Thanksgiving at our Home

Thursday, November 21st.

Our Idaho Dinner

Today we traveled to Larry and Bonnie's home in Idaho for our annual Holiday dinner.

Jacob has surgery

Sunday evening Danny and Amy took Jacob to the ER. He was complaining of bad pain. Test and a scan verified that he had appendicitis. He had surgery this morning from 8:30 to 10.00. It went well and the doctor told them that they were wise parents for bringing him in fast before it could rupture. Tonight he is resting at home.

Two Birthdays

Tyson celebrated his 25th birthday while DelRay is (39- haha). He does have a way of not letting you know. But if Tonya is 51 then DelRay is now 51.

Dr. Hoopes

Today was dentist day for me. It has been so many years since I have had scheduled dental work done. We left home at seven this morning. Arrived early but was able to drop off my partial and head back home. My afternoon appointment was at 2:50. This appointment was to pull out my two roots from the broken teeth and put the newly altered partial in my mouth. I opted for no happy gas just the shots. The teeth were a little bit stubborn but with the doctors expert hands the came out just fine. Tonight I am tired and glad the whole thing is over. I really hope that my whole health will improve with one source of infection gone.

Todd Johnson

Happy Birthday to Todd.

Patience and Time

Life offers us many lessons. But perhaps one of the greatest is the learning of time and patience. All will come. The bulbs we plant in the fall with time and patience become beautiful flowers in the spring. I have been planting bulbs and have so enjoyed their beauty with time and patience. I will live my life on earth as if it is heaven and when it is my Time I will simply be going home.

Miss Kinley turns FOUR

She was so excited for her "Tangle" Birthday. She greeted us at the door with such joy. We had to check out her bedroom and see her bed full of blown up balloons. She was full of smiles, hops, skips and jumps. We are so glad that this special little great granddaughter is so happy and so well loved and cared for by her sweet parents.

 

 

Jacob and RSL

He loved it. The Despains attend a late game at Rio Tintoretto tonight. Lots of fun and sound asleep on the way home.  Still has school tomorrow.

Mitt Romney and Family

It has been sad for me to know that this fine family will not be our countries leaders and examples for good. They have been in my prayers and will continue to be as they move forward. I am a citizen of this country of the United States of America and I will prayer for our leaders and our citizens that we can raise our standards and become a nation united UNDER GOD. Right now I think we are on such a path of self destruction because our moral values are becoming so blurred and wrong. Be with us dear Father, we so need you.

Bad becomes GLAD

Today was the day to go to the dentist. This is not a common occurrence for me and I was a bit nervous. With Brittani's help an appointment had been made with Dr. Hoopes in Ogden. This is the dentist that she worked for. There was no need to worry. They were great people, but best of all Dr. Hoopes said it would not be necessary to pull the last of my teeth. He felt that the x-ray showed good bone and would still support my bridge. He will add a new tooth to my existing bridge along with pulling the two roots that are still in my mouth. Not only great news but a great financial savings. (Over a thousand dollars). Getting rid of these two roots will also get rid of the infection that they give to me. One week from today it will all be done and I can freely smile again and feel some better. I can not express how grateful I am that Brittani helped me, because I was at a loss as to what to do.

Nate's last football game for Bear River High School

Nate and the Bear River Bears traveled to St. George for football.  He had the great support of his parents again.  DelRay had worked all night but was able to drive past Salt Lake and then Tonya took over.  They would spend the night with Uncle Dennis and Aunt Sharron.  They would also bring Nate home with them.  It was a great game and Nate was able to play alot but, alas the team lost and ended the season and Nate's Senior year as a Bear River Football player.  Yeah! for number 4.  We are proud of your dedication, determination in overcoming all odds (and people) to complete your season.  You are a terrific young man.

One Year for Zoey Brewer

Had cupcakes and ice cream with Zoey and her family tonight. Happy Birthday to Little Zoey.  Once again Meagan had fixed a fun party.  Daddy Garin was the assemlier for the evening as Zoey received a fun castle for her birthday.  Was fun to share this happy night with family and friends.

 

Little Miss Zoey did not like getting her hands in her special cake.  Everyone tried to get her but she did not think it was fun at all.  So cute.  (will add more photos from camera with time)

Brittani celebrates

October 31st or commonly known as Halloween is my oldest granddaughters birthday. However, this sweet young lady has never been the trick only the best of treats.

So Tired and Discouraged

Worn out and feeling crappy and top it all off with another lost tooth and family sadness. Please help me dear father. I need to be at the temple on Saturday and it is not going well. Please I need You and the prayers of family. I just can't see the end.

Jeff has a Birthday

Today Jeff celebrates 49 years.

A Feast for the Eyes

Drove the long way home today. Utah is so SPECTACULAR.

Red Cliff Lodge

Brad had meetings for one of the boards that he serves on these past two days. We left home early on Sunday to drive to Moab. It was my first trip through Spanish Fork Canyon. It was fun to see the places my dad frequented in his trucking business-- Soldiers Summet, Price and

Amanda has a Birthday

Glenda Lee Firth Nesbit

Fifty years ago a second little baby girl came to our home. Glenda has always been the strong silent daughter in our family. She was always willing to help whenever help was needed. Glenda was one of the youngest students in her school classes but she was alway at the top of her class. She willingly served her sisters and brothers. Maybe once in awhile we did have some conflict but she usually found the way to end it. I do hope that someday Glenda will be able to live in a place that she can once again have a horse. Selling her horses was one of the hardest things that had to be done when Dale died and we moved away from the farm. My love for this sweet daughter is eternal. I am grateful to be her mother. Happy Birthday.

Home for the little ones

Today we took Sam and Heather home.

Tyler the two year old

Tyler's is a two year old today. We were invited to a hot dog dinner with the Brewer family today. All of Tyler's favorites were on the menu. His mom created a fun Disney theme for this special little boys birthday. Mom and dad gave Tyler a fun RED four wheeler and he can really make it go. Happy Birthday to these cute little great grandson.

 

 

It's a great evening

Sid was able to come home tonight about nine. Yeah! The children will spend tonight with us. After Brad teaches priesthood tomorrow we will take them home. A big thank you to Teresa and Paul for playing with them while we did our shift at the temple. We will return home through the canyon to see birthday boy Tyler. Long day for everyone. Sleep is good.

Another night for Sid

Sid is still in the hospital. Today saw some improvement. They were able to get him up today. He is still very weak but is trying his best to take in some food and walk to clear his lungs. Lots of prayers are needed.

Aunt Bonnie falls

Today Aunt Bonnie fell at her son Kevin's home in Farr West. She broke her femer bone close to her hip bone. She had surgery tonight at the MacKay Dee Hospital in Ogden, Utah. Such a long ways from home.

Heather and Sam

The two little ones are with us tonight. Daddy Sid is still not okay and will be in the hospital for another night. Hopefully things will improve and he will come home soon. It is wonderful that Heather and Sam are comfortable with us. We look foreword to the time when Elizabeth will be able to come also. Tonight our hearts and prayers are with Natalie and Sid. May the greatest of heavens blessings be with them.

 

 

Two months

Skylar has been serving for two months. He is working hard and is filled with the spirit of missionary work. Keep up the good work Elder Isaacson.

Nate in Senior Football Game

Last night was to be Senior Football night. Perhaps the last of the year, however they will advanced. Nate had his longest playing night ever. Started on offense. His mother reports that he caught a pass but a penalty flag was thrown and it was voided. However, still a fun exciting game for him. Hard to think this is his last year in high school. Nate lives a very busy life with the hunting season on and football in full swing.

Families are forever

My dear family I ask you please to love and respect one another.

Sid in the Hospital

Brad and I went to the Soria's last night. Sid was scheduled for a surgery this morning at five thirty. It was to be an out patient procedure. BUT---- he is still in the hospital tonight. The doctor said it was a painful surgery plus with Sid's history he said he should have just admitted him first. Then they all would get rest. I hope his recovery will be quick. We enjoyed being with the children. This morning we were able to get Heather and Sam ready for school and Elizabeth changed and fed her bottle. That is after a desperate call to Natalie to learn how to put the special bottle together. She so wanted it NOW and it took me too long. Kinley arrived at eight thirty and helped finish up and drive the children to school. Brad had a grave to dig today so we headed home this morning. Our hearts and prayers are with the Soria family tonight.

We did our best

Today we left our home at 11:15 to go to a the 12:30 session with Randi Jo. I am so grateful that we were blessed to attend the session. Not only to be with Randi but to see how things were done. Why? Brad and I were assighned the five o clock own endowment session. Brother Jim had called us earlier in the week to tell us. Crazy----he was told we had experience. It was good to be back and we did okay. However on the job training is a bit nerve racking. We arrived home at ten this evening. Good to be back in the temple.

Random photos

Gracie

Tomorrow is the first

Tomorrow will be our first day working at the Brigham Temple. So nervous. I so miss my Logan sisters. I know these sisters will be special too.

Grandparents Day with Heather

Brad and I left home at seven this morning to enjoy "grandparent Day" with Heather at Endeavor Elementary school in Farmington. We arrived at the Soria home a few minutes before eight. Heather was very excited and so were we. The day started at eight fifteen with lots of other grandparents. It was the entire schools special day. The line was long for pictures so went to the gym for donuts. Yum they were good. We filled out a grandparent survey while there. I will put it in the Soria book so when Natalie is a grandma she and Heather can look at it. Lot's of things will change I am sure. Will blog more on laptop. It was a wonderful day with my little Sorias.

Truth, power and testimony

Apostle Eyring and Apostle Holland. Oh may I DO. I so love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ.

My thoughts on Conference - how I love this time

I always think of my mom at this special time of year.   I have such sweet memories of her spending Conference weekend at our home.  When Harlen was serving as Stake President he would attend Conference at the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City,  mother would. Ride with him to our house and spend the time with us.  She loved to listen and watch these special sessions.  She was always such a good example to me.   I love her, I honor her and I still miss her.

Homecoming at Bear River

Nate is now a Senior so this is his last Homecoming.  I am not too sure what happened at the football game, but from his mother's post it was not so good.  Bear River did win but even though Nate always gives it his all he seems to be forgotten.  I hope this was not the case.

Tonight is the Homecoming dance.  Kim is off to college so another lucky girl will be his date.

Birthday Time for the Howell Boys

Garrett turned three on Friday and his father will celebrate on Sunday.
Garrett is having fun with fifty hot wheel cars.  Loves this present from mom and dad.
The Woods and Brewers will be traveling to American Fork today to celebrate with them.   Happy Birthday to Garrett and Dan.

Homer (Homerette)

 

 

Little Homer died this afternoon.  I always called her Homerette.  You see when she showed up one day at the Wood's house next door, Branden got to keep her.  They thought she was a boy puppy. Oops, boy puppies do not have babies, thus Homerette.

Brandon had wanted a puppy for so long, but with the dairy cows it just wasn't a good idea.  Well, Grandpa Brad had sold the cows just a short time before Homerette showed up.  No excuses for not keeping her.  I am so glad she came.  She has been a very choice puppy to have on the farm.  Fun and playful, so good with the little ones, and grandpa's hunting buddy.  She could sniff out a mouse or squirrel so good and then grandpa would help her get to them by moving a log or a pipe or whatever was necessary.  When the critter ran out Homerette was on it and rarely let one get away.  Many a time Teresa found a gift of a mouse or squirrel on her back porch.

Tonight Homerette is at rest in one of the flower gardens she loved to dig in.  Paul built her a nice wooden box and he and grandpa dug a nice spot for here.  We were blessed that someone was silly enough to drop off this stray little black puppy.  She has been a friend for twelve and a half years.

Ellerie Sue Dansie

 

 

Today this special little great granddaughter received her special priesthood blessing to receive her name which she will be known by and a special blessing from her father,  Dusty Dansie.    We met as family and friends at the Tremonton South Stake building for sacrament meting with the members of the twelfth ward.  This is the Dansie's ward.  Those standing in the circle were her father, her grandfather's DelRay Woodruff and Brett Dansie; her great grandfather's Brad Frank and Dale Woodruff; her great uncles Dan Nesbit, Jeff Firth, Paul Wood, Todd Johnson, Sid Soria, and Danny Despain, Dan Woodruff, Brian Anderson,  (more to come). Her second cousin Justin Nesbit added his priesthood power  also.  The circle was so large that he felt it better to give his love and support from the audience.

She was given a sweet blessing that her body could grow and be healthy and strong, that she would seek out those who would lead her in good paths, that she would desire to seek an eternal companion worthy and wanting to marry her in the holy temple.  You could feel the great love and car of her sweet father as he pronounced his blessing for her.  I too pray that this beautiful daughter of God will always know that ( she is loved, that she is a daughter of God,  and that Families are forever in God's eternal plan.)

Ellerie is also blessed with a choice mother.  Kelsey is so wonderful with her little daughter.  Ellerie has had a rough start with colic.  This has been an added stress for these first time parents but they are doing well.

Ellerie's blessing dress was sewn with great love and perfection by her Grandmother Tonya.  I know this will always be a special memory for her.

 

Before I go on about her celebration party I must say something about Ellerie's aunt and uncle, MacKenzie and Nate.  They love this little one so much.  When she is fussy Uncle Nate will love and cuddle her and is able to calm her.  Nate is a very special man.  When it is time for him to be a father his children will be blessed that they came to him.  Our MacKenzie loves holding this little one and getting cute smiles from her.  I think perhaps these two will be best buds.

After sacrament meeting we met at the senior center in Tremonton, where the Dansie's and the Woodruffs had planned and prepared a deli sous lunch.

 

 

This was a wonderful day.

Sweet Ellerie and her mom

I was so happy to see these two special ladies this morning.

Our Anniversary

Today Brad and I have been married for twenty eight years.  It has been good.  We enjoyed a special belated honeymoon trip the past eleven days.  Today will be filled with preparing the field for planting the winter wheat.  I will be busy with laundry and hopefully grocery shopping since the refrigerator is empty.

3353 Miles

We arrived home about five this afternoon.  We traveled many miles and had a very good geography lesson.  What an amazing country we have.

Today we traveled from Grand Junction to Vernal by way of a scenic route.  Yep,  another exciting pass.  Douglas Pass is a switchback dugout road.  Speed limit between 5 and 15 miles an hour.  Knuckle color ---white.  Amazing when you arrive at the top you see all the road you just traveled.
The view of the canyon was so amazing.  It felt that you were seeing to the ends of the earth.   On our way down we came to a disabled semi that was on the other side of the road because there was not any curb, just down the mountain.   Silly driver I do not know what he was thinking.  He could never made the switchbacks let alone the steep grade going down.   Hope someone could help him.

The mountains today were full of beautiful golden quackies.  It is always fun to travel with Brad but it is not for the faint of heart.

We went to Dinosaur National Park outside of Vernal today.  This was an interesting side trip.  We watched a very informative movie, read the displays and looked at the pictures of the early settlers of the area.  One tough lady is what ms. Morris had to be.   She ran a ranch and took care of herself for many years.  She used two boxed canyons as natural corrals for her cattle.  We then rode the shuttle up to the building that is built against the side of the mountain where they display many dinosaur bones still imbedded in the rock.  Grandma touched real dinosaur bones today.  Will study more now at home about this great place.

Vernal was about  fifteen miles away so it was a quick trip to find the Vernal Temple.  We did not have an address but some how Brad managed to drive right to it.  (Will write more and tell of a visit with a man there when on my laptop.

Today I say Starvation Reservoir, Strawberry Reservoir, Jordanelle Reservoir and a very empty Echo Reservoir because they are working on it.  Blog more later.  So much I want to remember.

Grand Junction, Colorado

We traveled from Denver to Grand Junction through the high Rockies.  It was so great to see our mountains but it was a white knuckle drive.  The road was not built on the mountain but by the mountain on cement uprights.  It was amazing ---- an must have took forever.  We traveled through many tunnels -- (at least 8) but the Eisenhower was the longest. 

 

The Eisenhower Tunnel, officially the Eisenhower–Johnson Memorial Tunnel,^[1] is a dual-bore, four-lane vehicular tunnel approximately 50 mi (80 km) west of Denver, Colorado, United States. The tunnel carries Interstate 70 under the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. With a maximum elevation of 11,158 ft (3,401 m) above sea level, it is one of the highest vehicular tunnels in the world. The tunnel is the longest mountain tunnel and highest point on the Interstate Highway system. Completed in 1979, it was one of the last major pieces of the Interstate Highway system to be completed. The westbound bore is named after Dwight D. Eisenhower, the U.S. President for whom the Interstate system is also named. The eastbound bore is named for Edwin C. Johnson, a governor and U.S. Senator who lobbied for an Interstate Highway to be built across Colorado.

The Eisenhower bore (westbound tunnel) is 1.693 mi (2.72 km) long while the Johnson bore (eastbound tunnel) is 1.697 mi (2.73 km) long. The tunnels are sloped with a 1.64% grade, with an elevation of 11,013 feet (3,357 m) at the east portal and 11,158 feet (3,401 m) at the west portal. At the time of dedication, they were the highest vehicular tunnels in the world.^[1] The Eisenhower Tunnel remains the highest vehicular tunnel in the United States, however higher tunnels have since been constructed elsewhere, such as the Fenghuoshan Tunnel, a rail tunnel in China.^[2] The Eisenhower tunnel is noted as the longest mountain tunnel and highest point on the Interstate Highway system.^[3] The tunnel bores measure 48 feet (15 m) by 40 feet (12 m); however, the portion accessible to the public is a square shape measuring just over 16 feet (4.9 m) tall. The rest of the bore is used for forced air ventilation and water drainage systems.^[1]

[edit] Height restriction

Eastern portal of the tunnel

Due to additional height restrictions from variable message signs and lighting systems, the original posted clearance of the tunnels was 13.5 feet (4.1 m).^[1] The trucking industry lobbied the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to increase the vertical clearance of the tunnel. With a 2007 retrofit that used lower profile lighting and signs, it is now possible for trucks 13.92 feet (4.24 m) to navigate the tunnel, an increase of 5 inches (13 cm) over the original limit. Sensors will activate audible sirens near each entrance of the tunnel if a vehicle above the posted height attempts to enter the tunnel. Traffic signals at that entrance will turn red, stopping all traffic. The entrance will remain closed until the over-height vehicle is removed from the freeway, sometimes causing severe delays for all traffic. CDOT noted that prior to the retrofit, about 20,000 vehicles per year tripped the alarm. The trucking industry argued that many of these trucks were under the height requirement but tripped the alarm due to their air suspensions (which can be manually lowered for the duration of the journey through the tunnel) or due to winter snow and ice on top of the trailer. During this time, the trucking industry estimated the number of alarms would drop by as much as 80% if the clearance could be raised even a few inches.^[4] Another feature of the retrofit monitors truck weight—a safe speed for each truck on the 7% grades and curves just outside the tunnel is calculated and displayed for each driver.^[5]

The Rockies

Hays, Kansas

Kansas City Temple

The Kansas City Temple was too far into the city for us to travel but we were so happy to see it's beautiful spires and the angel Moroni glowing in full glory.  How wonderful to see that the Lord's temples are "dotting" the earth and His work is going forth.  This temple is actually in Kansas City, Missouri.  Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas are just one big city.

 

Independence, Missouri

Liberty Jail

Winter Quarters

Tonight we are resting in Omaha, Nebraska.  We traveled from Ramsey, Minnesota to Albert Lea, Minnesota to Worthington, Minnesota , through Iowa and to Sioux City, Nebraska to here.  We have seen acres and acres and acres of farms on rolling hills.  It is harvest time and the corn is being combined.  The majority of the fields are corn.  A very small amount of hay and then some kind of bean or seed crop.  It is all dry and brown.  Not a single grain field was to be seen.  The other big crop is windmills.  Today they were working hard because we had a strong wind all day.  It was a good day but, we both said our Rocky Mountains sure are beautiful and we are glad to live in them.

After checking in we went to the Winter Quarters Trail Center.  Sister Atkins from St. George was our guide.  She was so sweet.  She says that she works three days at the center, for two days and then part of one day they give service to the nuns at the convent just up the street from the center.  They truly try to fellowship all people of all religions.

The center is small but carries a powerful message.  The temple sits on the hill across the street beside the cemetery where those who died at Winter Quarters are buried.  We should have allowed more time for our visit.

Coming home the long way

Dedication of our Temple

Church in Anoka Ward

Day Trip with the Isaacson's

This afternoon we went to the Pine Valley Apple Orchard and Stillwater,Minnesota.

Relaxing Day

Jeff's at work and the boys are at school.  The morning begins at 5:30----- so Nicole takes a rest when the last one leaves.  Clay catches the bus at 9:10.  Today it is raining which is a blessing.  Minnesota is looking mighty dry.

Brad is enjoying another book.  He is quite the reader now.   Never thought he would enjoy the Nook, but he does.  Yesterday we went to Coon Rapids and did some shopping.  Then Nicole took us past Hunter and Clayton's schools.  We pick Tristin up each day at 2:20.  The  buildings at nice but older.  I think perhaps we should be very grateful for our Utah schools.

Last evening Brad, Jeff and Tristin drove to Albertville, which is about thirty minutes away to purchased a used basketball standard for the boys.  Will get it set up tonight.  Nichole and I made hot rolls and cinnamon rolls for supper along with a tasty cheesy chicken soup.  It all tasted great.


Tomorrow will go to the apple orchard.

Shopping at "Aldi's"

You will need a quarter for your cart if you shop at Aldi's.  this is a little market in Coon Rapids.  Jeff shopped at Aldi's while serving his mission in The Netherlands.

You put your quarter in and it releases the cart to go shopping.  When you are finished with shopping and have bagged your groceries you return the cart and hook up the chain and out pops your quarter for your next shopping trip.  It is a very small, simple store  with a unique set of brand names.  Nichole says she has really gotten to like many of them.   We bought some chocolate candies that are so good.  You take your own bags and bag you own groceries.  Very Eco friendly.  It was fun.  We found a wreath and some berries so Nicole could finish her temple picture wall.  We had a fun time hanging the----Jeff teases Nicole a lot and she calls him a nerd.  She wants to get a small shelf to finish the wall.

Daisy passed her test today also.  Hoorah for Daisy.  We set her pillow by the window next to the front door and blocked the steps going up and down.  I so wanted her to stay in that area and not get on the couch.  She did it.  She was laying on the pillow watching for us when we drove up.  Sunday will be another test.  I don't want her to be locked in the kennel when it is hot, rainy or cold.  I know she can do it.

Like most homes who have children in school the nights are busy with homework, supper and baths.  I think mom and dad's look forward to the weekend.

Pinewood Derby Time

Ramsey, Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota

We are on our Way

Brad and I started our trip to visit the Isaacson family at six this morning.  We knew it would still be dark but felt that Brad would be more comfortable driving in the dark in Utah and Wyoming than in Nebraska.  We will be traveling on I 80 East.  So we will see Cheyenne and surrounding areas again.  We enjoyed it the last time so I am sure we will enjoy it this time.  With the load that we are pulling Brad felt more comfortable driving this route.

 

 

 

We arrived at about seven tonight.  We lost an hour just before North Platte.  Grandpa said he was glad we lost it tonight and not in the morning when we start the second half of or trip to Ramsey.  We are loaded to the hilt.  The trailer can hold nothing else.  The back of the pick up can not hold another thing and the back seat is full.  So funny how much stuff we all need.  It has been a good drive but everything looks so dry and brown.

I never got out of the truck until our arrival and my legs are great.  That was a twelve hour drive.  Grandpa got out twice to fill up with gas.  High price on gas, more than Tremonton.  Our last fill up was $4.10.   I prepared sandwiches for our meal today.  We ate at the rest stop in Sidney, Nebraska----home of Cabelas.  No shopping today.

We have a beautiful room and we are grateful to Tyler for helping us with a great price.

The truck and four wheelers are parked where we can see them from the fourth floor.  The window is ajar and the cool fresh air is wonderful.

Bert Brown

Happy Birthday to our newest grandson (in law). I hate that word.

Brigham City temple celebration

Dusty Dansie

A happy birthday.

Paul Wood

Happy birthday

Making our final preparations

Brad and I are two busy people.  We will be leaving for Minnesota at six Monday morning.

Temple Fireside

We will be attending a temple fireside this evening at the Bear River City Ward church house.

We have returned home from the fireside.  It is nine in the evening.  It was a very informative evening.  We are called shifts now and not groups.  Brad and I are members of shift nine, which is the last Saturday shift.   We will begin with prayer meeting at three fifteen and begin our assignments at four.  We will serve until ten.  The only difference as I see it is the building.  God's ordinances are always the same because truth does not change.   We will just be administering them in a different building, that is smaller and will require different logistics.  We will be fine.  It will just take time.  How grateful I am for our calling to the Logan Temple and that we have had time to learn these beautiful words.  I truly feel great compassion for the newly called workers who have to learn on the job.  They will be in my prayers.

A few of our old friends from Logan are in our shift.  The Thompsons, the Hawkins, the Marbles, the  Doneys and brother Michalis.  I was so hoping I would see the Nalders and the Kings from Malad, but they were not there.  Maybe on another shift.  Brother Jim and Sister Jan Petersen are our shift coordinators.

As we share Skylar's mission

This is his weekly email from the president.
Nichole

September 10, 2012

Dear Elders and Sisters –
It’s the start of another great week in the Spokane Washington Mission.  It is has been a busy week for all of us and has been a week of change.  We were sad to say goodbye to 24 missionaries.  It was hard for Sister Mullen and me to say goodbye to each of these faithful Elders and Sisters as they left; but, that was replaced with the excitement that we felt as we welcomed 19 missionaries to Spokane.  They all arrived ready to work and excited to be here.  It is one of  the miracles of this work every time we send home one group of missionaries and get in another group.  I am happy to report that all made it home safely who were headed home and we did not lose any of the missionaries who arrived last Monday.
After loading up their luggage, we headed off to downtown Spokane for fear busting.  A special thanks to the Elders and Sisters who gave up part of their Pday to accompany these missionaries.  We gathered back at the end and shared our experiences.  We exercised our collective faith as we went out and had a great experience.  I loved hearing different missionaries talk about their experiences.  As you may recall, it is a little intimidating to go fear busting – I am happy to report that everyone did great and we came back with as many as we started with!!  We welcome those who arrived this past week.  They bring with them gifts and testimonies and an enthusiasm that will bless our mission.
Growing up in Idaho, I recall watching sheepherders herding sheep along country roads.  They were on horses and they had sheep dogs who would help them keep the sheep moving in the right direction.  As a young boy, it was amusing to watch as a sheep would leave the herd and head in another direction.  When one sheep went, others followed.  I watched as the sheepherders on their horses and the trained dogs would work together to bring the errant sheep back into the herd.  They were constantly working to keep the sheep headed in the direction that they wanted them to go.  I observed 2 things about sheep. 1- Sheep follow and 2 – it took constant effort and a lot of work to get the sheep where you wanted them to go.
 I had often read New Testament references to sheep and to Christ as the Good Shepherd.  My experiences with sheep as a young boy did not give much meaning to those references.  Years later, Sister Mullen and I visited the Holy Land.  On a hill overlooking Bethlehem, I observed a young shepherd boy.  He had sheep and a dog; but, there was something very different.  His sheep followed him wherever he went and when he would stop, they gathered around him.  His dog did not herd the sheep; but, was there to help protect the sheep.  I learned that at night, shepherds put their sheep into a common sheepfold for protection at night.  In the morning, the shepherd would call his sheep and only his sheep would come out of the sheepfold.  They knew his voice and followed him.  I was reminded that 1 – sheep follow; but, I learned a new lesson about sheep – they know the voice of the shepherd and love him and don’t have to be herded.
This experience gave the scriptural references to Christ as the Good Shepherd new meaning.  In John 10:14, Jesus teaches: “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”  Jesus knows His sheep and they know him.  In verse 16 he continues “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.”  He tells the Nephites that they are the other sheep that He was speaking of and then states “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” (3 Ne 15:17)  I believe that these sheep He spoke about include those in our mission.  These are the sheep that we are looking for.  We are the Lord’s under shepherds who are bringing His sheep back into His fold.  Jesus tells us “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me”
Jesus’ sheep hear His voice and follow Him.  Too often, as missionaries, we are too busy trying to herd the sheep and drive them towards Christ.  We forget that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him.  We don’t need to try to convince others to follow Christ.  We need to find those sheep who will hear Christ’s voice and follow Him.
Elder Eyring taught “God will put prepared people in the way of His prepared servants who want to share the gospel. You have had that happen in your own life. How often it happens depends on the preparation of your mind and your heart…
God is preparing people to receive your testimony of restored truth. He requires your faith and then your action to share fearlessly what has become so precious to you and to those you love.
Prepare to share by filling your mind every day with the truths of the gospel. As you keep the commandments and honor your covenants, you will feel the testimony of the Spirit and more of the Savior’s love for you and for those you meet.
If you do your part, you will increasingly have the sweet experience of meeting people who are prepared to hear your testimony of the truth—offered from heart to heart, yours to theirs.” (First Presidency Message – Ensign - September 2012)
You are doing a great job.  We are seeing many of Christ’s sheep coming into His fold.  We are seeing many come back to His fold as they return to activity in the Church.  Each week, I hear miracles where Christ has placed His sheep in your path and you have found them.  They hear His voice and follow Him.
The work is not always easy but it’s always worth it.  Continue to work hard, be obedient, listen to and follow the promptings of the Spirit and go out each day and do your best.  Then trust in the Lord that it He will make up the difference.  I promise you that He always will.  Look forward and not backward.  No matter what happened yesterday or last week or last month or last transfer, each day is a fresh start.
We love you and are praying for you.

Much Love – President and Sister Mullen

This is the email I got today from Skylar

i am doing fine no need to worry the only big thing that happened was we got a knife pulled on us and the guy told us just not to talk to him it was   freaking awesome and we almost got hit by golf balls.  and the reason there is a charge for wal mart was because the first day we rode bikes i got 2 flat tires so we had to go get new tubes at wal mart and u cant use the share card for that and we are going shopping today after we play a llittle basketball.  elder Stacey is the best ever he is from orem Utah.  my quilt is awesome.  my new address is 6335 winesap NE moses lake WA 98837 i live with a member family but right now they are serving there own mission somewhere else so we have the house to ourselves :) but they will be back sometime in october so will will move somwhere else.  right now also on sundays we cover 2 wards so we go to church twice that is pretty cool.  right now we have about 5 people we are ready to put on date to be baptized.  i need u too send me a few things i need more treats and i would like my red nikes i miss them well thats about it for me i will talk to u guys later love u guys

Cute Pictures sent me

Tonya made another beautiful quilt.  This is MacKenzie ---- hers somehow ended up being the last one made but it is certainly worth waiting for.  Tonya does such beautiful work.  WOW

First corn on the cob for Tyler

Swim party with friends for Tyler

Sewing fun shirts for the Despains

Amy is loving her many sewing projects and she is doing such a beautiful job

Elizabeth Jane is sitting up on her own

Elizabeth and her soft cuddly toys

The Soria family celebrating Labor Day ------The Pram was used by Sid when he was a baby, his father had it recovered when Heather was born.  I am glad to see that Elizabeth also gets to ride in it.  What a wonderful memory.

Once again Natalie has a bountiful garden.  She has a great green thumb ----- and Heather loves to help her with all the picking

The corn even grew -----taller and taller and produced some tasty ears.  Natalie never expected it to do much.  This was Heather's idea

Even though you turn nineteen I guess you still to crazy things.  Skylar's birthday at our house with sparklers.

Each Day a bit more

The blog ---- my life ---- my history ------ a little each week and hopefully complete.  A little more today but so much more to go.  I will keep going though and then I must settle down and learn how to get it into a book that this history will be preserved.

 

As Brad and I read the Book of Mormon I think of this great record and the faithfulness of those that preserved it that we could have it and it's great teachings. 

 

How I wish that I had kept a more complete record.  Our family life and experience are also building blocks to help us grow and become better.  I pray that those that read this blog and my other written histories will see the wonder of our family and the goodness of each member.  I hope that they will see that love and forgiveness is the wonder of the Atonement and that is a wonder for families.  May we work together and grow in love.  You are on the outside only if you choose to be so, for no one is excluded in the love and concern that we your grandparents feel.  As I read back in this blog I am grateful for each event that has taken place and that we have been encluded in them.

Cassidy has a Birthday

Yesterday Cassidy celebrated his birthday.  We hope that it was great. (a day at work-I am sure)

Dan and Glenda going to Arches

Dan and Glenda left this morning for Moab to tour Arches National Park.  They are very excited for this mini-vacation.  They will return home on Monday.  It is so fun to see these empty nesters having such great times together.  They are a great example for all couples whose lives are changing as the children become independent and begin their own adult lives.  The three boys will keep the home place together while mom and dad enjoy their time together.  Looking forward to the pictures.

Talked with Glenda Friday night.  They are staying in Green River, Utah.  They spent a great day hiking and will do more tomorrow.  Dan text these photos.

Dan and Glenda returned home today (Monday).  They came by the house and shared some brochures and pictures with us.  They were beautiful.  They had a great time and were able to hike and enjoy all of the areas of Arches.  Glenda said it was still very hot at Moab, but they still enjoyed it.



On a Mission: Washington Spokane Mission - President & Sister Mullen

WOn a Mission: Washington Spokane Mission - President & Sister Mullen


Just tap the small print to go to link.  Read and then enjoy short video.  So true and beautiful.  Elder Iring is so sincere and so humble.

Dusty leaves for Washington State

Dusty will be gone for ten days on a job in Washington.  I know this was a hard day for him and Kelsey.

Little baby Ellerie is still having some hard times.  Her mom says that they went to the doctor yesterday and she does have acid reflex.  It could take up to three weeks for the medicine to work.  Sure hope not.  Her little cry breaks my heart.  Nothing worse than knowing a little one hurts.  Kelsey will spend some time at mom and dad's the next few days.  I know all things will get better but sometimes tomorrow is just not quick enough.

A moment of rest

Friday after dad left and mom is staying with Grandpa and Grandma ---- having some good moments but, still just struggling ----we love her and pray she will have a turn around

Ryan and Jordan are home owners

Brad and I took a side trip through Corinne to see where Ryan and Jordan will be establishIng there first purchased home.  It is a fixer upper but they are young and up to the task.  It will be fun to see it become beautiful and a lovely home.  We are just sad that they will not be by us.

Elder Isaacson's first area is Moses Lake, Washington

The family received an e mail from President Mullen today with some photo's.  He is doing so great and we are very proud of him.

5 September 2012

Dear Brother and Sister Isaacson,

I was pleased to welcome your son, Elder Isaacson, to the Washington Spokane Mission this week.  I’m happy to report that he arrived safely.  I had the privilege of meeting and associating with him the day of his arrival and note that it is evident that he comes with a great desire to serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Elder Isaacson understands the role of the Holy Ghost in accomplishing the work here in the Washington Spokane Mission and has committed to live worthy of that power.

After prayerful consideration, I have called Elder Stacey to serve as Elder Isaacson’s training companion in the Moses Lake, Washington area.  It is our objective to call only the best missionaries to serve as trainers and I believe that your son is in excellent training hands.  We expect that your missionary will serve in this area for the next 6 to 12 weeks as he begins his mission.

I have enclosed photographs of your missionary and assure you that Sister Mullen and I will love Elder Isaacson. Our great desire is that his time here will further establish him on the path of righteousness, as well as bless the many people he will serve.

Attached are the new updated recommended guidelines we have for parents.  These guidelines are based on many years of accumulated missionary experience, especially those guidelines concerning personal contact with your missionary. Elder Isaacson needs your good example.  I sincerely request that you consider them for the benefit of your son and his fellow missionaries.

Thank you so much for sharing Elder Isaacson with us.

Sincerely,
Donald E. Mullen, President
WASHINGTON SPOKANE MISSION

Elder Isaacson and President and Sister Mullen

Elder Stacey with Elder Isaacson ----- He is Skylar's first trainer ------hope they do great

Let's go to School

A busy day for many.

The Isaacson boys started in Ramsey today.  Hunter's bus stop right next door and hopefully Clayton's will be just a few houses down if they can get it changed.  Tristin will be attending early morning seminary.  His dad drops him of on his way to work and then Nichole picks him up and gets him to Anoka High School.  A gentleman is also working on getting the bus to stop at the church and pick up the twelve young people that are attending seminary.  This would really save a lot of travel and GAS.

Nichole says that the year was an easier start for the boys with one year behind them.  The little girl that lives right next door to them is in Clayton's class.  He knew her from last year when they again shared the same classroom.

Hunter opted out of ceramics for PE.  WOW!  he has PE every day.  He is really into tennis right now and is outside hitting balls when ever he can.  He was amazed that his dad played tennis in high school.

A new family rule that all agreed on is that there will be no electronic devices during the week or on Sundays and only one hour of TV during the week.  I am sure this will help with family togetherness and mother's sanity.

Kinley goes to pre school just down the street.  Jami Theurer is her teacher.  It is a small class which will be so good.  She was excited that her name was on purple paper, because that is her favorite color.  Brittani and Gracie are visiting with me for the two hours she is at school and I am loving this.  Gracie is so fun to have around.  Just a busy little girl with the cutest smile.  When her mom tells her No - No she just shakes her head no and smiles, but then she leaves alone what ever she was exploring.

 

 

Heather starts Kindergarten at Explorer Elementary.  The first day was a shortened in time and the mother's were asked to stay with them.  She did very well with mom there and loved the library.  So Wednesday was the big test and she did great.  She is loving it.  What a relief for mom and dad.  Mom has also created some cute labels to put on hangers with each days cloths.  This will help dad a great deal since he is the one that gets her and her brother Sam to school in the morning.  Kinley picks them up after school and takes care of them til mom arrives home.  Natalie and Sid have a great schedule going ---- all children fed, bathed and played with and in bed by 8:30.  They are loving the quiet evenings together and the happy children in the morning because a good sleep has been had.