Kinnell

Christimas

* December makes think of the most important things.
* I am grateful for all the music and art and writings about the birth of Christ. This picture shows the tenderness and humility of Mary.
* We are watching the rodeo finales each night, in train style, under a thick blanket. There are essential oils smells from Trudy everywhere in hopes of taming Tom's cough.
* Abbie got straight A's.
* Hope I get to tend baby Jayne today.
* I love our Christmas Stars hanging in the bedroom.
*"But Mary kept all these thing, and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19

Three little boys

* I am grateful today for the snow, three little boys and a dog.

* Memories of family time warms us through any storm.

* Thanksgiving was just the BEST.

* I get to go to Relief Society this morning at a rest home. Maybe I will meet a new best friend.

* "Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father." Enos 1:27

Miracles

* I love these shinny eyes.

* "Behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always and not faint."

Contentment

*Thank you Kim for teaching me how to move pictures!! Your house is the coziest. I always love to be there.
* I love Lucy!
* Jamie is coming in 4 days!
* "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God." Micah6:8

Contentment

*Shelly Yorgenson is sleeping over Thursday Night. She is a dear friend, I am looking forward to our talk.
*Tom and I sat in a booth, at our favorite Mexican Restaurant with Jane and Roland last night. We talked for several hours of our families. They both want to get sealed to their parents, and they want Tom and I to help them. This would be the best!
* Jamie is coming in 6 days!!!
*" Contentment makes poor men rich; and discontent makes rich men poor." Benjamin Franklin
*Contentment can be learned. " For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased (humble) and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry. . .I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4: 11-13

Dew

* I am grateful for the satisfaction of water when we are thirsty.
* I am loving Gerald Lund's Book "Hearing the Voice of the Lord"
* I got to be with Abbie, Lucy and Max last night for a movie. They were so fun in their great big 3 D glasses. I love them!
* I have a camera!
*Gourmet at Debbie's house was so comfortable. They are such dear friends.
*"Doubt not, but be believing. . .come unto the Lord with all your heart" Mormon 9:27

Fairies Dancing in the Woods

* I feel sure there is some magic in these woods.
* I stayed up late and watched "Iris" with Tom. He has wanted me to watch it with him for a long time. It was about Alzheimer's and love, similar to "The Notebook". It was powerful and I can't get it off my mind.
* I was so tried at the temple I couldn't keep my mind clear. I came home, crawled in bed and slept for an hour and then had the most wonderful night, curled up next to Tom. I adore him. We are rubbing essential oils on him to help his cough and I think it is helping.
*Mom was good today.
* I am walking up to Dorina's to rub her feet.
*"Even as you desire of me so shall it be done unto you" D&C 11:8

The gift of Memory

*I am grateful this morning for the gift of memory. So often I think of this 4th of July Parade. These three faces mean the whole world to me. I remember buying a yard and half of green gingham and squeezing out these three little sun tops. When I put them on there little bodies I thought these children were the most undeniable delightful creatures I have ever seen. Look at Kelly's mischievous grin. I was so proud to look at them as they sat in the gutter at the parade. I still am so proud of them and they make me feel tender at the bone.
* I had the most incredible dream last night. Kim was going to the Senior Dinner Dance and we went to Salt Lake to find her a dress. We walked into a tiny tasteful store, she saw the dress she wanted at first glance. She put it on and walked out of the dressing room. She was so elegant it took my breath away. The look on her face showed that she knew she was gorgeousness. The dress was a soft white, that draped to the back with lavish layers of material for a train. She twirled around and sat down and the dress made a big cloud around her.We bought it, and didn't even look at the price tag. Dad loved it. Maybe all this happen eons before, or maybe in the eons to come. I hope I get to go look for wedding dresses for the granddaughters. I hope the gift of this magnificent dream will stay in my memory forever.
* The Butters came to dinner. Lori helped make the rolls and Brownies.
* The Jazz beat the Miami Heat in overtime. . . what an exciting game. The best part was that Max called me afterward to talk about it.
*"Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all thing shall work together for your good." D&C 90:24

Fear Not

*This dark cold morning I am watching the sky lighten, the snow has covered the hills and it is moving slowly down to the valley. It is always hard to give up the fall. I wonder why I fear the winter? I know driving down to the temple on slick roads is a big part, looking at Tom's eyes as he gets cabin fever is another, and trying to keeping this big home heated. I want to turn this around and look for the positive. I remember one night Debbie Nelson said with such enthusiasm I love winter! She is one of the joys in my life. I too can look for things to love about winter.
*This day I am thankful for a roof, warm blankets and a hair drying to warm the sheets.
*I am thankful for the windows to watch the storms swirl around us.
* I am thankful for the crispness of winter walks.
* I am thinking of Nicole's and Shawn's first snowman. He was about one foot tall with a snow cap as big as he was. They had collected most of the snow on the lawn for their first attempt.
*I am making stars to lighten our bedroom.
*I am thinking of Thanksgiving and a house full of family.
*". . . behold I will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all. . ." 1 Nephi 1:20

Breath

*Life is always changing. How we react to those changes is what makes us strong or weak.
*I love my family.
* I am thankful for the rain this morning.
* Sweat Lucy loved to make turkeys last night.
* Having the house filled with family is the dearest of gifts.
*. . ."and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon they soul as the dews from heaven." D&C 121:45

Deep Contrast

* There is a deep contrast from the light and dark in this picture. Similar to our lives of joy and heart ache.

* Bob and Joyce came to dinner last night and we laughed until we cried. We have share many things through the years.

* The morning is gentle with a soft pink sky.

* I can't wait until Sunday for the kids to come up!

* "Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you." 2 Corinthians 13:11

A quiet symphony

*Flowers seem to sum everything that is quiet and beautiful in the world.

*Mom just called and she has lost her purse again. This happens every other day. She is devastated, she thinks her whole life is in there. We need to duck tape it to her chest. I know it is there because I saw her take into the house last night. I bet she hid it in the dryer.

*Yesterday Sister Rodgers, my favorite white haired, Grandma Schipper looking friend; fainted in initiatory. She was so embarrassed as the men in suits rusted into help her. She was so tired, worried, and overwhelmed with life. I wanted to wrap her up and take her home. I love her goodness and wisdom. I want to go to her house.

* Oh do I love to call Kelly's house and have Millie say, "Hello Grandma Clark"!

*I can't express the feelings of love I have for Bret. He is accomplishing the impossible. Day after day he is there, not giving up when things are hard. BRET I LOVE YOU!

*"Let us run with patience." Hebrews 12:1 "Keep thou my feet, I do not ask to see/The distant scene one step enough for me."

The beauty of nature's bounty

* There is such beauty in one single rose. As I clean out all the flowerbeds and rake the leaves I think about the wonder of each season. Fall is invigorating to me. I want to make granola.
*We are finally plowing the top third of the field. It has needed it for a long time.
* I just finished "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman. Tom and I are similar in our needs.
1. Words of Affirmation
2. Quality Time
3. Physical Touch
4. Acts of Service
5. Receiving Gifts
We both laughed over the gift giving part. We have never been very good at giving gifts to each other, but I want to do better in all these areas. Wish I had read this book when my children were young.
* ". . .behold I am the light which shineth in darkness. . . "

Morning Light

* Archie had a stain glass window at his office. In the morning a warm light always shone through it. I love lead glass windows.

* Mom didn't feel good yesterday. I think her heart is longing for Dad.

* Tom and I sat and watched the final world series game last night, by the light of a star, a candle and a dim light on our Wallsburg picture. It felt so peaceful. I love Tom!

*"God will speak peace to our soul. That peace, that spirit of serenity is life's greatest blessing." Ezra Taft Benson

Blissful

*Tom came everywhere with me Saturday.
* Katy played basketball like a pro and every time she made a basket, which was all the time, she would look up to see if we were watching. She passed off to a team mate when she was the only one under her basket and she could have made a basket no problem. I love her!
*Kim and Jason were proud in royal blue sweat shirt that said Lindon Football. Max, pretty much did everything, run touchdowns and pass for them. Near the end of the game two players jumped on him and hurt his hamstring. I hope he is alright this morning. I love him!
*We stopped and visited with Bob and Joyce, and it brought back so many memories.
*Halloween was filled with dripping wet trick or treaters. We had more than we have ever had. Thanks to Tom he had candy bars hidden everywhere. We sat and watched the series baseball game, and the Jazz. I had a wonderful Halloween.
* Deeper hope is to see the sacred in the ordinary. Love the dailness.

Bathed in Light

* Today is Halloween, and I am imaging each of the grandchildren in their costumes clutching their bags and heading out on their mighty mission. What excitement. Will Shawn's hat stay on his head? Will Kade be able to see through those thick glass? Will Lucy work the baby and the witch thing together? Will little Grady be able to keep up with his two older brothers? I can feel electricity in the air. Beware!

* We went to Olive Garden with David and Lisa and Jim and Judy last night. I love them.

*We raked the first half of all the leaves yesterday.

* Tom is beginning his cough again. . . dang!

* The sky is beautiful this morning.

*Paul Butters saw the cougar yesterday, hope I don't see him!

* "But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children." Thessalonians 2:7

Savor Too Little

This October morning is brisk. My thoughts are drawn to several years ago about this time. It was a slushy, rainy day. As I looked out my window I saw a little fawn curled up on my front porch to get out of the weather. I watched him, thinking that any moment he would jump up and run. He looked so alone and cold. I inched out on the porch and soon I was stoking him. He didn't move. With old towels I began to rub him dry. I even retrieved the hair dryer (our favorite household gadget to get warm under the sheets). He seemed to love it all. I could see a thank you in his eyes. I too said thank you for the experience of being so close to one of the animals that are always in our fields. I put a plate of grain by him, covered him with a dry blanket and went to bed. In the morning he was dead, a quiet sadness. I couldn't get him off my mind, and to my utter amazement the next day another fragile young deer did the same thing. Could it be the same deer? No it wasn't. I repeated the task of getting him dry and using the hair dryer on him. His eyes were so soft and watery. I decided that these two little deer were probably twins, born too early. They did not have the strength to make it through the winter. This young deer could probably smell his brother who had slept in the exact same corner on my porch. How nice for me to have shared those last hours up close to them. I know there are tender lessons about death for me to learn from this. Wallsburg never ceases to amaze me.
* I am reminded of the two separate nights Matt sat up with Sam (the first Sam) and little Archie (also a Black Lab).The dogs had both been hit by a car. These dogs and Matt cried and cried together. At the time I was so amazed at the love and patience Matt had as he held them through the entire night. He taught me an enduring lesson about love.
* "Appreciate the ordinary. We do too much and savor too little. We mistake activities for happiness."

Pure Honey

* Today was a one of those happy rewards day, pure honey. I turned around in the temple and there was Kim. Fresh from getting baptised for Gertrude Alice Rayworth Bowden, born in 1874 in Littleton Devenshire, England. Kim might just be the answer to my Patriarchal Blessing which tells me to do geneology. It has always haunted me. Kim takes the challenge of her stake to find a family member and do their temple work. With her busy life with five children, she finds a name.Then today October 28, 2010 she completes all the work, from baptism to sealing. Just seeing her made me cry. Sharing initiatory with her and Gertrude made me cry. And here I am in the middle of the night still crying. Gertrude get ready because we will be looking you up in heaven. For sure we are kindred spirits.
* Then to top that off sweet Emilee appears with her Young Women to do baptisms. Was this Christmas or what! Thank you Thank you!
* "When I stop speeding through life, I find the joy in each day's doing, in the life that can not be bought, but only discovered, created, savored, and lived."

Simply Beautiful

* This morning I can see the snow on the hills. It rained all night and sounded so calming. I love the change of the seasons and the reason to cozy up in the fall.
* The boys have been here deer hunting. It has felt like an amazing "boys" trip. I love them here. Tyler and I played Domino's and Chinese Checkers. Matt looks good, he shot a deer last night at dusk, a big four point. They spent the rest of the night cleaning it out and hanging it up. I wish Bret had been here, he and Tyler had just left a few hours before. I was sad when I saw that beautiful animal dead, and I know Tyler would have felt the same way too. Bret is generous and kind and buff. He has been working out with Matt.
*Kim's trek blog brought memories flooding. I love her goodness.
* Kelly is still sick, I can't get her off my mind. How can I help so far away?
* Jamie's voice on the phone last night was so filled with life. She is looking forward to a kids Halloween party on Tuesday. Wish I could peek in.
* I love Tom!
*". . .the light of everlasting life was lit up in his soul." Alma 19:6

Delphaniums

* I love these purple blue blooms that come up by them selves each spring. They remind me of Velma Ford. She gave me a start from her garden. President Ford is looking so old. I love him!
* Kelly is still sick. It has been way too long. Wish I could trade her places and give her a rest.
* Bret, Matt, and Tyler are here deer hunting. We had a fun night last night cooking steaks and watching the baseball game. At 5:30 this morning they were making sandwiches and heading out. Hope they have fun and don't get discouraged by the lack of bucks. It always feels so nice to have family share these walls. Matt is looking so good. Bret and Matt joke and seems to be catching up on the years they didn't spend together. Nothing brings me more joy.
*A storm is coming at noon. I am heading out to dig up the geraniums. Tonight may be cozy.
*2 Nephi: 33:13 ". . . I speak unto you as the voice of one crying from the dust:Farewell until that great day shall come."

Enlightened

*Yesterday was President Bateman's last day as Temple President. He is the most gentle white haired man with a powerful testimony. Our prayer meeting with him taught me more than I have learned in the last 10 years. He spoke from Isaiah. As I sat up front I could watch all the workers eyes and feel the most incredible love for him. What a blessing this last year has been for me. Thank you!
*I sat in the Celetrial Room and watched an older couple bow their head while they hung on so tight to each other. The husband whispered a prayer and the wife cried. They prayed for the longest time. It felt like I was holding my breath. A similar experienced was repeated with a young couple just a few minutes later. My eyes are seeing different.
*"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. . ." Hebrews 11:2

To stay at home

*Today I am staying home, I get to make chicken soup, cuts some fresh flowers, mop my floor and change our sheets. This feels good.
* We had such a good time with the Millers, Clarks, Matt and Kevin on Saturday as we sent to Salt Lake for Dinner at Pistil Pete's. I loved sitting in the back seat of the car and talking with Kim. Matt looked good. Bret is still amazing.
* I have been working on the San Salvador Temple again. So much scraping and re-mixing.
"Therefore, sanctify yourselves that your minds become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him; for he will unveil his face unto you. . "

* It was so nice to be with Bret's family. Tyler swam in a meet and cut 15 seconds off his time. Katy preformed all of her gymnastic tricks and the kids ran around the track. Shawn gave warm hugs and Jenny told us about school. I love these children! Nicole is amazing. Bret is still working miracles with Matt. They found a skooter, I know that must feel like new life to Matt. Can't wait to see it and the new office.
* I worked on the San Salvador murals again. For the third time we are scrapping paint off because it won't dry.
* Found some pink ruffly tulips to plant
* The days are still beautiful
* "Keep all the commandments and covenants by which ye are bound; and I will cause the heavens to shake for your good. . ." D&C 35:24 Sister Daines

Peace

*Roland's homemade bean soup
* Looking forward to going to Tyler's swim meet today
* Dale McCallester whistling while he drives his lawn mower up and down the street, dragging every ones garbage cans back to their house after the garbage man has emptied them. He has a gorgeous deep voice and he always wants to bear his testimony.
* I have mom's geraniums to plant and put in the garage.
*Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?

Embellishment

*The earth is embleshed with unbeleivable beauty everywhere. The flowers are still blooming. The geraniums are vibrant. The Cosmos are delicate, and the nasturtiums are so bright. The weather is heaven.
* Kelly is feeling a little bit better. Oh a family needs a Mom.
*I feel such peace right now. I love Tom!
*Kathy Gerber is dieing and I want to learn from her how to do that.
* "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth our of the womb I sanctified thee. . ." Jeremiah 1:5

Relish

* Tom's Primary stories are just the best! The kids are glued to them. Our Primary Program turned out pretty darn good.
* Emilee's Pumpkin Cheese Cake was Delectable!
* I am eating up the New Ensign on Temples.
* I relished every moment at dinner last night. We sat around the table and talked, for me it was one of those big rewards for being a Mom.
* Kelly is sick, she is in my prayers.
*"Look into me in every thought; doubt not, fear not." D&C 6:36

Things too wonderful

*Sitting and watching the BYU Game with Mom and Tom
* Staying in bed late with Tom
* Watching the pink after glow of night
* Looking forward to the Primary Program today
* Studying Job For the thing which I greatly feared is come unto me. The Law of The Harvest (we reap what we sow) began to work for Job when he changed his attitude and repented.
". . things too wonderful for me. . .I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee." Job 42:52,5

October

* Today I pulled out the Halloween pumpkins. I think we are having Sunday Dinner together.
* The leaves are turning gold.
* Bret, Tyler, and Matt came up to look for deer. What a treat.
* I found Christopher Young's mural for the Newport Beach Temple in the Ensign. It is magnificent. I need to go see it.
* I wonder if I could get Tom to take me to some temples this winter?
* "For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually." 2 Chronicles 7:16

Feeling Completely At Home

* Kelly and Heath make life so comfortable and warm. Their home is filled with love and happiness. Watching conference with them on Sunday was heart warming. We had deviled eggs, homemade sweet rolls, and little sausages in the family room. Maizie gave an impromptu talk about temple marriage between the speakers. Busy children coloring and taking notes. Everyone came running when the prophet spoke. I am so proud of the Thompsons, I love them so!
* The bike rides through the trees and around the water were amazing!
* Kade played football like a tiger, poor the quarterback.
* Mckinnley painted a picture of the Thompsons girls dancing, with bright happy colors.
* Madison has a good ear for music. She played "Love at Home" so quickly.
* Maizie likes to stay real close to her Mom. Dang those robbers.
* Millie told me that if I wanted long beautiful hair like hers I must take a bath every night. She also likes her babies very cozy.
* Heath is a busy man providing for his family. He drove a half an hour alone to go to Priesthood Meeting on Saturday Night.
* Kelly is a miracle woman, dancing around, multitasking, finding joy in her family. She fixed the most savory food! Spinach Bow Tie Salad, Sausage Kale Soup, Cookies, Rolls, Muffins, my mouth is still watering.
* Kelly thank you for inviting me into your bathroom while you got everyone ready for school. Thank you for not picking up a wet towel or a lost shoe. You made me feel like I was part of your family.
* "Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail." D & C 6:34

Believe

* Today was my best day so far! We had lunch with Bret, Matt, Kim,and Nicole. We are celebrating Kim's Birthday. Everyone looked happy, especially Matt. Bret is working miracles. I want to bask in those happy thoughts like forever!

* Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. . .let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27

Holding on to summer

*The days are still warm. I made an arrangement in my green box of purple cosmos and gladiolas, we light a candle by them and they just glow by our bed. Simple things really are the best.

* I slept so good last night. Didn't wake up till 7:00.

* I am going Visiting teaching with Chrystal Carlson today. I want to see Pat and Heidi today too.

* Morley almost chips his teeth hiding his beer when I walk by. I wonder why he thinks I would care. He lives so alone. I wish he was Tom's friend.

* Conference is coming!

*Beneath his watchful eye,

His Saints securely dwell;

That hand which bears all nature up

Shall guard his children well."

Hushed Beauty

* I am thankful for the Sabbath
* Fresh flowers by our bed
* Sam came running through the field to walk with me this morning
* Relief Society General Meeting to fill my heart. Tender stories. I want to be a better neighbor and Visiting Teacher.
* "And they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his tent with the door therof toward the temple." Mosiah 2:6

Sweet Simplicity

* The daisy was Jamie's wedding flower. They speak of happiness.
* I rode Trigger last night, it felt so good.
* Diane is coming up, hope we can spend some time together.
* We rode to the round coral in Roland's ranger. The leaves are turning yellow now.
*" I will impart unto you of my Spirit which shall enlighten your mind and which shall fill your soul with joy." D&C 11:13

There Has Got To Be A Morning After

* I am grateful that there is always a morning after. A new day to say thank you to. I new day to try again.
* While I was on flat bench this morning the thunder rolled and crashed, the rain poured down, but it was a warm rain. I returned home muddy and dripping but a new woman.
* I got a call from Matt last night, he sounded like he was ready for a new chance. He couldn't say enough good about Bret. Thank you Archie!
* In the temple there were four of the most excited Russian girls missionaries.I tried all my Russian on them, you know the words Kim would call down to the kitchen from the hall up stairs, after she would say,"You don't even know!" Kim you must teach me more, they would have loved you. Can't wait for the Relief Society Session on Saturday Night.
*Nothing touches the soul but leaves its impress, and thus little by little, we are fashioned into the image of all we have seen and heard, known and meditated. And if we learn to live with all that is fairest and purest and best, the love of it all will, in the end, become our life." David B Haight
*

Breathe

*The moon was full and so bright last night. Dad and I sat in the dark and watched a new series on TV, but we couldn't stop looking outside at the brightness of the night.
*I took Grandma to the cabin and we sat on the old swing by the creek. She talked continually of her many memories. We felt Dad close. The leaves were beautiful.
* Grady is wearing big boy pants.
* My diamond is back on my hand. I went to the Beezley's to get the prongs fixed. Andrew was there and I thought of Trent. Those two boys had such a kind and gentle spirit to them. They made our home better.
* Today I am grateful for a new day to be happy.
*"Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart by the Holy Ghost. . ." The still small voice is subtle as though the Lord was whispering in the midst of a tumult of other sounds. Lund
*

Thoughtful Reflection

* Let me lift you up to see the light from our Halloween Pumpkin.
* The canyons are a blaze with red leaves.
* "Knowest thou not, that thou art a spark of Deity, struck from the fire of His eternal blaze." John Taylor

Sweet Simplicity

* There is a feeling that always draws me to the beach and to family. Things seem right in my mind when I imagine us there. The air is breezy and life is simpler. Feelings matter more than words. Time moves slowly. Love is in each breath.
* The geraniums are thick and lush.
*The night is warm and the stars are bright.
* I can't sleep wondering how Matt's night is.
* I want to learn more about trust and discernment.
*"The highest type of discernment is that which perceives in others and uncovers for them their better natures, the good inherent within them." Stephen L. Richards