Sabbath Day

My dear Hubby woke up early to get ready for church-  I took a hot bath and washed my hair, put my make on and ready to go.  I woke up with a stomach ache and it continue to worsen as I got ready for church.  I ended up staying home.  I really wanted to attend- I crawled in bed and started reading the Come follow me lesson for this week- I couldn’t keep my eyes opened- I fell asleep and woke up just in time to catch our zoom meeting for Relief Society- it is short only 25 minutes long.  It is only 10:20 am -this is going to be a long day.  We do have the dedication for our new Bear lake Branch building  at 2pm-  so hopefully my stomach feels better by then.  Just not feeling the best today.  

Selfie of my really blonde hair- don’t know if I like it but I’m there. My roots are really light now.  I will try it for a while to see if I get use to it. 

The dedication for the Bear Lake visitor Ward building was very nice.  I enjoyed attending and feeling the spirit of the Lord and fellowshipping with the Saints.  We really love our stake President- brother Roberts he is always so nice to us.  I spent several hours studying the last part of the book of Ether today-  I’m teaching next Sunday so got to get my study time in.  It is a beautiful full moon tonight.  

My list of the Blessing to Israel

Quote from the Prophet -And what is the Lord willing to do for Israel? The Lord has pledged that He will “fight [our] battles, and [our] children’s battles, and our children’s children’s [battles] … to the third and fourth generation”!

As you study your scriptures during the next six months, I encourage you to make a list of all that the Lord has promised He will do for covenant Israel. I think you will be astounded! Ponder these promises. Talk about them with your family and friends. Then live and watch for these promises to be fulfilled in your own life.

My dear brothers and sisters, as you choose to let God prevail in your lives, you will experience for yourselves that our God is “a God of miracles.” As a people, we are His covenant children.  

Looking for the promises to Israel in my scripture study-  

Started my list as I study the Book of Ether and Moroni- November 28th, 2020

#1 Ether 13:2 For behold, they rejected all the words of Ether; for he truly told them of all things, from the beginning of man; and that after the waters had receded from off the face of this land it became a choice land above all other lands, a chosen land of the Lord; wherefore the Lord would have that all men should serve him who dwell upon the face thereof; the Prophet Ether is telling us modern Israel- this land -the America’s is a choice land of all the earth and it is required of us to honor and serve God and Jesus Christ- and we will be blessed always.  

#2 Ether13:3  In modern times the Lord has designated the place of the New Jerusalem to be built - and that the City of Enoch will return at the beginning of the Millennium-  3 And that it was the place of the New Jerusalem, which should come down out of heaven, and the holy sanctuary of the Lord.4 Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land...This will be a glorious time to look forward too. We need to do our part now in building Zion on the earth- preparing the earth for the New Jerusalem- we need to be living as a Zion people- D&C 84:2-4 “ 2 Yea, the word of the Lord concerning his church, established in the last days for the restoration of his people, as he has spoken by the mouth of his prophets, and for the gathering of his saints to stand upon Mount Zion, which shall be the city of New Jerusalem.3 Which city shall be built, beginning at the temple lot, which is appointed by the finger of the Lord, in the western boundaries of the State of Missouri, and dedicated by the hand of Joseph Smith, Jun., and others with whom the Lord was well pleased.
4 Verily this is the word of the Lord, that the city New Jerusalem shall be built by the gathering of the saints, beginning at this place, even the place of the temple, which temple shall be reared in this generation.5 For verily this generation shall not all pass away until an house shall be built unto the Lord, and a cloud shall rest upon it, which cloud shall be even the glory of the Lord, which shall fill the house....So excited looking forward to a temple being built in New Jerusalem. And the gathering of zion to this special spot!!  
#3 Ether told us he saw the New Jerusalem coming down out of Heaven - a great prophecy to look forward to- this refers to the City of Enoch which was translated around 2948b.c. They were taken from this earth and transferred to another planet of a higher order of living until the time of the second coming.  At the beginning of the Millennium this great city will return to this earth and be reunited with the City of Zion - the New Jerusalem which we modern Israel the Saints will build in Jackson County, Missouri-   The lord described to Enoch what Ether also in vision- D&C 45:11-12Wherefore, hearken ye together and let me show unto you even my wisdom—the wisdom of him whom ye say is the God of Enoch, and his brethren,12 Who were separated from the earth, and were received unto myself—a city reserved until a day of righteousness shall come—a day which was sought for by all holy men, and they found it not because of wickedness and abominations; Some day we will have peace and righteousness prevail - this is the promise to look forward too! #4 Moses 7: 61-64 -61 And the day shall come that the earth shall rest, but before that day the heavens shall be darkened, and a veil of darkness shall cover the earth; and the heavens shall shake, and also the earth; and great tribulations shall be among the children of men, but my people will I preserve; ( as follow of Christ we will endure and be preserved ) 62 And righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth, to bear testimony of mine Only Begotten; his resurrection from the dead; yea, and also the resurrection of all men; and righteousness and truth will I cause to sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out mine elect from the four quarters of the earth, unto a place which I shall prepare, an Holy City, that my people may gird up their loins, and be looking forth for the time of my coming; for there shall be my tabernacle, and it shall be called Zion, a New Jerusalem.63 And the Lord said unto Enoch: Then shalt thou and all thy city meet them there, and we will receive them into our bosom, and they shall see us; and we will fall upon their necks, and they shall fall upon our necks, and we will kiss each other;  64 And there shall be mine abode, and it shall be Zion, which shall come forth out of all the creations which I have made; and for the space of a thousand years the earth shall rest- .the earth will rest for a 1000 yrs .  What a great blessing and promise to look forward too-  Verse Ether13:4Vs 4 Ether saw in vision the mortal ministry of Jesus Christ and our time -Christ’s power just before the Millennium and the age of the New Jerusalem on the American continent which would clearly relates to the second coming of Christ.  We have so many blessing to look forward too.  

Winston Baptism

Today has been a blessed day to witness the Baptism of our Winston.  He is our 14th grandchild to be baptized.  We are so blessed as grandparents.  Only 6 more left out of the 20 grandchildren.  Natasha worked hard getting things all ready and so beautiful.  Craig gave a talk about how being baptized is an anchor in our lives and gave him an anchor charm for a keepsake and reminder of his baptism day.  We also meet them at desert book last night to buy him a new set of scriptures.  I gave them to him at the a baptism.  Our Win is such a special boy.  His baptism was very special to have other family members share their feelings about Winston.  His grandpa Po join in FaceTime along with the Burbidge family. We had a lovely Bruch after the baptism. We we’re small in numbers due to the virus, yet tender moments for us all.  This has been a very blessed day.  

Thanksgiving Day

Craig woke up early 5am.  He got up and read for a bit and then crawled back in bed.  We slept till 9am. We got up and went to the gym for a work out.  It felt good to workout.  I did the elliptical machine for an hour.  I listened to the fall session of general conference. It lifted my spirits.  Going to make it a nice day for Craig and I.  It is just lonely not being with our kids, but doing our part to stay home and not spread the virus.  We sure don’t want to get it.  There’re been to many people we know in our circle of friends and family that have contracted the virus.  We have been blessed to escape so far.  Stacy and Chad went with the Thomas family last night to a hotel at snowbird.  They all had a had a great time. Towners went to their family today.  Natasha and her little family came to visit us this afternoon for a few hours.  They brought us lots of left overs from their thanksgiving feast they ate at the hotel.  After our workout Craig and I came home and cooked our Thanksgiving dinner for the two of us.  It was yummy !  Craig helped me get our Christmas tee out and I started decorating it.  I have all

My fall decor to put away.  I do love fall and have had my decorations out since September.  Now it’s time to get in the Christmas spirit.  It always makes a mess before it looks better.  I hate to mess up our home. But excited to decorate for Christmas now.  This has been a quite blessed thanksgiving day this year. I’m thankful for my hubby and all he does.  I sent all the grandkids thanksgiving love notes. Never did hear from Shannon.  She was fixing their own family meal.  We thought we would go see them but she never called or text me so we just stayed home.  It was fun to have Natasha and her little family stop by and visit us. We played tenzi a dice game with the kids. Baby Cora is so darling- she started crawling up the stairs while here. She has grown too!!   Sharlena sent us a family picture with Cole on FaceTime - so fun 

Thomas family Thanksgiving Day at 

Snowbird resort 

Noriega family -FaceTime with Cole on his mission -

Towner Family -  we are all so very blessed- we missed seeing them all this year- but there will be other years.  2020 has been a strange year with this virus going around.  

Wednesday

I’ve lost the thanksgiving spirit- a cloud of darkness and loneliness setting in.  Not getting together with our family this Thanksgiving season just doesn’t feel right.  I have nothing to look forward to. The Thomas family had to cancel their family gathering because they tested positive for the virus.  So I’m sure they are not happy either not getting together with their family.  Natasha and her little family with the change of plans decided to go to a hotel and have dinner out tomorrow-  Stacy and Chad are joining them and then going to Towners for a family dinner at 2:30pm.  Stacy is making rolls today for their dinner. Trisha called and said Boston is quarantine again from school after being exposed to the virus- this is his second time of missing school- he doesn’t go back till December 4th.  I asked Shar when Cole would be calling to see if we could come join in and said he is FaceTimeing Thanksgiving day- so it would be better if we wait for a Monday- which I guess was a nice way of saying don’t come tomorrow. Shannon is planning on doing her own thing, but who knows when that will be ? They are on such a different schedule- so don’t know if we will hook up with them or not.  Craig waited in line at Marie Callendar’s to get pies- which we really don’t need.  He was hoping some of the kids would stop by tomorrow later for pie.  With it just being Craig and I tomorrow - I really don’t feel like cooking - I was planning on it but today not in the mood to go to all the work for just the two of us - we should just go out - guess see how I feel later today- Trisha is cutting Craig' hair so we are heading over there now.

Thanksgiving 2020

This is our off year for hosting the family which is good with everything going on with the virus-  SALT LAKE CITY — Thanksgiving will likely look different this year for many Utahns.

With COVID-19 still a concern many months after it reached the U.S., local and national public health experts and leaders have pleaded over the past few weeks to ditch large family gatherings for the holiday. They've advised people to hold small gatherings — mostly within one household if possible — and communicate with extended family electronically.  So that is our plan this year-  I plan to cook Craig and I a meal and stay home this year.  Stacy is not happy about having to make the rounds with her sisters- but this is the best under the circumstances.  Our draper home is ok for a few families but when we get them all here it is crazy.  I started feeling closed in with our smaller place and not enough room to spread out.  It feels fine with just Craig and I.  It has been an adjustment not being in our big house for me- I really do miss it- trying to make the best is it.  Our lives have changed a lot moving to the lake.  I’m fine when I’m there and coming back to the valley can upset me and makes me miss our old Draper home. Pray for health this holiday season- 

Monday Give Thanks day Three

Grateful for the atonement of Jesus Christ.  He gives peace and comfort in my life as I strive to come closer to him. 

Stacy and Kids arrived last night.  We got them all settled in, played twister and watching movies this morning.  Enjoying the Towner grandkids. Natasha and her kiddies came over for lunch and then went to her house for the cousins to play together.  It is crazy here with 8 grandkids running around.  The noise level get really loud.  It was a sigh of relief when they all left.  It is nice to have a little quite time in between visits.  Stacy will be back this evening.  She is going over to Trisha’s house to get the boys hair cut and let the boys play with Boston.  Craig hasn’t been in the best of a mood today.  I had my breakdown yesterday now his day.  He cancelled his surgery scheduled for today and can’t schedule another time until March 9th which he is not happy about.  I knew they said they were months out on surgery dates.  Right now that seems far out- he is going to have to wait three months- maybe they will have a cancellation before his scheduled date.  He has had to worked out our billing with the health insurance for our sports Mall membership, trying to get re-inversed for the past 9 months-  they are suppose to pay $20’a month for each of us thru the silver snickers program.  He got frustrated because our insurance changed when he went on Medicare and they will not carry it over to our new health plans. It has been a fight and he still hasn’t gotten it transferred over yet.  He just left the house and didn’t say anything I just heard him leave.  I’m home bound with him gone.  I cleaned up and was going to get out for bit- I need to grocery shop - but guess that can wait.  I’m really tired- I could just take a nap and save up my energy for dinner and evening time with the Towner family.

Give Thanks Day #2

Sharlena posted today- 

So grateful to be the mother of these four amazing kiddos! Being their mother has brought so much joy into my life. #givethanks. I agree each of our five daughters have brought great joy to our lives and the blessing of 20 grandkids! 

Love this quote- sincerely giving thanks to God unlocks the doors to Heaven. 

Love our darling Noriega grandkids kids- 

Aubrey, Cole, Austin and Jacob-  

Today has been a challenging day for me- feeling anixity over the COVID-19 virus- this past two week has been crazy for us- started out with Craig’s best friend Mike and his wife diagnosed with the virus-Craig had just had lunch with him two days earlier when he called and said he wasn’t feeling well the day after their lunch-and tested positive- so Craig quarentine- we then attend church- wearing mask at church, a 16 yr old young man had a stroke- later tested positive- Craig had to quarentine again, two days Later Matt Cluff 42 years old had a massive stroke and rush to the hospital, they transfer to Intermountian hospital- it is not good and we have been praying for him all week- we offers them our Draper home to stay while Matt is in ICU-  we then get a phone call, Craig’s sister is in the hospital tested positive for the virus and is very sick- her husband later tested positive too and is now very sick- their both in their late 60’s, we are praying for their health to return- then just Friday night we hear of the passing of Lee Watts due to COVID-19 complication- she is my sister in-law’s mother- we all called Nana- it is a shock to us all she was heathy for her age 85 -now gone in a week- our daughter Natasha called yesterday to say her in-laws tested positive and has greatly change their thanksgiving plans as they are in quarantine.  With all this going on around us it leaves me feeling very anxious-  I feel the sorrow in my heart for those love ones-I then have Trisha calling last night crying, because she cancelled our family gathering this Tuesday- due to the virus- we have been asked by the Governor of our state to only gather in small groups as immediate family and also a statement by the General authorities of the church today to do the same-  it all causing more anxiety- Stacy is driving in from California arriving tonight- she called crying and wondering if they should not come at all.  I feel their frustration my two daughters, because we do want to gather, yet all feeling anxious-  this is a trying time in many ways- I just had to have a good cry today feeling all the stress going on around us. I want to feel safe- yet want to see our children.  On top of it all I got a text notice from my bank of a possible fraud charge on my account-  I had to deal with that this morning and then another Fraudulent text in regards to my apple account and Apple Watch-so now I have to figure that out-  this just added enough stress that I had to have a good cry!! We missed our online stake Conference meeting- wished I had not been dealing with the fraudulent messages-but necessary- Craig had me clean up and go get some lunch.  We afterward went and visited Natasha and her little family.  It cheered me up- I helped her put up her new Christmas trees.  The season is upon us- I have not been in the mood yet to decorate with all the stress going on- we are anxiously waiting the arrival of Stacy and her little family tonight.  I want to enjoy their visit and try not to let this virus ruin the precious family time we have together.  

I give Thanks to my dear husband- my best friend who brings joy and comfort to me in our life journey- 

The Thomas family - love these grandkids so very much-  it was a joy to see baby Cora- she has grown so much 11 months old- the year has gone by all to fast for me.  We are looking forward to our Winn’s special baptism day- 

Our Prophets Message

Our Prophet President Nelson gave a message of hope to the world.  He asked us to share our gratitude each day for the next 7 days on social media- spread thanksgiving messages of gratitude across the world - I posted today 

So sad for the passing of our Nana -Lee Watts-last night died from complication of Covid-19, hold close to our hearts, our family love ones- I’m so grateful for our family and pray we will be safe and healthy this thanksgiving season #1givethanks

   -So grateful for our family-

Lee Pasted Away

Message from my nephew Jake- 

From my Dad-

Guys I know we don’t think about it too much being our mother-in-law, and we seem to want to argue with them more than anything at times, but give them a hug and tell them you love them because I lost a good one last night. We miss you terribly, Lee

“Lee Watts my sister-in-law’s mother pasted away last night from COVID-19 complication- hits home when you lose a dear friend and nana loved by all - our fun gathering October 2019 - she will be greatly missed- my hearts goes out to their family as they mourn- we love you Lee!  -She is in the dark red shirt-  

We all thought my mother would pass before Lee - my mother is going to really miss her-  she past so quickly- went to the hospital for A-fib- from there to rehab and then back into the hospital.  She tested negative when she first went into the hospital so she had to of gotten the virus there or rehab- her kidneys started shutting down.  Richelle has been in quarantine and didn’t even get to see her mother passing.  It is so sad for their family at this thanksgiving season.  

Love (your son) Tommy”

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Heading to Draper

We have kept busy this week.  I worked on peeling apples and making apple juice from all the apples I picked October-  they have been sitting in the garage in buckets-  I needed to buckle down and finish up preserving them.  It has been very rewarding to make fresh apple juice and making apple crisp from the diced apples I have frozen-  it has been a lot of work.  The weather has been cold this week so have stayed inside most of the week.  We did have sunshine yesterday and we played pickleball a couple of hours.  It was fun to be outside- by 4pm the wind picked up and clouds rolled in which made it very cold.  We had dinner at Cafe Sabor the Thursday night special.   We are planning on heading down to our Draper home for the Thanksgiving holiday today.  I’m busy cleaning up and leaving the cabin clean for our return.  Stacy and her family are arriving this Sunday for a week visit.  The Cluff family stayed the week at our Draper home.  It has been a rough week for them.  It is a slow recovery for Matt a week later he did open his eyes which is improvement-  he had brain surgery twice this past week.  We are praying for a miracle for him- the severe stoke he had is not good in the recovery process- he has lost movement on the left side and will be in a wheel chair at this point and that is if he survives.  It has been touch and go.  They are finding another place to stay this coming week so we can enjoy our family for the week.  Craig did cancel his knee replacement surgery scheduled on Monday- which I'm relieved. He wasn’t feeling good about it so decided to wait.  I order some CBD oil that helps the pain so we will see if it gives him some relief.  I need to finish up the laundry- and packing up, we are heading out this afternoon.  

Stacy’s 36th Birthday

Our Stacy Lee celebrated her 36th birthday October 19th, 2020- Chad celebrated his birthday last week October 12th they both were born the same year 1984-  they make a darling couple and have given us 4 darling grandkids.  They have a lovely sail boat they keep at the Dana point harbor-  Stacy and Chad took a birthday sailing outing.  Stacy is the best daughter- Glad you had a nice birthday we love you so very much the best daughter any mother could have love you with all my heart excited to see you soon love mom 🎂💕🌹 They are arriving this Sunday for the Thanksgiving holiday for a week.  Excited to see her and the kids.  

Stacy and  Chad  October 2020

Chad spoiled me! Thanks @chadtowner for making it a Happy Birthday! #birthdayselfie🎉- Dana Point 

Joining the club Stacy getting eye glasses!  

Happy Birthday Chad - chad with his 4 darling kids - Farrah, Enzo, Jude and Yael - on his special day.  

Winston Getting Baptized

Hi family we are planning on baptizing Winn @ our Stake Center, November 28th at 10 AM followed by brunch at our house let us know if you can come. 

So excited for our little Winn 

He turned 8 in August and his baptism has been delayed due to the virus- we are Findlay going to make it work.  Our Winn is such a very special little boy.  He has such a sweet spirit about him.  Something to look forward too next week . 

Cluff Family

Sending  out a special request for all those who are willing and able to Fast tonight and tomorrow for Matt Cluff and his Family.  For those who have not heard, Matt experienced a massive stroke this week.  He is still in the ICU where he continues to have clotting and swelling on his brain and will have a long road ahead.  The blessings that come from Fasting not only blesses those whom we pray for but also increases our testimony of sacrifice and the Savior.  Remember him and his family in your prayers.  Their family is staying at our Draper home.  Their youngest daughter broke her arm yesterday jumping on a trampoline and is having surgery in the morning.  It is a bad brake.  This has been wild week for their family.. prayers for them to heal and recover.  

Teaching Gospel Doctrine

I teach gospel doctrine this Sunday.  So today I’m trying to buckle down, study and gathering my thoughts I’ve got to focus!! I have been slowly reading and trying to prepare this week.  Our lesson material is the book of Ether chapters  1-5.  The main theme-Faith- putting our faith in action- the power of prayer in our own lives and having the faith to unveil the power of heaven for direction in our lives- it doesn’t just happen for the prophets-  we to can gain direction for our lives as we pray to God for direction- we then need to do the work it takes to follow with the direction given.  It takes just asking our Heavenly Father and we will be surprised the outcome - our faith is the action word- 

Ether 1-5  Rend that Veil of unbelief - Mormon 9 : 27 - 

hearken unto the words of the Lord, and ask the Father in the name of Jesus for what things soever ye shall stand in need. Doubt not, but be believing, and begin as in times of old, and come unto the Lord with all your heart, and work out your own salvation with fear and trembling before him.

One of the most profitable ways to study the scriptures is to acquire sufficient historical background on the events of the time period -So that one can gain an appreciation of God’s point of view and the reason he felt compelled to take action- 

We should consider it a special blessing to have the book of Ether-  it was 

abridged and written for our time.  

Originally Mormon had intended to give us an abridged version of the Jaradite history himself. As we read in Mosiah 28:19- And this account shall be written hereafter; for behold, it is expedient that all people should know the things which are written in this account.

Mormon was killed before being able to do so -after Mormons death his son Moroni-  wrote that the plates of his father were nearly filled and there was only room for a few additional things to be written- he also states that he was a capital fugitive threatened by the Lamanites -since he had no more ore with which to make new plates-  he would be unable to do much writing.  Suddenly, however we find him undertaking this project of writing up the history of the Jaradite’s plus the prophetic history of the world by the brother of Jared. According to Joseph Smith the gold plates delivered to him we’re near 6 inches in thickness. A part of which was sealed. Orson Pratt says the seal portion was about 2/3 of the plates which would mean that approximately 4 inches were sealed and that the Book of Mormon we have now - is taken from the remainder two -inches.The sealed portion was written by Moroni -  as well as the abridgment of the history of the Jaradite’s- which means that his total writings were twice as much as the writings of Mormon. From this we can assume that Moroni found additional ore- succeeded in making many additional plates and then found a place of seclusion where he could do his translating and writing.   The Jaradite history covers approximately 2000 years- Moroni  abbreviated version of their history is therefore extremely condensed as we only have 15 chapters to study and learn from. Chapter Ether 3 - he realized that God had been extremely merciful to them up to this point in time- Their language had not been confounded, they were being led to an extremely Blessed land- the choices land on the face of the earth- he knew they had abuse their relationship with the Lord by being slothful and pursuing their journey. He asked the Lord to have mercy on them that they travel not in darkness- vs 4 Mahonri expressed his complete faith in the Lord by saying that he knew the Lord has all power and could do anything for the benefit of man- Mahonri- had Enough faith to gather 16 clear white stones to provide for light in their boats-  and ask God to touch the stones-  He saw the finger of the Lord  touch the 16 stones  one by one in preparing them -that they may shine forth in the darkness of their 8 boats they had prepared by the direction of God. The brother of Jared had so much faith of his own free will that the Savior could not be withheld and he appeared to him in the spirit form of Jesus Christ. He Instructed the brother of Jared for three hours revealing many things.  There is so much I have learned in my come follow me study this week.  I loved learning the historical facts leading up to this time period in our earths history.  God is in charge he is leading and guiding us as we come to God and let us lead us. The key to pray gives direction in our lives and  its important not to  become complacent in the good times.  This really stood out to me as I read the scriptures.  To pray always- I know I get lazy and don’t pray and communicate as much as I should.  I need to do better in order to unveil my own faith... sigh of relief... I was able to teach this lesson.  I only had 25 minutes. We did have a good attendance- better than I thought.  The class members were quite-  I need to get them talking more.  I can do better.  It is learning how to teach- I do need more practice. I did prepare, I studied all day yesterday about 10 hours.  I filled my head with so much new knowledge.  I love immersing myself in the scriptures. I just had to say a prayer that the spirit will guide me and open my mouth with the words needed in presenting the lesson-  I did do my homework- I went to work and the Power of the Holy Spirit did help me present the lesson today.  It makes me want to read and study more.. grateful for this calling to learn and grow in the gospel.  

Our Trip to Draper

We left Tuesday late afternoon to our Draper home.  Craig scheduled to have a shingle shot -the second shot series.  He had shingles in 2015.  He has had permanent nerve pain since then and struggles with it- the entire midsection of his sides and toward his back.  The nerve pain does fatigue him.  Some days are worse than others. This shot is to help prevent another bout of the shingles which he does not want to experience again. The anti-flamatory he takes daily does help his nerve pain and his knee pain too. Has helped to manage and take the edge off his constant pain.  His right knee is really hurting now.  He is due for a knee replacement on this knee now.  He had his left knee done in January 2009.  He was hoping to get to 65 years old and we are there.  His doctor said he is surprised he has lasted this long with his knee bone on bone.  He had the right knee scoped last January - it did help for a short period of time but now it is constant pain for him, when he is so active frustrating for him.  We went to an appointment last month to see what to do- the doctor gave him a shot which helped the pain for a few weeks.  They said he could not be scheduled for surgery until January or February they are booked out. Well they called Wednesday afternoon to say they have an opening on the 23rd of this month- just before Thanksgiving.  We went ahead and scheduled for the surgery.  This will give him a head start in the recovery process for next year.  Why delay?  This is our off year for Thanksgiving this year so we are not hosting.  Plus add the corona virus pandemic- we are asked to not gather in extended family gatherings to help slow the spread.  So we will be staying home this year and helping Craig recover. Our time was short in draper.   Trisha colored my hair Wednesday afternoon-  I’m even lighter now.  It is weird looking in the mirror and seeing such blonde hair.  My roots are just about white now- not  gray.  So Trisha colored light blonde highlights to blend and let my my natural hair color grow out.  It is going to take time getting use to my new hair color.  Thursday we got up and went to the Sports mall to work out.  We  did went to Tasha’s to play pickleball with Bridger. The weather is cold, but the sun was out and enjoyable to be outside.  Craig’s knees was really hurting, this will be his last time playing before his surgery.  Fun to see the grandkids.  It was a quick visit for us.  Thursday that evening Laura Cluff and her daughter came to stay at our draper home.  Her husband Matt had a stroke on Wednesday and transferred to the hospital in Murray on Thursday.  They needed a place to stay while he is in the hospital.  Craig offered her to stay at our place.  We love the Cluff family.  They own our favorite pizza restaurant at Bear lake - Summit Pizza- every time the Burbidge family come to the lake they go there. We have become good friends since we moved to lake.  Matt serves as a counselor in the bishopric in the 2nd ward.  So sad - he is not doing good.  Friday was a rough day for him.  Just trying to keep him alive at this point.  He has brain swelling- they had to do surgery to open the skull to let the brain swell and still have not been able to remove the blood clot in his brain.  It has gone from one challenge to the next.  Last night they did another surgery to remove some of his brain tissue that is damage from the stoke to help relieve the swelling.   Laura and her four children are staying at our place as long as needed for them.  Looks like this is going to be a long recovery process for Matt and that’s if he even survives at this point- he is not doing good.  He is in ICU care- not talking or responding at this point. If he survives -there is going to be permanent brain damage from the stroke.  The Cluff family is in our prayers the entire Bear lake community is praying for him.  We placed his name on the Logan temple prayer roll last night.   Laura is so grateful that we reached out to them and offered our home for them to stay during this difficult time for their family.   We came back to the lake Friday early afternoon.  We did our grocery shopping in Evanston-  needed to stock up again.  Trying to keep our food supply stocked up with uncertain times.  We had another snowstorm come in last night so it is cold and snowing here today.  We had more snow at our draper home than at the lake from last Sunday’s storm- but last night it snowed a few inches.  The mountains are getting lots of snow.  I’m teaching gospel doctrine tomorrow the second hour.  I’m nervous- I haven’t taught since March.  Trying to prepare my lesson material by reading and studying today.  One week and it will be time for Craig’s knee surgery.  I need to get things done here at the lake.  It will be December by the time we arrive back.  Crazy we are fast approaching  the Christmas season.  Trisha was so sweet she called  to bring us dinner she made us some chicken noodle soup-  we were already back at the lake.  I told her to take to Laura’s family. Laura was so surprised and so grateful for her kindness.  They are so grateful they have our home to stay in right now.  They don’t let the kids in the hospital- only her and her one daughter September who just arrived home from her mission a week ago last Thursday.  Our draper home gives them a place to gather while they are waiting and praying for their father to recover from this stoke.  

Snow Day

Sunday everyone in the Salt Lake valley woke up to several inches of snow.  We only got a thin layer here at the lake.  It is going to be cold and snowy all week long.  The Noriega family had a fun time building a giant snowman in their yard as a family.  Sharlena sent me some fun pictures.  Winter is coming for us all.  We do need the moisture.  

Cute pictures with each of them building their own ☃️ snowman.  

Sweet Post from Shannon

I sent a message to all our girls today after reading all 4 of President Nelson’s talks from our last general conference- Stacy had posted a video clip all about the corruption of past political leaders - we are all sadden by the out come of the presidential election- president Trump lost- it is obvious due to the corruptions in mail in ballots and democratic states cheating in counting the ballots- all to make Biden the new president.  I sent to the girls -Love this quote form President Nelson last conference - During these perilous times of which the Apostle Paul prophesied, Satan is no longer even trying to hide his attacks on God’s plan. Emboldened evil abounds. Therefore, the only way to survive spiritually is to be determined to let God prevail in our lives, to learn to hear His voice, and to use our energy to help gather Israel....build the kingdom of god on the earth- prepare for the Millennium...quote  -The Lord has pledged that He will “fight [our] battles, and [our] children’s battles, and our children’s children’s [battles] … to the third and fourth generation”!

 He has asked us to -  As you study your scriptures during the next six months, I encourage you to make a list of all that the Lord has promised He will do for covenant Israel. I think you will be astounded! Ponder these promises. Talk about them with your family and friends. Then live and watch for these promises to be fulfilled in your own life.

My dear brothers and sisters, as you choose to let God prevail in your lives, you will experience for yourselves that our God is “a God of miracles.” As a people, we are His covenant children, and we will be called by His name.

This is a very powerful promise from a modern prophet to us to look forward too, despite the evil forces that surround us- God will prevail -as we prevail with God!! Love you all and pray we will study our scriptures and look for the promises ?  Let’s share as a family - 

. and Shannon responded- 

I would say 100% Yes !! This  is True!! . But We still must do our part by in -bodying our highest potential making it the highest priority by bringing the change we desire and pray to come forth . 

By Standing in our Truths and having  the faith that God’s army of light is right beside us leading us the way forward at this time ... 

As we stand up for our God given right !! it is our birthright’s to be hear as a free SOVEREIN-  BING  of light for humanity at this time . That we must IN-BODY the highest loving 🥰 light of Christ consciousness . 

For The light we behold and the light we stand in is our greats purpose We must stand for truth to Prevail and stand up for the ones in need at this time.  We must choose to do all things with Love because With Love all thing’s are Possible. 

We must Never give up on what we believe to be true in our hearts ❤️ and in our souls 

As Mom and DAD gave us our little flashlights 🔦 as a reminder to do so with the saying on them that said  LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE ✨🌟✨🌟 ❤️

A sweet reminder from her- a gift we gave all the girls for Christmas one year when they were all living at home. 

Saturday/Let God Prevail

Our storm of cold weather is slowing coming in.  I have been a slow starter today.  We woke up early- I fixed us a good breakfast, bacon,eggs and hash brown- cleaned up the dishes and went back to bed. I read for a bit. Reading the conference talks of our Prpohet President Nelson from our last general conference.  This is our message for Relief society tomorrow.  I wanted to read ahead of time so I can be prepared.  The 4 talks given are all so good- it is hard to pick a favorite.  This talk stood out to me when I listened to him in conference. - 

By President Russell M. Nelson

President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints- “Let God Prevail” 

Are you willing to let God prevail in your life? Are you willing to let God be the most important influence in your life?  

My heart leaped when he first began his talk - I could so relate because I have done the same- I have loved studying the topic of Israel and the gathering of Israel - quote- 36 years I’ve been an Apostle, the doctrine of the gathering of Israel has captured my attention. Everything about it has intrigued me, including the ministries and names of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; their lives and their wives; the covenant God made with them and extended through their lineage; the dispersion of the twelve tribes; and the numerous prophecies about the gathering in our day.  I have studied the gathering, prayed about it, feasted upon every related scripture, and asked the Lord to increase my understanding.  

So imagine my delight when I was led recently to a new insight. With the help of two Hebrew scholars, I learned that one of the Hebraic meanings of the word Israel is “let God prevail.” Thus the very name of Israel refers to a person who is willing to let God prevail in his or her life. That concept stirs my soul!  So interesting to learn from the prophet and gain new insight myself-.. quote -

The word - Willing -is crucial to this interpretation of Israel. We all have our agency. We can choose to be of Israel, or not. We can choose to let God prevail in our lives, or not. We can choose to let God be the most powerful influence in our lives, or not.... I love this example he give of Father Jacob in the Old Testament - commanded to sacrifice his only son on alter- one the most painful choses in his life to give his sons life to God- the test of all test and the last minute an angle appears and command him to stop-  quote- 

For a moment, let us recall a crucial turning point in the life of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham. At the place Jacob named Peniel (which means “the face of God”), Jacob wrestled with a serious challenge. His agency was tested. Through this wrestle, Jacob proved what was most important to him. He demonstrated that he was willing to let God prevail in his life. In response, God changed Jacob’s name to Israel, meaning “let God prevail.” God then promised Israel that all the blessings that had been pronounced upon Abraham’s head would also be his.  (The seed of those who let God prevail in their lives no matter the cost)  Quote-

With the Hebraic definition of Israel in mind, we find that the gathering of Israel takes on added meaning. The Lord is gathering those who are willing to let God prevail in their lives. The Lord is gathering those who will choose to let God be the most important influence in their lives.... this quote was so powerful to me - For centuries, prophets have foretold this gathering, and it is happening right now! As an essential prelude to the Second Coming of the Lord, it is the most important work in the world!  Wow the prophet is telling us that the gathering is taking place now and must happen before the second coming-  he needs a group of people that are willing to prevail with God in order to ushering the 1000 year millennium.  He is preparing his people now.  Quote -

This premillennial gathering is an individual saga of expanding faith and spiritual courage for millions of people. And as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or “latter-day covenant Israel,” we have been charged to assist the Lord with this pivotal work.... the work of the gathering on both sides of the veil..  quote -

When we speak of gathering Israel on both sides of the veil, we are referring, of course, to missionary, temple, and family history work. We are also referring to building faith and testimony in the hearts of those with whom we live, work, and serve. Anytime we do anything that helps anyone—on either side of the veil—to make and keep their covenants with God, we are helping to gather Israel.- 

Quote -The gospel net to gather scattered Israel is expansive. There is room for each person who will fully embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each convert becomes one of God’s covenant children, whether by birth or by adoption. Each becomes a full heir to all that God has promised the faithful children of Israel!.   Quote - this is another very powerful message to the world - Each of us has a divine potential because each is a child of God. Each is equal in His eyes. The implications of this truth are profound. Brothers and sisters, please listen carefully to what I am about to say. God does not love one race more than another. His doctrine on this matter is clear. He invites all to come unto Him, “black and white, bond and free, male and female.” -Words to hear and In a world that has so much racism..  I assure you that your standing before God is not determined by the color of your skin. Favor or disfavor with God is dependent upon your devotion to God and His commandments and not the color of your skin....he gives us a call to stand up- Today I call upon our members everywhere to lead out in abandoning attitudes and actions of prejudice. I plead with you to promote respect for all of God’s children....( look for the potential in all of us- gods purpose to bring to pass the morality and eternal life of all mankind)... The question for each of us, regardless of race, is the same. Are you willing to let God prevail in your life? Are you willing to let God be the most important influence in your life? Will you allow His words, His commandments, and His covenants to influence what you do each day? Will you allow His voice to take priority over any other? Are you willing to let whatever He needs you to do take precedence over every other ambition? Are you willing to have your will swallowed up in His?  He is asking each of us this question are we ready to let God prevail in our lives ?  I want to say yes!!! I need to be more vigilant and aware of my actions each day.  

In his message he gives us a path to follow- as we follow Gods plan we will prevail in our earthly walk-  

#1 -  Consider how such willingness could bless you. If you are unmarried and seeking an eternal companion, your desire to be “of Israel” will help you decide whom to date and how.-  chosing in this season to date a worthy companion that you can be sealed in the temple of God-  I look back on my life and this was my goal to be married in the temple-  which helped me to make good choses when I was tempted to go the wrong way- stay on the convent path even as a teen.  My chose of a husband will effect my entire future life as a family. I had to work hard in rejecting evil to follow my goal -  I felt the forces of evil tempting me to choose another path-  I had to walk alone at times- when I chose  Gods way-  not to have sex before marriage- date a worthy young man that can take me to the temple were huge for me and my future family-  I chose well and strived with all my heart to live Gods plan foe me.  

#2 If you are married to a companion who has broken his or her covenants, your willingness to let God prevail in your life will allow your covenants with God to remain intact. The Savior will heal your broken heart. The heavens will open as you seek to know how to move forward. You do not need to wander or wonder.( I love this promise!! There was a time I my marriage where my heart had been broken and I felt the darkness surround me.  I don’t know what to do- I got on my knees and prayed to Heavenly Father pleading what should I do? The spirit whispered to my heart to fight for my family no matter what-stay I the covenant  path-  my heart did heal in time and we have been so blessed as a family.  I thank the lord for the insight and the courage he gave me to forward.  
#3 If you have sincere questions about the gospel or the Church, as you choose to let God prevail, you will be led to find and understand the absolute, eternal truths that will guide your life and help you stay firmly on the covenant path.I have felt many times my questions have been answered as I have faithfully read the scriptures, attend my meeting and serve. He has given me strength when I was I doubt at times- God has prevailed in my life as I have strived to learn and grow in the word of God.  Questions asked in the temple came strongly to me in a soft whisper to mind and heart.  #4 When you are faced with temptation—even if the temptation comes when you are exhausted or feeling alone or misunderstood—imagine the courage you can muster as you choose to let God prevail in your life and as you plead with Him to strengthen you.  The Lord has strengthen me in all things- #5 this quote is so powerful !!!When your greatest desire is to let God prevail, to be part of Israel, so many decisions become easier. So many issues become nonissues! You know how best to groom yourself. You know what to watch and read, where to spend your time, and with whom to associate. You know what you want to accomplish. You know the kind of person you really want to become.  This is so true- life is much easier and more peaceful - having the spirit of the Holy Ghost in my life to lead me as I keep the commandments of God Remeber my Savior Jesus Christ each day of my life-
#6 Now, my dear brothers and sisters, it takes both faith and courage to let God prevail. It takes persistent, rigorous spiritual work to repent and to put off the natural man through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It takes consistent, daily effort to develop personal habits to study the gospel, to learn more about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and to seek and respond to personal revelation.-  he gives us the pattern to daily seek -  and a warning -   During these perilous times of which the Apostle Paul prophesied, Satan is no longer even trying to hide his attacks on God’s plan. Emboldened evil abounds. Therefore, the only way to survive spiritually is to be determined to let God prevail in our lives, to learn to hear His voice, and to use our energy to help gather Israel.
He asked us ? Now, how does the Lord feel about people who will let God prevail? Nephi summed it up well: “[The Lord] loveth those who will have him to be their God. Behold, he loved our fathers, and he covenanted with them, yea, even Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and he remember[s] the covenants which he [has] made.”..( The Lord will remember us as we make sacrifices to build the kingdom of God on the earth- his message will roll forth and cover the entire Earth it can not be stoppedDespite the evil that surrounds us) And what is the Lord willing to do for Israel? The Lord has pledged that He will “fight [our] battles, and [our] children’s battles, and our children’s children’s [battles] … to the third and fourth generation” this is such a great blessing to know that God will fight our battles to and protect us as we strive to prevail with God each day of our lives.  
He then asked us too do something the next 6 months ?  As you study your scriptures during the next six months, I encourage you to make a list of all that the Lord has promised He will do for covenant Israel. I think you will be astounded! Ponder these promises. Talk about them with your family and friends
He then promises us as a prophet of God - Then live and Watch- for these promises to be fulfilled in your own life.My dear brothers and sisters, as you choose to let God prevail in your lives, you will experience for yourselves that our God is “a God of miracles.” As a people, we are His covenant children, and we will be called by His name. Of this I testify in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.  This is a powerful promise God will prevail !! Believe and see the miracles of God that lie ahead of us.   I really love this talk!  It is so insightful- gives me direction to follow and keep non the covenant path and hope the future despite the evil that surrounds us, Miracles will happen God will fight this battle of evil with us!  

Family History

I’m the family Ward consultant.  We have had two meetings in the past two weeks and are calling members in the ward to see how our committee can help them.  I have contacted 6 families.  This has gotten me back working on my family history.  I have so much work that needs to been cleaned up.  I have been going thru  my Bailes family collection and digitized sources on my ancestry.com account and cross referencing with family search.  I’m trying to extend my Bailes line past our Thomas born in about 1748-I have traced him in Greenbrier county in 1788 as a signee in the newly formed county.  I really want to open the brick walls I have encountered in extending the Bails family line.  I have been working on it this past week.  I read for several hours the history of Virginia and the migration of immigration looking for clues.  I enjoy the work.  Pray I can be lead to find the documents I need to extend the family line.  I’m gathering up what I have and reviewing all the sources to look for more sources.  Last night I started going thru my Bailes research file and trying to organize what I have collected in the past 40 years.   I have so many questions wished I had asked more before my Bailes cousin's died.  Trying to do the best I can with the sources that come up online.  It is like magic the speed info made available online now.  Yet I still have to dig- like looking for a needle in a haystack to open up the Bailes family tree.  Keeping working on it. 

Friday

Our last warm day this week.  We have enjoyed playing pickleball this week outside at our Garden City courts.  We have a group of about 15 players in the community that are learning to play  this year.  It has been really fun.  Yesterday Craig and I went over to the church to set up an indoor court to be able to play inside when the weather cools off.  Craig ordered Velcro that we were able to Mark out the lines on the gym carpet.  It looks great.  He ordered a new net and paddles.  We got it all set up and played for an hour.  The ball does bounce different on the gym carpet but is still fun.  We afterwards went to lunch at Cafe Sabor fie the Thursday burrito special.  I was really hungry by 2:30’pm we had not eaten anything yet for the day.  I had to come home and rest.  I had Bunco game night at 6:30 pm- They have a ladies group that meet monthly to play this dice game and give out prizes at the end for those that win high score. low score, most Bunco..  it is fun to have dinner and visit with the ladies in our group. There are 12 ladies involved-  I was a sub for one of the members in the group.  I was asked tto join but I didn’t want to commit monthly So I  fill in when needed.  I’ve been able to attend about 4 times this year which is fine with me. We had a full day yesterday.  Today I tired and slow starting.  Craig’s knees are hurting from all the pickleball this week.  We might have to take the day off- just hate to miss this warm day outside.  There is a cold front coming in this weekend and the weather is going to be in the low 30’s all next week.  I finished dumping all my flower pots.  I enjoyed them all this year- sad to have the flower season end.  Always look forward to spring with new life and planting flowers again.   Don’t know what we are doing today but want to enjoy the warm day outside...

Goods Things Utah

Natasha and Anni  were on TV today.  Natasha promoting her Mommy & Me online clothing for the holidays.  Our little Anni is so darling.  So proud of Natasha and all her hard work, it paying off.  

Presidential Election

Trump is hanging on !! Voting concluded as scheduled on Tuesday night, but many states routinely take days to finish counting ballots.

At the moment, Biden leads 227 to 213 over Trump in the Electoral College vote count, according to Edison Research, aiming to reach the needed 270 electoral votes, which are based in part on a state's population.

The uncertainty only added to the anxiety many Americans are feeling following a vitriolic campaign that unfolded amid a pandemic that has killed more than 231,000 Americans and left millions more jobless. The country has also grappled with months of unrest involving protests over racism and police brutality.  This has been a crazy year for our county as whole.  The Democrat party is giving it a big fight to win the  election and Trump supporters are fighting back too.  We are all hanging on anxiously waiting.  There are 7 keys states left that the votes are not all counted and the race is so close at this point.  The Democrats projected a sweeping Blue across the county and they are really surprised it is not the case.  The margin is narrowing in favor of Trump and they are not wanting to accept defeat.  It was the same in 2016.  They have been complaining for 4 years and set every road block they can to allow any success for the Trump presidential term- yet President Trump is very tough and has with stood the fiery darts.  It has been a very divided campaign.  Prayer for the true American values to with stand these turbulent times. 

Towner Grandkids

They all dressed so cute for Halloween this year.  Stacy just posted pictures of the kids for me.  So fun to see them all dress up in their costumes. 

Trunk and treat time 👻 @ Laguna Niguel, California-

Tooth Fairy

Guess who lost a tooth? Our Annie Guns lost her 1st tooth.  She really wanted to show her grandparents.  Nataha just sent a cute picture this morning- our Annie is so darling.  She is in kindergarten this year and is 6 years old.  She is such a joy in our lives.

Also Lincoln got a diagnosis for celiac disease!🥺. He has been getting terrible stomach aches for over the past year.  Tasha was diagnosed too so they both will have to work on eating their gluten free diet together.  It is manageable if they cut out gluten which is challenge now days.  There are so many food choses with gluten.  Like pizza we all love it.  We will have to be more aware as grandparents what I cook for him now.  Natasha also sent a picture of Annie’s new hair cut so darling she is getting so big