Life continues

Dear family,

Some days there are memorable things to write about.  Other days simply keep moving very fast.  The last two day have been the latter.

This weekend I hope we will have time to watch a documentary film I learned about yesterday in a webinar I attended.  It focuses on people around the country who are trying to do good things to help other people; it sounds inspiring.

I hope you have a great Saturday.

Love,

Dad

Friday, January 29, 2021
9:04 pm

I'm really not sure what to say about the last couple days.  Work has been good.  I'm working on projects, trying to identify ways we can provide better experiences for our members, and working to solve problems.

Thankful: I think this will turn out to be a very good month for the credit union.  Loans posted good growth, we posted some good recoveries on previously charged off loans for the first time in a while, delinquency is looking very good, and we've been opening accounts at a good rate.  We got a couple more 5-star Google reviews this week.  I'm pretty optimistic that we're on a good trajectory.  I look forward to finalizing our financial statements next week and seeing how things did.  I am so grateful to have a job I enjoy and that I am good at.

Ministering: I spent some time working on ministering to the needs of ward members.

More later…

No new pictures for a couple days, so I grabbed this one from the archive.  We're now burning the firewood Spencer helped cut in the fall.

No subject

Got to go rock Nathaniel to sleep.  Love to all!

Dad

Wednesday, January 27, 2021
9:31 pm

Today I joined Board meeting for the Utah Credit Union Association by Zoom.  Zoom meetings can get tedious and I miss seeing people in person. But avoiding 2 hours of driving for a 90 minute meeting is just fine with me!  Today we discussed the retirement of three of the individuals serving on the Board.  As I looked over the remaining Board members, I realized with surprise that I have now been on the Board for ten years and am one of the "senior" members now.  I think there are only three Board members who have been on the Board longer than I have, and that will be down to two in April.  I can't believe I've been in this industry for twenty-five years.  Where does the time go??

I think I am making really good progress on our future staffing structure that will help the credit union serve our members, and will also help my employees develop.  This is version 4.0.  Each version has had a different focus.  I'm going to let this one simmer for several more days before I make any decisions or public pronouncements.

Tonight Calvin Crandall and I visited most of the Priests in the ward to drop off an invitation to join an activity next Wednesday.  We are doing a virtual game night – Pictionary, I hope – so we took a bag of microwave popcorn and a flier with the web address/QR code for them to join.  I sure love and appreciate him; he's a great man and will be a blessing to the youth in our ward.

It was interesting driving around the ward with him.  Even though he's been in the ward longer than I've been alive, I had to give directions and let him know who lives where.  For most of the last two decades, and the entire time we've lived in the ward, he has had callings at the Stake level or in UVU stakes.  I'm glad Pres. Brinkerhoff agreed to release him from the High Council and let him engage with our young men.

One other item – last week in Bishopric meeting we discussed how we will carry out YM activities.  We decided to stick with virtual meetings twice each month.  Bro. Heiss sent out an email to all YM advisers with this info.  The email arrived in my inbox; as I read it I realized that although it was exactly what we had discussed in our meeting, it was wrong.  It was not the Lord's will for our ward.  So I touched base with Bro. Heiss and then sent a follow up email to everyone explaining my experience and giving what I feel is the Lord's direction for us.  It was a sweet experience.  There was no rebuke, just a gentle correction and improved direction.  I love it when I can act with confidence.

Thankful: Pretty much everything listed above.

Ministering: The visits Bro. Crandall and I made tonight were good, especially to the Puckett's.  Richard insisted that we come in for a few minutes and visit.  People need to be acknowledged and valued.  That is what the Gospel of Jesus Christ does for people.

More later…

What's EBAR?

Dear family,

We had pizza for dinner tonight before my staff meeting.  It wasn't bad, but I think I hear a bowl of cold cereal calling for me. I love you all and hope tomorrow is amazing!

Love,

Dad

Tuesday, January 26, 2021
8:56 pm

It's been a couple of good days.  Yesterday was Mark's birthday and his P-day.  It was nice to visit with him.  He's developing so many attributes and skills.  It's a delight to see, even from several states away. He's dealing successfully with challenges and learning to rely on the Holy Ghost in ways that I'm still trying to figure out.  Nice.

Last night before FHE Jessie was helping the little kids try to do headstands.  None of them were proficient, but it was fun to watch them work together, laughing at their attempts and celebrating the small successes.  FHE was nice.  Spencer asked me to tell how I proposed to Julie for our family story.  That was fun and extended into a longer tale with both of us sharing some memories.  Good times.  We didn't get to sleep until late, so I slept in until 6:00 this morning.

I spent most of the day today getting ready for this evening's staff meeting.  I am pleased with how it went.  We focused on a management/leadership technique called EBAR – Experiences influence what we Believe.  What we Believe influences our Actions, which then drive Results.  And none of us can give beliefs, actions, or results to another person.  The only thing we can do is provide experiences, trying to provide them in a way that reinforces the beliefs that will lead to desired actions and ultimately results.  There were several good comments from some of my employees.  It was interesting to me to see how people engaged differently.  This will help me as I work to design our staffing configuration with our new Springville office.

Everyone at work was very pleased when our meeting ended 8 minutes ahead of schedule, and everyone at home was even more pleased when I got home 10 minutes early.  Under-promise and over-deliver.  Key to happiness.  Mom spent some time here this evening since I was gone late.  Everyone seemed very happy to have her here.  I'm sure glad she could spend time to help Julie.

Thankful: I'm grateful that tonight's meeting went well. I think it helped lay a foundation for changes we need.

Ministering: I can't identify anything special I did today, but I tried to be an example of consideration for my employees.

More later…

We're going to have TWO pipers!

I love dinner, it loves me...

Dear family,

Happy Birthday Mark!  (I assume it will be your birthday by the time you read this.)  I hope you have a wonderful day today.  What a treat to have your birthday on p-day!  Your replacement speaker should arrive on Feb 1.  Have you been able to drop the old one off at Kohl's?

Everyone else, I think you're really awesome.  I love you all!

Love,

Dad

Sunday, January 24, 2021
9:26 pm

Stake Conference today.  The general session today was excellent.  Nothing "new," but a definite feeling that God is in control, is very aware of our circumstances, and loves all His children.  I am grateful for the Spirit I felt.

In the afternoon we talked about the attributes listed in D&C 4:6-7 and compared them to tools that we can use to build things.  Just like a hammer is necessary but not sufficient to build a home, any single worthy attribute is necessary but not sufficient.  Likewise, there are times when one attribute is needed more than another.  When you need a saw, pliers won't do and sometimes we need to exhibit patience more than knowledge.  But every tool in the toolbox is required and will be a blessing when we need it.  I think the lesson meant more to me than some of the younger kids.  After discussing we each picked one attribute to work on this week and drew pictures to help us remember.  They are hanging up in the hallway now.

This afternoon Emma was having a rough day.  At one point she went to her room and lay sadly on her bed.  I asked if she wanted to do something, but she declined.  I offered to lie next to her for a few minutes so she wouldn't feel so sad.  She accepted… and left sometime after I fell asleep.  I think I needed a 45-minute nap.  😴

Dinner tonight was amazing.  Rachel made "blistered beans" while she was here last week.  I'd never had them before but thought they were good, so I found a recipe and tried them tonight.  I will never look at green beans the same way again.  And the best news is that they are probably okay for Julie to eat – no carbs!  They will likely be a staple in our Sunday dinner fare going forward.

Nathaniel the picky eater has entered a new phase.  He usually doesn't want to eat unless I am singing to him.  Lately the song of choice is "I love mommy she loves me…"  He was totally fighting Julie tonight until I started singing, then he ate his dinner without (much) more complaint.  🙄

Ministering: I counseled with a member of our ward who is dealing with some ongoing challenges.  I also texted Pres. Kent and Sis. Hansen to counsel about some other members of our ward in need.

Thankful: I'm thankful for Stake Conference and good ward members who care for others.

More later…

Some of our tools from our Come, Follow Me discussion.

Sleep is not optional

Dear family,

Good night!

Love,

Dad

Saturday, January 23, 2021
9:42 pm

Met with two employees yesterday, getting more complete ideas about how to arrange our staffing for the Springville branch.  Still lots up in the air.  Had board meeting yesterday, went really well.  Finished the year with $312k in net income.  Given everything that happened in 2020, that's pretty great.

David and Lisa came down last night to join us for dinner and for David to receive a priesthood blessing.  He's leaving tomorrow for Airborne Ranger school, and he also was let go from his job on Thursday.  Fortunately they have followed prophetic counsel to avoid debt and save for a rainy day, so they're in good shape.

Today was hard.  The kids were up far too late last night and we felt it today.  Lots of complaining about meals, chores, rules, everything.  Julie is trying to figure out how to follow a diabetic-friendly diet.  As she describes, it takes all the joy out of food.  Pray this only lasts as long as her pregnancy.

Thankful: I'm grateful that our "hard" is what it is.  Even our least-enjoyable days are far better than what so many people have to deal with.

Ministering: David and I gave Julie a blessing last night.

More later…

Emma last night with the "horse bridle" she fashioned out of two belts and a carabiner.

Palindrome Day

Dear Family,

Mike Christensen pointed out that today's date is a palindrome - 1202021.  He loves those things.  

I didn't watch the inauguration today, but was glad that there were no major disruptions.  On part of my drive home I listened to a press briefing, I presume from the new White House press secretary.  I was impressed by the candor of the press secretary.  I felt like she answered the questions she was asked reasonably directly - much more so than many politicians seem to.  I got the feeling she was trying to answer the questions as honestly as she could, based on what she knew, and wasn't trying to push an agenda.  There was also an atmosphere of civility to the whole affair that was refreshing.

Regardless of how the world goes and whether people can get along, I sure love each member of my family and pray for you daily!

Love,

Dad

Wednesday, January 20, 2021
8:50 pm

No journal entry yesterday, but it was a day.  Work was really busy; Reyna had the day off, and the first day after a 3-day weekend is always especially busy.  Julie had a doctor visit and a non-stress test.  The baby was moving almost enough to pass the NST, but they want her to go back on Thursday for a follow-up check.  She will be at the doctor every weekday this week except Monday.  Yesterday checkup and NST; today visit with a nurse about gestational diabetes; tomorrow another NST; and Friday to see a dietitian.  Glad we have people who know all about these things, and that Julie can receive the care she needs. 

Today while Julie was at her doctor's appointment Camilla and Nathaniel joined me at work for lunch and some fun.  We ate lunch, then read a book and watched a Cat in the Hat PBS show.  (I decided that is one of my least-favorite shows.)  Then Camilla wanted to play hide-and-seek.  The rule was that you couldn't open doors, but there were several good places to hide, and we had fun doing that for probably 30-45 minutes until Julie was done.

Thankful: I'm grateful that Spencer and I have been on time for seminary every day since the semester started – both of them!  I go straight to work after dropping him off, which gives me time to read scriptures and get some work done before other people start showing up.  Yesterday I left work a little early, and today I got a longer lunch.  So far it seems like it's working okay.

Ministering: I have also started using my commute home to call ward members or others who might need a little ministering.  I did that yesterday and today, and it seems like that might be a good idea.

More later…

Camilla's hiding places

Aebleskivers

Dear family,

Much love to all.  Hope you had a great MLK Day and are read for the rest of the week.

Love,

Dad

Monday, January 18, 2021
9:32 pm

This month is racing past.  Today I made aebleskivers for breakfast. They were a fair amount of work and were too oily.  I probably need to refine the technique, but I'm not sure they are worth the effort to perfect.  But the kids loved them and want them for birthday breakfasts, so maybe I'll keep working. 

Did some cleanup around the house then watched the live-action Aladdin.  I remembered again that I just don't enjoy sitting down to watch a movie.  I saw bits and pieces of it, then sat down for the last 15 minutes.  I can handle the climax and resolution phases, but all the build-up drives me nuts.

Tonight Julie and Rachel went to Provo for Amy McKinney's wedding ceremony.  I played Twister at home with the other kids, then we went to the reception together. 

Early morning seminary starts again tomorrow, so I'm going to bed (possibly before Spencer!)

More later…

Playing Twister.  How fast is Emma moving to be so blurry??

At the wedding reception.

If you're happy and you know it...

Dear family,

I hope your weekend was as pleasant as mine.  Not to say that the entire weekend was pleasant - coaxing along unwilling cleaners can be less enjoyable.  But I'm happy and hope you are too.

Love,

Dad

Sunday, January 17, 2021
10:19 pm

It's been a nice couple of days.  Julie went to a bridal shower with the girls and I stayed home with the boys and little girls to clean the house.  Okay, that part wasn't so nice.

In the afternoon I climbed on our neighbor's roof to trim parts of our tree that were growing over their garage.  Then I cleaned out their gutter that was FULL of several years' worth of leaves, most of which had decayed into really quality compost.  I put it in our garden. 😊

In the evening we had a whole clan of Woodward relatives over and it was really nice.  Amy McKinney is getting married tomorrow so her family is in Utah for that.  It was Annie Woodward's birthday yesterday, so David and Lisa wanted to have a party for her, but their house isn't big enough to handle all the people.  We hosted it here.  The following came: Amanda and her kids; Michelle and her kids; Amanda and her kids; David and Lisa and their kids; Josh Lindow; Michael and Betsy and their kids; and Rachel.  We had several kinds of soup and bread, finished with cake and ice cream.  I found myself just smiling as I cleaned the kitchen and listened to sisters and cousins visit after not being together for a long time.  It was also lots of fun watching the little kids make new friends.  At first, Emma was not too excited to have so many strangers over.  By the end she was playing with as many of them as possible and mourning when it was time to leave.  Nice night.

Today was a good day.  Morning meetings went well and sacrament meeting was particularly good.   Again, I caught myself smiling as I walked out of the Church.  I had a nice visit with Pres. Brinkerhoff then held a training meeting with the Young Women class presidencies and Aaronic Priesthood quorum presidencies.  The training meeting was okay, but not as impactful as I hoped.  I need to remember when planning any meeting to identify the desired outcome and drive specifically toward that.

This afternoon we had a very nice day at home.  Julie planned an activity – "I'm going to the promised land and I'm taking… listing items from A to Z.  Each time you add a letter you repeat everything that was said before."  Fun activity and the little girls did great.  Then I did an activity, collecting items to discuss what we learn from the First Vision.  Flashlight represented the pillar of light; .gif from the movie Cars when the rusty truck named Fred says, "He knows my name!" (the kids' favorite prop), an extension cord representing power, etc.  Didn't take long but was fun.

Then we started playing one-prop charades with an frying pan as this week's prop.  It was a hoot.  The longer we played, the more good ideas we came up with.  We probably played for 45 minutes and could have gone longer, but we needed to start making dinner.

Highlight of the day: Nathaniel has decided that he doesn't need to eat.  He closes his lips, sticks his tongue out, and shakes his head back and forth.  Gentle hint that he doesn't want food.  Tonight we started singing "If you're happy and you know it say WOW."  Every time we said "WOW," he would open his mouth and Spencer would put a bite of applesauce in.  He ate nearly four (small) bowls of applesauce.  By the end, you could see that he was getting full and really didn't want any more, but when we said WOW, it was like his mouth involuntarily opened and Spencer put more in.  He finally developed the willpower to keep his mouth closed, but we felt good that he had nourishment in his belly.  And we all got plenty of laughs out of the experience.

Very nice scripture study tonight talking about D&C 3 and the experience of the lost 116-page manuscript.  Thinking about that event, I feel much compassion for everyone involved and pass no judgment at all.

Thankful: See above.

Ministering: Again, see above.

More later…

There were SEVERAL good photos from this weekend.  I'll send only a couple tonight and save some of them for days when I don't get a good picture.  Now... which ones to send tonight?

Jessie watercolor painting on sugar cookies.

The result!

Friday thoughts

Dear family,

So glad you're starting to feel better dad!  I hope that continues and your talk next Sunday in Church goes very well.

Mark, I got a delivery notice for your new speaker from Amazon.  I hope it works great and you enjoy your classical music even more than before.

Spencer and I need to go driving to deliver some eggs to one of his friends.

Love you all!

Dad

 Friday, January 15, 2021

8:52 pm

Right now Nathaniel is screaming in delight as Spencer chases him around the living room on his hands and knees.  It is so much fun to listen to.

Work was busy.  An email problem that I have been working on most of this week still hasn't been resolved, and it's driving me crazy.  I spent too much time on that today, and another hour on the phone with a daughter of an elderly member whose dementia is getting worse.  That was hard.

Thankful: I'm grateful that dad is finally starting to feel better.  I visited with him briefly on my way home from work, and again after getting home.  The Hale Theater in Orem is putting on The Importance of Being Earnest.  Jessie and I went to see it a couple years ago at BYU and enjoyed it; Julie has never seen it.  Many years ago we did a reading of part of the play with Julie's brother Mark during a family reunion and everyone got a kick out of that.  We got four tickets to take Dad and Mom for Dad's birthday next month.  I'm grateful we can do that together.

Ministering: I found some Church resources that I did not know existed that will be very helpful to train our AP and YW presidencies.  I spent a little while at lunch working on that; I need to do more tomorrow because the training meeting is this Sunday afternoon.

More later…

Trevor Albertson shared some smoked salmon with me the other evening.  With the help of Jessie, Abbie and Spencer, this is all that was left after just a few minutes.

Don't fall out of bed!

Dear family,

Quick note tonight.  I love you all!

Love,

Dad

Thursday, January 14, 2021
9:37 pm

I was up four times last night, including twice when Camilla fell out of bed.  I'm really tired and heading to bed early tonight.

Work was really busy.  Suzanne was off today and will be tomorrow too, so I took a lot of stuff she normally takes… and that was a lot.  I spent too much time troubleshooting a couple different computer issues.  One is fixed, one is still pending.  Also started prepping for a system conversion for our debit card processing system.  Not really looking forward to that.  Fortunately most of the eight hours of required training are recorded and I can play it at double speed.  I'm learning from Julie and the kids! 😊

Rachel is here visiting for Amy McKinney's wedding on Monday.  Nice to have her with us.

Ministering: I swiped one of Julie's birthday cards to send to Kendall Curtis, whose birthday is Sunday.  I got it in the mail today, so it should be there on time.  Yea me!

Thankful: Clean home.  Food to eat.  Scriptures to read.  Family.  Sleep.

Rachel brought presents from the Missouri family.  Emma loved opening more birthday gifts.  What girl doesn't love fingernail polish?

I love to see the temple

Dear family,

Love Dad

Wednesday, January 13, 2021
11:15 pm

So tired. Need to go to bed. 

Yesterday I got to attend the temple for the first time in nearly a year.  Emma Osborn received her endowment before beginning her mission. They could invite 16 people, and her grandparents couldn't make it so I got to attend.  It was nice to be there, but I felt a little sad.  Pre-COVID I attended the temple every week.  It felt like "home."  Going yesterday didn't feel like visiting my Father's house; it felt more like being a visitor in a castle.  We were escorted everywhere as a group.  I totally understand why, was happy to comply with whatever was asked of me, and was grateful to be back.  But part of me felt sad nonetheless.  Fortunately, these restrictions won't last forever.  I look forward to the day I can go there as a member of the family again.

Last couple of days at work I have spent time visiting with employees to understand their ambitions, interests, skills, etc.  I realized that I don't want to clone the Provo office when we open Springville. I've got more questions than answers at this point.  Still working on possible designs.

Had virtual YM tonight.  I was really happy that Braxton Johnson (Strasburg) joined.  His family isn't very active, so the fact that he knew when we were meeting and had the link to log on makes me super happy.  We did a get-to-know-you activity that I think went pretty well.  We had about 8-10 young men on the call and 4-5 leaders (Trevor Cluff had to drop off a little early).  Overall I was pleased.

Here is what a selfie at the temple looks like in the COVID-era.

One day like another

Dear family,

I hope you have a terrific day!

Love,

Dad

Monday, January 11, 2021
9:24 pm

A day.  I got started working on the financial statements for December.  Had a meeting with the folks from Banzai, a financial literacy resource.  It is neat, but not getting enough traction with our members to continue to pay for it after our current contract expires in April.  Did some troubleshooting on a couple different tech systems that aren't working properly.  Got one fixed, still working on another.

Met with Sue this afternoon to talk about her interests and career goals.

Had a nice visit with Mark at lunchtime.  He is having a great experience in Texas, and God is putting people in his path that he can help.  That's a good feeling.  Hard to believe he's been in Texas for six months already.  I checked Argentina's COVID status while we were talking, and it looks like Mark will be in Texas for a while yet.  There are fresh incoming travel restrictions.  That's okay; there are good people everywhere who need to hear the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

FHE tonight was nice.  Neil did a lesson on love.  It was interesting that part of the lesson tended toward obedience leading to love, and love leading to obedience.  Those two are interconnected.

I need to find a time to study the scriptures consistently.  I used to study before work, but lately I haven't been able to get to sleep early enough to make that a reasonable option.  I realized today that I am feeling unsettled, and I attribute at least part of that to lack of diligence in my personal study.  I really need to repent; no way I can make it without the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

Thankful: I am thankful Scott's wife Stephanie is doing better and will be released from the hospital.  Scott said that last night she made "miraculous" improvement.  Fasting and prayer work.

Ministering: I tried to be a good person and minister to the needs of my employees today.  I will be doing this the rest of the week, meeting with one or two employees each day.

More later…

A view from Saturday's chores: picking up the rooms inchworm style.  You don't ever stand up; you scoot on your back from mess to mess.  I don't recommend this approach if you want to accomplish ANYTHING else during the day.

No more Secret of NIMH

Dear family,

You are all amazing!

Mark, would you please add Scott's wife Stepphanie to your prayers?  Their family contracted COVID and she is in the hospital with pneumonia.  I believe the prayers of a missionary carry special weight in heaven.

Much love to all,

Dad

Sunday, January 10, 2021
8:47 pm

Yesterday was a full day.  Started with chores around the house and cleaned the basement again.  Then Spencer and I went to Santaquin to help do some finishing work on a home Peter Jordan is building.  We put up a ceiling fan.  It was nice to have Spencer's help and I felt good about being able to help.

After helping at the Jordan's I performed a wedding for Brittaney Baldwin and Steven Lewis.  It's the first time I've ever done that; next time I'm going to remember to invite them to exchange rings.

In the evening David and family came down for dinner and to finish celebrating Emma's birthday.  We had delicious turkey noodle soup.

Today was good.  I woke up with Nathaniel about 4:40 am.  By the time I got him back to sleep it was nearly time to get up for my 6:00 am bishopric meeting.  I confess that I didn't feel terribly cheerful on my drive to Church.  I prayed for help to feel better, and noticed the help I needed.  Our meetings before Church went well.  I am happy about that.

Spencer gave a talk in sacrament meeting today; he did a good job talking about how he draws closer to Jesus Christ as a holder of the Aaronic Priesthood.  Amber Hillock also spoke following her mission.  Then I joined Spencer at the sacrament table as he blessed the sacrament in Church for the first time.  It was a great experience.  Brad Nusink caught me after Church and told me how much he appreciated seeing that; he felt it was a great example of being a father and serving alongside a son.  I was happy for that.  I can't take credit for the idea; I think Reid was the one who suggested that fathers join their sons the first time they bless or pass the sacrament.  Next week Caleb Ober will bless the sacrament and his dad will join him.

We set apart most of the new Aaronic Priesthood quorum presidencies this afternoon.  We did a family scripture activity, had a family council about choosing to speak kindly to each other, then did a scripture scavenger hunt that Spencer and Neil came up with.  Then I fell asleep on the floor for 45 minutes.  Ate dinner, then read Mrs Frisby and the Rats of NIMH.  We decided that this book is too mature for the little girls; I'll give them an abbreviated version of the rest of the book tomorrow and let Neil and Isaac read it on their own.  Bedtime books that invite adrenaline are a terrible idea.

Thankful: We held individual Aaronic Priesthood classes this afternoon in place of a big group meeting.  I'm glad the quorums are now appropriately sized to let us do that.  We discussed the logistics of breaking the bread and offering the sacrament prayers.  We also planned a YM activity this Wednesday.  We haven't had consistent weekday meetings for the YM for a very long time.  I feel that this is important to resume.

Ministering: I hope I was able to minister to the young men in the ward today.

More later…

How many cousins does it take to blow out birthday candles?

Smoked burgers

Dear family,

We love Emma, and enjoyed celebrating her birthday today.  It was fun to see how joyful she was with each of her birthday gifts.  Much love to all!

Love,

Dad

Friday, January 8, 2021
9:56 pm

Today was Emma's birthday.  She was so excited that she couldn't sleep past 6:30.  She helped me pack lunches this morning and told me all about her plans for the day. 

Work was a day.  I worked on preparing our new video banking service to be deployed later this month.  Randy and Mom helped me do some testing.  Mostly worked, found a few kinks still to work out.

The roommate of one of my employees tested positive for COVID today.  He immediately left to take one of the new rapid-response tests and we disinfected everything while he was gone.  His results were negative, and the sick roommate moved home until he recovers.

We grilled burgers for Emma's birthday dinner tonight.  They were good.  Julie does such a good job making the patties.  Mom and Randy joined by Facetime since they are still in the final days of Randy's quarantine; Dad is improving, but slowly.

Thankful: I am thankful for Christlike leaders and hope to be like them.

Ministering: I hope I ministered to Emma on her birthday.  I also texted a couple members of the ward.  It feels like that's about our best option during COVID. 

More later…

Everyone loves playing with Emma's birthday gifts!

Clean sheets, but not on my bed

Dear family,

Strange subject line, eh?  I changed the sheets on Isaac's bed tonight, and realized our bed could also use fresh sheets.  Sadly, I looked everywhere I could think of but could NOT find our sheets.  Where could they have gone?  Hmmmm...

I love you all!

Love,

Dad

Thursday, January 7, 2021
8:54 pm

Yesterday was the most disgraceful day of my life.  Midday as Congress was certifying the votes of the electoral college, a mob of Trump supporters overran the Capitol building, damaging property and disrupting the process.  Trump had delivered a speech earlier in the day inciting such action.  The Capitol building was evacuated and put under lock down, and it took hours to secure the building.  In the end, four people died, including one Capitol police officer.  It may be the most shameful betrayal of the Constitution and our freedom in the history of this country.  Not since the British burned the Capitol in the War of 1812 has the building been so desecrated.  And that was by an acknowledged foreign enemy in an act of war, not by so-called patriots acting at the behest of a sitting president. 

Last night we held a Temple and Priesthood Orientation meeting for the incoming Deacons and young women.  Several of us played a role.  I told a parable of a journey and related it to the covenant path we are on.  I think the entire meeting went well and was happy with the results.  Then I met with Brittaney Baldwin and Steven Lewis, a couple for whom I will perform a marriage ceremony on Saturday.  Finished with bishopric meeting.  Sadly I didn't sleep too well because every time I half-awoke, I started thinking about the fiasco in the Capitol again.

Today was quite productive.  I finished dealing with an accounting problem caused when we switched HR providers and closed the GL for December.  I worked on a real estate loan.  As much as possible, I included other employees in the projects to build their skills.  I am trying to work out how we are going to rearrange our staffing in preparation for our Springville branch.  I think I am realizing that I don't want to replicate what we have here.  Rather, I want to reorganize our staff to focus in a different way on meeting members' needs.  But I don't know how to do that yet…

Thankful: I am thankful that extended family members are recovering from COVID.  Mom said that Dad continues to slowly improve.  Scott's wife Stephanie was admitted to the hospital with low oxygen and for monitoring.  She was released today, albeit with oxygen.  I'm glad she was able to come home, and that our family has been spared COVID.  I pray that this blessing will continue, and am trying to be as careful as possible.

Ministering: I sent text messages to a bunch of people today to let them know I was thinking of them and see if they have any needs.

More later…

I wore Mom's favorite tie to work yesterday.

Coconut macaroons

Dear family,

Good night!

Love,

Dad

Tuesday, January 5, 2021
9:43 pm

I had a frustrating start to the day when I realized there is an accounting problem with our employee benefits program.  I tried so hard to get this set up properly, but I realized today that the numbers I was given are incorrect.  That took a couple hours to work on this morning, and will take a bit more time tomorrow to finish fixing.  It's not a show-stopper, but it cost time and will require an adjustment to several employees' payroll figures.

In the afternoon I joined a webinar on strategic planning, and I thought it was quite good.  I'm going to review the materials again and see if I can incorporate some of the good ideas.

Jessie made curry for dinner tonight and it was really good.  Neil made coconut macaroons.  I gave Nathaniel a bath.  That's the day!

Thankful: I'm thankful that Dad is starting to feel better.  Mom said the COVID seemed to develop into bronchitis, so the doctor prescribed an antibiotic to try to knock that down.  He said he's starting to feel better, but still is totally exhausted and sleeps a lot.  I pray for his continued improvement.

Ministering: I set up an appointment for tomorrow evening to visit with the couple whose marriage I will perform this weekend.

More later…

Chef Neil trying out a new recipe.

Wanna Mallow?

Dear family,

I sure enjoyed our brief phone call today Mark and look forward to a better chat next time you call.  Much love to everyone!

Love,

Dad

Monday, January 4, 2021
9:50 pm

FHE tonight was really nice.  Spencer put together a good lesson.  Neil made a (long) Kahoot about the hymns.  Jessie's activity was fun.  We roasted marshmallows for treats.  Everyone else did great with their part too.  It was so nice to be together.

Work today was also good.  I accomplished a lot with the new year, and have a full week ahead of me.

The Odyssey had an electrical problem several months ago that caused the battery to die repeatedly.  This past week the problem recurred, and I finally got it towed to Clegg's in Provo.  The culprit this time – the map lights in the cabin got left on.  Oh brother.  But while it was there they did some other needed maintenance, so we're good to go.

Thankful: I am grateful that the van is fixed again!

Ministering: I needed to get some groceries on my way home from work, so I bought flowers for Julie while I was there.

More later…

Jessie's activity - how many blocks can you stack on your head?

Ordinations and a green beard

Dear family,

Sundays bring a mix of peace, service, and worship, combined with sacrifice, challenge and frustration.  I hope you felt much more of the first and less of the second.

Mark, the Simons said to say hello and thank you for your letters.  They love getting them.

And guess what - I just heard a deep, restful sigh coming from the top bunk.  My youngest daughters are finally sleeping.  Whew.

Love to all,

Dad

Sunday, January 3, 2021
10:10 pm

First day of 9 am Church went pretty well.  We had 66 people in attendance, which is about what I expected.  We ordained seven (?) Aaronic priesthood brethren to their new offices in the priesthood, including two new Deacons.  I was glad at one point to have a solid understanding of the doctrines and practices that are allowed.  There was a question whether a Teacher could stand in the circle to ordain his younger brother a Deacon.  I was pretty certain he could not, and I was correct.  It was nice to know the right answer, and know where to find the answer in scripture.

On a great family note, I ordained Spencer a Priest this afternoon, then he administered the sacrament and I passed it at home for our family.  I'm sure his experience is lots more memorable than my first experience blessing the sacrament.  It was a delight to watch him exercise his priesthood.

Last night, Nathaniel was awake far too much.  I wanted to get up and help Julie take care of him, but my 5:15 am alarm was always in the back of my mind, and she was finally able to get him back to sleep after two hours.  When I came home briefly after Ward Council and before Sacrament meeting, she was sleeping with him on the couch, so even that wasn't ideal.  Tonight after Spencer and I got back from visiting a couple people, Emma and Camilla were still awake, and Nathaniel was crying.  It was a trying evening.  I sang to Nathaniel until he finally fell asleep, and am now writing in my journal in the girls' room to reassure them that they are safe.

This evening we read some of Joseph Smith – History and watched an account of the First Vision.  Last night we dealt with fear at bedtime as a result of watching Narnia.  Tonight I paused the video at the "scary part" and took the girls out.  I hoped that would help…

Spencer and I took two cupcakes to Boyce Simons to wish him happy birthday.  They invited us in to visit, and we chatted with them for fifteen minutes or so.  We enjoyed it very much and hope we made a difference for them.  They spoke very highly of each of our children and were so grateful for the letters Mark sends them.  After home teaching them for eight years we've really grown to love them.

Thankful: I am grateful for the priesthood and that Spencer is now a Priest.  I am also grateful and humbled to be the answer to someone else's prayer.  I visited today with someone who is wrestling with some concerns.  As I shared some thoughts, they teared up and said my suggestions were an answer to prayer.  That is a humbling experience.  I hope to be able to serve the members of my ward in a way that always provides the guidance they seek, but never to become proud or think this is me doing the work.  It is not.

Ministering: I am glad we visited with the Simons tonight, and hope I was also able to minister to Julie by taking care of the kids after bedtime.

More later…

Neil and Isaac found a new use for putty.

Christmas lights are down

Dear family,

It was a great day today.  I'm so glad I got to spend it with some of you, and thought of those that I didn't see.

Love,

Dad

Saturday, January 2, 2021
9:41 pm

We got a lot done today.  All the Christmas decorations are put away.  While I was taking the lights off the house I noticed that a limb from the cherry tree had grown over the house.  Some of the branches were rubbing on the shingles, and part of the limb was beginning to damage the gutters.  With the help of the kids to steady the ladder and support the branches, I cut three large-ish limbs off to keep them away from the house.  The longest part of that project was cutting the branches and twigs off the limbs to get them in the garbage can.

On a somewhat sorrowful note, our artificial Christmas tree was thrown away this year.  We got it from Dad and Mom 15 years ago (or more?) after they no longer wanted it.  I remember setting that tree up for the first time when I was still in high school.  It was close to 30 years old.  Sadly, it had finally lost enough needles that it was time to retire it for good.  I wonder if we'll get 30 years out of our next tree?  Somehow, I doubt it…

We watched Narnia today.  That's a fun movie.  We made homemade pizza for dinner, and it was really good.

Bishopric meeting starts at 6:00 am tomorrow, so I mean it when I say I'm heading to bed.

Thankful: This morning the kids were all so cheerful and helpful.  Isaac made muffins almost entirely by himself.  What an amazing kid.  He cheerfully helped unload the dishwasher without being asked.  Everyone else was good too.  It was such a nice way to start the day.

Ministering: I visited with the Trevenen's and Dianna Abramowski as I was working outside.  The weather today was really pleasant, and it was nice to see people.

More later…

Isaac's muffins are ready to go in the oven.

Off to a good start

Dear family,

The first day of 2021 has been just great.  If we could have 364 more days like today, I would be very content.

I hope your day went well and that this year is one of blessings for all of us.

Much love,

Dad

Friday, January 1, 2021
9:15 pm

For not caring about staying up to ring in the new year, I sure was up late last night!  Julie, Abbie, Spencer and I started to play a new game Abbie got for Christmas.  Just as we were ready to start sometime after 11 pm, Neil walked in.  He had been awake in his bed for well over an hour, waiting for the new year to arrive.  So we invited him to join us in the game.  It's called Droll, and it is kind of like Pictionary on dice.  It was fun.  It was well past midnight when we finished snacking and put everyone else in bed.  Today has been a good day.

I slept in until 8:00, made oatmeal and English muffins for breakfast, and cycled some laundry.  Emma, Camilla and I read some books.  In the afternoon we had a summit to determine which movie, if any, we would watch today.  Neil and Isaac wanted to watch Hidden Figures, but the girls wanted Narnia.  We finally decided to watch Hidden Figures today, and Narnia tomorrow.  Even the little girls stayed to watch Hidden Figures.  It gave us a chance to talk about racial injustice, kindness, perseverance, and other attributes.  I appreciate how hopeful that movie is.  Emma said at one point, "I feel happy when people are kind to each other."  (Or something like that.)

I tried a new recipe for Middle East Beans and Rice.  It wasn't bad, but I think it lacked a little depth to the flavor.  Maybe next time I'll sauté some onions with it and serve it as a sauce over the top of rice instead of mixing the rice in with the dish.

Thankful: This morning I started thinking more carefully about what I want to become.  I have no interest in "New Year's Resolutions" that don't last until February, but I am very interested in becoming a better person.  As I pondered on this, one idea came to me: I want to look for and point out the good in others.  I felt good about these ideas and think I'm on the right track.  One other thought I have been pondering on: The closer we come to the Savior, the more clearly we see our own weaknesses and inadequacies.  It's almost paradoxical – the closer we come to Him, the farther away we feel.

Ministering: This afternoon I ministered to my children by going with them to the park to swing.  We stayed until they were all cold and ready to come home.

More later…

It was so cute this morning.  He saw the Christmas tree decorated for our New Year's celebration and said, "WOW!"  

Neil and Isaac played Spy Alley, and decided it would be even more fun if they dressed up to play the part.  Halloween is going to be great!