PAGEANT TIME AGAIN…..

Where has the time gone? It is Pageant time again and actually as I write, we only have a week and a few days left of the Pageant.  It is huge for Nauvoo.  So many people here milling around the streets, bagpipe bands playing, pictures being taken everywhere and an atmosphere of excitement.  People coming from all over the world. I ran into a Jardine here who plays the part of Orson Pratt.  Of course, he is related to Richard in someway, they share the same great grandfather……………but genetically a little different!

He must be 6’5” but very, very nice.

So Nauvoo Does have it’s perks.  The locals are a little put out because you have to actually stop at a corner and may have to wait to let another car pass.  But overall it has to be a big boom for business. In fact, in this little town of Nauvoo I think I have the best hairdresser I have ever had.  Her name is Margaret and she is a fine Catholic.  I am pretty sure that I am helping her to have the best summer business wise in five years!  Being in the zone leadership, I visit all the new missionaries.  I tell them about Margaret.  So When Mom comes to town, I take her to Margaret’s immediately.  Mom needs me at home.

Thanks Margaret for helping me to “TRY” to look my best.  And remember to ALWAYS stop at the corners, Pageant in town or not!

FIVE MILES UNDER THE SPEED LIMIT??????

I think that is a nice way of saying that I am “officially older than dirt!” I am now sixty years old (it looks better spelled out!)………Who knew that this number was even possible? I will be the first to admit that it was really a hard one for me.  I don’t feel old in my mind, but my body seems to be agreeing with the numerical figure. (What figure?)  Well, the alternative isn’t that great either so on I go.  I called and begged my parents to be my birthday present and they graciously consented.  They came in on a Wednesday night and were leaving Friday morning, not enough time for me.  So I begged a little more and they stayed all the way until Saturday morning!  Everything is easier with my folks!  Thank you so much Mom and Dad. They know they are everything to me.  They went to see us in Rendezvous and in Sunset, we drove around, played cards and had a wonderful time.  I loved introducing them to all of my friends here.  The Mission President asked my folks to sit with them on the front row, reserved seating for the elite, and my Mom politely refused!!! What can I say?

I worked in Land and Records that day and had people come in to wish me a Happy Birthday.  The Openshaws being the first.   Then Ruth Wartley came in bearing gifts and from then on it was crazy.  I was being called out every few minutes for someone who was sent to tell me Happy Birthday.  After about the fifth person, that I didn’t know, I got suspicious that someone was sending them, but who?  Elder Oppie had put a sign out on the building that if you went in you were to wish me a Happy Birthday!

What a stinker, but what fun. Sister Nunn, my site leader, brought me cupcakes, which I shared with the band members.

  As they drove away they started playing “Happy Birthday,” and I just bawled.

  I’m pretty sure I cried through this whole day, no I am really sure.  From there Richard took me to Keokuk to eat at an Italian place, which I really like and he doesn’t.  The waitress came over and gave us dessert and had everyone sing.  There were people that had been in L & R that day and knew it was my birthday and paid for my dessert!!!! They thanked us for our service as missionaries.  They said their children had been very touched by the spirit of Nauvoo. Buying dessert for someone, I  thought that only happened in the movies.

It was wonderful and very touching. Richard had an oil painting on canvas by Greg Olsen, sent to the house.  It is the picture of Santa Claus holding the figurine of the Christ Child. The Santa Claus happens to be none other than our own Roger Wise, Elder that Is.  He is the model for all of Greg Olsens’ paintings and I will have it personally autographed!!!! Look for it at my house at Christmas! What a treasure, the picture and Elder Wise!

We drive back to Nauvoo and waiting at my house are about 25 people!

The Openshaws had a surprise party for me.  Decorations everywhere and a huge cake complete with singing.  (Here is where I am crying again.)

Then while everyone is watching me, Richard has me open my present from the children.  What does it contain?  A box that had 94 letters written to me by family and friends.

This is where I am speechless, honored, overcome, humbled and after reading them………………………very blessed.  I started with reading my mother’s and didn’t read anymore in front of people.  I have cried for days as I have gone through this gift that has meant more to me than words can express.  It reminded me of that very old show on TV, “This Is Your Life!”  I can not even begin to relate the feelings I have had as I sit here and relive some of my past relationships and moments.  I have been very blessed and the people that have contributed to who I am are dear, loved and just plain a gift from God.  These people have all been so kind and gracious in their appraisal of me and our memories together, but it is truly I who have been the recipient of all good things. I will cherish each and every sentiment and they and their authors will be stored in the quiet and cherished walls of my heart.  Thank you for giving meaning to the everyday, simple, common traits of who I am……………………………………………………………….. 

So five miles under the speed limit……..I’m still driving,  and oh, what a ride it has been, and will continue to be, until they take away my license!

TENDER MERCY……………FOREVER FRIEND!

I was working at the Post Office yesterday and it was very busy.  Tours were coming one right after the other. I would just finish one and start another one.  This woman walked in and the first thing that I noticed was that she had a very pretty shirt on.  It had bling on it so of course, my eyes immediately went to her shirt.  Then as I looked up I was stunned.  It was Maura Stolk who was my very dear friend from Colorado.  More than dear, she helped me through a lot of emotional trauma in Denver.  I really did love and enjoy her companionship and then she up and moved to California.  She is from California and went back home to the beach.  So, needless to say I have not seen her in probably four years.  There she stood in Old Nauvoo. What did I do, I started to sob. So unlike me I know, but what a tender mercy.  The Lord is always sending me little moments to lift me and remind me that I am loved.  That is what Maura Stolk did for me today. They are moving to Virginia, DC area, and she went out of her way to come and see me for one hour. Who does that??? Only people with an angel’s heart like Maura. She is a forever friend.  Thank you Maura!

Her daughter Keilani was with her and I also got to see Sadie her canine child, waiting for me in the car…………..

I’M LOOKING FOR THIS ONE IN WIKIPEDIA!

We have a new couple here that we really like. They are the Mengels from Rigby, Idaho.  We have had them over a couple of times for dinner and then last night we went on an extracurricular activity!!!! Elder Mengel has really been worried over the Old Nauvoo Burial Grounds.  President Hinckley says that besides the temple, it is the most sacred ground here in Nauvoo.  There are so many  little children buried out there.  Well we know where some of them are specifically buried.  There are 1288 graves, but very few with markers or existing headstones.  So Elder Mengel is taking it upon himself to make a difference.  However, his method would be questionable to some.  He does have the approval of the mission president to give it the good old college try. 

My Daddy would think this was exciting, but he is actually using “divining rods,” to help him.  I thought he was joking until we went out and I actually tried it myself. Now, I am a believer. 

These rods actually come together when you are walking over a grave!  I’m serious, and then they pull back apart!

So we find the grave and Richard using a probe and finding an old headstone.  We don’t have permission to “dig,” but you could tell the stone was there.

Sister Mengel and Jean giving it a try.  This is what we do when we don’t have television.

BROADWAY OR NAUVOO, HERE DELANEY COMES!

I just had to put this cute picture in.  The kids came and watched as we played George and Agatha.  They sat on the front row with looks of amazement on their sweet little faces. Was this their Nonna and Poppa or not? We however must have made some kind of impression because on our way home in the car, Delaney immediately wanted to be Agatha. This is her rendition of climbing the pole.

I surely see the resemblance, or do I just wish she took after me????? Hopefully in my sweeter ways!!!

MEMORIES TO KEEP Me HAPPY THE REST OF MY LIFE………………………………………

Bringing Navie along to Nauvoo was probably one of the smartest things that Jacqui did.  She was such a help with Delaney and so good to pitch in. I love seeing cousins loving one another and making bonds that will last through eternity………………………

VOCAL POINT IN CAPITAL LETTERS!

So to my understanding Taryn, Navie, and Shea have not noticed that boys are different than girls (yet.) I mean they haven’t paid them much attention other than to think that brothers can sometimes be annoying.  Until Nauvoo!!! We happened to have Vocal Point from BYU performing for two weeks here and they all visited during that time.  Vocal Point competed and were in the top five on the “Sing-Off,” on TV.   They were darling and so talented and boy did my little girls love them.  I actually took the girls back the second night with CD’s in hand and permanent markers to have them sign.  I loved watching them and talk about brave, they marched right up on the stage and even had their pictures taken with them.  We debated upon the cuteness of each one and they all picked out a favorite.  Taryn’s favorite Scotty, happens to live right down the hill from her.  Who Knew?  Anyway girls, thanks for letting me make such a sweet memory with you and always look for a boy as good as these.  Love Nonna!

Taryn’s favorite, Scotty…………………………………….

Kelly, get your guns ready……………………………….


Navie’s favorite, can you tell?

THE WORLD NEEDS PIONEERS TODAY……COUNSEL FROM OUR PROPHET

In Nauvoo I have learned many lessons.  One of the most important ones is that of following the prophet.  These people in Nauvoo gave up everything to follow the counsel of Joseph Smith and then Brigham Young.  Everything! So many sacrifices that were not understood at that time, so many trials, so much hardship, so very many tragedies and deprivations..  I wish that they could see themselves from my perspective here.  I work in Land and Records a great deal and I love it.  I get to work with histories all day long and with people who come here to connect with these people and their “own” history.  It is humbling to see people internalize what their early family did.  When I get to express gratitude for their forefathers who never gave up and for them as well, who remain faithful to the Gospel, I am touched and many times overwhelmed with my life and the peace that I have because I know who my Heavenly Father is and I know that He loves me.  BECAUSE THESE PEOPLE DID NOT GIVE UP, THEY REMAINED FAITHFUL AMIDST ADVERSITY.

A dictionary defines a pioneer as “one who goes before to prepare or open up the way for others to follow.”³ Can we somehow muster the courage and steadfastness of purpose that characterized the pioneers of a former generation? Can you and I, in actual fact, be pioneers? (President Monson)
We will all leave a legacy for those who follow us.  I hope one day my children and grandchildren will be able to “see,” my faith, my testimony and that it will give them the faith to continue on during life.  “ALL IS WELL, ALL IS WELL.”

 

The World Needs Pioneers Today

By President Thomas S. Monson

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The World Needs Pioneers Today

For many, the pioneer trek of 1847 didn’t begin at Nauvoo, Kirtland, Far West, or New York but rather in distant England, Scotland, Scandinavia, or Germany. Tiny children could not fully comprehend the dynamic faith that motivated their parents to leave behind family, friends, comfort, and security. 
A little one might ask, “Mommy, why are we leaving home? Where are we going?”
“Come along, precious one; we’re going to Zion, the city of our God.”
Between the safety of home and the promise of Zion stood the angry and treacherous waters of the mighty Atlantic. Who can recount the fear that gripped the human heart during those perilous crossings? Prompted by the silent whisperings of the Spirit, sustained by a simple yet abiding faith, those pioneer Saints trusted in God and set sail on their journey.
They finally reached Nauvoo only to set out again to face hardships on the trail. Tombstones of sage and rock marked graves the entire route from Nauvoo to Salt Lake City. Such was the price some pioneers paid. Their bodies are buried in peace, but their names live on evermore.
Tired oxen lumbered, wagon wheels squeaked, brave men toiled, war drums sounded, and coyotes howled. But the faith-inspired and storm-driven pioneers pressed on. Often they sang:
Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;
But with joy wend your way.
Though hard to you this journey may appear,
Grace shall be as your day. …
All is well! All is well!¹
These pioneers remembered the words of the Lord: “My people must be tried in all things, that they may be prepared to receive the glory that I have for them, even the glory of Zion.”²
The passage of time dims our memories and diminishes our appreciation for those who walked the path of pain, leaving behind a tear-marked trail of nameless graves. But what of today’s challenges? Are there no rocky roads to travel, no rugged mountains to climb, no chasms to cross, no trails to blaze, no rivers to ford? Or is there a very present need for that pioneer spirit to guide us away from the dangers that threaten to engulf us and to lead us to a Zion of safety?
In the decades since the end of World War II, standards of morality have lowered again and again. Crime spirals upward; decency careens downward. Many are on a giant roller coaster of disaster, seeking the thrills of the moment while sacrificing the joys of eternity. Thus we forfeit peace.
We forget how the Greeks and Romans prevailed magnificently in a barbaric world and how that triumph ended—how a slackness and softness finally overcame them to their ruin. In the end, more than they wanted freedom, they wanted security and a comfortable life; and they lost all—comfort and security and freedom.
Do not yield to Satan’s enticements; rather, stand firm for truth. The unsatisfied yearnings of the soul will not be met by a never-ending quest for joy amidst the thrills of sensation and vice. Vice never leads to virtue. Hate never promotes love. Cowardice never gives courage. Doubt never inspires faith.
Some find it difficult to withstand the mockings and unsavory remarks of foolish ones who ridicule chastity, honesty, and obedience to God’s commands. But the world has ever belittled adherence to principle. When Noah was instructed to build an ark, the foolish populace looked at the cloudless sky and then scoffed and jeered—until the rain came.
Must we learn such costly lessons over and over again? Times change, but truth persists. When we fail to profit from the experiences of the past, we are doomed to repeat them with all their heartache, suffering, and anguish. Haven’t we the wisdom to obey Him who knows the beginning from the end—our Lord, who designed the plan of salvation—rather than that serpent, who despised its beauty?
A dictionary defines a pioneer as “one who goes before to prepare or open up the way for others to follow.”³ Can we somehow muster the courage and steadfastness of purpose that characterized the pioneers of a former generation? Can you and I, in actual fact, be pioneers?

I DIG NAUVOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now that’s a catchy phrase and I have the arm bracelet to prove it!  We have been so blessed to have our children visit us while we have been here on this mission!  What a great opportunity for us and hopefully for them as well.  I am praying that there are many tender mercies for their sacrifice in time, effort, and money to come and see us.  While the Conroys  and the Williams’ were here, we had the opportunity to do some “archaeological” digs.  They have been looking for the foundation to the original log cabin that belonged to Lucky Mack and Joseph Smith Sr.  So, we got to go dig around in the dirt!!! (I have always had an aversion to dirty fingernails, but this was well worth the cost.) Most of the kids found pieces of pottery, old transfer ware dishes etc.  I found one particular piece and the head dude told me to put  it on my tongue (: If it stuck to my tongue it was porous bone, if it slid off it was something else.  It stuck to my tongue…… It’s not worth thinking about too deeply.  But all in all, we had a great time and how many people can say they helped find an 1840’s house in Nauvoo??? We can!!!!

Thanks Jerianne for the pictures!  Where was my camera?

BLOGGING BLITZ!!!!!

It seems as though I have such a long time between entries, I am anxious about forgetting really important stuff!! But I am honestly posting whenever I have a minute, and the summer isn’t time for minutes.  I just returned from serving in the Post Office today and during my 6 hour shift we had over 45 tours!!! The Pageant started last night and so this town is literally inundated with people.  It will be this way until after the second week of August and so onward and upward, or get trampled!!!! It is beautiful in Nauvoo right now, with all of the rain and the temperature, you can honestly see things grow right before your eyes.  That includes the lawns which we mow ourselves and being as we have widows next door, guess what that means……we try and get that done when we return from Sunset at 8:30 at night. I’d like a nap but will go on to my next entry……We had training today by Mark Lusvarde whom I have mentioned before.  He is amazing, speaking with not a note.  He challenged us today to begin our tours with a question and a challenge.  I did it.  We talk in the Post Office about how hard, costly, unreliable, and time consuming it was to try and communicate with one another in the 1800’s, yet how very important it would have been.  I have been homesick again knowing that my family has been together in Kansas City.  I have thought about them a lot and just think if I had been here and left my family, maybe to never communicate with them again!!! With the availability  of Skype, phones, texting, mail, e-mails, etc., we are certainly blessed.  My challenge today is to consider The Person with whom no device is needed to communicate with.  Do I put as much effort and thought and feeling into speaking with Him as one of these hard come by pioneer letters, or am I apt to just send Him a text? I have challenged people all day with this question, and so I give this challenge to myself as well. It is certainly something for me to ponder……………………………………