4 June 1978 Sunday
Today was another beautiful day. Also a Fast Sunday and the warm weather didn’t help my thirst any, but fasting is a great principle and can be a great help. We stayed in and worked on reports most of this morning and at 11:00 we had a district leaders seminar in Brussel with the ZL’s. Those meetings can be real great and a help in our work.
The meetings were also great, especially fast & testimoney meeting. The spirit was real strong, it is too bad we didn’t have any investigators there. I really love being built up by the spirit like that. We had a good roasted chicken cooked by Elder Tibbetts, but his dressing didn’t work so great.
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Missionary Journal - 3 June 1978 Zaterdag
3 June 1978 Zaterdag
Today wasn’t quite as hot as it has been but it was definately warm. We also had a real hard time to teach today. Our one and only appointment left a note on their door saying:
“Mijn Heer Elder Reber & Elder Leavitt, Familie Ver Leysen kunnen niet thuis zijn wegens anvoorzien omstandigheden”
[My Lords Elder Reber & Elder Leavitt, the VerLeysen family are unable to be home due to unforeseen circumstances]
In other words they couldn’t be home. In one of our areas today they had a small fair (kermis) which was quite neat. There weren’t a lot of people, but everyone had their houses all decorated and flags hanging up. It looked quite sharp.
This morning as were were walking through the markt an ambulance came driving through all the people and we didn’t think very much about it, but when we got further, they walked by us carrying a young lady on a stretcher. She was quite unconcious and real white. We overheard people saying that she had fainted or somehtiung of the sort. I think she worked in one of the stands. Well after a lot of working, we finally decided to go see if we could teach Mr. Suelze anything (an old investigator that we had dropped). We talked a lot, this time mostly about profets, but I don’t think we taught him anything. He isn’t at all open for new ideas. He is trying to get us on the straight & narrow path I think.
Today wasn’t quite as hot as it has been but it was definately warm. We also had a real hard time to teach today. Our one and only appointment left a note on their door saying:
“Mijn Heer Elder Reber & Elder Leavitt, Familie Ver Leysen kunnen niet thuis zijn wegens anvoorzien omstandigheden”
[My Lords Elder Reber & Elder Leavitt, the VerLeysen family are unable to be home due to unforeseen circumstances]
In other words they couldn’t be home. In one of our areas today they had a small fair (kermis) which was quite neat. There weren’t a lot of people, but everyone had their houses all decorated and flags hanging up. It looked quite sharp.
This morning as were were walking through the markt an ambulance came driving through all the people and we didn’t think very much about it, but when we got further, they walked by us carrying a young lady on a stretcher. She was quite unconcious and real white. We overheard people saying that she had fainted or somehtiung of the sort. I think she worked in one of the stands. Well after a lot of working, we finally decided to go see if we could teach Mr. Suelze anything (an old investigator that we had dropped). We talked a lot, this time mostly about profets, but I don’t think we taught him anything. He isn’t at all open for new ideas. He is trying to get us on the straight & narrow path I think.
Monday, October 27, 2025
Trunk or Treat
Monday, October 27, 2025
While I am completely sympathetic with and supportive of the Bishop, it is odd that we go to church and celebrate witches, devils, skeletons, ghosts and vampires, I was also a bit dissappointed that I might not get to wear my Dumbledor outfit. I am supportive of the bishop, but I was glad that the “Fall Festival” morphed into the “Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat” night.
It was a very fun night and I sampled three different chili recipes. They were all very good and went perfectly with Peter Odenwalders home made root beer. I even found one of my Hogwarts students there.
A while back we were in Arizona and Lisa and Kira were checking out some thrift stores. Lisa saw a dress that she figured would make the perfect Professor Trelawny costume for Halloween so that is what we did for Halloween this year. That plan was set, I was going to be Professor Dumbledor and Lisa was going to be Professor Trelawny.
The ward “trunk or treat” was Saturday night. The Bishop is not a big fan of Halloween and last year he suggested that we change it to a “Fall Festival” and get rid of the Halloween portion. That went over like a lead balloon.
It was a very fun night and I sampled three different chili recipes. They were all very good and went perfectly with Peter Odenwalders home made root beer. I even found one of my Hogwarts students there.
--------------------trivia--------------------
Across all locations—and regardless of access to artificial light—participants slept less and took longer to fall asleep in the nights leading up to a full moon. The researchers think this may reflect an ancient adaptation: When the moon was brightest, our ancestors likely stayed up later to hunt, socialize, or work by natural light.
----------------------------------------------
Friday, October 24, 2025
Mission Journal - 2 June 1978 Friday
2 June 1978 Friday
We sure did work hard to teach today. We haven’t done very good this week and also I guess I haven’t done so real great as leader.
Monday when we went to Brussel. We wanted to leave early so we said we would have our companionship inventory (where we make goals among other things) until that afternoon. Well, just like a lot of things that we postponse, it doesn’t get done. Maybe that is why we have had a hard time teaching. This morning we held one [companionship inventory] (better late than never).
We taught Mw. Monique today, also we visited Mw (Zuster) Van Campenhout. She told us that she wanted to try & get a testimoney of the gospel before Elder Reber went home. She really has a lot of work esp. since she is in a hospital. Zuster De Siddert has been really great to her & worote her a letter already. Tonight we had to teach (we are low on hours) but all our appointments fell through. CB’s [call backs] weren’t home but just when we had one hour left in which to teach, we got in on a CB. The people were real fiendly but don’t want to hear any more. They are Catholic & just interested to know who we were. The Lord did help us to teach though.
We sure did work hard to teach today. We haven’t done very good this week and also I guess I haven’t done so real great as leader.
Monday when we went to Brussel. We wanted to leave early so we said we would have our companionship inventory (where we make goals among other things) until that afternoon. Well, just like a lot of things that we postponse, it doesn’t get done. Maybe that is why we have had a hard time teaching. This morning we held one [companionship inventory] (better late than never).
We taught Mw. Monique today, also we visited Mw (Zuster) Van Campenhout. She told us that she wanted to try & get a testimoney of the gospel before Elder Reber went home. She really has a lot of work esp. since she is in a hospital. Zuster De Siddert has been really great to her & worote her a letter already. Tonight we had to teach (we are low on hours) but all our appointments fell through. CB’s [call backs] weren’t home but just when we had one hour left in which to teach, we got in on a CB. The people were real fiendly but don’t want to hear any more. They are Catholic & just interested to know who we were. The Lord did help us to teach though.
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Mission Journal - 1 June 1978 Thursday
1 June 1978 Thursday
I’m starting to thing [think] we live in a desert here except that everything is real damp. It was hot again today. We could only teach once today. We had an apppointment with Mw Monique but she had a friend there and we couldn’t teach. Last Tues she showed us a note that she had gotton in their Post Box. I guess someone didn’t like the fact that she sees us, so they wrote her a note saying that she had to repent or else be damned. It wasn’t very nice.
Mr Blommaert had to take his car to the garage because of a flat tire so we couldn’t teach him. We did pick up a new familie today, no one was home at an appointment we had made with a lady for an G.A. [gospel timeline?] but we tried later and taught the man. He was quite interested so we made an appt. To hold a Family Home Evening. He has a broken leg plus torn ligaments, he says it will never be the same but he is going to work to get it as close as possible to that.
In the area where we are tracting we are sure making a lot of friends. Everyone sits out on thier step enjoying the sun so we talk to a lot of people, but as of yet, we haven’t taught a lot of them. I sure do have a hard time teaching on my week. Also, I don’t get very many letters anymore I guess because in the last while I haven’t written many. I never did get very many, but this week I’ve only gotten one from my mother. Last week also. Mothers are sure sweet.
I’m starting to thing [think] we live in a desert here except that everything is real damp. It was hot again today. We could only teach once today. We had an apppointment with Mw Monique but she had a friend there and we couldn’t teach. Last Tues she showed us a note that she had gotton in their Post Box. I guess someone didn’t like the fact that she sees us, so they wrote her a note saying that she had to repent or else be damned. It wasn’t very nice.
Mr Blommaert had to take his car to the garage because of a flat tire so we couldn’t teach him. We did pick up a new familie today, no one was home at an appointment we had made with a lady for an G.A. [gospel timeline?] but we tried later and taught the man. He was quite interested so we made an appt. To hold a Family Home Evening. He has a broken leg plus torn ligaments, he says it will never be the same but he is going to work to get it as close as possible to that.
In the area where we are tracting we are sure making a lot of friends. Everyone sits out on thier step enjoying the sun so we talk to a lot of people, but as of yet, we haven’t taught a lot of them. I sure do have a hard time teaching on my week. Also, I don’t get very many letters anymore I guess because in the last while I haven’t written many. I never did get very many, but this week I’ve only gotten one from my mother. Last week also. Mothers are sure sweet.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Mission Journal - 31 May 1978 Wednesday
31 May 1978 Wednesday
We are sure having a hard time teaching this week. We started out good, but today we got skunked. We couldn’t teach anyone. We had three appointments and a good call back but no one was home. Some of our appointments were on one end of Vilvoorde & then one clear on the other side. Oh! Yesterday we visited Zuster Van Campenhout in the hospital.She is doing alright. She also has pretty nurses. Today was another real hot day.
We are sure having a hard time teaching this week. We started out good, but today we got skunked. We couldn’t teach anyone. We had three appointments and a good call back but no one was home. Some of our appointments were on one end of Vilvoorde & then one clear on the other side. Oh! Yesterday we visited Zuster Van Campenhout in the hospital.She is doing alright. She also has pretty nurses. Today was another real hot day.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Mission Journal - 30 May 1978 Tuesday
30 May 1978 Tuesday
Today we found a lot of success. This morning we tracted in Kassei. The weather is unbelievably warm for me. Last week I froze and this week I cook. I guess I complain too much. Someone said that it got to around 30°C today. I would guess it was about the same yesterday in Brussel.
We had four appointments, but the one with Heyndels didn’t go through. We taught Mw. Monique, Mr Mornie (our Priest) he reads in the B of M and prays about it. He is a real religious person. “Whoops” I goofed! Yesterday when I said we taught Walter; that was wrong, that appointment didn’t go through so what [I] said happened then, actually happened today. Also Elder Rebers bike broke today so we let a guy fix it while walked half of the day. That is much more of a problem when you live ¾ of a mile from where you work, also some of appointmens were that far apart. Or farther.
Today we found a lot of success. This morning we tracted in Kassei. The weather is unbelievably warm for me. Last week I froze and this week I cook. I guess I complain too much. Someone said that it got to around 30°C today. I would guess it was about the same yesterday in Brussel.
We had four appointments, but the one with Heyndels didn’t go through. We taught Mw. Monique, Mr Mornie (our Priest) he reads in the B of M and prays about it. He is a real religious person. “Whoops” I goofed! Yesterday when I said we taught Walter; that was wrong, that appointment didn’t go through so what [I] said happened then, actually happened today. Also Elder Rebers bike broke today so we let a guy fix it while walked half of the day. That is much more of a problem when you live ¾ of a mile from where you work, also some of appointmens were that far apart. Or farther.
Monday, October 20, 2025
Mission Journal - 29 May 1978 Monday
29 May 1978 Monday
Boy was it hot today. We got everything done real quick this morning and then headed to Brussel. We saw a lot of things today. Brussel is a real beautiful city. We saw some parks, a place with a lot of statues, also a real pretty archway which was real big. I also went to “MacDConalds” and had a real milk shake and a big Mac. That was great, as far as I know it was even real but it has been a while since I had one so I don’t know for sure. This “MacDonalds” was just opened and is the only one in Belgium. It is also quite expensive.
Tonight we taught Walter but this time we also taught his mother. She sure doesn’t believe in much. Only what she can see and feel. She is real friendly though. Walter is a little more religous but he won’t admit it.
After them we went to Erdekens. That “Walter” was late getting home so we were late beginning but then Mr Erdekens came in also. He listened for awhile as we explained a bit about eternal marriage.
We left shortly after and hadn’t given a real discussion but we had shared important and interesting information. Walter works for a post office and is going to get me some stamps for a collection. We then tried some other CB’s [call backs] and people we knew & then went to an appointment which was with a single lady who we have seen. She works in Nopri which is the super market where we shop. We had a pretty good discussion but she isn’t very religious.
Boy was it hot today. We got everything done real quick this morning and then headed to Brussel. We saw a lot of things today. Brussel is a real beautiful city. We saw some parks, a place with a lot of statues, also a real pretty archway which was real big. I also went to “MacDConalds” and had a real milk shake and a big Mac. That was great, as far as I know it was even real but it has been a while since I had one so I don’t know for sure. This “MacDonalds” was just opened and is the only one in Belgium. It is also quite expensive.
Tonight we taught Walter but this time we also taught his mother. She sure doesn’t believe in much. Only what she can see and feel. She is real friendly though. Walter is a little more religous but he won’t admit it.
After them we went to Erdekens. That “Walter” was late getting home so we were late beginning but then Mr Erdekens came in also. He listened for awhile as we explained a bit about eternal marriage.
We left shortly after and hadn’t given a real discussion but we had shared important and interesting information. Walter works for a post office and is going to get me some stamps for a collection. We then tried some other CB’s [call backs] and people we knew & then went to an appointment which was with a single lady who we have seen. She works in Nopri which is the super market where we shop. We had a pretty good discussion but she isn’t very religious.
Friday, October 17, 2025
Mission Journal - 28 May 1978 Sunday
28 May 1978 Sunday
Well here is the first day in my new book. This morning we didn’t do much, just worked in books or whatever we needed to do. The weather was fantastic. We rode our bikes to church or rather Priesthood meeting and came back to meet Zuster VanCampenhout at the tram stop. Also I cooked a roast today. I put it in and then let it cook a bit this morning.
Today was a good meeting and I think she enjoyed it but one lady was quite nervous and had a hard time giving her talk. Afer the meeting we ate my delicous meal and then went to Zuster VanCampenhouts to give her a can of instant Pionier to take to the hospital with her. She also fed us some cake and Sprite.
Well here is the first day in my new book. This morning we didn’t do much, just worked in books or whatever we needed to do. The weather was fantastic. We rode our bikes to church or rather Priesthood meeting and came back to meet Zuster VanCampenhout at the tram stop. Also I cooked a roast today. I put it in and then let it cook a bit this morning.
Today was a good meeting and I think she enjoyed it but one lady was quite nervous and had a hard time giving her talk. Afer the meeting we ate my delicous meal and then went to Zuster VanCampenhouts to give her a can of instant Pionier to take to the hospital with her. She also fed us some cake and Sprite.
Thursday, October 16, 2025
My Mission Journals - Introduction
On my mission I kept my journals in two spiral bound notebooks. They weren’t the sturdiest of journals, but they worked out well. They sat on my bookshelf for decades and I never looked at them once, but years ago I pulled them out to look something up and I have no idea where the first book has gone. I have pulled the second book out from time to time, but I have never been able to find the first book. I decided that it is time to transcribe my second book before it falls apart. It is my hope that the first book will show up at some point, it has to be in this house somewhere.
If it doesn’t show up, I am just glad I have the second one, most of my first journal was my moaning about how home sick I was and how much I missed Maurine.
I will copy my journal as best I can and if I need to add any clarification [I will add that in square brackets].
My first journal covered my time in the LTM and my first city of Turnhout. This book picks up in Vilvoorde in the summer of 1978.
If it doesn’t show up, I am just glad I have the second one, most of my first journal was my moaning about how home sick I was and how much I missed Maurine.
I will copy my journal as best I can and if I need to add any clarification [I will add that in square brackets].
My first journal covered my time in the LTM and my first city of Turnhout. This book picks up in Vilvoorde in the summer of 1978.
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (81)
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (81)
What
do you want people to remember about you?
I
don’t think I’m there just yet but it is my hope that people will think of me
as a man who loves his God and who loves his fellow man and lived his life
accordingly.
The
last section of the book that Kira gave me has the following heading:
Use
these pages to share other thoughts, stories or experiences that have come to
mind and you want to remember.
I now have twelve years of journals. Some of them are
brief with many missing dates and others are full. From these journals I have
also extracted an autobiography. I will let these journals "share my thoughts,
stories and experiences that I want to remember".
Now that I’m done with Kira’s book I’m going to have to revert to my boring life and my posts will be fewer and farther in between.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (80)
Monday, October 6, 2025
What do you want your spouse to remember when you are gone?
When I am gone I want Lisa to remember how much I love and adore her. She has made me the man I am today and without her my life would have been quite boring. She has given me six beautiful and good children who each have beautiful and good children of their own. She is at the heart of my every joy.
What was the happiest time of your life?
Today is the happiest time of my life. I look at my life today with a tremendous amount of joy. I love where I have ended up. I love where I am in my church, I love my relationship with my God. I love my children and it brings me joy that they are all successful both in their careers and with their families. I love my marriage and I have enjoyed a career that has brought me a lot of satisfaction. I have always been able to pay my bills and we have always been able to purchase anything that we really need.
While that is all true, I’m sure the question is asking about what perhaps my favorite period in my life was. I would have to say that was probably the time just before Kira left for college. My children were all at home where I could enjoy their presence every day. They were old enough that I could have a meaningful relationship with each of them and it was so much fun.
What was the saddest?
That would probably be the period in my life when each of my children left home. It was exhilerating to watch them leave and stand on their own. It was satisfying to watch them succeed at school and in their careers and to watch them become parents and start beautiful little families of their own but I was also sad to have them all so far away.
What family values do you hope your children will continue for generations in the future?
As Lisa and I raised our children we did our very best to be a part of their lives. We supported them in their chosen activites, (sports or music) and we did our best to be aware of their joys or sorrows. We had an intimate discussion with each of them almost daily and we were usually aware of their trials and joys. It is my hope that they are able to do the same with their own children.
Do you have a living trust or will?
We are working on that. It isn’t done yet but we have recorded what our wishes are.
Is your estate planning complete?
My estate consists of my house which has appreciated considerably. That makes my estate planning simple.
Where do you keep important documents and keepsakes?
My keepsakes are scattered around the house so they will be lost in the case of a fire but all my important documents are digitized and stored in the cloud. On my computer I have a dropbox folder and under that is a folder called family. That is where everything of any consquence is stored.
What unique heirlooms are cherished by your family? Where are they now?
We don’t have anything of any value but there are a few items that different kids cherish. What I am doing is taking pictures of each item that I think someone might value and then asking each kid to let me know just how much they like that item. Based on their response my will has an appendix where these items are listed along with who we want to have it. The list includes things like an original portrait of Lisa’s 2nd great grandparents and their family, Lisa’s great grandpa’s rifle that he had in WWI, my belt buckles, my paintings, a huge family portrait from when Kira was a senior in highschool and things like that.
These items are scattered throughout the house.
What do you wish most for your children?
My wish is that my kids will love their children as much as I love them.
What are you doing today to build a legacy that you want to leave behind?
I don’t really have a legacy. I’m not even sure I know what that means. I just want to be remembered as a man who loved his Lord and loved his family. I have done a lot of stupid things in my life, but I am trying hard to be a good man. I hope my loved ones are able to see that.
If you could share one message with your children and grandchildren that would remain in their hearts and minds forever, what would it be?
Your Heavenly Father loves you and He wants you to be happy. He communicates his love and will to you through the Holy Spirit and if you make the Holy Spirit your constant companion, then you will always have joy and peace. You will be able to always have this peace and joy even has you navigate through the most difficult trials, if you only let the Holy Spirit guide you.
I guess if I were to summarize this in one sentence it would be:
You can’t have a better friend than The Holy Spirit, get to know Him, listen to Him and do what he tells you to do.
Your Heavenly Father loves you and I love you. We will both always be there for you.
What do you want your spouse to remember when you are gone?
When I am gone I want Lisa to remember how much I love and adore her. She has made me the man I am today and without her my life would have been quite boring. She has given me six beautiful and good children who each have beautiful and good children of their own. She is at the heart of my every joy.
What was the happiest time of your life?
Today is the happiest time of my life. I look at my life today with a tremendous amount of joy. I love where I have ended up. I love where I am in my church, I love my relationship with my God. I love my children and it brings me joy that they are all successful both in their careers and with their families. I love my marriage and I have enjoyed a career that has brought me a lot of satisfaction. I have always been able to pay my bills and we have always been able to purchase anything that we really need.
While that is all true, I’m sure the question is asking about what perhaps my favorite period in my life was. I would have to say that was probably the time just before Kira left for college. My children were all at home where I could enjoy their presence every day. They were old enough that I could have a meaningful relationship with each of them and it was so much fun.
What was the saddest?
That would probably be the period in my life when each of my children left home. It was exhilerating to watch them leave and stand on their own. It was satisfying to watch them succeed at school and in their careers and to watch them become parents and start beautiful little families of their own but I was also sad to have them all so far away.
What family values do you hope your children will continue for generations in the future?
As Lisa and I raised our children we did our very best to be a part of their lives. We supported them in their chosen activites, (sports or music) and we did our best to be aware of their joys or sorrows. We had an intimate discussion with each of them almost daily and we were usually aware of their trials and joys. It is my hope that they are able to do the same with their own children.
Do you have a living trust or will?
We are working on that. It isn’t done yet but we have recorded what our wishes are.
Is your estate planning complete?
My estate consists of my house which has appreciated considerably. That makes my estate planning simple.
Where do you keep important documents and keepsakes?
My keepsakes are scattered around the house so they will be lost in the case of a fire but all my important documents are digitized and stored in the cloud. On my computer I have a dropbox folder and under that is a folder called family. That is where everything of any consquence is stored.
What unique heirlooms are cherished by your family? Where are they now?
We don’t have anything of any value but there are a few items that different kids cherish. What I am doing is taking pictures of each item that I think someone might value and then asking each kid to let me know just how much they like that item. Based on their response my will has an appendix where these items are listed along with who we want to have it. The list includes things like an original portrait of Lisa’s 2nd great grandparents and their family, Lisa’s great grandpa’s rifle that he had in WWI, my belt buckles, my paintings, a huge family portrait from when Kira was a senior in highschool and things like that.
These items are scattered throughout the house.
What do you wish most for your children?
My wish is that my kids will love their children as much as I love them.
What are you doing today to build a legacy that you want to leave behind?
I don’t really have a legacy. I’m not even sure I know what that means. I just want to be remembered as a man who loved his Lord and loved his family. I have done a lot of stupid things in my life, but I am trying hard to be a good man. I hope my loved ones are able to see that.
If you could share one message with your children and grandchildren that would remain in their hearts and minds forever, what would it be?
Your Heavenly Father loves you and He wants you to be happy. He communicates his love and will to you through the Holy Spirit and if you make the Holy Spirit your constant companion, then you will always have joy and peace. You will be able to always have this peace and joy even has you navigate through the most difficult trials, if you only let the Holy Spirit guide you.
I guess if I were to summarize this in one sentence it would be:
You can’t have a better friend than The Holy Spirit, get to know Him, listen to Him and do what he tells you to do.
Your Heavenly Father loves you and I love you. We will both always be there for you.
Monday, October 13, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (79)
Friday, October 3, 2025
How does your faith help you in your day-to-day life?
My faith makes me who
I am and it influences every moment of my life. While I have a long way to go,
I continually try to be a kinder person, think before I speak and not react to
what I may perceive as rude or offensive comments. I try to see things from
other peoples perspective and to be respectful of their opinions. I want to be
a peace maker. In short, I try to be a better person.
As I said, this is my
goal. I haven’t reach it yet but that is where I want to be.
I never mentioned
this scripture earlier, but it is one that I try to use to guide my life.
James 4: 2-5
2 For in many things
we offend all. If any man offend not in word,
the same is a perfect man, and able
also to bridle the whole body.
3 Behold, we put bits
in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole
body.
4 Behold also the
ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of
fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever
the governor listeth.
5 Even so the tongue is
a little member, and boasteth great things.
Behold, how great a matter a little fire
kindleth!
Did you notice that part where it says
“ If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man…” I really try to
bridle my tongue. That is my goal, but it is hard to do.
What do you feel is our
purpose in life?
Nephi tells us that “man is
that he might have joy”.
I have learned that the thing that can bring us the greatest joy in
life is our relationships with other people and in particular our families.
I talk a lot about how I’d be quite happy just being a hermit, but in
reality, when I think of the most exciting things I have seen and done in my
life, when these things happen my first thought is how I want Lisa to see this.
It is not what we are doing that brings us joy, it is who we are doing it with.
That might be why I love Ragnars so much. I love running, but running with
family and friends is so much more fun.
I think the purpose of life is to build relationships, and to learn how
to get along with other people. Just think about it. In addition to the
knowledge that we accumulate, our relationships are the only things we can take
with us to the next life.
Anything special or unique about your beliefs or faith
that you want to share or expand on?
I remember a business trip I was on where we were waiting for our
flight in an airport lounge. Somehow, as it often did, the discussion came
around to the church. One of the women with me asked me what Mormons believe.
My mind went blank, and I didn’t know how to answer that question. Suddenly the
thirteen articles of faith popped into my head. I didn’t have them all memorized,
but I paraphrased where needed and shared them with those people present. The
articles of faith are a perfect summary of our church.
The Articles of Faith
1 We believe in God,
the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy
Ghost.
2 We believe
that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.
3 We believe that through
the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by
obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the
first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are:
first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance;
third, baptism by immersion for the remission of
sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy
Ghost.
5 We believe that a man
must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on
of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the
Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6 We believe in the same
organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets,
pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
7 We believe in the gift
of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues,
and so forth.
8 We believe
the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated
correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9 We believe all that God
has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will
yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom
of God.
10 We believe in the
literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten
Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American
continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and,
that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
11 We claim
the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to
the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same
privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
12 We believe in
being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates,
in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13 We believe in
being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in
doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the
admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have
endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is
anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek
after these things.
Have you ever?
Fired a gun? yes
Tried archery? Yes
Hunted game? Yes
Gone Fishing? Yes
Swam a river? Yes
Gone skiing or
snowboarding? Yes
Tried scuba diving? Yes
Gone sky diving? No but I really want to
Milked a cow? Yes
Attended summer camp? Yes (as an adult leader)
Competed in competition? Yes (does Ragnar count?)
Won a medal or ribbon? Yes
Been on TV? No
Toured another country? Yes
Lived abroad? Yes
Swam with dolphons? Yes
Went kayaking Yes
Eaten Frogs Legs? Yes
Had a secret admirer? I think so
Traveled by train? Yes
Owned a reptile? Yes
Slept under the stars? Yes
Been dumped? Yes
Dumped someone? Yes
Ice skated? Yes
Had to get stitches? Yes
Been arrested? No
Gotten a ticket? Yes
Been on the radio? No
Fallen in love at first
sight? Yes
Received a present you hated? No
Slept in a tent? Yes
Felt an earthquake? Yes
Ridden a motorcycle yes
Hitchhiked? No
Visited a fortune teller? No
Acted on stage? Yes
Won anything? Yes
Been stung by a bee? Yes
Made a YouTube video? No
Seen a ghost? No
Seen a UFO? Maybe
Been to Disneyland? Yes
Had braces? No
Sung Karaoke? Does Xbox count
Been in an ambulance? No
Ridden in a helicopter? No
Been in a firetruck? Yes
Gotten anything pierced? Not on purpose
Had surgery? Yes
Give money to the
homeless? Yes
Cut your own hair? No
Swam in the ocean? Yes
Gone surfing? I tried
Eaten a bug? Yes
Thursday, October 09, 2025
Old Chief Mountain
Thursday, October 2, 2025
Growing up in Cardston I looked at Old Chief Mountain every day of my life. Looking at it never fails to touch me deeply. Every time I go back to Cardston and see old Chief gradually rise above the horizon, I feel like I am home. Seeing Old Chief as a back drop to the temple is even more touching to me. I suppose that is why this story told by Cindy Behr had such an impact on me. Cindy was one of Lisa’s childhood friends and her and her husband Wilf were pretty close to us when we lived in Edmonton.
I have also climbed the peak of Old Chief and it does truly look very different up close than it does when viewed from Cardston. Here is Cindy’s story.
Growing up in Cardston I looked at Old Chief Mountain every day of my life. Looking at it never fails to touch me deeply. Every time I go back to Cardston and see old Chief gradually rise above the horizon, I feel like I am home. Seeing Old Chief as a back drop to the temple is even more touching to me. I suppose that is why this story told by Cindy Behr had such an impact on me. Cindy was one of Lisa’s childhood friends and her and her husband Wilf were pretty close to us when we lived in Edmonton.
I have also climbed the peak of Old Chief and it does truly look very different up close than it does when viewed from Cardston. Here is Cindy’s story.
Twenty-five years, plus, is
a significant amount of time to consider the question, "How is God the
same yesterday, today and forever, when I don't recognize the God in the Old
Testament of the Bible as the same God I feel I know today?"
This
has gnawed at my being. I've prayed to know and understand. Sometimes more
fervently than others, but none the less, it sat with me. That's the back
story.
Now, skip ahead with me until the month of March in
the year 2020. The precise date I can't remember, nor is it significant. The
main reason I mention it, is that it was the last day of scheduled appointments
at the Edmonton, Alberta LDS Temple before being closed to patrons due to the
COVID 19 epidemic. I was a temple worker/volunteer in the baptistery and
laundry areas. When I was called to do this wonderfully fulfilling work, I was
given a blessing in which I was told I'd have many spiritual experiences and
witness miracles. I'd be filled with inspiration and find truth. I don't
remember how long I'd actually served in the temple, but I'd say about a year
or more, and although I'd seen many families, youth and groups gather to do
service on behalf of departed ancestors, and I'd been greatly uplifted and
edified by morning devotionals, I hadn't felt huge inspiration or truth
revealed. It didn't matter really; I was happy to serve and be part of the
proceedings at the temple. Here we were, closing the doors, for who knew how
long?
Then, as I was walking the hallway, I noticed a new
painting. I knew, at a glance, it was Old Chief Mountain in Southern Alberta.
It wasn't the usual picturesque view you'd see in most paintings or pictures of
Ol Chief, but I knew it immediately. It was a view facing towards the mountain
standing in the East and looking at it towards the West. I even said out loud,
"oh look, it's Old Chief!" A sister passing by quickly retorted
scoffingly, "that's no Old Chief I've ever seen".
Then in a flash, an epiphany of light entered my mind.
Tears welling up in my eyes as I finally had the answer, God is the same
yesterday, today and forever! It's our perspective and experience that changes,
not him.
You see I had gone hiking in Montana Glacier National
Park years prior to seeing the painting. We'd driven across the Canadian border
into the US and had used the highway East of Old Chief. I knew this view. The
other sister in the temple didn't recognize it as Old Chief because she hadn't
seen that perspective or had experience of seeing it from that side. When I
spoke with a temple matron about my discovery, she explained that she had
actually hiked Old Chief and it was completely different up close, walking its
mass, than you'd ever know from a distance.
Aha! The closer you get, the more you really know the
mountain, and conversely the farther you go from it, the more you may not even
know or believe that it exists at all.
This is our relationship with our Heavenly Father. He
is the same always. This was my answer, my miracle of inspiration and
truth.
On a side thought and note, the painting was
commissioned by Dave Henderson. He took the original photo used as a reference
for the artist. He was the temple president at the time. The first presidency
had to approve the commission and hanging of this artwork, and I feel it was a
great kindness for Brother David Henderson and that he feels it was for him,
but that painting will always remind me of God's goodness and answered prayer.
I can feel that igniting light to my bones just pondering that experience. The
painting was for me.
Cindy Behr.
--------------------trivia--------------------
The most requested book in the library of congress is the first edition of the Book of Momon.
-----------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (78)
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Have you ever changed religions?
I have never changed religions.
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? If you are not Christian, what other deity is signiicant to you and why?
Jesus Christ is my saviour. He is my spiritual brother and the literal Son of God. He is the creator of this world, and the God of the Old Testament. He is my advocate with my Heavenly Father and He will be my judge after my time on this earth has ended. He loves me and He will judge me with that perfect love. He is the only person to live a perfect life and therefore the only person able to atone for my sins. If I can just stay close enough to him to hear his voice, I know he will always guide me to a life of peace and joy. I testify that this is true.
What would you like to share with your children and grandchildren about your faith?
We live in a difficult world. At times it may feel like we are surrounded with violence, we hear of wars and rumors of wars and it seems that the world is full of hate. People are constantly declaring what is best for us and what we should believe and what is false. At times it can feel impossible to know what to do and what to believe.
I want you to know that through this turmoil there is a source of truth and peace. I implore you to respect and reverance that which is holy. Seek the guiding light of the spirit in every decision that you make, and know that when your heart is hurting, your mind is confused, and your hands hang down, there is a place that you can go to find answers to your questions and peace in your heart. Pray to have the Holy Spirit as your companion and your source of truth. He is real and the peace that he can bring you from your Lord and Heavenly Father is real.
How has a belief in God helped you overcome adversity and trials in your life?
I know that my Heavenly Father loves me and wants me to be happy. That is why I have gone to Him when ever I have faced major decisions or trials that seem impossible to overcome. Without fail, he has shown me the way to go and has given me the peace that I need to not be swallowed up in fear or depression. I haven’t always had the strength to do what needed to be done, but every time I have followed his promptings, I have come through those trials a happier and better person.
How has your faith been strengthened through the years?
Faith is no different than anything else in life. The 10,000 hour rule says that if you do something for 10,000 hours you become so proficient in that thing that you are a leading world authority in it. The Beattles and their music and Bill Gates and computers are often used as examples of this. While the 10,000 hour rule has been debunked, the idea that practice makes perfect is valid.
Identifying the promptings of the spirit takes practice. Early on in my life I was unsure if I was feeling the spirit or if it was wishful thinking. I decided that if I felt anything that might be the spirit, I would act on it reasoning that my own intuition was better than nothing. Over the years it has become clear to me when the spirit is trying to tell me something. Today I rarely ignore those promptings.
Have you ever changed religions?
I have never changed religions.
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? If you are not Christian, what other deity is signiicant to you and why?
Jesus Christ is my saviour. He is my spiritual brother and the literal Son of God. He is the creator of this world, and the God of the Old Testament. He is my advocate with my Heavenly Father and He will be my judge after my time on this earth has ended. He loves me and He will judge me with that perfect love. He is the only person to live a perfect life and therefore the only person able to atone for my sins. If I can just stay close enough to him to hear his voice, I know he will always guide me to a life of peace and joy. I testify that this is true.
What would you like to share with your children and grandchildren about your faith?
We live in a difficult world. At times it may feel like we are surrounded with violence, we hear of wars and rumors of wars and it seems that the world is full of hate. People are constantly declaring what is best for us and what we should believe and what is false. At times it can feel impossible to know what to do and what to believe.
I want you to know that through this turmoil there is a source of truth and peace. I implore you to respect and reverance that which is holy. Seek the guiding light of the spirit in every decision that you make, and know that when your heart is hurting, your mind is confused, and your hands hang down, there is a place that you can go to find answers to your questions and peace in your heart. Pray to have the Holy Spirit as your companion and your source of truth. He is real and the peace that he can bring you from your Lord and Heavenly Father is real.
How has a belief in God helped you overcome adversity and trials in your life?
I know that my Heavenly Father loves me and wants me to be happy. That is why I have gone to Him when ever I have faced major decisions or trials that seem impossible to overcome. Without fail, he has shown me the way to go and has given me the peace that I need to not be swallowed up in fear or depression. I haven’t always had the strength to do what needed to be done, but every time I have followed his promptings, I have come through those trials a happier and better person.
How has your faith been strengthened through the years?
Faith is no different than anything else in life. The 10,000 hour rule says that if you do something for 10,000 hours you become so proficient in that thing that you are a leading world authority in it. The Beattles and their music and Bill Gates and computers are often used as examples of this. While the 10,000 hour rule has been debunked, the idea that practice makes perfect is valid.
Identifying the promptings of the spirit takes practice. Early on in my life I was unsure if I was feeling the spirit or if it was wishful thinking. I decided that if I felt anything that might be the spirit, I would act on it reasoning that my own intuition was better than nothing. Over the years it has become clear to me when the spirit is trying to tell me something. Today I rarely ignore those promptings.
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (77)
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake:
Have you ever served a mission for your church? If so, where did you serve, and when did you fill this assignment?
I have heard many people talk about how their missions were the best two years of their lives but also the hardest two years of their lives. I don’t know if my mission was the best two years of life or not but they were definitly two of the best years of my life. But they were not hard, what is hard about talking to people all day?
It was frustrating that more people didn’t want to learn more about the gospel but for the most part, the Belgian people were friendly and loved to talk. I taught a lot in Belgium and we were frequently invited to meals. The Flemish people know how to cook and we ate some wonderful meals.
I reported to the LTM (now called the MTC) in August of 1977 and returned home in August 1979. The LTM was still under construction when I was there and we spent many hours studying. I left the LTM in October and headed to Belgium.
My first area was Turnhout, from Turnhout I went to Vilvorde, a suburb of Brussels, and then to Kortrijk and ended my mission in Linker Oeffer which is a suburb of Antwerpen.
I know I say I’m not a social person, but I enjoyed teaching the Belgian people and we did a lot of teaching. I’m trying to figure out what the hard part of a mission could be but the only hard part is when it is raining and it is late at night and you want to go home but you feel the need to follow the suggested schedule. I learned early from my dad that you had to stay on a job until you were done so that wasn’t hard for me to do. We were knocking on doors instead of building houses. I didn’t find it difficult.
What is a favorite scripture or inspiritional thought that has influenced you?
I have many favorite scriptures but in no particular order, here are some of them.
1 Kings 19: 11 & 12
I have heard many people talk about how their missions were the best two years of their lives but also the hardest two years of their lives. I don’t know if my mission was the best two years of life or not but they were definitly two of the best years of my life. But they were not hard, what is hard about talking to people all day?
It was frustrating that more people didn’t want to learn more about the gospel but for the most part, the Belgian people were friendly and loved to talk. I taught a lot in Belgium and we were frequently invited to meals. The Flemish people know how to cook and we ate some wonderful meals.
I reported to the LTM (now called the MTC) in August of 1977 and returned home in August 1979. The LTM was still under construction when I was there and we spent many hours studying. I left the LTM in October and headed to Belgium.
My first area was Turnhout, from Turnhout I went to Vilvorde, a suburb of Brussels, and then to Kortrijk and ended my mission in Linker Oeffer which is a suburb of Antwerpen.
I know I say I’m not a social person, but I enjoyed teaching the Belgian people and we did a lot of teaching. I’m trying to figure out what the hard part of a mission could be but the only hard part is when it is raining and it is late at night and you want to go home but you feel the need to follow the suggested schedule. I learned early from my dad that you had to stay on a job until you were done so that wasn’t hard for me to do. We were knocking on doors instead of building houses. I didn’t find it difficult.
What is a favorite scripture or inspiritional thought that has influenced you?
I have many favorite scriptures but in no particular order, here are some of them.
1 Kings 19: 11 & 12
11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake:
12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
Alma 34: 17 to 29
17 Therefore may God grant unto you, my brethren, that ye may begin to exercise your faith unto repentance, that ye begin to call upon his holy name, that he would have mercy upon you;
18 Yea, cry unto him for mercy; for he is mighty to save.
19 Yea, humble yourselves, and continue in prayer unto him.
20 Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all your flocks.
21 Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening.
22 Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.
23 Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness.
24 Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them.
25 Cry over the flocks of your fields, that they may increase.
26 But this is not all; ye must pour out your souls in your closets, and your secret places, and in your wilderness.
27 Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you.
28 And now behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you, do not suppose that this is all; for after ye have done all these things, if ye turn away the needy, and the naked, and visit not the sick and afflicted, and impart of your substance, if ye have, to those who stand in need—I say unto you, if ye do not any of these things, behold, your prayer is vain, and availeth you nothing, and ye are as hypocrites who do deny the faith.
29 Therefore, if ye do not remember to be charitable, ye are as dross, which the refiners do cast out, (it being of no worth) and is trodden under foot of men.
Joshua 24:15
15 …choose you this day whom ye will serve;… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
What do you read or study to strengthen your faith?
Every weekday morning I hold a twenty minute private mini devotional before I start my day. Beginning Monday morning during those twenty minutes, I read the “Come Follow Me” message and the related scriptures for that week. I usually finish that by Tuesday or Wednesday and then I read the conference talks from the most recent general conference. That normally takes two or three months. Once I have gone through all the conference talks, I then read a book about gospel topics. Most recently I have gone through the four “Saints” books. They are fascinating and very well written. I then finish my devotional with a prayer.
Alma 34: 17 to 29
17 Therefore may God grant unto you, my brethren, that ye may begin to exercise your faith unto repentance, that ye begin to call upon his holy name, that he would have mercy upon you;
18 Yea, cry unto him for mercy; for he is mighty to save.
19 Yea, humble yourselves, and continue in prayer unto him.
20 Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all your flocks.
21 Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening.
22 Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.
23 Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness.
24 Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them.
25 Cry over the flocks of your fields, that they may increase.
26 But this is not all; ye must pour out your souls in your closets, and your secret places, and in your wilderness.
27 Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you.
28 And now behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you, do not suppose that this is all; for after ye have done all these things, if ye turn away the needy, and the naked, and visit not the sick and afflicted, and impart of your substance, if ye have, to those who stand in need—I say unto you, if ye do not any of these things, behold, your prayer is vain, and availeth you nothing, and ye are as hypocrites who do deny the faith.
29 Therefore, if ye do not remember to be charitable, ye are as dross, which the refiners do cast out, (it being of no worth) and is trodden under foot of men.
Joshua 24:15
15 …choose you this day whom ye will serve;… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
What do you read or study to strengthen your faith?
Every weekday morning I hold a twenty minute private mini devotional before I start my day. Beginning Monday morning during those twenty minutes, I read the “Come Follow Me” message and the related scriptures for that week. I usually finish that by Tuesday or Wednesday and then I read the conference talks from the most recent general conference. That normally takes two or three months. Once I have gone through all the conference talks, I then read a book about gospel topics. Most recently I have gone through the four “Saints” books. They are fascinating and very well written. I then finish my devotional with a prayer.
Monday, October 06, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (76)
Monday, September 29, 2025
Have you ever lost a loved one? Who have you lost and how did it make your feel?
My first loss was my grandma Leavitt who died Nov 18, 1980. I was sad of course but we weren’t close and I was young and so I didn’t really morn all that much. What made me the most sad was seeing how sad my grandpa was. He was lost and didn’t hang on for too many years.
I was really impressed with how he divided up his property. He gave his farm to Uncle Lamont who was the only one still farming. He gave his house to Uncle Dahl who was building a new house and grandpa lived in his basement. He then divided his cash between my dad and Aunto Zona.
Grandpa Leavitt died on Apr 28, 1984. This made me more sad because I knew him the best of all my grandparents. Lisa and I visited him a few times and I’m glad that Lisa got to know him a little bit. He was a good man. While I was sad, I wasn’t devastated. He was 88 years old and very lonely. I knew he was glad to go be with his family.
Grandma Lybbert was next and her passing had little effect on me. I hardly knew the woman, she had never made any effort to get to know me and I rarely saw her. She passed on Dec 18, 1994.
I knew Grandpa Lybbert better and he was always kind to me so when he passed on May 27, 1996 his passing affected me more than Grandma Lybberts passing.
The death that affected me the most was my mother, she passed on Feb 5, 1989. She passed before either of her parents. I was surprised over how sad my Grandpa Lybbert was at her funeral. That is when I realized that losing a child is just as hard whether that child is sixty years old or one year old. It makes little difference to the parent.
When I received the news that my mother had died I couldn’t believe it. It was so surreil. Alycia was born on Friday, Feb 3, 1989 and I called and talked to my parents. It was the last time I talked to my mom and and it was a happy and joyful discussion. On Sunday, Feb 5, I was in Brooks visiting Lisa and Alycia at the hospital when the nurses at the nurses desk came and told me I had a phone call. It was Jackie calling to tell me that Mom had suffered an anuerism and was not expected to make it through the day.
In spite of the grim news, I was still hopeful that she would make it, but she was brain dead and dad gave his approval to allow the doctors to pull the plug that afternoon. My mind was in a sort of trance so I’m not exactly sure the order of things, but I think Lisa got the news of moms actual passing at the hospital but by then I was home with the rest of the kids. She didn’t trust me to drive so she called Gary Norton to come over and give me the news and drive me in to Brooks to be with Lisa.
I felt as though my heart had broken I was so sad. It is hard to describe, but these moments of sadness dominated my life for the first few months but gradually over time they became shorter and less frequent. My life returned to normal fairly quickly but even now, thirty six years later I will occassionally get a moment of sadness when I think of my mother. Mostly though, at this point in my life my memories of my mother are happy memories.
After Mom passed my dad was very sad. It broke my heart to see him hurting like he was. They say that men who have had a long and happy marriage, remarry quickly after the passing of their wife. If that is true, then Mom and Dad must have had a great marriage because Dad married my moms cousin six months after mom died.
Dad and Maurine had a good marriage until Dad passed on August 2, 1998. Several things happened to make his passing much easier for me. We knew he was going to die months before he actually did. We had a fairwell reunion two months before he left us. At that reunion he had a little one-on-one dicussion with each of his kids and grandkids. I knew he was going to be with my mom and his family. Even still, it was very weird to know that I was now an orphan. Can you be an orphan if you are forty years old?
Finally, my sister Jackie died from Covid on Mar 20, 2021. Her passing was devastating, but not like my mother. She was the first of my siblings to go, and more than anything, it reminded me of my mortality. I guess I’m getting to the point that I need to start preparing for my turn. I don’t plan on leaving any time soon but I don’t think Jackie did either.
I think the most difficult funeral I have ever attended however was that of Jamie Alsup. It was so tragic, she was a young mother living in Guam and she got sick. No one really thought it was a serious disease but then within just a day or two she died. I can’t imagine any of my kids dying, but when they have young children it seriously affects the lives of so many people.
Have you ever lost a loved one? Who have you lost and how did it make your feel?
My first loss was my grandma Leavitt who died Nov 18, 1980. I was sad of course but we weren’t close and I was young and so I didn’t really morn all that much. What made me the most sad was seeing how sad my grandpa was. He was lost and didn’t hang on for too many years.
I was really impressed with how he divided up his property. He gave his farm to Uncle Lamont who was the only one still farming. He gave his house to Uncle Dahl who was building a new house and grandpa lived in his basement. He then divided his cash between my dad and Aunto Zona.
Grandpa Leavitt died on Apr 28, 1984. This made me more sad because I knew him the best of all my grandparents. Lisa and I visited him a few times and I’m glad that Lisa got to know him a little bit. He was a good man. While I was sad, I wasn’t devastated. He was 88 years old and very lonely. I knew he was glad to go be with his family.
Grandma Lybbert was next and her passing had little effect on me. I hardly knew the woman, she had never made any effort to get to know me and I rarely saw her. She passed on Dec 18, 1994.
I knew Grandpa Lybbert better and he was always kind to me so when he passed on May 27, 1996 his passing affected me more than Grandma Lybberts passing.
The death that affected me the most was my mother, she passed on Feb 5, 1989. She passed before either of her parents. I was surprised over how sad my Grandpa Lybbert was at her funeral. That is when I realized that losing a child is just as hard whether that child is sixty years old or one year old. It makes little difference to the parent.
When I received the news that my mother had died I couldn’t believe it. It was so surreil. Alycia was born on Friday, Feb 3, 1989 and I called and talked to my parents. It was the last time I talked to my mom and and it was a happy and joyful discussion. On Sunday, Feb 5, I was in Brooks visiting Lisa and Alycia at the hospital when the nurses at the nurses desk came and told me I had a phone call. It was Jackie calling to tell me that Mom had suffered an anuerism and was not expected to make it through the day.
In spite of the grim news, I was still hopeful that she would make it, but she was brain dead and dad gave his approval to allow the doctors to pull the plug that afternoon. My mind was in a sort of trance so I’m not exactly sure the order of things, but I think Lisa got the news of moms actual passing at the hospital but by then I was home with the rest of the kids. She didn’t trust me to drive so she called Gary Norton to come over and give me the news and drive me in to Brooks to be with Lisa.
I felt as though my heart had broken I was so sad. It is hard to describe, but these moments of sadness dominated my life for the first few months but gradually over time they became shorter and less frequent. My life returned to normal fairly quickly but even now, thirty six years later I will occassionally get a moment of sadness when I think of my mother. Mostly though, at this point in my life my memories of my mother are happy memories.
After Mom passed my dad was very sad. It broke my heart to see him hurting like he was. They say that men who have had a long and happy marriage, remarry quickly after the passing of their wife. If that is true, then Mom and Dad must have had a great marriage because Dad married my moms cousin six months after mom died.
Dad and Maurine had a good marriage until Dad passed on August 2, 1998. Several things happened to make his passing much easier for me. We knew he was going to die months before he actually did. We had a fairwell reunion two months before he left us. At that reunion he had a little one-on-one dicussion with each of his kids and grandkids. I knew he was going to be with my mom and his family. Even still, it was very weird to know that I was now an orphan. Can you be an orphan if you are forty years old?
Finally, my sister Jackie died from Covid on Mar 20, 2021. Her passing was devastating, but not like my mother. She was the first of my siblings to go, and more than anything, it reminded me of my mortality. I guess I’m getting to the point that I need to start preparing for my turn. I don’t plan on leaving any time soon but I don’t think Jackie did either.
I think the most difficult funeral I have ever attended however was that of Jamie Alsup. It was so tragic, she was a young mother living in Guam and she got sick. No one really thought it was a serious disease but then within just a day or two she died. I can’t imagine any of my kids dying, but when they have young children it seriously affects the lives of so many people.
Friday, October 03, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (75)
Thursday, September 25, 2025
What was your religion while growing up?
I grew up a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Our family was very active in the church.
Which specific church or churches did you attend as a child?
From the time I was born until I was seven years old we attended the Leavitt Ward. From seven years old until I turned eighteen and left for BYU we attended the Cardston First Ward.
Does your early religious upbringing align with your spiritual beliefs now?
Yes, 100%.
Is prayer an essential part of your life?
Yes, prayer guides my every decision.
If you pray, what do you find yourself praying for most often?
· My family
· My wife
· Guidance for that day
· Guidance for my life.
· Peace and comfort through trials or hard times.
· Friends and nieghbors who are going through trials or hard times.
· Guidance for major decisions in my life.
Do you remember a specific circumstance when you received an answer to prayer?
More than I could count. Let me share one of the most major decisions I ever made, that was the decision to move my young family away from everything they knew, to a city in another country 1,500 miles away.
I was talking to John Bass, VP at Hi-Z, at a conference in Cardiff, Wales and I received a somewhat joking job offer. After I returned home, I kept thinking about this offer and whether I should pursue the offer or not. I prayed about it, but the decision was such a huge one that my mind kept going over the consquences of the decision. With such turmoil in my mind, I couldn’t get an answer to my prayer.
One day as I was driving to work and I was dwelling on this huge decision looming before me, the thought crossed my mind that the decision I was trying to make was just too big. In addition, I didn’t have all the information I needed and I didn’t even have a real job offer. It was just a comment made in passing.
I made the decision to pray whether or not I should call Norb (the president of Hi-Z) and pursue the discussion further. I said that prayer right then as I was driving to work (I was by myself that day) and the spirit washed completely over me and told my that, yes, I definitely needed to call Norb and talk about this.
You all know the rest of the story.
Do you believe in God?
Absolutely
Do you believe in life after death?
Yes
Are you afraid of dying?
Not one bit. When the kids were younger, I was afraid of dying only because I wanted to see my children as adults with families of their own, but now that that has happened, I have no fear of dying.
In which positions have you served in your church?
I have served in every organization that I possibly can on a ward level. I’ve never served in the Relief Society. Let me see if I can list them.
Nursery Leader (together with Lisa)
Primary teacher
Sunday School Teacher
Deacons Quorum Advisor
Scout Leader
Elders Quorum instructor
Elders Quorum presidency
High Priest presidency
Ward Missionary
Ward Mission Leader
Temple & Family History Leader
Bishopric
Stake Mission Presidency
Temple Worker
Assistant Temple Shift Coordinator
Temple Shift Coordinator
What was your religion while growing up?
I grew up a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Our family was very active in the church.
Which specific church or churches did you attend as a child?
From the time I was born until I was seven years old we attended the Leavitt Ward. From seven years old until I turned eighteen and left for BYU we attended the Cardston First Ward.
Does your early religious upbringing align with your spiritual beliefs now?
Yes, 100%.
Is prayer an essential part of your life?
Yes, prayer guides my every decision.
If you pray, what do you find yourself praying for most often?
· My family
· My wife
· Guidance for that day
· Guidance for my life.
· Peace and comfort through trials or hard times.
· Friends and nieghbors who are going through trials or hard times.
· Guidance for major decisions in my life.
Do you remember a specific circumstance when you received an answer to prayer?
More than I could count. Let me share one of the most major decisions I ever made, that was the decision to move my young family away from everything they knew, to a city in another country 1,500 miles away.
I was talking to John Bass, VP at Hi-Z, at a conference in Cardiff, Wales and I received a somewhat joking job offer. After I returned home, I kept thinking about this offer and whether I should pursue the offer or not. I prayed about it, but the decision was such a huge one that my mind kept going over the consquences of the decision. With such turmoil in my mind, I couldn’t get an answer to my prayer.
One day as I was driving to work and I was dwelling on this huge decision looming before me, the thought crossed my mind that the decision I was trying to make was just too big. In addition, I didn’t have all the information I needed and I didn’t even have a real job offer. It was just a comment made in passing.
I made the decision to pray whether or not I should call Norb (the president of Hi-Z) and pursue the discussion further. I said that prayer right then as I was driving to work (I was by myself that day) and the spirit washed completely over me and told my that, yes, I definitely needed to call Norb and talk about this.
You all know the rest of the story.
Do you believe in God?
Absolutely
Do you believe in life after death?
Yes
Are you afraid of dying?
Not one bit. When the kids were younger, I was afraid of dying only because I wanted to see my children as adults with families of their own, but now that that has happened, I have no fear of dying.
In which positions have you served in your church?
I have served in every organization that I possibly can on a ward level. I’ve never served in the Relief Society. Let me see if I can list them.
Nursery Leader (together with Lisa)
Primary teacher
Sunday School Teacher
Deacons Quorum Advisor
Scout Leader
Elders Quorum instructor
Elders Quorum presidency
High Priest presidency
Ward Missionary
Ward Mission Leader
Temple & Family History Leader
Bishopric
Stake Mission Presidency
Temple Worker
Assistant Temple Shift Coordinator
Temple Shift Coordinator
I’m sure I’ve missed something in there, but you get the idea.
Wednesday, October 01, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (74)
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Was there ever a time when you doubted yourself or your worth?
Was there ever a time when you doubted yourself or your worth?
All the time. When that happens I force myself to take a moment and reevaluate my life or the project I am on and I try to honestly ask myself if my doubts are valid or if my insecuraties or fear are making me feel that way. If my doubts are valid then I do my best to change, if I decide that it is fear taking over, then I recommit myself to what I am doing and carry on.
How
did you rebuild your confidence and self esteem?
I
answered this in the previous question but I will add that sometimes a lot of
prayer is also required.
What
is something that you took for granted in the past that is special to you now?
Looking
back I am unsure why I’ve never had a lot of friends and really, until recently
I’ve never had any close friends. I don’t know if I never had
friends because I didn’t care to, or if I decided I didn’t care about friends
because I never had any. I have always had people I related well with but I
would see them once a week on Sundays and that was it.
Curtis
McConnell was probably the closest I came to a close friend because our
callings forced us to get together outside of church. Looking back I recognize
several opportunities I missed when we could have been better friends. I didn’t
see it and those are missed opportunities.
And
then Jeff Andrew came into my life. He kind of forced himself onto me,
presumably because we have so much in common and I am so grateful he has done
that. Even now as I write this, I can see that I still take this for granted
and I need to reciprocate that effort. I love the entire Andrew family and they
are a blessing I should appreciate better.
In
what ways has the world changed over your lifetime?
It
would take volumes to repeat everything that comes into my mind when I read
this question. I will just give a couple of examples and leave it at that.
When
I was a kid the only rule I had (other than my chores of coarse) was that I had
to be home before it got dark. On the other hand, I had to know where my kids
were every day of their lives until they left home. Even then I wanted to know
where they were but at some point you’ve got to let them go.
When
I was a kid, it was a big deal if a car could reach 100,000 miles and starting
the car was often an ordeal. Today it is common for a car to exceed 300,000
miles and it always starts with the push of a button.
I
have actually seen a pornagraphic magazine maybe three times in my life. Today
anyone with a cell phone can have unlimited and extremely graphic pornography in
seconds.
When
I was a kid about 8% of Americans had a college degree, today it is nearly 40%.
Of
the top of my head I can name the following things that were invented or became
popular during my life time. I clearly remember when each of these things
happened or were introduced to the public.
Color TV Computers
Microwave ovens Induction stoves
Self-driving cars Cassette tape recorders
VCR’s CD’s
USB drives 8 tracks
Cell phones Flat panel TV’s
Hard drives Internet
Robots Artificial turf
Remote controls Wireless remote controls
Digital camera’s Digital calendars
Man on the moon Digital maps
LED lights Computer models (FEA, CFD)
And now there is artificial intelligence.
Friday, September 26, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (73)
Monday, September 22, 2025
List the people who have had the most significant impact on your life (family members, coaches, mentors, leaders, friends, etc.) Why?
How am I supposed to answer this question? It would take a book. I know I will miss a lot of people, but I’ll give it a shot.
Grandpa Leavitt – He was the perfect example of a man who worked hard but loved his family. He had the perfect balance between work and family.
My Dad – My Dad said few words, but he had a way of making those words count. I can only remember a handful of times when we sat down and talked, but I worked with him so often, that we had hours of what felt like very casual conversation, but in reality it shaped my entire life. We talked about morality, doctrine, goals and life. My only regret is that I didn’t ask him for details of his early life and his mission to New Zealand.
My Mom – Mom and I didn’t really talk much. I wish we had, but unlike dad, we spent little time together. My strongest memories of my mom are us just cuddling together. As I got older we didn’t cuddle so much, but I always felt loved and safe when she was around.
Blaine Leavitt – There were actually several school teachers who taught me critical thinking. Some of them are Alma Sommerfeldt (math teacher) and Keith Shaw (biology teacher) but the Blaine Leavitt stands out. He was my automechanic teacher. He is the one who made me think through a problem and figure out for myself what the problem was or how something worked.
Norbert Elsner – Norb was the owner of Hi-Z and the man who hired me. He was my mentor and taught me much of what I know in thermoelectrics. He gave me the opportunity to manage dozens of projects for many government agencies and major companies.
Lisa Shaw – If we are talking about people who had a significant impact on my life, how could I not mention Lisa. She is my life. No one has had a greater impact on my life than her. She is the mother of my children and my eternal companion.
What advice would you give to those who have made bad decisions in their lives?
My advice would be to “move on”. If there is something you can do to make things better, then do that, but otherwise there is only heart ache and sadness in dwelling on past mistakes. What is done is done and it is time learn from your mistakes so you don’t repeat them and then start your new life.
Share one challenging problem you have faced and how you overcame it.
While I loved working at Hi-Z, I underestimated the cost of the living in San Diego. We realized early on that I was not making nearly enough money to live here, but we got along for several years. As the kids got older and our expenses grew, I knew that something had to change.
In the short term I took a night job throwing newspapers to help cover some costs (like Bens braces) and at the same time I sat down with Norb and explained my problem. In his mind I was making an income that was in line with my education and experience and he didn’t feel that a raise was in order.
The stress of being underwater like that was overhwhelming and affecting every part of my life. I prayed like I had never prayed before and started looking around for other work. The Lord isn’t always quick answering prayers, and I remained in this difficult situation for more than a year but He does ease our burdens. I remember one night when I was throwing papers, I was in a neighborhood with a lot of town houses so it was just easier to load up a bag with papers and walk the neighborhood.
It was a beautiful night and the night birds were singing and the weather was warm and the air was peaceful and full of the smell of flowers and I decided to pray. Instantly an overwhelming peace came over me and Heavenly Father told me to stop worrying because he was watching over me. I knew that everything would be alright. I needed to keep working and job hunting but everything would be ok. I never worried again.
I only threw papers for a year to cover Bens teeth but shortly after that I started graduate school. While I was in graduate school met a girl who worked at Qualcomm. I asked her if there were any openings there and she put me in touch with the right people. Within a couple of months my income increased 50%. That is a rather major change in ones lifestyle.
Norb was of course very distraught and offered to match my wage but I’ve learned that after making a decision like that it is hard to go back. I would resent him for forcing me to leave and he would resent me for forcing his hand. I was smart enough not to burn any bridges and I continued to support them in any way I could. I helped write proposals and acted as an advisor on projects that they were working on.
List the people who have had the most significant impact on your life (family members, coaches, mentors, leaders, friends, etc.) Why?
How am I supposed to answer this question? It would take a book. I know I will miss a lot of people, but I’ll give it a shot.
Grandpa Leavitt – He was the perfect example of a man who worked hard but loved his family. He had the perfect balance between work and family.
My Dad – My Dad said few words, but he had a way of making those words count. I can only remember a handful of times when we sat down and talked, but I worked with him so often, that we had hours of what felt like very casual conversation, but in reality it shaped my entire life. We talked about morality, doctrine, goals and life. My only regret is that I didn’t ask him for details of his early life and his mission to New Zealand.
My Mom – Mom and I didn’t really talk much. I wish we had, but unlike dad, we spent little time together. My strongest memories of my mom are us just cuddling together. As I got older we didn’t cuddle so much, but I always felt loved and safe when she was around.
Blaine Leavitt – There were actually several school teachers who taught me critical thinking. Some of them are Alma Sommerfeldt (math teacher) and Keith Shaw (biology teacher) but the Blaine Leavitt stands out. He was my automechanic teacher. He is the one who made me think through a problem and figure out for myself what the problem was or how something worked.
Norbert Elsner – Norb was the owner of Hi-Z and the man who hired me. He was my mentor and taught me much of what I know in thermoelectrics. He gave me the opportunity to manage dozens of projects for many government agencies and major companies.
Lisa Shaw – If we are talking about people who had a significant impact on my life, how could I not mention Lisa. She is my life. No one has had a greater impact on my life than her. She is the mother of my children and my eternal companion.
What advice would you give to those who have made bad decisions in their lives?
My advice would be to “move on”. If there is something you can do to make things better, then do that, but otherwise there is only heart ache and sadness in dwelling on past mistakes. What is done is done and it is time learn from your mistakes so you don’t repeat them and then start your new life.
Share one challenging problem you have faced and how you overcame it.
While I loved working at Hi-Z, I underestimated the cost of the living in San Diego. We realized early on that I was not making nearly enough money to live here, but we got along for several years. As the kids got older and our expenses grew, I knew that something had to change.
In the short term I took a night job throwing newspapers to help cover some costs (like Bens braces) and at the same time I sat down with Norb and explained my problem. In his mind I was making an income that was in line with my education and experience and he didn’t feel that a raise was in order.
The stress of being underwater like that was overhwhelming and affecting every part of my life. I prayed like I had never prayed before and started looking around for other work. The Lord isn’t always quick answering prayers, and I remained in this difficult situation for more than a year but He does ease our burdens. I remember one night when I was throwing papers, I was in a neighborhood with a lot of town houses so it was just easier to load up a bag with papers and walk the neighborhood.
It was a beautiful night and the night birds were singing and the weather was warm and the air was peaceful and full of the smell of flowers and I decided to pray. Instantly an overwhelming peace came over me and Heavenly Father told me to stop worrying because he was watching over me. I knew that everything would be alright. I needed to keep working and job hunting but everything would be ok. I never worried again.
I only threw papers for a year to cover Bens teeth but shortly after that I started graduate school. While I was in graduate school met a girl who worked at Qualcomm. I asked her if there were any openings there and she put me in touch with the right people. Within a couple of months my income increased 50%. That is a rather major change in ones lifestyle.
Norb was of course very distraught and offered to match my wage but I’ve learned that after making a decision like that it is hard to go back. I would resent him for forcing me to leave and he would resent me for forcing his hand. I was smart enough not to burn any bridges and I continued to support them in any way I could. I helped write proposals and acted as an advisor on projects that they were working on.
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Dad, Tell Me About the Time (72)
Friday, September 19, 2025
A few of my favorite things.
Candy Eatmore
Fragrance Vanilla
Movie The Count of Monti Christo
Sports to participate in Ragnar Relay
Sports to watch Gymnastics
Song Dreams,
A few of my favorite things.
Candy Eatmore
Fragrance Vanilla
Movie The Count of Monti Christo
Sports to participate in Ragnar Relay
Sports to watch Gymnastics
Song Dreams,
Wellerman
Animal Cat
Outside Activity Running
Day of the week Saturday
Soda Cream Soda
Book Guns, Germs, & Steel
Meal Roast beef, potatoes and gravy
Food to cook Fried Potatoes and eggs
Local Place to Go The Beach
Animal Cat
Outside Activity Running
Day of the week Saturday
Soda Cream Soda
Book Guns, Germs, & Steel
Meal Roast beef, potatoes and gravy
Food to cook Fried Potatoes and eggs
Local Place to Go The Beach
PQ Canyon
Place to Shop Amazon
Person to spend time with Lisa
Actor/Actress I have no idea
Season of the year Spring
Fruit & Vegetable Peach & Asparagus
Food to eat Barbecue beef
Drink Chocolate Milk
Way to relax Reading
Vacation Spot My back yard
Car/Truck F-150
Cartoon Calvin & Hobbs
TV Show Star Trek
Soda Roor Beer (a repeat so I gave a different answer)
Flower Calla Lilly
Hymn Condsider the Lilly’s
Come Thou Fount
Song of Ruth
Pet Sheba
Color Yellow, Green (floresent)
Book The Kingdom and the Crown (a repeat so I gave a different answer)
Fast food restaurant In-N-Out
Fine Dining restaurant The Crab Catcher
Which charitable organization have you supported?
Over the years I have tried to support every worthy group that came to my door, I finally decided that I had no way to vet these groups. I eventually made the decision to pay a generous fast offering to the church, and let them support whatever cause they felt needed it. My donation might go to some local family going through a hard time, or it might support a struggling hospital in Africa. Through the “Giving Machine” we even bought chickens for an African family to start a business selling eggs.
Do you remember a time when you helped someone less fortunate? What happened?
There have been several situations like this but there is one that comes to mind. A good friend was going through a nasty divorce, and she was afraid that her husband might harm her. A group of men from her ward moved her out of the house while he was gone and she moved in with us for several months until she got her feet on the ground.
To make a long story short, this woman is now happily married and living the good life that she deserves.
Place to Shop Amazon
Person to spend time with Lisa
Actor/Actress I have no idea
Season of the year Spring
Fruit & Vegetable Peach & Asparagus
Food to eat Barbecue beef
Drink Chocolate Milk
Way to relax Reading
Vacation Spot My back yard
Car/Truck F-150
Cartoon Calvin & Hobbs
TV Show Star Trek
Soda Roor Beer (a repeat so I gave a different answer)
Flower Calla Lilly
Hymn Condsider the Lilly’s
Come Thou Fount
Song of Ruth
Pet Sheba
Color Yellow, Green (floresent)
Book The Kingdom and the Crown (a repeat so I gave a different answer)
Fast food restaurant In-N-Out
Fine Dining restaurant The Crab Catcher
Which charitable organization have you supported?
Over the years I have tried to support every worthy group that came to my door, I finally decided that I had no way to vet these groups. I eventually made the decision to pay a generous fast offering to the church, and let them support whatever cause they felt needed it. My donation might go to some local family going through a hard time, or it might support a struggling hospital in Africa. Through the “Giving Machine” we even bought chickens for an African family to start a business selling eggs.
Do you remember a time when you helped someone less fortunate? What happened?
There have been several situations like this but there is one that comes to mind. A good friend was going through a nasty divorce, and she was afraid that her husband might harm her. A group of men from her ward moved her out of the house while he was gone and she moved in with us for several months until she got her feet on the ground.
To make a long story short, this woman is now happily married and living the good life that she deserves.
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