(This is a letter written to my dear friend Margaret Arnold--she and Ned, husband, are serving as full-time missionaries/ Executive Secretaries to the Area Presidency in Hong Kong)

Oh Margaret,

What a beautiful, peaceful way to spend my Sunday afternoon reading and picturing your life in Hong Kong--what an experience/s to remember! As I've said many times before, "it's the next best thing to being there." I especially loved viewing your church office bldg, doorway to your apartment bldg and coveting the foot massages!! It is all so interesting. What a beautiful and cultural city/country. Oh, how I hope to go there one day with a special guide such as yourself! Do you think I'll live that long.

Your children and grandchildren are spectacularly beautiful. What a wonderful gift to have each of them visit you while serving your mission. Surely, they helped the home and family laments you must have felt at times.

I just put Steve on a plane to Dallas, TX, to hopefully assist Janie and Mark's big move to Provo. Unfortunately, their McKinney, TX, home sale fell through last Monday (family out-of-state put earnest money down but couldn't secure a loan), and they are back to 'square one.' What a disappointment; most of their personal and moving plans had gone smoothly. Janie returned home from 5 days at Stake girls' camp as Stake Camp Director at 1:30 AM and 30 ward members showed up at 6:00 to assist in packing the ABS truck. To add 'insult to injury,' all of their belongings wouldn't fit on the truck, so they have rented the largest U-Haul, and will load the residual of their belongings in it. Mark will drive it (with a trailer behind with one of the cars on boards) and Steve will drive their 15 passenger van (and hopefully Janie will sleep and receive strength and laughter from her father). Because of serious exhaustion and coming home from camp to find out their home is not sold and all belongings didn't make it on the truck, I guess she had a meltdown for a few minutes! Hurray for Janie--she is usually as strong as the Rock of Gibraltar! She can now go forward and face her Goliaths'! Unfortunately, this means Steve and Janie (Mark had sold his practice, released as being Bishop last Sunday) will begin painting and giving the home an additional face lift now that the house is empty (shows more deficits when furniture isn't there to hide then). She and Mark have really been through it the past few months, but they are keeping their eye on the goal and Mark's---lifetime dream---to teach at BYU!!! When she flew up in May to house search, she couldn't find one that "felt right," so she returned home 'empty-handed. One week later, Steve and I found a 45 year-old home in Indian Hills, Provo, not far from BYU campus they will be leasing, split-level (which she didn't' want but was all that was available). Of course, she's never seen it but happy to have some place to 'light' (one year lease). Now we know why it didn't feel right (wouldn't have had the money for the down payment). Unfortunately, they'll have double house payments until the TX house sells--they also needed the money out of the house for family reunion (2 weeks away) transporting kids and wedding reception. Anyway, is your head spinning with all these minute details! I told her I would help with the McKinney reception decor (tables, etc.) night after the wedding (being married in Houston on Friday). One blessing is they'll be here and all of working together will help pull this off! Aren't families wonderful?

How are you feeling, Margaret? You don't respond to this question, so I'm worried the heat and humidity and rigorous schedule might have taken its toll (all missions do this, I think). Thank you for sharing visuals of your handiwork (beautiful gift baskets for the G.A's)--you are the best! If you have a minute, I would love to hear about your menus and food selections you prepared. I have it a bit easier--just phone the Lion House and JSMB and order from their menu selections, etc. and COB florist for their spectacular floral arrangements (I'm sure nothing like Hong Kong). This Wednesday, the Audiovisual administration (David Nielson, 8 Directors and myself) are hosting a 'farewell' luncheon for Elder C. Scott Grow and Elder Craig C. Christensen who have been assigned to other responsibilities at the COB (Elder Sybrowsky remains on the EDM Committee). Elder Grow (former finance specialist will be assigned to the auditing area for the church and restoration of blessings and Elder Christensen to the Priesthood Committee. How beloved these men are to me as I've sat in weekly meetings with the three of them and David, taking minutes, and hearing the 'musings' of their hearts and the inner workings of the church. How blessed I feel. As farewell gifts, we had 2 clocks made from old-fashioned movie reels with film tape cascading down, and small, brass name plates engraved and affixed as a special memento of our love and appreciation. June is a huge month for training the new General Authorities and last Wednesday, David, Elder Grow and Christensen trained 7 new ones, e.g. Elders Richards, Foster, Ringwood, Satati, Mazzardi, Uceda most of the day (with me taking minutes)! What a thrill, once again. There's a long and funny story there which I will save for later.

Anyway, enough of all that. I just wish to know and understand one day why we are placed where we are other that this point in time (even disregarding age, etc.) than willing hearts to assist in building the kingdom on this earth in some small way. I feel humbled, Margaret. Thank you for allowing me to share some of this as no one else would really understand. Won't we have wonderful tales to tell when you come home. Oh, how you are missed.


It's time for me to get studying for next week's gospel doctrine lesson--how I love (even crave at times) studying the scriptures and having the Holy Ghost in attendance. This will be a most unusual Sabbath with Steve gone and Jen and Christy and families in Moab bicycling. We're gearing up for our family reunion in Yellowstone in two weeks--all will be there except Chip, Liz and precious 5 children. They are in transit to N.C. to begin his new phase of army life. On with the show!!!!!

Joshua and Likening the Scriptures to Our Lives

Today is Sunday, Mary 23, 2010. As Gospel Doctrine teacher in River Second Ward, it is my privilege to study in-depthly prescribed scriptures-this year it is the Old Testament. it is surely more than an ancient book with a series of bedtime, moral stories--we are to 'liken the scriptures to our lives" and thus this has been my quest as each day, I meditate and prepare daily upon God's words. In my study and research of the Book of Joshua, I was impressed that time and time again, the Lord warned first Moses, then Joshua to "be strong and be of good courage." A timely message for that era and for today. Is there anyone who doesn't need this message? We are promised that He "will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." What great strength and brightness for future! All He asks is that keep his commandments, marry in the covenant and not worship other gods. The israelites response that "all that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. The reward is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man."

Interestingly, my patriarchal blessing warns/states that I should proclaim to all that "as for me and my house, we will always serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). We are to 'fear' (honor) the Lord and serve him in sincerity and "incline your heart unto the Lord God of Israel." May we always be witnesses of His love, of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, and the special gift of the Holy Ghost.

I say this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Mother's Day, 2010

Today was a very special Sabbath, Mother's Day 2010. I had the privilege, once again, of teaching Gospel Doctrine in the River 2nd Ward, South Jordan Stake, South Jordan, UT. Sacrament meeting was special in that four Laurels were asked to speak on motherhood. Especially impressive were Elise Christensen and Hannah Degn--valiant and outstanding young women in our ward--so bright and sensitive to the Spirit. My gospel doctrine lesson focused on the fallen Midianite prophet Balaam who loved the wealth and riches of the world rather than following God's promptings and advice. He desired to have one foot in the world and one foot in the Kingdom--it just didn't work! He eventually lost his eternal salvation and his life!

Gordon, Marty and Steve hosted a lovely dinner at the Watkins home--Christy made chick divan, accompanied by Caesar salad, Rhodes rolls by Gordon, white cake topped with fresh fruit by Megan Larsen and Steve whipped up some red sauce and boiled shrimp for appetizers plus orange jello salad full of mandarine oranges and frozen peaches. Yum! Yum!

Best of all was that I heard from all our children from all over the US (I talked to Carrie for 2 1/2 hours last Saturday) whom i wished a happy mother's day to daughters and wives of our sons. How blessed we are to have such valiant children who love the Lord and are working incessently to follow the Lord's commandments. How I love them one and all.

"A Night to Remember"

Dear Children and Friends,

Thursday night, May 29, 2010, Dad and I (plus Christy, Jacob, Megan, Cougar, Mike and his Jacob) experienced an incredible evening of historian David McCullough (John Adams, 1776, Truman, etc. author), Mormon Tab Choir, Elder Eyring (in rare, personal and humorous form) at "A Celebration of Family History" concert sponsored by the Church at the Conference Center (part of the National Genealogical Society Convention). All were moving and outstanding. David McCullough ad libbed for 55 minutes (Matt, you would have been in heaven) and when the choir sang "Amazing Grace" accompanied by Scottish bagpipers (same musician was in one of the videos stressing importance of leaving a legacy for your children), a wave came over the entire audience (Holy Ghost). All immediately stood and gave a rousing standing ovation. What a thrill!! I feel so honored to have attended and to be in a 'right place at the right time' to have received these tickets.

Then, last night at our Saturday evening session of Stake Conference, we had a most unusual theme. The two hours was focused on the importance of 'social networking' with our children/grandchildren to 'stay connected' with them (you know how I hate texting and Facebooking as I feel it is a waste of time) primarily through the avenue of the internet and specifically "Mormom Messages." President Sohm began by sharing highlights of personal 'requirements' for youth 100 years ago (like keep a beehive, kill 25 flies a day, etc) to the 1960's like 'not dance too closely, etc. to today concerning the ills of pornography, sexual promiscuity, etc. Then, he gave personal examples of how difficult it is to have a meaningful monthly FHE's because he and his wife have 10 grandchildren under 7, and it's always chaotic with children crying, wanting to sing "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree" which causes even more chaos. We've all been there and know what what he speaks of! Anyway, since being employed in the audiovisual department and having the rare privilege of sitting in meetings with the Managing Director and the Brethren and taking minutes of their many discussions of MM's, I have had the special opportunity to observe (and feel by the Spirit) the singular mandate and power of these Mormon Messages to reach hearts and homes around the world (member and non-member as the Church has a You Tube Channel they are broadcast on as well as now a Twitter channel). The Mormon Messages are produced about every 2 weeks (as well as Mormon Messages for Youth) and Elder Scott, Elder Bednar, Bishp McMullin and Elders Grow, Christensen and Sybrowsky (of the 70's) give specific comments for improvements before publishing them on YouTube and lds.org. (Trista, Garin Granata is over Mormon Messages for Youth--did you know that?). Anyway, I recommend that each of you use these as a vital and important tool. By the way, coming shortly, on lds.org, there will be a button affixed to each mormon message that will be 'downloadable' to use segments of it in your personal videos you wish to make, use for lessons, etc. (some will never be available because of intellectual property issues).

This Work is rolling forth as never before and the audiovisual department of the Church is playing a HUGE part of it!! I'm humbled and blessed to be there to be a first-hand witness that the Lord is in control and His Work will never fail although there will be a few bumps in the road.

God bless you all. Love, Mom

There's "Conference" in the air!!

We're on the countdown here at the Church Office Building, better known as the COB--3 days away from the opening session of General Conference. The city square block of Temple Square is alive with visitors, members, General Authorities, vendors, gardeners, children, etc. Because I work in the audiovisual department of the Church, we have an integral part of making General Conference work, to say the least. I am privileged to act as Administrative Assistant to David C. Nielson, Managing Director of the Audiovisual Department and a genius, to say the least.

I feel so privileged to be in the 'know' of so much that is happening to move His Work forward throughout the world--what a blessing and a responsibility. Tomorrow, the AV department is hosting a luncheon in the Ambassador room of the Joseph Smith Memorial Bldg for 15 of the Area International Presidencies, plus Elder C. Scott Grow and Elder Craig C. Christensen (both of the 1st Quorum of 70), Elder Paul Sybrowsky and 6 Area AV Support Managers. What fun to plan the menu and flowers and execute this 1 hour event. It's awfully easy when I'm not expected to cook, decorate, clean up, etc. David will be updating the Area Presidencies as to all audiovisual media available to them and that which is to come!! Exciting stuff!!

Happy Easter to one and all! Love, Lola

Christmas, 2009--Catchup...

So much as happened these past few months, yet there never seems to be adequate time to write the events and feelings of my heart. Let me list a few since last May...

1.) Steve's major foot surgery occurred January 8, 2009 and it wasn't until the middle of August when he could wear two 'matching' shoes. Nine titanium screws and one drill bit later, his is walking upright, without a roller scooter, crutches or cane! Hurray! He walks slowly but that's because of his heart problem and lack of energy. Since then, he now has a church job as assistant ward clerk (in charge of the Sunday program) and assisting the bishop with other responsibilities.

2.) Lola completed her Church-service mission in the Church-service Missionary Department on November 8, 2009. It was 'quite a ride,' one which I will never forget. Eternal friendships and associations were made there which was the frosting on the cake! I loved the secretarial responsibilities and knowing that perhaps I helped further the Lord's work in some small way.

3.) Primarily because of the downturn of the American economy with no real estate work on the horizon (and because we need to eat), Lola threw her hat into the ring and applied for church employment despite the fact that the church has been on a 'hiring freeze' since last November 2008. Several opportunities occurred which seemed interesting and inviting, while in the meantime I worked as a "secretary on-call' for 3 different departments, including the Riverton Office Bldg. and Intellectual Properties Dept. However, 3 weeks ago, I substituted in the audiovisual department for one day at which time I became acquainted with Julie Merrill, Human Relations Director for that department. She invited me to submit my resume for an "senior secretary" position that had just become available that day; actually, she did more than this. She invited me into her office, shared with me some of the responsibilities of this position, showed me the wage chart, etc. and basically encouraged me to apply! I did so, was invited to interview the next week by herself and John Linton; two days later, I interviewed with Dan Isaac and another director. At that interview, my cell phone rang; embarrassed, I hurriedly "ended' the call without looking from whom the call came; ironically, after I left the second interview, I returned the call and it was Pat Viehweg telling me that my dad, Grandy, had just passed away (December 8, 2009). The entire week was bitter-sweet. Between this event and the third interview with David Nielson, Managing Director of the Audiovisual department, my soon-to-be boss and the funeral arrangements, 6 of our eight children arriving from out-of-town, funeral service and Dad's burial in Clifton, Idaho, the week was a whirlwind. My first day on the job was Monday, December 14, 2009 and I've complete 2 weeks. However, I was immediately advanced to "Executive Secretary" rather than Senior Secretary which will be filled by another individual. I'm overwhelmed and stunned by the confidence and encouragement of not only July Merrill, but others in the department. Let me mention, that several times Julie stated flatly, "we prayed you here." "You are just what this department needs!" I am flattered but mostly humbled by this vote of confidence, and pray that I can measure up to the new responsibilities and assignments (most of which I've never performed before). The only assets I feel I am bringing to the job are a hard work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to excellence. The Lord will need to 'take over the rest' because I feel so inadequate; however, I do have a deep desire to magnify my calling and to further His Work in any ways asked.

4.) Concerning my father's death on October 8, Heavenly Father blessed our lives in that we were able to be with him the night before his death. Monday, October 7, Louise Florence, my twin sister, flew into SLC from Houston preparatory to her major tooth surgery. Fred Goff, Wayne Jr. and Steve anointed Dad and gave him a priesthood blessing. In that blessing, Wayne Jr. blessed Dad that he would have a good night's sleep and rest peacefully and that there were angels, beloved family members and friends on the other "side" awaiting his return. Ironically, the next day he passed away. We buried him near his parents in the Clifton, Idaho, cemetery. We traveled about 4 hours to this site; Quentin Viehweg gave the graveside prayer and then the 'lights went out" (it was 5:00 PM and it immediately became dark). We quickly left for home. What a bitter-sweet week it was, but one to long remember.

5.) Currently, Steve is serving as an assistant ward clerk for the River Second Ward, Jordan River Stake and I am one of the gospel doctrine teachers and we both serve as temple preparedness teachers. How we love our ward members and teaching the gospel.

6.) Of note, Christmas eve 2009 was spent at Jen and Gordon's home enjoying a candlelight, formal dinner. Christy donated a delicious ham and I cooked funeral potatoes, chocolate pies, and prepared two salads, e.g spinach salad and "perfection salad." Our feast was followed by a reading called "My First Christmas in Heaven" (we all thought of Grandy) sent to me by Wayne Jr., the children enacting the "first nativity" and then playing Christmas songs on our homemade chimes (Christmas gift from 2008). Linda Herrington enjoyed the evening with us and spent the night. We opened gifts the next morning and all traveled to Christy and Marty's home and enjoying a Christmas morning of hot scones and ham. Sam and Jacob opened their abundance of gifts. Linda had to return home by 1:00 PM to go to work at Continental Airlines. Later that afternoon, we returned to the Watkins for a birthday dinner for Sam Jr who turned a glorious 16 years!

7.) Saturday, December 26 was spend preparing and carrying off Sammy's 16th birthday ice skating and friend party at Noah's reception center. about 50-70 of his friends attended. Steve prepared delicious chili and Christy provided all the trimmings, birthday cake, balloons, hot chocolate, dips, chips, etc. A grand time was had by all!

8.) In conclusion, I wish to express my gratitude to my Heavenly Father first and foremost for His watchful care over our family, especially Janie and Mark and children's save 45 hour road trip from the BYU Las Vegas Bowl game to their home in McKinney, TX. Truly, their lives were spared and they were blessed. Also, I am grateful for the birth, life and atonement of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. How I love and adore Him, also. Also, I am especially grateful for my dear husband, children and grandchildren. We love them so dearly. Additionally, I am humbled to have the opportunity for the personal growth by studying the scriptures daily, especially the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants this past year. May I ever have this insatiable love for the scriptures where truth and God's Word is found. Also, I love America and am concerned about our liberties that are being eroded by divisive and evil and designing men. May we live true to God's truths and commandments and be found worth at the last day to enter His presence.

It's been toooooo long!

A LABOR OF LOVE FOR MY GRANDDAUGHTERS....

Easter was fast approaching and my creative voice was calling for me to sew up a few skirts (17 in total) for the younger granddaughters. See attached. What fun! I hope they have as much wearing them as I had sewing them!