083125, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.2, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day): 2,808,Blood Pressure: 113/67, 81 Reported Sleep 5:25

Journal Entry 

Cathy wanted to go to The Kinlands to ship for a few things. I think it's in Riverton. Afterward we went to Zupa's at Herriman Town Center for lunch then Cathy suggested we walk over to the Good Feet Store to see about better shoes for me. 

The nice thing about the Good Feet Store is that they actually have people who will help measure your feet. I have been wearing size 15 shoes which are mostly just fine but some of them have seemed a little tight which may have contributed a little to my current toe infection and medical issues with my right foot. I had been thinking I should move up to size 16 but since I had no way to measure, I wasn't sure that would be a good move.

At Cathy's prompting, I got my feet measured and they came out at 15 and a half. We all agreed I should try 16s and I did and they were much more comfortable so I got a pair. So now I am a size 16 guy but some of my better size 15 shoes will still be OK. Cathy takes good care of me. 

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:49 What I say unto one I say unto all; pray always lest that wicked one have power in you, and remove you out of your place.

50 My servant Newel K. Whitney also, a bishop of my church, hath need to be chastened, and set in order his family, and see that they are more diligent and concerned at home, and pray always, or they shall be removed out of their place.

"Prayer begins with individual initiative...

When should we pray? Whenever we desire! Alma taught, “Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, … and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.” Jesus reminded His disciples “that they should not cease to pray in their hearts.”

The practice of Church members is to kneel in family prayer each morning and evening, plus having daily personal prayers...President Monson said, “As we offer unto the Lord our family and our personal prayers, let us do so with faith and trust in Him.” And so, in praying for temporal and spiritual blessings, we should all plead, as did Jesus in the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy will be done."

Elder Russell M. Nelson, Apostle 

083025, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day): 3,671,Blood Pressure: 113/67, 76 Reported Sleep 7:14

Journal Entry 

We met our Trust &Will guy, John Buckley, and dropped a rough completion of the questionnaire hrs gave us. He's very nice and seems very competent. Then we had lunch at the new Aubergine Kitchen in Spanish Fork and had the opportunity of visiting with the husband and wife team that owns the chain. They are about our age and very pleasant.

Then we had dinner with Jake and his family at Guru's in Provo. That, too, was most pleasant. All in all a very nice day.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:38 Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning; and God having redeemed man from the fall, men became again, in their infant state, innocent before God.

39 And that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers.

"The scornful often accuse prophets of not living in the 21st century or of being bigoted. They attempt to persuade or even pressure the Church into lowering God’s standards to the level of their own inappropriate behavior…Lowering the Lord’s standards to the level of a society’s inappropriate behavior is—apostasy.

…Some members don’t realize they are falling into the same snare when they lobby for acceptance of local or ethnic “tradition[s] of their fathers” that are not in harmony with the gospel culture. Still others, self-deceived and in self-denial, plead or demand that bishops lower the standard on temple recommends, school endorsements, or missionary applications…like the Savior who cleansed the temple to defend its sanctity, bishops today are called upon to boldly defend the temple standard."

Elder Lynn G. Robbins of The Presidency of The Seventy

082925, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.1, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 2,596, Blood Pressure: 112/71, 83, Reported Sleep 4:39

Journal Entry 

We are trying to get our "Will and Trust" situation sorted out and finalized so that when we pass along, our property and assets will be easily and properly divided between Jake and Kevin. There will be a few dollars that should be beneficial to them and we want the transition to be as smooth as possible. We are dealing with an attorney named John Buckley who was recommended by Craig and who is also the one who has helped Beth in her situation. We filled out a legal questionnaire and will try to get it to him today in order to get the ball rolling. One of my LAPD associations - LAPRA I think - will give us a $600 reimbursement to help cover the cost so that will be useful.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:36 The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.

37 Light and truth forsake that evil one.

"First, God is the source of eternal truth. He and His Son, Jesus Christ, have a perfect understanding of truth and always act in harmony with true principles and laws. This power allows Them to create and govern worlds as well as to love, guide, and nurture each one of us perfectly. They want us to understand and apply truth so we can enjoy the blessings They do. They may impart truth in person or, more typically, through messengers such as the Holy Ghost, angels, or living prophets."

John C. Pingree Jr, of The Seventy

"We know the Apostasy occurred in part because the philosophies of men were elevated over Christ’s basic, essential doctrine. Instead of the simplicity of the Savior’s message being taught, many plain and precious truths were changed or lost. In fact, Christianity adopted some Greek philosophical traditions to reconcile people’s beliefs with their existing culture. The historian Will Durant wrote: “Christianity did not destroy paganism; it adopted it. The Greek mind, dying, came to a transmigrated life.” Historically, and in our own day, some people reject the gospel of Jesus Christ because, in their view, it doesn’t have adequate intellectual sophistication."

Elder Quentin L. Cook, Apostle

082825, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.9, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 1,855, Blood Pressure: 116/72, 85, Reported Sleep 6:36

Journal Entry 

We drove out to Wasatch County again and saw proof that the new Heber Temple is now actually under construction. I'm sure there are thousands of members of the Church who are grateful that this has finally been started. A very small number of residents have held up the start of this temple through court proceedings but it looks like that could be over now.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:33 For man is spirit. The elements are eternal, and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fulness of joy;

34 And when separated, man cannot receive a fulness of joy.

35 The elements are the tabernacle of God; yea, man is the tabernacle of God, even temples; and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple.

"The Resurrection is brought to pass by the Atonement of Jesus Christ and is pivotal to the great plan of salvation. We are spirit children of heavenly parents. When we come to this earth life, our spirit is united with our body. We experience all the joys and challenges associated with mortal life. When a person dies, their spirit is separated from their body. Resurrection makes it possible for a person’s spirit and body to be united again, only this time that body will be immortal and perfect—not subject to pain, disease, or other problems."

Elder Paul V. Johnson of The Seventy, April 2016

082725, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.2, Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi17, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 106/66, 85, Reported Sleep 5:32

Journal Entry 

The cast came off yesterday which is a nice step in the right direction. However....

For the coming week I need to utilize the footwear seen here in the photo whenever I exercise, go outside or involve myself in anything strenuous. So still a little inconvenienced - emphasis on a little - but a lot better than having that clunky cast.

I'm going to try to make myself exercise as much as I can reasonably do on a daily basis. I think that is the answer to getting my blood glucose levels down to a more acceptable level.

I invited Jake to come over later this morning and take me to Del Taco for a breakfast burrito and he graciously accepted my invitation since my new footwear will obviously not allow me to drive. But hopefully next week I'll be more back to normal. 

The real important news is that my toe is looking very much better and that is what counts. Cathy took a picture but I didn't get it but I'll take one next week. Then one of my main goals for the rest of my life will be to take good care of that foot so I don't have to go through all of this again. It probably seems a little over dramatic but I guess I came close to not being able to recover from the serious infection that I had. Terms like "MRS" and "Septic" were involved plus I'm still giving myself IV antibiotics everyday and apparently will continue to do so for several weeks. So this was serious and I am a believer. Never again if I can help it.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:29 Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.

"Brothers and sisters, we are eternal beings, without beginning and without end. We have always existed. We are the literal spirit children of divine, immortal, and omnipotent Heavenly Parents!"

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apostle

082625, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.6 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi17, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 112/70, 89, Reported Sleep 7:12

Journal Entry 

Hopefully losing the cast later today. Then I'm anticipating being able to exercise more intensely than I have been. My blood glucose levels have been consistently high since my hospital stay and subsequent treatment. I'm anticipating being able to walk more and even climb stairs, etc. We'll see and I truly believe that this will bring about a reduction in blood glucose levels. My Glucose Management Index (GMI) has been around 7.0 for far too long. I'd like to get it down to 6.6ish and I'm pretty sure I can with exercise.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:26 The Spirit of truth is of God. I am the Spirit of truth, and John bore record of me, saying: He received a fulness of truth, yea, even of all truth;

27 And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.

28 He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.

"Once the Holy Ghost confirms a specific truth to us, our understanding deepens as we put that principle into practice. Over time, as we consistently live the principle, we gain a sure knowledge of that truth."

John C. Pingree Jr. of The Seventy, October 2023

082525, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 104/62, 82, Reported Sleep 6:31

Journal Entry 

Nothing to report. Still anxious to get the cast off my right leg. Some photos:

Thank heaven for football. It is somewhat entertaining for me. And the second photo is my infected big toe that apparently caused all of my problems. You can't really see much from this angle and that's probably good. But surgery, antibiotics and effective follow up are hopefully working.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 93:24 And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come;

25 And whatsoever is more or less than this is the spirit of that wicked one who was a liar from the beginning.

"...[A] few parents state that they don’t want to impose the gospel on their children but want them to make up their own minds about what they will believe and follow. They think that...they are allowing children to exercise their agency. What they forget is that the intelligent use of agency requires knowledge of the truth, of things as they really are. Without that, young people can hardly be expected to understand and evaluate the alternatives that come before them. Parents should consider how the adversary approaches their children. He and his followers are not promoting objectivity but are vigorous, multimedia advocates of sin and selfishness.

Seeking to be neutral about the gospel is...to reject the existence of God and His authority. We must...acknowledge Him and His omniscience if we want our children to see life’s choices clearly and be able to think for themselves. They should not have to learn by sad experience that “wickedness never was happiness."

Elder D. Todd Chrisofferson, Apostle

082425, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.0 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 117/67, 76, Reported Sleep 6:25

Journal Entry 

Another very quiet day. I'm nearing the end of my second week with a cast on my right lower leg and foot.  Walking is discouraged though I have a big clunky boot that I can put on over the cast and I do that when necessary to go out but not much.

Today will also be long and quiet and boring.

Tomorrow I'm going to hopefully meet with Craig Merrill who might have some solid suggestions for putting together a trust or will which is long overdue. When we pass we want there to be minimal adverse effects for our sons.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 90:24 Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly and remember the covenant wherewith ye have covenanted one with another.

[Our family motto was]: “It will all work out.” Yet how can we say those words to one another when deep troubles come and answers aren’t readily available?...

"Our family motto doesn’t say, “It will all work out now.” It speaks of our hope in the eternal outcome—not necessarily of present results. Scripture says, “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good.” This doesn’t mean all things are good, but for the meek and faithful, things—both positive and negative—work together for good, and the timing is the Lord’s. We wait on Him, sometimes like Job in his, knowing that God “maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.” A meek heart accepts the trial and the waiting for that time of healing and wholeness to come."

Sister Neill F. Marriott, 

Second Counselor, Young Women Presidency, October 2015

082325, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.9, (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 119/74, 76, Reported Sleep 6:59

Journal Entry 

We are finally entering a pretty quiet few days. Nothing scheduled until Tuesday when I'm told my cast will come off and hopefully not need to be replaced.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 90:15 And set in order the churches, and study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people.

"Because you have a Savior, you can plan for a future that extends beyond this life. If you keep the commandments, you are promised eternal life. You can also prepare yourself by studying and learning and by becoming “acquainted with all good books, and … languages, … and people”. You understand that “whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection."

Sister Julie B. Beck, First Counselor, Young Women General Presidency, April 2003

082225, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.6 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 128/80, 73, Reported Sleep 7:46

Journal Entry 

We had a very nice visit from Serge and Linda Martinez who are dear friends from Kentucky. Also, Kent and Peggy Woffinden stopped by for a visit. They are so nice. Kent and I graduated from Olympus HS together back in 1963 and we were pretty close for a few years until we sort of went our separate ways. We have communicated some since Cathy and I moved back to Utah. Kent and his wife, Peggy, live in Spanish Fork.

Yesterday I had a visit with my Thyroid doctor, Sharla Morgan. I've had a growth on my thyroid that has been getting progressively worse. Probably within the next year I should have surgery if it bothers me to that extent. Right now I'm feeling no ill effects so until I do, the doc and I agree to just keep monitoring it every six months or so. Another effort to try to extend my life in a healthy way.

In a few weeks I'm going to undergo minor surgery to hopefully correct some urology-related issues. I'll leave it at that.

Still looking forward to getting my cast off this coming Tuesday.

I'm starting to suffer the consequences of becoming diabetic. Something I could have and should have avoided earlier in my life but now it's too late. So anyone reading this please understand how you might become diabetic and please take steps to avoid that.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 90:11 For it shall come to pass in that day, that every man shall hear the fulness of the gospel in his own tongue, and in his own language, through those who are ordained unto this power, by the administration of the Comforter, shed forth upon them for the revelation of Jesus Christ.

"The phrase “in the path of their duty” describes the inspired translators and interpreters around the world who serve the Lord by helping friends and members to “hear the fulness of the gospel in [their] own tongue, and in [their] own language.” Their voices, signed language, and translated documents convey eternal truths, yet few of us know their names or ever express appreciation. Through the gift of tongues with which they have been blessed, translators and interpreters serve diligently, selflessly, and, most often, anonymously to help people receive the spiritual gift of faith through reading and hearing the word of God."

Elder David A. Bednar, Apostle

"Because of Christ there is hope smiling brightly before you, and you need not worry too much about sickness, death, poverty, or other afflictions. The Lord will take care of you. Your responsibility is to keep the commandments, feast upon the words of Christ, and stay in the path to your heavenly home.

With the hope of the Atonement and the Resurrection, you have a ... great hope, the hope of eternal life. Because you have a Savior, you can plan for a future that extends beyond this life. If you keep the commandments, you are promised eternal life. You can also prepare yourself by studying and learning and by becoming “acquainted with all good books, and … languages, … and people” (D&C 90:15). You understand that “whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection” (D&C 130:18)."

Sister Julie B. Beck, 

First Counselor, Young Women General Presidency, April 2003

082125, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.3 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 106/64, 93

Journal Entry 

Had a nice quiet day yesterday. I think Cathy beat me about ten times in Rummikub. 

We are looking for a legal firm or equivalent to help us with creating a trust /will. I'm finding that Gemini, A Google help source, is pretty helpful in answering any questions I have... Much better than Siri (the similar Apple service).

Come Follow Me 

D&C 89:21 And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen.

"But it is not from mortal death that we shall be spared in such a passover if we walk in obedience to these commandments, for each of us in time shall die. But there is spiritual death which you need not suffer. If you are obedient, that spiritual death will pass over you, for “Christ our passover is sacrificed for us,” the revelation teaches…Surely the Word of Wisdom was given so that you may keep the delicate, sensitive, spiritual part of your nature on proper alert. Learn to “listen” to your feelings. You will be guided and warned and taught and blessed."

President Boyd K Packer, Apostle 

 

082025, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 128/72, 78

Journal Entry 

We went everywhere yesterday. I had an appointment with my urologist and he recommended a minor surgical procedure that soul improve my life somewhat. Then we went to AF hospital and I had a blood draw for tomorrow's visit to my thyroid Doc.

Then went to the Wound Care unit and got my cast removed. Dr Welch and Dr Phillips looked at my injured toe and pronounced well on its way to healing. Then I got a new cast but was told by Dr Phillips that this would probably be my last cast. So that was very good news.

I took a picture of my Ballin toe after the cast was removed yesterday but it still looked sort of gruesome so I decided not to include it here. The wound is nevertheless apparently healing well.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 89:18 And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;

19 And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;

20 And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.

"The promise: Those who obey will receive better health and “great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures”.

The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “We came to this earth that we might have a body and present it pure before God in the celestial kingdom. The great principle of happiness consists in having a body. The devil has no body, and herein is his punishment. He is pleased when he can obtain the tabernacle of man…All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not."

Even the severe tests of health or a handicapped or disabled body can refine a soul for the glorious day of restoration and healing which surely will come.

Your body really is the instrument of your mind and the foundation of your character."

President Boyd K Packer, Apostle

081925, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.6 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 111/63, 86

Journal Entry 

I got new IV antibiotic needs yesterday. They are exactly the same as last week. Not sure what the significance of that is although the new needs are supposed to reflect the results of yesterday's blood draw. So... Same old....

My cat comes off today and they will take a look at my toe and see if a new cast is warranted. The prediction was that it would be but we'll see.

Cathy has, as usual, been angelic in taking good care of me. What a blessing she is.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 89:4 Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation

"That revelation begins, “In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation.”

It is a shield and a protection unto our people, particularly to our youth. It becomes a part of that “whole armor” of God promised in the revelations to protect them from the “fiery darts” of the adversary. 

The Church and individual members of it have always been, are now, and ever will be under siege from the adversary. He will cover, even erase the still, small voice through loud and dissonant music awash with lyrics that cannot be understood—or worse, by lyrics that can be understood. He will carefully lead us astray with every other temptation he could devise."

President Boyd K. Packer, Apostle

The physical blessings of health and strength that are promised through obedience to the Word of Wisdom are now well-known and well documented. In addition, the spiritual blessings of “wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures” (D&C 89:19), come to those who keep their bodies free from addictive substances. When we obey the Word of Wisdom, windows of personal revelation are opened to us and our souls are filled with divine light and truth. If we keep our bodies undefiled, the Holy Ghost “shall come upon [us] and … dwell in [our] heart[s]” (D&C 8:2) and teach us “the peaceable things of immortal glory” (Moses 6:61).

Source

Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Windows of Light and Truth”, October 1995 General Conference

081825, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 229.1 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 119/81, 80

Journal Entry 

Yesterday was Sunday abs we didn't go to church. I just didn't want the attention that might befall me with my cast on and Cathy, I think, felt the same way. I'm planning on going no matter what next Sunday.

So other than administering my own IV, playing a few games with Cathy and strolling around the house carefully every hour or so, it is was just TV.

Today I'm getting my blood sample drawn and hopefully the results of that will become known sooner rather than later. When I was in the hospital I was told that my cast would be needed for at least four weeks and it's only been one so far. Tomorrow I see my podiatrist and get a new cast. I suppose it would be too optimistic to hope that a new cast might not be needed going forward. We will see.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 89:1 A Word of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion—

2 To be sent greeting; not by commandment or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days—

3 Given for a principle with promise, adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints.

"The Word of Wisdom was “given for a principle with promise.” That word principle in the revelation is a very important one. A principle is an enduring truth, a law, a rule you can adopt to guide you in making decisions. Generally principles are not spelled out in detail. That leaves you free to find your way with an enduring truth, a principle, as your anchor.

Members write in asking if this thing or that is against the Word of Wisdom. It’s well known that tea, coffee, liquor, and tobacco are against it. It has not been spelled out in more detail. Rather, we teach the principle together with the promised blessings. There are many habit-forming, addictive things... which injure both body and spirit which are not mentioned in the revelation."

President Boyd K Packer, Apostle

081725, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.1 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 121/73, 81

Journal Entry 

We went to breakfast at Aubergine Kitchen in Orem then took a little drive up Provo Canyon before coming home and getting my IV done. The rest of the day was pretty quiet.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:124 Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.

125 And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace.

Great scripture!

"Because of increased life expectancies and modern timesaving devices, most of us have far more discretionary time than our predecessors. We are accountable for how we use that time... 

Our priorities are most visible in how we use our time. Someone has said, “Three things never come back—the spent arrow, the spoken word, and the lost opportunity.” We cannot recycle or save the time allotted to us each day. With time, we have only one opportunity for choice, and then it is gone forever."

Dallin H. Oaks, Apostle

081625, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 230 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure: 122/72 - 85

Journal Entry 

I'm starting to do my own PICC line monitoring and injections today. My nurse watched me do it yesterday and I did fine. The main function - really the only function - of the PICC line is for me to administer my own IV medication which has to be done daily.

I had another shower yesterday and I'm getting competent with that. 

I measured my own blood pressure with my new blood pressure machine.

This is Saturday. Next Tuesday I get the cast of and the podiatrist inspects my toe. I'm probably going to get a new cast. The original prognosis was do four cast so next Tuesday would be the 2nd. However I'm hoping that my recovery will be so successful that I might not need to go with four casts. Hope so. We'll see.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:63 Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

"Feel that pull, the godly sorrow that turns you toward your Savior, and watch His grace enter into your life and the lives of those you love. I promise that the minute we bring a broken heart courageously toward Him, He is immediately there."

Sister Tamara W. Runia, First Counselor, YW General Presidency, April 2025

081525, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 231.0 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day) NA, Blood Pressure:

Journal Entry 

The arm and cast protectors arrived in time for me to take a very nice shower before my appointment with Dr. Welch. I'm very grateful to my wife who works so hard to coordinate my post-op medical treatments.

I get a new cast once a week and get seen by my podiatrist who is actually the person most involved in my actual wound treatment. 

But I also have daily responsibilities for administering my own antibiotics. I'm beginning to understand how close I came to a tragic demise due to serious infection originating from my toe wound. I now administer a very large IV dosage of antibiotics via my PICC line every day at about noon until further notice.

Hopefully all of this results in a return to normal living for me ASAP because Cathy is probably going to undergo serious surgery soon to address her deviated septum and I will need to be there for her.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:35 That which breaketh a law, and abideth not by law, but seeketh to become a law unto itself, and willeth to abide in sin, and altogether abideth in sin, cannot be sanctified by law, neither by mercy, justice, nor judgment. Therefore, they must remain filthy still.

"The effect of God’s commandments and laws is not changed to accommodate popular behavior or desires. If anyone thinks that godly or parental love for an individual grants the loved one license to disobey the law, he or she does not understand either love or law."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Apostle

081425, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 229.2 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) NA

Journal Entry 

I'm adjusting to having the cast on my right foot. I found that by putting black Kiziks shoe on my left foot when I put my boot on my right that it comes close to evening out my legs so that it is much easier to walk, when needed, while wearing my boot... Outside and in the car,etc.

I also ordered a protector shield to cover my cast while taking a shower. It came today and it looks like it will fit OK. I also ordered a protector for my PICC line in my right upper arm so that it's also protected while showering. It hadn't arrived yet but it's currently due before 0800. If it arrives in time, I'll be able to take a shower before my 0800 appointment at Dr. Welch's office. 

Right now it's 0540 so there's time but we'll see if that arm protector gets here soon.

All this so I can give myself IV injections at home instead of having to remain in the hospital. The IV injections are a powerful antibiotic that has to be injected every day and it's volume is too large for anything but a huge IV injection that takes nearly a half hour to administer.

So my whole life revolves around my foot injury, at least for the next few weeks. But assuming all of this treatment is successful, and we're working hard towards that end, I'll be back to normal in a few months. I will turn 80 this January but other than this foot injury I feel remarkably healthy and strong.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:33 For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift.

"In our Church meetings, in our personal and family scripture study, and even this day as we listen to the Lord’s prophets and apostles, some of us will receive more than others. Why?...[T]hose who truly receive do at least three things that others may not do.

First, they seek. We live in an entertainment world...Without realizing it, we can find ourselves...with the attitude, “Here I am; now inspire me.” We become spiritually passive.

When we focus...on seeking and receiving the Spirit, we become less concerned about a teacher...holding our attention and more concerned about giving our attention to the Spirit...[R]eceive is a verb...a principle of action...a fundamental expression of faith.

Second, those who receive, feel...Until we learn to pay attention to...spiritual feelings, we usually do not even recognize the Spirit...

Third, those who receive by the Spirit intend to act...The Spirit teaches when we honestly intend to do something about what we learn."

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

081325, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 230.3 (with cast), Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13, GMI: 6.9, weSteps (previous day) NA

Journal Entry 

I got a full-blown cast on my right foot and ankle. There's a boot that goes with it if I need to go outside. So i guess I'm pretty disabled for at least the next four weeks. The doctor did a little more digging,scraping and "cleaning" of my wound before having the cast put on and that was somewhat painful since he didn't use in pain killer. Plus now when I walk in just my cast I can feel the pain if I put pressure on the front of my foot. So the journey continues to hopeful complete healing.

Karen and Darrell Hanson came to visit yesterday evening and brought food from Panera Bread and that was very nice. I like the food and Cathy didn't have to prepare any dinner.

Today I have nothing planned so I'm hoping to catch up on some Come Follow Me  material as well as Book of Mormon reading.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:15 And the spirit and the body are the soul of man.

"Take responsibility for your own physical well-being. Your soul consists of your body and spirit. Feeding the spirit while neglecting the body, which is a temple, usually leads to spiritual dissonance and lowered self-esteem. If you are out of shape, if you are uncomfortable in your own body and can do something about it, then do it! Elder Russell M. Nelson has taught that we should “regard our body as a temple of our very own” and that we should “control our diet and exercise for physical fitness.”

Elder Jörg Klebingat of The Seventy

Great and timely, for me.

081225, Tuesday - Home From the Hospital

Daily Vitals: Weight: 230.3, Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 12, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) NA

Journal Entry 

I'm home but there's much still to do apparently. 

While still at the hospital, I got a PICC line (everyone calls it a "pick" line) installed yesterday afternoon in my right shoulder and upper arm. It's a method that allows me to have an IV daily injection of antibiotics while at home. Someone is going to come by this morning and help me figure out how to do this.

Then this afternoon, I go back to the hospital to the "Wound Care Clinic" to get a cast for my right foot that will allow safe but limited walking ability. 

Obviously I will learn more today about how to care for my future.

What is also painfully (in every sense of the word) obvious is that I have truly brought this all on myself by not taking care of myself as I should have over the last few years. Every thing that's happened or that is happening now could have been easily avoided by just eating and exercising more intelligently. I sincerely hope that by improving in those areas I might enjoy a few more years of productive life.

Don't get me wrong. I've done good things and been a good person in many ways but things could have been much better if I had used a little more common sense. I'm hoping I will have the opportunity to do better and that I will do better in the future.

If someone is reading this and there's time in your life to improve on how you eat and how you exercise, please do yourself a favor and learn from what is happening to me.

All of this has been hard on Cathy. She is, in every sense, a true angel and I will be eternally grateful for her.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 88:12 Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space—

13 The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed, even the power of God who sitteth upon his throne, who is in the bosom of eternity, who is in the midst of all things.

"We can picture the love of God as light emanating from the tree of life, shedding itself abroad over all the earth into the hearts of the children of men. God’s light and love permeate all His creations."

Sister Susan H. Porter, First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, October 2021

We hear and read much about God, our Heavenly Father, and there might be a temptation to not really understand who or what that is other than all things good. It's important to remember that when Joseph Smith, a fourteen year old boy, received his first vision he was visited two distinct Heavenly beings: Jesus Christ, our Savior and the Savior of the entire world, and His Father, our Father in Heaven. God is, in every sense of the word, our father and our creator. I don't know how He has done it but there's no doubt that He has and that he is the source of truth and light and all that is good in our world. 

08/10/2025, Sunday (4th day in hospital)

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228 (est), GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) 457

Journal Entry 

On Wednesday I wasn’t feeling well. I had been extremely dizzy during the night and I was seriously disoriented in my thinking. Cathy suggested I see Dr. Welch and she phoned and got an appointment for me that afternoon.

Dr Welch, after a thorough examination admitted me to the hospital where tests showed I had serious septic infection of my blood stream. After some additional blood analysis and a lumbar spinal tap it was decided further evaluation was in order. And so here I am on Sunday still undergoing tests. It has been scientifically guessed that a long lasting injury to the big toe on my right foot may be the cause and I have been scheduled to have Podiatrist physician see me here this afternoon.

I have had this injury for several years and it hasn’t healed so I’m hoping this will finally result in that (healing) process.

So far the toe injury is the “best possible” source of my infection and my unlearned opinion agrees with that.

I just had a visit from Brother and Sister Bowen who, on assignment, offered me the Sacrament and I enthusiastically accepted. I felt the Spirit strongly through that process and I am grateful for their service.

I haven’t written much since Wednesday and probably won’t. I will try to catch up on my Come Follow Me studies especially now that I’m feeling better and have adequate time on my hands.

Come Follow Me

D&C 87:8 Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen.

“Standing in holy places is all about being in good company, whether you are alone or with others. It’s being where the Holy Ghost is our companion—alone or in a crowd. When we determine within ourselves that we will control our thoughts and our actions and be the best we can possibly be, the best of life will come to us.

A holy place is where we feel safe, secure, loved, and comforted. That’s how it was in our heavenly home. Standing in holy places and being in good company bring feelings of how it must have been in that home we left behind, the home that seems so far away at times.”

Sister Sharon G. Larsen

Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency

080725, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 231.4, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) 9,647

Journal Entry 

080625, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.4, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) 9,647

Journal Entry 

We served at the Bishops Storehouse yesterday and were pretty busy. Except the photo here caught some of us focusing on our cell phones. Actually everyone in the room was gazing upon their cell phones but I only caught three before I was spotted.

We went home afterward and Cathy was going to make pizza but lost her enthusiasm. And I don't blame her. For some reason working at the Storehouse is pretty tiring so we ordered pizza from Dominoes instead.

It was delicious but for some reason at about 0200 I woke up and could not go back to sleep. So I came into the TV room and slept there a little fitfully. Any way, I'm feeling a little better now but was tired for awhile. Today is going to be a "tired" day but that's OK.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 86:5 Behold, verily I say unto you, the angels are crying unto the Lord day and night, who are ready and waiting to be sent forth to reap down the fields;

6 But the Lord saith unto them, pluck not up the tares while the blade is yet tender (for verily your faith is weak), lest you destroy the wheat also.

"The Lord explained that in this final time prior to His return, the “wheat,” whom He describes as “the children of the kingdom,” would grow side by side with the “tares,” or those who do not love God and do not keep His commandments. They would “both grow together,” side by side.

This will be our world until the Savior returns, with much that is good and much that is evil on every side.

You may at times not feel like a strong, mature strand of wheat. Be patient with yourself! The Lord said that the wheat would include tender blades springing up. We are all His Latter-day Saints, and although not yet all we want to be, we are serious in our desire to be His true disciples."

Elder Neil L. Andersen, Apostle

080525, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 229.2, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) 3,083

Journal Entry 

I got my new computer running yesterday but I have a lot more to do. I need a speaker and it came last night so I need to install it. Plus I can't figure out how to get apps on my home screen. I know it can be done but I just haven't been able to do it yet. I will, though.

Going to the Bishops Storehouse today to serve. It's a great assignment for me and it helps me to grow in all the right ways. Mostly closer to God. 

Come Follow Me 

D&C 85:6 Yea, thus saith the still small voice, which whispereth through and pierceth all things, and often times it maketh my bones to quake while it maketh manifest, saying:

"Because the Spirit is often described as a still, small voice, it is also important to have a time of quiet in our lives as well. The Lord has counseled us to “be still, and know that I am God.” If we provide a still and quiet time each day when we are not bombarded by television, computer, video games, or personal electronic devices, we allow that still, small voice an opportunity to provide personal revelation and to whisper sweet guidance, reassurance, and comfort to us."

Sister Vicki F. Matsumori, Second Counselor, Primary General Presidency, October 2009

Amen!

080425, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 229.8 GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) 7,880

Journal Entry 

We walked here in our neighborhood in the morning yesterday. Then choir practice at the Stuart's home and Sacrament meeting. Nice quiet Sabbath.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 85:3 It is contrary to the will and commandment of God that those who receive not their inheritance by consecration, agreeable to his law, which he has given, that he may tithe his people, to prepare them against the day of vengeance and burning, should have their names enrolled with the people of God.

"To develop enduring faith, an enduring commitment to be a full-tithe payer is essential. Initially it takes faith to tithe. Then the tithe payer develops more faith to the point that tithing becomes a precious privilege. Tithing is an ancient law from God. He made a promise to His children that He would open “the windows of heaven, and pour … out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” Not only that, tithing will keep your name enrolled among the people of God and protect you in “the day of vengeance and burning."

Elder Russell M. Nelson, Apostle 

The law of consecration is one of the covenants we make in the temple. Cathy and I pray a full tithing and extra offerings in addition to that. I feel a need to ponder the question of are we living the law of consecration as we covented to do in the temple. I think we are. We also serve in the Bishops Storehouse every week. I hope we are ready to do more whenever we are presented with that opportunity.

One question comes up from time to time and that is should we hand out money to people who are basically begging on street corners. It's a little complicated because I can't help thinking that some people do that because they net more cash that way than if they just got a job. In other words: are they truly needy? I satisfy that question by knowing that I donate to the church which, in turn, takes pretty good care of the poor. But I also am open, I hope, to promptings of the spirit to go ahead and help someone that I come across who needs help. I have done that and am willing to do that whenever prompted.

"I’m sometimes asked when the Lord will require us to live the law of consecration. The answer is never. It never has been coercive and never will be. Section 85 clarifies that Church leaders should simply keep track of who consecrates but not encroach on individual agency to obey or disobey. The Lord will judge as he deems best. The law is quietly kept by many people, and their names are recorded in appropriate places. The faithful whose names and deeds are documented will receive inheritances in Zion."

President Joseph Smith Jr.

080325, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.8, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day) 7,006

Journal entry

We drove out to Midway yesterday to see the Ballerina Farms shop there. It was jammed with people partly, I'm sure, because it was Saturday but also the folks at Ballerina Farms work hard at producing healthy and high quality products. We'll try again on a less busy day.

On the way back we drove back via Cascade Springs which is a scenic winding road through the mountains. The photo here is off the east side of Mt.Timpanogos.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 84:88 And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

"God is faithful. Through the Holy Spirit, He will speak to our minds and hearts concerning the path we should follow during each segment of our lives.

If our hearts are pure—if we seek not our own glory but the glory of Almighty God, if we seek to do His will, if we desire to bless the lives of our family and fellowman—we will not be left to walk alone. As President Monson has often reminded us, “When we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help.”

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apostke

080225, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 227.2 GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) 4,110

Journal entry

Yesterday was going to be the day we got our new modem going but we had problems. It’s still not operating and so I’m writing this while on cellular rather than Internet. I’m pretty sure we’re going to get the problems worked out today. Jake was helping but got a little frustrated and ran out of time. He is sorely needed at home. So he’s (I’m) hoping he’ll have time today to come back and help me get back on the Internet. 

We’ll see. 

Come Follow Me

D&C 84:54 And your minds in times past have been darkened because of unbelief, and because you have treated lightly the things you have received—

55 Which vanity and unbelief have brought the whole church under condemnation.

56 And this condemnation resteth upon the children of Zion, even all.

57 And they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given them, not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written.

“...[S]tudy of the Book of Mormon is most rewarding when one focuses on its primary purpose—to testify of Jesus Christ. By comparison, all other issues are incidental.

When you read the Book of Mormon, concentrate on the principal figure in the book...the Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God. And look for a second undergirding theme: God will keep His covenants with the remnants of the house of Israel...

The Book of Mormon...is the only book that the Lord Himself has testified to be true.”

Elder Russell M. Nelson, Apostle 

080125, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 228.3, GMI: 7.0, Steps (previous day) 7,788

Journal Entry:

We had lunch with Robert and Tamara Nixon at Aubergine Kitchen in Orem. I enjoyed it much and so did the others, I'm sure.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 84:46 And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.

“…[K]now and understand that…your “shine”...does not lie in…the latest clothing or hairstyles. It lies in your personal purity. When you live the standards and qualify for the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, you can have a powerful impact in the world. Your example, even the light in your eyes, will influence others who see your “shine,” and they will want to be like you. Where do you get this light? The Lord is the light, “and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.” A divine light comes into your eyes and countenances when you draw close to your Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ…If you desire to make a difference in the world, you must be different from the world.”

President Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women General President, April 2012