Thanksgiving, Temple, Niagara Falls, Nov. 20 - 26

Happy Thanksgiving

Monday, Nov. 19th

Jennifer and Jessica’s #28 BD.  I am so blessed by their goodness. 

Workout at Silver Slippers then the gym.  Extra temple session today for the FT missionaries from the Rochester Mission who are going home tomorrow.  I visited with Sister Evans as she waited for everyone to get dressed.  She continues to amaze me by her joyful faith and love.

For FHE,  Sister and President Miner shared their life stories and then taught us about using this scripture, “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” Amos 3:7.  President Miner taught us about the ‘secrets’ that have been revealed to President Nelson.  It was uplifting and a great approach.  Sister Titsworth and I had refreshments  She made pumpkin bread, I brought hot spicy apple cider.   

Tuesday, Oct. 20th

Two busy shifts today.  In the AM shift.  I substituted for Sister Sorenson who was out of town for Thanksgiving.  Her husband was there.  They are really excellent at coordinating and she made the schedule.  We had 3 living endowments and a living sealing with a skeleton  crew.  I watched the hand of the Lord helping to fill in the gaps.  All turned out well.  

Following the session I emailed Sister Sorenson,  "Things went very well today.  Not entirely as expected but all things got done.   The sisters were fantastic in adjusting cheerfully to changes here and there."  

Then her response.

Dear, dear Sister Pickup, 'Words cannot express my gratitude for your stepping in during my absence.  I knew I needed to be with my Dad at this time, so it was not exactly feelings of guilt, but I did feel apprehensive that I had left you with so few sisters to carry out the work.  Having you as my sub meant not only me away, but you out of the "lineup" as well.  Nevertheless, I had every confidence in your extraordinary ability to see what needs to be done in any situation and to see a clear and logical way to accomplish the task. Thank you, thank you again--and best wishes for a joyful Thanksgiving Day.  Even far away from your own family, I hope you will feel the value of your service to the Temple, the patrons, and to the Lord.

Dear Janet,

I am thrilled that I could help in any way I could to facilitate your being with your father.  Thank you for your trust in me. he Lord's work is amazing and His guidance sure.  I love watching His hand guide and gently nudge us in the direction He needs us to go. It was a wonderful and miraculous day.  I love your strength and testimony and the amazing way you share both with all of us at the temple.  

Enjoy your time with family and have a joyful Thanksgiving Love, Sister Pickup 

Wednesday, Nov. 21st

Jennifer studying the Book of Mormon

Today was full of preparations for Jennifer and Jessica’s visit and for Thanksgiving. I was assigned to bring rolls and a pie for dinner and any special family thanksgiving dish.  I decided to make rolls, buy a pie at Wegman’s and make a 7 layer green salad.

Jessica at Work

I started the rolls before cleaning the apartment but they still had not risen by the time I was finished.  Hours later they were till just balls.  Ray and I went shopping at Walmart and Wegman’s for a pie and a few other things.  I decided to buy some Rhodes frozen rolls just in case mine didn’t rise.To my surprise the rolls did rise before we got home and baked up nicely.  We settled on a pumpkin pie, hoping that there won’t be dozens of them tomorrow.

 Thursday, Nov. 22nd

Sleeping quarters

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Jennifer and Jessica arrived without trouble around 10am.  A joyful reunion.  We settled in at the apartment and made final preparations for dinner.  

Sporting Jessica's BD present

Around 1:30pm we loaded up and headed to the Stake Center.  The committee had done an outstanding job setting up.  The tables were decorated and food began to arrive in abundance. There were 6 tables with 8 settings.  But not 48 people came.  I felt a bit estranged as Jennifer, Jessica, Ray and I sat alone at our table.  After the prayer, Elder Bond came to the rescue and had us pull our two round tables together.  The Leavitts did the same so their family c

ould be together.  In the end it worked very nicely.  The Bond’s son, Jason, came from Manhattan.  We had a lovely visit with him and learned a few more details about happenings in NYC.  Barrett’s also sat with us.  Every bite was delicious and we left with our hearts and tummies full.

Friday, Nov. 23rd

at the Martin Harris Home

Jessica was anxious to go out on Black Friday so we got up around 5:30am and headed to Canandaigua to Joanns.  We chose this location because Sister Nichols who I work with at the temple works there and I was hoping to see her. To our amazement there were only 8-10 people in the store.  Not your typical Black Friday experience.  Jessica picked out some fabric for a quilt, then some quarters, embroidery thread and Christmas stockings.

Jennifer needed some shoes and a coat.  TJMaxx was next door so we walked over.   JCPennys was at the end of the strip mall so we figured we would go there next.  However, we passed a shoe store and ventured in.  I found a cute pair of winter boots to wear to the temple, Jennifer found 3 pairs of boots. Then to JCPennys.  The store was a little busier but not crazy.  Jennifer found a nice winter coat and a few other things.  I found a few things for Christmas. We were home by 9:30am.  A great morning.

Ray enjoying his BD present

After eating breakfast we went out on a little tour to see the canal and Martin Harris home. 

For Ray’s birthday, Jennifer wanted to give him a pedicure so we made appointments in Macedon and headed out.  It was a fun outing.  I had to smile as I looked down at Ray’s face.  Pure contentment as he got his feed rubbed.

Jennifer and Jessica came with us to the temple.  We were scheduled for the 6pm session but had a little time to work in initiatory at 5:30pm.  I asked Sister Seamons to take my post by the Endowment Room door so I could participate in Initiatory while the girls were there. She was more than willing and we had a marvelous and tender few moments together before heading on an overflowing session.  There were two sisters taking out their own endowments which added to the joy. 

Saturday, Nov. 24th

Ray and I worked both shifts today.  Jennifer and Jessica spent the day at church history sites, Sauders, It’s a Wonderful Life Museum, and Muranda’s Cheese Company.  They seemed to enjoy their day.

Sunday, Nov. 25th

At the Book of Mormon Publishing Site

Hooray!  Helen’s roof is fixed.  Such a relief to know their home will be dry.  Though I’m sure there are repairs on the inside, at least the water and snow will stay on the outside where they belong.  We checked and her hot water heater is also still working.

Right away, she asked Elder Pickup to take her to Walmart to buy a cell phone.  We were not comfortable shopping on Sunday.  Helen understood this.  On the way home, Ray discussed it with Len and made a plan to have Sister Harvey help them with it tomorrow.  Ray did some research and discovered a good option for them.

My lesson in SS was on honesty today.  It went well.  We showed two videos that I hope will help the class members feel strengthened to be honest in all their dealings.  It was fun to have Jennifer and Jessica in the class.  

The Stake YM Presidency and high counselor were visiting today.  We have a new Elder.  Elder Blackham and Elder Miller.  They spoke in Sac. Meeting.  I felt the strength of their testimonies and know they will help move the missionary work along in Hornell.

Niagara Falls, NY

Tour Gang

Monday, Nov. 26th

Today was a Niagara Falls tour with Brother Straussberg as our guide.  I loved seeing the falls from the US side and hope to go back in the spring.  It rained all day so this was a wet and umbrella driven tour.  Brother Straussberg lives in Niagara Falls and is very knowledgeable about the history, geography, and current events of the area.  I did not hear all he taught as I would hang back with Jennifer and Jessica as they took photos, etc.  But what I did hear was informative and fun.  We ate at  a Greek Restaurant, visited the Whirlpool Park, the Freedom Park, and an Italian Bakery.  We left just in time to get Jennifer and Jessica to the airport for their flight. 

A Rainy Day

Niagara River, 3 Sister Island

Freedom Crossing Monument

And all too soon, they are gone

Amish, Birthday, and Snow, Nov. 6 - 19

Tuesday, Nov. 6th.

We arrived early to the temple today to help with the early morning session.  It is true that we will perform the ordinance to “the one” as we had only one patron come for the session.  These can be moving and uplifting sessions, however, the Lord would be more pleased should the chairs be full.

We worked two shifts today and rested between them.

Here is an article that I found interesting and have reflected on it several times.  It helps me look and behold the powerful work we are doing in the temple. 

Questions President Nelson's Grandfather Asked a Visitor from the Spirit World

This "precious gift" President Nelson shared was one his grandfather Andrew Clarence Nelson, or A.C. Nelson, shared with his family through his journal. 

Through this entry, President Nelson and his family were able to learn of a visitor from the spirit world his grandfather received 27 years before President Joseph F. Smith's 1918 vision of the redemption of the dead and gain important answers to what life after death is really like:
When my Grandfather A. C. Nelson was a young husband and father, just 27 years old, his father died. Then, about three months later, his father, now deceased, came to visit him. The date of that visit was the night of April 6, 1891. Grandfather Nelson was so impressed by his father's visit that he wrote the experience in his own journal for his family and his friends. And thanks to your encouragement, I took his journal entry and created this document and made copies of this document for every member of the family.
Listen to my grandfather's words about that sacred experience:

Amish Quilt

"I was in bed when Father entered the room. He came and sat on the side of the bed. He said, 'Well, my son, as I had a few spare minutes I received permission to come and see you for a few minutes. I am feeling well, my son, and have had very much to do since I died.'
"'What have you been doing since you died, Father?'
"'I've been traveling together with Apostle Erastus Snow ever since I died. That is, since three days after I died. I received my commission to preach the gospel. You cannot imagine, my son, how many spirits there are in the spirit world that have not yet received the gospel. But many are receiving it, and a great work is being accomplished. Many are anxiously looking forth to their friends who are still living to administer for them in the temples. I've been very busy preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.'
"'Father, can you see us at all times, and do you know what we're doing?'
"'Oh, no, my son. I have something else to do. I cannot go when and where I please. There is just as much and much more order here in the spirit world than in the other world. I have been assigned work to do, and it must be performed.'
"'We intend to go to the temple and get sealed to you, Father, as soon as we can.'
"'That, my son, is partly what I came to see you about. We will yet make a family and live throughout eternity.'
"'Father, is it natural to die?'
"'It is just as natural to die as it is to be born, or for you to pass out of that door.' And here he pointed at the door. 'When I told the folks that I could not last long, it turned dark and I could not see anything for a few minutes. Then the first thing I could see was a number of spirits in the spirit world. The paper you gave me, my son, is dated wrong. But it makes no particular difference. Correct records are kept here.'"
"'Father, is the gospel as taught by this Church true?'
"'My son, do you see that picture?' Pointing to a picture of the First Presidency of the Church hanging on the wall.
"'Yes, I see it.'
"'Just as sure as you see that picture, just as sure is the gospel true. The gospel of Jesus Christ has within it the power of saving every man and woman that will obey it, and in no other way can they ever obtain salvation in the kingdom of God. My son, always cling to the gospel. Be humble, be prayerful, be submissive to the priesthood, be true, be faithful to the covenants you have made with God. Never do anything that would displease God. Oh, what a blessing is the gospel. My son, be a good boy.'"

 Nov. 8th—18th

  

Silver Sneaker 

We are adjusting to a new schedule at the temple.  We have also started exercising with the Bonds at the Palmyra Community Center on MWF.  We look forward to this Silver Sneaker class and feel the instructors do a good job of getting us moving and working all our muscles.  One morning we stayed and road the bikes in the workout center.  We bought a membership and hope to use this to keep us in better shape through the winter.

Helen’s roof did not get finished this week.  Her husband, Len, had some concerns that halted things plus the weather has been snowy and cold.  Ray offered to discuss things with Len and he was willing to come to the door when we dropped Helen off.  Their conversation was very productive and I was proud of how Ray was able to communicated with Len and answer his concerns.  In the end, I think the project will move forward if weather permits.

Beautiful Amish Bench

Monday, Nov. 12th 

We had an outing to the Amish Country Store with lunch at the Oak Hill Café.   It was a beautiful day, sunny and cool.  It wasn’t as informative as I had hoped.  Pauline was friendly but didn’t really have a structured tour.  We shopped and looked at quilts then went outside for a buggy ride and to look at the chickens.  I think some missionaries were bored but overall we enjoyed the day.  Lunch was delicious.   I had the squash soup and BLT.  Ray had a beef sandwich and hot cocoa.    On the way home we stopped to peak in the window at the Hemdale dairy.  They have automated milking machines and the cows lay on water mats. 

Amish Marble Toy

Elder Pickup driving the cart with Pauline

Elder Pickup driving with Pauline

Amish Horse and Carriage along the Highway

Hot Cocoa - yummy

Wed., Nov. 14th  - Let winter begin

Friday, Nov. 16

Ray’s birthday was busy with Dr. Appt. and PT.  We did manage to eat some birthday cake before heading to the temple.  Sean called as we were getting ready to leave and joined in the birthday song.  I took the cake to the temple.  President and Sister Miner loved the frosting.  I have to say it was one of the better German chocolate frostings I have made.  I promised Ray a second cake so I made one after our temple shifts on Saturday.

I must have been a bit tired because I added the can of evaporated milk to the cake mix (instead of the frosting) and did not realize it until I mixed it together and found it quite runny.  At first I thought it was the extra egg whites I added (from the frosting eggs) but soon realized the error.  I added a 1/4 cup of flour and hoped for the best.  The cake turned out eatable though it took almost 20 extra minutes to cook in the middle.  The frosting was again very yummy.

Snow fall during the night

This week was busy at the temple.  Several own endowment sessions, baptisms, and unexpected things.  I was able to help in the office from time to time which I also enjoy.

On Friday morning we woke up to 14 inches of snow.  Yes, that is accurate 14 inches.  We were amazed at the amount as we shoveled out the car.  School was cancelled and the children were busy playing on the mountain of snow in the corner of the parking lot.  All that snow in just one storm.  We are in for a long winter. 

All in one snow storm

Local children playing on snow pile

Finding the car under all that snow

When we got back from appointments, on Friday, the cleared parking spaces were all occupied.  Ray had another errand to run so I decided I would clear off a parking spot.  14 inches of snow the size of a parking space takes a bit of effort.  I was just finishing and debating about tackling the remaining two spots that were about half filled when a pickup with a snow plow pulled up.  It was the owner of the end business building.  He had an office on the 2nd floor and were working at preparing the first floor for a business.  He was so friendly and surprised that we lived right there.  I think he was wondering what this old lady was doing shoveling the parking lot.  He was not responsible for clearing our lot but offered to push the last of the snow for me.  I was grateful as I was tired and sweaty. 

Happy Birthday Elder Pickup

Happy Birthday

Sunday, November 18

After church today, we had a thanksgiving “dish-to-pass”  It was wonderful food.  I helped wash dishes afterward while Ray vacuumed.  The sisters kept talking about how he could vacuum while holding Scotty (President Petriatis’s three month old)  First they were amazed that he would vacuum let along hold a child while he did it.  They thought only mothers could multitask in such a way.  I just had to smile.

It is tradition to read from the Book of Mormon on the way to church, then another book on the way home.  We read from Saints today.

Wednesday, Nov. 7th

We were able to visit with Holly, Anna, Nora, Zane, and Lyla last night as we were preparing to bed.  It was such a joy to hear their voices and get caught up on their lives and goals. 

Holly shared about how our 8 daughters as part of their time together last weekend went to the temple and they thought of me and how this would bring joy to my heart.  I am so grateful for any good influence I have had but recognize that the influence of heaven and of the spirit is truly what is necessary to bind us to each other, to the temple and ultimately to our heavenly home.

St. George Temple 2018
Kristi, Holly, Jennifer, Samantha, Jessica, Rachel, Brenda, Sharee

Baseball and the Tree of Life, Oct. 28 - Nov. 4

Monday, October 29th

Baseball Hall of Fame

Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown

The Hall of Fame was delightful.  Well presented with plenty of highlight films which are my favorite.  I think I could spend hours watching the super-human efforts of fielders who can catch, throw and make plays that are just plain fun to watch.

We took a group photo at the beginning, asking a young father to take it for us. He had a young (maybe 4-5 year old) daughter with him.  And I could see he was a bit nervous that she would wonder off and didn’t really want her with him as he had to stand in the street parking.  So, the thought came to me to have her stand with us in the picture. That seemed to ease the father’s concerns and gave his daughter something to do.

  I enjoyed the various renditions of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and listening to different clubs choices for the 7th inning stretch song.  Something we experienced at Fenway park, the Red Socks song “Sweet Caroline”   A fun tradition. 

Tuesday, October 30

We worked our first Tuesday am shift and began to get acquainted with many of the local workers.  It is different without the 6-month missionaries but I know we will grow to love everyone.  At first it can feel a little like you are an outsider but I trust this will change with time.

In the afternoon at the temple I was able to help with some office issues and in the baptistery.  The coordinators did not show up so there was a bit of a scramble to get the baptistery staffed but in the end all worked out as it always does.  I was assigned to the Sealing session at the end of the shift.  President Schwendiman as the sealer was a joyful experience.  It is wonderful to have him continue to be a regular part of our temple experience.

This was our first day with the new temple presidency:  President Miner, President Kimbler, and President Miller.  

We spent a bit of time cleaning the apartment today.  I felt the nudge to deep clean the shelves where we have our food and we rearranged the piano so that the coat rack could go up on the wall behind the door.  It all worked out well and it will be nice to have our winter coats available. 

While doing laundry today I was able to go through some bills and to-do lists to get caught up and organized.  I also found time this evening to play the piano and enjoy the keyboard.  This always seems to bring a light and warm feeling in our home.

We purchased some candy for Halloween.  We shared with the Bonds next door and ended up with two knocks.  One a young family with the cutest two kids.  The other a group of about 6 teenage boys.  I didn’t mind at all sharing candy with them.  Better they were out trick-or-treating than smashing mailboxes, I say.

Sunday, Nov. 4th

We were blessed that the Lord has heard our prayers on Helen’s behalf.  She reported that this past week, Bro.  Gams came to light her hot water heater and it has worked every since.  Len thinks they need a new one but Ray was able to explain how to tell when a water heater has failed and Helen seemed to appreciate the information.  Ray also spoke with Brother Gams (he is a plumber) and he didn’t see any evidence that the water heater needed to be replaced.  Helen thinks it is 28 years old but perhaps it hasn’t been used as heavily as with a big family and perhaps it is made better than the newer ones.

We also made good progress on Helen’s roof.  Ray had spend a lot of time and prayer looking for appropriate solutions and things are falling into place.  We hope the momentum continues and she can have a nice tight roof over her head before winter sets in.  Once done, we can begin to tackle the water damage inside the house but first things first.

Monday, Nov. 5th.

We worked on a few things in the afternoon and then headed for FHE. 

President and Sister Evans spoke with us and it was delightful. From Nephi’s vision of the tree of life we were asked to Look! (direct one’s gaze—focus) and Behold! (regard, contemplate) As we were scanning through these chapters in Nephi, my eyes fell to 1 Nephi 11:30 and discovered something new 

“And it came to pass that the angel spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the heavens open again, and I saw angels descending upon the children of men; and they did minister unto them.”   What a wonderful image and blessing.  It got me thinking that this vision was the Lord showing Nephi the many ways in which His love is manifest to us.  This is one way and I determined to see if my theory held true.  

1. Tree of Life - The love of God that gives us hope and possibility of eternal life

2. Birth of Jesus Christ (a miracle and demonstration of God’s love)

3. Jesus mortal life, many recognized him as the son of God and experienced His love first hand

4. Truths from the scriptures lead us to the tree of live providing a guide for us to partake of the love of God and eternal life

5. Example of the Savior to be baptized. This is a saving ordinance and required to become true saints and followers of Christ.

6. Calling of 12 prophets and apostles demonstrates God’s love in providing guidance on our mortal journey

7. Heavens open and angels descend to minister to us

8. Jesus heals our infirmities

9. Jesus fulfills the Atonement, is slain for the sins of the world

10. God leads us to the promised land by his power and spirit

11. Jesus will show himself unto Nephi’s descendants and prophets and apostles will be called

12. Our garments can be made white if we have faith and choose the right.

13. There will be opposition to God’s plan and love for us.

14. Rescuers will be sent to help us by the power of God.

15. Scriptures will be prepared and preserved as a witness

Are not all these things ways in which God shows us his power, love, mercy and longing for us to see Him in our lives, love Him, and determine to return to Him through the many paths of righteousness He has prepared for us.