The year and decade are gone. Tonight is a Blue Moon and the beginning of the 2010's.
Can I express my love and appreciation for my God. He has given me so much. In a way that I wish were not so trite, I want to thank Him for the following:
My Marvelous Wife, she is the delight of my life. She has stood with me for 35+ years and each of them has been a miracle and blessing. I love being with her more than anybody else in this world.
My Five Married Children, they have become such wonderful people. It is sad in a selfish way to see them grow up and not be ever present in our home, but it is joyous to see them grown up and pursuing righteousness in their daily activities. They are all willing to speak to me and share part of themselves with their Dad. I am grateful for the blessing of their lives and the chance I have had to see them grow into loving and kind people.
The Spouses of my children, each is beautiful person that has strengthened and blessed the lives of my children. Each is a jewel in the lives of our family. They are committed to their spouses and their children, this is a blessing beyond measure. I love them.
Eighteen Grandchildren. Each is a joy. Each brings happiness to my soul. Each is growing up and learning and loving the principles of righteousness from their parents. I wish them the best and hope that I can be my best for them.
An extended family of Sisters, Brother-in-laws, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and assorted other family (and friends we call family) members. Each in their way has added to beauty and happiness to my life. I take great joy in being part of their extended family and hope they count me as a positive in their lives.
These are the most precious parts of my life and I love each and every one. And hope that I have added as much joy to their lives as they have to mine.
Happy New Year
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Christmas
It is His Time, His Birthday, His Life.
Let's celebrate it in His Way, with His Truth and in His Light.
He is our God, our Savior, our Advocate with the Father.
He has over 150 titles and or names. Which one is your favorite?
Think on Him while you watch this presentation of His Names
How do you like to think of Him, refer to Him, ponder Him.
As for me this year He is:
The Bright and Morning Star.
The Lord God Omnipotent.
The Bread of Life.
Immanuel
Messiah
THE SON OF GOD
THE LIVING CHRIST
Let's celebrate it in His Way, with His Truth and in His Light.
He is our God, our Savior, our Advocate with the Father.
He has over 150 titles and or names. Which one is your favorite?
Think on Him while you watch this presentation of His Names
How do you like to think of Him, refer to Him, ponder Him.
As for me this year He is:
The Bright and Morning Star.
The Lord God Omnipotent.
The Bread of Life.
Immanuel
Messiah
THE SON OF GOD
THE LIVING CHRIST
Sunday, August 23, 2009
FAMILY
How important is it to us? To You? To Society?
An important event happened last week, the World Congress on Families V in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (ironic choice of sites)
I haven't seen or heard all the speeches, although they should be good. There are three that were brought to my attention from the LDS Church website. All three are exceptional!
Sheri Dew's talk is particularly insightful as she has never been married and yet understands its importance and the power behind it.
Elder Nelson reminds us of the Hope for the Future. My hope is that many will read his talk and commit to save Nations and Society.
Sister Nelson gives us a challenge that is easy to understand, hard to keep, but crucial to accept.
May we all come to understand the beauty, necessity and strength of our Father in Heavens plan for us, society, and mankind.
How important is it to us? To You? To Society?
An important event happened last week, the World Congress on Families V in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (ironic choice of sites)
I haven't seen or heard all the speeches, although they should be good. There are three that were brought to my attention from the LDS Church website. All three are exceptional!
Sheri Dew's talk is particularly insightful as she has never been married and yet understands its importance and the power behind it.
Elder Nelson reminds us of the Hope for the Future. My hope is that many will read his talk and commit to save Nations and Society.
Sister Nelson gives us a challenge that is easy to understand, hard to keep, but crucial to accept.
May we all come to understand the beauty, necessity and strength of our Father in Heavens plan for us, society, and mankind.
Friday, July 3, 2009
America, I love thee
Today in preparation for America's Birthday party, Mary Ann and I went to one of the most American stores around, Costco. As we wondered why we were walking out of the parking lot and into the store, we looked at all the cars and people going in and going out and said what are we thinking.
But we were brave and entered, after duly showing our membership card. We went looking for some old people drugs, CoQu 10 and Fish Oil. It was in the Rx section where I started to have my epiphany. We were looking for Fish Oil 1000 mg capsules. There were 200, 500, 1,200, basic fish oil, Salmon oil, and various other types that astounded me. In the process of determining if 1200 mg capsules were worth $0.023 more than 1000 mg capsules, I realized that for an additional $0.018 I could have 100% Salmon capsules. You have to realize I really like Salmon, but is it worth 2 cents to get Salmon oil encased in a capsule, so I can get enough Omega3 fatty acids? In the end I opted for the standard 1000 mg concentrated dietary supplement. I think it was so I could give you my 2 cents worth here. As I strolled off I could have sworn that the Salmon oil bottle shouted out to me, "But I have Omega 4 fat!" But I was on to other things.
As we turned the onto next isle it began to strike me how much food there was in this big box of a store. Here were people filing down every isle stuffing their carts with every kind of food imaginable. I remembered an incident from the 50's or 60's when Premier Khrushchev visited America for the first time. He and his aids asked to go see where the American people bought their food. They were taken to an Albertson's or some such place and thought that they were in a CIA prop. They could not believe the isles and isles of food stuffs that were available. Can you imagine how they would respond to todays big box stores. Anything you want and can dream up to eat is there for purchase. Lots of pleasant ladies are handing out samples of the latest creation that can be purchased for only $5.99, today only(the day after tomorrow they will be $4.99). Complete meals in a box, some that are ready to drop on the TV tray and some that may require 5 minutes in the microwave to warm up.
It took me 3 minutes just to compare the competing brands of Soy milk to see which was the best buy. Funny enough it was cheaper to buy 6 one quart jugs than 3 half gallon jugs, go figure.
In the end my mind was whirling around like a merry go round, thrilled at the bounty that is ours in America and amazed at what this old free market economy produces and provides for us. It is an amazing thing to think about. We can now buy Salmon, probably cheaper than the hamburger that Khrushchev was looking at. Or we can just buy Salmon capsules, get the fatty acids, help our hearts and not even waste the energy to cook it or enjoy the smell and taste. Maybe we have gone to far.
Well thanks for taking time to read this poor attempt to wish us all Happy Birthday, America!!! God Bless us.
May we realize the blessings that come from living in the land "choice above all others".
But we were brave and entered, after duly showing our membership card. We went looking for some old people drugs, CoQu 10 and Fish Oil. It was in the Rx section where I started to have my epiphany. We were looking for Fish Oil 1000 mg capsules. There were 200, 500, 1,200, basic fish oil, Salmon oil, and various other types that astounded me. In the process of determining if 1200 mg capsules were worth $0.023 more than 1000 mg capsules, I realized that for an additional $0.018 I could have 100% Salmon capsules. You have to realize I really like Salmon, but is it worth 2 cents to get Salmon oil encased in a capsule, so I can get enough Omega3 fatty acids? In the end I opted for the standard 1000 mg concentrated dietary supplement. I think it was so I could give you my 2 cents worth here. As I strolled off I could have sworn that the Salmon oil bottle shouted out to me, "But I have Omega 4 fat!" But I was on to other things.
As we turned the onto next isle it began to strike me how much food there was in this big box of a store. Here were people filing down every isle stuffing their carts with every kind of food imaginable. I remembered an incident from the 50's or 60's when Premier Khrushchev visited America for the first time. He and his aids asked to go see where the American people bought their food. They were taken to an Albertson's or some such place and thought that they were in a CIA prop. They could not believe the isles and isles of food stuffs that were available. Can you imagine how they would respond to todays big box stores. Anything you want and can dream up to eat is there for purchase. Lots of pleasant ladies are handing out samples of the latest creation that can be purchased for only $5.99, today only(the day after tomorrow they will be $4.99). Complete meals in a box, some that are ready to drop on the TV tray and some that may require 5 minutes in the microwave to warm up.
It took me 3 minutes just to compare the competing brands of Soy milk to see which was the best buy. Funny enough it was cheaper to buy 6 one quart jugs than 3 half gallon jugs, go figure.
In the end my mind was whirling around like a merry go round, thrilled at the bounty that is ours in America and amazed at what this old free market economy produces and provides for us. It is an amazing thing to think about. We can now buy Salmon, probably cheaper than the hamburger that Khrushchev was looking at. Or we can just buy Salmon capsules, get the fatty acids, help our hearts and not even waste the energy to cook it or enjoy the smell and taste. Maybe we have gone to far.
Well thanks for taking time to read this poor attempt to wish us all Happy Birthday, America!!! God Bless us.
May we realize the blessings that come from living in the land "choice above all others".
Sunday, June 7, 2009
We have a MOUSE
After collecting Mice for several years, we finally have a Mouse at the front door.
A marvelous birthday gift for Mary Ann from Doris and Sariah.
He and his bike fit perfectly on the door step. He brings a smile to all he greets.
Thank you, Thank you kind thoughtful sister and niece.
If only I could look so good in a bow tie! Maybe we will have to name him Tiny Matt.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
We have Green
Square Garden was built,
Mel's super duper formula mixed
Seeds planted
Water administered, not very consistantly
The Sun added warmth and light
And now
We have Green
The miracle of plant life is starting to come to life.
Plants are beginning to spring forth from seeds and Grow
It is such a wonder to behold
And yet most of us never see it
because we choose not to work and look
instead we choose to buy things canned and prepared
from a shelf
Take a few hours and grow a garden this year
It will remind you of the miracles of life
The wonders of the world
And the love of God
Friday, May 8, 2009
The direction of our footsteps
On mornings I get to sleep in till 5:15 I drag myself downstairs and ride a stationary bike while I watch a BYU Devotional. This morning it was Elder Holland speaking this January. It was very instructive as we plod into the future and face the fate that awaits us. His title is "Remember Lot's Wife" The message is wonderful. Hope you have the time to read it, or watch it, but most importantly believe it.
Look to the future and have a great day.
Look to the future and have a great day.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Gardening for Squares
We are embarking on a new gardening technique called SQUARE FOOT GARDENING. After attending a free gardening class sponsor by Weber Water we got religion and are going to try this method and see if it really can produce 3 times as much as a normal till the ground, plant the seeds, water the weeds, hope the vegetables grown, weed the weeds, water the weeds, weed, water, weed, variety of garden we have been doing.
As soon as I get the boxes built I will let you know how it goes and hopefully throughout the summer how it grows.
As soon as I get the boxes built I will let you know how it goes and hopefully throughout the summer how it grows.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter
The Tomb is empty!
He is not here!
We are not alone
He lives, HE Lives, HE LIVES!
God be praised forever and ever!
May we ever LOVE HIM!
He is not here!
We are not alone
He lives, HE Lives, HE LIVES!
God be praised forever and ever!
May we ever LOVE HIM!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Business is not a dirty word
I have supported my life and family by being part of the business word. It is a hard life but in the end I hope it has helped people take care of things that they care about. Today as we face a nation that is spending money like it prints it (oops, I forgot it does print it) and thinks that business is a bad word and government is a cure all, I hope we will remember how we became the most prosperous nation in the world's history. I know that we have our faults and failings and we are in one of the worst economic times ever, but I hope we never forget what it is that will pull us out o
f this crisis. It is not government. It is business and people working hard to provide products that will help other people enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
A reminder of this ended up on my porch this morning and made me grateful we live in America. I hope you will take the time to read and ponder Peggy Noonan's message. It contains lessons for all of us from another hard time from which we recovered.
We live in a less than ideal world and some people are cruel, greedy and dog eat dog and as the Savior said "they have their reward". However, the vast majority of the people I know in business are kind, friendly, and working hard to, do their best, to provide a product that someone wants, so they can in turn earn a living and buy products that they want to make their life better, more enjoyable for themselves and their loved ones.
Enjoy life and be grateful someone is in business to provide the necessities, comforts and pleasures of life so we can enjoy them.
f this crisis. It is not government. It is business and people working hard to provide products that will help other people enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.A reminder of this ended up on my porch this morning and made me grateful we live in America. I hope you will take the time to read and ponder Peggy Noonan's message. It contains lessons for all of us from another hard time from which we recovered.
We live in a less than ideal world and some people are cruel, greedy and dog eat dog and as the Savior said "they have their reward". However, the vast majority of the people I know in business are kind, friendly, and working hard to, do their best, to provide a product that someone wants, so they can in turn earn a living and buy products that they want to make their life better, more enjoyable for themselves and their loved ones.
Enjoy life and be grateful someone is in business to provide the necessities, comforts and pleasures of life so we can enjoy them.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Palm Sunday II
Another thought as we start Holy Week and prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord.
What does Easter mean to you? For me it is the most sacred of Holy Days and the most significant holiday. It is the one remaining holiday that has stayed closest to its intended purpose. Mostly because the world has left it behind, seeing it as a religious mystery.
Anyway I am interested in What Easter means to you?
Do you do anything during Holy Week to commemorate it?
For a few years we have gathered at our home on Easter afternoon to remember Easter by recounting the events of the Crucifiction and Resurrection through song and the spoken word. It has been a wonderful experience. We are going to do it again this Easter. If you would like to attend let me know.
I am also very interested in what you do to remember the Savior during this Holy week. Please leave a comment and tell us how Easter affects your life. What your most memorable Easter has been? When did Easter take on a more meaningful purpose than getting a new dress or hunting for colored eggs? Or what you would like to do to make it a meaningful Holy Day.
May you feel His Spirit this week and always. Happy Holy Week.
What does Easter mean to you? For me it is the most sacred of Holy Days and the most significant holiday. It is the one remaining holiday that has stayed closest to its intended purpose. Mostly because the world has left it behind, seeing it as a religious mystery.
Anyway I am interested in What Easter means to you?
Do you do anything during Holy Week to commemorate it?
For a few years we have gathered at our home on Easter afternoon to remember Easter by recounting the events of the Crucifiction and Resurrection through song and the spoken word. It has been a wonderful experience. We are going to do it again this Easter. If you would like to attend let me know.
I am also very interested in what you do to remember the Savior during this Holy week. Please leave a comment and tell us how Easter affects your life. What your most memorable Easter has been? When did Easter take on a more meaningful purpose than getting a new dress or hunting for colored eggs? Or what you would like to do to make it a meaningful Holy Day.
May you feel His Spirit this week and always. Happy Holy Week.
Palm Sunday
I have to make special mention of Elder Holland's talk about Palm Sunday and Easter. IT WAS A MASTERPIECE.
Some say they need to go see the gore of "The Passion" to understand the lonely pain of the Savior. I felt almost more than I could grasp as Elder Holland spoke. His especial witness in the last conferences are most tender, enlightening, and full of love.
He spoke of "The Grandeur of God” Or another Easter message "The Hands of the Fathers"
Enjoy the Spirit and feel the Love of God as you travel down this Holy Week
Some say they need to go see the gore of "The Passion" to understand the lonely pain of the Savior. I felt almost more than I could grasp as Elder Holland spoke. His especial witness in the last conferences are most tender, enlightening, and full of love.
He spoke of "The Grandeur of God” Or another Easter message "The Hands of the Fathers"
Enjoy the Spirit and feel the Love of God as you travel down this Holy Week
Adversity
I have been thinking about this subject for several days. Recorded these thoughts for further discussion and analysis.
Why we need it
How it plays out in our lives
Blessings flowing from it
Can we be grateful for it, without being masochistic?
Then this morning I listened to Conference and of course the Prophets addressed it better than I ever could. So, when you get your copy of the Ensign review the talks from this morning and think about the Adversity in your life compared to the pioneers, the saints, the martyrs, and the Savior. Thank God we live today and through the challenges of our time and not the trials of theirs.
Maybe I will review these questions in the future, but for now I can't think of anything that would add to the wisdom of the Apostles.
Why we need it
How it plays out in our lives
Blessings flowing from it
Can we be grateful for it, without being masochistic?
Then this morning I listened to Conference and of course the Prophets addressed it better than I ever could. So, when you get your copy of the Ensign review the talks from this morning and think about the Adversity in your life compared to the pioneers, the saints, the martyrs, and the Savior. Thank God we live today and through the challenges of our time and not the trials of theirs.
Maybe I will review these questions in the future, but for now I can't think of anything that would add to the wisdom of the Apostles.
Government
A friend on mine sent this link and I liked it. I usually don't pass internet trivia along, but this rang true and allows you to make up your mind about were we are going.
Hope you enjoy the next 10 minutes, they are worth while.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Grateful to be an American
As I sat down with my class of 12 year olds to start our Sunday School class I asked what exciting thing was going to happen the week. After a few moments of blank stares, I asked again. One brave soul said "Their going to make Obama President." I was glad at least this one young soul knew it was going to happen. It was a short lived one sided conversation as I told them the wonder and wonderful occasion that this would be. It occurred to me that these young people had no idea what a treasure it is to live in America and see the transfer of power. It amazes me, and yet it is such a normal course of our political lives.
The marvel of America is extended this year as an African American takes the office of President. It restores faith in our society to think that the oppressed of the past are now the taking the reins of power, peacefully. Hurray for Martin Luther King and his vision. Hurray for those that followed his dream and ignored the radical rebels calling us to pursue a violent path. Interestingly I heard this week that India is planning a celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of King's visit to India to study Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience. A new recording of King made as he ended the month long visit emphasized how impressed he was with Gandhi. Now 50 years later we have President Obama.
Make sure you watch history on Tuesday. Take a mental photo and hold it in your heart and tell it to your kids. You saw it happen. Then take a breath, say a prayer, give a cheer and toast America and our new President.
Hail to the Chief!
May we all wish to re-elect him.
Hail to the Land of the Free!
May it ever be.
The marvel of America is extended this year as an African American takes the office of President. It restores faith in our society to think that the oppressed of the past are now the taking the reins of power, peacefully. Hurray for Martin Luther King and his vision. Hurray for those that followed his dream and ignored the radical rebels calling us to pursue a violent path. Interestingly I heard this week that India is planning a celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of King's visit to India to study Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience. A new recording of King made as he ended the month long visit emphasized how impressed he was with Gandhi. Now 50 years later we have President Obama.
Make sure you watch history on Tuesday. Take a mental photo and hold it in your heart and tell it to your kids. You saw it happen. Then take a breath, say a prayer, give a cheer and toast America and our new President.
Hail to the Chief!
May we all wish to re-elect him.
Hail to the Land of the Free!
May it ever be.
The end of the Season
Yesterday two of my most favorite friends helped my offically close the Christmas season. Mary Ann and Dave Fillerup braved the 20 degree morning to dismantel the Layton Nativity scene. Now lest you say "You still had it lit? Christmas was 25 days ago!" We did turn the lights off on January 2nd like a good scout, but it took some warmer weather to melt the snow and get me out to physically remove the figures. It was a sad day. I just hope we will keep the Spirit of Christmas all through the year. Please!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Weekly Comment
One of my favorite things, listed on the right, is the weekly column by Peggy Noonan. She says things that need to be said in a wonderful way. It helps that she was a speech writer for President Regan. Not sure who put words in who's mouth but it was a great combination.
Now she comments on the events of the day. Click the link and enjoy the thoughts that come to mind.
Hope your year is starting with joy.
Now she comments on the events of the day. Click the link and enjoy the thoughts that come to mind.
Hope your year is starting with joy.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Happy New Year
A New Year is born. It is wonderful!
We started a new tradition yesterday with our Ross family. On New Years day it will be all the ice cream you can eat. Every year needs atleast one day when it is fun to eat. May your life be filled with good times, happy memories, and wonderful moments.
Here is a thought regarding my resolution for 2009
"Now there are more overweight people in America than average-weight people. So overweight people are now average. Which means you've met your New Year's resolution. "
Jay Leno
Welcome to 2009.
We started a new tradition yesterday with our Ross family. On New Years day it will be all the ice cream you can eat. Every year needs atleast one day when it is fun to eat. May your life be filled with good times, happy memories, and wonderful moments.
Here is a thought regarding my resolution for 2009
"Now there are more overweight people in America than average-weight people. So overweight people are now average. Which means you've met your New Year's resolution. "
Jay Leno
Welcome to 2009.
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