Mountain Shadows 4th Ward Relief Society

Mid-week Activity: Get Organized

2012-01-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

Get Organized!

With guest Ann Hendrickson

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

7:00 p.m.

Organization can be overwhelming and daunting, so take it one step at a time. Ann will teach you why you want to be organized, how you can get organized, and ideas on what items you can use for your home. Not just any bin will do, but what kind of bin or basket will work for you in your home. And, if you have a fabulous idea that you use to help you stay organized, please share with the rest of us on Tuesday night. A nursery will be provided, so no excuses! Come join us and Get Organized! You can also check out Ann's blog for additional ideas, go here to see it!

Sunday Happenings

2012-01-02T11:58:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Forget Me Not, Elder Uchtdorf, Ensign November 2011

Instructor: Sister Stott

1. Forget not to be patient with yourself.

“I want to tell you something that I hope you will take in the right way: God is fully aware that you and I aren’t perfect….everyone has strengths and weaknesses…be thankful for all the small successes in your home, your family relationships, your education and livelihood, your Church participation and personal improvement…our journey toward perfection is long, but we can find wonder and delight in even the tiniest steps in that journey.”

2. Forget not the differences between good & foolish sacrifices.

“An acceptable sacrifice is when we give up something good for something of far greater worth… every person and situation is different, and a good sacrifice in one instance might be a foolish sacrifice in another… We can ask ourselves, “Am I committing my time and energies to the things that matter most?” There are so many good things to do, but we can’t do all of them.”

3. Forget not to be happy NOW.

“So many people today are waiting for their own golden ticket – the ticket that they believe holds the key to the happiness they have always dreamed about… There is nothing wrong with righteous yearnings – we hope and seek after things that are “virtuous, lovely, of good report or praiseworthy.” The problem comes when we put our happiness on hold as we wait for some future event – our golden ticket – to appear… Never stop striving for the best that is within you. Never stop hoping for all the righteous desires of your heart. But don’t close your eyes to the simple and elegant beauties of each day’s ordinary moments that make up a rich, well-lived life.”

4. Forget not the "why" of the gospel.

“My dear sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ is not an obligation; it is a pathway…. Leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressible fulfillment in the life to come… When we understand why our Heavenly Father has given us this pattern for living … why we committed to making it a foundational part of our lives, [it] ceases to become a burden and, instead becomes a joy and delight… The “what” and “how” of obedience mark the way and keep us on the right path. The “Why” of obedience sanctifies our actions, transforming the mundane into the majestic. It magnifies our small acts of obedience into holy acts of consecration.”

5. Forget not that the Lord loves you.

“Sisters, wherever you are, whatever your circumstances, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you with an infinite love…God loves you because you are His child. He loves you even though at times you may feel lonely or make mistakes. The love of God and the power of the restored gospel are redemptive and saving … you are closer to heaven than you suppose.”

Mid-week Activity

2011-12-19T22:50:00.000-08:00

Please join us Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. as we share Holiday traditions and exchange ornaments! Please bring an ornament to exchange. Nursery and refreshments provided!

Click on image to view it larger!

72- Hour Kit Catch Up

2011-11-06T08:03:00.000-08:00

Week 14: Week of October 16- Whistle w/ neck cord (1/person)

Week 15: Week of October 23- Small pkg/box of crackers (wheat, graham crackers, avoid salted crackers) (1 box/three people)

Week 16: Week of October 30- Baby/Child Care (if needed)- Change every six months since kids grow out of these things

Can of formula & 1-2 bottles

Baby food jars (enough for child's needs)

Pacifier/binky

Diapers (enough for child's needs)

Pack of diaper wipes (store in Ziploc to save space)

Travel size children's Tylenol

Change of clothes for each child: sweatpants, sweatshirt & shirt, pants/shorts, tennis shoes & socks for each child

Small toys and/or comfort items for each child

Activity books

Box of crayons

Games

Week 17: Week of November 6- Wool Mittens & Winter Hats (1/person)

72 Hour Kits: Weeks 11 & 12

2011-10-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

Week of October 9: Add a rain poncho (1/person)

Week of October 2: 6 hr. hand and body warm packs (3/person)

Sunday Happenings

2011-09-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

Lesson: The Sanctifying Work of Welfare, H. David Burton, April 2011 General
Conference
Instructor: Sister Colbert

"In 1897 a young David O. McKay stood at a door with a tract in his hand. As a missionary in Stirling, Scotland, he had done this many times before. But on that day a very haggard woman opened the door and stood before him. She was poorly dressed and had sunken cheeks and unkempt hair. She took the tract Elder McKay offered to her and spoke six words that he subsequently would never forget: “Will this buy me any bread?” This encounter left a lasting impression on the young missionary. He later wrote: “From that moment I had a deeper realization that the Church of Christ should be and is interested in the temporal salvation of man. I walked away from the door feeling that that [woman], with … bitterness in [her heart] toward man and God, [was] in no position to receive the message of the gospel. [She was] in need of temporal help, and there was no organization, so far as I could learn, in Stirling that could give it to [her].”

"The commitment of Church leaders to relieve human suffering was as certain as it was irrevocable. President Grant wanted “a system that would … reach out and take care of the people no matter what the cost.” He said he would even go so far as to “close the seminaries, shut down missionary work for a period of time, or even close the temples, but they would not let the people go hungry.”

"One of the distinguishing characteristics of this inspired gospel-centered endeavor is its emphasis on personal responsibility and self-reliance. President Marion G. Romney explained: “Many programs have been set up by well-meaning individuals to aid those who are in need. However, many of these programs are designed with the shortsighted objective of ‘helping people,’ as opposed to ‘helping people help themselves. Self-reliance is a product of provident living and exercising economic self-discipline. From the beginning the Church has taught that families—to the extent they can—need to assume responsibility for their own temporal welfare. Each generation is required to learn anew the foundational principles of self-reliance: avoid debt, implement principles of thrift, prepare for times of distress, listen to and follow the words of the living oracles, develop the discipline to distinguish between needs and wants and then live accordingly." The original video can be found on lds.org, go here to download a copy.

"The purpose, promises, and principles that reinforce our work of caring for the poor and needy extend far beyond the bounds of mortality. This sacred work is not only to benefit and bless those who suffer or are in need. As sons and daughters of God, we cannot inherit the full measure of eternal life without being fully invested in caring for each other while we are here on earth. It is in the benevolent practice of sacrifice and giving of ourselves to others that we learn the celestial principles of sacrifice and consecration. Since the foundation of the world, the cloth of righteous societies has ever been woven from the golden threads of charity. We yearn for a peaceful world and for prosperous communities. We pray for kind and virtuous societies where wickedness is forsaken and goodness and right prevail. No matter how many temples we build, no matter how large our membership grows, no matter how positively we are perceived in the eyes of the world—should we fail in this great core commandment to “succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees,” or turn our hearts from those who suffer and mourn, we are under condemnation and cannot please the Lord and the jubilant hope of our hearts will ever be distant." Go here, to see additional videos on the church welfare system on lds.org.

"The work of caring for one another and being “kind to the poor” is a sanctifying work, commanded of the Father and divinely designed to bless, refine, and exalt His children. May we follow the Savior’s counsel to the certain lawyer in the parable of the good Samaritan: “Go, and do thou likewise.” Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

Family Home Evening Ideas

LDS Living: Self-Reliance

LDS Living: Service

Week 11: 72-Hour Kits

2011-09-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

Week of September 25: 2 quarts portable (drinkable) water (stored in plastic soda bottles)/person OR 1-2 water bottles per person

Sunday Happenings

2011-09-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 42- The Gathering of the House of Israel
Instructor: Sister Bell

The House of Israel Are God's Covenant People

What responsibilities do God's covenant people have to the nations of the world?

"Jacob was a grandson of Abraham. The Lord made an everlasting covenant with Abraham that was renewed with Isaac and with Jacob and his children (see chapter 15 in this book; see also the visual in this chapter, depicting Jacob blessing his sons). God promised that the Israelites would be His covenant people as long as they would obey His commandments (see Deuteronomy 28:9–10). They would be a blessing to all the nations of the world by taking the gospel and the priesthood to them (see Abraham 2:9–11). Thus, they would keep their covenant with the Lord and He would keep His covenant with them."

The House of Israel Was Scattered

"Again and again prophets of the Lord warned the house of Israel what would happen if they were wicked. Moses prophesied, “And the Lord shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other” (Deuteronomy 28:64)."

What benefits have come to God's children because His covenant people have been scattered throughout the earth?

The House of Israel Must Be Gathered

Why does the Lord want His people to be gathered? How will the house of Israel be gathered?

"The Lord promised that His covenant people would someday be gathered: “I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries whither I have driven them” (Jeremiah 23:3).
God gathers His children through missionary work. As people come to a knowledge of Jesus Christ, receiving the ordinances of salvation and keeping the associated covenants, they become “the children of the covenant” (3 Nephi 20:26). He has important reasons for gathering His children. He gathers them so they can learn the teachings of the gospel and prepare themselves to meet the Savior when He comes again. He gathers them so they will build temples and perform sacred ordinances for ancestors who have died without having this opportunity. He gathers them so they can strengthen one another and be unified in the gospel, finding protection from unrighteous influences in the world. He also gathers them so they can prepare themselves to share the gospel with others."

Family Home Evening Ideas

Sharing Time: I Can Share the Gospel Now

Sharing Time: Missionaries Publish Peace

Sharing Time: Temples in all Times

LDS Living: Missionary Work

Other Items:

This is a message from Dan Seely- Sister Seely's son:

Hi, I tried to add the following comment on your Visiting Teaching website, but couldn't save it. Will you please post this for me ...
"Hello to all in the Mountain Shadows 4th Ward, I am Dan Seely, Del and Anna Lou Seely's youngest (4th) child (living in Virginia). My mother, Anna Lou, was layed to rest this day, one year ago (on 9/11/2010). I appreciate having been able to re-read this inspirational poem from my Mom today. Thank you all for being so kind towards my Mom and to our family. There was a lot of love, care, and support shown to and shared with her. Thank you so much. With love and appreciation"
Dan Seely

In connecting back to the activity about finances we had in April there is a free conference you can attend called "Smart Women, Smart Money", go here to find out more information and to register.

When: Wednesday, September 28

Time: 8:30-3:00 p.m.

Where: Salt Palace Ballroom

100 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City

Don't forget to add to your 72-hour kits this week! See the post below!

72-Hour Kits: Weeks 9 & 10

2011-09-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

Week of September 11: Waterproof matches (1 box of 50)

Week of September 18: At least $20.00 in cash in your kit

Sunday Happenings

2011-09-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

Lesson: An Introduction to "Daughters in My Kingdom"
Instructor: Sister Stott

Go here, to read more about the background of this book. Please let us know if you did not receive this book. We will be delivering them to Primary, and Young Women's next week.

As I have been reading this book in preparation for my lesson this past week, I have learned so many things I never knew about the history of Relief Society. Did you know that women used to petition for membership in Relief Society, it was based on their goodness and virtue. Women wanted to be part of this society because of the good it did for others (pg. 15- Chapter 2). I have seen how inspired the Prophet Joseph Smith was to start this society of women. We are so fortunate to to have the strength of Relief Society behind us. Women are incredible. Emma Smith said at the opening Relief Society meeting, "We are going to do something extraordinary." I think this has been fulfilled through the many experiences of women around the world as well as in our own ward.

I love the beauty and simplicity of this book. It reads very easily. It helps me feel connected to the women who have come before me and it has helped me see why we do the things we do. We follow many of the same patterns set from the very beginning.

I hope you will take the time to read this book as well as use it for Family Home Evening lessons, Visiting Teaching, or personal study. It will be a great blessing in your life. I loved one of the ending paragraphs in the book:

"The charge to lead out in everything that is praiseworthy, Godlike, uplifting, and purifying is a demanding one. It always has been. But individual Relief Society sisters are not alone in accepting this charge. They are part of a great organization, founded by Priesthood authority and strengthened by the teachings and declarations of prophets. They are beloved daughters of God with sacred responsibilities. They are covenenant people of the Lamb, "armed with righteousness and the with the power of God in great glory." As they unite with other faithful Saints and learn from the examples of those who have gone before, they can prevail over mortal challenges. They can help build the kingdom of God throughout the world and in their homes. They can say, "Now it is our turn -- our turn to serve and write a chapter on the pages of Relief Society's history." With an assurance of Heavenly Father's love for them and a testimony of the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, they can rise above the ordinary thoughts and ambitions and be part of "something extraordinary" (pg. 181).

What are your favorite parts of this wonderful book? How could you use it in your homes, at church, with other sisters, or in other ways?

Week 8: 72-Hour Kits

2011-09-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

Week of September 4: This week add Emergency Reflective Blankets and/or solar sleeping bags (1/person)

Sunday Happenings

2011-08-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Conference Talk- "Testimony" by, Cecil O. Samuelson, May 2011 Ensign
Instructor: Sister Colbert

Elder Samuelson starts out with three questions that pertain to having a testimony:

First, who is entitled to have a testimony?

"Everyone who is willing to pay the price—meaning keeping the commandments—may have a testimony. “Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the earth, that all that will hear may hear” (D&C 1:11). "

Second, how does one obtain the necessary revelation, and what are the fundamental steps to achieve it?

"The pattern has been clear and consistent throughout the ages. The promise given for obtaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon also applies generally: “And when ye shall receive these things”—meaning you have listened, read, studied, and pondered on the question at hand—“ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true”—meaning you will pray thoughtfully, specifically, and reverently with a firm commitment to follow the answer to your prayer—“and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. “And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:4–5).

Third, is gaining a testimony an isolated event or an ongoing process?

"A testimony is similar to a living organism that grows and develops when treated properly. It needs constant nourishment, care, and protection to thrive and prosper. Likewise, neglect or deviance from the pattern of living that a testimony clarifies can lead to its loss or diminishment."

10 Observations and Suggestions

Let me now share 10 of the observations and suggestions of my valued and faithful young friends. The ideas they share have a commonality in their thinking and experience; thus, they likely will not be surprising to any of us. Unfortunately and especially at times of our own struggle and distress, we may temporarily forget or discount their applicability to us personally.
1. Everyone has worth because we are children of God
2. Mighty Change of Heart occurs gradually
3. Growth come from challenges in our lives
4. Learn to trust in times of uncertainty
5. Gaining a testimony is a process
6. Teaching others strengthens our testimony
7. We must continue to do the small, simple things daily
8. We should not have higher standards for others than we do for ourselves
9. We shouldn't be too hard on ourselves
10. The Atonement of Christ is central to our testimonies

How do each of these suggestions pertain to gaining a testimony?

Elder Samuelson ends by bearing his testimony: "Like Nephi and Mormon of old, “I do not know the meaning of all things” (1 Nephi 11:17; see also Words of Mormon 1:7), but let me tell you what I do know. I know God our Heavenly Father lives and loves us. I know His uniquely special Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior and Redeemer and the head of the Church, which bears His name. I know Joseph Smith experienced all that he has reported and taught with respect to the Restoration of the gospel in our day. I know we are led by apostles and prophets today and President Thomas S. Monson holds all of the keys of the priesthood necessary to bless our lives and advance the work of the Lord. I know we are all entitled to this knowledge, and if you are struggling, you can rely on the truthfulness of the testimonies you hear from this pulpit at this conference. These things I know and bear testimony of in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

Family Home Evening Ideas

Sharing Time: We Can Testify of Jesus Christ and His Gospel
Sharing Time: Let Your Light Shine
Sharing Time: I Have a Testimony of Jesus Christ
LDS Living: Testimony of Jesus Christ
LDS Living: Testimony

Don't forget to check out the post below so you can add to your 72 hour kits this week!

Week 7: 72-Hour Kits

2011-08-28T09:00:00.001-07:00

Week of August 28: Start building your First-aid kit (1 large one/family, or 1 small one/person). Here are some ideas:

-First Aid Manual

-Tweezers- removing foreign objects from nose and wounds

-Blunt end Scissors-for cutting away clothing or cutting bandages to right size

-Assorted sizes of Bandages- for covering many sizes and types of wounds

-Assorted sizes of Pads- sterile dressings, Kotex pads are great for heavy bleeding (larger pads, 4x4 or 5x9, can be folded or cut to fit smaller wounds)

-Roll of Gauze Rap- wraps around extremitites or head to hold bandage in place

-Tape & Safety Pins- to hold gauze & triangle bandage in place (water proof tape is also great)

-Triangular Bandage- to create a sling

-Hydrogen Peroxide- to clean wounds & prevent infection

-Antihistamine- for allergic reactions, rashes, bee stings (Benadryl, Sudafed)

-Rubber Gloves- to keep your hands from contaminating the wounds, and protecting you

-Hand Sanitizer- to clean your hands and help clean around the wound

-Antibiotic Ointment- Keeps infection down, place on wound then bandage (Neosporin)

-Medicines- burn cream, ibuprofen, inhaler, acetaminophen, cortisone cream, etc... Don't forget Prescription Medications

Websites with First Aid Info:

http://www.redcrossut.org/

http://www.pocketguides.net/

www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/

Sunday Happenings

2011-08-21T08:35:00.001-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 40- Temple Work and Family History
Instructor: Sister Deus (Thanks for filling in)

Heavenly Father Wants His Children to Return to Him

"Heavenly Father wants all of His children to return and live with Him. For those who died without baptism or the temple ordinances, He has provided a way for this to happen. He has asked us to perform ordinances for our ancestors in the temples".

Sister Deus made a great point of saying that if we are going to be living with our families for eternity...shouldn't we know them. We need to take the time to get to know our ancestors.

I was talking to my husband after we got home from church about our lesson and he shared an experience from his lesson. One Elder said they had a family reunion and were each given a name of an ancestor that they had to research and get to know, then at the reunion they shared what they had learned. What a fun way to get to know your ancestors....a book could be made of the things people learned.

Temples of the Lord

Why are temples important in our lives?

It is the place where the sealing ordinance can be performed so we can live with our families forever if we live righteously.

Why is it important to you and your family?

Temple Ordinances Seal Families Together Forever

What does it mean to be sealed? What must a couple do to make the sealing power effective in their marriage?

"All temple ordinances are performed by the power of the priesthood. Through this power, ordinances performed on earth are sealed, or bound, in heaven. The Savior taught His Apostles, “Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven” (Matthew 16:19; see also D&C 132:7)".

Our Ancestors Need Our Help

What responsibilities do we have toward our ancestors who haved died without receiving priesthood ordinances?

"Many of our ancestors are among those who died without hearing about the gospel while on the earth. They now live in the spirit world (see chapter 41 in this book). There they are taught the gospel of Jesus Christ. Those who have accepted the gospel are waiting for the temple ordinances to be performed for them. As we perform these ordinances in the temple for our ancestors, we can share their joy".

Family History -- How we Begin Helping Our Ancestors
1. Identify our ancestors.
2. Find out which ancestors need temple ordinances performed.
3. Make certain that the ordinances are performed for them.
4. Attend a Family History Sunday School Class
5. Start gathering items you already have....obituaries, family stories, funeral programs, journals, etc... and put them in a box or a binder.

Additional Family History Opportunities
1. Attend the temple as often as possible. After we have gone to the temple for ourselves, we can perform the saving ordinances for others waiting in the spirit world.
2. Do research to identify ancestors who are more difficult to find. Family history consultants can guide us to helpful resources.
3. Help with the Church’s indexing program. Through this program, members prepare genealogical information for use in the Church’s family history computer programs. These programs make it easier for us to identify our ancestors.
4. Contribute family history information to the Church’s current computer programs for family history. These programs contain genealogies contributed by people all over the world. They allow people to share their family information. Family history consultants can provide more information about the Church’s computer programs.
5. Participate in family organizations. We can accomplish much more for our ancestors as we work together with other family members.

Family Home Evening Ideas

Sharing Time: "The Heart of the Children"
Sharing Time: Remember Your Fathers
Sharing Time: Temples Are Places of Service
LDS Living: Family History
Go on a field trip and visit the Family History Library or start using FamilySearch.org
Don't forget to check out the 72 hour kit post below!

72-hour Kits: Week 6

2011-08-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

Week of August 21: This week add a pair of clean undergarments, socks, & other clothing you desire (per person). Think of the upcoming seasons, you can exchange it each October and April at General Conference time.

Sunday Happenings

2011-08-15T17:25:00.001-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 39- The Law of Chastity
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Go here to see the video that Sister Ashby started her lesson out with. It is entitled The Law of Chastity and is found on mormon.org. Sister Ashby also talked about the way we present this subject to our children being so important. She had a paper bag and crumpled newspaper next to a beautiful cup with a nice napkin in it. Which was more pleasing? Just like this object lesson the way we present this sacred law to our children will have a lasting impression. They will either feel comfortable coming to us to ask questions, or they will go and find answers in the many numerous places available to them these days. These places may not give them the correct or appropriate answers we want them to have.

A Note to Parents

"Parents can begin teaching children to have proper attitudes toward their bodies when children are very young. Talking to children frankly but reverently and using the correct names for the parts and functions of their bodies will help them grow up without unnecessary embarrassment about their bodies."

"Children are naturally curious. They want to know how their bodies work. They want to know where babies come from. If parents answer all such questions immediately and clearly so children can understand, children will continue to take their questions to their parents. However, if parents answer questions so that children feel embarrassed, rejected, or dissatisfied, they will probably go to someone else with their questions and perhaps get incorrect ideas and improper attitudes. It is not wise or necessary, however, to tell children everything at once. Parents need only give them the information they have asked for and can understand."

What are some ways Satan tempts people to break the law of chastity?

Media (T.V., Internet, Phones, Magazines, etc..)

Language

Thoughts

Peers

Emotions/Hormones

Clothing- Modesty

Culture

Exceptions (you just don't understand.....)

Refer to the manual for more ideas to add to this list

What is the Law of Chastity?

“Before marriage, do not do anything to arouse the powerful emotions that must be expressed only in marriage. Do not participate in passionate kissing, lie on top of another person, or touch the private, sacred parts of another person’s body, with or without clothing. Do not allow anyone to do that with you. Do not arouse those emotions in your own body” (For the Strength of Youth [pamphlet, 2001], 27).

Forgiveness:

"President Kimball said: “To every forgiveness there is a condition. … The fasting, the prayers, the humility must be equal to or greater than the sin. There must be a broken heart and a contrite spirit. … There must be tears and genuine change of heart. There must be conviction of the sin, abandonment of the evil, confession of the error to properly constituted authorities of the Lord” (The Miracle of Forgiveness [1969], 353)."

Blessings:

"When we obey the law of chastity, we can live without guilt or shame. Our lives and our children’s lives are blessed when we keep ourselves pure and spotless before the Lord. Children can look to our example and follow in our footsteps."

Family Home Evening Ideas

Here is another video that might be helpful in explaing The Law of Chastity to your children.

LDS Living: I Will Be Worthy to go to the Temple

Week 5: 72 Hour Kits

2011-08-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Week of August 14: This week add a roll of toilet paper to your 72-hour kits (1/person, remove cardboard from the middle and store in a ziplock bag).

Sunday Happenings

2011-08-07T13:54:00.001-07:00

Presidency Lesson: Gratitude
Instructor: Sister Stoddard

Elder Watts said, "The Savior, though always the giver, was seldom the receiver of gratitude. “And as he [Christ] entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: “And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. “And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. “And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, “And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. “And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?” Contemplating the Savior’s question “But where are the nine?” gives cause for deep reflection. In President Hinckley’s opening remarks during last April conference, he said: “And so, my beloved brothers and sisters, let us rejoice together now as we celebrate with appreciation the wondrous doctrines and practices which have come as a gift from the Lord in this most glorious time of His work. … Let us ever be grateful for these most precious gifts and privileges and act well our part as those who love the Lord.”

Sister Stoddard's niece was able to serve in India at a Leprosy colony. Go here, to read about her first day at the Leprosy Colony. Here is a video of some of the experiences she had while there. What an incredible reminder of always being grateful for the things that our Father in Heaven has blessed us with.

We were also lucky enough to have Amanda Bell share some of her experiences of working with the people in Fiji and Honduras. She was so impressed by how humble they were. She emphasized the importance of be thankful for our families, lives, and the gospel, and making sure we aren't focusing on "THINGS" to make us happy.

Go here, to read more about some of the incredible experiences Sister Stoddard's niece is having in India with Rising Star Outreach. Here are two of the articles that Sister Stoddard used for her lesson, they may be great resources to use for Family Home Evening.

Gratitude: Elder Watts, Ensign Nov. 1998

Gratitude As a Saving Principle: Elder Faust, Ensign May 1990

Family Home Evening Ideas

Sharing Time: I am Glad for Many Things

Sharing Time: I am Grateful for Many Things

Sharing Time: Gratitude for God's Creations

LDS Living: Gratitude

P.S. Check out the post below to find out what to add to your 72-hour kit this week.

Week 4: 72-hour kits

2011-08-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

Week of August 7: This week put Hygiene Kits together for each member of your family (1 per person). Here are some items you could add:

Travel size bar of soap & plastic bag to store soap (keep away from food)

Toothbrush

Travel Toothpaste

Travel Shampoo

Travel Conditioner

Travel Dish Soap

Comb/Brush

Week 3: 72 Hour Kits

2011-07-31T13:17:00.001-07:00

Week of July 31: This week the case lot sale at Maceys begins. Check the ad for the exact date. Look for deals to begin adding food.

Canned ready to eat soup (4-6 for every 3 people)

Canned meat (tuna, vienna sausage sticks, beans, etc..) (2-4 for every 3 people)

Canned veggies (2-4 for every 3 people)

Canned fruit (2-4 for every 3 people)

Week 2: 72-hour Kits

2011-07-21T21:12:00.001-07:00

Week of July 24: This week add a flashlight with batteries to your kits (1-2 for every 3 people)

Week 1: 72-Hour Kits

2011-07-21T20:53:00.001-07:00

We are starting to build 72-hour kits for each member of our family. If you would like to particiate we will be adding items to our kits each week a little at a time. Check back each Monday for the new items.

Week of July 17: Containers for each person in your family (Backpack, Duffle Bag, Tote Bag, Bucket)

Emergency Preparedness Activity

2011-07-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

Come join us for our Relief Society Activity

When: Tues. July 19

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Where: The Church

We will be getting tips on 72 hour kits, making an emergency binder (please bring your own binder), and learning some First Aid tips for staying safe this summer. Nursery will be provided. Hope to see you there.

Sunday Happenings

2011-07-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 37- Family Responsibilities
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Sister Ashby always has such clever ways to introduce her lessons. She started out by talking about the member of our families who have responsiblities: Parents, Fathers, Mothers, and Children. She had four groups of items on the table that were covered. Volunteers came up and had to uncover one of the items and talk about which parental responsiblility it covered. There are four main areas:

1. Chocolate/Tissues: Emotionally (parents are responsible to help their children emotionally this is done through: setting a good example, giving their children boundaries, Helping their children understand that emotions are ok to have but it is what you do with them afterwards that counts

2. Calculator/Ipod: Intellectually (parents are responsible to help their children intellectually through: teaching responsiblility with their money, teaching the importance of education/schooling, working hard, knowing what music your children are listening to, understanding the technology they take part in.

3. Pedometer/Hair Bow: Physically (parents are responsible for their children's physical needs: teaching respect for body, clothing them, feeding them, teaching proper nutrition, modesty, teaching personal hygiene, physical activity, chores around the house.

4. Scriptures/Temple: Spiritually (parents are responsible for their children's spiritual well being, this is done through: example, family & personal prayers, FHE, attending church, scripture study, service, temple attendance, etc...

"The Lord warned that if parents do not teach their children about faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the sin will be upon the heads of the parents. Parents should also teach their children to pray and to obey the Lord’s commandments. (See D&C 68:25, 28.)
One of the best ways parents can teach their children is by example. Husbands and wives should show love and respect for each other and for their children by both actions and words. It is important to remember that each member of the family is a child of God. Parents should treat their children with love and respect, being firm but kind to them."

Father's Responsibilities: Protect, Provide, Preside

Some examples given were:

Date Nights: 1-on-1 with each of your children once a month (you can alternate between mother and father each month). Each child gets a budget of $10.00 and they can choose what they would like to do within that budgeted amount.

Dad Interviews: 1 Sunday each month. Each child meets with Dad for about 10 min. or so they can talk about the worst/best part of the month, Personal Progress, Duty to God, a time to talk one on one with Dad.

Mother's Responsibilities: Nuture, Teach, Encourage, Build Self-Esteem, Preside when Needed

"President David O. McKay said that motherhood is the noblest calling (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay [2003], 156). It is a sacred calling, a partnership with God in bringing His spirit children into the world. Bearing children is one of the greatest of all blessings. If there is no father in the home, the mother presides over the family."

Children's Responsibilities: Obey Parents, Cooperate, Teach Parents Patience :), Happy, Protect One Another

"President Spencer W. Kimball said that children should learn to work and to share responsibilities in the home and yard. They should be given assignments to keep the house neat and clean. (See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 120.)"

"A loving and happy family does not happen by accident. Each person in the family must do his or her part. The Lord has given responsibilities to both parents and children. The scriptures teach that we must be thoughtful, cheerful, and considerate of others. When we speak, pray, sing, or work together, we can enjoy the blessings of harmony in our families. (See Colossians 3.)"

Family Home Evening Ideas

LDS Living: Home

LDS Living: Family

LDS Living: Fathers

LDS Living: Responsibility

Sunday Happenings

2011-06-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Instructor: Sister Perkins (thanks for filling in!)
Lesson: Chapter 36: The Family Can Be Eternal

Why did our Heavenly Father send us to earth as members of families?

“Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. … The family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102).

After Heavenly Father brought Adam and Eve together in marriage, He commanded them to have children (see Genesis 1:28). He has revealed that one of the purposes of marriage is to provide mortal bodies for His spirit children. Parents are partners with our Heavenly Father. He wants each of His spirit children to receive a physical body and to experience earth life. When a man and a woman bring children into this world, they help our Heavenly Father carry out His plan.

President David O. McKay said, “With all my heart I believe that the best place to prepare for … eternal life is in the home” (“Blueprint for Family Living,” Improvement Era, Apr. 1963, 252).

President McKay mentions seven things we learn in our homes:

Self-control

Sacrifice

Loyalty

Value of Work

Love

To Share

Serve One Another

What are some additional things that could be added to the list?

The Eternal Family

Families can be together forever. To enjoy this blessing we must be married in the temple. When people are married outside the temple, the marriage ends when one of the partners dies. When we are married in the temple by the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood, we are married for time and eternity. If we keep our covenants with the Lord, our families will be united eternally as husband, wife, and children. Death cannot separate us.

Loving Family Relationships

"Husbands and wives should be thoughtful and kind to each other. They should never do or say anything to hurt each other’s feelings. They should also try to do everything possible to make each other happy."

"As family members we can help each other feel confident by giving encouragement and sincere praise. Each child should feel important. Parents need to show they are interested in what their children do and express love and concern for their children. Children should likewise show their love for their parents. They should be obedient and try to live the kind of life that will bring honor to their parents and to their family name."

What can parents do to encourage their sons and daughters to be good friends with one another?

What can husbands and wives do to help each other be happy?

How to have a successful family

"President Harold B. Lee taught, “The most important of the Lord’s work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own homes” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee [2000], 134)."

Have family prayer every night and morning (see 3 Nephi 18:21). Pray together as husband and wife.

Teach children the gospel every week in family home evening.

Study the scriptures regularly as a family.

Do things together as a family, such as work projects, outings, and decision making.

Learn to be kind, patient, long-suffering, and charitable (see Moroni 7:45–48).

Attend Church meetings regularly (see D&C 59:9–10).

Follow the counsel of the Lord in D&C 88:119: “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.”

Keep a family history, perform temple work together, and receive the sealing ordinances of the temple.

What evidence have you seen that doing the things listed above work?

"The family is the most important unit in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Church exists to help families gain eternal blessings and exaltation. The organizations and programs within the Church are designed to strengthen us individually and help us live as families forever."

Family Home Evening Ideas

Ensign Article: Defending the Family in a Troubled World

LDS Living: Home

LDS Living: Family

LDS Living: Strengthening the Family

Sharing Time: My Family

Sharing Time: Together Forever

Stake Service Day

2011-06-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

Join us for our Stake Service Day

Saturday, June 18

9:00 a.m. @ the church

Come ready to work

There will be a BBQ at the Bowery at 5:00 p.m.

10 Simple Money Saving Tips

2011-05-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

I was watching the news tonight and they did a special on how you can save money. I thought this was a good follow up to our Budgeting Activity we had a couple of months ago. Go here, to find ten ways to save money.

You can also go here, to read about a family who saved $10,000 in one year. It took a lot of dedication but they had some practical tips.

We have been trying the cash method and it has gone pretty well this month. We still have a long way to go but I feel like we are off to a good start. Have you tried anything that has worked for you?

Sunday Happenings

2011-05-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

Lesson: April 2011 Conference Talk, L. Tom Perry, The Sabbath and the Sacrament
Instructor: Sister Colbert

Disciples: Examples of Believers

In Word

In Conversation

In Charity

In Spirit

In Faith

In Purity

Quote #1: "It is a glorious thing to be a Christian and to live as a true disciple of Christ. Of us He said, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” 10 To keep ourselves unspotted from the world, He expects us to avoid such worldly distractions of businesses and recreational facilities on the Sabbath day. I believe He also desires us to dress appropriately. Our youth may think the old saying “Sunday best” is outdated. Still, we know that when Sunday dress deteriorates to everyday attire, attitudes and actions follow. Of course, it may not be necessary for our children to wear formal Sunday attire until the sun goes down. However, by the clothing we encourage them to wear and the activities we plan, we help them prepare for the sacrament and enjoy its blessings throughout the day."

Quote #2: "Brothers and sisters, in the latter days the adversary succeeds when we relax our commitment to the Savior, ignore His teachings in the New Testament and other scripture, and cease to follow Him. Parents, now is the time to teach our children to be examples of the believers by attending sacrament meeting. When Sunday morning arrives, help them to be well rested, properly dressed, and spiritually prepared to partake of the emblems of the sacrament and receive the enlightening, edifying, ennobling power of the Holy Ghost. Let your family be filled with love as you honor the Sabbath all day long and experience its spiritual blessings throughout the week. Invite your sons and daughters to “arise and shine forth” by keeping the Sabbath day holy, that “[their] light may be a standard for the nations.”

How do you personally prepare for the sacrament?

Sister Hansen shared some of her experiences of teaching her children to keep the sabbath day holy: Parent interviews on Sundays, Read scriptures daily (even on Sunday), Read New Era, Home Teaching, Not a play day...spend time together as a family, play hymns, limit electronics, watch Sunday related movies. She shared that they are always working to be better at each of these things.

Another Sister shared that none of us are perfect. We are always working towards being better. The key is working on consistency so your children know that is what happens each Sunday. The Lord will help with the rest as we continue to try!

Scriptures to consider:

Exodus 20: 8-11

D&C 59: 9-10

Matt 26: 26-28

What does the Lord require of us?

"As we consider the pattern of the Sabbath and the sacrament in our own lives, there appear to be three things the Lord requires of us: first, to keep ourselves unspotted from the world; second, to go to the house of prayer and offer up our sacraments; and third, to rest from our labors."

How do you keep the Sabbath Day Holy in your home?

Quote #3: "The pattern of Sabbath day observance must always include worship. After Adam and Eve entered mortality, they were commanded to “worship the Lord their God, and … offer the firstlings of their flocks [as] an offering unto the Lord … [in] similitude of the sacrifice of the Only Begotten of the Father.” 4 The sacrifice of animals reminded Adam’s posterity that one day the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, would make a sacrifice of His own life for us."

Sister Sanderson also shared experiences of Sabbath Day observance in her home. She placed a picture of the Savior on the table each Saturday so her children knew that the next day would be Sunday. Kids helped with the cleaning on Saturday to prepare for Sunday. Each Sunday would have music like the Tabernacle Choir playing, rule of no studying on Sunday. She has found that her children have carried on with these same traditions.

What are some other ideas that help you and your family observe the Sabbath Day and prepare to take the Sacrament each Sunday? We would love to have you share some of them with us.

Relief Society Activity: These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

2011-05-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

When: Tuesday, May 17

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Where: Relief Society Room

Have you ever wanted to attend an Oprah episode when she shares her favorite things? Well, now you can! Ok, on a slightly smaller scale...no one is going home with a new car or anything. :) Come share one of your favorite things! Tell us about your favorite book, a favorite product, website, cleaning tip, quote...anything! Be creative! Bring an inexpensive item to give away that represents your favorite thing (Just bring one, you don't need to bring something for the entire group. We will draw names so everyone gets something). If you can't think of something that represents your favorite thing, then bring your favorite candy bar or treat to give away. Everyone will go home with a "gift!" Nursery will be provided.

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2011-05-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day!

Sunday Happenings (A Week Late :))

2011-04-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

Elder Uchtdorf- "Of Things That Matter Most"
October 2010 General Conference
Instructor: Sister Colbert

Sister Colbert started out with a mirror and asked us to look into it, because this lesson was for each of us personally.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, in a recent general conference, taught, “We have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best because they develop faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our families.”

In talking about choices we must make Sister Colbert spoke about sending her daughter on Pioneer Trek last summer. While getting her ready there were choices they had to make on the items she would take.

-Sturdy Running Shoes vs. Fun, Cute, Sneakers

-Frozen Pizza vs. Can of Soup

-Ipod (w/ scriptures, a lot lighter) vs. scriptures (that weigh a lot more)

Our lives are the same way. We need to make sure we are making the "best" decisions for our lives.

Think of your Ever Growing TO DO List. Some days it may seem like you can never get ahead. What if you only had time to do the most important things on that list....what would you choose?

SIMPLIFY: "There is a beauty and clarity that comes from simplicity that we sometimes do not appreciate in our thirst for intricate solutions."

"For example, it wasn’t long after astronauts and cosmonauts orbited the earth that they realized ballpoint pens would not work in space. And so some very smart people went to work solving the problem. It took thousands of hours and millions of dollars, but in the end, they developed a pen that could write anywhere, in any temperature, and on nearly any surface. But how did the astronauts and cosmonauts get along until the problem was solved? They simply used a pencil."

Focus on the Basics:
First: Our Relationship with God
Second: Our Families
Third: Our Fellowman
Fourth: Ourselves

"Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship—the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness, and peace. For this I pray, as I leave you my blessing, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen." Elder Uchtdorf

What can you do to simplify your life?

Relief Society Activity: Budgeting & Money Management Recap

2011-04-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for everyone who attended our activity last night. I don't know about you but I learned so much and have a lot to think about as far as getting my finances in order. Melody did a wonderful job sharing her experiences with us, I'm so thankful that she was willing to come and speak to us. She shared many practical tips and the spirit was strong as she testified that our Heavenly Father will guide and direct us through the process of becoming self reliant. Here are a few of the things she shared with us:

Baby Steps (Dave Ramsey)

1. $1000 emergency fund- as fast as you can!
2. Debt Snowball- pay off all debt using the debt snowball (similar to "One For the Money")
3. Fully Funded Emergency Fund (3-6 months of expenses in savings)
4. Retirement- invest 15% of household income into both IRA's and Pre-tax retirement)
5. College Fund- College funding for children
6. Paid Off Mortgage- (pay off home early)
7. Build Wealth & Give (invest in mutual funds and real estate)

Other Ideas

1. Spending Diary- Write down everything from a gumball, coke, etc... This is a good way to see where your money is going.
2. Review Interest Rates- credit cards, cars, mortgage, etc...
3. Shop around for the most inexpensive insurance quotes
4. Debt- 70% of America is in Debt, $9300 is the average balance on credit cards, American homes have an average of 8 credit cards/home. GET OUT OF DEBT!!
5. Dave Ramsey offers classes- They cost $99 for a lifetime membership. You receive his books and other supplies. It includes the children living in your home so they can go through the classes when they get older. It is a 13 week course called Financial Peace University. Go to his website, here to find out when classes are being offered. You can also check out his CD's from the library.
6. Smart Women Smart Money Conference- August 19- It is free but you must register- go here, for more information.
7. AAA Fair Credit- http://www.faircredit.org/ will work with you for free

Dave Ramsey Tape

1. Quit borrowing more money (Plasectomy- cut up your cards)....remember that these snakes bite!
2. You must save money. Start with the $1000 Emergency Fund
3. Prayer Really Works (Phone Home)
4. Sell Something! (This is a good way to build your Emergency Fund or once that is in place....start paying off debt).
5. Part-time job or Overtime!!! Temporarily get another job if needed!

Budgeting

1. Come up with a budget
1. Needs
2. Debts
3. Savings
4. Wants
2. Use a Cash Only budget
- Only use debit card for gas
-When debit cards are used the average homes spend 16% over their budget
3. Chart Spending
-Spending Diary
-"The best way to double you money is to fold it and put it in your pocket."

Additional Ideas

-Mortgage: When thinking about upgrading your home. Try to figure out what the difference between your current mortgage and new mortgage will be and try to live with the new total by putting the additional money in a savings account. It will also help you make sure you have enough for blinds, landscaping, etc.. when you move in.

-http://www.financeintheclassroom.org/ activities for kids of all ages!!

-Zions bank pays kids for A's on their report cards when they have an account there.

-Kids: Have a touch account and a No-touch account (when kids add money to account tell them you will double it).

-"Savings should always exceed spending!!"

-"Live like no one else, so you can LIVE LIKE NO ONE ELSE!"

-2 Ne. 9:51: "Wherefore, do not spend money for that which is of no worth"
-Prov. 27:24: "For riches are not forever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?"
-Mormon 8:37: "For behold, ye do love money, and your substance, and your fine apparel, and the adorning of your churches, more than ye love the poor and the needy, the sick, and the afflicted."

Melody has a weekly blog you can follow on Imagine a Happier You. She is a great writer and shares many of her experiences of following many of the steps listed above. She also shares experiences she has had with her kids. Go here, to read her blog.

Relief Society Activity: Budgeting & Money Management

2011-04-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Come Fill Your Lamps Through Money Management

My Sister In Law, Melody Hillam has been involved with Imagine a Happier You over the past six months or so. She has learned a lot about budgeting and saving money. Go here, to read her blog about her experiences so far. She has agreed to come and share some of the things she has learned with us. Come join us for a relaxing evening to learn about Money Mangagement!

When: Tuesday, April 19

Where: Relief Society Room

Time: 7:00 p.m.

General Conference Activities

2011-03-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

Here are a few General Conference Activity pages I have found.

You can download this pakcet for "Primary Aged Children" at Oopsey Daisy. Click here, to find it. She also has a link for an activity for "tots".

Jenny Phillips has a packet for Senior Primary Children. Go here, to get to her free downloads page. You can get music, calendars, and other fun activities on this page also.

It looks like the go to site is Sugardoodle.net. They have packets for nursery, junior primary, senior primary, youth, as well as adults. Go here, to download these packets.

Voice of the Spirit

2011-03-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

Sunday Happenings: Today was Ward Conference! President Perkins and Sister Corrigan spoke to us about "fine tuning" the Spirit in our lives. They shared this video with us. What are some things that stand out to you as you watch this video? What are some things you can do to "fine tune" the spirit in your life? in the lives of your family? Go here to read the entire talk by President Faust. This would make a great Family Home Evening this week as you discuss the spirit and the things you can do to have it more fully in your lives. Which station will you attune your live to this week?

Sunday Happenings

2011-03-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Ch. 30- Charity
Instructor: Sister Perkins (thanks so much for filling in, you did a great job!)

What is your definition of Charity?

Pure Love of Christ
Learn from example of Savior
Love for one another
"The life of the Savior reflects His pure love for all people. He even gave His life for us. Charity is that pure love which our Savior Jesus Christ has. He has commanded us to love one another as He loves us. The scriptures tell us that charity comes from a pure heart (see 1 Timothy 1:5). We have pure love when, from the heart, we show genuine concern and compassion for all our brothers and sisters."

Charity is the Greatest of All Virtues:

“This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:12–13).

I was talking to my husband about this lesson and he mentioned the following quote from the lesson: "It may not be necessary for us to give our lives as the Savior did. But we can have charity if we make Him the center of our lives and follow His example and teachings. Like the Savior, we too can bless the lives of our brothers and sisters here on earth."

He made an interesting point....we should be willing to give our lives every single day as we fulfill our church callings, serve one another, pray, read our scriptures, through visiting or home teaching....we should be turning our lives over to the Savior every day because he knows how to make more out of them than we do! That was something I had never thought of in that way before!

Charity Includes Giving to the Sick, Afflicted, and Poor!

"Jesus taught that we should give food to the hungry, shelter to those who have none, and clothes to the poor. When we visit the sick and those who are in prison, it is as if we were doing these things for Him instead. He promises that as we do these things, we will inherit His kingdom. (See Matthew 25:34–46.)"

How Can We Develop Charity in Our Lives?

First: Study the life of the Savior
Second: Pray to be more charitable
Third: Learn to love ourselves and understand our own worth
Fourth: Avoid thinking we are better than other people

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: A House or a Home
Sharing Time: Choices and Gospel Guideposts
LDS Living: Virtue

Relief Society Birthday Luau

2011-03-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

Aloha sisters! We missed those of you who were not able to make it.

Here are a few pictures so you can still be a part of this fun night.

We learned to hula!

Sister Tuimaseve and her sister in laws performed for us then taught us a dance.

Look at the incredible decorations! Our Relief Society Activities Committe did an amazing job!

We had a delicious dinner, were spiritually fed, and had a lot of fun getting to know each other a little better. Find the BINGO game we played here, thanks Sister Moffitt...it was a lot of fun. Thanks to everyone who was able to come. To Sister White and family for the many hours spent on the decorations. To everyone who brought the delicious food. To Sister Eyre for organizing everything! To the committee for all of their hard work. And to Sister Tuimaseve and her sisters for sharing their talents with us. Here is a little video clip of the dance we learned!

Midweek Activity: Join us for a Luau

2011-03-14T21:21:00.001-07:00

Come Fill Your Lamps Through Sisterhood

We are celebrating the Relief Society Birthday with a Luau
When: (Today) Tuesday, March 15
Time: 6:30 p.m.

Wear your Hawaiian attire, and come ready for some fun! You know you've always wanted to learn the hula, so this will be your chance! A nursery will be provided and dinner will be served.

Lifting Burdens: The Atonement of Jesus Christ

2011-03-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

My sister in law posted this beautiful video on her blog. I thought that it fit so well with the testimonies that were given in Sacrament meeting today. I am so thankful for the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ. It is through the Atonement that burdens can be lifted as we turn to our Father in Heaven. I'm so thankful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. My sister in law said it so beautifully:

"I am overcome with sadness lately. Sadness for those around me. Friends Family Neighbors An overwhelming number of them are struggling with the weight of personal burdens. So many of them need comfort. I want to remove their hurt. But I can't. I try to comfort, in my small ways yet I know it is insufficient. Only He has the ability to give complete peace. I know that first-hand. So I get on my knees and pray for His mercy to be with themthat their burdens will be lifted. He does heal. I know it." Melody Hillam

Stake Relief Society Activity

2011-02-21T20:42:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 26

9:00-12:00

Breakfast, Classes, Service

at the Stake Center!

Kari Winklecotter-Taylor Wedding

2011-02-21T20:25:00.000-08:00

Engagement Picture

The Ceremony

Mr. & Mrs. Taylor

The Cake

Mother & Son

Decorations

Sunday Happenings

2011-02-21T19:51:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 28- Service
Instructor: Sister Bell

Jesus said, “I am among you as he that serveth” (Luke 22:27). As true followers of Jesus, we also must serve others."

"All of us must be willing to serve, no matter what our income, age, or social position. Some people believe that only the poor and lowly should serve. Other people think service should be given only by the rich. But Jesus taught otherwise. When the mother of two of His disciples asked Him to honor her sons in His kingdom, Jesus replied, “Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; and whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26–27)."

"There are many ways to serve. We can help others economically, socially, physically, and spiritually." How have you served others or others served you in these four areas?

Why does the Savior want us to serve others?

“God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 82)." We need to make sure we are ready and willing to serve when the time arises.

"President Spencer W. Kimball said, “We become more substantive as we serve others—indeed, it is easier to ‘find’ ourselves because there is so much more of us to find!” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, 85–86)."

Opportunities to Serve

Our Service Auction was a way to meet new people as service was provided
Providing meals as needed
Home/Visiting Teaching- one sister shared a story of a Home Teacher that wouldn't leave until his families found a way for him to serve them
Sister Seely was a great example of service in our ward. She always had blankets and burp cloths to give away. She would take birthday cards to people, and visit them when they were in the hospital or sick.
Fulfilling our callings is a way to serve our brothers and sisters in our wards.
What are some other ways you have found to serve?

Jesus Christ is the Perfect Example of Service
"He is the Creator of the earth and our Savior, yet He did many humble acts of service. Just before His Crucifixion He met with His disciples. After teaching them, He took a basin of water and a towel and washed their feet (see John 13:4–10; see also the picture in this chapter). In those days washing a visitor’s feet was a sign of honor and was usually done by a servant. Jesus did it as an example of love and service. When we willingly serve others in the spirit of love, we become more like Christ."

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: Join the Secret Service
Sharing Time: Give Yourself Away
Sharing Time: I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus
LDS Living: To the Rescue
LDS Living: Service

2011-02-13T20:17:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 27: Work and Personal Responsibility
Instructor: Sister Ashby

President David O. McKay said, “Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift, that the power to work is a blessing, that the love of work is success” (Pathways to Happiness [1957], 381).

Sister Ashby had a great activity to go along with this lesson. She brought a treasure box filled with items that could be sorted into three categories of work: Physical, Spiritual, & Emotional. She had sisters come up and take an item out of the box and decide which category it would fit in. You can go here, for pictures you could use to do this same activity with your family.

Work is an Eternal Principle:
"Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have shown us by Their examples and teachings that work is important in heaven and on earth. God worked to create the heavens and the earth. He caused the seas to gather in one place and the dry land to appear. He caused grass, herbs, and trees to grow on the land. He created the sun, the moon, and the stars. He created every living thing in the sea or on the land. Then He placed Adam and Eve on the earth to take care of it and to have dominion over all living things. (See Genesis 1:1–28.) Jesus said, “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work” (John 5:17). He also said, “I must work the works of him that sent me” (John 9:4)."

Family Responsibility
"Parents work together to provide for the physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being of their family. They should never expect anyone to take care of this responsibility for them. The Apostle Paul wrote, “If any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith” (1 Timothy 5:8).

What responsibilities do your children have? How do you hold them accountable?

We Can Enjoy Work
To some people work is a drudgery. To others it is an exciting part of life. One way to enjoy life’s fullest benefits is to learn to love work.

Our attitude toward work is very important. The following story shows how one man saw beyond his daily labor. A traveler passed a stone quarry and saw three men working. He asked each man what he was doing. Each man’s answer revealed a different attitude toward the same job. “I am cutting stone,” the first man answered. The second replied, “I am earning three gold pieces per day.” The third man smiled and said, “I am helping to build a house of God.”

God Condemns Idleness
The Lord is not pleased with those who are lazy or idle. He said, “The idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and mend his ways” (D&C 75:29). He also commanded, “Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer” (D&C 42:42).

Work, Recreation, and Rest
It is important to find balance between "work, recreation, and rest".

On other days of the week, in addition to working, we may spend time to improve our talents and enjoy our hobbies, recreation, or other activities that will refresh us.

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: A Happy Home

Friend Article: Mine House is a House of Order

LDS Living: Responsibility

LDS Living: Using Time Wisely Song

Great Article- The Dangerous Digital Vortex

2011-02-08T17:31:00.000-08:00

My sister in law sent me the link to an article from the BYU Alumni Magazine. It goes really well with the lesson we had in Relief Society and Priesthood a couple of weeks ago about protecting our family from the fiery darts of the adversary. With our children growing up in the digital age, how do we protect them? This article is very straight forward and gives some great ideas for connecting with children. Click here, to read the article.

Sunday Happenings (times 2)

2011-02-06T21:02:00.000-08:00

Sunday, February 6

Instructor: Sister Baumann

Lesson- "More Diligent and Concerned at Home" David A. Bednar

1) Suggestion Number One: Express and Show Love 1John 4:18

"We can begin to become more diligent and concerned at home by telling the people we love that we love them. Such expressions do not need to be flowery or lengthy. We simply should sincerely and frequently express love."

Sister Sanderson talked about showing love to/from parents: phone calls & care packages while at school, Mom staying with son while in hospital when she had to work, Able to take care of mom after her father passed away. She would take her on special adventures. How do you show love to your parents?
Sister Perkins talked about showing love to her husband. She said that there are times when they don't see each other very often. They make sure there is a daily phone call so they can communicate and really talk. Take the little moments to let them know you are thinking of them- cookies, notes, a spontaneous hug...etc..
Sister Nichols talked about showing love to her children. Having family rules (don't yell at one another, call each other names, hit one another, if you do...apologize sincerely). Be on the same wave length with your spouse, communicate with one another about decisions. Give students responsibilities because "we are all part of this family".

2) Suggestion Number Two: Bear Testimony and Live It: D&C 8:2

Sister Baumann talked about using Family Home Evening as a time to share "feelings" or "testimony". It was a great time for her sons to hear their father share his testimony.

"Feeling the power, the edification, and the constancy of testimony from a spouse, a parent, or a child is a rich blessing. Such testimony fortifies faith and provides direction. Such testimony generates light in a world that grows increasingly dark. Such testimony is the source of an eternal perspective and of enduring peace."

3) Suggestion Number Three: Be Consistent

Attend Church Weekly
Reading Scriptures
Saying Prayers
F.H.E.
Getting back on track if needed

"Today if you could ask our adult sons what they remember about family prayer, scripture study, and family home evening, I believe I know how they would answer. They likely would not identify a particular prayer or a specific instance of scripture study or an especially meaningful family home evening lesson as the defining moment in their spiritual development. What they would say they remember is that as a family we were consistent."

Sunday, January 30:

Instructor: Sister Smith

Lesson- "Let There Be Light" Quentin L. Cook

Sister Smith held up this picture and asked us to concentrate on it for 1 minute. She then asked what we felt?

not alone
it's ok, things aren't as bad as you think
silence
his LOVE
Smile, brings happiness

In the world we live in today we are surrounded by evil. We must fortify ourselves against this evil by making the gospel the most important part of our lives.

First, we must PROTECT FAMILY. What can we do?

Turn off T.V.
No T.V.'s in children's bedrooms
Computers in public places in the house
Open Communication
Good Friends
F.H.E.
Be the parent, it is ok to say NO!

" If we make of our homes holy places that shelter us from evil, we will be protected from the adverse consequences that the scriptures have foretold. If we make of our homes holy places that shelter us from evil, we will be protected from the adverse consequences that the scriptures have foretold."

Second: Protecting Community

We need to take responsibility
We shouldn't just let things happen around us without saying anything
No Cussing Club see how one boy is taking a stand

"In our increasingly unrighteous world, it is essential that values based on religious belief be part of the public discourse. Moral positions informed by a religious conscience must be accorded equal access to the public square. Under the constitutions of most countries, a religious conscience may not be given preference, but neither should it be disregarded. "

Third: Honest Conduct

"The poet Robert Burns said, “An honest man’s the noblest work of God.”

"Clearly, moral values with respect to honesty can play a significant role in establishing light and truth and improving society and should be valued by those who do not have faith."

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: Love At Home

Sharing Time: I Will!

Sharing Time: Family Love

LDS Living: Home

LDS Living: Good Judgement

LDS Living: Love

Inexpensive Valentine Decorating Ideas

2011-01-23T16:49:00.000-08:00

If you love Pride & Prejudice as much as I do, you will love this printable from A Place for the Lady

So many cute options for this Valentines Subway Art at Today's Fabulous Finds

You can get a copy of these cute conversation heart magnets at Oopsey Daisy

eighteen 25 will let you print out two versions of this cute Valentines Subway Art, plus they have a lot of other fun decorating ideas!

Check out less cake {more frosting} to download a copy of this cute printable.

One more place to check out for 10 more printable ideas is Lil' Luna, All Things Good.

You can print most of these out on your printer, or get them printed at the photo center at Sams Club, Costco, WalMart, or Walgreens for fairly inexpensive. You could even use frames that you already have and just switch out the picture for one of these printables and switch it back once Valentine's is over.

Sunday Happenings

2011-01-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 26- Sacrifice (sorry this is a week late)

Instructor: Sister Bell

A few lesson highlights: "Sacrifice means giving to the Lord whatever He requires of our time, our earthly possessions, and our energies to further His work. The Lord commanded, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Our willingness to sacrifice is an indication of our devotion to God. People have always been tried and tested to see if they will put the things of God first in their lives."

Why are people willing to make sacrifices for our Father in Heaven?

Examples of sacrifice today:

A member of the Church in Germany saved his tithing for years until someone with priesthood authority could come and accept it.
A Relief Society visiting teacher served for 30 years without missing an assignment.
A group of Saints in South Africa rode for three days, standing up, to be able to hear and see the prophet of the Lord.
At an area conference in Mexico, members of the Church slept on the ground and fasted during the days of the conference. They had used all their money just to get to the conference and had nothing left for food and shelter.
One family sold their car to get the money they wanted to contribute to a temple building fund. Another family sold their home to get money to go to the temple.
Many faithful Latter-day Saints have very little to live on, yet they pay their tithes and offerings.
One brother sacrificed his job because he refused to work on Sunday.
In one branch, the youth gave freely and willingly of their time to care for the young children while their parents helped build the meetinghouse.
Young men and women give up or postpone good job opportunities, education, or sports to serve as missionaries.

"Many more examples could be given of those who sacrifice for the Lord. Yet a place in our Heavenly Father’s kingdom is worth any sacrifice we have to make of our time, talents, energy, money, and lives. Through sacrifice we can obtain a knowledge from the Lord that we are acceptable to Him (see D&C 97:8)."

What are some of the sacrifices you have made, or seen people make in your own life?

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: My Heroes & Heroines

Sharing Time: Pioneers & Temples
LDS Living: Selflessness
LDS Living: Personal Righteousness
LDS Living: Sacrifice

Sunday Happenings

2011-01-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 25- Fasting
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Sister Ashby started out by creating a recipe for fasting:

Fasting
1-2 c. of prayer
8 oz. of purpose
A dash of humility
Fold in a sincere heart

Cook for a duration of 2 meals. You can add extra flavor, shed a few tears. Follow the recipe for desired result and a testimony of fasting.

Fasting is ________.

1. Luke 2:37- strength
2. Holy Ghost
3. Endure to the End
4. Mosiah 27: 22-23- Healing
5. Alma 5:46- Testimony
6. Missionary Work
7. Alma 17:3- Knowledge
8. Instrument in God's Hands
9. Helaman 3:35- Closer to Christ
10. Helaman 9:10- Comfort
11. D&C 88:76- Commandment
12. Gratitude

Other points to consider:

"God's people have fasted to help them draw near to Him and to worship Him."
"purposeful fasting is more than just going without food and drink."
"Prayer is a necessary part of fasting."
"Purpose of fasting is not to impress others."
"We are promised peace, improved health, and spiritual guidance."
"Fast offerings should be given generously as we are able."
"Helps us gain strength of character, control our appetites and passions, teaching children to develop the spiritual strength to overcome greater temptations later in their lives."
"The Savior has said to those who fast properly, "Thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly" (Matthew 6:18).

Sister Ashby also made us some delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies. She has shared her recipe below.

Chocolate Chip Cookies
3/4 c margarine
3/4 c brown sugar
3/4 c white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp soda dissolved in 1 tsp. hot water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1 1/2 c chocolate chips
Bake at 375 for 8 minutes

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: Fasting and Prayer
Article: Fasting- A Gift of Joy
LDS Living: Fasting

Announcement: The Murphy's are setting up an at home social skills therapy program for their developmentally delayed 2 1/2 yr. old son. They are looking for volunteer and paid aides to assist with the Floortime model. No experience is necessary. Training will be provided by an experienced therapist. Aides may bring children between the ages of 2 and 5 with them. Hourly wage for paid aides will be $8-$10, based on experience. Flexible hours, but a commitment of at least 2 hours per week for three months is requested. Please contact Sister Murphy before January 10th if interested. Thanks!

Sunday Happenings

2011-01-02T17:52:00.000-08:00

Lesson: 11 Ways to Be Miserable
Instructor: Sister Stott

Ezra Taft Benson said: “Daily, constantly, we choose by our desires, our thoughts, and our actions whether we want to be blessed or cursed, happy or miserable.” (Ensign, May 1988)

1. Do Not Enjoy Anything

Never Do Anything For Yourself
Don't Get to Know the Sisters in our Ward, that would include doing your Visiting Teaching

2. Worry, Worry, Worry

Gas prices are probably going to raise to $4.00 this year
Worry about things you see on the news each night, things you have no control over. Soak in those sad, depressed, & glum feelings that accompany these worries.
Happy people do the exact opposite: Scripture #1: D&C 123:17

3. Be Rude

Belittle people, make them feel worthless
No church activity is fun enough…make sure you let the committee know

4. Focus on Your Problems

Think about all of the things you don’t like about yourself; your height, your weight, hair, car, clothes, nose, grades...etc...

5. Blame, Blame, Blame

Never forgive- it is always someone else's fault, never yours

6. Postpone Being Happy

Put deadlines on your happiness... fill in the blank... as soon as I ____, then I'll be happy.
Jesus taught- Scripture #2: Luke 12:15

7. Postpone Prayer

Keep your distance from deity- never let him know what is happening in your life
Quote #4: President Wilford Woodruff- “WE should call upon the lord in Might prayer, and make all our wants know unto him. For if he does not protect and deliver us and save us, no power will” (Millennial Star, 48:806)

8. Avoid Scripture Study

Never make time to learn about the plan our Father in Heaven has for us.
Quote #6: Elder M. Russell Ballard- "As I think about your schedules and the pressures you face at this time in your lives, I can understand why scripture study can so easily be neglected. You have many demands pulling at you. In some cases, just maintaining your social life is a full-time occupation. But I plead with you to make time for immersing yourselves in the scriptures. Couple scripture study with your prayers. Half an hour each morning privately studying, pondering, and communicating with your Heavenly Father can make an amazing difference in your lives. It will give increased success in your daily activities. It will bring increased alertness to your minds. It will give you comfort and rock-steady assurance when the storms of life descend upon you.""Be Strong in the Lord, and in the Power of His Might" (CES fireside for young adults, March 3, 2002), 3–4

9. Always See the Negative

Trials are there to make you miserable, enjoy them! Nothing will ever change in your life!

10. Never Set Goals

No school goals, personal goals, spiritual goals, family goals
Quote #8 John Bytheway- “If you start achieving goals, you might start to feel a sense of excitement, then you might want to set another goal, and then your miserable mornings are through. To maintain your misery, the idea of crossing off your goals should never cross your mind”. (How to Be Totally Miserable- A Self-Hinder Book)

11. Never Show Gratitude

Never say thank-you

So you have your choice, you now have 11 ways to help you be miserable if you choose. Or, you can choose to be lights in the darkness. I encourage you to find one thing in your life each day that will help you to make your light brighter and happier. Matt. 5: 14-16

This lesson came from John Bytheway's book: How to be Totally Miserable: A Self-Hinder Book). I had some people ask for the lesson. Go here, to get a copy of the lesson. It could be used for Family Home Evening.

More Recipes & Visiting Teaching

2010-12-19T22:44:00.000-08:00

This recipe for Candy Cane Kiss Cookies comes from Our Best Bites, go here to get the recipe. You can use the same recipe around Easter...just add Cadbury Mini Eggs! They are super delicious.

Gingerbread Bars

1/2 C butter or margarine, softened
1/2 C packed brown sugar
1/2 C Molasses
1 egg
1 1/2 C all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 C water

In mixing bowl cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the remaining wet ingredients and beat well.
Sift together dry ingredients and mix into wet ingredients alternately with water; mix well.
Pour into 13x9 pan, bake at 350* for 20-25 minutes. Cool thoroughly. Frost with Lemon cream cheese frosting.

Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

1 8oz pkg cream cheese, softened
1 stick of butter, softened
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt
4 C powdered sugar

Cream butter and cream cheese, add salt, zest and juice, mix in well. Add powdered sugar,
mix in.

Cookie Dough Truffles

1/2 c. butter, softened

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour

1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 c. miniature semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional, I didn't add them)

1 1/2 pounds semisweet chocolate candy coating, chopped (or I just melted chocolate chips)

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla; mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts, if using. Shape into 1-inch balls; place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Loosely cover and freeze for 1-2 hours or until firm. (The dough softens quickly at room temperature so it works best if they are frozen, not just chilled in the refrigerator).In a microwave safe bowl, melt candy coating (or chocolate chips), stirring often until smooth. Dip balls in coating (or drizzle on top); place on waxed paper-lined backing sheets. Refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes.

Apple Walnut Cookies
1 c canned applesauce

3 c quick rolled oats
1 1/2 c sugar

1 c chopped nuts
1/2 cu margarine

1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 c cocoa

1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp salt powdered sugar

Simmer applesauce gently 5 minutes. Add sugar, margarine, cocoa and salt. Boil 1 minute. Remove from heat immediately. Add oats, walnuts, vanilla and almond extract. Mix well. Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper. When cool. roll in powdered sugar makes 50 - 55 cookies.

Visiting Teaching: The end of the month is coming quickly. Just a reminder to get your visiting teaching done. I found this site that has fun ideas for visiting teaching, go here to see it. They have a lot of free printables and ideas that go along with the message for the month.

Holiday Recipes & Kids and Christmas

2010-12-19T22:43:00.000-08:00

We would like to thank everyone who came to our activity last night. We know how busy your lives are right now! I don't know about you, but it was just what I needed! There was such an incredible spirit as we listened to the perspectives of the women who surrounded Christ. It was the Innkeeper's wife who touched me the most....she wanted so badly to help Mary & Joseph and knew how special the Christ child was. We had some beautiful musical numbers: Sisters Murphy, Olpin, & Eyre played a Violin/Piano musical number, Sisters Carbine & Kearhl sang solos. We also had a chance to sing some songs as a group. Afterwards we had some delicious treats! Sister Adamson made delicious Hot Chocolate and homemade caramel marshmellows. We also had a variety of other treats to choose from. We will be posting the recipes for these treats over the next couple of days. Here are the first few:

Basic Hot Chocolate
4 cups of whole milk
8 ounces of chocolate
3 tsp powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon of salt
Finely chop the chocolate into small pieces. The pieces have to be able to dissolve easily in the liquid.
Place the milk into a small, thick-bottomed pot on low heat and bring to a low simmer. Whisk once in a while to ensure that the milk doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.
Add the vanilla, powdered sugar, salt, and chocolate and whisk vigorously until the chocolate has melted.
Heat for another 4 minutes, constantly stirring.
Serve. Add a dollop of whipped cream if you want.
Serves 4.

White Hot Chocolate
8 cups of whole milk
12 ounces white chocolate , finely chopped
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Using a vegetable peeler, shave chocolate into curls; set aside.Place white chocolate in a medium heat-proof bowl; set aside. Place milk and cream in a medium saucepan set over medium heat until bubbles begin to form around edges of pan (about 4 minutes). Do not boil.Remove mixture from the flame. Immediately pour over white chocolate. When chocolate begins to melt, gently stir to combine.Whisk in vanilla. Continue whisking until light foam forms.Serve immediately. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

Martha Stewarts Homemade Marshmallows

4 packages unflavored gelatin
3/4 C cold water
3 1/4 C granulated sugar
1 1/4 C light corn syrup
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 C water
2 tsp pure vanilla extract (peppermint extract if desired...great for hot cocoa!)

Spray 9x13 pan w/cooking spray.
Cut a piece of parchment or waxed paper large enough to cover the bottom of the dish and to overhang
the longer sides. Place the parchment in the dish and brush with oil, set aside.

Pour 3/4 C cold water in the bowl of an electric mixer, and sprinkle gelatin on top. Let stand 5 minutes.

Place sugar, corn syrup, salt and water in a medium saucepan. Set over high heat, and bring
to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer, and cook until it reaches soft-ball stage (238*), about 9 minutes.

Using the whisk attachment, beat hot syrup into the gelatin on low speed, gradually increase speed to
high, beat until mixture is very stiff, about 12 minutes. Beat in vanilla. Pour mixture into the prepared
baking dish, and smooth the surface with as offset spatula. Set aside, uncovered until marshmallow
becomes firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.

Cut into squares with a pizza cutter, and toss in powdered sugar.

Here is a cute Mormon Messages video. Enjoy!

Christmas Activity- Tuesday, December 21

2010-12-19T22:34:00.000-08:00

Please come join us Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. for our special Christmas Activity: "The Women Surrounding Christ's Birth". It will be a great night to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and find time to relax for a bit. Hope to see you there.

Sunday Happenings

2010-12-19T22:05:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 24- The Sabbath Day
Instructor: Sister Bell

What is the Sabbath Day?

"The word Sabbath comes from a Hebrew word meaning rest." The Sabbath day is every seventh day. It is a holy day ordained by God for us to rest from our daily labors and worship Him."

How would you explain the purpose of the Sabbath day to someone who does not know about the Sabbath?

A day spent in worship and reverence
Time to ponder spiritual matters
A day to renew our covenants
Feed our souls on the things of the Spirit

What does it mean to keep the Sabbath Day holy?

What can we do? Church, Scriptures, Church Magazines, Visit Sick, Visit Family, Uplifting music, Hymns, Family History, Journals, Service
What do you do in your families to keep the Sabbath Day Holy?
One idea given was to watch family videos, this helps you relive fun times in the past and appreciate family.

Family Home Evening

Sharing Time: Keep the Commandments
Ensign Article: Teaching Children to Keep the Sabbath
Sharing Time: I Will Always Choose the Right
LDS Living: Sabbath Day

*Don't forget about our special Christmas activity this Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 7:00 p.m.

Sunday Happenings

2010-12-12T20:54:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 23- The Sacrament
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Object Lesson: Sister Ashby had us close our eyes, then dropped three items on the table.
First: a medium sized bouncy ball. We determined that it was fairly loud and could be heard easily. This could be compared to the world. It is usually noisy....makes sure it is heard.
Second: a quarter sized round chip. It had a softer sound. We were able to hear it because it was quiet in the room. If it had been noisier we may not have heard it. This could be compared to those in authority. They can be heard, but we need to make sure we are listening...make sure our lives aren't filled with too much noise.
Third: a needle. It was the softest sounding of the three. If there had been noise we definitely would not have been able to hear it. This could be compared to the whisperings of the spirit. If there is noise in our life we will not be able to hear its quiet guidance.

The teachings on the sacrament can be found in todays lesson. Just click on the link above.

Questions to think about:
-Why do the sacrament prayers need to be said perfectly?
-What covenants do we renew during the sacrament? What blessings does the Lord promise us as we keep those covenants?
-How can we prepare ourselves to partake of the sacrament? What can we think about during the sacrament to help us remember the Savior's Atonement?

Create "quiet" books using pictures from the Ensign, Friend, or New Era. These books would be used just during the sacrament as a way to help children think about the Savior, the sacrament, etc.. As soon as the sacrament is finished they would be put away.
Prepare: Be on time to Sacrament Meeting, Sit in the front section of the chapel, Young men arrive early to help with sacrament preparation
Setting the Example: Sit quietly listening to prelude music, children will follow your example
Speak About Reverence: Remind children before you get to church, Make sure you are showing reverence
Soliciting Support: Have children come up with ways to be reverent, on time, etc...
Within the Family: Teach during Family Home Evening, Prepare Saturday Night
Taking Responsibility: Means Everyone: "Reverence Begins With Me!"

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: Reverence in Holy Places
Sharing Time: Primary Manners (Could be used to teach reverence)
Sharing Time: Be Grateful for the Sacrament
LDS Living: Reverence
LDS Living: Sacrament

Sunday Happenings

2010-11-21T20:57:00.001-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 22: Gifts of the Spirit
Instructor: We want to welcome Sister Bell as our new instructor! She did a wonderful job today!

The Gift of Tongues: (D&C 46: 24)
The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues: (D&C 46: 25)
The Gift of Translation: (D&C 5:4)
The Gift of Wisdom: (D&C 46:17)
The Gift of Knowledge (D&C 46:18)
The Gift of Teaching Knowlege & Wisdom (Moroni 10: 9-10)
The Gift of Knowing the Jesus Christ is the son of God (D&C 46:13)
The Gift of Believing the Testimony of Others (D&C 46:14)
The Gift of Prophecy (D&C 46:22)
The Gift of Healing (D&C 46: 19-20)
The Gift of Working Miracles (D&C 46:21)
The Gift of Faith (Moroni 10:11)

"Think about some spiritual gifts that would strengthen you personally or help you serve the Lord and others. What will you do to seek these gifts? To develop our gifts, we must find out which gifts we have. We do this by praying and fasting. We should seek after the best gifts (see D&C 46:8). Sometimes patriarchal blessings will help us know which gifts we have been given."

"Satan can imitate the gifts of tongues, prophecy, visions, healings, and other miracles. Moses had to compete with Satan’s imitations in Pharaoh’s court (see Exodus 7:8–22). Satan wants us to believe in his false prophets, false healers, and false miracle workers. They may appear to be so real to us that the only way to know is to ask God for the gift of discernment. The devil himself can appear as an angel of light (see 2 Nephi 9:9)."

FHE Ideas:
-LDS Living: Spiritual Tools
-Please see last weeks lesson below: The Gift of the Holy Ghost for more FHE ideas

Fun & Fabulous Craft Night

2010-11-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

Don't forget about our Craft Night
When: Tomorrow night, Tuesday Nov. 16
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Church

Remember to bring:

Fabric Flowers: fabric, & fabric scissors

Subway Art: $2.00 for each additional plaque you are making (we need to have the money before we can give you the supplies), 2 pieces of scrapbook paper for each plaque, & paint if you have some that matches your paper

Gift Tags: Just yourself to make them

If you need additional information please refer to the post below this one. Hope to see you there!

Sunday Happenings

2010-11-14T14:04:00.000-08:00

Lesson: Chapter 21 The Gift of the Holy Ghost
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Attention Getter: This was a great object lesson that Sister Ashby started out with to illustrate all that we receive through the Gift of the Holy Ghost. She had a gift box and passed out items to the sisters. Each sister had to bring her item to the front and talk about how it relates to the Holy Ghost and place it in the box. Go here for a paper version. You could play a matching game if you cut the cards apart, or you could use the pictures to talk about all the blessings that come with receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost. This could be used for FHE to teach about the Holy Ghost.

The Holy Ghost:

a member of the Godhead

a personage of spirit

influence can be everywhere at once

bear witness of truth

purifies our hearts

The Gift of the Holy Ghost:

What is the difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost?

"The gift of the Holy Ghost is the privilege—given to people who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, been baptized, and been confirmed as members of the Church—to receive continual guidance and inspiration from the Holy Ghost."

"A person may be temporarily guided by the Holy Ghost without receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see D&C 130:23). However, this guidance will not be continuous unless the person is baptized and receives the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. We read in Acts 10 that the Roman soldier Cornelius received inspiration from the Holy Ghost so that he knew the gospel of Jesus Christ was true. But Cornelius did not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that if Cornelius had not received baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the Holy Ghost would have left him (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, 97)."

Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost:

What must we do to receive the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost?

keep baptismal covenants

act upon promptings

invite daily through prayer

Recognizing the Influence of the Holy Ghost:

communicates with us quietly, "a still small voice" (Hel. 5:30)

President Packer said, "a voice you feel more than you hear", most will say "I had a feeling", "This voice speaks gently, prompting you what to do or what to say, or it may caution or warn you."

happy

comfort

stupor of thought if what we want is not the right thing for us

calm

peaceful

One of God's Greatest Gifts:

"The gift of the Holy Ghost is one of God’s greatest gifts to us. Through the Holy Ghost we may know that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ, and that His Church has been restored to the earth. We may have the promptings of the Holy Ghost to show us all the things we should do (see 2 Nephi 32:5). The Holy Ghost sanctifies us to prepare us for God’s presence. We may enjoy the gifts of the Spirit (see chapter 22 in this book). This great gift from our Heavenly Father can also bring peace to our hearts and an understanding of the things of God (see 1 Corinthians 2:9–12)."

FHE Lessons:

This is a wonderful lesson to share for Family Home Evening. Here are a few others connected to the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Sharing Time: One of God's Greatest Gifts

Sharing Time: The Holy Ghost Can Help Me

Sharing Time: The Gift of the Holy Ghost

LDS Living: The Holy Ghost

Midweek Activity: Fun & Fabulous Craft Night

2010-11-08T19:39:00.000-08:00

Join us for our Fun & Fabulous Craft Night, Tuesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served and a nursery provided. Here are the fabulous crafts you can sign up for:

Subway Art Plaque: You will need to bring 2 sheets of scrapbook paper to complete your plaque of choice. If you would like to make more than one plaque, the cost will be $2.00 for each additional plaque. There are plaques for Winter, Fall, & Halloween. (Spring & Summer will also be available that night).

Winter Plaque

Winter Plaque

Halloween Plaque

Fall Plaque

Holiday Gift Tags: Supplies provided. Just bring yourself to make them.

Fabric Flowers: You will need to bring 1/8 yard of 2 coordinating fabrics, and 2 buttons. Makes two flowers.

These flowers look really cute on purses, they can dress up a sweater, or would look great on a headband, and they are easy to make.

You can sign up for any of these projects by leaving a comment or sign up on Sunday at the table next to the Relief Society room. Hope you can join us!

Sunday Happenings

2010-11-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

Instructor: Sister Baumann
Lesson: Charity Never Faileth

Sister Baumann started out with the song "If the Savior Stood Beside Me" (video above).

What is Charity?

Serving Others
Unconditional Love
Kindness
Reaching Out
Non-Judgemental

President Monsen taught us that there are several ways we can show charity to one another in his talk "Charity Never Faileth". He illustrates this using several stories.

"A young couple, Lisa and John, moved into a new neighborhood. One morning while they were eating breakfast, Lisa looked out the window and watched her next-door neighbor hanging out her wash.“That laundry’s not clean!” Lisa exclaimed. “Our neighbor doesn’t know how to get clothes clean!” John looked on but remained silent. Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, Lisa would make the same comments. A few weeks later Lisa was surprised to glance out her window and see a nice, clean wash hanging in her neighbor’s yard. She said to her husband, “Look, John—she’s finally learned how to wash correctly! I wonder how she did it.” John replied, “Well, dear, I have the answer for you. You’ll be interested to know that I got up early this morning and washed our windows!” Tonight I’d like to share with you a few thoughts concerning how we view each other. Are we looking through a window which needs cleaning? Are we making judgments when we don’t have all the facts? What do we see when we look at others? What judgments do we make about them?"

"Forty-seven years ago this general conference, I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. At the time, I had been serving on one of the general priesthood committees of the Church, and so before my name was presented, I sat with my fellow members of that priesthood committee, as was expected of me. My wife, however, had no idea where to go and no one with whom she could sit and, in fact, was unable to find a seat anywhere in the Tabernacle. A dear friend of ours, who was a member of one of the general auxiliary boards and who was sitting in the area designated for the board members, asked Sister Monson to sit with her. This woman knew nothing of my call—which would be announced shortly—but she spotted Sister Monson, recognized her consternation, and graciously offered her a seat. My dear wife was relieved and grateful for this kind gesture. Sitting down, however, she heard loud whispering behind her as one of the board members expressed her annoyance to those around her that one of her fellow board members would have the audacity to invite an “outsider” to sit in this area reserved only for them. There was no excuse for her unkind behavior, regardless of who might have been invited to sit there. However, I can only imagine how that woman felt when she learned that the “intruder” was the wife of the newest Apostle."

There are many charitable things that happen in our ward: Visiting teaching each month, reaching out to those who need it, feeding the missionaries when the family doesn't have a lot themselves, meals being taken to those in need, being willing to help with activities, and many more things.

Yet, there is still a lot of need in our ward and neighborhoods and homes.

2 Cor. 13: 4-8: Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

Would you continue to do the same things if the "Savior stood beside you?"

Family Home Evening Ideas:

LDS Living: Service
LDS Living: Good Works
LDS Living: Love One Another
Other Site: Charity

Visiting Teaching Idea

2010-10-13T22:02:00.001-07:00

You can download these cute Pillow Boxes here. It would be a really cute and easy way to let your sisters know you're thinking about them, just add a note and a little treat. Sugardoodle is a great site for lesson helps, activity ideas, etc...

Sunday Happenings

2010-10-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 19: Repentance
Instructor: Sister Ashby

Sister Ashby started out her lesson with an object lesson using thread. She asked Sister Stoddard try to break a single piece of thread which represented a sin, or bad habit. Of course, it was easily broken. She then proceeded to wrap the thread around Sister Stoddard"s two hands, each wrap represented another sin. In the end Sister Stoddard was not able to break the many pieces of thread which held her hands bound. Sins are very similar! If we take the time to stop the little sins before they become bad habits or big sins, they will be easier to break.

What is repentance?
Repentance is the way provided for us to become free from our sins and receive forgiveness for them. Sins slow our spiritual progression and can even stop it. Repentance makes it possible for us to grow and develop spiritually again. The privilege of repenting is made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

What are the principles of Repentance?

Recognize: We must admit to ourselves we have sinned
Feel Sorrow: What is the difference between Godly Sorrow & Feeling Bad because you were caught?
Forsake: STOP the sin
Confess: to Heavenly Father or the proper Priesthood Authority
Make Restitution: Make it right as mucha s possible
Forgive Others/Self:
Keep the Commandments: President Kimball said: “First, one repents. Having gained that ground he then must live the commandments of the Lord to retain his vantage point. This is necessary to secure complete forgiveness” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, 43).

What are some possible consequences of procrastinating our repentance?
The prophets have declared that “this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God” (Alma 34:32). We should repent now, every day. When we get up in the morning, we should examine ourselves to see whether the Spirit of God is with us. At night before we go to sleep, we should review our acts and words of the day and ask the Lord to help us recognize the things for which we need to repent. By repenting every day and having the Lord forgive our sins, we will experience the daily process of becoming perfect. As with Alma, our happiness and joy can be sweet and exquisite.

FHE Helps

Sharing Time: I Can Repent and Be Baptized

Sharing Time: Repentance -- Turing From Wrong to Right

Sharing Time: Clean Again

LDS Living: Atonement

LDS Living: Repentance

Prepared Not Scared Blog: FHE- Repentance great for youth!

Visiting Teaching Luncheon

2010-10-09T21:25:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank everyone who was able to attend our Visiting Teaching Luncheon, as well as for all those who provided the delicious food. We were able to receive wonderful, uplifting messages from Sister Baumann, Sister Park, and Sister Evans. Everyone was encouraged to really get to know the sisters they visit teach! This can be done by sending them a note, or a letter, taking them out for lunch on their birthday, sharing of testimony with them, making sure they know you care by truly getting to know them and being there for them. We were able to see some beautiful videos about visiting teaching, go here to view one of them. We were also blessed to have Sister Seely share her testimony of Visiting Teaching through this beautiful poem:

"IF FOR VISITING TEACHERS"

If YOU CAN LOVE EACH woman that you visit,

Because she is the mother of a home;

If you can find in each a lovely virtue

then finding it-be sure to pass it on;

If you can distregard the littered parlor

Or dirty dishes that you are sure to fine;

But take your message to the one who lives there

And make her feel that you're friendly, wise and kind.

If you can sympathize where there is sorrow,

Can calm the troubles waters where there is strife;

If you can make her know that her tomorrows

Hold more than just the struggles of this life;

If you can drive away her fears;

If you can leave one thought or inspiration

For her to carry through the years.

If she can confide in you when there is trouble

And know that you, her confidence will keep;

If you can help a tired and weary mother

To make a bed or rock a child to sleep;

If you can do these things, and all others

That I am sure are there to do,

Yours is a mission like the Master's

And blessings will be given unto you.

By, Sister Anna Lou Seely

We would love to have you share some experiences about Visiting Teaching with us. How have visiting teachers touched your life? What have you done to make your visits special for those you visit teach? Leave a comment below if you would like to share.

I found a fun Halloween poem that you could take to your sisters this month, go here to see it!

Visiting Teaching Luncheon

2010-10-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

Come join us for our Visiting Teaching Luncheon

Saturday October 9, 2010

11:00 a.m.

Ward Building/ Casual Dress

We will be providing lunch and a short program

Fun General Conference Treats & Activities

2010-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

You can find the recipe for these yummy

Reeses No Bake Peanut Buttter Bars over at Our Best Bites

Head on over to Picky Palate to find out how to make these darling

Reeses Puffs Crunch Monster Eyeballs

Go to Inside BruCrewLife to get the recipe for these delicious looking
Pumpkin Spice Brownie Bites!

General Conference Activities for Kids of All Ages

You can find a General Conference Packet or individualized packets for Youth, Senior & Junior Primary, & Nursery at Sugardoodle.net

General Conference Activity Pages can be found at The Idea Door

Lds.org has some fun activities: The Friend Magazine site and Conference Activities

Sunday Happenings

2010-09-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Watching With All Perseverance, Elder Bednar, May 2010 Ensign
Instructor: We want to thank Sister Geist for filling in this week, she did a great job!

"Recently I was driving my car as drops of rain from a thunderstorm began to fall on the windshield. On the side of the road, an electronic sign displayed a timely warning: “Standing Water Ahead.” The surface on which I was driving appeared to be quite safe. But this vital information enabled me to prepare for a potential hazard I had not expected and could not yet see. As I continued toward my destination, I slowed down and watched carefully for additional signs of danger.
Early warning signals are evident in many aspects of our lives. For example, a fever can be a first symptom of sickness or disease. Various financial and labor market indicators are used to forecast future trends in local and national economies. And depending upon the area of the world in which we live, we may receive flood, avalanche, hurricane, tsunami, tornado, or winter storm warnings."

Elder Bednar taught about "Three Components of a Spiritual Early Warning System" that will help parents strengthen the testimonies of their children and bring the closer to the Savior.

1. Reading and Talking about the Book of Mormon:

Contains the fullness of the Gospel
2 Ne. 25:4- "My soul delighteth in the plainness unto my people, that they may learn"....plain means instruction that is clear and easily understood
The Book of Mormon is the most correct book on earth because it centers on the truth
The unique combination of the two factors-- a focus on the Savior and the plainness of the teachings -- powerfully invites the confirming witness of the third member of the Godhead, even the Holy Ghost.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that by abiding by the precepts found in The Book of Mormon would help us "get nearer to God" than any other book.
Helps us resist temptation
Children and Youth may not fully understand all of the words and stories..."but they certainly can feel the "familiar spirit"!
Have you had experiences with the Book of Mormon that have brought you closer to the Savior? What about your children?

2. Bearing Testimony Spontaneously:

Be aware of opportunities where you could bear testimony to your children
Naturally occurring family conversations at dinner
Testimonies do not always need to begin with "I'd bear you my testimony."
Could be as simple as, "I know I was blessed with inspiration at work today" or "The truth in this scripture always has been a powerful source of direction for me"
Traveling in a car or bus
While answering questions chidren my have...during discussions
When have you been able to bear your testimony to your children?

3. Inviting Children to Act:

James 1:22: We should be, "doers of the word, and not hearers only."
Parents have the sacred responsibility to help children to act and to seek learning by faith.
Giving a man a fish feeds him for one meal. Teaching a man to fish feeds him for a lifetime.
What are some times you have been able to help your children choose to act in righteous decisions?

Elder Bednar concluded by saying, "I bear witness that parents who consistently read and talk about the Book of Mormon with their children, who share testimony spontaneously with their children, and who invite children as gospel learners to act and not merely be acted upon will be blessed with eyes that can see afar off (see Moses 6:27) and with ears that can hear the sound of the trumpet (see Ezekiel 33:2–16). The spiritual discernment and inspiration you will receive from the combination of these three holy habits will enable you to stand as watchmen on the tower for your families—”watching … with all perseverance” (Ephesians 6:18)—to the blessing of your immediate family and your future posterity. I so promise and testify in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen."

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: I Feel Reverent When I Read the Scriptures

Sharing Time: Study the Book of Mormon

LDS Living FHE Lesson: Choose the Right

LDS Living FHE Lesson: The Book of Mormon

Prepared not Scared Blog: Jesus Christ is the Son of God and he is a God of Miracles, P.S. she has some fun Halloween Ideas she posts during the week!

Service Auction Recap

2010-09-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Our Service Auction was a lot of fun. There were so many fun items donated! It was nice having time to talk, relax, eat, and bid on so many incredible things! Here are some of the things that were donated:

Thanks so much for everything you donated, and for bringing all of the delicious soups & salads. Those who won your items will give you a call!

Service Auction Activity on Tuesday

2010-09-19T13:54:00.000-07:00

When: Tuesday, Sept. 21 @ 6:30 p.m.

Where: The church

How it works:

1. Everyone brings an item, usually something they have made (i.e. crafts, treats, or an offer of service) for others to bid on.

2.Upon arrival, you will fill out a service survey. This survey will ask you questions such as How many loads of laundry you did this week, How often you read your scriptures, or If you have read to a child this week. For each answer there is a point value. (For example: If I did 5 loads of wash this week I might get 25 points.)

3. The points earned are used to bid on the items others brought. We have some amazing items sisters have signed up to donate. Baked goods, blankets, cute crafts, a photo session, and tons of other things!If you haven't ever been to a service auctions, you are in for a treat tonight! Please join us for a fun-filled night of bidding and bonding! Hope to see you all there!

Sunday Happenings

2010-09-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Ch. 18 Faith in Jesus Christ
Instructor: Sister Hansen

Sister Hansen started out with the question: How would you describe the concept of faith to someone who doesn't have English as their primary language?

Trust
Something that gets you through the hard times
Like the wind- something you can't see but can feel
Element of truth
Principle of action (DO)

What are things you act upon each day that you cannot see the end results of? How does fiath move you to action?

FHE
Raising Children
Hope
Teaching children the right way to live and hoping they will make the correct choices as they get older
Having faith to accept the answers when they come: "Thy will be done!"

How can we increase our faith?

We have to know him- Scripture Study, attending church meetings
Communication- daily prayer
Action: Put his words into action
Make the Savior and our Father in Heaven the center of your life
Have the desire: “But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words."
Sister Miles shared an example of keeping a journal of experiences when she has known that Heavenly Father was aware of her life. This journal has been a place she could go to, to remember these experiences and help her through hard times.

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Joseph Smith Restored the Church of Jesus Christ: http://preparednotscared.blogspot.com/2010/04/primary-theme-scripture-fhe-jesus.html

LDS Living FHE on Faith: http://www.ldsliving.com/story/4358-fhe-faith

Back to School Relief Society Activity

2010-08-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

We want to thank all of you who came to our Back to School Activity on Tuesday night. We hope you enjoyed getting to know one another better, we learned that many of us are night owls and a few of us have tried some very interesting foods! We have so many incredible sisters in our ward....it was fun learning something new about them. Here are some of the questions we asked below:
Assignment #1: Getting to Know You in a Minute
-What was the best day of the past week for you - why?
- Choose a unique item from your wallet and explain why you carry it around.
-If you were given a million dollars and 24 hours to spend it in, (no depositing it in the bank or investing it) what would you buy?
-If you could have an endless supply of any food, what would you get?
-If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
-What’s your favorite thing to do in the summer?
-If you were an ice cream flavor, which one would you be and why?
-If you could visit any place in the world, where would you choose to go and why
-Are you a morning or night person?
-What are your favorite hobbies?
-What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
-Name one of your favorite things about someone in your family.
-Tell us about a unique or quirky habit of yours.
-If you had to describe yourself using three words, it would be…
-If someone made a movie of your life would it be a drama, a comedy, a romantic-comedy, action film, or science fiction?

Sister Williams kept some of the kids entertained with some children's books. Do you have a favorite book?

Assignment #2: ABCD’s of Money Management

This site has great organizational ideas. She did a section on Money Management for kids, go here to find out more. http://www.simpleorganizedliving.com/category/time-money/
Allowance:
Important for children of all ages to have some of their own money.
Take the time to inform your children what they can do to earn an allowance and then give them a few simple ideas on how to save/spend their allowance.
Try to let them make some of their own financial decisions first!
Beyond Saving:
Teach your children to save some {or most} their money.
Open some type of savings account for kids
Teach your children that it’s OK to spend their money as long as it’s a thought-out decision and not an impulse purchase.
Encourage kids to donate to a charity or sponsor a child from another country
Calculate Costs:
Do your children know how much you spend on groceries, gas, utilities bills, etc? Probably not…and that’s OK.
Try a fun project to put them “in charge” of their back-to-school shopping. Ask them to estimate how much their supplies might cost. Then help them shop (keeping track of prices) and see if they can stay under budget.
Often kids completely underestimate how much everything costs…this might be a fun and education learning experience for them.
Discipline:
Pay Tithing
Teach children to keep track of all their income, spending, saving, giving etc.
Help children set specific goals and then make plans to reach these goals.
Practicing disciplined spending and delayed gratification NOW, will benefit your children later in life.

School Lunch Ideas:

Simple Organized Living Blog: Simple Sack Lunches

Studio 5- Sack Lunch Notes

Studio 5: In the Bag- School lunches made simple & sleek

Good Things Utah: Save on Snack Foods

Sunday Happenings

2010-08-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 16- The Church of Jesus Christ in Former Times
Instructor: Sister Hansen

Article of Faith #6: "We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth."

There are six features covered in this lesson that identify the Church of Jesus Christ:

1. Revelation: "When Jesus Christ established His Church, He personally instructed and directed its leaders." This revelation has not stopped today. What are some of the ways we receive continued revelation?

General Conference
Ensign, other Church Magazines
Proclamation to the Family
Each of us can receive revelation pertaining to our lives through prayer

2. Authority from God: "The Father gave this authority to Jesus Christ (see Hebrews 5:4-6), who in turn ordained His Apostles and gave them the power and authority of the priesthood (see Luke 9:1-2; Mark 3:14). What blessings come to us because of the priesthood?

Temple Ordinances, Eternal Families
Blessings of Healing
Father's Blessings
Sacrament
Restoration of the Church

3. The Church Organization: "The Church of Jesus Christ was a carefully organized unit." What stands out about the way the church is organized?

Leaders are not paid
Organized by the Lord
We are called to serve in callings that bless members of the church
It is the same no matter where you go around the world

"The New Testament shows that this Church organization was intended to continue. For example, the death of Judas left only eleven Apostles. Soon after Jesus had ascended into heaven, the eleven Apostles met together to choose someone to take the place of Judas. Through revelation from the Holy Ghost, they chose Matthias. (See Acts 1:23–26.) Jesus had set a pattern for twelve Apostles to govern the Church. It seemed clear that the organization was to continue as He had established it."

4. First Principles and Ordinances: Faith, Repentance, Baptism, Gift of the Holy Ghost. Faith is always a principle that is needed, even those that saw the Savior perform miracles needed Faith to know that he was who he said....he wasn't just a man or a prophet....he is the Son of God.

5. Ordinances Performed for the Dead: Why is it important for us to attend the temple?

To help those who have died receive their Temple Ordinances
It helps us understand the covenants we have made each time we go

6. Spiritual Gifts: "All faithful members of the Church were entitled to receive gifts of the Spirit. Some of these gifts were faith, including the power to heal and to be healed; prophecy; and visions." What are some of the gifts that people have that have blessed your life?

Visiting Teachers- knowing when to call or what questions to ask
Scriptural Understanding
Missionaries learning a new language
Service- recognize or be prompted how we can help others in need

Apostasy from the True Church: "This happened while the Apostles were still alive and supervising the young, growing Church. Some members taught ideas from their old pagan or Jewish beliefs instead of the simple truths taught by Jesus." Satan is still trying to make this happen again today in very subtle ways. Sister Hansen shared a quote, "I want to live my life in a way so that when I wake up, Satan says, "Oh no! She's awake!" I hope we can all live our lives in that way.

Family Home Evening Ideas:

LDS Living Magazine: Priesthood Blessings

Sharing Time: Jesus Organized His Church

Sharing Time: I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Sunday Happenings

2010-08-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Chapter 15- The Lord's Covenant People
Instructor: Sister Ashby

What is a covenant? "Within the gospel, a covenant means a sacred agreement or mutual promise between God and a person or a group of people. In making a covenant, God promises a blessing for obedience to particular commandments. He sets the terms of His covenants, and He reveals these terms to His prophets. If we choose to obey the terms of the covenant, we receive promised blessings. If we choose not to obey, He withholds the blessings, and in some instances a penalty also is given."

What blessings and responsibilities come to God's covenant people today?

"Along with the blessings we receive as the Lord’s covenant people, we have great responsibilities. The Lord promised Abraham that through his descendants the gospel would be taken to all the earth. We are fulfilling this responsibility through the full-time missionary program of the Church and the missionary work done by the members. This opportunity to preach the gospel to all the world belongs only to the Lord’s Church and His covenant people."

Scriptures to consider:

1 Peter 2: 9-10 "I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise."

Let's review the covenants we've made and strive to fulfill them to the best of our ability so that we may recieve the blessings of Heaven.

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Sharing Time: I Can Keep My Covenant
Sharing Time: Clean Again!
Sharing Time: Baptism, My First Covenant
Sharing Time: Keeping Promises

Sunday Happenings

2010-07-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Lesson: April 2010 Conference Talk "Continue in Patience"
Instructor: Sister Smith

What is patience?

"The ability to put our desires on hold for a time"
"active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can -- working, hoping, and exercising faith; bearing hardships with fortitude, even when the desires of our hearts are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well!"
"a godly attribute that can heal souls; unlock treasures of knowledge and understanding, and transform ordinary men and women into saints and angels. Patience is truly a fruit of the spirit".
"staying with something until the end. It means delaying immediate gratification for future blessings."
"Patience means to abide in faith, knowing that sometimes it is in the waiting rather than in the receiving that we grow the most."

Elder Uchtdorf started out his talk by sharing an experiment with four year old children. Each child was given a marshmallow and told that they could eat it now, but if they waited for 15 minutes they would then get two marshmellows. The children were left alone and watched behind a two-way mirror. "Some of the children ate the marshmallow immediately; some could wait only a few minutes before giving in to temptation. Only 30 percent were able to wait.
But as time went on, he kept track of the children and began to notice an interesting correlation: the children who could not wait struggled later in life and had more behavioral problems, while those who waited tended to be more positive and better motivated, have higher grades and incomes, and have healthier relationships. What started as a simple experiment with children and marshmallows became a landmark study suggesting that the ability to wait—to be patient—was a key character trait that might predict later success in life."

"Every one of us is called to wait in our own way. We wait for answers to prayers. We wait for things which at the time may appear so right and so good to us that we can't possibly imagine why Heavenly Father would delay the answer."

"The lessons we learn from patience will cultivate our character, lift our lives, and heighten our happiness. They will help us to become worthy priesthood bearers and faithful disciples of our Master, Jesus Christ."

Family Home Evening:

This talk would make a great Family Home Evening lesson go here for a copy.

LDS Living has a FHE lesson on patience, go here to see it.

Another idea would be to find a Young Woman Personal Progress goal that would fit with patience and work on it this week.

Decorating on a Dime Recap

2010-07-22T22:24:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the beautiful ladies of the 4th ward! It was so fun to have so many of you there. We had the most divine Milk & White Chocolate Fondu! Thanks for bringing all of the delicious goodies to dip!

We are so glad Sister Webb could be with us to share some very fun & practical ideas for decorating our homes, here are a few notes:

1. Find your style: I've never thought about this before. It makes sense to find out what you like....it really narrows down the search when you are decorating. Look through magazines and create a collage of the colors, ideas, decorations, & styles you like. It will help you define your style and help you decide if you are more Traditional, Shabby Chic, Country, Modern/Contemporary, etc.... Here are some web sites that also have quick style quizzes in case you would like some more direction....they seemed pretty accurate when I took them.

http://www.sproost.com/ or http://home.ivillage.com/decorating/0,,br7sgnjf,00.html

2. Get rid of clutter: Keep what you love or anything that has sentimental value.....get rid of the extras. Have a yard sale! Use the money to purchase the basics that you will need, like paint.

3. Start small: Don't try to do everything at once! Take it one room or project at a time. Start with the entryway....the place people will see as they walk into your home.

4. Measure your space: Space plan, draw it out, don't forget the ceiling height.

5. Paint: The most inexpensive way to change the look & feel of a room.

6. Accessorize: add pops of color to a room by adding a rugs, throws, pillows, or pictures.

Go here for an easy pillow cover tutorial!

7. Sofa/Chairs: An inexpensive way to change your sofa is to add a slip cover. You can also recover chairs to give them an updated look.

8. Mirrors: Make a small room look bigger by placing a mirror across from a window.

9. Remember to use odd numbers, different heights, textures & patterns when decorating a table or shelf!
10. Have Fun! Make it your own! Add your own touches.

Here are some fun blogs you can check out for additional ideas:

Today, Young House Love had a post about "Seven Cheap Ways To Crisp Up A Room"

http://www.decorchick.com/
http://houseofsmiths.blogspot.com/
http://granvillehouse.blogspot.com/
http://www.allthingsthrifty.com/
http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/
http://www.younghouselove.com/

Happy Decorating on a Dime!

Decorating on a Dime

2010-07-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

Don't forget our Relief Society Activity tonight: "Decorating on a Dime", 7:00 @ the church. Sister Webb will be sharing her expertise with us on where to begin when decorating our homes, how to spruce up garage sale finds, and helping us know how to space plan. Hope to see you there.

Book Club Change

2010-07-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

Book Club has changed to Tuesday, July 27. We will meet at Sister Murphy's House at 7:00 p.m. We will be reading Stolen Lives by, Malika Oufkir. Join us for a great discussion, friends and refreshments afterwards!

Sunday Happenings

2010-06-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

Today Sister Ashby taught ch. 11 The Life of Christ. This would be a great lesson to use as a Family Home Evening. There is a lot of information included about the life of the Savior. Sister Ashby showed us part of the DVD put out by the church entitled "Finding Faith in Christ". This video can be checked out from the library or purchased at the Distribution Center. The lesson was ended with this quote from ch. 11:

"Jesus taught: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:13–14). He willingly and humbly went through the sorrow in Gethsemane and the suffering on the cross so we could receive all the blessings of the plan of salvation. To receive these blessings, we must come unto Him, repent of our sins, and love Him with all our hearts. He said:
“And this is the gospel which I have given unto you—that I came into the world to do the will of my Father, because my Father sent me.
“And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross; and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that I might draw all men unto me … that they may be judged according to their works. …
“For the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do. …
“Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am” (3 Nephi 27:13–15, 21, 27; italics added)."

• What are your feelings as you ponder the Savior’s sacrifice for you?

FHE Ideas: (Sorry this is late...maybe you can do it next week!)

-Click here for a lesson about the Savior from LDS Living Magazine.
-Click here for a sharing time entitled "Savior and Redeemer" from the April 1999, Friend.
-Check out Prepared Not Scared each Mondy for FHE ideas

Sunday Happenings

2010-06-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

Sister Baumann taught our lesson last Sunday on Member Missionary Work. We had some special guests from the Senior Primary come in and sing "I Hope They Call Me On a Mission". They did such a great job! Sister Baumann told the story of how her Mom was converted to the church through a neighborhood friend. She stressed the point that "We are all on a mission. We are called to teach".

L. Tom Perry told this story in the May 2009 Ensign. While driving up Provo Canyon there were emergency vehicles blocking the road. He said, "As I looked up the rock face along the east side of the entrance to Provo Canyon, I saw some men climbing. I assumed they were the search and rescue people. What were they climbing to? Eventually I saw it. Somehow a ewe, a lost sheep, had made her way about 25 feet (8 m) up the rock face, and she was stranded there. She was not a mountain goat or mountain sheep, just a white ewe separated from a shepherd’s flock.
As I had nothing else to do, I searched the rock face for a way up to where the ewe stood. I could not for the life of me figure out how she ever got there. Nevertheless, she was there, and all the commotion in front of me was focused on her rescue. To this day, I don’t know the end of the story since the police figured out a way to get the traffic moving again.
As I drove away, a concern bothered me. While the search and rescue personnel were certainly well intentioned, how would the ewe react to them? I’m sure they had a plan for how they would calm her—perhaps they would shoot her with a tranquilizer dart from a close distance so they could catch her before she fell. Knowing nothing of their plan but knowing a little about how animals react to being cornered by strangers, I worried about the feasibility of their rescue effort. And then I wondered, “Where is the shepherd?” Certainly he would have the best chance of approaching the ewe without alarming her. The shepherd’s calming voice and helping hand were what the situation needed, but he seemed to be missing in action.
As members of the Church, sometimes we seem to be missing in action, just like this shepherd. Consider for a moment what President Monson told the newly called mission presidents at the 2008 seminar for new mission presidents. He said: “There is … no substitute for a member-oriented proselyting program. Tracting will not substitute for it. Golden questions will not substitute for it. A member-oriented program is the key to success, and it works wherever we try it” (“Motivating Missionaries,” June 22, 2008, 8).

What can we do to share the gospel with those we live by, work with, or meet?

D&C 88:81- Warn our neighbors
D&C 33:7- Open Your Mouth
D&C 18: 15-16- How great shall be your joy!

We need to be looking for opportunities and be prepared for those opportunities when they are presented. You never know when your testimony will touch someone. There are many missionary opportunities: Family History, Food Storage, Gardening, etc... that could start a conversation.

Elder Perry stated "Missionaries will continue to do the best they can, but wouldn't it be better if you and I stepped up to do a job that is rightfully ours?"

Have you had any opportunities this week to share the gospel? If not, what could you do next week?

Sunday Happenings

2010-05-31T09:09:00.000-07:00

Today we had a combined lesson with the Priesthood taught by Brother Ashby and Brother Stout of the Bishopbric. They spoke about Self Reliance breaking it down between both Spiritual and Temporal. Brother Stout made the connection that you cannot have one without the other, that Temporal self-reliance is Spiritual self-reliance. They gave us the following pamphlets:

One for the Money
Family Home Storage
Family Finances

Elder Hales has given a wonderful talk on Becoming Provident Providers both Temporally and Spiritually. You can also go to http://www.providentliving.org/ for more information.

Announcements:

Amanda Bell is going on a Humanitarian Service Opportunity trip to Honduras. If you would be interested in donating some items for her to take please refer to the following list:

Over the counter medications: creams, anti-fungal creams, Alleclear, Alavert (any allergy medications), all medications needed
Small Children's toys
Mosquito Nets (especially baby size)
Any donations are welcome!

Drop donations off at the Bell's house or call them for pick up. Amanda is leaving this next weekend so in the next couple of days would be great! Thanks for your help!

Summer Fun

2010-05-29T11:43:00.001-07:00

Hopefully, summer weather is on its way! Warm weather or not, school is almost out and I found some fun ideas to keep your kids busy on LDS Living. Go here, to find 16 ways to start summer break out with a bang!

Book Club

2010-05-27T19:28:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time at book club last week. We were able to get a quilt started and Sister Olpin made this cute cake to go along with our book "The Forgotten Garden". Thanks for all those who came, join us in July for our next Book Club.

Sunday Happenings

2010-05-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Today Sister Smith taught ch. 10: Scriptures. She did a great job getting everyone involved!

Bible: Divided into two sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. Many prophecies in the Old Testament foretell the coming of a Savior and Redeemer. The New Testament tells of the life of that Savior and Redeemer, who is Jesus Christ. It also tells of the establishing of His Church in that day. “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly” (Articles of Faith 1:8).

Book of Mormon: “There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path. The scriptures are called ‘the words of life,’ and nowhere is that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon. … ‘Every Latter-day Saint should make the study of this book a lifetime pursuit’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 4–7; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 5–7; quoting Marion G. Romney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1980, 90; or Ensign, May 1980, 67).

When did you first gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon?

Doctrine and Covenants: The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern revelations. In section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord reveals that the book is published to the inhabitants of the earth to prepare them for His coming:
“Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the earth, that all that will hear may hear:
“Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh” (D&C 1:11–12).

Pearl of Great Price: The Pearl of Great Price contains the book of Moses, the book of Abraham, and some inspired writings of Joseph Smith. The book of Moses contains an account of some of the visions and writings of Moses, revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith. It clarifies doctrines and teachings that were lost from the Bible and gives added information concerning the Creation of the earth."

What is your favorite scripture?
When is the best time for you to read the scriptures? How do you like to study them?

Sister Smith mentioned that "we should read the scriptures because of our need for joy in our lives!" How have the scriptures brought joy into your life?

Family Home Evening Ideas:

Friend 2006: Sharing Time- The Scriptures Show the Way
Friend 1995: Saring Time- The Scriptures
The blog Prepared Not Scared always has a FHE activity idea each Monday
You can find additional FHE activities at LDS Living

Announcements:

Sister Miles had a baby girl last week. Both her and baby A are doing great!
Tuesday: Book Club @ Sister Stott's 7 p.m.
Friday: Family Movie Night, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Showing "Little Rascals". Bring blankets or chairs to sit in!
Sister Perkins is going to have a quilt set up in her basement. If you would like to help tie it please contact her.

Breakfast & Blankets

2010-05-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

We want to thank all of those who came and helped us tie quilts on Saturday. We were able to finish two quilts, which will be donated to the Humanitarian Center. We also want to thank Sister Sanderson, Sister Adamson, & Sister Eyre for getting us our delicious donuts, muffins, milk, & juice!

Sister Spotlight

2010-05-14T08:44:00.001-07:00

Our spotlight sister is Kari Winkelkotter. She has grown up in Utah and is the youngest of five half brothers and three half sisters. She keeps busy with a cute, energetic, three year old little boy.

Her favorite colors are: Pink, Black, Blue, and Red, and has too many favorite foods to name. Kari enjoys watching movies and doing Martial Arts. She is also a Martial Arts instructor where she instructs all age groups & choreographs some of the team routines. She loves Karate and is a 3rd degree black belt. Something you may not know about her is she only has one pair of plain white socks all the rest are different....she loves SOCKS! She is also deathly afraid of spiders!

One of her dreams is to go to Australia someday to meet the other half of her family. She has been a Nursery Leader and a Visiting Teacher. We are so happy that Kari is part of our Relief Society.

Sunday Happenings

2010-05-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

We would like to welcome Sister Ashby as our new teacher. Sunday, she taught Ch. 9 Prophets of God. She did a great job teaching her first lesson!

Amos 3:7 "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."

Why do we need a living prophet today?

He knows what we need as a church during this time period
As you look at what has been taught in the past....the principles never change....just the vocabulary to fit our needs today
Food Storage
Family Proclamation (look at what is happening to families in the world today)

"We should do those things the prophets tell us to do. President Wilford Woodruff said that a prophet will never be allowed to lead the Church astray: If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Woodruff (2004), 199).

What can we do to follow and sustain the prophet?

What have we been asked us to do?

Paying Tithing
Scriptures
Prayers
Temple Attendance

Make a mental checklist to see how you are doing.

Can you name all of our prophets?

What was the main emphasis while they were the prophet?

Share this lesson with your family. Here are some fun ideas that you could use for FHE, just click on the title to go to the link:

Blessing Come When We Follow The Prophet
Watchmen On the Tower
The Prophet Speaks For Heavenly Father

Faith

2010-05-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

I found this beautiful Mormon Messages video today. It is about Stephanie Nielson, survivor of a terrible plane crash. Her faith and testimony are incredible! I also love her message about motherhood. I hope you enjoy it. To view this video go here! If you would like to learn more about her story you can go here.

Sunday Happenings

2010-05-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

Sister Winklecotter gave our lesson on gratitude today. She did a great job!

D&C 59:7- "Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things."

How do you remember to show gratitude?

Serving others- helps us get perspective on our own problems
Sacrament- renew our covenants
Remembering the Atonement: reminds us to forgive others as we've been forgiven
On the way to work...make a mental list of all the things you're grateful for during the entire drive
Prayer- start with the things you're grateful for before you ask Heavenly Father for things
Keeping a gratitude journal- each day find 3-5 things you are grateful for
Hymns- singing can express gratitude
What else do you do to express gratitude?

Elder Hales has said, "Prayer is an essential part of conveying appreciation to our Heavenly Father. He awaits our expressions of gratefulness each morning and night in sincere, simple prayer from our hearts for our many blessings, gifts, and talents."

Scriptures to consider:

Mosiah 4:11-12
John 14:26
Alma 34:38

Sunday Happenings

2010-04-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sister Hansen taught from ch. 8 Praying to Our Heavenly Father today. Questions to think about:

What is Prayer?

communication with our Heavenly Father
Faith, Hope, Belief
A Gift

Why Do We Pray? (James 1:5, Alma 37:37)

to increase faith
to feel peace
express gratitude
to find comfort, pray for children/family
Repentence

When Should We Pray?

privately at least every night and every morning
family prayers
praying over meals
Church meetings
constantly have a prayer in our heart

How should We Pray?

"we should always pray in faith, "with a sincere heart, with real intent" (Moroni 10:4)

How Are Prayers Answered?

Why do you think answers to prayers are not always readily apparent? Why do you think answers to prayers do not always come when we want or in the way we want?

In what ways has Heavenly Father answered your prayers?

Last weeks lesson, The Holy Ghost (ch. 7) was given by Sister Murphy. It was her last lesson...she is now going to be in Primary, we will miss her. The spirit was definitely present during the lesson. Here are a few things to think about:

How does the Spirit communicate with you? What did the Spirit reveal to you during General Conference a couple of weeks ago? One of my favorite quotes from the lesson:

“When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost, it leaves an indelible impression on his soul, one that is not easily erased. It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with convincing force. A manifestation of an angel, or even of the Son of God himself, would impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the impressions of the Holy Ghost sink deeper into the soul and are more difficult to erase” (Answers to Gospel Questions, comp. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:151).

Announcements:

Musical Fireside tonight: 11164 S Londonberry Dr (1515 E), Sister Kerhl will be performing
Maralin Hoff the "Earthquake Lady" spoke at the Emergency Preparedness Fair yesterday. To find out more about 3-5 day emergency kits go to: http://bereadyutah.gov/ and http://homelandsecurity.utah.gov/
Sister Blanton is looking for a place to live. If you can help or know of a place please contact Bishop Carter or Sister Baumann
Sister Peck and Sister Glade had their babies. Both moms and babies are doing well.

Relief Society Activity Survey

2010-04-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

We would like to find out about what type of activities you would like us to plan. We will still have our quarterly activities i.e., Birthday Social, Fall Social, Thanksgiving/Christmas Activity. We would also like to plan smaller activities that center around provident living, and drawing closer to our Savior. Please complete the survey questions on on the right side of this blog. If you have additional suggestions, please leave a comment following this post.

General Conference Activities for Kids & Youth

2010-04-03T08:03:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited for General Conference! I love being able to be filled spiritually and set new goals that will help me draw closer to the Savior. I know it isn't always easy for kids or even youth to sit through conference. I remember my mom used to make Bingo games with mnm's as the markers, if we sat through conference and played we got to eat the mnn's afterwards. Here are a couple of sites that have some fun activities for kids & youth.

Check out lds.org for some fun conference activities for kids, go here. Have you also seen their Friend magazine site? There are great activities for the kids to do....coloring pages, puzzles, stories they can listen to, etc.... Go here, if you would like to check it out.

The other site is called Prepared not Scared! She has some fun ideas for food storage, family activities, & conference activities for youth and kids. To view her site, go here. You will need to scroll back through her past posts....she has been posting activity ideas all week.

Spotlight Sister

2010-03-31T16:44:00.001-07:00

Our spotlight sister this week is Kim Adamson. Kim has grown up in the Salt Lake area. She has two older brothers and a younger sister. Her favorite color is Robin's Egg Blue and she loves to eat lobster.

Kim has many hobbies which include pottery, fusing glass, metal, clay, and making jewelry. For work she is a Medical Microbiologist. Something you may not know about her is while in college, she won several first place state trophies in Karate. Someday she would like to travel all over Europe.

She has held many callings in Relief Society and Young Women's. Her favorite is being on the Relief Society Meeting committee, which is her calling now.

Visiting Teaching Reminder

2010-03-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder to get your Visiting Teaching done! How are your sisters doing? Kind of a funny cartoon that shows how much technology is part of our lives.

Book Club Reminder

2010-03-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder: Book Club tomorrow at Sister Olpin's house. 7:00 p.m. Come join us for a fun night out!

Sunday Happenings

2010-03-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today our lesson was taught by Sister Smith, it was taken from Bishop H. David Burton's Oct 2009 Conference talk entitled: "Let Virtue Garnish Your Thoughts".

Bishop Burton starts his talk by quoting D&C 121:45, "Let virtue garnish they thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God".

There are many virtuous traits we should make apart of our lives that end with the letters ity: this suffix means quality, state, or degree of being. Some of these virtues include: "integrity, humility, civility, fidelity, and the list goes on and on. Bishop Burton refers to these virtues ending in ity as the "ity" virtues."

We can see the lack of these virtues everywhere we look in the world. What can we do to lift ourselves above the world, and make sure we embrace these "ity" virtues? Bishop Burton states, "We need to stand tall and be firmly fixed in perpetuating Christlike virtues, even the "ity" virtues, in our everyday lives. Teaching virtuous traits begins in the home with parents who care and set the example. A good parental example encourages emulation; a poor example gives license to the children to disregard the parents' teachings and even expand the poor example. A hypocritical example destroys credibility."

"President James E. Faust suggested that integrity is the mother of many virtues. He noted that integrity can be defined "as a firm adherence to a code of moral values." It is difficult for a person to display virtuous traits if he or she lacks integrity."

Bishop Burton ends by saying, "I testify and declare that our Heavenly Father expects His children to exercise integrity, civility, fidelity, charity, generosity, morality, and all the "ity" virtues. May we have the humility to take the opportunity to act upon our responsibility to demonstrate our ability to do so, I pray in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen."

Which of the "ity" virtues could be worked on this week to bring you closer to the Savior?

Quote of the Week

2010-03-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

"Ones life....cannot be both faith-filled and stress-free... "Therefore, how can you and I really expect to glide naively through life, as if to say, 'Lord give me experience, but not grief, not sorrow, not pain, not opposition, not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and fully share Thy joy!" "Real faith.... is required to endure this necessary but painful development process." (Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Ensign May 1991, 88)

Sunday Happenings

2010-03-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

Today was Ward Conference. Our lesson was taught by Sister Corrigan our Stake Relief Society President. Her lesson was taken from President Monsen's Nov. 2009 talk entitled "What Have I Done for Someone Today?"

"A few years ago I read an article written by Jack McConnell, MD. He grew up in the hills of southwest Virginia in the United States as one of seven children of a Methodist minister and a stay-at-home mother. Their circumstances were very humble. He recounted that during his childhood, every day as the family sat around the dinner table, his father would ask each one in turn, “And what did you do for someone today?”1 The children were determined to do a good turn every day so they could report to their father that they had helped someone. Dr. McConnell calls this exercise his father’s most valuable legacy, for that expectation and those words inspired him and his siblings to help others throughout their lives. As they grew and matured, their motivation for providing service changed to an inner desire to help others."

Refer to the following scriptures:

Luke 9:24, Luke 10: 30-35, D&C 18: 10, 15-16

What prevents us from serving others?

We can start with visiting teaching. Why do we do it? Do we care for our sisters and love them? What qualities do we look for in a friend?

Someone we feel safe with
Someone who will watch over us
Do we take the time to Build a Relationship of Trust
We have to be patient for our relationships to grow with our sisters
A two-way relationship

Sometimes it is people who are in the church who need to know they are cared for the most!

President Monsen stated: "My brothers and sisters, may we ask ourselves the question which greeted Dr. Jack McConnell and his brothers and sisters each evening at dinnertime: “What have I done for someone today?” If we truly listen, we may hear that voice from far away say to us, as it spoke to another, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”15 That each may qualify for this blessing from our Lord is my prayer, and I offer it in His name, even Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen."

President Perkins also spoke to us. He read the words to the hymn "As Sisters in Zion"

He spoke of the great gifts that we as sisters have been given. He said, "Please don't forget your Divine Nature & Individual Worth. Each of you has been given gifts, talents, & responsibilities that men are not given.....they are things that only you as sisters can do!"

He spoke of being rescuers for one another. Over half of our stake is less-active. He spoke of the wonderful opportunity we have to rescue one another. It will take courage to approach those we don't know, we need to "be strong and of a good courage" referring to the Young Men and Women's theme this year. We need to make sure we are taking time for ourselves each day to worship. During this time it is important to remember our baptismal covenants, take time to pray, & read our scriptures and ponder their meaning. As we do this President Perkins said we will be energized through the spirit, we will be prompted to know who we need to call or visit.

Announcements:

-Mon. March 22: Murray Cannery Assignment- Salsa

-Tues. March 23: Single Mothers Seminar- SLCC Miller Campus 9750 S 300 W- Employer Open House 5:30-8:30 p.m., Speaker 7-8 p.m. For more information www.phputah.org

-Thurs. March 25: Sandy Home Storage 1:00 p.m.
Blood Drive 3-8:00 p.m.

-Sat. March 27: Scouting for Food pick-up

-Mon. March 29-April 2: Stake D.I. Drive

-Sat. April 17: Emergency Preparedness Fair 10:00 a.m.

Sister Spotlight

2010-03-18T17:21:00.001-07:00

Janice Woods was born in Logan, Utah and raised in Bloomington, ID- which she loved because it is such a peaceful place, and everyone is very supportive of one another. She has three sisters and three brothers and comes right in the middle. Janice has four children- 2 boys and 2 girls which live in Utah, Nebraska, & California. She would love to visit her children and grandchildren more often.

Her favorite color is green and she loves to eat chocolate. Growing flowers and reading are two of her favorite things to do. For a living, she takes Driver's Licenses away! One thing you may not know about her is she met President Monsen in his office when her father was called as a Bishop. Janice has held many callings in Primary, & Relief Society, her favorite calling was Nursery because "the little ones are so precious and innocent."

Why Every Woman Needs Relief Society

2010-03-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

"Soon after the Prophet Joseph Smith organized and established the Church, he also organized the women’s Relief Society. He said, “The Church was never perfectly organized until the women were thus organized.”1 The Relief Society is an essential part of the Church, and as a presidency, we hope we can help you understand why it is essential in your life" (Ensign, Nov. 2009, Sylvia Allred).

What blessings has Relief Society brought into your life? What have you learned or made through your participation?

Can you figure out the decade these items were made?
Do you remember other popular items that were made through the years? What did your mother's or grandmother's make?

Recipe for Chicken Salad Sandwiches:

10 lbs. chicken (cooked and cubed)
1 bottle Salad Dressing
1 bottle Mayonnaise
2 bunches of celery (chopped)
2 bunches of green onion (chopped)
Red Grapes (cut in half- add to desired quantity)
Cashew halves & pieces (add to desired quantity)

Mix all ingredients together with hands. Add cashews right before serving. Serves 100 when served on smaller croissants.

Sunday Happenings

2010-03-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Today our lesson was chapter 5 in Gospel Priniples- The Creation, taught by Sister Murphy. You can also refer to: Christ and the Creation, Bruce R. McConkie, Ensign, 1982 as well as

Four Accounts of Creation, Keith Meservy, Ensign, Jan. 1986 . What do we learn from each account:
Genesis: "God created all things, Male & female were created in the image of God, & We are commanded to multiply"
Moses: "The earth and everything on it were created spiritually before they were created physically" (Moses 3:5)
Abraham: "the book of Abraham clarifies that God “organized” the worlds out of unorganized matter."
Temple Account: "It is in the temple account of the Creation that we learn that Adam is Michael, who helped Jehovah in the Creation. Elder Joseph Fielding Smith wrote: “Adam helped to form this earth. He labored with our Savior Jesus Christ. I have a strong … conviction that there were others also who assisted them. Perhaps Noah and Enoch; and why not Joseph Smith, and those who were appointed to be rulers before the earth was formed?” (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:75.)

Chapter 5: How do God's creations show that He loves us? What are some things you appreciate about God's creations?

"We are now living in this beautiful world. Think of the sun, which gives us warmth and light. Think of the rain, which makes plants grow and makes the world feel clean and fresh. Think of how good it is to hear a bird singing or a friend laughing. Think of how wonderful our bodies are—how we can work and play and rest. When we consider all of these creations, we begin to understand what wise, powerful, and loving beings Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father are. They have shown great love for us by providing for all of our needs".

Announcements:

-Tuesday, March 16: "Why Every Woman Needs Relief Society!" Please join us for a fun evening to celebrate the birthday of Relief Society. We will have dinner and a short program. Nursery will be provided. Bring something that represents you....it could be something you made or learned in Relief Society.

-Saturday, March 20: Family History Fair. 9:00-2:30 @ Family History Center 8439 S 2200 W. Topics: Family History Basics, Personal Ancestry, Involving Youth, Young Women Personal Progress, Preserving Old Photos, etc...

-Sunday, March 21: Ward Conference

Sunday Happenings

2010-03-08T17:12:00.001-08:00

Today our lesson was taught by Sister Stott. The lesson centered around Spiritual Preparedness.

Spiritual Preparedness: Start Early and Be Steady, Elder Henry B. Eyring, Nov. 2005, Liahona

A Time of Urgency, Elder Marvin J. Ashton, May 1974, Ensign

What items would you add to a 72 hour emergency kit? How often do they need to be updated?
“Spiritual preparedness is an interesting concept. Does one sit down and make a list like for the 72-hour emergency kit we’re all supposed to have? Flashlight- check, Sleeping bag- check, Water- check, First-aid supplies- check. It might actually be somewhat similar.”

Most of us have thought about how to prepare for storms. We may ask, “How can I be prepared?” And there is a rush to buy and put away whatever we might need for the day we might face such calamities.

But there is another even more important preparation we must make for tests that are certain to come to each of us. That preparation must be started far in advance because it takes time. What we will need then can’t be bought. It can’t be borrowed. It doesn’t store well. And it has to have been used regularly and recently." (Elder Eyring, 2005)

Refer to: Matt. 25: 1-13: Parable of the Ten Virgins
Who do the virgins represent? Why could the wise virgins not share their oil with the
foolish virgins? What does this say about our own spiritual preparedness?

Speaking of the parable of the Ten Virgins, Elder Ashton has said, “Today thousands of us are in a similar position. Through lack of patience and confidence, preparation has ceased. Others have lulled themselves to sleep to a complacency with the rationalization that midnight will never come. The responsibility for having oil in our personal lamps is an individual requirement and opportunity. The oil of spiritual preparedness cannot be shared. The wise were not unkind or selfish when they refused oil to the foolish in the moment of truth. The kind of oil needed by all of us to light up the darkness and illuminate the way is not shareable. The oil could have been purchased at the market in the parable, but in our lives it is accumulated by righteous living, a drop at a time.

Refer to: D&C 4:5
Bible Dictionary: Faith
What do we need to add to our “spiritual backpack” so that we can be spiritually
prepared? What helps us obtain faith, or strengthen faith? (consider the following)

· Prayer
· Scripture study
· Patriarchal blessings
· Sharing our testimony
· Being grateful
· Reviewing/renewing our covenants
· Family history
· Paying a full tithe
· Temple attendance
· Attending church meetings
· Service
· Visiting teaching

Elder Eyring “However much faith to obey God we now have, we will need to strengthen it continually and keep it refreshed constantly. We can do that by deciding now to be more quick to obey and more determined to endure. Learning to start early and to be steady are the keys to spiritual preparation. Procrastination and inconsistency are its mortal enemies”.

Why do we have to constantly renew our faith? Why can’t we fill our backpack or vessel and put it on a shelf until we desperately need it?

Announcements:

Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour next Saturday night because it is Daylight Savings Time.
Tuesday, March 16: Relief Society Birthday Celebration- "Why every woman needs Relief Society. Join us for dinner and a short program, 6:30 p.m. @ the church. Nursery will be provided. Please bring something you have made or learned in Relief Society.
Family History Fair: March 20, 9:00-2:30 p.m. @ Family History Center- 8439 S 2200 W (Topics- Involving Youth, Ancestry.com, Preserving Old Photos, Family Search Indexing, PAF 5.2, and many more)
Single Mothers Seminar: March 23- 5:30-8:30 p.m. 2 SLCC Miller Campus 9750 S 300 W (click on title for more information)
Blood Drive: March 25

Quote of the Week

2010-03-05T20:54:00.000-08:00

"Spirituality through prayer and study. Service to others. Generous tithes and offerings. These are not new principles. These are some of the 'small things' that are prerequisites to that which is great...It is our hearts and minds that must be made new. We each have our failings, our weaknesses, our less-than-perfect attitudes. The Lord asks us to open ourselves to Him, holding nothing back...The newness of heart comes when we do and give all we can, then offer our heart and will to the Father. As we do this, our Father promises us that our lives now and in eternity will be abundant. We need not fear." "Out of Small Things," Ensign Nov. 2004. 111