Homecoming: My Return to Brazil

Note: I wrote this blog entry after a one-week trip to Brazil in January 2010 in which I visited my six mission areas in São Paulo. It is somewhat lengthy and religious in nature, but hopefully worth a read.

Homecoming: My Return to Brazil
In 1994 and 1995, I had the privilege of serving as a full-time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Brazil São Paulo East Mission. It was a life-changing experience for me that has shaped my life ever since. When I was set apart as a missionary, President Jerry Black, my stake president, promised that I would make eternal friends in Brazil. How right he was! Unfortunately, over the past several years I have lost contact with most of those dear people. So a few months ago, I decided to return to the land of my mission to renew those friendships. I booked a relatively inexpensive flight and applied for entry into Brazil. I was excited and yet nervous. Due to the language barrier, child care issues and extra expense, Robin graciously stayed home with the children. (Thank you, sweetheart. I owe you big time!)

On Wednesday, January 13, I flew to Los Angeles and then boarded a plane bound for São Paulo, Brazil, the third largest city in the world. I quickly made friends with Simone, my Brazilian seatmate and during the 12-hour flight, we talked about many subjects. She spoke to me in English while I practiced my Portuguese on her. I told her that I planned to visit certain unremarkable cities in the state of São Paulo. She asked, “Why in the world are you going to spend your vacation in these weird little towns? Why not spend more time on the beautiful beaches of Rio de Janeiro?” I replied that this was not a vacation for me, but more of a spiritual journey back to places that meant a great deal to me. I expressed my love for her country because it was there that I matured emotionally and spiritually. It was in Brazil that I grew from boy to man. It was there that my testimony became fixed and immovable. Simone confessed to me that she had made a goal to become more religious in the coming year. As I told her about our faith and its teachings, she became increasingly interested. I invited her to seek out the missionaries and hear their message.

Well, the plane landed in the hot and humid air of a southern hemisphere summer. As I stepped on Brazilian soil, I felt an indescribable joy. I was back! So many years had come and gone, but I had finally returned to that wonderful place. I could hardly believe my good fortune. Back in missionary mode, I struck up conversations with just about everyone – it was so fun to speak Portuguese again with real Brazilians. My first destination was the mission office after having traveled all night. The missionaries serving in the mission office welcomed me like the prodigal’s son, especially since I had brought them some beef jerky, which just isn’t available in Brazil. I talked with several missionaries awaiting interviews with President Morreira, their fairly new mission president from Portugal. Then the mission president’s wife pulled me aside and asked if I would talk with a sad, solitary missionary seated in the hallway of the mission office. He’d been in Brazil for just a week, was very discouraged and was thinking about going home. I sat down by this young man and told him about how difficult it had been for me when I first arrived 16 years earlier. Learning a new language and culture is challenging, and missionary work is tough. I assured him that things would get better – he would pick up the language and learn to love the culture. I knew that the Lord had a work for him to do in this land. I hope it helped.

That afternoon, I had a wonderful time visiting some members in the neighborhood near the mission office. Later, after a very happy reunion in a pizzeria that evening with dear friends, I returned to the missionaries’ house and stayed in an available room offered to me at no charge. Of course, you get what you pay for. While the price was right (free), the bed had no sheets and no pillow, and came with a somewhat dirty blanket and a flea-bitten mattress. I itched all night. Some things never change, and the filthiness of missionaries’ apartments is an eternal constant!

The House of the Lord
The next morning, I felt a strong desire to visit to Sao Paulo temple, the first temple built in South America. Originally dedicated in 1978, that temple had been refurbished and rededicated in 2004 by President Gordon B. Hinckley. When I was a missionary in Brazil, it was the only temple in the country; now there are five with two more under construction. The growth of the church there has been astonishing. There now are approximately 1 million church members in Brazil with hundreds of wards and stakes and 28 missions. When got off the bus in front of the temple, I chuckled that a Wal-mart had been built right across the street. Ahh, American economic imperialism! As I entered that sacred edifice and participated in the temple session in Portuguese, I was overcome with feelings of peace and love. I knew that this sacred place is where families can be united together for eternity. President Howard W. Hunter, who was president of the church for a mere nine months during my time in Brazil, encouraged members to make the temple the great symbol of their membership. He referred to it as the “supernal setting for their most sacred covenants.” Indeed temples around the world are a place of refuge and worship, even in the middle of a busy city of 27 million people. The temple was important to me as a missionary. It continues to be important to me today. Attending the temple brings me spiritual direction and helps me see the big picture.

Establishment of Zion in Pimentas
Fortified by my visit to the temple, I took a bus, a train and another bus to Pimentas, my third area. When I served there in 1994, it was a fairly new neighborhood with a lot of poverty. Houses were simple and unfinished. Rivers of raw sewage ran through the streets. Most of the roads were dirt, which meant lots of dust on sunny days and tons of mud when it rained. I recall a time when my greenie, Elder Gilbert, and I were walking home after a rainstorm. Despite his best efforts to remain upright, he slipped and fell backwards, getting mud all over the back of his brand new Mr. Mac suit. Then, moments later, he fell forward, covering the front of his suit with mud. At first he was mad, but then we laughed and took pictures. Pimentas was considered the armpit of the mission. It was a dangerous area where murders and drug deals were common. We had a small ward that met in a rented hall with a roll-up metal garage door at the entrance.

While I was a missionary there, we started a program of neighborhood family home evenings, where we talked about the establishment of Zion. I told the members stories of the prophet Enoch who described himself as slow of speech and one who was hated by all the people. In Moses 7:13, we learn that the Lord turned Enoch from a weak lad to a mighty leader. It reads: “And so great was the faith of Enoch that he led the people of God, and their enemies came to battle against them; and he spake the word of the Lord, and the earth trembled, and the mountains, even according to his command; and the rivers of water were turned out of their course.” I taught the people that, according to their faith, they could become powerful in declaring the word of God in that neighborhood. They could be instruments in the Lord’s hands in establishing Zion there.

That is exactly what has happened in that neighborhood. Those faithful pioneering saints have wrought a great work. Today there are not one, but two beautiful new chapels full of faithful Latter-day Saints. There are two thriving wards which are a part of a newly created stake. Ward members who have been faithful tithe payers through the years have been blessed economically. The streets are now paved and the people have been blessed with prosperity for their sacrifice and service. Brother Pedro, who was living in a rented home for years, has since built his own home of brick and cement. My old ward mission leader, Brother Augusto, owns two thriving businesses. I was reminded of the Lord’s promise to his children recorded in the Book of Mormon: “Inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments, ye shall prosper in the land.” I saw this first-hand in the lives of the people of Pimentas, both spiritually and temporally. As Brother Augusto drove me around the neighborhood in his car with hymns playing on his stereo, I felt very happy to see the progress of the people. Most were astonished that I was back in Brazil.

That night my brother Matt arrived on a plane from Rio de Janeiro and we were very glad to be together. He had served as a missionary in the Brazil Brasilia mission in 1991 and 1992, and it was a real treat to visit my areas with him and speak Portuguese. On Saturday morning, drove our rental car to my first area, the city of Jacareí. It was wonderful to be back on the cobblestone streets of that old city. It brought back vivid memories of my first few weeks in Brazil as a missionary in January 1994 – it was hot and humid. Mosquitoes buzzed in my ears throughout each night. We often rode our bikes up steep hills just to have our appointment fall through. My Brazilian companion didn’t speak any English, so I felt pretty alone. But in that first area, I learned so much. Visiting my old house and the chapel was great, but the best part was visiting members who I had known and loved. As we drove the streets, we saw two missionaries walking down the road and I had to pull over to say hello. I told them I had been in their shoes many years earlier and I thanked them for their service.

Ubatuba: Reunion on the Beach
Sunday was an especially meaningful day with visits to of my two favorite areas, including a beach town called Ubatuba. In 1994, the church was in its infancy there. My companion and I were some of the first elders to work in the area. There was no branch, just a group of 10-15 people. We had no chapel, so we met in the garage of an investigator. We were the group leaders and we did everything from blessing the sacrament, giving talks and leading hymns to extending callings and teaching primary and Sunday School. What an incredible training opportunity it provided me as 19-year old missionary!

So 16 years later, I had the chance to go back. Weeks before, I had emailed Elder Delvaux, the Brazilian companion who had served with me in the area, and told him I would be returning to Brazil. He said he’d always dreamed of going back to Ubatuba, but never imagined we could go back together. He decided to get up really early Sunday morning and drive five hours to join me for sacrament meeting. Matt and I arrived in the city Sunday morning, about an hour before the meeting began, and so I took him to a few beaches to watch the waves crash onto the shore. (I never got to swim in Ubatuba as a missionary, and since I was there on a Sunday, swimming wasn’t an option on this return trip either. Oh well.)

As Matt and I drove to find the little chapel, our rental car was suddenly and unexpectedly rear-ended by another motorist. The sacrament meeting was about to begin just blocks away, and I felt sick knowing that perhaps I would be unable to attend while we were waiting for the police to arrive. We pulled over and got out to inspect the damage. Miraculously, there was none; both cars showed no signs of trauma. I thought of the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 84:88, which reads: “For I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angles round about you, to bear you up.”

We arrived at sacrament meeting just in the nick of time. There was Elder Delvaux, my six-foot-five Brazilian companion from so many years ago. We embraced and then sat down in that little chapel, which was no longer in the garage of an investigator. The branch president, having heard that we were some of the early pioneers in that area, invited us to bear our testimonies to the congregation, which we did joyfully, recounting some stories from our days there. As I bore my testimony in Portuguese, tears welled up in my eyes. What joy to see the fruits of our labors so many years later! A thriving branch is now established in that town and we had been a part of the establishment of Zion in that far-flung place.

Journey to Guaratingueta
After a delicious lunch with Brother Carlos and Sister Sandra, some old friends from that area, Matt and I headed out of the city and up a treacherous road through the jungle with extremely steep grades and dozens of sharp switchbacks. A light rain had begun to fall, cooling the countryside and watering the landscape. We drove for nearly two hours, making very good time as we prepared to visit one of my favorite areas called Guaratingueta. (That’s a fun word to say: Guaratingueta.) This city is located next to one of the largest Catholic cathedrals on planet earth, second only to St. Peter’s basilica in Vatican City. Despite the strong Catholic tradition, the LDS Church has two large wards housed in a beautiful stake center situated in a quiet neighborhood. Gauaratingueta is the area where I had the most success and I was very anxious to go back. I had emailed a good friend there who had set up a reception in the chapel for me on Sunday night. Since the time for my visit was limited to that one evening, I had really hoped to see a few friends there.

However, the light rain turned into a torrential downpour resulting in a huge lake of water which covered the highway and brought traffic to a standstill. Here we had traveled more than 8,000 miles only to be stopped in our tracks just 15 miles from our destination. The time appointed for the reception in the chapel came and went, and I was stuck. I had no way to get to the place I had so longed to visit. And I was SO very close! I was heartbroken. We tried using Matt’s cell phone to call the members and let them know we were stuck, but we couldn’t get a signal. They were waiting for me at the chapel, but I had no way to tell them I was delayed, possibly for several hours. Then I realized that even if the traffic did start moving, I couldn’t remember how to get to the chapel. After all, it had been 15 years. What’s more, the gas level in our rental car was seriously low and I didn’t know if we’d be able to make it.

We decided to pray and we poured out our hearts to God in that little rental car, asking him to help us reach our destination. Since the car had been stopped on the freeway for more than an hour, I got out to stretch my legs and I struck up a conversation with a woman in a nearby car. Upon hearing of our situation, she let me use her cell phone to advise the members of our situation. Then she offered to lead us to the chapel since she was heading to that very neighborhood to visit her sister. What a blessed coincidence!

My prayers were answered – well, almost – if only the traffic would start to move and the gas in my tank would just last long enough! Thankfully, the traffic did start moving, slowly at first. As soon as we passed the lake of water on the freeway, we followed our guide and made excellent time. All the while, I was watching the gas gage, offering silent prayers that the fuel would last. When we finally arrived at the chapel, I figured everyone would have gone home. I was more than two hours late. But instead I found a chapel full of old friends who had patiently awaited my arrival. It was incredible. We took photos. We hugged. We exchanged email addresses. We told stories from the past. We laughed. We shed tears. I was overcome by a feeling of joy that I can hardly describe. It reminded me of the feelings that Alma felt when reunited with the sons of Mosiah after 14 years (just about the same period of time I was apart from these Brazilian saints). In Alma chapter 17, it says that: “Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord.” This is how I felt on that very special Brazilian summer evening.

As my trip came to a close, I made one last mad dash to visit some people I had taught and baptized before departing. The reunions were sweet and rekindled such feelings of love and joy I can hardly describe. However, I tried to do too much and almost missed my flight. With the help of my Brazilian friends, I got to the airport just in the nick of time in the pouring rain. As I got out of the car with my luggage, my old ward mission leader, Brother Augusto, hugged me. Eyes welling up with tears, he said, “Elder Lambert, chances are we won’t see each other again in this life. But let’s both work hard so that we can see each other again in the celestial kingdom someday.” I assured him that I would.

Completely exhausted, I collapsed in my airplane seat and slept for most of the 12-hour flight to Los Angeles. As I waited for my flight to Salt Lake City the next day, three missionaries who were coming home from Korea were waiting for the same flight back to Utah. I congratulated them on successfully completing their missionary service. They were filled with the spirit and I could tell they had served faithfully. The light in their eyes was undeniable. I told them a bit about my trip and encouraged them to always maintain contact with their friends in Korea. Back in Salt Lake, my reunion with Robin and the children was very happy. It was so good to be home, despite the cold weather. I came home a changed man; my experience had rekindled feelings long since dormant. I will never forget my visit there.

Returning to my mission field a decade and a half later was an amazing experience. It was like traveling in time. Children that I knew back then are now adults with children of their own. Time continues its relentless march forward. And the Brazilian saints have gone through life’s challenges just like the rest of us. One dear woman that I baptized died of a heart attack, while another had been killed in car accident. A very dear friend in my first area had died of breast cancer, leaving her husband and four children motherless. A few couples had gotten divorced and a number people had fallen away from the Church, including some dear friends and even some influential church leaders. The church had grown a lot in some areas and not much in other areas. Life, with all of its warts, had continued for these people. And yet, a great deal of good had happened. Many of the youth had served missions and gotten married in the temple. They are now the leaders in the Church in their wards and branches. Some of the people I taught and baptized have served missions and some have served as bishops, branch presidents and Relief Society presidents.

I felt a great deal of gratitude from tshe members for my visit. They never expected me to return and were touched that I hadn’t forgotten them after so many years. I was grateful that they remembered me. Many people had kept letters and pictures I had sent them shortly after my mission. Many still had a copy of my wedding announcement from 12 years ago. One family even had that invitation framed on the wall of a bedroom in their home! What a lasting impact missionaries can make. I have thought many times how much I would have missed out on had I chosen not to serve, or had I quit during the first few weeks like that young, sad elder I met in the mission office two weeks ago. I hope he sticks it out. The impact on his life and on the lives of others is incalculable.

That impact was brought to my mind once again a few days ago when I received an email from a young woman who was four-years old when I met her family in the beach town of Ubatuba. Her mother and grandparents were members of the church, but her father, Ricardo Martins, was an alcoholic that wanted nothing to do with the Church. In fact, he had even thrown some missionaries out of his house in the past. Naturally, we were very cautious when we first struck up a non-religious conversation with him on the street in front of his house one day. Slowly, Ricardo’s hard exterior melted through our friendship and he invited us to a family home evening at his house. Incredibly, he gave the lesson and the spirit was strong. We invited him to hear the discussions and he accepted. Weeks later, he was baptized in a river near a waterfall. He has since served as a branch president and his oldest son Vinicius just returned from a mission. His daughter Barbara wrote the following to me in an email this week: “You and your companion will always be remembered by our family. You were angels sent by the Lord that saved our family. We now see the fruits of your effort and will yet see many more fruits.” You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but you can’t count the number of apples in a seed.

A mission is hard. But it is worth it. I’ll never forget sitting on a bumpy bus at night during my first few months in Brazil. I was discouraged and frustrated. I then found this scripture that changed my attitude forever. It’s in Alma 28:8: “And this is the account of Ammon and his brethren, their journeyings in the land of Nephi, their sufferings in the land, their sorrows, and their afflictions, and their incomprehensible joy.” I love that – sufferings, sorrows and afflictions go hand-in-hand with incomprehensible joy.

I believe we are engaged in a great cause – the establishment of Zion. Whether it be in a Brazilian beach town or in our own living room during family scripture study, we are involved in a marvelous work and a wonder. Never underestimate the power and influence your choices can have on yourself and others. As Brother Augusto said, “Let us work hard so that we can all meet again in the celestial kingdom.” What a marvelous reunion that will be!

Amazing Rio de Janeiro

Last Monday, January 18, I celebrated Martin Luther King Day by visiting the city that will host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was amazing. The city was fascinating, the views atop Corcovado Mountain were breathtaking and the beaches were beautiful. I had only one day to enjoy the beauty of this magical place… and I was on my own. My wife Robin was home with the children holding down the fort while I visited many dear friends I had made during my service as a missionary in Sao Paulo in 1994 and 1995. I had six full days in the country, and spent just one of those as a tourist in Rio (about six hours by car from Sao Paulo).

I intend to publish some experiences from touring my mission in a future post, but for now, let me just post a few pictures from my visit to Rio. Statistically speaking, it’s a very dangerous, violent city with lots of crime, but I never once felt any fear. I rode the public buses, walked the streets, mingled with the people and had a great time. Of course, I avoided dangerous areas and didn’t go into any “favelas” or participated in any drug deals! I swam in the ocean at Copacabana Beach, rode the cable car to the top of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain and visited the iconic Christ Redeemer statue overlooking the city and surrounding areas.

Sporting my new Brazil t-shirt that I had just bought on the beach, I had this picture taken atop the Morro de Urca.

Here’s me with the city in the background. I was soooo tired and you can see it. I averaged about 3 hours of sleep per night (never overcame my jet lag) and had gotten only 2 hours of sleep the night before.

It seemed the thing to do atop Corcovado Mountain was to take a picture with arms outstretched in front of the Christ Redeemer statue. This statue is only about 15 feet smaller than the Statue of Liberty and it is quite impressive.

Another view atop Corcovado. Snack bar below on the right (all those turquoise umbrellas).

Sunset at the atop the Sugarloaf. Very cool.

2009 Year in Review

2009 is quickly drawing to a close and it’s been quite a year for our family. Here’s a brief summary:

Trips
We took the kids to Disneyworld in January and loved being together in such a magical place. The only downside was record-breaking cold temperatures in Florida during the week we were there, and a certain four-year old who threw regular fits. We took the kids camping three times and enjoyed a few days at my mom’s timeshare in East Canyon. In September, Robin and I traveled to San Francisco to see the musical “Wicked” and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Bay Area. Highlights included the Oakland temple, Muir Woods and Alcatraz.

Kids
Parley turned 10 in May and became a Webelos Scout. He continues to enjoy playing the piano and video games, and recently started learning the trumpet with the elementary school band. We attended his Christmas concerts, which can only be described as “wonderfully terrible.”

Brianna turned 8 in July and was baptized. She loves to color and do crafts and enjoys playing with her Webkins stuffed animal. She and Parley participated in the cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in South Jordan last summer.

Lily started kindergarten earlier this year and loves school. She’s a very sociable girl and is a bit of a drama queen, lots of highs and lows.

Adorable brown-eyed James is two and is learning to talk better each day. He frequently raids the sugar bowl and gets into a fair amount of mischief. Our hope is to be out of diapers in 2010. 

Robin and Andrew
Robin stays very busy managing our household and trying to keep our children from killing one another. She works hard to teach our children values, including kindness, respect and the value of work, a lesson they are reluctant to learn. She particiated in a Women’s Chorus called “We Also Sing” and enjoyed singing some beautiful music. Robin serves on the Activities Committee in our ward and also works with the Activity Days girls. She lends her writing talents when needed, including the ward roadshow and the Christmas program this year.

I continue to serve as a counselor in our ward’s bishopric and have enjoyed some good success in my job as a business banking officer at US Bank. This year I went on several camping trips and hikes with the scouts and my family. I also played a lot of golf, tennis, racquetball and swam dozens of times. Even with all that exercise, I still can’t seem to get skinny and stay skinny. I feel like I’m always on a diet.

I sang in a large Men’s Chorus that gave a concert in the Salt Lake Tabernacle in June. I also performed a dozen times with my acapella group. We recently purchased some sound equipment for our live performances and plan to go to a studio to record some tracks for a CD in 2010. Music has always been an important part of my life.

We hope this update finds you all happy and healthy. May 2010 be a wonderful year for all of us. Happy New Year!

Singing Together at Christmas

The Christmas season is here and with all the snow, cold temperatures, lights and decorations, it’s beginning to look and feel like it! However, nothing makes me feel the Christmas spirit more than music. I really enjoy listening to Christmas music, but performing it for others is one of my favorite Christmas activities. Thankfully, my “man-band” Harmonix continues to get together to sing (we’ve sung off and on since high school).

We’ve done ten performances so far this year with three more scheduled. By year’s end, we will have sung in four sacrament meetings, six Relief Society or ward parties, one funeral, a Memorial Day program sponsored by Midvale City and one performance for the inmates at the Utah State Prison. And while we love to sing together throughout the year, our favorite time to perform is a Christmas. There’s just something special about music at this time of year.

Here’s a photo of the group we took for a gig in Bountiful last year. Handsome guys, eh?

A few years ago, I insisted that we come up with a name for the group. Since no one had a better idea, I christened us “Harmonix.” The guys want a new group name, but no one has come up with anything better!

It’s been a great blessing that we have stay connected as friends through our common interest in music. And although we aren’t “professional-grade,” we really do enjoy sharing our feelings and testimonies through song. 

Here are a few videos of our performance at First Night 2007 in downtown Salt Lake City at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Enjoy!

Joy to the World

Good King Wenceslas

Angels Singing Deo

Christmas Chopsticks

Rudolph

Deck the Hall

O Come, O Come Immanuel

Little Drummer Boy

Silent Night

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Life-changing Events in Early November

During this first week of November, I have been reflecting on a few life-changing spiritual events that occurred in my life in early November: my baptism, my confirmation and the commencement of my missionary service.

On Friday, November 5, 1982, I was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Two days later on Sunday November 7, I was confirmed and received the gift of the Holy Ghost in a sacrament meeting. Here are a couple of pictures of my baptism — the first one is of my dad (Kent) and grandma (Dick); the second is of my immediate family on that exciting day back in 1982:

I remember that baptism day very well. I wanted to make sure we performed the ordinance correctly so it wouldn’t have to be repeated. My dad and I were both dressed in white and we rehearsed in another room just before the actual baptism. The water felt very warm and comfortable. After my dad offered the prayer, he immersed my 8-year-old body completely under the water for just a short moment. As I came up out of the water, I felt clean and pure. I made a personal goal at that time that I would never sin again!

While I was unable to keep that goal, it was the beginning of a spiritual journey that led me to missionary service for the Church 11 years later.  On November 3, 1993, I entered the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah to prepare for two years of service as a church missionary in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Here’s a picture of my MTC district in front of the Provo Temple (I’m on the far left side):

These events shaped my young life profoundly. My baptism put me on a path of church activity and participation that eventually led me to missionary service. On my mission, I taught the gospel to hundreds of Brazilians and, in the process, became ever-more converted to its truths. My love for and devotion to the Church were cemented during this formative time in my life, for which I am deeply grateful.

On Being 35 Years Old

Today, I turn 35 years old. When I was a boy, that seemed very old. Someday, I’m sure it will seem very young. But for now, it feels just right.

Over the past three Sundays, my kids and I have been watching home videos from years past. They get a kick out of seeing themselves as babies and toddlers. We just watched a video from 2004, way back when I was 30 years old. I haven’t changed much in those five years besides gaining and losing weight (and then gaining and losing it again a couple of times). However, my children have changed a lot. Check out these pictures:

Fall 2004

Fall 2009

Aren’t they cute? My, how they’ve grown!

As I ponder my life, I really do feel 35 years old! I feel like a real adult. I have a wonderful wife who has stood by my side through a dozen years of marriage. I have  two boys, two girls, two cats, a dog, two green cars — a minivan and a Toyota Camry who, between them, have more than 400,000 miles on their odometers. I have owned my first house in Riverton since 2000.

I am the sole breadwinner for five people who depend on me for financial support, as well as emotional support, love, teaching, discipline, etc. I have served as a counselor in the bishopric of my ward for nearly three and a half years, and have had several other callings in the church that have given me great leadership experience and opportunities for service. From 2005 to 2007, I earned an MBA from the University of Utah, and last year I changed careers from marketing / corporate communications to business development / commercial lending.

Yes, I do indeed feel 35 years old. I continue to struggle keeping the weight off since my body thinks it needs the extra storage around the middle in preparation for winter/famine. I can’t stay awake during movies any more, and frequently fall asleep on the sofa around 10:00. I have to wear contact lenses or my vision is blurred. I listen to talk radio and NPR while driving instead of FM music stations, and I know more about popular music from the 90’s than the music from… whatever we’re calling the decade that we’re currently in.

I have a subscription to the Readers’ Digest and to the Deseret News, although I did allow my subscription to the National Geographic to expire. Once or twice I have worn dark socks with shorts, and I confess that I sometimes wear pajama pants and sweatshirts to the grocery store as I pick up my diet soda. I am physically able to grow a decent looking beard, though I seldom have the excuse to do so.

The previous paragraph perhaps makes me sound like I’m older than my 35 years. But 35 is still young. Thankfully, I don’t have much joint or back pain and can run, hike, swim or play tennis and recover fairly quickly. I haven’t been to the doctor in years (though I probably should). I contribute to a 401(K) plan at work, but I don’t pay much attention to the numbers since retirement is at least another lifetime away for me. My hair is just as thick and full as it was when I was in high school and shows no signs receding. I do see an occasional white hair on my head, but it’s more of a curiosity than a cause for concern. My energy level and zest for life are better than ever.

So I’m older than I’ve ever been (I guess we can all say that), but I am content to be where I am. I think that’s the key to happy living. Enjoy the moment you’re in NOW. You can look back at the past with fondness and nostalgia and look forward to exciting things in the future, but if you don’t enjoy the present, you’re not fully living. So I embrace my 35 years and look forward to the next 35!

Beautiful San Francisco

Last month Robin and I celebrated our 12th anniversary and so we decided to take a trip without the kids to San Francisco and the Bay area. Over the past several years, we have tried to have a couples vacation at some point during the year and it’s been very fun. We’ve been on two cruises — one to San Diego, Catalina Island and Ensenada and the other to Miami, Key West and Cozumel. We have also been to San Antonio, Las Vegas and last year we went to New York. We’ve also done some local stays at Little America and the Armstrong Mansion in SLC, the Silver Lake Lodge in Park City and the Homestead in Midway. Thanks to wonderful grandparents, relatives and friends who are willing to help with child care, we have been able to do some fun things together as a couple.

This most recent trip was a blast; here’s a quick summary:

Oakland Temple Grounds and Visitor Center – very beautiful and peaceful; amazing views of the Bay Area.

Berkeley Campus – very busy; didn’t stay long.

Muir Woods – amazing old growth Redwood forest not far from the city.

Stinson Beach – nice views with a fun drive coming and going.

Wicked – excellent musical with great sets, costumes and special effects, a good plot, wonderful acting and singing (note to self: get more sleep the night before; I struggled to stay awake)

Alcatraz – fantastic tour of this famous island/prison; cell house audio tour was a highlight.

Chinatown – lots of fun shopping and dining experiences.

Coit Tower – amazing views of the Bay Area.

Streets – 45 degree angle streets were certainly fun to drive; and a little bit scary.

Ghiradelli Square – lots of tasty, overpriced chocolate.

Fizherman’s Wharf – charming and fun place for a stroll; lots of energy and movement.

The Franciscan Restaurant – excellent food with impressive views of the bay from their wall of glass.

Golden Gate Park – huge park with lots to see and do.

China Camp State Park – old Chinese fishing village; fun to learn about shrimp fishing in the 1800s.

Bodega Bay – beach town where they filmed Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds.”

Coast Drive – craggy rocks, crashing waves, very beautiful.

Sonoma Valley – vineyards that go on for miles; charming towns.

We kept the cost of the entire trip to less than $1,000 thanks to a travel voucher from Delta that we earned last year on our trip to New York. It was a great three days to spend together sans kids/distractions. It makes me more grateful for my sweet wife.

Here are some photos:

New iPhone and Bedroom Set

Two weeks ago, I finally gave into and bought an iPhone 3G. I have been wanting one ever since Apple introduced the product in June 2007. But when I realized I could get a refurbished 8 GB 3G for $49 and that the monthly service plan would be discounted by 20% because of my company’s relationship with AT&T, I could resist no longer.

I had very high expectations for this phone and so far it has met or exceeded nearly all of those expectations. I love it. It is a life-changing technology. Just like the DVR which gives users so much more control over their TV viewing, the iPhone revolutionizes the way users access and manage data and entertainment. It is fantastic. For example, the maps feature was invaluable on our recent trip to San Francisco. It helped us know where we were at all times and how to get to where we wanted to go. That feature has already proven very valuable for me as I search for clients’ addresses. I’m working to convert my contacts, calendar and To Do lists over to the phone so I have a quick, searchable way to find important information. The apps I’ve downloaded are very useful and the core functions (iPod, phone and internet / email device) are wonderful.

Two downsides:  the battery life isn’t as good as I had hoped. However, after doing some research, I found out that using the 3G network to download data really eats up the battery charge. So I’ve made a few modifications to how I use the phone. I still have to charge it every night, but that’s because I’m a “power user” and use it a lot. The other struggle is managing my minutes. I selected a plan that was as affordable as possible, but it’s required me to modify my phone usage a bit. I have 900 anytime minutes and unlimited calling on nights and weekends. But with Cricket, my old provider, I had unlimited talk time and I used at least 1500 minutes in a month. I’ve coped with that situation by simply using a landline instead of my cell phone if one is available. And I do look at my online minutes usage record every few days to make sure I’m on track not to exceed my limits. So far I’m doing okay. 

In other news, Robin and I finally decided to buy a bedroom set after 12 years of marriage. We’ve been sleeping on a frame queen bed we inherited from my grandmother and have never had a matching set of furniture. Robin recently received a bit of inheritance money from her grandparents and we decided that instead of frittering it away on small stuff, we’d focus on some larger-ticket items, like this:

It arrives today and we’re excited. We hope that it won’t look too big for our master bedroom, which isn’t huge. We bought a second nightstand, recognizing that it probably won’t fit in the room. We’ll use it when we get a larger house. We would have liked a king bed, but again, we have limited space in the room. And we’ll still be using the same queen mattress and box springs, so no pillow-top mattress for us just yet. All in good time.

Robin also got some new pots and pans for the kitchen and some new light fixtures for the upstairs rooms. A small spending spree doesn’t happen very often in our family, so this has been pretty fun. We probably should have put the money into savings, but Grandma and Grandpa would have wanted us to get something like that, right?!

Whew, what a summer!

Labor Day Weekend always feels like the end of summer for me, so this weekend we decided to play hard. From Friday to Monday, we watched three movies, ate at three restaurants, went swimming twice and even stayed overnight at a resort. I am exhausted from my relaxing weekend! And since it was the last weekend of summer, I thought about what I did over the past three months to accomplish some specific goals. Just for fun, I counted up some of my activities and, according to my diary entries from Memorial Day to Labor Day, I did the following:

Swimming
I visited the pool 28 times, including 16 visits with my kids, 10 visits on my own to swim laps and two visits with the scouts. Most of the visits were to the South County Outdoor Pool in Riverton, but I also visited the Crestwood Pool in Sandy, the South Jordan Fitness Center and Marv Jenson Recreation Center in South Jordan, Cowabunga Bay in Draper, East Canyon Resort in Henefer, the Hyatt Place in Denver, along with pools at my siblings’ condos and Sherwood Hills Resort in Wellsville.

Hiking
I went on 10 hikes this summer, although a couple would probably be better classified as walks. In June I hiked to Timpanogos Cave with Parley’s fourth grade class and then hiked to the top of Grandeur Peak with my brother Matt, followed by a hike with my brother Dan on the Lake Blanch Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon. In July, our family hiked on the trail around Payson Lake and then the next weekend, my son Parley joined me on a hike to Dog Lake via Butler Fork. I did a hike every Saturday in August, including a trip to Huber Grove in Midway, a hike with Robin and baby James to Ghost Falls in Corner Canyon, a strenuous climb up to Cardiff Pass in Little Cottonwood Canyon with my brothers Dan and Nate, and a hike to Red Pine Lake with the scouts. The final “hike” was on the trails at the Sherwood Hills Resort yesterday. Good times.

Tennis
Over the past nine years, I have lived very close to a park with a tennis court. I love to play tennis, but since it requires making arrangements with other players, I have seldom played over the past decade. That all changed this summer as I found a couple willing tennis partners and played 15 times, including a couple of games with Parley who got a tennis racquet for his birthday in May.

Golfing
I had intended to play more golf this summer, but time and budget constraints didn’t allow for it. (I was busy doing other things, as you can see.) I did manage to hit a bucket of balls at South Mountain and at Riverbend. I also played a round of golf at Riverbend on July 4th and at Fox Hollow in American Fork last Saturday. Perhaps there’s still time to golf before the season ends.

Camping
We did four camping trips this summer including one night at Payson Lakes in July and one night in Wasatch Mountain State Park in August. The other two were in Riverton – one in our backyard in June (does that count) and the other in the field behind our church in August. (I also camped one night at Potter’s Ponds with the scouts and a night in the dorms at Snow College in Ephraim for youth conference.)

Add to all that jogging with my dog 30 minutes per day, six days per week and I’d say it was a very active summer. I wish I could say that all this physical activity resulted in my losing a bunch of weight, but lamentably, summer BBQs and cold desserts have prevented that. I guess the good news is that I haven’t gained weight; I continue my weigh-ins with my friend Mike and that has helped. I just wish I could get skinny and stay there! Anyway, I am currently forming my game plan for fall/winter physical fitness, which likely will include weight lifting (yuck) and racquetball. We’ll see…

“I was in prison, and ye came unto me…”

“I was in prison, and ye came unto me…” (Matthew 25:36).

Last Sunday night, four of my friends and I had the chance to present a musical fireside to about 60 inmates at the Utah State Penitentiary. After arriving at the prison, we were directed through various gates, doors and security checkpoints. The high fences topped with barbwire and the other extreme security measures made me think about how grateful I am for my freedom.

As the inmates filed into the small chapel wearing their white jumpsuits, I wasn’t sure how to react. I couldn’t help wondering what crimes each of them had committed to end up in this awful place. And yet they greeted us with friendly smiles and warm handshakes. They were genuinely glad that we had come to visit them. We sang five songs for them in acapella four-part harmony, including “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” “Brightly Beams Our Father’s Mercy,”  “Come, Come Ye Saints,” “Amazing Grace,” and “I Love the Lord.”

Before each song, one of us would take a few minutes to share some thoughts about the song we were about to sing. The spoken word was powerful, but the music is what resonated with those in attendance. We all felt the presence of the Holy Ghost in the room that night bearing witness of the truthfulness of the messages contained in those sacred hymns, especially the messages about Christ’s grace and the power of his redeeming love. Several of the inmates were mouthing the words to the songs we sang. At the end of the program, we invited them to sing “I Know that My Redeemer Lives” and it was amazing to hear all these convicted felons raise their voices in testifying of the reality of the savior Jesus Christ.

At the beginning of the program, I made some opening remarks in which I said something like, “Gentlemen, we’re glad to be here tonight.” However, in my concluding comments, I found myself referring to them as “brethren” instead of “gentlemen.” Something had changed in me. The Spirit had softened my heart and helped me to remember that despite their mistakes, these men are still children of God with great worth. This lesson was made especially poignant for me through an experience that I had during our visit.

I didn’t expect to see any familiar faces in the crowd. But I did. A man sitting in the second row was a former first-grade teacher at my children’s elementary school. Two years ago, he was convicted of multiple counts of child abuse, a situation that shocked, angered and saddened everyone in our neighborhood. Thankfully, my own children were not affected by the actions of this man, but I personally know people who were directly affected by him. And suddenly, I wasn’t just looking into a crowd of anonymous prisoners; I was sharing music and testimony with a man whose choices had seriously impacted people I know and love.

After the fireside, he approached me and we established how we knew one another. In our brief conversation, he shed remorseful tears and asked me to convey his sincere regret for his mistakes to anyone that I might know who may have been affected by him. I told him I would.

This experience taught me two important lessons. First, I was reminded of the fact that we are free to choose our own path in life, but we must accept the consequences of our actions. This man’s choices had resulted in his losing his job, his family, his church membership and his freedom. Even after he has served his time for his crimes, he will be punished by his own regret and by the stigma society places on sex offenders. These consequences will be with him for the rest of his life.

The experience also helped me better understand the power of the Savior’s sacrifice. Even this man can obtain forgiveness and be made whole through the atonement of Jesus Christ. And while it will be a very difficult road to travel for him, Jesus Christ has the power to redeem him. Perhaps some would say he is not worth redeeming, but I believe that the “worth of souls is great in the sight of God” (D&C 18:10). I have faith and hope that Christ can redeem me. “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool” (Isaiah 1:18). The saving power of Jesus Christ is real. What hope and joy that brings me!

Cleave Unto Her and None Else

‘Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else.” (D&C 42:22.)

Those familiar with this scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants of the LDS Church generally think of this in terms of being totally faithful to one’s spouse and reserving physical and emotional intimacy for that person alone. And while I believe that to be a correct interpretation, it is not the only one. I believe it also has something to do with where our priorities are and where our loyalties lie.

Lately, I have been very focused on self improvement. I’ve been trying to lose weight, get in shape and do lots of exercise. I’ve been doing a lot of hiking, jogging, swimming laps and playing tennis. I’ve also been trying to get my spiritual house in order by reading the scriptures more consistently and improving the quality of my personal prayers. I’ve been spending more time with my children, taking them on camping trips and to the swimming pool. I’ve been setting goals in my career and achieving them. I’ve been serving more effectively and faithfully in my church calling. All these things are good. But this weekend, I came to the realization that I have somewhat neglected the most important area of my life — my marriage.

Now, I do not intend to air out any dirty laundry on this blog — that would be inappropriate. Nor is this blog post written in response to some argument or fight Robin and I had over the weekend. No, it’s just that our 12th anniversary is coming up this Saturday and I have been thinking about the incredible journey we’ve shared together over the past dozen years. By in large, our marriage is a very happy one. Robin and I get along well. We rarely fight. We share many of the same goals and work together to raise our four children.

But as I recently looked at my list of goals and plans for improvement, I realized that there wasn’t much on my list that related to improving my marriage — ironic, because I believe that is the most important part of my life. I am coming to understand that if I fail to focus on strengthening our marriage and fulfilling my wife’s needs, I am not following God’s counsel in the scripture quoted above. “Cleaving unto her and to none else” means putting her first in my life — ahead of work, church, career and even our children. Of course, that doesn’t mean those other things aren’t important, or that I can’t have my own hobbies and interests. It doesn’t mean that I have to sacrifice my own goals and plans for self improvement. It’s just that I need to shift my priorities to put our marriage at the very top of the list, ahead of everything else, and change my actions and desires to reflect that.

A friend of mine recently told me that on his wedding day, he promised his wife that his purpose in life was to make her happy every day. Sounds like a sappy newlywed thing, right? But today, 11 years into his marriage, he still stands by that promise and does what he can to fulfill it. He’s not perfect and neither is his marriage. But his top priority and primary goal is to make his wife happy and fulfilled. As the old saying goes, “A happy wife equals a happy life.”

So stay tuned for some thoughts on how to strengthen marriage and feel free to share some of your own!

Milestones

I’m getting old.

My oldest son Parley Benjamin is a Webelos Scout. He’s 10 years old and he’s in FIFTH grade. My second child, Brianna Nicole, was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints last weekend. Lily May started kindergarten just a couple of days ago. And baby James is about nine weeks shy of his second birthday!

These milestones really remind me of the rapid passage of time. Gotta make the most of these days while my children are young.

Lily’s first day of kindergarten was on August 4, 2009. She was really ready to start school (and so was Robin). She was even counting down the minutes.

Isn’t that a great smile. Little Lily Lambert is so cute. (I know, I’m biased.)

Brianna was baptized on August 1, 2009. She was a bit ill that day and it made for an exciting morning! She’s such a sweet girl.

Brianna’s baptism was a very special / happy occasion.

Parley and James hanging out in a hammock during a family camp-out to Payson Lakes in July.

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

Last Friday, I had the opportunity to take my family to the open house for the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, which is just a few minutes from my house. It is a beautiful structure and we had a great experience touring the building. Here are a few photos of the new temple, courtesy of the Deseret News and the LDS Church News.

The new temple is situated on the West bench in the Salt Lake Valley in South Jordan. This picture shows the Oquirrh Mountains in the background (for which the temple was named). It also shows two LDS chapels near the temple. Church buildings which are that close to one another are not uncommon in this area, which is the heartland of the Mormon Church.

This picture shows the Oquirrh Mountain Temple with the Draper temple (dedicated earlier this year) in the background. Utah now has 13 temples, including six within a 30-minute drive from my home in Riverton.

The lower level of the temple features a baptismal font where church members are baptized on behalf of their deceased ancestors. Mormons believe  that those ancestors in the world of spirits can then choose whether to accept that ordinance performed in their behalf. The sculptures of the oxen represent the 12 tribes of Israel.

This grand staircase inside the new temple shows the superb design and workmanship of the edifice.

This is an instruction room where church members learn more about God’s plan of salvation and make promises / covenants with Him to keep His laws.

The Celestial Room (above) symbolically represents entering the presence of God. It is an awe-inspiring room where church members strive to draw closer to Jesus Christ.

Sealing Rooms, like this one inside the new temple,  are rooms where couples can be married / sealed to one another for eternity. Robin and I were sealed in a room like this one in the Salt Lake Temple 12 years ago.

I recently read a blog from a Unitarian Pastor who toured the temple and indicated his surprise at the intimacy of the rooms in the temple. (Few of the rooms have a capacity greater than about 50 people.) Instead of a grand space for worship, like in a cathedral, Mormon temples feature smaller rooms that focus on individual meditation and worship. The blogger discussed the idea of sacred spaces in our lives. For Mormons, like myself, temples represent a place of refuge from our hectic lives, a place to evaluate one’s relationship to God and make plans for improvement. Temples offer a place for peace and serenity in an inspiring setting. What are the sacred places in your life?

(The temple open house continues until Saturday, August 1. After that, it will be closed to the general public. I highly recommend a tour. Reservations can be made by visiting http://www.lds.org/reservations.)

Remembering the Dead

Michael Jackson. Farrah Fawcet. Ed McMahon. Billy Mays. Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve been reminded that celebrities die just like the rest of us.

This year, I have visited eight different cemeteries in the course of my calling as a counselor in the bishopric and as I have sought to honor my own relatives who have passed away. I have been to five funerals/viewings in the past seven months, including three where I sang. I’ve even recently done some banking business with a mortuary in Salt Lake City. So naturally, I have been thinking about the meaning of cemeteries and grave markers. I’ve also been pondering a bit on how I want to be remembered.

Earlier this week at a viewing of a friend’s mother, I saw this quote at a cemetery. I jotted it down because I liked what it said:

“This is a cemetery. Lives are commemorated. Deaths are recorded. Families are reunited. Memories are made tangible and love is undisguised. This is a cemetery. Communities accord respect. Families bestow reverence. Historians seek information and our heritage is thereby enriched. Testimonies of devotion, pride and remembrance are cast in bronze to pay warm tribute to the accomplishments and to the life – not the death of a loved one. A cemetery is a homeland for memorials that are a sustaining source of comfort to the living. A cemetery is a history of people – a perpetual record of yesterday, a sanctuary of peace and quiet today. This cemetery exists because every life is worth loving and remembering always.”

Over Memorial Day Weekend, we took the kids to the Salt Lake Cemetery to visit the graves of some of the prominent leaders in the LDS Church. It turned out to be a bit of a scavenger hunt and we found over half of the gravesites of the 15 deceased church presidents. Here are a few pictures of their graves:

Gordon B. Hinckley, 15th President of LDS Church

Howard W. Hunter, 14th President of the LDS Church

Spencer W. Kimball, 12 President of LDS Church

Harold B. Lee, 11th President of LDS Church

Joseph Fielding Smith, 10th President of LDS Church

David O. Mckay, 9th President of LDS Church

 

Wilford Woodruff, 4th President of LDS Church

It’s interesting to think of how our loved ones would summarize our lives in a few short words carved into stone or cast into bronze. What would you want your epitaph to say? What are your thoughts on how to remember and honor the dead?

Pessimism or Optimism?

My cousin recently blogged about how she is extremely optimistic and pessimistic at the same time about world events. She specifically discussed the recent election protests in Iran and the possibility of change coming to that country. She said she feels hopeful and fearful at the same time. My cousin and I both grew up when the Iron Curtain seemed impenetrable, when the Soviet Union was the evil empire full of our enemies. And then change came to their country, almost overnight. So it will be fascinating to see what happens in Iran…

Like my cousin, I also feel tremendous pessimism and optimism about the world and its future. For example, I am unsure what to believe about our American economy and system of government. On one hand, I want very much for President Obama to succeed and to see our nation prosper economically. I want to see positive changes to our health care system. At the same time, I am quite concerned about government intervention and the massive expansion we’ve been witnessing. As one commentator put it recently, Obama wants us to believe that the recent enormous government spending and intrusion into the free markets was necessary to save our system. Perhaps the truth is that the recession was the excuse President Obama needed to transform our government/economy into a much more European-like system, where government entitlements are widespread and where the government controls much more of the free markets, making them much less free, and consequently, less efficient.

(Some would suggest that a similar situation occurred when George W. Bush used 9-11 as an excuse to invade Iraq and remove Saddam from power, something Bush really wanted to do anyway but needed an excuse to do it, even though no direct link between 9-11 and Iraq ever existed.)

Anyway, the strange thing about this mix of fear and hope is that they can somehow co-exist in us. I fear a lot of things: Will I die young like my father? Will I get diabetes, heart disease and cancer like many of my relatives? How could I ever recover if I lost one of my children? How could I go on if my sweet wife were taken from me? I don’t like to dwell on these thoughts too much since they just make me expend energy unnecessarily by pondering “what if” scenarios.

A part of me fears the world that my children will have to face with its increasing moral degeneracy; at the same time, I look forward to the future with great anticipation. There are so many great things are ahead of us; new technologies, new ideas, new works of art and entertainment. Some people see the world as getting worse and worse every day. I choose to see it as continually improving in many ways. Certainly, more and more are choosing unrighteous paths and sin is becoming increasingly acceptable. But many are also deepening their devotion to Jesus Christ and his teachings and living better lives than ever before.

So, are you pessimistic or optimistic? Which is better: a healthy pessimism that grounds you in reality and keeps you from being disillusioned or optimism that makes you see the world through rose-colored glasses, but also could be setting you up for eventual disappointment?

Living in the Moment

My brother-in-law Chris recently blogged about an intriguing idea. In his essay he explored the idea that having a finite period of time in this mortal existence impacts how we live and what we focus on. He suggests that the impermanence of life affects how we perceive things and informs our choices and our actions.

Why does the fragility of this impermanent mortal existence make life more special? Chris talks about how real flowers have more value than fake flowers since there is a temporary quality to them that demands to be enjoyed in this moment since their beauty will soon fade. Similarly, a gorgeous sunset or a beautiful rainbow are short-lived, and would not be nearly as special if they were always there. The fact that these displays of nature last for just a few fleeting moments adds to their charm.

When my dad was told he had six months to live, I often thought about what I would do given a similar prognosis. It certainly would depend on my health (my dad was seriously ill during his final months), but I think I’d focus on deepening relationships and creating shared experiences together. The fact that we knew our time together was so limited made those final months extra special.

Of course, I believe in the eternal nature of the soul. My faith teaches that progression is eternal and that family relationships can continue beyond the grave. I believe that someday after I die, my body will be resurrected to a perfect and immortal state. That belief provides me with comfort and peace, and gives my life much more meaning and purpose. I believe the purpose of life is to gain experience, intelligence and relationships. Those are the things we’ll take with us when we go. But I don’t like to live my life and make choices based solely on expectations of future glory. I follow Christian teachings because I believe them to be the blueprint of happiness and peace in THIS life.

(Side note: sometimes when I do the dishes or help Robin put away the groceries or lug 40-pound bags of salt down the stairs to the water softener, I ask myself, “Will I be doing these mundane tasks for eternity?” I certainly hope not. To be honest, the thought of living forever has always made me a bit queasy, mostly because of my aversion to repetition. Even if we are doing amazing things each day as exalted beings, wouldn’t it get old after a while? I don’t like to think about it too long because my finite mind cannot comprehend the infinite. Even my daughter Brianna told me once that thinking about living forever makes her “tummy feel kind of weird.”)

Anyway, my point is that my belief in eternal life does impact my choices, but having a finite period of time to do things in this life also affects my actions. The fact that my children are growing up and that their childhood is fleeting makes me want to spend more time with them. It makes me want to cherish the present moment. When we know something will NOT last forever (rainbow, sunset, freshly cut flowers, time with a terminally ill parent, our children’s childhood), it becomes that much more precious to us.

I am not suggesting that we “eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we die.” I am suggesting that while we look forward to eternal life with excitement and great anticipation, we should never forget to have joy in the journey — TODAY. Remember that scene from “Dead Poets’ Society” where Robin Williams’ character tells the boys “Seize the day, boys, make your lives extraordinary.”

Carpe Diem!

Can I PLEASE have a new iPhone?

Apple has done it again — they have created something that I REALLY want. I have been coveting an iPhone since June 2007 when it was first released. Back then it cost $499 for the 4 GB version and $599 for the 8 GB version. Today, the faster 3G 8 GB version costs $99. Yes, that’s only $99 bucks. They recently slashed the price and I am sorely tempted to buy one!

They also are about to introduce an even cooler version — the iPhone 3G S, which costs $199 for the 16 GB version and $299 for the 32 GB version of the amazing phone. What a deal! And look at all the cool new features:

• Video camera with editing capabilities
• A 3-megapixel digital camera
• Voice memo recording
• Internet tethering (hook it up to your laptop for internet access)
• Compass and GPS
• Voice control (tell your iPhone what you want to do and wallah!)
• A ton of really cool apps that you can download (many for free)
• Great internet service, email, texting
• A really cool phone with great contact management
• Oh yeah, it’s also an iPod, so you can listen to all your music, buy music directly from iTunes, as well as watch videos from YouTube or movies that you have purchased or converted from DVD.

Today while helping out on a school field trip, I was carrying around my iPod, a cell phone and a digital camera and I thought: “I could have these all in one…” Needless to say, I REALLY want one. I love the technology. I love the features. I love being connected. So why don’t I just go out and buy one already!? Here’s why:

1. Price. The initial price of $99 is really good. But the true cost is more like $2,500. About $100 per month for AT&T service on a 24-month contract. And although my company would reimburse much of that cost, $100 per month for a phone is just too much. I’m too cheap.

2. Being connected. Do I really need to be connected everywhere at every moment? Should I be blogging, emailing, texting, twittering or Facebooking while I drive, eat lunch or take my kids to the park. No, probably not. I spend too much time on the internet as it is.

3. I already have a laptop and with wireless broadband throughout my house. While the keyboard on the iPhone is nice, it’s so much faster to get work done on a REAL keyboard. Short Facebook status updates are okay, but blogging, email and writing documents on that tiny keyboard is still quite slow – although it’s faster than tapping out text messages on my cell!

4. I already own an iPod Touch, which is like an iPhone without the phone or camera. It’s a great device and can connect to my home wireless network so I can check email and Facebook without having to fire up my desktop computer or laptop. I recently downloaded some software updates that allowed me to put “apps” on my iPod Touch, so I can now read the scriptures, download and listen to podcasts or watch YouTube videos right on that little device. The touch screen is awesome — it’s the best iPod I’ve ever owned.

I believe that someday I will have an iPhone or something like it. But that day has not yet arrived, even though I wish were here!

Amusing Kiddie Quotes

Here are a few amusing quotes from my four children:

Parley, 10-year-old son.
“Dad, I think God must be right-handed.” (We had just been reading the scriptures together as a family and we had read about how the righteous would be on the right hand of God and how the sheep (righteous) were on the right and the goats (wicked) were on the left.)

Brianna, almost 8-year-old daughter.
“Dad, whenever I think about living forever, I get this kind of sick feeling in my tummy. I think I’ll get bored after a while. Do you think that once we make it to the Celestial Kingdom, we’ll be able to visit Disneyworld and Hawaii whenever we want?” (This conversation was initiated by Brianna, not me, while we were driving alone together in the car.)

“Mom, I really want to go to bed because my left eye is feeling kind of sleepy. But my right eye is still kind of awake.”

Lily, 5-year-old daughter.
Lily: “Dad, I want to buy a treat at the store.”
Dad:  “Lily, we can’t because we don’t have any money.”
Lily: “That’s okay, we can just use the credit card!”

James, 20-month old son.
Pointing to an elephant, he exclaimed excitedly: “Gog!” (his word for dog).

First Haircut for Baby James

I’ve been resisting it for 19 months now because his baby hair was so cute, but it finally came time for James to get a haircut. So on Saturday, I took the boys over the the “haircut store” to take care of business.

James was a little squirmy at first and didn’t want to wear the smock. I had to pin his arms to his side. Unfortunately, it was a fairly traumatic experience for the little fellow — especially when the lady used the electric clippers on him — he was terrified!

We tried to calm him down by feeding him some Smarties provided by the salon, but it didn’t help much. His tears and slobber from the candy got all over the smock.

He finally calmed down when he started watching Parley get his hair cut in the next chair over. And now his beautiful golden brown hair with a hint of curl now lies in a dumpster somewhere behind the salon.

Of course, Parley doesn’t look too thrilled about getting his hair cut either. But at least there were no tears and I didn’t have to hold him down!

Pre-school Graduation

Yesterday, five-year old Lily “graduated” from pre-school. (That sounds a little funny to me. Did she pass all her tests and complete all her coursework and rent a cap and gown? Uh, no.) Anyway, perhaps “completed” pre-school would be a better way to describe it. She did get a little “diploma” after the kids in her class gave a really cute 30-minute program, which I’m glad I did not miss. The teacher even played “Pomp and Circumstance” on her iPod; very fun. Here are a few cute pictures:

Lily is a really unique little person. She has always had a very fun-loving, sweet and strong personality. Of all my children, I think she has the most potential to become a performer. She has a certain stage presence and she thrives on getting attention (remind you of anyone?) To celebrate her accomplishment, I took her to the store with me and bought her some gum, which is a lot cheaper than an iPod or a trip abroad that she’ll want at later graduations.

Pre-school has been really great for our children. My parents-in-law have paid the tuition for all three of our children who have attended pre-school, which has been wonderful. It would have been hard for us to afford it with all the other things that compete for our money! Pre-school has been a great blessing in their lives. We could have taught Lily most of what she learned in class here at home. But pre-school gave her a great social outlet and it gave Robin a much-needed break.

I already did a nostalgia post with Bye Bye Binkie, so I won’t go into the mixed emotions I feel as another one of my children completes pre-school and gets ready to start Kindergarten. Suffice it to say that I’m very grateful to have these little people in my life. I’m a very lucky (blessed) man.

Here’s a cute picture of me with my girls.