GC

A couple of weeks ago, it was General Conference time. And I was able to attend this time around. To TWO SESSIONS!

There's much to be said for being able to sit down and watch it in the comfort of your own home (or, in my case, at my parents' home), dressed comfy-cozylike with pen and notebook in hand, gleaning wisdom and being edified by latter-day prophets and apostles.

Ah, I love General Conference, and I'm so glad that it comes twice each year!

Anyway, my friend Keri had a handful of tickets, and she invited me to go. It was SO LOVELY to sit in that amazing Conference Center in Salt Lake City with 5 of my favorite gals, surrounded by thousands of others of my faith. (There's a special place in my heart for the Saturday afternoon session, because that's when we get to sustain our church officers and leaders. It was really awesome to be in the same room as my beloved leaders while I raised my hand to sustain them.)

Bethany, Gina, Brooke, Jill, Keri and Beth

 All of the talks were fantastic, of course, but I think my favorite talk from that session was one by Elder Carl. B. Cook (from the Quorum of the Seventy), entitled "It is Better to Look Up."

"President Monson’s encouragement to look up is a metaphor for remembering Christ. As we remember Him and trust in His power, we receive strength through His Atonement. It is the means whereby we can be relieved of our anxieties, our burdens, and our suffering. It is the means whereby we can be forgiven and healed from the pain of our sins. It is the means whereby we can receive the faith and strength to endure all things."

Yes, Elder Cook! Life happens so fast, and it is SO EASY to focus on how my trials negatively impact my life; but focusing on the bad stuff doesn't help. In fact, it usually makes things worse, and turns into a vicious cycle. BUT! There is so much good in my life! I know that Jesus Christ atoned for my sins, and that He knows pain and heartache and suffering on a much grander scale than I can even fathom. By looking up to my Savior, by really taking advantage of the atonement, by sharing my load with Him...I can not only get on with my life, but I can live it well, and enjoy my time along the way!


Yes, General Conference is my favorite time of year (times two!).

-I also really enjoyed the talk by Elder Neil L. Andersen about Children, especially when he said, "The bearing of children is a sensitive subject that can be very painful for righteous women who do not have the opportunity to marry and have a family. To you noble women, our Heavenly Father knows your prayers and desires. How grateful we are for your remarkable influence, including reaching out with loving arms to children who need your faith and strength."


Thanks for the reminder that Heavenly Father is in charge, and that my prayers do not go unheard, Elder Andersen!

Anyway...after the session ended, we got a quick group picture with the Salt Lake temple in the background, then we headed a bit further south for dinner at The Mayan. And we totally met up with Lisa! (YAY! We love Lisa!)

Brooke, Bethany, Keri (with a Gina growing off the top of her head), Jill and Beth

A special thanks to the fella who took our picture for us...

Keri, Jill, Gina, Lisa, Brooke, Beth

The next day, I was able to go to the Sunday morning session with Mom, Dad and Brent.

Once again, it's difficult to pin down a favorite talk, but I really loved Sister Elaine S. Dalton's talk a lot. And, of course, President Monson's talk was FANTASTIC. (I love President Monson!)

I'm so excited for the Conference Report to come out next month, so I can read and re-read the fantastic talks over and over again, until General Conference rolls around again next April!

Thanks for the tickets, Keri and Dad!

Progress...

They're building a Temple in the land of my inheritance.

It was announced in October 2009.
They broke ground July 2010.
They haven't set a date as to when it will be finished,
(but I'm guessing it should be by March 2012 or so?).

I've been following the progress very carefully.

4/22/11

4/29/11
(just one week later; they mean business!)

5/18/11

5/19/11
(next day; they really mean business!)

6/3/11

6/13/11

6/30/11

On 7/12/11, they hoisted a 13' Angel Moroni
on top of the East spire, which was kind of a big deal.
I went down for the day to watch it happen,
as a matter of fact...

The day started out pretty rainy, but that didn't stop the throngs of people from gathering all around to see it take place. I walked a few blocks from my parents' home with my folks, Brent, Vance, Abby and Jane, dressed for the cool, rainy weather...

Papa, Jane, and her "monkeyback"
(Can you tell my dad pretty much adores being a grampa?)

Everybody and their umbrellas

After a bit, the clouds parted and the rains stopped.

But then the wind picked up. As it turns out, placing a 13' statue on top of a steeple (I don't even know how high that is) is quite difficult and dangerous with high winds. Poor Janie had fallen asleep in her daddy's arms for about 20 minutes when we decided to head home until the wind died down. I volunteered to carry the sleeping beauty back to Mom and Dad's where Jane could sleep soundly, and where we all gathered for a nice, hot lunch...

She's so dang cute...

She ended up sleeping for 2+ hours...

A while after we finished eating, Abby got a phone call from her sister Becky (who stayed downtown), letting us know that the wind had died down enough that they were hoisting Moroni back up.

Vance went to his house for a nap; Brent stayed at home with Jane; Mom walked up to the corner to watch it take place from there; Dad, Abby and I ended up watching it take place from right across the street. (The weather actually ended up quite beautiful for the remainder of the day.)

It was pretty awesome.

Angel Moroni stands 13' tall...
(source)

Hoisting him up...
(source)

Aaand there he is, right where he belongs!
(photo by Aunt Janet)

Watch for another update or two on the BC, UT Temple; I'll make sure I'm there for the open house and hopefully the dedication!

happy fourth!

I'm so grateful for the freedoms I enjoy!
Happy Independence Day, y'all!

Testimony...

This is Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.
He's an Apostle for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What he says is true.

I know there are a lot of skeptics in the world, people who think that my lovely church is, in actuality, a cult. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but this opinion is grossly mistaken. The gospel of Jesus Christ was established to help bad men become good, and to help good men become better. It teaches principles of love and of hope. Jesus Christ is our example; He is my example.

I know that Jesus Christ lives, that He is my Savior, and that He Atoned for me personally. I know that I have a loving Heavenly Father who cares about me, and that He is involved in the details of my life. I know that prayer is real, that God hears and answers our prayers, even if its not in the way we think it ought to be. I know that divine revelation didn't die off with Christ's Apostles; the Gospel of Jesus Christ was restored in its fullness by Joseph Smith. He was a true prophet, and has been succeeded by prophets after his martyrdom. We are led by a living prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson; he is the Lord's mouthpiece. I have read the Book of Mormon, and I know of its truthfulness. It was written of old for our day; I have benefited from reading its passages; reading its contents has brought me hope, renewed my faith, and provided comfort, time and again. I have prayed to know if the Book of Mormon is true, and I can tell you that it is!

I love the gospel, and I'm grateful for the peace it brings to my life.

"Those who talk of blind obedience may appear to know many things, but they do not understand the doctrines of the gospel. There is an obedience that comes from a knowledge of the truth that transcends any external for of control. We are not obedient because we are blind; we are obedient because we can see." -Elder Boyd K. Packer

is it just me...?

So...it's December. My calendar seems to be screaming it at me every morning.

I fully comprehend that December is the month that follows November. I've known that since, like, kindergarten. It happens every year. I just don't understand how November came to be. I swear, it feels like we should actually only be in July of 2003 or something. I'm not wrong am I? -And I swear, I'm not just saying this because of the frigid temperatures outside; temperatures that seem to plummit a few more degrees every single night. It's because...well...how does time move so fast?! There are only 21 shopping days until Christmas.

What the what?!

I'd be panic-stricken if I wasn't in a state of denial over what's left to do before I'm officially "ready" for the holiday. And I'd make myself a schedule of what needs to be done by when...if I knew it wouldn't induce very real panic. (Who said that avoidance isn't the answer?)

I really am more than half-done with my Christmas shopping. But...how did I let Thanksgiving come to pass without being a LOT closer to done? Because, blaudience, Black Friday ain't my thang, and shopping between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve...well, it makes me sick to think about. I don't even like to go to the grocery store to buy milk because of all those shoppers. It sucks the life out of this Ginabean, it does!

But, do you know? There are things that make me happy too. Little things, really. Such as:

The Christmas tree and Christmas decor!

It warms the soul, don't you think?

My fleece-lined woolen booties.

These bad boys keep my feet so warm that, occassionally, I have to remove the socks

and let my feet breathe/cool before putting them back on.

And then...there's my singles branch. I'm surrounded by amazing people, you know. They're funny and charming, and they totally care about one another.

Last night we had a service auction, to raise money to help out a few families in need this beautiful Christmas season. It was lovely. I tell you, my branch...they are not a stingy sort. If they are Ebenezer Scrooge, they are totally the Post-Christmas-Spirits-Ebenezer. So generous! I love these people! (Isn't Ebenezer a weird name? I've often wondered if old Mr. Dickens invented that name. Do you know?)

A little some'm some'm to get you in the Christmas spirit...
Because nothing can touch A Muppet Christmas Carol. Nothing.

Anyway...panic-stricken or not, I really am grateful for this season and for my life. I have the best family in the wide world (proof that God cares and that He loves me). And I have a knowledge that Jesus Christ was born so that I might have peace--both in this life and the next one too.

Happy Christmas, my people!

here we have october...

YES! There's a full month (and some days) between myself and the loathsome month of August! September was lovely, thanks.

And now it's October. How does time go by so quickly...?

Anyhoo, this past weekend I headed down south to Brigham City to be with the fam, listen to General Conference, and (hooray!) to meet my almost sister-in-law Janel.

The weekend went something like this:

I spent most of Friday with my momma. She helped me I helped her bind a picnic quilt to be given to Janel at her bridal shower on Saturday. We made chicken salad. We goo-gooed over baby Jane ('cause Abby was sick with a cold--sad day). We watched The Sound of Music (minus the dumb songs). We even watched the first 10 minutes of the BYU/USU game. I really like my mom a whole heap.

Jane is so precious and lovable.
And I really dig her long mitten-clad tee under her striped onesie.

While we were watching The Sound of Music, Janel pulled into town. I had never met her before, but when she walked in we totally embraced, and talking to her is so easy. Seriously, it felt like we just picked up a conversation we had started previously. I likes her. A lot!

Saturday, I woke up to a near-empty house; Mom and Dad went to the Saturday morning session of GC with Goose and Janel, so it was just Brent and me. Then Brent had to go to work, so it was just me, all by my lonesome, watching Conference. And it's really a lovely memory.

There I was, sitting in my folks' plush new recliner, all set to listen to God's Word. President Monson started off by talking about all the Temples dotting the globe and reported 5 new Temples. My pen was poised above the lined paper of my notebook and I was ready to hear where, oh where, in the world would the new Temples be built? (I get excited about this announcement every time; last session Rome was announced, which I think is pretty neat.) Anyway, I know y'all know the story; the first Temple Pres. Monson announced was Brigham City, Utah. I stopped listening at that point. A Temple in my hometown!!! How wonderful and amazing is that?! So yeah, I sat there in stunned silence and (perhaps) cried just a bit. I'm so excited at the very thought of it! Cool-uhl!

Anyways, moving right along: after conference, Vance, Abby, Jane, Aaron, Amy, Jackson & Seth came to my folks' place for a splendid lunch of Monte Cristo sandwiches, and to chill and bask in the wonderful company of fam.

Mucho Monte Cristo...YUM!
(Mm-kay, so this one wasn't homemade, but it was my inspiration)

Then there was the afternoon session of GC, followed by a fun bridal shower for Janel at Abby's. (We got some pictures, but they're all on Amy's camera.) Then all the gals went back to Mom & Dad's place while the fellas went to the Priesthood session, during which I got to play with my boys Jackson and Seth...

Jackson making his mark on the ice cream lid...

Me and my Seff!


I wonder why Seth loves Goose so much...
(to be read with heavy sarcasm)

And then...Sunday: GC, more visiting with the fam, a little nap...and back to Idaho Falls. I love my family and hometown a lot a lot! So excited to see them again this next weekend for Jane's blessing!!!

know what i love?

*I've been re-reading the Harry Potter books. And I love that after a run-in with dementors, CHOCOLATE is the remedy to lift one's spirits. Awesome. What a terrific idea!

*It's been cool and rainy here in IF since Sunday morning. I'm nowhere near ready for winter weather, but I'm kind ready for a break from hot.

*My family is the best. I love each member oh. so. much! My brothers and I didn't always get along stupendously as children, but we all get along really well now. We talk easily, we like spending time together, and my folks, brothers, sisters-in-law, and nephews and niece are easily my favorite people in this wide world. PS I hope Aaron has a DYNAMITE 30th birthday tomorrow!!!

*I really enjoy the Gospel. Not sure where I'd be without it. I love the Church and its teachings. It brings me peace and solace, especially when life gets stressful.

*I get a kick out of my friends as well. I got to chill with toadbucket and Booj for a few hours on Friday, which I haven't done in years. My IF peeps are pretty dang awesome. My best friend from high school, Heather, is still one of my favorite people; I love that even though she's married with children and we don't get to see each other very often, things are still great between us. (Some things never change, and I love that!)

*Sunday dinners are pretty great, too. Just sayin.

I love lots of other stuff too, but I have to go just now.

neat.o!

For FHE last night, we met at President and Sister Welker's house. We had a lovely message presented by the birthday boy, Brother Hertz, ate us some pizza, and assembled some hygiene kits for LDS Humanitarian Aid. It was pretty awesome and really helped us focus on the true meaning of Christmas. (Seriously makes me want to do more!)

And since a picture is worth a thousand words...here you go!

Bro. Hertz, so excited for his birthday!

Half of the assembly line:
Brooke, Allie, Hillary, Lisa, Gina, Ashley
(Yeah...I myself don't know what's up with my face in this pic)

Brooke and I discovered our twinner-ness...
exact same pants and similar hoodies.
We must have good taste, yes?

We LOVE Humanitarian Aid!!!
Allie, Lisa, Brooke, Ashley, Megan,
Angela, Lisa, Brooke, Gina, Lisa

come what may and love it...

I just got a phone call from my dad. He called to tell me that Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin passed away last night. I'm kind of bummed about it, because I loved the man--and his last talk in General Conference was one of my favorite talks ever.

Anyway, I realize that death is a part of life, and I'm happy that he is reunited with his sweet little wife again. And I'm happy that he's healthy and well once more. I'm sure he'll keep on doing all sorts of good on the other side...

This feels right...

Today is the day they made the announcement of the new First Presidency for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It, of course, came as no surprise that Thomas S. Monson has become the 16th President of the Church. There was speculation as to exactly who his new counselors would be. I didn't get to watch the press conference, but my dad called me to tell me the news as soon as he knew.

Our new prophet:
President Thomas S. Monson

First Counselor:
President Henry B. Eyring

Second Counselor:
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

I fully support and sustain these wonderful men as prophets, seers, and revelators. As much as I miss President Hinckley, I am excited for this new Presidency. I love these men!

President Hinckley Remembered...

1910-2008

Last night I was watching some old episodes of "the Office" with a few friends when I got a rather abrupt text: "President Hinckley died." I was not prepared for such news, and it didn't seem real. The first thought that came to my mind was, "Well at least he's with his sweet little wife again." None of us can deny that he missed his sweet Marjorie a great deal.

Throughout the remainder of the evening, I got a slew of texts and calls from various friends and family, sharing the same news (although it was presented in softer language). With each call or text, the reality still didn't sink in.

But this morning it became real. I got online and checked out a few of my friends' blogs, and when I came across Jamie and Joey's, my heart stopped and tears came to my eyes; on their always-current blog they had posted a picture of our beloved prophet, along with a lovely tribute. (Thanks, Joey.)

Here's some history, through my eyes. Gordon B. Hinckley has been the prophet for nearly half of my lifetime. Spencer W. Kimball was prophet when I was born, but passed away when I was only three. Although I've read his words and I love the man, I have no memories of him at all. Ezra Taft Benson is somewhere in the back of my memory; I remember he was a sweet, loving man with a kindly smile. -I was 12 years old the entire time that Howard W. Hunter presided over the Church. I don't recall much about him, either.

Yes, Gordon B. Hinckley is the man I best recall as prophet. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, as it was when President Hinckley succeeded President Hunter, was intact over 9 years before experiencing the first death of one of its members: Elder Neal A. Maxwell. Since the summer of 2004, a handful of the brethren have passed away. Death is a part of life, and none of these men feared it. It's just difficult for those left behind.

I never met President Hinckley, but I loved the man dearly. I know that he was a prophet of God. He loved the Lord and served Him well throughout his life. President Hinckley was ever the optimist. He had such a sweet spirit about him, and even though we never met, I have the feeling that he loved me too.

And I loved his sense of humor. Although he didn't use a cane until recent years, in my mind's eye, I think I'll always remember President Hinckley waving it around like a sword rather than actually using it like a cane.


Anyway...I fully support and sustain Thomas S. Monson as the new prophet. He'll do an amazing job, I have no doubt. He's got big shoes to fill, but he'll do it beautifully.

Needless to say, General Conference in April won't be the same...just like it was different after Elders Maxwell and Haight, as well as President Faust passed away. But...the Church is still true, and it will continue to move forward.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Hinckley's family at this difficult time. Gordon B. Hinckley will be greatly missed. He was a man of God, and although his earthly ministry is over, I know that his life is not. His positive influence and love are still all around us.

Here's to you, President Hinckley...