Scripture Study Hints: Study with a Question in Mind

I think we all have lessons or talks that stick with us more than others. For me, one of these lessons happened in December 2011. In a Relief Society lesson, the teacher encouraged us to write down a question as part of our scripture study. She encouraged us to make a chart where we recorded…… Continue reading Scripture Study Hints: Study with a Question in Mind

The Slow March of Light: Divided Germany (4.5 Stars)

If you’re interested in Germany post-WW II, you may want to read The Slow March of Light by Heather B. Moore. This book begins in Utah in December 1959. Our main character, Bob, is drafted into the army. After basic training, he heads to West Germany. Germany Post World War II This was a well-written…… Continue reading The Slow March of Light: Divided Germany (4.5 Stars)

My New General Conference Commitment

This last weekend was stake conference for me. One of the members of the stake presidency talked about how he’s listened to the general conference talks multiple times already. That, of course, made me feel a bit guilty. I’m usually good about reading the general conference talks once the “Liahona” comes out. I have started…… Continue reading My New General Conference Commitment

Sisters by the Sea: Liberal Amish Novellas (3.5 Stars)

Recently, I finished reading Sisters by the Sea, a collection of four novellas each by a different author. While there are Amish characters, they seem to come from a less strict Amish upbringing than is generally presented in books or other media. The Seashell Cake (3.5 Stars) This story was cute. I liked our two…… Continue reading Sisters by the Sea: Liberal Amish Novellas (3.5 Stars)

Holding On To Hope: Southern Meets Wyoming (5 Stars)

I won Holding On To Hope by Janet W. Ferguson in a Goodreads Giveaway last year. I finally read it this week, and it was an enjoyable story. The story starts in Alabama but takes place mostly in Wyoming, in and around Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone. Heading Out to Wyoming This book is…… Continue reading Holding On To Hope: Southern Meets Wyoming (5 Stars)

Just a Temporary Change or a Lasting Improvement?

This last weekend was general conference. I felt like there were three themes: temple attendance, focusing on our covenants, and working on our relationship with Jesus Christ. As is always the case just after general conference, I think we all felt a desire to make improvements in our lives. Yet, it’s important that these changes…… Continue reading Just a Temporary Change or a Lasting Improvement?

April 2024 General Conference: What I Think Will Happen

In some ways, it feels like the October 2023 General Conference just happened, but it’s almost time for another general conference. I recently saw two YouTube videos where people made some April 2024 General Conference predictions. The one was fun to listen to and included predictions about who would speak based on which members of…… Continue reading April 2024 General Conference: What I Think Will Happen

Pet Peeve Ponderization: People, Grammar, and the Spiritual

Several years ago, I had a job interview where the person asked me about my biggest pet peeve. Honestly, up to that point, I don’t think I’d put a lot of thought into my pet peeves. I don’t even fully remember my response. I think I said something about people who stand around, waiting for…… Continue reading Pet Peeve Ponderization: People, Grammar, and the Spiritual

13 Ways to Prepare for and Enjoy Your Temple Visit

I’ve been an ordinance worker at the Idaho Falls Temple since June 2018. During that time, both as a worker and as a patron, I’ve noticed several things that allow the experience to be more spiritual for everyone involved. Make a Temple Appointment While some temples have always required or strongly recommended that you get…… Continue reading 13 Ways to Prepare for and Enjoy Your Temple Visit

When Feeling Uncomfortable is Really Feeling Unsafe

I started attending a SA ward in October. Over the last few months, I’ve heard a lot about getting outside of my comfort zone. I’m never going to meet people if I just stay at home, refusing to socialize. I have to get involved, do things that make me feel a little uncomfortable. I’ll admit…… Continue reading When Feeling Uncomfortable is Really Feeling Unsafe