Sisters Standing Strong

Fantastic Friday Crafts

2011-10-12T13:44:00.001-07:00

Finally! Here are pictures of our crafts for the upcoming November 4th Fantastic Craft Night:

6:00 to 7:00 classes:

7:00 to 8:00 classes:

8:00 to 9:00 classes:

9:00 to 10:00 classes:

Can be worked on anytime throughout the night:

Save the Date! Fantastic Friday is Nov. 4th

2011-09-24T21:10:00.000-07:00

Pictures of projects will be coming soon!

2011-09-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

Jesus the Christ - Closing activity

2011-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the sisters who made it out to our activity on Tuesday evening! It was a wonderful opportunity to visit and chat with one another over dinner as well as be spiritually uplifted by our wonderful speaker, Brother Howard Evans.

Hairbows & Headbands

2011-07-10T15:25:00.001-07:00

Book Exchange Book List

2011-06-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the ladies that came last night, our book exchange was a great hit! We decided it should be a yearly activity :)

Books traded:
The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho
The Doctrine and Covenants Revelations in Context - The 37th Annual Brigham Young University Sidney B. Sperry Symposium
The Goose Girl - Shannon Hale
The Great House of God - Max Lucado
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - J. K. Rowling
The Killer Angels - Michael Shaara
My Name is Mary Sutter - Robin Oliveira
No Longer Strangers - Rachel Ann Nunes
Odds Are You're Going to Be Exalted - Alonzo Gaskill
The Pioneer Woman Cooks - Ree Drummond
Rainwater - Sandra Brown
Saying it Like it Is - Sheri Dew
Think Big - Ben Carson
Up From Slavery - Booker T. Washington

Other recommended books:
The Book Thief - Markus Zusak
Born on a Blue Day - Daniel Tammet (Daniel is autistic - interesting insight)
Cannery Row - John Steinbeck
The Color of Water - James McBride
The Great Divorce - C.S. Lewis
Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society - Mary Anne Shaffer
The Help - Kathryn Stockett
The Hiding Place - Corrie Ten Boom
Manhunt - James L. Swanson
No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin (about FDR and Eleanor - long book but very good)
Team of Rivals - Doris Kearns Goodwin (long book about Abraham Lincoln's presidency - great read)
The Shack - William P. Young
To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
Three Cups of Tea - Greg Mortensen

Book exchange inspired by: Reid Girls Handmade

Relief Society Book Exchange

2011-06-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

Don't forget! Tomorrow is our ward Relief Society Book Exchange, 7pm in the Relief Society Room...

Cannery Visit + Canner availability

2011-06-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Cannery Trip

Cynthia Israelson has reserved a date at the cannery for up to 6 people on

Tuesday, June 21st at 10 am.

The first 5 sisters that get back to her can go on that day.

Please call her if you would like to go or if you have any questions.

Canner Available Locally July 5^th - July 11^th

Cynthia Israleson has reserved a canner to do dry canning in the #10 cans at her home.

She will pick it up on July 5th and set it up in her garage through July 11th.

You can call her and come by just about anytime during that week.

Be thinking about what kinds of dry goods you'd like to can.

You will need to pick up your #10 cans between now and then at the cannery.

June 14 - RS 4th of July Wood Blocks

2011-06-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

We hope you will be able to join us next Tuesday for this fun and easy craft activity! We will be meeting at the home of Anne Steenblik at 7pm. A list of the supplies you will need are on the flier below. Just click on it to make it big.

(If you need her address, please contact someone in the ward)

Sunday Lesson - "Sacrifice"

2011-06-06T11:21:00.001-07:00

This week’s lesson on Sacrifice (Relief Society Handbook) was taught by Heidi Myron. Heidi reminded us that the Law of Sacrifice allows us to learn something about ourselves and to what extent we are willing to go to sacrifice for the Lord. It is also an opportunity to prove to Him that we love Him more than any other thing.

“We should be willing to sacrifice whatever he requires of our time, our earthly possessions, and our energies to further His work. “

The Law of Sacrifice prepares us for the Celestial Kingdom; “to dwell in the presence of God and his Christ forever and ever.” (D&C 76:62)

Don't Forget! Relief Society Education Day

2011-06-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is the Escondido South Stake Relief Society Education Day. There will be 6 Sessions of fantastic classes. Bring your own lunch and invite your friends! Great guest speaker: Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson.

“Lay aside the things of this world and seek for the things of a better”

Doctrine and Covenants 25:10

Saturday, June 4, 2011

8:45am-3:35pm

Escondido Stake Center

2255 Felicita Road, Escondido

For all women 18 years and older. Friends and neighbors welcome.

No charge. No childcare provided but nursing babies in arms are welcome.

8:45am-8:55am Welcome-Lee Taotafa

8:55-9:10am Theme-Sis.Laura Berry

9:20-10:10am Session 1

10:20-11:10am Session 2

11:20-12:10pm Session 3

12:20-1:35pm Session 4 : Guest Speaker-Sis. Wilson

1:45-2:35pm Session 5

2:45-3:35pm Session 6

Go to www.ourreliefsociety.com to download the schedule and any available handouts listed by speaker.

Type in the username [ourreliefsociety] and password [handouts], then double click on the desired information.

Sunday Lesson - “An Ensign to the Nations”

2011-05-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

Connie Rollins’ lesson this week was from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s May 2011 Conference talk , “An Ensign to the Nations.” She shared with us President Brigham Young’s dream in 1846 in which he saw “an angel standing on a cone-shaped hill somewhere in the West pointing to a valley below.” This dream was realized 18 months later, when he took a yellow bandana from Heber C. Kimball and a walking stick carried by Elder Willard Richards. From these items, he created a makeshift flag and “declared the valley of the Great Salt Lake and the mountains surrounding it as that prophesied place from which the word of the Lord would go forth in the latter days.” The publication Ensign, (pronounced en’sīne) in which we can read the word of the Lord spoken to us through revelation, is a “continuation of that early declaration to the world.”

Sister Rollins also shared with us that the General Conference speakers are not assigned a topic, but that many hours of fasting, praying and study are spent to know the topic the Lord wishes each speaker to present. The messages must be directed to a wide variety of people, members and non-members alike, families, singles, old and young, with such variety that they assume there will be “something for everyone.”

Connie brought out a map and showed us the locations of future temple sites in Ft. Collins, Co, Meridian, ID, and Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Do you know where these cities are? Show these new sites to your children!

We are so grateful for the messages and testimonies shared with us during each April and October Conference, and for the opportunity to read and listen to these messages after they are given though the church publications and websites!

Ice Cream Social and Welcome

2011-05-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

Just for fun

2011-02-10T07:09:00.001-08:00

Christmas Thoughts from Ginger.wmv

2010-12-23T10:08:00.000-08:00

Look to the Temple

2010-12-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

This week's lesson was on temples, particularly, learning some of the wonderful stories associated with these magnificent buildings.

President Monson stated (in October 2010 Ensign) "The temple provides purpose for our lives. It brings peace to our souls - not the peace provided by men but the peace promised by the Son of God when He said,'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you.'"

"You are never lost when you can see the temple. The temple will provide direction for you and your family in a world filled with chaos. It is an eternal guidepost which will help you from getting lost in the 'mist of darkness.'"
—Gary E. Stevenson

"I urge our people everywhere, with all of the persuasiveness of which I am capable, to live worthy to hold a temple recommend, to secure one and regard it as a precious asset, and to make a greater effort to go to the House of the Lord and partake of the spirit and the blessings to be had therein."
—Gordon B. Hinckley

"Temples are places of personal revelation. When I have been weighed down by a problem or a difficulty, I have gone to the House of the Lord with a prayer in my heart for answers. The answers have come in clear and unmistakable ways."
—Ezra Taft Benson

"As we come unto Christ and journey to higher ground, we will desire to spend more time in His temples, because the temples represent higher ground, sacred ground."
—Joseph B. Wirthlin

"And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it."
—Isaiah 2:2

"Everything that occurs in the temple is uplifting and ennobling. It speaks of life here and life beyond the grave. It speaks of the importance of the individual as a child of God. It speaks of the importance of the family and the eternity of the marriage relationship."
—Gordon B. Hinckley

Below are two slideshows I put together to showcase some of these beacons of light that dot the earth.

2010-11-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

Some of the Cookie Recipes

2010-11-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

Molasses Spice Cookies from Cooks Illustrated: (makes about 22 cookies)

For best flavor, make sure that your spices are fresh. Light or mild
molasses gives the cookies a milder flavor; for a stronger flavor use dark molasses. Either way, measure molasses in a liquid measure. If you find that the dough sticks to your palms as you shape the balls, moisten your hands occasionally in a bowl filled with cold tap water and shake off the excess. Bake the cookies one sheet at a time; if baked two at a time, the cookies started on the bottom rack won't develop the attractive cracks. Remove the cookies from the oven when they still look slightly raw and under-baked.

1/3 cup (about 2 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar, plus 1/2 cup for dipping
2 1/4 cups (11 1/4 ounces) unbleached all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup packed (2 3/4 ounces) dark brown sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup light or dark molasses

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place 1/2 cup for dipping in 8- or 9-inch cake pan.
2. Whisk flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in medium bowl until thoroughly combined; set aside.
3. In standing mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter with brown sugar and remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar at medium high speed until light and fluffy,about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium-low and add yolk and vanilla; increase speed to medium-high and beat until incorporated, about 20 seconds. Reduce speed to medium-low and add molasses; beat until fully incorporated, about 30 seconds, scraping bottom and sides of bowl once with rubber spatula. Reduce speed to lowest setting; add flour mixture and beat until just incorporated, about 30 seconds, scraping down bowl once. Give dough a final stir by hand to ensure that no pockets of flour remain at bottom. Dough will be soft.
4. Using tablespoon measure, scoop heaping tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms into 1 1/4- to 1 1/2-inch ball; drop by tbsp into cake pan with sugar and repeat to form about 4 balls. Toss balls in sugar to coat and set on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Repeat with remaining dough.
5. Bake, one sheet at a time and reversing position of baking sheet from front to back halfway through baking, until cookies are browned, still puffy, and edges have begun to set but centers are still soft (cookies will look raw between the cracks and seem underdone), about 11 minutes. Do not over-bake.
6. Cool the cookies on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then use wide metal spatula to transfer cookies to wire rack; cool cookies to room temperature and serve.

Sandi Evan’s Pumpkin Bars:
4 eggs
15 oz canned pumpkin
1 ½ cup sugar
1 cup oil
2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp soda

Put eggs in bowl, beat and add: sugar, oil, pumpkin and beat. Put dry ingredients together in a bowl, mix thoroughly. Sift if necessary. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients mix stir together, but don’t over mix. Bake at 350° for approx 25 minutes until lightly golden brown or a toothpick comes out clean. Cool and frost.

Cream Cheese Frosting for Pumpkin Bars:
¼ cup softened butter
3 oz cream cheese softened
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups powdered sugar

Mix butter and cream cheese. Mix in powdered sugar, add vanilla.

Double Chocolate Drops:
3 cups flour
1 cup buttermilk or sour milk
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup shortening
4 squares (4 oz) unsweetened chocolate
2 cups brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp vanilla
2 6 oz pkg (2 cups) semi-sweet chocolate pieces
1 cup chopped walnuts
Buttercream frosting of choice
Toasted coconut (optional)

Stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In medium saucepan melt shortening and unsweetened chocolate over low heat. Cool 10 minutes. Stir in brown sugar. Add egg, buttermilk, or sour milk, and vanilla, beat until smooth. Add dry ingredients to saucepan mixture and beat until well blended. Stir in chocolate pieces and nuts. Drop from a teaspoon two inches apart onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake in 350° oven about 10 minutes or until done. Cool about 1 minute before removing to wire rack, cook thoroughly. Frost cookies with buttercream frosting. Sprinkle with toasted coconut, if desired. Makes about 42.

Chocolate Chip Carmel Muffin Cookies:
1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker® chocolate chip cookie mix
½ cup butter or margarine, softened
1 egg

OR I used my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe

24 round chewy caramels in milk chocolate, from 3 (1.91 oz) rolls, unwrapped
(use Junior caramels . . . like Junior Mints only caramel or Rolos)
72 mini marshmallows (about ¾ cup)
1/3 cup cup semisweet chocolate chips

1. Heat oven to 350°. Spray 24 mini muffin cups with cooking spray.
2. Make cookie dough as directed on package, using butter and egg. Shape dough into 24 (1 ½ inch) balls. Place 1 ball into each muffin cup.
3. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Remove from oven; firmly press 1 candy into center of each cookie until flush with cookie top. Top each with 3 marshmallows. Bake 2 to 4 minutes longer or until marshmallows are puffed. Cool 10 to 15 minutes. Loosen edges of cookie with small metal spatula and remove to cooling racks. Cool completely.
4. Place chocolate chips in small resealable freezer plastic bag. Microwave on high about 1 minute or until softened. Gently squeeze bag until chocolate is smooth; cut off tiny corner of bag. Squeeze bag to drizzle chocolate over marshmallows. Let stand until hardened, about 10 minutes.

Make 2 dozen cookies

Baker Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Sift together:
2 ¼ cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
Set aside

Blend:
1 cube butter
½ cup Crisco
Add and Mix:
¾ cup white sugar
¾ cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla

1 bag chocolate chips
Walnuts (if you like them)
Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes

Chris Christie’s Molasses Crinkle:
¾ cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
1 egg
¼ cup molasses
2 ¼ cup flour
2 tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp cloves
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp cinnamon

Cream shortening and sugar together. Add egg and molasses. Combine flour, soda, salt and spices in a separate bowl. Add dry to wet ingredients. Chill dough. Roll into (golf ball sized) and roll tops of balls in sugar. Sprinkle with a couple drops of water. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 375° for 8-10 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies:
2 cup sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup cocoa
4 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
Powdered sugar

In a large bowl stir together sugar and oil; add cocoa, blending well. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir together flour, baking powder and salt; add to cocoa mixture. Cover and refrigerate until dough is firm enough to handle.

Heat oven to 350°. Grease cookie sheet. Shape dough in 1 inch balls, roll in powdered sugar. Bake 10-12 minutes and no indentations when touched and tops are cracked. Makes about 4 dozen.

Sugar Cookies:
Cream together:
2 cups butter (soften)
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp lemon extract
Add and mix:
6 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda

Spoon size scoop, roll in powder sugar and place on cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes 375°. Makes about 7 to 8 doz.

Dreamy Chocolate Bars by Jodi Sadleir:
Step 1:
• Preheat oven to 350°
• Sift together 1 cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup butter.
• Butter the bottom of a 9x13 pan, and press mixture into bottom.
• Bake until golden brown. About 15-20 minutes.
Sept 2:
• Mix together; 1 cup brown sugar, 2 eggs, 2 tbsp flour, ½ tsp salt, 2 cup chocolate chips, 1 cup chopped nuts and 1 tsp vanilla.
• Spread chocolate chip mixture over cooled crust. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes.
• When cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and cut while still slightly warm.

Options: Use raisins or different nuts in step 2. Try putting cereal in the crust, or granola and nuts. If you use raisins, and granola, put a tsp of cinnamon in the crust as well.

Dutch Apple Pie Bars: 24 bars
Granny Smith apples are suggested, but other apples, such as Empire, Cortland, Golden Delicious, Jonagold, or Braeburn can also be used.

Tip: Pre-cooking the apples in a large nonstick skillet will help evaporate their moisture before baking. This will help keep the crust dry and prevent it from being soggy.

Crust
8 ounces (4 cups) animal crackers
1/3 cup packed (2 1/3 oz) light brown sugar
1/8 tsp salt
6 Tbs (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted/cooled

Streusel
1 cup (5 oz) all purpose flour
1/3 packed (2 1/3 oz) light brown sugar
1/3 cup 2 1/3 cup) granulated sugar
1 tsp yellow cornmeal
6 Tbs (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted/cooled

Filling
2 Tbs unsalted butter
2 pounds (4-6) Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼ inch thick
¼ cup (1 ¾ oz) granulated sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp salt
½ cup (2 ½ oz) golden raisins (optional)

Instructions:
Adjust the oven rack to the middle and heat to 375°. Line a 13/9 baking pan with a foil sling and grease foil.

Process the animal crackers, brown sugar and salt together in a food processor to fine crumbs, about 15 seconds. Drizzle the melted butter over the crumbs and pulse to incorporate, about 10 seconds. Sprinkle the mixture into the prepared pan and press into an even layer with the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake the crust until fragrant and deep golden brown, about 10-13 minutes.

For the streusel: Whisk the flour, sugars, and cornmeal together in a medium bowl. Drizzle with the melted butter and toss with a fork to combine.

For the filling: Melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet over med-high heat. Add the apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and slat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened and all the liquid has evaporated, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in raisins if using.

Spread the apple mixture over the warm crust and sprinkle with the streusel. Bake the bars until the streusel has browned, 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan, about 2 hours. Remove bars from the pan using the foil, cut into squares and serve.

Felicita Relief Society Cookie Exchange

2010-11-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, November 9 at 7pm at Deborah Naves Home

Please bring 4 dozen of the same cookie and 12 copies of the recipe. Also bring an empty container to take new assortment of cookies home.
Cookie recipes will be put on blog for those who can’t attend and incase we run out of copies.

Notes from Fireside by President Haynie

2010-10-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

Parenting requirements for the current climate – Allen D. Haynie, 10/10
1. Purify ourselves – has to be parenting that is a product of revelation.

2. Pray longer and harder for our children – counsel with God,
2 Ne. 33:3: For I pray continually for them by day, and mine eyes water my pillow by night, because of them; and I cry unto my God in faith, and I know that he will hear my cry.

3. Be sure that they learn and understand the true doctrines of the kingdom (the reason we have FHE and youth activities). Alma taught that God gave Adam and Eve commandments after giving them the doctrine. Also, Alma 31: 5: And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just—yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them—therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God.

4. Honor the Sabbath Day = power; it’s not a day for sports or shopping. Don’t work or play so hard on Friday and Saturday night that you have to sleep all day on Sunday either. We should do something on Sunday, appropriate things.

5. Don’t provide them with access to porn or any inappropriate matter; control time and access on the internet, no R rated movies and limit PG-13, don’t be a stranger to children’s FaceBook or texts, and consider sleepovers with caution. No computers in kid’s rooms; a computer in a boy’s room will lead to trouble.

6. Only allow safe dating at 16. Their daughter’s early boyfriends have wondered if he didn’t like them, but they have chosen to keep the early boyfriends at a distance as bringing them into the family circle will only intensify the couple’s feelings for each other.

7. Emphasis on modesty in dress – use doctrine to help them understand why, not just giving rules and asking obedience.
D&C 43:8-10 has been taught at three recent training meetings he has been to. It must be important for us right now:
8: And now, behold, I give unto you a commandment, that when ye are assembled together ye shall instruct and edify each other, that ye may know how to act and direct my church, how to act upon the points of my law and commandments, which I have given.
9: And thus ye shall become instructed in the law of my church, and be sanctified by that which ye have received, and ye shall bind yourselves to act in all holiness before me—
10: That inasmuch as ye do this, glory shall be added to the kingdom which ye have received. Inasmuch as ye do it not, it shall be taken, even that which ye have received.

Super Friday - October 15

2010-10-11T13:08:00.001-07:00

Class times:
Boo/Joy Plaques will take all night and start at 6 p.m. (Allie Chapman)
Gift Box 6-8 p.m. (Heather Muir)
Compassionate Soup 6:-7:30 p.m. (Jane Thurston)
Christmas Board 7-8 p.m. (Kathleen Muir)
Three Pumpkins 7-9 p.m. (April McEvoy)
Frankenstein Block 7-10 p.m. (Heather Muir & Katie Sabin)
Bags 8 p.m. (Lynn Muir)
Sugar Scrub 8:30 (Lynn Muir)
B-day anytime
Wreath anytime (Katie or Lynn)
Hair bows all night (Heather Long)

New Reading Challenge

2010-10-09T22:16:00.000-07:00

We have a new reading challenge. Together as a Relief Society we will be reading Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage. We will try to read up through the birth of Christ by Christmas. We will then continue with the remainder of the book throughout the next year.

We hope you will share your thoughts and insights as we read together so we can enrich each others reading experience.

Anyone who does not have a copy can contact a member of the Relief Society Presidency to receive a copy.

We think this is going to be a wonderful experience for our entire Relief Society.

When Life Hands You Lemons . . .

2010-10-03T20:18:00.001-07:00

Depend on the Savior

2010-09-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we were taught by Tonya Scott and the Young Women. They introduced us to their DOTS program. Each Young Woman gave an example of how they've come to Depend On The Savior. Now we are seeing dots everywhere we go, too.

Our Relief Society President, Ginger Proffitt, was touched by the young women's program. She realized that in order to depend on the Savior, we need to know Him better. She was inspired to encourage each of us to read the book Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmadge. As a Relief Society our goal is to finish this book by this time next year and read up to the birth of Christ by Christmas.

Today's lesson by Deborah Haynie was all about the Savior and how He carries us through our burdens and trials.

Enjoy the following video shared today and whenever you see dots, think of how you depend on the Savior.

Super Friday

2010-09-02T10:20:00.001-07:00

Crafts for Super Friday

2010-09-02T10:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the crafts for Super Friday on October 15. Watch for more crafts to be added.

September Craft

2010-08-19T08:59:00.001-07:00

No-Sew Birthday Banner Instructions

2010-08-19T08:58:00.001-07:00

For those who couldn't be there. Here are the instructions:

Supplies:
• 5-14 different fabrics, you only need a little of each
• Double fold quilt binding- 3 yards
• Rotary cutter with mat and guide. OR scissors and pinking sheers
• Acrylic craft paint
• Pellon-Interfacing- 2 Yards
• Foam brush
• Iron
• Freezer paper
• Hot glue gun

How to:
First- Cut pieces of your fabric out (pieces just a little larger than your triangles) and iron your Pellon to stiffen the fabric and to keep it from fraying when you cut the triangles.

Cut out your triangles. I did mines 8.5" long and 8" wide. I wouldn't go wider than that, but smaller would be okay. You just want to make sure you don't go over the 3 yards of the binding. I also cut mine out with a rotary pinking blade.

Next you will want to lay them out and decided how you are going to place them in line.
Then, cut out your letters out of freezer paper with ad die-cut machine; or with a stencil and an exact-o knife.

I used my Cricut. To cut freezer paper with a Cricut you will want pressure of 3 med, speed of 1 or 2, and depth of 2. I used the Plantin Schoolbook cartridge- roly poly font for the heart- 3inches big. For the letters I used Opposites Attract cartridge in the "Upright" font. For the H and B capital letters I did 4inches and for the lower case letters I did 5inches.

After cutting out the letters I ironed them onto my triangles. Use directions on freezer paper box.

I then painted them using the foam brush and acrylic paint. I didn't like the fabric paint color choices, and this works just as good. You’re probably not going to be washing this, so no worries about the fabric paint.

After they were dry I peeled the freezer paper off and lined up my letters. Make sure you line up your binding and letters before you glue so it is all evenly spaced before you glue

Open up the quilt binding. Glue on the bottom first. Overlap the triangles just a little, place on hot glue. Glue the top and press down. Done!

For detailed pictures you can look at my craft blog at www.lynnspin.com under “No-Sew Birthday Banner”
Thanks CRAFT GROUP!- Lynn Muir

Forgiveness: My Burden Was Made Light

2010-08-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

Testimony of the Book of Mormon

2010-08-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

Ladies Night Out

2010-08-08T17:03:00.001-07:00

Birthday Banners

2010-08-08T16:59:00.000-07:00

July's Craft Group (Smoothies & Shakes)

2010-07-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

July's Craft group was one of the best in Felicita History (and one of the tastiest too) Thanks to Angela- for sharing her recipes and tips with us. And, for making us some delicious smoothies and shakes to try out! We had a great time :) - Lynn Muir

Angela Lee’s Smoothies and Shakes

A few tips!

Smoothies-
1. Always put your liquids in the blender first.
2. You need to keep equal frozen to non-frozen ratio to keep a good consistency.
3. Peaches will give a smoothie a creamy texture and add a lot of vitamin C.
4. Juice concentrate is a great sweetener- 2 tablespoons of any flavor.
5. Use frozen berries so you don’t have to add ice.
6. If need to add more ice or water make sure to add more flavoring.
7. Can add honey to sweeten.
8. Can add veggies, but make sure they are on the bottom so they get the most chopped.
9. If adding spinach use dark berries to hide the green.
10. Concentrates Angela uses the most are grape juice and white grape juice.

Shakes-
1. Very soft ice cream makes better shakes! Leave out for 15-30 mins to soften ice cream. If not soft make sure a little milk is in the bottom of blender.
2. If using strawberries soak in sugar first to sweeten (if you are making shakes we don’t care about calories anymore J )
3. Don’t over blend. The more you blend the runnier it will be.
4. If want to make a malt, just add 2 tablespoons of malt to any shake.

Recipes!

Smoothies-
Strawberry Banana Smoothie:
2-4 T grape juice concentrate
handful of frozen strawberries
half a banana
half handful of frozen peaches
2 T of vanilla yogurt
handful of ice

Berry Spinach Smoothie:
¼ cup grape juice concentrate
2 heaping T of vanilla yogurt
1 handful of spinach
2 small handfuls of frozen blueberries
1 handful of frozen mixed berries
½ banana
½ handful ice
2 T water if too thick

Sore Throat Smoothie:
½ cup ginger ale
2 T orange concentrate
½ cup caned pineapple
handful of ice
2 T vanilla yogurt
½ banana

Shakes-
Strawberry Shake:
1 cup vanilla ice cream
¼ cup milk
1 cup strawberries

Peanut Butter Chocolate Shake:
3 scoops vanilla ice cream
2 heaping T of peanut butter
¼ cup Heresy’s chocolate syrup
(Add ice if want)

Caramel Oreo Shake:
½ cup of milk
2 cups of vanilla ice cream
¼ cup caramel
4 Oreo’s
BLEND
Then add 4 more Oreo’s and blend slightly

Butterscotch Shake:
¼ cup milk
1 cup vanilla ice cream
2 T butterscotch

One Nation Under God

2010-07-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

This video compliments Ginger's 4th of July lesson (see previous post). Enjoy.

God Bless America

2010-07-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ginger Proffitt gave a wonderful lesson on the foundation of this nation on the 4th of July. (Turns out it is also her favorite holiday.)

Our founding father's were really more like children, in that they were relatively young and inexperienced in such matters as starting a new country. None of them had any prior experience in revolutions. How did they do it? It could only have been done through the grace of God. Each of them were God fearing men who knew they could not do what they were about to do without help from the Almighty.

Ginger said, "Our Constitution was written for a moral people. It will not survive a people who collectively lose their virtue. In other words, if America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great." James Madison said, "We have staked the whole future of American civilization not upon the power of government, far from it. We have stake the future...upon the capacity of each..of us to govern ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God".

Even though there are struggles in America, we can do our part to help preserve this great nation. As we have seen throughout history, one person can make a difference. (Think of the likes of Noah and Queen Esther.) What is our part? What can we do? We must live with Integrity. Think of "Honest Abe" Lincoln, George Washington and men who lived as John Adams when he declared "I never swerved from any principle..to obtain a vote. I never sacrificed a friend or betrayed a trust." We must learn to be selfless. Selfless service has been core to our nation from the beginning. How benevolent, how generous, how quick to be one of the first responders in disaster is America? The people must individually and collectively continue to offer service. The most crucial service being rendered to preserve the family unit. Most importantly, we must live with devotion to God. Patrick Henry declared that "there is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us." He would know since there was no other way a ragtag group of Colonists could have defeated the superior British army.

During the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln called for a national day of fasting and prayer. "We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven..but we have forgotten God..It behooves us..to humble ourselves before the offended power."

Each one of us, regardless of wealth or position, can make a difference. Every man, woman and child, uneducated, highly educated, rich or poor, born here or adopted into this nation, each one can do our part to live with integrity, offer selfless service and call upon God to help preserve this nation.

RS Retreat - May 21, 2010

2010-06-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

A "shout out" to Lynn Muir for the delicious food and to Chanel Weddle for organizing some fun games. A big "thanks" to Ned and Cynthia for letting us use their amazing cabin on Mt. Laguna.

2010 Pool Hops

2010-06-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

Pool Hops Tuesdays from 2-4 p.m.
June 22 - Sadleir's home
June 29 - Haynie's home
July 6 - Proffitt's home
July 13 - Strawn's home
July 20 - Sabin's home
July 27 - Baker's home
August 3 - Krueger's home
August 10 - Haynie's home
August 17 - Buzzard's home

Embrace Life - Buckle Up

2010-06-12T01:13:00.000-07:00

Breakfast with Ginger (not Proffitt)

2010-06-12T00:58:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 8 Craft Group

2010-06-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

Craft group will be making this Tooth Fairy tooth on Tuesday June 8th at Lynn Muir's home 7pm. These are great and super cute! No more reaching under the pillow of a sleeping child! :)

For those interested:
Please bring felt for tooth, pocket, cheeks, little teeth, and any accessories you add, like the crown and ballerina skirt. (we also have white felt for the teeth, and lots of small felt scraps for decor/accessories, ribbon for the hanging loop, buttons for eyes, Fabritac or other fabric glue, matching thread, embroidery floss, etc... (we have a bunch left over from another craft, I will have it.),optional pipe cleaners for wings, poly stuffing (Bring 25 cents for stuffing. We will buy a bag.
Two of the 8 x 11.5 pieces of felt work great for the tooth. Or 8 inches off the bolt.

Retreat Recipe

2010-06-05T07:47:00.000-07:00

Cafe Rio Pork
1 pork loin
2 cups pace medium salsa
2 cups brown sugar
Put in your slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low. Shred and let sit for one more hour.

Lime Rice
3 cups of rice
3 cups of water
1/2 onion
1/2 bunch cilantro
1 can green chilies
4 t garlic- minced
4 t chicken bouillon
1/2 t salt
1 T butter
4 T lime juice
Blend/Chop onion, cilantro, and chilies in a food processor (or you can just chop onion and cilantro by hand). Then put all ingredients in with the rice and cook; either on stove or in a rice cooker. I did it in my rice cooker. So, I added 3 cups of rice to 3 cups water, then added in the blended stuff PLUS the rest of the ingredients, mixed it up and closed the lid. I don't think you have to be exact with this, it pretty much always turns out good. Some people like to add jalapenos to the rice or dressing for more spice. But, I am not a spicy person :)

Creamy Cilantro Dressing
1 pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing (dry mix)
1 cup buttermilk
1/2-1 bunch of cilantro, chopped
1 cup mayo
2 tsp. lime juice
2 tomatillos (remove outer papery skin)
2 garlic cloves
Blend all ingredients in blender or food processor. Refrigerate.

I enjoyed cooking it for you sisters! Glad you all liked it!
LOVE- Lynn Muir

Family Home Evening

2010-06-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can find over a years worth of Family Home Evening Lessons on the blog? It includes everything you need for a great family home evening, lesson, song and even refreshments.

Just look for this picture on the right sidebar (it's near the bottom), click on it and it will take you to all of the lessons.

Remember my suggestion for a successful family home evening......A Prayer, A Song, A Treat! You can always add more but.....That's all it takes and you will have success.

Combating Pornography Website

2010-05-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

Click on title to access website.

Double Peak Park

2010-05-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday May 1, Felicita Flight 2010 had a little "layover" at beautiful Double Peak Park in San Marcos.

We were treated to a wonderful view, breakfast and short devotional. A group of sisters sang "How Great Thou Art" as we sat in the amphitheater and took in the vast view of hills, valleys and ocean. Then we had our keynote (and only) speaker, Cathy Nielsen and closed with the song "Nearer My God To Thee". Cathy started her speech with a lively demonstration. She took sisters out of the audience to perform "Row Row Row Your Boat". She showed us how we can take something ordinary and make it fantastic. (See video).

After the impromptu "performance" Cathy said the following... "As we row our boat down our own personal stream of life, do we fix our eye on what’s straight ahead of us? Or do we look around and take in what’s all around us as we “mosey” on down the river? Are we enjoying the ride? The greatest satisfactions in our lives don’t come from singing solos. They come from adding something more to the music, creating beautiful harmonies. 'Life is a big canvas; throw all the paint on it you can.' -- Danny Kaye ..

Gordon B. Hinckley 'Let us rise to the high ground of spiritual, mental and physical excellence. Let us all try to stand a little taller, rise a little higher, and be a little better. Make the extra effort. You will be happier. You will know a new satisfaction, a new gladness in your heart.' We can’t limit ourselves, sisters. We have to expand ourselves-work outside our boat. How do we do that? By choosing a more excellent way...

Our Relief Society Presidency has challenged us, to expand ourselves a little more in the areas of service, knowledge and spirituality. They have been inspired to bring this challenge to us this year so we can more align our lives to the example given to us by our Savior, Jesus Christ. Seneca said: “The wise man will always reflect concerning the quality, not the quantity of life.” This is my prayer that regardless of our past, that in 2010, we can row our boat down the stream more merrily, making exaltation with our Heavenly Father a reality." Cathy Nielsen

Quotes from Lynn's Lesson

2010-05-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

Lynn Davis gave an excellent lesson on Prophets of God. The beauty of a modern prophet is knowing we are given guidance and counsel for what we are experiencing at this moment in time.

The following are some quotes from prophets of the past and today. May these words from true prophets of the Lord give you peace, comfort, hope and courage to stand up for what is right.

Joseph Smith
"With his great faith, and trust in God, Joseph [Smith] had an insurmountable optimism. he knew the truth, and the truth made him free - free from fear, free from doubt, and free from pessimism. He said, 'If I were sunk in the lowest pit of Nova Scotia, with the Rocky Mountains pile on me, I would hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage, and I would come out on top.'" (The Prophet and His Work: Essays from General Authorities, 89).

(thanks Jane Thurston for passing this one on)
Joseph Smith
“We are fast approaching that moment prophesied by Joseph Smith when he said: ‘Even this nation will be on the very verge of crumbling to pieces and tumbling to the ground, and when the Constitution is upon the brink of ruin, this people will be the staff upon which the nation shall lean, and they shall bear the Constitution away from the very verge of destruction” (Church Historian’s Office, Salt Lake City, July 19, 1840) (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, 623 - 624).

Harold B. Lee
"Men may fail in this country, earthquakes may come, seas may heave beyond their bounds, there may be great drought, disaster, and hardship, but this nation, founded on principles laid down by men whom God raised up, will never fail.
This is the cradle of humanity, where life on this earth began in the Garden of Eden. This is the place of the New Jerusalem...This is the place where the Savior will come to His temple.
We are living in a time of great crisis. The Country is torn with scandal and with criticism, with fault finding and condemnation. There are those who have downgraded the image of this nation as probably never before in the history of the country.
I plead with you to not preach pessimism. Preach that this is the greatest country in all the world..It is the nation that will stand despite whatever trials or crises it may yet have to pass through.
We must be on the optimistic side. This is a great nation; this is a great country; this is the most favored of all the lands. While it is true that there are dangers and difficulties that lie ahead of us, we must not assume that we are going to stand by and watch the country go to ruin. We should not be heard to predict ills and calamities for the nation. On the contrary, we should be providing optimistic support for the nation..
You must remember ..that this church is one of the most powerful agencies for the progress of the world, and we should ...all sound with one voice. We must tell the world how we feel about this land and this nation and should bear our testimonies about the great mission and destiny that it has.
If we do this, we will help turn the tide of this great country and lessen the influence of the pessimists. We must be careful that we do not say or do anything that will further weaken the country. It is the negative, pessimistic comments about the nation that do as much harm as anything to the country today. We who carry these sacred responsibilities must preach the gospel of peace, and peace can only come by overcoming the things of the world. Now, we must be the dynamic force that will help turn the tide of fear and pessimism."(Excerpts from a talk given at Ricks College Devotional Assembly, “Have Faith in America,” October 26, 1973, and printed in two sources: Ye Are the Light of the World: Selected Sermons and Writings of Harold B. Lee, 340, 350-351, and The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, edited by Clyde J. Williams, 365-366.)

Ezra Taft Benson
"The Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith there would be an attempt to overthrow the country by destroying the Constitution. Joseph Smith predicted that the time would come when the Constitution would hang, as it were, by a thread, and at that time 'this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction' (Journal of Discourses, 7:15) It is my conviction that the elders of Israel, widely spread over the nation, will at that crucial time successfully rally the righteous of our country and provide the necessary balance of strength to save the institutions of constitutional government". (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, 618-619).

Howard W. Hunter
"I am here tonight to tell you that despair, doom, and discouragement are not an acceptable view of life for a Latter-day Saint. However high on the charts they are on the hit parade of contemporary news, we must not walk on our lower lip every time a few difficult moments happen to confront us." (Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, 199).

Gordon B Hinckley
"We came into this life for experience, and that's all we can take out of it. Thank God we have the right to decide personally and individually what we shall do. The future belongs to those who know what to do with it.. We must look forward to the unknown with optimism and confidence; look to tomorrow with happy expectancy, realizing that with God's help we can do all things. We need to constantly build faith in ourselves and those about us. We need to personally make dark days brighter. Isn't it a joy, a lift, a light, to see someone with heavy challenges and burdens moving forward to victory in the only contest that really matters!" (Faith, 49).

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
"The Lord has probably spoken enough comforting words to supply the whole universe, and yet all we see around us are unhappy Latter-day Saints, worried Latter-day Saints, and gloomy Latter-day Saints into whose troubled hearts not one of these innumerable consoling words seems to be allowed to enter...on the night of Gethsemane, the night of the greatest suffering ever to take place on this world, the Savior said, 'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you..let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid'(John 14:27). I submit to you, that may be one of the Savior's commandments that is, even in the hearts of otherwise faithful Latter-Day Saints, almost universally disobeyed" (CES Young Adult Fireside, Brigham Young University, March 2, 1997).

Thomas S. Monson
"My brothers and sisters, today as we look at the world around us, we are faced with problems which are serious and of great concern to us. The world seems to have slipped from the mooring of safety and drifted from the harbor of peace....My counsel for all of us is to look to the lighthouse of the Lord. There is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what its beacon of light can rescue. It beckons through the storms of life. The lighthouse of the Lord sends forth signals readily recognized and never failing." (April 4, 2010 General Conference)

Chapter 9 - Prophets of God

2010-05-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

Many believe prophets were a thing of the past; a biblical figure that no longer exists. Through the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we were so blessed to have all the keys of the Priesthood restored to the earth. Along with those keys came the real power and proper authority to call one man to be the mouthpiece for the Lord. Today we definitely "Thank Thee oh God for a Prophet". What a tremendous gift and blessing it is to have a living prophet on the earth.

Amos 3:7 states "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." Heavenly Father would not leave his children to fend for themselves in this ever increasingly wicked world. There is one man on the earth who holds all the keys of priesthood authority. He is chosen by God and "called through proper priesthood authority." He is assisted by his counselors and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve "who are also prophets, seers, and revelators".

Knowing this man receives revelations and directions from the Lord for our benefit, makes it paramount that we listen to his counsel.

If we follow the prophet the Lord promises, "The gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name's glory " (D&C 21:6).

Happily Ever After

2010-05-15T08:17:00.001-07:00

Aundrea Ristine gave the Presidency lesson in May. She used President Uchtdorf's talk given to the Young Women this past March.

President Uchtdorf states that in almost all the languages of the world there is a magical phrase, "Once Upon a Time". Elder Uchtdorf said, “Once upon a time” promises something: a story of adventure and romance, a story of princesses and princes. It may include tales of courage, hope, and everlasting love. In many of these stories, nice overcomes mean and good overcomes evil. But perhaps most of all, I love it when we turn to the last page and our eyes reach the final lines and we see the enchanting words “And they lived happily ever after.”

We are all striving for our own "happily ever after", which ultimately is eternal life. Our lives are the pages between "Once Upon a Time" and "Happily Ever After". We can have the faith and courage to overcome the trials and tribulations that inevitably happen in each chapter of our lives.

President Uchtdorf tells the young women, "Isn't it remarkable to know that our eternal Heavenly Father knows you, hears you, watches over you, and loves you with an infinite love? In fact, His love for you is so great that He has granted you this earthly life as a precious gift of 'once upon a time,' complete with your own true story of adventure, trial, and opportunities for greatness, nobility, courage, and love. And, most glorious of all, He offers you a gift beyond price and comprehension. Heavenly Father offers to you the greatest gift of all—eternal life—and the opportunity and infinite blessing of your own 'happily ever after.'

Are You Somebody or Nobody?

2010-05-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

Deborah Haynie's lesson came from President Monson's Talk "What Have I Done For Someone Today?"

All President Monson wanted for his birthday was to hear stories of people doing something nice for someone else. He calls them "warm fuzzies". Deborah had on display a huge jar full of fuzzy balls to represent the hundreds of letters President Monson received.

Service is truly President Monson's "theme". It is through us the Lord helps feed the sick, clothe the naked, strengthen the weak, comfort the poor in spirit.

This little poem reminds us to step up to the plate.

This is a little story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody.

There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.

Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it.

Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybody's job.

Everybody thought that Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it.

It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done

Chapter 8 - Praying to our Heavenly Father

2010-05-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest blessings we have been given is the ability to communicate with Heavenly Father. We can offer up our heart's sincere desires and if we listen, He will guide us.

Even from the time of Adam and Eve, we have been told to pray. We are to pray to Heavenly Father and no one or nothing else. We pray to the Father in the name of his son Jesus Christ. Jesus is our Advocate with the Father. We are not worthy to be in His presence, except by way of Jesus of Christ. This is why we start our prayers by addressing Heavenly Father and close our prayers in the name of Jesus of Christ.

We should pray for strength to resist the temptations of Satan. Our prayers should not become meaningless repitition of words. We are in a "live chat" and should speak from our hearts and give thanks daily. As parents we know it is a little bit easier to give to those children whom we know are grateful. Before we ask Heavenly Father for blessings, we should thank Him for what we already have. We should be meek and humble, asking for His will to be done.

We have been counseled to pray on our own at least morning and night. We should be gathering our families for prayer morning and night as well.

Our sincere prayers are always answered. The answer may not be what we want but when we exercise our faith in a loving Heavenly Father who knows what is best for us, the best will come.

It is good to remember that sometimes the Father answers our prayers through other people. Sometimes He gives us the power to answer our own prayers through actions we must take.

Jesus taught "Ye must pray unto the Father in my name" (3Ne 18:19). Thankfully we can.

The Fall of Adam and Eve

2010-04-11T10:02:00.001-07:00

When Adam and Eve were in the garden of Eden they were not mortal. Even though they had physical bodies, they did not know pleasure or pain, good or evil and were not subject to death.

They had been given a commandment not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil because if they did, they would die. Eve knew that this would be the only way for them to progress. Satan wanted to tempt them to break the law but he did not know how that would fit into God's plan.

Some Bibles refer to the Fall as "shameful". As Latter-Day Saints, we know better. It was necessary. Dallin H. Oaks explains the difference between transgressing a law and committing a sin. Sins are inherently wrong. Murder is a sin. Operating without a license is wrong because it is against the law but it is not a sin. Eve transgressed the law but did not commit sin.

Because Adam and Eve partook of the forbidden fruit, they were cast out of the garden and thus their bodies experienced a change. They became mortal. Only then were they capable of procreating. They opened the portal by which all mankind would come into mortality and experience earth life. If it wasn't for their transgression of that one law, none of us would be here.

One Flaw In Women

2010-03-22T10:08:00.001-07:00

One Flaw In Women
Women have strengths that amaze men......
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in..
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards..

They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they
think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what
makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their
family and friends.

Women have vital things to say
and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH..

The Creation

2010-03-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you Pamela Campbell for giving us a great lesson on The Creation. Pamela was inspired to have us read the account of the Creation in three different works of scripture.

The account, given by Moses, in the Old Testament had been through many translations and languages and had become quite abridged. With the Heavens opening up to us in this dispensation, we were blessed to receive a more in depth account of that monumental event. In the Books of Moses and Abraham, we gain a better understanding and broader view of how the world we live in, came to be.

Through our additional resources, we learned that Jesus Christ was the main Creator, under the direction of our Father in Heaven. We're taught that all things were created spiritually before they were created physically. We were created in God's image and His creations show His love for us. We have amazing bodies with all these senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell) and all these things created for our benefit, "Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart; yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul" (D&C 59:18-19)

We learn from Moses that God knows each and every one of His creations and loves them. It is awesome to think about. When the sun gives us warmth, when the rain refreshes the air and feeds the plants, when we can hear birds sing or a baby giggle, when we can smell fresh flowers or taste a piece of delicious fresh fruit, when we can see a magnificent sunset or sunrise or a fully lit moon in a starry sky, all these things are given to us from a loving Father who knows us. It is truly amazing and it is no wonder we were anxious to come here.

Mark your calendars

2010-03-07T08:48:00.000-08:00

Relief Society temple trip on Thursday, April 22. Baptisms and Endowments.

Relief Society Birthday Party

2010-03-07T08:46:00.001-08:00

It's Your Choice

2010-03-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Lesson 4 in Gospel Principles opens the discussion of why agency is necessary. Agency is "the right to choose between good and evil and to act for ourselves".

Anyone who has children, or who has taught children, or has been a child, knows that one will never learn how to do something if it is always done for them. We are on this earth to learn and ultimately come back to the presence of the Father. He will not drag us back home. We have to make the choices that put us on the path. Giving us the power to choose allows us to be accountable for our actions and provides the learning experience necessary for our eternal progression.

Satan provides the opposition we need to have a choice. He does not love us and wants to destroy all that is good. To be happy in life, one must choose good over evil. Some would say that choosing to obey God is limiting. For instance, choosing to obey The Word of Wisdom by abstaining from alcohol might appear to limit our ability to have fun and participate in certain social circles. But with every choice there is a consequence that we cannot choose. We know the destructive and enslaving consequences that can abound from drinking alcohol.

If we saw a sign at the beach that warns us of a whirlpool and an admonition to stay out of the water we have several choices. We can ignore the sign and go in the water anyway or we can choose to swim where it is safe, or not swim at all. We are free to make the choice. But if the choice is to ignore the warning we will have limited our other choices when we get caught in the whirlpool's grasp. The right choice opens up many possibilities the wrong choice limits them.

"Heavenly Father will not allow us to be tempted beyond our power to resist." A choice that seems to limit our ability to enjoy life, such as choosing to be morally clean, is actually a choice that gives us more freedom. It is up to us to make the choices that bring us true joy and happiness and put us on the path to eternal progression.

Jesus Christ is the Way

2010-03-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

Lesson 3 from Gospel Principles opened the discussion as to why we needed a Savior and The War in Heaven.

We knew we would have to leave our Father's presence and come to this earth to receive a mortal body and be tested. We also learned that "all of us would sin and some of us would lose our way". Like a perfect parent, Heavenly Father knows and loves each one of us. He wanted us to return so he provided a plan to redeem us from sin and allow us to be made clean again.

Two plans of redemption were presented. Knowing that we would need to have the experience to choose for ourselves in order to progress, Jesus Christ offered to come to the earth and pay for the sins we would inevitably commit. He would not do this for his glory but he would give all the glory to God, the Father. Satan, who was called Lucifer, came up with a plan that would take away our agency. He would force us to do what he wanted and take all the glory for himself.

Heavenly Father chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior and Satan rebelled. There was an uprising among the spirits of men. The majority chose to follow Jesus, a third chose to follow Satan. There punishment was their eviction from God's presence and the loss of opportunity to receive a mortal body.

All of us born on this earth chose Jesus' plan. God allowed for Satan and his followers to come here as spirits. Their sole purpose is to entice us to make choices that will keep us from our ultimate goal. Satan and his followers are a miserable lot and they want us to be miserable, too. But they also provide the opposition necessary to give us something to choose between. We chose Jesus in the beginning and we have to continually choose. Every day we have to choose to follow Jesus Christ. His is the only way to exaltation.

The Saints in Haiti

2010-02-15T17:06:00.000-08:00

The Members Stories
Guerby Pierre is one of those exceptional people in Haiti who actually has a job. He is well-educated and has a job as an accountant with a billboard company. He tells what happened to him when the earthquake hit: “The things I saw during the earthquake are forever engraved on my memory. You see things in disaster movies, but it is nothing like when it happens in real life, and I cannot ever forget it.
“I was inside at my work, working at my computer, at what seemed like a normal day. Then, all of a sudden with a roaring noise, it seemed like a giant beast had taken the building in his arms and was twisting and shaking it back and forth. My screen fell off my desk; bookshelves started falling, and I ran for the door, but could hardly keep my footing with the shaking. As I stood at the door, the wall I had been leaning against before completely collapsed. “It is so different when you experience this in real life. People think of the great earthquakes in 3rd Nephi. People outside thought it was the Second Coming.

“My work is destroyed. That was my livelihood. I went to my house and it is completely gone, but I was able to go in and get the things that really mattered to me—my temple recommend, my passport, some clothes and my scriptures.”He held up his battered scriptures at that moment, the gilt-edged pages long ago worn away, and we asked him, “Did that happen to your scriptures during the earthquake?”He just smiled back and said, “No, I really love my scriptures and I use them all the time.”

The day before the earthquake a tune started wafting through Guerby’s mind. Again and again it came and stayed with him through the day. He realized that the words were “The Lord my pasture will prepare, and guard me with a shepherd’s care.” He was so impressed with the message that returned again and again to him, that he wrote down the words to the hymn and sent them in a note to his sweetheart. The next day the meaning was still in his soul as his world was hurled apart, and he knew that no matter what happened, the Lord had already sent him a message of comfort.

Now, Guerby is sleeping outside in a tent every night. The way he looks at it is his first job is to take care of his friends and other members of the Church. Even if he doesn’t have a lot of money he can strengthen them. His second job as an accountant is gone, so he has more time for his first job. Some things are really hard. It is hard to think that after working hard to become college-educated that he might be back to shining shoes to get enough money to live on. And it’s hard not to have a home. He misses the feeling of something comfortable and recognizable to come back to at night. He’s holding on. He had saved a little money. He got some food and shoes from the bishop.

Each night as he lays under the stars, it reminds him of what is really important in life. He said, “In one sense I have nothing, but in another, I have everything because I have the gospel, and this earthquake has only augmented my testimony. My life is changed. The earthquake simplified it. Since the earthquake, I could all of a suddenly think clearly.” Gone are certain things he thought were really important. Instead, he is hoping to find a way to take his best friend and sweetheart to the temple to be married.“Life can be hard sometimes,” he says, “but it will be OK.”

Charles Marie Murielle“When the earthquake happened, I was inside my house. I had just come from school because I am studying to be a nurse. There was a professor who was absent, so I came home early. “I was just taking off my uniform when the earthquake started. I heard the noise and felt the earthquake and thought to myself, this is an earthquake. “After it stopped, I found myself, I was yelling, but I had a strong feeling I shouldn’t leave my house. I should just stay there. I went to open my door to go out, and my door was blocked, I couldn’t open it. “I said a sincere prayer. I told the Lord that I was not ready to die. I don’t have a family, yet, and I haven’t been to the temple.
With a lot of strategy I was able to open the door by myself. “Outside, everyone was crying and screaming out to God, ‘What is going on?’ The farther I got out, I saw that churches had fallen and people had been killed. “My school which is four stories tall had collapsed and all the students and teachers had been killed. I would have been there if my teacher had not shown up.

“All communications were cut off. No radio. No telephone. No one knew what was going on. We were all trying to find an open space. We kept hearing instructions, “Don’t go inside. Don’t go inside.”“From time to time the earth would shake again. I was continually scared. I was the only member of the Church nearby, and I felt like I was alone. People from other religions were making a lot of noise and were screaming. I found myself in silence because the Spirit told me exactly what to do. I knew it was not the end of the world. “I prayed, ‘Give me strength so that I can hold on.’ I found the strength to help a few people who were injured. I found a lot of people who were in shock.

The next day I met a brother from the church who came to my house to see if I was OK. He told me I needed to come to the church that all of the members were meeting there. That gave me strength.We asked her what the future holds for her without money or a house or a school. She said she is determined to find a way to finish her nursing, but for now, she lives at the church and she’s scared to go back to her house. Maybe she will make cookies to sell

Erick Goimbert had just picked his son up from school and gone home when the house started hurling back and forth with roaring, pounding, confusing noises. A dresser hit the wall and whipped around and hit him in the eye. Then pieces of the roof began crashing down, and he ran into the other room to get his son. They didn’t try to get out, as it was hard to stand, impossible to walk. They just started praying.
He did not know it was an earthquake as he had never experienced anything so overwhelming before. When they finally made their lurching way out of the house, he saw that all the houses around him were completely destroyed and his neighbors had been killed. Now, he and his family are sleeping wherever they can find a spot at night, mostly in the road by their house. He’d like to come and sleep at the church, but his home is too far away. He has no tent, but sleeps under some corrugated tin cover. Every morning he doesn’t know where to get food. He just waits day to day for help. Like most Haitians, he doesn’t have a job, and his wife just sells things in the street. Among his slim possessions are a few Tylenol pills for when his back, hit by the dresser in the quake, hurts too much. He says with some good cheer, “Everybody is praying. There is definitely a feeling of unity and my testimony has been strengthened. You drive through my neighbourhood and mine was the only house that is not completely destroyed. What for the future? He sees no possibilities to rebuild a house. He has no money and can’t see where he could possibly get any.

Polycarpe Macking

The day of the earthquake, two of his children had just come home from school and were watching television. He was out in the front yard feeding the chickens, their main source of livelihood. About 4:45, he started to feel the shaking movement. Immediately his children ran outside as the roaring, pitching earth got worse. As soon as they ran outside, the house collapsed. They knelt down and, crying, said a prayer for his wife and other daughter, asking that they would be safe. They found her quickly for which he was grateful.
Now, he doesn’t know what he’s going to do. “God must have a plan for me,” he said, “and I’m just going to have to see what it is.” The scriptures are his life and he loves to read.A vibrant young man, he still hasn’t had a job for seven years, and the few chickens they had were crushed or scattered in the earthquake. For now, they are sleeping in their yard. They have no money to rebuild.

Learning How to Prune Fruit Trees

2010-02-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 27 at 10 a.m. at the Israelsen's home. The men are invited to join us.

Our Favorite Things

2010-02-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

"G Group"
Tuesday, February 16 at 7 p.m.
Bring TWO of your favorite things (can be anything from a copy of your favorite song, to your favorite nail polish! Doesn’t have to cost anything, but has to be tangible)

Upon arriving, we will draw names out of a hat to share (give) your favorite things with another sister. Be ready to explain where to get the items you brought, why you love them, and how much they cost. Come for a night filled with laughs, love, and fun! Dessert will be provided at Chanel's Home

It's About Time

2010-02-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

It's something we spend and sometimes waste but we cannot save or borrow it nor do we really know how much we have. Time is a gift from our Heavenly Father as well as agency. It is up to us to use both wisely. We are commanded to be "anxiously engaged" in good causes but also we are not required to "run faster than [we have] strength" (Mosiah 4:27). We are told “Thou shalt not idle away thy time” (D&C 60:13), and “Cease to be idle” (D&C 88:124), yet with modern conveniences we have far more discretionary time than our predecessors.

What do we do with our free time? We are either being leisurely or idle. Leisure activities renew the soul, invigorate, refresh, invite us to be mentally, physically or creatively involved. Idleness is merely passing the time. Boredom, unhappiness and feelings of low self esteem are the results of idling our time away. Idleness is the devil's workshop. When we are being idle, we rely on outside sources to entertain us. Leisure activities require us to look within ourselves. Although what may be considered idleness, (i.e. watching sports, reading a book, "doodling" on paper) to one person may be leisure to another. It is an individual choice but no matter what the activity, if the end result affects us positively then it is time well spent.

In this day, many spend their free time on the Internet. There is a vast library of knowledge out there in cyberspace. It is up to us to use our agency to determine if time spent on the Internet is of any value. We could use the leisure vs idle filter and apply it to our Internet use. Are we increasing our knowledge of useful things? If we are merely just "taking a break", are we "breaking" too long? We would do well to ask ourselves the two questions Elder Bednar recently asked BYU students,
“Does the use of various technologies and media Invite or Impede the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost in your life?
Does the time you spend using various technologies and media Enlarge or Restrict your capacity to live to love and to serve in meaningful ways?

You don't know how much you have, so use your time well.

Have I done any good in the world?

2010-02-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

Bishop Knowlton's message to us on Sunday was that we need to reach out and serve those around us, in our families, the church, and in our communities.

Food Storage Site

2010-01-20T10:44:00.002-08:00

Website for bulk food that is really cool and reasonably priced.

www.bulkfoods.com

January 21 Relief Society Temple Trip Cancelled

2010-01-20T10:44:00.001-08:00

Andrea Bocelli & The Mormon Tabernacle Choir

2010-01-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

I think you will enjoy this. It's beautiful. "The Lord's Prayer"

2010-01-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and we have a new theme......
"WELCOME ABOARD FELICITA FLIGHT 2010"
DEPARTING: Now
FLIGHT TIME: 11 months, 3 weeks (counting down to end of the year)
DESTINATION: Some place closer to God than you are today.. Now that we have reached our cruising altitude, we invite you sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.

As your "flight crew" our goal this year is to help you use your flight time to EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS through service, increased knowledge, and spiritual growth.

Aundrea (your Flight Attendant) spoke to us about service. We are a service oriented people, dutifully answering the "call buttons" that are constantly being pushed. However, as we are instructed during the inflight safety presentation, we need to attach our own oxygen masks before assisting others. We all need to engage in service, but unless we take care of ourselves, we won't be very useful in the Lord's hands. It's not selfish to take time for yourself when it makes you better able to serve others. Attach your own "oxygen" first, then take care of your family and then reach out to your ward and community. Even the smallest acts of service make a tremendous impact for good in the lives of others. The service to which all of us have been called is the service of the Lord Jesus Christ. Take care of yourself so you can take care of others.

Angela (your First Officer) spoke about using time well and increasing knowledge. Once aboard a flight you are encouraged to take time to review the safety card. If there was an emergency, clearly those who studied the safety card would have a better understanding of what they should do. Joseph Smith said "knowledge does away with darkness, anxiety and doubt; for these cannot exist where knowledge is." He also taught that knowledge was a necessary part of our mortal journey, for "a man is saved no faster than he gains knowledge" and "whatever principle of intelligence we attain in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection" (Doctrine & Covenants 130:18). We also learn from verse 19, that the more knowledge we have the greater our advantage will be in the life to come. What are we doing with our time? How many of us could swap some time spent idly on the computer or in front of the TV, with time spent learning something new? In a recent conference address, President Uchtdorf said "For the members of the Church, education is not merely a good idea, it's a commandment." We are not just to increase our knowledge of spiritual matters, but also of temporal and secular. This year, make it a goal to become more knowledgeable about anything that is "virtuous, lovely" or of "good report".

Ginger (our Captain) spoke to us about spiritual growth. We cannot guarantee that you will not have some turbulence during your flight this year. And just as the seat belt will keep anchored down so will your personal spiritual strength. You might be able to loosen it for short periods of time but only during the smoothest part of the flight. Your spiritual excellence will grow as you gain an even greater understanding and knowledge of God, our Heavenly Father and your relationship to him as a daughter of God. The urge to rise above yourself is a recognition of your need for the Atonement to work in your life, and your need to be sure that it is working. When that change of heart comes to us, when we are cleansed and blameless before God, it will be because we have been made pure by the blood of Christ. You will have put yourself so often in the Master's service, bringing the cleansing, companionship of the Holy Ghost, that you will be on the front row, early, whenever and wherever the Master calls.

Have you ever flown on a cloudy day? As the plane ascends above the clouds, the horizon becomes an endless expanse of bright light. The goal for the Felicita Ward Relief Society in 2010 is to rise above the obstacles that obstruct our view and expand our horizons through service, increased knowledge and most importantly, growing spiritually. When this flight lands, we hope to be some place closer to Heavenly Father than we are today.

Soups and Chowders

2010-01-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

Our food storage group is meeting at 7 p.m. on January 26 to learn to make soups and chowders.

2010 Book Club Books

2010-01-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

Here is our list for the book club for the year.
February: Fire In the Bones – Michael Wilcox
March: Life After Death – Dinesh D’Souza
April: Heart and Soul – Maeve Binchy
May: The Color of Water – James Mc Bride
June: Lost Symbols – Dan Brown
July and August: The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin – Benjamin Franklin
September: Half Broke Horses – Jeannette Walls
October: What Christians Believe – C. S. Lewis
November: Finding Noel – Richard Paul Evans

Make Dolls for the Police Department

2010-01-10T19:05:00.000-08:00

Our craft group is getting together to make doll for the police department to give away to children when needed. Join us on Tuesday, January 12 at 7 p.m. in the Stake Center. You can bring treats to share if you want. Let's get together and make a difference.

Gospel Principles- Heavenly Father

2010-01-09T22:29:00.001-08:00

There Is a God

• What are some things that testify to you that there is a God?

Alma, a Book of Mormon prophet, wrote, “All things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator” (Alma 30:44). We can look up at the sky at night and have an idea of what Alma meant. There are millions of stars and planets, all in perfect order. They did not get there by chance. We can see the work of God in the heavens and on the earth. The many beautiful plants, the many kinds of animals, the mountains, the rivers, the clouds that bring us rain and snow—all these testify to us that there is a God.

The prophets have taught us that God is the Almighty Ruler of the universe. God dwells in heaven (see D&C 20:17). Through His Son, Jesus Christ, He created the heavens and the earth and all things that are in them (see 3 Nephi 9:15; Moses 2:1). He made the moon, the stars, and the sun. He organized this world and gave it form, motion, and life. He filled the air and the water with living things. He covered the hills and plains with all kinds of animal life. He gave us day and night, summer and winter, seedtime and harvest. He made man in His own image to be a ruler over His other creations (see Genesis 1:26–27).

God is the Supreme and Absolute Being in whom we believe and whom we worship. He is “the Great Parent of the universe,” and He “looks upon the whole of the human family with a fatherly care and paternal regard” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 39).

The Nature of God

• What are some of God’s attributes?

Because we are made in His image (see Moses 2:26; 6:9), we know that our bodies are like His body. His eternal spirit is housed in a tangible body of flesh and bones (see D&C 130:22). God’s body, however, is perfected and glorified, with a glory beyond all description.

God is perfect. He is a God of righteousness, with attributes such as love, mercy, charity, truth, power, faith, knowledge, and judgment. He has all power. He knows all things. He is full of goodness.

All good things come from God. Everything that He does is to help His children become like Him. He has said, “Behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

• Why is it important for us to understand the nature of God?

Coming to Know God

• How can we come to know God?

Knowing God is so important that the Savior said, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3).

The first and greatest commandment is “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart” (Matthew 22:37).

The more we know God, the more we love Him and keep His commandments (see 1 John 2:3–5). By keeping His commandments we can become like Him.

We can know God if we will:

1. Believe that He exists and that He loves us (see Mosiah 4:9).
2. Study the scriptures (see 2 Timothy 3:14–17).
3. Pray to Him (see James 1:5).
4. Obey all His commandments as best we can (see John 14:21–23).

As we do these things, we will come to know God and eventually have eternal life.

• Ponder what you can do to draw nearer to God.

The Spirit of Christmas

2009-12-18T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Invisible Woman

2009-12-14T09:35:00.000-08:00

More Diligent and Concerned at Home by Elder David A. Bednar

2009-12-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

Elder Bednar had three suggestions on how to be more diligent and concerned at home.

Suggestion Number One: Express Love—and Show It

We should remember that saying “I love you” is only a beginning. We need to say it, we need to mean it, and most importantly we need consistently to show it. We need to both express and demonstrate love.

President Thomas S. Monson recently counseled: “Often we assume that [the people around us] must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. … We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us” (“Finding Joy in the Journey,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 86).

Suggestion Number Two: Bear Testimony—and Live It

The bearing of testimony need not be lengthy or eloquent. And we do not need to wait until the first Sunday of the month to declare our witness of things that are true. Within the walls of our own homes, we can and should bear pure testimony of the divinity and reality of the Father and the Son, of the great plan of happiness, and of the Restoration.

Suggestion Number Three: Be Consistent

As we seek the Lord’s help and in His strength, we can gradually reduce the disparity between what we say and what we do, between expressing love and consistently showing it, and between bearing testimony and steadfastly living it. We can become more diligent and concerned at home as we are more faithful in learning, living, and loving the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

Teacher's Corner

2009-11-30T08:15:00.000-08:00

This Sunday's lesson was taught by the Bishop. He encouraged us to work on our personal spirituality. Here is the video he shared.

Relief Society Christmas Activity

2009-11-29T21:28:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-24T07:38:00.001-08:00

The Martyrdom: The Prophet Seals His Testimony with His Blood

2009-11-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

God protected Joseph Smith until his earthly mission was complete.

In October 1843, the Prophet said: “I defy all the world to destroy the work of God; and I prophesy they never will have power to kill me till my work is accomplished, and I am ready to die.”

Before his death, Joseph Smith conferred upon the Twelve Apostles every priesthood key and power that the Lord had sealed upon him.

Parley P. Pratt, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, wrote: “This great and good man was led, before his death, to call the Twelve together, from time to time, and to instruct them in all things pertaining to the kingdom, ordinances, and government of God. He often observed that he was laying the foundation, but it would remain for the Twelve to complete the building. Said he, ‘I know not why; but for some reason I am constrained to hasten my preparations, and to confer upon the Twelve all the ordinances, keys, covenants, endowments, and sealing ordinances of the priesthood, and so set before them a pattern in all things pertaining to the sanctuary [the temple] and the endowment therein.’
“Having done this, he rejoiced exceedingly; for, said he, the Lord is about to lay the burden on your shoulders and let me rest awhile; and if they kill me, continued he, the kingdom of God will roll on, as I have now finished the work which was laid upon me, by committing to you all things for the building up of the kingdom according to the heavenly vision, and the pattern shown me from heaven.”

The Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum lived great and died great for their testimonies of the gospel.

Doctrine and Covenants 135:3 Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated!

Joseph Smith fulfilled his earthly mission and sealed his testimony with his blood.

George Albert Smith, the eighth President of the Church, declared: “Joseph Smith performed his mission; and when the time came that he was face to face with death, he said, ‘I am going like a lamb to the slaughter, but I am calm as a summer morning. I have a conscience void of offense toward God and toward all men. If they take my life, I shall die an innocent man, and my blood shall cry from the ground for vengeance, and it shall yet be said of me, “He was murdered in cold blood.” ‘ [See D&C 135:4.] He was not afraid to stand before the pleasing bar of our Father in heaven and answer for the deeds done in the body. He was not afraid to meet the charge that had been made against him, that he was deceiving the people and dealing unjustly with them. He was not afraid of the result of his life’s mission, and of the final triumph of the work which he knew was of divine origin, and for which he gave his life.”

Joseph Smith’s Feelings about His Prophetic Mission

2009-11-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

Prophets teach what God reveals to them; we strive to understand and give heed to their words.

“It is my meditation all the day, and more than my meat and drink, to know how I shall make the Saints of God comprehend the visions that roll like an overflowing surge before my mind. Oh! how I would delight to bring before you things which you never thought of! But poverty and the cares of the world prevent. … “Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to Almighty God, that rays of light begin to burst forth upon us even now. I cannot find words in which to express myself. I am not learned, but I have as good feelings as any man. Oh, that I had the language of the archangel to express my feelings once to my friends! But I never expect to in this life.”

Although prophets are men with human frailties, they are called of God to teach and lead His people.

“When did I ever teach anything wrong from this stand? When was I ever confounded? I want to triumph in Israel before I depart hence and am no more seen. I never told you I was perfect; but there is no error in the revelations which I have taught. Must I, then, be thrown away as a thing of naught?”

Despite opposition, prophets fulfill the missions given to them by God.

“I speak boldly and faithfully and with authority. … I know what I say; I understand my mission and business. God Almighty is my shield; and what can man do if God is my friend? I shall not be sacrificed until my time comes; then I shall be offered freely. … I thank God for preserving me from my enemies; I have no enemies but for the truth’s sake. I have no desire but to do all men good. I feel to pray for all men.”

Prophets love those they serve and desire to lead them well, even if doing so requires reproving them.

"The Saints need not think because I am familiar with them and am playful and cheerful, that I am ignorant of what is going on. Iniquity of any kind cannot be sustained in the Church, and it will not fare well where I am; for I am determined while I do lead the Church, to lead it right."

Things to be Thankful For

2009-11-05T12:06:00.000-08:00

Hot showers & soap..Ice cold water on a hot day..air conditioning in the summer.. Heating in the winter..Clean air & sky after a rain
Smell of fresh baked bread..Smell of fresh cut grass..Sunlight, moonlight and star light..Beautiful music..Living prophet..My Savior
Life..Love..Forgiveness..Laughter..Freedom..Repentance..Colors..Restful sleep..Any sleep..Sunrises, sunsets..Modern technology
Advances in medicine..Wholesome Entertainment. ..Knowledge..Testimony..Faith..Prayer..Personal revelation..Dishwashers & washing machines & vacuum cleaners..Running water..Indoor Plumbing....Farmers..fresh fruit..grocery stores..Friends.. family..Christmas spirit..Tender Mercies..mountain and ocean views..birds singing..ocean breezes..rain drops..snow flakes..health..good food .transportation.. Restored Gospel..blooming flowers..random acts of kindness..comfortable bed..good books

These are just a few things I came up with. Please feel free to comment on this post and add to my list.

Live in Thanksgiving Daily

2009-11-02T22:37:00.000-08:00

"Joy and happiness are born of gratitude" (Joseph B. Wirthlin). "Gratitude is twin sister to humility; pride is a foe to both" (James E. Talmage). I composed most of my lesson from a BYU devotional given by Joseph B. Wirthlin titled "Live in Thanksgiving Daily". When my husband and I first moved here, 15 years ago, I was a miserable wretch. Crazy as it may sound, I hated it here and wasn't willing to find anything to like. My biggest gripe at the time was the fact it was Fall and I couldn't find a single tree that was turning the rich reds, oranges or yellows I was accustomed to seeing this time of year. Pining for my homeland, I spent a weekend in Washington and soaked up the beautiful Fall colors. The day after I returned to our apartment in Escondido, I woke up and noticed right outside my bedroom window was a deciduous tree that had turned a beautiful yellow. Why hadn't I seen it before? Why do we often take for granted what is right in front of us? Joseph B Wirthlin said, "Our minds have a marvelous capacity to notice the unusual. However, the opposite is true as well. The more often we see the things around us - even the beautiful and wonderful things - the more they become invisible to us. That is why we often take for granted the beauty of this world: the flowers, the trees, the birds, the clouds-even those we love. Because we see things so often, we see them less and less. Those who live in Thanksgiving daily..have a way of opening their eyes and seeing the wonders and beauties of this world as thought seeing them for the first time."
Robert Louis Stevenson said, "The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life". May we make it a habit to offer thanksgiving daily for those things we often take for granted. No matter how difficult our circumstances may be or become, an attitude of gratitude lifts our spirits and qualifies us for even more blessings.

None Were With Him

2009-10-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

There are times in our live that we feel alone and abandoned in our lives. Our Savior made the loneliest journey so that we never need to be alone. Elder Holland spoke on the this journey and how it blessed us last April conference.

Brothers and sisters, one of the great consolations of this Easter season is that because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so. His solitary journey brought great company for our little version of that path—the merciful care of our Father in Heaven, the unfailing companionship of this Beloved Son, the consummate gift of the Holy Ghost, angels in heaven, family members on both sides of the veil, prophets and apostles, teachers, leaders, friends. All of these and more have been given as companions for our mortal journey because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Restoration of His gospel. Trumpeted from the summit of Calvary is the truth that we will never be left alone nor unaided, even if sometimes we may feel that we are. Truly the Redeemer of us all said: “I will not leave you comfortless: [My Father and] I will come to you [and abide with you].”

He asked at the end a few thing of us.

Now, may I ask that never again will He have to confront sin without our aid and assistance, that never again will He find only unresponsive onlookers when He sees you and me along His Via Dolorosa in our present day. ...May we declare ourselves to be more fully disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, not in word only and not only in the flush of comfortable times but in deed and in courage and in faith, including when the path is lonely and when our cross is difficult to bear. This Easter week and always, may we stand by Jesus Christ “at all times and in all things, and in all places that [we] may be in, even until death,” for surely that is how He stood by us when it was unto death and when He had to stand entirely and utterly alone. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

The Greatest Dispensation of all Time

2009-10-19T12:26:00.000-07:00

by guest teacher, Jane Thurston

Joseph Smith was told in 1830 he would be given “the keys of my kingdom, and a dispensation of the gospel for the last times; and for the fulness of times, in the which I will gather together in one all things, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth” (D&C 27:13).

What keys were eventually given as part of the restoration?
No fewer than 12 resurrected beings visited him over time to restore the keys they had held as prophets in their dispensations. These keys include the ministering of angels, gathering of Israel, and the priesthood to perfect and seal families. Joseph Smith testified that he did in fact have these keys: “I myself hold the keys of this last dispensation, and I forever will hold them in time and in eternity. So set your hearts at rest, for all is well.”

With these things restored the authority was on the earth to bring about the fulness of times. Joseph said that the fulness of times would include "those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be revealed unto babes and sucklings in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times.” D&C 128:18)
What are those things, and is it true that even children in this dispensation know things that the wise and prudent did not know in previous dispensations?
In our everyday world we have inventions, travel, and communication that have made access to temples and missionary work possible on a huge scale. We have the Book of Mormon, something no other dispensation has had. Not only that, but we have the Book of Mormon in combination with the Bible to confirm, clarify, and testify of the Savior. Primary children the world over commonly sing songs based on these gospel principles.

Our dispensation will have the authority to receive all light and truth. We certainly have witnesses and commentaries that have never been so widely known as before; persons who have studied and been enlightened, then passed on that knowledge to us such as Bruce R. McConkie, Neal A. Maxwell, Joseph Fielding Smith, Gordon B. Hinckley and so many others. We are also promised personal revelation, the results of which we see every day in our lives.

Some things are yet to come such as the Brass Plates, the records of the Ten Tribes, and the "times, glories, and laws of the sun, moon, and stars."

These things are to be made known "unto His servants, to prepare the earth for the return of His glory". If this preparation is to be done, it will be done by those now living.
If it is our job, what is it we must do?
The words of the prophet tell us that this work will require the Saints to lay aside every selfish principle, stand forward in the cause of truth, and call in to action their energy, skill, talent, ability, and concentration.
There are promises to those favored to bring about these things.
We will be blessed "to see, participate in, and help to roll forward the Latter-day glory." He said: “Here, then, . . . is a work to engage in worthy of archangels—a work which will cast into the shade the things which have been heretofore accomplished; a work which kings and prophets and righteous men in former ages have sought, expected, and earnestly desired to see, but died without the sight; and well will it be for those who shall aid in carrying into effect the mighty operations of Jehovah.”

"The work of the Lord in these last days is one of vast magnitude and almost beyond the comprehension of mortals. Its glories are past description, and its grandeur unsurpassable. It is the theme which has animated the bosom of prophets and righteous men from the creation of the world down through every succeeding generation to the present time; and it is truly the dispensation of the fullness of times, when all things which are in Christ Jesus, whether in heaven or on the earth, shall be gathered together in Him, and when all things shall be restored, as spoken of by all the holy prophets since the world began; for in it will take place the glorious fulfilment (sic) of the promises made to the fathers, while the manifestations of the power of the Most High will be great, glorious, and sublime.

The purposes of our God are great, His love unfathomable, His wisdom infinite, and His power unlimited; therefore, the Saints have cause to rejoice and be glad . . .”

Articles of Faith of Mormon Culture

2009-10-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

1. We believe in SUVs and minivans as the form of transportation, and in knee length shorts, which are always nice, and in multi-level marketing.

2. We believe that church ball players should be punished for their own fouls, and not for unsportsmanlike aggression.

3. We believe that through bread crumbs, cheese, creamy soups, and rice all casseroles can be saved through obedience to wardcookbooks and creativity in the mixing bowl.

4. We believe that the first layers and ingredients of the Dip are: first, beans; second, cheese; third, chopped tomatoes; fourth, thegift of sour cream; fifth, olives; sixth, salsa; seventh, guacamole, that is, if you have it.

5. We believe that a Mormon should have a distinguished or a cute name, that it is appropriate to name a child after a church leader or a historical figure including an ancestor, that alternative spellings and French prefixes only add to a name, and that when referring tothe names of General Authorities, middle initials should be a part thereof.

6. We believe in the same wall decor that exists in many Mormon homes, namely, framed family proclamations, vinyl lettering, inspirational word signs, family photos, pictures of temples and Jesus, and so forth.

7. We believe in the gift of the re-gift, church books, crafts, family photos, baked goods, emergency supply kits, and so forth.

8. We believe in sparkling grape juice so long as it is nonalcoholic; we also believe in bringing root beer and sprite to ward parties.

9. We believe in all that we have scrapbooked, all that we will now scrapbook, and we believe that we will yet scrapbook many great and important things pertaining to our family, friends, pets, and vacations.

10. We believe in the literal mixing of ketchup and mayo and in the generous application of ranch dressing; that CBAs (church-based acronyms) will be used to describe YM/YW, PEC, the Y, NCMO, and CTR; that Mitt Romney will get Mormons to vote for him any time he runs; and, that the Mormons will enjoy reading Twilight and The Work and the Glory.

11. We claim the privilege of trying to identify common acquaintances with any visitor at church, and allow all other people at church thesame privilege. Let them name drop the names of the famous and general authorities how, where, or whenever they may.

12. We believe in being subject to scoutmasters, pampered chef hostesses, and the writers of the U.S. News and World Report Rankings for professional schools, and in obeying, honoring, and sustaining Glenn Beck.

13. We believe in being above average, good at crafts, optimistic, and in being ten to fifteen minutes late everywhere we go. Indeed, we may say that we follow BYU football. We believe rumors about famous people joining the church, we hope to meet the three Nephites, we have endured many pyramid schemes, and hope to be able to endure all pyramid schemes. If there is anything cheap, free, sold in bulk, or given away when somebody is moving, we seek afterthese things.

G Group is Coming Up

2009-10-14T23:04:00.000-07:00

We are meeting Tuesday, October 20 at 7 p.m. at the Proffitt's hot tub for a girl's night out. If you don't want to get in a swimming suit still come and visit. For those who's bodies are not the shape and size they would like, remember it will be dark. We are also having a fire pit and making smores. Good conversation, good food and lots of fun.

Stake Christmas Show

2009-10-14T22:53:00.000-07:00

Our Stake's Christmas Show at the Center for the Arts is on Tuesday, December 22 at both 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Be thinking about friends and neighbors you would love to invite. It is a great activity for non-member friends.

Save a Date

2009-10-14T22:51:00.000-07:00

Mark Tuesday, December 8 at 6:30 p.m. on your calendars. Our Relief Society will be getting together to celebrate the birth of our Savior. It will be an uplifting evening and a great way to start off the Christmas season.

U.S. Constitution Class

2009-10-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Constitution Class is going great. Ann Cima is doing a fabulous job and is really prepared. It will be at her home for several more Thursdays--October 15, 22, 29. There has been great feedback for those attending.

Craft Group Update

2009-10-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

First a big thank you to Brother Rothey for a wonderful breakfast at Super Saturday. Thanks to all the sister who taught classes and especially Lynn Muir for all her hard work. We also can't forget to thank Tom Nielsen for set-up and take-down.

For all you sisters that still have unfinished projects join the craft group on Tuesday, November 10 at 7 p.m. at Lynn Muir's home to finish those projects or just start a new one.

“He Was a Prophet of God”

2009-10-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Prophet Joseph Smith had the light of the gospel in his countenance. Many people, like the following account, knew when they saw him that he was a prophet of God.

Mary Alice Cannon Lambert, an English convert who emigrated to Nauvoo in 1843: “I first saw Joseph Smith in the Spring of 1843. When the boat in which we came up the Mississippi River reached the landing at Nauvoo, several of the leading brethren were there to meet the company of saints that had come on it. Among those brethren was the Prophet Joseph Smith. I knew him the instant my eyes rested upon him, and at that moment I received my testimony that he was a Prophet of God. … He was not pointed out to me. I knew him from all the other men, and, child that I was (I was only fourteen) I knew that I saw a Prophet of God.”

Joseph Smith, also, had many Christlike attributes.

Parley P. Pratt, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from 1835 to 1857: “(President Joseph Smith's) countenance was ever mild, affable, beaming with intelligence and benevolence... He possessed a noble boldness and independence of character; his manner was easy and familiar; his rebuke terrible as the lion; his benevolence unbounded as the ocean; his intelligence universal.”

John M. Bernhisel, a medical doctor who boarded in Joseph and Emma’s home in Nauvoo for several months during 1843 and 1844: “Joseph Smith is naturally a man of strong mental powers, and is possessed of much energy and decision of character, great penetration, and a profound knowledge of human nature. He is a man of calm judgment, enlarged views, and is eminently distinguished by his love of justice. He is kind and obliging, generous and benevolent, sociable and cheerful, and is possessed of a mind of a contemplative and reflective character. He is honest, frank, fearless and independent, and as free from dissimulation [false appearances] as any man to be found. … As a religious teacher, as well as a man, he is greatly beloved by this people.”

October Gerneral Conference

2009-10-07T17:04:00.000-07:00

This week we were privileged to hear our Prophet and other leaders of the Church speak. You can watch conference here. On October 7th you will also be able to read the talks given.

Super Saturday Schedule - October 10

2009-10-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

8:30 Opening Prayer and breakfast for all Sisters
9-10:00 Ribbon Trees with Anne
9:30-10:30 Nativity with Paige
10:00-10:30 Picture blocks with April
10:30-11:00 Christmas center piece with Aundrea
11:00-11:30 Bracelets with Katie
Anytime between 9 to 11:00 Necklaces with Deborah

Five New Temples

2009-10-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

The locations of the new temples will be Brigham City, Utah; Concepción, Chile; Fortaleza, Brazil; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; and Sapporo, Japan. The exact temple sites will be made known at a later date.

Family Home Evening

2009-10-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

This weeks Family Home Evening Lesson is on PATIENCE. You can find it by clicking on the link: http://societystuff-fhe.blogspot.com/search/label/Patience

Don't forget you can always find additional lessons (we have a ton of them) by going to the sidebar and clicking on the Family Home Evening Label. It is near the bottom of the page on the right.

"Camp Mama"

2009-09-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the stake center, for all Relief Society sisters in the Escondido South Stake. Stay tuned for more details.

Be Of Good Cheer- President Thomas S. Monson

2009-09-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

There are many thing in the world right now that it would make it easy to become discouraged and cynical about the future. President Monson's message to us is to turn our thoughts from the troubles around us and focus instead on our blessings as members of the Church. The Apostle Paul declarde, "God Hath not given us the sprit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

What are the blessings that come to you as a member of the Church?

None of us go through life without problems or challenges and often times tragedies and misfortunes. As hard as these events are in our lives, we are here to learn and grow from them. "Adam fell that men might be; and men are that they might have joy."- 2 Nephi 2:25

How might we have joy in our lives despite the trials that we face?

D&C 68:6 "Wherefore, be of good ^acheer, and do not ^bfear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you..."

President Monson gave three examples in his talk of people that suffered and yet maintained their faith in and love of God. They were also happy despite the trials that they had gone through. Please read their stories in his talk.

We have all been blessed with the light of Christ in our lives. We are not left alone to walk our path of life, no matter how dark the way may be.

M. Louse Haskins wrote these words.

And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year:
"Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown!"
And he replied:
"Go out into the darkness and put you hand into the Hand of God.
That shall be to you a better than a light and safer than a known way."

Super Saturday

2009-09-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Don't forget this Sunday (September 27) is the last Sunday to sign-up for Super Saturday. Don't forget to pay for your items. Super Saturday is October 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Breakfast will be yummy and all sisters are invited to attend.

U.S. Constitution Class

2009-09-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

Do you know what is in the U.S. Constitution? Join the sisters in learning and studying the U.S. Constitution. It is a four week course that will be held at Ann Cima's home on October 8, 15, 22 & 29 (Thursdays). We will not be discussing politics just studying the Constitution.

Book Club for October

2009-09-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

The October book club is on the 1st. They are reading "The Great Divorce" by C.S. Lewis. It is not a long book, so it is not too late to start reading.

Project Warm Souls

2009-09-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

From now until the completion of "Project Warm Souls" the evening quilting sessions will be dedicated as activities for groups, i.e., RS enrichment groups, YW and/or YM groups, Primary groups, family groups, etc. If you are interested in arranging a time for a group, please contact Laura Berry, 845-8702. The daytime schedule will remain the same.

General Relief Society Broadcast September 26, 2009

2009-09-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

We will be working on quilts for Project Warm Souls (100 handmade quilts to Interfaith Community Services for Thanksgiving, 2009 from 12-5 p.m. All materials are provided, but if you would like to bring your sewing machine to sew quilt tops, please do so! The Broadcast begins at 5:00pm. Join the the Relief Society sisters afterwards for a good old-fashioned potluck!
Last names A-G Salads/ H-P Soups/ Q-Z Desserts

Missionary Moments - News From Elder Weston

2009-09-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

This week really has been crazy. Let me tell you all about it...
So, let's start off with yesterday. We're biking down the road on the way to see this guy named Guillermo that we taught last week. We were still about ten minutes away from his apartment. All of the sudden, this lady over by her house sees us, screams, and comes running out at us, yelling, "Oh, there is a Father in Heaven! Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you!" Needless to say, we were somewhat astonished at this rather unusual greeting. But we were stopped and we talked with her for a minute, and we found out that she was baptized a few years ago, but fell a little bit inactive. She's been having a really rough time with life lately, and right before we rode by, she was just sitting and praying that she could find someone that would be able to help her and talk with her. Then we rode by. It amazes me thinking about it, just because of the way that things worked out that day. The whole day kind of fell apart on top of our heads, due to people not being home, rides not working out, and culminating in me reading the map wrong and us fjording a little bayou. And all of it worked together to put us right in front of Diana's house right after she prayed for help. That's a miracle, I think. Or just God using our bad planning for His own purposes. I don't know. :)

Anyway, aside from that, the Rivera family is getting baptized this weekend. Yes, that is a little bit sudden. I agree. It was kind of weird how it all worked out. We were over there last week talking with Hermana Rivera, and we were just inquiring as to whether they were any closer to baptism (she and the two kids have been ready for a long time, they've just needed the husband's permission), and she said, about as casually as mentioning that it looked like rain, that they'd be baptized as soon as they all got over their respective sicknesses. (She's a pretty gentle, laid-back person.) We didn't quite pick it up at first, so we asked, and she confirmed what she said the first time. We didn't want to disturb the laid back mood, so we said, "Oh, that's cool." Then we freaked out when we got out of ear-shot. So, one thing led to another, and now they're getting baptized this weekend. It's kind of short notice, so we're still banging out the details, but we'll take care of it. Yay!

met a family named the Hernandez's this week, and they are way cool. The husband, Maurisio, was a referral from a member that had showed up at the Broadway 2nd ward one day. (Turns out it was his sister.) So, we went over, met them, and found out that they are a dang awesome family. Maurisio's a member, but he hasn't been to church in a while. His wife, Liset, isn't a member, but she's really cool too. We talked with them for a while, then shared some scriptures about faith. We went back over and watched the Restoration movie with them on Sunday, and it touched everyone. I think especially Maurisio, since he hasn't been to church in a while, but his sister had to get up a few times for tissues herself. We're still not sure what Liset thinks, but she did tell us that she's curious about the Mormon religion. Plus, they fed us dinner Sunday night before we watched the movie. And they play Frisbee. (On the Wii, but we could probably get them outside to play.) So, they are an all around cool family.

Also, we met another random guy that we taught the gospel last week. We have a less active guy in our apartment complex named Hermano Gomez. We were over there visiting him on Saturday, and there was another guy there named Juan. I guess Juan's living with Hno. Gomez for a little while because they're working together. So, we shared a scripture before we left, and invited Juan to come listen too. We talked for a little bit, then invited hime to come to church the next day. He said he wanted too, since he's never been to church before. So, we figured out a ride, and he came. It was testimony Sunday, of course. That's the scariest day for missionaries to bring investigators to church because you never know what people are going to say. Luckily, he was interested, and only had to ask a few questions after the meeting was over. He really liked the church meeting, and said that he wants to come back next week. Now we just need to get him to be home a couple of times so that we can teach him. :)