Olde Oaks Weekly Update

GPS Safety Warning

2010-11-09T07:15:00.001-06:00

If you have a GPS unit in your car, keep it hidden when your vehicle is unoccupied, especially if you pre-programmed addresses in it. GPS units are a popular target of thieves. Having it in plain sight is an invitation for someone to break your window and steal it.And, if that's not enough, consider this. You're out shopping and a thief steals your GPS. They turn it on and click "home" from the

More from the Dollar Stretcher

2010-10-10T20:28:00.003-05:00

Don't Replace Door LocksIn changing my door lock, I have found that by having the cylinder "re-keyed" represents a huge savings (as much as 50%)as opposed to buying a new lock and chucking the old. Plus, it is a bit greener! Then, if one is slightly handy, installing the lock is a no-brainer! Even more savings here! Marian ********* Leftover Turkey?

Link of The Week: Patriarchal Blessing Request

2010-09-24T21:00:00.001-05:00

Okay. This is really truly cool. The Church has established a website that enables members to not only request copies of their own patriarchal blessings, but also copies of their direct-line ancestors who are deceased. So, I can now keep in my files the patriarchal blessing of my great-great-grandfather Oluf Christian Larsen who was the first Norwegian national to serve a mission in his

Blog of the Week: Single Dad Laughing

2010-09-20T15:33:00.000-05:00

Single Dad Laughing is written by a 30-year-old man who is struggling with the consequences of the second of two divorces. He writes humor the vast majority of the time, but when he turns thoughtful he is insightful, and his posts make you sit up and think. The author is the second of nine children who has grown up in a staunchly LDS family which appears to all the world like they have

CPR: An Object Lesson

2010-09-20T14:44:00.004-05:00

Twenty-two years ago, my sister was ill and I took her family dinner. She lived several miles away and I would be gone more than an hour, so I took my two older sons with me. Since he was ill and was at last sleeping (albeit on the sofa), I left my 18-month-old baby home in my husband's care. The trip to my sister's house was uneventful. However, as I turned into our apartment complex, I

My Redeemer Lives

2009-06-16T07:41:00.001-05:00

Start your morning with this.

Fwd: Level 6 Pandemic Declared by WHO!

2009-06-12T08:22:00.001-05:00

Don't panic! But prepare for the fall.On Thu, Jun 11, 2009 at 8:21 PM, Cheryl Driggs wrote: As predicted in our last newsletter, the World Health Organization has officially declared the H1N1 Influenza a worldwide pandemic. Also, as expected, WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan was careful to qualify that although the infected numbers are high, the severity is low and goes on to declare that

Re: More than water wings

2009-06-10T17:45:00.001-05:00

Dear

Re: Chronicle article

2009-06-10T17:42:00.000-05:00

Great article in the Houston Chronicle about home canning.On Wed, Jun 10, 2009 at 10:07 AM, Cheryl Driggs This is in the Houston Chronicle today http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/food/6467021.html -- Penny FreemanGratitude is the essence of joy.

Canning Recipes

2009-05-29T07:57:00.001-05:00

To help light a fire under you, I thought we could share some of our favorite canning recipes. For instance, I know Ginger loves to mix and match her berries and fruits when she make jam, and that Rebecca has a great salsa recipe her family can't live without. Here is the very simple chili sauce recipe that has been handed down from generation to generation in my family: Chili Sauce (salsa

Fwd: 2009 Hurricane Workshop is this weekend!

2009-05-29T07:23:00.001-05:00

Ladies, Just a reminder that tomorrow is the CenterPoint Energy Hurricane Workshop at the George R. Brown Convention Center. This promises to be very informative and helpful. Please put it at the top of your to-do list as we enter into the hurricane season. To view this email as a web page, go here.

Small and Simple Souls

2009-05-23T02:58:00.001-05:00

Slow cooker recipes

2009-05-18T19:28:00.000-05:00

Hey, all,A friend on Facebook had a friend give her this site for slow-cooker recipes. It looks pretty interesting.http://www.50plusfriends.com/cookbook/crockpot/index-5b.html -- Penny FreemanGratitude is the essence of joy.

Re: Living Essentials from BYU

2009-05-16T21:23:00.001-05:00

Here's a wealth of information for everyone, whether you're new at the home storage game or are old hands. Take a look.On Sat, May 16, 2009 at 3:34 PM, Cheryl Driggs wrote: Worth looking at. You will want to record some of these due to the broadcast time! http://www.byub.org/livingessentials/topics.aspx?tpc=fsep -- Penny FreemanGratitude is the essence of joy.

VIRAMASK with Viraseal Emergency Filtration Adhesion Mask: 21st Century Goods

2009-04-30T20:47:00.000-05:00

VIRAMASK with Viraseal Emergency Filtration Adhesion Mask: 21st Century GoodsHere is a mask that completely blocks all leakage around the mask by taping it to the face, the closest thing to total filtration you can get and still be breathing.

Swine Flu - made simple

2009-04-30T16:05:00.001-05:00

Good info. Real simple.

World Health Organization raises pandemic alert again now to phase 5 - The Emergency Email & Wireless Network .......... www. EmergencyEmail.ORG ........ NewsEmergency.com

2009-04-29T19:36:00.000-05:00

World Health Organization raises pandemic alert again now to phase 5 - The Emergency Email & Wireless Network .......... www. EmergencyEmail.ORG ........ NewsEmergency.com

NewsWatch: Breaking news: Swine flu map

2009-04-29T15:31:00.000-05:00

NewsWatch: Breaking news: Swine flu mapThis map from the Houston Chronicle gives a better idea of how the swine flu is spreading. The pink people represent suspected cases, red confirmed case, black deaths, great suspected death but unverified, blue 'flue-like' symptoms. Click on the figures for more details.

Pandemic Preparedness Planning

2009-04-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

Pandemic Preparedness Planning

CDC - Influenza (Flu) | Fact Sheet: Good Health Habits for Preventing Seasonal Flu

2009-04-29T14:31:00.000-05:00

CDC - Influenza (Flu) | Fact Sheet: Good Health Habits for Preventing Seasonal FluSimple easy advice from the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta.

Flu Wiki Forum:: Influenza Pandemic Preparation and Response - A Citizen's Guide

2009-04-29T14:30:00.000-05:00

Flu Wiki Forum:: Influenza Pandemic Preparation and Response - A Citizen's GuideMore vital instruction given the swine flu threat.

Disease Prevention and Treatment of Symptoms

2009-04-29T14:29:00.001-05:00

Disease Prevention and Treatment of SymptomsHere are some excellent instructions on how to prevent your family from contracting the swine flu or other diseases.

Disease Prevention and Treatment of Symptoms

2009-04-29T14:29:00.000-05:00

Disease Prevention and Treatment of SymptomsHere are some excellent instructions on how to prevent your family from contracting the swine flu or other diseases.

Blog of the Week: Shelf Reliance - Food Storage, Emergency Kits, Food Storage Racks

2009-04-18T16:06:00.000-05:00

Shelf Reliance - Food Storage, Emergency Kits, Food Storage RacksLooking for those first-in/first-out shelves? Here's a great place to find them. Thanks, Debbie!

Relief Society - Live Like You Believe

2009-04-08T21:14:00.001-05:00

This is a stunning video. Thanks to all our wonderful Relief Society Sisters who make our ward so amazing.

Mormon Messages: The Blessings of the Temple

2009-03-20T20:18:00.001-05:00

Mormon Messages: Why Mormons Build Temples

2009-03-11T21:30:00.001-05:00

A must see for members and non-members alike, but especially for members who need to untwist their stomachs after this week's developments.

Re: [Olde Oaks RS] Family Home Storage Center FAQ

2009-03-11T12:38:00.002-05:00

Date: Monday, March 2, 2009, 2:57 PM Sisters,A sister new to our area recently sent me a list of questions she had about the cannery and its procedures. Following FAQ I have written to answer them. I am certain Lucy will correct me where I'm wrong, so no worries. (I've marked the ones I am really unsure about in red). Once she's finished correcting me, I'll post this on Olde Oaks Weekly

Fwd: Plan to attend the 2009 Hurricane Workshop, Saturday, May 30

2009-03-09T14:18:00.001-05:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------From: Cheryl Driggs

Re: [Olde Oaks RS] Family Home Storage Center FAQ

2009-03-03T06:03:00.002-06:00

Sisters, Just a few "tweeks" to Penny's list here:1) You can come down and work with us on our designated day which is the first Tuesday of every month.... At this time because of peanut butter production at the cannery, the dates are very tight. I am trying to schedule a couple of other night time sessions so that we can get more done. To go down during the day and work "off schedule",

Family Home Storage Center FAQ

2009-03-02T14:57:00.001-06:00

Sisters,A sister new to our area recently sent me a list of questions she had about the cannery and its procedures. Following FAQ I have written to answer them. I am certain Lucy will correct me where I'm wrong, so no worries. (I've marked the ones I am really unsure about in red). Once she's finished correcting me, I'll post this on Olde Oaks Weekly Update, and on our ward site at lds.org

Preach My Gospel: Mormon Messages Channel on YouTube

2009-03-01T08:57:00.007-06:00

Mormon Messages is an official channel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Each week, Mormon Messages provides short video segments about the Church's basic beliefs, as well as inspiring stories and messages of hope. Watch these gospel-centered videos and then share them with family, friends and those of other faiths.Subscribing to this channel (using the subscribe button above)

Link of the Week: Dieter F. Uchtdorf—Create

2009-03-01T08:47:00.002-06:00

This spot, created from President Uchtdorf's General Relief Society message last September, is really terrific. It's my most favorite sermon from him. The Church has done a good job of distilling this 30-minute message into a two-minute spot, capturing its essence and yet making it available to those that don't speak 'Mormon.'

LDS.org - New Era Article - No One Will Ever Know

2009-02-17T13:53:00.001-06:00

LDS.org - New Era Article - No One Will Ever KnowFor all you old Olde Oaks folks, here's an article from Elder Ellis that appears in the February 2009 New Era.Enjoy.

Weekly Update: Cooking Club

2009-02-17T08:15:00.001-06:00

REMINDER: Cooking Club will be meeting at the Lewis' home at 7pm onFeb 19th (Thurs). Claudia will be instructing on how to makeempanadas!

FYI: Crochet and Knitting Instructions for Newborn Hats

2009-02-16T18:16:00.004-06:00

In the upcoming Stake Relief Society Enrichment Meeting, we will be making hats for newborns down at the Medical Center. If you would like to get a head start, here are the instructions:Crochet Hats for NewbornsMaterials: Soft, 3-ply baby yarn in color of your choice (sparkly thread tends to be scratchy) Size G crochet hook

Sisters in Zion: A Special Thanks

2009-02-16T12:39:00.010-06:00

I wanted to take a moment to thank all the sisters in the ward who provided service to the Johnson family in this difficult time for them. As we prepared for the luncheon, there were so many sisters wanting to help, it was difficult coming up with things for them to do.I can't tell you what a relief it was to me to know everything was 'under control' because of the fabulous sisters of the Olde

Blog of the Week: Let Us Prepare

2009-02-16T09:05:00.005-06:00

From an email my sister sent me, I found "Let Us Prepare", which is a blog focusing on many different aspects of emergency preparedness. this blog to this handout, "Let There Be Light". which is very nicely done. Debbie Kent has done a fantastic job cataloging and evaluating various heat/power source options for when electricity is lost. This has obviously been compiled for a colder climate

Lucille Johnson's Funeral: Final Details

2009-02-09T16:18:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, February 10, 2009: visitation at Earthman Resthaven Mortuary and Cemetery, 6-8pm. Please note the change in time from previous information provided. Wednesday, February 11, 2009: viewing at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Louetta building, 9-10:30am. funeral services, 11:00 aminternment at Resthaven, by invitationFamily luncheon, approximately 1:30pmPlease note:

Preach My Gospel: Sister Lucille Johnson

2009-02-08T21:29:00.004-06:00

A dear sister in our ward passed away today. She was an amazing lady with a powerful testimony of the Gospel. She wore out her life in preaching it and I greatly admire her for her testimony, her faithfulness, and her dedication to the Lord. When I reach my 85th year, I pray I may look back upon my life and know I have served the Lord to the best of my abilities, that as I am sure is the case

Jesus the Christ: Reflections of Christ

2009-02-07T21:52:00.005-06:00

A brand new feature:Sisters,There is so much great material out there, I am starting a new weekly feature called "Jesus the Christ" to testify of the divinity of our Savior, such as the video below. If you come across any material, whether text, links, paintings, photography, or multimedia from any source (e.g., if you read a particularly inspiring Ensign article or conference talk, or a bit of

Blog fo the Week: T F Stern's Rantings: DNA Evidence Supports Book of Mormon

2009-02-01T21:52:00.001-06:00

T F Stern's Rantings: DNA Evidence Supports Book of MormonHey, Sisters,For those of you who were in Fast and Testimony today (and everyone else, for that matter), you might find this blog entry from Brother Stern interesting. I haven't had a chance to see the DVD myself, but it's definitely something that sounds exciting.Enjoy!

Relief Society Song

2009-01-24T10:12:00.004-06:00

We will be singing as a Relief Society in Sacrament on Feb. 8th, 2009. We will sing Hymn #310 A Key was Turned in Latter Days. Click HERE to listen to the music and practice! Using the tools at the left of the page you can practice parts separately if need be.

Houston North Stake Enrichment Meeting

2009-01-19T23:10:00.004-06:00

Saturday, February 21, 200911am-2pmAttire: Sunday CasualPlease arrive on timeLunch will be providedThose who knit or crochet please bring size 6 knitting needles or size G crochet hookand if you have it60 yards 3 ply yarn, good for babies-not sparkly or scratchyService projects will also be a part of the program, and the majority of supplies will also be provided. If you have fabric or batting

Food for Thought: Tribute to Carissa

2009-01-14T11:13:00.003-06:00

As personal as are these next two videos (Carissa is my niece, her mom my sister), they testify so strongly of our Savior, Jesus Christ, they need to be shared.Of nearly equal importance, they show the lives one person can affect through their example during the short tenure of their life.I hope you take the time to watch them, and that they strengthen your testimony of Jesus Christ, our Savior

Food for Thought: Tribute to Carissa Part 2

2009-01-14T11:04:00.003-06:00

FYI: ABC News Covers the Draper Utah Temple Open House

2009-01-11T10:08:00.000-06:00

ABC NewsHere's a story ABC's Nightline did about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the opening of the Draper Temple.

Link of the Week: A Tour Of The New Mormon Temple : NPR

2009-01-09T19:23:00.001-06:00

A Tour Of The New Mormon Temple : NPRIn this short piece, NPR does a good job covering the opening of the Draper Temple to the public this week, including short sound bits from Elders Ballard and Christofferson.All Things Considered, January 9, 2009 · A new Mormon Temple in a Salt Lake City suburb is a public relations opportunity for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's a

Recipe of the Week: The Six O'Clock Scramble

2009-01-08T11:34:00.006-06:00

Healthy Meals, 30 Minute Meals, Quick Easy Dinner Recipes, Family Meal PlanningThe Six O’Clock Scramble® is an online dinner planning service.AS A SUBSCRIBER YOU’LL RECEIVE EACH WEEK:Five family-tested, healthy and delicious and quick DINNER RECIPES THAT TAKE 30 MINUTES OR LESS TO PREPAREAn ORGANIZED GROCERY LIST so you can grocery shop just once per weekA SEARCHABLE DATABASE where you can

FYI: Time Out for Women - Time Out for Women 2009, Houston, TX

2009-01-07T13:57:00.002-06:00

Time Out for Women - Time Out for Women 2009, Houston, TXThis two-day event is a sort of mini Education Week that comes to Houston I believe twice a year. It is not sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, it is a wonderful opportunity to take one day for yourself and regenerate and refresh your mind and spirit. Remember, a happy mom equals a happy family.

For the Strength of Youth: A Brand New Year

2009-01-03T16:50:00.004-06:00

A Brand New YearSisters,On New Year's Eve, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints broadcast via satellite from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, "A Brand New Year". This was a special production of music, dancing, and inspiration by and to the youth of the Church all over the world, during which the new YM/YW theme for 2009 was introduced. Any of you who have seen it know

Link of the Week: gethuman database from Paul English

2008-12-27T09:05:00.000-06:00

gethuman database from Paul EnglishBookmark this site. It is a simple list of phone numbers to call and how to react to prompts to get through the automated phone systems of hundreds of US companies and actually talk to a human being. There is no advertising and is absolutely free. Categories of companies listed include: credit financegovernmenthardwareinsuranceinternetmobilepharmacy products

Blog of the Week: Dr. Laura’s Blog » Blessings in Disguise

2008-12-19T10:35:00.001-06:00

Dr. Laura’s Blog » Blessings in DisguiseI don't listen to Dr. Laura, but my sister sent me this article posted on the radio host's blog, and I thought it was very cool and you'd enjoy the read. It's good to hear people talk well of Mormons, but it's even better to see that some actually 'get' us as a people, if not our religion. Dr. Laura seems to be one. In speaking of the Welfare system of the

Food for Thought: Invisible Mothers

2008-12-15T11:51:00.004-06:00

This one comes from Lucy Stern who thought it should be posted. Some of us have seen it before, but it's always a good reminder when we feel we're starting to fade into obscurity or have become entirely irrelevant.Thanks for sending this, Lucy. Invisible Mother.....It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on

FYI: A Timely Exhibit in this Christmas Season

2008-12-13T20:41:00.004-06:00

On KUHF yesterday, I heard about a new exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural History called 'the Birth of Christianity: a Jewish Story'. It features, among other things, a stone tablet newly discovered containing what they're calling 'Gabriel's Prophecy' in which the Angel Gabriel tells of the Messiah who will die and then rise from the dead after three days. The KUHF feature on the stone

Food for Thought: The Gifts of the Three Wise Men

2008-12-13T10:48:00.004-06:00

Ladies,My mom is a teacher in Relief Society, and she is giving her lesson this next week. She sent us all a copy of her handout which is an interesting read, and I thought I'd share. It in some small way helps us comprehend how the Three Wise Men treasured and reverenced their King of Kings.One personal observation: we traditionally think of the Three Kings or the Three Magi and envision them

Link of the Week: 10 Things Science Says Will Make You Happy by Jen Angel

2008-12-09T10:19:00.006-06:00

10 Things Science Says Will Make You Happy by Jen AngelIt has taken a team of scientists 'years' of research to discover that which has always been available to us through study of the scriptures and living the gospel, but this article from Yes! Magazine puts it all in a nutshell with non-secular leanings and so may be more easily accepted by others not of our faith. In the last few

FYI: BYU Broadcasting | Joseph B. Wirthlin

2008-12-05T10:30:00.003-06:00

BYU Broadcasting | Joseph B. WirthlinElder Wirthlin's funeral is today, Friday, December 5th, at 12:00 pm Mountain Standard Time, but BYU.tv and BYU radio provide a variety of listening and viewing options. Here's the schedule, with links to the different outlets.The live funeral will be aired at BYU.tv.

Link of the Week: Rejoice and Be Merry

2008-12-05T08:54:00.002-06:00

Here's to the Christmas Season! The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has many videos on YouTube to be enjoyed.

Upcoming Events

2008-12-03T14:06:00.003-06:00

Dec. 6: Ward Party at the chapel. Dinner and a program will be held. Santa will make a visit.Dec. 11: Quarterly Relief Society Enrichment 6:30 at the chapel. A pot-luck dinner, dessert and a "Christmas Program" will be held. A service project will also be completed. Child care will be available.Dec. 18: Wrap and Chat Cookie Exchange 8pm at the chapel. Bring a few dozen cookies to

Link of the Week: LDS Church News - Art missionaries help beautify temple interior

2008-11-30T09:53:00.002-06:00

LDS Church News - Art missionaries help beautify temple interiorThis article relates to professional artists who donate their time and talents to help beautify the temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are currently working on the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, but will continue with other temples which are being built around the world.It's inspiring to contemplate the many

Link of the Week: The Divine Institution of Marriage

2008-11-19T14:11:00.005-06:00

In the face of the continuing animosity towards the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the victory of California's Proposition 8 which defines marriage as between one man and one woman, the issue has been discussed endlessly both between the members of the Church, as well as among those outside it. In the heat of debate, we Mormons, as individual members of the Church, may have

Temple Day

2008-11-16T11:47:00.004-06:00

This Thursday, the 20th, is our ward and Relief Society Temple Day. We will attend the 10am session. If you need a babysitter contact Kelly Swanson at 214-316-5148.Hope you will all make plans to attend.

Chocolate!!!

2008-10-21T16:24:00.002-05:00

Cooking Club this Wednesday at April Lewis' house! She will be showing all how to make some luscious chocolates.Please come!

Of Primary Importance: Sacrament Mtg Presentation

2008-10-15T21:13:00.002-05:00

Sisters, After many good intentions, I'm finally getting around to using this wonderful communication tool.... Ike disrupted our lives in so many ways, not the least of which by cancelling our Children's Sacrament Meeting Presentation in September. In case you haven't heard, this special program has been re-scheduled for Sunday, October 26. This coming Sunday, October 19, we'll be doing a

Food for Thought: California Proposition 8

2008-10-15T12:30:00.004-05:00

Most of us know that the Church has spoken out about Proposition 8 in California and has promoted active campaigning by the membership there. For those of you who really want to know what it is all about, and if you tend to doubt the 'scare tactics' promoted by its proponents, below is an article from the San Francisco Gate, a publication which caters to the gay/lesbian demographic, which

Link of the Week: Flight Aware

2008-10-14T12:00:00.008-05:00

Here's an extremely useful link for travelers, and friends and family of travelers, and rather appropriate for me to post as I sit here drumming my fingers waiting for it to be time to go to the airport. Flight Aware, a free service, allows the user to track any flight anywhere in the United States and Canada. It offers up-to-the-second information.Simply visit http://flightaware.com, and in

Preach My Gospel: Go Ye Therefore

2008-10-12T15:21:00.004-05:00

Dear Sisters,In her Conference address on Saturday, October 4, 2008, Sister Sylvia H. Allred, first counselor of the General Relief Society Presidency, spoke on missionary work and the great impact it can have in all of our lives. She offers us all a much needed nudge to improve in our own efforts. As so many of us realize, the dedication of one or two people can affect the futures and even

Link of the Week: BYU.tv

2008-10-06T20:57:00.007-05:00

Once again, General Conference has been edifying, uplifting, and a pleasure in which to participate. On BYU.tv, you can experience it again and again. Simply go to the site, select "LDS Church Broadcasts" in the row of tabs below the view screen, then choose the program you wish to view.BYU.tv offers many programming options, including their live broadcast, the same programming available to

The Olde Oaks Country Fair

2008-10-06T11:41:00.003-05:00

From Sister April Lewis:We are hoping to call all the sisters, but I thought I would email, too. So please pass this info on to any Visiting Teachees, Visiting Teachers, friends, and/or neighbors just in case we don't get to call everyone.Our postponed Enrichment meeting, "The Olde Oaks Country Fair", is this Thursday at 7 pm @ the Hafer road building (16331 Hafer Rd, HOUSTON,TEXAS ). We will

Link of the Week: LDSChurchTemples.com

2008-10-04T09:04:00.003-05:00

This is a really cool Church site (you'll recognize the LDS.org look) where you can reference information about the various temples around the world, "featuring news, schedules, photographs, and interesting facts of the temples of the LDS Church."The funnest page is that for the free downloads, which feature:Mapping files in PDF (Adobe Reader), KML (Google Earth), and GPS coordinates (really cool

Preach My Gospel: True Ward Family

2008-10-03T21:54:00.004-05:00

Dear Sisters,I really appreciate all your open hearts and open hands in helping Elder Courtright get outfitted for his mission. Your generosity knows no bounds, and I am especially grateful to you for putting aside your own concerns with the whole Ike experience to help Matt get everything he requires on that endless less. I know how deeply he appreciates it, as he expressed to me on numerous

Food for Thought: Behind the Scenes at the Relief Society Broadcast

2008-10-03T21:29:00.005-05:00

Dear Sisters,The following narrative came to me, as so many things do, forwarded through so many email in-boxes that the it is unattributable. However, that does not lessen the sincerity or testimony borne in its lines. I hope the sister who wrote them does not object to me sharing them more broadly, for "if there is anything virtuous, lovely, of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these

Blog of the Week: Hungry? A Place to Gather for Food

2008-10-03T21:26:00.001-05:00

Hungry?Here is another great recipe blog lots of great recipes and lots of other information useful in the kitchen. My niece, Kami Allen, is one of a number of participants, so the spectrum of recipes is broad and comprehensive, with an emphasis on eating healthy.Here is a sample of one of the recipes she has posted: Grilled Vegetable Salad Posted by Kamie Grilled Vegetable SaladA basic

Weekly Update: Passing the Baton

2008-10-03T20:47:00.003-05:00

It's been so long since I've done anything with this blog, one would think I've abandoned it, but I haven't. With the new RS presidency and my release from my calling as secretary, we've been trying to see where everything fits, and the transition process is still ongoing. I look forward to the time when others catch the vision of what I would like this blog to be: another means of enriching

Food for Thought: A Message from the Houston Texas North Stake Presidency

2008-09-08T21:14:00.003-05:00

With Hurricane Ike making a beeline toward us, Pres. Tolman sent this out to our stake. I thought it topical to us all and well worth sharing.---------- Forwarded message ----------From: Randy TolmanDate: Mon, Sep 8, 2008 at 8:34 PMSubject: Message from Houston Texas North Stake PresidencyTo:Note: Priesthood and Auxilliary leaders, please ensure your members that don't have email receive a copy

Re: Matt's Missionary Shower

2008-09-08T16:16:00.001-05:00

Web sites:The table below is best viewed on the OORS Google group site, at Matt's table. Ladies, if you have not already done so, you must create a password to access this site. Gentlemen, take it up with the RS. I have also posted the table at http://oorsweelyupdate.blogspot.com. However, it doesn't quite translate into the formatting of the site, and I don't know enough HTML to fix it.

Matt's Missionary Shower

2008-09-08T15:27:00.009-05:00

Dear Friends: The following table includes the official list sent to Matt with his mission call (unless otherwise noted), and includes all those items/needs which have been pledged as of Monday, September 8, 2008. Please review the whole table carefully to ensure I have not omitted your pledge or assigned you something for which you have not volunteered. Matt really appreciates your

SRO for Matt the Mish (part 2)

2008-09-05T22:50:00.001-05:00

It's standing room only at the Puffer-Feriantes when Matt Courtright opens his mission call.

SRO for Matt the Mish (part 1)

2008-09-05T22:43:00.001-05:00

Matt realizes how important he is to a lot of people with a full house to celebrate his call.

Preach My Gospel: The Stone Cut Out of a Mountain

2008-09-03T10:21:00.004-05:00

I had an interesting experience last Wednesday that I wanted to share. I went and sat with Sister Marsha Johnson’s mom, Lucille, while she went out to do RS stuff. I sat with her a couple of hours and chatted with her or listened to her stories the entire time. She told me her conversion story, which I’m certain you’ve heard, but she also told me lots of things I didn’t know.Sister Lucille was

Food for Thought: The Unwritten Order of Things

2008-08-30T17:40:00.002-05:00

My brother was researching some question or another for a friend of his and came across this article which he thought was cool and shared with us. I think it's very well written as well, and timely considering the recent wholesale changes in the ward auxiliaries.Enjoy.The Unwritten Order of Things- Boyd K. Packer BOYD K. PACKER BYU Devotional Address, October 15, 1996 in the Marriott Center I

Preach My Gospel: Reflections of Christ

2008-08-20T07:43:00.003-05:00

This video, created by Mabry Studios, and viewed for the last six months at the Mesa Temple Visitor's Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is well worth the six minutes it takes to view it.I highly recommend it as a great way to start your day.Enjoy.http://mabrystudios.typepad.com/reflections_of_christ/

Preach My Gospel: Mormon Myths and Reality

2008-08-15T22:58:00.001-05:00

Preach My Gospel: How Can I Be Slide Show

2008-08-15T22:05:00.003-05:00

Preach My Gospel: How Can I Be

2008-08-15T22:05:00.001-05:00

I had a particularly joyful experience this morning. A sister I befriended online, a recent convert at the time we first met, has now decided to go on a mission.I am certain that the missionaries who found her and the ward members who befriended her have provided far more support and friendship than have I. However, the Lord connected her with me when she required it, for which I am unspeakably

URGENT: Tropical Storm Edouard

2008-08-04T09:31:00.001-05:00

Sisters,Tropical Storm Edouard is likely to make landfall at Galveston Bay tomorrow morning. Although currently 'only' a tropical storm, REMEMBER, Hurricane Dolly was only a tropical storm one day out, but made landfall as a Category 2 hurricane. Please prepare. To better enable us to ensure the safety of our ward members, Sister Lucy Stern has established an email address which is to be used

Fwd: storm alert

2008-08-03T12:56:00.002-05:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------From: Cheryl DriggsDate: Sun, Aug 3, 2008 at 12:43 PMSubject: storm alertThere is a tropical disturbance in the Gulf that could develop into a storm and move west towards us this week. Please stay alert to the situation.Be sure to visit texasprepares.org http://www.texasprepares.org/ReadyOrNot/Client/Home.aspx for information on how Texans can make a plan,

Food for Thought: In the Eye of the Hurricane

2008-07-26T19:25:00.000-05:00

Along Came Dolly:When Hurricane Dolly hit Brownsville, Texas, last week, I didn't pay any more attention that to track the storm on the internet and hope we'd get a bit of rain out of the deal. Especially because the storm couldn't make up its mind whether to be a tropical depression or a tropical storm or an out-and-out hurricane, I am afraid poor Dolly did not get much respect from me. I

Blog of the Week: Prepare Today Newsletter

2008-07-25T20:30:00.002-05:00

Another Perspective:This is a collection of information to assist others in their preparedness efforts and to help them be ready for the challenges which are coming.The Prepare Today Newsletter is a blog authored by a ward preparedness specialist from California. It provides a slightly different view of emergency preparedness, particularly since Californians face an entirely different set of

Link of the Week: Home Storage Online

2008-07-25T13:27:00.008-05:00

LDS Home Storage Helps OnlineLDScatalog.com: If you need a simple and easy way to get started or augment your home storage, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints makes it quite convenient. The prices are extremely competitive but higher than they are at the individual Home Storage Centers where customers assist in the packaging process. Via online catalog the following products are

Steadfast Faith in Christ: Change, Change, Change

2008-07-23T19:53:00.005-05:00

Smooth as Silk?We seem to take for granted the coming and going of the missionaries in our ward, and look at each new transferee as an opportunity for a new subject of conversation at the dinner table. "How long have you been out?" "What area were you in before you came here?" "Where are you from? Oh, really! My second cousin one removed is from there." But, have you ever wondered how that

Recipe of the Week: Super Easy Tomato, Garlic & Basil Pizza

2008-07-22T20:47:00.003-05:00

From Debbie Tingey: YOU WILL NEED: Your favorite Pizza crust (I use the Boboli Brand that you can buy at the store.....the pre-made stuff. Sometimes I make it home made, and that is good to. It is just easier to use Boboli if you can)2-3 tomatoes (depending on the size)1 clove garlic or substitute ~1 Tbls to taste1/4 C fresh chopped basil or 2-3 Tbls dried basil to taste3 Tbls olive oil1 1/2

Preach My Gospel: Mormons in Texas

2008-07-21T22:02:00.005-05:00

The Church Seeks to Address Confusion over Texas Polygamy GroupsPerhaps you may have noticed among your non-LDS friends, that some confusion has arisen between the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the FLDS, a small polygamist sect with property in western Texas. The Church has taken several steps to dispel the misconceptions, and to that end has posted this page in the public

RS Weekly Update: Monday, July 21st through Sunday, July 27th

2008-07-21T21:42:00.001-05:00

This Week:Tuesday, July 22nd, 12pm: Sister Michelle Wolf (the future Sister Brad Erickson) is taking out her endowments tomorrow, Tuesday, in the 12:00 pm session. We are making this our Relief Society temple day, so please come and share this very special day with Michelle and her family. Tuesday, July 22nd, 7pm: Also tomorrow, Sister Tami Erickson and Sister Barbara Pont wish to invite all

Blog of the Week: Lucy's Frugal Living

2008-07-19T15:35:00.006-05:00

"Free Advice 5 cents"If you don't know our own dear Lucy Stern very well, her blog is a great place to start. Lucy never wearies in well-doing, and extends her exertions onto the Internet . Her recipe for blog success:Mix together equal parts:Homemaking skillsEmergency preparednessFood storageFrugal livingSeason with:A dash of politicsA pinch of homilyA healthy dollop of hard-won wisdomMix well

Link of the Week: Waterford Press

2008-07-17T18:42:00.012-05:00

Free Games, Activities and MoreWaterford Press is a small company which specializes in pocket-size books for travelers and naturalists. Their traveling line includes Speakeasy, City, Eco-Traveler for various destinations. Their naturalist line includes national, regional, and state guides.On the Waterfordpress.com website, they provide games, activities, and quizzes which are free to download

Steadfast Faith in Christ: Trouble

2008-07-16T20:14:00.003-05:00

Elder Freeman's latest offering:"Everything is going great. It really has been a fun week. We work with so many people and they're all very different. It's like a kaleidoscope that keeps changing. There are plenty of friendly, open-minded people who recognize [as false]much of the misrepresentations of what we believe. Richard is one of these fine individuals whose mother or grandmother converted

Recipe of the Week: Chocolate-covered Helping Hands Cake

2008-07-16T00:43:00.009-05:00

Scott's Dutch Oven DelightThis looked like such a fabulous recipe, I determined as soon as I read it to post it as the next Recipe of the Week. Unfortunately, I forgot all about it in my customary addlepation. Be that as it may, this looks like such a fabulous recipe and a ready-made Family Home Evening or Family Day activity, that I just had to post it despite my earlier offering. The provenance

Mormon belief: Mormons believe God speaks

2008-07-16T00:29:00.002-05:00

Please read, rate, view, embed this video and share and email it to your friends and family. Answer the questions proffered by friends of other faiths. Help keep this and other positive messages about the Church at the forefront of the debate.