Taking Cora Home

We are heading out today to take Baby Cora home.  We have had her an extra day.  Natasha had a photo shoot today and needed help watching her.  So we stayed an extra day at the lake.  Heading out around noon.  She has been such a good baby girl.  Love this picture Natasha posted of her and the girls- Spring is on it’s way.  The weather is warming up. 

My Sister Is So Talented

Michele my younger sister is amazing when it comes to making cakes.  She made the most beautiful cake for her daughter in law-her new husband's daughter.  They are having a baby boy.  She is arriving April 11th for a few weeks for Randy’s baby and hosting a baby shower at my Draper home on the 17th of April.   I’m sure she will make another cake like this one.   The baby on the cake looks so real.  

Pictures of the cake my sister made-Love the baby boy on top- it looks so real! 

Just Being There

My dear hubby is going to his rehab appointment this morning.   I want to say how much I love and appreciate him.  He is nine weeks out on his knee surgery and is doing so good.  He has wanted me there with him all along.  I have strived to take good care of him. we are together 24/7 caring for one another.  

Taking Cora Home

We have enjoyed baby sitting our baby Cora for the past 6 days.  She is such a joy.  Craig has his rehab appointment this morning.  I’m packing up to head down today.  I’m sure the Thomas family is missing their baby sister.  Fun to have bonding time with little Cora.  She loved climbing the stairs and sitting at the top of the railing looking down at us.  

Our baby Cora Rose at Bear lake

Our Sharlena’s Birthday

Sharlena & Dave with her Mom and Dad on her 43rd birthday March 27th, 2021

Our Shar is turning 43 years old today.  We were in bed this morning holding our granddaughter baby Cora Rose.  She is so sweet enjoying babysitting her.  Craig started taking about how it felt like yesterday when we had our first born Sharlena at this age in bed with us in the early morning.  The years have gone by all to fast for us.   We packed up and out the door by 9:00 am to head north.  We met Sharlena and Dave at Kneader’s in Kaysville for breakfast.  They have yummy French toast - all you can eat.   Fun to visit with them.   Shar said she was going shopping with Aubrey and then going to a movie later for her birthday.  It was nice that we were able to met up on her actual birthday.  The past few years have been challenging to met up on her birthday.  Last  year was cancelled due to the virus and asking every one to stay home to slow the spread.  With us living at the lake since 2016 I have missed our Mother & daughter luncheon together.  We use to meet up at quilted Bear - shop and have lunch.  They closed up and moved to draper about 7 years ago.  So we need to find a new meeting spot. It has just been more challenging with her kids getting older and their lives are crazy busy.  I have enjoyed our time together and now with Craig retired we are together 24/7 so he is there with us when we meet up.  I just miss some one on one time with my Shar.  I’m so proud of her and the beautiful 4 grandchildren she is raising.  They have brought great joy to our lives.  She started an online silk flower arrangement business.  She is very creative and loves to make and create things like I do.  I admire her creativity, she is very talented.  She just made the cutest and unique flower arrangement for Easter this year.  Love all her many talents.  She has been the best daughter a mother could ever ask for.  

Love this arrangement she made this year!! Easter is on its way.  Crazy next weekend it will be April- March 27th the year she was born was so warm!! It was usually warm.  This year we just got more snow yesterday, but is melting fast.   Spring is coming and the weather is going to be 73 degrees next Saturday.  I just sent invites to all the family to gather on Saturday for lunch and a family Easter egg hunt.  It will be fun with the warmer weather.  Craig and I came back up to the lake after our breakfast with baby Cora.  Her family doesn’t get home until late Monday night.  Craig is conducting a ward Baptism this afternoon for the Call family.  They are the most amazing family with 8 children.  They moved here last year from New York.  We are so blessed to have them in our ward for a short time. They are building a home in Star Valley, Wyoming so we don’t get to keep them much longer.   I’m resting and caring for Cora while he is gone.  My darn left knee is so swore I can hardly walk it.  I hurt it playing pickleball two weeks ago and it is not getting better.  Carrying Cora around it is not helping- put’s pressure on my knee and it has flared up even more.  I’ve got to not carry her around anymore than I can help it.  Going to rest for a bit.  

Thomas Family in Cancun

 Natasha called us today to Check on baby Cora.  They are having a great trip in Cancun.  They went swimming with the Dolphins.  Yesterday they went to see ancient ruin's, They are all having a great time. Love the pictures she posted on her Instagram account.  

                  Natasha

Lincoln riding the dolphin

Thomas Family in Cancun, Mexico

Annie with a smile on her face

Our Winner - A life Time Memory

Towner Grandkids- Funds Raiser

Stacy sent us this darling post of the kids raising funds for their elementary school.  It is such a cute picture of the kids when they were visiting us over Valentine Weekend.  They had a fun family ski trip at Alta.  Will have to send some money for their cause. Lots of Love Grandpa and Grandma Symes.

Will you please sponsor us?

Dear Grandma and Grandpa, We're so excited to tell you that on April 1, we're participating in George White Elementary's Jog-A-Thon. We run to show support for our school and raise funds to help pay for the George White playground equipment. We hope to raise enough money to add more swings to the big playground and upgrade the kindergarten play area. If the students can raise $12,500, the PTA has promised to match that amount up to $12,500 for a total of $25,000 in upgrades. Please sponsor us by clicking the button below. This takes you to our personal fundraising page. Thanks for your support! Love, Farrah, Yael and Jude   Thank you for sponsoring us! Dear Grandma and Grandpa, Our school received your Jog-A-Thon donation payment. Thank you for sponsoring us. We feel so lucky to have family and friends that support us like you do. Love, Farrah, Yael and Jude P.S. We attached a donation receipt for you.

Baby Sitting Cora

I started my baby sitting shift this afternoon- just got her down for a nap 2pm.  She usually sleeps a couple of hours.  Tasha has housekeepers here doing a great job cleaning her home.  Just talked to Craig and he is already heading back.  He left yesterday morning  - a quick trip down and back.  It’s a 4 hour drive one way to St George. He said it is crazy busy there lots of people in town and the traffic was bad around town.  He went to dinner with his mother and Michael last night.  Today he went and saw Karen Mcdougal and our Bear lake friend Dale Brower play in a pickleball tournament.  He then went to lunch with his brother Scot and his wife Jan and his mother.  Now he’s on the road again to come home.  He said he didn’t sleep well last night and wanted to sleep in his own bed tonight.  I told him he should have stayed another day.  The weather has turned cold today in the low 40’s and snow flurry’s.  It will be better tomorrow.  I told him I talked to Stacy and they are going to Florida for spring break next weekend.   We were thinking of going to California to see them for Easter- but guess that won’t happen. Now.  Crazy one more week and it will be the Easter weekend.  I’m looking forward to watching general conferences.   Hoping to stay at our draper home. 

The weather will be warming up again in the high 60’s next weekend so that will be nice.  I’m just not bouncing back like I wish.  I’m still fighting low energy and body aches.  I felt bad last night and this morning again.  I just have to keep taking some Ibuprofen to mange the aching in my body.   Guess I’ll work on my digital scrapbooking while Cora is sleeping.  I’m trying to do a little at a time each month so it is not so much work at one time.  Keeping up is the Challenge.  I had to come home yesterday  afternoon and rest after my shopping at Walmart and stopping by RC Willey to pay a payment on our Account.   I took the time to look around at what they have.  I still need to find a table for the basement and a few more accent pieces.  I will soon be done decorating our Draper home.  I’m so tired I might have to take a nap this afternoon.   After my errands yesterday I had to quit earlier than I wanted I had a few more stops but just didn’t feel well so I came home to rest. Got home about 3:30 pm.  I just watched the news and ate my favorites  Cafe'  Rio pork salad.  I tinkered in the house. Slowly finding spots for our things.  I’ve just about weeding out what I don’t want any more or updated what we have for a new look. I had these large cone hanging baskets I bought back in 2000 for our Sandy home.  I had them hanging in our Draper home for many years.  I’ve had them in a box since we moved in 2016.  Not sure what to do with them when we moved in our New Draper twin home in the fall of 2019.  I have been slowly painting things white and accenting more white into our home.  Yesterday morning I found them in a large box as I was going thru the last of our things to unpacked.  I wasn't sure if I had a place for them.  I walked around looking to see where I could possibly hang them.  They are large and my wall space is limited.  I’ve been looking for something to hang over my master bed.  Just having a hard time finding anything I like.  Everything is so modern now.  I have a hard time finding things I like.  I feel like I’m living in the wrong generation.  I finally decided that they would look great hanging over my master bed.  I spray painted them white and let them dry in the garage while I ran my shopping errands. I did come home early from shopping just not feeling the best.  About 8pm I remember I did want to go to Joann's spring sale.  They closed at 9pm.  I hurried over to see what I could find.  I was able to buy some more greenery and flowers to fill the baskets I painted.   I got them hung and arranged. It looks so pretty.  I didn’t have to buy anything new. I made do with what I already have and like it better.   It is fun to be creative.  I had to take a hot bath after my project.  Just not feeling the best.  I did sleep good once I went to bed.  I woke up early and tinkered in our home until I had to leave.  I’m so sleepy I’m going to take a nap while Cora takes a nap. 

 

The Sun Is Out

Today is a lovely Day -  Spring is here and the trees are budding out in the Salt Lake valley.  I love this time of year with new life and color that begins to blossom out.  My favorite is all the white flowering  p ornamental pear trees. Craig and I drove down to our Draper home last nights.  The weather was snowing when we left and snowy all the way down until we got past Echo dam.  We thought we would come down and enjoy a few warmer days.  It was fun to walk in last night at our draper home and see my Easter decorations.  I decorated the last time we were here Saturday March 14th.  So fun to have it all out to enjoy for the Easter season.  Easter weekend is April 4th this year and conference weekend. The weather is going to be in the high 70’s which will feel so nice.  We plan to stay at our Draper home for the week.   I’m starting my babysitting shift tomorrow morning.  I’m baby sitting little Cora Rose while her family is in Cancun, Mexico for the week.  I’m excited to spend some time with her.  With the weather so nice Craig decided to drive down to St. George for a couple of days.  He wanted to go see his mother-  he hasn’t been anywhere since his knee surgery.  He is going on 9 weeks out and is doing really good. Now my left knee is hurting.  I hurt it a week ago playing pickleball on our Monday morning session with our Bear lake group.  I didn’t feel well all last week so I didn’t do anything but rest.  I thought it would get to feeling better not moving around much.  Well come Monday morning a week later I’m still hurting.  I did play pickleball again this week.  It doesn’t hurt that much playing, it is just afterwards.  It is really swore this morning.  I did hurt it playing pickleball.  Guess it is going to just take time to heal.  I now have more compassion for my hubby for all the years he has suffered with a swore knee.  I have been working hard on my Johnson Family history this past week laying low and in bed for almost a week I needed something to keep me going.  I have collected so much over the years and having a hard time finding what I needed when I want it.  I had my papers in file folders but still not finding things.  So I have taken the time to organize my files in three ring binders with plastic covers so I can flip thru my research easier-  I'm arranging according to each family generation with a timeline of each ancestor I’m working.  Still trying to prove direct linage to my 5th great father William Johnson. I'm getting closer.  I just needed to get myself organized.  I have learned so much and have found other cousins working on the same family line which helps so much, each of us making a contribution.  I’m working on it for a bit today.  I want to go shopping for a few hours until I get tired and then I can sit down and rest and work on my family history.  I want to find a table for downstairs and buy some folding chairs for our family parties so I don’t have to keep borrowing from Trisha.  It is hard on them moving back and forth from their house to ours.  I’m hosting a baby shower for Randy my nephew April 14th. Michele, my sister is driving in from Texas and planning to bring our Mother if she is well enough to travel.  I’m excited to have them here for a couple of weeks.  Things to look forward too.  Going to run some shopping errands.   

Our Enzo

Sweet Boy!   Stacy sent us these darling picture of our little 4 year old Enzo.  He is loving pre-school.  He made some fun picture learning about St. Patrick's Day.

He wrote on his pot of Gold I wish that I could swim all the all to Utah and

 play with my Grandma and Grandpa.  

Nice Sunday

Well my test came back negative- which is good.  I guess I’ve had some kind of a bug this week.   I mange to get myself dressed for church today.  It felt good to be in church.  I have not been anywhere all week long.  Craig went to a wrestle completion for Austin yesterday. I stayed home still not feeling well enough to go anywhere.  I did mange to wash my hair and curl it.  When Craig got home he took me to dinner at Cooper’s the country club restaurant at Bear Lake West.  It felt good to get out and have a nice meal.  I enjoyed a Pina colada and a grilled chicken meal.  Slowly feeling better.   I’m doing much better today, so on the mend -so to speak.  I really did enjoy our sacrament speakers today.   One of our High Counselor spoke with his daughter and they both did a great job.   He talked about the blessing in our lives to have the voice of a prophet today to follow.  He reviewed the Messages of our Last general conference and shared how each talk was a message of what God wants us to hear and to work on in our lives now.  I really liked how he read each talk title in a row.  It showed what they were teaching in our season.   He talked about the voice of Jesus Christ highlighted in the Bible in red.  called a Red letter Bible.  I have one from my Loveall ancestors and need to get it out and look at it. We really have so few words actual spoken by Jesus Christ in the Bible.  We are so blessed to have modern Prophets that speak Gods message and witness of Jesus Christ.  Most prophets in the past have been killed testifying of Jesus.   We are blessed to not have a prophet killed for the gospel sake .  Joseph Smith sealed his blood in 1844 it’s been 178 years since then.  We need to listen carefully.  Look forward to the up comping General Conference in two weeks on Easter weekend.   

Here is the over all list of last conference-

Moving Forward -

By President Russell M. Nelson

President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints- How grateful we are for the technology that allows us to be connected as one great worldwide gathering of disciples of Jesus Christ.. During the past few months, a global pandemic, raging wildfires, and other natural disasters have turned our world upside down.- Meanwhile, the work of the Lord is steadily moving forward. Amid social distancing, face masks, and Zoom meetings, we have learned to do some things differently and some even more effectively. Unusual times can bring unusual rewards. we as a people are using this unique time to grow spiritually. We are here on earth to be tested, to see if we will choose to follow Jesus Christ, to repent regularly, to learn, and to progress. Our spirits long to progress. And we do that best by staying firmly on the covenant path..

As we gather to hear the words the Lord has inspired His servants to deliver, I invite you to ponder a promise the Lord made. He declared that “whosoever will may lay hold upon the word of God, which is quick and powerful, which shall divide asunder all the cunning … and the wiles of the devil, and lead the [disciple] of Christ in a strait and narrow course.”

( love to know the church is growing and moving forward in world despite the many challenges-  as we listen and study the words of God we will be safe on the covenant path). 

#2 We will Prove Them Herewith

(Abraham 3:25)

By Elder David A. Bednar

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Now is the time to prepare and prove ourselves willing and able to do all things whatsoever the Lord our God shall command us.

#3 Becoming Like Him -By Elder Scott D. Whiting Of the Seventy -Only with the Savior’s divine help can we all progress toward becoming like Him.
#4 Eyes To See-By Michelle D. Craig- First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency-Through the power of the Holy Ghost, Christ will enable us to see ourselves and see others as He does.
#5- Hearts Knit in Righteousness and Unity -By Elder Quentin L. Cook-of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles-At this 200-year hinge point in our Church history, let us commit ourselves to live righteously and be united as never before. 
#6 Recommended to the Lord By Elder Ronald A. Rasband-Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles-Begin the process now to become “recommended to the Lord” so that His Spirit will be with you in abundance.
#7 Love Your Enemies By President Dallin H. Oaks -First Counselor in the First Presidency -Knowing that we are all children of God gives us a vision of the worth of others and the ability to rise above prejudice.
 Afternoon Session #8- sustainable Societies By Elder D. Todd Christofferson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles -If enough of us and enough of our neighbors strive to guide our lives by the truth of God, the moral virtues needed in every society will abound.
#9 Finding Joy in Christ By Steven J. Lund Young Men General President -The surest way to find joy in this life is to join Christ in helping others.
#10- All Nations, Kindreds, and Tongues By Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles -We can become, in our own way, part of the fulfillment of the Lord’s prophecies and promises—part of the gospel blessing the world.
#11- There Was Bread By Bishop W. Christopher Waddell First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric As we seek to become temporally prepared, we can face the trials of life with increased confidence.
12- Gift of the Son By Elder Matthew S. Holland Of the Seventy-Through Jesus Christ, we can escape the deserved agonies of our moral failings and overcome the undeserved agonies of our mortal misfortunes.
13- The Culture of Christ By Elder William K. Jackson Of the Seventy We can cherish the best of our individual earthly cultures and be full participants in the eternal culture that comes from the gospel of Jesus Christ.
14-god Will Do Something Unimaginable By Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles -God has prepared His children and His Church for this time.

Covid-Test

I’m sick and waiting in the Bear Lake Community Parking lot for a covid-19 test.  I’m so mad!!! It has hit me out of the blue and I have no idea how I got infected.  I’ve only been around my pickleball girlfriends, Church on Sunday and the local mini market.  We did drive down to Draper last Thursday- went to the bank and Keander’s for lunch and we did go to the gym on Friday and Saturday morning- we drove out to see the Chaudhry family Friday night.  And had dinner with the Burbidge family Saturday evening.  I went to Hobby Lobby to look around Saturday morning- I have wore my mask when out in public. I keep hand sanitizer in the Car.  As I think back about our week- I guess I have been serval places in the past week.  I woke up Tuesday morning sneezing with cold like symptoms.  I sneezed all day long and just didn’t feel the best.  Didn’t do much all day.  Yesterday morning I felt worse-  my head ached and I could feel pressure in my chest.  It hurts to breath deep- I just felt heavy in the chest area, I had mild body aches.  We were playing pickleball and I told Craig he had better go without me I wasn’t feeling the best.  We planned to go to Draper with it being St Patrick Day to see the Thomas grandkids and Craig had his yearly physical appointment at 1:30-  so we had to get on the road by 10:30 am.  While he was at pickleball I started to get ready but I could see I was going nowhere but to bed.  I did not feel well.  I got my Vitamin D, Zinc and vitamin C out on Tuesday morning  and started taken higher doses.  Craig had to go to Salt lake without me.  It dawned on me I may have Covid-19- I called the Bear lake Community health office to schedule a test-it appears I have several of the symptoms-  I stayed in bed all day yesterday and worked on family history and rested.  I didn’t sleep well until after I took a hot bath.  I woke up just in time to throw my clothes on and hurry down to the Clinic to get my test-  I should know in 24 hours the result-  I’m for sure fighting something - feels like a mild flu but my chest area feels really tight.  Today the cold symptoms are better just feels hard to breath-  so time will tell -  major change of plans-  won’t be able to enjoy the warmer weather in Draper- it is forecast to be 67 degrees tomorrow.  That would have felt really nice.  It is warmer up at the lake too,  we are usually about 10 degrees cooler here.  I’m sitting in my car blogging and looking at our outdoor courts - we are waiting for the snow to melt off them so we can play pickleball outside.  A couple of more weeks and we should be able too.  The snow is melting. 

So guess I’m laying low today.  Still don’t feel the best.  I need to eat something.  All I ate yesterday was a piece of toast and a bowel of oatmeal-  I just don't have an appetite.  Anxious for the results!

Last Sunday I have been praying about what to do as far as getting the Covid-19 Vaccination-  I have felt so skeptical about getting it. Yet feeling a lot of pressure from those around me that are getting the vaccination-  we are not being told the real truth by the Media.  Today I wanted to re-watch a video Shannon had sent me from a Doctor in Ohio speaking out about the dangers of the vaccination.  She described the process of how it is made and what is put in it.  There is so much to learn I wanted to listen to it again- Well I went to the web link to listen and I got this message- This video has been removed for violating YouTube's Terms of Service..  there is so much censoring going on.  The online giants do not want us to hear anything that is opposing the vaccination process and are taking it down. It is frightening how much control they have and that they are censoring.   My dear friend in the Ward Tally Johnson just sent me this message - Sorry, but it has been sensored and removed because it teaches truth which is no longer politically correct by evil and conspiring men... interesting times in which we live! Prophecies being fulfilled constantly!  This devious, deception is one of the reasons I feel some people won't be held accountable for their decisions. The media lies, but the Spirit of God won't. We have to rely on God and not the arm of flesh, be strong in faith and live boldly with courage having hearts like David, Daniel, Elijah, and our Savior. Powerful examples!

So what I think I'm learning and what My Heavenly Father is teaching me- as I prayed for my own insight about this issue and in feeling pressured and unsure what to do?  I get sick !! I had stop taking my supplements which I was faithfully doing because I did not want to get sick from this virus.  Which I have not contracted after all, my test came back negative.  I'm now being more faithful in taking my supplements recommended to conquer this virus.  And I can tell I’m feeling better-  I’m not going to die from this virus which has been the fear tactic portrayed this past year reporting all the deaths from the virus.  If I take care of my body I can be healthy and fight this naturally on my own -  Why would I need the vaccination if my own body can heal me?  If I give it what it needs to naturally heal and not depend on mans invention entirely  There is a place for the medical care needed when life is threaten. I know there have been those times in my life I would not be alive now without the help.   It is very clear to me now to not get the vaccination..  I'm very concerned for my husband too!  He is dealing with unknown health issues right now.  We have been to many doctor appointments and still no answers.  So why would be add an unknown vaccination that has been authorized for emergency use only.  It has not been approved by the FDA- Federal Drug Administration.  I have strongly felt we need to wait.    I feel at Peace- now I need to continue recovering from the illness I have contracted.  

Stacy sent this chart to me which something to carefully consider.

Quick Trip to Draper

Celebrating Boston's 11th Birthday

Thursday Morning we woke up an talked about our Day.  We didn’t have anything on the schedule.  It is Boston and Buck's birthday on the weekend March13th- Boston and March 14th Buck's b-day.  Trisha invited us for dinner Saturday night to celebrate their special day.  I wanted to be there.  So we packed up and we’re out the door by 10:30 am to make the drive south -160 miles.   We when we arrived had to stop by the Bank in Sandy to get the signature for our Annity done and fed-x.  We weren't able to get it done in Montpellier they needed verification of the policy and we didn’t have the statement with us.  We finally got that process done and in the mail.  We had to stop by the post office too.  When were arrived at our Draper home it was only 53 degrees inside - cold !  We both were tired and snuggled in a blanket together and took a nap.  Craig is doing great with his knee replacement.  6 weeks out.  It finally warmed up.  I wanted to go see the Thomas grandkids - when I called- found they weren’t home they were heading down south for the weekend to St George.  They had rented a home with a pool.  They were excited to be in warmer weather.  So we took a drive out to see the Chaudhry family.   I was missing our little Ashtyn.  So fun to see her.  She is so darling.  She was dressed in her red fancy dress- she loves to be a princess.  She is so funny when we come to visit she is very shy at first and takes a while to warm up to us.  When it comes time to leave- she doesn’t want us to leave.  She has to walk outside and watch us drive away  waving  good by, so sweet.  We were able to catch Alex and Jaxon  at home which we don’t see very often with them both working part-time jobs.  Ryan had made Pakistani chicken- Yummy-  it was a short visit but fun to see them.  Ryan has grown his hair out with a man bun on top.  His Covid-19  hairstyle.  He has worked from home this past year-  so no need to dress up - he stays in his pjs’s most days - a much more laid back lifestyle staying home.  The day in and day out does get mundane not going anywhere.  The covid-19 shutdown has taken it’s emotional toll- we all miss being with one another.   I’m a people person and I have felt the loneness like many of us across the world.  We are meant to mingle with one another and not be isolated in our homes.  This has been a strange time-  March 10th last year when things starting shutting down due to the virus spread and prevention of keeping spreading- it was only going to be for two weeks to slow the spread so the hospitals would not be overwhelmed with virus patients. - which changed to an entire year of mask wearing and staying home.  We  just barely stated back to church in October -shorter meetings , only 45 minute sacrament meeting and 25 minutes for Sunday school and still wearing a mask everywhere we go.  It is getting old. The vaccine for the virus is now out and we are being encouraged seniors and high risk health issues- to for sure get the vaccine. I’m just so skeptical -people are dying from the reaction of the vaccine now- yet the media is not talking about. I hear many people say I’ve got my two shots- I’m good now and our president of the United States making an address last week asking everyone to get the vaccine,  yet we still have to wear a mask and maybe we can gather together as friends and families by the Fourth of July. Things are just not adding up to me. I feel like the whole thing has been politicized by world governments trying to control our lives and using fear tactics. This vaccine has not been tested thoroughly- it was put on the fast track by President Trump so we could have it by the end of the year. 2020. So January February March this year 2021 has been this mass vaccination program for all people to get their vaccination which is a two shot process right now. Many people with their second shot do get very sick and have symptoms and there are even reported deaths shortly after the shot which is very concerning to me. I just feel so uneasy about it.  I can’t make a decision right now.  I want to just let the dust settle- I am waiting to be vaccinated.   Many LDS members are struggling, especially my own mother when President Nelson our prophet publicly showed him taking the shot and post it on Instagram and Facebook. My first reaction was well if the prophet is doing it, I guess it’s safe for us to take the vaccination.  He would not lead us astray.  I have complete faith in our prophet leadership for the church. He isn’t speaking out that we should all get the vaccination- he just set an example of him getting it for himself. Which does signal to members of the church that it must be safe if he’s doing it. I am just so skeptical about at all- things don’t add up in my own mind. There are many people that have died from the virus and it is a nasty virus but the numbers have been not true of total deaths, it seemed they almost calculated every death this past year as COVID-19 death. Not telling us who’s had the flu because there have been many people that die from the flu too in past years. It has all been lumped into one virus.  I know I have not done well with the flu shot the two times that I got it I became deathly ill and I figure why do I want to get a vaccination when I still get sick. I’m going to not get the flu shot and see how I do. I’ve had many years where I have been just fine and there are few years I still have gotten the flu but I’m still alive. I just feel for myself I’m better off without the flu vaccination if I try to be healthy and eat right and take my vitamins my immune system can fight off the bug. I have seen many of our youth and younger generation contract this virus and they have such mild symptoms. They are not dying as a mass population so why vaccinate them?  It is the older generation 65 and up that are more affected by this virus. It seems now that if your health is compromised and you contract the virus you could possibly die but getting the vaccination appears that there are those that die also. They are not keeping track of it and letting us know the public media is not talking about it at all. The CDC has reported that there are deaths and there have been over 2000 in the US that have died from the vaccination and those are the ones documented. There are many in Senior Citizen Center’s  that are dying and not being documented from the vaccination only that it’s old age. We are not being told the whole truth from my observation.  There are many online web-news that talk about the issue.  We know that there are evil forces in the world working against the good of humanity for money and power and this vaccination process definitely fits in that category which is worldwide. Just because the prophet chose to administer the vaccination doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for everyone. I’m still entitled to my own personal revelation for myself. The prophet speaks the word of God for the entire church but does not infringe on our individual personal revelation. He told us a couple years ago that in order to survive the upcoming years that lie ahead of us we need to learn to have our own personal revelation. We were told that there will be much deception in the latter days what appears to be truth is not truth. I see it all around me- the untruths that are being told. We have witnessed over and over in the local media news programs on TV -that untruths are told over and over and later the truth comes out to show that is fake news. This is definitely one reason why I am so skeptical- I don’t trust anything that the local media tells us.  I feel like there is a political agenda that we are not even really aware of - they trying to control the narrative by the fake news that they spew out.  It is so obvious to me. I am praying for my own personal revelation as to what to do about this vaccination process just holding off for now. We had a nice birthday dinner Saturday night with the Burbidge family wishing Boston a happy birthday. Trisha fixed us a yummy dinner. I spent the day Saturday decorating for Easter-  It is coming early this year 4th April. Fun to get out my Easter decorations.  I love the holidays. After our dinner at the Burbidge family we drove back up to the lake late so we can attend our church meetings on Sunday. It felt good to be in church and renew my spirit. Monday morning Craig and I had fun playing pickle ball with her Bear Lake friends. I have had a Family History bug-  I’ve been working really hard on my Johnson’s Family History line. Trying to get myself more organized and working towards my daughter's of the American Revolution application proving my lineage by the historical documents that I can find. I love doing the research work it is a lot of work though and consumes many hours. Today I woke up early and start working on Johnson‘s marriage records. I was going to play pickleball with the ladies in Montpelier early this morning but I woke up sneezing and I have sneezed all day I have a cold and have not felt the best today. My left knee hurts too, I must’ve tweaked it yesterday playing pickle.   Craig and I have been playing pickleball at the church- to give us something to do in the winter months and cold spring months - with a cold coming on a my right knee hurting I'm going to lay low today.   I had to take an afternoon nap and haven’t done a whole lot.  I’ve got to get myself in gear because we’re leaving early in the morning to go back to Salt Lake City, Craig has another doctor appointment. It’s dark now and the day is over. Craig went to young men and young women’s they are playing pickleball with the girls tonight and he’s helping to teach them how to play. I need to fix us some dinner. I have spent the day working on family history.  

Hope to feel better tomorrow. 

Taking A Drive

I cleaned up today while Craig went to his rehab appointment.  We took a drive to Montpellier, Idaho to get out of the house for a bit.  We had to stop by the bank to get a verified signature for the annuity we are closing out this month form the sale of our home 5 years ago.   It has matured so we are cashing it out.  I hope we can use some of the money to get our Bear lake driveway done this year.  We ate lunch at the local Artic Circle.  Fun to visit with two of the locals from Star Valley.  It is a different life style- county living people.  The sun has come out and feels good, melting the winter snow.  

Following the Prophet / My List

My list of the Blessings to come to Israel-  President Nelson asked the sisters to make a list of the blessing promised to Israel in the next 6 months a we study our scriptures-  I had started a list from my Book of Mormon Study in November-  I then faded out- 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.  
I have been faithfully studying my scriptures almost daily-  I just forgot to add to my list-  I want to do better the next few weeks as I prepare for the up coming  April General Conference on Easter Sunday this year- April 4 2021 - I have enjoyed immersing myself in the scripture and studying the Doctrine & covenants this year for 2021- teaching gospel doctrine keeps me on course.  My List :  continued - Look for the promises - Section 22- 1, Baptism is a new and everlasting covenant; 2–4, Authoritative baptism is required.
1. Behold, I say unto you that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing; and this is a new and an everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning (  I’m grateful for the restored priesthood power to Be Baptized by the proper Authority.)  3 For it is because of your dead works that I have caused this last covenant and this church to be built up unto me, even as in days of old.
4 Wherefore, enter ye in at the gate, as I have commanded, and seek not to counsel your God. Amen.-  baptism In the kingdom of God on the earth today is a great blessing in my life -  knowing it is an everlasting covenant required for all accountable -to enter the kingdom of God-  
Section 21 reading about the organization of the church- Christ church in this dispensation - April 6th, 1830 and is also the Saviors birthday date as reveled to us in modern time- So grateful for the blessing of the restored church 190 years later the church has grown and become a world renown church with 16 million in membership - grown from those early day of only 6 sustained members.  My life has been so blessed as I have lived my life active in his church for 53 years of my life- the church has been my life support-  D&C 21:4-7 the blessings of follow the modern day prophet- D&C 21:7 -  gods prophets lead the cause of Zion- to follow him is the path of safety, In verse seven- the word him- refers to Joseph Smith -but this verse also applies to anyone else who is giving the keys to lead the church- for the saints in 1830 Joseph smith was the prophet who God inspired to move the cause of Zion- For the saints in 1860 - called to move the course of  Zion was Brigham Young-  the saints in the year 2000 the one who had this calling was Gordon B Hinckley-  today the leading prophet is Russel M Nelson 2021-   

“ I bear witness to you my brothers and sisters that God sustains the living prophet and no one else in the world today but him, because he has the holy calling of prophet, seer, and revelator representing the Lord upon the earth and our time. 

He only has the right to revelation for the people of the church and if all people would understand that they would not be tossed about by those who would seek to divert their minds from the church and its glorious principles... they will be forced to fight against false teachers and anti-Christ and we do have them amongst us-  Elder Delbert L Stapley. Oct conference 1973 
I’m so blessed to listen to the prophets voice-  blessing are many for those who listen and obey -  the gates of hell shall not prevail and I will be safe from Satan and his followers.  A shield for me against the evil in the world- stand in holy places by listening and obeying the voice of a prophet.  
Vs D&C 21:9-9 For, behold, I will bless all those who labor in my vineyard with a mighty blessing, and they shall believe on his words, which are given him through me by the Comforter, which manifesteth that Jesus was crucified by sinful men for the sins of the world, yea, for the remission of sins unto the contrite heart.   The lord will bless us as we labor for Zion's cause- by the gift of the holy Ghost that I received at the time of my baptism- I do believe the word of God and I know the Book of Mormon is true and all the modern scriptures revealed.  

Children Of The Light

1 Thessalonians 5 -  I love these scriptures and wanted to copy the entire chapter as an example how to prepare for the second coming of our Savior- Chapter 5 chapter heading -

The Saints will know the season of the Second Coming of Christ—Live the way Saints should live—Rejoice evermore—Do not despise prophesyings.

1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.

9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

16 Rejoice evermore.

17 Pray without ceasing.

18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

19 Quench not the Spirit.

20 Despise not prophesyings.

21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

25 Brethren, pray for us.

26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.

27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.

28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

The first epistle unto the Thessalonians was written from Paul to the Saints in the meridian of times but is for us now to understand as children of the Light of Christ we will not be lead astray.

Our Sabbath Day - April 6th Birth of Jesus Christ

I woke up early to get ready-  I’m teaching the adult gospel doctrine class today.  I found my history of the church volume one and sat on the stairs with the sunshine shining in on me reading about the organization of the restored Church of Jesus Christ in these the Latter days.   

Organized April 6th,1830-  I also learned it is the Savior’s Birthday- this exact date.  The importance of the 6th of  April - explain by president Harold B Lee- (a prophet of the Lord in his time dated April 6th 1973 general conference - 

April 6th Is a particularly significant day because it commemorates not only the anniversary of the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter day Saints in this dispensation but also the anniversary of the birth of the Savior,  our Lord and Master- Jesus Christ....President Spencer W Kimball commented that the name of Jesus Christ and what it represents has been plowed deep into the history of the world never to be uprooted.  Christ was born on the 6th of April being the only begotten sons of God, his birth is of supreme importance.... My conclusion - Organizing the church of Jesus Christ in this dispensation on this exact date was no coincidence it was perfectly planned in the heavens.  I’m so grateful for the restored Church of Jesus Christ.  His church has blessed my life beyond measure.  I’m so blessed to have heard the gospel message when I was 11 years old and be baptized into his church on the earth today.  My life is forever in gratitude for the many blessings afforded me as I have strived to be a faithful Latter Day Saints and reap the joys of living a gospel center life.  Last April 2020 General Conference we celebrated the 190th anniversary of the first vision and beginning of the Miraculous process of translating the Book of Mormon for all the world- at the first church meeting there were only about 40-50 Saints in attendance, we are now a church of 16 million members.  The church has grown tremendously since that first spring day.  In ten more years 2030 we will celebrate 200 years the actual organization of the church.  This will be a general conference I do not want to miss-  I will be 73 years old.  In my learning of gospel scriptures and gleaning from our modern apostles and prophets since that first day of April 6th-  I have come to know the Savior will return- his second coming will be on the morning of the Sabbath- like the sun rising in the east-  And will most likely return on his birthday- April 6th since this is his restored church anniversary and is such a significant date in the history of the church it makes sense to me he will return on an April 6th sabbath morning. Stacy and I were discussing the signs of the second coming on Monday-  I texted her serval things I have learned in my gospel study about the signs.  We are promised as latter days Saints- children of the light- that we will know the season of his coming.  It will not be as a thief in night, as it will appear to the world.  I told her about a letter written by Vaugh J Featherson in 1983 at the temple dedication of the Atlantic Georgia Temple- he was serving as the area mission president- he wrote this letter and sent a copy to church headquarters for approval before placing it in the temple capstone that would be opened and read in 50 years.  This dates to 2033- he states in the letter the Savior will have returned by then - we will have lived through the events prophied and be blessed to have the Savior on the earth.   I said Wow!! Coming across a copy of this letter has been very inspiring to me and even more special as I have meet this man- Vaugh J Featherstone- he was a dear friend of Craig’s Father - Merlin and spoke at his funeral in 2001.  We were given a copy of a book he wrote and signed with his signature.  Here is a copy of the letter.  I looked at the calendar an I find April 6th 2031on a sabbath day-  this is very exciting and stirring to my soul that I could possibly be on the earth at the second coming of our Savior-  I have dreamed of this time in history and want so badly to be apart of this historical event in the history of the world.   I want to be one of the Saints heralding the second coming of Jesus Christ.  I found another Significant event on April 6, 2000- the dedication of the Navuoo temple and the opening of the 7th seal -the year 2000- . 

This is a picture of the timeline. 

Friday /Visiting With My Friend Karen Mcdougal

Craig did not sleep well last night- his blood pressure was up high-  for some reason it spikes in the wee morning hours and wakes him up.  He has been doing better since he has been on blood pressure medicine- but the last two nights his blood pressure spiked even being on medication.  He is feeling discouraged.  He went to the gym this morning-  I went with him yesterday morning.  I’m feeling tired today and sluggish- my stomach has not felt good all day. I’m having a hard time getting myself to do anything.  I’m feeling very anxious-  yesterday stressed me out.  I had to call and schedule to return the rugs I ordered online for our Draper home-  the color is just to golden yellow, disappointing-  I had gotten a messenger message from a friend from our mountain oaks ward about my name being on a federal grant list that I could possibly qualify for, she had just received her $- you didn’t have to pay it back- well I took the time to check it out- come to find out in the end they were asking me for money to process the application-  I wanted talk to my friend who supposedly sent me the message- Kathy Postma that I know- so I drove to her home to talk to her and let her know her account was being used to scam others.  Sure enough it was a scam she knew nothing about it.  She wasn’t even getting my messages from her to give me a call.  They had hacked her account saying it was her when it really isn’t.  So mad at myself for even taking the time.  I did send them a copy of my driver license which makes me really nervous - wondering if I need to get another driver license.   It was for sure a scam!! Makes me just so mad! I went and visited with my friend Karen Mcdogual afterwards that lives by Kathy.  They are our old neighbors raising our kids together.   I stayed at Karen’s about  4 hours visiting.  It felt good to visit with a girlfriend that knows me and my family.  We have the common ground where we raised our children and know each other’s kids- we had lots of fun trips to lake Powell with their family.  I just needed time to visit.  I feel so lonely at the lake- miss the association with my friends here in the Valley. Just so hard to keep doing the double life- back and forth to the lake.  I keep trying to make it work living at the lake yet I’m missing our life here in the Valley.  Having our Draper home helps- it just doesn’t feel like home yet to me-  I just feel unsettled still.  I’m really anxious knowing my mother is coming to stay with us for a while.  Don’t know how I’m going to mange the back and forth to the lake. Guess I will figure it out as we go.   It is going to be a balancing act.  That whole scam online really upset me -  can’t believe I even entertained it.  I feel so violated.  Going to have to check on my driver license.  They have a copy of it.  They know my home address and email address.  Makes me really nervous- so mad at myself for being sucked in.  Just have to be so careful-  I did change my Facebook password to try to unlink the scammers. Craig and I both just stayed home all day.  He took a long nap and I fell asleep on the couch.  I did make a massage appointment for him this evening 6pm,  I returned somethings back to Ross while he had his massage.  We are meeting our T-Girl for dinner at Las Gloria's a Mexican place we like to eat at in Draper.   Craig and I both have just not felt very good today.  My stomach has just felt bad all day.  Hopefully eating something will help.   

Gospel Message

D& C 65: 2 ​- The ​​​keys​ of the ​​​kingdom​ of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the ​​​gospel​ roll forth unto the ends of the earth, as the ​​​stone​ which is cut out of the mountain without hands shall roll forth, until it has ​​​filled​ the whole earth.

Daniel 2: 4 Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces.

35 Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. 

Daniel 2: 44. And  in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.

45 Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure.

This is one of my favorite scripture stories in the Old Testament-  stirring to my soul in knowing his church and gospel message will fill the earth during the Millennium reign of our Savior Jesus Christ.  As a convert to his true church I have become apart of this great stone that will roll forth and fill the earth.  We are 16 million strong and growing !! 

Warmest Day Of The Year / conference talk / Joesph Smith a Prophet of God-

We got up early this morning to clean up and drive 160 miles to our Draper Home. Craig has a follow up appointment for his knee surgery with his doctor.  He is 5 weeks out and is doing really good.  The weather is lovey about 65 degrees.  It feels so good going from 25 degrees at the lake.  Spring is coming!! The days are getting longer.  The sun is rising earlier and setting later.  No more dark mornings at 7am  and no more dark evenings at 6pm-  We are driving in the Corvette today and I excited to see our grandbabies - I’m missing baby Cora.  

Opposition, criticism, and antagonism are companions to the truth. Whenever the truth with regard to the purpose and destiny of man is revealed, there will always be a force to oppose it.  Beginning with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, down to the ministry of Christ and on down to our day, there has always been and will ever be an effort to deceive, derail, oppose, and frustrate the plan of life.  Look for the biggest dust cloud billowing above the most dirt that is kicked at One who was most opposed, challenged, and rejected, beaten, abandoned, and crucified, One who descended below all things, and there you will find the truth, the Son of God, the Savior of all mankind. Why did they not leave Him alone?  Why? Because He is the truth, and the truth will always be opposed.  This quote rings true to me as I watch the news and all the challenging things going on around us in the world. Peace has truly been taken from the earth- it greatly saddens me to see things fall apart- it appears that our civil liberties are being taken away and the United States constitution is hanging by a tread. There is so much political turbulence with our new President and his cabinet pushing a very liberal agenda- truth and righteous is being attached on every side.  Our national values are being turned upside down.  I pray for the courage to speak up- many Christians are being persecuted for their Christian values.  The government is not for the people but trying to control ever aspect of our lives.  The family values are being shredded to pieces- it is ok to choose to live a difference lifestyle if born a man you can be a women just have a sexual change- not honoring the person you were born into the world to become- don’t get married just live together.  Two males or two women are allowed to marry one another now.  They are teaching these values in the national school system.  The list of ungodly living is growing I see it all around us.  It makes me very sad and knowing we are on a downward slide as a country.  Pray the evil doesn’t take us over.  It is a fight to uphold the title of Liberty as we learn in the Book of Mormon. -  I love the conference talk we listen too at 2:30 am it reminds me of the blessings of Joseph Smith and his efforts to restore the church of Jesus Christ-  I’m preparing for my gospel lesson this Sunday which is section 20-22 the organization of the church on April 6th 1830.  We are now 190 years later.  The church is a world wide church and many are blessed as we strive to follow a living prophet and live our lives in righteousness.  In the talk he list many of the revelations reveled - a flood of light and knowledge-  

The Flood of Revelation

The revelations poured out upon Joseph Smith affirm that he was a prophet of God. Let’s just look at some of them—just look at some of the light and truth revealed through him that shines in stark contrast to the common beliefs of his day and ours:

    God is a personal, exalted being, an Eternal Father. He is our Father.

    God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are separate beings.

    You are more than human. You are a child of God the Eternal Father and may become like Him if you will have faith in His Son, repent, receive ordinances, receive the Holy Ghost, and endure to the end.

    The Church of Jesus Christ today is fundamentally the same Church He organized during His mortal ministry, with prophets and apostles, Melchizedek and Levitical Priesthoods, elders, high priests, deacons, teachers, bishops, and the seventy, all as described in the Bible.

    Priesthood authority was withheld from the earth following the deaths of the Savior and His Apostles and was restored again in our day.

    Revelation has not ceased, and the heavens are not closed. God speaks to prophets today, and He will speak to you and me as well.

    There is more after this life than only heaven and hell. There are degrees of glory, and it matters a great deal what we do in this life.

    More than having a mere passive belief in Christ, we should “look unto [Him] in every thought,” “do all that [we do] in the name of the Son,” and “always remember him and keep his commandments … that [we] may always have his Spirit to be with [us].”

    The billions who live and die without the gospel and the ordinances necessary for salvation are not lost. “Through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel,” administered for both the living and the dead.

    Everything did not begin at birth. You lived before in the presence of God as His son or daughter and prepared for this mortal life.

    Marriage and family are not conventions of men until only death do us part. They are intended to be made eternal through covenants we make with God. The family is the pattern of heaven.

And this is only a part of the flood of revelation poured out upon Joseph Smith. Where did it all come from, these revelations which give light to darkness, clarity to doubt, and which have inspired, blessed, and improved millions of people? Which is more likely, that he dreamed it all up on his own or that he had the help of heaven? Do the scriptures he produced sound like the words of man or the words of God?  

Conclusion

There is no dispute about what Joseph Smith accomplished, only how he did what he did and why. And there are not many options. He was either pretender or prophet. Either he did what he did alone, or he had the help of heaven. Look at the evidence, but look at all of the evidence, the entire mosaic of his life, not any single piece. Most importantly, do as young Joseph and “ask … God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given [you].” This is not only how you may learn the truth about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith; it is also the pattern to know the truth of all things.

Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, as is Russell M Nelson today. Through Joseph Smith, “the keys of the kingdom of God are [again] committed unto man on the earth, and … the gospel [will] roll forth … as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands … , until it has filled the whole earth.”

God is our Eternal Father, and Jesus is the Christ. We worship Them. Nothing compares with Their creations, the plan of salvation, and the atoning sacrifice of the Lamb of God. In this dispensation, we fulfill the plan of the Father and partake of the fruits of the Atonement only by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel, restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. I bear testimony of Them—God the Eternal Father and Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. And I do so in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.  I loved this talk and say Amen too-  I know Joseph Smith is a prophet of God and the Book of Mormon is true, the Savior will return and his church has been restored to the earth and is here now- it is the only peace to be found upon the earth- being active and staying close to our Heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit is what keeps me going in this very wicked world.  There are many blessings despite the surmounting evil.  This talk was given by -

By Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge-The Prophet Joseph Smith

Of the Seventy- in April 2014, he was Bridger’s Mission President- which gives even more enduring meaning to our hearts.  

I love this picture of the first vision when God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith in the spring of 1820-  I have this picture hanging in our Draper home.  I bought it when I was teaching gospel doctrine in our Mountain Oaks ward in 2000- the beginning of a new dispensation of time.  It has been 21 years now this past year 2020 we have celebrated the 190 years of the restored gospel as the Church of Jesus Christ in the earth- preparing the world for the second coming of Jesus Christ.  I know this is his church.  I’m so very blessed to be apart of it with the other 16 million members scattered through out the world.  We are praying and striving to prepare for his second coming.