Lynn's Latter-day Lines

Not a Mormon Anymore

2011-10-19T22:46:00.000-05:00

I'm still inactive from the Church, and no real interest in going back. Some of my LDS facebook friends are not too happy about it. But, I just don't feel like I would fit there anymore. I am back to my true self as a New Ager. I still see some truth in the Church, but I don't believe it has the only truth. And I don't want to obey the rules anymore. I don't think the things I'm doing now will really keep me out of heaven. And I am enjoying my Swiss Mocha for breakfast on these cold Autumn mornings.

In Transition: Not Sure of Next Step

2011-05-11T22:35:00.000-05:00

I'm in transition, one foot in the Church, and one foot out, balancing precariously, hoping God will lead me. I feel like I can't go back. Too much has changed for me. I have new perspectives in life, and new understanding of the Church. Right now I'm torn between two ideologies, one Mormon, and one traditional Christian, neither of which is a perfect fit for me anymore.

My new Christian friends are adamant that I should reject the Book of Mormon, but I still see truth in it. My problem is with the Doctrine and Covenants. Ironic, isn't it, when I used to love that book so much. I've run across a few web sites that promote the Book of Mormon for ALL Believers, not just Mormons, and I've run across a web site for Reformed Mormonism. That seems to fit my mood right now, that and Unity, which has the New Age feel I have always enjoyed.

Right now, all I can do is trust that God will lead me, even as He has promised. My personal motto, for several months is Jeremiah 29:11. I know God has plans for me, and I just need to let them unfold.

Things Have Really Changed, and So Have I

2011-03-13T16:31:00.000-05:00

I would never have thought I could change so much in less than a year, but I have. I have not gone back to church, and don't plan to return. I'm beginning a new spiritual path, and will be going to a different church. My research over the past several months has shown me too many discrepancies in the church. I no longer believe it is the ONLY true church. I chafe against the rules which don't make sense anymore, and I am not keeping the covenants.

I have become more New Age, and I am going to start using meditation and affirmation and some of the principles of Unity in my life. I am also going to start attending Four Winds Church, the non-denominational church right next door to the LDS Chapel, ironically.

So one phase of my life ends, again, and a new one is on the horizon. A new adventure. I wonder what God has in store for me now.

Better Late Than Never, I Suppose

2010-10-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

This is a very late update. I am shocked to see that I've neglected all my blogs here, since March. I've been very busy, and very distracted. Between a very special online relationship that I've had for several months, a wonderful vacation, and my normal ADHD distractions, I've neglected a lot of things. I've even neglected church, to the point that I guess I might be technically considered to be "inactive."

So, what have I been doing with my time? Getting acquainted and falling in love with a man from Australia. That's the main thing I've been doing, spending a lot of time with him on Skype, Facebook, Twitter, and Yahoo. It's been so much fun learning from him. I've become an International sports fan, too: World Cup Soccer, and Australian Rules Football aka "footy" . We have so much in common with each other, so many things to enjoy with each other, even on the Internet, and such a passion for each other. Unfortunately, we are Soul Mates who met at the wrong time, and too many outside pressures are forcing us apart. We are facing the facts that we will never meet offline, so we have chosen to just be friends, Internet buddies. That is a hard transition, and this is a bitter pill to swallow, breaking up, while still in love. But, we can't fight against the world anymore.

I had a wonderful vacation last month with my oldest son Aaron and his family in PA, got to see my newest grandchild, a baby girl, born in May. I flew into Baltimore, MD on the 12th, and Aaron and Ashlin met me at the airport. Then we went to Baltimore Harbor and visited the USS Constellation and the museum, and ate a late lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe. After that, we went to Gwen's sister's and picked up Gwen and the baby, Sabina, and then went home to Harrisburg, PA. The next day I visited Ashlin's school, The Circle School, which is a very unique educational institution, with total academic freedom, and lots of playtime and creativity.
Later that week we went to Hershey and visited Chocolate World. Then, the day before I went home, Ashlin, Aaron and I went apple picking, and Aaron and Gwen made a home-made, from scratch, apple pie. I had such a good time with them.

Other than those two major things, I've been busy on Facebook and other sites, promoting and writing about a few causes I'm involved in: Net Neutrality/Save the Internet, Free Press, Religious Freedom, and ADHD. I've also been involved in several forums, and have also done some reading and studying.

I know I should get back to church, but it's not going to be easy. In my time away, I've changed a bit, even my outlook on things has changed and I've become more liberal. And, I'm out of the habit of getting up and going to church every Sunday. It will be hard to get back into the habit.

I Made It to Church Today...Late

2010-03-14T18:35:00.000-05:00

I got to church today, felt good, not sick at all. I got up at 11:00, thinking I'd have lots of time to get ready, especially since I knew the songs for Relief Society, and wouldn't have to practice them this morning.

What a shock I had when I got on my computer to check the weather. It was not 11:00, it was NOON!!
I've been so wrapped up in my writing, Facebook, and movies on Netflix that I haven't watched much TV lately. So, I missed the friendly reminder from the local weather man, to change the clock forward. Today is the beginning of Day Light Savings, and I missed it! I forgot they changed it to March, and I thought it didn't start until April!

I was late to church, missed everything but the last speaker and the closing song and prayer, but I was there for Sunday school and Relief Society, which is better than last Sunday. .

I Hate Being Sick on Sundays!

2010-03-07T17:02:00.000-06:00

I don't know what's wrong with me. I got to bed at a decent time for a change, woke up spontaneously without the alarm after 6 hours of sleep, read a few chapters of the Book of Mormon, watched a couple of good, uplifting play lists on You Tube, showered, dressed, and even put on a bit of make up. In short I was feeling fine. Then, just before time to leave, I got slammed with stomach cramps, diarrhea, and got so weak I literally fell onto my bed. I just now woke up, at almost 5:00 p.m.

Today was Fast Sunday, so I was fasting. I thought maybe that was the problem, so I ate a slice of toast and peanut butter,and drank half a cup of milk. That's when the weakness hit me. So, I sat in my recliner, relaxing a bit, hoping I might at least get to Relief Society, but when I got up, I was so weak I almost fell on the floor. That's when I gave up and went to my bedroom to take a nap, and literally fell on my bed. I was also freezing cold, so I changed out of my church clothes, and covered up with my quilt.

It's crazy because it's been in the upper 60's, up to 70 degrees today, but I had to turn the heat on in the house!

I'm wondering if this happened today because all last week I didn't get enough sleep, and I was low on nutrition. Maybe this is a cumulative effect.

If I don't feel better this week, I think I will go back to the doctor.

I hate being sick on Sundays! It wrecks my whole day.

Sunday Evening Was Good

2010-02-15T00:44:00.000-06:00

I managed to stay pretty much on track and didn't spend too much time on the Internet on Facebook and games and other trivia. Instead, I did some studying, read my patriarchal blessing, and got some answers to some questions I've had. I also watched some good, uplifting videos from my You Tube play lists.

I have some idea now of goals to make for this retirement phase of my life. I plan to get started on that through this week.

A Very Emotional Day

2010-02-14T19:19:00.000-06:00

I've had a weepy, emotional day, a time of introspection, a time of regret. The theme in all the talks at church was marriage and family. The talks were great, but, as usual, I couldn't sing the closing song: Families Can Be Together Forever. I found myself almost hating that song. It brings up so much self-recrimination and so much fear and regret over my past. It always makes me feel like a horrible failure in life. I even wonder sometimes if I will make it home to my Heavenly Parents. Can I endure to the end, stay on course, be true blue and faithful for the rest of my mortal life?

I was also thinking, and feeling sorry for myself, because today is Valentine's Day, a day for husbands and wives, boy friends and girl friends, and engaged couples to share precious, romantic moments, roses and chocolates, memories, etc. I am alone, and likely to be that way for the rest of my life, and that is probably a long time, at least another 30 years, judging by my longevity genes. Can I truly be happy without another companion? And yet, I don't feel ready to have another companion. I still have too much baggage from my past, too many unresolved issues in my life.

Sometimes I Feel Like Such A Hypocrite!

2010-02-07T22:40:00.000-06:00

Sure, I write about all my plans, my goals, my activities, but, too often, I'm not doing the things I was planning on doing, not accomplishing my goals, getting sidetracked into doing other things. Sometimes I even wonder, if I really have such a strong testimony, why don't I do the things I should be doing as an active Latter-day Saint? When Judgment Day comes for me, what will I have to show on the record that I truly had a testimony, and really lived the life of a faithful Latter-day Saint?

I feel like I'm failing in all my tasks. I am a valiant defender of the Restoration on the forums, and I share the gospel on the Internet on You Tube, Facebook, and other places, but I'm failing in my missionary work with my own family and friends. I've gone through the temple for my grandmother and my sister, but I have many more names to get ready, and much more family research to do. I have 4 online study courses from BYU Online, but have only finished the first one of a two part course on the Joseph Smith Translation. I haven't even finished reading the books I got from the library, for my course on the Holy Land, that were due in September! Worst of all, I miss too much church, and I'm not good in my calling, and not a good Visiting Teacher, either.

I also don't live up to the Word of Wisdom, as I should, and as I've preached so many times in my blogs and elsewhere. I don't eat right, sleep right, exercise right, or drink enough water. No wonder I'm sick so much of the time.

Does all this make me a hypocrite, or just a struggling woman with feet of clay, and an easily side-tracked ADD mind? If it's true that the path to hell is paved with good intentions, then I guess I'm on my way there. I have all kinds of good intentions, but not enough discipline to carry them out. .

I guess I'll try again this week, and keep trying til I either die, or get it right. Endure to the end.

Back to School Again...Online

2010-02-02T14:53:00.000-06:00

I've gone back to studying the JST courses. I completed the first one, and am starting the second one. The first course was about the history behind the JST. The second one is about the changes that Joseph Smith made, and the doctrines that resulted from his work on the translation of the Bible.

The history is interesting, and gives details of how the process was done. He had grown in his ability as a prophet, and his gift of hearing and listening to the voice of the Spirit, to the point that he didn't have to use the Interpreters (Urim and Thummim), and instead, all was revealed to him, what he should do in the translation. He read the Bible to his scribes, and changed only necessary passages. His pondering led to some miraculous visions, and important doctrines that became part of the Doctrine and Covenants. The most amazing one was the one recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 76.

Through my study of the JST, my testimony of Joseph Smith has become stronger than ever. I am so thankful for the work he did, in laying the foundation for the Restoration.

I've been looking for something useful to do!

2010-01-08T14:01:00.000-06:00

Just as I was wondering what to do, what goals I could work on, this just dropped into my lap. I belong to a Facebook group, Missionary Challenge, and they sent me a bulletin about how to get involved in their web site, Mormons Made Simple. Well, I checked it out, and it is really fun! They have cute little videos about the church, that even children will enjoy. They also have logos to add to our blogs, which, as you can see, I've added to mine.

I just love the way our General Authorities are encouraging us to use the Internet for missionary work, and for other good purposes! I truly believe that it is part of Heavenly Father's plan to spread the gospel to every kindred, tongue, and nation on the face of the earth. I'm excited to be able to share my own testimony in this way, using the talents He gave me.

Forget Yourself, and Go To Work: Good Advice from a Prophet

2010-01-04T21:04:00.000-06:00

As I was pondering and writing a response to a letter I got from a good friend in the Church, I started sensing that still small voice of the Spirit telling me exactly what I need to do to get out of this slump I've been in. I was led to read an article in the Ensign about President Hinckley when he was a very discouraged young missionary. He was about ready to quit and go home, but he got a letter from his father that changed his whole perspective. His father said the only advice he had for him was: Forget Yourself, and Go To Work.

That is the advice my Heavenly Father is giving me, right now: Forget Yourself, and Go To Work. That should be my personal motto for this phase in my life. Forget myself, forget my past, forget my fears and doubts, forget my feelings of inadequacy, and GO TO WORK!!!

Go to work on my genealogy, go to work on my studies, go to work on my music skills. Throw myself, mind, heart and strength into the things I love, the things that will enrich my life and the lives of others, the things of Zion. And stop worrying so much about the past. One step, one day, at a time, like the Nauvoo pioneers.

Sick Again! I Don't Get It....Why Sundays?

2010-01-03T17:31:00.000-06:00

Well, I missed church again today. I woke up feeling sick, weak, and tired, at 10:00 a.m., so I went back to bed. That was a big mistake. I should have known better. Even though I set my clock for 11:00, I overslept, so it was too late. And, I still felt awful.

I guess those two nights last week of staying up all night, and then going to bed, really messed me up. I guess I haven't caught up on sleep. When will I learn? I used to get away with that, but I guess I'm too old, and too prone to weakness, to do that anymore.

I just went to set my clock for tomorrow. I've decided to start getting up every day at 9:00 a.m. What a shock! I set my clock for 2:00 p.m. by mistake.

I've gotten into a really bad habit of skipping Sacrament meeting, then sometimes making it for Sunday school and Relief Society, or even missing Sunday school, too. Sometimes, I miss Relief Society, too. That has to stop! I'm becoming inactive. And that can be a slippery slope right out of the Church. I don't want to go that way again.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T21:07:00.002-06:00

It's that time again. A new year has begun, 2010, and it's time to reflect and plan, set goals, and work on resolutions. In the interest of making my life less complicated, I've decided I'm not going to make a whole bunch of resolutions that I know I will break long before the month is over. My list this year is very short, and can be summed up in just a few simple phrases, and a few short scriptures.

1. Forget the past. It's over and done, and can't be changed. Close the door, and be like the pioneers, who closed their doors in Nauvoo, and set a straight course for the West. Just as they didn't know what the journey would be like, so I don't know what my life journey will be like this year. Like the pioneers, it is time for me to close my door, and set a straight course for the year ahead, holding fast to the Iron Rod, being more faithful, more prayerful, more obedient and more willing and able to listen to the voice of the Spirit.

2.Plan my days, but accept the interruptions as lessons to learn, opportunities for service to God and my fellow man, or unexpected adventures and surprises.

3. Remember to EAT, SLEEP, and GET OUTSIDE SOMETIMES, WHILE THE SUN IS STILL UP!!
This can be summed up very simply: Keep the Word of Wisdom, as found in Doctrine and Covenants 88:124, and 89, as follows:

124 Cease to be ^aidle; cease to be ^bunclean; cease to ^cfind fault one with another; cease to ^dsleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be ^einvigorated.

Doctrine and Covenants 89:

10 And again, verily I say unto you, all wholesome ^aherbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man—

11 Every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with ^aprudence and ^bthanksgiving.

12 Yea, ^aflesh also of ^bbeasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used ^csparingly;

13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be ^aused, only in times of winter, or of cold, or ^bfamine.

14 All ^agrain is ordained for the use of man and of beasts, to be the staff of life, not only for man but for the beasts of the field, and the fowls of heaven, and all wild animals that run or creep on the earth;

15 And ^athese hath God made for the use of man only in times of famine and excess of hunger.

16 All grain is good for the ^afood of man; as also the ^bfruit of the vine; that which yieldeth fruit, whether in the ground or above the ground—

17 Nevertheless, wheat for man, and corn for the ox, and oats for the horse, and rye for the fowls and for swine, and for all beasts of the field, and barley for all useful animals, and for mild drinks, as also other grain.

18 And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, ^ashall receive ^bhealth in their navel and marrow to their bones;

19 And shall ^afind ^bwisdom and great ^ctreasures of ^dknowledge, even hidden treasures;

20 And shall ^arun and not be ^bweary, and shall walk and not faint.

21 And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the ^adestroying angel shall ^bpass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen.

4. SMILE MORE OFTEN AND BE FRIENDLY TO EVERYONE, INCLUDING ME!!

Why Do Sad Things Happen To My Family At Christmas?

2009-12-15T00:48:00.000-06:00

It happened again this year, an unwelcome visit from Death. Five years ago, Shelley was taken two weeks before Christmas, from cancer. Last year, Diana's dog, Bobby Sue, died of old age near Christmas. Tonight, Cody's new Aussie Shepherd puppy, Destiny, died of parvo and pneumonia. He only got her 5 days ago, and she was only 10 weeks old! It seems so unfair!

Cody is devastated. He already loved her. He was so happy. Diana said she and Cody found her dead on her blanket. She said Cody is so heart-broken right now he doesn't even want to talk about it, or even hear her name. She was his first puppy, a surprise Christmas puppy. This is his first experience with seeing death of a beloved pet, up close.

The only good thing I can see about this, is that for a few days, the poor, little, unwanted stray found a home with people who loved her. She died in a warm house, on a soft blanket, with a loving woman who carefully, and tenderly nursed her, and a little boy who loved her, as only a 10-year old boy can love a new puppy.

Perhaps that was her destiny. Cody named her that, not even knowing what the word meant. That was the first name that popped into his head. I think she probably told him that. She was a tiny angel, sent to earth just to experience a few days of love, and then was called home. Someday, I'll tell Cody all this. But, not now. His grief is too new, and too sharp for him to face. Destiny will be missed.

Right Now, I'm a Very Frustrated Geek!

2009-12-13T19:47:00.001-06:00

I've been trying very hard to add Christmas music to my player, but have had no luck, so far. I'm a bit of a geek, but sometimes not enough of a tech to accomplish anything. That's frustrating, when I'm trying to do something nice. Oh, well, I will probably figure it out. I can't even get my player on my other blogs at all. It will probably turn out to be something so simple, I'll slap my forehead and think, Well, duh! That's usually what happens in cases like this.

Five Years!

2009-12-13T13:48:00.001-06:00

This weekend marks exactly 5 years since Shelley died. I've been thinking about that, and maybe that's one reason for my depressed feeling. I am so sorry I didn't get to see her before she got so tired and sick. I really didn't get to talk to her before she died. When I got there, she was barely coherent. She never really regained consciousness. I felt so bad that I never had the chance to share the things I had brought her, things I thought would be a comfort to her in her last hours, the hymns, the scriptures, the Joy to the World DVD. I didn't even get to share my testimony with her. I didn't get a chance to help her into the light.

Sometimes, I wonder why I was spared and she wasn't. I had breast cancer,too. Yet, I've survived over 28 years, and she was taken in two years. In so many ways, she was better than I, yet I'm still here. Why? Is it because I still have things to do, lessons to learn, preparations to make? What is my purpose, really? Why can't I get on with it?

I Missed Church Again!

2009-12-13T13:46:00.000-06:00

Lately, I hate Sundays! That's a terrible admission to make. But, I honestly feel that way. And, it's my own fault. I have gotten into such a bad habit of staying up way too late on Saturdays, and then being exhausted on Sunday morning. Then I feel guilty, and sick.

Being up late was bad enough. Then I had insomnia. My mind just would not settle down. So, I overslept today, and missed the whole block of meetings. I can't wait til next month, when we go back to the afternoon schedule again. That will be much better for me.

The truth is I think I'm depressed. I've gotten so I stay in my pajamas most of the day, and by then there's no point in getting dressed. At least today, I did get dressed. I was dressed to go to Relief Society, but then looked at the clock, and there was just no way to get there on time. So, I skipped again. Am I becoming inactive? Should I ask to be released from my calling?

Still Spinning My Wheels, Stumbling Along

2009-12-07T17:07:00.004-06:00

Sometimes I feel like life is passing me by, while I sit on the sidelines, watching it go, helpless and paralyzed by my own indecision and procrastination. I feel so guilty sometimes, with all kinds of goals in sight, but not sure what needs to be done first, and not sure how to accomplish the things I want to do. Sometimes I'm not even sure what is the best use of my time and talent. I pray every day for guidance and the ability to keep on track, with an eternal perspective and priority. Too often, I don't keep to it.

I know it all takes baby steps, this enduring to the end. But, I'm 62 years old. It seems I would know a little more than this. I keep falling down, but I'll keep trying.

Christmas Music, and Holiday Blues

2009-12-07T16:40:00.003-06:00

It always hits about this time of year. I should be happy, with Christmas coming, but I always have the blues. It seems worse this year.

I don't like winter. I don't like cold weather, and I don't like the short days. It just makes me want to curl up under the covers and hibernate until Spring. But, I can't do that, with the busiest time of the year here. Thanksgiving just got over, and now it's time to get ready for another round of celebrations for Christmas, and, as usual, I'm not ready.

I guess I'm feeling a bit blue for another reason, too. This month marks five years since Shelley passed away. Sometimes, I miss my sister.

I'm playing Pandora Radio, Christmas music, but I'm still in a bah humbug mood. Oh, well. This too shall pass. I just need to stop procrastinating and get busy on some worthwhile project.

Retired! Now what??

2009-10-13T16:17:00.004-05:00

I've been out of work less than a month, but already I've been spinning my wheels, feeling restless and out of sorts. I need some new goals! I don't want to spend the rest of my life in my pajamas, sleeping til after noon every day. I want to do something worth spending time on and not be sucked in every day to cyberspace, wasting time in contentious forums, or playing games on Facebook. So, what's my next step?

I was thinking about this last night, while I had another restless sleep, plagued by insomnia. I can think of many worthwhile goals and projects to do, but the thing that came to my mind most forcefully was that I need to keep an eternal perspective and seek the kingdom of the Lord first, and then everything else will fall into place. To me that means my church callings and genealogy must be first place in my schedule, along with my study of the Holy Land and the JST.

Tentatively, these are the goals I want to work on for the rest of this year:

1. work on the Olson side of the family, and get 5 names ready for the temple.
2. finish my courses on the Holy Land and JST
3. learn 5 hymns on keyboard and guitar: practice 30 minutes a day, and don't worry about the neighbors! Also, practice conducting 30 minutes a day, so I can do a better job at my RS calling.
4. plan and make Christmas gifts for family
5. plan and prepare some new recipes, experiment with vegetarian recipes
6. work on finances.
7. set up exercise routine and stick with it. 30 minutes a day, at least 3 times a week.
8. work on writing: set up a routine and stick with it.

All this should keep me busy and out of mischief! It should increase my contentment, too. I will be much happier, and less bored and restless, when I'm accomplishing worthwhile goals. So, I guess goal #1 really should be to set up my schedule!!

And, looking over my list of goals, I should be more realistic and not give myself only 2 months to accomplish all this! So, this goal list will be for the rest of this year and into next year. After that, I'll see what else I can do.

ADHD/ADD

2009-10-13T15:10:00.005-05:00

A month ago, I got curious and started doing some research, and discovered one of my main problems in life, the thing that has caused so much havoc, so much trouble and so much embarrassment is that I have ADD!!! No wonder I've spent most of my life spinning wheels, late everywhere I go, lost with no sense of direction, and dazed and confused. No wonder I've had so many problems fitting into the office jobs I've so often had. No wonder even my home life has been one big mess after another, while I've lost important papers, held onto worthless junk, stumbled around clutter, and been afraid to open my door to neighbors and friends because of the embarrassment of being a disorganized, messy housekeeper. No wonder I've never completed any project, or fully developed any of my talents.

It's like I'm only half-there. My mind is rarely still, I have trouble staying focused (a big problem with the job I had) on boring things, and yet hyper-focus on things I'm really interested in (like Facebook, etc.) to the point that I lose track of time and stay up way past my bedtime. And I'm so easily distracted, it's a wonder I get anything done at all!

I've started taking some nutritional supplements, and I need to work on getting more exercise, eating right, and setting up a routine for myself. I can't afford medication for this, nor do I really want to take meds, because of dangerous side effects at my age. So, this is my plan to overcome, or at least live with my ADD. From everything I've read, it can be controlled and become a blessing instead of my worst enemy.

Major Changes: Update

2009-10-13T14:55:00.002-05:00

I hadn't realized I haven't been to my blog in such a long time. It's high time I returned and updated my life story.

There have been some major changes in my life. The biggest change is that I got fired from my job a few weeks ago, September 16, 2009. I was with ICT just short of 6 years. I can't say I'm sorry I got fired, or that I will miss that stress I was under. I liked the people I worked with, but I hated the job. I will NEVER work in another customer service job, especially in the mortgage industry. If the sales job I had been promised when I transferred to Morrilton had come in from Wells Fargo, I would have done better. I always enjoyed that. But Wells Fargo never came back, so I was stuck in customer service with Indymac/One West. Recently, the job became too much for me to handle, I was sick all the time and missed too much work, which is why I got fired.

With the economy the way it is, my age and my health problems, and my ADD adding to the confusion in my life, I decided to get out of the rat race. I took an early retirement! I will probably get a part time job sometime down the road, but for now, I'm enjoying an extended vacation. Financially, I'm just getting by, but I'm not too worried. Between my social security and my 401-K, I'll be alright for several months, which should be long enough to find a part time job somewhere.

The Neighbors Probably Hate Me

2009-02-10T11:26:00.002-06:00

I did something stupid. I was up way too late, as usual, so I was dead tired this morning. Rather than being intelligent and setting my clock for a later time so I could sleep in, I set my clock for the usual time, and ended up hitting my snooze alarm every 10 minutes for 2 hours! Not only did I interrupt my sleep, by having to get up each time to hit the snooze button, but I ended up sleeping much later than I would have if I'd just set my clock just a little later. I hope it didn't disturb the neighbors. It probably didn't. My alarm buzz isn't that loud.

I feel awful today, stomach cramps. I wonder if it's from eating 3 slices of whole wheat French toast with walnuts last night for dinner. Too much wheat does that to me, sometimes.

We had a scare last week.

2009-02-08T19:58:00.003-06:00

Katey was diagnosed with RSV, poor baby. She was really sick for a few days, and in danger of dehydration. She didn't want to nurse, or take any food, and she couldn't keep it down anyway. She didn't run a very high fever, just 99.F, so I guess that was a good thing. Diana kept her on Pedialyte for several hours, and said she's much better today. What a relief! I'm thankful that our prayers were answered. I would have hated for her to get seriously ill. She's only 6 months old.

Update on Laurie

2009-02-08T19:53:00.002-06:00

She's fine! The biopsies turned out negative! Now I just hope her testing this coming week will go as well. She is having blood tests and other tests in preparation for an endoscopy, to find out if she has an ulcer or celiac disease. That poor girl has been through so much lately.

Blogging and the Church

2009-02-08T18:42:00.004-06:00

I'm so glad the Church is so into the Internet! It has so many great missionary tools available to us. I love the You Tube channels, the official web sites, the LDS Network, and the Facebook LDS Application. I love finding so many of my friends from church on Facebook. It makes it so convenient to contact people about church events. It's also fun learning more about the friends you only see once or twice a week. Now we have a blog for Relief Society! Woohoo! How cool is that!
My cup runneth over!

I missed church today.

2009-01-18T19:38:00.002-06:00

Well, I didn't stay up after my last post, but I was still a zombie when the alarm clock went off. I had a pounding headache, and felt sick, and was definitely exhausted. There was no way I was going to make it to church, so I skipped today. I slept til this afternoon! I had nine hours of sleep!

Since I got up, I've spent time on the phone, and on the internet. I've written several blog posts, commented on posts in some of the forums I'm on, read the scriptures online, and read the Ensign online. In a while, I will be lighting candles, twice. I'll be lighting a pink candle for my daughter, Laurie, and praying that the doctors won't find anything bad in her biopsy tomorrow. Her mammogram and the ultrasound showed 3 suspicious spots on her breast. I will also be lighting a blue candle for all who serve in the Navy, and for those in the other branches of the Armed Forces. That's what Blue Candle Navy Moms do.

So, even though I missed church, I think I'm doing Sabbath-appropriate activities. I am sorry I missed church, though. I always have such a spiritual lift being there with my fellow saints. Today would have been particularly good, with it being Ward Conference. I missed last Sunday, too. That was Stake Conference. I was sick, and overly tired, last weekend, too. I really need to stop this. I need to know that all good things must come to an end....at least long enough to eat properly, get a little fresh air and sunshine and exercise, and get enough sleep. To do otherwise, as I have written before, is breaking an important part of the Word of Wisdom. So, why don't I ever take my own advice?

Success, but at a cost!

2009-01-18T03:43:00.003-06:00

Well, I did it this time, for sure! I pulled an all- nighter, knowing full well that I have early morning church, in less than 5 hours. It was probably stupid, but I learned a lot about internet technology. That's a skill I need, with all the web sites I'm involved with. I finally found the answer by watching a You Tube video! I tried for hours to find a way to put my play list on this page. I had no trouble putting play lists on my other sites. It really wasn't hard to do, after I watched the video a couple of times. Next time, I'll know to "stick to the Basics" in adding gadgets to this blog.

Now, my question is: should I go to bed for a few hours, or just grab something to eat and a Coke, and stay up? What a dilemma! Either way, I'll be a zombie. And, I've broken the Word of Wisdom. This is a great way to start the Sabbath.

Another Year Here, and January's Half Gone Already

2009-01-17T18:17:00.003-06:00

I've been super busy lately. I have more blogs going, in addition to working some overtime hours. That's good for my paycheck. And, the blogs are good for my spirit.

I had a good December after all. My two daughters and their wonderful husbands came through for me, and helped me out with the truck repairs. I've really been blessed with a loving, caring, and generous family.

Christmas was a busy, fun time with family and friends, and lots of good food! Luckily, I've been genetically blessed with a fast metabolism, and I never gain weight, so I have no guilt trips, and no worries about after holiday dieting.

I've been busy adding new gadgets to my blog here, and to my other blogs. I've gotten involved in two more blogging sites this week: CafeMom, and NavyforMoms. I love them both, and they are both fun and interesting, but I feel like I have a special purpose with N4M. I have always had a special place in my heart for the Navy, I guess left over from my younger years, as a Navy wife. Now, I'm a Navy mom, and proud of it. This is a way for me to Support the Troops, too. I love the idea of lighting blue candles as a symbol of support. I've decided I'm going to light mine on Sunday evenings, federal holidays, and my Navy son's birthday.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun!

2008-12-03T22:20:00.004-06:00

Anyway, that's how the old adage goes. I think it's more like time flies when you are busy. I've also noticed time flies when you are old. At least it seems that way to me. It seems that the years are getting shorter and shorter as I get older and older.

Where did the year go? It's nearly Christmas! As usual, I am not ready. I think I will be even less ready this year. My truck put a damper on things this week, when I had to spend my whole paycheck and my rent money on repairs. The brakes went out, and a tire was so badly worn out that the tread was torn. Either way, it would have been a bad idea to keep driving. So, yesterday I spent the day in the repair shop, and went broke. Luckily, it didn't cost as much as the original estimate, or I wouldn't have been able to afford getting the tire, too. What a way to start December, and right at rent time, too!

Well, I Did It Now

2008-10-10T02:08:00.005-05:00

I've started a new blog! This new one is in support of Barack Obama. I guess this puts me in a minority in more ways than one! I wonder how many Latter-day Saints in AR are Obama supporters. The ones I've talked to, at church, and online, are either just totally disenchanted because Romney didn't have a fair chance, or gung-ho for McCain. Yet, I know there is room in the Church for all of us. After all, the Democratic Majority leader in the Senate is Harry Reid of NV, a devout Mormon.

My daughter, from NV, is very excited about Obama. She is LDS, too. She and I have been discussing this, and I agree with her that, although I don't agree with everything, the Democratic ideals are more in accord with Mormonism, in many ways. In my next post, I will go into that issue.

Just a few weeks until Election Day

2008-10-06T01:29:00.002-05:00

I'll be so glad when this Presidential Campaign is over. With all the media hype and hoopla, it gets confusing to know who to vote for. Last time, in fact the last two times, I voted for George Bush, Jr., but I'm not really a Republican. I often cross party lines, because I try to pay attention to the issues, and vote according to my conscience and ideals.

I was really disappointed when Mit Romney dropped out, but he really didn't have a chance. The media caused such a ruckus over him being a Mormon, and there was so much anti-Mormon sentiment! It's a shame people are so prejudiced. I wonder how Barack Obama will fare. In the long run, will there be less racial prejudice than there was religious prejudice? I hope so. I'm thinking of crossing the party line, and voting Democratic for the first time since Bill Clinton. I guess that puts me in a minority. Traditionally, from what I've heard, most Mormons vote Republican.

Another Grandson!

2008-10-06T01:20:00.002-05:00

While I was off line, my youngest son and his girlfriend had a son, Mason Alexander. That makes nine grandchildren for me! He was born August 26, 2008, co-incidentally, on the second birthday of another of my grandsons. He weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz., and was 19 inches long. I've seen a few pictures of him, and he sure is a cute little guy. Of course, I may be prejudiced, like most proud grandmas.

I'm back!

2008-10-06T00:45:00.003-05:00

It's been a few weeks since my last entry, because I didn't have Internet for a while. Now I have Cable Broadband and I love it! Everything loads up so much faster, and I can listen to music, watch You Tube videos without all the interruptions, and I've even been able to watch General Conference and programs on BYU TV. It's great!

It will take me a while to catch up, and I have a lot of things to talk about. I hope everyone who stops by will enjoy their visit.

Miracles!

2008-07-26T13:07:00.003-05:00

I've experienced miracles in my life, from the simplest things, even what some people might consider trivial things, to life and death situations. My prayers have been answered in some of the most unexpected ways. I've had priesthood blessings when I was sick, unexpected turns of events, and miracles in childbirth. It's the last one, childbirth, that I want to speak of today.

I have a new granddaughter, Katelyn Lucille, who was born just a few days ago, early in the morning on Wednesday, July 23, 2008. Because she never did turn around the way she was supposed to, and was born feet first, her mommy, my daughter, Diana, had to have a C-section. Everything turned out well, and mother and daughter are fine, thanks to a lot of people praying for them, and to the miracle of modern medical technology and wonderful doctors and nurses and other medical professionals.

Flash back to February 18, 1972. My third son, Joseph Lehi, was born feet first, in a spontaneous, precipitous labor, so fast he was nearly born in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. There was no time for any prepping of me, I delivered in my own night gown, and a C-section was not an option. Joseph came out so fast, he broke his collar bone on the way out. It was just a blessing that he was not too big, and I was big enough, and maybe spread out and loose enough from previous deliveries, that it wasn't worse.

It never really dawned on me, until last Saturday when I attended a childbirth seminar with Diana, what a miracle Joseph's birth was. Even his broken collar bone was a miracle, because the child birth instructor said sometimes the doctors break the baby's collar bone so they can deliver the shoulders and head more easily in a footling breech birth. Anything could have gone wrong with that precipitous labor and delivery, and one or both of us could have died, and there wouldn't have been much medical science could have done. I truly believe that we were in the loving hands of Heavenly Father and Jesus, and that they had a purpose in bringing us safely through the trauma of birth. Joseph truly was a miracle child, one of Heavenly Father's special spirits.

Time Management Principles in the Scriptures

2008-07-13T19:45:00.003-05:00

Every aspect of my life is, or should be, gospel-oriented and Christ-centered. That is the essence of what a true Latter-day Saint's life should be. That doesn't mean I have to be perfect in every way, but it does mean that I should keep improving. That takes time.

Heavenly Father doesn't leave us alone to struggle. He sends prophets to the earth to lead the way, and he sent his Only-Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to show us the way, by his example.
The words of the prophets are in the books of scripture, which contain the principles, counsel and advice, and warnings and admonitions he has given us. He has even given us time management principles.

Going all the way back to ancient times in the Holy Land, in Israel, there was a son of King David who just called himself the Preacher. He wrote a book called Ecclesiastes, which is in the Old Testament of the Bible. He had a lot to say about time, in the first eight verses, but the main principle he taught, which goes along with this blog post, is found in the first verse:
"To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. " (As I write this, I hear an old 70's song in my head, "Turn, Turn, Turn.")

The Prophet Alma, who I mentioned in the previous post, stated in Alma 12:24, that this life is a "probationary state, a time to prepare to meet God..." Later in the Book of Alma, chapter 34, another Prophet, Amulek, reiterated this statement, saying in vs. 32 :
"behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors." He then gave this counsel, in vs. 33:
"I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; for after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness wherein there can be no labor performed."

In the latter days, the Prophet, Joseph Smith was given quite a bit of advice about proper time management principles in the Doctrine and Covenants. As we will see, some of that advice goes right along with the principles of the Word of Wisdom, which I spoke of in previous posts.

Doctrine and Covenants (D&C for short) 26:1 states that time should be devoted to the studying of the scriptures.

In D&C 60:13, we are commanded: "Thou shalt not idle away thy time; neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known." This is reiterated in a later section of the Doctrine and Covenants, which is the one that goes along with the principles of the Word of Wisdom (or, WoW for short) : D&C 88: 124, which states:
"Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated."

So, there, in a nutshell, are the Lord's time management principles. To reiterate, with my own thoughts about this:

1. Remember that there is a time and a season for everything.
2. Life is a probationary state, a time to prepare to meet God.
3. Do not procrastinate. Do not wait until it's too late.
4. If we fail to improve our time and our talents in this life, it might be too late after we die.
5. Take time to study the scriptures.
6. Stop being idle, stop wasting time, don't be lazy.
7. Take time to discover and improve talents and spiritual gifts.
8. Don't oversleep. Go to bed early, so you won't be tired. Get up early so you can take time for good nutrition, exercise, and study.

I think those are the same principles the missionaries live. It's good advice for all of us, maybe even worth an experiment or two.

More Thoughts About Time

2008-07-13T18:50:00.002-05:00

Today, I went to church and spent time in each of the scheduled blocks of time. Many churches have only one or two hours of church on Sunday. We have three. Each hour is a block of time.
The first hour is devoted to Sacrament Meeting, where we pray, sing hymns, renew covenants with the sacrament, and listen to inspirational talks. The second block is for Sunday school. The third block is for the auxiliary classes: Priesthood for the men and teen-aged boys, Young Women for the teen-aged girls, Primary for the children, and Relief Society for the women. Each block is carefully scheduled, carefully planned and organized.

Today is Missionary Sunday, so there was a lot said about missionary work, and about how the missionaries live and work. Their lives are all about time. They live by strict schedules, from the time they wake up, early in the morning, to the time they go to bed. They have a purpose for every hour of the day, and everything is carefully planned.

Sometimes I wonder how it would be to live my life similar to the missionaries. True, I have a job, and a few family responsibilities now and then, but I live alone, so I should certainly be able to find the time for the things I want and need to do. I should have plenty of time to develop my talents, keep my apartment clean, and carry out my church-oriented responsibilities, and still have time for leisure activities and fun. The key to this seems to be setting goals, scheduling blocks of time, having a purpose for each block, and then being consistent.

Another key seems to be getting up early enough to do everything, which also means going to bed earlier. That is a major challenge for me. I have a very bad habit of burning the candle at both ends, and in the middle. Consequently, I am exhausted most of the time. Maybe it's time for some major changes.

The Prophet Alma, in the Book of Mormon, talked about experiments. (Alma 32:26-43) My testimony has developed by experimenting, or testing out, various principles in the gospel. The Lord, throughout the scriptures is constantly telling us to prove things, test things, find out for ourselves. He gives us the principles, and then it is up to us to choose to follow them or not. He has even given us principles for using time wisely. Maybe it's time for me to take it seriously.

Time in the Eternal Perspective

2008-07-13T00:54:00.002-05:00

Time, from the earthly perspective is finite. There is only so much time to accomplish all the many things we want, or need to do. That requires prioritizing. What is the most important thing I can do right now? What can I do later? What will affect my life in the near future? What will affect my eternity?

What I've noticed is that time disappears! Often, without even realizing it, my time goes by without me accomplishing much of anything. Oh, I might think I'm doing something useful, or worthwhile, but, too often, my time is spent having fun, or procrastinating against what I really should be doing. Today, for example, I spent hours on Facebook, doing little fun things, like sending buttons to some of my friends, so I could put buttons on my own bulletin board. I also spent time on MySpace, reading and commenting, and writing my blog. I spent too much time wandering around forums, and even looking for more forums to get into! It's like an addiction!

So, during all the hours I've spent on the Internet, did I accomplish anything of real value? Well, I did send some birthday greetings, I sent things to encourage and cheer people up, I chatted with a daughter about how to help someone in the family. I worked on the church bulletin. I also washed and dried a load of clothes, though they aren't put away yet. But, I didn't go to the bank, or go grocery shopping, or even pick up the mail. I didn't get a lot of things done that I thought I would do this Saturday. That seems to be par for the course of my life.

From the standpoint of eternity, most of what I do is of little consequence. I'm neglecting the more important things, like daily scripture study, genealogy and family history, Visiting Teaching, etc. Right now, with my work schedule, and getting home as late as I do, I can't be a good Visiting Teacher. The rest of the list, I could do, if I'd just get busy. If I'd just set my priorities, and keep my mind in an eternal time zone, and not get so caught up in the Internet zone, I could do all those things. So, why don't I?

I think I suffer from a chronic case of information overload. I am interested in so many things on the Internet, I feel like I am pulled in too many directions, and my mind is scattered all over cyberspace. If I could just zero in on a few things, target a few worthwhile projects, and then stick with that, and set a block of time each day to work on those things, perhaps I would be able to accomplish something of lasting value.

Blocks of time! Perhaps that is the key to my dilemma. Just as a house is built a brick at a time, so life is made of blocks of time. Seconds become minutes become hours become days become weeks become months become years become lifetimes. What could I accomplish with a block of time every day?

The Promises of the Word of Wisdom

2008-07-12T17:38:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in the previous post, the Word of Wisdom has wonderful promises. According to Doctrine and Covenants 89: 18-21, " all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; and shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; and shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen."

What do these words mean? What are the promises? How do they apply to me, or to anyone who is willing to learn and live the principles? Let's break them down into easily understood parts.

vs. 18- "And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones." This would be a logical outcome to a healthy lifestyle, based on good nutrition, exercise, rest and sleep, and avoiding harmful substances such as coffee, tea, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and drugs.

vs. 19-"And shall find wisdom, and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures." If we are living a healthy lifestyle, and keeping our minds clear, then it will be easier to learn and to understand things that we might be studying, whether it be scripture study, career training classes, or academic studies. Also, a clear mind, and especially a clear conscience which comes from obeying the commandments, allows the Holy Ghost to influence us and help us. All this can lead to wisdom and knowledge, and even hidden treasures of knowledge and wisdom.

vs. 20-"And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. " If we are living these principles for good health, we will have more energy, and feel stronger. We will have more endurance.

vs. 21-"And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen." God promises us divine protection if we will keep his commandments and covenants, just as he promised to Moses and the children of Israel at the time of the Exodus.

A final thought on this topic: We Latter-day Saints are to be a peculiar people, set apart from the world, though living among the people of the world. The Word of Wisdom sets us apart from the world. It is also a key to eternal treasures of wisdom and knowledge that we can only get in the temple. To be worthy of a temple recommend, we must be keeping the Word of Wisdom to the best of our knowledge and ability. Even the weakest of us can do it. It's a promise!

The Other Part of the Word of Wisdom, continued

2008-07-12T17:07:00.000-05:00

According to Doctrine and Covenants 89, which is where the Word of Wisdom comes from, the counsel given is "given for a principle with promise, adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints." Basically, this means just about anyone can live the principles. So, why don't we? Why don't I?

That is the question, isn't it? Why don't I live the Word of Wisdom better than I do now? There are wonderful promises involved in it, if I do, and I would feel so much better. I might even avoid some of the health problems I suffer from. I might be less stressed out, more productive in my life, more contented. So, why don't I do it?

I think one major reason I don't is procrastination. I waste so much time on trivial things, that I don't get around to doing things I should do, things that would make a difference in my life. It takes time to plan nutritious meals, shop for food, store it properly, and cook it. I'm usually too tired, or too distracted, or too busy to bother with this. I'm more likely to just grab something on the run. Besides, I don't feel like cooking a whole meal just for myself.

Another reason is tiredness... or is it laziness? I just don't feel like getting out and walking or doing other exercises when I get home from work, and anyway, the swimming pool and fitness center are closed by the time I get home.

To be honest, I think my biggest excuse is misusing time. All the time I spend on trivial things like TV, web surfing, computer games, etc., I could be using for planning better meals, exercising (yoga doesn't take much time or effort), or, getting to bed at a decent time and getting more sleep.

The Other Part of the Word of Wisdom

2008-06-24T04:08:00.000-05:00

When does too much of a good thing become bad? And, how does this relate to the Word of Wisdom?

For those who may not be familiar with this most basic of latter-day revelations, the Word of Wisdom is a series of health guidelines that Latter-day Saints follow, or, at least try to follow. None of us is perfect, and we all fall short of what we should be doing. Basically, the Word of Wisdom is a series of "thou shalts," and "thou shalt nots," encompassing everything from nutrition to getting enough sleep. It's that part that I fall woefully short of obedience, and pay for it in many ways.

Many people have heard the basics of the "thou shalt nots" of the Word of Wisdom. You know, like, Mormons don't drink coffee, tea, or alcohol. Mormons don't smoke or chew tobacco. Mormons don't do drugs. Some Mormons don't even drink caffeine sodas. But, it's the "thou shalts" that get me every time. That's what I'm going to discuss in this post. By the way, the Word of Wisdom is found in one of our books of scripture, the Doctrine and Covenants.

Life is to be lived with wisdom and common sense, everything in its time, everything in its order. So, why haven't I learned that? Why do I stay up so late all the time? Why do I not eat right, or exercise enough, or even drink enough water? That's all part of the Word of Wisdom.

My downfall is the Internet, which I've discovered can be for good or evil. I don't do anything bad, go to immoral web sites, or anything like that. I spend all my time on good things like blogging, reading online scriptures, keeping in touch with friends and family on MySpace and Facebook, listening to good music, and collecting good LDS videos on You Tube. The trouble is, I don't have sense enough to know when enough is enough, when to call it a night, when to turn off the computer and go to bed.

I'll continue this line of thought later. Right now, it's 4:30 a.m. and I have to go to work in only six hours. Ouch! I did it again.

I Belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

2008-06-22T22:44:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite, funny Mormon movies is The Singles Ward. It starts out with someone working on a scrapbook, and humming that song, which probably every child in Primary learns at some time. "I Belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." It's such a catchy tune, that I find myself whistling it, or humming it sometimes, without even thinking about it.

What does it mean? To me it means that I belong to the only church on earth that has the full organization, and blessings that were in the church in ancient times. True, other churches have some of the organization mentioned in Ephesians 4:11, but we have it all, including living Apostles and a living Prophet. Along with the organization, we have blessings that other churches don't have: continuing revelation, new scriptures, guidance and counsel from a living Prophet, just as in Biblical times; temples which benefit all mankind, the living and the dead; a true knowledge of who we are, where we've come from, and where we are going, and a much clearer understanding of who God is.

This is what we mean when we say, even as I say, " I know the Church is true."

Anti-Mormons Need Not Appy!

2008-06-22T22:04:00.000-05:00

As I said in my previous post, one purpose of my blog is to share my testimony, my beliefs, and my experiences as a Latter-day Saint. Of course, with this being a public blog, all are welcome to read it, and comment on it. But, I do want to keep it within the boundaries of The 13th Article of Faith, which I explained previously. That means I reserve the right to be rather picky about what I will allow. One thing I will not tolerate is anti-Mormon remarks! They will be quickly deleted.

I don't mind answering questions, or having discussions, but any undermining of LDS beliefs, or degrading remarks about sacred things such as Temples, or any mockery of Church leadership, or, in short, any anti-Mormon comments, will be deleted. There are plenty of spaces on the Internet where that goes on, but this is not one of them. I've had enough unpleasant experiences with that type of dialog, and I don't want that here.

My Purposes for This Blog

2008-06-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

I've been blogging for several years now, even before blogging became a household word. Back then, it was just called online journal keeping. I still do that, too. I just love writing, and sharing my thoughts and creative talents.

One reason I chose the title I chose for my blog, Lynn's Latter-day Lines, is to distinguish it from another blog I have on another web site. It also is a subtle reminder that this blog is being written by a Latter-day Saint aka Mormon. As such, I will be sharing my spiritual musings, my beliefs, and my experiences and testimony as a convert member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

As I have done on other blogs I am involved in, I intend to guide my blogging here by the 13th Article of Faith, which states:

" We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to enddure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praiseworthy, we seek after these things. " Joseph Smith