Bishop Squared

Faces of Innocence

2012-02-15T01:36:00.000-08:00

Reflections on the last 5 years

2012-02-12T12:28:00.001-08:00

TOP 10 LESSONS I LEARNED AS AN L.D.S. BISHOP

I decided I need to document some of the lessons I have learned as I served as Bishop in the Thornydale Ward. I was released the 2nd Sunday in December, but the lessons will remain with me for the eternities, just as Missionary Service has done.

1. There are ALWAYS at least two(2) sides to every issue. This becomes especially evident when dealing with marital issues. This also holds true in dealing with various quorums or organizations and their leaders. We have the male perspective, the female perspective, and sometimes we have the Truth as a whole different version of either. Often the difference is easy to discern, but sometimes this lesson must be applied in less than ideal circumstances.

2. Every person is a Son or Daughter of God. I had a member suffering from Paranoia and Borderline Disorder, and I had to remember that even though it was hard to believe everything she told me, it was important to treat her with the respect and dignity that every daughter of God deserves. I firmly believe some or all of her mental issues were caused by abusive behavior, meaning that she may not be fully accountable for her actions. IF she is not accountable, then by default, she is a better person than I.

3. Its easy to offend others. As a Bishop, I knew that I stood as a messenger to my congregation. I depended upon the promptings and revelations to teach me what I should say. I sought to feel the love that the Savior feels for these same people, knowing that if I could convey that love, there is a better chance of the message being properly received. Oftentimes, the members don't want to receive that message, and hence the profess to be offended. It is important to have confidence we are doing the Lord's will. That became my overriding desire in every prayer and every decision - to do what my Master wanted me to do. If the members were offended, they would be offended by the Lord Himself.

4. Children are a delight. It is fun to watch a child learn and grow up. I would go into the nursery as often as time allowed, to spend a few minutes with the children and to shake their hand and call them by name. I think Father must look at us in much the same way, giggling at our follies and feeble attempts to be perfect. I also think he sees us more for our potential than our present character flaws. I have felt for sometime that it is much more important to Him of where we are heading than where we are now.

5. Don't put the constraints of mortality on God. When I was young, my aunt was dating a guy who declared, "God lives in the 7th dimension." I mocked him behind his back, saying how does he know and what in the world does the 7th dimension look like? I have come to understand, much like Moses did, "that man is nothing, which thing I had never supposed." We cannot begin to understand His world and His life, if we base our thoughts and conclusions on this fallen, mortal world. "...my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isiah 55:8-9) We view life as we know it, from birth to death. God sees everything in an eternal perspective. We are limited to be able to think of only one thing at a time. God says that all things are present before Him.

6. Character matters. Our thoughts determine our actions. Since we can't really do something unless we think about it, the actions begin with our thoughts. Actions become habits, habits form our Character. It is our character that will be judged, not our individual thoughts and actions. We must repent in order to change our character. Merely not repeating the sin does not change us. We must go through the steps and pain of change, in order to reap the benefits of change.

7. Repentance is an opportunity and a blessing. Our Savior suffered so that each one of Father's children could avoid the pains of hell, and be brought back into His presence. The process of repentance applies the Savior's atonement to our specific and individual sins and misdeeds, leaving us clean and pure. I remember the countenance of a 19 year old women, as she exclaimed, "Bishop, I am a different person. I feel have felt the cleansing of the Holy Spirit. I know that I have been forgiven. I know that I have done my best to change, and I am clean before God."

8. Accepting Jesus as our personal Savior means a lifetime of discipleship. Lip service does not bring the Savior into our lives. Of those He says, "Depart from me, I never knew you." Only those who come to know Him through seeking to 1) have faith in the atoning sacrifice, 2) repenting of our transgressions, disobedience and misdeeds, 3) making and keeping sacred ordinances, 4) following the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and 5) endure to the very end.

9. Anyone that the Lord calls can be a Bishop. He knows us and our abilities. He is able to bless any person with the gifts necessary to perform in their callings. One afternoon, early in my Bishopric, I was feeling very inadequate. I was reading in the scriptures, and came upon the verse that says, "I will be thy light in the wilderness." It hit me that I didn't have to know everything, to be everything and to do everything. I just needed to do what Father wanted me to do, and to delegate the rest.

10. Jesus Christ lives and is the Savior and Redeemer of all creation. I was a Bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He personally stands at the head of the church. We hold the Priesthood and we serve in various capacities in this work. Our success is only possible through His power and His mercy. This is His work, and we are but servants to Him and to His children. Any and all kudos for success go to Him, not to me or to any of His servants. We are imperfect, and we only succeed because He leads us by the hand. Don't tell me that God does not exist, because I KNOW differently.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T17:34:00.000-08:00

Four Grandsons and a Wedding

2011-11-13T15:18:00.000-08:00

I was driving back to work from the bank and was forced off the road by police cars going the wrong way on the road. The cars blocked off our lanes and went into the other lane. Soon some more police cars came my way followed by a truck carrying a Rocket. I didn't find out if the rocket was going to the Air Force base or to the Boneyard. It doesn't really matter. The fact is that I was in the pathway of an ICBM (inter-continentel ballistic missle) and I survived to live and blog about it.

We were going to Maui for Continueing education this year, but through a series of events, we decided to cancel those plans. We went to Las Vegas instead, which gave me a better menu of classes to take. We walked around a lot as we usually do, and took a few pictures. Here we have the Fountains at the Bellagio,

And some of the sculptures inside the Bellagio. This one is made from some live shrubs or plants. It was a fall / harvest theme.

This tree spoke to words of wisdom to me.

These are real squash and pumkins. The big one here was 71 lbs.

The day we had originally planned to fly to Maui, we flew to Utah instead. We got there Friday and were able to immediately spend time with our grandchildren, while Laurel made covenants in the Temple. Saturday we witnessed the sealing of these two exceptional youngsters. The spirit was overwhelming as these two made eternal covenants with each other and with God. Here they are coming out of the as DJ and Laurel Dorff.

Saturday evening we went to a big dinner to celebrate the marriage. Here we see Peter and Kennedy playing in the hallway. I really like the way the cousins know each other and like to spend time with each other.

Hunter and Ben playing at the Tim Bishop home on Sunday.

Little Rock was looking rather dapper and charming just about everyone with whom he came in contact.

And little Cameron. She loves to cuddle, but only for as long as she can sit. Otherwise, she has to be down and doing something.

That brings me up to date with what has happened, of significance, in my life. I love my family and the receive great joy in watching the children grow in knowledge, experience and wisdom. I feel greatly blessed by the promises eternity, pronounced in the temple, that are already entering into my life through the Gosple and through the family.

Around the Bend comes Number 10...

2011-10-08T19:53:00.000-07:00

A different Kind of Day

This morning as we woke up, Kayleen asked if I wanted to do something different. It turns out, an old steam locomotive would be coming through and would be scheduled to leave the train station at 9:00 AM. So we packed up some chairs and books, and found a place to look for the train. At 9:15, sure enough, the arms come down and a train passes. It didn't appear to be anything different than a diesel powered engine.

So we waited and 15 minutes later, another train passed, but from the other direction. It also was not the steam locomotive.

After an hour, Kayleen said, "is today the 12th?" I said, "No, it is the 8th. This is my five year anniversary of being ordained a Bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints." She realized that the train was supposed to come through on the second saturday of the month and that was to be the 12th. I told her that sounds like November.
We had a very enjoyable morning. It was cool and crisp, and I was in the very best of company. And we scouted out a very good place to watch the Steam Locomotive come through in five weeks.

Education Week

2011-08-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

We did go to education week. We did attend classes, but the best part of the week was spending time with family. Cameron seems happy to see Grandma too.

This is a great picture, Big Rock with Little Rock. Little Rock was holding court with Grandparents. Seems he approves of all four.

We spent Wednesday afternoon at the pool. Kennedy puts on her water wings and becomes part fish. She loves the water.

We went to a photo shoot. I managed to annoy the professional photographer by taking a few pictures for myself. Here the family seems like a normal, happy family ...

The boys seem to be all polite smiles and best behavior .....

At least until the water sprinkler comes on ....

The boys get soaked in their Sunday best. The smiles now seem a little more devious than polite...

And soon the whole thing deteriorates into an all out war. Hunter in packing two heaters looking for anyone he can.

The next morning, Peter shows his skills at Soccer

In Ben's first ever game, he scores a goal early in the first half...

And Hunter managed to get some frosting on his face.

Lecia Dawn's 85th Birthday Party

2011-08-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

We flew up to Idaho for a short weekend to celebrate Kayleen's mother's birthday. All of Kayleen's siblings were there, along with many of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We had a lot of food and some very good conversation. Here are some pictures of my grandchildren just being cute.

Rock had a hard time, but he was able to chill somewhat.

Kennedy and Cameron played outside a lot. Kennedy spent a lot of time in the pool, even when she was in clean pajamas and wasn't supposed to get in the pool

In order to eat the corn, we had to sit around and shuck the corn. Hunter supervised the process.

Kennedy enjoyed the fruit of the labors, along with everyone else.

Peter and Ben payed "that tennis" game. It was the first time they played, so they each used two paddles in an attempt to gain some advantage.

After playing hard, it was only right that they were at the front of the line for dinner.

Cameron, on the other hand, mostly looked cute and won over the hearts of many.

Its nice to remember that there are areas of the country that can grow things. I really do love Idaho.

Todd is getting married this week. I need to let his future wife know that he was hanging out with another women. But then Cameron did win over the hearts of many.

A Great Holiday Weekend

2011-07-06T17:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend was for Rock Avery Bishop. He certainly is cute and very responsive, enen though he is only 6 weeks old.

Saturday I helped Lecia watch the children while most everyone else helped at Tim's house, get ready to paint and re-decorate. We let the boys play with the water table. Hunter, of course, preferred playing in the mud instead of the water table.

Sunday dawned, and Rock was looking pretty grown-up and studly in his new suit. Mike was a little nerveous, but pronouced a beautiful blessing.

We went to Tara's parents for a nice luncheon after church. Peter and Ben picked a few cherries and ate a lot of Cheetos. Monday morning, Peter, Ben and Hunter took their dad and me to the balloon festival. It was interesting until the wind picked up and through a balloon onto Hunter, Peter and Tim. I saw it coming and got Ben out of the way.

This is just a picture of the boys hanging out by a balloon that is being inflated.

I went over to Lecia's to help with the boys again. We decided to let them paint. It was a great idea for Peter and Ben.

It may not have been a great idea for Hunter. You can see his war-paint and his hands. What you can't see are his socks. He walked over the top of the picture. It may have been artistic license or something.

We went back over to Rock and Carol's house for a bbq in the afternoon. It was a wonderful, relaxing weekend. Its to bad Kayleen couldn't be there, but we will return to the motherland in a few weeks.

A Week With Mickey

2011-06-19T18:26:00.000-07:00

The week went by as fast as the Dumbo Ride. It seems you stand in line forever and then in the blink of an eye, the ride is over. So it was with the whole week.

Each one of the grandchildren had their own favorite rides and memories

Hunter didn't get to go on as many rides, but he found some good hiding places where only he could go.

We all met with Mickey for a family picture. Some cast members used our cameras to make sure that everyone of us got into the picture.

We had to rest from time to time. Grandpa did pretty good, but still isn't as strong as he used to be.

On Thursday morning, we had a breakfast with in Ariel's Grotto. Several of the Disney Princesses showed up to meet with the guests. Here they are with Sleeping Beauty.

Minnie Mouse showed up. She was Kennedy's Favorite

Cinderella took time to pose with Ben and Kennedy

Ben and Peter competed in the Bumper Cars. I wish I had video of the first part of their ride.

Friday Morning, our grandchildren found Mickey just inside the park entrance. The park hadn't officially opened yet, so we got some good pictures. Our family was the last ones they let take pictures before Mickey had to go with his escorts.

Kennedy loved the car rides. She didn't want to get out of this car, but luckily it was stationary. When she rode in the car for the Monsters, Inc ride, she WOULD NOT get out when the ride was over. I think she liked the little TV screen that was there for her to watch.

The week went by quickly. We are tired and sore, glad to be home, but feel blessed to be able to spend Marriott Points building memories in this way.

Burning a hole in my pocket

2011-04-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

Wally called. A distribution of Mom & Dad's estate is coming. I'm thinking of using it for a "gathering" of the entire family. Top choices would be...
1) Hawaii (Maui or the Big Island)
2) Disney World / Disneyland
3) Aruba- or another island in the Caribbean
4) A cruise (Alaska? Caribbean? Hawaii?)

I'm thinking that the Beach gatherings would be held in June or July 2012 and that the Disney gatherings would be Christmas 2012.

Any thoughts or further suggestions?

Building Faith in Christ Part 3.0 to 3.2

2011-04-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Learn of Me

As the Savior prepared His apostles for the final sacrifice, he prayed, “Father, hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:1-3)

This is a most important concept, that the Atonement is to reconcile as men and women to God, so that Father may grant eternal life as a gift to His faithful sons and daughters. But in order for the atonement to be effective, we need to come to know God. We come to know Him, by becoming acquainted with the Savior. So then the question is, what must we do to become acquainted with the Savior?

The first thing is to study the scriptures, especially the New Testament and the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Christ. These two collections teach us about the life and mission of Christ, about the things he endured for our sake, and about the life He asks us to live. Early in his earthly ministry, he taught, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (John 5:39)

The people wanted a Savior to free them from bondage. Jesus promised deliverance, but not from the political bondage of Rome, but from the spiritual bondage of sin, and from the bondage of the “traditions of their fathers.” When they refused to recognize Him as the promised Messiah, he told them to read the scriptures, and if they truly searched, they would find that the scriptures testified of Jesus of Nazareth. Eternal Life, as promised in the Scriptures, can only be realized when we know who are Savior is. So first we study the scriptures to find out who Jesus Christ is and what we need to do.

The study also includes the words of the modern apostles and prophets. These words teach us about what Jesus has on His mind for us now, the things we need to know and do in order to survive the current temptations, trials and conditions in our days.

Many people have searched the scriptures before we have. Same have written books and papers on their studies, sharing insights and epiphanies gleaned from their studies. It is okay for us to read and understand some of their insights. But for us to come to know the Savior truly, we need to personally engage in the study process and gain our knowledge of the scriptures. Moroni promised us that as we read and engage the scriptures, we will come to know of their truthfulness, that is, to know of the Divinity of the Risen Lord. The spiritual witness of the Holy Ghost is the knowledge we seek first. That spirit lets us know that our hope is not in vain, and that Jesus has prepared the Way for us. Personal scripture study provides the basic doctrines and witness, a stake in the ground for us to always return to when times become turbulent.

The second thing is to obey the commandments. The commandments are not harsh restrictions merely to prove that He is our master. Rather obedience teaches and disciplines us to chip away the imperfections of our character and to build the strength of spirit needed to control the knowledge, power and responsibilities that Father wants us to receive.

The great artist Michelangelo was asked how he was able to create the amazing statue of David from an imperfect, discarded piece of marble. He replied that he visualized the statue inside the rough rock, and chipped away and polished everything that did not belong. The commandments of the Lord are to help us visualize the ideal, the person we want to be, and to begin to remove those characteristics that do not belong.

Obedience is not optional, if we desire to truly seek to know the Savior. Jesus was obedient in all things. In order to understand His character and nature, we too must strive for obedience in all things. As mortal men, total, complete obedience is not possible. The striving for obedience and the repentance process moves us closer to the Savior. Not only do we understand His Character, we also come to rely upon Him to help us overcome these weaknesses, transgressions or outright sins.

At times we seek for selective obedience. We justify a little sin, telling ourselves that since we are working on some bigger sins, these little things won’t matter much. We must come to realize that the “little sins” will keep us away from the promises of Eternal Life as much as major transgressions. As Elder Neal Maxwell used to say, we cannot seek our mansion in Heaven while keeping our summer cottage in Babylon.

Building Faith in Christ Part 1.2 to 1.3

2011-04-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

The Substance As the spark of Hope begins to build in us, we realize that in order to receive salvation, we must fulfill the requirements of the Savior. He said, “come, unto Me.” (John 6:35, 3 Nephi 9:13-14) In Matthew, He told us that when we are burdened or heavy laden, we should come to Himand he will give us rest. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me,” He said, “and ye shall find rest to your souls.”

We all become burdened in some way in this fallen and mortal world. We carry the weight of mistakes we have made, or things we have should have done. We remember the words said in anger or the pain of sin. We watch others go astray and wonder what we could have done differently. The burdens weigh us done to a point that we feel we cannot go on without something to lift the weight and to set us free.

The answer is to turn and face the Savior and to come to Him. We study about Him and His life. We learn of His miracles of healing and of forgiving. We strive to keep His commandments. He said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” We change our behavior and try to change the way we live.

That change of conduct becomes the substance of the Hope in Christ. The Hope motivates us to change certain things in our life. It compels us to look to Him in our adversities and in our triumphs. It helps us to maintain a proper balance among the various roles we must play in our lives. The confidence and increased hope that comes from the change in behaviors becomes a leading light in our lives. It directs our motivations and our desires. We truly become a new creature. Heleman summarized it thus,

“Yea, thus we see that the gate of heaven is open unto ball, even to those who will believe on the name of Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God.

Yea, we see that whosoever will may lay hold upon the word of God, which is quick and powerful, which shall divide asunder all the cunning and the snares and the wiles of the devil, and lead the man of Christ in a strait and narrow course across that everlasting gulf of misery which is prepared to engulf the wicked—

And land their souls, yea, their immortal souls, at the right hand of God in the kingdom of heaven, to sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and with Jacob, and with all our holy fathers, to go no more out.” (Hel 3:28-30)

Things Not Seen Throughout history of the Christian Church, one of the most frequent complaints, is that we must worship a God who is invisible to us. Why can’t He just show Himself to the world, and prove that He is God? Why can’t he appear to everybody as He did to Moses, to Isiah, to Lehi and to Joseph Smith? Why are they allowed to have the absolute knowledge when we are forced to walk in faith? Like Alma, I do not know all things, nevertheless I do know that there is a God, and that He loves His children. I also know that the evidence of “things not seen” is very real and very obvious to those who would have the hope and desire to believe. He who hath eyes to see, let him see.

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the Earth. We do not remember the creative process, though we were there and probably helped in some manner. He has not shown us how he accomplished the feat, or ever exactly how long it took. We do not need to know all things now. The earth is here, now, with a perfect environment for mankind to live and to procreate. We can accept that God created the earth for us as He told us and be blessed by the knowledge.

Joseph Smith walked into the woods in the spring of 1820 and experienced a vision of God the Father and His Divine Son. He said it, and never recanted that testimony. From that first vision, we have received the Book of Mormon. The Priesthood of God has been restored, along with the life-saving covenants and the organization called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We do not have a video of the first vision. We do not know the exact words that Father and Son said to the boy prophet. We only have his testimony and the works that have followed in the wake of that day.

Though we do not have the golden plates to show interested observers or investigators, we do have the Book of Mormon and the promise in Moroni 10. Though we do see sparks fly when the priesthood of God is used to bless the sick or to confer the Holy Ghost, yet the effects of peace, of healing and of the Gifts of the Spirit follow in their wake. Though we cannot touch the “mantle” of a Bishop, a Stake President or the Prophet, yet the revelations of God that come through these men are real and we are blessed when we follow their counsel.

Perhaps the greatest “thing not seen” is and was the atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. Bruce R McKonckie, an Apostle during the mid-twentieth century, said of the atonement, that it was the most central, important event in all eternity, and yet, perhaps, the least understood. Jesus of Nazereth walked into the Garden of the Press, initially accompanied by his 12 trusted disciples. One of His apostles would sell Him for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a slave. Another would deny him three times over the course of the next few hours.

Truly He was left alone. No one would be left to witness of the Event. During the course of the next 18 hours he would experience our lives and our guilt. He would then be betrayed, scourged, convicted for our guilt, and punished with infinite physical, spiritual and emotional pain. After suffering more than any man could suffer, He declared that it was finished. He gave up His life, and His body was laid in a new tomb.

Some 36 hours, 3 days as measured by the Jews, he took up His body again and returned to His Father to report on His stewardship. He appeared to His apostles, and we have their witness of His resurrection in the New Testament. He then appeared to the survivors on the American Continents. We have their witnesses in the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Christ. In 1820, he appeared to Joseph Smith in a grove of trees, to Oliver Cowdry and Joseph in February 1932. On April 3, 1836, the Savior appeared to the boy prophet and Oliver, to accept the Kirtland Temple.

The documented appearances now seem to be far and few between. For the most part, He is not seen in person. We have been told that He is no stranger to His Prophet and to His Apostles. Until we can show that we are willing to be totally obedient, and that we will not allow anything to take us away from the blessings of the Gospel, we are asked to walk by Faith. We must accept that the Atonement is very real and that we can receive a remission of our sins, despite not having had a personal appearance by the Risen Lord. Our faith, our obedience endures in spite of our not having seen the vision that Joseph had.

Jesus told Thomas, “blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) The evidence of things not seen remains first in the witnesses of those who have gone on before including The Church, the Book of Mormon and other fruits brought about by the restoration, and especially by the results of the efforts put forth by the church as whole. Paul exhorted, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” (Heb 12:1)

The faith in things not seen is also evidenced in the individual lives of those who continue to contribute to and serve in the restored Kingdom of Heaven on Earth. We continue to have people read the Book of Mormon and declare that they understand Jesus and His Salvation better, because of the restoration. They make covenants to take upon themselves the Name of the Savior and to be His disciples. They continue to attend and perform sacred ordinances in temples around the world. We see young men and women sacrifice time and money to spread the message of the restored gospel. The evidence is the lives that are consecrated and dedicated to reach out to help those around the world less fortunate than themselves.

Building Faith in Christ Part 1.0 to 1.1

2011-03-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

Note: the following is a narrative based on some ongoing study of the subject "Building Faith in Christ." I have a general outline of where I want to go with this, but mostly, I want to compile my study notes into words, sentences and complete thoughts. Although I will be sharing this with whoever wants to read it, it really is for me, to organize, categorize and develop my the results of my study and reflections. So here goes

What is Faith?

Paul wrote to the Hebrews, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” The dictionary describes faith as “1) something that is believed especially with strong conviction; 2) a system of religious beliefs ; 3) firm belief in something for which there is no proof; 4) fidelity to one's promises; 5) sincerity of intentions.“ This will discss the first principal of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that of Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We will discuss what faith is, and what faith is not. We will discuss the ways and means of building faith in Christ, and what results we should look for as we seek the end of our faith. We should keep in mind that the purpose of faith is to help us 1) be happy and find joy, 2) become more confident in our future and in our relationship with God, 3) provide a standard of behavior for us to follow.

There seems to be four important concepts in the above scripture, as we discover the nature and purpose of faith. 1) faith springs from hope, 2) true faith has substance, which includes a desired pattern of behavior, 3) we may not see the object of our faith, but 4) pursuing faith will provide us with evidence that that He is real and can bless our lives.

Hope As we journey through life, we meet certain events or circumstances that provide us with the knowledge that we are imperfect. We are fallen, mortal men. We make mistakes that we cannot correct by ourselves. We will grow old, deteriorate and die. What is to become of us, if we cannot be perfect? What shall become of ourselves, our families and loved ones if we cannot find some way to improve upon our circumstances? The future looks bleak if there is no way to overcome our mistakes. Upon what basis do we have to hope for improvement?

In Alma12: 32, the prophet writes, “Therefore God gave unto them commandments, after having made known unto them the plan of redemption, that they should not do evil, the penalty thereof being a second death, which was an everlasting death as to things pertaining unto righteousness; for on such the plan of redemption could have no power, for the works of justice could not be destroyed, according to the supreme goodness of God.”

So we have been given a knowledge of good and evil. God has given us commandments. If we are disobedient, even one time, we will suffer the second death, meaning that we cannot get back into the presence of our Creator.

Now why would Father send us to earth in a lost and fallen state, if the penalty would be that we could not ever be with him again? What good parent does not like to see the success of their children? What grandparents do not delight in the development of their grandchildren? The answer. Of course, is that Father has prepared a way for us, from before the foundation of the world, that we can be free from the bondage of sin.

In 1 Peter 1:20, we read “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you.”

We can develop a hope that the words in the scriptures are true, and that we can be redeemed from the penalty of our sins. We can hope in the plan of salvation that is discussed and described in the Holy Scriptures. That spark of hope gives birth to the idea of faith.

Days 5 & 6

2011-03-21T20:39:00.001-07:00

Sunday we went to church at Lihue Ward. It was a good meeting, and afterwards the ward members sang Aloha Oe to us. It was very nice. We went for a relaxing afternoon walk along the golf course. We saw a bunch of these birds. Kayleen calls them Hawaiian Hene birds. The are like geese and the gander gets his dander up by hissing and chasing people away from the nesting females.

There is a walking path along the waterway. There are boat docks too, but no boats. We think the boating part of the Kauai Lagoons went bust, along with some of the Condos along the waterway.

On Monday, we got up early and drove to the end of the road. The bay was closed to snorkeling, so we went for a short hike. We were able to view the bay and the surf from 300 feet up.

I took a panorama shot of the bay to try to show the spectrum.

We sat on a sandy beach at Kapa'a for about 20 minutes listening to the surf pound along the shore. What a relaxing way to spend some time.
On the way back, drove to Wailea Falls.

After taking pictures that were readily available on the road, I did kind of a dumb thing. We went to the end of a fence, where the fence ended. There was a sign that said "Do not Enter - Hazardous Area." I entered.
I slid down a slope to some beautifully quiet water at the top of the falls. After taking a few pictures, I tried to climb back up. I hurt my back and my shoulder. I ended up pulling myself up by some tree roots and vines. Its a good thing the roots were there.
Kayleen has video. I will not post that here, that would be too humiliating, and condemning.

We have had a great time. We have relaxed and have seen some things we have never seen before. We didn't get in the water much, but it was rough and choppy.

We go home tomorrow. Sad to go, happy to be home.

Days 3 and 4

2011-03-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

We started out Friday with a pleasant walk along the golf course that is attached to this place. We walkeed out to the Lighthouse. We couldn't actually get to the Lighthouse, but only close.
From the Hotel's beach, the lighthouse seems to be on far away, but we walked to it in a little less than an hour. Yes, the wind was blustery, as it has been all week, as you can see by the Palms

We t00k it easy Friday to rest up, which we would need. Saturday we got on a boat at Port Allen and headed out to the Na Pali coast. It was supposed to be a snorkling trip. We did snorkel a little, but the fishes were almost non-existant. It was good to be in the water however.

I had seen pictures of the Na Pali coast before, but pictures cannot do justice to the magnificance and majesty of the cliffs.

On the way back, we did see a pod of 5-6 humpback whales. The whales were playing around a little, and "breeched" several times - meaning that they came mostly out of the water and made some big splashes. I didn't get any decent pictures of the whales, although I did get a few of some spinner and bottle-nosed dolpins. In this picture you can see five or six Spinner Dolphins.

Day 2 -

2011-03-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

A like along an ancient pathway on the Southern rocky shore, The path goes from Shipwreck Beach to some un-pronounceable place to the Northeast of Shipwreck.

A pleasant dinner with a view to die for

We drove out to the Northshore as well to look for whales. We saw the whales blowing into the air, but the water was too chopy for us to actually see much. So we went back on the Highway from Hell (horrible traffic AND construction every 5 miles. Why do we think Hawaii received so much Federal Funding for obscure highway projects? HUMMMM)

Anyway, we stopped at a waterfall mostly to rest from the traffic

And finally, some out-rigger teams practicing (Which I will upload when the computer is faster)

Day 1

2011-03-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

We we woke up this morning, it was raining and overcast. We drove along the Waimea Canyon, also know as the Grand Canyon of the pacific. The wind was pretty blustery as we stood on the rim of the canyon ( behind the railings.) The scenes were amazing. Many of the shots show some haze, as it was in the morning before the humidity had burned off.

The view points had some very long drops - of 2000 ft or more in places. This canyon is 1/2 mile deep and 10 miles wide. Not as big as the real Grand Canyon, but colorful in a different way.

After wards, we went to Dukes to eat. We sat by the beach with a gentle breeze and split a cheese burger. No, we did not have Hula pie.

A video of the panorama of the canyon.

Not focusing on the task at hand

2011-01-24T11:08:00.000-08:00

I was deer hunting once, and instead of watching for deer, I was watching the trees and the leaves as they would blow off the branches and flutter to the ground. The result is the poem below. Somehow, the words have more meaning now that I am a little further down the road.

Brittle Autumn Bones

His last strength holds on.

The wind and rain

Have battered and bruised.

And tormented the withered being

He rattles as he moves

His brittle bones creak and groan

As he sways with wind and age

And never moves a step

Oh the memories of youth!

When wind and rain caused naught

But gentle sway and light rustle

Of youth and inexperience.

His strength fails at last.

Letting go, round and round

He circles, back to earth,

To find his final resting place.

Simplicity and Beauty

2011-01-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

The creations of God are amazing. After Moses had his vison of the earth, he remarked that "now I know that man is nothing, which thing I had never before supposed." When I see the the beauty of nature, I am overwhelmed.Whether the cliffs, valleys and waterfalls of the rugged mountains, or the simplicity perfection of the passion flower below, each detail seems to be planned with immaculate perfection.

The soft warm water of the South Pacific

or the rugged beauty of the winter in the mountains are equally adept at taking one's breath away.

While the creations of mankind may be interesting and inspiring, they cannot compare with the simplicty yet complexity of nature.
The simple things seem to bring the greatest happiness.

Mothers teaching daughters
Brothers bonding in a shared laugh
bring a smile to all but the most hardened face. I love nature. I love my family. I love that Father has given us the opportunity to be sealed for eternity. I am proud of each of my children and grandchildren. I love their accomplishments, even the simple ones of learning to climb stairs.

Arrival of Number 8

2011-01-07T09:16:00.001-08:00

Cameron Rae Melville

Born January 5, 20115 lbs 11 Ozs
17 1/2 inches long.
Cute as a button
Big things come in small packages

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

Since my mother's passing, I have been under quite a bit of stress and pressure from work and time commitments at the Church. I did not get a Christmas letter out to family and friends. I would like to discuss a bit of these last four weeks.

Week 1

The week of Thanksgiving was wonderful. Matt, Lecia and Kennedy were here. It ended way too soon, although the trip to the zoo was a pleasant way to end the trip.

Week 2

The next weekend was Inventory. I had to work the weekend. I didn't do too much as far as actual inventory work, but it was important for me to be at work when every other person in the company had to work. (No Pictures)

Week 3

The next weekend was quite busy. In the morning we had "Breakfast with the Bishop" as a Primary Activity Day. I thouroughly enjoyed talking to the Primary Children. I had to leave early to head for Mesa. Congratulations to Tanner and Jessica.

We had to leave Mesa right after the sealing to attend the Ward Party.

Week 4

We again went to Mesa. This time we spent Friday evening looking at the Christmas lights at the temple.

After the lights, we went back to the hotel and, for the first time in our married lives, we had room service together. (I had had it before when traveling on business). In the morning, we attended the temple and came home. On Saturday evening we went to the Holiday Party for work. It made for a late night and harder day at Church the next day.

Work

During this time, I had been behind at work because of being gone for Mother's Funeral. In addition, we were working on next year's budget, which meetings and projects took up about 50% of available working hours.

Tithing Settlement.

I really don't need to say much more than those two (2) words. Although it was often fun and I do enjoy the time with the members, it does take a lot of time.

BUT==> We finished the budget on Thursday the 23rd. I handed November's financial package to the owners on Friday the 24th. I am almost caught up with miscellaneous projects. I am all but done with Tithing Settlement. The stress is gone, and I am at peace.

So, to all of my friends, family and any lurkers on this blog,

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Bonus coverage - I will not do a 2010 recap yet, as I will surly miss something important. But pictures of Hawaii are always good.

Here is a picture from the top of Diamond Head Crater. Yes, we did the hike.

On what was supposed to be our last day, we experienced a Tsunami. It was interesting, but not dramatic.

Miles to go, before I sleep

2010-12-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

by Robert Frost

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

My mother used to quote this poem to us, sometimes several times a day. I think the poem gave her strength. She knew that there were places along life's path, that seemed to long for us to stop, to think, to ponder, and to perhaps lie down for lack of ability or strength. It helped her at times, to stop and to enjoy peace and beauty in places where we would not normally think of peace. And the poem gave her a reminder, that in spite of fatigue or conflicting options, the call of duty and responsibility moves us onward, towards fulfilling our mission.

I had a good day today. I met with several families for Tithing Settlement. But there was one sister that needed words of help and encouragement. I had felt that I needed to meet with her. My first question set her to tears. We talked of life, of imperfection and of parental duty. I saw some of my mother's fatigue. Yet this sister will go on, for she loves her children. I asked her to go to the temple, alone, without family or friends, and to just spend time with Father. The words that came from my mouth, that I had never before thought of, were, "As you help Father with His children, He will help you with yours." She has miles to go before she sleeps. She has faith and hope, and she wants the best for her family. She knows that she is imperfect. Where and how do we find the strength to continue?

The Master issued this invitation, "Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matt 11: 28-30)

So we accept the invitation. We turn around and face Him. We strive to change our actions, our habits, and yes, finally, our character. As we try to live as He did, his actions become ours. His habits become our habits. His character becomes our character. And just as we have been "graven on the palms of [His] hands", we have the image of Christ graven upon our countenances.

That is our goal. That is our end, if we endure well the mortal experience. For most of us, we "have miles to go, before we sleep."

Light vs. Dark

2010-12-02T22:45:00.000-08:00

The Savior declared, "I am the Light of the World. He that believeth in me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

In DC 93, the Lord gives us 5 things to work on, and when we have done those 5 things, He promises that we shall "see his face..." The section then talks about how Jehovah achieved His current stature, by growing from grace to grace, until He achieved a fullness. We are then promised that we can receive the same blessings, if we grow from grace to grace until we fill the measure of our creation, just as He did. We are then taught that we grow and gain truth and light (A) as we obey. The devil tries to keep us from being obedient, and he therefore, taketh away truth and light (A) Vs. 31 - Here is the Agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man. Because that which was from the beginning is plainly manifest unto man, and they receive not the light. (A) Vs 32 And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light (A) is under condemnation.

Question ... Should light (A) be capitalized -at least in our minds ? Are we not really seeking to add Christ like characteristic to our lives through obedience. Is not this contrary to what Lucifer's goal? Has Christ been so plainly manifest, through the creation, through out history, and through the witness of the Holy Spirit, that we become condemned if we do not receive Him?

I am not suggesting that we change the scriptures. They are as they have been established.

Any thoughts?

The Time has Come...

2010-12-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

Season of Change

"The time has come," the Walrus said,

"To speak of many things,

Of shoes, of ships, of sealing wax,

Of cabbages and kings."
And why the sea is boiling hot,

And whether pigs have wings."
(Louis Carroll)

I have been thinking of changing the direction of what I am doing with this blog. I'm not sure exactly where we will go with the posts. I love my family and the pictures, but I am thinking I need to use this partly to organize my thoughts on various subjects, mostly related to LDS doctrines. Bruce R. McConkie became a great gospel scholar by writing church talks in his head as he walked each day to and from his law school classes. It’s probably too late for me to become a great gospel scholar, but I do enjoy reaching the point of greater understanding by organizing the eternal truths in my mind.

I have toyed with the thought of doing this entirely in private, and then with a thought of perhaps allowing, or inviting others in for additional perspective. But do I draw a line, or should I allow free access? I’m not here to start my own missionary site, nor do I wish to invite negative remarks on doctrines or on Priesthood Leaders.

In case I decide to go private, please send your name and email address to gjbtucson@msn.com.

Thankgiving 2010

2010-11-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Four Pies & a Funeral

Just a few lines and pictures to catch up on events of the last two weeks. On November 16, we got a call at 4:05 AM that my mother had passed away. So I went into work for a few hours to write a few notes and take care of a few items. Needless to say, Utah was chilly, or down right cold at other times.I stayed with Tim & Tiffany. Hunter showed me his skills at camera awareness.

Friday evening, we had a viewing at Walker Mortuary in Springville. Mom looked peaceful, for one of the few times since her stroke in October 2007.

I got to visit with people I had not seen in years. My two older sisters, Ann (on the left) and Bonnie on the right.

My two younger sisters played an amazing piano duet during the funeral. Mary (left) and Barbara (right). Mary's son decided he needed to be in the picture as well, so he came up in between the two ladies.

I drove over to look at the home place. I had not been there in a few years. We are renting it out now. I suppose it will be sold in due time.

After the funeral, we flew back to Arizona. Lecia, Matt and Kennedy came with us. Kennedy immediately became Queen of the household. For Thankgiving, Nate, Julie, and their 4 children came down from Chandler. We ate a lot and visited while the Jacobs children played the Wii.

A good time was had by all.

On Saturday after Thanksgiving, we visited Phoenix Zoo as we were taking Matt's family back to the airport. The lioness's attitude of been the queen reminded me of someone - maybe kennedy?

The Tiger must have eaten turkey, based on his habit of laziness.

Kennedy showed her adventerous side by climbing inside the tree and looking out of the peep hole.

We went over to the temple visitor's center. I caught kind of an eternal perspective with Matt, Lecia, Kennedy and Baby Melville. It was a Kodak moment (literally)
Kennedy showed us how to truly focus while playing boggle. Yes, we were playing "Five Crowns" while she was playing "Boggle," but that did not stop her.

Goodby Mom

2010-11-17T17:40:00.000-08:00

My mother, Cleo Thorpe Bishop passed away on November 16 at 2:00 AM. She had suffered a stroke 3 years ago, and her quality of life has not been up to par since that time. She could hear and understand, but had a hard time communicating her thoughts and desires. She has wanted to move on for the last 2 years. About 18 months ago, shr asked me why she couldn't just die so that she could be with Frank. I told her that the value of her life had been re-assessed, and that her manson was too small. The workers in heaven had to tear down and rebuild her manson. She just laughed.
She was a good woman who did the best she could. She was loyal to her family and to God. She loved life and tried to let others feel of her joy of waking up every morning.
I will miss her, but am glad that she does not have to suffer anymore. I am glad that she can be free from pain and other mortal constraints. I am proud to be her son.
I was not always a good son, but I did and do love my mother. She was not a good cook, but she did the best she could in raising 8 children.

10 things

2010-11-14T20:44:00.000-08:00

I shortened the list and changed the questions.

1. Now that the children are gone, what activities do you look forward to?
Spending time with my children and grandchildren. I try to think up new ways to create memories for them. I also enjoy sitting for 6.5 hours in an airplane next to my most favorite travel companion, because it means I am on my way to Hawaii. Even the trips home from Hawaii are comfortable because she is next to me.
2. What do you like most about your spouse?
She supports me in my responsibilities, whether it is as an employee or a Bishop. She never complains about the hours I put in, and just happy when I come home.
3. What do wish you would do better?
I am probably not a very good brother or son. I know that some things happened when I was younger, and emotional walls go up when I have dealings with my siblings as a group, or with my parents. I do try to visit mother every time I am in Utah. I am also not a very good Home Teacher and could be more diligent in that area.
4. What cause is most important to you?
I have a theory, that everyone must have a cause. A life without cause is a life without direction or without goals or meaning. Some people look to improve the environment or to enforce animal rights. I have given myself to the LDS church. As the primary song says, "I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints." My cause is to move the work forward. I have made a covenant with the Lord Jesus Christ and I will fight to keep that covenant. I believe that society must be improved from the inside out, starting with individuals who live according to morals and virtue. Living a life of descipleship to the Redeemer of the world is designed to improve the individual. This improvement can spread to the family, and from families into society. I love the Lord and what He has done for me.
5. What makes you angry?
Abuse of any form on children. Children want and need to be loved and nurtured. A child who knows that he / she is loved, has a much greater chance of living a full and enriched life of love and happiness. In a recent study, this was the greatest predictor of children growing into "happy adults." Children cannot defend themselves against verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Adults who bully or abuse children, or even other, weaker adults, sometimes do not realize the full extent of what they are doing, but they know it is wrong.
6. What makes you happy?
I love my children and grandchildren and love spending time with them. I remember that my Dad was probably a better grandfather than he was a father. I understand that progression more than I did when I first noticed the change. I love seeing my grandchildren and watching them grow and develop, just as their parents did.
7. What are the most life changing events in your life.
In February / March of 1973 I read the Book of Mormon, which completely changed my goals and my behavior. That lead to my serving a mission in Germany. The Mission was not easy, but I learned to depend upon the Lord. In 1997 I had an experience in the Temple that let me know with full assurance, just as the boy prophet Joseph found out, that God is our Father, that He does exist and that He loves each of His children as individuals. In October 1983 two of my sons gave me a priesthood blessing, and the promises of that blessing stay with me everyday.
In June 1977 I met Kayleen DeCoursey, and we were married in February 1978. We had 4 children, each of which have brought great joy and changes to my life.
8. Are there things on your "bucket list" that you would like to do before you die.
Yes ... I would like to visit the Sacred Grove. The only other thing I think that I would yearn for, is to take 3 or 4 weeks driving from Minnasota through the Mississippi river valleys, down through Missouri perhaps even into Louisanna. That is a beautiful part of the country, and I have seen very little of it. Oh yes - I would like to be a temple worker.
9. What unusual things have you experienced in your life.
Kayleen doesn't like me to talk about this much, but I have watched the C-section births of all four children. Witnessing these surguries were some of the most profound experiences. When I was in the Mission Home (Before MTC days) we were in the temple one day, and Elder Hinckley came and talked to us. The Elders I was with talked me into asking one of their questions, so I was rebuked by an apostle for that question.
In February 2010, we were in Hawaii and lived through a Tusnami. I have it on video. It wasn't dramatic 15 foot surges or anything like that, but the waters did change and it was definately a different kind of day.
10. You are a Bishop of the LDS church. What is this Mantle that people sometimes talk about.
Now wait, that is not a generic question that anyone can answer. One cannot truly know about the mantle of a Priesthood calling until he has experienced it. The day I was set apart, I walked out of the Stake President's office, and the mantle settled and I knew that things were different. There is a confidence that comes with those keys. Over the years, I have been taught and re-taught that the Lord is in charge, and that the Bishop is merely a servant, sitting in a temporary calling for a short time. I have recieved very real revelations and promptings. I have felt a very real love for people that I barely know. These spiritual manifestations are gifts that come with being a servant of the Most Hight God. There are great time, emotional and spiritual demands on the life of a Bishop. But the Lord compensates with knowledege, wisdom, insight, and yes, discernment. I have developed a trust in the Lord, and I hope He can trust me. My only desire is to seek out His will and follow what He would want. More often than not, the answers are clear. Early on, He pointed me to a verse in 1 Nephi where it says, "I will be your light in the wilderness," and that He has. I know the Lord will provide, just as He did for the children of Isreal wandering in the wilderness for 40 years.

So, is there anything else you would like to know?

Update-including Education Week

2010-09-04T06:31:00.001-07:00

Kayleen rightfully pointed out that true repentance requires a change in behavior, and I have not posted in over a month. So here is what I have been doing lately. I will try to organize this under the Major Headings, as much for me as for any readers.
General

I spent some time in Utah Valley for Education Week. I flew in on August 13 and stayed in Kennedy's basement. Saturday we went to Best Buy for a power cord for the laptop. I expected a $20 price tag. It was about 4 times that amount. And since I was spending that much, I got Matt his birthday present - but I asked Lecia first if I could. We went to a ward Luau, but ended up at Applebees for dinner. On Sunday we went to Church. I got to spend an hour in the nursary with a crying child. No, Kennedy went from toy to toy, person to person, and did not utter a peep. She was great. High priest group was much like most priesthood quorums - someone was assigned to teach just prior to the meeting. We went to Jim & Becky's for dinner and yes, Kennedy did prefer Grandpa Jim. I am okay with that. During the week I taught Kennedy how to eat Oreo cookies in the time I was not on Campus. I got to Spend Tuesday evening with Kennedy so that Matt and Lecia could go to class, and Wednesday evening so that they could go to the Temple. I flew home Friday evening.

Education Week.

On Monday I went to a series on the Life and Mission of Jesus by David Christensen. Two ideas came out of those series that I have been pondering alot. First - Eternity goes both ways. I will not try to expound on that concept much, other than after the Infinite and Eternal Atonement was completed, it was if it had always been completed - thus, the Savior was "Slain from before the foundation of the World." The second is that From the moment when Jehovah stepped forward and said "Here I am, send me." (Which is a whole 'nother topic for pondering and committment) the atonement had begun. He had to hang on, from that moment on, to not do one thing that His Father would not want, or will. When He was 11 years old and being tormented by a younger brother, He could not say or do anything that make Him less than acceptable in Father's kingdom.

Then I went back to Kennedy's and played with Kennedy.

On Tuesday I started off with a lecture series on the Law of Consecretion, Then a series on Prayer. I skipped the devotional, but went to one on teaching youth. For the rest of the week, I attended a series on the Temple during the "devotinal hour". After those classes, I inevitably went back to be with Kennedy. The week was very edifying.

The Class on the Consecretion helped me to see that consecretion, though a covenant we make in the temple, is also a process. If we are in tune with seeking God's will, He will help us move towards giving more of ourselves and giving up those things that would not be in harmony with being a Son or Daughter of the Most High.

Leadership Training

That Saturday I attended a meeting with Elder Christofferson, Elder Rasband, Elder Kerin (?) and Elder Pickard. Eighty-four Bishops and Branch Presidents attended, along with 13 Stake Presidencies. The message was not new or negative in any way. It was uplifting, but also presented in a way that each leader could take appropriate notes that he needed for his stewardship. We concentrated on the Leadership Emphasis, that has bee around for about 20 years or so. We spent some time on Helping the Elder's Quorum President, on Teaching in the Family, on Missionary work and Rescuing the less active. They also took alot of questions, and we spent some significant time talking about immigration and our approach to the controversy in Arizona. There were also so moments I would consider sacred, and will only talk about those times during appropriate conversations.

Other

The following weekend, We flew up to Provo again, this time for my 38th High School Reunion. It was good to see old friends, old flames, and to see that I am not the only one who has grown old. And yes, it was dissappointing to see that some people have not moved past High School. In that way, I have been blessed to have lived outside of Utah County since I graduated from college. I have been pushed out of my patterns of behavior that were set during HS, and have been able to grow past those habits.

Health

I finally set appointments for my back pain again. The Doctor nuked the nerves on the right side of my back on August 26, and was supposed to do the left side on Sept 9. He had marked out Sept 16 as Rosh Hashashana, but it was Sept 9. So the left side nuking has been rescheduled for Sept 16.

Summary

As of now, I am excercising 4-6 times a week on my stationary bike for 30 - 40 minutes. Life is pretty good. We don't have any further trips scheduled to my happy place until March, but we should be in Utah in January when Kennedy's sister is born. For the most part, I find joy in my calling as Bishop, but there is also a lot of heartache and pain involved. I love my Savior and will continue to offer my meager 5 loaves and 2 fishes, trusting that He will magnify and expand my offering to be sufficient for those whom I serve.

I Repent

2010-07-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

Repentance means that one must go back and do what should have been done. So here are the pictures that should have been posted after the last trip.

First is my traveling companion, my wife and best friend. I am happy to be traveling with her through the eternities.

Mike and Tara came with us. At first, she was afraid that she would slow us down. I think I probably slowed her down, despite her cane and crutches.

Kennedy may have been too young to appreciate a week in Paradise, but she did appreciate having lots of people around.

I showed these guys once before, but they are amazing.

The scenery was wonderful, as usual.

We spent a morning at Pearl Harbor. We took the boat ride out to the Arizona Memorial.

The battleship Missouri, or "Big MO" rides at anchor here too. We did not take the tour as it would be too trying on my back and Tara's knee.

The Arizona Memorial, as seen through the tines of the the anchor of the sunken battleship.

We sent Mike, Tara, Lecia and Matt off the the Polynesian Cultural Center, and we kept Kennedy for ourselves the whole day. We had a great time together.

We hike up to a waterfall. I thought I had put Mike and Tara under the waterfall, but this picture will have to do, as it is one of my most favorite I have ever taken.

The whole group starting out on the hike to the waterfall

Lecia and Matt at the waterfall.

Yes, we did have a great time. As of this posting, we have no definite plans for return. Not that we won't go back, because we will. We just don't have it planned yet.

Little Bunny Foo Foo

2010-06-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Kennedy likes to sing songs. Mostly she likes others to sing while she observes.
So I taught her a new song on Thursday. In the video she doesn't laugh out loud as she did when we first taught it to her.

The Cure for Back Pain

2010-06-24T00:33:00.001-07:00

From a social perspective, Kennedy seems to be fitting in well. She gets lots of compliments on hour cuteness. She did leave the flower in her hair for the picture, but likes to pull it out, mostly to frustrate her mother.

The days are long, and the sunsets are beautiful. For the most part we have had good times. Kennedy does seem to want her Grandpa to hold her or to walk with her, which leaves him in some level of pain most of the time. It is relaxing, but the cure for pack pain is not merely watching the sunsets.

We drove out to the north shore. The traffic was a little tense which definitally was not the cure. We were able to see a couple of large green sea turtles getting their own beach therapy. Although this was very thrilling, this also was not the cure.

We have seen some amazing areas.

We went snorkeling at hanauma Bay. The water was rough, as you can see in the video below. Still, we saw some fish we had not seen before. I was looking for some eels, and apparently one swam right below me. I was snorkeling in water that was less than 2 feet cover over the reef, and it swam between the reef and me, but I did not see me. The healing waters help, but they did not provide the cure.

We took a ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial. This was a very moving and sacred time, but it did not help my back.

This is the cure. Kennedy spent a lot of time with Grandpa, but having her lie on my tummy while I enjoyed the ambience took away the pain for a short time.

Its called ...

2010-06-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

I messed up at work. It actually happened in March or April, but I found out yesterday afternoon. I didn't sleep well. I have enough insecurities at work anyway, without this hanging over my head. I developed some options to deal with the mistake, but the fact is it cost the company several thousand dollars in bonuses that should not have been paid. Do we take them back? Do we take it out of my pay? do we suspend me for two weeks and use those savings to pay for the unearned bonuses? Do we just let the thing go, and learn from the mistake?
I feel bad for myself ('cause I'm no longer perfect), I feel bad for the my boss, ("cause he paid money out that should have been his') and I feel bad for those around me because I am morose and hurting and in a grumpy mood.

When people come into my office and talk about this kind of stuff, I usually say something like, "Its called being mortal and human. So you're not perfect, so what? If God expected you to be perfect, he would not have provided a Savior."

It still hurts to encounter something like this.

QUESTION ==> Do the healing waters of Hawaii also heal this kind of hurt?

Birthday wishes

2010-05-29T14:43:00.001-07:00

Today is my dad's Birthday. Happy Birthday, Dad. He passed away 16 years ago, but I think of him often and the of the lessons he taught me. I remember once walking into the house with him. He was ahead of me, but he paused, turned and said daid, "I am proud of you."

Dad was not a man of many words of that sort, so those words have stuck with me for a long time.

I hope I can continue to not shame him in any way.

Getting Older

2010-04-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of me when I was just a few months older than Ben is now. The picture was taken 53 years ago.

When I returned from my mission to Germany, I attended BYU. This was taken for my BYU Picture ID. I was 1/4 inch short of 6 ft. tall. I think I weighed about 165. I had my tonsils out when I was five and knee surgery when I was eighteen, Other than that, I felt pretty healthy. I was married in 1979 to Kayleen. We lived in Boise, ID for a few years and moved to Tucson, AZ in 1986. This picture was taken shortly after I moved to Tucson. I had a "procedure" for prostitises in 1989, and had my appendix out in 1996. I still felt pretty healthy.

I went back to school in 1992, and graduated with a Master's in Organizational Magement in 1994. This is my graduation day with Phillip and Timothy. We left a few days later for Disneyland.

We did not travel at all (other than to Utah, Idaho or Disneyland) until our 25th anniversary. We traveled to Kuai to celebrate. Lecia got sick (Tianna took care of her) , but Kayleen and I enjoyed the time together. We seem to have traveled a lot since that time. I like to experience the sunsets from the beach.

Our children have grown to become respectible members of society. We have 7 wonderful grandchildren. I have good employment. I try to serve the Lord. Unfortunetly, I do not have the energy and stamina that I had when I was Ben's age, or even Mike's age. I live with chronic back pain, which is a pain. I can not do many of the things I used to enjoy doing. I still spend time and energy with my grandchildren. Maybe it helps me capture some of the exuberance of youth.

So now that Geoff has become a reality. Oh, many of you do not understand the connotation. In the movie "Men in Black II", there is a 600 ft worm named Geoff, that lives in the New York Subway. I was going to title this post "A Hemroid Named Geoff," but thought better of the title.
Kayleen still loves me. I'm not really sure why. I've lost my looks, my trim figure, my athletisim, and my hair. But she goes with me still, and we will walk together. SOmetimes I look forward to going home to see Father. But there are places in Hawaii and other tropical islands that I have not seen. I wish to spend more time with my grandchildren. I want to change a few things still in my life. Getting older is not for wimps, but we are doing what we can.

BONUS

Kayleen and I went to the ballgame last weekend. On Saturday, the Diamondbacks were losing. But I did get this Homerun on tape. We were cheering so the video is a little shaky, but it is a home run, cutting the lead to 6-3. That was the losing score.

The Circle of Family

2010-03-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Utah for the Name & Blessing ordinance for Hunter. First event on the docket - Peter's Soccer game. I have included a short video for viewing enjoyment.

We went to dinner at the Old Spegetti Factory. Lecia & Matt were there.

Mike and Tara were there.

Kennedy enjoyed the company and the food.

DJ & Laural came to the blessing on Sunday, but missed the lunch at the Old Spegetti Factory on Saturday. They did add to the entertainment on Sunday at lunch.

Saturday night we watched Kennedy while Matt and Lecia went to Prom. Then Sunday was Hunter's day, and he was Looking Sharp!

He did well, not crying or filling any diapers or that kind of stuff. He was surrounded by good men, who called upon the powers of heaven to help him and to welcome him to mortality. Afterwards, we took some pictures. Ben was finally willing to allow us to take one picture of him. As fun as he is, he seems to be camera shy.

We had a great visit, only problem is that it was too short.

Who woulda thunk?

2010-02-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Okay - On Thursday we rented a car and drove around the north shore. The water was pretty roiled up. Snorkeling in Sharks'cove would have been on the stupid end of the spectrum. We did see some beautiful beaches. On Friday, we walked along the canal and down to the Army Museum. Those pictures will be shown in another post. My new camera will let me take up to 3 pictures and then it bolts them all together, giving some good landscape views.

We found Kayleen's true calling, as a priestess to worship at my feet. (lol)

We found a new area down by the museum to watch the sunset.

At 3:30 AM, we got a phone call from one of Kayleen's friends, telling us we better move to higher ground. We turned on the news, and sure enough, there was a tsunumi warning. We were evacuated vertically ( at or above the 3rd floor.) we checked out of the hotel, but stayed in our room. Security actuall would not let us out of our room after about 10:00 AM. Here is a video of the sirens going off, and police cars trying to clear the beach area.

When the surge hit it was not immediatelyy noticable. Here is a picture of some rocks sticking out of the water about an hour before the surge hit.

This is a picture of the same area after the surge hit. This tsunami was more like going from low tide to high tide in a five minute time period, and then repeating that sequence 5 more times over the next 90 minutes.

The largest surge was the 3rd one to hit. Here is a short video of the waves over those same rocks.

We changed our flight to Sunday, checked back into the hotel, and went for a walk. Again, the sunset was beautiful.

An interesting, but crazy day.

A Change of Plans

2010-02-24T20:59:00.000-08:00

The intestinal issues that have been in and out of my life the past 3 months were back in this morning. I stayed close to the WC while Kayleen walked down to the Aquarium for a couple of hours. When she got back, I was feeling better. We had canceled the rental car, so we decided to WALK out to the light house. This is a view of Diamond Head point from a park. It took us about an hour and 15 minutes to walk there. This is a view from the road.

A lady in our ward told me there was tide pools down below the light house, so we found the path and walked down. It was mostly surfers on one end of the beach, and single men in thongs at the other. This is a view from the beach below the light house.

We really didn't have proper footwear to go into the water, but it was neat to see the tide pools.

On the trolley this evening, we saw a sculpted palm. It almost looks like a Kachina doll, that one would buy in Tucson Arizona.

The sunset this evening was beautiful.

We will try to rent a car tomorrow and go out to the North shore and stuff that we did not do today.

The hike up Diamond Head

2010-02-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

We left fairly early in the morning - the number 23 bus to the base of the trail.

The trail was not overly long - only about a mile plus a bit from the bus stop to the trail head. But as you can see, it was a climb. The climate was much dryer inside the crator than I expected it to be.

After climbing almost to the rim, we had two flights of stairs that were very steep.

But the view was wonderful. This picture shows the inside of the crator.

Some of the ridges had pathways along the top. The ridges were steep and narrow.

This is the lighthouse down below the summit, warning ships of the shallow waters and the reef.

Back down at the bus stop, waiting for the 23 bus to take us back to the hotel. We were tired but happy. We got too much sun, but the only thing we have to do the rest of the day is our anniversary dinner.

Tomorrow we will rent a car and visit some sights out at the north shore - sharks cove and the like. We may get some snorkeling in, depending on the water and the weather.

Thursday it will be back to Hanauma Bay for more snorkeling. We have not yet decided what to do on Friday.

A few pictures -

2010-02-22T20:54:00.001-08:00

This is the trip for our 31st Anniversary. Kayleen was gone last year for Kennedy's birth, so we are taking the "big" trip this year.

Flying into Honolulu on Friday.
We visited Pearl Harbour. This is the submarine. We went down inside, which was pretty cool.

Unfortunately, we did not get to go out to the Memorial becuase of the lateness our our visit. We will make plans to go back and take the boat ride out to the Arizona.

The love of my life, sitting on the jettie, waiting for sunset on Sunday evening.

Monday we took the bus out to Hanauma bay. The snorkeling was the best ever. We saw three small turtles, a fish or two, and a brown spotted Morey eel.

Evening time on Waikiki.

A view of Diamond Head from a park close to the hotel. We will try to climb it on Tuesday, before eating our Anniversery Dinner at Dukes. (which will include some Hula Pie)

Monday's Sunset. Nice color. A great ending to another day in Paradise.

Visit to my mother

2010-01-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

I flew to Utah last weekend to see my mother. I had heard that she was not doing great, and that we probably needed to come see her. When I visited her on Friday, she was doing okay. She recognized me and was able to make herself understood, which is sometimes a challenge for her. On Saturday, she was not doing quite as well, but was still Cleo. On Sunday, I was concerned, because she seemed to have lost touch with the world. She kept asking me the same question, which had nothing to do with me. I'm not sure where her mind was, but it wasn't in Orem. I'm glad I went.

I stayed with Lecia Friday night, and Kennedy let me know who the boss in the home really is.

Ben had decided that I couldn't take his picture. Perhaps he felt i would be taking some of his soul away, similar to the Austrailian tribes. I finally asked him if I could please take his picture, and he said I could take a few.

I met my new grandson, Hunter while I was there. It was cold outside, but Hunter is content to snuggle, so I was happy.

Here is a short video of Kennedy, again showing Grandpa how big she is.

New Year Predictions and Speculations

2010-01-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

It is always fun and exciting to look forward, wondering what will be in store for us this year. Last year we had 3 births, a funeral, a wedding, family pictures, two college graduations, two trips to hawaii, BYU education week, visiting general conference, as well as a whole bunch of day-to-day living experiences.

So what will 2010 bring? I have some thoughts, conjectures, predictions and dreams.

Here are the top 10 predictions for 2010. I am tryin to sell these to the National Enquirer but so far, they have declained.

1) World peace. Probably won't happen immediately, but I will begin work in that direction by starting with myself. I will work to be a more peaceful person, even when confronted in not so peaceful situations.

2) Continue building memories. We will continue to strive to build memories with our children and grandchildren. Two years ago we took a family to Disney World, and last year we took another family to Hawaii. We have some plans to continue this process this year, but reservations have not yet been firmed up.

3) Saving for Retirement. We have a very good start on retirement funds, but we do not have any extra. We don't think the dollar is going to be worth very much in 10 years, but still, we should do what we can. I will be doubling my 401(k) contribution (which I can becuase the other HC employees are no longer considered HC, which means I can give a bigger percentage without going over the discrimination limits.)

4) I think there will be a general rebellion at the ballot box against un-restrained government spending. It will get bigger, but the corruption in the governement will be too powerful for the people's voices to be adequatley heard.

5) My back pain will continue to get worse, as it has this year, and will deteriorate to the point where I will no longer be able to work full time. I will then need to devote my time to my wife, children and grandchildren.

6) Intenet viruses will effectively shut down the electrical grid on the East coast.

7) Al Quada will run out of suicide bombers. The new recruits will realize the lack of upward mobility and will decline their assignments.

8) Congress will shut down talk radio as subversive and inflamitory

9) The pope will declare, as an official communication, that he as been visited by an angel, who said his name was Maroni, and that Joseph Smith really was a prophet.

10) Unleaded gasoline in Los Angeles will exceed $5.00 a gallon.

So how visionary am I? Feel free to post your own predictions here.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

Matt, Lecia and Kennedy flew into Phoenix on Nov 21, and stayed until Friday afternoon. Kennedy had a huge smile for us as she got off the plane, as though she remembered who we were. She kept up the smiles all week and it was wonderful.

SO==> This little lady controlled our house for a few days. Her bright eys and "full-body" smile kept smiles on our her grandma & grandpas faces. By the way, she is NOT camera shy. This sequnce of pictures shows her reaction to the camera. In this first picture of 3, she doesn't really recognize that grandpa is taking a picture.

Then in this picture, she sees that, "oh ya, the camera is on!" Her eyes open up a bit and the face begins to animate.

She then turns it on for all the world and posterity to see. Still, she deserves the attention, just for the smile she turns in our direction.

She loves to have us help her walk. We could see her getting better and stronger as the week went on. Her smile seemed bigger when she could show us how big she was getting.

Oh yes, we did have a dinner here. The food was excellant. Only two pies, but we were only four adults, so it was okay.

Then 15 minutes later, the bellys were full, the food was partially consumed, and we were pretty happy.

Here is some bonus footage, of Kennedy showing here pacifier skills. I think all of our grandchildren have shown exceptional dexterity and skill with the binkie, and Kennedy is fitting in nicely.

2009 in Review

2009-11-07T09:41:00.000-08:00

SUPER LONG POST

( but most of it is pictures)

The year started out with our 5th grandchild being born. We gathered at the hospital, knowing that this would be a sacred time - a time of joy and of sorrow. Little Emma was born on January 15th, 2009, but unfortunately, her little heart had stopped beating a few hours earlier.

This was one of the most difficult times I have ever experienced. The raw emotions of birth and death in the same room. The saving grace for me was the absolute knowledge that life does go on - that Emma has a different calling and work to accomplish. This was confirmed a few weeks later as I pondered in the temple. I might add here that my sure knowledge and understanding that families can endure through the eternities, cannot be expressed in this forum. The experiences are too sacred and private for public venue.

I carry a mental snapshot of the picture below, the small casket with Lecia playing prelude music. Lecia was due just one week after Tiffany's due date, so this was an especially difficult time for Lecia.
Then in February, on Andrew's birthday, Kennedy Mae Melville was born. Kayleen again went to Utah to be with our daughter. Kennedy is a delight to the family. We sometimes wonder how well Kennedy and Emma knew each other. Kennedy seems to bring an extra smile, to help ease the pain of her cousin moving on already.
In March, Kayleen and I trooped to Utah again. This time for a wedding. Phillip was able to arrange his two week leave during this time, and we were able to get Kristen to take some wonderful family pictures.
We were able to go through he temple with Tara for her endowment, and then witness their sealing in the Salt Lake Temple. We love having Tara in the family.

At the end of April, we flew up to Utah once again. Matt graduated in Math Education, and Mike graduated in Psychology.

We celebrated Ben's 2nd birthday by flying to Hawaii with Tim, Tiffany and the boys. We went hiking in a rain forest. The picture is of Peter and Grandma holding a leaf that some one (not in our party) cut off a plant. It was supposed to be an easy hike, but we were all extremely tired, sweaty and ready to be back in the Condo.

After Peter showed us the leaf, Ben apparently wanted to show us some leaves too. He called them "udder leaf".

We went to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Tim and the boys went over to the FIJI island and they got some cool tats.

In July, one of Lecia's friends returned home from a mission. Lecia and her friends had a reunion in Tucson. Brityn, Lindsey, Nicole and Lecia came to breakfast one day. The non-missionary friends each had a baby girl, and they were all born within 4 weeks of each other. Kennedy is on the left, Sophie in the middle, and Madelyn on the right.

In August, we again went to Utah, this time for education week. We stayed at Tim and Tiffany's, but we were pretty busy with classes, dinners, visits and such. I received a comment afterwards that we need to visit just to visit - no classes, no funerals or weddings. It is a good suggestion.

We flew up to Utah again in October for Conference. I was able to take Tim, Mike and Matt to Priesthood session, and then we went to dinner at Applebee's. We had one of the funner dinner's that I have attended.

I probably took more than my share of time off for vacation this year. It was a very good year in some ways, very difficult in others. My back pain is getting worse. But as with other trials, Father has a way of helping me through. For me, he sends dreams. I understand more about the pain and the reason for the adversities because of the specific messengers He has sent.

We still have a couple of months left in 2009. We are expecting our 7th grandchild in December. Matt, Lecia and Kennedy will be here for Thanksgiving. Life seems to be getting better and better - also busier and busier. I cannot help but wonder why Kayleen and I have been so abundantly blessed !!

Tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow ... (revisited)

2009-10-11T18:21:00.000-07:00

So the other day, I got a message on facebook asking that I look at a website dedicated to my graduating High School class. I looked up the website, registered and starting looking at some of the people I used to know. I added a two pictures, but unfortunately, they do make me look like I swallowed a bale of hay.

The class roster indicates those of our class who have left mortality. I knew about some of the recent ones (I have a link on my home page to the "Daily Herald" and I have been reading the obituaries faithfully for the past 3 or 4 months), but I have found out over 20 of my classmates have passed away. 50 or so of the class of 300 have registered on the website.

I have passed naturally into my role as a grandfather, but it is weird to think of all of us as having grandchildren. These are people I knew when I was 18. And since I have attended -0- (zero) class reunions, I have out of touch with the class for 37 years. And so, I put a few of the older pictures here, as a reminder that time does go on, and we ALL change.
In my case, I lost my hair and my "hang time."

So time passes on. I am excited about making contact again. I don't think I am trying to re-live my childhood. But it will be good to see where everyone has landed, what they have done, and what they are doing now.

Kayleen's Birthday

2009-09-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I will admit it now. I took Kayleen away for her birthday, and the airfares to Honolulu were cheaper than to Utah, or North Caraolina, or Florida, or Just about anywhere.

We stayed at the Marriott on Waikiki Beach. Someone got ahold of my credit card information, so I had to stop that card while I was here. We were on the 26th floor of the hotel, with a view of Diamond Head.

We looked around a bit, learned to ride the bus, and to hang out in the party scene. I will add a movie when I have a better connection, to show you what I mean.

It was a long weekend, but we fit a lot into it. It will be nice to be home again.

These are a Few of My Favorite Things.

2009-09-13T18:34:00.000-07:00

"When the dog bites, when the bee stings,
When I'm feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel, so bad."
(Apologies to Julie Andrews-Sound of Music)

This has been a tuff week, due to my responsibilities of being Bishop. Since the hard parts are things I cannot talk about, I will try to focus on the good things in my life. I'm sure that some of these pictures have shown up before, but they bring a smile to my face !!!

SO === >>>
I like my family--

Including my wife, best friend and eternal companion---
My children, along with their spouses and children.

I like vacations, especially with my grandchildren--

I like sunsets over the ocean

and the waves crashing the rocky shores.

I like spending time with my grandchildren -

I like family dinners - food is good almost any time (my wasteline shows that) (Spelling was intentional)

And I really, really love watching my children become the great parents that they are!!

Education week, etc.

2009-08-28T19:37:00.000-07:00

It took a little longer to get a post together. Sorry.

We went to Utah to see family and to attend Education Week. It was wonderful.

One of the better things I got out of Education week is the list below.

Ten Commandments of A Spiritually Healthy Person:

Decide now which way you will face and which God you will worship.
Search you soul with earnestness and Honesty and Confess your sins to God and to His servants.
Repent of your sins and move on with your life.
Do not focus too much on the Blood and Sins of this generation.
Live a Sane and Balanced life in the mainstream of the Church.
Search the Scriptures, Ponder the Revelations and commune with God thereby.
Do not take offense – Assume to the best.
Strive to acquire and extend to others, the Love of Christ.
Improve your time while in this Life.
Enter into the Rest of the Lord thy God.

It did take us almost 3 full hours to get through those 10 items, and there is a LOT of meat to discuss. Pondering what each of those means, and how to achieve could be the the subject of daily scripture study for a long time.

One afternoon we walked dwon to the park with Peter and Ben. The boys showed us how good they were on the park equipment.

Peter climbed clear up on the Jungle bars, or whatever they are called. He got up all by himself, and got back down with only minimal encouragement, helping him get his feet right.

We spent two nights watching Kennedy. She had a cold and wasn't feeling well, but she was cute none the less.

Then she showed us how happy she can be when she has no clothes on.

That's My Girl

2009-07-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Kennedy had a few new experiences while visiting.

With the heat, Kennedy tried a little ice. She came back for more even though it was cold.

She ate some vegetables - Carrots and Zucchini mixed with the yummy grain cereal.

Kennedy may becoming anorexic. Here is a movie of her sticking her fingers down her throat so that she will gag. She doesn't actually in this clip, but you can see that her fingers go down quite far. But she is cute when she does it.

New Friends, Old Friends

2009-07-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

So Thursday, Lecia and Kennedy flew into town. Lecia met her friends Friday night, but Kennedy stayed here with Grandpa and Grandma. She was very happy and very good. She went to sleep a little late, but slept through the night - first time.

Lecia , Brityn, and Lindsey all had baby girls within a month of each other. Brityn's baby, Madilyn is on the right, she was born first. Lindsey's baby, Sophie is in the middle. She was born exactly one month after Maddie. Kennedy is on the left, born between the other two. Had I thought about it, we would have arranged the babies in birth order, but it didn't seem important at the time. What is important is that the friends from elementary and high school had a short reunion, and their daughters are getting to know each other.

We got a short video of Kennedy and her laugh. It is a delight to have her and her momma in the home.

VICTORY

2009-07-09T09:06:00.001-07:00

We had a rain shower last night for a couple of hours.

The Result -- (drumroll)

NO WATER in the HALLWAY

Weather Update

2009-07-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

I'm fixing a hole where the rains gets in,

And keeps my mind from wandering...

(The Beatles)

I thought that becuase we have not had the VERY HOT days (107 and above, up to 115) that our "monsoon" season would not be very good. The hottest it has been has been 106, once. I don't think we even hit 100 degrees on 15 of the 30 days in June (although I did not keep track.)

With that introduction, Tucson has been blessed with a bunch of very good thunderstorms this past week. Then last night, we were treated to a 2 hour natural fireworks show, and it rained here for about 6 hours. We had our ward potluck breakfast this morning, and the sun was out. It was muggy, but a slight breeze kept the event from being too sultry.

The only probem with the rain, is that we found out that our roof has a small leak. It isn't too bad, but the carpet in the hallway is a bit stained, if you look close. So I had one trip to Home Depot for some Henry Roofing Patch stuff. I am fairly confident that I found the place where the water was getting through. 30 monutes later, I was sweatin' up a storm, but the project was done, at least until it rains again and proves to me that I didn't get the right spot.

Fathers Day

2009-06-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

I Feel Very Blessed on Father's Day

Twenty nine years ago my first son was born. Over the years, two more boys and a girl came into my life. I have had the privilege of being their father. They have all grown up, better than I could have ever hoped. They have begun lives of their own. I still am very proud to be their father.

Gabriel, Phillip, Kelly, and Andrew.

Ben and Peter in front, Tiffany and Tim in back.

Tara and Mike

Matt and Lecia, holding little Kennedy Mae

I have been very blessed in my life, but never so much as in my role as father.

PS Hey, I also hooked up my Web Cam today. So if you want to chat on Skype, you can look up Gerald Bishop, or my "handle" is grandpabishop.

Weekly Update

2009-05-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

Note

The pictures don't have anything to do with the updates. I just like to sprinkle pictures of my family among the posts.

1. So after the Mission President recognized me in Sacrament Meeting, both missionaries assigned to our ward were transfered out. No replacements are anticpated within the near future.

2. We were in the temple on last Saturday. Cameron Hunt and his family were there, along with Amber Burnham. Cameron and Amber will be married today in Snowflake temple. It was good to see Lecia's "brother" doing his thing.

3. After discussing my list of things with the Lord (while in the temple), I had a thought - "what would I talk about if a speaker does not show up?" The answer was there and I thought about it a little on the way home, but gave it no real serious thought. Then Sunday, the companion speaker for the High Councilor did not show up. I already had my thoughts organized (The Law of Justice,) so I finished off the time.

4. I asked Kayleen what she wanted for Mother's Day. She said that she was feeling antsey because we had no trips planned. So I did a little research, and got a gonga deal for our Anniversary. Since we were apart for our 30th, we will do something special for our 31st. Kayleen got to do something special - visiting Lecia and Kennedy - but I stayed home with the auditors.

5. I got a frantic call a few days ago from Kim Mohr. A year ago she had asked Tim Wilson to marry her, but did not give him a date at the time. Fast forward to two weeks ago - she finally called to verify, and he is gone this weekend. Her parents weren't happy, Kim just wanted to find someone who could officiate, and I was available. It turns out Tim would have needed permission anyway, since Kim's records were back in my ward. So I married Kim last night. It went pretty well, all in all, but the stress on my back did cause a little extra pain.

6. We are going to the game on Monday. It is memorial day, and the D-backs and Fox Sports are doing a salute to the troops. I let them know that my wife is the mother of a soldier in Iraq. I am sure they get a lot of such requests, so we will see what, if anything happens.

The world gets smaller

2009-05-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

We were getting ready for Sacrament meeting to start today, and the Mission President walked in with his wife, and sat down on the back row. I went down and invited them to sit on the stand with us. He asked, "where are you from?" I replyed that I hailed from Springville, Utah, and he then remarked - " You are Clark Bishop's little brother. I remember you." Apparently he went to school with us. His brother was a good friend of Avery's, and his sister was my age.

I must confess, I could remember no one with his last name, but I checked out the year book. He was there, but obviously a little younger - 37 years worth.

His name --- President Wesley Walker. The Elders all love him and his wife.

The following pictures are just becuase I like putting pictures of my family on the blog.

Here, Ben is singing songs with us.

Here, Kennedy is just being cute, as only she can do.

Paradise Found

2009-05-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

On Monday, we swam and snorkeled in the lagoon and in the pool.
We went for a walk down to the Marina. The ship behind us was coming in. If you look close, you can see the tug boat at the back of the ship.
The sunset was nice, the evening was very relaxing.

On Tuesday, we went to Shark's cove. It was low tide, so we were able to walk out into the shallow portion of the cove.

In the afternoon we swam in the pool again. Peter showed his swimming skills and Ben mostly laughed and lounged.

We went for another walk in the evening. It turns out that Ben likes to look at leaves. He is amazed at every single leaf he sees.

The sunset and evening, again were very relaxing.

On Wednesday, we went to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Tim and Tiffany spent the day there. Peter and Ben took care of the grandparents. We did meet up for a couple of hours in the PCC. Tim took the two boys to get Tattoos from the island of Figi. Tiffany took a few more pictures than we did. I will let her post them. The picture below is of Tim and his boys showing off their "tats".

On Thursday, we tried something different. We found a "Beginner's Hike." After we found the right road (which took some time) we found the trail. This was no Piece of Cake, though the scenery was beautiful.

Peter found a leaf bigger than he was. No, we did not pick the leaf. Someone else did. We only enjoyed their discards.

After a 90 minute hike, we came to the waterfall. Hawaii has some much better falls.

As we were starting back, we heard a scream. A guy came back down the trail and asked if we had medical training. No, but we had phones. Tiffany ran up the trail (No easy feat) to the top of the ridge, where she could get a signal, and dialed 911. We all went to the top of the ridge. Tiffany had been asked to wait for the emergency response people. They came up in about 15 minutes, not even sweating. (Very Impressive!) This picture is Peter and Ben waiting for the helicopter.

It turns out that the guy slipped and skewered his knee on a piece of bamboo. Some guys helped him to the top of the ridge, where he took the easy way out.

We had to walk out. Man, were we tired. Every one of us complained about how tired and smelly we were. Ben really was smelly, but his was taken care of with a diaper change. The rest of us had to shower.

More to come.

Graduations Galore

2009-04-29T22:54:00.000-07:00

So, we flew into Utah on Wednesday. We went to dinner with Matt, Lecia, Jim, Becky and Kennedy. On Thursday, we went to dinner with Rock, Carol, Mike, Tara, and some of Tara's Family. On Friday, we got up early to attend Matt's Graduation. It was in the Ballroom. We saved seats for Jim, Becky, and Lecia. Grandpa held Kennedy most of the time.
Then we went to the Marriott Center for Michael's Graduation. We met up with Mike and Tara before hand. Mike borrowed Matt's blue Cap and Gown so that he would not be out of place.

Friday evening we had a birthday party for Ben. He turned two on April 26th, but he was going to be out of town that day, so we held the party on Friday.

Kennedy was there, being cuter than a girl has a right to.On Saturday we had the baby blessing for Kennedy. Matt and Lecia graciously arranged to have it on Saturday afternoon, since Ben and his dad, Tim could not be there on Sunday.

On Sunday, Tim and Tiffany met their two boys at the Airport, where they boarded a Boing 767 for Hawaii. it was cold and rainy on Sunday, and it snowed on Saturday afternoon. The plane ride was long. Kayleen was sick with the ucky stomach thing. Both Peter and Ben traveled very well. Ben took a few laps around the plane when the seat belt light was off. Peter colored, slept and did stickers. We landed at about 2:30 Hawaii time. By the time we rented the car and got to KoOlina, it was 4:00 PM and Kayleen was still quite sick, but was feeling a little better. We checked into room 705 and 707. This is a view from the balcony on Sunday evening.

The boys have been an absolute delight. More pictures to follow.

Is it the Stalker ?

2009-04-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

I went to the Orthopedic place early today. I was supposed to have an RFA (Radio Frequency Ablation) on my left side. There was a delay because the nurse had to take my blood pressure about 7 times, in an effort to find a reading they could live with. The Doctor came in and we talked. He verified that the pain in my hip is back pain, and that it stems from the lower lumbar region. However, my blood pressure was too high to turn on the microwave. Dr. Gorman gave me some stuff to ease the pain and to relax me, but my blood pressure then went even higher.
At that point he told me that it was not safe to continue, and they sent me to the recovery room.

So why is my blood pressure too high?

Is it my weight?
Is it my personal genetic code? (Wally joked that we should sue Mom for the bad set of genes she gave us :) )
Is the pressure from work or church getting to me ?
Do I need to exercise more?
Is it all the other stuff I have been taking for back pain?

These are all good questions. We have no answers yet, but I have an appointment with my PC Doctor, in which we will begin to explore these areas.
In the mean time, my wife tells me to "Don't stroke out."

Good advice, if you ask me.

Teachings for our time

2009-04-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

One of the responsibilities that I have, is to choose 5 of the conference talks to be used in the Teachings for our Time. I also get to assign topics for Sacrament Meetings. I have a list, but would welcome any thoughts you may have.

I like to view Conference as a time to hear what is on the minds of the Prophet and the Apostles. That gives us a very good idea of what kinds of things we should be focusing on. Of general note, there were several talks that covered the protection that comes when living gospel covenants. We heard about the blessings of temples in our lives. We heard about service and the blessings that come from adversity.

I have not yet discussed these with the Ward Council, but here are my preliminary picks:
Teaching for our Times (4th Sunday Priesthood / Relief Society Lessons):
Dieter Uchdorf - "I am Doing a Great Work, and Cannot Come Down."
Dallin Oaks - Unselfish Service
Jose' Texieria - Freedom to Choose
Richard G. Scott / D Todd Christofferson - Faith and Protection from Temple Covenants
M Russell Ballard - Learing Lessons from the Past

Sacrament Meeting Topics:

David Bednar / Gary Stevenson - The Blessings from the Temple
Jeffrey Holland - Standing by the Savior, (or, You'll never have to walk alone.)
Henry B. Erying - The Blessings of Adversity
Robert D. Hales - Resisting Debt and Addiction
Dieter Uchtdorf - The Pathway to Discipleship

So - I welcome your thoughts, your comments, your suggestions.

Gerald Likes to .....

2009-04-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

Tiffany did this to me. I had to look. Because of her blog, I put it my name in google, followed by "likes to " and punched the "search" button. I wasn't feelin too lucky (google joke)

Top 10 (usable) results .......

Gerald likes to rock out and dance!

Gerald likes PMA training

Gerald likes to give presentations to youth groups, and has many talents relating to the tribal history of music and dance, as well as arts and crafts.

Gerald likes to lie to me

Gerald likes football and fishing, but lives in a house full of girls

people just like to tickle Gerald

Gerald likes large colourful fish of good quality, but keeps them mostly for decoration and as pets, without getting too fanatical about their exact markings or Japanese names.

Gerald likes to welcome you and show you in

Gerald likes to ... play baseball

Did you know... Gerald likes ice cream?

Catch up

2009-04-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

We have been traveling a lot this year already.

In January we traveled to Utah for Emma's birth and funeral.

In February, Kayleen went to be with Lecia when Kennedy was born.

I was going through the annual ordeal of hosting the outside accountants, so I stayed at home. The review went very somoothly by the way. In March, we traveled to Utah for Mike and Tara's wedding.

We did get to take some excellant pictures of our whole family

At the end of this month, we have Mike and Matt's graduation. We also have a special birthday trip with Ben and his family. I am having to work extra to get 1) my review of March and the 1st Qtr completed before I leave on the 22nd, 2) have my church appointments and duties caught up before I leave. I will also be having the nerves in my back fried again on the 16th, so that is another day not working. But I am very much looking forward to spending almost 2 full weeks with family.

The only bad part of the trip, is that after we get back, I will have to stay in Tucson for a few months, and make a pretense of earning my salary.

Great Family weekend

2009-03-25T17:32:00.009-07:00

We had our whole family together for Michael and Tara's wedding last weekend. Here are a few pictures of our weekend.

First, I got to meet Kennedy for the first time. She is the cutest baby girl EVER!!

We went to a park on Thursday. The weather was great, so we spent time out of doors.

Ben was "hiding"--

We went to an aquarium on Friday. Here are the boys in an octopus cave

We took family pictures Friday afternoon. Kristen (Tiffany's sister) did a FABULOUS job

Phillip and Kelly's family--
Tim and Tiffany's Family--
Matt and Lecia's Family--
Mike and Tara beginning life together--

Our four children and their spouses--

On Saturday we went to the Salt Lake Temple, where Mike and Tara were sealed for all eternity--
They were respectful when they fed each other wedding cake. No Cake in the Face from either one--

March's Marching Order

2009-03-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

For some time, I have wanted to again enumerate some of the blessings in my life. This month seems to be a very good example of why I feel so grateful for the life Father has given me. So, here goes, although not in any particular order. It is also NOT an exhaustive list !!

Uno ==> My oldest son Phillip was born on March 2, 1980. Because of the long labor, he went into fetal distress every time Kayleen had a contraction. The miracles of modern medicene not only allowed both Kayleen and Phillip to survive, but also for Kayleen to have three additional children. I remember coming home and having Phillip running down the hallway to meet me. He would grab my keys and try to fit them into the doors, luggage, or other keyholes. I will always remember that excitement for life.

B ==> My second son Tim was born on March 9. I remember him hunkered down next to the strawberry patch in Idaho looking over the "just picked strawberry plants." A few minutes later he would be toddling back to the house with his fists clutching ripe strawberries that we had missed. The creations of the Lord continue to amaze me and even when I think I have seen the wonders of the creations, I will see something new.

Next ==> My third son, Mike was born in July, but is getting married on March 21. His optimisim is a contstant inspiration to me. His wife-to-be was born March 11 {Edited}. I have two additional daughters-in law and one son=in-law. I love and admire each of them. The more I get to know them, the more grateful I am for excellant spouses for my children.

4 ==> My second grandson Gabriel was born March 30. I now have four grandsons and two grand daughters.

E ==> My wife Kayleen were originally going to be married March 17. But all the churches were booked for the Relief Society birthday dinners. We moved the wedding to February 23rd. Each day with Kayleen is another adventure. I am grateful for those additional 3 weeks.
'Nuff said.

6 ==> I am grateful for Sunday evenings.
Finally ==> This month is Easter. I am reminded daily of the goodness of our Savior in so many aspects of our lives. This earth was created through His matchless power and word. My family is sealed together throughout eternity through His priesthood. My hope of Resurrection and eternal life comes through His sacrifice, his suffering and his empty tomb. All that is important to me, comes through His various gifts to me. I can only thank Him by trying to be obedient, by trying to be as good as I can be, and by trying to serve Him and His children to the best of my ability.

25 (Almost) Random Things About Me.

2009-02-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

It took a while to think of these.

Josh tagged me to write 25 random things about me. But on facebook, I don't have 25 friends who have not already taken the challenge. I only have 33 total facebook friends, and most of those have already done this. So I will post the items here.

I was Born in Provo, UT but only lived in Provo for 6 months when I was a senior in college.

My older brother Clark and I were often mistaken for each other during elementary school.

I kept the newspaper from July 21, 1969 for about 10 years. The front page story was about Neil Armstrong landing on the moon the day before. The newspaper was apparently thrown away when I moved away from home. Now I have a son who was born on the 15th anniversary of the 1st lunar landing.

I burned the field (just west of our house ) down several times when I was young. Some times were intentional, some not.

I like to get to the airport a few minutes early when I am flying out. Sometimes as much as 120 minutes early.

I have a BS degree from BYU in Business (Accounting) and a MA from University of Phoenix in Organizational Management.

I do not like instant pudding. I generally only eat "Cook and Serve" pudding.

I proposed to Kayleen, my wife during an argument. On Feb 23, 2009, we will have been married 30 years )

I gave up church basketball after the Bishop of a ward in our building broke my nose during an early morning game. It may not have been actually broken, but it bled for quite a while and my eyes were puffy.

During a missionary meeting in the upper room of the Salt Lake Temple, I was rebuked by Elder Gordon B. Hinckley. One of the Elders in our district insisted that "Eve's new name" was revealed during the endowment. I disagreed with the point, but agreed to ask the question during the meeting. Elder Hinckley said that it was ridiculous and such questions should never be asked anyway.

My total score for the CPA exam was 3 points over the absolute minimum to pass all four parts of the exam. Nevertheless, I am certified in 2 states, but I do not practice as a public accountant.

I believe in math - but I do not like Vector Calculus.

I have a real live phobia against snakes. Nothing will cause me to lose my cool faster than being close to a snake. (Unless it is having to listen to the "logic" of the Democratic Congressmen or Congress Women. Oh, come to think of it, they are also of the reptile variety.)

I bought the house that we have now lived in for over 23 years, without Kayleen ever seeing it. I do NOT recommend that course for people moving.

I have been to only one one regular season NFL game - a Monday night game in Phoenix in which Steve Young was put out for his career.

I have four children, all of which are different from each other, but each has attained a strong character of courage and service. Phillip is still serving in the Army - 82nd Airborne - and is on his 4th tour of the Middle East. Tim served a mission in Russia. Mike served a mission in Spain. Lecia was planning on serving a mission, but got married to her Mission Prep. teacher instead.

I was once kicked out of Seminary. The teacher was talking about the evils of "long hair" and I pointed out that the picture on the wall showed the Savior with "long hair." The teacher would no longer let his daughter play with my sister, because I would be a bad influence.

I helped Dad with his taxes a few times, and we once filed an amended return so that he could get $400 back in Investment Tax Credit. (ITC was done away with in about 1981, never to be heard from again.) After dad got the check from the IRS for $400 plus $40 interest, he gave me a hug and told me he was proud of me. I will always cherish those words.

I have suffered from depression for much of my life. A few times the depression has been severe enough for me to seriously worry. I now take my Lexipro every day to help keep those emotions under control.

I got Valley Fever in the fall of 2004. It is a fungus that you only really catch in Tucson and parts of Texas and parts of California. I would wake up at night with my pillow soaking wet from the night sweats, caused by the fungus.

Wally and I once pretended to fight. Mom came down to our room and began hitting me with a broom to break it up.
I used to milk cows, by hand. My hands always smelled like, well, they smelled like "cows." I used to be a little embarrassed by the smell, but I did have large forearms and a very strong grip.

I really never traveled much until our 25th anniversary. We went to Kauai. We have been back to Hawaii 5 time since, and to Aruba once.
When I was between jobs in 1997, I took up painting in order to stimulate my "right brain activity." I still paint, but I will never be good enough to show the works. Kayleen has hung many of the paintings in our house, and I have three of my favorites in my office.
My first computer was a Commodore 64, that had no hard drive and only a cassette tape drive or a 5 1/4" floppy disk drive. I taught myself Basic so that I could write my own programs for that computer. The next computer was a Packard Bell with a 20 MB Hard Drive. I told Kayleen that we would never need a drive bigger than 20 MB.

Bonus Round
Shortly after my 19th birthday, I received a truly remarkable spiritual manifestation of the divinity of the Book of Mormon. The reality of that experience remains, in many ways, more real than the memories of things that happened this morning. That changed my life, the way I approach life and the problems and challenges associated with life. I do not dare to deny that experience, or that the Book of Mormon is of Divine Origin.

It was approximately 3 months from the time I decided to go on a mission until I received my call to go to Germany. I waited only 5 weeks from the time I got my call until I entered the "Mission Home." (That was before the MTC was built.)

Tag, you're it !

2009-02-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

More Help, Please

Thank you for those who gave suggestions for my talk. It went okay.

Now I have another challenge. I got tagged on facebook and need to come up with 25 random things about me. I think the keyword is RANDOM.

I am afraid that the randomness may be comprimised if I do not get some suggestions.

So ==> What random things do you know about me?

Liberty Jail, anyone??

2009-02-04T22:06:00.000-08:00

Sunday is Ward Conference

I have been asked to speak for 8 minutes on (drum roll)

"The Refining Effect of Adversity."

As our family has seen a bit of adversity lately

Kayleen's father passed away

Two of her brothers have prostate cancer

Emma

Some more private health concerns in our family

just to name a few ( in no particular order. )

I have a few ideas already, but will welcome any comments, quotes or thoughts on the subject.

UNO

2009-01-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

I don't usually post two posts in a day, but this is great. The first movie is Peter playing UNO with Grandma.

The second is Ben playing ... whatever Ben is playing- while chanting his mantra for the week; "DAD-DEE."

The Garden of Little Angels

2009-01-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

May Our Granddaughter Rest in the Lord

Emma was laid to rest on January 20th in the Provo Cemetary. The funeral was short and respectful. Andi talked about the things we have learned through this experience. Kayleen read a short poem. I talked about the effects Emma has had in our lives. Kristen sang a beautiful solo "Consider the Lilies." Emma's Aunts and Uncles sang "He Sent His Son."

The temprature gauge in my car said that it was 12 degress. (BURRRR). This is actually a picture of Timpanogus with Jim and Becky's house in the foreground.

There is a little corner in the cemetary called the Angel Garden, reserved for small children and still born children. Emma was laid in a little plot where the angel looks over the children.

Tim dedicated the grave, one of the hardest ordinances he will ever have to perform.

We love and admire Tim, Tiffany, and everybody affected by Emma, her birth and her death. Our prayers continue to plead for comfort for Tim's family. Peter and Ben remain behind, reminding us of the love and experiences we will not share with Emma until the next life.

The Newest Bishop

2009-01-16T08:06:00.000-08:00

Emma

Emma Charity Bishop was born on January 15, 2009 at 5:33 PM. She was born still. Tim and Tiffany knew going in that the chance of her not making it to her Birth Day was too high. Emma has taught us how to pray fervenatly to understand. She has helped us learn humility and love. She has helped us feel the gifts of peace and love from the Spirit. She has helped us remember that every birth is a heavenly miracle and that every death is the opportunity for someone to return home to Father. Tim and Tiffany now have three children.

They are a beautiful, eternal family. Emma has merely gone on to help prepare the way.

Looking Forward to 2009

2009-01-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

The Very Best of Times

The holiday is over. It is time to go back to work. We have had a very good holiday. Mike Lecia and Matt drove in on December 22. Kelly, Andrew and Gabriel flew into Phoenix on the 23rd. Tara came in Christmas night, although with delays and broken engines, she really didn't get in until early morning of the 26th. We played super Nintendo,

Nintendo 64, and Mike brought his Nintendo Wii with him. We played a few games, ate some excellant food, and engaged in frivelous and sometime entertaining conversation. All in all, we had a great two weeks. Mike, Tara and Matt drove back on Jan 2. Lecia flew back the same day, but got back a LOT sooner than her husband and her brother. Kelly and the boys are still here.

Matt got (the DVD) Kung Fu Panda for Christmas, so we watched that movie pretty much everyday. We tried watching a few other movies, but Kung Fu Panda was the Number 1 choice by Andrew and Gabriel. I tried bowling, golf and baseball with the Wii, but bowling was the only one I was any good at. I watched Matt build his own Mii (character) on the Wii, so I decided to try too. Matt called his BIU. I thought maybe it was Japanese for "Good looking Son-in-law), but he said it was simply an acronymn for "Bad Influence Uncle." So I build a guy that was short, pear shaped, bald, with gray / silver hair. He is just like me, except he can bowl. The last 7 games he only had 5 open frames and was well into PRO status. (In the picture below, Gabriel does NOT want his picture taken. He thinks I will steal part of his soul or something. )

So it is time to be serious again. The reality of going to a funeral for my grandaughter is setting in. This time of year at work is my busy season, dealing with month end and year end and the government and regulatory reporting issues.

But I will remember this past year. It has been one of my very best ever, not becasue of where I have been, but becuase of time spent with our family.

Dawning of a New Era

2008-12-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

The World was Changed Forever

I have written before about the incredible sunrises and sunsets we experience in Tucson. The past 10 days or so have been awesome. One morning as we were arriving, one of the owners said that we had a "weird sky." I told him to take a second look. With the lighting, clouds and shadows, you could look at the mountains and get a feeling for just how big the earth is. People call Montana the "Big Sky" country, but we have been seeing that now for a while.

Today while driving into work, the sun was reflecting on the clouds both in the East and the West, giving the illusion of both a Sunrise and a Sunset. I was totally astonished. It made me think of how astonished the people must have been way back 2008 years ago. The prophets had told the people that they would know of the birth of the Messiah, because of the "day, a night, and a day" of daylight.

"And it came to pass that the words which came unto Nephi were fulfilled, according as they had been spoken; for behold, at the going down of the sun there was no darkness; and the people began to be astonished because there was no darkness when the night came.And there were many, who had not believed the words of the prophets, who fell to the earth and became as if they were dead, for they knew that the great plan of destruction which they had laid for those who believed in the words of the prophets had been frustrated; for the sign which had been given was already at hand. And they began to know that the Son of God must shortly appear; yea, in fine, all the people upon the face of the whole earth from the west to the east, both in the land north and in the land south, were so exceedingly astonished that they fell to the earth.

(3 Ne 1:15 - 17 )"

It is fitting that the Light of the World was born after a night of light. At the rising of the sun after a night of no darkness, the world was changed forever. We have witnesses of his birth, of his life, of his death, and of His ressurection. Some of the witnesses lived when he lived. But we have modern prophets and apostles who testify of the Risen Lord.

"And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father-- That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God. (D&C 76:22-24).

And now we celebrate His birth. Some people, in the name of tolerance or political correctness, are trying to eliminate Him from the holiday. But He lives. Whether we follow Him or not, He lives. Whether we strive to keep His commandments, or not, He beckons to us. Whether we acknowledge Him or not, He suffered, bled and died for our sins. He truly is the Savior, the Son of God, the Prince of Peace, and the Redeemer of all mankind.

Gratitude for our Abundance

2008-12-01T18:15:00.000-08:00

Family is our most prized "Possession"

We spent a few days in Utah with our children and grandchildren. It was a very precious and joyful time. We first attended Peter's Birthday party. Peter was an amazing young man, showing gratitude and excitement for any present.

We played Apples to Apples with the group assembled. I didn't do well, but we had a great time. Ben wanted us to know that he was there too.

Thursday was thanksgiving. Thanks to Tim, we achieved an excellent "Pie to Person" ratio. I had been talking about my Ice Cream salad, but we turned it into a pie. Ben and Peter helped me make it. We put the "salad" into an Oreo pie crust and covered it with Heath Bar Shell topping.
We met Tara's parents (Rock and Carol) for lunch. on Friday. I don't have a picture of them, but I do of Mike and Tara.

We were downstairs with the young boys, and I noticed how much Ben watches and imitates his older brother. In the first picture, Peter is lying on his stomach reading a book. Ben is watching. Less than 30 Seconds later, I took the 2nd picture.

We went to the park to play three days in a row. Grandpa had to go to "Time Out" for a while for bad behavior, but Peter was merciful and let him out.

And then, of course, the older boys had to have a contest to see who was better at ...whatever ?

CPE - #2

2008-11-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

Not all Fun and Games

Just so that everyone knows that this is not just a vacation, I taped a short bit of the class on federal taxes.

It can't be too exciting anyway, but when you have to listen to this stuff 6 hours a day for two days, an afternoon nap looks better and better. However, I did capture a picture of the resort where the conference is being held.

We did go to a Luau last night. It was pretty good.

When we went in, a great Hawaiian group was singing. One of the band members sat next to us in Laihana 1st ward. I would not have guessed that he was a musician.

And I have two words ----- Hula pie!

Continuing Education

2008-11-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

I have a CPA license - actually two licenses, one in Idaho and one in Arizona. I am required to obtain 80 hours of continuing education every two years. So this year, I chose to attend a conference in ... Maui. We flew in Saturday Nov 8. I do NOT recommend US Airways. We booked the flight last February, so the cost was fixed, but they charge $15 for the first bag checkes and $25 for the second. They do not give complementary soda or water on the flight. Water or Soda is $2.00. Hawaii though is wonderful so far. We came back to the Kaanapali Beach Hotel where we have stayed 3 times before. I went snorkeling Saturday evening and the water was crystal clear and beautiful. Two turtles came out to play.

We got up Sunday morning and went to church. The Laihana 1st ward is a great ward. They invited us to the ward potluck Wednesday evening. We may go, I really do love that ward.

We ate at Lailani's last night at dusk. I remember why I love that place and no, we passed on the hula pie. It sounded good but we are saving that for another time. The waiter did give us a coupon for a free piece of hula pie. The sunsets are beautiful. The morning walk was invigorating.

While on our walk, we saw a photo shoot of a hula dancer welcoming the morning.

Unfortunately, I do need to go to class. But it is from 7:30 to 1:00. We will find ways to spend the afternoons, enjoying the beauties of the island.

Thespis is in the House

2008-11-02T17:34:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I watched an episode of Sports Night (In my opinion, one of the best written sit-coms, EVER!) about a mischievous ghost that plagues performances. The glitches of this day brought to mind that Thespis apparently works to undermine the efforts of mortals to make a good show.

Today we had Stake Conference - the one where we get a broadcast out of Salt Lake. Five minutes before the opening song, we lost the feed. It had worked fine for General Conference, and worked okay for the test this morning. But the satellite dish lost its mind and couldn't find the source signal anymore. So we sang some songs. We had a huge congregation so when we sang "The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning," it was amazing. We had people with tears because of being able to participate. About 30 minutes in, we got an audio feed over the internet. Kayleen had to leave because the sound was loud with poor quality, and the screeching was hurting her ears. It was a good conference, but other than Pres. Packer, I'm not sure who were the speakers. But they were pretty good.

Then tonight, Kayleen and I gathered to watch the CES fireside. Lo and Behold, I don't speak Spanish, and BYU channel was broadcasting in Spanish. So I put in the DVD and watched the Sports Night episode.

President Packer told us that that we should expect tribulation, that the prophecies are now being fulfilled, but I didn't expect paranormal interference from the Greek ghost Thespis. Anyway, instead of Bishop Burton, we watched Sports Night, just to get caught up on the role of Thespis.

Perfect Presentment

2008-10-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a we are able to snap a picture that seems to be almost perfect. A sunset in Maui perfectly framed under a palm leaf.

Matt and Peter riding a couger or tiger or some kind of cat.

Grandpa DeCoursey's Little Red outhouse. It used to have a weather vane on top. Now it looks like a small church.

A Portrait of a couple in front of a perfect back drop.

My favorite person in the whole world on our 25th anniversary.

Focused Elsewhere

2008-10-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

I have thinking lately about some how we sometimes focus on something in our relm of vision, but miss out on something bigger, or something more important. When in Kaui for our 25th anniversary, we went to the north part of the island. We were visiting a lighthouse, a beautiful landmark. I looked down into the water and saw a mother whale and her calf swim by. I watched the whale for a minute, and realized my camera was in its pouch. By the time I pulled out the camera, the opportunity to snap the picture was lost. (The little white splash to the left of the lighthouse is a whale splashing or blowing - I don't remember which.)

Then I was looking at some of the whales and spinner dolphins, and the crowd erupted. Apparently my camera was pointed to the right, and a whale did a full breach right in front of us.

This time my camera was out, but focused elsewhere.

The next time was just an hour later. We stopped the car, and I climbed down on some rocks to get a better picture of the water hitting the rocks and the way it would run off. When I got back up, Kayleen was not quite white, but at least shaken. She had realized that I had the car keys, the cell phone, the motel key, and the money with me. If I had fallen in.....

These are the rocks I was climbing down towards the water.

Still, we were blessed. The resulting views (and pictures) were amazing.

I'm just saying, that there are a lot of very important things going on in our families. It is easy to be focused elsewhere. Phillip is going on a cub scout camp out this weekend with his boys. Tiffany documents her time with the boys on her blog, so that we can all share. I'm glad my children seem to be focused on important things, instead of being focused elsewhere.

Thank you.

Back to Epcot-Thursday

2008-10-05T18:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in getting the post for the last two days at Disney World. The events of the past week have put a small damper on showing how much fun we had with Phillip and his family. On Thursday, we went back to Epcot center.

We went on the ride where they show the research for food and acriculture. Here is a picture of gowing a Mickey-shaped pumpkin. That sees appropriate since everything was decorated for Halloween.

We went into the Chinese exhibit. They had some miniture statues of tomb soldiers, statues that would be buried with the kings and stuff and guard the tombs from robbers.

The boys went into a mickey house where they got to meet some of the characters. Gabriel liked Mickey, but would have nothing to do with Chip and Dale.

We got back to the hotel after another long day. I took a picture of the dusk accross the water. It was a gorgeous evening. We sat outside on the patio and ate our dinner. We were tired, but very content to be with family.

Day Five - Sea World

2008-09-28T07:28:00.001-07:00

Sea World - Orlando Style

On Wednesday, we went to Seaworld. The day was bright, beautiful, and no rain. We wnt to seen the dolphin show. This picture is actually of the back pool, of a dolphin not in the current show. It swam around a bit, and then hopped out onto this ledge, where it "rested" for a few minutes before ppping back into the water.

Of course, the dolphins like to jump out of water and show off.

They also like to show the boss how good they really are.

We visited the penguin exhibit

Here is a video of them swimming

There are a couple of rides-the boys were not quite tall enough to ride on "Kracken". But Andrew got to sit in one of the seats

There was a beuatiful backdrop, where a professional was taking pictures. I took this one of Phillip and Kelly
And of course, the world of Shamu is amazing---Here the whale is dancing with the trainer

Here the whale is taking the trainer for a ride

And of course, the whales like to splash the audiance

Another excellant day. We were tired at the end of the day - again