Families are Forever

Praying for Glenn

2012-01-27T12:57:00.000-08:00

Glenn had been having some back pain for a few months, when he went in they ordered a CT scan. No signs of new cancer, but Glenn CT scan on show he has an Aortic Aneurysm. This is often common with people with Aortic Dissections (Glenn's dissection goes the full length of his dissenting aorta down into one of his legs). Glenn's is complicated in that his aneurysm is located where is kidney and intestines are attached. (Also his one kidney is fed from his false lumina). The surgery or surgeries will be complicated because of this and has many possible complications that could result. He is on more medication (which makes him dizzy) to keep the aneurysm from rupturing. They gave medication for the pain also. For now he is taking time off work until we get everything figured out, (This would of coarse seem obvious to most, but Glenn is hard to keep from working, I have my work cut out to keep him from over doing things).

We were hoping to have a definite plan and time schedule by now for Glenn’s procedure/surgery but we are still waiting. They have increased his medicine again in order to lower his blood pressure even more and are now planning on sending him to the Standford Hospital in California, it is only about 7 hours south of Medford. They have a team that specializes in working with Marfan patients. http://stanfordhospital.org/clinicsmedServices/COE/heart/DiseasesConditions/marfan/index.html

We are feeling pretty good about going there, it would be nice to know when and have more details, but we have to wait for them to call us in a day or two.

Beehives

2012-01-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

So I have new calling, I will be teaching the Beehive class, attending their activities, etc. It will be fun, but I will miss being with my little ones in the nursery!

13 on the 13th

2011-12-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Today December 13, 2011, Katie is 13, Here is a list of 13 Things I love about her;

1. Katie loves spending time with her family!

2. She is very creative!

3. Katie is very loving and kind to others!

4. She loves learning!

5. Katie is very thoughtful and makes others feel appreciated!!!

6. She is a hard worker, and is usually happy to help.

7. Katie chooses to make right decisions. CTR

8. She gives great hugs.

9. Katie is fun to be with.

10. She is good with animals.

11. Katie is a good friend.

12. She is musically talented.

13. Katie loves me!

Beehives

2011-09-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

September 4, 2011

Katie has had a wonderful 1^st. year participating in the Young Women’s program at Church. She has been actively working in Personal Progress Program. As a Beehive she decided to develop a skill that was a requirement for young women, “Beehives”, back in the 1920’s. Care successfully for a hive of bees for one season and know their habits. See history below;

In the 1920s all young women who belonged to the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association were called Beehive girls, regardless of their age. They were arranged in groups called “swarms,” and their leaders were called Bee Keepers.

Upon entering the Beehive program, each girl was required to memorize the Spirit of the Hive, the Beehive motto: “On my honor each day I will have faith, seek knowledge, safeguard health, honor womanhood, understand beauty, know work, love truth, taste the sweetness of service, feel joy.”

The Beehive program included three ranks: Builders in the Hive, Gatherers of Honey, and Keepers of the Bees. To achieve each rank, girls were required to fulfill 14-16 foundation requirements and 36 additional requirements of their own choosing. At one time there were 373 requirements to choose from. Here are a few sample requirements:

Care successfully for a hive of bees for one season and know their habits.

Sleep out-of-doors or with wide-open windows.

During three consecutive months, abstain from candy, ice cream, commercially manufactured beverages, and chewing gum.

Clear sagebrush, etc. off of a half acre of land.

Care for at least two kerosene lamps daily.

Without help or advice, care for and harness a team of horses at least five times; drive 50 miles in one season.

Identify 12 kinds of lace and tell the reasonable price and appropriate use of each.

During two weeks, keep the house free from flies or destroy at least 25 flies daily.

In the 1960s, some of the requirements to earn emblems for the Beehive bandalo included:

Strive to get your full nine hours' beauty sleep each night this month. Make it a habit!

Increase your self-confidence by acquiring a good posture (sitting, standing, and walking).

Politeness in all things is the mark of a lady. Practice at home being considerate and polite. Learn to accept directions graciously. Conscientiously try to improve.

Make the dinner hour joyous by improving table manners of the entire family.

Look for something beautiful every day for two months.

Over the years, the classes, requirements, and awards have dramatically changed. A young woman today is more likely to make a meal for her family, care for a younger sibling, read her scriptures daily, or learn a piece on the piano. But the goal of learning to make the world a better place through service and self-improvement has been the same throughout the history of Young Women!

Our friend and local Bee Keeper Brain Hall started our family with a hive in 2010 and this year we have two hives one of which has been Katie’s to care for successfully. Yesterday we harvested 4 gallons and hope to harvest more later this month and still leave plenty of honey for the bees to live on through the winter.

Rachel has enjoyed the bee keeping also. She was excited to come home to beehives in our yard. Rachel has been wanting a hive for years. When she lived in Idaho she took a course on bee keeping.

Blessed

2011-07-02T17:33:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to live in America!!!!!!!

So.....

2011-05-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

So.... I have thought about writing and I have wanted to write, yet I have not. It have been a very busy week, My 30 days a blogging may end up taking 60 days to do. I hope that is all!!!!, because next week is very busy also! Smiles!

Wide awake ......

2011-05-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

Scott didn't sleep much s a baby, not only was he Wide a wake at midnight, but he was awake and may I add crying much of the day. You can see by the picture above that I don't have a newborn picture of him sleeping. Luckly he learn to sleep some.

One Day Only!

2011-05-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy my mother's day photo's above, these are individuals that have had a great impact on my life. Happy Mother's Day!

Best Easter Ever!

2011-05-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

I love Easter and reflecting on the Resurection and Atonement and the love and blessings that I feel because of it. We have almost always done Easter baskets, and eggs on the Saturday before, so we don’t have it as a distraction on Easter Sunday. (The children also feel special that the Easter Bunny visits us before everyone else.) This was the best Easter ever. When we came home from Church on Sunday, Glenn and I discovered a basket of candy and plastic eggs all over our bed. As if that was not enough, we opened the eggs, to find; acts of service that Whitnie and Katie would preform for us. They also wrote us nice notes, scriptures and thoughts, but best of all was that Whitnie and Katie wrote their testimonies and blessings of the Atonement in their lives. Reading these made it the Best Easter Ever!!!

I am excited!!!

2011-05-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Great news, I get to go to girl’s camp and be a 1^st year cabin leader! I am so excited; it has been about 6 years since I last went. It gives me another wonderful thing to look forward to in July. We also have Rachel coming home from her mission. She is released on the 13^th and we will tour her mission and met some of her families that she served. We are so excited! July is always exciting too because of our Anniversary. It will be 29 years this July 30^th.

Listening is an expression of love.

2011-05-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

Listening is an expression of love. For the blogging for 30 days #4 is “naming a bad habit that you wish you did not have”. I like a more positive approach. Listening is a talent I that I am striving to improve. I want others to know I really care and believe they are important by giving them my full and undivided attention. This is a skill that I have had to continually work at. I often get excited about something and find myself interrupting. I drives me crazy, I get so mad at myself when I realize what I have done. At times I find my mind wondering when someone is talking. Oh it is irritating! So her is my goal to listen, so that others will know I care about them and their life. (So does this count for # 8 and #18 too?, ha-ha)

Rare Photos

2011-04-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

So today and for the week I am letting you view rare photos. They are the ones placed above. I am 8 and a half months pregnant in most of them, and 7 months in one. Now days Young Mother's to be have such cute photo's taken, back in my days I tried even harder to avoid being in a photo. So this is about all of the photos I have of these memories. Have a good laugh. smiles

One of my favorite places...

2011-04-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

A place I have been #5, The Medford Oregon Temple.

I love to go to the Temple; it is the House of the Lord. I feel so blessed to have one so close to where I live. The Holy Ghost is there and I feel closer to our Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ within it’s wall. The Temple is a peaceful place. As I attend the Temple I receive blessing, one of which is peace.

This year I have felt even more peace in my life as I attend the Temple. I have been able to go at least 4 times each month (usually one a week). I have been able to serve in many areas of the Temple. One in which I enjoy is working in the Baptistery. I love every time I enter the Temple, but two that were most dear this year were attending with my family. In January we went as a family (Glenn, Myself, Sarah and Katie). It was Katie’s first time inside the Temple. She was so excited and had a wonderful experience serving in the Temple. In March I was able to go to the Provo Temple with Jacob and Kathryn. “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." - 3 John 4

I appreciate how these latter-day prophets describe the Temple.

President Gordon B. Hinckley, First Counselor in the First Presidency, said that the temple is “a symbol of strength, a haven of peace, a sanctuary of service, a school of instruction, a place of revelation, … a house of covenants” (“The Salt Lake Temple,” March. 1993, p. 4).

President Thomas S. Monson, “In the temple, the precious plan of God is taught. It is in the temple that eternal covenants are made. The temple lifts us, exalts us, stands as a beacon for all to see, and points us toward celestial glory. It is the house of God. All that occurs within the walls of the temple is uplifting and ennobling.”

“The temple provides purpose for our lives. It brings peace to our souls”

Smiling and laughing at Glenn,

2011-04-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

This morning I am smiling and laughing about the endearing thing my husband did.

First a little history, Glenn loves babies and children. When a new baby is born in the Ward he always wants to have them over for dinner so he can cuddle with the baby. An example is Kailianna and Aramis (He likes them as they grow too.) To insure that the children in our ward talk to him he always has candy in his pockets. Another family in our Ward recently had a baby. He is dying to go and hold it. I told him he has to want till all their relatives leave before we can go and visit and have them over for dinner. Every few days he is asking me if the relatives have left yet.

Glenn briefly sharing Kailianna with Rachel. September 2007

Aramis reading to Glenn and Kailianna. January 29, 2011

Glenn is so excited to be a grandpa, though none are on the way yet. He talks about it a lot and often. Last September we bought a few acres of land at Lakewood Village, the lots back to national forests, and is just minutes away from Lake of the Woods (a beautiful lake). Anyway the main reason he wants to build a cabin there is for the future grandchildren. He wants to start building this year, but we will be waiting at least a year. I want Glenn to have more time to totally recover from all his health problems last year and we need more time to save more money so we don’t have to in debt to build.

We also need Katie to grow stronger because Katie as all of our children are going to help with the building of the cabin.

Lot 41

Lot 42

Lot 9

So finally why am I laughing and smiling, this morning Glenn was looking in a children’s clothing catalog and showing me outfits that would be cute for the grandbabies and grandchildren. “This hat would be cute with matching pants…etc.… etc.…. I guess I will not have to worry about him complaining about me spending too much on clothes for the grandbabies. Smile

15 things?

2011-04-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

So for the blogging challenge, I am to write 15 interesting things about me?

1. Sadly I have to think a bit, and even when I decide on an interesting fact, will it be any interest to others?

2. I love the crinkly sound the computer makes when I empty the recycle folder.

3. I love nuts not the taste as much as the crunch.

4. When Glenn and I are away from children and work, we often can read each other’s thoughts, and we think the same. It is interesting to us.

5. After my first date with Glenn, my sister Karene asked “Well to you like him?” I said, “I don’t know if I like him, but I think I may marry him.”

6. I have visited Russia and had many interesting experiences there.

7. My mind is going blank on what else to write, too sad. Smile

8. I am pretty good at budgeting and provident living, which allowed us to pay off our home mortgage 6 years ago. I have loved living debt free!

9. I love organizing!

10. I love singing even though most of the time I am of key.

11. I love little children and teaching them is a treat!

12. I start packing for a trip almost as soon as I know I will be going.

13. I love clearance shopping.

14. I will be married for 29 years in July.

15. I become obsessed when reading a book. I can't put it down, I let things go and just keep reading, and I will read all night at times. So I don’t read very often because I go crazy. I am addicted till I am done with the book.

30 Days of Blogging

2011-04-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

My friend Kathleen who introduced me to blogging is going to blog every day in May (see below). Kathleen has an amazing blog. I am going to blog for 30 days, but I am going to need 45 days to do it, so I am starting today.

I am also going to change some of the blog topics and their order, but at least I will be blogging. This post is actually #12 So now you know you introduced me to blogging and to read why I started just read my Purpose for my blog. That was easy enough. One down. Smile! Here is a picture of Kathleen and our dear friend Carrie.

Kathleen wrote:
Starting May 1st, I'm gonna give this a whirl.
The idea is every day for 30 days you post something on your blog, in the following order:

1. A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
2. The meaning behind your blog name
3. A picture of you and your friends
4. A habit that you wish you didn’t have
5. A picture of somewhere you’ve been
6. Favorite super hero and why
7. A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
8. Short term goals for this month and why
9. Something you’re proud of in the past few days
10. Songs you listen to when you are happy, sad, bored, hyped, mad
11. Another picture of you and your friends.
12. How you found out about blogs and why you made one.
13. A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
14. A picture of you and your family
15. Put your iPod on shuffle: first ten songs that play
16. Biggest pet peeves
17. Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
18. Plans/dreams/goals you have
19. Nicknames you have and why you have them
20. Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
21. A picture of something that makes you happy
22. What makes you different from everyone else
23. Something you crave a lot
24. A letter to your parents
25. What I would find in your bag
26. What you think about your friends
27. Why you are doing this 30 day challenge
28. A picture of you last year and now and how you have changed since then
29. In the past month, what have you learned
30. Who are you?

Anyone else dare to try??? Come on all you long lost bloggers! Facebook isn't that great.. and you can't print it out and save it for later!

April's Fool's Day

2011-04-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

His Sacred Name - An Easter Declaration

2011-04-06T13:03:00.000-07:00

No fooling......

2011-04-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

I have joined with some committed women a group for Food Addictions. We are using the 12-step program prepared by LDS Family Services “Addiciton Recovery Program”. Though the program is used for recovering from all types of addictions, our group is just focusing on food addictions. Food addictions differ than most substance addictions in that you have to have food to survive, so you will never give up food, just amounts, times, types, etc. We decided to use this program because we want life changing results that last. We have all had successes and failures with other weight plans and programs, yet nothing that helped us to make and keep the life style changes that we need.

Though I have had to miss several of the meetings because of travel, family, etc., I have benefited from the group. The main things I have gained thus far are:

1. Humility, I cannot over come this on my own. I must rely on my Heavenly Father for help. For years I have thought I should have the will power to overcome this on my own, though I prayed for help, I thought I should be able to over come this weakness. I now realize I cannot overcome without fully relying on the Lord. I not only have hope and confidence, but some humility. I will not only rely on the Lord to strengthen me, but to carry me through the difficult times. Philippians 4: 13, Alma 26: 12

2. Awareness, In general I have never felt I over eat because of emotions. I just love the taste of food!!!! I love the pleasure and joy I receive from eating. At one of the meeting we were discussing this topic. One of the women commented with a question, “Why do we need to find joy in eating, and/ or what other ways can we find joy, that do not create such negative side effects?” So I have been keeping that in mind, when I think of eating and over eating.

Besides following an eating plan this week. I have the goal to eat slowly and really enjoy every bite that I eat. I will also find joy in other activities in addition to eating. I will also only eat food that has been blessed (that should really help me think and ask for help before I snack or eat more than I need).

Apache Seasons...

2011-03-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am lucky......

2011-03-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky! I feel so blessed! Glenn’s tests all came back clear of cancer. I have a wonderful husband and great children! Great family! I have a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I live very comfortably. I have running water! The list just goes on and on!

Our Favorite Valentine's Day Gift Ever!

2011-02-14T11:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jacob! We love you!

Useful, Beautiful or Joyful....

2011-01-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Wow how January has flown by. I am very excited for this New Year. 2010 had such a variety of events for our family. Ranging in extreme joy to devastating fears (Glenn’s aorta dissection and kidney cancer, etc.).

Jacob and Katie’s marriage was such a joy. It brings to mind the scripture, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." - 3 John 4

I am not sure what this year holds in store but we will go forward relying on the Lord to be with us through whatever events may come.

I have spent much of January organizing, yet I have much more to do. I am trying to “get rid of anything that is not useful, beautiful or joyful.” Regina Brett (I am happy to get rid of some extra weight, smile) I try to always to follow this idea not only with stuff but also with thoughts, actions, etc. I think I will have this be a theme for this year.

I will get rid of anything that is not useful, beautiful or joyful!

Happy New Year, Danette

Thank-you!

2010-11-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful all who maintain and preserve our nation’s freedom, past and present. THANK-YOU!

Katie's 12th Birthday Celebration

2010-10-23T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from her early celebration. It was a lot of fun! To see the whole album Click on Katie's 12th BD Celebration, under Digital Photo Albums , off to the right. Enjoy!

Continue in Patience

2010-10-03T08:12:00.000-07:00

Continue in Patience

Positive yet Prayerful

2010-09-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

Glenn’s update; Glenn is feeling much better. He is rarely dizzy any more. He has more energy and is awake most of the day now. We saw his oncologist today. She was very thorough and Glenn appreciated that quality. Basically, as we had been told, the surgery appears to have removed all the cancer. Yet she said it has a 35% chance of reoccurring, (if it reoccurs it is usually with in 18 to 24 months). If it reoccurs Glenn may have more surgery. Chemotherapy and other drug treatments have not proven effective in treating Kidney cancer. So at this time he has no treatments planned. (They have some experimental drugs that they are still testing, but because of his of his other health issues he would not be a good candidate for them.) He will go in every 6 months for the next 2 years for tests (sooner if needed) and then once a year for the next three years. We are thinking positive that there will be no reoccurrence, yet also being prayerful.

We recently bought some land that backs to national forest. Glenn is so excited about it. He is like a child at Christmas. He loves talking about all the plans for the land and cabin.

Parenting: Touching the Hearts of Our Youth

2010-09-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Whitnie!

2010-09-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

21 Wonderful things about Whitnie

1. She is loving.

2. She is always smiling (well, at least when is with or thinking of…..smile)

3. She is very intelligent.

4. She has gorgeous eyes!

5. She is a great cleaner. (Her Grandma calls her Whitnie the White Tornado! The other morning I woke to the kitchen all clean, many people could have done it, but I guessed it was Whitnie because of the quality.)

6. Whitnie is gentle and kind to Katie.

7. Whitnie loves chocolate!

8. She is an amazing basketball coach! (She well be coaching Katie’s team again this year, I am so excited. I love seeing how awesome she is with the girls. It is a blessing to the girls to have her as a coach.)

9. She loves to dance.

10. Whitnie is an outstanding teacher.

11. Whitnie is an outstanding teacher. (That is worth repeating)

12. She is an excellent public speaker.

13. She is FUN!

14. Everyone wants her opinion. (She usually has one and she is honest.)

15. Whitnie has a beautiful voice. I love to hear her sing!!!

16. She can always make me laugh.

17. She is thoughtful and likes to give gifts.

18. She is a talented artist.

19. She seeks knowledge and wisdom.

20. She is defiantly one of my favorite cooks! Yum!

21. Whitnie loves her Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus.

"You Always Make Me Smile" Music video Jacob directed for Kyle Andrews

2010-08-30T20:42:00.000-07:00

Note from Jacob:
Special thanks to all who helped make this video happen.

Note from Sarah:

I have the coolest brother ever.

She had a lot of fun helping at the world's biggest water balloon fight ever.

Time for another Glenn update

2010-08-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Some of this may be a repeat for you, if we have been talking on the phone or via email.

On August 5, at 11:pm; I took Glenn to the ER for chest pain. It was a crazy night in which they did lots of tests, one in which he had to transferred by ambulance to another hospital to perform, (because their machine was broken). Anyway at 6:30am they came and told us the diagnosis is Pneumothorax (a collection of air or gas in the pleural cavity of the chest between the lung and the chest wall) (There are many causes for this condition, recent surgery being one, but the diagnosis is that it was a spontaneous pneumothorax caused by marfan syndrome. They kept him in for another day for observation. Thankfully his case was not serious and should clear up in a few weeks. The pain is gone now too.

Glenn has been extremely dizzy, he can deal with the discomfort and weakness from kidney and adrenal gland removal, but the dizziness is really frustrating him. Thursday at one of his doctor appointments, we had his blood pressure medicines amounts changed again. We hope that does the trick this time. They also did some other tests to check out more options.

At one of his appointments last week we discussed his cancer results further. It was a type 2, which means it was slow growing, but it was also level T3 which means it had grown out side of the Kidney. They found no cancer outside of the surrounding area that they removed. Yet because of the T3 result, Glenn will be seeing an Oncologist on September 8^th. With doctors vacations that is the soonest we can get him for an appointment. So we will be discussing any further treatments or chemotherapy then. Thanks for your prayers!!!

Get-away… Glenn and I… a night away from the kids...

2010-07-22T17:59:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately it was at the hospital. Tuesday, Glenn’s kidney surgery took longer than expected. Glenn’s kidney was very large about the size of a football. Glenn’s friend took pictures in the operating room, so if you want Glenn to send you pictures, let us know. It took 2 hours to get the kidney out, and in the process of removing it his vena cava artery tore. Repairing the vena cava took another 2 and a half hours. We were getting worried not knowing what was taking so long. With the kidney being so big, it was attached to the vena cava artery. It’s removal caused a inch long tear in the artery and it was hard to repair because the area keep filling up with blood so it was hard to find the tear. They had to call in a vascular surgeon to help. Happily all is repaired now. They had to give him 6 units (pints) of blood and 7 bags of other fluid. He stayed in the ICU for Tuesday night. Wednesday, when he went to a regular room, I stayed with him. He had some blood pressure problems, so I did not think I should leave. He is not in any pain at the moment. He should have an epidural in till Friday and should be home on Saturday or Sunday. When awakes he is in good spirits, and telling jokes. He thinks he is funny. Smile!

Thanks for your prayers!

Grandpa visiting

2010-07-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

Nice night, Campfire out back, and Katie, Whitnie and Grandpa are sleeping out under the stars. Katie doesn't get to camp much, and now with Glenn's Surgery she will even miss the Ward camp-out (that her and I usually attend). So it is nice that she at least gets to camp-out under the stars in our backyard. Having Grandpa with her is a special treat, well at least until he starts snoring. smile

Happy Birthday Sarah!

2010-07-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!

19 Wonderful Things about Sarah

1. Sarah not only love to sing, but sings with love

2. She dances with joy

3. She is a hard and capable worker

4. Sarah is usually clean and organized

5. Sarah always smells good

6. She is fun to swim with

7. She loves everyone

8. Sarah is kind

9. She brings a smile to all around her

10. She likes to laugh

11. She works at being healthy

12. Sarah cares about others

13. She serves others

14. Sarah always tries to choose the right,

(even if she sometimes forgets to wear her CTR ring)

15. Sarah has a sincere appreciation for the beautiful world Heavenly Father created for her, she loves nature!

16. She knows her Heavenly Father lives and loves her

17. Sarah has a fervent testimony of our Savior

18. She loves me, despite my faults

19. Sarah is totally Awesome

It is easy to see why “EVERYBODY LIKES SARAH LEE”

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2010-07-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

Good Things to Come

2010-06-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

Good Things to Come

N sync - Tearin Up My Heart--Jacob playing around with some friends

2010-06-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

Miracle Man

2010-05-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

“Miracle Man”, that is what Glenn’s heart doctor calls him. He is amazed he is still alive after having an aorta dissection, and not having it treated for so many days. Glenn is doing well. He had a CT scan last week and saw his Cardiologist and he said every thing is looking good. Glenn will have more tests and appointments, before his kidney surgery in July, to see if any other procedures are need, but all is looking well. We feel so blessed to have him still with us. We feel very loved by our Heavenly Father. Glenn’s life has had several miracles.

Wonderful Day...

2010-05-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day! I get to go to the Temple today. That is always a treat. I woke up in a warm comfortable bed next to my wonderful husband. Whitnie cleaned the kitchen this morning. The raspberries are growing! The lilacs are in bloom and my yard smells heavenly. We get to talk to Rachel on Sunday, that will be a treat. Jacob will be married to an amazing young women in June. Scott loves to visit his family. Sarah is singing and Katie loves to talk to me and tell me of all her plans. What a wonderful life!

My New Life

2010-05-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

Inspiring!

Glenn update

2010-04-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Glenn is feeling much better, though very tired and weak. Next week he will have a CT scan to see how his aorta is improving. He will not have the kidney removed in May as originally planned. Dr. Loos the urologist, said after looking at Glenn’s case, and consulting with the cardiologist and vascular doctors that we need to give more time for the aorta to heal, at least two months, and three to be safest, so his surgery is set for the 20^th of July.

Quick update...

2010-04-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Glenn is home now and doing well, except that he is a bad patient and will not slow down as much as he needs too. It will take a weeks for his aorta to heal, but then he should be back to normal. He does have to have a Kidney removed when the aorta is healed, which they believe the tumor on it to be cancerous, which will mean more days in the hospital and some recovery time, but then he will really be back to normal. Thanks for your prayers!

Whitnie did not get married and the wedding has been canceled. She is attending the RCC and getting prepare to applied to another college to become a dental hygienist.

Rachel is having an exciting Faith building month, and loving her mission, check out her blog for more http://sisterrachelschwarz.blogspot.com/

Katie is growing taller and prettier by the minute.

Sarah is attending The RCC and Singing continually.

Scott is attending college in Portland, working towards a degree in teaching.

Jacob is graduating from BYU this year. His and Katie's wedding date is now the 26th of June 2010.

Hospital Dinner Out....

2010-04-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

We ate dinner out as a family last night. It was so enjoyable being together. Enjoying stories and jokes and everyone smiling. I think I appreciated even more because of the events of the last few days. Dinner out in a hospital room is not anywhere I suggest to eat out at, but as always it not important where or even what you are eating, but that you are together as a family.

Last Friday on a trip to the coast, Glenn had some extreme chest pain. I took him to the nearest Hospital 30 minutes away. It was very scary! (I was so wishing I was in Medford with the great doctors and great Medical Center that I know.) We told them we thought he might be having a heart attack, we told him of his father’s heart conditions and about our family’s Marfan’s Syndrome condition. After some tests and a 7-hour stay at the ER in Crescent City, Glenn was released with the diagnosis of Pleurisy (inflammation of the chest cavity). He continued to be in extreme pain (which the Crescent City ER said would be normal), even with all the pain relief they had prescribed. I took him in on Monday to check what might be the cause of the Pleurisy, viral or some fluid in the chest cavity. After 8 hours at the doctor’s and the lab were they did a Ct scan, we realized that he had been missed diagnosis. (Though we had told them of the family history of Marfan’s the ER in Crescent City had not ran a CT scan test that would have shown the large tear in his aorta, (now of coarse I know what test to request).) Glenn was admitted to the Rogue Valley Medical Center ER where they did an additional CT scan and started treating the problem. His pain levels greatly reduced with treatment to the proper diagnosis. He has a Type B Aorta Dissection, which can heal on it’s own with in a month or so, with the proper medication and with rest. That will be the hardest thing, getting Glenn to slow down! He always wants or feels he needs to be on the go! If it had been a Type A Aorta Dissection he would have needed immediate surgery or he would have not been with us anymore. We feel extremely blessed to still have him with us. We all love and cherish him so much!!!

Glenn has been moved out of the CCU unit and is in a regular hospital room and should be able to come room in a few days.

Thanks for all of your prayers!!! Love Danette

Bee....happy...... buzz.......

2010-04-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

What did we plant???

2010-03-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

Be Inspired and enriched!!!!

2010-03-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

This was such an amazing Meeting! I specially loved the last two talks!!!

General Young Women Meeting
The First Presidency and Young Women leaders attended the general Young Women meeting that was held on Saturday, March 27. Audio and video archives are available on the broadcast page. You can also access our live stream from the new beta page.

My Treasure....

2010-03-28T17:18:00.001-07:00

Who can find a Virtuous Women?

2010-03-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

For Young Womens We Had a Virtue Value Scripture Treasure Hunt. A Leprechaun stoled our pot of Gold and we went on Scripture hunt to find it and to find out ways that the scriptures teach us how to be virtuous. ETC.... The girls had a great time and hopefully realize their worth, that as they look in the mirror(on the wall) they will see themselves as God and his servants intend them to be and that they will be inspired to follow the counsel of Elder Faust; “You are young women of virtue and of great promise. May I encourage you to strengthen the virtues you have already acquired and resolve to develop many others…I am overwhelmed to be in your presence because you have such a great potential for good. You are an indispensable part of what the Church and the world will be….It may be that your most significant, everlasting achievements will be your righteous influence on others……..”

Jacob WON a SILVER.......

2010-02-27T13:49:00.000-08:00

Jacob won a Silver Addy Award (northwest student division) and will be competing in the nationals. Here is a link to see the ad he entered and some of the other ads he has done for BYU Independent Study. You may have seen some of these ads in between LDS Conference sessions. http://www.jacobschwarz.net

Addy Awards. The ADDY® Awards is the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition, attracting over 50,000 entries every year in local ADDY® competitions. The mission of the ADDY® competition is to recognize and reward creative excellence in the art of advertising. Conducted annually by the American Advertising Federation (AAF), the local ADDY® Awards is the first of a three-tier, national competition.

She flew out today

2010-02-02T12:29:00.001-08:00

"I have no greater joy......"

2010-01-28T13:39:00.001-08:00

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." - 3 John 4

What a wonderful blessing to have Rachel as our daughter! She is an example to all of righteous living! What joy to know of our Heavenly Father's plan to have Families together Forever!

Jacob is engaged!

2010-01-12T20:24:00.001-08:00

Jacob brought Katie home for a visit this summer. It was easy to see why Jacob says she is perfect. Like Jacob we all just love and adore Katie. Jacob is so happy which is apparent on his face! She brings out the best in him! We are all very excited to have her as part of our family!

My bags are packed, I ready to go.......

2010-01-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

Rachel is so excited to leave on her mission!!! She has had her bags packed for a week now and she put them down my the front door. Yet, she still has a few more weeks till she will leave. She reports on the 3rd of February 2010. Her packs are packed and she is ready to go! smiles!

Best Media Filter EVER....

2010-01-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

Katie received an Ipod for Christmas. I helped her download some songs, most of the songs I knew, but there where a few that she wanted that she had heard before but I had not heard. We listened to the sample sections and it sounded like they would be fine. An hour later Katie came to me and said as she listen to the words closer, in one of the songs she choose, that she realized that it was not only about dancing, but also about drinking. She asked if we could delete it from her it ipod. She didn't feel right listening to it. She said at first she thought she would just not listen to it anymore, then the more she thought about it, she thought it best just to have me delete it. The Holy Ghost is the best media filter ever!!! Yet it only works if we listen and follow when he speaks to our mind and hearts.

Sunday

2010-01-03T17:31:00.000-08:00

It was nice to have Church meetings at a later time this year. Our Sunday school lesson was very good. It was on Moses chapter 1. It is still wonderful to learn new insight every time I read the scriptures.

The girls made yummy Russian soup from a recipe of Jacob's.

Packing

2010-01-02T21:43:00.000-08:00

Rachel is so exciting she has her suitcase packed. It is still missing some items, but we hope to get them soon! She reports in on February 3, 2010. We will miss her, but are so happy for opportunity to serve.

Mission call

2010-01-01T15:51:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T11:35:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I am so excited for a fresh new year. I am hoping to write daily! Notice the word hope. It would be great to write the words, “I will”, but with all the events of this upcoming year, I am not that committed.

A little up date, Whitnie changed your wedding from November 2009 to March 2010. More exciting updates to come.

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

2009-12-04T07:01:00.000-08:00

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

Disneyland

2009-11-30T19:05:00.000-08:00

Below is the link if you want to view the digital scrape book that I made of our trip to Disneyland last March!

http://www.cmphotocenter.com/photos/share.php?code=WerNb8cTjpm8KqYboSv_a6NiMfCXmGqU&share_type=storybook

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-19T19:58:00.000-08:00

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

Gratitude

2009-11-16T13:35:00.000-08:00

Gratitude

Cool Katie!

2009-11-11T17:34:00.000-08:00

Create

2009-11-05T12:36:00.000-08:00

Create

one handed again!

2009-10-11T16:30:00.000-07:00

typing one hand again due to some carpal tunnel surgery. so here are pictures and slogans that Katie and I made.

October 2009 General Conference

2009-10-03T18:51:00.001-07:00

I watched today and the messages were inspiring, I can't wait to watch again tomorrow!!! Join me. Smile!

October 2009 General Conference

Source: www.lds.org

Listen to the 179th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

NO FISH TALE

2009-09-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

NO FISH TALE!

Lately, (as often happens this time of year) many of our Oregon friends have been posting pictures of the monstrous size salmon that they have been catching, ….so below is a picture of our latest catch. OK, truth be known Rachel did not reel it in, but the guide did. Glenn and Rachel caught nothing! This is from a long a waited fishing trip that had been thought about for years. When our children graduate High School they receive not only financial help for college, but also they get to choose a day trip with Mom and or Dad. When Rachel graduated High School she wanted to go deep sea fishing with her dad. It was a disastrous trip. It was a terrible day at sea in which all the passengers were very sick. The captain even ended the trip 3 hours early due to the weather and the condition of the passengers. (Glenn and Rachel can fill in more details.) Graciously and sincerely Rachel thanked her dad, and mentioned she never wanted to that again. With Rachel graduating form Brigham Young University this last summer a new trip was planned. Excitement grew as we saw pictures and heard stories of our friend’s successful trips. We booked the best guide that is a around and awaited the trip. I was so excited for Rachel! I was also excited for the salmon and the pictures that would be coming home. Yet, as with “reel” life some times it takes more than one attempt to reel in the best. Time and patience are often tried. Yes disappointment was there at the end of the day, (Glenn was especially discouraged because he wanted so much for Rachel to have success, (especially with disappointments earlier in the month). Rachel again graciously thanked her dad. She was happy for the time together and at least they were not sick on this trip. So on to new adventures. I wonder what type of trip Rachel will choose if she gets her Masters Degree?

NO FISH “TAIL”!!!!

Eternal Choices Night

2009-09-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

2009-09-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy enjoying Katie's bunny that I forgot to let you know he is a boy. I know you had been wondering.

2009-09-22T04:09:00.000-07:00

2009-09-08T22:47:00.000-07:00

Sad report

Though we had been told she was cleared, now we have been told Rachel can not leave on a mission for health reasons. So we will now look forward to another adventure in life.

Whitnie is Engaged!

2009-08-31T05:23:00.000-07:00

Whitnie's Bo proposed on our family trip to the Redwoods and the Coast.

Whitnie and Bo are getting married on Nov. 13, 2009.

Still waiting

2009-08-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Rachel's Mission Call

2009-08-07T19:32:00.001-07:00

Did it come today????

No not today!

Yummy Blackberries!

2009-08-07T06:54:00.002-07:00

I woke the girls and told them to come get yummy blackberries for breakfast, then we drove down the road and started picking. We met Rachel, she had ran there much earlier. We picked only for an hour with perfect picking weather. We picked a couple large bowls full. It was a very yummy treat.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-07-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary!I am blessed, 27 years today, Glenn and I were sealed for time and all eternity! It has been a wonderful 27 years, I can't wait to see what the next 27+ will be like. Smiles!!!!

Swimming!

2009-07-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

We have the most awesome neighbors! One of which lets us use their pool when they are at work during the day! So I am off to the pool, (it has been in the 100s everyday this week).

Maintaining Our Freedom

2009-07-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

Maintaining Our Freedom

Glenn's Talk given in Yreka Ward

07/19/2009

“We the people. Perhaps we the people should ask ourselves, as Daniel Webster once did: “How much is all this worth?” How much is it worth to live where one wishes? to work at what one wishes? to worship as one wishes? How much is it worth to have the right to live with loved ones? to listen to the laughter of children? to walk home and find loved faces unafraid? How much is it worth to own personal property? to have personal privacy? to preserve human dignity? How much is it worth to have an education offered everyone? How much is it worth to express freely an opinion, to move freely from place to place, with an openness of life, with peace of mind and quiet conviction and enjoyment of the great and good earth that God has given? … blessed beyond belief,… precious beyond price is the freedom our forebears paid for—the freedom which is God-given, but which yet has to be earned, over and over again. How much is all this worth?”

This is a part of what Elder Richard L Evans said July 4, 1971, as the “Spoken Word” from Temple Square.

So how much is this all worth? It is a question that we all must ask ourselves. What does freedom mean to you? How important is it to us as faithful members of Christ’s Church? How important is it to our Heavenly Father that we have our agency? In the overall plan of salvation, how important is our having freedom?

The scriptures teach that in our pre-mortal life there was a Grand Council in Heaven and the plan of salvation was presented. God explained that as part of the plan there would be a need for someone to enable His children to return to Him from their earthly experience. All of God's children would sin during their sojourn on earth, and Adam's predicted fall would result in both physical and spiritual death, from which God's children would need to be redeemed, justice had to be satisfied.

God's plan "from the beginning" was to rely on Jehovah (Christ) to be the redeemer. However, at some point God sought the common consent, a free vote if you will, of His spirit children, as to who would be sent to earth. At this time Lucifer, who as the scriptures indicate was "in authority in the presence of God" or one of high standing and regard, presented a different plan where he would take Jehovah's place. Lucifer promised that if he were given this opportunity "that one soul shall not be lost." While as innocent and appealing this may have sounded, the only way that Lucifer could make his plan and promise work would be to force everyone to obey all the commandments and accept him as their redeemer. By forcing, God's children’s agency would be compromised.

The two plans were very different; one was to guarantee our return to our Heavenly Father but was to be accomplished by removing our agency (freedom) while the other, which carried with it risk, allowed us to choose in this life the path and direction we would take and provided a Savior who could atone for our mistakes were sure to make. Our Heavenly Father knew it is freedom that allows us to learn and grow. It is knowing failure that helps us understand success. He knew that only true and meaningful knowledge and wisdom is gained when choice is allowed. Though Lucifer’s plan of a guaranteed return may sound appealing, great blessings with no personal effort, it did not accomplish God’s plan of eternal progress and growth. Lucifer’s plan was rejected and he "became angry" and "kept not his first estate."

(Moses 4:3)

“Wherefore, because that Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him,…, I caused that he should be cast down.”

One third of all the “hosts of Heaven” followed Lucifer and were cast out with him. Lucifer must have been very persuasive. I find it interesting that even in our pre-mortal life our Heavenly Father allowed His children the freedom to choose. When I was younger I often wondered how hard it must have been for God to see so many of his children rebel and turn away from His plan for their eternal progression. Now as a father of a child that has, for now, chosen a path other then the gospel, I have had but a small glimpse of how hard it must have been for Him. God knew and has taught us that only by the exercise of our agency could we receive eternal progression to become more like Him.

With the expulsion of Lucifer and his followers, the war in heaven began and it continues today. The bible dictionary states: The warfare is continued in mortality in the conflict between right and wrong; between the gospel and false principles…. The same contestants and the same issues are doing battle, and the same salvation is at stake.

President David O McKay said:

“There are two contending Forces. Those forces are known and have been designated by different terms throughout the ages. “In the beginning” they were known as Satan on the one hand, and Christ on the other… In these days, they are called “domination by the state,” on one hand, “personal liberty,” on the other.”

In 1986, President Ezra Taft Benson said:

“The central issue in the pre-mortal council was: Shall the children of God have untrammeled agency to choose the course they should follow, whether good or evil, or shall they be coerced and forced to be obedient? …. The war that began in heaven over this issue is not yet over. The conflict continues on the battlefield of mortality. And one of Lucifer’s primary strategies has been to restrict our agency through the power of earthly governments.”

We are here today because we voted on the side of “agency” in our pre-mortal life. You could say that freedom is in the soul of everyone that has ever been or will be born on the earth. However, we as citizens of this great country have freedom not only in our soul but our blood also. All of us who are citizens of this country are because either we or someone in our family (living or dead) wanted the freedom and opportunity this country offers.

In various scriptures the Lord has declared America as a promised land of freedom. My favorite is found in Ether Chapter Two verse 12:

“Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven…”

However, at the end of this verse there is a condition, a promise if you will. Continuing, “if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ.”

This promise has both religious and political aspects. The spiritual aspect should be the most important to us personally, but the political aspect cannot be ignored. Being free “from bondage and…captivity and from all other nations” is a political statement and very important for us a members of the church. This scripture and others like it have been referred to as the “American Covenant” by some church scholars. So how is the freedom of this land both religious and political?

There have been two great democratic Republics on this American continent. The first was created 92 years before the birth of Christ when Mosiah sought to ensure the continued freedom of his people by asking which of his sons should succeed him as king. Allowing the people to choose their King was unusual; however, none of his sons wanted the position. So instead of forcing one of them to accept the kingship he pondered how he might, “make for the peace of this people.” (Mosiah 29:10) As a result of his thinking (and I am sure much prayer), this great king and prophet created a democratic Republic. This constitutional democracy had executive and judicial branches combined with the election of Judges who would execute the laws and affairs of the people. There was no legislative branch because the Nephites were Jews and had no need for lawmakers because they had the Law of Moses which served as the “schoolmaster.” Mosiah’s system had free elections for the various judgeships with the chief judge also serving as the chief executive. There were methods of appeal and impeachment and all were to be treated fairly and equally. However, Mosiah indicated that this “free government” depended on a moral and righteous people.

Mosiah 29: 26-27

26 Now it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right; but it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right; therefore this shall ye observe and make it your law—to do your business by the voice of the people.

27 And if the time comes that the voice of the people doth choose iniquity, then is the time that the judgments of God will come upon you; yea, then is the time he will visit you with great destruction even as he has hitherto visited this land.

Without morals and righteousness free governments stand in peril.

This form of free government lasted approximately 300 years. We read throughout the Book of Alma and 3rd Nephi that wicked men tried many times to over throw the government and take away the freedom of the people. And sadly, as Mosiah prophesied, it was wickedness that sealed their downfall which end their free government and in part resulted in the total destruction of the Nephites.

The second great democratic Republic of the American continent began in 1787, when the U.S. Constitution was ratified and became the law of the land. The Constitution begins with these words:

“We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Liberty, freedom, agency and the protection of those rights are foremost in the Constitution.

Three times in the Doctrine and Covenants the Lord speaks directly about the Constitution. The first two were in 1833, when persecution of the Saints was very strong and I’m sure the sentiment among the saints was that Constitution and the laws of the land had let them down:

D&C 98: 4-10

4 And now, verily I say unto you concerning the laws of the land, it is my will that my people should observe to do all things whatsoever I command them.

5 And that law of the land which is constitutional, supporting that principle of freedom in maintaining rights and privileges, belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable before me.

6 Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land;

7 And as pertaining to law of man, whatsoever is more or less than this, cometh of evil.

8 I, the Lord God, make you free, therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free.

Lord indicates here that the laws and Constitution are good and correct and we should “befriend” them, but then follows with this:

9 Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.

10 Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil.

Sounds a lot like what Mosiah said.

D&C 101:77 & 80

77 According to the laws and constitution of the people, which I have suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles;

80 And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose…”

What we learn from these two scriptures is that the Constitution was inspired of God and it was written for His purposes. However, as in Book of Mormon times, free democratic Republics will not succeed without moral and righteous leaders.

The third time the Constitution is mentioned in the Doctrine and Covenants is in the prayer offer at the dedication of the Kirkland Temple in 1834, which Joseph Smith said was received by revelation:

D&C 109:54

54 Have mercy, O Lord, upon all the nations of the earth; have mercy upon the rulers of our land; may those principles, which were so honorably and nobly defended, namely, the Constitution of our land, by our fathers, be established forever.

The Joseph Smith knew that it was because of the freedom of this country that the Gospel could be restored and it is the continued freedom of this country that would allow us to fulfill the commandment to “preach the gospel,.” a command that is repeated over eighty times in the scriptures.

Elder Mark E Peterson said this:

When the Savior was among the Nephites … He spoke of the United States as recorded in the twenty-first chapter of 3 Nephi. The Savior then said that a great nation would occupy this area in our time and be set up as a free and independent country… The Savior said that the reason for doing this was to fulfill a covenant made with the House of Israel, that through the people occupying modern America, the teachings of the Book of Mormon—the teachings of the restored gospel—would be taken to the rest of the world. So we have the Savior’s own words to the effect that America is a very special nation, set up for the distinct purpose of providing conditions under which the gospel could be restored and then be taken to all the world.

The Spirit of God moved upon the founding fathers to write a constitution wherein freedom of worship, freedom of expression, and freedom of agency are protected. We have been greatly blessed because of it and so have many other nations as the gospel has gone fourth from here.

I am sure this is why President Davis O McKay said:

“Next to being one in worshiping God there is nothing in this world upon which this Church should be more united than in upholding and defending the Constitution of the United States.”

However as indicated earlier, this will be a free land “if (we) will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ.” Satan knows this and has been working hard against our freedom by trying to turn us away from “the God of this land.”

In his attempt to destroy man’s freedom and agency, and thwart God’s plan, Satan has established much control and influence over people’s freedom in some of our most beloved institutions. For example:

Religion – In the name of a religion 3,000 people were killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11, in the name of a religion 909 people died of cyanide poisoning Guyana, it was in the name of a religion that, 54 adults and 21 children died in a fire in Waco Texas. Freedom taken in the name of a religion, false religion.
Politics / Government - Our government seems to be going from “promote the general welfare” to provide the general welfare for the people. Making people dependant takes away their freedom. In the book “Democracy in America” written in 1835, Alexis de Tocqueville said, "The American Republic will endure until the day Congress discovers that it can bribe the public with the public's money." Government is to protect and promote, not take and provide.
Economics – We are going through the worst economic slow downs since the Great Depression, why? It is because of debt, living beyond our means. Few things can take away freedom more then excessive debt. It affects our families, it affects our spiritual, mental and physical health, and it can affect our ability to live the commandments and serve others. Satan confuses the line between needs and wants, “Have it now with just a few easy payments.” The Church has been very clear about excessive debt.
Education – Satan is working hard to remove morals and any talk of Christianity from schools and universities. Creationism, faith in God, or any belief in a higher power are often mocked and ridiculed as superstition and fantasy. Instead secularism is taught as truth.
Health (food and drug) – Drugs (not just illegal but also prescription), tobacco, alcohol, over eating, lack of physical work. All these can take away some of our freedom by damaging our health. Remember D&C 89 starts with: “In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation”
Media / Entertainment - The glorying of immorality, violence, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, dishonesty, pornography etc., leading the children of men to do evil and in turn losing their freedom to addictions and vice.

How do we overcome Satan’s attacks on freedom? What can we do to maintain our freedom which must be maintained for the spreading of the Gospel?

In the October 1987 General Conference, President Ezra Taft Benson laid out these four things that we must do:

1. We must be righteous and moral. We must live the gospel principles-all of them. We have no right to expect a higher degree of morality from those who represent us than what we ourselves are. To live a higher law means we will not seek to receive what we have not earned by our own labor. It means we will remember that government owes us nothing. It means we will keep the laws of the land. It means we will look to God as our Lawgiver and the source of our liberty.

2. We must learn the principles of the Constitution and then abide by its precepts. Have we read the Constitution and pondered it? Are we aware of its principles? Could we defend it? Can we recognize when a law is constitutionally unsound? The Church will not tell us how to do this, but we are admonished to do it.

3. We must become involved in civic affairs. As citizens of this republic, we cannot do our duty and be idle spectators. It is vital that we follow this counsel from the Lord: “Honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil” (D&C 98:10). Note the qualities that the Lord demands in those who are to represent us. They must be good, wise, and honest. We must be concerted in our desires and efforts to see men and women represent us who possess all three of these qualities.

4. We must make our influence felt by our vote, our letters, and our advice. We must be wisely informed and let others know how we feel. We must take part in local precinct meetings and select delegates who will truly represent our feelings.

He continues:

I have faith that the Constitution will be saved as prophesied by Joseph Smith. But it will not be saved in Washington. It will be saved by the citizens of this nation who love and cherish freedom. It will be saved by enlightened members of this Church – men and women who will subscribe to and abide by the principles of the Constitution.

This land has been given to us so that we may fulfill the work of God in these last days and there is much work to be done. We must maintain our freedom.

Finishing Richard L Evans quote:

How much is all this worth? It must be worth the willingness to work, to serve, to live with loyalty and allegiance, with respect for self, for others, for life, for law, for loved ones, with cleanliness and honorable conduct. Thank God for liberty and for the Constitution of our country. No nation ever had its equal in making possible the full, free living of life. And we who are living on the short side of life are earnestly anxious that you who have longer yet to live may know, as Andrew Jackson said it, that “no free government can stand without virtue in the people, and a lofty spirit of patriotism.” Oh, “let us turn our thoughts to the character of our country,” so that we the people and our children and their children may thankfully say, “Thank God my life has been spent in a land of liberty.”

Girls are home and Rachel Graduated!

2009-07-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

We have returned from our long trip to pick up the girls from Rexburg, Idaho. The road seemed like it would never end......... We left on Wednesday and drove all day. Thursday we helped the girls load up their stuff. ( We had to rent a trailer, it and our 12 passenger van were stuffed.) We met Whitnie's bo........Bo Jed Young. The evening was highlighted with Rachel's graduation. She graduated in business. Now she just awaits her mission call. We are all very excited to see where she will be serving. Friday we drove again all day and returned home at 1:30-a.m. on Saturday. We are so happy to be back home.

Did you know that Medford has great tasting water. It even won a national contest for the best tasting water in the West. We love our Medford water and it is always something we miss when a way on trips.

I love Family Home Evening

2009-07-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

It is so nice how much Katie love being with the family! We had planned to camp out in our back yard last night under the stars, the kids still do this often, especially on hot nights. Last night; Sarah gave a nice lesson, we cooked foil dinners and made smores. The girls were cold so they sat by the fire for a while. I asked Katie, if since it was a colder night than usual if she still wanted to sleep out. She replied "Yes, I have been looking forward to this all day!" So we got extra sleeping bags and slept out.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Our Bunny

2009-05-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Boy or Girl?

2009-05-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

Mom and Me

2009-05-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

The difficult, Marfan’s Syndrome, yet positive

2009-05-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

Soon after Katie was born some of our children were diagnosed with Marfan’s Syndrome (a genetic connective tissue disorder, the part that is life treating is the enlarging and thinning of the aorta) Katie was too young to diagnose at the time, but with all the children we have had regular heart echo’s to monitor any changes. Katie’s last one was not normal, so she now has a cardiologist that she will see regularly. She also has a medication she has to take daily to have prevent the aorta from continuing to enlarge. She can’t not participate in competitive sports. This is hard because she loves to play basketball, etc. yet not as difficult as it was for Rachel because knowing that Katie probably would have the condition, I made sure she was involved in a wide variety of activities. Katie like Sarah and Whitnie is a talented singer. We are just concentrating on all the wonderful things that she can do!!! She is such a blessing in all of our lives!!!

The Good and the Bad and the Good

2009-05-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have the best mom ever!!!! I wanted my Mom to come visit so I could pamper her with foot and hot rock massages, etc., then I broke my arm and didn’t have her come because I was a afraid she would just be taking care of me. Then my mom broke her arm, and we both had purple casts. I felt so bad that I could not go and help my Mom!!!!

My cast is off, yet the doctor says I may not ever have totally normal use of it, yet I will pray and believe that I will! I can wash my arm, though my wrist is swollen and hurts to move; yet I can ice it now! I received some new camera lens in the mail today, but sadly the small camera that I had taken Easter, yard, prom dress shopping, tons of cute Girl Scout pictures, YW, etc… I accidently deleted all the pictures on, so very sad, but I got to live the memories, so hopefully my mind won’t delete the memories!

I have a great husband who has taken very good care of our family and me!!!

I know my Redeemer lives and loves me!!!! I am very blessed!!!!

Healthy Living

2009-05-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

I just completed the healthy living contested that I had entered into with some friends for a twelve-week period. We could only eat treats once a week. I was so happy to find I could show some self-control. Of course I felt better physically about eating better, but what I really felt good about was being in control of my eating. I choose not to be perfect all the time, but it was a choice, not an addition in control! I was starting to wonder if I had a total addiction to chocolate. I do totally love it!!!!!!

One thing that surprised me was the part where we had to sleep for 7 hours a night. I wasn’t sure if I could do that. I most often would wake up in the night and not be able to get back to sleep. With the challenge to sleep for 7 hours , I would make myself stay in bed. Soon I found that if I stayed there I would get back to sleep. I am sleeping much better now!

Though I have totally enjoyed the last three days of not exercising and eating treats each day, I am ready to get started again. I am so excited to go out walking today! Glenn is always so good to go out walking with me most days, even if it doesn’t give him the exercise that he needs. He is always so unselfish!!!!

We also had personal goals which I always love since they help me to grow. I had to be more inventive once I broke my arm, but they really helped during that time also, maybe even more!

P.S. I had also joined a separate weight lose contest, in which I lost 19lbs. That of coarse made me happy! Now to keep it off and lose some more! SMILES!

Some Pictures from the morning I broke my arm.

2009-05-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

New Pet

2009-05-11T11:57:00.001-07:00

Books

2009-05-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

I have been able to do some reading while my wrist is healing. This last summer my girls and I read the 'FROG Princess', by E.D. Baker. It was a fun story and is the base for the upcoming Disney movie:

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

Katie read the sequel and insisted that I read it! So with some time for reading I yielded to her persistence. It was also a fun book and Katie and I are going to read the third book together. It will be so much fun cuddling and reading!!!

I have also read a few books suggested by a friend on her blog http://safeguardyourfamily.blogspot.com/. They were very informative.

My favorite book that I have read is the one suggested by my friend Kathlene, "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman. It is a great book. I am even going to buy a few and keep them around for wedding gifts. Thanks Kathlene! Have a great day I am off to finish another book.

PS. Kathlene I am also going to read more of his books, my next one will be the teenager edition.

2009-05-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

We are having some wonderful weather. Our lilacs are in bloom and smell heavenly!

Glenn has been working in the yard some. I have to have a cast on my arm for at least two more weeks.

The picture is of Sarah in front of the lilacs on her prom night. She was surprised to be voted as a prom princess.

She isn't part of the popular circle at school. I told her I am sure it is because she is kind and friendly to everyone she knows. She has a loving heart and includes all in her circle of friends. Everybody likes Sarah Lee!!!

GREEN GREETING from Mia Maid class

2009-04-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

A recent blessing of mine is being called to serve in our ward's

Young Womens Organization. We have wonderful group of girls!

MAGIC

2009-04-21T10:43:00.001-07:00

Don't Take the ER ride!!!!

2009-04-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

April 20, 2009

We had a wonderful time at Disneyland. Except for the ER ride which was long and painful! I was going to be extra care on this trip to protect my back by not going on the rides. I was also careful not to strain it by not staying at the park to long each day, so I would leave earlier than the rest of the family. Since I would not be riding on the rides I brought my camera so I could take lots of pictures. On our last morning at the park I was getting ready to take a picture and I took a step backwards. I backed off a curb, lost my balance and fell. My wrist and arm took all the damage from the fall. I will be in a cast for at least 4 more weeks. Sorry it took so long to post what happened it is difficult to type with only my left hand.

broke right arm

2009-03-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

i broke my right arm so i will be reading blogs, but not posting for a while.

Souvenirs Alreadly????

2009-03-22T15:13:00.001-07:00

Sarah and Katie sure had fun packing and trying on outfits for our Disneyland trip. They look so cute!! With some pleading they let me take a few pictures. In the background of the photo there is snow coming down. We hope the mountains passes are clear for us to travel safely. We are all so excited! I did something, for the first time ever for a vacation in that I bought our souvenir shirts before the trip. They cost a fraction of the price at Wal-Mart and in Oregon we have no sales tax. We got Glenn a tie and he wore it today to church it was very cute. I am so silly some times.

Soon to be off to Disneyland...

2009-03-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

We are so excited for the trip, even Glenn. He is excited for the trip, but also to have a week off work. He works so hard, that he really need some time off. We hope to go to take our littlest princesses to the Medieval Times also. It should be a great trip!!!!

Provident Living

2009-03-19T17:01:00.000-07:00

We received a compliment from Sarah the other day, even if it wasn’t intended as one. Glenn had been talking to her Sunday School teacher and he said they were talking about Provident Living in these economic times. He asked the class if any of them had noticed any changes in their family life. Everyone had a comment of some sort; parents worried about jobs, money, food storage, limiting activities and other expenses, that is everyone except Sarah. He asked Sarah if she had noticed any thing different in her home. She said "no", then she went on to say how we have always lived by and practiced conservative living, never going in debt, recycling, spending wisely, keeping up on food storage, etc. We were not aware that she noticed such things. So even if it wasn’t meant as a compliment we took it as one. Smile! (From teenagers you sometimes take what ever you can get.)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day, Lots of green treats, green eggs and ham,

Lucky Charms, and of coarse the tradition hunt of the pot of gold, lots of food and fun!!!!

Wonderful Weather

2009-03-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the weather was so wonderful. Glenn took some time off work and we worked in the yard. (I guess I should say Glenn took time for his paying job, because he worked very hard as always.) We pruned and cleared up our raspberries. I can tasted them already! I feel so blessed to have such a great harvest most years. Glenn planted some climbing rose bushes for the awesome rose arbor that he build. He planted another apricot tree. YUM! I planted more strawberries. We weeded. Katie helped some too when she got home from school. She loves the garden and working with Dad. My back pain got so bad, that about the time she came to help I had to quit. We have a lot more to do put that will have to wait, till a week or more for Saturday Glenn has scouting activities, Katie and I have basketball and Activity days.