...we've got a bad case of stripes.
Mom chose this one.
Monday, September 28, 2015
From Mom September 27, 2015 Clean inside
September 27, 2015
Dear Riley,
How are you this week? I hope you’re doing well and things have been good and productive for you and Elder Hinckley. What new, exciting things happened in your world? Wait, is it really already transfers again this week. Wow, they come quickly! Do you have any indications of what the week will hold for you and Elder H?
It’s been a full and good week here at home. Today was the primary program and it was just wonderful. The primary sang beautifully and I couldn’t have been more pleased with how well they performed. I love the songs and I love my calling and I love my primary children. Josie did wonderfully on her speaking part and Aleah did as well. Josie wore her yellow dress with a white lace overlay which she got for Easter last year. She looked as sweet as can be. Aleah wore the bright coral shirt she wore for the family pictures just before you left and Elise straightened her hair. She looked kind of grown up.
Yesterday was a good day. Aleah, Josie and I had a practice for the program in the morning. When we got home, Dad and I biked our longest bike yet: 32 miles to T’s house and back. T didn’t answer the door when we rang because he was getting O down for a nap. It was hot yesterday, 92°, and we had a headwind on the way home. And we got a stupid goat head in our back tire (we hadn’t put the tape in yet…) It took two hours by the bike computer, not bad. When we got home, I was purple in my face and I felt totally clean inside. Ahhh. I love this!
Dad and I cleaned up to go to the temple and realized as the parking lot was empty that it closes early for Women’s Conference. Oh, I’ve done that before. Blessings for the thoughts and intentions of my heart. So we ran down to JCP to get a purse and wallet then we raced through Lolo’s for groceries. They had chicken thighs for $.59/lb which I haven’t seen in a decade or so. We also got Jarrito’s pop for the kids to try different flavors and which made an instant party upon our arrival home.
We got home just as the women’s broadcast started. Dad and I cooked as the program was piped over the speakers and we ate dinner around 7:00 gathered in the family room. We had a really nice spirit in our home as a result. There was a program which followed two brothers over a decade and it was really sweet. I made a s’more dip in the oven (Heat a heavy cast iron skillet in a 450° oven, pour in a little heavy cream to coat the bottom, spread out chocolate bars, broken into pieces, top with marshmallows and return to the oven until marshmallows are toasted to a golden perfection. Dip grahams.) and we scalded our mouths with yumminess. In the interviews of the brothers, the younger didn’t think they would ever like each other. And of course over the years they came to appreciate and understand each other. It was very good for Aleah and Parker to consider.
We did have a rough couple of days this week. Parker doesn’t want to take medication. I get it. But he is so hard on the rest of us. I caught that he hasn’t been taking it for months. But school’s bearing down on him. And he has taken it out on the girls especially. He became obstinate and oppositional and frustrating. It was hard. But on the other hand, he isn’t suicidal or homicidal without medication anymore, so that’s improvement. I just sure don’t want him treating his companions and future family the way he was treating us. Saturday morning he snapped out of it. Though he hasn’t apologized, he has mended his ways to a large degree.
Cambry’s new bike came in and it is just what a Cambry bike should be! Elise’s is on the way and Aleah got to ride the one from the display home. Just Parker left. But one of his obstinate points this week was not wearing a helmet. Saturday he announced his reform and wore a helmet as he biked to the library. It just isn’t worth the risk. I wear a helmet every ride and once it’s on, I forget about it. They are not so uncomfortable and they breathe just fine.
I rode Aleah’s bike up the canyon with Cambry Thursday night. It’s a bit small, but it’s a fast bike. I can’t wait to steal Elise’s! :) Can you guess my birthday activity this year?
Before I forget: Parker is singing in the choir for the Priesthood session of conference! We had to get a suit and everything! He’s so cute, I’m sure he’ll show up on the camera a time or two for his brother to see. I will go up to the rehearsal Wednesday and Dad will go to the session. Isn’t that neat?
B and N are coming this week for a visit. It looks like they might be moving back here to Utah County. Oh, wouldn’t that be great?! Grandma B has surgery on her other hip this week. Pray for her. L placed at a ballroom competition yesterday, two fifth places and one second!
I’ve been thinking about my heritage this week. My ancestors knew the Prophet Joseph Smith. They were some of the first converts to the church. They sacrificed, suffered persecution and expulsion. They had known ease and civilization. And they forsook that easier life because they believed that what Joseph Smith said happened really happened; they trusted the confirming witness they had as they planted the seed of faith in their hearts. When they arrived here and had to make and do everything for themselves, they carried on. They didn’t quit and forsake for ease or station or riches or anything. There was nothing more precious to them than their faith. We have much to live up to. I sense it. And I take comfort in this time when the Prophet is so maligned on the internet, that these good people who knew him and loved him, stood as witnesses to his character and office with their everything. What an honor to carry their witness forward, even in Thailand!
I love you so very much. I’m so grateful to be a missionary momma! Be the missionary I think you are.
Love,
MomI forgot to send you these pictures last week
She was really proud of her marks.
Aleah really does enjoy running, you can see.
My mom came down this weekend for my great uncle S's 90th birthday party. Before the party, we went to see E's headstone and put some flowers on it.
We had a blood moon here tonight. I'm sorry the pictures don't do it justice. Dad and I went for a walk (and stopped to talk with half the ward along the way) and watched as the full moon really disappeared. It was something!
So cool. Did you see any of it?
From Dad September 28, 2015
September 27, 2015
Re: Letter 43 of 3
Dear Riley:
Well, one of the more exciting things last week was the arrival of the first new bicycles. Cambry and Aleah got theirs, and Elise’s should be ready in a week or so, Parker’s in maybe 2 weeks. Up to this point, your mother didn’t see the need for a single rider bike for herself but was almost convinced after she tried out Aleah's. (I’ll continue to work on her, though tandem is still clearly her preference.) Such beautiful bicycles and I didn’t fully appreciate how far technology has come until I tried out Cambry’s. After all, these are just bicycles right? What room for improvement on bikes could there possibly be? Well, for starters the gears and shifting between gears is like silk. The brakes are extremely responsive, even the handle grips were more ergonomic than anything I had previously ridden. Materials of construction are stronger and lighter. Larger tires give a new concept of speed and responsiveness… Overall the handling is a pure delight.
Your mother and I have put nearly 140 miles on the tandem in the past month. Yesterday we rode out to H on the MC trail and put about 32 miles on the bike in two hours. I haven’t felt that my physique has changed much, though I can tell I’m more conditioned for rigorous fast riding. Someone today commented at church they thought I had lost some weight. I guess that makes sense because I haven’t been eating more, and I’m clearly burning more calories. Since I don’t have anything to lose, I guess I need to eat more if I’m going to be biking regularly. We’re still having fun accessorizing to our preference and expect that when the weather turns nasty, I’ll be tweaking the bike so it’s ready to go and more like we want it in the spring. Oh, I nearly forgot! I installed a back seat for Josie which she thoroughly enjoys. Try that on a tandem. It’s not so much the extra weight as the fact that subtle shifts in the mass require quick adjustments in your equilibrium to maintain balance. Josie hasn’t quite got the balance thing down and even though she sits pretty still, you can certainly feel the difference. Anyway, it’s been great fun for the whole family and the anticipation in the air has been reminiscent of Christmas.
This time of year also brings the work of the harvest. I am always filled with gratitude and wonder at the law of the harvest and the bounty it provides. While it wasn’t the best year for certain crops, it seems to have made up for the short fall with other crops and I anticipate, once again, not having room enough to receive it. Loads of grapes are ready on the vine, and the Golden Delicious apples are perhaps a week from their prime with the Red Delicious close behind. This was a good year for apples and the flavor is already intense. I’m sorry if this makes you a little hungry for a piece of home. I always think of Riley whenever I eat a great apple, especially one from our tree.
We had a little bit of a hard week with family dynamics. Parker has been especially difficult and brooding. I think at least part of what we’re dealing with is anxiety that the load he’s carrying may be too much, and then there’s this thing with depression and medication which he doesn’t want to take, and hasn’t been taking since midsummer. Couple this with other strong wills of siblings and overall it’s made home life a little unpleasant and volatile. Yesterday there was a softening and a different spirit in the home. This was punctuated by the entire family watching the Woman’s General Conference broadcast, followed by a story of two brothers 5,000 days in the making. I had seen bits and pieces over the years, but never the entire story from their young childhood, through High School, and on to missions. It was so touching, and the evening culminated in a wonderful spirit which permeated the home and carried through to this morning.
Today was the Primary program and it was wonderful. The Spirit was strong and the message sweet. There was lots of music and the children sang their hearts out. Your Mother did a wonderful job with the singing portion and I was moved to tears numerous times throughout the course of the program. Truly God uses children to teach, and this was evident today.
I also had a remarkable experience today with the power of the fast. There was a situation in the Ward in which emotions were high and deeply entrenched positions well established. By virtue of my position I found myself in the middle trying to resolve a contentious situation and prevent further offence. This has been escalating since the middle of summer, and I was finally able to coordinate numerous schedules so a number of people could sit down together and clear the air. I really didn’t know what was going to be spoken or how this situation could be resolved. I didn’t have a script or any time constraints, but had prepared by fasting specifically for guidance, and to be instrumental in repairing the breach and restoring paths to dwell in (Isaiah 58:5-12). It took nearly 80 minutes, but I was amazed at how the Spirit took over and worked to lower defenses, soften hearts, and replace anger, frustration, and resentment with love, forgiveness, and humility. I came away filled with gratitude and wonder at what had transpired. I couldn’t help but consider that these are the fruits of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I was able to catch a glimpse first hand of what the world would be like, if even half of its population could be so moved to lay aside petty grievances and instead extend to one another in a spirit of love and understanding. The Spirit is the great balm for what ails the world and truly a wonder to behold in action.
Well, time is just flying by and it’s hard to believe yet another week has slipped by. The family is doing well, we’re being abundantly blessed, and enjoying the beautiful weather. The Church is true. We love hearing about our missionary and it’s readily evident you’re being blessed and utilized as a tool in God’s hands. Keep up the good work!
Love,
Dad
Monday, September 21, 2015
Since you've been gone... September 21, 2015
...we're a mere shadow of our formal selves.
Dad chose this one.
Cake Filling Mousse
Cake isn't my favorite dessert as it is often dry and crumbly. BUT I learned that if I fill it with mousse and frost it with cream, I actually love it.
Mousse Filling
1 small package instant pudding mix - pick a flavor*
1/2 C heavy whipping cream
1 C cold milk
Whisk everything together and whip until it thickens, then a few minutes longer until very thick, set, and airy.
* I prefer to make chocolate pudding from a vanilla mix by whisking cocoa powder into the dry mix, 1/3-1/2 cup.
Mousse Filling
1 small package instant pudding mix - pick a flavor*
1/2 C heavy whipping cream
1 C cold milk
Whisk everything together and whip until it thickens, then a few minutes longer until very thick, set, and airy.
* I prefer to make chocolate pudding from a vanilla mix by whisking cocoa powder into the dry mix, 1/3-1/2 cup.
From Dad September 21, 2015
September 20, 2015
Re: Letter 42 of 3
Dear Riley,
I realized after I had written last week that I never mentioned our spear fishing/free diving adventure. I had spent the better part of a day building a second pole spear and upgrading my other one with a fiberglass extension and new style of tip with greater holding power. I had done a gear assessment and determined we had all of the equipment for two sets of colder water diving minus one diving hood. I decided I could probably do without the a hood so we headed up to DC around 12:00 and had all our gear moved to the selected dive site a little after 1:00 p.m. We had to hoof it a fair distance because we were on the West side just north of the buoys designating culinary use. The amount of gear was sufficient to justify two trips by two people. I had given Parker the 7 mm wetsuit and hood, which was quite snug and took about 15 minutes to work into. No sooner had we gotten ready to go into the water, Parker got a call reminding him that he hadn’t yet gotten his senior picture taken and we had about 40 minutes before the deadline.
We took off our gear, left it by the reservoir, and ran off for the senior picture. On the way back, we picked up the wheeled cart I purchased for my tree sprayer and hauled it back up to the reservoir to carry all our gear when we came home. Back at the reservoir and once again in full gear, we worked to adjust our weight so we were close to neutrally buoyant. We could see that within 30 to 50 feet of the shore the water was quite turbid but supposed that beyond this, visibility would be considerably better. As it turned out, visibility near the shore was about 12 inches and 50 feet out from shore visibility was around 12 feet. We spent the time figuring out the limitations of the equipment and working to equalize our ears all while trying to get to a bottom which seemed far beyond our reach. I don’t know how deep it was, but the shore was quite steep and you didn’t need to be far from shore before it was at least 20 feet deep. It was a little unnerving to dive down into the murk without knowing how far you needed to go and when to give up and turn back. (Note to self; a hood makes a big difference and prevents throbbing cold headache.) I also kept getting a cramp in one of my legs which made things even more complicated. After an hour and a half we were ready to throw in the towel and we hadn’t even taken the spears into the water. We were both a little down at failing to produce anything for the table, but we did enjoy the time together and the adventure. I’m thinking we need to fine tune some equipment, get a few more important pieces, and hit this reservoir earlier in the season before all the algae clouds the visibility so much.
Yesterday I made four loaves of sourdough and gave three away. We were just sitting down to eat the fourth loaf and Josie decided she wanted olive oil, salt, and pepper on hers. Before I knew it she was trying to carry the bottle of oil herself, which was a little too heavy and cumbersome for her little hands. I heard a thud and turned to see the lid shooting across the floor, the bottle on its side, and copious amounts of olive oil pouring from the top. Olive oil had shot a full 10 feet in some directions. It splashed on the lower cabinets and the refrigerator and there was a fair amount across the floor. It was a disaster, but Cambry and I laughed and I set about figuring out the best way to clean it up. Josie ran upstairs and shut herself into her room after assuring us it was just an accident. We both called her back and told her she wasn’t in trouble. Bad idea! She ran back in to the kitchen and immediately wiped out on the largest puddle. This covered her hands, feet, legs and clothing. Cambry took charge of the bath while I reclaimed the kitchen. What a mess!!
The remainder of my Saturday was spent moving the remaining sides of my cement planter boxes, stowing them in the back yard, and repairing the van. Would you believe it? In order to get to the rear spark plugs and oxygen sensor I needed to remove the entire housing for the windshield wipers and still needed to do much by feel. By the time I completed the project it was sundown and I was beginning to suspect that whoever engineered that vehicle was very likely serving time in prison as a psychotic serial killer. I never did make it to clearing out the garage so we could park the car and some new bikes in it. Perhaps next week??
Well, it’s really pretty late and I’m afraid I’m going to miss you, so I’ll send you what I’ve written so far. We’re doing well and enjoying this beautiful time of year as well as the blessings from having a missionary out. The time just flies by. MN just gave his return missionary address and it seems like he just left. Keep up the good work and continue to be faithful and diligent in doing everything in your power to allow the Lord to bless you.
Love,
Dad
From Mom September 21, 2015 -- Extended family rocks!
September 20, 2015
Dear Riley,
I hope you’re feeling all better this week, no more troubles? And I hope you’ve had a great week. Are you learning any of the Elan or the other language spoken there?
Before I get too far, I have to share a few funny Josie dialogues of late. Josie came up to me this morning in my bathroom admiring a ring of Elise’s. She told me, “I won’t lose this again because it is special to Elise, precious.” Then lifting the ring closer to my view and with BIG blue eyes, “See? Prec-ious.” Yeah, that what I was thinking too.
She’s gotten a little more private of late when we have company. Typically when she uses the toilet she’ll call out, “I went poo-oo” when she’s ready for me to come wipe her bum. Well last week when DJ was here, she quietly approached Elise (I was gone) and said, “Elise, I have to go to the bathroom and I want you to come with me.” Elise resisted, ‘cause DJ is good company, you know. “But Elise, I’m going to go poo and I need you to wipe me.” Elise suggested Josie just call down when she was done. A minute later, a reserved almost questioning, “Elise? I’m done now” floated down.
We’ve had a few new families move into the ward and two of them are sunbeams with Josie. Josie was getting ready to go somewhere and she was really concerned about her foot attire options. Mom, I don’t want to wear those shoes because they are plastic.” I didn’t have time to probe her statement just then, but a little later I asked what she was talking about. “Well, M (new sunbeam in a new house built between Grandpa P’s and the W’s house) said those shoes are plastic (obvious disdain in her tone).” I asked what was so bad about that. “Well, he said HIS shoes are rubber (and I was thinking leather before she got it out) but mine are plastic (disdain).”
My dad and grandpa got home last night from the Honor Flight. I talked to my dad today and he was very happy they did that. He shared some of the highlights from the trip with me today and I teared up picturing it. They visited Fort McHenry which was a pivotal battle in the war of 1812 when the British were trying to recover the States and invaded Baltimore. The Star Spangled Banner was written from the emotions of that battle. The veterans were handed an enormous flag like the one that flew at the fort in that time. It was 32’x42’ and the 15 stripes were 2’ wide, broad indeed. There were 15 stars on that flag because at the time that was how many states were in the Union. They were shown that the stars (which were also 2’ tall) in the top row tilted up, the next row, they pointed right and the next left. Stars set this way was called spangling. When they were done learning the history of the song, the veterans sang our national song and my Dad freely admitted it was a touching moment. Dad really enjoyed the places they visited. He also said that as the veterans would walk off the airplane, people would spontaneously divide on either side and applaud as the veterans moved single file through the crowd.
At The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
At Fort McHenry
Things have been good for us at home. Dad and I put a light on the bike and took three different rides this week, well he actually took four because he went with Elise on a mutual bike hike. But they hadn’t been out long before there was terrible lightning and drenching rain. So Dad changed the gear shifts and handle grips as they are part of the gear shift Tuesday night after the youth ride and it took longer than he anticipated so we went out later Wednesday night than we planned. We took the MC trail and about two miles out, the trail was wet and flinging water spray up my back. Then after five miles there was rain… cold rain. We got home and I decided I wasn’t that dye-hard.
On a ride later in the week we saw a mother doe and her fawn. Last night we rode down to the R where they had Chalk the Block, they turned the parking lot stalls into canvases and then rode up to BVF. There were STARS! But we maybe had a low tire or something… it was a harder ride than I’ve had on the same trail. Or maybe I was just tired? Something.
The weather has gotten cooler and as I mentioned we’ve had rain so of course -- we’ve had viruses. Dad hasn’t suffered, but I think everyone else did.
Parent teacher conferences were this week and Mr. K, Mr. E, and Mr. N all especially asked me to forward their best to you after asking how you were doing. Parker is doing well in school. But his iguana isn’t doing well. There’s this balance we’re hoping to achieve somewhere between obsession and abject neglect which has eluded us thus far.
Elsie is very excited because the youth will go back to the temple this week. She is so helpful with Josie and actually all the kids at home. She is doing well and is sweet as you remember. She was told today that she was the best baby-sitter a new family had ever hired. That's good to hear.
Aleah had the cougar crawl this week. She was so excited and rounded up her donations. She was really concerned because last year her grade didn’t meet their goal so they couldn’t ice bucket her teacher, so Aleah gave her own money. She started with $5 then crossed that out and made it $10. O and JF were over visiting that night and O even gave her some money. When she went to Sister S’s, G offered to have her come paint with her at her house Saturday. Both girls went and they brought home some beautiful watercolor flowers. They get to go back another time. Aleah was effervescing, you can imagine.
Cambry is well. They had a new influx of single move-ins in her ward and she is super happy tonight. But I did pray last night that she would at least get a spark soon.
Primary is going well. We have our program next week. Two weeks ago I was wondering if we would really make it. But this week I broke out the singing measles and introduced the word “contagious” and let me tell you, the first couple rows of kids were red in the face they were singing so hard.
Dad is doing well. He fixed the van. I took it into the shop and spent another $250 after last month’s $350 and it still had stuff to be done. But Dad fixed it the rest of the way and he’s kind of my hero.
DJ did laundry here yesterday because Grandma and Grandpa had gone up to I to help take care of those twins M and S had for a while and have again. S had woodbadge training and M had a convention of some sort. But DJ said that in his job (a secretary) he works with a lot of girls and he’s listening to them as a fly on the wall. He realized that the way girls see boy relationships and interactions is completely different that how boys talk about things. He said boys are all about action, girls are analytical. It never occurred to him that he could be judged just as harshly for the things he DIDN’T do as the things he did. It was so fun to have him around. He borrowed 14 of my old cassettes for his car. It’s going to be a great week for him discovering the 80’s and 90’s with fresh ears. Haha. It was funny going through the stuff.
We’ve had an impromptu party here tonight. I made a cake, a very yummy cake, and so we invited Grandma and Grandpa here and just as they were getting ready to leave, J and A showed up. Oh it feels like ages since we’ve sat around visiting like that. I did turn anti-social, regrettably, about 10 because I had to finish this letter. But you have such good family, son.
I love you like crazy. I can’t wait to hear what’s up and and how things are going. I hope Elder H and you are reaping what you sow. I hope you’re attuning that ear of yours to the subtle whispers of the Spirit.
Love and hugs and, if you’d let me kiss you, kisses!
Mom
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Whole Whead Sourdough Sandwich Bread
This is a recipe I've developed over years of baking bread. I use a whole wheat sourdough I got here. It is delicious. I typically use white wheat, but it is also good with red wheat.
In a large mixer (I use my old Bosch) add:
3 C whole wheat sourdough start, recently fed
2 1/2 C water
1/3 C applesauce
1/4 C honey
2 T oil
8 - 9 C whole wheat flour
1/4 C vital wheat gluten
2 T sugar
1 T salt
1 T rapid rise yeast
Mix everything in the mixer and knead until smooth and elastic enough to make a window when you pull it. It should look like this when it's done.
Raise it in the bowl until it's doubled in size. Time will vary according to how your start was. A good window is 45 - 70 minutes.
Punch it down and form four equal loaves on an oiled counter. I use 1 lb bread pans. Raise them in a 110 degree oven. They should look like this:
Raise them in the warm oven until they breach the top of the pans like this:
Gently pull them out to raise the rest of the way while the oven warms to 350. Bake them when they are well above the pan rim like this:
Loaves will continue to rise as they bake. This is what they will look like when they have baked 25 minutes:
Allow 4 hours total time, but this bread is very forgiving. And my kids would rather take old slices of this than anything store bought. Yeah, they're spoiled.
In a large mixer (I use my old Bosch) add:
3 C whole wheat sourdough start, recently fed
2 1/2 C water
1/3 C applesauce
1/4 C honey
2 T oil
8 - 9 C whole wheat flour
1/4 C vital wheat gluten
2 T sugar
1 T salt
1 T rapid rise yeast
Mix everything in the mixer and knead until smooth and elastic enough to make a window when you pull it. It should look like this when it's done.
Raise it in the bowl until it's doubled in size. Time will vary according to how your start was. A good window is 45 - 70 minutes.
Punch it down and form four equal loaves on an oiled counter. I use 1 lb bread pans. Raise them in a 110 degree oven. They should look like this:
Raise them in the warm oven until they breach the top of the pans like this:
Gently pull them out to raise the rest of the way while the oven warms to 350. Bake them when they are well above the pan rim like this:
Loaves will continue to rise as they bake. This is what they will look like when they have baked 25 minutes:
Allow 4 hours total time, but this bread is very forgiving. And my kids would rather take old slices of this than anything store bought. Yeah, they're spoiled.
Monday, September 14, 2015
From Dad September 13, 2015
September 13, 2015
Re: Letter 41 of 3
Dear Riley,
Two more Sundays and we’re through September! The apples are starting to turn red on the tree, the grapes are ready to harvest, the mountains are clearly on their way to fall colors, there is a cool crispness in the air, and the days are noticeably shorter. The weather has been beautiful and I just love the season. If there were a downside to all of this it would be the hay fever which hasn’t been this bad for upwards of twenty years. Your Mom has tandemania really bad and wants to spend every spare minute on the tandem bike. It really is a blast and we’ve seen a lot of beautiful places, some of which I never knew existed, but I’ve been so afflicted by hay fever when I come back from biking that it’s taken some of the fun out of it. Rather than back off even a little, your mother pumps me full of allergy remedies, most of which work only slightly better than placebo, and we go out again.
Just last evening we rode 22 miles on the Murdock canal trail. I had never been on it before but the scenery was spectacular. We cruised along around 15 mph and before long found ourselves past the AF temple. I’m not sure what it is about the tandem bike but we really move along at a good clip and I noticed several times we were going over 20 mph without even breaking a sweat or feeling spent. If we had a few more gears I know we could easily go faster. Maybe it’s a combination of the long wheel base and the fact that you have two riders providing power with less weight than two bicycles. At any rate, we seem to pass a good number of serious looking bikers. One of the last ones we passed seemed insulted that he was passed by a tandem bike and immediately switched into the higher gears as if he intended to keep up with us, but we quickly left him behind. It was kind of funny. The trip was so exhilarating that we both concluded we needed get rid of the junkers and get nice bikes for the entire family. Certainly this would constitute a wholesome recreational activity and it’s considerably more beneficial than some of the other pastimes. We’re setting out to make it happen and just want you to know that you’re bike will eventually be replaced with a nicer one, though we’ll wait for you to come home before giving it the ax.
Church today was a two hour regional broadcast which was really good. I know your mother filled you in on the details so I won’t rehash, but it was direct and clear counsel. As I listened I couldn’t help but marvel at the fact that even as I was being uplifted by the word and resolving to do better, there were others who would take offence. One portion of Elder Ballard’s address covered the small and simple things which nourish testimony and invite the spirit of revelation onto our lives. He stressed the value of asking questions with a warning against false prophets and internet sites which are not intellectually honest which seek to lead people astray. Without spending time in the word of God, or on our knees in prayer, we can more easily be swept away by the philosophies of men and the wiles of the devil.
I see so many ways that God is involved in my life and the richness seems so tangible, It’s hard to understand how even some former faithful members can become so hardened so as to not only cease believing, but to begin actively warring against the Church. These individuals would have me believe that what I feel, and the happiness and richness that fills my life, is all a figment of my imagination. It’s almost as if someone on the top of a high mountain peak is inviting others to climb up to his vantage point so they can see what he can see, but those below refuse to believe that his perspective is in any way enhanced by the effort he invested to reach the summit, and so remain below doubting, questioning, even mocking his claims of the breathtaking vistas and the exhilaration of his experience. What seems lost on those below is the fact that in order to reach the summit, one had to start at the lower elevation so the person on the summit has the advantage of two perspectives while those who never climb to the summit have the disadvantage of only one perspective.
We just got back from the family gathering birthday bash over at grandma and grandpa’s home. It had been a few months since we gathered, so we covered three months of birthdays. It was really nice and comfortable and we stayed a good while. Aunt J and her kids were there but Uncle T is in India on business for a few more days. Would you believe it? He’s having a miserable time and quite sick. I don’t think there’s a trip he’s been on that hasn’t resulted in gastro intestinal catastrophe. I believe he was throwing up by the second day and has been exhausted and battered the entire trip.
Well, it’s 10:30. I spent a little more time over at grandma’s so didn’t leave a lot of time to write more. Things at home are good and we’ve been abundantly blessed. Reading your letters and receiving you pictures brings your mission alive and I know you’re doing God’s work. Don’t ever forget what you’re witnessing in the lives of the individuals you teach, especially the ones who accept the gospel with gladness. Don’t ever forget the miracles and tender mercies you’ve received. Always remember the happiness and success that obedience brings and you will never wander far from the path. It’s not that I believe you ever would, but I see how some are able to explain it all away and so literally forget that which they once knew. Stay the course and keep the faith!
Love,
Dad
Sunday, September 13, 2015
From Mom September 13, 2015 September 11 and the days around it in 2015
September 13, 2015
Dear Riley,
It’s been a good week here. I hope it has for you as well. I hope the work still flows along strong and Elder H and you are wearing yourselves out everyday. I can’t wait to hear if you had returning investigators at church and how things are going there.
We had such a great regional conference today with all of the utah county area. I had such a sweet feeling and gratitude that I could receive instruction, counsel, warning, and blessings at the feet of inspired leaders. Elder Ballard was our concluding speaker and he talked about our area being the heart of the Church in many ways, pumping needed nourishment and oxygen to the rest of the Church. Then he warned us of some dangers and shared a story which had actually been shared in our sacrament meeting a couple weeks ago by Sister H. When he was a mission president, he had a missionary bring concerns that had arisen as he had studied anti-mormon literature. Elder Ballard listened to the missionary thoughtfully. He told him he was pretty sure he already knew the answers to the concerns. But he wanted a week to be sure his response was complete and accurate. He then asked the missionary when he had last spent time studying the scriptures, particularly the Book of Mormon. The elder hung his head and admitted that he had been neglectful. Elder Ballard challenged the elder to get back into his scripture study and when they met the next week, the concerns were completely resolved because of the missionary’s time in the word. Elder Ballard said that was good, but he had spent a lot of time in study and this missionary was going to get all the answers he had prepared. He told us to be careful as we search Church history, Church doctrine, and practices that we not neglect what we have been given when we cannot answer to our satisfaction the perceived inconsistencies or incongruities. And he assured us that the church has a policy of transparency. He warned us against hypocrisy and encouraged us to consider our attention to personal worship, keeping our spiritual roots nourished. He warned us against living large and the prideful pursuit of wealth and comparing ourselves, qualifying that in our access to worldly offerings, we are already prospered greatly above the majority of the people who have walked the earth. He warned us that all of our gadgets and technology come with caveats and we need to be mindful to regularly unplug electronics and engage with our family members. He asked us to be mindful in our area of those who are not of our faith, reminding us that our history shows the pain of being a mistrusted minority. Elder Ballard is an apostle. I felt his wisdom and clarity as he taught and counseled us. And that’s just one of the amazing talks of four.
Pretty cool, huh? A little before 3 in the canyon on Labor Day.
Look, a basket this time:
Friday was the worst day of the week. I had to go into work earlier in the week because we have someone looking at our network and will set up a new one for us. I don’t think he did anything that caused the problem, but I lost the ability to connect to the network on my old laptop/external monitor setup. I had to go into work early Friday morning because G's workstation is the only one that can use Quickbooks now. Grrrrrrrrrrr. It was an exercise in complete frustration. And then I had to bake and frost a cake for LC’s funeral and was late taking care of that. That afternoon M and I hopped onto the freeway headed north to celebrate my mom’s birthday with L and Mom at the Cheesecake Factor. We hit traffic almost as soon as we got on the freeway and it took us an hour and 40 minutes to get there. M had another obligation that night, so we were only able to stay 20 minutes. We ate the appetizer Mom and L had ordered and took cheesecake to go. I felt so bad that we had to leave. But thankfully we got back just in time for M to get to her other event.
Friday was also terrible for a family tragedy. Back story: Somehow last year something triggered an inexplicable connection in Dad and when Elise would run out and slam the door shut on her way out to the bus in the morning, Dad would say from the table, in a high, screechy voice, “Wait! Leesie Lu, come back. You forgot your underwear. Leesie. Oh, nevermind, I’ll bring it to you.” It’s been a long-running joke here in the family which Leesie is party to. Dad even said we should get a clean, new panty in size 3X and take it out to her for April fool’s day. Of course, that didn’t happen.
Well, Aleah decided to take the joke up a notch of her own accord and Friday morning packed a pair of Elise’s real underwear into her backpack and kept the idea alive all day long. Then she raced to the bus stop from school with the M girls in tow to hold them up for the entire bus of kids (first bus stop,remember) to see as she shouted out, “Leesie Lu, you forgot your underwear…” Elise was mortified. She acknowledge nothing and made for the door. After crossing the threshold, she shouted out the details of the affair to me before locking herself into my bedroom.
Aleah and the M girls were slow coming in. When Aleah, last of everyone, slunk into the doorway, I gave her the Mother Eye of Death and calmly directed, “I’m assuming you now recognize the folly of your choice. My question for you is, ‘How in the world are you going to make this better?’” Tears upon tears upstairs. It was like the scene in Sense and Sensibility where all the girls are crying in different rooms and the oldest sits down on the stairs and sips the tea which was brought to comfort her disconsolate sister.
When they were at least speaking to one another again, and Aleah was sincerely trying to make it better, Elise very correctly noted that nothing can be said or done which will remove the reality of what she did. And yet, Elise forgave her little sister. Aww, family.
All in all, it was a frustrating day. But what should I expect on 9/11?
Yesterday was full. I had a RS Super Saturday at the church from 9 -12. But I forgot and went late. I’m glad I went but I do feel very removed from RS when I’m in primary and nursery.
I finally finished up the tomatoes we picked from Grandpa’s garden in spaghetti sauce last night. sigh of relief. DJ ended up at our house last night and we had an impromptu party. The family watched Henry V on Cambry’s computer because we couldn’t make it work on the PS3. And I watched the game on my computer upstairs while I cooked the spaghetti sauce.
And I fermented the cherry tomatoes and they are so good! They’re little fizzy balls that pop in your mouth. I added basil leaves and they taste sooooo good. I think I’ll do another bottle later this season.
And then of course my favorite part of yesterday was that wonderful bike ride. Oh, I’m a maniac. I can’t get enough. I love it. I love the way it makes me feel about Dad, the connection it strengthens.
We went 22 miles round trip on the Murdock canal trail tonight, an hour and a half ride. It was absolutely stunningly beautiful. You can see the temple on the right of the sunset. When I'm riding out like that, I feel my spirit expanding... And I want more. The more I see out there, the more I want see.
Tonight we were over at Grandma’s and Grandpa’s for the first birthday party gathering since June. It was really nice to be together; almost everyone came. DJ was there too. I love our family.
I’m excited to hear about your week and see more pictures. Work hard, love freely, follow impressions immediately.
Love,
Mom
Paper Post from Elise September 12, 2015
My pattern since deciding to write paper posts to Riley which are sent with the prints of our family picutre is to pray about what should I write. This time I got a new answer: it's someone else's story to tell this week.
I had Elise and Aleah with me when that impression came and shared it, asking if one of them hadn't told me a spiritual experience this past week. Elise lit up and said, "I did... about prayer and the fighting." I asked her if she was willing to write that experience out for me. And she came right home and did.
As I read her story, I remembered the impact of peer teaching I'd seen in our family home evenings when the children were little and I relinquished my ideal of perfectly prepared and presented parent-taught lessons for little children sharing simple principles they understood. I never stop being amazed by these spiritual giants we are entrusted to raise.
From Elise:
Dear Riley,
I had a really neat experience this week that I would like to share with you I'm sure you've heard of the constant fighting problem in our home. I had grown sick of it and became upset with Aleah and Parker. I didn't like the way I felt, but I didn't think about how to change it. I felt like I had no control over my actions or feelings anymore.
I finally couldn't take it any longer. I felt so terrible that on Friday I knelt down and prayed harder than any other time I have prayed. I prayed that I would be forgiven for my mistakes, that I would be guided when a fight came around, that I would be able to reach Aleah and Parker in an appropriate way, and that I wouldn't be as reactive to insults.
The next morning I felt different. I no longer felt weighed down by the mistakes I'd made. Aleah was having a bad morning and was looking for a fight. She of course tried to attack me by insults. The insults really stung. She knew the things that would usually set me off. I was about to say something horrid back, but instead blurted out, "Okay." She seemed suprised, but tried to dig deeper. The same thing happened again and again. Every insult was swatted down by an "Okay or "You're right, I could work on that". Suddenly she stopped and I walked away even though I still wanted to get her back for what she had said.
She took a minute to cool down, then came downstairs with tears in her eyes and apologized for how she had behaved. She said that I had handled it in the exact way that she needed. It was exactly what I had prayed for.
I am so thankful that I knew I could get help through prayer and that I knew I didn't have to do it alone. I love you and know that you are doing the right thing.
Love,
Elise
I had Elise and Aleah with me when that impression came and shared it, asking if one of them hadn't told me a spiritual experience this past week. Elise lit up and said, "I did... about prayer and the fighting." I asked her if she was willing to write that experience out for me. And she came right home and did.
As I read her story, I remembered the impact of peer teaching I'd seen in our family home evenings when the children were little and I relinquished my ideal of perfectly prepared and presented parent-taught lessons for little children sharing simple principles they understood. I never stop being amazed by these spiritual giants we are entrusted to raise.
From Elise:
Dear Riley,
I had a really neat experience this week that I would like to share with you I'm sure you've heard of the constant fighting problem in our home. I had grown sick of it and became upset with Aleah and Parker. I didn't like the way I felt, but I didn't think about how to change it. I felt like I had no control over my actions or feelings anymore.
I finally couldn't take it any longer. I felt so terrible that on Friday I knelt down and prayed harder than any other time I have prayed. I prayed that I would be forgiven for my mistakes, that I would be guided when a fight came around, that I would be able to reach Aleah and Parker in an appropriate way, and that I wouldn't be as reactive to insults.
The next morning I felt different. I no longer felt weighed down by the mistakes I'd made. Aleah was having a bad morning and was looking for a fight. She of course tried to attack me by insults. The insults really stung. She knew the things that would usually set me off. I was about to say something horrid back, but instead blurted out, "Okay." She seemed suprised, but tried to dig deeper. The same thing happened again and again. Every insult was swatted down by an "Okay or "You're right, I could work on that". Suddenly she stopped and I walked away even though I still wanted to get her back for what she had said.
She took a minute to cool down, then came downstairs with tears in her eyes and apologized for how she had behaved. She said that I had handled it in the exact way that she needed. It was exactly what I had prayed for.
I am so thankful that I knew I could get help through prayer and that I knew I didn't have to do it alone. I love you and know that you are doing the right thing.
Love,
Elise
From Mom September 7, 2015
In response to Riley's letter earlier that morning:
The owners of the UP house charge $50 if you come with balloons and/or in costume to take pictures in front of their house. They greeted us at the gate and we were surprised; how could we anticipate that? They lowered the price a little for us, but it was still a bundle of cash.
Since A's gift was intended to support you on your mission, I feel good about using some of that money for the exploitive UP house sitting fee.
We sure loved your letters this week. It's wonderful to hear that you and your companion are equally yoked in the work. That's a rare gift, as I understand. Keep it up! And then to know that you're seeing success, what a joy. I think of missionaries who gave everything there for years without seeing much success. I'm glad you were called at a time when some Thai hearts are ready to be turned.
I've noticed over the years that a desire to believe opens the door to confirmations from the Spirit. But you CAN talk yourself out of those small and simple whispers if you desire that as well. The key is your desire and your willingness to receive. When you receive and trust the whispers of the Spirit, they increase in your life. When you see and acknowledge the hand of God, there is suddenly more evidence before you of His love and attention in your life. If you will believe.
I love you!
Keep up the good work.
Mom
Monday, September 7, 2015
From Dad September 6, 2015
September 6, 2015
Re: Letter 40 of 3
Dear Riley:
Labor Day is tomorrow and we’re rather looking forward to the break, though I’m not quite sure what we’re going to do with a day away from school and work. I can think of any number of projects which could occupy the full day, but what fun would that be? Things have been a little crazy with work, home, school, church etc., but what a great life!
The weather has been hot during the day and pretty cool at night. We’ve had a fair amount of rain through the summer so the mountains are still quite green. In fact, I don’t recall ever seeing the mountains so green this late in the year. It’s also kind of interesting to note which plants in the garden take off and thrive when the weather turns more temperate and which ones slow down and diminish in their quality. Carrots, beets, chard, and lettuce are all of the sudden exploding. There truly is a time and a season for everything.
There seems to be intense activity around the beehive, a last furious drive to store honey and pollen for the coming winter. It took a little extra effort to get the hive stabilized but it’s finally growing well and contains a fair amount of developing brood. For the first time when I checked it recently I found drones. These are the non working male bees, most of which never fulfill the measure of their creation, who just wander around consuming precious resources. They’re a larger bee with no stinger and huge eyes and they have a quality which reminds me of a soft teddy bear. It’s sort of a sad commentary on nature that when the weather turns cold they will all be kicked out of the hive to die. I’m considering bringing a few in for the girls to enjoy. At any rate, I don’t plan on taking any of their winter stock pile of food, so they should be well positioned to produce honey for me in the spring when the honey flow is heaviest. (I’m quite looking forward to the Flow Hive.) As I was writing this, I remembered you had asked for some pictures of a few things, including the bee hive. I’ll get those to you.
Did I mention that you mother LOVES her tandem bike? Any spare moment is likely to be invested in a quick, or not so quick, tandem bike excursion. Saturday we biked 23 miles which took us down to the Utah Lake bike trail, up through Lindon and onto the Murdock Canal bike path. Elise and Aleah also want to make sure they get some bike time, so I put on at least another 8 miles with them. Something funny happened on the last ride of the day with Aleah. Earlier we had gotten into some puncture weeds and picked up a few in both the front and back tires. Luckily the front tire held, but the back tire had what seemed to be a SLOW leak.
We made it home fine and I put some more air in both tires for the trip with Aleah. (This required a trip to the store to purchase a pump with a special adapter for a high end inner tube valve stem.) I figured it wouldn’t be a problem since we would only be biking for around 20 minutes. We burned down the Orem hill into the river bottoms and proceeded North on the bike path toward the canyon. I was really working and felt that Aleah wasn’t quite pulling her share, but didn’t want to say anything which would detract from the obvious sheer enjoyment of her experience, so I slogged along much more slowly than what I deemed typical. At some point I started to feel every bump. The bell on the rear handle was ringing by itself on account of the jarring ride, which should have been a signal that something significant had changed. I assumed it must be from over inflated tires which were giving a less cushioned ride, but I would have expected the peddling to be a little easier. Finally as my legs started really burning I asked Aleah if she was really peddling. She assured me she was and that her legs were quite tired, more so than usual. She gave a noticeably more powerful effort for a short span but we quickly settled back into the slower and more tedious grind. We made our way West up the 800 N. hill from the mouth of the canyon and to the corner of 800 E. While we were waiting at the light a passerby in a car informed us that our back tire was flat. FLAT was an understatement. The ONLY cushion between the rim and the road at all was the outer rubber tire. I had to laugh and wondered if it had been entirely flat on the bike path down by the river woods. We walked the distance from 800 E. and 800 N. pushing the bike along beside us. This is at least one project I’ll be working on before the end of day tomorrow! I also purchased and installed a small bike computer with 16 different functions logging data about each bicycle trip. One function is the speedometer which we topped out at 36 mph.
Today we had a change in High Priest Group leadership. JM and his assistants RF and GD were released. JT was called as the new Group Leader with JH as 1st assistant, DR as 2nd assistant, and GD as Executive Secretary. I really enjoyed working with the last Group leadership, but also look forward to working with this new Group leadership. They’re wonderful men with much to offer. Speaking of Ward news, I just got word a few hours ago that LC passed away around 3:00 p.m. He has been failing at a slow but steady rate for some time now. I’ve known him since I moved into the Ward as an 11 year old. It’s a little sobering to see these people I grew up with, succumb to the effects of age. We’ve lost a fair number of good people over the years and many of them are people I’ve known for many years. I’m confident that the faithful have nothing to fear and that death comes as a sweet release. I’ve said before that there are only a couple ways off this earth, and I don’t know anyone personally who has been translated. The funeral will likely be on Friday. I’m sure the C family would appreciate your prayers in their behalf.
Well, time to get this off to your email. We love you so much and look forward to any news from Thailand with great anticipation. Can you believe you’re coming up on ONE YEAR? No way! Keep up the good work. No regrets.
Love,
Dad
P.S. Your companion reports that HIS companion is REALLY funny!
P.P.S. Sometimes you just nail it. We can hardly wait for you to see your latest family picture. We think it’s awesome!
From Mom September 6, 2015 Labor day weekend
Dear Riley,
Hi, son! I hope you’ve had a good week I looked up your area this week and see that it’s quite rural, but the sheer size impressed me. Two elders and a lot of area. Then I read in Elder H’s blog that you had marveled at the same thing. Just think about the early days of the church and how elders had entire countries to themselves. And no mission president or members or structure to draw upon. Truly this work is a marvel.
Also, Elder H’s mom joined the facebook group this week, so I’ve connected with her. She said your companion reports that you are very funny. Now that’s a new observation. ;) I hope you’re doing well with him and working hard.
We’ve had a good week here. It’s Labor Day weekend. Dad asked me what my plans were for the weekend and I answered, fix the van and ride the bike! Dad and I went all over yesterday, down to Utah Lake, around and up to north Orem and home. It was 23 miles and a lot of fun. Then Dad put the little speedometer computer on the bike and rode down the hill on Center street with Elise -- 36 mph there at peak. Then when Dad had recovered enough to take Aleah out as requested, he was pushing so hard and thinking she was doggin, but in fact, we had picked up a goathead out by the lake and the back tire was flat. I can see that when I spend a couple hours on the bike, I’m not that interested in running around doing all my other jobs. :) Perhaps the worst part is this: I don’t feel bad about it! We still eat and wear clean clothes, don’t worry.
The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews
Chapter 1
The Son is in the express image of the person of the Father—Christ is the Only Begotten Son and thus above the angels.
1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
6 And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.
7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.
8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.
9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
11 They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;
12 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.
13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
Hi, son! I hope you’ve had a good week I looked up your area this week and see that it’s quite rural, but the sheer size impressed me. Two elders and a lot of area. Then I read in Elder H’s blog that you had marveled at the same thing. Just think about the early days of the church and how elders had entire countries to themselves. And no mission president or members or structure to draw upon. Truly this work is a marvel.
Also, Elder H’s mom joined the facebook group this week, so I’ve connected with her. She said your companion reports that you are very funny. Now that’s a new observation. ;) I hope you’re doing well with him and working hard.
We’ve had a good week here. It’s Labor Day weekend. Dad asked me what my plans were for the weekend and I answered, fix the van and ride the bike! Dad and I went all over yesterday, down to Utah Lake, around and up to north Orem and home. It was 23 miles and a lot of fun. Then Dad put the little speedometer computer on the bike and rode down the hill on Center street with Elise -- 36 mph there at peak. Then when Dad had recovered enough to take Aleah out as requested, he was pushing so hard and thinking she was doggin, but in fact, we had picked up a goathead out by the lake and the back tire was flat. I can see that when I spend a couple hours on the bike, I’m not that interested in running around doing all my other jobs. :) Perhaps the worst part is this: I don’t feel bad about it! We still eat and wear clean clothes, don’t worry.
In a spirit of couch potatoing, we watched the BYU football game yesterday afternoon. It was a nail-biter. Taysom Hill, the QB played safe and well, but sprained his foot and had to be out for a minute. Then he played a few more plays and had to go off again. Turns out he fractured his foot and is out the rest of his senior year. Oh, the heartbreak! But the second string is an excellent QB as well and came in and with 12 seconds left in the game, threw a hail Mary from middle field which was caught for a winning touch down. The play started with :01 on the clock. It was unbelievable.
I’m sorry to say that I missed the registration for the volleyball camp for the girls. They won’t have that opportunity yet. Drat. But they love dance and piano.
Parker has been on this crazy schedule of going to school, coming home and crashing to sleep, waking up and playing, then starting homework about 10 and staying up really late. He realized his folly Friday night and is using the holiday weekend to consolidate his sleep hours. His new dilemma is which wonderful costume he has at his disposal should serve as his Halloween costume. He really likes this weeks. He looks so good, huh? But he thinks he may have to take several costumes and change each class period. He’s doing well so far with school though we didn’t get him registered for the September ACT. I think he expects me to know what to do better than he since he’s my third one down this road. But you and Cambry remember that there are a million other things on my brain and only the hottest fires get attention too much of the time.
I’m sorry to say that I missed the registration for the volleyball camp for the girls. They won’t have that opportunity yet. Drat. But they love dance and piano.
Parker has been on this crazy schedule of going to school, coming home and crashing to sleep, waking up and playing, then starting homework about 10 and staying up really late. He realized his folly Friday night and is using the holiday weekend to consolidate his sleep hours. His new dilemma is which wonderful costume he has at his disposal should serve as his Halloween costume. He really likes this weeks. He looks so good, huh? But he thinks he may have to take several costumes and change each class period. He’s doing well so far with school though we didn’t get him registered for the September ACT. I think he expects me to know what to do better than he since he’s my third one down this road. But you and Cambry remember that there are a million other things on my brain and only the hottest fires get attention too much of the time.
Cambry is overwhelmed with school. But I’m not concerned; she’s often this way at the beginning of a new semester. And here she is in her senior year with a good GPA.
This week was really tough for me. It was the anniversary week between when Eric died and his birthday. I’ve cried more this week since it all felt raked up. M hosted a birthday party for Eric at her house and it was one of the best family get-togethers all year. She made pulled pork and we all brought accompaniments. Grandma and Grandpa B came, L’s whole family came except E who is up at Utah State. B, who’s up at the U, brought his girlfriend. And we came in shifts. It was good to gather and just sit out on her patio and visit and remember Eric. I’m so glad she did that because as the day wore on, I just wanted to crawl in bed and wait for a new day. Instead, we ended the day as it should have been.
The temperatures took a big dip last night and all the sudden, I believe it’s time to let summer go. Sigh.
Great Grandpa B is doing the honor flight this month. They take veterans back to the war memorial in DC and celebrate them for three days. It should be a neat thing. Grandpa B is going with him. Grandma B is going in for surgery on her other hip this month too.
J and S moved to DC this week.
Well, Riley, I look forward to your letter and knowing what’s up in your area. You’re a good missionary, a good son, a good brother. Keep it up!
Love,
Mom
I had Parker take pictures for you this week:
PS -- I opened the Bible to these chapters while I was waiting for my temple session this week. I was so touched by these verses which confirmed the rightness of Jesus' position of glory beside the father. And yet, he walked into weakness and vulnerability to suffer for the whole of humanity. I knew something of the condescension of Christ through these verses and felt deep gratitude for the succor we each receive, at such a grand price, from the most generous of beings. I don’t know that this adequately conveighs my impressions. But I figure the Spirit can teach you from them independent of me.
This week was really tough for me. It was the anniversary week between when Eric died and his birthday. I’ve cried more this week since it all felt raked up. M hosted a birthday party for Eric at her house and it was one of the best family get-togethers all year. She made pulled pork and we all brought accompaniments. Grandma and Grandpa B came, L’s whole family came except E who is up at Utah State. B, who’s up at the U, brought his girlfriend. And we came in shifts. It was good to gather and just sit out on her patio and visit and remember Eric. I’m so glad she did that because as the day wore on, I just wanted to crawl in bed and wait for a new day. Instead, we ended the day as it should have been.
The temperatures took a big dip last night and all the sudden, I believe it’s time to let summer go. Sigh.
Great Grandpa B is doing the honor flight this month. They take veterans back to the war memorial in DC and celebrate them for three days. It should be a neat thing. Grandpa B is going with him. Grandma B is going in for surgery on her other hip this month too.
J and S moved to DC this week.
Well, Riley, I look forward to your letter and knowing what’s up in your area. You’re a good missionary, a good son, a good brother. Keep it up!
Love,
Mom
I had Parker take pictures for you this week:
PS -- I opened the Bible to these chapters while I was waiting for my temple session this week. I was so touched by these verses which confirmed the rightness of Jesus' position of glory beside the father. And yet, he walked into weakness and vulnerability to suffer for the whole of humanity. I knew something of the condescension of Christ through these verses and felt deep gratitude for the succor we each receive, at such a grand price, from the most generous of beings. I don’t know that this adequately conveighs my impressions. But I figure the Spirit can teach you from them independent of me.
The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews
Chapter 1
The Son is in the express image of the person of the Father—Christ is the Only Begotten Son and thus above the angels.
1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
6 And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.
7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.
8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.
9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
11 They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;
12 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.
13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
Hebrews
Chapter 2
Jesus came to suffer death and save men—He came to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
2 For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
5 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
6 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him?
7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:
8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.
13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.
14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.
Chapter 2
Jesus came to suffer death and save men—He came to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
2 For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
5 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
6 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him?
7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:
8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.
13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.
14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.