Tuesday, August 26, 2014

         The evenings have been cloudy and rain fell last night as we were getting ready for bed.  We opened our huge windows, turned off the lights, and watched the lightshow in the sky, listened to the rumble of the thunder, and enjoyed the steady rain as it refreshed the thirsty landscape.

         The new counselor in the temple presidency has been announced and it is a man who already serves in the temple here, Brother Valle.  He is a great man and his wife is wonderful as well.  They will begin their new assignment next week.

         We haven’t received our September Ensign and Liahona yet, but there are copies in the temple and I had a few spare minutes today to read from the Liahona.  The articles continue to be applicable to each of us and each family with counsel, warnings, and encouragement.  Pres. Monson started right out with a review of the importance of personal and family preparedness on all levels.  The brethren can’t really come out and say—things are going to get worse and soon, so be ready—or there would be chaos as everyone scrambled to ramp up their stores and reduce their unnecessary debt, etc.  But if we are aware of the world around us and are discerning, we can feel the necessity of focusing on the things that matter most and take steps to be prepared as counseled.  We must take some time for spiritual renewal and testimony building every day. 

We pray that Heavenly Father will bless each of you with the direction you need for your own families.  Seek his guidance and lean on His words.

         We love you and pray for you every day!   And I so miss those wonderful “back-to-school” days!  Enjoy some fresh strawberries and new zucchini bread for us!