JULY 23-29
MONDAY.Wagon Tour 6:30 - no first tour at 7 but took the 9 and 11am.The flag at the Temple was flying half mast and when I made inquires, it was in behalf of those who lost lives in Colorado. I am living in such a cloistered life that I didn't know of the tragedy until I asked someone. It was 100 by then so they closed up the wagon tours.At one point today it was 110 in the shade...that is 40degrees Celsius. I worked on my Cast manager assignment all afternoon trying to get things organised. Headed off to the Sunset Show which they held inside because of the heat.Our lawn is so brown but we are not to water it with our tap water,
TUESDAY Woke to 85 Degree weather/I walked up to the post office and it was a wonderful surprise to get mail from Hill Spring.The ward has sent a letter as well as my forwarded mail from Hill Spring.Worked with S/Young on the cast list as she is making changes and then off to the Tinshop from 12-6.We were very busy today and actually had one tour of 30 people in that small place.I was working with S/Kinikini who is from Tonga.but lives in Salt Lake now. She is preparing to go home in 2 weeks and told me that the 18 months will go fast. Indeed it has been 4 months already and I just have to get in the habit of writing every night on this blog.Tonight I have been working on getting the line up out to the cast for tomorrow and it will be interesting to see how many changes will take place before the performance.
PREPARATION DAY Awake before the robins this morning.At the 8am Training Meeting, we had a presentation on Listening Skills.E/Wise gave part of the presentation and he made reference to Steven Covey. It is interesting that I just learned the day before that he had passed away. What a great influence he had on so many lives. Went to the Temple and visited with a Sister as I was leaving. When she saw my name tag,she asked if I was related to a Brooks who was in Samoa. Her name is Moana Carlon and her father was the Mission President in Samoa when she was nine years old. Isn't that amazing that she would remember that name after all these years. Elder Brooks must have left an impression on her. We hope to connect another time when we are not so busy.And yes there were many changes in shuffling people around in the show. It is amazing how the show just goes on with so many unseen problems but there are so many of us on the stage sometimes (40 Plus) that you don't catch all the fun mistakes.
THURSDAY RAIN BEAUTIFUL RAIN. We have needed the rain so bad . Everything is so dry and brown.The temperatures have been 40 and above. Today I was in the Brigham Young Home on a split shift 9-12 and 3-6. It is such an honor and a privilege to be in that house.In 1950 the nation honored him by placing a statue of him in the Rotunda in Washington, calling him America's Greatest Colonizer. Then at 6:30 I had the production of Sunset by the Mississippi.
FRIDAY I was at the Family Living Center today. They give demonstrations on pioneer skills on making rope,barrels,pottery, weaving and I was part of the candle, spinning and bread making. In the bread making they talk about making ash bread, where they would cook the bread on the ashes of a fire or on the bricks and put ashes on the bread dough. I had that experience with Kari,James and Grandchildren when we went camping one summer.The Sisters actually cook bread in the Bustle Ovens here where we do the demonstrations and the guest get to have a piece. The recipe is available on historicnauvoo.net.Tonight was my OFF but I was busy getting the cast line up ready to be sent out and so I am hoping that I can get a grip on these constant changes so that I can get a break.
SAT. Had a quieter day today when I was at the Sarah Granger Kimball Home. It is a bit off the beaten path so we don't get too many visitors. I got to know one of the sisters better and found that we have a common interest in the artist Carl Bloch. She had seen the display of his altarpieces at BYU Museum of Art. I had seen the pictures only in an April 2011 Ensign. It really is great to get to know such noble folks such as the likes of her. Another show tonight, so I am very weary tonight. as mother would say a 'happy tired".
Wednesday 8 August 2012
Sunday 22 July 2012
JULY 15-22,2012
The time has come to get a grip on my life in the fast lane and I need to be writing here. The procrastination has gone on long enough and if I want to have you all who are interested in my life here in Nauvoo,stay connected, I had better start today. So here goes.
SUNDAY Up early (5:30) as we have to be to Church by 7:30 or we sit in the back on the hard chairs. The Nauvoo Pageant has started so over 700 people were at Sacrament today. Yes, you read it right 700. They have the Stake Centre set up right to the stage and have Sacrament tables set up along one side. They are prepared for the crowd and very organized. They hand out programs on a single sheet with the program and announcements on one side and the Hymns on the other. By the way the two other wards meet at 10am and 2pm. so it is not like there are no other choices.As I think about the talks today, I think the one Young Sister Missionary who said "Heavenly Father loves you" was just what I need to hear. At 6pm we had a District meeting with ten of us. We have cleaning assignments for the month. Sis.Purtell and I get to clean the Women's Statues next week which I volunteered to do as it is just right across the street. We had an ice cream pie for dessert. Susan Easton Black was our special speaker tonight at our Sociable (Fireside).She is a Church History professor at BYU, wrote the Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith that we used a few years ago in Priesthood and RS. and has a home here in Nauvoo.It was very detailed talk of when Joseph Smith was kidnapped in 1842. Which led up to his martyrdom.
MONDAY Up at 5am as I had to be at the Wagon Shed at 6:30 am for the first wagon tour at 7 AM. Yes I do a one hour narration as the wagon as the horses take us on a tour of Old Nauvoo. We have had to start so early because the weather has been so hot and they shut things down around noon depending on the heat index. The temperatures have been unbearable. I had to come home and change my clothes as I was soaked by 10 o'clock and I had one more wagon ride at 11. Worked on the Sarah Granger cast list for most of the afternoon and then at 6 pm we had a performance on the outside stage with our group. 100degrees in the shade.This show is called Sunset By the Mississippi and we and the Young Performing Missionaries sing and Dance. Tonight Sis. Moses and I did the Specialty number Rindercella. She reads it and I do the pantomime. Great fun. I will send pictures on of these days.
TUESDAY 8- 8:30 am my first study time with Sis. Christensen. Her companion went home and so we arranged to do this. We are studying Preach My Gospel - Christlike attributes. The first one is Faith. Indeed, my faith in the Savior has grown as I have served here. I am confident that I am were I need to be each day and feel His guiding hand as I talk to people. Today I served in the Heber C.Kimball home and even though we didn't have a tour until 12:30, I had an opportunity to talk with my companion Sis.Jardine and find out her story. Everyone who comes here has a story.Everyone who has lived here has a story. And that is why I am here to tell the story of the people who lived here. Just one detail on the Kimballs, his Great Great Grandson, Dr. Leroy Kimball was born in Cardston, Alberta in 1901 and he was the man who started restoring Nauvoo and ended up as President of Nauvoo Restoration Incorporated for 25 years while all the changes were taking place that we enjoy today. Went to the Pageant tonight. Seats were set aside for us missionaries. It was great.They have 20 professional actors and about 150 volunteers. These are families that come for one week. They have a rehersal on Monday and then Dress rehersal on Monday night another practise on Tues. and then the show Tues.thru Sat. at 8:30.
WEDNESDAY This is my preparation day and it starts at 8am with a weekly Training Meeting,this morning we had a special speaker. Elder Gavarret who is a Seventy.who was here to open the Pageant. Then I went to the Temple, did my grocery shopping and worked on my Show Dress in the Sewing room. By the way,the reason our dresses had to be floor length and add 3 inches,was because of GROW TUCKS. They put three one 1/2 inch hems around the dress and as you wash the dress and it shrinks or if you hand this dress down to someone else, they can be let down. In old days they did this on the sleeves too especially for children for them to grow into their dresses.Tonight we had Rendezvous in Old Nauvoo. This is the stage production in the Cultural Hall at 7 and 8:15pm. I was so busy with my cast manager responsibilities, I didn't get on to the stage in time and another sister filled in for me. I keep having these learning experiences. Her comment was "you snooze you lose".
THURSDAY Today I was at the Family Living Center which gives demonstrations of how the pioneers made rope, barrels, candles, pottery,bread, wove rugs and spun wool and flax.It was a busy day with many tour buses in town for the pageant. Another HOT day on the outdoor stage for Sunset. I enjoy doing the Polka with one of the YPM's Elder Moore. I felt the emotion come when we sing the songs of the different Armed Forces.Tonight, when we sang the Marines my heart went to Spencer who is preparing to go to Africa with his job for a few months.
FRIDAY This morning my mind is on the problem of my home in Hill Spring, as the renter is moving out in August. I am going to have to rely on the Davis's to help out. Also I am so far behind in catching up with my other life that I am behind in my birthday greeting to family. Lots in July. So if I have missed you I am sorry and hope all is well with you. Today, I was in the Log School House.School was held in homes and this log home was reconstructed in 1991. The teacher had to be certified and got 25cents per student per week and was also paid by the classes taught. While I was there I met Larry and Babette Jensen who had just been through Hill Spring and had visited her sister who is a good friend of Jean (Judy's sister). Small world.
SATURDAY I had a special experience at the Merryweather Store and Post Office site today. We are to give a gospel message at each site related to such. So as I am talking about how letter were the only way that people were able to communicate and made a reference to the Scriptures containing letters such as Paul to the Ephesians, I remembered that I once heard the reference to the Scriptures being letters from Home as a way that Heavenly Father communicates with us and we communicate with Him by prayer.
Then tonight as we finished the one show of Rendezvous and the cast was talking to the guests out front and were preparing for the second show, we had some hecklers, placard carrying men come by and they were yelling and one of the guests tried to talk to them. We had been warned by our President to expect this and to ignore such. but they were calling us racist etc. Very interesting experience.
SUNDAY So now this goes to press. I have had a quiet day as I didn't have to work and Idid get caught up with my rest and this blog. Then this evening we had a beautiful program presented by the Young Performing Missionaries from the Band and Stage. It truly was exceptional and the music extraordinary well performed.
I also talked to Nola who is at home again,Kari who is expecting her baby July 31st and Spencer who leaves for Frankfurt/Africa tomorrow. So it is a great way to end this peaceful day.
The time has come to get a grip on my life in the fast lane and I need to be writing here. The procrastination has gone on long enough and if I want to have you all who are interested in my life here in Nauvoo,stay connected, I had better start today. So here goes.
SUNDAY Up early (5:30) as we have to be to Church by 7:30 or we sit in the back on the hard chairs. The Nauvoo Pageant has started so over 700 people were at Sacrament today. Yes, you read it right 700. They have the Stake Centre set up right to the stage and have Sacrament tables set up along one side. They are prepared for the crowd and very organized. They hand out programs on a single sheet with the program and announcements on one side and the Hymns on the other. By the way the two other wards meet at 10am and 2pm. so it is not like there are no other choices.As I think about the talks today, I think the one Young Sister Missionary who said "Heavenly Father loves you" was just what I need to hear. At 6pm we had a District meeting with ten of us. We have cleaning assignments for the month. Sis.Purtell and I get to clean the Women's Statues next week which I volunteered to do as it is just right across the street. We had an ice cream pie for dessert. Susan Easton Black was our special speaker tonight at our Sociable (Fireside).She is a Church History professor at BYU, wrote the Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith that we used a few years ago in Priesthood and RS. and has a home here in Nauvoo.It was very detailed talk of when Joseph Smith was kidnapped in 1842. Which led up to his martyrdom.
MONDAY Up at 5am as I had to be at the Wagon Shed at 6:30 am for the first wagon tour at 7 AM. Yes I do a one hour narration as the wagon as the horses take us on a tour of Old Nauvoo. We have had to start so early because the weather has been so hot and they shut things down around noon depending on the heat index. The temperatures have been unbearable. I had to come home and change my clothes as I was soaked by 10 o'clock and I had one more wagon ride at 11. Worked on the Sarah Granger cast list for most of the afternoon and then at 6 pm we had a performance on the outside stage with our group. 100degrees in the shade.This show is called Sunset By the Mississippi and we and the Young Performing Missionaries sing and Dance. Tonight Sis. Moses and I did the Specialty number Rindercella. She reads it and I do the pantomime. Great fun. I will send pictures on of these days.
TUESDAY 8- 8:30 am my first study time with Sis. Christensen. Her companion went home and so we arranged to do this. We are studying Preach My Gospel - Christlike attributes. The first one is Faith. Indeed, my faith in the Savior has grown as I have served here. I am confident that I am were I need to be each day and feel His guiding hand as I talk to people. Today I served in the Heber C.Kimball home and even though we didn't have a tour until 12:30, I had an opportunity to talk with my companion Sis.Jardine and find out her story. Everyone who comes here has a story.Everyone who has lived here has a story. And that is why I am here to tell the story of the people who lived here. Just one detail on the Kimballs, his Great Great Grandson, Dr. Leroy Kimball was born in Cardston, Alberta in 1901 and he was the man who started restoring Nauvoo and ended up as President of Nauvoo Restoration Incorporated for 25 years while all the changes were taking place that we enjoy today. Went to the Pageant tonight. Seats were set aside for us missionaries. It was great.They have 20 professional actors and about 150 volunteers. These are families that come for one week. They have a rehersal on Monday and then Dress rehersal on Monday night another practise on Tues. and then the show Tues.thru Sat. at 8:30.
WEDNESDAY This is my preparation day and it starts at 8am with a weekly Training Meeting,this morning we had a special speaker. Elder Gavarret who is a Seventy.who was here to open the Pageant. Then I went to the Temple, did my grocery shopping and worked on my Show Dress in the Sewing room. By the way,the reason our dresses had to be floor length and add 3 inches,was because of GROW TUCKS. They put three one 1/2 inch hems around the dress and as you wash the dress and it shrinks or if you hand this dress down to someone else, they can be let down. In old days they did this on the sleeves too especially for children for them to grow into their dresses.Tonight we had Rendezvous in Old Nauvoo. This is the stage production in the Cultural Hall at 7 and 8:15pm. I was so busy with my cast manager responsibilities, I didn't get on to the stage in time and another sister filled in for me. I keep having these learning experiences. Her comment was "you snooze you lose".
THURSDAY Today I was at the Family Living Center which gives demonstrations of how the pioneers made rope, barrels, candles, pottery,bread, wove rugs and spun wool and flax.It was a busy day with many tour buses in town for the pageant. Another HOT day on the outdoor stage for Sunset. I enjoy doing the Polka with one of the YPM's Elder Moore. I felt the emotion come when we sing the songs of the different Armed Forces.Tonight, when we sang the Marines my heart went to Spencer who is preparing to go to Africa with his job for a few months.
FRIDAY This morning my mind is on the problem of my home in Hill Spring, as the renter is moving out in August. I am going to have to rely on the Davis's to help out. Also I am so far behind in catching up with my other life that I am behind in my birthday greeting to family. Lots in July. So if I have missed you I am sorry and hope all is well with you. Today, I was in the Log School House.School was held in homes and this log home was reconstructed in 1991. The teacher had to be certified and got 25cents per student per week and was also paid by the classes taught. While I was there I met Larry and Babette Jensen who had just been through Hill Spring and had visited her sister who is a good friend of Jean (Judy's sister). Small world.
SATURDAY I had a special experience at the Merryweather Store and Post Office site today. We are to give a gospel message at each site related to such. So as I am talking about how letter were the only way that people were able to communicate and made a reference to the Scriptures containing letters such as Paul to the Ephesians, I remembered that I once heard the reference to the Scriptures being letters from Home as a way that Heavenly Father communicates with us and we communicate with Him by prayer.
Then tonight as we finished the one show of Rendezvous and the cast was talking to the guests out front and were preparing for the second show, we had some hecklers, placard carrying men come by and they were yelling and one of the guests tried to talk to them. We had been warned by our President to expect this and to ignore such. but they were calling us racist etc. Very interesting experience.
SUNDAY So now this goes to press. I have had a quiet day as I didn't have to work and Idid get caught up with my rest and this blog. Then this evening we had a beautiful program presented by the Young Performing Missionaries from the Band and Stage. It truly was exceptional and the music extraordinary well performed.
I also talked to Nola who is at home again,Kari who is expecting her baby July 31st and Spencer who leaves for Frankfurt/Africa tomorrow. So it is a great way to end this peaceful day.
Tuesday 17 April 2012
HILLSPRING - WYOMING - UTAH
MAR.1st Thur. Running faster than I am able today. Into Cardston to get my oil changed and winter tires off and 2 old ones put on and bought 2 new ones. That ended up taking 2 hours so I was behind the rest of the day. Errands and then to see Sharyn's apartment and say my good byes and then on to Nola's to help clean out cupboards and etc. Later I went to the Church to be set apart as a missionary. A sweet feeling was there as testimonies were shared and then as I was set apart and given a blessing I was told that "the Lord has watched over you in your life since you entered the world." I have felt that I have a specific mission but was overwhelmed at the things I was promised. I then went to pick up my dresses,tried them on.I am so impressed with the beautiful work that Marge has done. I certainly couldn't have done it.You have to leave an extra 3 inches below floor length for them to hem when you get to Nauvoo and the aprons as well. So the dresses aren't finished yet but I am going to be one of the best dressed in Nauvoo. Tired but happy.
MAR.2nd Fri. Had a great day trying to get organized by getting my stuff unpacked at the house- got the house organized- found the long white gloves of Mothers that Kari wanted to borrow. So it was a day of shuffling and sorting and resorting and trying to downsize the things that I am taking with me.
MAR.3rd Sat. Got the van packed today. This has been a great feat as I have to take multi sets of clothes with me. Spring, Summer,Hot , Humidity, Fall,Winter and Cold Damp Winter as well as my outfits for the tour sites that I will be wearing these dresses and aprons at. That was one suitcase in and of itself. I also have boxes and totes to go to Kari's. It's a good thing that the van is a 6 passenger rather than a 9 as I probably would have packed more stuff.With the mission being 18 months I felt I need to take extra things like books and I even packed a card table and some food storage that I felt I didn't want to leave behind. I just have to pack up my desk stuff, printer and computer and my suitcase with my Sunday clothes tomorrow. Oh, yes I cleaned too, as I wanted to leave the cabin as I had found it.I have been so thankful to have had the space for my preparations to leave. Another emotional day tomorrow when I say my good byes to my dear friends in Hill Spring.
MAR 4th Sun. Woke at 2:30 my mind going 100 mph. Realized that I didn't know where my temple recommend was.I even went out to the van with my flashlight to unpack my bags to see if it was there. Still no recommend. I am so very grateful that it is Sunday so that I could get another one.It was fast and testimony meeting and I will never forget the sweet testimony of a boy that simply said "When I was baptized, I felt I was with God again" and sat down.Then the marathon began to get the final packing done and into Cardston to get my recommend signed by the Stake President... it just happened to be the regular night to sign temple recommends. I am here with Nola and so I was glad to have a chance to visit her one more time before I leave.I will miss her.
MAR.5th Mon. Made it to Wyoming! Up before the crack of dawn. Thank goodness that there was a 24 hour gas station in Cardston. I was the first one to cross the border at Babb/Peigan at 7 AM. I had a moment at the border when I thought they weren't going to let the van through. I went into the bathroom, said a prayer and when I came out she had OK'd it. I don't what happened except my prayer was answered. It started to snow, so by the time I was to the Duck Lake turn off I was into a blizzard. I had bad roads to Browning and then it let up a bit. and then finally good roads all the rest of the way. Listened to Book of Mormon as well as Truman Madsen tapes. Pulled over at Judith Gap for a rest and made it to Kari's by 7 PM. I just can't seem to cut it any shorter driving by myself. It is so good to see everyone.I am amazed at how the kids have grown and the dog too.So grateful to be on the first leg of my journey to Nauvoo. Aspen gave up her bed so I look forward to a good sleep. Speaking of sleep only seven more sleeps to the MTC.We are going to the temple in Billings tomorrow while the kids are in school. So back in travel mode again but happy to be able to spend time with Kari and James.
MAR.6-8th Visiting,shopping, sleeping,playing cards and reading with the kids.Went to help set up a Book Fair with Kari at the school and even helped in Ben's class room one morning. It has been fun to be here but the good byes weren't so hard as I will see Kari in two weeks when we drive to Nauvoo.
MAR. 9th Fri. Made it to Utah! I tried to connect with the Kennedy's but that will have to happen on our way to Nebraska.The trip was uneventful and again very glad to see family. The children are growing up so fast even though I saw them in August. Lucy is a doll and a bit cautious of me which is to be expected. She will be walking before you know it. Really weary as I had not slept on the trip down so I am thankful that Eliza gave up her bed for me. What great grand daughters I have and they will have changed so much when I see them again in 18 months.
MAR.10th Sat. It was indeed a Super Saturday,to spend it with family. We traveled up to the Alta Ski Resort to retrieve a much needed cell phone, did some shopping and then had lunch at Chuck-A-Rama. Fred loved to eat here and we came often to celebrate. Thanks Sariah for this special memory. The weather was so lovely and warm that we were outside, kids on bikes and Lucy trying out Marks' fire engine.
MAR.11th Sun. One more sleep before I start the new adventure.Chas stayed home today because he was sick.He was still sleeping when we got home from Church.I was impressed by the talks on the importance of the Sacrament. One talk was on the Last Supper which took me back to Jerusalem where I had to give a talk. The tour director had assigned me to give a talk in a room similar to where the Last Supper might have taken place. What special memories I have. How blessed I have been to travel as much as I have. Doris gave an excellent lesson on the priesthood. I still have my moments when I miss you Fred and until you don't have that connection to the priesthood do you realize the powerful influence it has in your life. It has been a beautiful Sabbath day, to be strengthened by partaking of the sacrament and renewing my covenants, to time with family.What a great way to start the next chapter of my life in the Missionary Training Center.
MAR.2nd Fri. Had a great day trying to get organized by getting my stuff unpacked at the house- got the house organized- found the long white gloves of Mothers that Kari wanted to borrow. So it was a day of shuffling and sorting and resorting and trying to downsize the things that I am taking with me.
MAR.3rd Sat. Got the van packed today. This has been a great feat as I have to take multi sets of clothes with me. Spring, Summer,Hot , Humidity, Fall,Winter and Cold Damp Winter as well as my outfits for the tour sites that I will be wearing these dresses and aprons at. That was one suitcase in and of itself. I also have boxes and totes to go to Kari's. It's a good thing that the van is a 6 passenger rather than a 9 as I probably would have packed more stuff.With the mission being 18 months I felt I need to take extra things like books and I even packed a card table and some food storage that I felt I didn't want to leave behind. I just have to pack up my desk stuff, printer and computer and my suitcase with my Sunday clothes tomorrow. Oh, yes I cleaned too, as I wanted to leave the cabin as I had found it.I have been so thankful to have had the space for my preparations to leave. Another emotional day tomorrow when I say my good byes to my dear friends in Hill Spring.
MAR 4th Sun. Woke at 2:30 my mind going 100 mph. Realized that I didn't know where my temple recommend was.I even went out to the van with my flashlight to unpack my bags to see if it was there. Still no recommend. I am so very grateful that it is Sunday so that I could get another one.It was fast and testimony meeting and I will never forget the sweet testimony of a boy that simply said "When I was baptized, I felt I was with God again" and sat down.Then the marathon began to get the final packing done and into Cardston to get my recommend signed by the Stake President... it just happened to be the regular night to sign temple recommends. I am here with Nola and so I was glad to have a chance to visit her one more time before I leave.I will miss her.
MAR.5th Mon. Made it to Wyoming! Up before the crack of dawn. Thank goodness that there was a 24 hour gas station in Cardston. I was the first one to cross the border at Babb/Peigan at 7 AM. I had a moment at the border when I thought they weren't going to let the van through. I went into the bathroom, said a prayer and when I came out she had OK'd it. I don't what happened except my prayer was answered. It started to snow, so by the time I was to the Duck Lake turn off I was into a blizzard. I had bad roads to Browning and then it let up a bit. and then finally good roads all the rest of the way. Listened to Book of Mormon as well as Truman Madsen tapes. Pulled over at Judith Gap for a rest and made it to Kari's by 7 PM. I just can't seem to cut it any shorter driving by myself. It is so good to see everyone.I am amazed at how the kids have grown and the dog too.So grateful to be on the first leg of my journey to Nauvoo. Aspen gave up her bed so I look forward to a good sleep. Speaking of sleep only seven more sleeps to the MTC.We are going to the temple in Billings tomorrow while the kids are in school. So back in travel mode again but happy to be able to spend time with Kari and James.
MAR.6-8th Visiting,shopping, sleeping,playing cards and reading with the kids.Went to help set up a Book Fair with Kari at the school and even helped in Ben's class room one morning. It has been fun to be here but the good byes weren't so hard as I will see Kari in two weeks when we drive to Nauvoo.
MAR. 9th Fri. Made it to Utah! I tried to connect with the Kennedy's but that will have to happen on our way to Nebraska.The trip was uneventful and again very glad to see family. The children are growing up so fast even though I saw them in August. Lucy is a doll and a bit cautious of me which is to be expected. She will be walking before you know it. Really weary as I had not slept on the trip down so I am thankful that Eliza gave up her bed for me. What great grand daughters I have and they will have changed so much when I see them again in 18 months.
MAR.10th Sat. It was indeed a Super Saturday,to spend it with family. We traveled up to the Alta Ski Resort to retrieve a much needed cell phone, did some shopping and then had lunch at Chuck-A-Rama. Fred loved to eat here and we came often to celebrate. Thanks Sariah for this special memory. The weather was so lovely and warm that we were outside, kids on bikes and Lucy trying out Marks' fire engine.
MAR.11th Sun. One more sleep before I start the new adventure.Chas stayed home today because he was sick.He was still sleeping when we got home from Church.I was impressed by the talks on the importance of the Sacrament. One talk was on the Last Supper which took me back to Jerusalem where I had to give a talk. The tour director had assigned me to give a talk in a room similar to where the Last Supper might have taken place. What special memories I have. How blessed I have been to travel as much as I have. Doris gave an excellent lesson on the priesthood. I still have my moments when I miss you Fred and until you don't have that connection to the priesthood do you realize the powerful influence it has in your life. It has been a beautiful Sabbath day, to be strengthened by partaking of the sacrament and renewing my covenants, to time with family.What a great way to start the next chapter of my life in the Missionary Training Center.
Monday 2 April 2012
February 2012 Vanderhoof to Hill Spring
Linda and I stayed in Vanderhoof from Feb. 1- Feb. 20th. It was great to be with the Grandgirls and especially to be there for Brielle's Baptism. We had fun one day when we were able to get outside to play in the snow making a fort and playing Fox and Geese. The three weeks went quickly with trips to the school bus, science projects,sick kids,visits to friends and visits from family, rabbits..oops sorry Rachel''bunnies" and finishing Fred's Journals.
Feb.20/ Mon. We said our good bye's in Prince George. This was a very different experience this time and I wasn't ready for the emotional roller coaster to say good bye to my children and grand kids.I had a tough moment when I didn't want to leave, to stay with family, and yet the momentum of going on a mission. A moment in time when I felt my heart break again. Two more Grand children expected and I won't see them until they are a year old, unless of course they come visit me in Nauvoo.
Feb.21/Tues. Home in Hill Spring and picked up the mail to find my Passport is here. Yeah! Another thing to check off my list.
Feb.23/Thurs. Dentist in Pincher Creek... I had a small chip break off my tooth while I was in B.C. so I got a quick fix, no freezing, so I was in and our of the office in 1/2 hour.\
Feb.24/Fri. Had a dress fitting today. I love my dresses. Marge will put the tops to the skirts now.
Feb. 26/Sun. Had to talk in Church today which was a challenge as I was to talk for 15 minutes and the other two speakers were very brief which left me with almost 30 minutes to speak. We had a short meeting today even though I did lengthen my talk.
Feb.27 Mon. I got a call from the Missionary Training Center with regard to my stay there.Moving right along.
Feb. 28th Tues. Tina came to help me get started with this Blog - couldn't do it without her, so very grateful for her help. and friendship.
Feb. 29thWed. Couldn't hardly believe it happened again. I am falling apart... or at least my teeth are. Another broken tooth, another trip to Pincher and another quick fix. They didn't even charge me this time.
Feb.20/ Mon. We said our good bye's in Prince George. This was a very different experience this time and I wasn't ready for the emotional roller coaster to say good bye to my children and grand kids.I had a tough moment when I didn't want to leave, to stay with family, and yet the momentum of going on a mission. A moment in time when I felt my heart break again. Two more Grand children expected and I won't see them until they are a year old, unless of course they come visit me in Nauvoo.
Feb.21/Tues. Home in Hill Spring and picked up the mail to find my Passport is here. Yeah! Another thing to check off my list.
Feb.23/Thurs. Dentist in Pincher Creek... I had a small chip break off my tooth while I was in B.C. so I got a quick fix, no freezing, so I was in and our of the office in 1/2 hour.\
Feb.24/Fri. Had a dress fitting today. I love my dresses. Marge will put the tops to the skirts now.
Feb. 26/Sun. Had to talk in Church today which was a challenge as I was to talk for 15 minutes and the other two speakers were very brief which left me with almost 30 minutes to speak. We had a short meeting today even though I did lengthen my talk.
Feb.27 Mon. I got a call from the Missionary Training Center with regard to my stay there.Moving right along.
Feb. 28th Tues. Tina came to help me get started with this Blog - couldn't do it without her, so very grateful for her help. and friendship.
Feb. 29thWed. Couldn't hardly believe it happened again. I am falling apart... or at least my teeth are. Another broken tooth, another trip to Pincher and another quick fix. They didn't even charge me this time.
Sunday 18 March 2012
January 2012 Hill Spring
I am so excited that I am finally into a new year and this is the opportunity of a lifetime to serve in Nauvoo. I have talked to a lot of folks who have been there and it really sounds wonderful.
Jan.3/Tue. Got My Letter from President Monson and my Packet with all the Missionary Information. Wrote my acceptance letter to the Prophet and took it to Bishop Smith for his signature. As I have pondered on what has happened the past few months, I can't help but be so thankful. The fact that I felt that Nauvoo was the area I wanted to go and requested, let alone the missionary committee felt I should go also... twice blessed.
Jan.4/Wed/ Kari phoned to say she got a call from the Travel Dept. and when I called them, they need to know who my escort would be from Utah to Nauvoo and make arrangements with them. They will fly Kari from Casper to SLC and then will fly her home from Nauvoo.
Jan. 11/Wed. A letter and a CD arrived from Nauvoo. Ten songs to learn and practice for the two Productions "Sunset on the Mississippi and Rendezvous in Old Nauvoo". These are musical and theatrical productions put on by ALL the missionaries Monday through Saturday, 52 weeks of the year. including holidays. So I started to listen to it as I drove home from the Post Office. They are fun songs but they are very fast paced so I will have to practice a lot. They will be holding auditions and then I will be assigned to a cast. So stay "tuned" for more when it happens.
Jan. 12/Thurs. Two months...60 days before I go to the Missionary Training Center (MTC). I am actually marking a calendar on the countdown.
Jan.13/Fri. Walked to the post office today and low and behold my dress pattern was in. Yeah! But... it is too difficult for me so I phoned Marge and she said she could help me in February. I listened to the music and it is super fast. So grateful that I have some time to get it together.
Jan. 15/Sun. Talked to a family member today about my mission and they offered to help me financially. It is hard to express my thankfulness, the tears came. I know they will be blessed as well as myself.
Jan.16/Mon. Had my own little Family Home Evening tonight and watched the movie " Joseph Smith" which takes place in Nauvoo. What a powerful experience that was. I believe Joseph and the sacred experience that he had at 14, to have seen God the Father and His Son. I am so very grateful to be called to the area where Joseph and his family left such a legacy.
Jan.18/Wed. Took the pattern and material to Marge and we ended up doing some trading of material.I still need to get some apron material and she is going to make up a sample bodice and fir it first before she makes the dresses.It was so good to see her again as our paths haven't crossed for some years, perhaps as long as when I played the part of Zina Card in the Temple Pageant.
Jan.20/Fri. Got another e-mail from Nauvoo. A new Mission President the -Gilliland's. They have sent a new 25 page handbook out and the best news of all - my rent has been reduced from $575 to $275 per month. My printer wasn't working so I forwarded it to Linda at the school and later walked up to get it.
Jan.22/Sun. Ward Conference today. Bishop Smith and President Lybbert spoke on happiness. Those reminders that we are on this earth to be tested and that we need to remember that the Lord loves us and that our trials are ours to learn from and that we are to be tried in all things. I have had my share of character building experiences and I am sure more are to come but all in all I am happy and happiest when I can serve. That evening I went to Jim and Carolyn's for dinner and they talked about their experience in Nauvoo and showed me some pictures and gave me a brochure on Nauvoo. So when I got home I was able to go to the website www.HistoricNauvoo.net and see some of the places I will be serving.I am going to be busy.
Jan.25/Wed. Lethbridge- got my passport picture and renewal form in as it was going to expire while I was on my mission. They said it would be back March 9th at the latest....ooo- that is a bit close if I need to be State side by March 12th. While I was in Lethbridge I went to a quilters shop and found some apron material and even bought some new dress material that was exactly the same fabric sample that Nauvoo had sent me.
Jan.27/Fri. Picked up my glasses to take to Nauvoo. Authentic I believe and no charge for the frames. I also got my Tetanus and Flu shots.
Jan 28/Sat. Went for my fitting with Marge. She is so happy to be working on these dresses and loved my new material. Went to Cardston to look for buttons but alas nothing so I stopped at the Bargain Barn and bought a dress and 2 shirts that we can use the buttons.
Jan.30/Mon. Linda and I left to go to Vanderhoof to babysit Grand kids for 3 weeks. We flew from Calgary to Vancouver and then to Prince George. So wonderful to see family again I have missed them very much despite my busy schedule.
Jan.20
Jan.3/Tue. Got My Letter from President Monson and my Packet with all the Missionary Information. Wrote my acceptance letter to the Prophet and took it to Bishop Smith for his signature. As I have pondered on what has happened the past few months, I can't help but be so thankful. The fact that I felt that Nauvoo was the area I wanted to go and requested, let alone the missionary committee felt I should go also... twice blessed.
Jan.4/Wed/ Kari phoned to say she got a call from the Travel Dept. and when I called them, they need to know who my escort would be from Utah to Nauvoo and make arrangements with them. They will fly Kari from Casper to SLC and then will fly her home from Nauvoo.
Jan. 11/Wed. A letter and a CD arrived from Nauvoo. Ten songs to learn and practice for the two Productions "Sunset on the Mississippi and Rendezvous in Old Nauvoo". These are musical and theatrical productions put on by ALL the missionaries Monday through Saturday, 52 weeks of the year. including holidays. So I started to listen to it as I drove home from the Post Office. They are fun songs but they are very fast paced so I will have to practice a lot. They will be holding auditions and then I will be assigned to a cast. So stay "tuned" for more when it happens.
Jan. 12/Thurs. Two months...60 days before I go to the Missionary Training Center (MTC). I am actually marking a calendar on the countdown.
Jan.13/Fri. Walked to the post office today and low and behold my dress pattern was in. Yeah! But... it is too difficult for me so I phoned Marge and she said she could help me in February. I listened to the music and it is super fast. So grateful that I have some time to get it together.
Jan. 15/Sun. Talked to a family member today about my mission and they offered to help me financially. It is hard to express my thankfulness, the tears came. I know they will be blessed as well as myself.
Jan.16/Mon. Had my own little Family Home Evening tonight and watched the movie " Joseph Smith" which takes place in Nauvoo. What a powerful experience that was. I believe Joseph and the sacred experience that he had at 14, to have seen God the Father and His Son. I am so very grateful to be called to the area where Joseph and his family left such a legacy.
Jan.18/Wed. Took the pattern and material to Marge and we ended up doing some trading of material.I still need to get some apron material and she is going to make up a sample bodice and fir it first before she makes the dresses.It was so good to see her again as our paths haven't crossed for some years, perhaps as long as when I played the part of Zina Card in the Temple Pageant.
Jan.20/Fri. Got another e-mail from Nauvoo. A new Mission President the -Gilliland's. They have sent a new 25 page handbook out and the best news of all - my rent has been reduced from $575 to $275 per month. My printer wasn't working so I forwarded it to Linda at the school and later walked up to get it.
Jan.22/Sun. Ward Conference today. Bishop Smith and President Lybbert spoke on happiness. Those reminders that we are on this earth to be tested and that we need to remember that the Lord loves us and that our trials are ours to learn from and that we are to be tried in all things. I have had my share of character building experiences and I am sure more are to come but all in all I am happy and happiest when I can serve. That evening I went to Jim and Carolyn's for dinner and they talked about their experience in Nauvoo and showed me some pictures and gave me a brochure on Nauvoo. So when I got home I was able to go to the website www.HistoricNauvoo.net and see some of the places I will be serving.I am going to be busy.
Jan.25/Wed. Lethbridge- got my passport picture and renewal form in as it was going to expire while I was on my mission. They said it would be back March 9th at the latest....ooo- that is a bit close if I need to be State side by March 12th. While I was in Lethbridge I went to a quilters shop and found some apron material and even bought some new dress material that was exactly the same fabric sample that Nauvoo had sent me.
Jan.27/Fri. Picked up my glasses to take to Nauvoo. Authentic I believe and no charge for the frames. I also got my Tetanus and Flu shots.
Jan 28/Sat. Went for my fitting with Marge. She is so happy to be working on these dresses and loved my new material. Went to Cardston to look for buttons but alas nothing so I stopped at the Bargain Barn and bought a dress and 2 shirts that we can use the buttons.
Jan.30/Mon. Linda and I left to go to Vanderhoof to babysit Grand kids for 3 weeks. We flew from Calgary to Vancouver and then to Prince George. So wonderful to see family again I have missed them very much despite my busy schedule.
Jan.20
Friday 9 March 2012
December 2011
Dec.1st, Thursday, Dale and Amanda's
I couldn't hardly believe what I saw on my E-mail. ILLINOIS NAUVOO MISSION. I am so excited to be able to go where my heart is. They sent me a letter and a 25 page Mission Handbook including the information I need on my three dresses and the fact that I am expected to be in their stage productions in the evenings. As all of this was sinking in, I called Kari to find out if she had the letter from the President Monson, but she hasn't received it yet. We are thinking though because of the question if I would be available on March 12th, that this is the date I will be going. I headed over to the house to help Dallin and Sariah complete the last minute packing and cleaning before the house was turned over. Dallin hadn't packed his printer yet so we printed up the 25 page handbook.Fortunately I had the phone number of the Senior Missionary Department and they confirmed my call and March 12th is the date I enter the MTC. I phoned as many as I could to let them know the good news. Worked till after midnight to help Dallin with moving the last minute things to his office.
Dec.3rd, Saturday,
I got an E-mail from President Matkin with a sonnet that he wrote about his experience in Nauvoo. Very special.
Dec. 6th, Tuesday,
E-mail from Bishop Smith- the Call was made Nov.11th. Later, Kari wrote to say that the address was wrong and that it had been returned to SLC so they have resent it to her. Interesting that things have turned out they way they have.
Dec.13th, Tuesday Chase,B.C. with my sister Donna
Phone Nauvoo and ordered the pattern for my pioneer dresses. It is called Molly Ann and cost $9.00.
Dec. 17th, Saturday
Kari phoned to say she received THE LETTER. Finally after a month it is offical - 18 months - March 12th to be in the MTC- assigned to the Visitors Center. I am excited again. Kari is going to scan it and e-mail it to me.
Dec.20th, Tuesday
Went to the Chase library to get my e-mails. I am so glad to be able to read it myself. After many tries (the librarian helped) I was able to get a copy. It is dated November 15th and indeed the address is wrong but no worries, I am just glad to have it in hand. Just this morning I was reading Moroni 8:2-3, Mormons letter to his son Moroni and his call to the ministry and indeed, I have my call too from a Prophet of God.
Dec.29th Thursday, Hill Spring
Went to Lethbridge today and happened on a Sale at Fabricland. I still don't have my pattern but according to the instructions I need 7 yards of material. I also bought a heavier tweed to make a cape.
I couldn't hardly believe what I saw on my E-mail. ILLINOIS NAUVOO MISSION. I am so excited to be able to go where my heart is. They sent me a letter and a 25 page Mission Handbook including the information I need on my three dresses and the fact that I am expected to be in their stage productions in the evenings. As all of this was sinking in, I called Kari to find out if she had the letter from the President Monson, but she hasn't received it yet. We are thinking though because of the question if I would be available on March 12th, that this is the date I will be going. I headed over to the house to help Dallin and Sariah complete the last minute packing and cleaning before the house was turned over. Dallin hadn't packed his printer yet so we printed up the 25 page handbook.Fortunately I had the phone number of the Senior Missionary Department and they confirmed my call and March 12th is the date I enter the MTC. I phoned as many as I could to let them know the good news. Worked till after midnight to help Dallin with moving the last minute things to his office.
Dec.3rd, Saturday,
I got an E-mail from President Matkin with a sonnet that he wrote about his experience in Nauvoo. Very special.
Dec. 6th, Tuesday,
E-mail from Bishop Smith- the Call was made Nov.11th. Later, Kari wrote to say that the address was wrong and that it had been returned to SLC so they have resent it to her. Interesting that things have turned out they way they have.
Dec.13th, Tuesday Chase,B.C. with my sister Donna
Phone Nauvoo and ordered the pattern for my pioneer dresses. It is called Molly Ann and cost $9.00.
Dec. 17th, Saturday
Kari phoned to say she received THE LETTER. Finally after a month it is offical - 18 months - March 12th to be in the MTC- assigned to the Visitors Center. I am excited again. Kari is going to scan it and e-mail it to me.
Dec.20th, Tuesday
Went to the Chase library to get my e-mails. I am so glad to be able to read it myself. After many tries (the librarian helped) I was able to get a copy. It is dated November 15th and indeed the address is wrong but no worries, I am just glad to have it in hand. Just this morning I was reading Moroni 8:2-3, Mormons letter to his son Moroni and his call to the ministry and indeed, I have my call too from a Prophet of God.
Dec.29th Thursday, Hill Spring
Went to Lethbridge today and happened on a Sale at Fabricland. I still don't have my pattern but according to the instructions I need 7 yards of material. I also bought a heavier tweed to make a cape.
November 2011
November 4th, Friday
Got an E-mail from the Missionary Dept. with a survey. It seems it is necessary to see if I am willing and physically able to go any where and do anything. The only two questions I answered *somewhat uncomfortable" were office/computer and playing the piano. Now my application will go to the committee and I should know where I am going in 4-6 weeks.
Nov. 6th, Sunday
This evening I got a call from President Lybbert, the new Stake President. Apparently they called his and asked him to get in touch with me with three questions. 1. Am I physically able to work from 8 AM to 10 PM daily? YES. 2. Can I leave by March 12th? YES. 3. Do I have a green card? YES. So I guess my application is still in the works before it goes to the committee. I talked to Dallin about the timing and it appears that if all of these questions are leading up to me going to Nauvoo, then I will not be available to be at Chas' baptism in April, as well as I have only 4 months to go. Heavenly Father knows where I am to serve and so will the Apostle who is on the committee.We shall see, I just need to be patient.
Nov.12, Saturday,
A day of blessings. Dallin and I were on our way to the temple when we received a phone call that an offer had been made on the house. I am so very happy for them as they have been waiting five months. The fasting and prayers have been answered. I have had a grateful heart all day as they accepted the offer. They have to be out of the house by Dec. 1st... only 18 days. I will continue to work on Fred's history but I think I will just have time to get his journals completed.
Got an E-mail from the Missionary Dept. with a survey. It seems it is necessary to see if I am willing and physically able to go any where and do anything. The only two questions I answered *somewhat uncomfortable" were office/computer and playing the piano. Now my application will go to the committee and I should know where I am going in 4-6 weeks.
Nov. 6th, Sunday
This evening I got a call from President Lybbert, the new Stake President. Apparently they called his and asked him to get in touch with me with three questions. 1. Am I physically able to work from 8 AM to 10 PM daily? YES. 2. Can I leave by March 12th? YES. 3. Do I have a green card? YES. So I guess my application is still in the works before it goes to the committee. I talked to Dallin about the timing and it appears that if all of these questions are leading up to me going to Nauvoo, then I will not be available to be at Chas' baptism in April, as well as I have only 4 months to go. Heavenly Father knows where I am to serve and so will the Apostle who is on the committee.We shall see, I just need to be patient.
Nov.12, Saturday,
A day of blessings. Dallin and I were on our way to the temple when we received a phone call that an offer had been made on the house. I am so very happy for them as they have been waiting five months. The fasting and prayers have been answered. I have had a grateful heart all day as they accepted the offer. They have to be out of the house by Dec. 1st... only 18 days. I will continue to work on Fred's history but I think I will just have time to get his journals completed.
Thursday 8 March 2012
November 2011
I have started a new journal. I am staying at Dallin and Sariah's home in Mission B.C. as they are selling it.I am grateful to be able to spend time with him, as well as I am trying to get Fred's history done before I leave on a mission. I rushed to get my mission papers in last week as President Matkin was being released. So we wait... he also requested that I would like to go to Nauvoo.
Tuesday 28 February 2012
October 28, 2011 Friday
Received an email from Pres. Matkin. My mission papers have been sent. I will go where you need me go dear Lord - but I have requested Nauvoo - we shall see - one of the twelve is on the committee to decide.
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