Black Friday

Dear Family,

What did you do on Black Friday?  I went to work and avoided lines and crowds.  Work was busy, but not chaotic.  Good day.

I love you all and hope your Saturday is excellent too!

Love,

Dad

Friday, November 27, 2020
9:00 pm

We had four people at the credit union today.  Fortunately the day was less busy than a normal workday, but with only four of us it was still busy.  Leftover turkey dinner for lunch was amazing.  We had Bombay House tonight for dinner, and that was also amazing.  I am fortunate to eat good food every day of my life.

Thankful: I listened to a Conference talk from a few years ago in preparation for the Sunday School discussion I will lead on Sunday.  Elder Ballard's talk Return and Receive was really great.  Then as auto play continued I found Pres. Nelson's talk Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into our Lives.  Also incredible.  I am so grateful to be led by prophets and apostles.

Ministering: I helped the Swenson's today with an email to the ward with info on Mia's graveside service tomorrow morning.

More later…

Ready for the snow!

Turkey and pie - yes please!

Dear family,

What a pleasant day it was today.  It would have been even better if we could have included grandparents, but it is what it is.  I enjoyed getting to do fun things with each of you, and especially appreciate the help getting the house and food ready.  I am a fortunate man!

Love,

Dad

Thursday, November 26, 2020
9:29 pm

Happy Thanksgiving!  David, Lisa, and their kids joined us for dinner.  My tummy is full of good food.  The turkey was only so-so this year.  It was a little dry.  As long as you added gravy and/or cranberry sauce, it was fine. But the breast meat by itself was fairly dry.  Meh.  But the pies for dessert were fantastic.  I'd eat another slice if I wasn't already uncomfortably full.

This afternoon I worked on a lesson for the upcoming fifth Sunday.  Those Sunday School lessons are under the direction of the bishopric.  I feel directed to help people consider where they want to be a year from now and to make plans to achieve what they want.  Setting goals identifies our destination or objective; making plans maps out the steps we need to take to reach that destination.  Too often we set goals without making a plan to reach the goal, and then we feel that our goal is unattainable and we give up.  Even with the best of intentions, if we don't have a plan to guide our actions, we don't know what to do on a day-to-day basis.  This is one of the things I took away from our bishopric meeting on Tuesday, and it reinforced an idea that I have been preoccupied with for a couple weeks now.  So that is what we are going to talk about on Sunday.

After dinner I got a call from Doug McMullin asking if I could come help give a blessing to his daughter Becca. She had fallen and hurt herself.  They moved to Eagle Mountain a year or so ago, but were back visiting Steven and his wife for Thanksgiving, and they live in the Fourth ward.

Thankful: Today I am thankful for the not-so-little things that are a blessing in my life but that are easy to take for granted.  I'm grateful to be able to provide good food, reliable cars, a warm home that meets our needs, and to have time to engage in wholesome recreational activities with my family.  We got to talk to Mark briefly, and that was so nice.  Jessie was a great help in the kitchen and fixed several of the dishes, most of which she can't even eat.  I'm grateful for dishwashers that were running most of the day, and a clothes dryer that is currently full of red clothes.

Ministering: After helping the McMullin's with a priesthood blessing I sent a text to Mike Brown, the EQ President in the fourth ward to make sure he knew Steven is living there.  Also, I helped with a little vicarious ministering today.  One of Jessie's friends and her husband contracted covid and can't go anywhere for Thanksgiving.  Jessie took them dinner tonight from our feast.  They were so appreciative.  What a great example Jessie is!

More later…

I loved this handwritten list Emma came up with all by herself today.

Our turkey after 8 hours in the smoker...

Check out Isaac's FHE insight

Dear family,

Thanks for making salsa rosa chicken tonight Jessie; it was wonderful.

Mark, so nice to talk to you this afternoon.  I hope the young couple (whose names I have already forgotten) grow and progress.

Everyone else, I love you too!

Love,

Dad

Monday, November 23, 2020
8:45 pm

I got to visit with my employees about end-of-year bonuses; that is always a good day.  I'm grateful that the Board gave me the budget to recognize and reward my employees.  I am hopeful that we will be able to build on this year's success, and that my employees will accept the challenge to develop personally.

FHE tonight was quite good.  Emma taught a lesson on gifts.  She taught us that Heavenly Father's gift to us was his son Jesus Christ.  She asked each person to search the scriptures to find one gift that Jesus gives us.  Then we made a list of gifts that Jesus gives us.  Isaac made a very insightful connection.  Looking at the list, he noticed that the gift Jesus gives us leads to a gift we can give him: Jesus gave us agency; we can choose to obey Jesus.  Jesus has charity for us; we can show charity to others.  Jesus gives us peace; we can be peacemakers.  I was very impressed with his insight.

Thankful: Everything I listed today.

Ministering: Julie is trying to put Nathaniel to sleep.  I am going to go relieve her so she can make a card.

More later…

Emma's FHE lesson board that allowed Isaac to make his insight...

So much to be thankful for

Dear family,

It was delightful to join with you today in our visit with Elder and Sister Gong.  As I think about that visit, I really appreciate the fact that other than hiding one basket of laundry, we didn't have to change anything to welcome them virtually into our home.  How blessed I am to be in your family!

Much love,

Dad

Sunday, November 22, 2020
9:25 pm

Sunday is a good day, and today was a good Sunday.  I started with Bishopric and Ward Council meetings this morning.  I appreciate working with good people who want to serve the Lord and serve their fellow ward members. 

After a few tithing settlement interviews I headed home and helped make sure things were ready for our online visit with Elder Gong and his wife.  That was a delightful visit.  I only regret that we didn't have longer to visit.  By the time Elder Gong visited with each member of our (large) family and learned about our interests, there was no time left.  I would have loved to have him teach us from the scriptures or share insights he has gained as he has studied with his brethren in the Quorum of the Twelve.  Oh wait, that's what General Conference is for! 😊

After that visit, I headed back to Church for another interview and a couple meetings.  They went well, and I felt edified when I left Church.

I found the family engaged in a Sunday activity when I got home, using building blocks to create some "thing" from the scriptures, then explaining why this was significant to them.  Then Jessie finished making dinner while Julie and I went to the Swenson's to visit.  They are grieving the death of their daughter, but finding peace in Jesus.  We visited for nearly an hour, and enjoyed some happy memories to go along with the sadness.  I'm not sure if that's peculiar to Latter-day Saints, or if other faiths can mix the bitter and the sweet as naturally as we do.  Before we left I shared a thought from Pres. Packer in 1992, emphasizing the power of temple covenants to overrule the negative influences of this world and bind our families together.  I am comforted and strengthened by those covenants.

Thankful: I am so thankful to be surrounded all day, every day by people who generally share my faith and desire to do good.  At my home, work, and Church, I never hear swearing, encounter inappropriate images, or have to avoid off-color jokes.  Although none of us are perfect, I am blessed to be among people who are good and striving to be better.  That's a wonderful blessing.

Ministering: Today was a day of ministering to others, and it felt refreshing.

More later…

Happy Saturday!

Saturday, November 21, 2020
10:48 pm

I'm not fast on Instagram, but I posted a #GiveThanks post today.  We worked hard today at the house and got a lot done.  We delivered the Samaritan's Purse gift boxes today.  I took the younger kids to the skate park.  The teenagers that were there are really impressive on their scooters.  Now scriptures and off to bed.

More later…

#GiveThanks for the temple with families

Dropping off Christmas boxes. Can you find the photo bomber?

I love the Prophet!

Dear family,

What a thrill to listen to the Prophet today. It was nice to feel connected to so many other people who were watching online at the same time. And it's amazing to think that in two more days we will have the opportunity as a family to visit with Elder Gong.  What a blessing.

I love you all and hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Love,

Dad

Friday, November 20, 2020
9:23 pm

A highlight today was listening to President Nelson speak to the world at 11:00 am, offering encouragement and hope with a message of gratitude.  He didn't reveal any new doctrine or announce the return of Jesus Christ, but his message of hope and gratitude was wonderful.  His message was right in the middle of the work morning, and it was delightful that for those 15 minutes, the phone didn't ring, the drive up was empty, and everyone in my office was streaming the prophet.  Super nice.

I worked quite a bit more on some plans that I want to use next year to help my staff and me identify goals and achieve them.  I feel like we are good, but I'm not content to stop where we are.  I want to improve and grow and become better.  I really want to become great, and that happens when I help those around me become great.

Tonight we put together boxes of gifts to share through a Christian organization Julie follows.  The kids really enjoyed it.  Tomorrow we will drop the boxes off at a Church in Provo.  I love taking opportunities for my kids to experience service to others, and am so grateful that we have an abundance and can share with others.

Thankful: A prophet.  Sharing our abundance with others.  A very good job.  Employees who are good and are worth investing in.

Ministering: I sent an email on behalf of the Swenson family letting the ward know of the death of their daughter.  That was a sad email to send.  I continue to pray for their family.

More later…

Nathaniel and I stayed out of the way while everyone else put boxes together.

Our awesome box packers.  We hope these boxes will help make Christmas more special for those who don't enjoy the abundance we do.  (Zoom in on Isaac's face for an extra laugh.)

Short

Love you all!

Dad

              Thursday, November 19, 2020
11:54 am

No entry yesterday, almost no entry today.  Life is good.  Busy, but good.  Work is good.  Progress on some employee development issues, including my own personal development.  Played Go Nuts for Donuts tonight with Isaac, Emma and Julie.  I got clobbered.  Reading Charlotte's Web for bedtime story.  Ongoing issues in the ward are challenging.  Enough for tonight.  More later…

Silliness from last night.

No journal entry

Dear family,

Sorry there was no journal entry last night.  But I did get to sleep on time!  Here's a photo to make up for it.  This photo is certainly worth a thousand words!

Love,

Dad

I am "satisfactory" and "adequate"

Dear family,

Mark, I understand you got to talk to Pres. Brinkerhoff today and will be able to join us on Sunday for our visit with Elder Gong.  I am so grateful for that and look forward to sharing this special experience with you.  It will be awesome.

Have a great day!

Love,

Dad

Tuesday, November 17, 2020
10:23 pm

Today was good.  I had Board meeting this afternoon and received the reports from both the state exam and Bart Ferrin's audit this summer.  The state examiners used words like "satisfactory" and "adequate," meaning it was great.  Happy for that.

Worked on our computer updates and got a lot done on that today too.  I'm thankful we have Solzorro taking care of things for us because they're doing a great job.  I also got some documentation done that has needed to be done for a long time, and that felt good.

Tonight I had a couple tithing settlement interviews.

Thankful: I am thankful to feel peace and gentle joy.  Nothing overpowering or particularly memorable, just quietly happy.

Ministering: I checked in with Andy Swensen this morning and got a small update on how their family is doing. I also worked a bit with Sister Lish this evening related to her YW calling.  I pray for many good people.

More later…

Look who is getting good at standing and starting to play by himself.

Curry cups

Dear family,

Sometimes being a dad is just funny, like tonight's dinner.  Enjoy the photo below.  And please remember how much I love each of you.

Dad

Monday, November 16, 2020
8:58 pm

I nearly fell asleep praying with Isaac and again reading scriptures.  Quick entry tonight.  I finished getting ready for tomorrow's Board meeting.  Had a nice visit with Mark this afternoon.  I worked on several other things this afternoon that needed to be done, but none of them felt terribly productive.

Tonight we had curry for dinner.  It's not Neil's "favorite" and he complained about having to set the table.  I offered to give him a small bowl to eat dinner, then he could choose something he preferred.  He happily agreed to that, as did Emma and Camilla.  I got them each the tiny bowls from the cupboard and they thought it was great.  And even though they were surprised by how much curry can fit in a teeny bowl, they ate everything without complaining.  Those bowls may make more frequent appearances at our dinner table.

FHE tonight was nice.  Julie did a lesson on Naaman and the blessing of choosing obedience.  She had props and made assignments, and we acted out the story while she read it from the scriptures.  I had fun being Naaman and gesturing with much animation.  Abbie asked me why I didn't go into theater.  We all had a fun time.

Thankful: I am thankful for FHE and the opportunity to do something intentional and worshipful in a lighthearted way each week.  Even when it isn't perfect, we can follow the Prophet and claim blessings from God.

Joy in the service

Dear family,

I thought of each of you today and hope you know how much I love you.

Dad

Sunday, November 15, 2020
8:30 pm

Today was a full day, and I enjoyed it very much.  Started with Bishopric meeting then Ward Council.  There wasn't enough time to cover everything, but I think we did some good and made some assignments.  I had interviews today and felt the power of revelation as I received specific ideas that I could use to help the people I was visiting with.  I am amazed and grateful for the power the Lord gives his Bishops. I've heard this for years, but it is totally different experiencing it.

At home I helped with dinner and played family go fish with Emma, Camilla and Isaac.

Thankful: I am thankful to be a Bishop.  It is hard work.  I worry about so many people who struggle in so many ways.  It takes a lot of my time, and I worry about that time away from my family.  But it is an opportunity to experience the Lord's care in a new and wonderful way, and to participate in his care for his children.

Ministering: I met with several people today and ministered in a way I had not expected.  As they shared the temptations they struggle with, we made a simple list – what are the "Triggers" that contribute to behavior they do not want to engage in, and what is an effective escape plan to help them avoid acting on those impulses?  The escape plan includes three basic steps:

1.       Think of someone you admire and who loves you.  Could be Jesus Christ or a family member.

2.       Engage in a wholesome activity.  This list will vary depending on the person, but the basics are the same – get your mind and body doing something good instead of dwelling on the unworthy behavior.

3.       Daily accountability.  Each day tell a parent, spouse, friend, or other trusted person how you did during the day.

It was so simple, and yet it seems like it could be really effective.  I think this is a template I will use often during my service.

More later…

The sunrise this morning as I arrived at Church was really beautiful.

New lights!

Dear family,

A highlight of today was getting the last of the new porch lights installed at the back of the house.  Did you see what I did there?  Channeled my inner Grandpa Fry, that's what!  Ha ha ha ha!

Love to all,

Dad

Saturday, November 14, 2020
9:43 pm

The kids had fun with Ella and Annie today, even if at the end of the day when it was past bedtime and they were totally exhausted they couldn't remember doing anything fun with them.  David taught the boys how guns work.  It's amazing how different people have different interests.  I have absolutely no interest in guns, and David loves them.  Julie helped the girls do a craft project, then we had mac and cheese for lunch.

After David and his girls left I put up the remaining three porch lights at the back of the house.  It went a little faster than the four in the front, but it was lots colder.  I like how the house looks with the lights on.

Thankful: I am at peace in the world and in following the counsel of Church leaders.  I know of many wonderful people whom I love and admire that are really struggling with the different responses to the pandemic.  Some bristle at government mandates.  Others struggle with Church leaders limiting attendance at meetings and encouraging mask-wearing.  Through it all, I see Pres. Nelson calmly, confidently, and optimistically looking to the future.  I love and sustain the Prophet and am grateful to draw strength and peace from him.

Ministering: I visited this afternoon with Ryan Watkins, my new Ward Clerk, to review his responsibilities and how I envision using him to carry out our responsibilities.  I'm not sure if I ministered to him or he to me, but I am grateful for his willingness to accept this calling and look forward to working with him.

More later...

The view of the new lights at the back of the house.

Mushrooms on your pizza?

Dear family,

Another work week is in the history books.  I can't believe how fast time is going.  Only one more full week then Thanksgiving and it's December.  Fast, fast, fast.

I love you all!

Love,

Dad

Friday, November 13, 2020
9:17 pm

Last night Spencer went to sleep early after cutting his finger and going into shock.  This morning I woke him up for breakfast; he only made it about 20 minutes before going back to bed.  Three stitches knocked him out for 18 hours.  He's going to be like Julie was when she got her wisdom teeth out – she slept for nearly 24 hours.  When I got home from work I could tell he was feeling better – he was playing ping pong with Neil.

I worked on policies today at work and updated the ones that need to be reviewed next week in Board meeting.  I also spent some time learning more how we can improve our file sharing in preparation for our Springville branch.  A major concern is making sure we maintain security.  I realized today that the design I thought of wouldn't be secure enough, so we had to figure out how to improve that.  Fortunately, the group I am working with is good and they are figuring out what to do.

Tonight David and his girls came down for dinner and to spend the night.  We made homemade pizzas, and they were very good.  Jessie likes fresh mushrooms, so we get them now.  I put them on my pizza, and they were delicious.  Then we played 20 Express and A to Z, then started the adventure we call "bedtime."  Julie, David, and the big kids are downstairs talking to Mark now.

Thankful: Yesterday in marketing meeting we had an idea to make our Angel Tree work since our lobby is closed and we can't do the traditional "take an ornament from the tree."  I asked Suzanne if she would spearhead an idea do that online.  She talked to Eliza, we brainstormed together a bit, and then Eliza took point on that project.  I'm thankful that my employees are taking these responsibilities and doing a good job creatively finding solutions to needs we identify.

Ministering: I talked to the new Sister missionaries assigned to our ward today and reviewed some of the opportunities in our ward.

More later…

Game night.  Abbie and Isaac both got 150 points on 20 Express.  That's the best I've ever seen.

A to Z was a hoot tonight.

 

Three stitches

Dear family,

What an adventure life is!  Today's entry is a bit introspective toward the end.  I'm grateful to be able to share my thoughts with those who matter most to me.  I love you all!

Love,

Dad

Thursday, November 12, 2020
9:44 pm

Record number of COVID cases in Utah today – over 3,900.  The high school announced today they are going to split days, meaning only half the student body comes each day. Monday will be A day for half the school, then Tuesday A day for the other half.  Nobody has classes on Wednesday, and Thursday and Friday are the other half of the classes.  (Or some variation of that mix.)  So Abbie will only go to school two days each week and only have each class once per week.  Once she gets off quarantine, that is.  Church can still happen, but we are limited to fewer than 100 people and all our leadership meetings are going to happen virtually. 

I am amazed that some people still think COVID is a hoax or some government plot to take over our lives.  I visited with Holly Pike this week; she is a nurse in the ICU.  She can testify that this virus is not a hoax.  Makes me shake my head in disbelief to see that some people refuse to believe something because they don't like it.  I used to think Isaiah was exaggerating when he described how society would struggle in the last days with recognizing truth.  I don't think that anymore.

I got a lot done today at work, and that was really nice.  And tomorrow I'll have everyone in the office. COVID cancelled a trip Stacy was going to take, and Suzanne will be back since her husband Ryan's COVID test came back negative.  I'm really glad, and plan to celebrate by letting everyone else do their jobs well so I can do mine.  Great plan.

Tonight I was nearly home when my phone rang.  I answered, and it was Abbie.  After her first sentence I knew something was wrong, just by the tone of her voice.  Fortunately it was nothing catastrophic – three stitches were all Spencer's finger needed after accidentally running it past the router bit.  But poor Spencer got the same gene Mark has related to blood and pain – he passed out before I got home and was still totally woosey and incoherent as Abbie and I drove him to the doctor's office.  He came home, ate dinner, and went right to sleep.

Tonight I am ministering to Julie.  As soon as I finished reading to the kids I took Nathaniel and sent her to her craft room with Abbie to make cards.

Thankful: I am so grateful for the hope that comes through the gift of the Holy Ghost and the atonement of Jesus Christ.  I spent some time this week reviewing resources to help others overcome pornography or other addictions, and felt both an increased resolve to keep myself clean and worthy, and a strong desire to help others either stay that way or become clean again through repentance.  Just as Isaiah wasn't exaggerating when he described people mixing up black and white, he also wasn't exaggerating when he described Jesus' ability to restore crimson-stained sinners to purity as white as wool.  Without that certainty, there would be no point in my serving as Bishop or any of us trying to be good, because we all fall short of the glory of God.

Ministering: I think Camilla is finally asleep, so I can leave my laptop upstairs playing soft music while Julie and Abbie make cards.  I'm going to go listen to a Conference talk and fold laundry!  (Party animal to the core!)

More later…

Yeah, Spencer was so out of it, Julie had to hold his head up while Abbie and Jessie each tied a shoe before we helped him to the car.

No more onions

Dear family,

Happy Veterans Day!  I am grateful for those who have served and continue to serve our country, both in the military and in other roles.  Thank you for your example of goodness!

Love,

Dad

Wednesday, November 11, 2020
9:04 pm

Humph.  I had the day off for Veterans Day, and didn't get much done.  I can get by on six hours of sleep when I am busy.  But on days like today when I'm home playing with the kids and need to be self-motivated to get things done, six hours means I fall asleep while trying to rock Nathaniel to sleep.  I didn't take a long nap, but I also didn't bring up firewood or put away the summer clothes.  I did learn that onions now make me feel gross.  Blah.

Thankful: I am thankful for good people.  

Ministering: Today I tried to minister to Julie.  I watched the kids for several hours while she went shopping to find some new maternity clothes.  Sadly, nearly all the stores have eliminated the maternity clothes in-store, and have them available only online.  Not terribly convenient.

More later… 

"I'm not listening!"

One gallon

Dear family,

Sleeping time. Love to all!

Love,

Dad

Tuesday, November 10, 2020
11:06 pm

Good day.  Donated blood tonight, I'm now in the Gallon Club.  Proud me.  Tithing settlement was nice, also visited with some people to help them set good goals and progress in the covenant path.  While I was meeting with ward members, my wonderful counselors were considering other needs in the ward.  We had a 45-minute meeting after my interviews and they brought me up to speed on the items they discussed.  It was wonderful.  I am so blessed to work with these great men.

Work today was good.  I had a good meeting with Stacy and Reyna to consider things we can do to work better with our members, especially if they need a loan.  I felt like we came up with some good ideas.  The day went very fast.

Thankful: Have I mentioned how thankful I am for my counselors?  Also for my family.  Nathaniel likes to wake up early.  So does Isaac.  They take after their daddy.  This morning I read one of Nathaniel's favorite stories to him before work, then left him in Isaac's charge.  He did great.  I am a blessed man.

Ministering: See above.

   

Kit Kats for dinner

Dear family,

Oh, life is an adventure!  It was fun to write about some stuff today.  I hope you enjoy reading it.

Jessie, I loved the story of your snail necklace that you told tonight in FHE, even if it turned my stomach.  

Mark, I'm anxious to hear about how things went after our discussion today.  Remember: tsp's make a world of difference.

Love to all,

Dad

Sunday, November 8, 2020
9:15 pm

Today was a good day.  Some of the drama I was afraid of didn't develop, which was a good thing.  Bishopric meeting was good, and Ward Council was also good.  The time went very quickly, but I think everyone participated in a meaningful way and we made some specific assignments.  Tithing settlement interviews were nice again.  My visit with the Clements family was particularly nice.  They seemed to be aware of the burdens a bishop carries, and they offered to help the family in any way they can.  That is so kind of them.  I'm not sure how we could use that help because our kids don't know them well and the little kids are the ones that need the help most, but it made me teary anyway.

I really liked sacrament meeting today.  Bro. Heiss spoke about the atonement and shared several personal stories that were touching.  His wife passed away two years ago, today might be the anniversary of her death.  His talk was particularly relevant given some of the struggles I am aware of in the ward right now.

This afternoon

Monday, November 9, 2020
9:16 pm

So much for my Sunday entry.  Here are the rest of the highlights from yesterday.

After Church and a couple interviews we had Priesthood and RS meetings via Zoom then did some activities.  Julie put together a fun Thanksgiving activity to send to Mark.  We also did an activity where we imagined different scenarios where we had to make choices when no one was watching, and discussed alternatives.  We based this on Moroni's years alone, thinking about the choices he had to make.  Dinner was good, and we finished with homemade orange scones.

Governor Herbert declared a state of emergency last night due to increasing COVID cases and the fact that the state's ICU beds are nearing capacity.  That's the bad news.  The good news was that today Pfizer released some very encouraging preliminary results from a vaccine they are working on.  Hopefully that will prove very effective and we can get back to normal-er soon.

Today Suzanne and I met with the architects on our Springville building and nailed down some of the last design elements that were unfinished.  It sounds like we're about 4 weeks away from getting approval from the city, then another four weeks to finish the engineering drawings.  Then… I'm not sure what happens next.

A disappointing thing today at work – an adult member of the credit union threw a tantrum in his vehicle because we could not do for him something he wanted.  This wasn't a case of policy that we were enforcing; what he wanted technologically could not be done.  It was really pathetic to see a grown man so utterly irrational.  Dalley, my employee, handled it like a champ and didn't get angry back at him or take it personally.  I was as impressed with her as I was disgusted at him.  Reminded me of a quote from Mark's calendar just a day or two ago: "You can tell the size of a man by the size of a thing that makes him mad." – Adlai Stevenson

Dinner tonight was a hoot.  Neil decided he hates mashed potato omelets.  He insisted they would be better in tiny portions hidden inside candy.  I did the best I could and broke pieces of Kit Kat candy bars on each bite of dinner.  He ate it.  (Okay, only a few bites got Kit Kat, but it was more than one!)

FHE, then bedtime stories.  I hope to get in bed soon.

Thankful: I am thankful that one of the major issues in the ward had a positive development today.

Ministering: Today I ministered to Mark.  He called during my lunch and was exploring some of the challenges he is discovering as a trainer.  He wasn't complaining, just trying to figure out how to effectively deal with items that need to improve.  It was amazing – the challenges he is facing can be addressed very well by the same ideas I am learning with Dennis McIntee at work.  So, Mark got the advantage of executive coach for free.  I wonder if next week's challenges will align with this week's coaching session?

More later…

Neil and Nathaniel reading this morning when I left for work.

Mashed potato. Egg. Cheese. Kit Kat. Seriously.

Gentle rain on a Saturday

Dear family,

It was nice to spend the day with you and get our house ready for the sabbath!  I look forward to being together tomorrow afternoon.

Love,

Dad

Saturday, November 7, 2020
10:15 pm

Good day today.  Nathaniel woke up early, so he and I came downstairs to play and read a book.  The rest of the little kids got up fairly early too.  Made Malt-o-Meal for breakfast, then they enjoyed reading for a couple hours.  Next came cleaning.  We printed a new list of Saturday chores.  That's always exciting because all the "easy" jobs are available again.  Isaac and I worked together.  The house is reasonably ready for tomorrow.

Thankful: I'm grateful that I got to work with my children today.  I enjoyed talking to Isaac while we cleaned the couches.  I joined Jessie for three whole minutes of exercise tonight.  She's lots more flexible than I am! 😊

This is how Nathaniel plays with Lincoln Logs!

Pizza and OJ for dinner

Dear family,

Mark, it was nice to visit with you briefly tonight before I came upstairs to put the girls in bed.  I look forward to getting a more complete report from mom, assuming I don't fall asleep first.

Love to all,

Dad

Friday, November 6, 2020
9:12 pm

Up this morning before 6:00 to rock Nathaniel back to sleep.  Read scriptures while he fell back asleep, then moved on to morning stuff.  Abbie is in quarantine again because someone she sits near at school tested positive for Covid. 

Work today was quite productive.  I got lots done on a bunch of projects that kept getting put off.  These are things that are probably important, but they have little direct impact on our members, so they are harder to get motivated to do.  No member has ever thanked me for the great job I did on our network security, or how well our policies and procedures are written.  I'd much rather find ways to help members directly.  Oh well.

Julie felt gross this afternoon, so I picked up pizza on the way home.  So glad she has a favorite food while she's pregnant!  Tonight the boys went to play with some neighbors after dark, and Emma and Camilla listened to an audio recording of The Wild Robot.  Emma especially loves that book.

Tonight Mark called home for a visit.  He was so excited to report that Susie, a friend they have been teaching, accepted the invitation to be baptized.  Her baptism is scheduled for December 5.  What an exciting opportunity for him and his new companion.  I am really happy for them, and for Susie.

Thankful: I got a nice text from a sister in the ward that I had a difficult interview with.  I'm glad she is not bitter, and hope I can help her draw closer to Jesus Christ and strengthen her conversion to his gospel.

Ministering: I'm working on some welfare needs for a couple families in the ward.

More later…

Nathaniel has learned to blow bubbles.

Redacted

Dear family,

I'm afraid tonight's journal entry would mostly be redacted, so I'll spare that message and simply send a quick note to tell you how much I love each of you.

Dad

Mom's invention - Reese's PB cup on homemade cheesecake.  Wound't surprise me if this is served in heaven.

Guess who's walking...

Dear family,

I promised Mom I'd be asleep by 10:45.  That's in 3 minutes, so I love you and good night!

Love,

Dad

Wednesday, November 4, 2020
10:33 pm

Late.  I have to write fast or I'll get in trouble.

Last couple of days have been intense as Bishop with some issues to deal with.  It has been humbling as I have recognized the mantle of the Bishop come upon me.  Ideas have come, words have been given to me, and I have given many blessings of counsel and comfort.  The Lord doesn't seem to care how new I am as a Bishop.  I don't need any tenure to be guided. And I thank God for that.

It's not all hard stuff.  Tonight I got to give a temple recommend interview for a new member of the ward who is getting married in 2 ½ weeks.  He is a bright, worthy, excellent young man.  It was so nice to interview him and sign a recommend to enter the temple to receive this wonderful ordinance.

Work is busy.  Stacy is quarantined starting tomorrow for being exposed to someone who tested positive.  Continuing to grow a lot, nearly $49 million in assets.  Delinquency is low, and I'm working on projects.

Tonight Nathaniel took his first three steps to me.  Julie was mock-upset that he is walking.  What a joy he is.  Gave him a bath tonight and he loved splashing.

Put in a light in the barn so the chickens will have enough light to keep laying eggs over the winter.

Thankful: I'm thankful for the Lord's support in my calling, that I can get to work late or leave early occasionally as needed, and for the support and patience of my family.

Ministering: Lots, but the details don't need to be recorded here.

More later…

I really liked this quote from Mark's calendar.

Bathtime = splash time

Voted!

Hi all,

Sorry no journal Last night. Better entry today I hope. Love you all!

Ken

Sent from my mobile device

Please forgive any strange auto-corrections! 

A field trip

Dear family,

Mark, it was nice to visit with you briefly today.  I'm glad things are going well with Susie and I look forward to hearing all about your Church exchange and how your talk goes at the end of November.

It was fun to finish making dinner with you tonight Jessie.  Thanks for being such a willing helper!

Love to all,

Dad

Monday, November 2, 2020
8:58 pm

I spent the morning working on some administrative stuff.  Updated the LED reader board on our building and rewrote the statement notification email letting people know what needs to happen since our lobby is closed again.  Aspen has been out of work for a few days.  Several members of her family tested positive for COVID, and she was afraid she was exhibiting symptoms, so she got tested and has been self-quarantining.  Tomorrow I have three people in a training class, so we spent a fair amount of time today getting things configured so she could answer phones from home if her results still weren't back by tomorrow.  Naturally, just as I finished getting everything configured and working, she got the negative results.  Hooray!  It will be good to have her back in time to help cover tomorrow.

Suzanne and I took a field trip to see some software in action at Pacific Horizon Credit Union.  We are considering purchasing cash recyclers and wanted to see how the machines interact with our core software.  We weren't impressed, but we couldn't tell if it was the software we weren't impressed with, or the way they used it.  Their operation is totally different than ours.

Tonight I was in charge of treats for FHE.  Since Julie doesn't like sweets in the evening, I decided to go savory and bought some samosas from Bombay House.  I ended up serving them for dinner, and she liked them a lot.  They're not terribly expensive either, so I may pick them up every few days to treat her.

Thankful: I am thankful for apostles.  Next month the Springville area will have the opportunity to hear from Elder Gong.  There will be a leadership training meeting for three hours in the morning, and the youth are invited to join from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm.  I joined one of these meetings with Elder Bednar several years ago when I was EQP.  It will be nice to do another one in my new calling.

Ministering: I wrote an email to the youth in our ward explaining the upcoming opportunity with Elder Gong, inviting them to submit a question for him to answer.

More later…

FHE activity tonight was Minute to Win It with Ritz crackers.  I won!  (But don't tell Camilla.)

My emails revolve around food... :)

Dear Family,

You are all wonderful and I love each of you.

Love,

Dad

Sunday, November 1, 2020
9:52 pm

Great couple of days, amazing how fast time goes.

Yesterday was chore day.  Worked in the house with the kids, got inside chores done.  Pulled out the garden.  Must have been over 200 pounds of tomato vines etc.  Used Dad's truck to haul to the compost site.  Ministered there to an old guy folding up his tarp and a young couple struggling to unload a large load wrapped in a tarp.  Two extra hands made all the difference for them.

Julie carved pumpkins with the kids while I was outside working.  Bless her for the great work she does with our kids.  Then I took Neil, Isaac, Emma and Camilla trick or treating through our neighborhood.  We got started around 5:45 and hit every house with a porch light on.  It took about 90 minutes, and the kids candy buckets were overflowing.  Camilla literally had stuff spilling out.  And we went until the kids were asking if we could please be done.  I love it when I am not the stick-in-the-mud saying we need to go home.

Dinner was late last night.  Enjoyed burgers to begin our fast.  Mine had a fried egg, tomato, pineapple and cheese.  Too bad we didn't have bacon or avocado.  But it was already hugely messy; that might have been too much.

Today was full but nice.  Started w/ Bishopric meeting.  I love the men I am working with and pray for them and their families.  Then Ward Council.  They are good people who want to do good and I am looking forward to making a difference together.  Conducted my first tithing settlement interviews today.  Early on is great – I get all the active members who want to visit with the Bishop.  I hope it continues that way.

I was home by 3:00 pm, which is my goal "home time" on Sunday.  That is also when Sunday School started, so I joined that for the next 30 minutes.  Then we did a few Sunday activities.  Camilla tried to orchestrate charades, and I think we made it good.  Then we talked about the role of sorrow (Mormon 2) and how we can use it to become better.  Dinner was excellent, then we sang a hymn and read scriptures.

After dinner I helped give Nancy Nusink a blessing.  She has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and starts chemo tomorrow.  I will pray for her.  The most likely "best case" scenario is that she will have 12-18 months with the chemo.  Without it the doctors think she only has 3 months.  She has lived a faithful life.

Thankful and Ministering: See above.

More later…

The Payne house decked out for Halloweeen.

This is what happens when you ask Neil to go to the other room and grab all the copies of the BoM he can find.  Literalist!

Look at these sweet potatoes that we harvested yesterday from our garden!  I love making Sunday dinner with Abbie each week.  (Sorry Mark, we speak English now.)

Last night's burger before it became a total mess.