Our Independence, Our Freedom, Our blessing...

Most of you are probably beginning your holiday celebration for the Fourth of July. I have been very concerned about our precious Republic and her future.  So many of elements of our society, the loud and progressive, have brought about significant changes in our Republic's landscape.  Certainly there really is the landscape, the environment and all that it encompasses.  But I am also speaking to the social, political, and the sacred familial freedoms that we have historically enjoyed.

I do not wish to be political here. However, let's just say that I am looking at Candidates that I may have never sought out before in regard to the Presidential campaign.  I still believe the honor, integrity, wisdom, respect, ethics, and  righteous principals are necessary tools in the toolbox of any President.  I have tried to vote with these ideals in mind my entire adult life.  I see no reason to break away from them now.

I have to admit, I have been a bit discouraged about the course of our beloved Republic.  I have determined that I have been gathering my information from TV and Radio sources that tend to discourage and exploit for ratings despite their political leaning. 

Thus, I was so grateful to find this breath of fresh air....Elder D Todd Christofferson who was a keynote speaker at the Freedom Festival (held annually in Provo Utah).  I am again hopeful and thankful for the many gifts the almighty have given.  I vow again to look forward with hope and faith in this blessed land, and will participate and work to do what I can to ensure Her safety.  

I encourage you to put up your feet, and listen to the amazing speech. (Start at minute 2:09). I hope it will warm you heart during this Holiday weekend as we remember those who sacrificed so much to keep us free.

It's A Matter of .....A Patriotic Dessert From Your Pantry!

Happy 4th of July everyone!  I hope you had time to see a parade, grill out, and spend time with loved ones. I also hope that you make it a point to remember why we have this holiday and thank those who protect us.  Take a moment to thank someone personally.  I have a loved one who has served us all.

Well, I decided to make a twist on a family favorite.....Strawberry Pie.

Prepare your favorite Graham Cracker Crust!

Since it is Strawberry Season, slice your berries and place them in your prepared shell.

I decided to add some Blueberries to make it look a little more "Patriotic"

You may ask why I am using a valved sippy cup.  The recipe calls for Cornstarch and water to be mixed evenly.  I put them in here and shake hard!

Look how smooth is it mixed together!

Add the Sugar and bring to a boil. When the mixture is thick and clear, turn off the heat.  Let the mixture cool a bit and add the Jello packet.

Pour the mixture over the fruit in the pie.

Place the pie in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Add whipped cream!  Dive in!

Happy Independence Day!

Freedom Comes With a Hefty Price.....

I know this Marine....personally.  He won the heart of my daughter, who is very precious to me.  To know him on a day-to-day basis, you would find a tease, a fitness nut, a friend to all, a tender father, and a OCD clean freak.  (I really love the latter when he is in my house!).  However, I have rarely ever seen him be emotional.

He has served tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and in Japan during the Tsunami.  At the request of my husband one time, he spoke to our Young Single Adult Ward about his experiences associated with War and his Faith.  I found that I knew very little of his experiences in combat prior to that time....he just doesn't talk about them.  I wept as I listened to the horrific choices and challenges he faced. He spoke of losing his buddies when they were involved in an explosion.  The loss of his fellow Marines has made a lasting impression on him and he has made a permanent reminder that he will always carry with him.

Today I am seeing this red-headed Son in Law of mine trending in social media. Here is what Nathan Osmond has written on Facebook that is associated with this photo:

A couple of years ago, I took this photo at one of Nathan's concerts. He was singing in the state capitol, and this soldier had been standing at attention throughout the whole show. When Nathan Osmond sang "21 Guns," this soldier's composure melted and gave way to heartfelt tears. We tracked him down later and discovered that he'd lost two of his buddies (they were being honored that day) and this song really meant a lot to him. We seriously need to remember that freedom comes with a hefty price tag... real lives of real people. Thank you, Chris North, for your service to our country.

Coincidentally, this photo is also trending.  It comes from a Memorial in Gunnison Utah:

Yes, this is my Marine Son-in-Law again.

So, as you grill your burgers and spend time with family and friends today, I encourage you to offer a prayer of thanks to our Heavenly Father for all that you enjoy.  Please remember to bless and ask for protection for our Military members who are serving far and wide. And, make an extra effort to seek out and thank a Veteran.  We owe much to these brave men and women.

The cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. And one path we shall never choose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission. 

John F Kennedy.

Remembering those who have given all, the Honor Guard.

On this Memorial Day, I have chosen to remember those who have bravely served and given all.  The honor guard is one of the last respectful things that we do for our Veterans.  I hope you thank a Veteran today and remember those who have preceded us into the Rest of the Lord. To my Father-in-Law, my Son-in-Law and various other family and friends who have chosen to serve, I express my sincere appreciation and thankfulness.  (The information that I am reposting was shared previously after the passing of a beloved extended family member).

At the grave site, the Honor Guard was present.  I was deeply touched by the deep tradition of reverence, and respect paid to this veteran.  In researching this tradition, I found the Following from the Department of Defense:

What can the family of an eligible veteran expect? The core elements of the funeral honors ceremony, which will be conducted are:
- Flag folding
- Flag presentation
- Playing of Taps

The veteran’s parent Service representative will present the flag. 

A member of the Honor Guard related a verse that appeared to include the following words...

"On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, or Air Force), and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciate for your loved one's honorable and faithful service."

The flag is folded 13 times, and each fold has a meaning:

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life. 

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. 

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." 

The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 

The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of ourRepublic. 

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. 

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. 

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. 

When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust." After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

We do live in a nation founded in Christian Beliefs.....as noted in the meaning of the folding of the flag.  Take a moment to reflect on the goodness that you enjoy not only due to the service of our brave Military.  The Lord is mindful of us all, and we would be wise to be mindful of him in all that we do.

If we don't remember the past, we jeopardize our future. Celebrating the Fourth of July.....

I am sure there will be lots of celebrations today.  Lot's of family, friends, and certainly food.  That is certainly the case for the LRH and her family.  Water park, grilling, and some of the  pyromaniacs in my family will be doing their thing at our home and most likely elsewhere.  

I am hosting the grilling party today.  I went to the grocery store and saw grocery carts overflowing with all kinds of things.  Mine.....not so much.  I have lots of things already in my pantry and with staples in my Food Storage room as well.  I bought some produce and a couple of other things.  I love knowing that I am not hostage to the craziness of having to buy everything for the holiday.

However, I digress.  Not only do we have the chance to celebrate with loved ones, but I feel that we should also remember.  I would encourage you to remember those serving in the military who did not return,  those who did return but are forever changed, and those who will not have a parent growing up because their parent made the brave decision to serve us all.

I hope that you take a moment to read the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, as well are the Federalist Papers. 

I hope you thank a veteran for his/her service, I hope you fly the flag proudly, and I hope you never forget how we came to be.  For a 2-minute reminder, please see this video...

And finally, I would hope that you would look inside of yourself and see what you can do to serve our Country and right the wrongs that you may see as well as protect those things that so many of us hold sacred.  How can one person make a difference?  Let's see:

• Register to Vote....and be an informed voter.
• Attend your local Caucus or Precinct Meetings if your state has them.
• Make time to listen and interact with those who are running for office.
• CALL or CONTACT those who are in office and let them know what your concerns and opinions are.  I have the White House, the Speaker of the House, My Senators and Congressman and State officials programmed into my phone.  That takes away the barrier of finding out the number when I am really frustrated about something...I can just make the call!  I usually call the east coast on my way to work and leave a message.  Faxing is an option as well.  Program your fax machines with the needed numbers.  Add email addresses to your contacts to send your thoughts as well.
• Fly the American Flag proudly and know how to properly care for it and retire it when the time comes.
• Listen to more than one source of news....be well rounded.
• Volunteer in your community.  Your city always has needs and you can be part of the solution.
• Defend our rights, defend our rights, defend our rights!  Anyone can have a conversation with conviction tempered with restraint.  
• Be good parents and raise your children with morals and a knowledge of where they live.
• Be the person that you know you can and should be.

Finally, understand the Pledge of Allegiance.  I love Red Skelton's 'instruction' and I am including it for you.  

God Bless America....

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation

Today is July the 4th.  A day that is often filled with family gatherings, food, parades, and reflection.  This year is no different.

Although there will be no fireworks this year due to the extreme fire danger, there will be gatherings. But, in the case of veteran families, someone will be missing at the dinner table.  Someone who has served our country and laid their life on the line for yours....someone who served in the Military.

Recently, a family member passed away unexpectedly.  This family member came to us through the marriage between my son and his wife.  We knew of this   man's genius in software development, his kind and quiet side consistently providing service to others without fanfare, and his love for his sweet family.  However, it wasn't until his passing that I learned that he had also served 2 tours  in Vietnam.  I was sad that I did not know this until he had passed away.

At the grave site, the Honor Guard was present.  I was deeply touched by the deep tradition of reverence, and respect paid to this veteran.  In researching this tradition, I found the Following from the Department of Defense:

What can the family of an eligible veteran expect? The core elements of the funeral honors ceremony, which will be conducted are:
- Flag folding
- Flag presentation
- Playing of Taps

The veteran’s parent Service representative will present the flag. 

A member of the Honor Guard related a verse that appeared to include the following words...

On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, or Air Force), and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service

The flag is folded 13 times, and each fold has a meaning:

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life. 

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. 

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." 

The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 

The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of ourRepublic. 

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. 

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. 

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. 

When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust." After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

We do live in a nation founded in Christian Beliefs.....as noted in the meaning of the folding of the flag.

On this Fourth of July, please reflect on the sacrifice and service of our men and women in the Military.  They deserve our respect and action.  It is an election year.....it is our right and responsibility to elect those who will protect our nation just as these brave individuals do.  

Read, reflect, become informed, thank a service member....and Act!

Happy Veteran's Day.....we have much to be grateful for.

Today, take the opportunity to thank those who chose to serve our country in the military.  The comforts, joys, and way of life you enjoy are directly associated with their efforts and sacrifice. May the Lord bless all of those serving at home and abroad.  We truly are a grateful nation...........

You will never know how much it has cost my generation.....

 My husband and I had a little 'get-away' recently to a Bed and Breakfast in Midway Utah. The weather was beautiful and clear.  As we were getting ready to leave, we noticed 'something' up on top of a hill.  I actually wondered if it were something left from the Olympics..so I asked my husband to drive up there.  I was not prepared for what we found.  I have combined the photos that I took along with previous photos that I personally took to share with  you on this 235th anniversary of our Independence.

As you awake.....

Today is Memorial Day.  Many co-workers and friends have plans today.  I'm sure you do as well.  It is my hope and prayer that you will remember the purpose of this day which is as a "day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service".



Image Courtesy of http://www.ibiblio.org/

 I have beloved family members who have served our country in various locations.  One on the shores of Iwo Jima.  When asked if he saw the flag flying on Mount Suribachi, he said "no".  He was busy saving lives and trying to protect his own.  His service was to keep the lines of communication open and repair cables that were broken....often out in the middle of open fire.




Image Courtesy of projectwhitehourse

 Another beloved family member served in in the skies over Vietnam.  He is quiet and soft spoken. He is a gentle soul, a father and now a grandfather.  He served during a time when military members often did not receive the respect they deserved.

Saying goodbye-leaving for Afghanistan

 

Most recently, we have said goodbye to a younger family member.  He has been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and most recently to Japan. He was there during the recent Earthquake and Tsunami.  He has seen young men such as himself give the ultimate sacrifice, and has sustained injuries as well.  He is a soon-to-be-father.

Yes, as you awake this morning, consider that you can because of brave and devoted individuals such as these.  All the shopping, parades, grilling, vacationing, etc is because of our military personnel  who have chosen to serve you world-wide. 

Take a moment as a family and offer your thanks and gratitude both in word and in prayer.  Let the military folks and their families that you are acquainted with know that you are grateful for their service and sacrifice. Why..... because....

Freedom isn't really Free.....

It's a matter of Service.....

I was recently asked why I have been 'silent' on our little blog.  I have been busy with other things as of late.  You may be wondering what has taken my attention.  Well, believe it or not, it is Convention time.  "Are you kidding?" you may say. No, I mean it.  You may be unaware, but in the State of Utah, your neighbor has been nominated and elected as a Delegate.....to represent you. Different parties have different 'zones' or areas, but just know there is someone who is trying to represent you and vote as they think you would if you had the opportunity. 

I have the privilege to have been elected as a Precinct officer and a County Delegate.  I have spent my evenings going to listen to other individuals who are concerned about the current state of affairs and have chosen to serve ..... you.  For example, tomorrow the Utah County GOP will be  electing individuals for Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Delegates will not only elect individuals to fill these positions, but also for those who are running for State Central Committee (and there are 68 running for 20 positions!).

I have been attending meetings, listening to phone calls, and weeding through my email to help me understand who these candidates are and what they wish to accomplish if they are elected.  I am so grateful that citizens in my area feel a desire to serve and volunteer.  I have heard many reasons why people are running, but most of them boil down to a desire to protect our Republic, elect leaders that will shore-up spending, and turn our country on a course of accountability and responsibility. 

Isn't it wonderful to know that people in your community are stepping up?  What about you?  Are you content with the direction of our state or country?  There is a lot you can do.  Contact a member associated with your party affiliation.  Talk with them and learn about what you can do.  There is always an opportunity to serve. 

In my opinion, I have an obligation to my children and grandchildren to do what I can to protect the rights and freedoms that they should be in a position to experience.  You can do something.....everyone can.  Make the choice to serve your community....you really won't miss that episode of your favorite show that much!

Shut-down averted.....But the Slow Leak Continues....

It appears that we have had an 11th hour reprieve....the government is open for business.   Yesterday, my daughter recieved a very emotional overseas phone call from her Marine husband who had just emerged from Jungle Warfare training.  He was informing her that they may not be paid for a while if the government shut down occurs. I found this very difficult for 2 reasons.....it impacts my children....and I don't take kindly to that.  Secondly, my Son-in-law is on the other side of the world with many other concerns....and now this has been added to his shoulders? 

I have watched this issue play-out over the past few months.  I really do mean 'months'.  It's kind of like knowing you have a slow leak in your tire....and don't address it until you are traveling at a freeway speed and all of a sudden have to make a quick decision.....when the Tirestore may be miles away....may not be open....or may not service your brand of tire.  All of this could have been prevented.....despite your political affiliation.

Also, as in the tire analogy, I could have blamed my husband for not noticing or taking care of it....or my son....or my daughter for that matter.  I could have complained that the tire manufacturer did not do their duty and sold me an inferior product.  I could have complained to anyone who would listen.....instead of taking responsibility and addressing the situation....that I created.

This recently actually happened to me.  My co-workers told me I had a slow leak, my husband, my daughter etc kept telling me I had a slow leak.  I kept stopping to fill up the tire until I 'had time' to deal with it.  Well, I finally did deal with it....and a giant nail was removed from the tire which resulted in my having to to purchase a new tire.  This was my fault and I could not blame anyone else.  My husband had the 'tire guy' put the damaged tire in a bag in my back seat.  I was frustrated by this initially. My sweet husband said..."you need to go to the tire store and talk with "the tire guy" about this".  My husband arranged for me to have a little class as to why I had to purchase a new tire...which was not cheap.  It was expensive monetarily and personally. After I was shown how my neglect over time had damaged my tire, (and he was very nice and professional about it), that darn tire was finally removed from my car. I had to swallow some humble pie in that situation....and it wasn't pleasant.

It is time for our elected representatives to swallow humble pie.....and probably in large amounts.  Let's get to the heart of the matter.  It is ridiculous to believe that we can sustain and protect our future if serious attention is not made to the programs that are actually driving our economic collapse. It's time to deflate some tires in Washington and place the blame where it truly lies.

This is Senator Mike Lee from Utah explaining where some of the seeds of our current situation were planted, in his view of course.  See if you learn anything new or interesting from Senator Lee.

Veteran's Day tribute..

I enjoyed seeing all the tributes to our Veterans on my Facebook page.  We have a Veteran in our home....who worked very late, came home and ate dinner with his wife, and then retired to his room.  Only a few months ago, his life was very different....and he experienced the loss of his comrades in arms.  He goes about his day quietly, and we rarely hear him talk about how different life was when he was defending the freedom we enjoy while eating dust in Afghanistan.

I saw this recently, and loved the sentiment.  If you haven't thanked a Veteran lately......get busy and do so today.

Vote Today!, Vote Today!, Vote Today!

Today is a momentous day as we have the sacred privilege to vote.  Please do not let any barrier or challenge keep you from the polls. I have family members who have placed their lives on the line for our country to make this sacred opportunity available.

Here are the words of Ezra Taft Benson to consider.  They are timeless but very applicable to our situation today:

These are the principles that, in my opinion, proclaim the proper role of government in the domestic affairs of the nation.

[I] believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them. . . .

[I] believe that no government can exist in peace, except such laws are framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life. . . .

[I] believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective governments in which they reside, while protected in their inherent and inalienable rights by the laws of such governments. [D&C 134:1­2, 5]

In other words, the most important single function of government is to secure the rights and freedoms of individual citizens

By deriving its just powers from the governed, government becomes primarily a mechanism for defense against bodily harm, theft, and involuntary servitude. It cannot claim the power to redistribute money or property nor to force reluctant citizens to perform acts of charity against their will. Government is created by the people. No individual possesses the power to take another's wealth or to force others to do good, so no government has the right to do such things either. The creature cannot exceed the creator.

Will we be prepared? Will we be among those who will "bear the Constitution away from the very verge of destruction"? If we desire to be numbered among those who will, here are some things we must do:

1. We must be righteous and moral. We must live the gospel principles--all of them. We have no right to expect a higher degree of morality from those who represent us than what we ourselves are. To live a higher law means we will not seek to receive what we have not earned by our own labor. It means we will remember that government owes us nothing. It means we will keep the laws of the land. It means we will look to God as our Lawgiver and the source of our liberty.

2. We must learn the principles of the Constitution and then abide by its precepts. Have we read the Constitution and pondered it? Are we aware of its principles? Could we defend it? Can we recognize when a law is constitutionally unsound? The Church will not tell us how to do this, but we are admonished to do it. I quote Abraham Lincoln:

Let [the Constitution] be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges; let it be written in primers, spelling-books, and in almanacs; let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice. And, in short, let it become the political religion of the nation. [Complete Works of Abraham Lincoln, ed. John G. Nicolay and John Hay, vol. 1 (New York: Francis D. Tandy Co., 1905), p.43]

3. We must become involved in civic affairs. As citizens of this republic, we cannot do our duty and be idle spectators. It is vital that we follow this counsel from the Lord: "Honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil" (D&C 98:10). Note the qualities that the Lord demands in those who are to represent us. They must be good, wise, and honest. We must be concerted in our desires and efforts to see men and women represent us who possess all three of these qualities.

4. We must make our influence felt by our vote, our letters, and our advice. We must be wisely informed and let others know how we feel. We must take part in local precinct meetings and select delegates who will truly represent our feelings. 

I have faith that the Constitution will be saved as prophesied by Joseph Smith. But it will not be saved in Washington. It will be saved by the citizens of this nation who love and cherish freedom. It will be saved by enlightened members of this Church--men and women who will subscribe to and abide by the principles of the Constitution.

Utah County General Election 2010 Early Voting Schedule and Locations

(Image courtesy of media.sacbee.com)

Early Voting

The Utah County Clerk's Office provides voters the option of voting prior to Election Day at any Early Voting Location. Registered voters may visit any Early Voting Location and cast a ballot in person using a touch screen voting device. Voters are not required to go to a certain location to vote early, you may visit any site within Utah County to vote. Early voting begins 14 days before Election Day, and ends the Friday before Election Day.

In order to be eligible to participate in Early Voting, voters must be registered to vote at least 30 days prior to the election and provide valid voter identification. Valid voter identification means:

1. a form of identification that bears the name and photograph of the voter; or

2. two forms of identification that bear the name of the voter and provide evidence that the voter resides in the voting precinct.

Utah County General Election 2010  Early Voting Schedule and Locations

October 19-22 and October 25-29

Location Times

Utah Community Credit Union

1364 North Commerce Drive

Saratoga Springs 1 pm - 5 pm

American Fork Library*

64 South 100 East

American Fork 3 pm - 7 pm

(*Friday, October 22, 2010 and Friday, October 29, 2010  1 pm - 5 pm)

Orem City - City Building Rotunda

55 North State Street

Orem 1 pm - 5 pm

Utah County Administration Building

100 East Center Street

Provo, Utah (Room LL900) 8 am - 5 pm

Spanish Fork National Guard Armory*

2801 North Main Street

Spanish Fork 3 pm - 7 pm

(* Friday, October 29, 2010, 3 pm - 5 pm)

It's Constitution Day........

(Image courtesy of princetonol.com)

On September 17th, 1878, brave individuals came together at great personal risk to for the Constitution of the United States.  In August 1953, the United States Senate passed a resolution designating September 17-23 as Constitution Week. The Senate and House approved the resolution and it was signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The law establishing the holiday was created in 2004 in an Omnibus bill, but was 'signed into  law' in 2007.  During this time, schools are required to educate students on the Constitution and citizenship.

I am a firm believer that education begins at home.  Take the opportunity today to review this revolutionary and sacred document.  Find the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights here.  You can also order pocket versions of the Constitution for free at this site.  If you want to go 'techno', get an app for your phone at here. 

Test your knowledge of the Constitution at the Constitution Quiz. You may surprised how much you do and do not know!

Fun activities to celebrate include:

1.  Crossword Puzzles

2.  Treasure Hunts

3.  Word Search or Word Find

4.  Lesson Plans


Finally, see this video from the History Channel.  This truly is an inspired document to have so many people with so many ideas come together and come to a consensus. 

National Constitution Center: Constitution Day

Happy Constitution Day!

(Sources:  Wikipedia, http://www.constitutionday.cc/, http://www.usconstitution.net/)

Let us never forget....

On this 9th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy, let us remember that with the Lord all good things are possible.  Let us be the people that defend the concepts and principals upon which this blessed country are founded. 

May the Lord bless the USA.

Wisdom from the past........

(Image courtesy of dahldreams.com)

"A Government big enough to give you everything,

is big enough to take it away" - Thomas Jefferson

With the political season beginning to build up steam, take time to learn about the issues and those running for office.  We have been given a sacred duty to protect the sacred freedoms that were granted when this country was founded.  Please do not leave decision-making powers to anyone but yourself!  Self determination was the 'plan' when the Lord inspired these valiant men to make such a bold experiment in forming our Republic.

Get informed now!

Fun things to do for the 4th of July....

(Image courtesy of http://rockitoutblog.com/)

With the holiday quickly approaching, here are some fun ideas to do with your children and grandchildren.  CELEBRATE!

Fun Activities:

• Printables and projects:  http://fun.familyeducation.com/slideshow/arts-and-crafts/60227.html?page=1
• Books:  http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/toppicks/tp/America.htm
• Crafts:  http://familyfun.go.com/4th-of-july/4th-of-july-crafts/
• Activities and Crafts:  http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/july4/

Recipes:

• http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Holiday---Celebration-Recipes/July-4th-Recipes
• http://fun.familyeducation.com/slideshow/recipes/51053.html
• http://simplemeals.cdkitchen.com/recipes/cat/566/
• http://partyfood.suite101.com/article.cfm/simple_fourth_of_july_recipes
• http://allrecipes.com/info/holidays-events-and-occasions/july-4th/main.aspx

Make some memories today!

Prayer and the First Contenental Congress.....

(Image courtely of www.historywiz.com)

At at time when we need to hear more from the Faith of people from all walks of life, please read and consider the prayer given at the meeting of the First Contenental Congress....

O Lord our Heavenly Father, high and mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords, who dost from thy throne behold all the dwellers on earth and reignest with power supreme and uncontrolled over all the Kingdoms, Empires and Governments; look down in mercy, we beseech Thee, on these our American States, who have fled to Thee from the rod of the oppressor and thrown themselves on Thy gracious protection, desiring to be henceforth dependent only on Thee. To Thee have they appealed for the righteousness of their cause; to Thee do they now look up for that countenance and support, which Thou alone canst give. Take them, therefore, Heavenly Father, under Thy nurturing care; give them wisdom in Council and valor in the field; defeat the malicious designs of our cruel adversaries; convince them of the unrighteousness of their Cause and if they persist in their sanguinary purposes, of own unerring justice, sounding in their hearts, constrain them to drop the weapons of war from their unnerved hands in the day of battle!

Be Thou present, O God of wisdom, and direct the councils of this honorable assembly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundation. That the scene of blood may be speedily closed; that order, harmony and peace may be effectually restored, and truth and justice, religion and piety, prevail and flourish amongst the people. Preserve the health of their bodies and vigor of their minds; shower down on them and the millions they here represent, such temporal blessings as Thou seest expedient for them in this world and crown them with everlasting glory in the world to come. All this we ask in the name and through the merits of Jesus Christ, Thy Son and our Savior.  Amen.

Reverend Jacob Duché, Rector of Christ Church of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

September 7, 1774, 9 o’clock a.m.

Has our need to rely on Heavenly Father changed in the last 236 years?  Please remember our country as you pray with your families now and always. 

 

The Founding Fathers.........

(Image coutesy of www.absoluteastronomy.com)

In honor of the Independence day (July 4th), which is coming, I wanted to share information about the founders of our country etc.  Take the time this week to read the US Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.  The courageous individuals who drafted these documents risked their all, and did not hide behind the cloak of political correctness.  Rather, they stood on the firm assumption that they were about their Father's work in establishing this great nation.

Let's focus on the Founding Fathers.  My thanks to Kim O for sharing her information from the research she did to prepare for her Sacrament Meeting Talk this last Sunday.

President Wilford Woodruff declared that “those men who laid the foundation of this American government were the best spirits the God of heaven could find on the face of the earth. They were choice spirits … [and] were inspired of the Lord” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1898, p. 89).

Ezra Taft Benson related this story: “Shortly after President Spencer W. Kimball became President of the Church, he assigned me to go into the vault of the St. George Temple and check the early records. As I did so, I realized the fulfillment of a dream I had had ever since learning of the visit of the Founding Fathers to the St. George Temple. I saw with my own eyes the record of the work which was done for the Founding Fathers of this great nation, beginning with George Washington. Think of it: the Founding Fathers of this nation, those great men, appeared within those sacred walls and had their vicarious work done for them.”

President Wilford Woodruff spoke of it in these words: “Before I left St. George, the spirits of the dead gathered around me, wanting to know why we did not redeem them. Said they, ‘You have had the use of the Endowment House for a number of years, and yet nothing has ever been done for us. We laid the foundation of the government you now enjoy, and we never apostatized from it, but we remained true to it and were faithful to God’ ” (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, sel. G. Homer Durham, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1946, p. 160).

Let's teach our families about the tremendous individuals who efforts have shaped the land and life we are blessed to lead.