The Fruit Loop

JoAnna and I spent the day together enjoying the amazing beauty and colors of Fall along the Columbia River on a drive to and from Hood River. On the drive we also enjoyed the crispness of Mt. Hood looking so majestic.

This was our first experience of going from one farm to the next and trying a variety of Apples, pears, or many jams, jellies, and fruit butter. Our last stop was at a farm that had an outdoor BBQ that was wonderful. The bad part was we ate to much so it would have been a perfect time for a nap, which worked out for JoAnna for the drive home. However I felt a need to keep my eyes open for our safety.
I know the Dover bunch have enjoyed this tradition for a few years now. If I had known about this event a couple weeks ago, I would have like to enjoy it also with the family while they were in town. Our time was so limited however that it would have been very difficult to manage. I am appreciative that JoAnna is here this fall to have these special times with. She will be leaving back to Rexburg for school all to soon, so I am trying to take advantage of every moment and memory I am able to have with her.

"Time out for Women"

Friday and Saturday the 17th and 18th of October JoAnna and I went to the Convention center downtown for a two day women seminar to be spiritually fed with both word and music. The Theme for this was was "Share the Joy". What I really enjoy about this seminar is that you receive enough information to be able to process, and apply.

Jason Deere and band sang songs he wrote for the CD of Joseph, as well as about the Pioneers. Both were in a story form so it made you feel the spirit of what great sacrifices that were made while restoring the Gospel of Jesus Christ here on the earth in these latter days.

Kenneth Cope sang many songs on both days. Some familiar from past EFY CD's, and many new ones. His message throughout was that the Lord loves all his babies. The real you is in the image of God.

Chris Okazaki spoke on the importance of "Teaching correct principles, then letting them govern themselves. That is how we learn day by day, and how the Lord teaches us. With this we all need to not judge others, but recognize their needs. The Lord has made each of us unique. It is up to us to appreciate our capabilities and use it to help and serve others.

Emily Watts spoke of the need to "Strengthen the Core of the home" as well as a Mothers guilt. All to often as a mother we feel guilty for things that are out of our control. 2 Nephi 10:23 it reminds us we are Free to act for ourselves...
We don't always get to control the Worlds in-put, but hopefully we can contribute. The more right things that are received, the more right things are passed on from generation to generation. Create a Home where the spirit can dwell.

Camilla Fronk Olsen reminded us that we need the Savior in our Life.
The Holy Ghost as a constant companion.
The Lord gives us opportunities, but wants us to let go, stand strong and Lead. Psalmes 55:20 "The Lord will sustain me"

Mary Ellen Edmonds reminded us of the importance of being peacemakers.
Contention is of the adversary, which separates us from the Lord.
The Holy Ghost has great ideas to help us in times of trial and concern.
Let there be Peace on Earth, and Let it begin with Me.

Elia Gourgouris spoke on "relationships" that can give this life great joy, even in times of adversity.
Everyone wants to be loved, and understood
Listen with the spirit to clarify, or have a better understanding
Be the first to apologize, be forgiving, and show Humility
Languages of Love: Quality Time, Physical Touch, Words of Appreciation, Acts of Service, Gifts

Love others the way they need to be loved. Speak there language, then they will respond in your language.

Many of these teachings we have heard before, however it is always good to have refresher courses on how to be more Christ-like to all, including toward yourself.

We had a great time, and hope this information will help you be a little better as well.

Pumpkin fun

Having all the kids, grand kids, and neice PJ with her sweet little one here for a week allowed us to have fun with traditions of old.
Friday Oct. 10th we all went for the first time to the Roloff pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin, but also to take pictures. I love the colors of fall, and the excitement of little ones running and looking for the perfect pumpkin. I know my little ones aren't so little any more. Nor are the babies old enough to really get excited to pick out a pumpkin, but still the pictures are great and the reflections of old are still treasured.
Sunday evening we did the pumpkin carving. Each with there own creations. I'm not sure if this time was enjoyed as much for all, but I know I appreciate all the times we could spend together. Thanks to all of my sweet children for humoring me.

A Celestial event

Wednesday, October 8th Rodney and Lauren Yeaman went to the temple for the first time in preparation for their big day on Saturday the 11th to be married for Eternity. They both had a full day with much to take in. However by the wedding day they seemed more confident and prepared for the covenants they made with the Lord, as well as one another. It was such a beautiful day having all the family/ extended family together.
Our family unit is continuing to get larger, which I am excited about.

Family fun

After enjoying a spiritual feast these past two days with counsel and direction from our Prophet and general authorities I feel even more excited to have all the children come home for this weeks events.
I can hardly wait.
I am so very blessed with such a wonderful husband who I don't always show appreciation for, yet has put up with me for 33 +years. I also feel so blessed to have five amazing children. Three of the five who have chosen spouses who we love and have added so much to our family. We are so grateful for each one individually, and there parents that have raised them to be spiritual leaders, to guide and teach our grandchildren and future grandchildren during these challenging times. Next Saturday approaches fast and Rodney will add his chosen sweetheart to this eternal family, which will be another great day, and the purpose of our getting all together.
JoAnna continues to set a good example, as well as prepare spiritually for her day that is down the road a bit. We are enjoying having her close by for a season until she returns back to school the first of the year.
Neither Tony or I can express enough joy in our hearts for such wonderful blessing while watching our family grow through marriages and new grand babies that add such a fullness to us both. I hope these little ones can handle all the love and attention that is to come.
How grateful I am for my Savior who has made it possible for all of us to be together throughout the Eternities, because he loves us so much.
My Joy is truly Full.