HappyCamper

Our Precious Heritage!

2012-02-08T08:39:00.000-06:00

We live in a country that was set up after a long series of events, to prepare a place for the Gospel of Jesus Christ to be restored to the earth. This country, because of the freedom of religion that it guarantees,has made it possible for people all over the world to learn of it.

Currently, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is receiving far more publicity and attention in the public eye. This attention is both favorable and unfavorable. But in the words of those great sages from Hollywood, "I don't care what you say about me, just spell my name correctly!"

Now, we are in the midst of an election cycle to return incumbents to office, to change incumbents in office and to let the "voice of the people be heard". The Church has a neutral position in political matters but strongly encourages members to be participant in the political/governmental matters of its citizens.

Yesterday in our state was Caucus Day. A true town hall style of interaction on a very local level. It was my privilege to participate as a citizen. I was asked to be a "convener" for one of the local precincts. Frequently, the turnout is not large at the caucus', but last night there was a tremendous turnout. There were over 20 participants in virtually every precinct, over 500 people participating. This was wonderful. The "Voice of the People" was given and great things will come to pass because of it.

As a convener, it was my responsibility to conduct the affairs of the caucus. This included selecting officers for the event of the evening, Precinct Officers to serve for 2 years, Delegates and Alternate Delegates for local, District and possibly State Convention Delegates. To conduct a straw poll regarding the candidates for President of the USA, to have individuals give their reasons why those running for office should receive our vote, to discuss The Party Platform and make suggestions or resolutions for changes.

Frequently, at caucus', all of the business is conducted in literally minutes. Then the attendees leave and the convener stays in the room for at least 1 hour. Last night, we started at 7 PM and at 9 PM had to close because the building had only been rented until then.

What was the difference this time versus most others? People are passionate and caring. They have and are watching what is going on and are concerned enough about it to want to let their voices be heard. Most in attendance last night were "first-timers" or very unfamiliar with what went on. It was a wonderful time to be able to give information to people who wanted to know how this great civil process works.

They looked to me as the convener to provide this help. It was a marvelous experience to have given to me in that very moment that which needed to be taught. It was delivered in a manner that people's minds were opened and their hearts were touched. They wanted to participate, to express their passions, insights. To do the things that will be the best for the "common good" of this great land. It was an opportunity to share wonderful information about this country and the genius behind its constitutional form of government. To encourage the people to never take lightly their right to vote, that it is the "Power of the People" to be certain that those elected to serve do so with honor and integrity.

The evening ended in our precinct on a wonderful and positive note. The participation was excellent, the selection of excellent people to serve and afterwards many kind comments of support were given to one another. A very fulfilling event for me. A terrific reinforcement of the amazing power and vision given to those who "pledged their lives, their fortunes and their Sacred Honor" to the formation and development of this country which has become and, even with all its "warts", still is the "Shining City on a Hill".

This has been a wonderful reminder to me of the great love that God has for all of us on the earth. All of us are His Children and He wants each and everyone of us to return to Him. It is a privilege to be alive in this day and age. We live in the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times, when "all things are gathered together in one". We have been and are being blessed in so many ways.

We must have Liberty and Freedom in our land in order to make the proper choices to help us become Sons and Daughters of God. Freedom and Liberty are essential for the exercise of Religion. " Freedom of Religion" is essential for the proper functioning of good, honest and moral government. Religion teaches its adherents these wonderful principles. These principles then become the basis for the way that we treat each other.

There is great wickedness in the "land". Satan has had much experience over the millenniums to learn how to foment hatred, stir up great envy and to seek for riches and power. Satan knows that most of his work must be done "in the dark", that the things he wants to happen have to be done stealthily because they cannot stand the light of day. When something or someone comes along that can thwart his plans, he unleashes his minions who do his beck and call to overthrow, subvert, defame and thus destroy the institutions and/or murder those involved. Killing and mayhem, fear and scarcity are some of his most frequently used tools.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is just the opposite. As Pres. Hinckley said, " the Church always goes in the front door." It is open, a Light to the world. It seeks to bless all, to teach us how to get along well with and to serve others. Its work is done in the bright light of day. It strives to lift people up, not to tear down or destroy. What an honor to be part of this great work. Truly, a Precious Heritage!

Lifted by our children

2012-01-22T17:51:00.000-06:00

One of our special children teaches music in a distant land, "far from the home...(she) loves."

Communication is often intermittent and frequently non-existent for extended periods.

It has been months since any posts were made on her blog but this week, one appeared. It thrilled me as she recounted some of her thoughts, feelings and experiences and shared information that has helped her be who she is.

Alma met Ammon and his brothers after 14 years of being apart.
Alma 17:2 Now these sons of Mosiah were with Alma at the time the angel ^afirst appeared unto him; therefore Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren (or sisters) in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had ^bsearched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.

3 But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and ^afasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with ^bpower and authority of God.

They were over-joyed to see one another. What made the meeting even more special is that they were still "fellow-citizens of the Saints and of the household of God!"

Such was the case yesterday as I read this special post from our dear daughter. After describing some challenges being faced in the school she works at, she decided to do the following by making this statement:

"I'm coming out of the silent majority, and will no longer be so silent. I have a voice. I read. I think. I analyze, and though my conclusions may be different than those who are louder than I, it does not make me wrong or them right. I'm mustering my courage, and I am going to be open and honest in my opinions on a variety of issues."

Expressing her realization about what she is doing in one very short, exclamatory word, "YIKES", she gives her name and then states the following.

"I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am a practicing member. I believe in the doctrines and tenets of the Church. Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ, and he translated the Book of Mormon. I try to live my life as God wants. I don't always succeed, in fact I often fall very short. That's why we have church."

I have never doubted her love for God, Christ or the Church. We have had very little interaction with each other for almost 13 years. I have felt that she was true and faithful to the Church and its teaching. But to have her begin her "coming out" by announcing her membership and belief in the Church brought a feeling of joy and happiness to me that is indescribable. It is easy to relate to Alma and Ammon and their joy as they met. It is so wonderful to know that your children love God and Christ and His Church. What a blessing.

Thanks to my brave, strong, courageous daughter for being willing to "confront" some of her family and fellow acquaintances. As a father, it would be difficult to be more pleased with her than I am. As my 3 previous posts have stated about Amy, she is a Queen amongst women. What a wonderful privilege to have her born through my lineage!

For her full post, go here. http://mscampgoestochina.blogspot.com/

The Birthday of a Queen: Part III

2011-11-25T21:53:00.000-06:00

This is it. THIS is the day that another amazing queen joined our family. She started as a beloved and special princess, just like her sisters, but, she has truly blossomed and become a QUEEN!

The family of Steven R Camp changed a lot on this day, all for the better. This is the day of new beginnings. To make the day even more special, November 25th in this great year was Thanksgiving Day as well. And thankful we were for the safe arrival of this precious spirit and for the health and strength of her mother who bore her.

Robyn, Heather and Amy on her 2nd birthday.

Amy Ruth Camp graced our precious world, arriving in good shape with all fingers and toes accounted for. With an amazing head of dark hair, she was just perfect. She was loved and received with grate joy. I think she came on that special Thanksgiving Day because we were so grateful to have her. She was, like each of the other children, so wanted and so loved before ever getting here!

Amy, Mom and Jon, at home on Pratt Drive, Palatine.

Amy had a sweet and happy childhood. Early on in her life, she learned to read. And read she did, is doing and will yet do. She loved all kinds of genre, but during her growing up years, she read lots of "Mormon Fluff". She also studiously spent time with the scriptures, along with Mormon History books, fictional and non-fictional. (The Work and the Glory, oh yeah!)

Special young woman

She had the sacred ordinances of being blessed in Sacrament meeting when she was just a few weeks old.

At age 8, she willingly took upon her the sacred covenant of baptism and confirmation.

At Amy's baptism, with cousins Jared and Ben Forsberg, Jonathan and her name sake, Aunt Ruth Waite.

During her high school years, she attended early morning seminary for 4 full years. She was a very consistent attender and a willing participant in class. It was my privilege to be her Seminary teacher for part of that time. What a choice blessing that was for me.

A wonderful picture of Amy during her school career.

Amy participated in the Young Women's program. She went to Girl's Camp each year and the last year, she was a Youth Camp Director, (YCL). (See the previous post for more about this.)

At the Idaho Falls Temple for Heather and Greg's Wedding, 13 July 1995

After high school graduation, she departed for the thriving metropolis of Rexburg, ID to attend Ricks College. She enjoyed, for the most part, her time there. After completing her studies at Ricks, she transferred to Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL. As a music major, she specialized in voice as well as conducting.

Amy has a unique ability to mold a group of singers together into one cohesive whole and have chorus sound like a professional group. When Jared had his missionary farewell, he asked several of his family members and friends to perform a special arrangement of a very lovely song, I believe it was the Army of Helaman.

We held a rehearsal and just weren't getting it together. Amy came forward and suggested we do a couple of things. Uncle John said, why don't you just lead us. She did and it was marvelous. It was one of those special times singing in sacrament meeting when Angelic Hosts joined with us. What a treat.

Amy sang in Madrigals in high school. One Sunday, she was asked to sing a solo in sacrament meeting. She invited a friend from madrigal to come and hear her sing. A beautiful song had been composed called "His Hands". As Amy sang this number, the Spirit filled the chapel. We felt it as she sang with clarity and conviction this wonderful song. It was heart stopping and life changing. When she sang, "His hands, pierced in agony, as he hung bleeding...on the cross", we, as a congregation could feel through her singing, carried by the Spirit, the impact and import of those words. Our love for the Savior was increased and we sat a little taller in our seats, knowing that his love carried him through this agony. His love enabled Him to complete the Atonement so that we, through repentance, can inherit Eternal Life with him. Amy's gift to sing has touched, is touching and will yet touch many lives for the good.

After the meeting, Amy's friend said to her, "I knew you could sing well but I didn't know you sang that good!" And I couldn't agree more.

Singing Christmas Songs in her mind. Can't you hear Joy To The World or Silent Night?

On occasion, I would get to take Amy to her voice lessons and we would sometimes stop on the way home for Subs or pizza or some other item for dinner. Amy was fun to be with.

After one year at NIU, her desire was to serve a mission for the Church. After submitting her papers, when asked where she'd like to go, the typical comment, "wherever I'm sent", came out. However, she was candid enough with us at one time to say she'd like to go to Russia.

When the call arrived, her wish, dream, desire were fulfilled. She was called to serve in the Russia, Samara mission. Her first area was in Saratov, Russia. She and her companion replaced a set of missionaries who had been recently kidnapped, beaten and taken into the country. They were kicked out of the vehicle and left to find their way back to town.

When people asked if we were worried about her safety, we said no, that this is probably the safest place in the world for a Missionary right now. Everyone is aware of them and are looking out for them.

Her mission was an amazing experience. She fell deeply in love with the Russian people, history, music, and almost all things Russian. She even learned to enjoy fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. Now that was a miracle.


At Brigham Young Park, Salt Lake City, Christmas 1999

Returning to NIU after her mission, she continued her musical studies. What an honor to be at her Senior Recital. As she sang her heart out performing some of the most difficult numbers a composer could compose for a vocalist, she was stunning. Her range seemed to be over 3 octaves. Her high notes were high, crisp, clear. The low notes were also. What an experience.

After graduation, she has had many wonderful experiences. She has been teaching school for 10 years now. She is the go-to person wherever she works. The sunshine lady, the delightful one, the person with their head on straight.

At Grandpa Camp's 90th birthday party, April, 2000.

Being far from Amy on this wonderful birthday of hers, a song she would sing from Fiddler on The Roof, "Far From The Home I Love," comes to mind. Also, another wonderful song, "Faraway Places" "with Strange sounding names."

We don't get to see Amy very often and when we do, the time is far to short.

How this wonderful and precious woman has impacted my life. Amy I love you!

On this day of days, my love is sent to a Far Away Place with a strange sounding name and wish you the Happiest of Birthdays ever.

The Birthday of a Queen: Part II

2011-11-17T21:51:00.003-06:00

1994 was an exciting and tumultuous year. Things were happening fast and furious. Excitement was all about. You see, our precious Queen, Miss Amy was graduating from High School and departing for College.

24 April 1994 Robyn's friend Tiffany was visiting along with Heather and Greg. Dinner at Knickers in Des Plaines(?)

What a whirlwind of activities. They were wonderful and enjoyable. Amy graduated from Palatine High School and, in keeping with the traditions of her siblings, she did so with honors.

A fond and favorite family activity, singing around the Piano. Amy is an accomplished pianist.

Amy had attended Girl's Camp for all of the years she was in Young Women. She chose to be a YCL at Camp Far Horizons for this summer and she seemed pretty excited about it.

It was my privilege to spend at least one day of the week while the girls were at girls camp during the previous 14 years. Sometimes I was a cook or doing something else. Most of the time, I was there as a Priesthood Representative.

This particular summer was different tho'. As a High Councilor, it was my privilege to work with the wonderful Young Women's program in the great Schaumburg Stake. Under the effective leadership of Jan Whitsitt and her two able counselors, it was a marvelous experience for me.

Amy is a very talented musician. She can play more instrument than I can think of! Here she is at the front end of her musical journey, playing clarinet in the elementary school band.

One of the things I was most looking forward to was being able to spend the entire week at Girl's Camp. Not only because it was wonderful, inspiring and fun, but, because my sweet and precious Amy would be there for the entire week as well.

One of the first years Amy went to Girls Camp.

The YW Presidency decided that they wanted to have the most wonderful Girls Camp experience possible. To make sure things went smoothly, they decided to arrive at the girls camp Sunday Evening, so that they would be there with everything in place for Monday morning when the Wards and their girls started to arrive.

I went up Sunday evening as well, but because of other assignments, wasn't able to leave until about 8 PM. It was a 2+ hour drive to Camp Far Horizons so it was after 10 before I got there. Previous to my arrival, I had received a call from Pres. Whitsitt. When the leaders had arrived that evening, several felt uneasy and wanted a Priesthood blessing pronounced on the camp, for the girls, the leaders and safety and peace over the course of the week.

Upon arrival with Amy, we went to the staff area, had a special meeting, sweet testimonies were shared and then a Priesthood blessing was delivered.

We had used this Girl's Camp for many years. It sits on a bluff, not far from the Mississippi River. Most of the time, because of the lushness of the trees and area, the air was pretty still and quite heavy with humidity. The temperatures were usually in the upper 80's-low 90's. So, weather-wise, it wasn't always as cooperative and pleasant as we wanted. Frankly, it was usually quite miserable.

That night, all rested well and by 7 AM, things were in place as the arrival of the girls drew near.

Amy had found her "bunk" and moved in. She was up early, helping, singing, showing her terrific personality. Seemed like everyone was so excited to have her there!

A favorite meal, pancakes. Eaten in the tulip garden cafe. Heather, Amy, Mom and Jon.

This was a week never to be forgotten. Heavenly Father moderated the weather so that it was in the upper 70's-low 80's. The humidity hovered around 40-50% and there was a gentle breeze that seemed to touch the camp almost 24 hours a day.

So much love and service were shown by the girls to one another. One young lady had a leg problem. But, for the girls in her ward, this was not a problem at all but a great opportunity for service. They had a small garden cart that they sat her in so they could transport her all over the camp. And, they were Singing the songs of Zion as they did so.

Multiple types of service were given. Talents were displayed, testimonies shared, strengthened and shared some more. Dear Amy was so involved with all of the girls. She had some specific assignments but none were more well received and enjoyable than her story of "Rindercella". Her singing was campfamous (pun intended) amongst all the girls and the leaders. She was such a joy to be with. Sometimes, it would appear to me that she was the "Pied Piper" as so many girls would be following her around.

How I treasured those special moments!

All too soon, Friday night arrived and with it, the final meal and a wonderful Campfire program, filled with stories, talents, songs and the sharing of testimonies. It was one of those Spirit-filled meetings that you just can't get enough of. You just wanted it to go on and on and on.

But alas, it did end and everyone retired for the night.

Saturday morning dawned bright, beautiful and superb. Father's moderation of the weather continued throughout the entire week. The nights were sweet and pleasantly cool, wonderful sleeping weather. The skies were sunny by day and moon filled by night. It is hard to imagine better weather than we enjoyed.

One of the wonderful things that showed itself during the week was the love and camaraderie the girls developed. My quarters were right in the center of the camp and everyone passed by them going to and from. It amazed me how many of the young women would sing as they passed by. Often they were alone and it was so joyful to hear them sing as they walked. Some were praying out loud. What joy!

Amy's influence on the other YCL's as well as the girls and leaders was very special. She set such a wonderful example of good cheer, joviality, service, charity and kindness. Can a father be more pleased with a daughter than I am with this stalwart, faithful young woman?

The camp was cleaned up and left better than when the Young Women had arrived. Everything was buttoned down and all had departed except Amy and me. As we sat in the parking lot, we conversed about the events of the week, how the Lord had truly blessed us as a group. No illnesses, injuries, homesickness. Weather moderated in our behalf. The joy of being together with each other. Of working together and accomplishing much good.

We both decided that this was about as close to a Celestial Experience as we have participated in here on this earth. Similar to what we imagine it will be like when the Savior returns and lives here with us for a 1000 years.

Leaving Camp Far Horizons that day was difficult. We looked back with joy and longing for the experiences of the week to continue.

Little did we know when we left that not only were we leaving Camp Far Horizons, but within the next year, we would all be leaving Illinois as well.

Family photo around fall of 1984

The Birthday of a Queen

2011-11-02T23:00:00.000-05:00

November! The very word brings thoughts of great changes, magnificent gatherings and joyous celebrations.

October is a marvelous month: The majesty of Autumn, the gathering of the harvest, the fullness of the season's growth. Amazing, wonderful, precious.

But November holds even greater thoughts for me. The transition from fall to winter, the buildup to remembering Heavenly Father and His marvelous blessings on us.

To join with millions of others on the 4th Thursday of this month to remember God and His choice blessings in the Celebration of Thanksgiving. A wonderful and special event.

Another event of great importance also occurs in November. On Friday the 25th of November, a day of major importance also occurs.

A very few short years ago, on that day, which in that year was also Thanksgiving Day, a most precious, angelic being entered into this world. A choice and beautiful baby girl with a full head of dark hair, a pleasant and sweet disposition and, the ability to bring joy and happiness to us.

This is a time of reminiscing, of giving thanks. Of sharing thoughts and feelings both profound and "punny". More will be shared over the next several weeks as we get to the wonderful celebration of the birth of our wonderful daughter, Amy Ruth!

A quick trip "Home!"

2011-10-09T21:46:00.000-05:00

A venerable friend, Al Malwitz was at priesthood meeting. Was his home teacher for many years. He was a choice friend, wise counselor and excellent mentor for me. And what makes it all more wonderful is his continued faithfulness in the Gospel and to the church.

John Shepherd, (not of Stargate Atlantis fame) but the real deal, father, husband, just all-around good guy. Moved into Palatine a few years before we left. Very musical as is his wife and family.

We had the privilege of staying with dear friend Clayton. We also had the opportunity to clean his carpets. What a wonderful treat to be able to work with him again, doing something that we both have done many times together over the years. What an amazing and wonderful man he is. He is truly the embodiment of charity, "yea, the pure love of Christ." A better friend I have never had.


The beautiful Chicago Temple. It was in summer maintenance shutdown so we were unable to do any work while in Chicago. We had gone there to visit with dear sister Cheryl who had come to Round Lake to assist a friend in the wedding of a child.

What a choice and wonderful experience to be there. Cheryl had double knee replacement surgery in April and now, just 3 months later, she is walking all over and getting along wonderfully well. It was a joy to be with her, to visit her at the York's and also to have Ben, Laurel and the children come for a meal together. All too soon the time to leave arrived and with joyful tears, we departed.

On the way home, we went via Peru, Ill and were able to stop and visit with Amber, Travis and Sarah. They are growing so quickly and are becoming so accomplished. Pat & I enjoyed a pizza with them as we visited and were brought up-to-date on their comings and goings. We sure love those 3 and hope to have them come visit again during the Christmas Holidays.

Wedding in the Park

2011-10-09T21:29:00.001-05:00

The son of some good friends was married in a unique setting this Past July. The setting was a lovely shelter at Bunker Hill Park in Coon Rapids, MN. The shelter was decorated very nicely and the weather was very cooperative.

The breeze was gentle, the air temp moderate and the humidity, just right. A great afternoon for an outdoor wedding!

The Handsome groom and the beautiful bride. Sean and Eden. We were delighted to be a part of their wonderful wedding.

Our Amazing Friends!

2011-10-09T21:22:00.000-05:00

Some of our Dearest Friends are Bill and Lynell Gordon. They are not strangers to trials and adversities. Bill was diagnosed with progressive MS some 20+ years ago. When I first met him, he was walking and driving. Over the years, his physical condition has continued to deteriorate but his mental capacity and faith in God has continued to increase. He is one of the great inspirations in my life!

His dear wife Lynell, (on the right standing next to one of our former neighbors in Crystal) is another amazing woman in my life. She is kind, generous and cheerful, filled with charity. A true inspiration as she handles her great challenges. She is very much like Alma and his group in Helam. She has been blest with much additional faith and strength, so much so that she feels that her burdens are light. What a remarkable story of faith.

Their wonderful daughter Heather, married a great young man named Mark who was a Marine. About a year ago, he was leading point on patrol in Afghanistan and stepped on a landmine. This young man truly gave all to help preserve us in this goodly land. Unfortunately, he left 3 appendages in the foreign land, his left arm and both of his legs. He is a true Marine and has received excellent care for his injuries. Heather, a trained nurse has been by his side and helping with the medical issues ever since he returned to the states. Mark has done so wonderfully well, he has become almost ready to resume to "normal" life. He is a wonderful story of faith, dedication, perseverance and determination. A great inspiration to us all. They were able to come home to Minnesota in June and while here, an open house was held to allow people to come and see Mark and Heather. What a great gathering.Mark has been fitted with some wonderfully advanced prostheses and is doing remarkably well with them.


Pat and Cali were there with Mark to wish him well.

A whole New Blog, Just for you!

2011-08-28T18:01:00.001-05:00

So many wonderful family, friends and relatives have kept me "Up-To-Date" on a wide variety of Points of View. Thanks and keep them coming!

Sometimes, some items are forwarded but most of the time, they are not. However, there are many amazing and wonderful "Points of View" sent to me that deserve greater circulation.

To help anyone who is interested, I have started a new blog called, "Many Points of View", that will contain items that may be of interest to you and others.

http://variedpointsofview.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-beginnings.html

This will contain many wonderful comments and forwards from those who send them to me and some that I may find myself. With a blog format, you can comment or not, you can read the items and go to the links, or not. Its your choice.

http://variedpointsofview.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-beginnings.html

Hopefully, this will cut down on lots of emails to everyone.

When you have items, articles, things, you know, "STUFF", send them here. It may very well get posted to this blog.

http://variedpointsofview.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-beginnings.html

And Now, for the rest of the Story!

2011-08-21T19:58:00.000-05:00

This was the first time I had the privilege of holding Miss Lynlee.

Monday morning at the Spencer's would come early, so here's Miss Ellie snuggled up with Mom before heading off to bed.

Sharon and Gail were ready to head on to Idaho. After a wonderful brunch of Campground Omelets and fresh fruit drink, they departed. It was so wonderful to have them make the effort to be there for Lynlee's sealing and blessing. What a privilege to be a brother of these two amazing women.

Later, we were able to spend the afternoon and evening with Jon, Teri and Gwen. Gwen is a perpetual motion machine and its pretty hard to get her to sit still for very long. When the pictures were being taken, I usually close my eyes when the flash goes off. Surprise, I didn't this time, but check out Miss Gwen's eyes.

Miss Gwen is cute, energetic and lively. She is so precious. What a treat to be with her and her parents. We were able to spend an enjoyable evening with them visiting, relaxing and enjoying Gwen and her adventures. We left and returned to the Spencer's for the night.

We were up, packed and ready to begin our return trip to Minnesota about 9 AM. The weather was beautiful, bright, clear, fresh. Lynlee and Heather were bouyant. (I think they were glad to see us come and REALLY glad to see us go. LOL)

Grandma Pat needed one last cuddle with Miss Ellie. Ellie is trying to be so coy. Look at those eyes.

One last photo of the Selfless Spencer clan. What a treat to be hosted by them. They are gracious, kind and so generous. What a pleasure they are to us!


The trip from Lehi to the land of Bountiful (That's Minnesota, not Utah) was delightful. With such excellent weather we made great time. We went through Omaha about 10 PM and we were doing so well, we decided to just keep on going. Somewhere, which is known as "Nowhere", we stopped for gas. How do I know it was Nowhere? Check out the sign!

Our trip was wonderful. We were so thrilled to be with each of our children, sans 1. Unfortunately, we missed her by two weeks. Amy is such a special person. We weren't able to make any connections with her at all this summer. Now she's back in a "Far away country with strange sounding names," working, singing and bringing joy to many.

But we certainly enjoyed our special times, events and activities with each of the children and their families. We were very privileged to have been there. Our hearts are filled to overflowing at the generosity that was so freely shown to us.

Sharon and I had a very special time, being able to celebrate our birthdays together again. Its the first time in a long time we were together on her day as well as mine.

Our lesson in Priesthood was about Temples, sealing and forever families. How grateful I am to have been born in the covenant, sealed to good, honest and stalwart parents. To have had my own sacred sealing and have the potential to have an Eternal family is truly, for me, beyond comprehension. To know that Father knows me personally and is mindful of me, my thoughts, feelings, inclinations, needs, wants and is willing to provide opportunities for me to grow and improve, it is so wonderful. I am led to exclaim as the great Latter-day hymn says, "I stand all amazed at the Love Jesus offers me...Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!"

Another Stupendous Pay Day!

2011-06-17T23:33:00.001-05:00

Our wonderful Saturday continued with a delightful recital Bobi had with her music students.

We met at Riverton Music where the students had a very nice venue. Grand Pianos, decent acoustics and an enthusiastic audience.

Sharon, Bob, Gail, Pat & I arrived just in time to see the first student perform. Bobi, the gracious teacher and emcee, participated with almost all of her students. All of them performed terrific solos and duets.

Lyssa has recently started taking lessons from her mom. It was fun to see how far she has come in such a short time.

Bobi has one young man who is so enthusiastic. He really did an outstanding job on his solo and duet. After the recital, he presented Bobi with a lovely floral gift.

One of her students has an amazing touch on the piano. She was very impressive with her technique and interpretation. It was a joy to watch her play as we listened to the sweet music she performed.

Returning to the Spencer's, we had an enjoyable evening with them. We played games, visited and had a pleasant time. Sharon & Bob spent the night with one of Bob's cousins, while Gail stayed with a dear friend in Riverton.

Sunday morning was wonderful. Cool, brisk temperatures, a little more moisture. It was beautiful. Church was at 1 so we enjoyed a leisurely morning, indexing, visiting, studying scripture. And of course, taking pictures.

Today was the rest of the events for Lynlee and she was to be blest in Sacrament Meeting. Heather, who is so "shy and retiring" about her girls, had gotten everything ready for this most amazing and wonderful day.

Lynlee was so beautiful in her blessing dress.

And of course, Miss Ellie was equally stunning, wearing a dress made by Grandma Maathuis. It was originally made for Aunt Amy and then handed on to others. Ellie is so cute in it!

The happy grandmother and super-excited mom got in on the fun picture action.

After Sharon, Bob and Gail arrived, we departed for the church.

The blessing of Lynlee was a very special occasion. Greg, his father and all his brothers are quite tall. They are all taller than me. Even son Jon is taller than me, barely. But, I'm taller than Brian. It was quite a circle of men, tall, taller, medium and short. But the stature doesn't matter, its the authority and the power that each hold that is important.

Greg pronounced a powerful blessing, reiterating her ability to be strong even in times of physical challenges. Lynlee was so precious and good. She didn't squeak, squawk or scream. She was delightful.

Sacrament meeting was very wonderful. To partake of the sacred emblems of the sacrament and renew my covenants with the Savior was uplifting. The speakers instructed us about scriptures and their importance and value in our lives.

Bro. Dodge taught and instructed us in one of the most powerful lessons from the scriptures that I have ever had the privilege of receiving. Taking the entire lesson from the first 8 verses of John chapter 12, he instructed us in such a way that caused us to feel the Spirit. It truly was there and we were taught.

A 5th Sunday lesson was conducted by Bishop Spencer, our wonderful son. His theme was based on the instructions from the Lord to Joseph about teaching one another in "theory, principle and doctrine." He has been pondering on this subject for quite some time and explained to us that theory relates more to behavior. That we probably spend about 80% of our church instructional time teaching about "theory", rather than principle and doctrine. He reminded us that Joseph said, "I teach them correct principles and they govern themselves." His instruction reminded me of Alma's statement that the word of God had more power over the hearts of the children of men, than did the sword or anything else. They resolved to try teaching the doctrine of Christ.

Greg's lesson followed that theme, to teach the Doctrine of Christ. It was powerfully delivered, spirit-enhanced. There was excellent participation and discussion by the participants. Greg did a masterful job of teaching.

The Great family on a very special day. Greg is doing a marvelous job as Bishop. It was a choice experience to view the interchange he has with the Aaronic Priesthood young men. He loves them and there certainly appeared to be great reciprocation from them to him.

It is my opinion that everyone in these meetings was spiritually fed and nourished by the pleasing word of God. I don't recall if it was mentioned in the lessons of today, but Tolstoy, the Russian historian, toured America in the early 19th century. He was amazed by everything he saw, the cities, the amazing developments in agriculture and industry, the happiness of the people and their strength. He didn't understand why America was so blessed until, he said, paraphrasing; I went to their churches and that's when I came to understand that America is great, because America is Good!

It was wonderful to participate with a ward, yea, with a church congregation that is so good. You sense and feel their goodness. Even with all of the young children in attendance, even with it being held in the afternoon when so many are tired and cranky, the Spirit was there and it was felt by we who attended. Thank you wonderful dear members of the Bull River 3rd Ward!

After church, we all met at the Taylor's for a birthday dinner for yours truly. What a wonderful treat. Adam was the chef and he made one of my all time favorite meals, Lasagna! It was accompanied by a spinach and strawberry salad and delightful garlic bread. Lyssa wrapped up my eating utensils very nicely in a napkin and they allowed me to be served first. What a wonderful tasty meal.

Adam in the kitchen with his superb lasagna.

He has recently completed his Eagle Rank in the BSA and we were really hoping to be able to have his Eagle Court of Honor. But, the bureaucracy didn't seem to want to cooperate.

Lyssa also helped with the dinner by making the delicious brownies we enjoyed for dessert.

Charming, huggable and on-the-go, Miss Gwen.

The delightful and precious Teri

These dear children never cease to amaze me. After dinner, they brought out gifts, the likes of which took my breath away.

Yummy chocolate raisins, Greg doesn't like, I love. Thanks!
(Had to have at least one picture of me with my eyes closed!)

These precious daughters had all of my blogs published into a book, with our family picture at the reunion last summer on the cover and Pat & Cali on the back cover. It is so wonderful. Yes, everything is right here on the internet but there is somethings so wonderful about having it all on fine archival quality paper in full color that you can read and go through. Thank you dear daughters. What an amazing and thoughtful gift.

The church has been publishing some amazing information about Joseph Smith in a series called the Joseph Smith Papers. Jon stunned me by presenting me a copy of the latest volume, Revelations and Translations.

My eyes were very full and running over with these wonderful gifts.

And dear, sweet Robyn. She is always so thoughtful. She found me a "Y" hat, and brought it to me, straight from the BYU Bookstore.

Fun t-shirt with great message from Robyn and Kevin.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, you dear and wonderful children. And thanks to everyone for their remembrances and gifts on this day. So many wished me happy birthday both in person and via Facebook.

And a special treat was a phone call from Shanghai, China. How good to speak with Miss Amy.

We stayed with the Taylor's and visited with them for some time, then departed to Lehi for the evening.

Brian, the gracious host.

Handsome Jon, great Husband, superb father, wonderful son.

Well pleased mom with her favorite son!

Dad & Gwen with Ellie investigating.

Robyn, my absolutely most favorite #2 daughter, the love of her life, Kevin and me. So great to have them with us this weekend. How we love them!

This has been a most sweet and tender day. Truly, a stupendous Pay Day. How great are my blessings. Amazing, powerful wonderful children. Incredible and loving grandchildren. The Gospel of Jesus Christ, membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bearer of the Holy Priesthood, living on the earth in the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times. Having continuing revelation, additional testimonies of the Savior. Being able to learn of Him and our Father. To make sacred covenants. To experience challenges, to be tried and tested.

To live with and enjoy the most Christlike person I know, my dear precious wife Pat. My blessings are so great and marvelous!

The Gorgeous and Glorious Pat was happy to be with everyone.

A Stupendous Pay Day!

2011-06-12T18:57:00.000-05:00

Excitement builds. Anticipation increases. We count the days, the hours, the minutes and then...we are off. UTAH here we come!

Precious Miss Lynlee Elizabeth Spencer has officially been adopted, the legal hurdles have been jumped and now, the great and awesome sealing, for time and all eternity is taking place. And we will be there!

Our trusty steed was rented from the Hertz Livery. It was comfortable, commodious and got us to and from in wonderful style. And, it averaged over 31 MPG which we thought was pretty good averaging the 75 MPH limits over much of the way.

We left about 9:30 AM on May 26 and drove 773 miles to Ogallala NE where we checked into the Americinn and had a wonderful rest.

After a delicious breakfast, we were up and on the road by 7:20 AM. We were really excited. The travel yesterday had been through intermittent showers and we experienced more of the same on this day.

We continued the tradition of stopping at Little America for our ice cream cone. It was a delightful pick-me-up and then we were off for the final leg. We arrived in Lehi at about 4 PM. A wonderful, safe and uneventful trip.

Our Family Reunion colors from last summer were Royal Purple. Pat & I wore our family shirts in honor of our family.

But the payday was just beginning as we were able to cradle in our arms this most precious and dear one, Lynlee E!

Look at this precious little round faced, brown eyed beauty. And Ellie has grown so much and seems to have so much enjoyment in her sister!

The amazingly happy, content and well-pleased father and daughter!

Does Mom enjoy this little one? Does this little one enjoy mom?
Do bears sleep in the forest at night?

Oh yum, rice cereal!

Precious Ellie, so patient and cute!

The Spencer's had just returned from home after being at the temple. Here's a link to Heather's blog that explains about it. What an amazing experience.
http://apictureaday-heather.blogspot.com/2011/05/papa-john.html

The evening was much anticipated as we were to finally meet our son-in-law, Kevin. In the evening, Robyn and Kevin came and brought with them some very tasty Chinese food for dinner.

A very tender and sweet experience, to be with this wonderful woman and her chosen husband. A delightful, intelligent and on-the-ball man. What a privilege to welcome him to our family!

Saturday, May 27, 2011 dawned bright and beautiful. Rain had fallen in the lower elevations but Mt. Timpanogos had a lot of new snow on it. Lynlee and Ellie were dressed in their beautiful go-to-the temple dresses. They could both sense that something really special was going on.

When Uncle Bob and Aunt Sharon arrived, Aunt Sharon was anxious to hold the cynosure.

We departed soon for the sacred, holy, House Of The Lord, the Draper Temple. What a beautiful structure. Prominently nestled on the bench above the valley floor, tucked away in the opening of Corner Canyon. A wonderful large structure. Heather posted wonderful pictures of them after the sealing.
http://tendermercies1.blogspot.com/2011/06/pictures-from-temple.html

This ceremony is so simple, straightforward and direct. It is uplifting. How privileged to participate. We are so grateful for the good lives that Heather and Greg live, for their goodness and strength of character. We are grateful for the support of family friends. There was a very full room in the temple. Probably close to 60 or more people. We were particularly pleased to be there with 3 of our children and their spouses. This was an incredible PAYDAY! And, information was provided that we may have another of these wonderful payday's before the end of the year. We are happy and filled with gratitude!

After the sealing, we returned to Heather and Greg's home.
The weather cooperated very nicely and a wonderful BBQ
was given. 4 other special people were there at the sealing.
Lynlee's Great Grandmother, Julie, 95 years young! She was
joined by her daughter's, Phyllis, Chris and Arlena, Lynlee's
grandmother.

Bobi and Sharon

Aunt Gail


One of Heather's Book Club ladies, with Princess Lyssa B, Miss Lynlee and Heather


Heather the gracious hostess, serving Uncle Bill.

Uncle Greg love's the children. As soon as Miss Gwen arrived,
she was in his arms. Pretty special.

Precious Gwen with dear Mom Teri.

Kevin and Robyn, so good to have them with us.

It must have been really funny, but no one was
talking. Pat and Teri having a great time.

Gwen and Ellie Playing.

Another marvelous pay day has drawn to a most
pleasant and joyful conclusion. But wait, the
joy continues!

Wonderful Mothers and Daughters in my life!

2011-05-08T19:00:00.006-05:00

The glorious month of May has arrived. With it have come the gentle rains and breezes, the warm sun and the beauty that comes with Spring. What a wonderful time of the year.

One of the best things about May is the special days that are part of this month. But today, one day stands above all the rest as thoughts, tender feelings and wonderful memories permeate my thoughts, filling my heart to over-flowing with gratitude for the wonderful Mother, Mothers and daughters in my life.

Pat and I have had the special privilege of serving with a Young Single Adult Ward here in Minneapolis. We have thrilled with their experiences, cried with them during their challenges. Our testimonies of the "True and Living Church" have been expanded, our knowledge and understanding increased. Our love for one another, family, ward members, friends and fellow travelers on this earth has increased exponentially! How grateful we are to be alive!

Looking back over my life it is easy to see how blessed I have been to have such a wonderful mother. She descended through an amazing line of wonderful people.

Grandma Chloe Smith, Mom was named after her.

Mom & Dad on their Wedding day, 10-05-1936


Wendell D & Blanche B Camp Family Photo circa 1954

Two loving and lovely people, circa early 1980's

Chloe Blanche Benson Camp, my beloved, sweet and precious mother was a great influence in my life. Mom was organized and talented. She was especially talented playing the piano and organ. She was passionately devoted to reading. A great friend and helper to others. A wonderful, compassionate leader. She loved and supported Dad and the two of them set such a wonderful example for us. It is hard to believe that mom has been gone from this mortality for just over 26 years. Her influence is still felt, very deeply, in my life.

As a young man, mom was always there for me. She was there for my "crossroads" in life. When I was a Sophomore in high school, mom went to work full-time at Rogers Bros. Potato plant in Rexburg. The first afternoon she went to work, when I came home the house was empty. Wandering aimlessly from room to room, looking for mom but knowing she wasn't there caused much anguish to me. My mom was everything to me. When she wasn't at home it was sorrowful.

Thankfully, Mom and Dad had many years earlier, provided one of the greatest blessings possible. Four of the most amazing sisters in the world.


Cheryl, Gail, Steve, Lois, Sharon At the front door of the Nauvoo Temple

Sharon, who not only verbally teaches about charity, love for others and service, but she lives it. 2009 Sharon and Bob celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. It was amazing to me to share the wonderful sentiments expressed by cards and letters from so many people. One of the constant themes expressed by many was how they felt they were some of their dearest friends. Two people, knit together as one, have truly been a huge blessing in setting such a great example to me.


Sharon and Bob

Wonderful, vibrant Lois was so obedient. She was so focused on serving others. She and her wonderful husband Myron, have helped so much to further the Lord's work here on this earth. As the mother of 9 great children and multiple grandchildren, her influence for good is far-reaching. We miss Lois very much, but know that she is continuing to serve faithfully in the Paradise of our God.

Dear Lois and her good husband Myron

Gail, virtually, my twin sister. We are only 14 months apart. She was my friend, my confidant, my pillar of strength. She understood me, especially in my "trying and turbulent" teen years. She was a voice of reason. She wasn't afraid to yell at me. She brought me up short and helped me to recognize my pride on many occasions. It is always fun to be with her. We are so much alike in so many ways. But she's lots prettier!

My "Twin" Sister Gail.

Cheryl's entry into our family was quite an eye-opening experience for me. I was 6 and just starting to really understand and think about things. Having Cheryl come into the family, having all of us walk around very "quietly" so we wouldn't wake up the baby was quite an experience. As we grew up and left home, Cheryl was the one that always seemed to get all the "perks" that we had to strive so hard to get, just handed to her on a silver platter. Why, she even had her own set of keys to the car. Unheard of!

Dear sister Cheryl with husband John

Needless to say, these wonderful women have been a profound influence for good in my life. They have helped to teach me about sacrifice, the importance of family, of service, for standing for the right at all times and in places. They have helped me through times of sublimity as well as times of deepest sorrow.

Living over a 1000 miles from most of them meant lots of planning took place before any visits were made. We always seemed to be able to get together at least once a year. These were wonderful occasions. Lots of incredible eating, fabulous fun times and wonderful sharing of special and sacred experiences.

After serving a mission, my greatest desire was follow the Plan of Happiness. To do that required a woman to become my wife. A few short months after my mission, I was introduced to a bright, talented woman who loved God, sought knowledge and wanted to have a family. After a wonderful courtship, we were married by Elder LeGrand Richards in the Salt Lake Temple.

She was part of a wonderful Dutch culture that had excellent values and a wonderful work ethic. She was determined to be a good mother. She worked hard at it and has been, in my opinion, very successful in her efforts.

Our years together were full, rich and oftentimes, challenging. We moved far from our homeland in the West to Illinois. In Illinois, we were able to meet and associate with people that impacted our lives greatly. We experienced great growth and development. We had many opportunities to grow in the Church and Kingdom of God. We were able to travel, to participate in many great cultural events and activities.

But, the most important of everything that happened to us in dear Illinois? We were immensely blessed with the advent into our home of 5 dear and precious children, 4 daughters and a son.

Often, before children become a part of your family, you may have some thoughts and ideas on what you will or won't do when you become a parent. We certainly did. But, oh my...When they start to arrive, it doesn't take long to realize that even though they have the same genes, DNA and heritage, they are decidedly different. And most of what you thought you'd do and say went "right out the window".

Bobi, our first child was a true treasure from Father. He knew that me, this hard-hearted, arrogant man needed a serious case of humbling. Bobi was supposed to be the first of my 5 MAN basketball team. When she was born, I asked the nurse what we had. She said, "a girl!" I said, "A GURLLL?" I couldn't believe it. When they brought her into the recovery room to be with us, another lady was there who had just delivered a boy. I just knew they'd switched our children. I was supposed to have boys!

When Bobi was brought in and placed in my arms, it took me all of about half a second to be completely smitten and filled with love for the safe arrival of this beautiful, tiny, carrot-topped little girl. So perfect in form and feature. All of the arms and legs were in the right spot and her face was so beatific.

Bobi with husband Brian, Lyssa "B" and Adam

I thought this was to be a once-in-a-life-time experience. Little did I know that these feelings would not only be repeated, but they would be intensified with the arrival of each of the other children.

Robyn, so beautiful. Full head of black hair, precious round face. Such a delight. We had 3 cats when Robyn was born. We didn't realize she was allergic to them. The doctor prescribed a codeine based allergy medicine for her that he increased several times over the next few months. When she didn't wake up for almost 36 hours and we couldn't arouse her, she was taken to a specialist who diagnosed her condition. The cats were removed, the house cleaned from top to bottom and then, the "fun" began. We had a 6 month old drug-addict that had to be weaned from her "fix". It was so hard to watch this precious, tender little girl cry and scream, fuss and fume. She couldn't relax. She would tense up, then go limp, then start all over again. It was so hard for her and for us. Slowly and gradually, her little body was able to get over the codeine and she became the most sweet, gentle and fun-loving child any parent could every want.

Robyn

Robyn & Kevin

Son Jon was born in the middle of his sisters and has had the good fortune of being mentored and tutored by each of them. He has also been able to find and enjoy life with one of our other precious daughter-in-laws, Teri.


Jon & Teri with Travis, Amber and Sarah

Precious Gwen with Grandmother Pat

Heather was another amazing daughter that filled our home with much joy and happiness. With her arrival, our home was bursting at the seams. Heather was what I called, a "pistol". She was ready, willing and able to do just about anything. When she decided to do something, you either figured out a way to help her or got out of her road so she could get it done. She would go and go and when she got tired, she went to bed. She was her generations version of the "Energizer Bunny".

Heather with their precious new daughter Ellie

Greg and Heather's newest addition, Miss Lynlee Amelia!

Greg, Heather and Ellie

Dearest Amy was the 4th of our wonderful daughters. She was much like Robyn, full round face and an incredible head of dark black hair. Amy was such a wonderful, pleasant and happy child. Amy has an affinity for music. She learned to sing almost before she could talk. She loved the wonderful Hollywood and Broadway musicals. She has such a fantastic memory. She can hear a song once and it seems, she knows the words, the melody and all of the harmony. When Amy got older and was asked a question, she would often sing us the answer. She would go through the house singing. What a treasure.

Amy, appropriately seated at the Piano, with Uncle Clay at his home.

Oh, and did I mention reading. Every child has a love for books. Traveling long distances was seldom a chore because there were always so many books to read. Each child is a voracious reader. They have each become knowledgeable and informed about so much. I am in awe of the capacity that each has to express themselves.

Each of these wonderful women have learned the value of music. From their mother, the joy and value of music, from both of us, the love of singing. Each of them play multiple instruments. Bobi, piano, organ, flute, percussion instruments, bassoon. Robyn, piano, violin. Heather, piano, oboe. Amy, Piano, clarinet and just about any other instrument known to man or woman. (Jon also plays the trumpet, with one finger sonatas on the piano)

Each of these dear daughters have had their challenges and rewards. Each has persevered through trials, difficulties and hardships. Many are still perservering. Each has taught me the joy of individualism and the excitement of doing, being and learning new things. They have helped me to discover a more rich, full and complete life.

Now, some of these wonderful daughters have presented us with amazing and beautiful granddaughters. To watch them grow, develop and blossom is indeed a marvelous experience. I have been touched by the care and concern that those without children show to their nieces. Their unselfishness in sharing themselves with them is really a wonderful thing. As a father of these wonderful daughters, on this great day set aside to honor mothers and women, I express to all of them my love, gratitude and thanksgiving for the privilege that is mine to have them be part of my life and me to be part of theirs.

After many years of marriage, the children's mother and I divorced. This was a difficult and trying time for all of us. However, with precious sisters and amazing daughters providing support and comfort, even though it was a time of trial it was also a time of great growth and blessing.

After a period of being alone and working through issues, it was time to move forward with my life. To more fully become the measure of the man I should be indicated that it was time to find a wonderful woman to be my wife.

As I began my search, I left it in the Lord's hands. However, over time, my prayers began to have what I called, "small, simple requests" to Father about what I would like in my wife: Deeply Spiritual, loving, charitable. Intelligent, well-to-do, no children at home, as good a cook as my mom, a neat and tidy homemaker. If she was as beautiful as Elizabeth Taylor or Marie Osmond, those would really be strong pluses. I realized that I had really put in an "order" for a wife.

Early one Spring, I was working in the Minneapolis area. The Older Single Adults held a dinner and square dance at the Stake Center. While there, I was introduced to this very dainty, petite woman named Pat. She was in charge of the entire event and she was so intriguing to me, I volunteered to help clean up after the event was over.

Thus started an amazing courtship that ended at the sacred altar of the St Paul Temple just 3 short months later. This amazing woman was truly an answer to my prayers.

After meeting her and starting to feel strong feelings, it was given me to know that there are many women in the church that would completely fill the requests that I had made for another wife. However, it was indicated that while what was asked for would be great, that Pat would be the one that could help me get to where we both wanted to go and we would enjoy the journey, immensely.

And so, today, I pay tribute to another of the amazing women in my life, my Dear and Precious Wife, Patricia Ann.

With Pat also came 4 strapping sons and 1 sweet daughter.

Chuck with Krystal and Justin

Joe has brought into the family his dear wife, Heidi. What a treasure she is. We are grateful to have her in our life.


Heidi & Joe


Joe & Heidi's children, Tristina, Brandon, Samantha

Calisto and DeAndra

Pat with granddaughter, Calisto

One of the great influences in Pat's life and now mine, Marjorie Banken, Pat's dear mom. We enjoy our association with her. She is a feisty woman and very enjoyable to be around. She loves people, family and others.


Pat's Mom Marge with Jerry

Pat is #3 of 10 children, raised in a good strong Catholic family in rural western Minnesota. Living on a farm, she early on learned the rhythms of life and the importance of working together to accomplish many things. Her father had asthma and was frequently unable to do a lot of the farm work. The children were given the tasks needed to keep the farm operating and supporting the family.

Pat with Ellie, enjoying her wonderful Granddaughter.

These great lessons, learned early on, have been a great support to Pat. She knows how to work. She enjoys Work. She loves to Work. She is happiest when she is working. Service is her watchword. She just can't serve enough. I have seen and experienced charity on many levels and in many ways over my life, but, never, has True Charity, "The Pure Love of Christ", been so brilliantly displayed in such a humble manner as I have seen from Pat.

Pat has a profound depth of spirituality. She has the gift of faith. She is obedient. She sacrifices for others. I am so far behind her in faith, sacrifice and obedience. She sets such a powerful example for good. She has done it. She is showing me that I can do it also.

How greatly blessed my life has been because of wonderful, good and kind women. My hope and prayer for each of you, especially on this Mother's Day, is that each of you will be blessed with your desires in righteousness. That you will each be faithful, strong and true to your covenants. That we may all have the joy and satisfaction of sitting down on the Right Hand of God, AFTER He has said to each of us, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant!"

Conference Reminisces 3

2011-04-05T16:11:00.000-05:00

Later, special radios that were tuned to the specific side band frequency were made available. We purchased one and sat it on the ledge of the home on Pratt Drive in Palatine. As a family, we would gather on the big, dark green "lawn" in our living room. We would sit on the sofa, loveseat and wing-backed chairs. Sometimes we'd sit on the floor and giggle and wiggle and tickle. Mom always seemed to be doing some type of handwork while listening.

Sometimes the children were really good and very touched, other times they were pretty antsy. ( Elder Holland in his remarks today talked about how sometimes the children would create quite a bedlam in their home, but that wasn't surprising because that's what "Bedlamites" do!) But we parents really enjoyed and appreciated it.

Not long after that, some of the local stations and cable stations started to broadcast Saturday AM session. It would be taped, then sent by overnight express to the station for broadcast on Sunday Morning. It was really special to be able to see these in the comfort of our own home.

The next innovation was the satellite dish that was installed at the building in Arlington Hts and elsewhere in the Chicago-land area. What a great privilege this was to be able to, sitting in company with fellow Saints, enjoy all of the sessions of conference. (Wonderful side benefit was the BYU Fall Games that were broadcast over that Satellite dish).

When we left Illinois, that's the way we would have Conference, watch some at home on TV and the rest at the Church.

Moving to Utah, it was broadcast live, all sessions and we were able to enjoy all sessions at home. There is really something special about watching the Prophets of God speak to directly to you in the sanctity of your own home.

Now, living in Minnesota, the first several years we watched the sessions at the Stake Center. Now, with BYUTV on Satellite, we are able to watch all of the sessions at home.

Into our home comes this wonderful, sweet and peaceful feeling. We are free to record our thoughts and impressions by hand or computer. We have the blessings of having these wonderful words and thoughts and the immense Spirit that brings them deep into our hearts, permeate the sacred precincts of our wonderful home.

To say the we are truly blessed is, to me, an understatement. I treasure the Liahona and Ensign Magazines that have the printed content of these wonderful talks. It is also wonderful to go to the Church website and listen to the talks. We have and are truly being blessed by the modern means of communication that have been developed.

All of these fond memories help to make General Conference a greatly anticipated and sought for event in our lives. We are grateful for the amazing efforts the Church makes to see that this great message has the capability of reaching around the world. 150 nations, 14.1 million members, 28000+ wards and branches, 135 active temples with another 24 in construction or planning stages. How blessed we are.

How grateful I am, to be alive in this day and time. To live in the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times. To be a member of God's Church on the Earth, even the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To be singularly honored to be a bearer of the sacred and holy Melchizedek Priesthood, to have the office of High Priest conferred on me.

In a very small way, I am beginning to gain an understanding of what Pres Clark said when he prayed to be true and faithful, avoid temptation and endure or remain true to the end. In the breadth of Eternity, our life is but a heartbeat. But for us, in the here and now, this heartbeat has many challenges, choices and amazing opportunities. My good wife and I seek to endure with patience and compassion our challenges, to make good choices as we experience our amazing opportunities.

All of these, working in harmony, will eventually return us to the sacred precincts of the Celestial Kingdom, where we will enjoy Life with Father and Son, and our own Eternal Family.
As Pres Benson was wont to say, "let's have no empty chairs at our table in Heaven". That's what we most desire as well!

Conference Reminisces 2

2011-04-04T18:00:00.000-05:00

After moving to Sugar City, we were able to continue to watch Conference on KID-TV. As a young teen, conference still wasn't of much interest to me, Stake or General.

While serving my mission, General Conference took on a whole new meaning and "life" for me. To be 1000's of miles from home and to go to a dedicated meetinghouse of the Lord, gathering with other Priesthood Bearers, listening by live Broadcast over the Telephone to the Priesthood Session of General Conference was like a lifeline of pure water.

To hear the words of the Prophets was so sweet and wonderful. It was thrilling and we, both missionaries and members, were grateful for the experience.

After marriage and moving to Illinois, maturity (er-parenthood, not sure that "maturity" had that much to do with it) helped me realize the importance of constant renewal of body, soul and spirit by drinking from the Spiritual Well of General Conference. General Conference became far more important.

When April and October came around, the Church in Illinois worked hard to get some broadcasts of sessions but with little success. We were still able to have the direct feed over the telephone of the Priesthood Session, which was wonderful. But we longed for more.

We were finally able to get some of the sessions by direct phone feed into the beautiful building at 2035 No Windsor Drive, Arlington Heights, Ill, the wonderful Northwest Ward. Joy and gladness was with us, even tho now, our children were acting very much like I had acted just a few years earlier.

Years passed and the church purchased a radio station in Skokie. This was a great station, easy listening and became the #1 station in Chicagoland for its demographics. The great benefit to having this station though, was that it could broadcast on a sideband frequency. The special sideband was fed from Salt Lake and with the feed through the sound system at church, we were able to finally, listen live to all of the sessions of General Conference. What a treat.

Conference Reminisces 1

2011-04-03T21:42:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been a time of peace, serenity and reflection. With the opportunity to listen to the Prophet, Apostles, 70's and others, it has been a joyful and Spirit filled time. Some of the information before and after the sessions have greatly added to this wonderful glow.

My earliest memories of Conference were of Stake Conferences at the Malad (Oneida County) Stake Center. The meetings seemed interminably long and I never did seem to get much out of them. If the mornings were interminable, the afternoon sessions were inhumane. No young person under 10 years old should have to sit through "that", I thought.

Just before my 9 or 10th birthday, Dad came home with an amazing surprise for the family. A TV! Just before April Conference, I had my tonsils removed and part of my recuperation was lying on the living room sofa, where I got to watch lots of fun programs.

General Conference sessions were just starting to be broadcast live. KSL was the broadcast channel but being so far from Salt Lake, we didn't get the best reception. The picture was pretty snowy and the sound quite fuzzy.

I watched the conference sessions on both Saturday and Sunday but I was pretty much in a daze, with a "deer in the headlights" look. However, when President J Reuben Clark spoke, my attention was focused on him. This was a wonderful, kindly-looking man with beautiful white hair and big jowls. He was "really" old, probably in his late 70's. His closing comments were that he prayed every day that the Lord would help him be true and faithful, avoid temptation and endure to the end! That statement had a profound impact on my young and impressionable mind.

Here was a man who I thought looked and acted like a Prophet of God, a man who seemed perfect, asking God to help him avoid temptation and endure to the end. If a man of this caliber needed help from God, boy, I sure did too!

My Wife Loves Me!

2011-02-19T16:40:00.000-06:00

Valentine's Day was a day to remember. My dear wife made the most creative card. 5 riddles were put on hearts on the exterior of the package. Each asked a wonderful question. She also gave me a most beautiful and touching card.

Here are the riddles. Can you answer them?

If not, here are the answers. This is really a precious gift from Pat! So what's inside this beautiful wrapped gift?


This is what is called a Stupendous Girl Scout Cookie. I really like Tag-along Girl Scout cookies. Love the Peanut butter filling and the chocolate topping. Pat used creamy peanut butter as paste to hold them in place on a beautiful foil covered heart. What an amazingly creative card and gift. Is it any wonder that I love this dear woman so much? Happy Valentine's Day!

Precious Bobi!

2011-02-13T19:52:00.000-06:00

Our hearts have been tender these past 48 hours as we have learned of Bobi's ulcer starting to regrow. We have sorrowed with her and the family. We have rent the air with pleadings to our Merciful Heavenly Father in her behalf.

At the request of her loving husband, it has been our privilege to join together in fasting and prayer in behalf of Bobi.

We have rejoiced in this opportunity and thank the Lord for his Tender Mercies so constantly bestowed on each of us. As a parent, I would so much rather have difficulties come to me and not my children. Sometimes, when we are in our own families and far from our earthly parents, perhaps we may not feel of their continuing love and concern for us. BUT WE DO!

Today, a feeling of calm and peace has descended upon us. We feel that Bobi is being blessed with the necessary strength to withstand the change that has been taking place. We feel that Brian is being greatly strengthened as well.

This afternoon, I read a powerful and moving story written by a very dear friend. It has caused several insights to come to mind as I have thought about Bobi and her physical challenges. How grateful I am that Bobi seems to know and understand what Abraham learned:
Abr 3:25And we will ^aprove them herewith, to see if they will ^bdo all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them;

She always seems to understand that these great challenges are to help her be proven worthy to be with God. As her father, this is a wonderful thing to see. Does it make her challenges easier or less painful? No.

But it does give her greater perspective to know that she is doing good. Thank you Bobi Ann, for your greatness of Spirit and Sweetness of Soul!

A Truly Marvelous Person!

2011-02-13T18:59:00.001-06:00

Minnesota is an amazing place to live. The weather here is just as it should be; Pleasant, beautiful Spring, warm, lazy, hazy Summer; The glorious, incredible fulfillment of the year with Fall; The cleansing and preparations of the next year that come from Wonderful Winter! What a blessing to live here in this highly favored part of the Lord's vineyard!

Natural beauty and great opportunities are not the only things that make this a wonderful place to live. Its the PEOPLE that really make this place outstanding and those that are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are among the most committed, dedicated, kindest, loving people it has ever been my privilege to associate with.

While serving in the Crystal Ward, it was an honor to work with outstanding leaders. One of the leaders made a comment in PEC meeting one morning: "Until someone has literally crawled on their stomach over broken glass and through fire to grasp the glorious fruit of the tree of life, they have no idea of how difficult life can be!" The person who made this comment has done that.

This wonderful person has become a very dear friend. Her story is one that brings forth strong emotions of sympathy, empathy and perhaps, self-recognition.

She has written a brief story of her life to honor her 50 years of membership in the church.

She allowed me to read this wonderful and touching story. It has filled in many gaps of what she had previously told me. She is contemplating having it published. Many of us are encouraging her to do so. (She has self-published a few copies for people to read.)

The Prologue gives a brief description of one of the incredible parts of her story.

For easier reading, right click the above photo. At the drop-down menu, click on "Open Link In New Window". Go to the new window. The print will be larger and easier to read.

Her first pages give depth and detail about what has just happened to her and her family as she begins her story.


For easier reading, right click the above photo. At the drop-down menu, click on "Open Link In New Window". Go to the new window. The print will be larger and easier to read.

For easier reading, right click the above photo. At the drop-down menu, click on "Open Link In New Window". Go to the new window. The print will be larger and easier to read.

If any of you have the opportunity to read this book, be sure to have a BIG box of tissues on hand. It is inspiring, poignant and thought-provoking. It is a short book but so filled with insights. I highly recommend it.

Because the book is not yet officially published, it is not available in any bookstores. However, if you'd like to get a copy, please send me an email and I'll forward your information to her. She can then determine what to do.

Out with old, IN with the New!

2011-01-02T20:46:00.000-06:00

From Thanksgiving, thru Christmas Day and onto New Year's day is a time of great pleasure, wonderful experiences, along with amazing stress and sorrow. But overall, it is a time of remembering and much gratitude.

The small number of Pilgrims that instituted, in 1521, a day of Thanksgiving to God for His bounteous blessings of safety and guidance was an event worthy of great remembrance.

We too, give thanks to God for his kindness and blessings. Indeed,
God has surfeited us with blessings because of His goodness and graciousness.

The days leading to Christmas when we celebrate the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ cause us to ponder, to praise, to sing hymns of adoration and joy. How grateful we are for the wondrous life of He who was prophesied would come. He would be known by many names and titles: Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace!

When the scriptures tell us that Christ would descend below all things, the symbolism and imagery of His birth are truly amazing. Travelers during the time when Christ was born didn't have 4 or 5 star hotels. They had "bed and breakfasts" that were pretty much a house with multiple bedrooms built around a place to keep their stock and was known as a corral, stable or fold.

These places of rest were often called a caravansary. This place was no Marriott or Hilton. When the rooms were all filled, the people would often sleep in the corral or stable with the animals. Imagine giving birth to a newborn babe, lying on straw to cover the animal waste. Can you smell the fetid odor of fecal waste and urine? Can you imagine the unsanitary conditions? Can you imagine a more "lowly" birth?

Moving forward we think of the visit of the Magi. The angel's instructions to Joseph to take the child and Mary to Egypt. Years later, they returned from Egypt but went and settled in Nazareth.

We think of His constant giving. We think of the gifts the Magi brought. We continue this tradition of giving even now, in our day. Truly, the Master was accurate when He told us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive!"

We honor and reverence our Savior, He who willing suffered ignominious cruelty and trial. He who was hung on a cross, who willing gave His life so that we may live.

We honor Him for His sacrifice. He truly gave His Body and His Blood to atone for our sins and the transgression of Adam. Now, after His death and resurrection, He has broken the bands of death. His payment for our sins, on conditions of our true repentance, provides the opportunity to have Eternal Life, even Life with our Father In Heaven and His Son, Jesus the Christ.

With the coming of a New Year, we review the old, plan for the new and move forward with faith and confidence that faith in Christ brings into our lives.

President Monson told us that our "future is as bright as our faith in Christ." With that knowledge and understanding, we are in for an absolutely amazing and blessed year of 2011.

We hope and pray for all of our family, friends, fellow saints, associates and citizens of this great country. Indeed for all the people of the world. We pray for peace in our lands, joy and faith in our hearts, and the ability to make proper choices.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! God Bless you, everyone.

Swimming & Eating

2011-01-02T20:20:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday, we went to the Grand Rios Water Park in Brooklyn Park. It was lots of fun and everyone seemed to enjoy it a lot.

The interior of the Grand Rios Water park.

Cali, Sarah and Travis at the openings of the slides.

This water bucket filled continuously. When it was full, bells would tinkle and the bucket would tip over, spilling all its contents on a roof that spread the water out on anyone underneath it. Lots of fun. Lots of squeals and giggles when they were getting doused.

This slide is called the toilet bowl. People would come down the pipe in the back and slide out into the bowl, where they go round and round until they get to the center and then slide out into the pool underneath. Quite a ride!

Stairwells to the Stars! Up they go to the 4 slides they can come down on.

Floating along the Lazy River. Cali, Sarah, Emily, Shelley.

Bright and sparkling Amber.

Travis and Krystal join the floaters on the Lazy River. This is a "river" that encircles the park. Its about 3' deep and has a good flow to it.


Travis, Sarah and Cali after coming down the big slide and out the mouth on the right side, the dark blue exit.

After the water park, we went home to a nice pizza dinner. It was an early birthday party for Cali. Her birthday is next week so we celebrated early while so many of her cousins were here.

After dinner, we played Refraze for a while. Then the family headed back to the motel for the evening for a pleasant and relaxing time.

Wednesday, the grandchildren went to the Mall of America where they rode the rides, shopped, walked, climbed walls and had an all-around good time.

We met at LaFonda De Los Lobos Restaurant in Eagan for dinner. This is the best Mexican Restaurant I've found in Minnesota. The food is great, the ambiance terrific and being with family, priceless!


Travis' best impression of a "Vampire"

Happy beautiful Amber

Our 3rd oldest grandchild, Krystal

Beautiful Grandmother Pat


Cali, taking it easy

Wednesday a box of gifts arrived from SoCal. The grandchildren stopped for a gift opening on Thursday morning. Gorgeous Sarah was all smiles as she opened her gift.

Cali was happy to be with her cousins.

Cali & Sarah had a great time together.

Cali, Sarah and Travis

Brian Cole, Shelley's brother, came along to help with the driving and the children. It was good to have him with us.

The clan, Travis, Shelley, Emily, Sarah and Amber, in front.

What a treat to have everyone with us. We ate well, played wonderfully, enjoyed one another, learned much and just had a great time. We hope that everyone will come again!

The Grandchildren have come!

2010-12-27T16:46:00.000-06:00

With the abundance of snow, the grandkids wanted to do some sledding. We live on a cul-de-sac with a nice embankment. Others had sledded down the hill. Amber, Travis, Sarah and Cali had a good time sledding.

Snow Angels were made by Travis and Amber.


Doesn't this look like fun. Here comes Amber!

Travis and his 3 angels.


Cali doing her thing down the hill.

Sarah coming headlong down the hill.

Staying in the groove.

Grandma and Cali.

Travis breaking new ground.

Grandma "zipping down the hills"

They thought a snow cave would be fun to build.

Travis got a shovel and started to dig.

The girls moved to the other side of the cul-de-sac by the pond and started to build a snow tunnel.

Amber's gloves got wet and her hands were getting cold. So Cali helped her put on some other gloves.

Sarah was having a great time.

The snow cave starts to take form.

After breaking through an icy barrier, the digging got much easier.

The snow bunnies started into their burrow.

They didn't get to far before they had to come back out. But they were happy!

Travis got tired from digging so he took a break.

Amber tried out the cave for size. Still a little small she said.

Sarah says its "just right"

In fact, Sarah and Cali both thought it was just right.

Amber and Travis decided they try it out again and they both fit pretty well!

The train rumbling by made the snow vibrate and caused it to loosen up.

The snow tunnel gets bigger and bigger.

The snow cave is really growing.

Travis fits in very nicely now.

The snow tunnel is open and Miss Amber takes a peek.

Travis wanted to take a look through also.

Cali thinks its really great.

And so does Sarah.

After the train loosened things up, the snow cave roof collapsed and Travis came up for a look.

Grandma supervising the snow tunnel construction.

Looking across the cul-de-sac from the snow cave to the tunnel.

What has Sarah been sitting in?

Digging a snow cave caused Cali's world to turn upside down!

The Lioness "roars" as she comes through the tunnel.

But she sure is a beautiful lioness!


Checking out the collapsed snow cave.						After the digging and sledding and sliding and getting cold, we came inside and warmed up with hot chocolate and fun and games.

Its just a little snow storm!

2010-12-12T17:12:00.000-06:00

About 5 PM on Friday evening, it began to snow. It snowed almost continually for the next 27 or hours. At many times, the snow fall was accumulating at more than an inch an hour.

Several places in the metro area reported over 21" of snow fall. We had about 15".

Last night, after it stopped snowing, because the roads were closed, the plows were not working and we weren't sure how long it would be before anyone got here to plow our driveway, Jonathan and I went out side to see what we could do!

This is what we were greeted by:

After sweeping the windshield off, its easy to see the 15-18 inches of snow on top of the van.

It took the two of us about 45 minutes to literally, shovel and carry each scoop. There was so much snow, it was hard to move, just by shoveling. Notice the snow line on the side of the van as to how deep it was.


Today, the sun has come out, along with the wind and the cold air. It was down to below zero last night. Predictions call for 13 below tonite and tomorrow nite. Should be an interesting next couple of days.

A Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2010-12-12T17:01:00.008-06:00

This past year has been a truly exciting one for us. So many wonderful things have happened to us, individually and as a family.

First and foremost, we express gratitude to the Savior, Jesus Christ.; How grateful we are for Him, for his Atonement and Resurrection.; We are grateful that He loves us as much in 2010 as he loved those in 2010BC, 33 AD or any other time.; We appreciate the Church of Jesus Christ that was established by Him. We are sorry that the Church he established was, after His death, changed by man.; We are so grateful that His Church has been reestablished in our day!

Today, we celebrate the First Birthday of Gwynneth Fey Camp.; What a beautiful child she is.

Grandma Pat holding the precious little one in February!

Jon lost his job in January and has been out of work.; He has been consistent and persistent in looking for work since then.; He has really enjoyed being able to take care of Gwyn however.Teri returned to work and has been making a wonderful mark with her employer. She is such a beautiful and delightful person.

http://phoenq-magson.blogspot.com/

Jon's children are growing so quickly. They are handsome and beautiful. Here is a delightful picture of the 3 children, along with Lyssa and Adam.

Sorry that One of the beautiful ones was not as happy as the rest!

Bobi and family have had an exciting and event filled year. There is never a lack of activity at their household. Bobi was able to go on an Alaskan Cruise in July with Amy. What an great event for her.

http://www.1happyfamily88.blogspot.com/

Adam turned 16 last month and was ordained a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. What a special young man he is. He has recently been in the school musical where he led a camel around on stage!

Lyssa is such a beautiful young woman. How grateful we are for her bright smile, her vivaciousness and her desire to live life to its fullest. Brian has been successful in obtaining full-time employment and things are definitely improving for them.

Amy has really enjoyed her time in China. On her birthday last month, I was actually able to talk to her. What a treat for me. She is traveling and doing a lot of different things in China. She enjoys her school so much that she has renewed her teaching contract for another year.

http://mscampgoestochina.blogspot.com/

Aunt Amy and Niece Gwyn!

Robyn has spent a lot of time in "far away places with strange sounding names" during the year. She has been to, among other places, Copenhagen, Peking and just returned from Cancun yesterday. As she says, its a hard thing to do, but somebody has to!

Robyn's big news is that she and Kevin Kubarycz were married in October in San Diego. How happy we are for both of them. We welcome Kevin to the family with open arms. They really seem to be happy.

http://socalslav.blogspot.com/

Another amazing "Tender Mercy" has come to Heather and Greg. Late summer, they learned that they had been selected by a birth mom to be the parents of her daughter, to be born around Thanksgiving. Joy and gladness was in great quantities at Heather and Greg's, as well as family and friends. November 8 arrived and so did the precious bundle, lovingly named Lynlee Elizabeth.

She has filled their home with additional joy and happiness. Ellie is really enjoying being the big sister. She also is growing so quickly.

Life has certainly become more involved for these two and it seems to me, they have never been happier.

http://tendermercies1.blogspot.com/

Chuck has been very busy this past year keeping his business moving forward and helping family and friends. We are really proud of him, for his perseverance and desire to help others. He is one of the most good and kind hearted men I know.

Krystal continues to grow into a wonderful young woman. Its hard to believe that she is already in high school.

Joe and Brandon are really great pals. Joe has been doing an outstanding job with Firestone, has brought his store up to #1 in his region. He is really excellent in what he does. Brandon is growing like a weed. Hopefully his allergies that were discovered earlier are diminishing.

The man who gets things done, on time, below budget, with maximum profit! Way to go Joe!

Heidi still works as a school secretary at a private school. She is the glue that keeps everything together both at school and home.

Tristina turned 13 last Sunday. She is a most wonderful young lady.

Miss Samantha Patricia continues to grow by leaps and bounds. She has really become excellent in her speech abilities. It is so fun to have a conversation with her. She is so cute.

De Andra and Cali are doing well. Cali is really enjoying school and making lots of friends.

Cali went with us out west this summer for a very special event.

Cali with Lyssa and Amber at the Family Reunion!

Andrew has moved in with some long-time friends and has his own room in a small house. Its quite nice. He is doing an excellent job for his employer.

Jon changed from his welding technician training in August and is now working on a video game developer degree. He works part-time and lives with us while he is going to school.

In September, we were able to have a wonderful birthday meal with Pat's Mom, who entered into her 9th Decade. She is a great lady and we love her very much.

2010 marks the 100th year since my father, Wendell Draper Camp was born. In his honor, we held a Wendell D and Blanche B Camp family reunion near the Teton Valley in far eastern Idaho, just west of the Grand Teton Mountains. It was a beautiful setting and well attended by most of mom and dad's posterity.

There is a huge lodge that will sleep over a 100 people. This humongous slippery slide was a great hit with everyone, especially the little ones.

But even us "older" or, dare I say, "More Mature Ones", found it rather exciting as well.

A large room in the lodge accommodated our entire family. We were able to all eat together as well as have programs and activities.

The setting in a lush evergreen forested canyon with a small creek on the west side of the valley floor is so inviting. At 7200 feet, it was an ideal place for our family reunion.

All of the children, spouses and grandchildren from most of the family were at this amazing reunion. What a joy and treat it was!

Special name tags made by Aunt Cheryl and Uncle John showed which child of mom and dad each person was related to. Each family selected a specific color of t-shirt that everyone wore, to also help identify which family everyone belonged to. Our color, Royal Purple, was really a fun color. It sure was easy to recognize the Steve Camp family!

All of these things combine to make our lives so meaningful and joyful. As one year finishes and another begins, we marvel at our Creator, who made this wonderful earth, presented us with a plan to come here, learn right from wrong, gain a body and be free to make proper choices. To assist us to return to Him, He sent his Son, The Messiah, The Savior, to overcome death and pay for all our sins on condition of repentance. How grateful we are for this amazing knowledge, so simple in its statement but so profound in its meaning. Because of these great truths, we have come to understand more fully the importance of family. We treasure and love each of our family members. We are grateful to have each of them as part of our family. We love all our children, whether they be natural born, through marriage or adoption. They are all part of the great family of Camp.

Merry Christmas to each and everyone.

Pat and Steve Camp
Dad and Pat,
Grandpa and Grandma
Uncle Steve and Aunt Pat

My Swollen Heart!

2010-10-28T21:51:00.001-05:00

So much joy and good news has come my way this past couple of weeks. Possible new grandchildren, better health for precious children, continued perseverance in the job hunting area, announcement of upcoming nuptials for one of the children, safety and success in school and teaching.

The graciousness and goodness of Heavenly Father towards me is almost more than I can take in. The children may be "out of the house" but they are no less important now than when they were at home. How we love them. How grateful we are for each of them. Each are truly treasures to me and their mother. How blessed each of them are. My heart is Swollen with Gratitude to my Heavenly Father for His goodness towards me and my dear family. It is my hope to always have an "attitude of gratitude" to God for His many blessings, so abundantly given and gratefully received.

This afternoon, it was my honor and privilege to participate in a blessing of the sick. As the anointing was sealed, blessings were given to this dear woman. What an amazing powerhouse she is. Her influence amongst us is far greater than she realizes. Her ability to organize, motivate and comprehend what is going on around her is amazing. She is a true light in the midst of great darkness. How Father has, is and will continue to bless her. She is a humble, generous soul. It is a great privilege to be her friend.

Tonight, I have just returned from the final training for being an election judge next Tuesday. Thoughts about this great land of America; the amazing Constitution that was written, explained and voted into law by the people; the rights that are ours; our ability to freely express ourselves both in word and deed. Powerful, wonderful rights each of us have and enjoy.

One of the most amazing rights that many of us don't take full advantage of is our ability to help have a say in who and what will take place in our governmental units; local, County, State and Nation. This great right was so important to so many people that they have freely, out of love, duty, devotion and responsibility given "their lives, fortune and their SACRED HONOR" to preserve and protect this constitution. We who still live, have the Sacred Responsibility to be certain that those who have gone before us did not sacrifice in vain. Our generations now living and yet to come MUST recommit to doing all we can to see that this Great Nation, even the United States of America, is kept strong and safe, to be a shining light of freedom to all the world.

Our task is simple. We inform ourselves of the Constitution, we seek after office holders who will function according to the principles outlined in the Constitution and then VOTE for the candidates of our choice. Voting helps us to participate and to become more involved and responsible.

We may choose not to cast a ballot, but that person's vote is just as sure as if they went to the polls and did. The difference is, the person going to the polls is actively participating in trying to maintain our government and way of life. Those who do not go to the polls are saying that "all is well" and I'm happy with the way things are. Or, they may be saying, "its not worth the effort. Nothing that I do will have any impact on the outcome." Having served as an election judge in three states, let me assure you that it is worth the effort and your vote has a major impact.

One race in particular was hard fought with excellent candidates on both sides of an issue. The votes were cast and the tally was decided by 3 votes out of many thousands. If those 3 had not voted, the entire election could very easily have turned out differently.

In our own family, our great grandfather felt so strongly about having the ability to vote that he and others gave up their citizenship in the Church and Kingdom of God in order to work towards overturning laws that denied them the right to vote. After many years, they were eventually successful, but only after much struggle, setbacks, tears and sorrows.

We in this great family should, of all people, be in the forefront in voting and helping others to do the same. We should be teaching our families of the importance of this unalienable right freely given to us by, in the words of the Declaration of Independence, Our Creator!

As we help to protect and defend this great Constitution and the correct government set up by it, we are helping to protect and defend the Kingdom of God on the Earth. America is a chosen land. It was protected and brought to the knowledge of the world at a time that would make the establishment of this great Republic possible. This great land was raised up and freedom of religion was established. America is the base of operations for the Kingdom of God on the earth. From it, the Gospel is going forth into all the world. America must remain strong so that America can fulfill her divine destiny!

November 2 is just 5 days away. Please, honor the efforts made by our ancestors and others who have given their all that we may enjoy the wonderful rights and privileges we have. Vote for those who will earnestly strive to maintain and return us to Constitutional Principles. Our Constitution is not a "Living Document" nor is it a "Dead Document". It is an Eternal Document, based on Eternal Principles designed to assist mankind in its pursuit of happiness. Excuses don't count when it comes to voting. Vote absentee, Vote in person. But, by all means, VOTE!

Joy and Thanksgiving!

2010-09-26T12:42:00.000-05:00

Today is my dear mother-in-law's 81st birthday. Pat & I wanted to do something so we asked if we could make a meal and bring it to her. She was grateful that we wanted to do that. But, with her big heart and love for her children, she suggested that we go to Joanne's and Clarence and share it with them as well. Arrangements were made and last night, we joined one another for a most sweet and pleasant evening.

Pat's oldest sister is a real jewel. Her husband was diagnosed with ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease a short time ago. His condition has deteriorated very rapidly and he is now confined to a wheel chair. His ability to talk is gone but he is amazingly bright and alert. He really enjoys people coming to visit. When he recognizes someone, he gets such a wonderful smile, it just lights up his face as well as the whole room. Even tho he isn't able to converse, he enjoys participating in the conversations as much as possible.

He is unable to process any solid food so everything is fed by IV. He has a small keypad device that he can type on so that he is able to ask questions and carry on a limited conversation.

How grateful we are for Mom Banken's devotion and care for her family. It really doesn't stop, no matter the age. We are grateful to Father's wonderful blessings on us, for being able to enjoy such excellent health and well-being.

We made Campground Omelet and took it to eat. With a tossed salad and fresh homemade rolls that Pat made, the meal was quite tasty. Pat also put together her marvelous caramel pear pudding, served ala mode. Oh my, what a feast! But what made it so extra-special, was being together with everyone!

We enjoyed our time together very much. Joanne is such a trooper and is amazingly on top of things. Clarence is receiving the very best care
available, done by one who is totally devoted to him. What a wonderful example of love and devotion, "For better or worse, in sickness or in health"!

Joanne and Clarence are really superb. Mom Banken taught her children so well about loving, caring and how to assist others to ease their burdens. My precious wife is a product of this wonderful teacher in the school of life.

We honor our dear beloved lady, Margery Banken. Thanks for all you have done, are doing and will yet do for each of us! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

We did it before, we are doing it again! Part 3

2010-09-05T09:45:00.001-05:00

In God's presence, OBEDIENCE is required. When Lucifer and his followers openly rebelled, Michael the Archangel, under the direction of God's son, led the spirits that were obedient to God, to cast Lucifer and his minions out of Heaven.

And who were these obedient spirits that were...
^acalled and ^b prepared from the ^c foundation of the world according to the ^d foreknowledge of God, on account of their exceeding faith and good works; (they) ^e choose good o(ve)r evil; and exercis(ed) exceedingly great ^f faith... Alma 13:3.

It is us dear brothers and sisters. We were called and prepared in the pre-mortal existence. We chose good over evil. We exercised exceeding faith and good works. We have already fought and defeated Lucifer once. And we are helping to do it again!

When Lucifer was cast out of Heaven, his name was changed to Satan or the Devil.

Part of the Great Plan of Happiness "…is an ^a opposition in all things. (2 Ne. 2: 11, 15) Satan "knew not the mind of God" so that those who followed him were unknowingly assisting the Great Plan of Happiness by becoming the opposition to Father's plan.

When individuals make correct choices, they reap the rewards. This is fair, just and equitable. But, no matter how many good choices we make or how many works of righteousness we do, it is never enough to get us back to Father.

This is what Nephi tells us we must do, "For we labor diligently to write, to ^apersuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by ^b grace that we are saved, after all we can ^c do." (2 Ne. 25: 23)

Nephi continues to tell us "And we ^atalk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we ^b prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our ^c children may know to what source they may look for a ^d remission of their sins." (2Ne 25:26)

God and Christ have made it clear, they want no child left behind, no empty chairs at the tables of Heaven, no empty beds in our mansions.

His Great Plan has made provisions for ALL of His children to receive Immortality which is the Free Gift of God, even Salvation over death. "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ, shall all be made alive." (I COR 15:21-22) All will be resurrected, never to suffer sickness or pain or die throughout all eternity.

Eternal Life comes from living worthily and righteously, hearkening to Christ and His Gospel, enduring to the end AND accepting, by Grace, the Atonement of the Savior, Jesus the Christ.

For the Plan to operate successfully, the Lord has told us that all things must be done in His way and on His time schedule. He is striving diligently to help all of His children return to Him.

We are living in the Dispensation of the Fullness of Time! Now, He has asked us to help even more to bring all of His children back to Him. To do this, he has given the church the task to identify every person who has ever lived on the earth. A daunting task, a huge task? Certainly.

But, we know the way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time! Right now, that bite is to help to identify individuals. As we index records, we identify them.

This work is moving forth on the Lord's timetable. It is being done in His way. We are not asked to run faster than we are able. This program is "adapted to the capacity of the ^b weak and the weakest of all ^c saints, who are or can be called saints." (D&C 89:3)

There are currently over 350,000 volunteers, all over the world, using many different languages, that are doing indexing. In the past 6 months alone, over 700,000,000 names have been entered into the searchable database. What an amazing amount of work. And we have been, we are and we can continue to be a part of it!

On Fast Sunday this month, the clarion call, which is a call sounded loud and clear like a blast from a trumpet, was sounded in our ears by Bishop Wilson. What was the clarion call? For each ward member to become an indexing volunteer and do a minimum of one batch of names per month!

Will you make a commitment to register as an indexer? Will you commit to following the direction of the Bishop and do at least a batch a month? Myself and others have been called to assist you in doing this work. When we ask and seek your help, please respond positively.

When we follow this guidance and do as the Bishop has asked, we will find great joy in serving in the Church and kingdom, we will find a peace and comfort that many of us having been missing. I don't know of anyone who wouldn't like to have more joy and peace in their life. How about you?

This is a "great and marvelous work and a wonder" that we are all participating in. I know that the work of seeking our dead is divinely inspired. I know that God Lives and that Jesus is our Messiah, our Redeemer, our Savior. How grateful I am for the knowledge that He lives and loves me and all of God's children. I acknowledge the great gift from the Jews, Nephites and Modern Prophets of the Holy Scriptures. I appreciate the efforts made by so many to bring them forth to us in our day. They are truly a great treasure! I am grateful that the Priesthood of God has once again been given to man and that I have been honored to have this wonderful power and authority conferred upon me.

The Choice to follow the Bishop is yours. You are free to choose to or not.

In the words of an anonymous author,

Know This, That Every Soul Is Free,
Hymn no. 240

1. Know this, that ev'ry soul is free
To choose his life and what he'll be;
For this eternal truth is giv'n:
That God will force no man to heav'n.

2. He'll call, persuade, direct aright,
And bless with wisdom, love, and light,
In nameless ways be good and kind,
But never force the human mind.

Text: Anon., ca. 1805, Boston. Included in the first LDS hymnbook, 1835.

You have been called today with persuasion, wisdom, love and light. The Choice is yours. Now is not the time to be lukewarm. In Rev: the Lord told the Laodicean saints to either be hot or cold for him. If they are lukewarm, he would spew them out of his mouth.

Follow Joshua's counsel: Why halt ye between two opinions. Choose ye this day whom ye will serve!"

As President Kimball said: Make a Commitment! Do it. Do it Now!

We did it before, we're doing it again Part 2

2010-09-04T23:30:00.001-05:00

Heavenly Father explained HIS Goal for His children in Moses 1:39, "…For behold, this is my work and my glory, to bring to pass the IMMORTALITY and ETERNAL LIFE of man".

How many does "man" include? Everyone! Not 50%, not 75 or 80% but 100%, ALL, Everyone!

To help us obtain This Immortality and Eternal Life which is His work and His Glory, He called a Grand Council of his children in the pre-mortal life. Here he presented to us the " Great Plan of Happiness." After the plan was presented and explained, a sustaining was asked for. As Spirit Children, we were at this Grand Council and we sustained the Plan! Not some of us, but ALL of us who are here today. Our birth on this earth is because of our acceptance of this Great Plan of Happiness in the Pre-mortal life.

The great plan of Happiness
1-Provides an earth where the Spirit Children of God could live.
2-Here, their Spirit body would be joined with a Physical body comprised of the elements of the earth.
3-The Laws of Justice and Mercy would be operational.
4-For these laws to work properly, Mankind was given Moral Agency, which is the ability to make Correct Choices.
5-In order to have choices, the Law of Opposition in All Things would be in effect.
6-With these laws Mankind could choose for themselves whether to follow God and Christ or follow the Devil. We are to tested, 25 And we will ^aprove them herewith, to see if they will ^b do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them;

7-As God's Spirit Children Leave His presence, they suffer spiritual death. To return, Spiritual Death had to be overcome.

8-To overcome Spiritual Death, An Atonement had to be made. An Infinite and Eternal Atonement that would require the sacrifice of a God.

As the plan was presented, the Father asked, "Whom Shall I send
" …, my Beloved ^a Son, which was my Beloved and ^b Chosen from the beginning, said unto me—^c Father, thy ^d will be done, and the ^e glory be thine forever." Jehovah, the God of heaven and earth, was to come and provide the Infinite and Eternal Atonement for all mankind!

Did all accept this Great Plan? Unfortunately, no!

A brilliant and powerful individual, one who was called the " Light Bearer" became fearful because this amazing Plan of the Father's was so strong, good and powerful but he thought, that it was too risky.

This brilliant individual's name in the Pre-Mortal existence "was ^c Lucifer, a son of the morning. 27 And we beheld, and lo, he is ^a fallen! is fallen, even a son of the morning" (D/C 76:26-27)

Who or what "the sons of the Morning" are, we can only conjecture. But because of Lucifer's membership in this group, he was known as one in power and authority before God. We also know that Lucifer was a murderer and a liar, "from the beginning" for as Jesus said to the Jews: John 8: 44 Ye are of your father the ^a devil, …He was a ^c murderer from the beginning, and …he is a ^fliar, and the father of (lies). D/C 93: 25 And …that wicked one … was a ^bliar from the beginning.

In addition to being a Murderer and Liar from the beginning, here's something else for you to ponder: "And ^a Satan put it into the heart of the serpent…to ^c beguile Eve, for he ^dknew not the ^emind of God, wherefore he sought to destroy the world. (Moses 4: 6)

Imagine that, Lucifer knew NOT the mind of God. That is surely a truth that is different than what is being told us by Satan and his followers today. He tries to get everyone to believe that he is the God of this World and knows everything that is going on. This is a graphic example of how Satan Lies! Truly, he is a "murderer and liar from the beginning".

As a son of the morning, Lucifer may have learned bits and pieces of some very important information. From this, he may have extrapolated certain thoughts, ideas and scenarios. Because he did not have a full knowledge, as Jacob explained about the Jews, Lucifer "Look(ed) beyond the Mark!" He missed the full meaning of God's Great Plan and decided that he was smarter and knew better than God.

Therefore, Lucifer did not sustain the Father's plan. Instead, he presented an alternative plan to whoever would listen. He didn't like the fact that people would have their AGENCY to determine whether they would follow the plan. He didn't like it that people could choose good or evil. He didn't like people to have freedom and liberty. NO, he wanted to abrogate the Supreme, Immutable Law of Heaven, the Law of AGENCY!

He was apparently a very charismatic individual, who had great persuasive abilities. So persuasive in fact, that he successfully persuaded 33% of God's Spirit Children to agree with him. The spirits that followed Lucifer wanted security and a guarantee without having to make choices. Lucifer guaranteed to provide it for them, from cradle to grave. Lucifer claimed that he didn't want a single soul to be lost.

Because he didn't know the mind of God, he thought that God's way was restrictive and wouldn't allow everyone to come back.

He also offered to be the Atoning One. In exchange for forcing everyone to obey, he wanted God to give him his Honor, which is God's power.

Lucifer wouldn't accept our Father's decision. He was a very sore loser! He was "right" and everyone else was wrong! He and his followers became so "in your face" and "we will protest until we get our way" that they openly rebelled against the Father and His Great Plan.

We did it before, we are doing it again!

2010-09-03T22:39:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday I was asked to speak in Sacrament Meeting. In order to help anyone see how we feel about our service there, thought that I would post my comments.

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Sister Camp and I have 10 children, the oldest is in her early 40's, the youngest 23. 6 of the 10 are not married. As far as we can tell, each of them want to be married, but it has not yet happened. This is frustrating for them. Because they would like to be married, talk of marriage has become a highly charged, emotional and potentially sore, topic of discussion. Needless to say, it is a topic in our family that seems to be treated very carefully.

We have tried to help our children but our record doesn't seem very good. Sometimes we just don't understand them. They have been exposed to so many different things than we were. Frequently when we are talking or listening to our children they talk about things that we've never heard of, are very unfamiliar with or just seem to us to be strange or even bizarre. We don't understand a lot of the technologies that is 2nd nature for most of them.

You can probably imagine our surprise when we were called to serve in a Single's ward. We were astounded! Amazed! No, actually, we were flabbergasted! What on earth can we do to positively help the ward? We are the age of virtually all your grandparents. How well do you relate to them? How well do they relate to you?

Well, the call was extended. We looked at each other and gratefully acknowledged the call with an unequivocal response in the affirmative: YES, we will do this, gladly.

And so, with fear and trepidation, we began serving in the Uptown Ward. Our first Sunday here was a whirlwind of activity and greetings. Learning your names, interacting with those who were here at the time.

Over the months and years we have seen 100's of you come and go through the ward, some never to return, others to return at different times and for different reasons. As we have gotten to know most of you, we have joyed in your successes and triumphs and wept with you as you experienced sorrows, hardships and challenges. We have come to know, to love and cherish each of you as "fellow Citizens with the Saints, and of the household of God!"

We have marveled at your quest for excellence, your hunger for truth and righteousness. We have observed your consistency and perseverance, your willingness to reach out to those in need. Your desire to heed the directions of those who lead and preside.

We have watched an amazing young man in the ward come back from the abyss. We have watched his testimony of the Atonement of the Savior increase, his knowledge becoming sure and his love for the Savior boundless. We have watched as he has borne testimony, given blessings and been amongst the flock as a good shepherd. We have been privileged to associate with him in a time of great physical stress which he is now going through. We marvel at his strength, and the outpouring of love and support that many of you have given and are giving to him. He is a magnificent, powerful force for good!

Recently one of our stalwart and faithful members has had some terrible and horrendous circumstances give her challenges that seemed insurmountable. The emotional stress and issues surrounding these challenges were, to me, almost more than a human being could handle.

But handle them she has. She has been amazingly successful in so many ways such as completing her college degree while dealing with very challenging issues. She has, like the rest of us, had her ups and downs but she has persevered and with God's and your help, she is overcoming!

Then, as she coped with all the other issues she discovered that she had cancer. She immediately sought for counsel and blessings from the priesthood. Then, armed with the counsel and the blessings, she had the courage to make the decision to do what needed to be done.

After many bouts of chemo-therapy she has been told the cancer is in remission. What is so wonderful about all of this is her "Attitude of Gratitude". She is grateful, not only for the challenges she has gone through, (Though she never wants to have to do it again) but so grateful for the amazing strength she has drawn from the Savior and her fellow Saints. How we love and cherish this dear sister.

About 1 year ago today, a handsome young man, dressed with a white shirt and tie and looking for all the world like a returned missionary, walked through the rear door of the chapel and sat on the back bench of pews here on the south side.

After meeting him, it was discovered that he wasn't a returned missionary at all. In fact, he wasn't even a member of the church. This brilliant man has been gifted with an amazing understanding of very technical information. But, even with all his brilliance, he felt there was something missing in his life.

Growing up in the Midwest, there was an LDS meetinghouse in his neighborhood. He knew some members of the church and generally had a good impression of them.

As he was seeking to fill the "missing link" in his life, he went to the internet and did extensive research about the church. He read, perused and studied what he found, then made a decision to come to church.

What a courageous act by this individual! The missionaries were introduced and he gratefully accepted their offer to be taught the Gospel. He continued to come to church each week, participating in the activities and making new friends.

When he committed to receive baptism, a wonderful out-pouring of love was shown him by the ward members. With his great abilities and wisdom, he is a man that has been well-prepared by Our Heavenly Father.

Bishop Wilson, may appear to most of us that everything always goes well in his life, that he really is on top of things. And He Is. But I assure you, he is no stranger to most of the things each of you may be going through. He knows what it is like to have challenges, sorrows and heartaches. He is no stranger to death, illness or financial reverses. He has walked your walk and talks your talk.

He has enjoyed a lot of success because of his business acumen. He has also had to struggle and overcome issues that frequently arise from this type of success.

When you seek counsel from him, he sees things as they really are, confirmed by previous experience and knowledge. Because of the gift of discernment which has been abundantly given to him, his counsel is timely and generally the right thing for the one receiving it. Many of us may sometimes find the counsel difficult to accept. But it is the best way to help us onward in our path toward eternal life.

Of course, there are many others of you in the ward who have felt and acted on the promptings of the Spirit. As my wife and I have come to know you, we are so impressed by your diligence, dedication and faith.

We consider it a great privilege to be part of the Uptown Ward.

Its Dearest Lyssa "B's" big DAY!

2010-05-19T06:58:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful event occurred just 13 short years ago. A prime package of joy and beauty was personally sent from Father above to the home of kind, loving and wonderful parents, Bobi and Brian Taylor.

This incredibly special bundle of joy was so amazing. She had all the fingers, toes, legs and arms in just the right places. She was so gorgeous. She was so welcomed with the warmth of love.

And what a marvelous young lady she has become. Joyful, happy, full of excitement. Her desire to "have fun" causes her to keep everyone around her full of life and excitement.

This great day was Sunday, the 16th of May. How we would liked to have been able to be with Lyssa and spend time with her.

Lyssa is so full of life. She joys in her family and in who she is and who she is becoming.

With careful guidance from wonderful and loving parents, Lyssa is truly a "Great" Grand daughter.

It looked like there was lots of fun and excitement on Lyssa's birthday. Cake shared with family, slide shows of trips to "Far away places with strange sounding names".

Lyssa, is a child of great worth, one of the "Noble and Great Ones" of our Heavenly Father. We are so privileged to have her amongst us in mortality.

Its "T" Time

2010-05-18T21:32:00.001-05:00

May 15th has many special meanings. It is the day the Priesthood of Aaron was returned to the earth by John The Baptist. He conferred this Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery on the banks of the beautiful Susquehanna River near Harmony Pennsylvania. Pat and I were privileged to be shown an approximate area where this wonderful event took place. Our hosts were John and Cheryl Forsberg who now live not far from this place. It was a wonderful and precious time.

Another reason that May 15th is special: Travis Joshua Camp was born on this great day in the Year of Our Lord, 1999.

Pat and I had the wonderful opportunity to go to Illinois last weekend to spend this special time with Mr. T!

It amazes me how much he is growing. A wonderful impish smile and demeanor, he is filled with excitement for life.

His friend Mitchell had been invited to share this special day. Pat and I joined with the children, Shelly, Emily and Grandma Judy at Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Ill.

It has been over 25 years since going to this zoo. To say it is different is an understatement. The Zoo seems to have undergone a complete facelift over the years. It was clean, well maintained. Far different than the last time I was there.

We joined together for a birthday lunch, then finished it with a special cake made by Shelley.

She had used lots of food dye to get the icing just the right color. It had a really interesting effect on people's tongues.

The camera doesn't do justice to the color of their tongues. They were really dark blue!

After the cake was eaten, Travis opened his gifts.

His gifts were stored and it was off to view the Zoo!

We are amazed at how the children are growing and developing. Travis was filled with excitement and played with his sisters and friend while awaiting our tour of the Zoo.

Sarah is bright and so perky. her dimples are amazing. She is so beautiful and precious!

Amber will be a teenager very soon. She is blossoming into such a beautiful young woman!

The Lions were big and powerful. So is Miss Chee Veous!

We enjoyed many wonderful hours, looking at all of the animals. They have a new Bear exhibit and a polar bear swam right up to the glass enclosure where Emily was looking and was literally inches from each other. Only separated by the "glass".

Emily is two now. Where does the time go?

After spending a wonderful afternoon at the Zoo, we said good bye. They went home and we visited Judy Collingwood and Barbara West.

They are both in the same Nursing Home in Schaumburg, their rooms just 2 doors apart. Judy is in a great deal of pain and is heavily medicated to help control it. She is still bright, beautiful and wonderful. Oh how we love and appreciate this good woman and her faithful and devoted husband Larry.

Barbara has a very severe case of Parkinson's disease along with a variety of other ailments. She has strong faith and asked God to bless us as we left.

We went to Carolyn Keffner's home in Prospect Heights and participated in a wedding open house celebration for David and Leslie Pilon. The last time I saw David, he was 7 years old. Where does the time go. Now he is a returned missionary, 2 years of college under his belt and a beautiful, new bride.

At the open house we were able to visit and enjoy the company of many wonderful friends. Lee and JoAnn Hartman were there. A month ago, we attended a wedding reception for some folks in the Minneapolis area. We sat at a table with a family who lived in Western Chicago land and went to church at a building in Naperville. Told them I had some dear friends who had moved to that area name Hartman's. The 14 year old daughter looked up and said, "JoAnn Hartman?" "Yes". "She's my Mia-Maid teacher!" Oh what a small world.

It was wonderful to visit with and catch up with them and their doings. Larry Collingwood was there, along with many others. One of the big surprises was saying hello to a young man who was part of the Northwest ward many years ago. He and his wife now live in Michigan where he works running a library. Well, you say, who is this young man. Steve Siebers! He is the father of 4 children, really curious about Bobi and Robyn and how they are doing. Delightful to visit with him. Said his mother, Ruth, was getting an early start on the Resurrection. She's had two knee replacement surgeries along with several "other repairs."

Friday night, when we arrived at Clayton's, he has a boarder living with him that has taken a position in the NW Suburbs. His family is still in California and will join him after school is out. He is a delightful and pleasant individual. Pat, Clayton, Larry and I stayed up very late, visiting. It is so wonderful to be together and share joys and memories.

Sunday morning, we left Clay's about 7:30AM. We had stayed up way to late Saturday evening again. So wonderful to be together. Friends are so special. It was one year ago last Saturday that Ruth left on her great "Heavenly Tour". Clay has really done well this past year. He is officially retired and serves a service mission locally, working in the temple and helping the mission with the mission cars.

Clay is wonderfully healthy and well. He is an amazing man!

Church services were great. We went to the Cole's after church and had lunch. It was quite tasty. Shelley's husband, Stewart, is the ward Emergency Preparedness Specialist. They are working to not only store their food but to eat what they store. So lunch was made from food storage products; mac and cheese with Beef TVP, fresh home made bread and jam. Very delightful.

We started homeward and arrived about midnight. A wonderful, delightful and joyous trip. We thank our Father for blessing us with such a safe, fulfilling and pleasant experience!

Mothers, Daughters, Sisters - WOW!

2010-05-02T22:19:00.001-05:00

One of the talented women of our ward wrote a short tribute to her "Mothers. I thought it a very poignant piece of prose. I was very touched by it, so asked her if I could copy and send it to many of the wonderful women of my life. She was most kind and graciously said to send it to whomever I wanted.

And because next Sunday is a day set aside to honor those important women in our lives, I am sending this to each of you.

I cannot think of my own mother without first thinking of her mother and grandmother. Grandmother Benson was so dainty and petite. She was kind, dignified and lovely.

Her mother, Grandmother Smith was told that she would see the Savior come to the earth, in the flesh. At a very tender age, this had a powerful impact on me. It seemed the Savior's return was very soon, because Grandma was so old. When she died and the Savior had not yet returned in glory, I wondered how that could be. I have realized since then, that when someone dies and is resurrected, they are "in the flesh". And yes, I am sure that Grandmother Smith will see the Savior come. She was a Queen!

Grandmother Esther Violet Draper Camp was wonderful and Spunky. The story of her courtship and marriage to Grandfather Camp is a tale of love and devotion. She was the most wonderful cook, making delicious meals on a wood stove. Her abilities to do that still inspire me. She always seemed to be a big, strong and tall woman. Of course, when you are only knee-high to a grasshopper, everything seems tall.

Grandmother was the mother of 6 strapping sons and 2 precious daughters.

Whenever my Grandmother's, Mother, Sisters, daughters are thought of, it is difficult to separate them from their husband's.

Grandmother Annie Morse was a Welsh convert to the church and a wonderful pioneer in the Malad Valley, along with Grandpa Peter. She was spoken of in almost reverential tones by those who knew her best.

And then, that wonderful mother of mine! What a precious gem. She was wonderful. Her love of music, reading, the church, serving in the temple. Her love for Dad and their children. She was organized, clean, neat and orderly. A wonderful and gracious hostess, her cooking skills were outstanding. She was my friend, my confidant, my safety net, my security blanket. Sometime things would happen and the Macho Man syndrome took over. But when I got home to mom, the "fountains burst". She knew my cares and concerns. She would hold and comfort me while hot tears streaked my face. Oh how I miss her!

Mom and Dad - Circa 1980 Mom - Circa 1960

The mother of our children has been a marvelous example of consistency, tenacity and determination. These great qualities, instilled in our children, have helped each of them. Her return to school to receive her degree; her work to help support the family; her love for travel, music and education. Wonderful, helpful and important traits powerfully displayed. A good and wonderful mother for our children.

Proverbs 31:10 - 31. KJV says:
10 ¶ Who can find a ^avirtuous ^bwoman? for her price is far above rubies.

11 The heart of her husband doth safely ^atrust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her ^ahands.

14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

15 She ^ariseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the ^adistaff.

20 She stretcheth out her hand to the ^apoor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her ^aclothing is silk and purple.

23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

25 Strength and honour are her ^aclothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of ^akindness.

27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of ^aidleness.

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

30 Favour is deceitful, and ^abeauty is vain: but a woman that ^bfeareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Good King Lemuel made these comments as taught to him by his mother.

This proverb, describes to me, my precious wife Pat!

Pat is always happiest when with the GrandChildren.
Here she is with wonderful Ellie "Mae".

Pat holding Princess Gwenneth.

Handsome Mr. Brandon D, 1 year old!

Pat IS a virtuous and righteous woman. Her value is far greater than rubies. how kind our heavenly Father has been to guide us to each other. How wonderful our life together is. I am so grateful for a woman who lives such a Christlike and exemplary life. She took such a great chance to marry me. She teaches me of love, forgiveness, patience, charity, humility, mercy, joy and happiness. She is my queen, my treasure. I love her and am grateful for our life together.

Our wonderful daughters are marvelous individuals. It is astonishing to me that Father would entrust to our care and keeping, some of His most outstanding and precious spirits. But he has. And what a delight and honor it is. Heather, Bobi, Amy, Robyn. (Brian, Greg and Jon also)

Heidi above with Tristina. Jon, Teri
and Gwen below.

Deandra with new born Calisto, 2 months old.

All are precious, wonderful, beautiful and delightful. Each are doing so many good and wonderful things. Each are having amazing experiences, some good, some for growth and progress. I am so grateful for the example that they have set for me, their father. I praise them for their good lives and the assistance each is providing to make this earth a better place on which to live.

And then, the amazing Camp women, my dear, sweet and precious sisters. Oh how they have helped to lift and buoy me up, to counsel and guide, to set righteous examples for me. Each has married so well. They are married to the best men on this good earth. Their husbands truly are my brothers.

Our Relief Society in the Medicine Lake Ward is led by women of valor and good cheer. They send out regular communications to all the Relief Society Sisters in the ward. Because Pat and I serve in the Uptown Ward which is part of a different stake, we really appreciate these regular updates.

In today's update, one of the Presidency penned this wonderful piece about May and how it brings to her mind,

Memories of Mothers!

My hope is that it will stir within you feelings of love and gratitude towards your mothers, ( and daughters, sisters, grandmothers, aunts, nieces, and all others) that it has done for me!

May Blossoms in Memory of My Mothers

Every Spring, as the world awakens, my heart and mind are drawn to my mothers.

    Purple walls of lilacs remind me of my grandmother. Their strong and distinct fragrance reflect the tiny woman with well worn hands whose life never seemed to escape the impoverished insecurity of the Great Depression. She was practical and hard working. She was worn with time and years of digging in the dirt, cultivating lavish gardens of peonies, geraniums and lilacs. She was resilient, like her flowers that continue to bloom long after her last Spring.

    In early May as the delicate spindles of the flowering plum tree burst to life outside our dining room window, my mother tells the story of how the tree used to stand by her own childhood home. It is a reminder of her mother, a beautiful woman who became a widow two weeks before my own mother's birth. The fragile pink blossoms contrast against the black life-giving wood, a reminder that some of life's darkest moments give way to unspeakable beauty.

    As the snows of winter slowly melt away, I wait in anticipation for the rising of the tulips. My mom grows tulips, big yellow and red ones. As a child I watched as the gardens awoke with their simple contemporary beauty. They, like my mother, taught me that magnificence is found on the inside. It isn't until you peer into the tulip or anothers soul, that you really see the majesty of God's creations.

    May always blossoms in memory of mothers. The amazing women who grow children alongside their gardens. With the Master Gardener, they cultivate hard work, resilience, hope and charity in even the most barren of soil. Mothers, past, present and future, carry the hope of an eternal Spring, one blossom at a time.
-Carrie

So well said! Thanks Carrie, for your sensitivity and spiritual insights.

May each of you feel the love and respect sent in this post. May Mother's Day next Sunday 9 May be wonderful and joyful for each of you.

MT Nesters!

2010-04-20T09:47:00.003-05:00

In January, a wonderful Empty Nesters FHE group was established amongst friends in the great Medicine Lake Ward.

We meet on the 1st & 3rd Mondays of each month. The first Monday we have a spiritual lesson/discussion/watch Video's, etc. The 3rd week, we play games, or go places.

Yesterday, the weather was so amazing and wonderful. Spring has truly come to Minnesota. So, we opted to go see Minnehaha Falls in beautiful Minneapolis.

One of our group members, Galen Erickson is a videographer/photographer by profession. He always has the newest, latest and greatest equipment. He had a new camera that takes panoramic photos that is really pretty neat.

We were all at one of the lookout points for the falls and Galen asked us all to turn around and look at him. he then took this panoramic picture of 5 of the 6 couples that were there.

From left to right, Me & Pat, Pattie & Butch Herrington, Dodie and Dale Sprout, Ann & Keith Youngquist, Bill & Lynell Gordon. Galen is taking the photo. We have had much association with these dear people over the years and have come to love and appreciate them very much.

Bill is one of the most amazing men I have ever met. His wife, Lynell joined the church about 25 years ago. Bill didn't want to have anything to do with it, although he was supportive of Lynell. As their children arrived and began to participate, Bill's heart began to change. Very slowly, but change it did. About 20 years ago, Bill was diagnosed with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

When Pat & I first moved into the ward, I was assigned as the Gordon's home teacher. Bill had joined the church about 18 months earlier and as a family, they had just been sealed together in the temple.

At that time, Bill was still able to walk, though he used a walker or crutches. In one of our first visits, Bill bore his testimony that one of the greatest things that ever happened to him was to get MS. He explained that it caused him to look at life much differently, to evaluate what was important. It was the catalyst to help him to come to Christ.

As we have watched this wonderful family over the years, we are so touched by their goodness, their ability to have such gratitude in spite of heavy difficulties, to be so full of faith, hope and charity. Is it any wonder that we love and appreciate them so much?

What a privilege it is for Pat and me to now be home taught by Bill. We get to go to their home each month, where we always overstay our welcome. They are such special people, so filled with joy and happiness, so eager for Gospel discussion. Oh what a treat!

Galen and Butch are the Gordon's home teachers now. The Gordon's always tell us how wonderful these men are. They really appreciate the way that Galen has given them such wonderful help and insight in so many things.

Galen really enjoys "doing". He is in great physical health and gets great satisfaction from doing "physical" things. Bike riding is a special love of his and for the past many years, he has organized bike trips, The Border to Border trip, (riding across Minnesota from South Dakota to Wisconsin, about 250 miles), the Minnesota 100, (just a little trip). He has encouraged Lynell and all of us, to participate with him.

The others in the group are equally amazing in their own areas. Butch Herrington is one of the main people behind the infra-red communication devices that makes the multiple translations at conference time and in the temples possible.

And on and on. Sprouts, Youngquist's. People of amazing generosity, insight and commitment. Full of life. Vibrant.

Galen, Ann Youngquist, Pattie Herrington and I are the only "lifers" in the group. All the rest are converts. All bring such a richness and variety to our group. We have several others that also participate that are equally amazing.
All of them are such wonderful, wonderful people.

Pat & I are so pleased to be associated with so many choice and highly favored people. We only hope that we can live our lives worthily enough that we may have continued associations with all of them, here and in the eternities.

A Birthday of Amazing Signifigance

2010-04-07T21:01:00.003-05:00

April 6 marks a very important date in our family. It is the date of the Savior, Jesus Christ's, birth. The date of the official organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. And, the birthday of my only begotten son, Jonathan!

Jon is now the handsome and well pleased father of 4 wonderful children.

Amber and Travis at Home!

Then There is Sarah!

And the Beeeutiful Gweneth Fey!

Jon was very active growing up. He particularly enjoyed reading, games and the family pets.

Licorice and Annie were really wonderful cocker spaniels. Jon seemed to have a very special spot for these great pets. And they were really good!

One year for Christmas we did the "in" thing and sent out a picture of the children for Christmas greetings. The photographer really got a big smile out of everyone, especially Jon.

Amy seemed a little like, "Hey, what's going on here," but Jon is just smiling away!

He was a very studious young man. His myopic eyesight, inherited from both parents really started to worsen as he got into grade school. But, with good optical care, he was able to do pretty much what he wanted and needed to.

Jon began to play the trumpet in grade school. When he got into high school he was a fairly decent player. But he wanted to be better. One of his sister's boyfriend was a trumpet player and so he started giving Jon lessons. Denis DeFiguerdo was a great guy. He was taught the gospel in our home and joined the church. Later he serve a mission in California and while there, met a young woman who he later went back to California, courted and married. We were surrogate parents to him. After Denis and Sharon were married, they came to Illinois for an open house. Jon, Denis and Sharon are all just kind of wondering, "What's going on?" By the way, Denis was an excellent trumpet player and teacher. Under Denis' tutelage, Jon progressed far and fast. He played First Trumpet in Concert Band his Junior and Senior years, and was the Solo Cornet/Trumpet his Senior year. Way to go Jon!

A typical birthday picture of Jon, Arlena and me. Just can't stop the "cutup" stuff. Jon was a handsome young man, very quiet, unassuming. His great sense of humor was always at the forefront. And, he was a good son!

Jon has always honored and obeyed his mother. She has helped him immeasurably throughout all of his life. He towers above her in height but she is a "giantess" in his eyes.

Jon is an amazing son, a wonderful, careful and thoughtful father. He is working at being the type of man his wife and children need, want and expect of him.

On this great birth day, we celebrate him and all he is striving to do. Happy birthday son. May you enjoy, many, many more!

Bobi, this ones 4 U!

2010-03-23T19:00:00.003-05:00

Has it really been over 4 decades? You were so tiny, precious and dear.

The date was 28 March 1968 when you arrived at home from the hospital. You were just slightly larger than my hands. So delicate, so wondrous.

Here's your home, on E Lincoln Rd in beautiful Arlington Heights, Ill. We rented the lower level, (The brick part) from the Seitz family. Erika was the nurse that said to get your mom to the hospital, Quickly.

The window on the right was your bedroom.

Your were so wonderful and great. I couldn't hold you enough. I didn't want to put you down.

As you grew you were a very typical "I want to get into everything" child. You found a box of Cheerio's and they were poured out on the floor. Aren't you glad that Chip was there to help you clean them up?

You were really into your food, especially pizza and spaghetti.

You were the good, kind, exemplary "big sister."

You really liked to help me work. You wanted to be right in the "midst" of everything. With your little pig tails, you were so adorable!

Your zest for life has been amazing. We enjoyed so much watching you grow and develop into such a wonderful woman.

You have taught me many wonderful lessons. Through you I have had many great experiences that have helped me to work and become more patient while exhibiting more enthusiasm. You have helped me increase my need to care for the poor, the needy and the downtrodden.

Your many challenges have really caused you to grow spiritually. You have shown a firmness, conviction and devotion to God. Thank you for setting such a wonderful example.

With your special day coming Pat joins me in wishing you a day filled with no "pain", a day of joy and happiness that comes from being surrounded by those who love, appreciate and want the very best for you.

Our prayers are always with you to bear well your adversities and challenges. You have really been getting lots and lots of experience, haven't you?

Happy Birthday Bobi!

A photo montage that we put together because we figured that you were going to have a modeling career. You were so "beautiful" on the outside. We are so pleased that you have become even more beautiful on the inside, as well as the outside!

Here is the Man, Uncle Ross, with his remarkable wife Aunt June!

2010-03-22T17:32:00.001-05:00

Mom was the oldest child of Guy and Hazel Benson. She had two brothers, Raiford and Ross. Her younger sister is Janice.

When I was born, WWII was just ending. Uncle Ross was in the Army Air Force. While stationed in England, he met Aunt June at a USO dance. They fell in love and were married.

With my birth, Mom wanted to honor her brother, her soldier. So they gave me the name of Steven Ross.

Uncle Ross has traveled far and wide in his career. Aunt June joined the church and Uncle Ross served as a Bishop in Delaware and Alaska. They also lived in North Africa, many places in Europe and all over the US. He worked for the Post-Exchanges that operate on military bases.

When he retired from the PX, they moved to Utah. They lived in Tremonton where he operated a construction company. Later, he really retired and they have lived in several places in UT. Now they have a lovely retirement home.

Pat and I were able to visit with them. What a treat! Uncle Ross is very alert and bright. His eyes sparkle with good humor and happiness. What a pleasure to be with them both. Aunt June is so bright, cheerful and bubbly. So fun to be with.

They had so many wonderful stories to tell. We were enthralled with them.

All too soon, we had to leave but we treasure these precious moments that were shared with these wonderful people.

I am always honored when Aunt June says I look so much like Uncle Ross. He has been a wonderful example for me throughout my life. Mom always spoke of him in an almost reverential tone. Over the years, with his wonderful wife, they have loved to travel. They have a zest for life that is so contagious. They desire to constantly learn and serve. What a marvelous example for all of us as their nieces and nephews.

Uncle Ross and Aunt June Benson, we salute you!

Beautiful and Precious Gwen and her delightful and charming parents!

2010-03-22T17:00:00.001-05:00

Oh what joy comes with the arrival of a new baby. And when they are as beautiful and precious as Miss Gweneth, the joy is non-stop.

Grandma Pat has such a special way with little ones. They immediately sense her sweet and gentle spirit. they respond to her so beautifully.

The light in Gwen's eyes is so wonderful. What a beauty!

The secret of Gwen's charm is easy for me to see. It comes from her beautiful mother and handsome father. How these two love this little one.

Teri has, like Grandma Pat, such a sweet and gentle spirit. She is so pleasant to be with and tries so hard to take good care of this little one. Jon is an outstanding father. It amazes me how kind and patient he is with his children. He is truly deserving of this precious little one.

What a precious face. The long beautiful hair, the sweet smile. The heart melts!

These photos were taken on our last day in Utah. We were on our way to the airport but were able to have a brief last minute visit. What a treat!

We were also able to stop and see Bobi one last time. She is such a trooper. We love her dearly.

What a wonderful time we had. Thanks to all who were so kind to feed and house us, to entertain and just visit and have a good time.

More Celebration

2010-03-16T20:39:00.000-05:00

The sealing ceremony at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple was very special. It was wonderful to see so many of Greg and Heather's family members, loved ones and friends there. Ellie wasn't as cooperative as everyone hoped, but, she was hungry and hadn't been fed before they brought her in. She cooperated enough to have a marvelous sealing.

Afterwards, many wonderful pictures were taken of the newly-sealed forever family. We all adjourned to Heather and Greg's where they had prepared a delicious cookout.

Jennifer, Abbie and Gail came down for the celebration. Jen was really excited to get her hands on sweet Miss Ellie.

Sharon and Bob, who are so supportive of ALL their family members, made the trek to come also. What a wonderful example, they and Gail set to make such effort to be with family. Greg's family was equally impressive, having siblings from Montana, California and other diverse places there also.

Miss Abbie is such a human dynamo. She and cousin Lyssa had lots of fun with Ellie and Jennifer.

Bobi with Adam. Bobi has had her share of physical challenges lately. She has such a super attitude that is really helping her to get through this most difficult time. Adam is a Sophmore in High School. He has been working out to get in shape to try out for the Soccer team. He is really developing into a terrific young man!

Now here is Miss Chee Vee Us a very delighful young lady. When I started to take a picture of her, she thought she ought to take a picture of me. She really got a kick out of that.

Even tho' Lyssa B is so "Miss Chee Vee Us, she is still my very most favorite Taylor granddaughter. She is special and we are so glad she's part of our family!

"THE TWINS"

Heather and Jennifer have been not just cousins but really good friends their entire lives. They've both had many similar experiences. They are both devoted to one another. They both love children. We love them both and are glad that they also, are a very special part of our family.

My life has been greatly influenced and molded by the wonderful women who are part of it. These two amazing and wonderful women happen to be my sisters and are certainly part of this influence. I'm not sure if there are more sweeter, pure and kind women on earth than Sharon and Gail. I honor them as sisters, mothers, daughters, aunts, friends and fellow Saints. They have been so good to me. Thanks seems so trite and trivial but nevertheless, it is gratefully expressed.

And here she is in all her glory, Miss Abbie Gail and she's the Law. What a cute and happy young lady.

What would life be like without those wonderful and special people who help you to be better just from being around them. Such is the case with this most wonderful and virtuous woman. In the words of a song, "My Woman, My Woman, My Wife". I am a far better person today because of her and her sweet spirit and "celestial" presence!

More later.