Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Paper Post from Aleah November 23, 2015
So two weeks ago I had a neat experience. It was almost the end of the term and I was so busy getting all my assignments in and I had an essay to write. I didn’t finish it and I felt like I was going to get a terrible grade. I said several prayers and felt like he has not answered any. I felt frustrated and was not happy. (especially because I wanted to get on student council and you need good grades to get on. Elise also wanted me to.) I was crying while I brushed my teeth and felt like Jesus Christ was not real and that He does not answer prayers. I really thought that I could do it, but I felt like all the hope was gone. I didn’t feel like I should say a prayer because He wouldn’t answer them. I thought again and just said to myself, “Just try one more time.” I said another prayer. I asked if I could understand why none of my prayers were answered and why. By the end of the prayer I remembered my blessing before school and it said that when I have struggles that I will read the scriptures. I opened up to where I was and when I read the scripture said that He will always be there and that He answers prayers! I started to cry. I knew this church was true and that he lives! I know this church is true and that Jesus Christ lives. That is my neat experience. --Aleah
Monday, November 23, 2015
Since you've been gone... November 23, 2015
...let's face it, we're funny.
This was Leadelle's choice.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
From Mom November 22, 2015
Yep, snow. But really I took this pic because she uses the calculator as a phone. Look how she stows it!
Project time: Like mother, like daughter.
Funny story. I'd been catching up with Grandma P on the phone and worked while we talked. Josie had played Barbies and kitchen stuff. She hadn't eaten her breakfast (fried bread!) and though she'd been pleasant, she was about at her wits' end when I asked her to clean up before lunch. Oh how she cried. She was completely overwhelmed. I helped here and there, but I was making her lunch and doing my own chores. I pointed out that she hadn't felt burdened getting it all out and she'd done that completely alone.
Finally I decided to employ empathy. I went in on my knees and said, "You sound like someone who needs a hug. Can I give you a hug?" She melted onto my shoulder and explained her dilemma. "It's just that sometimes I don't have to clean anything up before lunch. But sometimes I have to clean everything up before lunch."
Sometimes we forget to be grateful for things until they change!
But I was happy earlier in her play when she said she was hungry and tired but not to worry because hungry and tired can both be fixed! I guess I say that. ;)
We took the swamp cooler off the roof finally and put a skylight in the shaft. It is so bright now!
Holy lumins, Batman!
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Dear Riley,
I’m smiling just thinking of you while I try to remember this week. I’m so glad you’re on a mission in Thailand right now. It’s good we’re on the downhill slide, but I know from racing that it’s the middle third of the race that takes the most mental toughness. You have what it takes, I’m sure.
I loved your last long letter. I can’t wait to hear how your member referral program pans out. Sister S taught about missionaries in primary a few weeks ago. She went to your blog (you’re the only missionary from our ward currently?!) and got a couple pictures and stories. She did the same with her nephew. Then she shared her own conversion. She told the kids that missionaries often don’t do a whole lot toward conversion other than inviting and teaching the people how to recognize the Holy Ghost. I thought about that lesson when I read about the LA sister you’ve been working with. We have to keep the channel for the Spirit open in our lives continually.
We’ve had some really cold weather here. Today is beautiful, clear, and mild. But we had a storm blow through this week with a little snow that stuck around a day or two. I sent you a picture of Josie exploring it a little bit as we were headed out someplace this week. I also sent the picture I took while slogging through apples. I dried one dryer load this week. The apples are too soft to turn through the peeler/corer/slicer, so I did everything by hand. I don’t much like soft apples, even in the dehydrator because the texture is a little different than when they are fresh. But since the crop was so small this year, I didn’t want to stuff any away while the kids would still eat them, and then almost overnight, they were too soft. Sigh.
Dad is well. We’re tired. (We are trying to keep up with a courting couple in our house and no one is getting enough sleep.) We had a funeral for KC yesterday as he died Tuesday. He’d had a stroke and was in the hospital recovering and suddenly passed. Dad did a beautiful job with his closing remarks. Friday dad called to ask me to go to lunch unexpectedly. I hadn’t showered because I hadn’t exercised because I was talking to grandma and working in the house. So we decided to go later when the kids were home and could babysit. We had a gift card for The Cheesecake Factory and I suggested we use that. I had to go to work to cut checks for payroll and then we left a little before three. Traffic was terrible due to construction and it took us a little over an hour to get to the restaurant and instead of lunch, we had an early dinner. It was delicious. Every bite. We were famished and left totally satisfied.
The one sad reality is that Dad and I didn’t bike yesterday. It was mild and beautiful and it would have been great, but we just didn’t have time. I’ve kept him in the bike saddle and the yard is starting to pile up on him. Since we had the funeral, I decided not to ask him for additional time away -- though it sure would have been fun!
Cambry and C are doing great. One night this week she came home and he wasn’t behind her and I was worried they’d broken up! They are together all the time. I’ve told you this, I know. And that’s how it is when you’re dating your spouse, you resent sleep and work and homework and class and all things that take you away from them. Kind of funny. C looked tired yesterday and he pretty much just napped beside Cambry while she knocked out her homework. There was a little bit of coloring and then they watched Inside Out. Most of the rest of us joined them. I love that movie, mostly because the main character, Joy, is CAMBRY! They also got through The Hunger Games series this week and went to the second part of Mocking Jay Friday night.
Parker has not had enough sleep this week. He kind of thinks C comes to visit him, you know, and doesn’t get to bed before midnight. Parker spent a bit of time this week at the writing lab completing his college applications. He wants to get into BYU, but his GPA and ACT are both low. I think that has him discouraged. Then too, he missed some school which is essentially death to an AP student and his grades are not up where they need to be. Combine all those together and you get “massive assault on Aleah” yesterday. Oh, I can ride a lot of storms, but I was really displeased with him yesterday because while Dad and I were at the funeral, he denounced Aleah and said he’d never loved her and he never would. Then when I got home he did it again. That’s not resolved and yes, he has been called to repentance.
Elise is doing really well (although tired.) She had a couple of babysitting jobs this weekend and had to turn one down. She is getting so good on the piano. She’s faithful with the temple weekly and is a good friend. She still has to catch up in a couple classes from her sickness.
Aleah is struggling a little bit. Of course, being at odds with one family member consistently isn’t helping. Ideas? She is my most faithful in personal scripture study and prayer and I’m praying that will temper her. But she’s often out with the majority of the family because she is reactive. I don’t know. Did I mention we’re all tired? (C is conked out on the sofa as I write.)
Josie is so cute. Yesterday I took her with me on errands in the afternoon just as BYU was getting out of it’s senior night home football game. We drove past the new Provo temple slowly enough that she could see it well. She said, “Oh, I want to get married in that temple. But who am I going to marry? I could marry Dad!” So I told her he was already taken, but if she could find a guy like him, she’d do well. “Well, I could marry Riley then.” I smiled and said that you were a lot like Dad and will make a good husband. But you will marry someone not already in our family. “But Mom, Riley has the clothes. You’re supposed to wear a dress and really nice church clothes and he has that.” After I’d kindly shot that one down, she asked, “Parker?” This was super entertaining. Again, that qualifying -- not already in our family -- phrase. Quietly and from a little slanted mouth, “Well then, I guess I could marry C…” Josie had to go potty and we were stuck in traffic and in a hurry. And yet it was fun.
Well it’s Grandma P’s birthday and I need get some things on for a dinner we’re sharing with her tonight. I love you so much and I relish your letters. The gospel is such a blessing in my life. I cannot express the many times I feel guided in my daily activities, even in small things. But I do. I wish I were more obedient to those little whisperings, because things go so well every time I do.
Take care,
Mom
Riley,
I didn't tell you this because I knew Dad would. But since he can't, I'll do my best.
A little less than two weeks ago when Bro C had his stroke and was recovering in the hospital, Dad went to visit with them. He was so touched by the love and affection, the tenderness demonstrated between K and B. And he had this thought, "if this marriage is not blessed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, we're all in a lot of trouble." He went back to D&C 132 and read the promises to those in the New and Everlasting covenant of marriage and was blessed through it.
KC had a marvelous intellect and was very schooled after his mission and temple marriage, and he couldn't reconcile evolution and the restored gospel. But he had amazing integrity and he would honestly tell his bishops where he stood. He went to church every week. He paid tithes and offerings. He was faithful in every way to his covenants and the standards of the LDS faith. But he didn't believe. But he was radiant and happy.
Still, his unbelief presented some difficulty to his family as to how his soul would sit in the here after. Dad shared those section 132 scriptures and his impressions and also Alma "those who are happy will be happy still..." The Spirit confirmed his words and we were all edified.
You have a good father, son. He loves you so much.
Love,
Mom
Funny story. I'd been catching up with Grandma P on the phone and worked while we talked. Josie had played Barbies and kitchen stuff. She hadn't eaten her breakfast (fried bread!) and though she'd been pleasant, she was about at her wits' end when I asked her to clean up before lunch. Oh how she cried. She was completely overwhelmed. I helped here and there, but I was making her lunch and doing my own chores. I pointed out that she hadn't felt burdened getting it all out and she'd done that completely alone.
Finally I decided to employ empathy. I went in on my knees and said, "You sound like someone who needs a hug. Can I give you a hug?" She melted onto my shoulder and explained her dilemma. "It's just that sometimes I don't have to clean anything up before lunch. But sometimes I have to clean everything up before lunch."
Sometimes we forget to be grateful for things until they change!
But I was happy earlier in her play when she said she was hungry and tired but not to worry because hungry and tired can both be fixed! I guess I say that. ;)
Dad asked me to go to lunch Friday. I wanted to use our gift card to the Cheesecake Factory for a late lunch which turned into an early dinner. It was delicious. It took a long time to get there and home because of construction and traffic. But yum.
The Godiva cheesecake tasted like Switzerland in cheesecake form.
The Godiva cheesecake tasted like Switzerland in cheesecake form.
Holy lumins, Batman!
Together again. In everything.
Dear Riley,
I’m smiling just thinking of you while I try to remember this week. I’m so glad you’re on a mission in Thailand right now. It’s good we’re on the downhill slide, but I know from racing that it’s the middle third of the race that takes the most mental toughness. You have what it takes, I’m sure.
I loved your last long letter. I can’t wait to hear how your member referral program pans out. Sister S taught about missionaries in primary a few weeks ago. She went to your blog (you’re the only missionary from our ward currently?!) and got a couple pictures and stories. She did the same with her nephew. Then she shared her own conversion. She told the kids that missionaries often don’t do a whole lot toward conversion other than inviting and teaching the people how to recognize the Holy Ghost. I thought about that lesson when I read about the LA sister you’ve been working with. We have to keep the channel for the Spirit open in our lives continually.
We’ve had some really cold weather here. Today is beautiful, clear, and mild. But we had a storm blow through this week with a little snow that stuck around a day or two. I sent you a picture of Josie exploring it a little bit as we were headed out someplace this week. I also sent the picture I took while slogging through apples. I dried one dryer load this week. The apples are too soft to turn through the peeler/corer/slicer, so I did everything by hand. I don’t much like soft apples, even in the dehydrator because the texture is a little different than when they are fresh. But since the crop was so small this year, I didn’t want to stuff any away while the kids would still eat them, and then almost overnight, they were too soft. Sigh.
Dad is well. We’re tired. (We are trying to keep up with a courting couple in our house and no one is getting enough sleep.) We had a funeral for KC yesterday as he died Tuesday. He’d had a stroke and was in the hospital recovering and suddenly passed. Dad did a beautiful job with his closing remarks. Friday dad called to ask me to go to lunch unexpectedly. I hadn’t showered because I hadn’t exercised because I was talking to grandma and working in the house. So we decided to go later when the kids were home and could babysit. We had a gift card for The Cheesecake Factory and I suggested we use that. I had to go to work to cut checks for payroll and then we left a little before three. Traffic was terrible due to construction and it took us a little over an hour to get to the restaurant and instead of lunch, we had an early dinner. It was delicious. Every bite. We were famished and left totally satisfied.
The one sad reality is that Dad and I didn’t bike yesterday. It was mild and beautiful and it would have been great, but we just didn’t have time. I’ve kept him in the bike saddle and the yard is starting to pile up on him. Since we had the funeral, I decided not to ask him for additional time away -- though it sure would have been fun!
Cambry and C are doing great. One night this week she came home and he wasn’t behind her and I was worried they’d broken up! They are together all the time. I’ve told you this, I know. And that’s how it is when you’re dating your spouse, you resent sleep and work and homework and class and all things that take you away from them. Kind of funny. C looked tired yesterday and he pretty much just napped beside Cambry while she knocked out her homework. There was a little bit of coloring and then they watched Inside Out. Most of the rest of us joined them. I love that movie, mostly because the main character, Joy, is CAMBRY! They also got through The Hunger Games series this week and went to the second part of Mocking Jay Friday night.
Parker has not had enough sleep this week. He kind of thinks C comes to visit him, you know, and doesn’t get to bed before midnight. Parker spent a bit of time this week at the writing lab completing his college applications. He wants to get into BYU, but his GPA and ACT are both low. I think that has him discouraged. Then too, he missed some school which is essentially death to an AP student and his grades are not up where they need to be. Combine all those together and you get “massive assault on Aleah” yesterday. Oh, I can ride a lot of storms, but I was really displeased with him yesterday because while Dad and I were at the funeral, he denounced Aleah and said he’d never loved her and he never would. Then when I got home he did it again. That’s not resolved and yes, he has been called to repentance.
Elise is doing really well (although tired.) She had a couple of babysitting jobs this weekend and had to turn one down. She is getting so good on the piano. She’s faithful with the temple weekly and is a good friend. She still has to catch up in a couple classes from her sickness.
Aleah is struggling a little bit. Of course, being at odds with one family member consistently isn’t helping. Ideas? She is my most faithful in personal scripture study and prayer and I’m praying that will temper her. But she’s often out with the majority of the family because she is reactive. I don’t know. Did I mention we’re all tired? (C is conked out on the sofa as I write.)
Josie is so cute. Yesterday I took her with me on errands in the afternoon just as BYU was getting out of it’s senior night home football game. We drove past the new Provo temple slowly enough that she could see it well. She said, “Oh, I want to get married in that temple. But who am I going to marry? I could marry Dad!” So I told her he was already taken, but if she could find a guy like him, she’d do well. “Well, I could marry Riley then.” I smiled and said that you were a lot like Dad and will make a good husband. But you will marry someone not already in our family. “But Mom, Riley has the clothes. You’re supposed to wear a dress and really nice church clothes and he has that.” After I’d kindly shot that one down, she asked, “Parker?” This was super entertaining. Again, that qualifying -- not already in our family -- phrase. Quietly and from a little slanted mouth, “Well then, I guess I could marry C…” Josie had to go potty and we were stuck in traffic and in a hurry. And yet it was fun.
Well it’s Grandma P’s birthday and I need get some things on for a dinner we’re sharing with her tonight. I love you so much and I relish your letters. The gospel is such a blessing in my life. I cannot express the many times I feel guided in my daily activities, even in small things. But I do. I wish I were more obedient to those little whisperings, because things go so well every time I do.
Take care,
Mom
[Riley got on to email quite a bit earlier than usual this week and Dave was at tithing settlement. So I quickly compiled some of what I knew Dave wanted to send him.]
I didn't tell you this because I knew Dad would. But since he can't, I'll do my best.
A little less than two weeks ago when Bro C had his stroke and was recovering in the hospital, Dad went to visit with them. He was so touched by the love and affection, the tenderness demonstrated between K and B. And he had this thought, "if this marriage is not blessed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, we're all in a lot of trouble." He went back to D&C 132 and read the promises to those in the New and Everlasting covenant of marriage and was blessed through it.
KC had a marvelous intellect and was very schooled after his mission and temple marriage, and he couldn't reconcile evolution and the restored gospel. But he had amazing integrity and he would honestly tell his bishops where he stood. He went to church every week. He paid tithes and offerings. He was faithful in every way to his covenants and the standards of the LDS faith. But he didn't believe. But he was radiant and happy.
Still, his unbelief presented some difficulty to his family as to how his soul would sit in the here after. Dad shared those section 132 scriptures and his impressions and also Alma "those who are happy will be happy still..." The Spirit confirmed his words and we were all edified.
You have a good father, son. He loves you so much.
Love,
Mom
Monday, November 16, 2015
Since you've been gone... November 16, 2015
...we're brushing up on our talents.
This was Dave's choice.
This was Dave's choice.
From Mom November 15, 2015 A package, a bug, and some chicken feet
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Dear Riley,
How are you? Where are you? And who are you with? K sent me a picture of you receiving your package and giving a thumbs up. And I’m sorry if those pumpkin bars were a mess. I was just sitting in the kitchen waiting for K to come get the stuff and decided there was enough space in the bag for a little more and the pumpkin bars I’d made the night before for FHE were just sitting there…
And it was sooo sweet when she asked Josie if she had anything special to send to you just from her. That’s how you came into possession of a plastic horsey that probably was yours before the character bin absorbed it. And Josie started our new game with you when she said, “You’re a little ding dong.”
Really, Riley, I think getting that little bit of home to you gave me a second wind. I can do another year. Ready, set, GO!
Dad and I struck a marvelous accord this week. He came home from lunch really late Monday afternnon. I looked out at the beautiful, sunny afternoon and announced that we could totally be biking. He didn’t really have time, but he took me anyway. I told him this would be the best family picture ever because I wouldn’t have any stress left. He suggested that rather than say, “You’re really intense.” He can now say, “Let’s go for a bike.” He knows I’ll never turn that down.
The picture was pretty easy-going too. I’d bought the bright wigs in the Halloween close-outs the week before and we had two black afros already. We laid everything out and somehow in the 10 minutes between the moment we’d taken stock and the moment we started shooting the picture, one of the afros disappeared. So I’m actually wearing a tutu from the UP picture. Did you notice? C was our camera man.
Cambry and C are together all the time. And Cambry seems to improve daily. I thought she was remarkable before, but she just shines and exudes confidence and love. She sang a solo in her ward today and he accompanied her. When it’s right, there is no hurry as the relationship just sweetens. But you do have to honor the timing of your relationship. I’ve been thinking about what makes the choice easier. I’ve been really happy to hear that the H family is so similar to ours and they are so kind to her. Cambry feels equally at home there.
Parker went to a concert of his favorite band this weekend with KB. The band is Mariana’s Trench and I can’t say what their genre is exactly. But he was in heaven anticipating all week and then reliving the concert yesterday. Oh, and your room smells significantly better. No more reptiles!
Elise had to come home from school Thursday morning sick and she missed Friday too. Aleah came home sick Friday. I have a killer headache tonight, but I think it’s just from exertion and lack of sleep. Parker says he doesn’t feel well. I don’t have much sympathy for him when he bikes to school in a t-shirt and shorts in freezing temperatures without a coat. Only so much can be expected of a body, after all.
Josie got a new wardrobe for the season this week. We’d ordered clothes on line for her and they arrived Friday. She tried them all on one at a time and both Elise and Aleah were home to encourage her. She loves, loves, loves them.
I was able to take lunch up to my mom in the care center Thursday. And Grandma and Grandpa returned from their trip back east this week. I don’t feel caught up with them yet. Grandpa came by Friday afternoon to deliver something and I came up from downstairs and kind of startled her in her conversations with the kids. She didn’t realize my car was now parked in the garage and assumed I wasn’t home. Hehe. My little secret.
Dad and I biked a loaf of sourdough up to T and J yesterday. We had a biker draft off us for probably eight miles. It was kind of weird since we don’t know him from Adam. We were pushing hard and I was feeling fatigue. We realized as we turned around to come home that we were on our middle front gear, so we weren’t getting full power on our stroke. Once we fixed that, we biked much more comfortably on the way home. But we took time off the ride again.
OK, funny story. I’ve read that drinking bone broth helps heal the gut and reduces inflammation in the body. So I’ve been making it. S told me how they do it in Korea because she drinks it daily there. My first batch was good. So I went looking for more bones. I’d read to use every part of the animal, like chicken feet is supposed to be especially good for arthritis. I found them at the Mexican market and thought it couldn’t hurt. So I loaded them into the crock pot and cooked away. After 24 hours, I decided to try it. I couldn’t muster the fortitude. I drank a few swigs and just wanted to hurl. You are a good man, Charlie Brown! I can’t believe you can manage the entire foot there. Keep loving the people and their ways.
I love you so much. Tell me everything!
Love,
Mom
Dear Riley,
How are you? Where are you? And who are you with? K sent me a picture of you receiving your package and giving a thumbs up. And I’m sorry if those pumpkin bars were a mess. I was just sitting in the kitchen waiting for K to come get the stuff and decided there was enough space in the bag for a little more and the pumpkin bars I’d made the night before for FHE were just sitting there…
And it was sooo sweet when she asked Josie if she had anything special to send to you just from her. That’s how you came into possession of a plastic horsey that probably was yours before the character bin absorbed it. And Josie started our new game with you when she said, “You’re a little ding dong.”
Really, Riley, I think getting that little bit of home to you gave me a second wind. I can do another year. Ready, set, GO!
Dad and I struck a marvelous accord this week. He came home from lunch really late Monday afternnon. I looked out at the beautiful, sunny afternoon and announced that we could totally be biking. He didn’t really have time, but he took me anyway. I told him this would be the best family picture ever because I wouldn’t have any stress left. He suggested that rather than say, “You’re really intense.” He can now say, “Let’s go for a bike.” He knows I’ll never turn that down.
The picture was pretty easy-going too. I’d bought the bright wigs in the Halloween close-outs the week before and we had two black afros already. We laid everything out and somehow in the 10 minutes between the moment we’d taken stock and the moment we started shooting the picture, one of the afros disappeared. So I’m actually wearing a tutu from the UP picture. Did you notice? C was our camera man.
Cambry and C are together all the time. And Cambry seems to improve daily. I thought she was remarkable before, but she just shines and exudes confidence and love. She sang a solo in her ward today and he accompanied her. When it’s right, there is no hurry as the relationship just sweetens. But you do have to honor the timing of your relationship. I’ve been thinking about what makes the choice easier. I’ve been really happy to hear that the H family is so similar to ours and they are so kind to her. Cambry feels equally at home there.
Parker went to a concert of his favorite band this weekend with KB. The band is Mariana’s Trench and I can’t say what their genre is exactly. But he was in heaven anticipating all week and then reliving the concert yesterday. Oh, and your room smells significantly better. No more reptiles!
Elise had to come home from school Thursday morning sick and she missed Friday too. Aleah came home sick Friday. I have a killer headache tonight, but I think it’s just from exertion and lack of sleep. Parker says he doesn’t feel well. I don’t have much sympathy for him when he bikes to school in a t-shirt and shorts in freezing temperatures without a coat. Only so much can be expected of a body, after all.
Josie got a new wardrobe for the season this week. We’d ordered clothes on line for her and they arrived Friday. She tried them all on one at a time and both Elise and Aleah were home to encourage her. She loves, loves, loves them.
I was able to take lunch up to my mom in the care center Thursday. And Grandma and Grandpa returned from their trip back east this week. I don’t feel caught up with them yet. Grandpa came by Friday afternoon to deliver something and I came up from downstairs and kind of startled her in her conversations with the kids. She didn’t realize my car was now parked in the garage and assumed I wasn’t home. Hehe. My little secret.
Dad and I biked a loaf of sourdough up to T and J yesterday. We had a biker draft off us for probably eight miles. It was kind of weird since we don’t know him from Adam. We were pushing hard and I was feeling fatigue. We realized as we turned around to come home that we were on our middle front gear, so we weren’t getting full power on our stroke. Once we fixed that, we biked much more comfortably on the way home. But we took time off the ride again.
OK, funny story. I’ve read that drinking bone broth helps heal the gut and reduces inflammation in the body. So I’ve been making it. S told me how they do it in Korea because she drinks it daily there. My first batch was good. So I went looking for more bones. I’d read to use every part of the animal, like chicken feet is supposed to be especially good for arthritis. I found them at the Mexican market and thought it couldn’t hurt. So I loaded them into the crock pot and cooked away. After 24 hours, I decided to try it. I couldn’t muster the fortitude. I drank a few swigs and just wanted to hurl. You are a good man, Charlie Brown! I can’t believe you can manage the entire foot there. Keep loving the people and their ways.
I love you so much. Tell me everything!
Love,
Mom
From Dad November 16, 2015
November 15, 2015
Re: Letter 50 of 3
Dear Riley:
It’s nearly 9:30 at night and I’m just sitting down to write. Not sure if I’ll get very far before you’re online, but this is how my Sundays will be for awhile until Tithing Settlement is over.
I can hardly believe it! Two more days until my two year mark as bishop and four days until your one year mark as a missionary. If the next year goes by even half as fast as the last one, you’ll be home before you know it. So, keep working hard. I can’t help but feel you’re being prepared for great things.
Congratulations on your recent baptism. It’s something special when you get to see the conversion process from the start which leads to baptism. It was a treat to see the pictures of you with your care package. I hope you were surprised. We tried to set your expectations somewhat lower than what we planned to execute, and we couldn’t have pulled it off without the help of Sister H’s mother. I know the bread isn’t quite as good when it’s a couple days old in a plastic bag, but it was made with love and hopefully it will tie you over for awhile and make home seem not quite so far away. One picture showed you with what appeared to be perhaps a third of the loaf just kicking back and enjoying it. I guess the rest was devoured by other missionaries??
Today was great day, but I’m exhausted. Our Sacrament meeting was excellent, which is usually the case, but I was particularly moved by the speakers. I had assigned a recently moved in sister the topic of Opening the Windows of Heaven – The Miracle of Tithing. I had no idea that this topic had such a personal connection with her, but as I listened I began to appreciate how inspired the speaker selection had been for this particular topic. She shared several tender personal experiences with tithing while she was a single mother of three small children just trying to make ends meet. Her experiences clearly demonstrated that God knows and loves each one of us personally, and that when we exercise our faith and agency correctly, we bind God to His word. He therefore MUST bless us. It was a very personal and extraordinary testimony of this concept. Sometimes God pours down manna from heaven, sometime he makes the flour and the oil last far beyond what is normal, sometimes he helps a dollar to purchase $10 worth of produce, sometimes he extends the life of our vehicles, appliances, clothing, or other expendable resources. Sometimes it comes by way of better employment, an increase in wages, improvement in health, an enhancement in our ability to perform our labors, etc. But bless He must and bless He will until our basket is overflowing and we are left to wonder at his goodness and power.
Our second speaker was a High Council member. He spoke on testimony and what it takes to keep it alive. It utilized two talks from April conference and was well prepared and delivered. I was filled with gratitude for the Spirit and the blessing of testimony. I just felt bad for those individuals who don’t and won’t see it or feel it.
I got to go to Cambry’s Ward today and hear her sing a solo. She’s gotten quite good and it was a simply gorgeous rendition of Be Still, My Soul. C played the piano and the whole thing was beautiful. They make quite the couple and are tremendously happy together.
In closing I came across something in my missionary journal which could be useful. In Brazil the Church was considerably younger and more prone to false doctrinal concepts. Throughout my mission in different areas, I mentioned this again and again giving examples of how off track they were in many areas. I laughed about it, rolled my eyes, even got embarrassed but, I think if I had it to do over again, knowing what I do now, I would be quick to correct (in private) and make sure the doctrine remained pure. Perhaps you’ve come across this and maybe you’ve even said something to get things back on track. I was not so assertive and believe now it was my responsibility as a missionary to assist in weeding out the doctrines of the world.
Well, it’s late and I’m tired. I hope I didn’t miss getting this to you. Take care, keep your head up. We pray daily for your safety and success.
Love,
Dad
Re: Letter 50 of 3
Dear Riley:
It’s nearly 9:30 at night and I’m just sitting down to write. Not sure if I’ll get very far before you’re online, but this is how my Sundays will be for awhile until Tithing Settlement is over.
I can hardly believe it! Two more days until my two year mark as bishop and four days until your one year mark as a missionary. If the next year goes by even half as fast as the last one, you’ll be home before you know it. So, keep working hard. I can’t help but feel you’re being prepared for great things.
Congratulations on your recent baptism. It’s something special when you get to see the conversion process from the start which leads to baptism. It was a treat to see the pictures of you with your care package. I hope you were surprised. We tried to set your expectations somewhat lower than what we planned to execute, and we couldn’t have pulled it off without the help of Sister H’s mother. I know the bread isn’t quite as good when it’s a couple days old in a plastic bag, but it was made with love and hopefully it will tie you over for awhile and make home seem not quite so far away. One picture showed you with what appeared to be perhaps a third of the loaf just kicking back and enjoying it. I guess the rest was devoured by other missionaries??
Today was great day, but I’m exhausted. Our Sacrament meeting was excellent, which is usually the case, but I was particularly moved by the speakers. I had assigned a recently moved in sister the topic of Opening the Windows of Heaven – The Miracle of Tithing. I had no idea that this topic had such a personal connection with her, but as I listened I began to appreciate how inspired the speaker selection had been for this particular topic. She shared several tender personal experiences with tithing while she was a single mother of three small children just trying to make ends meet. Her experiences clearly demonstrated that God knows and loves each one of us personally, and that when we exercise our faith and agency correctly, we bind God to His word. He therefore MUST bless us. It was a very personal and extraordinary testimony of this concept. Sometimes God pours down manna from heaven, sometime he makes the flour and the oil last far beyond what is normal, sometimes he helps a dollar to purchase $10 worth of produce, sometimes he extends the life of our vehicles, appliances, clothing, or other expendable resources. Sometimes it comes by way of better employment, an increase in wages, improvement in health, an enhancement in our ability to perform our labors, etc. But bless He must and bless He will until our basket is overflowing and we are left to wonder at his goodness and power.
Our second speaker was a High Council member. He spoke on testimony and what it takes to keep it alive. It utilized two talks from April conference and was well prepared and delivered. I was filled with gratitude for the Spirit and the blessing of testimony. I just felt bad for those individuals who don’t and won’t see it or feel it.
I got to go to Cambry’s Ward today and hear her sing a solo. She’s gotten quite good and it was a simply gorgeous rendition of Be Still, My Soul. C played the piano and the whole thing was beautiful. They make quite the couple and are tremendously happy together.
In closing I came across something in my missionary journal which could be useful. In Brazil the Church was considerably younger and more prone to false doctrinal concepts. Throughout my mission in different areas, I mentioned this again and again giving examples of how off track they were in many areas. I laughed about it, rolled my eyes, even got embarrassed but, I think if I had it to do over again, knowing what I do now, I would be quick to correct (in private) and make sure the doctrine remained pure. Perhaps you’ve come across this and maybe you’ve even said something to get things back on track. I was not so assertive and believe now it was my responsibility as a missionary to assist in weeding out the doctrines of the world.
Well, it’s late and I’m tired. I hope I didn’t miss getting this to you. Take care, keep your head up. We pray daily for your safety and success.
Love,
Dad
Monday, November 9, 2015
From Mom November 9, 2015
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Dear Riley,
I hope you’re all recovered and feeling strong again. I don’t think I knew you’d even had one ingrown toenail, so I was surprised to learn you were on number six. Those hurt so bad. I’ve seen that if you cut a little v in the middle top of your toenail that it helps prevent them, but I’ve not tried it. I use colloidal silver if I ever feel like it’s getting infected. Those are your nonconventional treatment recommendations.
We had a couple of big events in the family this week:
- Cambry and C are officially dating. He kissed her Monday night and they are together all the time. She wonders how she could have ever liked anyone else. He’s her first boyfriend I really like. He’s kind, generous, and pleasant. I like what I see in Cambry when they are together. I think since he’s been home only a few months there is no hurry. But this relationship has the most potential of any Cambry’s been in. In fact something happened as I slept Monday night. I hadn’t spoken to her when she returned from his house and FHE, so I didn’t know that he’s kissed her. I had words spoken into my mind. I was assured that their life missions were compatible and I felt tears push out at this knowledge. It’s still their choice and I am OK either way. Yet if they do end up together, I’ll be glad for that extra peace.
- Parker’s iguana died. He was home from school Thursday and I decided to feed the iguana when I was getting Josie lunch. When I went in to Katie’s dish, she was dead. Parker had held and fed her an hour before. She had metabolic bone disease which we had mostly resolved with sun and calcium supplements. But it has turned cold and Parker had not gotten a bulb for her lamp. I think she must have broken her neck. The little desert lizard has also gone the way of all the earth. So for the first time in years we are officially petless. Hoping the bedroom starts smelling better…
- The heater kicked on. It’s been in the 40’s all week and cold at night. Snowflakes did blow around Tuesday, but nothing stuck.
- The flu has visited our house. I was down yesterday and Dad was down half of the day yesterday. He woke up feeling 98% in his words. But the WORST part was that we couldn’t take a ride yesterday. :( I was more upset about missing the ride than being sick. Josie has been coughing and sniffling for days. Elise came home after sacrament meeting. So only Aleah and Dad are at church today. Ah, Fall.
- Aleah managed to get all her missing assignments in for the end of the term. She wants to run for student council in the spring and she has to have nothing below a B to be eligible. We had another stressful, contentious week. Sometimes I feel like such a failure when the contention is ever present. Fear of failure is the driving force behind it. Like we don’t all fail all the time and survive?
- The girls had piano duet festival yesterday. Elise and Aleah played with each other and Elise also played with CM. Elise carried a lot of responsibility this week practicing and drilling independently and with partners. Elise was very pleased with her performance with C which was rewarding because she was in tears Thursday night feeling unsure if she could really do it. She did! When Elise and Aleah practiced at lessons on Monday, Sis M called Sis G over to hear them play and Sis G cried over how beautiful it was. That piece went well for them, but Aleah struggled on the last piece. It happens sometimes in performance.
In other news, my mom is improving. Josie and I went up to visit her this week. Still no timeframe for her to come home. Having displaced her hip post surgery has everyone a little jumpy.
JC, son of R and J, passed away this week. He was not in the ward any longer, but Dad had worked with him and it was a sad ending.
One more thing I think you’d like to know. We have a new game in our family. Parker and Josie made it up. One person will start the game by saying, “You’re a little insert any noun” the other person responds by saying, “You’re a little insert any noun” The first person to repeat or stammer for a noun loses. Josie adores this game. You wouldn’t think it would be hard, but it gets hard. Especially after a few rounds because you can’t remember what’s been said in each game and you worry about repeating.
Well I hope you had your baptism today. I’ve been thinking about it. I shared the Ironman landing picture on the Thai missionary mom’s facebook group. They loved it. I didn’t share the outdoor restroom, but we loved it. Only in Asia, huh? It’s the freshest smelling restroom ever!
Have another good week, Riley. Sis H is headed your way this week. I will send apples, some letters/pictures, your bike tire tape, and not much more. But a Christmas package is starting to take shape this week. Sister Larsen wanted to send cookies, but there just isn’t room or weight. So she taught her primary class how to donate to your mission instead. And did I tell you that Grandma and Grandpa P contributed to your mission recently? Please thank them.
So much love,
MomMonday's ride on Elise's bike. Too pretty, huh?
Look who Aleah spotted on p10 of the November New Era:
From Dad November 9, 2015
November 8, 2015
Re: Letter 49 of 3
Dear Riley:
The weather has turned cold and mornings are increasingly in the low 30’s. Just the other day, Timpanogos was covered with snow, though it didn’t last a day. It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. Tuesday we’re sending a small care package with a Mom of a Thai missionary. We’re a little pinched on weight and space, so a Christmas package will be coming later in the mail. Just so you know, your mom is missing you terribly and two years is beginning to seem like a very long time to her, even though the weeks literally fly by.
We’re getting over a bout with some sort of flu. Today, only Elise, Aleah, and I were at Church. Elise went home right after Sacrament on account of not feeling well. I fairly skated on this one. I didn’t feel well Friday evening and really didn’t feel well on Saturday. I had a bit of a rough night but by this morning I was back to 98%. I think the secret for me was home cultured buttermilk which seems to calm and restore an unsettled stomach. I don’t usually even think about buttermilk and hardly ever drink it, but for something like this… it’s magic.
So, ingrown toenails are a frequent thing? I never had trouble with them, but apparently it was enough of a problem on my mission that they covered how to prevent them at one of my mission conferences. We were instructed to cut our nails straight across and not trim the corners close to the toe. It’s worth a try I guess. Certainly potentially more comfortable than getting your toenail ripped off.
I’ve been thinking about what else I could share from my mission which may be helpful. I apologize if you’ve already heard some of it, since I can’t remember telling you about certain things. Many events were such formative elements of my mission; it seems unlikely I didn’t say something about them somewhere. Anyway, I plan on sharing significant experiences in roughly chronological order.
My first companion in Brazil was a native so I was quickly immersed in the Portuguese language and culture. After several months I felt I could communicate fairly effectively and was confident at least with the lingo of proselytizing. Around this time, my companion was transferred and I got an American senior companion with considerably less grasp on the language than I had. I’m embarrassed to admit that this went a little to my head. However, after a short time of basking in what I then believed were my abilities, the Lord saw fit to humble me with a vivid lesson I remember to this day.
We were going house to house, and it was my turn for the door approach. A lady came to the gate, but suddenly communication was next to impossible for me. It was only through extreme effort and repeating that I was able to convey that we had a short message to present. She invited us in and after much effort I was able to communicate that we wanted to open with prayer. As soon as the prayer was over and we began to speak, I saw the furrows across her brow disappear as she no longer struggled to understand. She nodded her head, answered questioned, and commented on what was being taught by both me and my companion. It was a wonderful discussion; the Spirit’s presence was strong, and everyone was edified. The time came to leave, we closed with prayer, and the lady walked us out to the gate. Before parting, I extended her the invitation to attend Church on Sunday and proceeded to give instruction on how to get there. Once again communication was next to impossible and I felt her frustration as she struggled to understand. I felt ashamed of myself as I realized that I was completely dependent on the Lord for the gift of tongues and had failed to recognize it. Since then I have been more careful to recognize God’s hand in all aspects of my life.
And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not theSpirit ye shall not teach.D&C 42:14
We love and miss you, but are so pleased with the experiences and growth you’re going through. Take care and continue to work hard.
Love,
Dad
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
From Dad November 1, 2015
November 1, 2015
Re: Letter 48 of 3
Dear Riley:
I think one of the highlights of the week was that we got your mother’s car into the garage. This actually happened yesterday at the end of a very busy day following an extremely crazy week. We still have some organizing to get rid of some accumulation and get everything into a place of its own, but the progress we made feels good. One problem is that we no longer have room for junk bikes since space is at a premium. It’s very likely you will be going bike shopping in a little over a year.
We had a lot of sadness last week starting Monday. A sweet sister HD (H) passed away from complications of heart failure and pneumonia. Her funeral will be this Saturday. Another dear sister (JH) lost her brother the same day. Also, you remember GP? His brother-in–law who married his oldest sister L died quite unexpectedly a week ago last Thursday. He had been in the mountains alone and reportedly injured his arm. On the way down Spanish Fork canyon he pulled part way off the road and parked his vehicle. When the police found him he had passed away apparently from blood loss. He left behind an adoring wife, seven children ages 13 down to 5 months, and many shocked friends and family members. We attended a viewing 50 minutes after it started and stood in line for 1 hour 15 minutes. When we left, the line was still as long as it had been when we arrived. The funeral was the following day and it felt like Stake Conference, filling the chapel and cultural hall. It was a sweet memorial service and even L and the eldest son spoke. They both did an exceptional job, but I can’t imagine the heartache ahead. We feel so badly for them. It just goes to show that you really don’t know when your time may come, so you need to be living as you should at all times.
I got an impression yesterday morning that I needed to go over and visit G and CM. G has actually been on my mind a lot the past week. I had made four loaves of sourdough and was wondering where to take one of the three loaves I was planning on giving away and G came to mind during my morning prayers. I felt there wouldn’t be many more chances to take him bead and it choked me up. C broke down at the door and I made a promise to come by today and give G a blessing. I felt today as I had the opportunity to bless G and C that I was standing on holy ground, that their home was a place in which the Spirit of God dwelt, and that angels frequented on a regular basis. G has lived a good and righteous life and I felt that God was pleased and accepting of his offering. I’m not sure how much time he has left, but the fact that he is still here is nothing short of a miracle. It was last February when he was given two to three weeks by the doctors but has exceeded even the most optimistic prognosis by many months and had a pretty high quality of life. He has spent precious time with family and checked off item after item on his bucket list. How I love that man! He has blessed my life and the life of my family.
The B’s house is up for sale and they’re looking for a place better suited to their health and stamina. Yesterday morning a large group of people met at the B’s home to assist with cleaning up the yard and getting the back deck ready for refinishing. There were probably 30 in all who helped out and made quick work of what otherwise seemed an overwhelming task. I was touched by these members, some of whom deliberately chose the condos so they wouldn’t have to do yard work and there they were working their hearts out. There was a great spirit of love, unity, and consecrated service. I was filled with love for these people who were willing to give up a portion of one of the last beautiful Saturdays when many no doubt had yard work and winterizing of their own to attend to.
One rather funny thing that came about from this service was that somehow a rumor got started that RB had died. This gained a fair degree of momentum before it died. I just found out about it this morning and we had a good laugh about how far it went.
Halloween seemed a little lower key than usual, especially since the weather was so beautiful. This may have been partly because the primary age children had the Trunk or Treat activity on Friday, so the parents didn’t feel so driven to take them out again. Even Josie wasn’t exactly sure she wanted to go out again on Saturday, though that sentiment passed rather quickly. Parker made the most of his holiday by dressing up in five different costumes for school. This caught the attention of the journalists for the school paper, so they’ll be doing a story on him tomorrow. Funny kid! That evening he had a handful of friends over for a Halloween party.
I told you about our rather funny failed air rocket attempt two Saturdays ago, well yesterday we launched an improved prototype. The first launch went perfectly and soared to well over 600 feet and possibly as high as 800 feet. Parachute deployment was as planned and it floated gently back to earth only to land on the very top of the High School field house. I don’t know how they got it, and maybe it’s best that I don’t’ know but Parker and D came back with it 7 minutes later. So we have a sound concept and it’s amazingly simple. However, the second launch didn’t go so well and we had an early deployment around 200 feet. This shredded the parachute which had been taxed by a high speed deployment on the first rocket a week earlier but it still landed otherwise intact. Just a little more tweaking and I think we’ve got it.
Well, we’re catapulting headlong into the holiday months and I can hardly believe you’re approaching your halfway point within three weeks. Don’t get down on yourself because you haven’t accomplished as much as perhaps you expected. I think your mission has already been filled with tender mercies and miracles and that this has merely positioned you for even greater things in the year to come. Stay the course! The gospel is true and its fruits are sweet. There isn’t an institution on earth I believe is capable of improving people’s lives more or bringing greater joy. Work hard, be wise and obedient. Serve, pray for, and love your companion…and wait for greater things ahead.
All my Love,
Dad
Dear Riley:
I think one of the highlights of the week was that we got your mother’s car into the garage. This actually happened yesterday at the end of a very busy day following an extremely crazy week. We still have some organizing to get rid of some accumulation and get everything into a place of its own, but the progress we made feels good. One problem is that we no longer have room for junk bikes since space is at a premium. It’s very likely you will be going bike shopping in a little over a year.
We had a lot of sadness last week starting Monday. A sweet sister HD (H) passed away from complications of heart failure and pneumonia. Her funeral will be this Saturday. Another dear sister (JH) lost her brother the same day. Also, you remember GP? His brother-in–law who married his oldest sister L died quite unexpectedly a week ago last Thursday. He had been in the mountains alone and reportedly injured his arm. On the way down Spanish Fork canyon he pulled part way off the road and parked his vehicle. When the police found him he had passed away apparently from blood loss. He left behind an adoring wife, seven children ages 13 down to 5 months, and many shocked friends and family members. We attended a viewing 50 minutes after it started and stood in line for 1 hour 15 minutes. When we left, the line was still as long as it had been when we arrived. The funeral was the following day and it felt like Stake Conference, filling the chapel and cultural hall. It was a sweet memorial service and even L and the eldest son spoke. They both did an exceptional job, but I can’t imagine the heartache ahead. We feel so badly for them. It just goes to show that you really don’t know when your time may come, so you need to be living as you should at all times.
I got an impression yesterday morning that I needed to go over and visit G and CM. G has actually been on my mind a lot the past week. I had made four loaves of sourdough and was wondering where to take one of the three loaves I was planning on giving away and G came to mind during my morning prayers. I felt there wouldn’t be many more chances to take him bead and it choked me up. C broke down at the door and I made a promise to come by today and give G a blessing. I felt today as I had the opportunity to bless G and C that I was standing on holy ground, that their home was a place in which the Spirit of God dwelt, and that angels frequented on a regular basis. G has lived a good and righteous life and I felt that God was pleased and accepting of his offering. I’m not sure how much time he has left, but the fact that he is still here is nothing short of a miracle. It was last February when he was given two to three weeks by the doctors but has exceeded even the most optimistic prognosis by many months and had a pretty high quality of life. He has spent precious time with family and checked off item after item on his bucket list. How I love that man! He has blessed my life and the life of my family.
The B’s house is up for sale and they’re looking for a place better suited to their health and stamina. Yesterday morning a large group of people met at the B’s home to assist with cleaning up the yard and getting the back deck ready for refinishing. There were probably 30 in all who helped out and made quick work of what otherwise seemed an overwhelming task. I was touched by these members, some of whom deliberately chose the condos so they wouldn’t have to do yard work and there they were working their hearts out. There was a great spirit of love, unity, and consecrated service. I was filled with love for these people who were willing to give up a portion of one of the last beautiful Saturdays when many no doubt had yard work and winterizing of their own to attend to.
One rather funny thing that came about from this service was that somehow a rumor got started that RB had died. This gained a fair degree of momentum before it died. I just found out about it this morning and we had a good laugh about how far it went.
Halloween seemed a little lower key than usual, especially since the weather was so beautiful. This may have been partly because the primary age children had the Trunk or Treat activity on Friday, so the parents didn’t feel so driven to take them out again. Even Josie wasn’t exactly sure she wanted to go out again on Saturday, though that sentiment passed rather quickly. Parker made the most of his holiday by dressing up in five different costumes for school. This caught the attention of the journalists for the school paper, so they’ll be doing a story on him tomorrow. Funny kid! That evening he had a handful of friends over for a Halloween party.
I told you about our rather funny failed air rocket attempt two Saturdays ago, well yesterday we launched an improved prototype. The first launch went perfectly and soared to well over 600 feet and possibly as high as 800 feet. Parachute deployment was as planned and it floated gently back to earth only to land on the very top of the High School field house. I don’t know how they got it, and maybe it’s best that I don’t’ know but Parker and D came back with it 7 minutes later. So we have a sound concept and it’s amazingly simple. However, the second launch didn’t go so well and we had an early deployment around 200 feet. This shredded the parachute which had been taxed by a high speed deployment on the first rocket a week earlier but it still landed otherwise intact. Just a little more tweaking and I think we’ve got it.
Well, we’re catapulting headlong into the holiday months and I can hardly believe you’re approaching your halfway point within three weeks. Don’t get down on yourself because you haven’t accomplished as much as perhaps you expected. I think your mission has already been filled with tender mercies and miracles and that this has merely positioned you for even greater things in the year to come. Stay the course! The gospel is true and its fruits are sweet. There isn’t an institution on earth I believe is capable of improving people’s lives more or bringing greater joy. Work hard, be wise and obedient. Serve, pray for, and love your companion…and wait for greater things ahead.
All my Love,
Dad
From Mom November 1, 2015
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Dear Riley,
It’s Grandpa P’s birthday today and we are having the big family birthday celebration later tonight since Grandma and Grandpa are going out to visit D and then going up to see J in DC this week. C is here visiting Cambry while his family is in their church meetings. Dad’s over blessing Bro. M who will not be with us much longer, then Dad heads back to tithing settlement which began today. The kids are recovering from probably the second most exciting holiday of year. I’m sitting on the couch in a semi-aware state. But I’m still fasting, so it’s hard to gauge if my fatigue is from hunger or exertion. Likely it’s both.
When Halloween is on Saturday we essentially have a two-day holiday. This year I didn’t worry or even work on costumes, go figure. But I went to the parade in my hippie get-up and Josie wore her Kevin from UP costume. She was very disappointed that no one commented on her costume. So she tried on a couple other ones before deciding to wear the pig costume for the trunk or treat that night.
I went back to the school for Aleah’s party. Four other mom’s had already signed up and knew what they wanted to do, so I just decided as the room mother to show up and help where needed. I took along toilet paper for the mummy relay game just in case and it was perfect because one of the crafts was super short so we split the time. It was a fun party and the kids were very well behaved.
Parker made a big Halloween splash at the High School. He changed his costume each period and lunch for a total of five changes. They are going to cover the story in the school paper and asked him to wear all the costumes over Monday morning so they can document it.
Friday night DJ had a lip-synching party. He realized they were going to exceed the fire code allowed number of visitors, so he asked Grandma if he could have it a her house. She graciously took it on, but she went down and watched a movie. There were a lot of people there and five awards decided by two of DJ’s appointed judges. C won classiest (he synched David Archuleta’s Crush) and Cambry won most lyrically en pointe. Dad, who dressed up as a hippie as well, talked me into lip synching Simon and Garfunkel’s Groovy. I haven’t listened to that song in years. Dad was great, I was terrible.
Yesterday everything continued. We are expecting snow this week so we pulled out the garden, helped the ward clean up the B’s yard as they have their house on the market, went back outside to complete the garden. Then Dad and I took a quick, hard ride on the canal. I’ve decided that biking is like repentance for my body, I feel swept clean inside. Then we finished the garage to the point that I can park my car. Dad and J launched the rocket again, this time it worked.
Parker had a party at our house last night. Though he was working in the yard, at the B’s, and in the garage, the house wasn’t ready when they left to launch the rocket, but I was out in the garage. I was so overwhelmed when I came back into the crazy house one hour before. Every room was overrun with holiday festivities and only Elise had done her chores. Cambry and Elise got up and helped pull the house together. C helped too, even running to the store to buy milk for dinner. We’re liking him around here.
Elise had a vocal concert this week. The thing she was most nervous about was that she turned the pages for SC when she accompanied another choir. Oh, how I love my cute kids. It was a good concert, but Elise was disappointed in the performance all together.
OK, I’m fed, and I’m still so tired. I’m sorry. It’s Daylight Savings here. I went to put the pork roast in the crock pot at 11:30 last night and the roast was spoiled so I had to run to the store. I got to bed so late.
Oh, yes, Sis H is wondering if you will be at the transfer meeting to get the stuff I’m sending to you. I figured you would be… I hope you will.
I hope Sister Ding Doi is recovering well and you are making good progress with your ward and investigators. Can’t wait to hear about your week and how you’re doing. I feel the anniversary upon us and the sudden switch to last such and such until you’re home. That feels good. I love the gospel you're sharing, Riley. Keep inviting. Work with your companion. Listen to the whispers of the Spirit. Leave it all in the field.
I love you,
Mom
Dear Riley,
It’s Grandpa P’s birthday today and we are having the big family birthday celebration later tonight since Grandma and Grandpa are going out to visit D and then going up to see J in DC this week. C is here visiting Cambry while his family is in their church meetings. Dad’s over blessing Bro. M who will not be with us much longer, then Dad heads back to tithing settlement which began today. The kids are recovering from probably the second most exciting holiday of year. I’m sitting on the couch in a semi-aware state. But I’m still fasting, so it’s hard to gauge if my fatigue is from hunger or exertion. Likely it’s both.
When Halloween is on Saturday we essentially have a two-day holiday. This year I didn’t worry or even work on costumes, go figure. But I went to the parade in my hippie get-up and Josie wore her Kevin from UP costume. She was very disappointed that no one commented on her costume. So she tried on a couple other ones before deciding to wear the pig costume for the trunk or treat that night.
I went back to the school for Aleah’s party. Four other mom’s had already signed up and knew what they wanted to do, so I just decided as the room mother to show up and help where needed. I took along toilet paper for the mummy relay game just in case and it was perfect because one of the crafts was super short so we split the time. It was a fun party and the kids were very well behaved.
Parker made a big Halloween splash at the High School. He changed his costume each period and lunch for a total of five changes. They are going to cover the story in the school paper and asked him to wear all the costumes over Monday morning so they can document it.
Friday night DJ had a lip-synching party. He realized they were going to exceed the fire code allowed number of visitors, so he asked Grandma if he could have it a her house. She graciously took it on, but she went down and watched a movie. There were a lot of people there and five awards decided by two of DJ’s appointed judges. C won classiest (he synched David Archuleta’s Crush) and Cambry won most lyrically en pointe. Dad, who dressed up as a hippie as well, talked me into lip synching Simon and Garfunkel’s Groovy. I haven’t listened to that song in years. Dad was great, I was terrible.
Yesterday everything continued. We are expecting snow this week so we pulled out the garden, helped the ward clean up the B’s yard as they have their house on the market, went back outside to complete the garden. Then Dad and I took a quick, hard ride on the canal. I’ve decided that biking is like repentance for my body, I feel swept clean inside. Then we finished the garage to the point that I can park my car. Dad and J launched the rocket again, this time it worked.
Parker had a party at our house last night. Though he was working in the yard, at the B’s, and in the garage, the house wasn’t ready when they left to launch the rocket, but I was out in the garage. I was so overwhelmed when I came back into the crazy house one hour before. Every room was overrun with holiday festivities and only Elise had done her chores. Cambry and Elise got up and helped pull the house together. C helped too, even running to the store to buy milk for dinner. We’re liking him around here.
Elise had a vocal concert this week. The thing she was most nervous about was that she turned the pages for SC when she accompanied another choir. Oh, how I love my cute kids. It was a good concert, but Elise was disappointed in the performance all together.
OK, I’m fed, and I’m still so tired. I’m sorry. It’s Daylight Savings here. I went to put the pork roast in the crock pot at 11:30 last night and the roast was spoiled so I had to run to the store. I got to bed so late.
Oh, yes, Sis H is wondering if you will be at the transfer meeting to get the stuff I’m sending to you. I figured you would be… I hope you will.
I hope Sister Ding Doi is recovering well and you are making good progress with your ward and investigators. Can’t wait to hear about your week and how you’re doing. I feel the anniversary upon us and the sudden switch to last such and such until you’re home. That feels good. I love the gospel you're sharing, Riley. Keep inviting. Work with your companion. Listen to the whispers of the Spirit. Leave it all in the field.
I love you,
Mom
Monday, November 2, 2015
Since you've been gone... November 2, 2015
...whoopty doo, the Church is true, and we love you.
Aleah chose this one.
And we had to include both of these; it was just so true to the evening/day/Halloween/DST crash.
