053125, Saturday

Journal Entry: 

Blake's funeral today. We drove to the Mesa Airport to pick up Jake. When he got in the car, his pants ripped. He is over weight and the pants were old but we didn't have much time. It was about 0830 and the funeral started at 1000. I suggested Walmart and he found a pair of suitable pants for a little over $16.00.

The funeral was very nice and now we are sitting around at Becky's house waiting to take Cathy Kreutzer and Jake back to their respective flights at their respective airports... Cathy to Phoenix Sky Harbor and Jake to Mesa. 

Cathy and I are driving home starting tomorrow morning and we are planning on spending a night in Kanab again.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 56:16 Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches will canker your souls; and this shall be your lamentation in the day of visitation, and of judgment, and of indignation: The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved!

"I suppose I’ve said enough to establish the fact that caring for the poor is a covenantal obligation. It follows, then, that we look after our poor and distressed not only because it is convenient, or exciting, or socially acceptable; we should do it first and foremost in fulfillment of our covenant with the Lord that we will do so."

President Marion G. Romney, Apostle, October 1972

Yesterday's Come Follow Me:

D&C 56:2 And he that will not take up his cross and follow me, and keep my commandments, the same shall not be saved.

"...[T]he "man [or woman] of Christ” is spiritual and bridles all passions, is temperate and restrained, and is benevolent and selfless. Men and women of Christ lay hold upon the word of God, deny themselves and take up His cross and press forward along a strait and narrow course of faithfulness, obedience, and devotion to the Savior and His gospel."

Elder David A. Bednar, Apostle, April 2013

052925, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: unk, GMI: 6.6 Steps (previous day): 6,387

Journal Entry: We are staying at a Hampton Inn in Kanab. I was trying to utilize a credit from Trivago because of a cancellation from our East coast vacation but it has gotten so complicated that as of now I’m just paying for our hotel. We are going to stay with Becky in Phoenix and that will more than make up for whatever costs resulting from the Trivago confusion. It I have time out motivation later I will write more about that Trivago mess. 

We will be driving on down to Phoenix today and, as I said, we will be staying with Becky. 

Come Follow Me 

D&C 54:10 And again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. Even so. Amen.

“To the Latter-day Saints, the Lord gave patience as one of the divine attributes that qualifies a person for the ministry, he counseled them to be patient in their afflictions, and he admonished them to make their decisions in patience. The Savior taught us to be perfect and said, “Ye are not able to abide the presence of God now, neither the ministering of angels; wherefore, continue in patience until ye are perfected..."

I pray that we might be patient, especially in adversity, as we meet our challenges of uncertainty, trials, pressure, and tribulation in today’s world.”

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Apostle

052825, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.2,  GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 8,085

Journal Entry

We are driving down to Phoenix today but we are planning to stop overnight in Kanab. I think it's possible we might go all the way but we'll see. Becky has invited us to stay with her but we told her we would be there tomorrow so as I write this, I think Kanab might be a good idea. It's about halfway so at our age probably a good idea.

I've got some catching up to do with Journal entries and hope to do that as Cathy drives. If not,I'll catch up some other way.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 54:6 But blessed are they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment, for they shall obtain mercy.

"Some seem to value God’s love because of their hope that His love is so great and so unconditional that it will mercifully excuse them from obeying His laws. In contrast, those who understand God’s plan for His children know that God’s laws are invariable, which is another great evidence of His love for His children. Mercy cannot rob justice, and those who obtain mercy are “they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Apostle, October 2009

052725, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.7, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 5,990

Journal Entry

Come Follow Me 

D&C 51:19 And whoso is found a faithful, a just, and a wise steward shall enter into the joy of his Lord, and shall inherit eternal life.

"To consecrate is to set apart or dedicate something as sacred, devoted to holy purposes. True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives—that is, our time and choices—to God’s purposes. In so doing, we permit Him to raise us to our highest destiny."

Elder D. Todd Chrisofferson, Apostle, October 2010

052625, Monday, Memorial Day

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 8,099

Journal Entry

Come Follow Me 

D&C 51:9 And let every man deal honestly, and be alike among this people, and receive alike, that ye may be one, even as I have commanded you.

"Dishonesty is directly related to selfishness, which is its origin and source. Selfishness is at the root of nearly all the disorders that afflict us, and man’s inhumanity to man continues to make countless thousands mourn.

If all mankind were honest, we could have heaven here on earth. We would have no need for armies or navies, nor even a policeman in the smallest community, for there would be no crime, no invasion of other people’s rights, no violence of one person against another."

Elder Mark E. Peterson, Apostle, October 1971

052525, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 5,775

Journal Entry

The Provo River up near Bridal Veil Falls is apparently going to get some much needed visitor upgrades starting this summer. Plans include improved paths and bridges and improved parking. 

052425, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.6, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 9,318

Journal Entry

Blake passed away at about sunset yesterday. We will be going through the sadness and other issues for the next few days. Cathy and I are considering driving down to Arizona so we won't be boxed in by airline schedules and car rental issues. More later on that.

I feel badly for Kevin. He has been a great dad and had worked so very hard to try to save Blake but... I hope he will remember that Blake is still alive in the spirit world and will be his son forever.

In addition to all of that he has to constantly battle Kim who seems to get great satisfaction from trying to make his life as miserable as possible. On the other hand he now has Becky who seems to be everything to him that Kim was not. He's getting more used to being treated like the good husband and father that he is and he appreciates everything Becky has done and is doing for him. I don't think he was ever treated well by Kim. Enough about that. Hopefully the funeral details will be over soon and Kim will move up to Utah and peace will be a big part of his life.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 50:19 And again, he that receiveth the word of truth, doth he receive it by the Spirit of truth or some other way?

20 If it be some other way it is not of God.

21 Therefore, why is it that ye cannot understand and know, that he that receiveth the word by the Spirit of truth receiveth it as it is preached by the Spirit of truth?

"I have come to better understand how vitally important it is to receive by the Spirit. We often focus, appropriately, on the importance of teaching by the Spirit. But we need to remember that the Lord has placed equal, if not greater, importance on receiving by the Spirit."

President A. Roger Merrill, Sunday School General President, October 2006

This is a concept that needs to be forefront in our thinking throughout each day of our lives.

052325, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 3,721

Journal Entry

Our grandson and Kevin's son, Blake, passed away at about 9:15 pm today. More tomorrow.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 50:2 Behold, verily I say unto you, that there are many spirits which are false spirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world.

3 And also Satan hath sought to deceive you, that he might overthrow you.

"He and the spirits who follow him are still deceiving the world…Satan’s methods of deception are enticing: music, movies and other media, and the glitter of a good time. When Satan’s lies succeed in deceiving us, we become vulnerable to his power…

One kind of deception seeks to mislead us about whom we should follow…

Satan also seeks to deceive us about right and wrong and persuade us that there is no such thing as sin. This detour typically starts off with what seems to be only a small departure: “Just try it once…”

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Apostle, October 2004

052225, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7, GMI: 6.4, Steps (previous day): 8,107

Journal Entry

Blake just seems to be on the verge of dying. His condition is described in daily reports from both Kevin and Kim as being mostly very serious. He has been on the verge of passing away for what sense like weeks. Finally yesterday Kevin announced that they would just basically watch and wait indicating that they were ready to let him go. So far, though, he is still with us. 

There is a lot to this story but the bottom line is I think his days, if not hours, are few. 

If he passes in the next day or two we will probably cancel our vacation and go instead to Arizona. We'll see.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 49:27 Behold, I will go before you and be your rearward; and I will be in your midst, and you shall not be confounded.

"He whose name this church bears has promised that He will be in our midst, lead us along, go before us, and even fight our battle…So let us have patience and faith as did Lehi who saw pointing fingers of scorn directed at those who grasped the iron rod, which rod, ironically, some of those same fingers once grasped. But, said Lehi, “we heeded them not.” So it should be with us! Brothers and sisters, being pointed in the right direction, we do not need to worry about being pointed at!"

Elder Neal A. Maxwell Apostle, October 1993

052125, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.1, GMI: 6.4, Steps (previous day): 7,045

Journal Entry

Enjoyed working at the bishops storehouse yesterday. It was fairly busy. 

Cathy found a new hairdresser named Kaylee I think. She is Meredith’s cousin and the only time she could get Cathy in during the next few days was yesterday afternoon. So Cathy went and was very pleased with the results. I’m no expert but I thought she looked better than usual as well. 

Come Follow Me

D&C 49:15 And again, verily I say unto you, that whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man.

16 Wherefore, it is lawful that he should have one wife, and they twain shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation;

“My purpose in speaking out on this topic is to declare, as an Apostle of the Lord, that marriage between a man and a woman is sacred—it is ordained of God. I also assert the virtue of a temple marriage. It is the highest and most enduring type of marriage that our Creator can offer to His children…marriage is not only an exalting principle of the gospel; it is a divine commandment.”

Elder Russell M. Nelson, Apostle, October 2008

052025, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.5, GMI: 6.5, Steps (previous day): 7,739

Journal Entry

We took Jill out to dinner and some birthday cake yesterday. And Cathy has a nice gift for her from us. Otherwise a quiet day. 

We are looking forward to serving in the Bishops Storehouse this afternoon.

Come Follow Me 13 

D&C 49:12 Believe on the name of the Lord Jesus, who was on the earth, and is to come, the beginning and the end;

13 Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, according to the holy commandment, for the remission of sins;

14 And whoso doeth this shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of the hands of the elders of the church. an

"The standard is clear. If something we think, see, hear, or do distances us from the Holy Ghost, then we should stop thinking, seeing, hearing, or doing that thing. If that which is intended to entertain, for example, alienates us from the Holy Spirit, then certainly that type of entertainment is not for us. Because the Spirit cannot abide that which is vulgar, crude, or immodest, then clearly such things are not for us. Because we estrange the Spirit of the Lord when we engage in activities we know we should shun, then such things definitely are not for us."

Elder David A. Bednar, Apostle, April 2006

d be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, according to the holy commandment, for the remission of sins;

14 The standard is clear. If something we think, see, hear, or do distances us from the Holy Ghost, then we should stop thinking, seeing, hearing, or doing that thing. If that which is intended to entertain, for example, alienates us from the Holy Spirit, then certainly that type of entertainment is not for us. Because the Spirit cannot abide that which is vulgar, crude, or immodest, then clearly such things are not for us. Because we estrange the Spirit of the Lord when we engage in activities we know we should shun, then such things definitely are not for us. And whoso doeth this shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of the hands of the elders of the church.

13 Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, according to the holy commandment, for the remission of sins;

14 And whoso doeth this shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of the hands of the elders of the church.

051925, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7, GMI: 6.6, Steps (previous day): 7,767

Journal Entry

I'm going to participate in my annual Firearms qualification today. Although I'm beginning to believe that at age 80 (in seven months or so) and never having fired a gun during a real tactical situation this will be my last qualification. I'll retain my practice of taking a gun with me when I feel the need but I'm going to rely on my history of 34 years as a policeman with LAPD to get me by if I ever get in a situation where I need to use it.

In fact, upon thinking about it, I may not even go to qualification today. We'll see.

Yesterday was quiet. Church and a walk. Choir is over for the summer. 

Come Follow Me

D&C 49:7 I, the Lord God, have spoken it; but the hour and the day no man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven, nor shall they know until he comes. And they

 have "We do not know the precise time of the Second Coming of the Savior, but we do know that we are living in the latter days and are closer to the Second Coming than when the Savior lived his mortal life in the meridian of time. We should resolve to begin a new era of personal obedience to prepare for His return. Mortality is fleeting. We all have much to accomplish in preparation to meet Him."

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Apostle, October 1998time is nigh at hand—

7 I, the Lord God, have spoken it; but the hour and the dayno man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven, nor shall they know until he comes. done unto the Son of Man even as they listed; and he has taken his power on the right hand of his glory⁠, and now reigneth in the heavens, and will reign till he descends on the earth to put all enemies under his feet, which time is nigh at hand—

7 I, the Lord God, have spoken it; but the hour and the dayno man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven, nor shall they know until he comes.

6 And they have done unto the Son of Man even as they listed; and he has taken his power on the right hand of his glory⁠, and now reigneth in the heavens, and will reign till he descends on the earth to put all enemies under his feet, which time is nigh at hand—

7 I, the Lord God, have spoken it; but the hour and the dayno man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven, nor shall they know until he comes.

051825, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.9, GMI: 6.6, Steps (previous day): 11,117

Journal Entry

We worked in the garden yesterday. Cathy planted a few more flowers. 

Then I walked up to Walmart just to see if I could do it safely and I did. It's almost exactly 1.5 miles each way and the only potential hazard is crossing Geneva Road which I did with no problem. I found that I could carry a couple of lightly loaded shopping bags back with me without any problem.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:26 And all these gifts come from God, for the benefit of the children of God.

"Now it was intended that these gifts and talents should be shared with others, for the purpose of rendering service to fellow men and making their lives happier. Every week the Tabernacle Choir thrills, inspires, and uplifts us, their listeners, with beautiful music, just as this chorus today has thrilled us.

Many of us are not blessed with musical talents, but there are other gifts that we do possess, and other services that we can render. The poet, Edward Everett Hale, aptly expressed this thought:

"I am only one,

But still I am one.

I cannot do everything,

But still I can do something;

And because I cannot do everything

I will not refuse to do the something that I can do."

Elder Henry D. Taylor, Assistant to The Twelve, October 1963

051725, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.3 GMI: 6.6, Steps (previous day): 9,718

Journal Entry

A little worrisome this morning as I woke up with a blood glucose reading of 53 - way too low. I checked with a finger prick that showed 127 which seemed more accurate. Not sure what to make of the low reading from my CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor). I'm using Libre 3 and they want me to change to Libre 3+ which I intend to do. It's just that I still have a two month supply of Libre 3 and they are somewhat expensive. I'll check with the pharmacy on Monday and see what they say.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:13 To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world.

14 To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.

“First, I mention the gift of discernment embodying the power to discriminate, which has been spoken of in our hearing before particularly as between right and wrong. I believe that this gift when highly developed arises largely out of an acute sensitivity to impressions—spiritual impressions, if you will—to read under the surface as it were, to detect hidden evil, and more importantly to find the good that may be concealed. The highest type of discernment is that which perceives in others and uncovers for them their better natures, the good inherent within them. It’s the gift every missionary needs when he takes the gospel to the people of the world. He must make an appraisal of every personality whom he meets. He must be able to discern the hidden spark that may be lighted for truth. The gift of discernment will save him from mistakes and embarrassment, and it will never fail to inspire confidence in the one who is rightly appraised.

The gift of discernment is essential to the leadership of the Church. I never ordain a bishop or set apart a president of a stake without invoking upon him this divine blessing, that he may read the lives and hearts of his people and call forth the best within them. The gift and power of discernment in this world of contention between the forces of good and the power of evil is essential equipment for every son and daughter of God. There could be no such mass dissensions as endanger the security of the world, if its populations possessed this great gift in larger degree. People are generally so gullible one is sometimes led to wonder whether the great Lincoln was right, after all, in the conclusion of his memorable statement, ‘You can’t fool all the people all the time.’ One does feel at times, however, a sense of pity and sympathy for some of the peoples of the world whose education, information, and exposure to higher ideals and exalted concepts have been so arbitrarily and ruthlessly restricted.

There is a class of people now grown sizable in the world who should possess this great gift in large degree. They know how the gift is attained. They have been educated in its spiritual foundations. They have been blessed with the counsels which foster it. They know how to order their lives to procure it. You know who they are, my brethren and sisters. Every member in the restored Church of Christ could have this gift if he willed to do so. He could not be deceived with the sophistries of the world. He could not be led astray by pseudo-prophets and subversive cults. Even the inexperienced would recognize false teachings, in a measure at least. With this gift they would be able to detect something of the disloyal, rebellious, and sinister influences which not infrequently prompt those who seemingly take pride in the destruction of youthful faith and loyalties. Discerning parents will do well to guard their children against such influences and such personalities and teachings before irreparable damage is done. The true gift of discernment is often premonitory. A sense of danger should be heeded to be of value. We give thanks for a set of providential circumstances which avert an accident. We ought to be grateful every day of our lives for this sense which keeps alive a conscience which constantly alerts us to the dangers inherent in wrongdoers and sin.”

Source

Stephen L. Richards, "Gifts of the Gospel," April 1950 General Conference.

051625, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 8,088

Journal Entry

I finished getting out front garden planted and the automatic irrigation set up. I still need to continue the bricks across the front and making adjustments to the stone path rocks but the tough stuff is done.

We visited Beth and she seems to be doing well. It's a blessing in my opinion that Karen is living there. She is very talented and loving and it makes me feel better that Beth is not alone.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:11 For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God.

"God knows our gifts. My challenge to you and to me is to pray to know the gifts we have been given, to know how to develop them, and to recognize the opportunities to serve others that God provides us. But most of all, I pray that you will be inspired to help others discover their special gifts from God to serve."

President Henry B. Eyring

“First, I mention the gift of discernment embodying the power to discriminate, which has been spoken of in our hearing before particularly as between right and wrong. I believe that this gift when highly developed arises largely out of an acute sensitivity to impressions—spiritual impressions, if you will—to read under the surface as it were, to detect hidden evil, and more importantly to find the good that may be concealed. The highest type of discernment is that which perceives in others and uncovers for them their better natures, the good inherent within them. It’s the gift every missionary needs when he takes the gospel to the people of the world. He must make an appraisal of every personality whom he meets. He must be able to discern the hidden spark that may be lighted for truth. The gift of discernment will save him from mistakes and embarrassment, and it will never fail to inspire confidence in the one who is rightly appraised.

The gift of discernment is essential to the leadership of the Church. I never ordain a bishop or set apart a president of a stake without invoking upon him this divine blessing, that he may read the lives and hearts of his people and call forth the best within them. The gift and power of discernment in this world of contention between the forces of good and the power of evil is essential equipment for every son and daughter of God. There could be no such mass dissensions as endanger the security of the world, if its populations possessed this great gift in larger degree. People are generally so gullible one is sometimes led to wonder whether the great Lincoln was right, after all, in the conclusion of his memorable statement, ‘You can’t fool all the people all the time.’ One does feel at times, however, a sense of pity and sympathy for some of the peoples of the world whose education, information, and exposure to higher ideals and exalted concepts have been so arbitrarily and ruthlessly restricted.

There is a class of people now grown sizable in the world who should possess this great gift in large degree. They know how the gift is attained. They have been educated in its spiritual foundations. They have been blessed with the counsels which foster it. They know how to order their lives to procure it. You know who they are, my brethren and sisters. Every member in the restored Church of Christ could have this gift if he willed to do so. He could not be deceived with the sophistries of the world. He could not be led astray by pseudo-prophets and subversive cults. Even the inexperienced would recognize false teachings, in a measure at least. With this gift they would be able to detect something of the disloyal, rebellious, and sinister influences which not infrequently prompt those who seemingly take pride in the destruction of youthful faith and loyalties. Discerning parents will do well to guard their children against such influences and such personalities and teachings before irreparable damage is done. The true gift of discernment is often premonitory. A sense of danger should be heeded to be of value. We give thanks for a set of providential circumstances which avert an accident. We ought to be grateful every day of our lives for this sense which keeps alive a conscience which constantly alerts us to the dangers inherent in wrongdoers and sin.”

Source

Stephen L. Richards, "Gifts of the Gospel," April 1950 General Conference.

051525, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 4,411

Journal Entry

We spent most of yesterday cleaning our house since we stopped using our housekeeper. We decided that paying her $180 every two weeks was just too much. She did a pretty good job but she basically was here all day and it was inconvenient for us to have her around. Plus, she actually didn't do some things that needed to be done. We're thinking someone who will come in and just dust, vacuum and mop the floors and clean the bathrooms should be able to finish the job in 2-3 hours and whatever else needs doing we'll handle ourselves. After vacation we'll look into that.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:9 For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me, that ask and not for a sign that they may consume it upon their lusts.

"Some mistakenly receive the message that they are not worthy to participate fully in the gospel because they are not completely free of bad habits. God’s message is that worthiness is not flawlessness. Worthiness is being honest and trying. We must be honest with God, priesthood leaders, and others who love us, and we must strive to keep God’s commandments and never give up just because we slip up. Elder Bruce C. Hafen said that developing a Christlike character “requires patience and persistence more than it requires flawlessness.” The Lord has said the gifts of the Spirit are “given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do.”

Bradley R. Wilcox, October 2021

You may think you don’t have talents, but that is a false assumption, for we You may think you don’t have talents, but that is a false assumption, for we all have talents and gifts, every one of us. The bounds of creativity extend far beyond the limits of a canvas or a sheet of paper and do not require a brush, a pen, or the keys of a piano. Creation means bringing into existence something that did not exist before—colorful gardens, harmonious homes, family memories, flowing laughter.

What you create doesn’t have to be perfect. So what if the eggs are greasy or the toast is burned? Don’t let fear of failure discourage you. Don’t let the voice of critics paralyze you—whether that voice comes from the outside or the inside.

If you still feel incapable of creating, start small. Try to see how many smiles you can create, write a letter of appreciation, learn a new skill, identify a space and beautify it. 

Dieter F. Uchtdorf

051425, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 4,163

Journal Entry

After falling fast asleep last night, our alarm system went off walking us both up. Apparently one of our motion detectors in our basement falsely detected motion and set off the alarm. I checked, of course, but it was a false alarm and basically ruined a good night's sleep.

All of our Entry points are monitored so whenever a motion detector activated without there being a break in I know it's a malfunction. This has happened two or three times now and it finally dawned on me that motion detectors are more of a pain than useful as long as we have functioning Entry point monitors and we do.

Enjoyed our tour at the Bishops Storehouse. It was very quiet but I enjoyed it anyway.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:7 But ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally; and that which the Spirit testifies unto you even so I would that ye should do in all holiness of heart, walking uprightly before me, considering the end of your salvation, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving, that ye may not be seduced by evil spirits, or doctrines of devils, or the commandments of men; for some are of men, and others of devils.

8 Wherefore, beware lest ye are deceived; and that ye may not be deceived seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given; my 

"I must tell you so that you cannot possibly misunderstand: “There are many spirits which are false spirits.” There can be counterfeit revelations, promptings from the devil, temptations! As long as you live, in one way or another the adversary will try to lead you astray…The seventh chapter of Moroni in the Book of Mormon tells you how to test spiritual promptings. Read it carefully—over and over...If ever you receive a prompting to do something that makes you feel uneasy, something you know in your mind to be wrong and contrary to the principles of righteousness, do not respond to it!" 

Boyd K. Packer, Apostle, October 1994

"In my first message as President of the Church, I encouraged you to begin with the end in mind. This means making the celestial kingdom your eternal goal and then carefully considering where each of your decisions while here on earth will place you in the next world."

President Russell M. Nelson, Think Celestial

first message as President of the Church, I encouraged you to begin with the end in mind. This means making the celestial kingdom your eternal goal and then carefully considering where each of your decisions while here on earth will place you in the next world.^⁠

RuIn my first message as President of the Church, I encouraged you to begin with the end in mind. This means making the celestial kingdom your eternal goal and then carefully considering where each of your decisions while here on earth will place you in the next world.^⁠9 In my first message as President of the Church, I encouraged you to begin with the end in mind. This means making the celestial kingdom your eternal goal and then carefully considering where each of your decisions while here on earth will place you in the next world.^⁠9

051325, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 9,224

Journal Entry

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:5 And again I say unto you, ye shall not cast any out of your sacrament meetings who are earnestly seeking the kingdom—I speak this concerning those who are not of the church.

Some say that attending church meetings is not helping them. Some say, “I didn’t learn anything today” or “No one was friendly to me” or “I was offended.” Personal disappointments should never keep us from the doctrine of Christ, who taught us to serve, not to be served. With this in mind, another member described the focus of his Church attendance:

“Years ago, I changed my attitude about going to church. No longer do I go to church for my sake, but to think of others. I make a point of saying hello to people who sit alone, to welcome visitors, … to volunteer for an assignment. …

“In short, I go to church each week with the intent of being active, not passive, and making a positive difference in people’s lives."

Dallin H. Oaks

051225, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.1, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 8,338

Journal Entry

We're trying again to have a nice garden in front of our house. It's a work in progress. We planted some nice new flowers and added a new bright yellow garden hose. We were doing pretty good last year when we got hit with a bad hail storm like nothing I've ever seen in my lifetime. 

Come Follow Me 

D&C 46:2 But notwithstanding those things which are written, it always has been given to the elders of my church from the beginning, and ever shall be, to conduct all meetings as they are directed and guided by the Holy Spirit.

"These conferences are always under the direction of the Lord, guided by His Spirit. We are not assigned specific topics. Over weeks and months, often through sleepless nights, we wait upon the Lord. Through fasting, praying, studying, and pondering, we learn the message that He wants us to give.

Some might ask, “Why doesn’t the inspiration come more easily and quickly?” The Lord taught Oliver Cowdery, “You must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right.” Conference messages come to us after prayerful preparation, through the Holy Ghost."

Elder Robert D. Hales, Apostle, October 2013

051125, Sunday, Mothers Day

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.3, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 9,472

Journal Entry

Yesterday afternoon we went for a walk on the "old road" up by Bridal Veil Falls. It was a beautiful day and all of the parking lots were jammed with cars as we drove up the canyon. I decided to try the "view" lot which is directly across from the falls and which was, as usual, nearly deserted. 

Most people visiting the falls take the trail on the south side of the river. The "old road" runs along the north side of the river between the river and highway 189 which is the main Provo Canyon highway. Because we enjoy exploring, we have found that there is a very nice paved trail that leads from the "view" lot down to the old road and even on a popular and crowded day very few people use it. It worked out great. We had a very nice walk with almost no other people around and no problem with parking. The photo is off the first sunflowers we have seen this year. They were beautiful and it turned out they are back in great numbers. Very nice.

Jake brought a nice bouquet of flowers over for Mothers Day and dropped them off while we were away.

Today at church the Elders Quorum is going to provide Primary support so the women who ordinarily have assignments in Primary can enjoy mothers day in relief society. Should be fun.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 45:71 And it shall come to pass that the righteous shall be gathered out from among all nations, and shall come to Zion, singing with songs of everlasting joy.

"...[E]ach of us needs to model what it truly means to be a believing and behaving Latter-day Saint. Our example will have a powerful effect on others, making the restored gospel become much more relevant, meaningful, convincing, and desirable to them. Let us, each one, radiate to others the joy, confidence, love, and warmth of being part of the true Church of Christ. Our discipleship is not something to be endured with long face and heavy heart...As we come to understand the love of the Father and the Son for us, our spirits will soar, and we will “come to Zion, singing with songs of everlasting joy”.

...Remember, too often our behavior is a bigger deterrent to others than is our doctrine."

Elder M. Russell Ballard, October 1999

051025, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.3, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 9,908

Journal Entry

We went to a piano recital yesterday evening where Jill and Erica each played a couple of piano solos. We enjoyed another nice visit with Jake and Meredith and also, of course, enjoyed hearing Erica and Jill play the piano.

Yesterday morning we went to the Payson Temple for an Endowment session. The Payson temple is truly beautiful. All temples are beautiful but the Payson temple is among the best.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 45:56 And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins.

57 For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day. 

"The essential lesson of this parable of the ten virgins is that we are wise when we accept the gospel, seek to have the Holy Ghost with us, and avoid deception. The five wise virgins could not help those without oil; no one can accept the gospel, take the Holy Ghost as a guide, and avoid deception on our behalf. We have to do this for ourselves."

Elder Dale G. Renlund, Apostle

The essential lesson of this parable of the ten virgins is that we are wise when we accept the gospel, seek to have the Holy Ghost with us, and avoid deception. The five wise virgins could not help those without oil; no one can accept the gospel, take the Holy Ghost as a guide, and avoid deception on our behalf. We have to do this for ourselves.