Saturday, December 31, 2016

The Year 2016

For me, this was a good year.

And, I am grateful.


Saturday, December 24, 2016

Family

It's so good to have family here for Christmas.

I am so very grateful.

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Ability to Type

Sometimes on our mission, we have people who have very few typing skills.

Of course, they are much better than I in other areas, but this is one thing I can do fairly well.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, December 19, 2016

ALlen

He's a hard worker, that one.

He worked all morning on getting the horrendous amounts of leaves cleaned up.

Then worked our internet connection.

He's a worker.

And, I am grateful.

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Hot Water!

Water heater went out yesterday.

It looked like we were in for a long weekend.

But, oh, that Allen.

He figured it out.

BINGO!

HOT WATER.

And, I am grateful.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

When Things WORK!

Washer timer went out.

Water heater won't work.

So, it makes me grateful for things that work.

Like cars, lights, refrigerator, etc.

But, now, how will I shower for CHURCH!

YIKES.

I am grateful for the things that do work, however.

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Money

This morning, Loretta Allam and I wrapped gifts for the underprivileged children in our community.



It's just an amazing project and so many people go to help.

It's so inspiring to me.

And, it makes me grateful for an adequate amount of money each month to live on.

I'm very grateful.

Sunday, December 11, 2016

Primary Kids

Today the lesson was on Heavenly Father Loves Animals.

I had Baelie Beatty bring her dog in; the kids LOVED it and the adorable little dog.

It was priceless to hear the kids tell about their pets, dogs, animal stories, etc.

I am so grateful.


Saturday, December 10, 2016

The Good Things in My Life Right Now

I am just loving our mission.

It's so wonderful....

the people who serve; the patrons who come.

It's such a great blessing....

And, I am grateful.

Friday, December 9, 2016

The Women in the Mission

Last night there was a great party for all the sister missionaries.

It was a progressive dinner and it was so festive and fun.

The food was good,

The company even better.

We saw three lovely homes decorated to the hilt and it was just inspiring in every way.

I am so very grateful for this mission....


Best one yet!

And, I am grateful.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Friends at the Mission

Man, I say this a lot; but everyone has a story.

Sad, happy, real, etc.

And, I'm so grateful to meet these marvelous people and learn their stories.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Lucy and Anna

I hardly ever get to see them.

But, last night, we had a fun time on google chat.

They taught me a few things and it was fun to interact with them, if only for a moment.

I do love all my dear grandchildren.

And, I am grateful.

Sunday, December 4, 2016

Allen

He's a good person and I'm grateful for him.

We don't always agree on things, but I'm so grateful that he is my missionary companion.

For LIFE....

Friday, December 2, 2016

That I Can Still Drive

Often as people get older, they are restricted in driving.

I'm only 72, so it hasn't happened to me yet.

But, I am so very thankful that I can still drive.

It's such a feeling of independence and I would hate to have that taken away.

Oh, gratitude for driving.

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Our Family Holding Together

Today I talked with my friend.

It is so very hard.

Her daughter has alienated all three of her children.

One beautiful young daughter just got engaged, but she didn't tell her mother.

The three children will not speak to their mother.

It's all so heartbreaking because the two daughters have temple recommends and will go to the temple.

Anyway, so far, our family still speaks to each other and we enjoy being together.

And, oh, how grateful am I!

Monday, November 28, 2016

So Very Many Things

Life,

Our Home,

The Yard,

Allen's hard work,

An income on a regular basis.

Mobility.

Senses.

Family.

Neighborhood.

Cars.

Gospel.

Atonement.

Books.

Sunshine.

Laughter.

Scriptures.


Saturday, November 26, 2016

A Safe Trip

We went.

We came home.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, November 21, 2016

THE RAIN!

Oh my goodness; it is raining here in St George.

And, I am grateful.

Oh, indeed.

Sunday, November 20, 2016

Food and Ease of Preparation

I had a bowl of granola....

some banana cut up in it.

Some pecans also cut up in it.

Milk from the fridge.

A piece of toast with butter.

It was easy.

A snap.

And, I am so grateful that I didn't have to do all the work.

I love and am grateful for the ease of getting our food.

Friday, November 18, 2016

Technology

I love listening to books on tape wherever I go.

I'm grateful to be able to listen to Allen's songs whenever I want.

I love the computer and what I can do.

I'm very grateful.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

The Scriptures from Sean's App

Oh, he's a good one, that guy.

He developed an app called scripture a day.  I will have read the book of mormon by the end of the year.  Because of his ingenious app.

And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Our Mission

I love it.

And, I am grateful.

Friday, November 11, 2016

The Armed Forces

Today is Veteran's Day.

I'm very grateful for all the men and women, who over the years, have fought for our freedoms.

I'm grateful.

And, that includes gratitude for our son who has served in the Navy, but will soon get out.

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Another Glorious Morning in St George!

Oh, the trees!

The flowers!

The blue sky!

The peaceful neighborhood!

I am so grateful.

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Election Day Will Be Over

This has been a terribly rancorous election year.

Terrible candidates;

Awful things being said about each candidate.

So, I'm grateful it will be over today.

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Use of My Senses

I see so many people who waddle when they walk, but so far, I can walk normally.

I can see.

I can hear.

I have the use of my hands.

I can feel.

And, I am so grateful.

Saturday, October 29, 2016

The Incredible weather

It's just so absolutely perfect right now.

And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

My Life at Present

I'm feeling well.

I'm very happy right at this moment in my time of life.

And, I am grateful.

Friday, October 21, 2016

The People We Meet

...at our new calling as missionaries.

What a blessing they are...

And, I am grateful.

Sunday, October 16, 2016

The Sisters in Our Relief Society

I do love the sisters in relief society.

And, I am grateful.



Thursday, October 13, 2016

Looking Out My Front Window

I love looking out early in the mornings from my  window.

I am grateful.

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Tender Mercies

I gave the thought in prayer meeting today.

Afterwards, one of the sister missionaries reminded me that the experience I told about was definitely a tender mercy.

I hadn't really thought of it like that before, so I was grateful she pointed it out.

I'm grateful for life's tender mercies.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Handy Man Husband

The sprinklers weren't working...

I had noticed the flowers looked like they were dying, so I asked Allen if they had frozen.

He checked and realized that the sprinklers weren't going off.

He investigated.

He fixed it.

And, I am grateful to have him around to help with things.

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Calm Weather

Right now, parts of the east coast and Haiti are being battered by a horrible hurricane.

The destruction is just hard to comprehend.

I'm looking out my window on a lovely front porch scene of flowers in pots, a little bench, and it's just so peaceful.  The weather is just perfect.

And, I am grateful.


Monday, October 3, 2016

Ability to Walk

Today at Wal*Mart, I was aware of so many people using carts or limping or waddling.

It made me feel so grateful that at this exact moment in my life, I can walk normally.

I can walk.

And, I am grateful.

Sunday, October 2, 2016

Family

I'm grateful for having a few families near by.

Gardner and his wonderful family live close by and we get together occasionally.

And, I am grateful.

Friday, September 30, 2016

Beautiful Days

Right now, the weather could not be more perfect.

And, I am grateful.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Beautiful Days in St George

Oh, man, the days and nights are just perfect.

And, I am so grateful.

Sunday, September 25, 2016

Our Ending Church Job

For about two years or so, Allen and I have been serving as Stake Baptism Coordinators; it's really just a glorified name for janitor, launderers, and chair sitter-uppers.

But, I have absolutely loved it.  It's once a month on Saturdays and I have particularly loved serving with the:

Sperrys
Sorensens
Kellers
Tremeyas.

It was a great blessing, but now we will be released.

I am grateful for that past opportunity!

Saturday, September 24, 2016

The LDS Church

So much of WHO I am, is rooted in the LDS church.

It's who I am...I can't separate myself from those roots.

I love the Gospel and I am grateful.

Monday, September 19, 2016

My Life

At this point in my mother's life, she was lonely and didn't feel like she fit; in her ward or in her town.

Although she had visitors, she didn't have friends to go do things with after her busy life in Pocatello, Idaho.

I am having an opposite experience, and I am certainly grateful for that.

I am happy and grateful.

Friday, September 16, 2016

Mornings in St George

I really love St Geoerge.

I'm so thankful we live here.

I'm very very very very grateful!

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Peace

When I hear all the news about war and death and starving,

I am so grateful to live where we live in a little peaceful valley.

There are problems here,of course, but they are minimal compared to many places in the world.

Today, my heart is filled with gratitude for PEACE!

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Mew Mission Opportunities

Okay, here we go; mission #4.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, September 12, 2016

Ward Family

I really love where we live.

The people in our neighborhood and ward are so inspiring.

I am grateful.

Thursday, September 8, 2016

St George

Having spent a great deal of the summer away,

I have such an appreciation for this unique place in the desert.

Oh, Yes, it's not pretty, but

I am grateful to live here.  I love it.

Mission #4

We just started serving our 4th part-time mission....

And, I am grateful!  (I'm especially grateful, because it wasn't even MY idea!  Allen said it was time to give back after fishing all summer!)

If you look carefully, you will see the Family Search logo in the background on the building!

Monday, September 5, 2016

Family Time

We don't often get to be with the Fishers all at once....





So, it's just great when they come to play.

And, I am grateful.

Saturday, September 3, 2016

HEARING!

My cousin, Margo, and her husband came to spend time with us this summer.

It was great and I love being around Margo; she has the most pleasant disposition ever, so it's a joy to be with her.

Her dear husband has no hearing in one ear, and limited hearing in the other ear.  That makes it very difficult to carry on a conversation.

Also, music in the background totally distracts him.

Being around him totally reminds me of how grateful I am for the sounds of living:

our neighbor's rooster,
the wind,
rain,
water running,
voices,
music,
books on tape,
birds,
children laughing,
and so much more.

I am so grateful for the ability to HEAR!


Friday, September 2, 2016

Bike Rides With Allen

I love riding bikes.

So, I have one....

And, I am grateful.


Thursday, September 1, 2016

Life As It Is Now

I'm very grateful for life at this exact moment.

I know things will change,

So, for now, I will enjoy this moment.

And, I am grateful.

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

My Own Personal Gardener and Handyman

That would be Allen.

He spends a lot of time outdoors working in the yard.

And, I am so grateful.

Plus, he can fix things.

And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Early Morning Bike Ride with Allen

Allen and I recently bought bikes; his is fancy with lots of gears.

Mine is three-wheeled (for an old lady) with three gears, but it works and it's so fun!

I love the feel of the wind in my hair going downhill.

Going uphill is a challenge, but I'm so grateful.

Monday, August 29, 2016

HEALTH!

I've said it many times before and I will continue to say it.

I hear of friends, family neighbors who struggle with many health issues.

I'm beyond grateful that Allen and I are healthy right now.

Thank you, Heavenly Father.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016

FAMILY!

We had such a great time with Jeremy and his boys.....

It went by so very fast, but it was just great.

Good food, good fun, good fishing.

Those boys are such GOOD, GOOD boys.

And, I am grateful!

Friday, July 29, 2016

These Three Things

Hearing

Eyesight

Mobility

Thursday, July 28, 2016

These Three Things

1.  Grandkids

2.  Siblings

3.  In-law Siblings

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

These Three Things

1.  Being Out of debt.

2.  Having an Income

3.  Living in St. George

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

These Three Things - Today

1.  Health

2. Jessica Stout

3.  Allen

I have much to be thankful for, but that's the list for today.

And, I am very grateful.

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

HEALTH!

I'm so very thankful for my health right now.

It is a great blessing.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, May 9, 2016

TECHNOLOGY

Yesterday was Mother's Day!

That was nice.

But, the best part was last night, we video chatted with all five of our kids.

What a wonderful experience.

I am grateful.

Saturday, April 30, 2016

The Rain

Rain is always good in a desert.

And, I am grateful!

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Eyesight and Teeth

I'm headed to the dentist; I hat going to him.

Oh, he's a nice enough guy, but, I'm always afraid of what he might find lurking in my mouth.

But, I'm thankful I HAVE teeth and eyesight.

I am most grateful.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Coming From a Loving Home

Yesterday, I visited two women in our neighborhood.

Each had dramatic stories of family life.

I sat and listened and was so very grateful for the marvelous family I was blessed to be raised in.

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the blessing of a happy, safe, secure home life.

I am so eternally grateful.

Monday, April 25, 2016

Our Home Didn't Burn!!!

Yesterday, Allen was grilling fish outside and the grill caught on fire.

Thankfully, he was right there AND he was able to put it out.

I am so grateful.

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Beautiful Flowers Outside My Window

Allen planted a few flowers; they look so springy and full of color.

I am grateful.

Monday, April 11, 2016

A Beautiful Spring Day

The flowers look so fantastic that Allen planted.

And, I am grateful for the beauties of the earth.

Friday, April 8, 2016

Good Friends and Family

Birthday today.

People are kind, thoughtful, generous, and just plain good.

And, I am grateful.

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Conveniences

I love having a water and a dryer;

a shower with unending streams of hot water,

A car,

A camera,

A phone,

A computer,

Electricity,

Microwave,

Stove,

The list is endless.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, April 4, 2016

My Back...

Getting gradually better.

That was a rough month.

Not to be critical, but I don't think anyone really understood how difficult it was.

I'm much more appreciative of people who suffer back issues.

And, I'm grateful for a working back.

Sunday, April 3, 2016

From ELI - Breakfast


Man, I'm with Eli on this one.

I'm so thankful for BREAKFAST.

Yes, let's EAT!

From Miles - CATS!

We just watched a video about a drug-sniffing cat, which was an April Fools Joke,

so Miles is thankful for cats..


Well, I guess they do catch mice, which we can be thankful for.

Friday, March 4, 2016

A Working Back

Monday's post was just incredibly ironic ...

Because I donated blood and passed out cold on my bedroom floor.

I came  down hard hitting the floor with my bed and back.

Since then, my back constantly aches.....it's very difficult - and painful -to move.

So, it makes me grateful for a back that has worked all these years with no trouble.

Now, I get it when people say, oh my aching back!


Monday, February 29, 2016

Mobliltiy

I'm not really crazy about exercising.

BUT, I'm grateful I have the mobility to be able to do it.

Today, I tried to work VERY hard.

I did arm exercises, walked for 1/2 hour, and tried to exert myself.

One reason I do it, is to stave off dementia and alzheimers.

Hope it works.

But, I'm grateful I can still move around freely.

Sunday, February 28, 2016

Donna

She's one of the best there is.

A person with no guile.

Just perfect.

She is always wanting to improve herself.  She studies, she walks, she learns, she is generous, she is a role model for her children...she is perfect in every way.

And, I'm grateful to get to be her sister-in-law.

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

The Temple

Whenever I go to the temple, I am always amazed at how

HAPPY

everyone is...

The patrons, the workers,

It's just a pleasant place to be.



And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Allen's Life

Allen had a heart incident in church on Sunday.....

He feels sure it was a heart attack....

Whatever happened, he is doing fine now,

And, I am beyond grateful.

Saturday, February 20, 2016

HEALTH!

So many people we know are struggling with ill health.

And, boy, does it make me grateful that I am mobile,

and healthy.

Friday, February 19, 2016

Fantastic Weather

Perfect day today.

We planted our first annuals today...primroses; they are lovely.

Our first little white crocus is out.

And, I am grateful.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

St George!

I love living where the sun shines many days of the year.

I love living where there is very little or no snow.

Okay, let's face it; I love living in St. George.

And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

A Walk Out Doors

I usually walk at home or in the gym.

Today, after a two mile walk with my walking DVD, I walked outside;

It was so refreshing,

And, I am grateful for the FRESH AIR, SUNSHINE, and mobility.

Monday, February 15, 2016

Birds SINGING!

This morning is the first time I have heard the birds singing;

it made MY heart sing.

It must mean that spring is getting closer.

And that makes me happy and grateful.

Saturday, February 13, 2016

Coming Home

I've been gone for five days....

I was tending 3 little boys in Provo....

And, I'm so grateful I could help.

But, oh, I'm so grateful to be HOME!

Monday, February 8, 2016

Technology

I've been doing some family history....

It's amazing how it has changed since we went on our first family history mission in 2008...

It was a very complicated process to get a name temple ready; in fact, I was nervous about doing it when someone came for help.

Now, the church has made it so easy, and we can print the cards right from our own home.

I'm grateful.

Friday, February 5, 2016

Promises of the Temple

The promises given in the initiatory and so powerful.

I am grateful.

Saturday, January 30, 2016

Lunch Out with Allen

I spent a lot of money on food today...

It's so expensive to eat....

So, it was especially fun to eat out with a gift card from our dear daughter.

Thanks, Kristi.

I am grateful.

Friday, January 29, 2016

This Day

Lots to do,

Lovely day in which to do it.

And, I am grateful.

Thursday, January 28, 2016

A Little Extra Money Each Month

....to spend at our discretion.

I am going to a girls vacation in May with Jenni, Kristi, and Janessa.



It will cost a little bit of money,

So, I'm glad that I have some to spend on things like this.

I am grateful.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Online Banking

I was never very good at keeping our financial records....

I really didn't know how to budget or keep track of stuff.

But, with online financial record keeping; a handwritten ledger, and a spread sheet with our budget; it's so EASY.

And, I am grateful.

Monday, January 25, 2016

Allen's Constant Help in the Kitchen

How lucky am I?

Allen has taken over doing the dishes entirely?

Now, that is just awesome.

And, I am grateful!

Sunday, January 24, 2016

The Sabbaath

Good time to review what is really important.

And, I am grateful.

Saturday, January 23, 2016

Warmer Weather

It is so very cold all over the northeast, but

FINALLY, it is warming up a little in SG.

And, I am grateful!

Friday, January 22, 2016

Music - Bring It On!

Last night, Allen and I went to hear an Elvis impersonator.

It exceeded our expectations; he was so good.

And, the amazing thing was that his voice was absolutely FANTASTIC; he totally sounded like Elvis.

Travis Allen as Elvis; he sounded just like him...it was awesome!


Let's face it; it was just a super fun night, and I'm grateful.

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

People

It's so fun to meet people and to hear their stories.

I'm glad that I have a natural interest in people; Allen does also.

It's been a blessing inner lives because we will listen to their stories while others just talk.

And, I am thankful.

Monday, January 18, 2016

Life!

Several of our friends are facing health issues.

So far, Allen and I don't have tremendous issues that weigh us down.

And, I am grateful.

Saturday, January 16, 2016

Saturday

Exercise,

Shop,

Dust,

Vacuum,

Computer chores.

Saturdays are good for these things.

And, I am grateful.

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Outings With Allen

We went on a little drive today...

Somewhere Allen hadn't been before.

Just the two of us...

Then for a nice lunch.

And, I'm grateful for these pleasant times at the present moment.

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Fresh Fruit

This morning, I've already eaten a:

Clementine,

Banana,

They tasted so good,

And, I am grateful.

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Family Home Evenings With New Friends

We met Bob and Janeil in Manila, Utah.

They winter in St George and summer in Manila.

They have belonged to an FHE group for many years and invited us to be a part of it.

I feel a little awkward as no one knows us and they probably wonder why we get to belong, but I've enjoyed it so much the few times we have gone.

Last night's was particularly meaningful and inspiring.  It was presented by a man who worked at church headquarters for many many years.

He told some marvelous stories about the prophets and apostles and I was so grateful I got to hear him speak and share his delightful, inspiring stories.

Oh, I'm grateful for good people and friends.

Monday, January 11, 2016

A List A Mile Long

Food,

easy access to food,

an income,

eyesight,

hearing,

mobility,

health,

a good husband,

children,

memories,

lovely town to live in,

a home,

cars,

sunny skies,

computer,

grandchildren,

fingers,

toes,

gospel,

scriptures,

sunshine,

clean air,

pictures,

LIFE.

Oh, I am grateful.

Saturday, January 9, 2016

Sunrise

Oh, it's so beautiful this morning.

I'm grateful.

Friday, January 8, 2016

The Wisdom of My Children

Man, sometimes, well, a lot of times,

It's my kids who teach ME.

And, I am grateful.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Health

I do say it a lot.

But, I am so grateful for our health right now.

Thank you, Heavenly Father.

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Eyesight and Hearing

Man, I hope I never take those senses for granted.

I am so grateful for both.

Monday, January 4, 2016

A Sunny Disposition

I don't mean to brag or sound conceited.

But, I'm grateful for a sunny disposition.

Most mornings.....99%....I get up cheery.

Now, that is not to say that I don't get in funks or out of sorts,

But, in general, I'm a pleasant person, not given to deep, dark moods.

And, I am grateful.

Friday, January 1, 2016

Happy New Year! 2016!

I feel so grateful for the year just past.

Here's to another year with lots of adventures, fun, laughter, and family.

And, I am grateful.