Turn Here

When was the last time you came upon a sign with the word 'Detour' printed on it? It is quite often, these days with all of the construction that is going on. We live in a time when the necessities of people that live around us need our assistance, sometimes at the most inconvenient times. I am reminded about this concept whenever I see a 'Detour' sign. May I suggest that when the 'detours' of life come that we are willing to confront them with patience, realizing they there is quite possibly something very valuable that we will learn along the way. These detours come unexpectedly and they knock us off guard but we can overcome the frustrations that come with these particular times. Be sensitive to your feelings and be willing and courageous to act on those feelings. So the next time you see the sign, remember that a detour might be needed, from you to help encourage and lift somebody that needs your help. Be ready and be prepared for the times yet to come.

Come Back

As I was sitting in church, today, the thought came to my mind that there are many people who struggle with various things in this life.  Those challenges range from health to struggles with children.  Even marriages have issues between husband and wife.
In the Bible, we are taught by the Savior, Jesus Christ.  One of my favorite passages of scripture calms my heart and stirs within my soul the reality of hope.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

For those that lose their way in life and the hope that they once possessed dwindles, there is always hope no matter what the situation currently is.  The invitation from our Heavenly Father is "Come back!"

Ours is the responsibility to spread that 'good word' and help to lift the heads that hang low with hearts and minds filled with anguish and distress.

We can do it. 

We Play And Have Fun

Tonight, we went to Orem since my mom and dad were in town.  It was a great time to be together and to enjoy one another's company.
The older you get, the more different family members are but I found tonight to be a great time and we all seemed to have a lot of fun.
This entire year I have focused on many different things as I post a daily blog.  Family has come up a lot and there is good reason for that.  Our families should be an important part of our lives.  Sometimes that is difficult to do but I would like to suggest that we all make a conscientious decision to strengthen the relationships we have with our family members.  Even if it's something small and insignificant.  The thought counts.  A brief phone calls expresses that you cared enough to make an effort.  Our families are important.
It was a nice time and we laughed as we spent time together.  What a night.

What Phase Am I On?

Our family enjoys playing card games. There are many games that require some sort of 'scoring' system to keep track of who wins at the end of the game. When Becky and I play we never keep score. We just like to play games to have fun and enjoy each other's company. Several years ago, we had an evening where we invited our friends over to our home to have an evening of games. We pulled out Phase 10 and began to set up to play the game. Our good friend asked if we had a sheet of paper to keep score on. Becky stated that we never kept score. Our friend looked at Becky and asked. "Why even play the game?"
We have laughed about that moment in time. We're just funny that way. I already know that Becky is a great person and I don't need her to beat me at a game to prove her worth to me.
It is my opinion that life is the same way. Who is really keeping score? I believe that I am in charge of keeping track of how I do and not anybody else. Becky and I do have responsibility to teach and give guidance and direction to our children.

We Will Go On

It is a fact that when our wives and mothers are 'down for the count' the house just doesn't feel quite the same.  That's how it feels at our house.  Becky injured her knee and it has a potentially lengthy recovery time.  I am so grateful for those who take the time to inquire about how she is doing.  Those are our true friends, for which we are eternally grateful.
I want our children to know how much I love and adore them.  They are such great kids, who are trying to do what's right every single day.  I love all four of you.  Thank you for all that you do.
With the combined effort of our family, we are able to see this 'hick-up' through and all will be well. 
Families are amazing and we are so grateful for ours!

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Birthday, America!
What a rich blessing it is to live in a land of freedom.  I am thankful, on this day, for the blessings that I have.

I love our national anthem.  Whenever it is sung, tears come to my eyes and I am filled with gratitude.

"Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?"
(Francis Scott Key)

May God continue to bless this land that we love.  If we do our part, I know He will do His.

I'll Go, Even Give My Life

I talked with a friend who told me about the news of the death of a cousin, in Afghanistan. My heart felt saddened by his loss. I have thought about this man's ultimate sacrifice. I can't help but think about the happiness I feel to live in the land of the free. We are so blessed. Tomorrow, we celebrate the birth of this country. Those freedoms come from men and women who both live and died. To each one of them I give my sincere thanks!