Unrest in the Ukraine....the World is Smaller Than We Think

There has been a great deal of news coverage on the unrest in the Ukraine over the past few weeks. 

Image courtesy of Bleacherreport

We have seen, Bogdana Matsotskachoose, give up her Olympic  dream of her life to go home and support the protestors in their home land.  

Image courtesy of PBS

Protesters and Police have clashed, too many have lost their lives.  There has been a change in leadership and a fledgling government is trying to stand on wobbly legs.

I have watched, as we all have, these events on the news.  As badly as I have felt for the citizens of this country, it all came home to roost for me today.  My friend placed this plea on her Facebook page (with the names removed):

"Asking a favor - Putin has asked his parliament for permission to send military troops to Ukraine - specifically Crimea. We are fasting tomorrow for the people of Ukraine and the missionaries there (especially the one who is near and dear to my heart - Elder (son)) - could you add them into your fasting and prayer tomorrow? And - if you aren't the fasting, but the praying type - could you lift them up in prayer. My heart hurts for this people and their division and what it could mean for their country. Thank you so much!"

How could I or anyone not feel for this family and the all of the families who live in this troubled corner of the world?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has made the following statement today.

Church Statement on Missionaries Serving in Ukraine

Salt Lake City-The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released the following statement today regarding missionaries serving in Ukraine:

Due to civil unrest, 23 missionaries serving in the Ukraine Dnepropetrovsk Mission have been removed from the Crimean peninsula and transferred to other areas within the mission as a precautionary measure.

Many around the world are  participating in Fasting and Prayer today and tomorrow. If you can find it in your heart, can you please include the missionaries and the people of the Ukraine in your Prayers and Fasting.  

If you are new to Prayer, it isn't difficult. Find a quiet and secluded place.

• Begin by calling on The Father by saying "Heavenly Father" 
• Take a minute to offer your thanks for the blessings that you are grateful for.  Suggestions might be for your family, health, shelter, etc
• Ask Heavenly Father for the things you are calling upon him for.  (If you feel so inclined, ask for protection and care to be upon the People of the Ukraine).
• End "In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen"

Our Brothers and Sisters abroad need our help.  Please find it in your heart to include them in your Fasting and Prayers.

ADDENDUM:  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the following information:

Ukraine
Given the evolving situation in Ukraine, 22 missionaries serving in that country will end their missions early and return home over the next few days. This includes missionaries originally scheduled for release in March and April of this year and allows the four missions in Ukraine to better accommodate the missionaries who were moved out of the Crimean Peninsula. Missionaries who have been in missionary training centers preparing to enter Ukraine are being temporarily reassigned to other missions or will remain at the MTCs on a short-term basis (see previous statements issued this week).

Worldwide Missionary Training Broadcast......

An integral part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is their Missionary Program which is designed to bring the light of the Savior to each and every Child of God.

Last evening, the Church had a Worldwide Missionary Training Broadcast.  Missionary work is changing a bit. The Missionaries will be using more resources from the Internet and will be giving tours of the Chapels to visitors.  

To learn more and to see this broadcast, please go to this link.

By the way, my recently-returned missionary son loved his mission and looks forward to continuing his missionary work now that he is home.  It's a pleasure to see his efforts and learn from his as well.  

I've been a Little Preoccupied lately.....

I think I will glue this picture, this emotion, this moment in time to my brain forever.  My son returned home from his mission yesterday.  His plane was late,  and after it arrived he didn't descend on the escalator for what seemed forever.  Many passengers who came down the escalator and saw all of us anxious parents waiting.  They smiled and then reported that "They are going to come down as a group.....but they are coming".   Then we waited some more.  Finally, finally, my Elder-Son descended down the Escalator...

Squeals of excitement ensued.....(not just mine)!

Hugs were given all around....our Missionary was home!

His former Mission President came to greet him. That was so very touching to both of them.  More hugs, lots of pictures and lots of questions were asked.

Soooooo, although I am very excited to have my missionary home again I am going to make a few suggestions to the missionary parents who may be anticipating this event.

1. Be Patient:  There are so many things that you have to wait upon.  Travel Itineraries, admission to school, transportation for our missionary after he comes home, insurance, etc.  I was doing pretty well with all of this until we were at the airport.  He just wasn't coming down the escalator....we finally sent my Son-in-law with my grandson to 'accidentally' scale the stairs and watch for him. My middle son and is boy did the same. (There were strict instructions that Mom gets the first hug though!)  When they saw him coming, they quickly came down the stairs.  Where had he been for those many long minutes?  He was doing just what he should.  Because the of  Tornado activity yesterday (which he was totally unaware of), the plane was delayed and some of the missionaries in his group missed their connections.  He stayed to ensure that all of them were taken care of with connecting flights etc. before he left them.  Who wouldn't want their son to be so caring and responsible?
2. Give him or her time:  This is a cultural shock to leave the life of a missionary and then all of a sudden come back home.  We all had questions for him.  One (which I thought was so simple), was too overwhelming for him.  "Where do you want to go eat?".  He said he couldn't even think that far ahead.  This is a huge clue.  Try not to bombard your returning missionary with questions such as "What type of cellphone do you want to get?", "When do you want to go visit ______", etc.  It was just too much for him.  He kept saying things like, "We should go teach someone tonight".  
3. Getting into the house:  Try to have favorite foods or requested items.  Have something for him to wear....these guys often grow and develop over the two year span.  
4. Let him/her enjoy every minute of being a missionary:  Before our Stake President came to release him, he referred to his impending release as a "Missionary killer" moment and dreaded for it to come.  The Stake President, after he arrived, asked our Elder to bear his Testimony to his family one more time as a missionary.  I thought I had shed enough tears before, but with this sweet Testimony, they came freely.  The Stake President then gave us all advise and counsel.  Finally, he asked me to do something I hadn't been asked to do with my other two missionaries.....he asked me to remove my son's Missionary Badge.  That was bitter-sweet for him.
5. Beware of a time change:  Your son/daughter most likely will not be used to your time zone.  If you have had an international missionary, you may want to check with your physician about how to regulate sleep cycles to help you missionary adjust. 

It has only been a few hours, but already as a Mother, I feel whole again.  All my chicks are around or are in a place that I can call and talk with them at a moment's notice.  I think I am going to like having to trip over an extra pair of shoes again.....

A note about your son.....Elder (Rooster Junior)

Happy Mother's Day to all you sisters who have children/grandchildren and also to those who love and support children as extended family members and friends. Having been an 'extended family member and friend' for several years of my early adult life, I understand the mixed emotions Mother's Day can bring.  However, I would encourage you to accept the thanks and appreciation from loved ones today....right along with those how are called "Mom" as well. 

I have been very blessed this year, and it is only the morning!  Today I am anticipating a phone call from my Missionary who is serving in Friendswood Texas.  I have been wishing for the days to go faster, but we all know that Heavenly Father has his own timeline for everything.

My other children and Rooster Senior have been gracious enough to call, write, send flowers/cards/gifts, and my son who graduated from College a few days ago gave me his tassel...which will be a treasure for years to come!  I am grateful to be remembered by those who I love.

I received an unexpected text from a YSA also wishing me a Happy Mother's day.  That was very unexpected but also touching.

See, I told you today was off to a nice start. However, I received an unexpected email from the Ward Mission leader (a ward is a synonym for a local church congregation) this morning.  The subject line read "A note about your son, Elder _____".  I have to admit, my heart sank for a moment as it is very unusual to hear from anyone but your Missionary or the Mission President when your child is serving as a missionary.  I opened the email hoping that everything was alright.  And.....it really was. This kind Brother wrote my husband and I a note expressing his appreciation for the service my son and his companion were providing to the ward.  Our son, (who I lovingly refer to as 'Rooster Junior') has been serving in that particular ward for about 9 months.  My husband and I had to wipe away the tears as we read this unexpected, but welcome gift this beautiful Mother's Day morning. Here is an excerpt of this touching email:

We, the members of the _______ Ward want you to know how much we appreciate your willingness to share your son with us in the service of the Lord.  We thank you for raising a young man who stands tall and is a shining example of what a missionary is and what a missionary should be.  He has blessed all of our lives and it is with a great deal of mixed emotions that we will have to say goodbye to him in a few short days. 

As a parent who has had five children serve missions (one of my daughters is serving now), I know that it is a time of great blessing for your family when you have a son or daughter serve a mission.  I also know that you are very anxious to be reunited with your son as he concludes his mission.  Though we will be sad to see him go, he will leave a lasting legacy in our ward and in the lives of the people he has touched, taught, and loved. 

May you and your entire family take comfort to know that Elder ______ has served the Lord with all of his might, mind and strength.  He is a leader and an example to the other missionaries that he teaches and serves. 

May you and your family enjoy the great blessings of the gospel.  May you feel the spirit of the Lord that dwells so strongly in Elder ______.  And may you have a joyous reunion with him.  Surely, he is one of the noble and great ones.  I am sure the Lord is very pleased with his service and will surely say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant". 

God bless all of you.  And to sister ______ … Happy Mothers Day!

I think I will need tissues for the whole entire day.  It is moments like this that help me realize that all our efforts as parents, and those of extended family and friends help shape the lives of the rising generation.  It is my hope that as a "Sister-in-the-gospel" that we will never doubt the important role that we play as we serve in our little part of the kingdom both inside and outside of the home.

Happy Mother's Day to you every Sister!

Expires at Midnight.....

Why am I posting a picture of an empty parking lot?

Here is another view....

Here is the same parking lot about a week ago.

Here is another view.

Today, everyone moved out of the Raintree Apartments.

Last week, there was a 4-Stake Fireside where the boundaries of the 4 Stakes were altered.  In addition, 6 wards simply.....were....dissolved.....effective at Midnight on 4-27-13.  This date and time were important as the leadership wanted to ensure that every student had a Bishop....until they moved out.  The meeting was really amazing, lots of boundary changes, ward name changes, and  Bishopric changes.  

Before the meeting began, I happened to sit next to a member of our YSA Stake Presidency.  I inquired to see if I might ask a few questions of him, and he willingly said he would.  Reportedly, the Stake Presidency was informed in January that this complex would become a Second MTC at the end of the semester   Reportedly, the 4 Stake Presidents provided the General authorities with suggestions on how this could be accomplished.  

Changes that will most likely be taking place at the facility:

• Each apartment that had housed 6 students will now house 12 missionaries as bunk beds will be installed.
• The large parking lot in the back will have temporary building for feed the missionaries.  
• There has been some talk/reporting that some of the buildings will be remodeled to make classrooms available.

Elder Steven J Lund was presiding at this special 4-Stake Conference.  Not only did he carry out the changes listed above, but he also shared more information.  

When it was announced that the  Benemerito de las Americas high school would also be transformed into an MTC in Mexico, some were concerned that the educational opportunities for a High School opportunity would no longer be available to members in Mexico.  Elder Lund explained that originally this school was built as there was no opportunity for a High School education available over 40 years ago.  Currently, Mexico reportedly now does offer High school, so about 5-6 years ago, the decision was made to close the facility at the end of this school year.  Reportedly there had been a discussion about selling the facility.  This is where the glorious plan of the Lord came into play.  With the recent increase in Missionaries applying to serve, this facility could easily be transformed as it had dormitories, cafeterias, classrooms, and staff.  

Elder Lund also mentioned a new Visa that Mexico is offering that can be received in a little as 2 months if the applicant is going to learn the language or be in the country for educational purposes.    Can you think of anything more perfect for a missionary?

A bit of irony....some of our very own students will now be returning to Raintree.....to work as they were already employed at the MTC.

So, what do students do when they know they have to move out....disperse, and finals are over?  Have a bonfire  to burn any homework or notes that are no longer needed...all while roasting Hot dogs and Marshmallows in the Fire pit. There were also midnight runs for waffles, and movie nights.  We must not forget that there were also several celebrating their long awaited Graduations.

Reportedly there was an 'all night cleaning party" on the last night...with much goofing around until 4:00 a.m.  

One other thing that I found very important.  Reportedly President Monson sent a letter to our YSA Stake President indicating that all the records of all the students needed to be sent to their next home and not to Church Headquarters.  Again, this was important so that every student had a Bishop. Our wonderful Clerks spent the last few weeks gathering addresses of either the next apartment or a home address as some students just didn't know where they were going to land.  Extra efforts to complete Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching were also made.

None-the-less, this chapter of our Young Single Adult's lives closing, However, it allows for new Missionary opportunities that will impact the future of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the world.   How amazing it has been for our little ward to witness this small little piece of Church History.

The Lord works in mysterious ways.....his wonders to perform...

The Exodus begins....

I have been "Missing in Action" lately here on this blog.  I haven't been sitting back and eating bonbons.  Instead, I have been living life, helping Rooster Senior with his end-of-the-semester projects and homework, and witnessing some modern-day history.  On March 27th of this year, the members of our Young Single Adult ward, along with 6 other wards based in the Raintree Commons were given a bit of news.  Their home-away-from-home would become a 2nd MTC (Missionary Training Center) beginning May 1st.  This means that everyone....I mean everyone is moving out...moving away...and moving on to make way for these newly called Missionaries.  

Now before some of you think that this is unfair.....just remember that (the end of the semester) and most of the rental contracts end on April 27th.  At the end of a semester a majority of these tremendous students traditionally move out...move home....and move on with life in general.   So yes, some folks were inconvenienced, but most already had plans to relocate.

And so the Exodus begins.  There have been meetings with our Young Single Adult (YSA) Ward Council, planning with the Relief Society and Elder's Quorum, with extra efforts from Visiting Teachers and Home Teachers to ensure everyone has a place to land and help moving there.  If you have ever moved one family....multiply that effort by nearly 200 and you will know what this experience is like. We have even made available our own 'Winter Quarters' for those YSA's who are in flux.  By April 27th, the members of our YSA ward...and a piece of heart will be gone.

This next Sunday will be the last block of meetings for our ward.  Everyone will be released, including the Bishopric and the ward essentially will be dissolved. Reportedly the MTC will inhabit Raintree and Wyview apartments for approximately 2 years.

Sooooo, the Little Red Hen has put on her own thinking cap.....which is really a dangerous thing.  As the media coverage states, the Missionaries will not only live on these campus', but will also receive their training here.......I tried to imagine how the training and feeding part would happen.  I could see the living and laundry part already, but the other would be a massive undertaking.  Each apartment has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms along with a an open floor plan for a livingroom/kitchen combination.  There is also a laundry room for all the current residents.  (Our Ward alone is made up of 24 Apartments and there are 6 Wards in this complex)

Image Courtesy of Raintreeapt.com

Soooooo, where could everything take place?  Well, Wyview (across the street)  has a Chapel located on it's campus....that could be very helpful for Missionaries I would venture. However, there is a need for classrooms, large dining area(s), etc.  So, I took a few pictures and have a few thoughts on the matter (and that is all they are....as the Church has a plan to address any and all issues here without the my uninspired input).

This is a view of 2 buildings on the West side of the complex.

Standing from the Balcony of one the above Apartment buildings, I took these 3 shots from right to left....of an enormous parking lot.  Think about it, these missionaries will not need any parking space.  Temporary buildings could be established here  for teaching and dining.

The current clubhouse can manage one YSA ward at a time for things like Ward Prayer and a "Break-the-Fast" meal, but not the entire complex.  I am sure this building will be used however for important functions.  It has folding tables and chairs, a loft, a kitchen without appliances (but has a small sink) and some small office areas that Bishops have used for interviews.

Each Stairwell leads to 6 different apartments (on 3 floors) on the front and back sides of the building.   Missionaries will live (and most likely study) in close proximity without having to travel far.

As with any change, there are 'rumors' about what will happen.  Some rumors are that the Hot Tub will be taken completely out, others are that the pool will be covered for 2 years.  In my view, who knows and really who cares about the pool?  The Lord has a plan, and his work will roll forth.

So, as some of our newly called missionaries (some most likely from our own YSA Ward) prepare to enter the MTC in early May, it is my hope that they will find a sweetly spiritual environment in the newly called 2nd MTC.  I know that our YSA Ward has certainly experienced it and have been greatly blessed by it.

As for our beloved YSA's, I will personally miss you all.  As I listen to your plans for the future, I am amazed at the potential impact for good you most likely will have not only locally, but across the world.  I want to thank you all for the richness that you have brought to my life.....I will miss you.

Until we meet again..........

Constancy amid Change.......again

(I am leaving this photo in its original size so that you can read the fine print....)

The Students of our ward woke up to this notice yesterday morning.  Why might you ask?  Because of this breaking news story:

Church Secures Use of Additional Buildings for Missionary Training

SALT LAKE CITY — 

To better accommodate the recent increase in new missionaries, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is expanding its missionary training operations by securing the use of additional buildings near the Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC).

Missionaries will occupy the Raintree Commons apartments at 1849 North 200 West, and portions of the BYU-owned Wyview Park apartments at 146 West 1940 North in Provo, Utah. This temporary arrangement is one of the many ways the Church is accommodating more missionaries entering into missionary service around the world. 

“We are grateful for all those who have chosen missionary service,” said Elder David F. Evans, executive director of the Church’s Missionary Department. “Regardless of where they are trained, missionaries will have a rich and inspiring experience that prepares them for their labors in their assigned missions.”

Approximately 2,000 missionaries will occupy the facilities as early as May 2013. English-language missionaries and those learning foreign languages will be trained there.

Missionaries housed at the Raintree Commons and the Wyview Park apartments will eat, exercise and attend classes and worship services on-site. Additional temporary structures will be installed nearby to provide services to missionaries. All missionaries being trained in Provo will still have opportunities to attend the Provo Temple.

Updated Missionary FAQ

• How many missionaries does the Church have serving currently?
  64,373

• What is the average number of missionaries being called per week now?
  1,400 per week since 1 January 2013

• What is the current percentage of Elders/Sisters being called?
  For calls made since 1 January 2013, 57% are elders, 36% are sisters, and 7% are seniors.
• What are the plans currently for expansion of the Provo MTC?
  We are currently reviewing options with the city and neighbors that would approximately double the capacity of the Provo MTC. These plans are not yet finalized.
• Are there plans to expand the Provo Temple to accommodate increased numbers of missionaries?
  No

***********************************************

Soooooo, what do the students think?  Well, with social media it's easy to see and very quickly. Comments such as these are being posted:

• One student wrote that she is looking for a big box to live out of since she is being forced to move and will soon be homeless.
• Others are saying that they should still have use of the pool and hot tub because the missionaries won't need them.
• Another suggested that the ward blow the budget on an end-of-the-year party within the next month.
• Most are saying how very, very sad they are that they will all be moving.  Essentially, they are loosing their sense of 'family' in our little ward.  

For me personally (at the moment), I am mourning this change as well because I love, love, love these young people.  It has been my privilege and honor to serve with them. What a tender mercy this calling has been for me.

On the flip side, after thinking about this for a few hours, I can see the divine wisdom in this inspired choice.  The campus' of both of these apartment buildings are rather isolated. Raintree itself really does have a central commons area and the  apartment buildings surround it keeping all the occupants close together. The missionaries could quickly and easily move from one building to the other despite the weather.  Geographically, the roads, river, and business buildings keep this area uniquely isolated to itself.  The parking for Raintree only has 2 entrances and could easily be taken down to one to keep the campus isolated from well wishers or interested parties.

I remember when President Spencer W Kimball coined the phrase "Constancy amid Change".  This announcement is perfectly suited for this phrase.  In the last days, the missionary work really must expand and fill the whole earth.  Since the announcement was made by President Monson during the October General Conference, we have had nearly 17 young sisters either receive their mission call, leave for the MTC (one left yesterday), or are in the process of putting their papers in. Imagine this expanded missionary activity in every YSA ward in our valley and the worldwide impact it is having.  My husband and I joked that perhaps one of our own Young Single Adults  might end up right back in the apartment they just left, however they would been transformed into  a missionary this time.  For me personally, I just get to see this change up close and personally.

I will miss my Young Single Adults.....May the Lord Bless them all.....until we meet again.  

*************

PS:  There is now an official site for those who are displaced. If you know of openings in the Provo area, please feel free to post them here:  https://www.facebook.com/RaintreeRefugeeFoundationRrf

In the Service of the Lord....

There has been significant amount of excitement around our neighborhood and our quiet little town.  There is also a lot of media poking it's head around from the New York Times, to other national media outlets. Why you might ask?  Well, the Basketball team from Lone Peak High School just won the state championship.  "Big Deal" you might say, and if I didn't know the situation like I do, those would be my words as well.

This team not only won nearly every game (season wins 26/27) they played in the league, but also games across the United States.  They are rumored to be ranked the number one High School Team in the Country.  Is it a big deal yet?

Add to that the fact that they don't just win, they dominate and often win their games with double digits.  Is it a big deal yet?

To me, as great as their accomplishments are, what is even greater are the commitments of the 5 Seniors on the team.  You may be thinking of College recruiters and scholarships. There are plenty of those, but that is not the big deal in my view.

So what is the big deal.....watch.  I am grateful that we have such tremendous youth in our area.  They are supported by their families,  friends, congregations and the school.  Be amazed....as you should.

I hope they call me on a mission.....

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announces that due to the recent influx of new missionaries, that 58 new missions are being created.  A news release from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints indicates that the number of missions will raise from 347 to 405.  Here is a graphic indicating the names and locations of the new missions.

New LDS Missions
Africa Southeast Area	Mexico Area	North America West Area
Angola Luanda	Mexico Cancun	California Bakersfield
Botswana Gaborone	Mexico Ciudad Juarez	California Irvine
Africa West Area	Mexico Ciudad Obregon	California Rancho Cucamonga
Ghana Accra West	Mexico Mexico City Chalco	Pacific Area
Liberia Monrovia	Mexico Pachuca	Australia Sydney North
Nigeria Benin City	Mexico Queretaro	New Zealand Hamilton
Asia North Area	Mexico Reynosa	Papua New Guinea Lae
Japan Tokyo South	Mexico Saltillo	Philippines Area
Korea Seoul South	North America Central Area	Philippines Cavite
Brazil	Colorado Fort Collins	Philippines Cebu East
Brazil Curitiba South	Illinois Chicago West	Philippines Legaspi
Brazil Fortaleza East	Kansas Wichita	Philippines Urdaneta
Brazil Juiz de Fora	North America Northeast Area	South America Northwest Area
Brazil Natal	Virginia Chesapeake	Bolivia Santa Cruz North
Brazil Piracicaba	Ohio Cincinnati	Ecuador Guayaquil West
Brazil Santos	North America Northwest Area	Ecuador Quito North
Brazil Sao Paulo West	Oregon Salem	Peru Huancayo
Central America Area	Washington Federal Way	Peru Iquitos
El Salvador San Salvador East	Washington Vancouver	South America South Area
Guatemala Coban	North America Southeast Area	Argentina Comodoro Rivadavia
Honduras San Pedro Sula West	Georgia Macon	Argentina Posadas
Europe East Area	North America Southwest Area	Chile Santiago South
Ukraine L'viv	Arizona Gilbert	Utah Area
Idaho	Arizona Scottsdale	Utah Salt Lake City East
Idaho Nampa
Idaho Twin Falls

(Image courtesy of KSL News)

I recall trying to read Isaiah and understanding it when I attended BYU.  Brother Fugal, my then Book of Mormon Instructor, tried to described to us what Isaiah might have been trying to describe to us from his perspective and life experience.  In looking in Isaiah, I found this scripture this morning.  I don't know that my interpretation is correct, but I find his words thought provoking and relevant to missionary service and the current influx.    

3 And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

4 Lift up thine eyes round about  and see: all they gather themselves together, they come to thee: thy sons shall come from afar, and thy daughters shall be nursed at thy side.

(Isaiah 60: 3-4)

The Gospel will roll forth.  How exciting it is not only to have a son who is serving in this great work, but to also be a witness to the many Young Single Adults in our ward who are preparing to leave their educational path and serve the Lord as missionaries.  I have also found the change of the missionary age has no found its way into my workplace, which is something I could have never foreseen.

How blessed we are to see this new wave in history of the Church.  I look forward to witnessing the change in the world that is about to come forth.

This really is....the 'good stuff'!

The Army of Helaman......marches forth!

Today another Missionary from our family entered the Missionary Training Center in Provo.  This amazing 19-year old Sister couldn't wait to be endowed, couldn't wait to submit papers, and couldn't wait ...... to enter the MTC.

In the Young Single Adult Ward that my husband and I serve in, I am in awe of the caliber of the young Brothers and Sisters who are choosing to postpone their education and fulfill their desire to serve the Lord in far-reaching places around  the globe.  There is great excitement and great change in the air.  

An amazing video was shared with me today.  I think it shows the scope and range that the new policy announced by President Monson in our last General Conference is having in one area of Salt Lake City.  Imagine the result of this video multiplied many-fold.  Look out World....The Army of Helaman is coming...

Enjoy!

Called to Serve....Lindon Cannery Missionary Request‏

A Request from the Lindon Cannery.  If you are in a position to help, please contact them as soon as possible.  What an opportunity!:

We are way behind in finding missionaries for 2013. If you are possibly interested in serving at the Cannery next year, please send an email to wel-ca-lindon-wetpack@ldschurch.org . Please include your stake name.

We are needing around 10 new missionaries. Lindon Cannery missionaries serve for 1 year (Jan-Dec) for 2 assigned, 4.5 hour shifts a week (between 8-10 hours/week). We will only be working on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in 2013 and do not schedule production for the month of July. When needing to be gone on an assigned day, there are several other missionaries who do the same job you do so you can get substitutes and will be asked to substitute if needed.

This is an immediate request. First day of training is December 10, 2012. (No other responsibilities in December.)  First day of production is January 8, 2013. We are down to the wire!!!

Looking forward to hearing from you! Remember to send to the email above.

My Missionary Tradition.....

I have this keyring that only comes out during certain periods of time.  When my oldest Son left on the plane to fly a couple of thousand miles away to serve his mission, I used this keyring until he came home safely.

When my middle son flew a few thousand more miles away from home to serve his mission, I pulled it out again and used it until he came safely home.

Now, I have had this keyring back in service for the past 15 months.  It will remain in place until my youngest son returns safely home.  

With my daughters now married, I got to thinking.....when or how would I ever use this again.  I decided that I am married to a really big kid....so I could use it again when we went on our mission.

With all kidding aside, I love having this simple reminder that I am a Missionary Mom, and am so humbled to be one.  It reminds me to be grateful for yet another wonderful son who chose to serve the Lord in his vineyard for 2 years.

Friends find this little reminder to be a great idea, and have asked where I got it.  Sadly, I got it in South Carolina a long time ago.  But, I point out that it would be simple enough to make one on your own that is similar to it.

Just my "Missionary Mom" moment for the day!

My 'efficient' way to spoil my missionary...

Yes, that actually is a logo from Amazon.  I actually have an Amazon Prime account....which is dangerous to me on a daily basis.  With an Amazon Prime account, there are no shipping charges.....repeat.....no shipping charges and the order is scheduled to arrive in 2 days.

I see lots of sites with really clever packaging for missionaries.  I believe most of these creative people have either more time, or more brain cells for cute packaging that I do sometimes.

When I had an missionary abroad, I sent things in Pringles Cans to protect them. I learned how to put little things in letters etc and I even sent Debbie Cakes with a musical Candle for my then 21 year old Irish missionary.

Our oldest served in Utah, but we sent him from South Carolina.  However, halfway through his mission we relocated to Utah....but did not live in his mission.  Alas, I did work in his mission.  I would go shopping, drop off his favorites at the mission home and then he would have them in about 2 hours.

Enter our latest missionary.  Again, I can be creative and do want to show my missionary that I love and miss him.  But, the creative thoughts come at 2:00 in the morning....and then they disappear during normal hours.  So, I have been doing the following......using Amazon.  (Just know if you are using the 'one-click' ordering....things will show up at your house versus at the door of your Missionary)

Why would I do this?  Well, when my missionary son (who is serving state-side) writes that he needs something.....I just pop on to Amazon, click on the needed item or items, and have the order delivered right to his door.  He loves it.

You may ask what I have sent?  Cases of Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, Granola Bars, Candy, shelf-stable foods and some of the following:

Now, just in case you are wondering.....I did send a really nice sewing kit and he did receive sewing instructions for buttons, seams, and hemming pants.  However, he says he doesn't have time for it...and maybe he doesn't.  So, he seems happy with these.

My cute missionary is serving in a very, very hot area of Texas.  I traveled to Texas in late June, and nearly melted in the heat and humidity.  I purchased this little fan at a big box store and wore it nearly the entire time I was visiting the great state of Texas.  (Just in case you were wondering.....I was three hours away from my son's mission.....I was good).  When I returned home, I ordered 2 of these along with a big pack of batteries and sent them to my son and his companion.  

So, although I might not get the award for cute and clever packaging as of late (I do that type of stuff for Christmas and Birthday's though), I get lots of thanks from my missionary.  In this case.....it really is the thought that counts!

It's "Hump Day"....

Rooster Junior with his Mission President and Wife

Today, I have experienced a wide range of emotion.  We had a loved one who passed away this week and was laid to rest today.  This good man finished his earthly mission, and lived a valiant life.  I was honored to have known him and our lives have certainly been enhanced, for the better, for having him in our family.  Our love and prayers go out to his wife and children who now will be forging a new form of 'normal' in their coming days.

I was also very aware that 1 year ago today, we took our son to the Missionary Training Center in Provo Utah.  I cried a lot that day, mostly tears of joy.  I felt very blessed to have such an amazing child who had prepared himself.....willingly I might  add.....to commit to full-time Missionary Service for 2 years.

We have had the opportunity to have 2 other sons serve missions, and have been so very grateful for them and their service.  We would literally wait by the mailbox to hear from them each week. Sometimes we didn't hear from them for more than one week due to issues with the mail, transfers, etc.  

Enter the age of cyberspace.  I watch my email each Monday morning between each patient to see if my Missionary has written.  There have been times that I have been fortunate enough to send a quick "I love you" as I calculated whether he may have been on-line at the time.  

Well, he is now a District Leader, and pushing ahead.  He often challenges us to study more, pray more, and to prepare to serve a mission (which we have always planned to do).

So, today, as we said good-bye and shed loving tears for a dear brother-in-the-gospel, I also shed a few tears of joy for our missionary son.  The Lord has a plan for all of us, and each chapter is written with his hand...and the consequences of our own choices. It is my hope and prayer that we all will work to be in concert with the Lord's plan for us.  We never know when our earthly mission will end.  

Widget...from Mormon.org

Courtesy of Deseret News Corp

Some of you may know that Rooster Junior is serving a mission in the Houston South Texas Mission.  Since it was Mother's Day last weekend, I patiently waited until I could talk with my dear son, and I savored every moment.  He has recently been made a District Leader and a Senior Companion....all at once. He is thriving and keeps giving his father and I new challenges for missionary work all the time.  This includes planning on going on a mission when we retire....which has always been the plan and one that we have often shared with all of our children.  I don't know where he was for 19 years, but to Rooster Junior it appears his parents serving a mission is a new concept that he seems to think we haven't considered....which is kind of funny.  

No matter where we have lived, opportunities to share the gospel abound.  Most recently, I was waiting in line at the airport to go through the security checkpoint. The line was very long, so this nice lady who was in line with me and I began to chat.  She was from the Seattle area (which is where I was headed) and was traveling on business.  She shared with me that she had 2 children and a husband that she adored. In the course of just a few minutes we were chatting about our families.  I had the opportunity to tell her that I had a missionary son. She was very curious about what that entailed, and asked many questions. She wanted to know if we required our son to serve, & wanted to know how he prepared to serve his mission.  As I shared the concept of the Missionary Training Center, Seminary, certainly family prayer/scripture study and Family Home Evening, she seemed intrigued at the concept of.....family.  We touched on the Plan of Salvation....all while waiting in line for security.  

The ironic thing is that she represented a National shipping firm....and the LDS church was one of her biggest clients.  She had been in Salt Lake City...on business with the Church.  So, as our paths parted (you know that cattle call for seating on that major airline carrier), I was hopeful that I had planted a seed that she could allow to grow.  It is my hope that she will ask her Mormon neighbor or colleague more as her interest peaks.

Why am I sharing all this with you?  Well, we have been challenged, most recently in General Conference, to share the Gospel message.  One of the ways is through media.  I have written this blog for 3 years now, and have attempted to include the important message of Spiritual Preparedness in concert with the concepts of Temporal Preparedness.

Recently, Mormon.org has come out with a Widget that can be placed on a blog, or website.   I was excited to see this new opportunity to share more about the Gospel message that means so much to me.  So, in view of this opportunity, you will see the widget in my sidebar.  It is my hope that those of you who may be curious or want to know more will choose to take a peek.  As always, there is no obligation to do anything but learn more.

If you would like to add this widget to your online media, please go here.   So, this week, I will write my missionary and 'report' to him.  One of the greatest joys in life is knowing that this good son, and all of my beloved children and grandchildren are sealed to my husband and I.  I look forward to spending a lot of time with them......both here....and in the eternities.  It makes living a life that pleases my Savior.....a joy to live.  

If you have questions about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, see the widget to the right or leave a comment for me.  We can chat :) !