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Monday, March 29, 2010
Chatfield Update 3/30/2010
Jake’s a big Scouter-boy now. He turned 11 years old last week and the next day went on his first 11-year-old overnighter. The 11 and 12 year olds were joining forces for this campout. After hearing this was Jake’s first overnighter many of the older boys decided to let Jake know there was some great FUN in store for him. Initially Jake was a little worried with those comments, wondering what initiation type activities he would have to go through but the anticipation of fun out-weighed his fears and Friday afternoon he and a whole host of scouts, their dads and leaders were off to Goblin Valley.
The weekend passed slowly for me. I was grateful that when the phone rang it was not to report a mishap from Goblin Valley. Kels was not able to go on this overnighter because of school. Graduation will bring about many blessings, one being the opportunity for Kels to go on campouts with Jake and the other scouts. I find reassurance in that thought.
While waiting for Jake to arrive home safely, Bianca and I traveled to Salt Lake for the Young Women’s Broadcast. We sat on the 2nd row of the highest balcony amongst thousands of beautiful young women, their mothers and leaders. We were given great counsel and insight on how to Be Strong and of a Good Courage (Joshua 1:9). One of Bianca’s favorite parts of the conference was when Sis. Dalton looked out at the huge conference center of young women and said that she imagined that there was a great army of valiant young women (maybe even girl friends) encouraging the 2000 Stripling Warriors. Bianca mentioned that she wouldn’t mind being a girl friend to a stripling warrior. I suggested that we have mighty army of missionaries today that are defending and sharing our beliefs…when the time is right she can go for it!
Bianca also liked Pres. Uchtdorf’s memories of the courtship of his wife. He began his talk with the phrase of “Once Upon A Time…” He said don’t we all enjoy that phrase and then maybe the one at the end that says “and they lived happily ever after.” He said that this can happen not only in fairy tales but as we live our Heavenly Father’s plan for us. And sometimes it takes a lot of work! He then went on telling some stories about how difficult at times it was to get his future wife to notice him. He even ended up peddling his future mother-in-law on bike rides to the church activities because the mother wouldn’t let the daughter go. He kept working on it and he said it finally paid off. I would imagine he has many more fun stories to tell. It was wonderful to see and hear the respect and love that Pres. Uchtdorf has for “his queen.”
As Bianca and I left the conference center we realized that we were in Salt Lake when half the state was there. The Final Four games were being held in the Energy Solutions Center just before the YW broadcast started. Needless to say it was a busy place to BEE!
We decided to wait to stop for dinner until we got back to Utah County. We agreed on a place to eat (Magelbys), a yummy soup and salad joint and while there received a call from Jake telling us that he had arrived home safely. His speech was a little slurred from fatigue but reassured me that he would tell me all about it once we arrived home. Once home we found him fast asleep in his nice comfortable bed.
Kels and Kate had a nice weekend—working hard at school, Activity Days, yard work (yeah, the grass is starting to green up and grow!), chores and preparing for the Sabbath. It’s a good thing someone works around here!
The next morning Jake was full of camping stories about lizards, staying up till 1:00 in the morning, eating an amazing breakfast, kids falling in ditches, thorns, red dirt, mighty swords of righteousness, several games of Capture the Flag amongst the carved goblin-like sculptures out of rock (see for yourself http://www.utah.com/stateparks/goblin_valley.httm ) and no mention of anything but just plain, good fun! We so appreciate good leaders!
We hope your days are filled with the fun things in life! We sure love you all.
Kels, Kellie, Bianca, Jake and Kate
The weekend passed slowly for me. I was grateful that when the phone rang it was not to report a mishap from Goblin Valley. Kels was not able to go on this overnighter because of school. Graduation will bring about many blessings, one being the opportunity for Kels to go on campouts with Jake and the other scouts. I find reassurance in that thought.
While waiting for Jake to arrive home safely, Bianca and I traveled to Salt Lake for the Young Women’s Broadcast. We sat on the 2nd row of the highest balcony amongst thousands of beautiful young women, their mothers and leaders. We were given great counsel and insight on how to Be Strong and of a Good Courage (Joshua 1:9). One of Bianca’s favorite parts of the conference was when Sis. Dalton looked out at the huge conference center of young women and said that she imagined that there was a great army of valiant young women (maybe even girl friends) encouraging the 2000 Stripling Warriors. Bianca mentioned that she wouldn’t mind being a girl friend to a stripling warrior. I suggested that we have mighty army of missionaries today that are defending and sharing our beliefs…when the time is right she can go for it!
Bianca also liked Pres. Uchtdorf’s memories of the courtship of his wife. He began his talk with the phrase of “Once Upon A Time…” He said don’t we all enjoy that phrase and then maybe the one at the end that says “and they lived happily ever after.” He said that this can happen not only in fairy tales but as we live our Heavenly Father’s plan for us. And sometimes it takes a lot of work! He then went on telling some stories about how difficult at times it was to get his future wife to notice him. He even ended up peddling his future mother-in-law on bike rides to the church activities because the mother wouldn’t let the daughter go. He kept working on it and he said it finally paid off. I would imagine he has many more fun stories to tell. It was wonderful to see and hear the respect and love that Pres. Uchtdorf has for “his queen.”
As Bianca and I left the conference center we realized that we were in Salt Lake when half the state was there. The Final Four games were being held in the Energy Solutions Center just before the YW broadcast started. Needless to say it was a busy place to BEE!
We decided to wait to stop for dinner until we got back to Utah County. We agreed on a place to eat (Magelbys), a yummy soup and salad joint and while there received a call from Jake telling us that he had arrived home safely. His speech was a little slurred from fatigue but reassured me that he would tell me all about it once we arrived home. Once home we found him fast asleep in his nice comfortable bed.
Kels and Kate had a nice weekend—working hard at school, Activity Days, yard work (yeah, the grass is starting to green up and grow!), chores and preparing for the Sabbath. It’s a good thing someone works around here!
The next morning Jake was full of camping stories about lizards, staying up till 1:00 in the morning, eating an amazing breakfast, kids falling in ditches, thorns, red dirt, mighty swords of righteousness, several games of Capture the Flag amongst the carved goblin-like sculptures out of rock (see for yourself http://www.utah.com/stateparks/goblin_valley.httm ) and no mention of anything but just plain, good fun! We so appreciate good leaders!
We hope your days are filled with the fun things in life! We sure love you all.
Kels, Kellie, Bianca, Jake and Kate
Friday, February 26, 2010
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Friday, February 19, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Chatfield Chatter entry February 2010
I just looked at the date of our last entry for the Chatfield Chatter and realized we’ve been neglecting our responsibility of writing. We are repenting this month and thank you Mom Chatfield for being so diligent in keeping the Chatter alive!
Alive is what the Springville Chatfields are! We tend to make life happen on a day to day or week to week basis…looking forward to what happens next. I’m sure many can relate to that feeling. In our Stake Conference this last weekend Elder Richard Hinckley (our visiting general authority, son of Pres. Hinckley and looks very much like him) counseled us to slow down. Make sure we are doing the important things…like family prayer, family home evening, scripture study, being together as a family…and I would imagine that being together as we run one place to another doesn’t count…or maybe it does! Either way we are grateful that most of our running around happens right here in little ole Springville.
The holidays were once again spectacularly busy and fun. It seems as though from the beginning of school in September through Valentine’s Day in February we have constant events to plan for and celebrate. Let me name just a few; Back-to-school, Halloween, Bianca’s birthday, Thanksgiving, Kate’s birthday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Kellie’s birthday, Valentine’s day, President’s Day and a whole host of other events like Pinewood Derby, 15 recitals, football, soccer, and basketball games, Jake’s wax museum, plays, and YES…we are still alive…a little jittery, but alive. I guess that is why the counsel that Elder Hinckley gave about slowing down is what resounded most in my mind.
Our latest and greatest news is that after trying out for the school play Aladdin, Jake was on the call back list and then after his audition was given the part of the Genie. Both Kels and I were a little surprised to hear that Jake wanted to try out and even more surprised when he came home claiming that he would be playing the Genie. Jake assured us that there were not many singing parts for him and that made him happy. If you’re in the neighborhood and would like to come see some quality entertainment the play is on May 7th.
Kelsey was grateful that he didn’t receive a “call back”. I mentioned earlier that this weekend was our stake conference. Elder Hinckley was visiting our stake because our beloved stake president, Pres. Richard Austin was released after serving over 9 years. Kels (and 25 other men in the stake) were invited to meet with Elder Hinckley and the area authority Elder Dan Jones as they prepared to call a new stake president. Kels said his interview was to last 8 minutes and he was to have a form filled out upon entering the interview. The first comment the two authorities made was that Kels was very well thought of in the stake. Kels said that he was surprised by that. He didn’t think many people knew him. They wanted to know if Kels was a good husband. (Of course he is.) Elder Jones commented on his student status…still going to school? Elder Jones could relate, he said. And you have young children…yes, once again. They asked a few other questions and then said keep a cell phone with you today in case you need to be reached. Kels went about the rest of the day’s activities and was quite relieved that his phone didn’t ring and he was able to sit back, relax and enjoy the conference weekend. I also enjoyed the weekend and was grateful to be able to sit next to Kels in church on Valentine’s Sunday.
A few other highlights from the last few months:
• Bianca received her patriarchal blessing on November 18th 2009. She was given some amazing blessings along with great counsel to be diligent in keeping the commandments. She was also given a very specific road map to help her build a happy, healthy, fulfilling life.
• Kate turned 8 on December 23rd and celebrated her birthday by choosing to celebrate Joseph Smith’s birthday as well. We went and visited the Joseph Smith Memorial building, watched the movie about Joseph Smith and then had a little birthday dinner at the Lion House Pantry. We continued to celebrate Kate being 8 as she chose to be baptized on January 2nd. Kate’s words to describe her feelings that day were very happy, scared, thankful, and glad. We felt that too.
• On January 8th Jake made his final appearance at the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. His car was carefully crafted by the wood working expert Lynn Anderton, Grandpa Jackson, Uncle Brent, Uncle Randy, Josh, Ben, Kels…and oh ya…Jake! His car was a black and gold race horse that had a sleek look but the first trip down broke a leg…the wheel came off! Quick-thinking-Jake produced his car from last year and even though it was second best won all the races after that. Jake’s award was for the best ¾ horsepower car. He is now ready to race with the BIG boys in the Boy Scouts.
• I turned officially old on January 28th. Half way home!
• Kels has just a few more months of school and then he will be officially graduated…forever!
• January 30th John and Christine left on their mission for the Jerusalem Center. We hope to visit while they are serving.
Thank you for writing in the Chatter. We love you and love to read all about what goes on in your lives.
Love,
Kels, Kellie, Bianca, Jake and Kate
Alive is what the Springville Chatfields are! We tend to make life happen on a day to day or week to week basis…looking forward to what happens next. I’m sure many can relate to that feeling. In our Stake Conference this last weekend Elder Richard Hinckley (our visiting general authority, son of Pres. Hinckley and looks very much like him) counseled us to slow down. Make sure we are doing the important things…like family prayer, family home evening, scripture study, being together as a family…and I would imagine that being together as we run one place to another doesn’t count…or maybe it does! Either way we are grateful that most of our running around happens right here in little ole Springville.
The holidays were once again spectacularly busy and fun. It seems as though from the beginning of school in September through Valentine’s Day in February we have constant events to plan for and celebrate. Let me name just a few; Back-to-school, Halloween, Bianca’s birthday, Thanksgiving, Kate’s birthday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Kellie’s birthday, Valentine’s day, President’s Day and a whole host of other events like Pinewood Derby, 15 recitals, football, soccer, and basketball games, Jake’s wax museum, plays, and YES…we are still alive…a little jittery, but alive. I guess that is why the counsel that Elder Hinckley gave about slowing down is what resounded most in my mind.
Our latest and greatest news is that after trying out for the school play Aladdin, Jake was on the call back list and then after his audition was given the part of the Genie. Both Kels and I were a little surprised to hear that Jake wanted to try out and even more surprised when he came home claiming that he would be playing the Genie. Jake assured us that there were not many singing parts for him and that made him happy. If you’re in the neighborhood and would like to come see some quality entertainment the play is on May 7th.
Kelsey was grateful that he didn’t receive a “call back”. I mentioned earlier that this weekend was our stake conference. Elder Hinckley was visiting our stake because our beloved stake president, Pres. Richard Austin was released after serving over 9 years. Kels (and 25 other men in the stake) were invited to meet with Elder Hinckley and the area authority Elder Dan Jones as they prepared to call a new stake president. Kels said his interview was to last 8 minutes and he was to have a form filled out upon entering the interview. The first comment the two authorities made was that Kels was very well thought of in the stake. Kels said that he was surprised by that. He didn’t think many people knew him. They wanted to know if Kels was a good husband. (Of course he is.) Elder Jones commented on his student status…still going to school? Elder Jones could relate, he said. And you have young children…yes, once again. They asked a few other questions and then said keep a cell phone with you today in case you need to be reached. Kels went about the rest of the day’s activities and was quite relieved that his phone didn’t ring and he was able to sit back, relax and enjoy the conference weekend. I also enjoyed the weekend and was grateful to be able to sit next to Kels in church on Valentine’s Sunday.
A few other highlights from the last few months:
• Bianca received her patriarchal blessing on November 18th 2009. She was given some amazing blessings along with great counsel to be diligent in keeping the commandments. She was also given a very specific road map to help her build a happy, healthy, fulfilling life.
• Kate turned 8 on December 23rd and celebrated her birthday by choosing to celebrate Joseph Smith’s birthday as well. We went and visited the Joseph Smith Memorial building, watched the movie about Joseph Smith and then had a little birthday dinner at the Lion House Pantry. We continued to celebrate Kate being 8 as she chose to be baptized on January 2nd. Kate’s words to describe her feelings that day were very happy, scared, thankful, and glad. We felt that too.
• On January 8th Jake made his final appearance at the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. His car was carefully crafted by the wood working expert Lynn Anderton, Grandpa Jackson, Uncle Brent, Uncle Randy, Josh, Ben, Kels…and oh ya…Jake! His car was a black and gold race horse that had a sleek look but the first trip down broke a leg…the wheel came off! Quick-thinking-Jake produced his car from last year and even though it was second best won all the races after that. Jake’s award was for the best ¾ horsepower car. He is now ready to race with the BIG boys in the Boy Scouts.
• I turned officially old on January 28th. Half way home!
• Kels has just a few more months of school and then he will be officially graduated…forever!
• January 30th John and Christine left on their mission for the Jerusalem Center. We hope to visit while they are serving.
Thank you for writing in the Chatter. We love you and love to read all about what goes on in your lives.
Love,
Kels, Kellie, Bianca, Jake and Kate
John and Christine Missionary Sacrament Meeting 1-10-2010
John and Christine’s Missionary Sacrament Meeting
As I sat in the Gunnison 5th Ward yesterday (Sunday, January 10th 2010) everything was vaguely familiar…many of the same faces, the warm comfortable chapel, Bro. Pickett at the pulpit welcoming all those who were visiting that day and a beautiful sense of peace. Just a little over 3 months previous we all gathered to celebrate Brad’s farewell into the mission field. Yesterday it was John and Christine’s turn. There’s nothing like witnessing a missionary preparing to enter the mission field. I loved it with Brad and I think even more so (if possible) with John and Christine…maybe because they are a little closer in age and I could see myself one day following their example.
I was impressed that all of Christine’s brothers, sisters, mom and dad and their families were in attendance. Many of the Jackson clan was there as well, including some of Brad and Gayle’s family. Whenever I’m surrounded by so many people that I love I always think I’m being given a little glimpse of heaven.
Marissa Pickett (the youth speaker…a relation to Stacy?) gave a great talk introducing the subject for the month—The Light of Christ. After she spoke Christine also addressed the theme. She did so by focusing on our responsibility to be good examples. She explained that their mission would not be a prosolyting mission but instead a service mission at the Jerusalem Center in Israel. John and Christine have been asked to oversee the medical needs and dorm room type parenting care of about 80 young men and women, students from BYU.
Christine shared a couple of stories she had heard from the orientations for this mission. One of the stories was about a group of students that had not received word about a riot/protest group that was about to overtake the area they were in. The BYU Jerusalem students (not referred to as Americans but as the Mormon kids) live a very high standard of morals and conduct. This group of kids would have been killed by the people rioting if it were not for the kindness of the town’s people and their willingness to bring them into their own homes for protection. They would keep them in their homes until they knew they would be safe. They did this because they knew “the Mormon kids” were good kids. Good examples.
Christine explained as a worker in the Jerusalem Center they would be held to a high standard as well. Women’s dress collars should come to the base of their neck (right below the throat), sleeves must be at the elbow, and skirts or dress length should be mid calf. She didn’t mention what the dress code was for men but I would assume it would be just as strict. These dress standards were especially important for the American women if they did not want to be thought of as loose women. Our news and media from the US does a great disservice to women when they are portrayed as immodest and available. Many people from other countries listen and learn from what they see on TV. Christine said she was having a tough time finding dresses that would cover the areas that needed to be covered. She had a thought to turn one of her dresses around and saw that it fit perfectly and because of the dress style it looked great!
Christine concluded her talk by expressing her deep gratitude for her family. Would this be a sacrifice…YES…but one that she was grateful for. She remembered a thought she had when they had completed their vacation to the Holy Land several years ago…a wish to be able to take just 6 months out of their lives and rent a little cottage on the banks of the Sea of Galilee to read and study the scriptures. She explained that in some way that wish had been granted through this mission.
John started his talk by saying when given this assignment to speak that he would agree on 3 conditions. 1—that it not be turned into a farewell, 2—he didn’t want a lot of people coming, 3—he didn’t want a dinner. Well he was granted none of those wishes! Good thing Christine got her way or we would have all missed out on a great day! John also told a Jewish lawyer joke…ask John (or Scott) to tell it to you cause I’ll get it messed up! John said he felt good about this day and as he thought about it he said it might have been a bit similar to each of our “farewells in heaven”. As we prepared to come to earth for our earthly mission, we probably gathered together, offered our love and support and gave an enthusiastic goodbye…we’ll see you soon. I liked that thought. And I’d like to think that many of those same people will be there for our “homecoming”.
John also talked about being very grateful for this call to serve. He said he wasn’t quite sure why they were chosen to go to Jerusalem when so many others were probably more qualified but felt very humbled to be able to serve his mission where Jesus had served his earthly mission many, many years ago.
John offered an interesting history of Israel and specifically the area where they will live. He said they sit on a big rock about 10 miles up from the Dead Sea, with cavernous roads for travel. He then told the story of the Good Samaritan. He offered a beautiful description of the story. From the description it was evident that John had traveled these roads and maybe knew and felt a bit more admiration and love for the Good Samaritan.
John thanked the good people he served with professionally, the 2 bishoprics he learned from and expressed love for his temple service. He felt strongly about the temple covenant to give all that we have. He said he felt that giving up a little (his medical practice, free time, etc) was easy, that not being able to be with family was going to be a bit tougher but felt that this was what they were called to do at this time, and he was excited about it.
Both John and Christine mentioned several times they so appreciated the support of their children and grandchildren. Not one of them discouraged the mission but instead asked how they could help get them ready to go. To give further witness of that all the grandchildren sang “Called to Serve” and they sang with great gusto! It was fun to listen and watch.
As we sat listening to John and Christine I took a moment to glance at a couple of family members. I saw tears, smiles, and a grateful pride. And most of all I saw beautiful faces with shining testimonies. Once again I felt grateful for gatherings that witness the love of Christ.
After the Sacrament meeting we all adjourned to Gunnison Valley High School…again a familiar place with lots of good food and great conversation. Thanks to Megan and Jennifer (there couldn’t be a harder working duo) and all those that helped prepare a beautiful setting for a fabulous meal.
We missed Bradley and thought of him often during the gathering but grateful for his example. The family missionary map now shows two arrows of family work in the mission field…Oregon and Jerusalem. I Will Go, I Will Do…good examples everywhere even in good ole’ Springville.
As I sat in the Gunnison 5th Ward yesterday (Sunday, January 10th 2010) everything was vaguely familiar…many of the same faces, the warm comfortable chapel, Bro. Pickett at the pulpit welcoming all those who were visiting that day and a beautiful sense of peace. Just a little over 3 months previous we all gathered to celebrate Brad’s farewell into the mission field. Yesterday it was John and Christine’s turn. There’s nothing like witnessing a missionary preparing to enter the mission field. I loved it with Brad and I think even more so (if possible) with John and Christine…maybe because they are a little closer in age and I could see myself one day following their example.
I was impressed that all of Christine’s brothers, sisters, mom and dad and their families were in attendance. Many of the Jackson clan was there as well, including some of Brad and Gayle’s family. Whenever I’m surrounded by so many people that I love I always think I’m being given a little glimpse of heaven.
Marissa Pickett (the youth speaker…a relation to Stacy?) gave a great talk introducing the subject for the month—The Light of Christ. After she spoke Christine also addressed the theme. She did so by focusing on our responsibility to be good examples. She explained that their mission would not be a prosolyting mission but instead a service mission at the Jerusalem Center in Israel. John and Christine have been asked to oversee the medical needs and dorm room type parenting care of about 80 young men and women, students from BYU.
Christine shared a couple of stories she had heard from the orientations for this mission. One of the stories was about a group of students that had not received word about a riot/protest group that was about to overtake the area they were in. The BYU Jerusalem students (not referred to as Americans but as the Mormon kids) live a very high standard of morals and conduct. This group of kids would have been killed by the people rioting if it were not for the kindness of the town’s people and their willingness to bring them into their own homes for protection. They would keep them in their homes until they knew they would be safe. They did this because they knew “the Mormon kids” were good kids. Good examples.
Christine explained as a worker in the Jerusalem Center they would be held to a high standard as well. Women’s dress collars should come to the base of their neck (right below the throat), sleeves must be at the elbow, and skirts or dress length should be mid calf. She didn’t mention what the dress code was for men but I would assume it would be just as strict. These dress standards were especially important for the American women if they did not want to be thought of as loose women. Our news and media from the US does a great disservice to women when they are portrayed as immodest and available. Many people from other countries listen and learn from what they see on TV. Christine said she was having a tough time finding dresses that would cover the areas that needed to be covered. She had a thought to turn one of her dresses around and saw that it fit perfectly and because of the dress style it looked great!
Christine concluded her talk by expressing her deep gratitude for her family. Would this be a sacrifice…YES…but one that she was grateful for. She remembered a thought she had when they had completed their vacation to the Holy Land several years ago…a wish to be able to take just 6 months out of their lives and rent a little cottage on the banks of the Sea of Galilee to read and study the scriptures. She explained that in some way that wish had been granted through this mission.
John started his talk by saying when given this assignment to speak that he would agree on 3 conditions. 1—that it not be turned into a farewell, 2—he didn’t want a lot of people coming, 3—he didn’t want a dinner. Well he was granted none of those wishes! Good thing Christine got her way or we would have all missed out on a great day! John also told a Jewish lawyer joke…ask John (or Scott) to tell it to you cause I’ll get it messed up! John said he felt good about this day and as he thought about it he said it might have been a bit similar to each of our “farewells in heaven”. As we prepared to come to earth for our earthly mission, we probably gathered together, offered our love and support and gave an enthusiastic goodbye…we’ll see you soon. I liked that thought. And I’d like to think that many of those same people will be there for our “homecoming”.
John also talked about being very grateful for this call to serve. He said he wasn’t quite sure why they were chosen to go to Jerusalem when so many others were probably more qualified but felt very humbled to be able to serve his mission where Jesus had served his earthly mission many, many years ago.
John offered an interesting history of Israel and specifically the area where they will live. He said they sit on a big rock about 10 miles up from the Dead Sea, with cavernous roads for travel. He then told the story of the Good Samaritan. He offered a beautiful description of the story. From the description it was evident that John had traveled these roads and maybe knew and felt a bit more admiration and love for the Good Samaritan.
John thanked the good people he served with professionally, the 2 bishoprics he learned from and expressed love for his temple service. He felt strongly about the temple covenant to give all that we have. He said he felt that giving up a little (his medical practice, free time, etc) was easy, that not being able to be with family was going to be a bit tougher but felt that this was what they were called to do at this time, and he was excited about it.
Both John and Christine mentioned several times they so appreciated the support of their children and grandchildren. Not one of them discouraged the mission but instead asked how they could help get them ready to go. To give further witness of that all the grandchildren sang “Called to Serve” and they sang with great gusto! It was fun to listen and watch.
As we sat listening to John and Christine I took a moment to glance at a couple of family members. I saw tears, smiles, and a grateful pride. And most of all I saw beautiful faces with shining testimonies. Once again I felt grateful for gatherings that witness the love of Christ.
After the Sacrament meeting we all adjourned to Gunnison Valley High School…again a familiar place with lots of good food and great conversation. Thanks to Megan and Jennifer (there couldn’t be a harder working duo) and all those that helped prepare a beautiful setting for a fabulous meal.
We missed Bradley and thought of him often during the gathering but grateful for his example. The family missionary map now shows two arrows of family work in the mission field…Oregon and Jerusalem. I Will Go, I Will Do…good examples everywhere even in good ole’ Springville.
Kate's Baptism day
Kate’s Baptism Day—Jan 2, 2010
Kate was dressed and ready to go to the church at 7:30 AM. Her baptism wasn’t scheduled to begin until 10:00 AM but she was ready for the big day!
When Kate and her dad arrived at the church Bro. Grobben was filling the baptismal font. Kate asked if the water was warm and he quickly replied it was Just Right. The Stake and Ward Primary Presidencies prepared beautiful programs and asked to take a picture with Kate and her dad all dressed in white. Shortly after the picture lots of family and friends started arriving. It was fun to see our neighbors, family from near and far, home teachers, friends and primary leaders.
Bro. Randall started the meeting and we sang I Am a Child of God with Lauren singing a beautiful descant. Kate said Lauren sounded like an angel. Lauren then gave an opening prayer thanking Heavenly Father for this beautiful day. Grandma Jackson gave a great talk on Baptism. She asked Kate to write down her thoughts at the end of the day so she would remember the feelings she had felt. Kate thought that was a great idea.
Grandma Jackson reminded us that part of the baptismal covenant is to stand as a witness of God, not sit, not lay down but to STAND up for God. Kate thought that was an important covenant to remember. Grandma also reminded us that not everyone gets to be baptized in a beautiful font filled with warm water. Uncle John was baptized in a frozen pond in Alaska. Kate was grateful that her water didn’t need to be cracked open before she stepped into it.
After Grandma’s talk the Douglas children (Ben, Audrey and Kate) sang a beautiful song; I’m Being Baptized. Kate loved that Sis. Douglas wrote that song for Ben’s baptism, and felt like it was just right for her too. (Kate hummed and sang it in the dressing room right before she was baptized…and after).
As Kate and her mom went into the dressing room to wait her turn to be baptized she met an 8 year old girl named Kelsey with a big dripping wet smile on her face. Kate asked her how she felt and she said “good.” Then the big moment came for Kate. As she walked down the white tiled steps into the font she felt a little nervous. She saw Grandpa Jackson and Uncle John watching over her, standing as witnesses. After the prayer Kate took a deep breath, smiled and was baptized, just like Jesus. Kate’s new friend Kelsey was right, it did feel good.
Kate hurried to change into her beautiful winter white dress. She didn’t want to miss anything that was happening in the room with all her family and friends. Her dad had to wait his turn for the dressing room so Kate and her mom were the first to arrive back in the Primary room where Bianca was playing beautiful primary songs on the piano. Everyone was reverently writing little notes to Kate while waiting.
Grandma Chatfield gave a talk about the Holy Ghost. She told us that the Holy Ghost was used to living with Heavenly Father and Jesus so when we do something we’re not supposed to do it makes the Holy Ghost uncomfortable and he leaves. We need to make good choices to have the comfort and direction of the Holy Ghost with us at all times.
Kate liked it when her dad and those standing in the confirmation circle laid their hands on her head. She said she closed her eyes and felt “comfortable”. She was given the gift of the Holy Ghost and knowledge that her Heavenly Father loves her and that her testimony of the Gospel would continue to grow stronger. Kate once again smiled. She hugged those who had participated in the confirmation and then Bishop Chatfield welcomed her to the ward as the newest member having been baptized. He told Kate that he loved her example.
We sang the closing song; I Love to See the Temple and Jake offered a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for Kate and for her baptism.
After the prayer Kate gave a special Smart Cookie to each person there with a “thanks for coming,” She thought it was great that “all” those people had come to see her baptized and confirmed. She knows some pretty nice people!
Kate’s celebration continued at the Old Spaghetti Factory. She ordered her favorite, Macaroni and Cheese! Surprise, Surprise!
In Kate’s personal prayer that night she thanked Heavenly Father for being baptized and confirmed. She also prayed that all would return home in safety…shortly after that we heard that her cousin Hannah was home safe and sound. Kate loves her family and knows that Heavenly Father hears and answers her prayers.
(The next day in Sacrament meeting Kate was called to the pulpit and recognized for being baptized and presented a special reminder of the day. After receiving it she hopped down the stairs and bounced back to her seat. Kate’s a pretty happy 8 year old!)
Kate’s words to describe her feelings when she was baptized: Very Happy, Scared, Thankful, Glad.
Kate was dressed and ready to go to the church at 7:30 AM. Her baptism wasn’t scheduled to begin until 10:00 AM but she was ready for the big day!
When Kate and her dad arrived at the church Bro. Grobben was filling the baptismal font. Kate asked if the water was warm and he quickly replied it was Just Right. The Stake and Ward Primary Presidencies prepared beautiful programs and asked to take a picture with Kate and her dad all dressed in white. Shortly after the picture lots of family and friends started arriving. It was fun to see our neighbors, family from near and far, home teachers, friends and primary leaders.
Bro. Randall started the meeting and we sang I Am a Child of God with Lauren singing a beautiful descant. Kate said Lauren sounded like an angel. Lauren then gave an opening prayer thanking Heavenly Father for this beautiful day. Grandma Jackson gave a great talk on Baptism. She asked Kate to write down her thoughts at the end of the day so she would remember the feelings she had felt. Kate thought that was a great idea.
Grandma Jackson reminded us that part of the baptismal covenant is to stand as a witness of God, not sit, not lay down but to STAND up for God. Kate thought that was an important covenant to remember. Grandma also reminded us that not everyone gets to be baptized in a beautiful font filled with warm water. Uncle John was baptized in a frozen pond in Alaska. Kate was grateful that her water didn’t need to be cracked open before she stepped into it.
After Grandma’s talk the Douglas children (Ben, Audrey and Kate) sang a beautiful song; I’m Being Baptized. Kate loved that Sis. Douglas wrote that song for Ben’s baptism, and felt like it was just right for her too. (Kate hummed and sang it in the dressing room right before she was baptized…and after).
As Kate and her mom went into the dressing room to wait her turn to be baptized she met an 8 year old girl named Kelsey with a big dripping wet smile on her face. Kate asked her how she felt and she said “good.” Then the big moment came for Kate. As she walked down the white tiled steps into the font she felt a little nervous. She saw Grandpa Jackson and Uncle John watching over her, standing as witnesses. After the prayer Kate took a deep breath, smiled and was baptized, just like Jesus. Kate’s new friend Kelsey was right, it did feel good.
Kate hurried to change into her beautiful winter white dress. She didn’t want to miss anything that was happening in the room with all her family and friends. Her dad had to wait his turn for the dressing room so Kate and her mom were the first to arrive back in the Primary room where Bianca was playing beautiful primary songs on the piano. Everyone was reverently writing little notes to Kate while waiting.
Grandma Chatfield gave a talk about the Holy Ghost. She told us that the Holy Ghost was used to living with Heavenly Father and Jesus so when we do something we’re not supposed to do it makes the Holy Ghost uncomfortable and he leaves. We need to make good choices to have the comfort and direction of the Holy Ghost with us at all times.
Kate liked it when her dad and those standing in the confirmation circle laid their hands on her head. She said she closed her eyes and felt “comfortable”. She was given the gift of the Holy Ghost and knowledge that her Heavenly Father loves her and that her testimony of the Gospel would continue to grow stronger. Kate once again smiled. She hugged those who had participated in the confirmation and then Bishop Chatfield welcomed her to the ward as the newest member having been baptized. He told Kate that he loved her example.
We sang the closing song; I Love to See the Temple and Jake offered a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for Kate and for her baptism.
After the prayer Kate gave a special Smart Cookie to each person there with a “thanks for coming,” She thought it was great that “all” those people had come to see her baptized and confirmed. She knows some pretty nice people!
Kate’s celebration continued at the Old Spaghetti Factory. She ordered her favorite, Macaroni and Cheese! Surprise, Surprise!
In Kate’s personal prayer that night she thanked Heavenly Father for being baptized and confirmed. She also prayed that all would return home in safety…shortly after that we heard that her cousin Hannah was home safe and sound. Kate loves her family and knows that Heavenly Father hears and answers her prayers.
(The next day in Sacrament meeting Kate was called to the pulpit and recognized for being baptized and presented a special reminder of the day. After receiving it she hopped down the stairs and bounced back to her seat. Kate’s a pretty happy 8 year old!)
Kate’s words to describe her feelings when she was baptized: Very Happy, Scared, Thankful, Glad.
Monday, September 21, 2009
News of Bradley's Mission Farewell
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For those of you who couldn’t make Brad’s Missionary Farewell yesterday I thought I’d give you a little look at some of the events of the day.
I’m sure Brad worked on his talk for days and days, maybe even months. He was very well prepared and had much of his talk memorized…almost all of the scriptures (many of them being seminary scripture mastery scriptures) were memorized and he had a great command of what he spoke and even more importantly there was a nice spirit about him.
Brad’s topic was on Adversity. He taught us from the scriptures and he shared a couple family stories that I thought you might like to hear…
Brad talked about the family living in El Paso (before he was born) and about some of the adversity the family faced as it sacrificed so that John and Christine could attend medical school. They were considered “poor in things, but very rich in love”, a regular comment from Christine, even today. They lived in a double wide mobile home…all six of them. It was not very often that they even had a spare quarter for “Pickles and Popcorn Day” at school. Every once in awhile they would each be given a dime to spend at the local drug store and that was a huge treat. There was adversity at times but it was a good thing for all of them because they learned, grew and showed their willingness to sacrifice.
Jake remembers this from Brad’s talk—Brad asked his mom “Why can’t everyone be healthy and happy?” Christine taught a gospel principle about recognizing the good from bad and then went on to give this analogy—one that Brad (and Jake) could easily relate to: “It’s like a piece of pie. How do you know if it’s a good pie if you haven’t tasted a bad pie.” Sometimes we are given adversity in our lives so that we might know and appreciate all that is good.
Another experience that Brad shared was his desire to receive a strong witness of the truthfulness of what he was preparing to do. He said that he went to his private sanctuary (the pitcher’s mound on the baseball field) all alone, late one evening. He spent quite a while there asking, pleading, praying for a witness that he should go on a mission. He said he went home quite disappointed because he felt nothing. A couple of days later he said that a quiet peace came over him with a soft but very direct answer to his question—the thought was that “Brad, you’ve known all along that you should serve a mission!” What a great reminder for all of us. The Church is true, prophets are inspired (including in their calls for young men to serve missions) and isn’t it great that we don’t need mighty miracles to know that.
I was impressed with Brad’s ability to remember so many that influenced his life both in the past and today. His Young Men leaders, his Scout leaders. His love for his family is deep. He named all of his nieces and nephews starting with Madelyn and ending with Jonathan…he did not forget one. I know each one of them knew of his love for them not only because he said it at the pulpit but because he shows it whenever he’s with them…I’ve witnessed it many times.
Brad loves his Mom. He said that he couldn’t think of anyone more loving than his mom. I’ve always loved the story of young Brad calling for “the good doctor” whenever he had a wound. Brad loves his Dad. He said that he looked up to his dad the most. Made my heart swell when I heard that because I know by looking and watching Brad that it is true. Many hours of early morning scripture study with John and Christine, lots of baseball games with Christine yelling “Go Bad Brad!”, many family get-togethers with sisters, brothers, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws have helped Brad to be who he is. A good, worthy man willing to serve the Lord.
After Sacrament meeting we went over to Gunnison Valley High School for a little luncheon. I guess Christine thought that would be the best place for the large crowd of family that came. I thought it was a great idea! The kids did too. They had previously prepared the cafeteria of the school to be a Mexican Fiesta…because Brad was called to the Spanish speaking part of the Oregon mission. Christine and probably many others spent hours previous to the big day making homemade enchiladas, beans and rice, salsa and chips and a “Chocolate Factory” (as John referred to it). We enjoyed the company, ate well, and kept the chocolate factory going most of the afternoon!
After the meal we all pitched in and had the high school cafeteria put back together again for business on Monday. We were then ushered outside for family pictures. Those Jacksons sure know how to corral the bunch for fabulous photos. Christine said that she hoped that at least one of the pictures would be Christmas card worthy for this year.
Well you’d think that the festivities would be over at about this time. Nope it’s that time of the year…the time all kids (and some adults) fear…flu shot time! I guess whenever the Jackson family gets together in the early fall the docs break out the flu vaccines for the entire family. The Chatfields were happy to be in on it this year. Right there in the High School lobby—one by one—every man, woman and child was poked in the arm or the leg by the nurses from John and Christine’s clinic. Some family members made lots of noise and other just grinned as their turn was over. The nurses were amazing, I could hardly feel the little pinch. They even rewarded us with a sucker. What a healthy bunch we’ll be!
It was a nice day and could have only been nicer with All of our loved ones there. We love our family and love being with you.
Brad will enter the MTC on September 30, 2009 before 12:00 noon…after his free IHOP breakfast. We look forward to hearing about Brad’s mission news via John and Christine. Hopefully the email service between Jerusalem and Oregon is reliable and swift.
Love you all…and thanks for giving me the opportunity to write a little…it’s good for my family history!
Kellie
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Jake and Wally Joyner
While working Friday morning Wally Joyner happened to come in with his dogs to see Dr. D….Jake has been waiting for this opportunity for awhile, knowing that Wally Joyner’s dogs are regulars at the animal clinic. Jake has had a ball waiting to be signed for 6 months now.
When Wally came in Dr. D. told him that there was a young boy named Jake that was looking forward to meeting him. Wally was kind and said he had just the thing for Jake. He ran out to his car and brought back a signed picture/postcard—the inscription said:
Jake
Hope to see you in “The Big Leagues”!
Wally Joyner
On the back of the post card it gives his number #22-1st base for the Padres. Then a description—Cheerful Wally Joyner, an extraordinary hitter and exceptional fielder, exhibits more self-control than perhaps any other major leaguer. The product of Brigham Young University plays baseball as hard as anyone, but does not smoke, drink alcohol, or use foul language. “It’s easy to do those things; it’s much more of a challenge to avoid them. That’s what I choose to do,” says the man who’s an All-Star, on and off the field.
I read the description of Wally to Jake and he smiled a big smile. “I really like him,” says Jake. So do I.
High Adventure in Springville
The Buggy Ride
This weekend we participated in a good ole fashioned buggy ride and a little chicken wrangling! Good times here in Springville!
Dr. D (our local veterinarian and family friend), invited us over to the animal clinic to learn how to drive and ride in a buggy or surrey, absent the fringe on top. A couple of months ago Dr. D. purchased an Amish trained work horse from Pennsylvania. Joy (the name of the horse) was shipped here to Utah and has since been in several parades including the SLC 24th of July parade. The Amish work their horses hard for many years and when they start to get a bit older they retire and sell them. I’m not sure if Joy wanted to retire to Utah but she’s got a pretty good life here with Dr. D.
Joy and Banjo (the other horse) just eat and hang out together. Dr. D. decided it best to divide the horse corral/stall in half due to Joy eating more than her fair share of the hay. After a month of living and eating together Banjo was losing bulk and we noticed that Joy was moving (not too gently) Banjo aside when it was chow time. Now they are co-existing peacefully with a divider between them. Kinda reminds me of John and Dave’s room in the good old days!
As I drove up the road to the animal clinic to drop off Bianca and Jake at work I noticed Joy clip-clopping down the road and Dr. D and Dad with big smiles on their faces riding behind on the buggy. Dr. D. was teaching Dad how to “drive” the buggy. Dad of course learned quickly and soon everyone wanted a ride, including me.
When you sit behind Joy you realize just how large and strong she is. She had no problem taking all for a ride. We even took her up on the 5-lane overpass being constructed above the clinic. Motor Vehicles are not allowed yet but we felt our mode of transportation was ok. It was fun being the only one on the road...the construction guys were a little surprised to see some action alongside them.
Dad mentioned that it would be fun to take Mom out for a little ride. Dr. D. said maybe he’d get a little top for the buggy...but “no fringe, cause that’s a little too girly”. Sounds like a nice afternoon…maybe we’ll throw in a picnic basket and make it a date!
I’m not sure there was much work done at the animal clinic that afternoon but Bianca, Jake, Kate, Cierra, Grandpa and I sure had a fun time. Thanks Dr. D and Joy!
The Chicken Wranglers
The Sunday after our buggy ride we had another adventure. A little chicken wrangling!!
Every Sunday after our church meetings the kids and I go over to the animal clinic to feed the horses and chickens...yep, they need to eat on Sunday too!
Jake normally takes care of the chickens because they are his mission money makers...he sells the eggs to friends, neighbors and hometeachers—they’re so good to Jake...but today Bianca said she would feed them. I guess she wasn’t aware that if you’re not careful and don’t latch the chicken coop door the chickens like to bust out of their prison.
Well that’s what happened. One of the chickens saw the opening and made a mad dash for it...and escaped! We all let out a wild yell and Jake came a’runnin. We looked at each other and I guess because Bianca felt responsible for the escape she took control and started chasing the chicken. If you’ve chased a chicken before (especially in a dress and heels) you’ll know they normally out run you...they are quick little buggers.
The chickens have been making friends with a wild hen for the last couple of weeks. The wild hen hangs out longingly peering (from the outside) through the chicken wire at our hens eating their cracked corn mash and drinking (kinda) fresh water on a daily basis. I think the wild hen wants the cage life and our hens want to try life on the outside. I guess one of them got their wish because she immediately hopped the fence and raced over to the wild one!
Bianca hopped the fence as well. She wasn’t quite as agile as the chicken but she managed to get over the barbed wire fence with only a few scratches and tares to her clothes...it was quite comical for those of us watching...although no one dared to crack a smile for fear that Bianca would back out of her commitment and we’d have to take her place.
After about 30 minutes of chasing the chicken from one end of the “barnyard” to another we decided we needed a plan.
The plan was to drive the chicken into a corner and then scoop her up and plop her back into the coop. Jake and Bianca were great at guiding her into the corner but when they got close enough to touch her neither would reach down and grab her. I think they were remembering the roosters we had that would charge us if we dared to get too close...they ended up taking a long car ride.
At the point I decided I was going to have to get my hands dirty too. The chicken realized that if she jumped into the horse corral with all the muck in it that she was a little safer than being out in the grass. She jumped in the corral and just stood there and looked at us. I negotiated with Jake and Bianca and said if they would chase her out of the corral and into the feeding area I would grab her and plop her in the coup. Easy as that? Well…no, but it was a good plan because it worked.
Jake and Bianca donned work boots, jumped in the corral, chased through the muck and wrangled the cute little chicken over to the hay bales where I could reach down and grab her fat little body, yelling “open the door, FAST!”
Kate our animal lover was quite disturbed with the whole situation. She kept tearing up and whimpering. All along I thought it was because she was afraid for our welfare...nope...she was fearing animal cruelty.
I haven’t heard but I’m thinking that our cute little chicken’s laying capabilities were a little hampered that Sunday. I’m also hoping that she’ll think twice about trying another escape in the near future! We know that Bianca is well aware of the need to make sure the chicken coop door is fully latched from now on!
On the way home the kids discussed the possibility of trying to catch the wild hen. They think it might be good fun and kind of easy now that they are experienced chicken chasers.
Like I mentioned before…good times here in Springville!
For your viewing pleasure…here is a Smilebox of the buggy ride, and picture attachments of the chickens--
This weekend we participated in a good ole fashioned buggy ride and a little chicken wrangling! Good times here in Springville!
Dr. D (our local veterinarian and family friend), invited us over to the animal clinic to learn how to drive and ride in a buggy or surrey, absent the fringe on top. A couple of months ago Dr. D. purchased an Amish trained work horse from Pennsylvania. Joy (the name of the horse) was shipped here to Utah and has since been in several parades including the SLC 24th of July parade. The Amish work their horses hard for many years and when they start to get a bit older they retire and sell them. I’m not sure if Joy wanted to retire to Utah but she’s got a pretty good life here with Dr. D.
Joy and Banjo (the other horse) just eat and hang out together. Dr. D. decided it best to divide the horse corral/stall in half due to Joy eating more than her fair share of the hay. After a month of living and eating together Banjo was losing bulk and we noticed that Joy was moving (not too gently) Banjo aside when it was chow time. Now they are co-existing peacefully with a divider between them. Kinda reminds me of John and Dave’s room in the good old days!
As I drove up the road to the animal clinic to drop off Bianca and Jake at work I noticed Joy clip-clopping down the road and Dr. D and Dad with big smiles on their faces riding behind on the buggy. Dr. D. was teaching Dad how to “drive” the buggy. Dad of course learned quickly and soon everyone wanted a ride, including me.
When you sit behind Joy you realize just how large and strong she is. She had no problem taking all for a ride. We even took her up on the 5-lane overpass being constructed above the clinic. Motor Vehicles are not allowed yet but we felt our mode of transportation was ok. It was fun being the only one on the road...the construction guys were a little surprised to see some action alongside them.
Dad mentioned that it would be fun to take Mom out for a little ride. Dr. D. said maybe he’d get a little top for the buggy...but “no fringe, cause that’s a little too girly”. Sounds like a nice afternoon…maybe we’ll throw in a picnic basket and make it a date!
I’m not sure there was much work done at the animal clinic that afternoon but Bianca, Jake, Kate, Cierra, Grandpa and I sure had a fun time. Thanks Dr. D and Joy!
The Chicken Wranglers
The Sunday after our buggy ride we had another adventure. A little chicken wrangling!!
Every Sunday after our church meetings the kids and I go over to the animal clinic to feed the horses and chickens...yep, they need to eat on Sunday too!
Jake normally takes care of the chickens because they are his mission money makers...he sells the eggs to friends, neighbors and hometeachers—they’re so good to Jake...but today Bianca said she would feed them. I guess she wasn’t aware that if you’re not careful and don’t latch the chicken coop door the chickens like to bust out of their prison.
Well that’s what happened. One of the chickens saw the opening and made a mad dash for it...and escaped! We all let out a wild yell and Jake came a’runnin. We looked at each other and I guess because Bianca felt responsible for the escape she took control and started chasing the chicken. If you’ve chased a chicken before (especially in a dress and heels) you’ll know they normally out run you...they are quick little buggers.
The chickens have been making friends with a wild hen for the last couple of weeks. The wild hen hangs out longingly peering (from the outside) through the chicken wire at our hens eating their cracked corn mash and drinking (kinda) fresh water on a daily basis. I think the wild hen wants the cage life and our hens want to try life on the outside. I guess one of them got their wish because she immediately hopped the fence and raced over to the wild one!
Bianca hopped the fence as well. She wasn’t quite as agile as the chicken but she managed to get over the barbed wire fence with only a few scratches and tares to her clothes...it was quite comical for those of us watching...although no one dared to crack a smile for fear that Bianca would back out of her commitment and we’d have to take her place.
After about 30 minutes of chasing the chicken from one end of the “barnyard” to another we decided we needed a plan.
The plan was to drive the chicken into a corner and then scoop her up and plop her back into the coop. Jake and Bianca were great at guiding her into the corner but when they got close enough to touch her neither would reach down and grab her. I think they were remembering the roosters we had that would charge us if we dared to get too close...they ended up taking a long car ride.
At the point I decided I was going to have to get my hands dirty too. The chicken realized that if she jumped into the horse corral with all the muck in it that she was a little safer than being out in the grass. She jumped in the corral and just stood there and looked at us. I negotiated with Jake and Bianca and said if they would chase her out of the corral and into the feeding area I would grab her and plop her in the coup. Easy as that? Well…no, but it was a good plan because it worked.
Jake and Bianca donned work boots, jumped in the corral, chased through the muck and wrangled the cute little chicken over to the hay bales where I could reach down and grab her fat little body, yelling “open the door, FAST!”
Kate our animal lover was quite disturbed with the whole situation. She kept tearing up and whimpering. All along I thought it was because she was afraid for our welfare...nope...she was fearing animal cruelty.
I haven’t heard but I’m thinking that our cute little chicken’s laying capabilities were a little hampered that Sunday. I’m also hoping that she’ll think twice about trying another escape in the near future! We know that Bianca is well aware of the need to make sure the chicken coop door is fully latched from now on!
On the way home the kids discussed the possibility of trying to catch the wild hen. They think it might be good fun and kind of easy now that they are experienced chicken chasers.
Like I mentioned before…good times here in Springville!
For your viewing pleasure…here is a Smilebox of the buggy ride, and picture attachments of the chickens--
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