Elder Oaks Quote

"We live in a world where the power and influence of God in our daily lives are downplayed and dismissed and where the need for a Savior is ignored and even mocked. For those who are devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ, there has never been a greater need for us to profess our faith in our Savior, privately and publicly."

-- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, "A Savior Is Born", December 2015 Ensign

Quote of the Day

"Obedience makes us progressively stronger, capable of faithfully enduring tests and trials in the future.” -- Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the 12 apostles

Quote of the Day

“The path to eternal life is not on a plateau. Rather, it is an incline, ever onward and upward."

--Elder Keith K. Hilbig, an emeritus member of the Seventy

Merry Christmas!

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."  -- Luke 2:11

What's with Sunday Deliveries?

What is with Sunday deliveries now? I had two messages in my inbox today telling me that I have two deliveries scheduled for today!  This is upsetting to me.

The first delivery was originally scheduled for Tuesday the 29th.  In fact I deliberately requested slow boat delivery on this particular order.  The order was placed just yesterday and none of the options even included Sunday delivery -- not that I remember anyway, perhaps they had next day, I never get next day delivery so to me that's not an option. I have been known to request slow boat delivery just to avoid Sunday deliveries.  I don't want to have to make some poor mail carrier work on Sunday just to bring me a package that I don't even want delivered on Sunday.

I'm sure the company thinks they are doing me a great favor by delivered my package nine days early.  But they are not.  I would rather wait nine days than to have Sunday delivery.

The second delivery was originally scheduled for Monday the 21st -- tomorrow.  This one is even more surprising because I didn't know that UPS even delivered on Sunday at all.  But when I got home from church I saw the e-mail in my inbox that stated that I have a UPS delivery scheduled for today.

What is going on?  All my life Sunday has been off-limits for deliveries.  And even Saturday deliveries were limited to certain carriers.  Never UPS.  So I'm quite surprised at the Sunday deliveries I have scheduled today by UPS and USPS.

It's actually very sad.  Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest.  A day reserved for worshiping the Lord.  It is supposed to stand out and be different than every other day of the week. Yes, certain people have to work on Sunday -- healthcare workers, police, firefighters, etc. -- but not delivery carriers. People are used to having to wait until Monday for deliveries.  That's how it's always been.  People are not used to Sunday deliveries.  It actually seems very strange to me.  And sad.

Have people gotten so used to having things immediately when they want them that they are now demanding Sunday deliveries?  Immediate gratification seems to be what people expect now.  In this age of cell phones, text messaging, social media, etc. everything is instant.

I miss the days of waiting for packages, actually going shopping or on vacation or anywhere and checking the answering machine when you get home  -- I'm so old I even remember when we didn't even have answering machines.  :-)

Patience is a virtue and it seems like it is ever decreasing in our world of instant gratification.  Life was much better when people could get away and actually get away.  Life was much better when we anxiously awaited the arrival of packages, wondering when it would come. Today, tomorrow, the next day?  Now we know when it's coming before we even order it.  Life was better when people actually observed the Sabbath as a holy day and treated it differently than every other day of the week.

That's my two cents.

T. Graham Brown

I've been on a T. Graham Brown kick for a week or so.  I'm not sure why or how.  :-) I think I may have stumbled upon the duet with Tanya Tucker on YouTube.  Then I found his album in my iTunes.  So I've been listening to it while on my computer.

For me, songs and artists always remind me of a certain time in my life or certain specific experiences. T. Graham Brown to me is college life after my mission.  I used to listen to T. Graham Brown -- And I'm sure I did some karaoke to his tunes ;-) -- all the time in college.  One of my favorite pastimes to relieve stress.  :-)

Anyway here are a few videos I found on YouTube.  Enjoy them.  :-)

I love the first three lines from this song -- reminds me of me.  :-):

"They say that I'm the kind of man who always speak his mind
To me there's nothing stronger than the truth
They can ask me almost anything and I'll tell it like it is..."

Perhaps my favorite T. Graham Brown song because Tanya Tucker sings with him.  :-) I was also a huge Tanya Tucker fan in college. They both look a bit older now.  :-) Love this song!

This song reminds me of my mom.  :-)

This is a song I hadn't heard before.  I actually shed a few tears listening to it.  And that's a pretty tall order!  :-)

I hope you enjoyed listening to and watching his T-ness as much as I did.  It sure beats the garbage they put out on the radio today.  Brings back some great memories too.

A Compensatory Power

I watched a really good devotional by Elder Neil L. Andersen Of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles.  It was an education week devotional given at BYU on August 18, 2015.  Here are a few of my favorite quotes from that talk.

"We live in very interesting times, yet in marvelous times. We are in the dispensation of the fulness of times, when the fulness of the gospel has been restored, and as the world is being prepared for the glorious Second Coming of the Savior. These are days of looking forward, of beautiful anticipation. These are our days.

"We know as we approach the Second Coming of the Savior, our world will be full of commotion and confusion. Many in society will disregard the commandments of God. I have often quoted this statement by President Thomas S. Monson: “Where once the standards of the Church and the standards of society were mostly compatible, now there is a wide chasm between us, and it’s growing ever wider.”

"As these temptations and distractions increase, as the gospel of Jesus Christ becomes less palatable to the world, sadly, we will see more among us who will lose their way.

"When I was a young man growing up in southeastern Idaho, I remember frequently hearing a quote from Elder Heber C. Kimball given in 1867: “To meet the difficulties that are coming, it will be necessary for you to have a knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such a character that the man or woman who does not possess his personal knowledge or witness will fall. … The time will come when no man nor woman will be able to [stand] on borrowed light.”

"As we find our way in a world less attentive to the commandments of God, we will certainly be prayerful, but we need not be overly alarmed. The Lord will bless His Saints with the added spiritual power necessary to meet the challenges of our day.

"Here is my major theme this morning: As evil increases in the world, there is a compensatory spiritual power for the righteous. As the world slides from its spiritual moorings, the Lord prepares the way for those who seek Him, offering them greater assurance, greater confirmation, and greater confidence in the spiritual direction they are traveling. The gift of the Holy Ghost becomes a brighter light in the emerging twilight.

"My brothers and sisters, as evil increases in the world, there is a compensatory power, an additional spiritual endowment, a revelatory gift for the righteous.

"This added blessing of spiritual power does not settle upon us just because we are part of this generation. It is willingly offered to us; it is eagerly put before us. But as with all spiritual gifts, it requires our desiring it, pursuing it, and living worthy of receiving it. “For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift?”

"Faith is the muscle of spiritual knowledge and power. Faith is a spiritual gift of God, but it is developed and magnified as we eagerly pursue our journey of embracing and following the Savior."

--Elder Neil L. Andersen, A Compensatory Spiritual Power for the Righteous, August 18, 2015

Halfway to 90

Happy birthday to me!  Today I reached the halfway to 90 mark.  :-) Real proud.  That's quite a milestone.

Here is my latest picture with my nephew and sister on Thanksgiving.

Happy birthday!  :-)

College Football Picks 2015 Final Results

Because we had a three-way tie for number of first-place wins this year, to determine the overall winner we added up the place numbers each week -- lowest winning.

The following are the results for those who participated every week:

1 -- Tammy  32
2 -- Rex 34
3 -- Chanelle 44 

4 -- Dad 48
5 -- Lisa 78
6 -- Mom 112

All other participants missed at least one week and so we determined that the fairest way to tally the scores was to add 14 points (total number of participants) for each week missed.

One week missed -- Derrinda, Elijah, Brandon

Three weeks missed -- Juliet, Cody

7 -- Juliet 112

8 -- Derrinda 113

9 -- Elijah 135

10 -- Cody 137

11 -- Brandon 139

The three other participants missed more than half of the weeks. But for completeness sake I will include them.  Richie participated six times.  Mercedes and Dallas both participated only twice.

12 -- Richie 147

13 -- Mercedes 181

14 -- Dallas 189

Congratulations to everyone who participated this year.  It was a lot of fun!  And especially congratulations to me for winning.  :-) It was a close competition every week so that made it more fun.

Now everybody can look forward to the pizza party and awards.  There will be lots of fun prizes and perhaps even a lottery for the winners and participants.  Should be a lot of fun!

In case you're having football picks withdrawals, there are still all the bowl games for the next month!  :-) Then we'll do it all again in September.  :-)

Good job everybody and good luck next year!

College Football Picks 2015 Week 14 Results

1- Dad -3 tiebreaker 61
2- Brandon -4 tie breaker 38
3- Rex -4 tiebreaker 65
4- Tammy -5 tie breaker 45
5- Elijah -5 tiebreaker 34
5- Derrinda -5 Tiebreaker 54
6- Mom -6 tiebreaker 42
7- Juliet -6 tiebreaker 68
8- Chanelle -6 tie breaker 74
9- Cody -7 tie breaker 62
10- Lisa -8 tie breaker 74

Actual tiebreaker 44

Congrats on a fun season everybody. Elijah and Derrinda were both 10 off the tiebreaker so they tied for fifth place this week. Congrats to Brandon on coming in second place this week!  That's a pretty tall order.  :-)

Good job everybody it was a fun competition this year.  Bowl games and pizza party yet to come.  :-)

FHE Lesson -- Infinite Worth

Tammy’s Family Home Evening Lesson

November 26, 2015

Opening song: I am a Child of God, hymn number 301

Opening prayer: by invitation

 “Your Heavenly Father loves you—each of you. That love never changes. It is not influenced by your appearance, by your possessions, or by the amount of money you have in your bank account. It is not changed by your talents and abilities.” —President Thomas S. Monson

“With the help of the scriptures, words of the prophets, and personal revelation, we gradually come to an awareness of our true nature and destiny. Once we grasp this reality, we can obtain the faith to move forward and overcome any obstacle standing in our way of fulfilling our foreordained destiny—including the obstacle of feelings of low self-worth.”  -- Elder Glenn L. Pace of the 70, January 2005

“You are young women [and young men] of great faith. You brought your faith with you when you came to the earth. Alma teaches us that in the premortal realms you exhibited “exceeding faith and good works.”  You fought with your faith and testimony to defend the plan that was presented by God. You knew the plan was good, and you knew that the Savior would do what He said He would do—because you knew Him! You stood with Him, and you were eager for your opportunity to come to earth. You knew what was going to be required of you. You knew it would be difficult, and yet you were confident not only that you could accomplish your divine mission but that you could make a difference. You are “choice spirits who were reserved to come forth in the fulness of times to take part in laying the foundations of the great latter-day work…”   -- Elaine S. Dalton, YW general president, April 2010 General Conference, “Remember Who You Are!”

“I have always loved the story of the son of King Louis XVI of France because he had an unshakable knowledge of his identity. As a young man, he was kidnapped by evil men who had dethroned his father, the king. These men knew that if they could destroy him morally, he would not be heir to the throne. For six months they subjected him to every vile thing life had to offer, and yet he never yielded under pressure. This puzzled his captors, and after doing everything they could think of, they asked him why he had such great moral strength. His reply was simple. He said, “I cannot do what you ask, for I was born to be a king.” 

“Like the king’s son, each of you has inherited a royal birthright. Each of you has a divine heritage. “You are literally the royal daughters [and sons] of our Father in Heaven.”   Each of you was born to be a queen [or king].” – Elaine S. Dalton, April 2010, “Remember Who You Are!”

“… look into the mirror of eternity. Remember who you are! See yourself as our Heavenly Father sees you. You are elect. You are of noble birth. Don’t compromise your divine inheritance. You were born to be a queen [or King].”—Elaine S. Dalton, April 2010, “Remember Who You Are!”

Song: I Am of Infinite Worth (by Janice Kapp Perry)—performed by kids by invitation J

Closing prayer: by invitation

I Am of Infinite Worth (by Janice Kapp Perry)

All I need do is remember

If ever I wonder if I am of worth

Remember my Savior what He did for me

When He lived among men on this earth

Pain and unspeakable sorrow

He bore for my sins there in Gethsemane

Then He gave up His life as He hung on the cross

And He did it all for me

Chorus:

For I am of worth

Of infinite worth

My Savior, Redeemer loves me

Yes, I am of worth

Of infinite worth

I'll be all He wants me to be

I will praise Him

I will serve Him

I will grow in His love

And fulfill my divine destiny

Lovingly Jesus is watching

He knows I am worth all He suffered for me

Now I must fulfill my own mission in life

Ever following Him faithfully

Line upon line I am striving

Not seeking the honor or praise of mankind

I will reach for the joy of celestial reward

Till all that God offers is mine

Repeat chorus twice

For my Savior Redeemer loves me

Daily Quotes

"As we make Christ the center of our lives, our fears will be replaced by the courage of our convictions." —Thomas S. Monson

"Our divine nature has nothing to do with our personal accomplishments…Our divine nature comes from God." —Rosemary M. Wixom

College Football Pick Results 2015 Week 13

1. Chanelle -14 tie breaker 53
2. Rex -14 tie breaker 43
3. Tammy -15 tie breaker 51
4. Lisa -17 tie breaker 74
5. Juliet -20 tie breaker 67
6. Dad -20 tie breaker 48
7. Brandon -24 tie breaker 44
8. Derrinda -25 tie breaker 45
9. Elijah -25 tie breaker 44
10. Mom -28 tiebreaker 63
11. Cody -34 tie breaker 58

Actual tie breaker 79

College Football Picks 2015 Results Week 12

1. Tammy -12 tiebreaker 43
2. Rex -14 tie breaker 71
3. Dad -15 tie breaker 67
4. Chanelle -15 tiebreaker 73
5. Lisa -18 tiebreaker 62
6. Derrinda -20 tie breaker 51
7. Elijah -24 tiebreaker 34
8. Brandon -24 tiebreaker 39
9. Mom -26 tiebreaker 42
10. Cody -30 tiebreaker 81

actual tie breaker 31

Congrats to Elijah for coming closest on the tiebreaker!  :-) Way to go Elijah!  Also congrats to Brandon for coming second closest in the tiebreaker and Mom for coming in third on the tiebreaker.  :-)

One Year

One year ago today my left femur was snapped in two.  November 22, 2014.  Why I remember dates like this I don't know, but I do.  I wasn't diagnosed until my birthday December 9, 2014.  I had surgery to repair it on June 16, 2015 and on November 9, 2015 I finally got good news that it was healing.

It was almost an entire year's journey from the original break until the miraculous news of healing was received.  I truly do believe it was a miracle.  Bones don't take that long to heal.  Especially after it had already been three months after the surgery and there was still no sign of healing.  Then two months after that it's healing.  That's a miracle.  There is no other explanation for it.

Here is the radiographic journey:

December 9, 2014

AP above, lateral below

AP and lateral January 13, 2015

February 13, 2015 AP 

March 13, 2015 AP 

May 8, 2015 AP

June 26, 2015.  X-ray 10 days S/P fixation

I don't know what happened to my July or September 2015 x-rays.  I can find them on my hard drive. :-( Suffice it to say that there was no healing visible according to my surgeon.

 This is my most recent x-ray taken on November 9, 2015 -- callus formation and healing visible!  :-)

Yippee!

This past year has been quite a journey. 

I remember last Thanksgiving sitting at the table to eat our feast and not feeling the greatest with an undiagnosed broken femur.  It was on this day that I announced to my family that I didn't think it was a blown out knee-- despite what everyone was telling me -- I went back to my original thought when it first happened -- broken femur.

I remember a certain family member telling me that there is no way my femur was broken -- because if it was I would be dead.  I said, "get ready to eat crow because it is broken".  And I was right, naturally.  :-)

Oh how quick to forget -- people need to remember how tough I am.  :-) Any lesser human would not have survived what I have been through.  I'm pretty much the toughest person on the planet.  :-) Thanks to superior genetics and unparalleled tenacity.  :-)

Who would have thought that a year later on Thanksgiving -- my femur would still be healing.

But at least it's healing!  Finally!

Hopefully by next Thanksgiving my broken femur will be a distant memory.  :-)

That's my two cents.

Choices

This is a classic song by George Jones. There are many reasons why I love this song.  First of all, The Possum delivers this song with emotion and genuineness.  He gives the song authenticity -- he makes you feel like he's lived the song (and he probably has).  :-)

The song delivers a good message -- in a nutshell: Since the day I was born I was given choices.  I was taught right from wrong.  Now I'm paying the consequences of my poor choices. If I would have made better choices my life would be a lot better.

It teaches basic doctrine in country music form.  :-) Funny story: I quoted part of this song in one of my Relief Society lessons when I was in the young single adult ward in Long Beach, California. After my lesson one of the old man priesthood leaders who had overheard part of my lesson as he was walking by the Relief Society room waited until after the lesson to come talk to me.  He wanted to meet the remarkable young woman who quoted George Jones in a Relief Society lesson. He was a George Jones fan and he could hardly believe what he was hearing.  :-) It's not often that George Jones is quoted in church.  :-) Especially by a young 20 something in Long Beach, California.

And last but not least I have to mention that "the Possum" reminds me of one of my uncles.  :-)

Enjoy this wonderful performance of "Choices" by George Jones.

Choices

Written by Billy Yates and Mike Curtis

I've had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong
If I had listened
No I wouldn't be here today
Living and dying
With the choices I made

I was tempted
By an early age I found
I liked drinkin'
Oh, and I never turned it down
There were loved ones
But I turned them all away
Now I'm living and dying
With the choices I made

I guess I'm payin'
For the things that I have done
If I could go back
Oh, Lord knows I'd run
But I'm still losin'
This game of life I play
Living and dying
With the choices I made

I've had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong
If I had listened
No I wouldn't be here today
Living and dying
With the choices I made

Living and dying
With the choices I made

The moral of the story is: make good choices and you'll be a lot better off.

That's my two cents.

Quote of the Day

"Happiness in this life and happiness in the life to come are interconnected by righteousness."

—Quentin L. Cook, October 2015 General Conference

Facebook Makes You Unhappy

Anybody who reads my blog knows how I feel about Facebook.  Facebook is addictive.  Facebook ruins individual lives.  Facebook destroys families.  At the very least, Facebook is a big waste of time.

I've done several blog posts about the ills of Facebook.  So imagine my delight when a scientific study came out that validated my long stated opinion and feelings about Facebook.  The study concluded that people who use Facebook are much less happy than those who don't.

I just did a quick search and found that there have been several studies that have reached the same conclusion about Facebook and its users being unhappy, lonely, and sad.  There was a study done by the University of Michigan in 2013 and the one recently that was released a couple days ago -- at least that's when I read it -- I think it was in Finland or something.  Can't remember.  But anyway, the point is that if you use Facebook, you are generally not as happy as those who don't.

Case in point: Coincidentally someone I know recently inactivated her Facebook account for a short time.  She reported that she felt much more free and happier than when she was on Facebook. Almost as if a burden had been lifted.  Unfortunately she admitted that she was addicted and went back to it.  :-(

I could go on and on about why Facebook is detrimental.  I've personally seen it destroy lives and families.  Because of peoples addictions and poor choices. Yes, Facebook makes you unhappy.  Studies prove it.

Suffice it to say, true happiness is found in doing what's right and following Jesus Christ and His teachings. It's as simple as that.

That's my two cents.

Tammy's Test Taking Tips

As many of you know, I have always enjoyed formal education -- and have a lot of it.  :-) Therefore, I have taken many tests in my day.  I consider myself to be a good test taker -- I actually consider it one of my many talents.  :-) Some people can sing, some people can dance, some people can paint... I can take tests.  :-)

To toot my own horn a little bit, if I studied with someone and we basically knew the same material -- I would always do better on the test.  :-) It really is a talent.

Anyway not to hide my candle under a bush, so to speak, I decided I would post some test taking strategies on my blog to perhaps help those of you who are test taking challenged.  :-) Or could just use a few tips.  :-)


1 -- When there are time constraints it's always best to go through it quickly and answer everything you know first. Then go back and answer the questions you were uncertain about. Whatever kind of answer sheet you use just make a mark on the side of your answer sheet so you can go back to it later.

2 -- If it's multiple choice and/or true/false never leave anything blank. If you still have several questions and there are only five minutes left -- just go fill-in bubbles randomly. At least you have a 20 to 33% chance of getting it right. Depending on how many questions there are. Actually for true/false it's a 50% chance :-) whereas leaving it blank, you have a 0% chance of getting it right. 

3 -- When you first read a question and read through the answers -- always go with your gut instinct. Usually one or two answers will stand out. Never go back and second-guess yourself unless you are certain the answer you're changing it to is correct. Sometimes you will remember the right answer when you go back but more often than not your gut instinct is right.


4 -- Sometimes the other answers will give you a clue to the correct answer. So if you're not sure, you can make an educated guess by looking for patterns in the available answers. Usually you can eliminate one or two right off the bat. Then make an educated guess. Your percentages of guessing correctly will go up dramatically when you eliminate one or two answers you know are not right and make an educated guess. You might be surprised at how well this strategy works. :-)

5 -- The second time through always put an answer down.  You will at least have an educated guess down. It's better than randomly filling in bubbles. If you're still unsure make another mark on the answer sheet and if there's still time, you can go back later and revisit that question.

6 -- If the test is timed, don't spend too much time on one question. If it's taking too long to try to figure it out just guess and go back later, if there is time. Sometimes you can get caught up on one question and then not have enough time for other questions that you actually know.  Or know better.  Missing one question is better than missing two or three that you actually know because you ran out of time.

7 -- It's okay to be a little nervous before the test but once it starts lose the nerves. I have generally found that concentrating on the test takes care of that. Just remember that once the test starts, the time for preparation is over and you either know it or you don't so there's no sense in stressing over it at that point.  Just do the best you can.


8 -- Eat something before you take the test. If nothing else, eat a Snickers bar or something :-). Your brain will be using a lot of glucose and it helps to have it readily available in the bloodstream :-). Never take a test on an empty stomach.  Studies have shown that you will always fare better if you eat something before taking a test.  Thinking is hard work and your brain needs energy to work.  :-)


9 -- Pray.  Ask the Lord to help you remember the things you have studied and learned.  And to calm your nerves if you're nervous.  Asking for divine assistance is never a bad idea.  He will not bring things to your mind that you have not learned or studied but if you have put forth the effort and studied the material, He will help you bring it to your remembrance if you ask.

10 -- Get a good nights sleep the night before the test.  Do not stay up and cram.  If you need a little extra study before the test, wake up an hour or two early.  The information will be much fresher in your mind.  After a good nights rest, your brain will be much more efficient.  Studies show that those who go to bed and wake up early do much better academically.


11 -- Last of all, Good Luck!  Although with these marvelous test taking strategies I have just given you, you won't need it.  :-)

That's my two cents.

Scripture of the Day

I really like the prophet Jacob in The Book of Mormon.  He is bold and doesn't mince words.  I like his style.  :-) Anyway, this scripture jumped out at me the other day as I was listening to my scriptures. So I thought I would share with all of you on my blog.  :-)

Just a little background -- Jacob is talking to his fellow Nephites who have turned away from the Lord and become more wicked than the Lamanites.  How or why this happens I don't know, but apostasy is, sadly, becoming more prevalent in our day.  So Jacob's counsel is as relevant today as it was back in his day-- approximately 500 BC -- and much needed.

Anyway here's the Scripture:

Jacob 3:10-12

"10 Wherefore, ye shall remember your children, how that ye have grieved their hearts because of the example that ye have set before them; and also, remember that ye may, because of your filthiness, bring your children unto destruction, and their sins be heaped upon your heads at the last day.

"11 O my brethren, hearken unto my words; arouse the faculties of your souls; shake yourselves that ye may awake from the slumber of death; and loose yourselves from the pains of hell that ye may not become angels to the devil, to be cast into that lake of fire and brimstone which is the second death.

"12 And now I, Jacob, spake many more things unto the people of Nephi, warning them against fornication and lasciviousness, and every kind of sin, telling them the awful consequences of them."

College Football Picks Week 11 Results

1. Chanelle -14 tie breaker 78
2. Lisa -16 tie breaker 61
3. Tammy -17 tie breaker 57
4. Dad -19 tiebreaker 47
5. Derrinda -21 tiebreaker 54
6. Rex -22 tiebreaker 81
7. Cody -24 tiebreaker 58
8. Dallas -24 tiebreaker 45
9. Mom -26 tiebreaker 49
10. Elijah -29 tiebreaker 42
11. Brandon -30 tiebreaker 28

Actual tiebreaker 74

Rough week with lots of upsets. Congrats to Lisa and Derrinda for breaking into the top five!  :-)

Daily Message

"Life is not easy, nor was it meant to be…. living temple-worthy lives will hold together all that really matters."

—Quentin L. Cook

"We come to this earth to nurture and discover the seeds of divine nature that are within us."

—Rosemary M. Wixom

Christ Is Not a Pansy

The ignorance of the world continues to baffle me.  I just don't understand how people can be so stupid and confused when things are so clear and obvious.

Why do people think Christ is a pansy?  Our Savior is most certainly not a pansy -- in fact he is the complete opposite. None of us could have gone through what He went through for us.  Christ did/does not love, embrace, or tolerate sin. He certainly loved and embraced the sinner -- but there is a big distinction that people need to realize.

The example that comes to mind is the woman taken in adultery.  Our Savior did not forgive her nor did he tell her that what she did was okay.  He told her to go and sin no more.  He loved her, yes, and I'm sure he hoped that she would repent and follow His teachings and commandments. Because therein lies true happiness.  But our Savior knew that she had her agency.  As a matter of fact, agency is exactly what the war in heaven was about.  It was precisely because our agency was so vital to our earthly experience and to God's plan of happiness that Christ's atonement was necessary.

I understand that there is a lot of persecution and even dissension within supposedly faithful, active members of the church because of a policy change to the Church handbook that was necessitated by the laws changing regarding same sex marriage.

This is absolutely ridiculous.  Guess what people, doctrine doesn't change -- it never has and never will.  If you don't agree with Christ's doctrine, then you certainly don't have to live it.  So why must you whine about and get angry over a simple policy change in the handbook?  That you have obviously misinterpreted. There is nothing in that policy change that is inconsistent with church doctrine or with Christ's teachings.  There is nothing hateful or unloving or uncaring about it.  In fact, once again it's the complete opposite.  The policy protects innocent children. If you don't understand it, Elder Christofferson explains it well here.

There was a statement made by the Church Public Affairs Department that succinctly reiterates my point.

"Church doctrine is consistent with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. There is a strong tendency today for many to talk of Jesus Christ as if His teachings on love were somehow inconsistent with his teachings on divine commandments. Of course the Savior’s love was never withheld from anyone and His words on the cross exemplify that. But, He also expressed love by teaching clear doctrine and standing firmly against sin with sometimes-tough lessons for which people rejected Him. That is where Church leaders stand today – holding firm to the doctrinal position of right and wrong, while extending love to all people." -- 13 November 2015, Understanding the Handbook, By Michael Otterson, Managing Director, Church Public Affairs

Christ is not a pansy.  He loves all people.  He taught clear doctrine.  He stood firm against sin.  Why is this hard to understand?

That's my two cents.

Quote of the Day

"We need to tighten our grip on the rod that leads us back to Him. Now is the “day of choosing” for all of us."

—Robert D. Hales, "Meeting the Challenges of Today's World"

Good News Good News!

Well, I know this is going to be a shock to everybody but I actually have good news about my leg.  It appears to be healing!  Miracles never cease. Answer to many prayers.

I went in today fully expecting the doctor to tell me I need another surgery -- bone graft.  But to my surprise he told me it looked like it was healing.  Happy day!

I could certainly use some good news for once.

Lateral view November 9, 2015

AP view November 9, 2015

I zoomed in on this view to show more detail.  I had it centered better but apparently when I exported it to my pictures it used the center point of the whole x-ray.  But you can still see the entire fracture.

I go back in two months to get more x-rays to see if it is continuing to heal.  Pray for me scooter.  :-)

O Ye Fair Ones

I try to listen to my scriptures every morning.  No matter how many times I've heard it, something always seems to jump out at me or I hear something that I don't remember hearing before.

The Book of Mormon is an amazing book.  I marvel at how relevant it is for us in our day.  Even more so as the world becomes increasingly wicked.  If you listen to the arguments of apostates, they basically quote verbatim what the apostates in The Book of Mormon said.  Some things never change I suppose.  Satan's arguments and deceptions worked back then and work now.  Don't fix what ain't broke right? I guess that's Satan's philosophy.  Human behavior is very predictable.  But that's another blog post.  :-)

Anyway I'll post my two cents another day, my intention today was just to post a scripture that jumped out at me the other day. Here it is:

Mormon 6:17-22

 17 O ye fair ones, how could ye have departed from the ways of the Lord! O ye fair ones, how could ye have rejected that Jesus, who stood with open arms to receive you!

 18 Behold, if ye had not done this, ye would not have fallen. But behold, ye are fallen, and I mourn your loss.

 19 O ye fair sons and daughters, ye fathers and mothers, ye husbands and wives, ye fair ones, how is it that ye could have fallen!

 20 But behold, ye are gone, and my sorrows cannot bring your return.

 21 And the day soon cometh that your mortal must put on immortality, and these bodies which are now moldering in corruption must soon become incorruptible bodies; and then ye must stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, to be judged according to your works; and if it so be that ye are righteous, then are ye blessed with your fathers who have gone before you.

 22 O that ye had repented before this great destruction had come upon you. But behold, ye are gone, and the Father, yea, the Eternal Father of heaven, knoweth your state; and he doeth with you according to his justice and mercy.

College Football Picks 2015 Results Week 10

1. Tammy -11 tiebreaker 67
2. Chanelle -13 tie breaker 52
3. Dad -15 tiebreaker 56
4. Rex -18 tiebreaker 63
5. Lisa -21 tiebreaker 57
6. Derrinda -21 tiebreaker 54
7. Juliet -21 tiebreaker 66
8. Mom -24 tiebreaker 56
9. Cody -24 tiebreaker 48
10. Brandon -29 tiebreaker 25
11. Elijah -31 tiebreaker 69

Actual tiebreaker 57

Elk Herd 2015

We are so blessed to live where elk frequent our property.  Here are a few pictures that were taken yesterday on our property.  It's awesome to be able to go outside and see wildlife in my own backyard.  :-) Who needs Northwest Trek?

Elk herd in our backyard this year.  :-)

A closer view.

Check out the rack on this bull -- pretty impressive.  :-)

Some of the elk bedded down -- bull on far right.  

Salutations

I have noticed a trend in the e-mails I've been receiving lately.  A lot of them are written as if they were a text message with no salutations.  Usually just one or two lines with not so much as my name and a comma, then not signed either.

I find this trend rather disturbing.  I don't mind getting a one line or two line e-mail -- Any mail is better than nothing :-) -- but I do find the impersonal text message like quality without any salutation of any kind to be cold and detached and yes, disturbing.

To me it's an indication of another step in the downfall of society.  Yes, it's a minor small thing and it probably shouldn't bother me as much as it does.  But, to me it's another step in the snowball effect that increasing technology has on undermining interpersonal relationships of any kind whether they be business or intimate familial relationships.

I do understand people being in a hurry to send a quick message.  But really, is it that much more difficult to type two more words -- my name and their name?  When an e-mail is addressed to me personally, I am much more likely to read it and reply. Now obviously, if it's in my inbox I know it was sent to me by someone I know and it tells me who it's from before I even click on it.  But that's not the issue.

To me it's more about etiquette and interpersonal relationships.  When you see your friend or family member, do you not greet them properly with a hello so and so and maybe even a hug?  You at least call them by name and say hello.  At least that's what etiquette would dictate.  So why is it different when greeting via electronic devices?

All of my e-mails used to begin and end with a proper salutation.  Now because of the increased usage of cellular phones and text messaging those habits are trickling down into all other areas of communication and interpersonal relationships.  More and more of my e-mails in my inbox are not specifically addressed to me and to not signed other than an electronic signature automatically added.  Even if they are specifically to me.  To me it's just really sad.

Pretty soon no one is going to know how to properly address and greet people.  I guess it's part of the dumbing down of society. Much like nobody under the age of 20 or so knows how to read or write cursive.  Everything is electronic and robotic.  It seems to me like with increasing technology society is becoming more apathetic, more robotic, less personal, and more reliant upon technology, Good thunder, people in the same room don't even talk to each other anymore.  They just text message each other back and forth.  It's very sad!

I have never owned a cell phone and don't text message people yet I'm being affected by the changes in society due to the increasing technology.  And not in a good way.

So, if you do happen to send me an e-mail sometime in the future, please take 5 seconds to write Tammy, and sign it -- your name, at the very least.  :-) It would be much appreciated.

That's my two cents.

Faith Is Not by Chance, but by Choice

I loved Elder Anderson's talk on faith in the priesthood session.  Here are some of my favorite quotes from that talk:

"Faith in Jesus Christ is a gift from heaven that comes as we choose to believe and as we seek it and hold on to it. Your faith is either growing stronger or becoming weaker. Faith is a principle of power, important not only in this life but also in our progression beyond the veil. By the grace of Christ, we will one day be saved through faith on His name. The future of your faith is not by chance, but by choice."

"There are many Christian men and women with deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and we honor and respect them. But... we have been given something more: the priesthood of God, the power of God restored to earth by holy angels. This makes you different. You no longer stand on neutral ground. Your faith will grow not by chance, but by choice."

"How we live our lives increases or diminishes our faith."

"There is an adversary who delights in destroying our faith! Be relentless in protecting your faith."

"Although your beginning fire of faith may be small, righteous choices bring greater confidence in God, and your faith grows. The difficulties of mortality blow against you, and evil forces lurk in the darkness, hoping to extinguish your faith. But as you continue to make good choices, trust in God, and follow His Son, the Lord sends increased light and knowledge, and your faith becomes settled and unwavering. President Thomas S. Monson said: “Fear not. … The future is as bright as your faith.”"

"My dear friends, your faith did not begin at birth, and it will not end at death. Faith is a choice. Strengthen your faith, and live to be deserving of the Savior’s approving words: “Great is thy faith.”"

-- Elder Neil L. Andersen, Faith Is Not by Chance, but by Choice, October 2015

College Football Picks 2015 Results Week Nine

1 --Tammy -8 tiebreaker 49
2 --Rex -10 tie breaker 48
3 --Dad -13 tie breaker 47
4 --Juliet -14 tie breaker 68
5 --Chanelle -14 tie breaker 53
6 --Lisa -14 tie breaker 48
7 --Mom -21 tiebreaker 48
8 --Derrinda -21 tiebreaker 36
9 --Cody -24 tiebreaker 39
10 --Brandon -28 tiebreaker 37
11 --Elijah -30 tiebreaker 70

Actual tiebreaker 85

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Nine

"My brothers and sisters, our opportunities to shine surround us each day, in whatever circumstance we find ourselves. As we follow the example of the Savior, ours will be the opportunity to be a light in the lives of others, whether they be our own family members and friends, our co-workers, mere acquaintances, or total strangers.

"To each of you, I say that you are a son or daughter of our Heavenly Father. You have come from His presence to live on this earth for a season, to reflect the Savior’s love and teachings, and to bravely let your light shine for all to see. When that season on earth has ended, if you have done your part, yours will be the glorious blessing of returning to live with Him forever."

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015 General Conference

Unfortunately this is the end of the series on my blog. Hopefully some of the quotes touched your heart as much as they did mine. I have enjoyed rereading this beautifully written talk by our beloved prophet and selecting my favorite quotes to share with you. And sometimes adding my personal insight.  :-)

What wonderful counsel and beautiful blessings from our living prophet. I love President Monson.  He has truly worn out his life in the service of the Lord.  I hope we will all strive to follow his stalwart example and heed his counsel to be an example and a light.

That's my two cents.

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Eight

"It is often difficult to be different and to stand alone in a crowd. It is natural to fear what others might think or say. Comforting are the words of the psalm: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”  As we make Christ the center of our lives, our fears will be replaced by the courage of our convictions.

"Life is perfect for none of us, and at times the challenges and difficulties we face may become overwhelming, causing our light to dim. However, with help from our Heavenly Father, coupled with support from others, we can regain that light which will illuminate our own path once again and provide the light others may need."

"To illustrate, I share with you the touching words of a favorite poem I first read many years ago:

I met a stranger in the night

Whose lamp had ceased to shine.

I paused and let him light

His lamp from mine.

A tempest sprang up later on

And shook the world about.

And when the wind was gone

My lamp was out!

But back to me the stranger came—

His lamp was glowing fine!

He held the precious flame

And lighted mine!⁸

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015 General Conference

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Seven

"...as the world moves further and further away from the principles and guidelines given to us by a loving Heavenly Father, we will stand out from the crowd because we are different. We will stand out because we dress modestly. We will be different because we do not use profanity and because we do not partake of substances which are harmful to our bodies. We will be different because we avoid off-color humor and degrading remarks. We will be different as we decide not to fill our minds with media choices that are base and demeaning and that will remove the Spirit from our homes and our lives. We will certainly stand out as we make choices regarding morality—choices which adhere to gospel principles and standards. Those things which make us different from most of the world also provide us with that light and that spirit which will shine in an increasingly dark world."

-- Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example in the Light, October 2015 General Conference

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Six

"...we are to be pure, which means that we are clean in body, mind, and spirit. We know that our body is a temple, to be treated with reverence and respect. Our minds should be filled with uplifting and ennobling thoughts and kept free from those things which will pollute. In order to have the Holy Ghost as our constant companion, we must be worthy. Brothers and sisters, purity will bring us peace of mind and will qualify us to receive the Savior’s promises. Said He, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”"

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015

One of Satan's biggest tactics is to get us to disrespect and pollute our bodies and minds.  Because he knows the power of the pure -- those who are clean in body, mind, and spirit.  Satan doesn't have and never will have a body and he's extremely upset about that.  Everybody with a body is more powerful than Satan.  He knows that.  That's why he tries so hard to tempt us.  He wants us to be as miserable as he is.  The easiest way for him to do that is to get us to break God's commandments regarding our bodies and minds.  Sadly though, many people fall into his trap. 

Being natural men and women it is easy to fall into Satan's trap if we don't keep our guard up.  We must work every day on putting on the armor of God.  As previously mentioned, daily Scripture study and prayer are vital.

We all know people who, sadly, have chosen to pollute their bodies and minds.  Whether it be by breaking the word of wisdom -- alcohol, drugs, etc. or by breaking the law of chastity which includes polluting the mind with pornography, or any other way in which people disrespect and pollute their bodies and minds.  All of those things can lead to addictions -- which is ironic.  Most people in choosing to break the Lord's laws think they are freeing themselves from the restrictions of God's commandments.  When in reality they are actually becoming slaves to their addictions. Thereby becoming much more restricted than those who choose to keep God's commandments and remain free.  Oh the irony.

Obviously by disrespecting and polluting our bodies and minds we also harm our spirits and offend the spirit of the Lord.  I think often times we take for granted the gift of the Holy Ghost.  But that is really the most important gift we could ever receive.  By choosing to break God's commandments and disrespect our body, mind, and spirit we lose that most precious gift.  That is not insignificant.

Interesting that President Monson would include being pure in his talk about being an example and a light.  Because just by keeping ourselves pure we stand out as an example and a light to the world.

That's my two cents.

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Five

"Our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in our Heavenly Father will influence all that we do. Amidst the confusion of our age, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily living, an abiding faith becomes an anchor to our lives. Remember that faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other. I reiterate what we have been told repeatedly—that in order to gain and to keep the faith we need, it is essential that we read and study and ponder the scriptures. Communication with our Heavenly Father through prayer is vital. We cannot afford to neglect these things, for the adversary and his hosts are relentlessly seeking for a chink in our armor, a lapse in our faithfulness. Said the Lord, “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good.”"

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015

I love this quote!  I added the emphasis.  I've said this many times in my blog and President Monson just said it again -- reading, studying, and pondering the Scriptures and praying are vital to gaining and keeping faith.

Interesting that he uses the word vital.  I don't think the Prophet chooses his words haphazardly.  Coming from a medical background the word vital to me has to do with life and death.  For example, vital organs are essential or you die if they aren't functioning properly.  Vital signs are indicative of how your vital organs are functioning.  President Monson here uses the word vital to indicate the importance of prayer and scripture study.  They are vital to our spiritual nourishment and growth.

Prayer is our way of communicating with our Heavenly Father, and scripture study is His way of communicating with us. I love the use of the word vital in that context.  Because without prayer and scripture study, we die spiritually.

And in the grand scheme of things, spiritual death is far worse than physical death.  Gaining and keeping our faith through prayer and scripture study are vital!  I absolutely love that prophetic counsel and his amazing use of the English language.

I hope we will all follow the Prophet's counsel to study our scriptures and pray daily as they are vital to our spiritual survival.

That's my two cents.

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Four

"...we are to be an example in spirit. To me that means we strive to have in our lives kindness, gratitude,forgiveness, and goodwill. These qualities will provide for us a spirit which will touch the lives of those around us. It has been my opportunity through the years to associate with countless individuals who possess such a spirit. We experience a special feeling when we are with them, a feeling that makes us want to associate with them and to follow their example. They radiate the Light of Christ and help us feel His love for us.

"To illustrate that the light which comes from a pure and loving spirit is recognized by others, I share with you an experience of many years ago.

"At that time, leaders of the Church met with officials in Jerusalem to work out a lease agreement for land on which the Church’s Jerusalem Center would be built. In order to obtain the permissions needed, the Church had to agree that no proselyting would be undertaken by our members who would occupy the center. After that agreement had been made, one of the Israeli officials, who was well acquainted with the Church and its members, remarked that he knew the Church would honor the no-proselyting agreement. “But,” he said, referring to the students who would attend there, “what are we going to do about the light that is in their eyes?”  May that special light ever shine within us, that it might be recognized and appreciated by others."

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015

It has been said that the eyes are the window to the soul -- I have found that to be true.  It is amazing how just looking into someone's eyes can tell you a lot about them.  Some people's eyes sparkle and shine and emanate light, and others are dark, dreary, and sad.  It obviously has to do with life choices in how they choose to live, and who they choose to follow.

I think I've told this story before when I posted my mission stories and pictures -- one of the ladies we tracted into one day told me that I looked wholesome.  Obviously as full-time missionaries we are focused on doing the Lord's work 24/7 and are close to Him and His work.  This lady was able to recognize that light coming from a servant of the Lord.  It was the best compliment I have ever received. And it reiterates President Monson's prophetic words, "the light which comes from a pure and loving spirit is recognized by others."

It brings to mind this Scripture:

Alma 5:14 "And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?"

I echo President Monson's hope for all of us, "May that special light ever shine within us, that it might be recognized and appreciated by others."

That's my two cents.

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Three

"I am confident there are within our sphere of influence those who are lonely, those who are ill, and those who feel discouraged. Ours is the opportunity to help them and to lift their spirits. The Savior brought hope to the hopeless and strength to the weak. He healed the sick; He caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear. He even raised the dead to life. Throughout His ministry He reached out in charity to any in need. As we emulate His example, we will bless lives, including our own."

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015

College Football Picks 2015 Results Week 8

1. Rex -12 tie breaker 56
2. Tammy -12 tie breaker 55
3. Dad -13 tie breaker 62
4. Chanelle -14 tie breaker 42
5. Lisa -19 Tiebreaker 52
6. Elijah -22 tiebreaker 68
7. Derrinda -24 tiebreaker 39
8. Mom -25 tiebreaker 56
9. Brandon -25 tiebreaker 29
10. Juliet -26 tiebreaker 63

Actual tiebreaker 66

one tiebreaker point -- aargh!  :-(

Be an Example and a Light -- Part Two

"Each of us came to earth having been given the Light of Christ. As we follow the example of the Savior and live as He lived and as He taught, that light will burn within us and will light the way for others."

-- Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015 General Conference

Be an Example and a Light -- Part One

I recently re-watched President Monson's General conference address from earlier this month.  I always seem to get much more out of each conference address every additional time I watch or read them.  This was no exception.  The second time I watched it I wasn't so distracted and was able to glean much more out of it.

I would argue that it is perhaps our dear Prophet's most meaningful and touching address yet.  And he's given many!  :-)

There are so many wonderful quotes that I think I will break them up into segments.  At least two.  :-)

Perhaps it is because of recent life experience or because this is a topic that has always touched a nerve with me but, the following quote really struck me and resonated with me:

"The words we use can lift and inspire, or they can harm and demean. In the world today there is a profusion of profanity with which we seem to be surrounded at nearly every turn. It is difficult to avoid hearing the names of Deity being used casually and thoughtlessly. Coarse comments seem to have become a staple of television, movies, books, and music. Bandied about are slanderous remarks and angry rhetoric. Let us speak to others with love and respect, ever keeping our language clean and avoiding words or comments that would wound or offend. May we follow the example of the Savior, who spoke with tolerance and kindness throughout His ministry."

-- President Thomas S. Monson, Be an Example and a Light, October 2015

The words we choose to use speak volumes as to our character, who we are, and how we want to represent ourselves. As President Monson said, "there is a profusion of profanity" all around us. And it's only getting worse.  It saddens me deeply that people choose to disrespect and demean those around them by blaspheming deity and using such course and crass language.

It really is a sign of lack of intelligence, refinement, class, tact, and grace.

Using profanity is ultimate disrespect.

Any mindless buffoon can utter profanity.  But it takes an intelligent, refined, classy, tactful, graceful follower of our Savior to rise above and be an example and a light.

That's my two cents.

Quote of the Day

I've been meaning to do a blog post for several days now but just can't bring myself to do it yet.  I received this quote in my inbox yesterday and loved it.  It is a wonderful spiritual pick me up.

"As we fill our hearts and homes with the Savior’s light…we will have the inner strength to withstand in every circumstance."

—Cheryl A. Esplin, "Filling Our Homes with Light and Truth"

YW In Excellence Invitation

As the YW secretary in my ward, I was asked to design the invitation for our upcoming YW in Excellence program.  They wanted to make it formal and have the girls dress up.  So I came up with the theme "Of Royal Birth".

I spent most of the day Friday in Photoshop designing this invitation:

I was pleased with the outcome.  I thought it turned out awesome, if I do say so myself.  :-)

Yesterday I asked the YW president if she got the design I sent, because I hadn't heard from her, and she said she already had them printed up.  She said she showed it to her daughter and she couldn't read it -- because it was in cursive! I didn't even think of that.  We were just talking about this a few weeks ago.  How unbelievable it is that kids can't read cursive nowadays.

So I guess the kids won't be able to read their invitations.  But at least they look pretty :-).

CFP 2015 Week Seven Results

1-Chanelle -15 tie breaker 63
2-Tammy -16 tie breaker 45
3-Rex -17 tie breaker 42
4-Dad -19 tiebreaker 42
5-Lisa -20 tie breaker 63

6-Mom -22 tiebreaker 35
7-Elijah -22 tiebreaker 68
8-derrinda -24 tiebreaker 39
9-Brandon -25 tiebreaker 29
10-Richie -25 tie breaker 12

Actual tiebreaker 50

Refreshing Honesty

I'm a fan of Jeopardy.  I enjoy playing along.  Recently, Jeopardy has had a longtime champion -- I don't even remember his name.  :-) But he was defeated yesterday.  Didn't quite make it to Ken Jennings status.

Anyway, for some reason I just wasn't fond of his personality and wanted him to get beat.  But as the days went on, he was growing on me.  I was beginning to like him.  And yesterday he did something which made me like him and want to root for him -- and of course ironically that's the day he got beat.

The category was 2 letter words that begin with A.  Pretty easy huh?  Well the question was some French word -- Au was the answer.  The champion rang in and said al but they heard it as au.  And gave him credit for a right answer.

Well, during the commercial break the champion informed the judges that he actually said al and not au.  And so they deducted it from his score.

It shouldn't be surprising that someone was actually honest but in this world of flipping and flopping in sports -- what they call acting which is actually just being dishonest in my opinion -- trying to convince the officials to believe something that isn't true in order to win a game or at least advance your cause.  It's nice and refreshing to actually see someone being honest despite the negative outcome.

Kudos to Matt Jackson -- I looked up his name.  :-) -- for his honesty!

That's my two cents.

Voided Stake Dance Flyer

I've been kind of feeling blasé lately. Listening to the Scriptures the other day I heard this quote and it resonated with me. So I looked it up and here it is:

"...for I will show unto them that my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil." -- 3 Nephi 21:10

Of course that is Jesus Christ speaking -- I would hope I could say the same thing about myself.

Anyway, there are a lot of quotes from the Ensign that I just read and Conference that I want to share but I just don't feel like it now.  :-(  Perhaps later.

I went to a lot of work making a flyer for our upcoming stake dance.  Unfortunately they changed the theme on me and I had to redo it.  :-( So anyway I wanted to post it here so all my work wasn't completely in vain.  :-)

College Football Picks 2015 Results Week Six

1 --Tammy -11 tie breaker 59
2 --Chanelle -12 tie breaker 56
3 --Dad -14 tiebreaker 62
4 --Rex -16 tie breaker 61
5 --Lisa -17 tie breaker 57
6 --Derrinda -18 tiebreaker 51
7 --Juliet -20 tie breaker 54
8 --Mom -20 tiebreaker 49
9 --Cody -20 tie breaker 38
10 --Elijah -21 tiebreaker 44
11 --Brandon -23 tiebreaker 36

Actual tiebreaker 54

Quotes :-)

I just started reading the Ensign this month.  After reading the first two articles, there are two quotes that stuck out to me.  So I thought I would share.  :-)

From the Visiting Teaching Message:

“Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others.” -- President Thomas S. Monson

From the First Presidency Message:

"Sometimes after stumbling, failing, or even giving up, we get discouraged and believe our light has gone out and our race is lost. But I testify that the Light of Christ cannot be extinguished. It shines in the darkest night and will relight our hearts if only we incline our hearts to Him (see 1 Kings 8:58).

No matter how often or how far we fall, the Light of Christ ever burns brightly. And even in the deepest night, if we but step toward Him, His light will consume the shadows and reignite our souls.

This race of discipleship is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. And it makes little difference how fast we go. In fact, the only way we can lose the race is by finally giving in or giving up." -- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Evil Muppets

Satan is becoming more brazen. He is pulling out all stops.  We all know it's happening, in fact we were recently warned about it again in general conference a few days ago.  The world and its standards are getting farther and farther from the Lord's standards.

As the Lord hastens His work, so does Satan.  Case in point -- I just read an article in the newspaper about the ABC Family television station changing its name because they are no longer family-friendly.  There was a link at the bottom to another article about the new Muppet show.  This was what pushed me o'er the brink to write this post.

Everybody knows the Muppets from their childhood and even recent movies -- from what I'm told -- as kid friendly and geared towards children.  That was certainly the case of the Muppets I have seen.  Although not a Muppets fan myself, growing up in the 70s and 80s I certainly knew of the Muppets and probably watched a few episodes.

Now there is a new Muppets show on TV using the same characters -- or most of the same characters anyway -- that are familiar to all adults.  Except, according to the article I read, it is certainly not kid friendly anymore.  I have seen a few of the commercials for it and it is obviously quite raunchy.  The article states that it is not your mother's or grandmother's Muppets.  It is geared towards adults -- which to me indicates that it is full of a bunch of garbage that nobody should be watching.  I have never understood why it is okay for adults to expose themselves to filth but not okay to expose children to it.  Filth is filth.  Nobody should be exposed to it, regardless of age.

But Satan's cunning, evil designs have now implemented children's puppets into exposing children to filth.  I'm sure some parents will let their children watch the new Muppets show thinking that it is like it was when they were growing up.  And many unsuspecting parents and children will be shocked at what they see.

It disgusts me. Satan is blatantly targeting innocent children and the sad thing is that most people don't care.  It used to be that parents tried to protect their children from blatant filth -- and there are many who still do -- yet many parents will and do allow more and more filth into their homes via "cute" television shows, etc.

I was going to add a scripture here but I can only get LDS.org to come up in Spanish.  And I'm not bilingual.  :-( Weird.  :-)

Anyway, all I have to say is beware of wolves in sheep's clothing.  That is one of Satan's specialties.  He makes things look very enticing and good when in fact they are very evil and destructive.  Don't fall for Satan's evil cunning schemes.

"O that cunning plan of the evil one!  -- 2 Nephi 9:28

That's my two cents.