Vic & Harley

Just couldn't pass this opportunity up.

2009-08-24T11:49:00.002-06:00

I must take the opportunity to post the John J. Wall, Law Student Letter. Granted, John J. Wall the Law Student didn't write it and it has been associated with the Minute Men group, but that doesn't matter to me. What matters to me, is that almost everything that is said in this letter I agree with and I know many others that also agree with it, as it has received much discussion already this morning. Of course, there are those that disagree with it and those are the ones I would like to see take this divorce agreement, sign it, and if possible actually divide the county. The division of assets is one of several major pieces missing from this agreement but hey, it wasn't meant to be a completed proposal. This is the first draft, so to speak. Now that the agreement is out, hopefully someone can come up with a good separation of assets agreement.

Here is a copy of the letter:

Dear American liberals, leftists, social progressives, socialists, Marxists and Obama supporters, et al:

We have stuck together since the late 1950's, but the whole of this latest election process has made me realize that I want a divorce. I know we tolerated each other for many years for the sake of future generations, but sadly, this relationship has run its course. Our two ideological sides of America cannot and will not ever agree on what is right so let's just end it on friendly terms. We can smile and chalk it up to irreconcilable differences and go our own way.

Here is a model separation agreement:

Our two groups can equitably divide up the country by landmass each taking a portion. That will be the difficult part, but I am sure our two sides can come to a friendly agreement. After that, it should be relatively easy! Our respective representatives can effortlessly divide other assets since both sides have such distinct and disparate tastes.

We don't like redistributive taxes so you can keep them. You are welcome to the liberal judges and the ACLU. Since you hate guns and war, we'll take our firearms, the cops, the NRA and the military. You can keep Oprah, Michael Moore and Rosie O'Donnell (You are, however, responsible for finding a bio-diesel vehicle big enough to move all three of them).

We'll keep the capitalism, greedy corporations, pharmaceutical companies, Wal-Mart and Wall Street. You can have your beloved homeless, homeboys, hippies and illegal aliens.

We'll keep the hot Alaskan hockey moms, greedy CEO's and rednecks. We'll keep the Bibles and give you NBC and Hollywood.

You can make nice with Iran and Palestine and we'll retain the right to invade and hammer places that threaten us. You can have the peaceniks and war protesters. When our allies or our way of life are under assault, we'll help provide them security.

We'll keep our Judeo-Christian values.. You are welcome to Islam, Scientology, Humanism and Shirley McClain. You can also have the U.N.. but we will no longer be paying the bill.

We'll keep the SUVs, pickup trucks and oversized luxury cars. You can take every Subaru station wagon you can find.

You can give everyone healthcare if you can find any practicing doctors. We'll continue to believe healthcare is a luxury and not a right. We'll keep The Battle Hymn of the Republic and the National Anthem. I'm sure you'll be happy to substitute Imagine, I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing, Kum Ba Ya or We Are the World.

We'll practice trickle down economics and you can give trickle up poverty your best shot. Since it often so offends you, we'll keep our history, our name and our flag.

Would you agree to this? If so, please pass it along to other like minded liberal and conservative patriots and if you do not agree, just hit delete. In the spirit of friendly parting, I'll bet you ANWAR which one of us will need whose help in 15 years.

Sincerely, John J. Wall
Law Student and an American

P.S. Also, please take Barbara Streisand & Jane Fonda with you.

San Diego

2009-08-07T12:06:00.007-06:00

Mother, Vern and I just returned from a wonderful time in San Diego. I was recuperating from my neck surgery and what a great place to do so. I absolutely love spending time away with my Mother and Vern. We have such fun together. They had received information from friends on several City tours that we may want to check out, activities where all I had to do was SIT. We took the San Diego Old Town Trolley tour. It took us close to an entire day but we saw just about every single major and minor site in San Diego and Coronado. It was fabulous and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting San Diego. You don't have to make it take all day, the actual riding tour is 2 hours, start to finish.

One of the most marvelous sites we were privileged to see was the San Diego Temple. It is awe - amazing. I've driven past this Temple in the past but there was something much different for me when I was able to stand and quietly just look at this marvelous building, with my Mother and Step-Father. Truly a WOW - moment.

2009-08-07T11:28:00.008-06:00

I can't believe just how much has happened this year - especially when you consider that summer is almost over and fall is just around the corner. My health has prohibited me from working full time and that is just one of the reasons why I was so excited to be heading to St George and have the job that I had been able to work out, with Ence Homes. I'm still having to have neck surgical procedures on a regular basis and I'm just hoping that soon a procedure will be found that actually "fixes" the problem permanently.

When we put the house up for sale, we had several calls a day and could have sold our home within 2 weeks. That was great news for the neighborhood and will be great when and if we decide to sell. Another great piece to that, is that the value of our home continues to increase, even through the tough economic times. This neighborhood is so highly desired that the vale retention is actually keeping. Awesome news for all of us in this area.

I did sell my cherished RV. It financially made sense to eliminate the monthly payment - the Prophet has told us to stay out of debt. When I bought the RV it was the first item I'd ever gone into debt with, except for my home. I thought with such low interest rates, my having a great job, and everything looking so great - this was 2.5 years ago, that I could go into debt better than I could liquidate savings. Well, lost 2 jobs since. Had several neck surgeries since. Experienced the general effects of the horrible economic situation, since. And, counselled in general by our incredible GA's and Prophet to better manage our money and decisions about finances. So, decided to sell. I loved that RV. I loved getting out on the road and going. I loved staying/living out of it. Just so many things that I enjoyed. But, it is now gone - and so is the large loan.

Will be back later for more updating - - on another post.

2009-08-07T11:15:00.005-06:00

So much has happened since my last post. I'm not going to try to catch my Blog up in it totality but I'm going to hit on a few of the major events.

The picture is of the house that I had purchased in St. George. I was already to close and move. I had a job, I was selling my home in SLC, and was excited to start "fresh" in St. George. Physically, my health seems to be much better in the St. George climate and that is what led me to making the decision in the first place. Well, after coming within 2 weeks of the closing, I received a strong feeling, over and over again that I was not to leave, at this time, from SLC. This was odd, as I'd received the total opposite impression for the past several months. Long story short - I cancelled the closing and stopped the move.

The home was absolutely in my dream location, in Washington County, on a plateau, in a gated community, with the most incredible views of the entire St. George and surrounding areas, and had a wonderful back yard that included beautiful lava rock from a volcano that made up the mountain the sub-division was built on. Of course, it was an inactive volcano and has been for thousands of years, but there is an Indian burial ground that is protect, on the top of the volcano area, just west of the top of what would have been my lot. It was totally gorgeous. I just loved the idea of all that made up my "creation" of my move and "life" in St. George. It was a sad day for me when I cancelled the move.

I will move on to the next post / event since May's post.

The Family

2009-05-02T17:13:00.004-06:00

When the family gets together................

Darling Avi

2009-05-02T17:11:00.000-06:00

Check out my cute little niece, Avi!!!

2009-05-02T17:02:00.006-06:00

My word it has been forever since I posted. Life just flies by. I have some Harley pictures and a few family pics and so I will load those up.

Someone(one of the Administrators) at one of the Universities where I'm teaching said, you don't like Vickie's hair cut, you just have to wait a few months and she will have another one. Well, that is so true. It took me six months to get it to this length and the day after this picture was taken, I cut if all off again!

Mexican Destinations Puerto Vallarta Villa Experts: Contemporary Villas of Puerto Vallarta: Marilu III

2008-09-11T18:02:00.002-06:00

Mexican Destinations Puerto Vallarta Villa Experts: Contemporary Villas of Puerto Vallarta: Marilu III

Beautiful villas in some of the most dramatic destinations in Mexico. Check out this site and try some of the Villa's in beautiful Mexico!!!

This is just one of the site that belong to the VacationRoost.com group of properties - the company for which I'm currently working. Enjoy!

2008-08-23T15:54:00.009-06:00

!!!!Cutest Dog in the whole world & she lives @ my house!!!!

2008-08-23T14:13:00.026-06:00

Finally, time for some Nauvoo pictures. The following pictures are from my trip to Nauvoo but also include pictures from the journey there, which took us through Arkansas and specifically to the Crater of the Diamonds to mine for gems.

Many saw the long lasting sunburn that I received while in the mine fields so I've included a few of those pictures as well.

While in Nauvoo my dear Mother took us to see

Lincolns Library and his New Salem in Springfield, Illinois. It was an educational day that included many opportunities to explore historical events and feel of thetimes. The best part of course, was spending time with our Mother. Anyway, I'm going to attach many pictures that include our trip to Springfield, Arkansas (Crater of the Diamonds) and Nauvoo. I hope you enjoy these.

And, of course, what would Nauvoo be now - without a quick visit to Fulmer street. More pictures next time - of actual Nauvoo.

Where are the Nauvoo & Arkansas Pictures?

2008-08-12T16:43:00.002-06:00

They are coming! I promise. Somebody help me get organized............. I actually have over 400 pictures from my trip and I have yet to get any of them posted. Maybe I will get some extra time to dedicate to posting later this week. I promise to try. You all must see the sunburned legs pictures - those are the best!!! Plus, who can live without seeing the diamond find pictures? And, my favorite - Donna in Nauvoo and other places pictures. I just love all the pictures I have of my Mother. They are awesome and I need to share them. I will get this done later this week - I promise.

2008-06-18T15:59:00.004-06:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but the price of gas has me extremely upset at our leaders and especially at those responsible for HomeLand Security. We are being terrorized more today than we ever have and our government is allowing, encouraging this to happen. I don't want to get on my soap box, as I may never get down but, what I will do, is let George Carlin, in his own voice point out some very creative solutions.

ENJOY!!!

George Carlin's Solution to Save Gasoline :

Bush wants us to cut the amount of gas we use.....The best way to stop using so much gas is to deport 11 million illegal immigrants! That would be 11 million less people using our gas. The price of gas would come down..... Bring our troops home from Iraq to
guard the Border....When they catch an illegal immigrant crossing the border, hand him a
canteen, rifle and some ammo and ship him to Iraq . Tell him if he wants to come to America then he must serve a tour in the military.... Give him a soldier's pay while he's there and tax him on it..... After his tour, he will be allowed to become a citizen since he defended this country.... He will also be registered to be taxed and be a legal patriot..... This
option will probably deter illegal immigration and provide a solution for the troops in Iraq and the aliens trying to make a better life for themselves......

If they refuse to serve, ship them to Iraq anyway, without the canteen, rifle or ammo.....

Problem solved.....

2008-06-18T12:05:00.013-06:00

The inspiration that I've received from looking at my sister's and sister-in-law's blogs has convinced me to pick back up my photography skills and start back into looking at my surroundings through the eye of a camera. I'm very excited to take this view of the world, especially since I'm heading out to Nauvoo in a couple of weeks to visit my Mother and Step-Father. Before I get to Nauvoo, I will be making a short stop in Arkansas to mine for Diamonds at the Crater of the Diamonds National Park. This excites me tremendously. But, mining and my trip to Arkansas and Illinois are not the topic of this blog post, but rather my getting back into photography.

So, Janice decided to indulge my desire to dive into photography by purchasing me a new camera for my birthday - given that my cell phone camera is what I've been using. After much research, the Canon Digital Rebel XTi 10.1mp SLR became the winner.

Just for comparison purposes, I'm going to publish a few cell phone pictures and as soon as my new camera is part of my gadget repertoire, I will then publish using that tool.

Here is a picture of Harley sitting on her office chair, after a long day of working hard. She has the best job in the world - she is responsible for ensuring that the rest of us doing our jobs and that the neighborhood activities continue to take place - - which is why her chair must be by a window.

And, of course, we must check in with Bailey and see how he is doing.

Now, it isn't very often that I get the opportunity to attend a kindergarten graduation and especially one for my best 4 year old friend London. She did such a great job in the performance that she was in during the graduation and I was so proud of her. Here is a picture of her in her performance costume/outfit.

Hopefully I will be posting more often once I actually have a camera that allows me to take decent pictures. Happy Summer!!!

Harley's Operation

2008-05-03T09:49:00.005-06:00

Brit is right - - I didn't update everyone about Harley's operation and our vision scare. Little Harley was rushed into emergency eye surgery 2 weeks ago. So - how many of you knew that there were doggy opthamologists? There are and the clinic we took Harley too has about 7 specialists that work with varied animals. Anyway, she was in surgery for about 2 hours and then recovery for an hour. They did an EKG to decide if they could put her under anesthesia and found that she has a heart murmur. We will have to deal with that issue a bit later, as the eye is the main focus at this point. They were unable to put her under anesthesia because of the heart murmur and so they had to perform the surgery while Harley was fully aware of what was going on. She was such a good girl and allowed them to perform the surgery. She knew they were helping her with her "ouwy" and so she just sat there any kissed them as they worked.

Anyway, we were able to take her home and home care for her after she spent the hour in recovery. The surgery was successful and her cornea was repaired, and she can see just fine. She will be required to have eye drops twice a day for the remainder of her life but that is little to give for saving her eye sight. She was so funny with the collar they put on so that she wouldn't scratch her eye - she kept getting stuck in the doggy doors, so she couldn't get outside to do her "business". She got frustrated and was not shy in telling us that she wanted it off. We took it off and she was such a good girl - she truly realized the trade off - - the collar for not scratching her eye. We had to remind her several times but she was really good about being careful.

Saturday afternoon and evening when Jan and I serve at the temple, Cindy volunteered to come and dog sit, to ensure that Harley didn't scratch her eye. THANK YOU, CINDY!!!! Cindy kept watch and Harley survived another day without scratching her eye. Jan took her to the doctor for her 2 week check up and the eye healed properly and all is well. Thanks Jan for taking such good care of Harley while I'm at work.

2008-05-01T11:38:00.002-06:00

Darn - Nikki caught me!!! Yes - It is about time I updated this blog. But, I have "issues". I have no time now that I'm working. Maybe you (Nikki) could update mine for me?!?!?!? Next issue - I have nothing fun to talk about, now that I'm working. Maybe you (Nikki) could add some fun content for me?!?!?!?! Next issue - when I'm at work, I forget my blog address. Maybe you (Nikki) could remember my blog address and add content for me?!?!?!?!

See I have issues! This is a plea for help! Can someone resolve my issues??? Nikki?? Cindy?? Someone????

New Job

2008-03-31T20:19:00.004-06:00

Well - I didn't last very long in "retirement"................... only 4 months and then, 8 business days ago I started work for a great little company called Mountain Reservations. It is a vacation property on-line booking, reservation, and property information company with over 80 web sites. We are launching a new site this coming June that will not only include hundreds of ski and winter properties but also an entire new vertical of beach properties. The new web site will be: www.vacationroost.com.

I hope that everyone will check out our web sites and if you decide to go on vacation and would rather stay in a condo, for less money than a hotel, let me know and I will help you get what you want. When you take your family on vacation and add up the costs of multiple hotel rooms and food, you just can't beat vacation rental properties. We represent some pretty awesome properties and the rates are extremely reasonable for what you get. You can get ocean front, lake front, ski out the door, etc. Lots of fun options. Just let me know and I'd be happy to help you.

That's all I have for now. I wish I had time for more.

2008-03-13T12:29:00.013-06:00

Just found - - envelope of pictures from my trip with Jan, Harley, and Bailey to Illinois in Fall of 2007. Of course, I must post a couple of them, for several reasons, one of which is so that people again, will have their need for the BLOG owner to post pictures of herself, and next, so that everyone can see my wonderful, beautiful, terrific, special, darling, spiritual, Christ like, and amazing Mother - Donna; and her fabulous, fantastic, kind, caring and loving husband Vern. So, here you go. These pictures were taken as we travelled around the Nauvoo, Illinois area.

Vickie, Vern and Jan visiting Pioneer Saints buildings and sites in Nauvoo, on the Mississippi.

2008-03-07T10:15:00.001-07:00

Answers to the Eve & the Choice Made in Eden questions posted earlier:

1) Was there another way whereby human beings might enter mortality if Eve had not partaken of the "forbidden fruit." There was no other way. "Adam and Eve did the very thing the Lord intended them to do. If we had the original record we would see the purpose of the Fall clearly stated and its necessity explained, " taught President Joseph Fielding Smith as he reminded us of how much has been lost to our understanding. President J. Reuben Clark spoke in unequivocal terms of the importance of the choice made in Eden - on it "depended the whole Plan of the Great Council in Heaven, because those who kept their first estate, must have opportunity to come to earth, to obtain mortal bodies, that they might then be proved in this second estate, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them..... and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever" (Abraham 3:25-26)."

2) Did Eve and her daughters aid in the work of the Creation? Eve was at Michael's side before the foundations of the earth were set in place. Eve's role was vital, for she was actively engaged in the planning and preparations that would shape out sphere. As the leaders of the Church have taught, she was one of those "taking the materials and making the earth" (Abraham 4). Certainly many of us were also privileged to participate. Elder McConkie elaborated on Elder Marion G. Romney's statement that Adam was taught concerning the preexistence, the creation of the earth - which he himself had participated in, when he told us that Christ and Michael presided over much of the creative work, and then asked, "Can we do other than conclude that Mary and Eve and Sarah and myriads of our faithful sisters were numbered among them?"

3) What does the name Eve mean? Did Adam name Eve? Eve means: the mother of all living. The name was chosen by God the Father and he had already given this name to her, as explained in Moses 4:26.

4) Was "thou mayest choose for thyself" an ambiguous commandment or the chance to obey a greater law?

The Lord gave 2 commandments to Adam & Eve in the garden: 1) Multiply and replenish the Earth. 2) Do not partake of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good & evil. This was a dilemma. Adam & Eve could not do both. They had to break one of the commandments. The Lord however, went on to provide them with further knowledge as he reminded them that they had been given their Agency. By providing this setting, the Lord was allowing and setting into action the principle of Agency - - our second estate, mortality, the place where we are to prove through our agency which laws we will follow. The Lord gave Adam & Eve 2 choices - neither of which was evil - both possibilities were good. Usually, however, one of the choices is of greater import than the other. When in doubt, we must, we should choose that which concerns the Good of OTHERS - the GREATER LAW - rather than that which clearly benefits ourselves - the lesser law. The greater law was the one that Eve chose in Eden, that was the choice made in Eden. We do know that Adam& Eve spent much time being taught by our Father in Heaven, which means that they were given the knowledge necessary to make the choices that the Plan of Happiness needed them to make.

5) Was the commandment not to partake absolute or was it time centered? We do not understand God's time and so we can't answer this question today. In fact, we do not know how long Adam & Eve were in the Garden. We do know that they spent a very long time being taught by our Father in Heaven & his Son Jesus Christ. We also know that whatever the plan, it would be fulfilled, therefore the time as it may be needed was provided.

6) Was Eve created from Adam's rib? Hebrew scholars point out that the biblical word tsela, translated "rib" in Genesis 2:22, really means something like "side". The normal use is for describing sacred architectural elements, such as portions of the temple or the tabernacle. The Hebrew word did not have any "early form", and there is no reason to believe that is once meant "side" but later took on the meaning of "rid". Only in the Eden story is the word translated into "rid". Closer examination of the Hebrew word and meanings help us to understand that what was meant was that Adam & Eve were 2 equal beings, side by side, together. As President Gordon B. Hinckley stated, Eve was the crowning work of creation after the Father had completed all else. Hugh Nibley tells us that the word rib expresses the ultimate in proximity, intimacy and identity. Jeremiah 20:10 speaks of keepers of my tsela, meaning bosom friends, inseparable companions. Moses 3:22 tells us that Eve was the rib, not from the rib - very different meaning. Genesis 2:21 tells us that Eve was created, and then Adam was awakened. The word awake seems to indicate that the advent of Eve is the harbinger of a profound spiritual awakening for Adam and, by extension, for us all.

7) Were Adam and Eve joined in eternal marriage in the Garden of Eden? Genesis 2:23 tells us: "Bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh." These words are part of an ancient covenant pledge. They were used to bind the man and the woman together. Adam & Eve entered into a covenant marriage, their future identity will be as one and through time we often refer to them as Adam. "Adam & Eve were joined together in marriage for time and for all eternity by the power of that everlasting priesthood," Elder Russell M. Nelson reminded us. President Joseph Fielding Smith assured us, "Adam & Eve were married by the Lord while they were yet immortal beings in the Garden of Eden and before death entered the world."

8) Where and when were knowledge and moral agency given to Adam and Eve? As recorded in Moses 7:32, And I gave unto them their knowledge, in the day I created them; and in the Garden of Eden, gave I unto mad his agency". In fact, the commandment to multiply and replenish the earth was given to Adam and Eve before they were told not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Moses 2:28; 3:17).

9) What is the meaning of transgression, as used in the Garden story? Elder Boyd K. Packer taught that "the Fall came by transgression of a law, but there was no sin connected with it. There is a difference between transgression and sin. Both always bring consequences. While it may not be a sin to step off a roof, in doing so, you become subject to the law of gravity and consequences will follow . . . The fall of man was made from the presence of God to this mortal life". It was not a sin - it was a transgression and therefore, there were consequences and it was wrong because it was formally prohibited. The Prophet Joseph Smith assured us that "Adam did not commit sin in eating the fruits, for God had decreed that he should eat and fall." Lehi explained that, "if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen" (2 Nephi 2:22) but would have remained in the same state in which he was created.

We have learned that Adam and Eve were without sin and in a state of absolute innocence until they transgressed by partaking of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Had they not partaken, every living thing would be in Eden, all these unknown number of years later as it was then - - - bird, beast and crawling thing, along with Adam and Eve. In fact, WE ALL WOULD BE WAITING WITHIN THE BOUNDS OF PREMORTALITY TO COME TO EARTH AND CLAIM OUR MORTAL BODIES.

Trans is a Latin word meaning "to move from one state to another, on or to the other side of, beyond, over, across." Gress is a form of a Latin word meaning "to go." What we have here then is to move from one state to another, to go from one state to another.

All mankind is forever blessed because of the great courage Eve had to make this choice and then to have Adam follow in courage and wisdom. By partaking of the fruit first, Eve did exactly what she needed to do, exactly what needed to be done. Adam was wise enough to do likewise.

10) Is beguiled as it is used in the Garden story a negative or a positive word? Eve used her knowledge to make a decision. Through the history of time, the biblical translations have been lost and/or changed. Beguiled, as a Hebrew word, is a rare verb which has come to mean in this modern day, something with a negative reputation. Because it is a form no longer in use, it is almost impossible to translate. "It is sage to say that it indicates an intense multilevel experience which evokes great emotional, psychological and/or spiritual trauma." Lets use the new knowledge that we've gained within the contents of this book so far and explain the answer to the question.

Beguiled is not a negative word. Eve was to make the decision and had much time to think about making the decision. She was taught by our Father in Heaven and Jesus Christ both in the premortal time and in the temple at the Garden of Eden. Satan was ALLOWED in the Lord's Garden and was ALLOWED to speak to Adam and Eve, as it was part of the plan. Satan did talk with Eve but all he did was confirm to her that what she already knew she was going to do, was what she was going to do. Satan thought that he had fooled both Adam and Eve and thwarted God's plan. However, as it turned out, Eve thwarted Satan's plan of destruction, and then recognized Satan in the Garden. Brother Hugh Nibley suggests that Satan holds a grudge against Eve and all of her daughters. Sister Patricia Holland said: "If I were Satan and wanted to destroy a society, I think I would stage a full-blown blitz on women."

11) Was the nakedness of Adam and Eve literal? What did God do about it? When their eyes were "opened" and they knew they were "naked" as told to us in Moses 4:13, they hid themselves. There are scripture references as well as General Authority quotes that tell us that the "Naked" used in the Garden of Eden is symbolic in a different realm, and may have had added meaning, as they were entering mortality. Adam and Eve were now totally vulnerable to the vagaries of this earthly sphere. In mortality they were subject to earth's forces and susceptible to temptation. An Ancient apocryphal record called the Apocalypse of Moses depicts how Eve might have felt upon finding herself in this condition: "At that very moment my eyes were opened and I knew that I was naked of the righteousness with which I had been clothed. And I wept saying, "why have you done this to me, that I have been estranged from my glory with which I was clothed?" They had lost their paradisiacal robes - so, in one essence they were naked. Their spiritual protection, which they had in the pre-existence was also gone.

However, Moses 4:27 provides us with information that shows how loving and kind our Father in Heaven is as he addresses Adam and Eve's physical nakedness: "Unto Adam, and also unto his wife, did I, the Lord God, make coats of skins, and clothed them." We've been told that these clothings had religious significance because the Lord Himself put his hand to them.

12) Why was Satan allowed into God's garden? The only way that Satan could have gotten into the Lord's garden is if the Lord allowed him in. Therefore, we must assume that Satan was part of God's plan. When we understand God's plan further, we understand that the plan could possibly not go forth without a little assistance from Satan to entice Eve to partake. We do not know how long Adam and Eve had been in the Garden. It could have been days, weeks, months, years or even decades. Even though Eve had knowledge of the plan, the added incentive to partake was given to Satan. As with any Temple, or house of the Lord, you cannot come in until you are invited by the Lord. Therefore, we know that the Lord must have invited or allowed Satan into the Garden of Eden or otherwise he would not have been there.

13) Are we born in sin or to love sin? Absolutely not, we are born in love and to love righteousness - the opposite of sin. We are being taught by our Heavenly Parents as well as other spiritual beings before we come to earth to obtain our second estate. We know God's plan and have agreed to the plan. We are happy to have finally come to earth to receive our bodies and prove ourselves worthy to return to his sight.

It is necessary for all of us to be subject to sin, that we all might be privileged to work out our own salvation. Elder Talmage wrote: "In our Lord alone has been fulfilled the word of God spoken in relation to the fall of Adam, that the seed of the woman should have power to over-come Satan by bruising the serpent's head." Eve's progeny need not feel weak or powerless. It is not intended that we all sin. Sin may be a reality, but we are not all intended to succumb to it. Yet, we must see the bad in order to know the good. Evil provides a contrast with good. We must have agency - that is God's plan.

14) Was Eve cursed in childbirth? Are labor pains part of that curse?

Heavens no! Don't you just love these questions..... especially when you realize that there are people out there that actually believe the answers are positive. Seems insane to me. Anyway, Eve was not cursed in childbirth, nor are labor pains part of that curse. Lets look at this logically. Innocent female animals have labor pains and they have nothing to do with "religion" and following or not following Christ. Women that are not baptized in any religion have labor pains. Again, innocent from following or not following Christ, yet having labor pains. The Lord would not allow Satan to put this type of curse on his children, in the first place. However, While in the Garden, Heavenly Father and Jesus did converse with Eve and provided her with much knowledge, so that she was made aware that there will be mortal pain that comes from many ways and one of those will be in child birth.

15) What death should we fear? We have been taught that when we left the presence of our Heavenly Father, just as Adam and Eve did were denied the presence of the Father at their departure from Eden - - we experienced a spiritual death. The great fear is the possibility of that spiritual deal (separation from the Father) becoming permanent, for from that, there is no release. In Alma 12:32 we read, " Therefore God gave unto them commandments, after having made known unto them the plan of redemption, that they should not do evil, the penalty thereof being a second death, which was an everlasting death as to things pertaining unto righteousness; for on such the plan of redemption should have no power, for the works of justice could not be destroyed, accordring to the supreme goodness of God."

16) How did Adam and Eve feel upon finding themselves in mortality? They were prepared because of the hours upon hours they had spent with our Heavenly Father and our brother Jesus Christ learning and getting ready for the next step. They were scared as well, they knew what was facing them - again, because they had been told. But, they remembered that they had been given the gift of prayer and so they knew that they could speak with their Father in Heaven. They also knew that Jesus would come down and be their redeemer and this gave them comfort.

17) Who is the strategist in the battle of the sexes? Eve. Eve could see that the earthly sphere she and Adam would enter by partaking of the fruit would provide everything necessary for a rich physical and spiritual life. Stepping out into the other place was not an absolute unknown after all. She had been taught by our Heavenly Father, they had been taught. Eve chose to partake of the fruit, just as she had been foreordained to do, and Adam partook after her, to the hallelujah shouts of millions of spirits. If she had not done this, we would all still be waiting. Eve understood the plan, figured it out, and knew what she needed to do, in order to fulfill the plan. That is what I call a strategist!

18) What are the two forms of knowledge that can make us like God? The knowledge of good and the knowledge of evil. Very simple in theory but often times, difficult in execution.

19) Why was Eve allowed the privilege of triggering the Fall, when Adam, who held the priesthood, was the presiding high priest? Eve was the strategist, for one. More to come, gotta run......Eve was preordained = foreordained to be the Mother of all living. Within this calling, she was told to partake of the forbidden fruit and therefore begin the process of bringing pre-mortal spirits into the world. This was not an assignment requiring priesthood intervention or powers. Eve handled her foreordination responsibilities exceptionally well.

20) Why was Eve the first in the Garden to recognize Lucifer for who he was? Eve partook of the forbidden fruit initially and then offered it to Adam. There was time between Eve partaking and Adam partaking that allowed Eve to accumulate additional knowledge. She was in the garden with "opened eyes" much longer than Adam was.

2008-02-24T22:27:00.007-07:00

Well, I just started a new book titled Golgotha, by Andrew C. Skinner. So far, it is proving to be well worth my time. I'm intrigued by possibilities of what are to come. In just a few pages I've read that God rewards the sacrifices of those who love Him, whether in this life or the next, precisely because of the infinite sacrifice of His Beloved Son. Our Savior, after enduring Gethsemane, did not shrink from Golgotha but saw the Atonement through to its conclusion.

I will post my thoughts on the book, once I've completed it.

Kawasaki ATV Prairie 360 4X4

2008-02-17T16:54:00.006-07:00

It's another day in the purchasing life cycle (no pun intended) at the Vic and Harley house. Last Friday, being OVERLY frustrated with the magnitude of ongoing back pain, I gave in and purchased a 4X4 with blade for moving snow. Not only can I no longer shovel snow, but I'm not able to use my snow blower (which, is brand new and now for sale), due to the magnitude of the resulting back and neck pain (wah, wah, wah).

I'm actually excited for this little addition, as it fits into my trailer and I have thoughts of mountain trails and the solitude that may bring. Or, maybe that is just another excuse to try to help me justify the cost. As soon as the blade assembly parts arrive (of course, they are on back order) I will post actual pictures of the machine. Until then, this is a canned photo from Kawasaki, of the one I got except mine is green, not white. The model is the Prairie 360 4X4. I will let you know how it works, and how it plays!!!!

2008-02-17T13:42:00.013-07:00

There are advantages to not being able to sleep and one of them is that I've been able to read several great books lately and my friend Cindy suggested I read, "The Message" by Lance Richardson. This is another great book, in my opinion. But, everything on "my blog" is my opinion - so, I guess I don't need to keep stating such. Forgive me. Anyway, if you are interested in starting your mind to look at the after life, spirit world concepts, this is a fun book to get you going. And, if you decide, after reviewing the short dissertation that I post, that you are interested in learning more about the book, Amazon currently has 26 comments posted. Most of them are useful - which means that some are not!

The post I've had up here is very, very long. I'm removing it today, 03/03/08. But, if anyone would like to see it at a later date, please let me know and I will send it to you.

2008-02-17T13:34:00.005-07:00

This is the sequel to Eve and the Choice Made in Eden. Thanks to my dear friend Sister Barbara Burton, I'm now reading this one, who has loaned me her copy of this book. I will write my review as soon as I'm done and will also answer the 20 questions that Eve and the Choice Made in Eden asked - but, I need to wait a few more days to make sure that those who have told me they are reading the Choice Made In Eden have completed it, so that I don't ruin any of their potential joy. Truly, there is joy received in finding answers to many of these questions - or, at least I find joy there.

The sequel, Eve and the Mortal Journey has an overview by the publisher, as follows:

The story of Eve does not end in the Garden of Eden, nor does the example we can draw from her experience. In this companion volume to Eve and the Choice Made in Eden , Beverly Campbell examines the lessons from Eve's mortal journey and suggests practical applications for our own paths and choices in life. The book includes chapters on seeking a personal connection with God, applying the principles of the Plan of Happiness on a daily basis, defining and working within the seasons of lives, coping with inevitable trials, giving and receiving love, and creating sacred spaces where our souls can be nurtured.

Published: May 2005
Pages: 192

2008-02-12T10:14:00.004-07:00

Wanna Read an AWESOME book ?

EVE AND THE CHOICE MADE IN EDEN,

Beverly Campbell.

Twenty questions are answered through deep research, prayer, discussions with General Authorities and one on ones with President Gordon B. Hinckley. There are 20 questions and I will list the questions with the answers in a future blog.

Talk about a book full of answers and insight. This is one of the most eye opening books on the Fall that I've had the opportunity to read. I hope that those that have the chance to read this wonderful, well-researched book, will take the opportunity and absorb as much as possible.

Please keep in mind, that the author is not a professional author and this book shows her elementary writing status. However, as poorly written as the book is, it has so much incredible information within, it is still so worth the read.

Excellent reading!!! Worth your time!!!

2008-02-05T19:48:00.001-07:00

To heck with the BIRDS & the BEES - what am I eating?

So, my friend Cindy was telling me a story that just about kept me laughing for hours. I just have to post it, 'cause it is so cute. Hopefully Nate, Cindy's son won't see my blog and read about himself here. Anyway, Cindy had the opportunity to have a heart to heart with her son Nate. Nate is 8, heading to 9. She told him that he could ask her ANYTHING he wanted to and she would answer with complete honesty - you know, wouldn't give him the wait until you are older response, or you wouldn't understand, she would just give him the facts. So, he sat there and thought and thought. Of course, Cindy was expecting one of the "birds and the bees" type questions or some other difficult question. After a few minutes of thinking, now keep in mind, Nate is a little brainiac, he finally had his question. Mom he said, "how come you always fix hamburger helper for dinner?"

He is so cute and obviously, very innocent - today any way. Cindy got away easy this time but just wait until the next time!!! Now, just when you thought I was done with this story.........there is more. Cindy went on to ask Nate what he and his friends talked about at recess and lunch time? Again, hoping to have a "conversation" with him and giving him every opportunity to ask the tough questions. He said, "we quiz each other on multiplication tables." Of course, Cindy had to ask why that is what they talked about and didn't they ever talk about girls and he said - "well Mom no, we don't talk about girls, we have to practice our multiplication tables so that we get faster." What a great kid!!!!

2008-02-05T15:36:00.001-07:00

I thought I would post a couple pictures that I took when Jan and I visited Nauvoo this past Fall, 2007. Mom & Vern took us to visit an Amish family and these are a couple of the pictures I was able to "politely" and without notice take of their farm and their "neighborhood."

The photo on the left is of their school and phone booth. This is the only phone the entire Amish community in this area has. They don't give the number out but in case of emergency, they use the phone to call out.

It is a beautiful area and the Amish people that we met were very nice and kind. It would be a very interesting life to live - only going to school until the 8th grade, no power from a power company (however, they do have generators to help them with their work), no computers or other technological devices - including hair dryers, TV, clothes washers and dryers, dish washers, hot water heaters, lamps/lights, cell or otherwise phones, etc.

They live a very clean and pure lifestyle and one that we could all learn from. I absolutely respect their choices and way of life and understand why they have chosen to live the way they do. However, I just don't think I could live that lifestyle, knowing what I know now and having had the luxuries of my current life(including purified water).

2008-02-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

Even when I'm 90 - if I make it that long - this will be the only professional picture taken of me. I figured I'd best get it on here, so that those that continue to ask where the human pictures are, can finally have their answer. Yes, of course my only professional picture includes Harley. Did anyone think it wouldn't?!?!?!

Actually, since I have no posterity, I guess I'm posting this picture for Harley's posterity. She is a grandmother now and it won't be long before she will be a great-grandmother. I know, I'm wierd. But, that is why there are a couple of you out there that actually like me. (Cindy - help, back me on this - there are a couple people out there that like me, aren't there???????)

2008-02-05T13:47:00.001-07:00

What a marvelous work this is!!!

AND,

IT MUST GO ON.

SO,

They have been named!!!

2008-02-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

The tears just don't seem to stop as we remember our sweet Prophet. Last night as we continued doing the work of the Lord, in the Salt Lake City Temple, there were few dry eyes to be seen and everyone seemed to be thinking of the same man, our beloved Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. The funeral had ended just several hours before my shift at the Salt Lake City Temple began and we knew that there would be many saints visiting the temple, in honor of our Prophet. The halls of the temple were very quiet and the reverence was especially significant. Temple voices were used even in areas where normal voices were "allowed." Often times, words were not used as reddened eyes locked upon other reddened eyes and then hugs lingered. This truly is a man that none of us will ever forget and it is to our great benefit that we keep his teachings and memory close to us, so that we can follow his example in our every day lives.

2008-02-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Gordon B. Hinkley, our Prophet, our Hero, our Friend. Let us always remember him for the myriad of accomplishments that he and the Lord completed during his marvelous lifetime here on this earth. His example was for us to be just as the Savior. We will miss his wonderful smile, never ending energy, life lessons, love for all man kind, voice at conference and devotionals, and beautiful spirit that led us through all seasons. WE'VE LOVED YOU and now WE WILL LOVE AND MISS YOU.

2008-01-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

IT'ssssssssss HARLEY & BAILEY time, again. YEA!!!!

This is one of my favorite pictures of Harley.

For those of you that know Harley, you know her OCD nature when it comes to balls...... This picture was hard to get 'cause if her ball is around, then she is expecting someone to throw it. Gotta love her, and I sure do!

Bailey is such a shy little guy and sitting on Jan's bed, watching his toys, has become one of his pastimes. Not sure why......and since he has a hard time explaining himself, we don't question him.

Somebody took my ball and now I don't have anything to do. Guess I will just sit here and stare........ Oh my, how boring!!!

Um, good. Actually, just cleanin' my nose. If you want some fun entertainment, come & watch Bailey groom himself.

It can really be fun & funny to watch.

And, since he loves to clean himself & has several routines that he follows so that he ensures he is well groomed, you have a couple chances each day to catch him, "in the act". At least he tries to keep himself taken care of , - - - Harley is such a princess that she waits for others to groom her!

Harley & Bailey Pictures - fulfilling the Nikki request

2008-01-18T11:35:00.000-07:00

I just might start taking pictures (using my digital camera) so that I have new and current pictures to post. Of course, I know that just excites you all. Anyway, here are a few more Harley and Bailey pictures:

Here is Harley wondering if anyone is going to play with her. She is so cute with those big brown eyes, how could you say, " no".

Bailey actually does have a face. And look at that long tongue.

He sure is a cute little guy! No wonder Harley likes him so much.

Harley & Bailey

2008-01-17T14:19:00.001-07:00

??? Guess what ??? it is time for Harley and Bailey pictures - thanks to Nikki's request:

There is nothing as cute as a
sleeping puppy. Here is Harley
doing one of the things shes does best ..........
sleeping like a little princess!!!

Harley just isn't sure that she wants to share the spotlight with her little friend Bailey. She doesn't have to like it. And, doesn't have to smile!!! Top it off - some human made her wear a sweater...... How humiliating for a princess puppy. By the way, where are Bailey's eyes, nose & mouth ???

RV'ing isn't that bad, as long as I
have my princess bed...........

2008-01-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

Better late than never, or so they say. I've finally taken the time to create a blog - at the urging of my friends and family. Hopefully no one will hold me to keeping it regularly updated because that would require photo taking as well as a creative mind. And, we all know that I don't do photos and definitely am a bit shallow with creativity.

Let me introduce the most famous and favorite member of "my family" - HARLEY! And, here is HARLEY on a Harley.

HARLEY is my almost 7 year old miniature toy poodle. She loves people, especially children or anyone that will play ball with her, and treats.

She also loves her little friend Bailey, who lives with us in our home. He too is a little miniature toy poodle but he is Black and obviously, he is a boy. HARLEY is the life of all gatherings and if she isn't the center of attention, then she will create a scene in which she becomes the center of attention. She is the cutest dog on the face of the earth and I love her dearly!!!