Going On's

Life just keeps going on!  Faster than ever, it seems.  And I know it will only get worse as the girls get older.  Where is that pause button?  Slow motion?  Either will do. ;)

Last month I went to Women's Conference with my BFF.  We drove all day to get there, had a wonderful time, then drove all day to get back.  I love Women's Conference!  And in past years, I've taken loads of photos while I was there.  This year... not so much.  I even forgot to take my camera with me the first day.  The next day I took two pictures.  I'm not sure why I haven't been in the photo taking mood lately, perhaps it is because I feel so behind on the photos I've already taken. :S  Well, photos or not, Women's Conference was wonderful!  I love going and sharing it with good friends.  I love feeling uplifted and inspired.  I always pray that the motivation I feel to be a much better person stays with me.  This time, as always, most of it faded after a few days, but there are a few things that have stuck, for which I am thankful.  I just want to be better.  I just want to be more Christ-like.  I've got a long way to go, but each baby step closer is progress. :)

Spring has arrived and now Summer is fast on her heels!!!  It has been beautiful lately.  And now we're bordering on hot.  It has been great to spend lots of time out in the yard.   I went to the nursery a couple of times last week - it is always fun to buy new flower/plants and then watch them grow in my yard.  I planted the planters on my back deck, hung baskets, put some more flowers in the ground.  Now I need to get my vegetable gardens ready for planting.  That is this week's project. 

Speaking of growing things... My oldest daughter is growing!  She will be a teenager in just one month!!!  Last month, she shaved her legs for the first time!  Eeks!!!  And yesterday, we discovered that the long awaited day has arrived - she is now taller than I.  She was THRILLED!  I was sad.  I knew it was coming, I just was hoping it wouldn't.  :S  

Something she wasn't so thrilled about... the braces are back!  Acadia is now a Brace Face again.  This bout will be a bit longer than last time, and it will eventually be the complete upper and lower deal.  Currently, we are waiting for a couple more teeth to come out on the lowers, so she only has braces on her uppers, but it is just a matter of time. ;)  She is a really good sport about it though, and I think she's cute with braces.  

So those are just a few of the things that have been going on around here.  I do still have a couple of other things to update on, but they will probably be their own posts, and coming soon. :)

Come Listen to a Prophet's Voice

Almost Back

I've been editing pictures everyday since we got back from our trip and I still have some more to do!  But in the meantime, life is still happening.  Funny how that works.

Ryan started getting sick while he was at work on Thursday last week.  It peaked this weekend but even though some of his symptoms have improved, he's still not better.  A friend mentioned it could be bronchitis, so he's got an appointment to see a doctor tomorrow. 

This weekend was our stake conference, which was wonderful.  This coming Saturday will be a Day of Service.  Our stake will be helping to clean up Vancouver Lake.  Our stake wanted our service to be along side other groups, so we'll be working with some local leaders as well as other groups/churches.  It won't be a proselyting event, simply a day of service.  It should be kind of fun!  The weather will be cooler and there will be lunch after. :)

My aunt's stake is collecting food for a local food bank.  Last night for FHE, we (my aunts, uncle, cousins, the girls, and I) went door to door asking for donations.  And because we are blessed when we serve, we came with brooms, gardening gloves, and window cleaner in hand to perform immediate small, quick acts of service for those we talked to.  We swept walks, brushed down cobwebs, washed windows, and pulled weeds.  Every household we spoke to contributed to the food bank, and they were suprised and kind of tickled to watch us do small, simple acts of service for them in return.  It was pretty fun!

Today I'm going to the temple with some friends.  I was supposed to go with Ryan, too, but that's not going to happen.  Hopefully the doctor can give him something that will help bring some relief tomorrow.  Being sick is never fun.  And having someone in your family sick isn't fun either. :S

By Small and Simple Things Are Great Things Brought to Pass

Last week, my friends and I ran away for a few days for a road trip to Provo, UT to attend Women's Conference at BYU.  It was my second time going and I loved it as much as last year.  We have such a good time!  It is wonderful to go to this huge conference with thousands of other women, sing with hundreds of them in the "instant" choir, attend several classes that have been prayerfully prepared to spiritually uplift and inspire, participate in humanitarian projects, meet new friends, and strengthen bonds with the ones you came with.  We laugh A LOT!  We (I) cry A LOT!  It is a wonderful, WONDERFUL few days and I love it! 

I am so grateful that Ryan is so supportive of me going.  He takes time off, holds down the fort, and encourages me to go because he knows how much I love it.  I am so grateful for the friends that I go with.  We have great conversations, share thoughts and insights, and make each moment totally fun! 

I took a lot of pics (surprise, surprise) and I'm going to share a bunch of them here... brace yourselves. ;)

The drive there:

We left in the wee hours of the morning.  Ugh.  But it's nice to get on the road and start so early because then we get in at a decent hour and can take some time preparing for the conference to begin the next morning.  The drive was very pretty, it was especially nice watching the sunrise.

We like to sing in the choir, which is totally fun because you have to get up extra early to go to the one and only practice.  It's totally worth it - it's awesome to participate.  We like to wear matching shirts so we can spot ourselves easily if we managed to get on camera. lol  This year we used the same shirts we bought for last year, but we're planning on getting new shirts for next year.  The orange was fun though, and it matched the colors that went a long with this year's theme. ;)  The opening session's speaker was Virginia H. Pearce.  I love her!  She introduced the theme: By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.

All of the classes are fantastic and it's hard to get a bad class.  We were especially lucky though and got into one of the hardest classes to get into!  We're talking none other than John Bytheway!  Who doesn't love John Bytheway???  (And after the class he was lingering, talking to people so we went up and had our picture taken with him. :D )  He and his wife were great!   They spoke about cleaving unto the covenants we have made.  We also attended a class taught by Ruth W. Hill and Michael Wilcox about scripture heroines that I really enjoyed (even though Sariah wasn't among the ones highlighted, lol).  And then we attended a class about helping our youth as they transition to dating.  We went because Susan's daughter just turned 16, but all of us really enjoyed it and found it helpful.  The final session of the day was about the Legacy of the Relief Society, taught by Brother and Sister Tanner.  I really liked something that Sister Tanner said, that it is our turn to live up to our priviledge; it is our turn to add our story to Relief Society's history. :)

After the afternoon session, we hurried over to spend some time helping with the humanitarian efforts.  There are so many projects that go on during these couple of days!  We chose to help assemble hygiene kits.  Our table alone would finish 1600 kits during the two hours between the afternoon session and the evening's concert.  That, combined with the other tables, would make the total 16,000 hygiene kits!  Plus, there were other stations assembling newborn baby kits, and others assembling back-to-school kits.  Other areas on campus were making fleece blankets, others tying quilts, others making stockings, and there were many who took make-and-take projects to crochet scarves, shawls, baby caps, etc to work on during the talks and return at the end of the day.  A LOT of good gets done during this short amount of time.  When so many people are willing to pitch in just a little bit, great things do come to pass.

After about an hour, we left the humanitarian efforts to get some grub and get in line for the concert.  Along the way, we stopped for a couple of pictures.  We like walking along this little waterway because there are always baby ducks to watch.  So cute!!!

The concert this year was FANTASTIC!!!  I loved EVERY moment!  Everyone was great, every song was awesome!  I LOVED IT!!!

Kirby Heyborne was the host this year, and he was great!  He told just the right amount of jokes and sang a funny song he wrote about Sherry Dew.  David Osmond was so fun!  He was singing to an old lady in the front row - and she grabbed his face AND KISSED HIM!!!  ROFL!!!  He was like, "Um, my wife is sitting over there (pointing to the other side of the front section), and I'm thinking that right now it will be safer for me to stay on this side."  That lady was so funny!  lol... still makes me laugh! 

Another performer was Hilary Weeks - who I absolutely LOVE!  She said something that night that really struck me, and I think it's the one thing that stood out to me the most during the entire conference.  She told about an experience she had with her daughter where she realized that she will have eternity to know her as an adult, but she only has these precious few years to know her as a child.  It was something I think I needed to hear, I had never thought of it that way.  It made me want to value and treasure these moments with my girls more than ever before.  :)

Other performers that night:  Josh Wright.  I had never heard him before but let me tell you, he literally took my breath away.  He is a pianist and played a piece (I don't remember the name!) that had me holding my breath.  It shouldn't be physically possible to be able to move your fingers as quickly and accurately as he was!  At the end, I couldn't help but shoot to my feet - I think it was the one and only standing ovation of the night! - and it was like gasping for breath, all of a sudden I realized I wasn't breathing.  He was that good!  Another amazing performer was Jenny Oaks Baker, a violinist.  She was fantastic, too.  I wish Cadi could have heard her.  She made that violin SING!  And at one point, she and Josh Wright played together a duet, "Baby Mine".  It was really beautiful.  Two other performers were brought out for just one song each, to debut a new cd, "Women of Hope" which is made up of various female artists.  April Meservy was first, our family loves her music!  And then Cherie Call.  They were really great songs but the performances were pretty quick and then the concert moved on to the final performers, an acapella group, Vocal Pointe.  They were so fun!  I would love to get their cd, but even more, I'd love a dvd of their performances because they dance and choreograph so well that it's just as great as the music!  They were a blast!

Didn't we totally get great seats?  Made it super easy to get such great pics! :)

After the concert, we headed up to leave and as we exited the Marriot Center, Josh Wright was passing right by us, so I grabbed him and Christi took a picture of us.  Moments later, it was David Osmond!  And then, the one I really wanted to meet, Hilary Weeks!  It was so great!  So, they might not be the best pics of me (it was the end of a very long day), but I have to share! ...

The second day didn't start quite so early since there was no Instant Choir, that was really nice. lol  The opening speaker was Julie Beck, she talked about who we are and what our purpose is.  (Individually and collectively as members of Relief Society.)  We have a place in this work.  I liked this quote (might not be exactly word for word), "Until the history of who you are is in your hearts, you won't be as strong as you could be."

The first class we chose after that was about preventing our strengths from becoming our downfall.  After that, we went to hear a session about visiting teaching, one of the presenters was Mary Ellen Edmunds - we LOVE her!  She said, "So many miracles are waiting beyond the statistics."  She is always hilarious, we laughed a lot during her talk.  The other class we chose to attend was called "I did frankly forgive them." and it was really good.  It was taught by Brother and Sister Osguthorpe and they talked about how we can develop a forgiving heart.

The closing session was one we were very excited for, Elder Bednar and his wife spoke!  He talked about spiritual patterns of small and simple things, reminding us that measured steadiness is better and more effective than spurts of excess which then requires periods of rest to recover.  Become intelligent drip irrigators and avoid spurting. lol

And just like that, it was over!  The time just flies by!  After the closing session, we finished up some shopping business on campus, then headed out to meet up with a blog friend of mine, Klin.  I was SO EXCITED to meet her!!!  And in my excitement, I left my camera in the car.  Lame.  But she had one, so her daughter took this picture of us:

Klin is just as great in person as she is on her blog and on FaceBook.  I really wish we had more time to really visit. :S  But it was so great to meet her!!!  And I'm extra excited for her because yesterday she became a grandma for the first time!  Yay!!!  Congratulations Klin! :)

Early the next morning (but not quite so early as the morning we left Vancouver), we were up and getting ready to head out.  We thought it looked kind of bright for the hour, so we looked outside and found that Utah was giving us a real send-off! 

But it turns out this was the worst of it, at least for us.  Once we passed SLC, everything was smooth sailing, and even bright and beautiful! :)

No matter how great the trip, no matter how much fun you have and how much you love it, it is always good to be back home!  We love driving through the gorge, seeing familiar landscapes, our backyard that we love so much.  We love coming back to our husbands and children!  We even love getting back to normal life, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, etc. 

I can't speak for my friends, but for me, it isn't about running away from my family or my life.  It's just about taking a break to refill my bucket.  I never really want to leave my husband, and I don't even really want to leave my kids.  But this annual trip is so precious to me.  By going, even though I really miss them while I'm gone, I am able to come back a better wife and mom.  I feel so blessed to have been able to go and I am already looking forward to next year! :)

General Conference Notes

I enjoy taking notes during conference talks and anyone who has followed my blog for long knows that I tend to take LOTS!  This conference I strived to focus most on what impresses me.  My notes are not as detailed as they have been in the past.  I hope that you took the opportunity to listen to the talks and made your own notes, according to what impressed your mind.

Here are mine:

Saturday Morning Session
President Thomas S. Monson
The work of the church is moving forward, unhindered.
5 new temples announced:
*Lisbon, Portugal
*Indianapolis, IN
*The Phillippines (I missed the specific location)
*Hartford, Conneticut
*Tijuana, Mexico
Every worthy, able YM should prepare to serve a mission.  Keep yourselves clean, pure, and worthy.  Maintain your health and strength.  Study the scriptures, attend seminary, become familiar with Preach My Gospel.
YW are also valued and welcome missionaries.
As are senior couples - we need many.
Be attuned to the spirit of the Lord as we listen to the talks this conference.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
The apostles sustain and pray for us.
You are loved by God.
Thank heaven for all of the "helpers" in the kingdom.
The pure love of Christ never faileth.
Rosemary M. Wixom (General Primary President)
If children understand the plan and who they are, they will not fear.
We do not need to be perfect, just honest and sincere, as we teach them.
* "The world will teach our children if we do not."
Hold onto our children and follow the Savior's lead.
Claudio R. M. Costa  (of the Seventy)
Why is it important to have a living prophet?
The living prophet:

• Receives commandments, guidance from God. 
• Is more important than the standard works.
• Is more important than dead prophets.
• Will never lead the church astray.
• Tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.

If we follow the prophet, we will be blessed.  If we reject the prophet, we will suffer.
David M. McConkie (1st Counselor in Sunday School Presidency)
How to learn...
What matters most is the attitude and spirit by which the teacher teaches.
Successful gospel teachers love the gospel.
A teacher's attitude is not taught, it is caught.
We cannot love what we do not know.
"That's a good question... let's turn to the handbook." (the scriptures)
Studying scriptures trains us to hear the word of the Lord.
Exercise agency and act on promptings of the spirit.
*Elder D. Todd Christofferson
Your eternal reward will be according to your choosing.
Our life on earth is a stewardship of time and choices. 
True success comes from consecrating our lives to God's purposes.
This requires repentance, hard work, respect for our bodies, service, and integrity.
Integrity is not naivety.  Naivety is thinking that one will not need to answer to God for their thoughts and actions.
**Presidebt Dieter F. Uchtdorf  (I LOVE HIM!!!)
Rings of trees - scientists study and can tell weather/climate hundreds and even thousands of years ago, based on tree rings.  Have learned that when climate is ideal, the tree grows normally.  But during hardship, the tree grows slowly, reserving strength on maintaining the basics of staying alive.
What does this have to do with.... flying airplanes???  (LOL - I admit, that before he even began talking, I wondered, interested, what flying story he would share with us this time.  I just love Elder Uchtdorf! He is one of my very favorites!!!)  "Well... I'll tell you!"  lol
What do pilots do when they encounter turbulance?
THEY REDUCE THEIR SPEED  (a lot like when we encounter speed bumps on a road)
Slow down a little, pay attention, focus... Proceed at the optimum speed for your circumstances.
Do not unnecessarily complicate your life.  Do not overschedule your life.
Dallin H. Oaks taught - We have to forego some good things for others which are best.
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." - Leonardo Da Vinci
When we turn our ways to His ways, it is the beginning of our wisdom.
Diligently doing the things that matter most will lead us to the Savior.
2 NE 25:26
Seek His wisdom about what matters most.
4 Key Relationships that we should consider most important:

• Our relationship with God.   He is our Father.  Our lives become more stable and sure, full of more peace and joy, as we strengthen our relationship with Him.  Learn of Him, commune with Him, follow Christ - for no man can come unto God, but by Christ.
• Our relationship with our families.  Family dinners, FHE, and just having fun together will strengthen family bonds.  Where family is concerned, love is spelled T-I-M-E.  Talk with, not about, one another.  Appreciate your differences.
• Our relationship with our fellow men.  Must be built one at a time.  Be sensitive to the needs of others, give of your time and talents.
• Our relationship with ourselves.  Some people can't get along with themselves!  They belittle and criticize themselves.  Take time to get to know yourself better - walk in nature, study the gospel.  Learn to see yourself as Heavenly Father sees you.

Strenth comes from being settled on a Firm Foundation; paying attention to divine things that matter most.
Saturday Afternoon Session
Elder Robert D. Hales
Agency - it's the ability to act of ourselves and not to be acted upon.
If we choose to use our agency to follow the Savior, we can have Eternal life.
When we disobey, we are captive to our choices.
Repentance isn't easy, but it's worth it.
Obedience to the commandments protects our agency.
To obey is better than to sacrifice.
Do not be selectively obedient.
Harken with exactness to the voice of the Lord.
Elder Quentin L. Cook
It is by the light of Christ that all mankind may know the difference between good and evil.
Preserve light.  Protect your family and community.
Black out leathal bombs - evil, pornography, immorality, etc.
Be in the world, but not of the world.
Increase spiritual living in our home.
If we make our homes holy places, we will be protected.
Many other faiths share common moral foundations.  We can work together in our communities.
*Richard C. Edgley (1st Counselor in Presiding Bishopric)
When our beliefs are challenged, it is our opportunity to choose... Choose faith.
Faith is not free; it requires effort.  Come. Knock.
We are responsible for our own faith... we are also responsible for our lack of faith.
There is much I do not know.  While I do not know everything, I know the important things. 
Exercizsing faith, we can bridge the gap of what we do not know.
If you are unsure, choose to exercise even a particle of faith.
A witness comes after the trial of faith.
Choose to nurture your faith, no matter how strong it is now.  Faith is fragil and needs constant nourishment.
Elder Kevin R. Duncan (of the Seventy)
The only sure and secure road to protection in this life comes from obeying the counsel of the prophet of God.
The Lord blesses and prospers those who follow His prophet.
God is the source of pure truth.
Find answers to your problems by searching what He teaches in the scriptures and through His prophet.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong (of the Seventy)
We bless others when we join in fellowship.
Make your 1st Honeymoon last 50 years.  And then, when the 50 years is up, begin your 2nd honeymoon. ;)
In temple mirrors of eternity, there is no beginning and no end.
Learn and teach in eternal roles.
Sometimes things go wrong, even when we do our best.
The Savior weeps with and for us.
As we reach out to others, we bless generations.
*Elder Neil L. Andersen
The Lord has not left us alone in our quest to return to Him.
Life is no spiritual picnic.  The road of discipleship is not for the faint of heart.
As we follow the Savior, there will be challenges.
How do we remain true? How do we develop the faith and strength we need?
Become like a child: submissive, meek, humble, patient, willing to submit in all things.  This is what brings a "mighty change of heart".
"Offended" and "Ashamed" are danger signs.
We can be offended by any number of things.
If we are not watchful, our injured spirit retreats, leaving behind the light of Christ.
Strength of character - swallowing pride, choosing not to be offended.  "Heed them not."
Be not ashamed of the testimony of the Lord.
Unto whom much is given, much is required.
As we choose not to be offended or ashamed, we will feel of the Savior's love.
V. 7 of How Firm a Foundation:

The soul that on Jesus has leaned for repose,
I will not, I will not desert to its foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, no never forsake.

"Your testimony, when nourished, will keep you safe." -President Thomas S. Monson
Whatever challenges shall arise, we will never leave Him.
*Elder Richard G. Scott
True faith is centered on the Lord, Jesus Christ.
It is by faith that Jesus Christ fulfilled the commandments of his father.  It is by faith that he created the world.
"Faith is not developed in moments of challenge or temptation; that is when it is intended to be used."
Faith and character interact to strengthen one another.
"We become what we want to be by consistently being what we want to become."
Satan, nor any other power, can destroy your character.  Only you can do that.
Every time you "try" your faith, you will receive a confirmation of the spirit.
Be thankful that sometimes God allows you to stuggle for a long time.  This allows your faith to grow.
Consisten exercise of faith builds strong character.
"When protected by self control, righteous character will endure for eternity."
Your character is a measure of what you are becoming.  It is an indicator of how you are living.
You get what you pay for.  When exercising faith, you gain stronger character.
Satan's increasing influence allows us to practice our faith more.
He has no power to take away character, quench faith, take away your testimony, etc.  These things can only be lost by our giving into his temptations.
You're doing better than you thought.
Your struggles are defining your character.
Sunday Morning Session
*President Henry B. Eyring
Our needs are unique and varied. 
God knows us individually.
God sends us messages and authorized messengers.
There is a lack of trust in God.
Trust the Lord and keep His commandments - no matter how difficult they appear.
Trust in God comes from knowing God.
God does not rule in nations, but He is mindful of them.  He places people who are honest in heart in positions to bless others and make a difference.
You show your trust when you listen with intent and then go and do.
If you trust enough to listen to (the conference talks), you will find what you need.  And if you go and do, then your trust will grow and you will find in time, that He trusts in you.
President Boyd K. Packer
There is confusion and danger in the world and young people don't know which way they should go.
The Lord is voting for me, the devil is voting against me - it is my vote that counts.
Our agency has more power than Satan's temptations.
How we use our agency will determine what we become.
We are free to ignore commandments but when God says,"Thou shalt not...", we had better pay attention!
Pornography is like unto a plague, trying to enter our home.  This plague is spiritually fatal.
Pornography repels the spirit of Christ.
The priesthood can protect against pornography and other addictions.
Wake up and understand what is going on!  Be alert and watchful!
Habits can be broken and addictions conquered.
Votes cannot change God's law. 
We cannot vote against the law of gravity - is cannot be changed.  It is the same with moral standards.
Stay on course, hold to the laws of the gospel.
We quickly loe our way when we do not obey the laws of God.
Repentance is possible for everyone.
The Atonement has cleansing power.
For those who truly desire, there is a way back.
Once you decide to remain clean, don't look back!
Jay E. Jensen (of the Presidency of the Seventy)
"The gift of the Holy Ghost is the greatest gift that can be bestowed upon man." - Wilford Woodruff
The Holy Ghost leads us to do good.
Sometimes there is no one to care for us in time of need, that is when we can depend on the Holy Ghost to provide comfort.
The Holy Ghost reveals truth.
The Book of Mormon is saturated with the spirit.
"Take away the Book of Mormon and the revelations, and where is our religion?  We have none." - Joseph Smith
Mary N. Cook (1st Counselor in the YW General Presidency)
Be an example of the believers.
We should never do what we wouldn't want our children to do.
Be examples of the believers in faith. - Actively strengthen your faith through studying the scriptures and prayer.
If we have one hand on the iron rod and the other in the world, we confuse our children and lose their confidence.
Be an example of the believers in purity.  This process begins with faith and repentance.
Make and keep covenants.
You never know who needs your example.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
Heavenly Father gives us personal lines and priesthood lines for communication.
Personal lines of communication are prayer and promptings of the Holy Ghost.  It is an essential feature which allows each of us to receive personal revelation.
It is based on personal worthiness.  We must renew our covenants regularly to maintain.
Don't seek priesthood leaders to make personal decisions.
Personal and family decisions are made individually through personal revelation.
The priesthood line of communication is Jesus Christ, His church, and appointed leaders.
Don't underestimate the importance of the priesthood line.  We cannot rely on personal revelation alone.
We need both lines.
*President Thomas S. Monson
Jesus Christ taught us how to pray, how to live, how to serve, and how to show gratitude.
Do we remember to give thanks for blessings we receive?
Giving thanks unlocks heaven's door.
Jesus Christ gave thanks for the few loaves and fishes, and then fed the multitude.  The miracle was proceeded by expression of gratitude.
Wise men grieve not for what they lack, but rejoice for what they have.
We all have much to be grateful for.
We lift ourselves and others when we have an attitude of gratitude.
Gratitude is not just the greatest of virtues, but the father of all others.
Love overpowers jealousy.  Light drives the darkness from our lives.
Pride destroys gratitude.
A prayerful life is the key to gratitude.
Don't take for granted the people who most deserve your gratitude.
Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is much like wrapping a present and then not giving it.
"To express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven."
Sunday Afternoon Session
Elder L. Tom Perry
The priesthood is the right to act as God's agent.
The Aaronic (lesser) Priesthood is an appendage of the Melchizedek (greater) Priesthood.
The Lord is bound by solemn covenant to bless priesthood actions and ordinances.
Parents are charged with the sacred responsibility to teach children about the priesthood.
"The priesthood you bear is a sacred gift, for the Lord is the giver of it."
Elder David A. Bednar
The Holy Ghost is a messenger for and a witness of Heavenly Father.
Baptism by immersion must be followed by baptism of the spirit in order to be complete.
"Receive the Holy Ghost" - not passive.  We must act.  We must receive.
We accept responsibility to deserve, seek, work, and live to receive the Holy Ghost.
Pray to have the Holy Ghost with us - invite him into our lives with gentleness and tenderness.
Be kind to others, attend the temple, seek after virtuous thoughts/deeds.
Faithfully obeying God's commandments is essential in receiving the Holy Ghost.
We go to the temple, read scriptures, attend church for many reasons, but ultimately and most of all, we do these things to seek the Holy Ghost.
The church is true because it is Christ's church.  It is living because of the Holy Ghost.
If we follow the spirit of the Lord, we will go right.
Larry R. Lawrence (of the Seventy)
Be strong and of good courage - be not afraid.
Parents are responsible for the safety (temporal and spiritual) of their children.
Parents who love their children cannot afford to be intimidated by them.
Couples need to be united as parents.  If a spouse doesn't feel right about something, the other should respect that.
Parents need to speak up and intervene before problems arise.
Always be prayerful when protecting your children.
Fortify the family - Family prayer, scripture study, FHE, dinner, and private interviews.
Counseling children requires courage.
Satan is trying to bring the youth down.  The Lord is counting on righteous parents to bring them up.
*Per G. Malm (of the Seventy)
We grow step by step in our capacity to be solid - from the inside, out.
Learn and follow the doctrine of Christ.  This faith gives us firm hope and becomes a solid anchor.
Be steadfast and immovable.
Without this faith in Christ, our lives become hollow and we might attempt to fill it with things that are not good.
Peace is a gift from God and only comes through the spirit of God.
Handle daily things in a positive way.
Beware of things that will destroy from the inside, out - whether big or small.
Instead, focus on things that strengthen and bring lasting joy.
Jairo Mazzagardi (of the Seventy)
Told story about the tree that grew near a fence post, eventually overcoming it and encompassing it.
Small choices can bring great consequences.
Be alert.  Do not let sin grow around us.
The decision of hwat standard to follow must be made in advance, not at the time of temptation.
Stay strong, make good choices, choose to partake of the Tree of life.
*Mervyn B. Arnold (of the Seventy)
How will our names be remembered? 
We have taken upon ourselves the name of Christ, what are we doing with His name?
Story of the cow that kept trying to eat the wheat.  "You stupid cow!"  We provided a beautiful pasture but she chose to break through the fence and eat the wheat.  It killed her. 
Commandments and rules are like the fence.  There to protect us.
The pasture is beautiful and safe, the fence helps us stay in the pasture.
The grass is never greener on the other side, and it never will be.
Wickedness never was happiness.
Before you act, think of the Savior by your side.  Would you think/say/do it if He were there? Surely, He is there!
We want to respond, "I have honored thy name."
Elder M. Russell Ballard
Lucifer knows our weaknesses and will tempt us with counterfeit lures.
His goal is to make us miserable.
Satan uses addictions to steal away our agency.
Stay away from any substance that can entrap you.
Any kind of addiction causes us to relinquish our agency.
Addiction is a disease of the brain - but also, once Satan has his grasp on you, it is a disease of the spirit.
There is hope for the addicted, through the atonement of Jesus Christ.
Spoke about the Addiction Recovery Program.
Fervent prayer is key in gaining spiritual strength and overcoming addictive behaviors.
Our love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ needs to be reflected in our daily choices and actions.
Have the spiritual insight to not fall prey or give in to the deceiving lures of Satan.
I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me.

President Thomas S. Monson (Closing Remarks)
Read the conference talks when they are printed in the Ensign.  They are deserving of our careful study.
We have had unprecedented media coverage of conference.
The general authorities serve selflessly and effectively.
We are blessed to have the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The gospel provides meaning, purpose, and hope in our lives.
We are here to learn and to overcome our challenges.  Endure to the end.
Heavenly Father will help and bless us as we call upon Him, study His words, and obey His commandments.
Therein is found safety and peace.
May we ever be found doing the work of the Lord.

BYU Women's Conference 2010

I've always admired women who went to Women's Conference or Education Week at BYU.  I thought it must cost a lot of time and money, and probably required an extra-large portion of spirituality or something.  I always thought, "Maybe one day I'll be one of those ladies."  And it was something of a goal I had, much like my goal to someday be a scriptorian (sp?), but one that I knew was so far off in the distance that I really didn't know if I could obtain it in this life at all.

But my neighbor has gone every year for the past several years, and every year she tells me that I should go sometime.  Finally last year, I told her my reasons why I just couldn't go.  I didn't think I could afford it.  I didn't think I could get away for long enough (wouldn't I have to be gone for a week or more?).  I didn't know if I was spiritually good enough.  (I don't know if I voiced that concern aloud, it sounds so silly, even though I really did think it could be true.)  And she reassured me that my concerns were totally unfounded!  What I learned was that Women's Conference is extremely affordable and totally doable - for just about anyone!  And so, with Ryan's total support and encouragement, I made plans to go with my friend this year.



I LOVED IT!!!!!

And I think everyone who has the smallest desire to go, should just DO IT!!!  You will love it too!  And you will be suprised at just how easy it is to go.  The most challenging part was thinking of what my family should eat while I was gone.  (I stocked the freezer with frozen dinners and the fridge was filled with BBQ supplies and they were totally fine, btw.)  I got home Saturday night and one of the first things I said to my husband, through tears, was that I NEEDED to go every year.  I just loved it and I need it.  And he agreed.  Gosh, I love that man. :) 

So this was my first year at BYU Women's Conference, but it is my first annual trip.  And I'm excited to look forward to, prepare for, and experience each conference from hear on out. 

I couldn't possibly share all of my notes from the classes I took.  We attended ten sessions during the two day conference (I was only gone for four days total, totally reasonable.), plus the evening concert.  Every class was great!  I have a couple of favorites and I'm hoping that at least one of them will be rebroadcasted on BYU-TV.  But I'll tell you that I came home with an increased desire to better my prayers, learn more from my scripture study, ideas for FHE lessons for my family, and a better understanding of how much my Heavenly Father loves me.  I also strengthened my friendships with the ladies I attended with and felt a stronger unity with the other millions of Relief Society sisters all over the world. 

And I can share with you lots of pictures!  I was hoping to be able to take more, but we really didn't have much time for it.  We were rushing from one class to another, then waiting in our seats so we wouldn't lose our spots.  But I still got a few, and here they are:

We left Vancouver at 3am last Wednesday.  Four of us (me, Susan, Christi, and Natalie) piled into Susan's car and we drove for twelve hours.  Natalie was heading to a blog weekend with friends in the Salt Lake City area, so we dropped her off at her second home (Family History Center) right at Temple Square in SLC, then the rest of us finished our journey to BYU in Provo, Utah.  We arrived at 4pm (MST).



That first night, we got checked into our apartment and then went shopping!  We hit the BYU Bookstore as well as a couple of Deseret Book stores.  We spent the rest of our night choosing which classes we wanted to attend over the next two days, then went to bed relatively early (we had been up since 2 am!) and prepared to wake up early the next day so we could participate in the Instant Choir at the very first session.  It required showing up two hours early so we could learn the songs we would be singing.  Surprise, surprise... I loved it! lol



The next two days were filled with uplifting and inspiring messages.  I felt renewed, motivated, my testimony was strengthened... it was awesome!  I learned that next year I need to pack kleenex in my backpack because I think I teared up at EVERY class!  I felt the spirit everywhere we went and it was wonderful! 

We also had lots of fun!  We laughed a lot!  And we just plain had a great time!  Each day included: lots of note-taking, lots of exercise running to and from venues, goofing off, delicious chicken salad sandwiches, beyond delicious mint brownies, and of course SHOPPING! lol



The BYU campus is beautiful!  I loved looking at the mountains, I loved the flowers, I loved the baby ducks... I loved it all!



Thursday night was the concert.  Hilary Weeks was our hostess... I love her!  The Fab Five (cloggers who were finalists on America's Got Talent), Michael McLean, Mercy River, Dallyn Vail Bayles, and Alex Boye were also there to perform!  It was loads of fun and ended WAY too soon! 



After two days of such a great conference, we enjoyed one last evening in Provo.  We walked (much slower than previously) to the Wilkinson Center to do more shopping at the BYU Bookstore, where I met Alex Boye, had him sign one of his cds for me and got my picture taken with him.  After another trip to Deseret Book, we had a relaxed, sit-down dinner at one of our favorite spots - Olive Garden.  And just like that, our Women's Conference trip was over.



The next morning, we woke up early, loaded the car, and began the 12 hour drive home.  As much as I loved spending those few days in Provo, it was even better coming home to the beautiful Pacific Northwest.  It's truly where my heart is! 



What a wonderful trip!  I am already looking forward to next year!

Almost made it a whole week...

without posting, but I just couldn't do it. I couldn't stay away. ;)

I've been busy, but as usual, I don't really have much to show for it. lol Isn't that the life of a mom? ;)

I love my family so much! I love my girls! I love my guy! I feel so blessed to have them. I just can't express that enough.

I'm leaving and it's not the first time, but where I'm going will be a first for me. I'm heading to Women's Conference! In the past, I've taken little "girl getaways" and I am so grateful for them and for my husband who supports that, but that's not what this trip is about for me. At least not this year. The past "getaways" I've taken were truly that - get aways. Moms get really tired! And sometimes I feel really overwhelmed and worn out. Girls Night Out and Girls Getaways are a way for me to take a break, recharge, and be ready to get back in the game. They are awesome!

This time, I don't need that so much. But I really think I could use the spiritual blessings of Women's Conference. I am so happy to be a mom and a wife and even a housewife, but I can get weighed down at times with other responsibilities in my life right now, and this, I hope, will be the perfect little getaway in regards to that. This trip will be uplifting, inspiring, and a source of strength for me. At least, I have every right to believe it will. ... No pressure, speakers. ;)

I am so excited to go! I'm so excited to learn and grow! I'm so excited to share this experience with my friends! But I'll miss my family. And even though I'm not looking for a break from them, I'm sure I'll still come back a better wife and mother.

So... BYU, here I come! Now I need to go to bed; we leave in 5 hours.

General Conference Notes

I'm late, but I finally finished typing up my notes from Conference today...

I like to take notes during General Conference because it helps me retain more of what I'm hearing.  I also like to refer to my notes because I sometimes add questions or comments that I need to reflect more on.  I share my notes and welcome any who want to review or use them, but really encourage people to read the full talks when they are published on-line or in the May Ensign.  For me, this is more of a journaling thing than a blog thing, but feel free to snoop. ;)

180th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Saturday Morning Session

President Thomas S. Monson
The church is changing the lives of more and more people.
Reach out to new converts and those who are coming back from inactivity.  Surround them with love and help them feel at home.
Thank you for all you do in your wards and branches.  You serve well and do great good.
The church has been providing a lot of humanitarian help.  Expressed love to the members who are living where there have been disasters recently.  They are in our prayers.  Gratitude expressed for all who have contributed to aiding those in need.
The number of individuals assisted by humanitarian efforts provided by the church could never begin to be estimated.
We will always be among the first responders.
Odgen temple will be renovated.
New temple in Pason, UT.
Sister monson fell and was injured and hospitalized for a time, but is now home and doing well.  Was there at conference. :)
SO CUTE how the prophet speaks of his wife. :)
"Can't keep Swedish girls down!" lol
The speakers have sought heaven's help as they prepared their messages.  Listen and learn!
President Boyd K. Packer
Speaks to fathers of families in the church.
The whole earth is in commotion.  Satan is abroad in the land.  But, we are hopeful.
Priesthood keys are restored.  Access to all the powers of heaven.
It was never easy to live the gospel of Jesus Christ.
There are now almost 14 million members of the church on the earth, but we're still only a fraction of the billions of people on the earth.
The Book of Mormon indicates that we will never dominate by numbers but we have the power of the priesthood.
We can, and in due time, we will influence all of humanity.
It will be difficult, but it is certain that we will win the battle with Satan.
It is crucial for everyone to understand what is expected of the brethren of the church.
The priesthood will lose great power if women are neglected.
The priesthood does not have the power it should have - it won't until it's firmly fixed in the family.
As important as many organizations and activities are, they should not supplant the home.
A father should not expect others to administer to his family.  FATHER should preside in his home - even if prominent priesthood authorities are there - in the home, the father of the family presides. 
If the father is not there, then the mother should ask the presiding priesthood holder to administer.
Stand in your own place.
Weak things of the world will break down the mighty and strong.
We need everyone - including the tired, worn out, lazy, even those with guilt.
The priesthood is a source of strength.
D&C 82:10
It is our responsibility to activate the power of the priesthood.
It is increased by exercising.
There will be times when all that stands between family and the world is the power of the priesthood.
Satan is persistent in attacking family and home. 
But because of the priesthood, we have no fear of the future.
*Julie B. Beck
So much depends on daughters.
There has never been a greater need of increased faith and righteousness, strength in family and home, and to help those in need.
How do we do all of these things?  There is not enough time! 
Life is not calm for most women.
We need to seek personal revelation to help us prioritize correctly.
Qualify for, receive, and act on personal revelation.
Temple attendance, studying scriptures, daily prayer, being in the right places - help increase the spirit for revelation.
Personal revelation gives understanding of what to do everyday.
It is possible to feel bathed with help, even in turbulant times.
Ask for it, prepare for it, go foward in faith trusting revelation will come.
Participate in Relief Society!
RS validates the true nature of a daughter of God.
Sisters receive strength from the whole.
Sisterhood will strengthen and prepare us for eternal life.
"We want to be ladies in very deed... fit companions to God... Women should be women, not babies!... If we don't get all the attention, what matters?" - Eliza R. Snow
Refine and cultivate in everything good. 
We are doing well.  Strive to improve and do our best.  We may still experience disappointments but we will not be disappointed in ourselves.
Peace and hope are blessings to those who are living righteously.
The Lord depends on His daughters to do their part.
Keith B. McMullin  2nd Counselor in Presiding Bishopric
Disasters abound, but don't need to leave our lives shattered.  They can stir us up in remembrance.
God helps us to forgive. 
Told story of a prisoner in a concentration camp who after, preached forgiveness.  After one of his sermons, one of the soldiers who had imprissoned and tortured him approached and asked for his forgiveness.  The prisoner prayed and asked God to help him forgive.  He lifted his hand to shake that of the soldier and was overwhelmed with God's love and forgiveness.
Pattern your life after the Savior.  We will leave the world richer and better than had we not performed our duties.
Fear God and keep the commandments - duty of men.
Duty does not require perfection, but does require diligence.  Rests on integrity and courage.  Duty represents faith.
Be duty bound to God.  All we have comes from God, we should honor God with all we posses.
Honor Jesus Christ.  To revere one is to reverance the other.
As we do our duty to God, we are compelled to do duty to family and others.
God is pleased, the world is a better place, when we do.
It is our duty to pray.  Prayers should be in harmony with heaven.
It is important to be guided by the spirit when we pray.
Elder Wilford W. Anderson of the Seventy
The early saints were homeless, but not hopeless.  Their hearts were broken but their spirits were strong.
The true source of hope is faith in Jesus Christ and His infinite atonement.
Spoke of the humanitarian efforts in Haiti.
The church's 9 chapels were all relatively undamaged.
Through church leadership, basic needs began being met and order emmerged out of chaos.
Their hearts are broken, but their spirits are strong.
Have hope through the Atonement because of faith in Christ.
Without faith, there can be no hope.
If you are feeling desperate or discouraged, build your faith.  It requires work.
The difference between the devil and members of the church is not faith (Satan has faith), but work.
Faith comes by righteousness.  When keeping commandments, we grow in confidence that everything will be alright.
Inspite of trials, we will be filled with a sense of well-being, "all is well".
Sadness and fear will melt away and be replaced by happiness and peace.
Story of a man with cancer.  Dr. gave news that nothing more could be done and it would not be long before he passed.  The familiy was gathered around the hospital bed, in tears.  The father looked at them and asked, "Do any of you have a problem with the Plan of Salvation?" 
Place faith and trust in the Lord and His plan.
Helaman 5:12  :)
*M. Russell Ballard
Mothers and daughters help each other to explore infinite possibilities.
Do not be led by women of the world.  LEAD the women of the world!  Everything that is uplifting, God-like, is good.
The brethren cannot do our job.
There is nothing as life changing as the influence of a righteous woman.
Every challenge a child overcomes, brings a mother joy.
Every heartache is the mother's too.
Do not look to the world for role models, look to faithful mothers for a pattern to follow.
They may not be a whiz at texting or even have a FaceBook page. (moms) lol
Be kind, patient.
If mother is thrifty/modest/etc - so are the daughters.
Mother's example is extremely important, even if they don't acknowledge it.
Mothers in Israel are the daughters' first line of defense against the world.
Daughters watch actions to see if they match the words.
"What you do speaks so loud that I cannot hear what you say."
The most important work is in the home.
Teach your daughters.
They learn to nurture while being nurtured.
God is the source to all moral and spiritual power.  Access that power by making and keeping covenants.
Teach them to make covenants.  Teach them to be worthy.
Must have FREQUENT open discussions.  Especially about modesty and morality.  They must see it modeled in your behavior - dress, language, action, etc.
Teach about the spirit, point them to the scriptures.
As we make covenants, we learn to hear the voice of the Lord.
This year's motto for youth "Be strong and of good courage..." - will lead them safely to the house of hte Lord.
Teach them how to repent.
In these last days it is essential; critical!
Parents and children, listen to and learn from one another.  It is essential for happiness and peace.  It rests upon Father and Mother to do all we can to teach our children.
We live for time AND eternity.  Family can continue.  It is our most important work.
Teach, nurture, prepare one another within the walls of your home.
*Henry B. Eyring
Heavenly Father wants and needs our help to bring His children home to Him.
Children need to gain early the strength to live on His path.
Help the Lord's children best by building faith when they are young.
Straight is the gate, narrow the way and few there be who find it.
Heavenly Father sent His son, Jesus Christ to show the way. 
Heavenly Father has called prophets to help show us the way.
The most important and powerful assignments are within the family.  We have access to the youth from the start, when they are infants.
Family - parents, grandparents, etc - have the most powerful influence by bond of love.
The Lord helps the family by calling primary workers.
We are fortified when we hear the Priesthood administer the Sacrament and the promises of God.
Often the strongest in the ward are called to the primary.  If children are strengthened, less likely to need to be rescued as teenagers.
Anyone can help.  You don't have to be in primary to play a role.  There is no limit to the age that can help.
Faith leads to safety and rescuers.
The Lord places rescuers along the way.
Rise to what the Lord requires of us, to help the youth.
"Learn what we should learn, do what we should do, and be what we should be." - President Monson
Personal Progress and Duty to God help establish patterns, strengthen testimony, improve relationships, learn and grow, and prepare for the temple.
These programs expect consistency and great effort.
They are the physical representation of the Lord's trust in the rising generation.
Let the youth feel our confidence in them, that they are on the right path and can make it.
Sometimes youth might become confused.  The church programs make that less likely.
We only arrive back to Heavenly Father when guided by the spirit of God.  Learn to have and keep the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Be examples.  Pray, ponder scriptures, have goals, make covenants, share testimony and blessings of the atonement in our lives.  Endure to the end. 
As we do, our youth will learn that as they persist, they will be told "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
Saturday Afternoon Session
Statistical Report for 2009
2865 Stakes
344 Missions (Or it could have been 364, I can't read my writing! lol)
616 Districts
28,424 Wards/Branches
13,824,854 members
119,722 child of record
280,106 convert baptisms
51,736 full-time missionaries
130 temples in operation at the end of 2009
L. Tom Perry
Shared lessons taught by his mother.  Standards/values/doctrines
Parents are entrusted to teach their children.
The mind will be come weak if not constantly exercised.  Do not let idle thoughts enter your mind.
Parents' teaching should not be devalued.
Resolve that teaching in the home is vital and necessary.  The responsibility rests with the parents.
Parents are commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and truth.
Begin to teach by the cradle's side.
Teach by example. 
We believe in the immense power of teaching. 
The best way to improve teaching at church, is by improving the teaching at home.
No such thing as overpreparing to teach the gospel.
Fahters and mothers are to help one another as equal partners.
Teaching children is a protection from worldly influences.
D. Todd Christofferson
William Tindale - translated Bible into English.  Was imprisoned and killed for it.  He wanted common people to be able to read the Bible.
The translation was smuggled into England and then spread widely, but privately.
After Tindale's death, the King eventually opened his eyes and allowed publicaiton of the Bible.
Why did they sacrifice so much?  What did they know about the importance of scripture?
The scriptures enlarge our memory.  We were not there, but we know because we read it in the scriptures.
Scriptures remind us of God.
In Tindale's day, people lacked access and therefore were scripturally illiterate.
Today people have access, but will not open the books - are scripturally illiterate.
God is a loving parent, would teach us - but we need to read!
He does not leave us to learn on our own - the scriptures help us to learn repentance and forgiveness.
The scriptures bring us to Christ.
In the end, all scripture is to bring us to faith in Jesus Christ.
Faith does not come from scientific experiments, archeological digs, reading texts, or even miracles. 
Faith comes spirit to spirit.
As we study scriptures, their spirits speak to our spirit and the Holy Ghost confirms it.
Being in the scriptures is one way to receive the Holy Ghost.
Study and read carefully and prayerfully.
Never in history have a people been so blessed with so much scripture - and available to every person!
What would Tindale think???
Feast continually on the words of Christ which will tell us all things which we should do.

Koichi Aoyagi of the Seventy
Hands that help and save spiritually.
Many need spiritual help.
He shared his beautiful conversion story.  He ended up marrying the girl who he says "rescued him" spiritually.
Take the time.  Reach out.  Follow the prophet.
We are surrounded by those in need of our support, encouragement, kindness.
We are the Lord's hands here on earth to lift others.  He is dependant on us.
Be the hand of the Lord in helping to save His children.

Bruce A. Carlson of the Seventy
There are no shortcuts in following God's commandments.
Failure to abide by God's laws, lead to disaster.
Do we believe that some of God's commandments are not applicable to us?
Partial or selective compliance will fail to bring blessings of obedience.
Obedience, despite how trivial or unimportant they seem, will lead to blessings from the Lord.
Faithful obedience regardless of apparent size of the task will bring blessings and peace.
"When the Lord commands it, do it." - Joseph Smith
If you keep my commandments and endure to the end, you shall have Eternal life.
Obedience to God's commands bring the blessings of Heaven.
**David A. Bednar
Early warning signs (spiritual) are a source of protection and direction in our lives.
Noah was warned, and built the ark.  Lehi was warned and took his family out of Jerusalem.  Even Jesus Christ was saved when his father was warned in a dream.
Spiritual warnings should lead to increasingly vigilant watching.
Watching with all perseverance.
Spiritual Early Warning System for parents:
Read and talk about the Book of Mormon together
Bear testimony spontaneously
Invite children to act, not just be acted upon.
The Book of Mormon is centered on the truth.
The plainess of it's teaching invites the Holy Ghost.  Speaks to the spirit and heart of the reader like no other book.
Regular reading of and talking about the Book of Mormon and it's teachings will help youth to resist temptation.
Helps parents observe, listen, teach children.
Children of all ages can feel the spirit of the Book of Mormon.
Questions asked, observations made can provide crucial "early warning signals".
Testimony is a person's knowledge based on the promptings of the Holy Ghost. 
Requires a sincere heart, real intent, and faith in Christ.
Parents - be diligent and attentive to spontaneous bearing of testimony.
Naturally occuring conversations is perfect and often the most influential.
Reaction and eagerness or reluctance to participate can be "early warning signal".
Provides a good environment for discussion.
Agency - we are all agents.  We are to act.
We are to be doers of the word, not just hearers only.
A child is never too young to be involved in this kind of learning.
Don't distribute fish.  Help children learn to fish and become spiritually steadfast.
Requires physical, mental, and spiritual exertion.
The best FHEs are not necessarily dowloaded or prepared packets.  Each family member should come to FHE with questions.  Discuss and learn together.
Help children learn for themselves.
Encourage them to ask, seek, knowck.
We cannot give them a testimony.  They must acquire it themselves by their efforts.
We need to teach them how.
**Jeffrey R. Holland
Bold we need to be!
Why is there so much moral decay around us?
Why are so many in the church falling victim to it?
Pornography blasts a crater in the brain forever.
Not just a man's problem.  Husbands are not the only ones offending.
Let's strike at the root of the tree - LUST
Unsavory word and unsavory topic.
Most deadly of the 7 deadly sins.
Defiles the highest and holiest relationship - marriage.
True love endures.  Lust changes as quickly as the porn page is turned.
Lust is characterized by shame and stealth - usually in a late and dark hour.
Love makes us reach out to others, lust is self-indulgence.
Destroys faith in those we love, shakes pillars of trust.  It takes a very long time to rebuild trust once lost.
Guard against temptation in whatever form it presents itself.
Seperate from people, materials, and circumstances that will harm you. 
The pull of proximity will harm you. 
Just run as far away as you can get!
And when fleeing the scene of temptation, do not leave a forwarding address! 
Seek help, welcome it.  Pray without ceasing.  Ask for angels to help.
The only real control is self control.
Often, acts may not start out evil - but can lead to things that are evil.
The journey of 1000 miles starts with a single step.  So watch your step!
Don't invite in and serve tea and crumpets.  You shouldn't be serving tea anyway! LOL
Throw the rascals out!!!
Cultivate and be where the spirit of the Lord is - make sure your home is that place.
Go to the temple - it arms you with God's power.
Think of Christ; we've covenanted to always remember Him.
Every time we transgress, we hurt not only those we love, we hurt Him. 
But if we sin, we can be rescued by Him - and only Him may we be saved.
Satan will do anything he an to counter true love.  He desires to destroy us.
Sunday Morning Session
** Dieter F. Uchtdorf
"You are my hands"
The Savior's hands are outstrentched - they comfort, heal, bless, love, minister, offer hope
The things He did with His hands are the things He would do today if He were here.
These are the things we should do as disciples of Christ.
"As we emulate His perfect example, our hands become His hands, our eyes become His eyes, and our hearts become His hearts."
Story about people who joined the church in Germany after receiving humanitarian help from the church.  Some of the members called these members "canned food mormons".  Some did fall away after awhile, but many remained very strong.
We are to welcome and love ALL of God's children, including those that are different.
Lift those around us, lend a helping hand, show compassion and charity - so they will feel that they have found "home".
Those who often receive the strongest reproach are often those who hold themselves in light esteem.
We all sin, we all fall short, we are all in need of mercy.
"Extend to others that which we so earnestly desire for ourselves."
We sometimes confuse sin with the sinner.
We cannot gage the worth of another soul. 
Every person is a VIP to Heavenly Father.
And old and crumpled, used, and worn $20 bill is still worth $20.
Everyone is walking their own difficult path.
We are commanded to mourn with those who mourn, comfort those who stand in need of comfort.
The Savior suffered for all - even those who seem to deserve their suffering.
It is not our place to judge if that suffering is deserved or not.
Let us love at all times.
Story about two brothers who were to share their harvest.  In middle of the night one of the brothers decided it wasn't fair to split 50/50.  He lived alone, but his brother had wife and children to support.  So, got up, moved 1/3 of his harvest to his brother's pile and went to bed feeling satisfied that all was fair.  Then, other brother got up, feeling that things were not right.  He had sons to help with his harvest but his brother had no one.  His brother deserved more because he worked so much harder; he should receive more than half of the harvest.  So he got up and moved 1/3 of his harvest to his brother's pile.  In the morning, both woke up and were shocked that the piles were equal!  That night, they both got up again to move a portion from their pile to their brother's.  This time, they were up at the same time and found the other adding harvest to his pile.  They both stopped, and embraced in tears.
The spirit of compassion is to love others as ourselves.   We seek for their happiness, do unto them as we would have done unto us.
True love requires action.
Christ not only taught love, but SHOWED it everyday.  Showed how to succor the weak, lift up the hands that hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.
Those touched become stronger and are better.
Should we not do as Christ?
Don't miss the point!  Don't be a cloud without water.
Without love for God and our fellow men, we are only a form of the church without substance.
What good is teaching, temple work, missionary work, etc. without love?
Love is what led the Savior to the garden of Gethsemene.
Love is the source of all happiness, a spring of healing, the fountain of hope.
As we reach out and love others, we become happier, peaceful, healed, and receptive to the whisperings of the spirit.
Christ gave the perfect example of what kind of person we should be.
Commit to become His hands.
Richard G. Scott
What eternal purpose would the plan have, except for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?
Easter reminds us of Jesus Christ - His life, the Atonement, resurrection, and His love.
We all need the healing that the Redeemer provides.
The atonement made fully active Heavenly Father's plan of happiness.
Jesus Christ is a light for all mankind.
He is the fountain of all truth.
It is vital to learn what we can about the Atonement.  It is a vital part of the plan of happiness.
None of us can fully understand the Atonement.
We need to strive to increase our understanding.  It will bring peace, especially during trials.
Search the scriptures, pray, attend the temple; it will fortify our understanding of the Atonement.
Teach our children in the home - the most important calling is of father and mother.  Never released from this calling.
Ponder, meditate on scriptural passages.
Prepare children for challenges they will encounter.  Teach them light at truth - and they will be alright, even if the world is shattered.
Make Christ the center of your home.
It brings peace, serenity, a spirit of calm assurance.
Make Jesus Christ your model, His teachings your guide for life.
*Donald L. Hallstrom  Presidency of the Seventy
Be a simply devoted Latter-day Saint.
In life there is great joy and also great pain - without one, we cannot konw the other.
Opposition - it's not contradictory, but complimentary.
Don't be overcome, don't let small things become big.
"No matter the size of the issue, how we respond can reset the course of our life."
"All these things shall give thee experience and shall be for thy good...Hold on thy way, fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever."
Glory in tribulation - God shall deliver.
Continually turn to the Lord.
If you have been wronged, deal with the matter directly. Giving up is not an option.  Wouthout delay, turn to the Lord, exercise all faith in Him.  Allow His grace to lighten your load.
"Never let earthly circumstances desable you spiritually."

Cheryl C. Lant Former Primary General President
Seek the face of the Lord always.  Know who He is and what He asks of us.
Bring the children to the Savior that they may see His face.  As we do, we also bring ourselves.
"Great shall be the peace of thy children."
Our family is most important.
Love the Lord, love family and children, be worthy examples, teach children the gospel and how to live it's teachings.
Takes time, experience, and faith.
We have to know the way in order to show it to others.
What do my children see when they look at my face?  Do they see the image of the Savior in our countenance?
No one is perfect, but we can keep on trying!
Through the Lord, we can be what we need to be and do what we need to do.
Teach children from the scriptures.
It is up to us to protect them from the influences that detract from the spirit.
Help them find the joy from living the gospel.
It takes great effort, but nothing is more important or rewarding.  The Lord will help us.
We are the angels sent to bless the children.
Quentin L. Cook
In final hours of the Savior's life (Easter events):
The Savior instituted the Sacrament.
He taught to love others.
He left us wiht the comfort of the Holy Ghost.
And He suffered the atonement, was crucified, and resurrected.
Through His grace, we can repent and return to God.
"All other things are appendages to it."
Our message to the world: He lives!
Contemplate and emulate what the Lord did.
To be His disciples, we must remember and reverence the sacrament.  Repent and become a saint through the atonement. 
The sacrament allows us to renew baptism covenants.
We show love for God by keeping His commandments and loving others.
We can be more loving regardless of adversity we face.
How we relate and interact with each other is a measure of how we follow Jesus Christ.
Jesus taught to love even our enemies.
How we disagree is a true measure who we are and how we follow the Savior.
"It is appropriate to disagree, but not to be disagreeable."
To have inspiration of the Holy Ghost, we must slow down, ponder, pray, and live worthy to receive it's promptings.
We will be tried, persecuted, mocked, face storms and bitter cups.  No one is exempt.
"Not my will, but Thine be done."
Spiritually go to higher ground.  The temple is a place of refuge.
We must run as fast as we can to get to "higher ground".
President Thomas S. Monson
Expresses gratitude.
Among all facts of mortality, none is so certain as death.  It comes to all.  Come it must.
Death represents a painful loss.  Dreams unrealized.
But there is a grand designer.
To understand the meaning of death, we must understand the purpose of life.
Life is challenging, yet it is a necessary mortal experience.
The nature of mortality is that we should be tempted, we would sin and fall short.
A savior was provided to atone for our sins.
"He passed beneath all things that He may save all things."
Salvation of mankind was secured.  The fall of Adam reclaimed.
If a man die, he SHALL live again.  We know this, we have the light of living truth.
Sunday Afternoon Session
Russell M. Nelson
Talked about his family - showed photos that linked four generations.  He winked... LOVE the wink! LOL
Love for our family is similar to the love Heavenly Father has for His family.
Family is central to the creator's plan.
The church brings hope and help to the sacred unity of family.
Without the Atonement, there would be no immortality, no return to Heavenly Father, no family beyond the grave.
Heavenly Father loves ALL of his children.
He provided a way for each to be part of his eternal family.
"When hearts turn to ancestors, something changes inside us."
We are linked through sacred ordinances in the temple.
Virtually, every member of the church can participate in family history and temple work.
We have responsibility to seek after our dead. 
New Family Search (online) is a fantastic resource.
We are striving to organize the family tree for all of God's family.
Families are linked in love.
Robert D. Hales
Lead by consistent and diligent examples.
Plana nd take advantage of teaching moments.
Teaching moments shape youth's lives and helap to make them who they are.
The greatest influence on youth is regular warm, friendly, interaction with parents.
It's not food, it's family interaction that nourishes our soul.
Listen - hearken - with spiritual ears. 
Are you there?
Understand and connect with youth.
"Saddest words of tongue and pen are those who say 'what might have been'".
 Particpate with the youth.  Help them with Personal Progress and Duty to God programs.
You will each grow and bond in faith and friendship.
Hold FHE, family council, and meaningful gospel discussions.
Help children to understand who they are and how fortunate we are to have them in our family and home.
Youth need to not only know but also DO.
The greatest work, rescue, activation, family history, legacy, heritage, etc. is in our homes.

*Bradley D. Foster of the Seventy
The great influence of mothers.
Father reading story to little boy.  Picture book without words.  Boy keeps correcting the father.  Finally the father says, "There are no words here, how do you know what it's supposed to say?"  Boy's answer, "Because mother told me."  Father said, "Do you know who presides in this home?"  Boy answered, "Yes.  You do."  Feeling pleased, the father asked, "And how do you know that?"  Boy's reponse, "Because mother told me."  lol
"No greater good in all the world than motherhood." - James E. Faust
Ranch hands were rounding up cattle, leading to the corral.  Hot day.  Some calves kept wandering to the shade.  When they got to the corral, they realized there were some calves missing, went back to get them.  As approached, startled the calves, they were confused, could not be herded.  Went back to get the mothers.  Mothers calmed the calves and led them to the corral.
Destraction doesn't have to be evil to be damaging.  Sometimes can just be the shade.
Just follow mother.  She's been down the road before and knows what to do.
Mothers, never give up, never stop trying.
Continue to go back to find lost ones.
Assure them there will always be a home for them in the family and in the church.
In difficult times, people almost always turn to their mother.
A mother's love typifies the love of the Savior.
The love of a true mother comes closer to the love of God than any other kind of love.

**James B. Martino of the Seventy
Little boy trying to hit ball.  Throws it up in air, swings bat, misses.  Repeatedly.  Begins to cry.  Then, face brightens and with a big smile he sayd, "Man, what a pitcher!"
It is how we react to difficulties that determine our success and happiness.
We'll each face times of difficulty.  It is not when we will face them but how we face them.
All things work to good for them that love God. 
Trials come in many forms, but each allow us to come closer to the Savior.
We may never know "why", but we have confidence that we can grow from each experience.
It is easy to look back and learn from experience, but the challenge is to gain perspective AS we go through it.
Humble ourselves before God.
Lessons learned from the Savior in His last hours:
Seek not to do my will, only the will of the Father.
Remain faithful, even through trials.
A small amount of pain now may protect us from greater pain in the future.  (Mothers take their children to get shots as young children because they know it will protect them later.)
Heavenly Father knows the end from the beginning.  Trust Him!
When faced with trials, do not complain or murmur.
Attempt to correct the problem and overcome the trial, but do not ask, "Why me?"  Instead ask, "What am I to do?  What am I to learn?  What do I need to change?"
Seek greater help from God.  Pray more earnestly.
The answers often do not remove our trial, but He strengthens us as we go through them.
Be more earnest, sincere, and faithful.
Learn to serve others, even in times of trial.
Repent, then follow Jesus Christ's example of service.
Through service, we strengthen ourselves, too.
Forgive others, do not seek to pass the blame to them.
The Savior prayed for forgiveness of those who killed him.  Can we not be more forgiving of others?
*Gregory A. Schwitzer of the Seventy
Exercise good judgement, but judge not.
Good judgement is needed in understanding people and in making choices that lead us toward God.
Many blessings are missed because worldly judgement was made on what should have been a spiritual decision.
How to make good judgement:  Put yourself in alignment with Jesus Christ and His gospel.
The Gospel has a long record of guiding people to happiness.
Listen to the prophet!  Advises, leads, etc.
Cultivate with the Holy Ghost a relationship of listening.
We have the gift of the Holy Ghost but we often leave that gift on the shelf.
Requires quiet pondering - external and internal.  More than just shutting off noise outside, we need to shut off the noise of sin in our soul.
Keep the commandments; opens many promised blessings
The Book of Mormon is a record of the results of keeping and not keeping commandments.
Francisco J. Vinas of the Seventy
Replace fear with faith.
42 members of the church died in Haiti's earthquake.  Families are in mourning.  But rejoice in the promise of the plan of salvation.
They received humanitarian aid. 
Leaders profived counsel and guidance.
Rec'd support from other members who mourned with those who mourn and comfort those who stand in need of comfort.
When we have the truth and fall away, we become more hardened. 
We need to watch over our friends and family.  Help lead away from things that lead to spiritual death.
Teach all things pertaining to righteousness.
Watch over and nourish.
Parents have a sacred duty - in nurturing, supporting, and teaching children in all righteousness. 
Leaders watch over members.
Enduring conversion.   Study scriptures, pray, do works of righteousness.
**Neil L. Anderson
The Lord's way is the best way.
He orchestrates a spiritual symphony with conference talks.
We have heard and felt the mind and will of the Lord.
As parents, we hold in our arms the rising generation.
We cannot be casual in how we prepare them.
Our job is to fan the flame of spiritual glow already alight in their core.
Each child needs their own conversion, lighte, faith - independant of parents, leaders, and friends.
Stories of Jesus bring faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Imbed the life and teachings of Christ in your child's mind.
It will help them live up to their important responsibilities and eternal capacities.
(Have decided to base my FHE lessons on stories of Jesus, from the scriptures.)
Read scriptures about the savior.
Speak more frequently about Jesus Christ.
In His holy name, is great spiritual power.
There is no other way.  Only in and through the Lord, Jesus Christ. 
The power of heaven will bless us as we speak of Christ.
Your testimony will remain in your children's heart and soul, even if they stray.
As we speak of Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost will accompany us and our words and testimony of Christ will distill upon our children's hearts.
Stronger faith in Jesus Christ will prepare them for challenges they will face.
Two men can do anything as long as one of them is the Lord.
The Savior must be our foundation, without that, we flounder.
The sting of death is swollowed up in Christ.
Tell me the Stories of Jesus.
The prophet speaks for the Lord.
President Thomas S. Monson
We are all here because we love the Lord.
We want to serve him, it is our responsibility.
The Lord is mindful of us.
Trust the Lord.
It has been good for us to be in Conference.
The messages we've heard will be printed.  Study them, ponder and apply them.
The world has slipped from moorings of safety.  They are tossed about on the sea of sin.  Have forfeited blessings and shattered dreams.  Look for the light of the Lord.  His light can rescue all.
The Lord loves us and will bless us as we call upon Him.
The prophet invokes the blessing of the Lord on each of us and our family and homes.

Day 99

99 Days ago, I issued a challenge to the sisters in our ward to read the Book of Mormon by today. This morning, I read the final chapter in the Book of Mormon where an ancient prophet bore his last testimony before sealing up the records. I then got up and listened to living prophets and apostles today as they bore their testimony about our Savior and His gospel. We had a beautiful Easter Sunday, filled with the good word of God, good friends, and good food.

I love the Book of Mormon. I love the spirit I feel when I read it and the way that spirit accompanies me throughout my day. I love the gospel and the peace and joy it brings to my life. I love the prophets, those I read about in the scriptures as well as the ones I see on my TV while watching Conference.

Tomorrow is day 100. So, what now? In the last 99 days I've developed a habit of reading each morning before I get up and get busy with my day, and tomorrow will be no different. It won't be day 100, but back to day 1 to start all over again. If you read these last 99 days, what will you do tomorrow? I hope you will start again. Even if you go at a slower pace, I hope you will continue to read and ponder the scriptures each day. And for those who did not read with us, it's never too late to start. If you would like to follow the 99 day challenge, there's the link to the program.

We certainly had a fabulous Easter weekend and I do have more to blog about: egg hunts, making new friends, trying new recipes, and of course my notes from General Conference. Give me a day or two, I'll get to it. ;)

General Conference Notes

Here are my notes from this weekend.  Everytime I go to type these up, I think to myself, "I take WAY too many notes!" lol  I never really expect others to read these, I type them up mostly for my own reference, but I have often heard others tell me how much they appreciate them.  I'm glad if that is the case.  :)

Please, don't mind the typos, I am not taking the time to spell-check.  As usual, I placed a * next to my favorites.

Saturday Morning Session
President Thomas S. Monson (Prophet and President of the Church)
130 temples are currently in operation
16 temples have been announced or are under construction
5 additional temples are being announced today:  Brigham City, UT; Chile; Brazil; Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Japan  (I didn't catch the specific location for the foreign temples.)
The church continues to grow and is spreading far and wide over the world.
Befriend converts, reach out and surround them with love.
Pray for areas that are not currently open to missionaries.
Elder Richard G. Scott (Quorum of the Apostles)
Seek personal inspiration; be led by the spirit
The Holy Ghost is here to assist us.
Heavenly Father wants us to use the Holy Ghost consitently for peace and happiness.
Growth comes as we learn to recognize the Holy Ghost.
Spirituality yeilds inspiration and power.
Write down impressions of the spirit.  Then ask the Lord, "Is there more for me to know?"  And write that down, too.
Respond to and apply the promptings that come to you.
The Lord will not force us to learn.  He allows us to exercise our agency.
One of the things that will keep us from feeling the spirit is pornography; pornography is one of hte most damning influences on the earth.  It is overpoweringly addictive and destructive.
Participating in pornography is unbridled selfishness.
Take preventative action to protect your family.
Learn to be consistently guided by the spirit in all aspects of your life.
Sister Vicki F. Matsumori  (2nd Counselor in Primary General Presidency)
Provide an environment where the spirit can be felt.
Constant companionship of the Holy Ghost comes by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority.
Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly so the Holy Ghost will by your constant companion.
Share testimony of the influence of the Holy Ghost in our lives to help others recognize where they have similar feelings.
Provide still and quiet time each day for the Holy Ghost to provide revelation.
Teachers and leaders fascillitate whisperings of the spirit.
Recognize the spirit and follow it's promptings - we will recognize answers to our prayers.
God lives, loves, and knows us.  He hears our prayers.  Jesus Christ is the Savior and He will come again.
Elder L. Whitney Clayton (Of the Seventy)
Life presses all kinds of burdens on us.
People struggle under burdens; they can be exhausting and can last for years.
Causes for our burdens:
*Some are caused by natural patterns of life. (Natural disasters, illness, etc.)
*Some are imposed on us because of the actions of others. (Abuse, neglect, being treated unfairly.)
*Some are from our own mistakes.  (Sin, bad choices, carelessness, etc.)
No matter what burdens we face, we are all children of a loving Heavenly Father who sent us here for growth and to progress.
Adversities and difficulties last (from Heaven's perspective) but a small moment.
We must carry them for as long as they last.
Burdens can become blessings, though often blessings come disguised.
Trials encourage us to seek Heavenly help.
Bear one another's burdens - that will help to relieve our own burdens as well as the ones we are trying to help.
"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of hte least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Matt 25:40)
The Lord strengthens us when we submit cheerfully and patiently.
Christ suffered for all, so we might not suffer, if we repent.
Whosoever repenteth, findeth mercy.
As we keep our commandments and covenants, He lifts our burdens and strengthens us.
Russell T. Osguthorpe (Sunday School General President)
When we receive the truth, we will be saved by it.  Not just by hearing it, but by receiving it and acting on it.
Missionaries teach the principles.  Blessings are promised if we keep the principles.
President Monson said, The goal of teachers is to inspire the class to "think about it, feel about it, and then do something about the gospel principles."
Aim High - stretch yourself, aim higher.
As a teacher, do I view myself as a messenger from God?  Do I focus on the key principles of the Gospel?  Do I teach with love?  Do I invite them to do the work that God has for them to do?  Do I express confidence in them?
Learn truth, then teach it.
Teaching helps save lives.
*Elder David A. Bednar (Quorum of the Apostles)
"More diligent and concerned at home."
Express love and show it.Do more of what we know is right. 
Say, mean, and show love.
We will never regret kind words and expressions shown.
Our love of the Lord is shown by walking in His ways. - Our love for our family is shown by our deeds.
Love is the source of strength - it casts out fear.
Bear testimony and live it.It doesn't need to be lengthy.
Share your testimony with family in your home.
What we know is not always reflected in what we do.
We are not only striving to know more, but to do it.
Bear it, mean it, and most importantly, live it!
Hearing and feeling a testimony of a loved one is very rewarding.
Be consistent.Regular family prayer, scripture study, FHE, etc.
They don't always yield immediate results - but over time, through consistency, they will yield desired results.
In having regular prayer, scripture study, and FHE, the consistency is perhaps the greatest lesson.
Many ordinary and individual brush strokes work together to create a beautiful painting.
They may not remember a single or specific lesson or verse, but it will all combine to develop their testimony.
DON'T BE HYPOCRITS!  Don't say and do not.  Be and become more consistent.   Express love and consistently show it.  Bear testimony and consistently live it.
Be more consistent in seemingly small things.

**President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (2nd Counselor in First Presidency)
 Of all the things we want to be known for, what attribute should define us most as disciples of Jesus Christ?
How do we become true disciples of Christ?  "If ye love me, keep my commandments"
Those who receive Christ, walk with Him.
Eternal principles can be lost in the labryinth of good ideas.
Don't neglect weightier matters while attending to smaller ones.
The greatest commandment - Love the Lord, thy God with all thy heart, soul, and mind.  The next greatest commandment - love thy neighbor as thyself.
Love is the great commandment and should be at the center of our family, callings, and lives.
Love is the healing balm, it unites us, brings friendship, tolerance, respect, it overcomes hate, warms our lives with joy and hope.
Love should be our walk and our talk.
When we love God, obedience becomes a joy, not a burden.
God does not need our love; His power is independant.
But oh, how we need to love God!
"What we love determines what we seek.  What we seek determines what we think and do.  What we think and do determines who we are and what we will become."
Love is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Jesus Christ.
"We love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19)
Though we are incomplete, He loves us completely.
Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly.
We may be lost and without a compass, but His love encompasses us.
He loves every one of us.  His love is so great, He even loves the proud and wicked.
That means that no matter what our current state, He loves us!
He desires that we draw near unto Him so He can draw near unto us.
How do we increase our love for Him?  - Search Him with ALL our heart.
If we don't obey Him, all we do is in vain.
Increase love and demonstrate that love by aligning our actions with His words.
Walk in righteousness out of earnest desire to become more like Him because we love Him.
Don't get discouraged if you stumble at times.
The first step in walking in righteousness is to simply TRY.
Try and keep on trying until that which seems impossible becomes a habit and a real part of you.
As you reach out to Him, He will answer.
As you read your scriptures, listen for His voice.  As you attend the temple, listen for His voice.  As you: attend church, think of the words of a hymn, interact with others, hear the laughter of a child... listen for His voice.
As we draw near to Heavenly Father, we become more Holy.  We will be led out of darkness to a greater light.  The veil becomes thin.
Every other commandment hangs upon the principle of love.
All else will fall into place.
Through divine love, ordinary acts become extraordinary service.
Love is the guiding light, it illuminates the disciple's path.
It is the measure of our faith, inspiration of our obedience.
Love is the way of the disciple.
Let us be known as a people who love God with all their heart, soul, and mind and who love our neighbors as ourselves.
- The closing hymn was "Come, Come Ye Saints" and for some reason, though I've heard this song hundreds of times and love it, this line is what struck me the strongest today: "Gird up your loins; fresh courage take.  Our God will never us forsake."
Saturday Afternoon Session
Elder Dallin H. Oaks (Quorum of the Apostles)
God's love and God's Commandment -
God's love is shown in all the blessings in the Gospel plan.
Love should not supercede the laws.
No one/no thing can seperate us from God's love.
God's love for His children is an eternal reality.
God's laws are invariable.
Mercy cannot rob justice.
God instituted laws to help us advance.  Only through obedience to His laws can we be made perfect.
You can love and still be angry/disappointed with children or loved ones.
If we listen, we can feel God's love, even when we are disobedient.
Don't be "too angry to see" God's love.
Any blessing from God is because of obedience to the law that the blessing was predicated.
Agency is fundamental to the plan.
God will bless us to be able to endure the consequences of others' choices, but will not prevent those from making their choices.
Wise parents grant some parental gifts on obedience.
Whom the Lord loveth, He chasteneth.
"Real love does not support self-destructive behavior."
Breaking commandments affects and divides the family.
Straying of loved ones will dtract from our happiness but should not detract from our love for them.

Elder Robert D. Hales (Quorum of the Apostles)
"We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." First Article of Faith
Why is belief in God so important?  Without God, life would end at the grave.  Without God, our growth and progress would be temporary.  There would be no ultimate right or wrong.  Without God there would be no mortality or Eternal life.
We are created in His image. 
God and Christ have bodies and voices - we know this from the Bible. 
They have feelings for us.
The Holy Ghost testifies of God and teaches us.
If we don't yield to the Holy Ghost, we are putting ourselves in jeapardy.
"Thou hast had signs enough, will ye tempt your God?" Alma 30:44
We have scriptures, prophets - all things witness there is a supreme creator.
The light of belief is in you. 
Believe the testimony of the prophets, learn of light and Christ.
Let the evidence of God all around us touch our hearts.
Seek a testimony now - find strength, peace, comfort; it will bless your family, posterity, friends, and your own life.  It will bring hte greatest joy you will ever have.
Elder Jorge F. Zeballos (Of the Seventy)
Promise of eternal life is subject to sincere demonstration of faith in Christ.
The Lord doesn't expect us to do what we cannot do.
We are commanded to become perfect, like Him.
God doesn't expect more than our best - that would not be just.
God doesn't expect less than our best - that would not be just.
We must give our best.  As we do, each day we will become better.
By grace we are saved, after all we can do.
Remember and renew the commitements we've made with Heavenly Father.
Do the best we can as a spouse, parent, sibling, in our calling, as a member, at work, and in our daily life.
It is possible to achieve the impossible.  It is possible to achieve eternal life.  It is possible to be happy now and forever.
Elder Tad R. Callister (Of the Seventy)
Joseph Smith was the Lord's annointed to restore the church to the earth.
Joseph Smith learned 4 things during the First Vision:
1) Learned that God and Jesus Christ are two seperate beings.
The Bible confirms this - Christ removed His will to do the will of the Father.
God gave His only begotten Son. 
They can't be one being.
2) God and Christ have glorified bodies of flesh and bones.
In Bible, Christ appeared to the apostles after He was resurrected - they felt his body.
3) God still speaks to man today, the Heavens are not closed.
Does God not love us as much today as yesterday?
Does God not have the power today that He had yesterday?
Do we not need Him as much today as we did yesterday?
4) The full and complete church of God was not found on the earth at that time.
There were good people, but not God's church.
We know there are multiple heavens.  In the Bible, it refers to the "3rd heaven".  If there is a "3rd heaven", what about the 2nd and the 1st?
Angels - they appeared to Mary, Peter, James, John, Paul, Steven, etc.  Joseph Smith also saw angels, just as those in the Bible.
Salvation can only be found in one place.  This is the ONLY true and living church upon the face of the earth.
Elder Kent D. Watson (Of the Seventy)
What is temperance? 
It is a divine attribute of Jesus Christ.
Learn to be temperate in all things.  Temperance is a spiritual gift.
Self control, humble, submissive, gentleness
Do not be lifted up unto pride.  Carefully examine desires.
Diligently seek righteous goals.
Tempered glass undergoes an intense heating process to strengthen it.
Tempered souls are people of increased spiritual strength.
We live in an impatient and intemperate world.
Jesus Christ is the best example of temperance.
Be patient in our afflictions.

Elder Neil L. Anderson (Quorum of the Apostles)
Invitation to be wrapped in Christ's arms... They are arms of mercy, safety, love.
His arms are extended towards us in an invitation to repent.
Reach up to ao higher way of life.
There are many degrees of personal righteousness, but we all need to repent.
The Savior is able and eager to forgive our sins.
Turn away from sin and come unto Christ.
"Repentance is a journey, not a one time event."
"Repentance is returning towards God"
Don't pull the shades down on our window to heaven.
The Savior knows where we are and how we feel.  "I have engraven thee on the palms of my hands."
When we're hiking in the trees, we cannot see our progress until we are near the top.
"Don't be discouraged.  If you are striving to repent, you are in the process of repentance."
The Scriptures do not say we will forget our forsaken sins in mortality, only that the Lord will forget them.
When we repent, the arms of the Savior extend to us and others we love.
"Repentance always means there is greater happiness ahead."
President Boyd K. Packer (President of the Quorum of the Apostles)
None of us are left here alone without hope or guidance.
We are part of God's great plan of happiness.
Use agency wisely, stay close to the spirit to stay away from the wiles of the adversary.
The gift of the Holy Ghost operates in men, women, and children, it is not reserved for apostles and prophets.
Promptings and Prayer
No matter what, you can always pray.
Your mind is in charge and your mind controls your body.  Creat a "delete" key when a temptation comes along. 
Pray for guidance.  Pray often in your mind and in your heart.  Pray on your knees.
Conclude prayers with "Thy will be done."
God will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able.  He will provide a way for us to overcome our temptations.
Sunday Morning Session
*President Henry B. Erying (1st Counselor in the First Presidency)
The message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is that we can and must strive to become better.
"Even the most humble person can take hope in the invitation to become like the Savior."

I’m trying to be like Jesus;
I’m following in his ways.
I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,
“Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught.” 

To be like Jesus is not just a hope, but a command.
"Love is the motivating principle by which the Lord leads us along the way to be like Him."
"It is love of God that will lead us to keep the commandments."
The family is the ideal setting to learn to love as He loves.  We feel joy when we put the welfare of others above our own.  And we feel sorrow when we are selfish, which is the absense of love.
"Please, no empty chairs" - a request to family members in reference to meeting again in the world to come.
Satan wants misery in families in this life and the next.
Spouses: Pray for love that will allow you to see the good in your companion and make their weaknesses seem small.  Pray to lesson the load of your spouse, to soften their sorrows.
Parents of a wandering child: The Savior is the perfect example of love.  The prodigal son remembered home and so will your children.  They will remember and be drawn to your love.
Though some sheep wander, the eye of the Savior is on them.  They will feel Him reaching out to them.  Pray, love, reach out to your children.  Jeus is reaching out to them, too.
Children: Honor your parents.  Even if they are not ideal or even if you don't know them.
Think of how you feel when trying to be like Jesus.  WE have all felt like a child - humble, submissive, trusting, peaceful.
Child-like obedience will bring love for the Savior and it will bring His love to you.
Look for opportunities to do and love as He does.
None of us are perfect yet, but we are following along the way.
President Eyring left a blessing on us that we would feel the assurance and approval which we have felt as a child.
Elder L. Tom Perry (Quorum of the Apostles)
Take care of every detail.
The pioneers built temples without the modern conveniences that we have.  They performed their labor under their own power.
"I don't want to go back to the past, I want to go back to the past way of facing the future." - Ronald Reagan
Pioneers turned a wasteland into a beautiful valley.  They worked hard.
"If we're going to have a temple, we better get busy and start building it." - their attitude
Eternal principles and truths do not change and are important, especially in these uncertain times.
He that preacheth and receiveth understand each other and both are edified and rejoice one with another.
We've taken on the responsibility to share the gospel with others.
Full time missionaries do most of the teaching, but members have ample opportunities to answer questions.
Preparation eliminates fear.
How prepared are you to bear witness of the restoration and plan of salvation, as the missionaries teach in their lessons?
Principles and truths of the past help us to prepare for the future.
The Plan of Happiness is a plan for us to live and follow Him, to return to our Father in Heaven.
Bishop H. David Burton (Presiding Bishop)
"Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven." D&C 121:45
"We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, and in doing good to all men.  Indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul; we believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things.  If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praise-worthy, we seek after these things. " - 13th Article of Faith
Virtuous traits form the foundation of Christian life.  They are the outward demonstration of the inner man.
The "ity" Virtues:  Civility, fidelity, integrity, charity, morality, humility, responsibility, generosity, accountability, etc.
The world is turning it's back on these virtues. 
We need not be a part of abandoning these virtues - the result would be disasterous.
We need to stand tall and firmly fixed in emmulating these virtues.
Hypocritical examples destroy credibility.
Integrity is the mother of many virtues.  Integrity is the light that shows from a disciple's conscience.  Integrity is the strength of Diety within us.
If integrity is not important, spirituality is difficult to maintain.
Most will not commit desperate acts of sin if they are taught that honesty and kindess are more important than revenge or rage.
If the traits of virtue are forgotten, they will become the lost virtues.
"Now is the time for us to join in rescuing and preserving that which is of good report and praseworthy as we let virtue garnish our thoughts."
"May we have the humility to take the opportunity to act on our responsibility to demonstrate our ability to do so."
*Sister Ann M. Dibb  (2nd Counselor in the YW General Presidency)
Told of men working on a bridge when the scaffolding collapsed.  Some will killed, many had to hang on for dear life.  They had the safety equipment but chose not to use it.
Going through scary times in our lives - loneliness, temptaitons, challenges, disappointment, fear, etc.
We learn and grow by overcoming challenges with faith, persistence, and personal righteousness.
You are entitled to Heavenly Father's blessing in this work. 
Heavenly Father knows your skill and devotion.  He will convert our inadequacies to strengths.
Heavenly Father has given us safety equipment - prayer, scriptures, prophets, the Holy Ghost.
Proper use requires diligence, obedience... Choose to use it!
Hold onto the rod of iron - if we do, we cannot perish, or be overpowered by blindness, or led to destruction.
Study, ponder, apply
Get a grip! 
It is not easy to hold on - there is opposition, like peer pressure.
When we let go, we are leaving our safety equipment behind.
Are we wandering on strange roads?
It is always possible to find our way back - Repentance.
Regain and recommit our strong grip on the iron rod.
Hold on to the truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and don't let go!  Because they are everything.
Elder Russell M. Nelson (Quorum of the Apostles)
Today's technologies are great blessings. 
Even more amazing, is access to heaven within a moment. - and without hardware, software, or monthly service fees! ;)
Prayer - ask/knock, it will be given to you.
Always be ready to receive help from Heaven.
To access information from Heaven, must have firm faith, deep desire, sincere heart, having real intent, having faith in Christ.
Study the matter in your mind.
Know and obey the teachings of hte Lord.
God will bless his prophets and He will bless those who follow prophetic counsel.
The change from being the natural man to being a disciople of Christ, is great.
The natural man is an enemy to God.
Put off the natural man, become a saint.
Become like a child - submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to the will of the father.
Discern - means to sift, seperate, distinguish
Discernment - to feel things that are not tangible.
We seek to understand the will of God, and then seek to carry it out.
Seek revelation for your own unique lives and needs.
Revelation from God is always compatable with His laws.  It will never contradict scripture.
Revelation doesn't all come at once.
Line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little.
Unto whom that receiveth, I will give more.
Patience is part of our progression.
Every latter-day saint may merit personal revelation.
God lives, Jesus is the living Christ, this is the living church, President Monson is a living prophet.

*President Thomas S. Monson (Prophet and President of the Church)

What did you do for someone today?
Each of us can do something for someone.
By love, serve one another.
"When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God." Mos 2:17
"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." Matt 16:25
Those who live only for themselves shrivel up and lose their lives.  Those who serve others are bouyed up and find their lives.
Man's greatest happiness comes from losing himself in the service of others.
Don't become caught up in the business of our lives.  Step back, have we immersed ourselves in taking care of things that do not really matter much, neglecting that which is more important?
"I never have yet felt a tinge of regret for being a little too kind." - from a poem he read
Heavenly Father has mandated that we serve and lift His children.
Matthew 25: 34-40...
  34 Then shall the King say unto them on his ^aright hand, Come, ye ^bblessed of my Father, ^cinherit the ^dkingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
  35 For I was an ^ahungred, and ye ^bgave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a ^cstranger, and ye took me in:
  36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye ^avisited me: I was in ^bprison, and ye came unto me.
  37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
  38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
  39 Or when saw we thee ^asick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
  40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have ^adone it unto one of the ^bleast of these my ^cbrethren, ye have done it unto me.
Sunday Afternoon Session
**Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (Quorum of the Apostles)
Prophecies about the last days refer to large scale calamaties, which also lead to economic trials.
The Savior warned that even those of the covenant could be deceived by the enemy of truth.
"Mens hearts shall fail them"
Heavenly Father knew of this and gave us counsel and protection regarding it.
The mists of darkness descends on all.  But successful travelers resist all distractions - including alluring paths and the jeering taunts of onlookers.
Successful travelers hold fast to the rod of iron.
However dark the night or day, the rod of iron marks the path and leads to safety.
Love, healing, help, and hope - the Power of Christ.
This is the safe harbor that God wants for us.
Come unto Christ and be perfected in Him.
When we are faithful, we are made strong.
No wicked man could write a book like this and no good man would write it - unless it is true.  (Speaking of the Book of Mormon)
If people leave the church, "they must do it crawling over or under or around the Book of Mormon"
(Incredibly powerful testimony of the Book of Mormon, one that really must be read in it's entirety when it is available on-line or in Ensign!)
Elder Quentin L. Cook (Quorum of the Apostles)
We live in perilous times.  Many believe that we are not held accountable to God for our actions.  They don't believe they are their brother's keeper.
We try to do what is right because we love and want to please our Father in Heaven.
We have our agency, but we are accountable for that agency.  We are accountable for our sins.
We have stewardship over many things.  2 of them : family and poor/needy
We live in a time when virtue and chastity are not safe guarded, morailty is not respected.
Heavenly Father instructs us that the well springs of life must remain clean.
It is our responsibility to teach His standard of morality.
Instead of "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas", we should be like a town in Utah that says, "What happens in __________, you can share with your friends."
All can repent and return, just like the spring water, to a clean state.
Having religious observance in the home is as important as providing food, clothing, and shelter.
Elder Brent H. Nielson (Of the Seventy)
Lengthen your stride, broaden your vision
This, the rising generation is the fulfillment of prophecy.
Who are hte laborers in the vineyard?  Not just prophets, bishops, stake presidents, but also our parents.  Those who came before and prepared the way.
The torch is now passed to a new generation.  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.
"This is the last time that I shall prune my vineyard."
The Lord is asking for worthy YM and YW to serve and go "this last time"
There is no greater work, no greater call, than teaching all nations.
Stand for truth and righteousness.   Understand your call.
Elder Dale G. Renlund (Of the Seventy)
Much like a heart transplant, we have a spiritual change of heart - a mighty change of heart.
We cannot afford to become relaxed in our maintenance.  We must take great care of a spiritually changed heart, even more than a physical heart transplant.
Don't become casual in worship.  Don't assume "all is well".
Being casual about seemingly small things (prayer, scriptures, etc) is a death trap.
Actively help and serve others.
Be upright in all things, do not compromise your values.
Identify temptations and put them out of reach - WAY out of reach!
Elder Michael T. Ringwood (Of the Seventy)
An eagerness and willingness to believe comes from a soft heart.
Soft hearts lead to an outpouring of the spirit.
Easiness to believe comes from the examples of others.  It reminds them of the faith of their fathers.
Seek diligently, wiht lowliness of heart.
Allow the words of God to sink deep in our hearts.
"Etch" words of God into our hearts.
What brings easiness and willingness to believe is not the circumstances we are in, but the things that we do.
Elder Joseph W. Sitati (Of the Seventy)
The church is a global faith.
We can understand God's plan for us more now than at any other time because of the Priesthood keys that are on the earth today.
God is no respecter of persons.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson (Quorum of the Apostles)
We all have the God given gift of moral agency.  For a positive outcome, moral agency must be accompanied by moral discipline.
Moral discipline is rooted in loyalty to Christ.
In the world, self discipline is eroded.
Laws can never replace values at regulating behavior.
Moral discipline is taught at home.
Keep the commandments of God.
Service and sacrifice for the well being and happiness of others, in love, is more important than seeking our own desires.
It is not enough to have a witness of truth, our children must become truly converted while they are with us.  They will gain strength from what they are, not just what they know.
Intelligent use of agency requires knowledge of the turth.
"Mere wanting" is hardly a proper guide for moral conduct.
Therapy can support a person's will but not replace it.
We must have moral discipline.
President Thomas S. Monson (Prophet and President of the Church)
We have been richly taught, spiritually edified.
Read and study these messages in the November Ensign.
Many in the world have slipped from the moorings of safety.
We find ourselves swimming against the current.
"And behold, I prepare you against these things; for ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come. Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?  Ether 2:25
He is ever mindful of us.  He loves us, will bless us as we strive to do what is right.
The prophet prays for us.
Pray for the prophet and all of the General Authorities.
"We're all in this together.  Every man, woman, and child has a part to play."  May God give us the strength to play our part.