Michele, Melody, Katie and I visited Denver for a couple of days this week to play with Whitney and Will. Here are some pictures. Thanks Laura!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Visit to Denver
Michele, Melody, Katie and I visited Denver for a couple of days this week to play with Whitney and Will. Here are some pictures. Thanks Laura!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Samuel Kendall Gifford 5 Mar 1904
From the Cedar City Public Library:
EXCERPS TAKEN FROM THE BIOGRAPHY OF SAMUEL KENDALL GIFFORD
Which was dictated by himself and written by
Hannah Jane Gifford Tuttle, a Granddaughter.
My father, Alpheus Gifford, (on hearing of Joseph Smith, the Prophet who had lain the foundations of a new church, and who was everywhere spoken evil of) was prompted by the Spirit to go to Palmyra where the Church was organized. Here he learned the truth and was baptized. This was in 1830 or very early in 1831. I was told by my uncle that it was in 1831 but President Young told me afterwards that it was in 1830. He (father) was ordained a Priest and returned home in company with Enos Curtis who accompanied him to Palmyra and also received the Gospel. Father brought home with him five books of Mormon and was full of joy and Thanksgiving. He preached the Gospel until the Church was moved from New York to Ohio when he and several others went to Kirtland to again visit the Prophet. That was in 1831. Father was there ordained an elder. He returned again to Pennsylvania in connection with his brethren, for that was their home. Mother also received the Gospel.
Early in the spring of 1833, Elias Higbee, Issac Higbee, and John S. Higbee chartered a steamboat in which they went with their substance and took my father and family with them down the Ohio River and up the Missippi(sp) River to St. Louis Mo. From here they traveled by team to Independence where we arrived early in the spring of that year. We settled first on the Big Blue River, later in what was known as Batson Settlement which was presided over by Peter Dustin. And later in another part where we lived in an old log house without a floor until the 12th of November of the same year, 1833. Then we were driven by a ruthless mob and were obliged to leave the country. Myself, my brothers Ichabod , William and Henry and my sister Rhoda had been baptized by Soloman Hancock in the spring or early summer of that year.
On the 14th inst. we crossed the river into Clay Co. We went about two miles from the river where a branch of the church was organized with John Lowry as president. We remained there after being threatened by mobs stirred up by men from Jackson County. In 1844 (sp 1834) Joseph Smith with some hundred and fifty men came up from the east in what is known as the Zion's Camp. Failing to agree with the people of Jackson County to have the saints restored to their homes in Jackson County. As the people of Jackson County and Clay Co. together had threatened the utter destruction of the saints if they did not leave Clay County, a treaty was entered into by which the saints were permitted to remove to a portion of Ray County and called Caldwell County, where a city was laid off and named Far West. Here I was enrolled in the first company, I believe, of militia that was ever organized by the Latter-Day Saints and here I first saw the Prophet Joseph Smith. And I saw the chief corner stone placed in it's place, of the temple that will some day be built in Far West. But the people of Missouri were not satisfied to let the Saints have a resting place and remain in peace in that state. Mobs were constantly disturbing the Saints. Men, women and children were massacred. The chief apostle, David Patten, was slain and finally by the exterminating order of Governor Lilburn J. Boggs, an army of two or three thousand was sent to Far West.
*** *** *** ***
After a time my father and others moved some twenty miles up the river near the town of Lima and settled where some were in Adams County and some in Hancock County across the line. And here a branch of the church was organized, presided over by Isaac Morley. We remained here in peace for a short time.
Again I was enrolled in a military company belonging to the Nauvoo Legion. Soloman Hancock was our mayor (major?). Stephen Markham was our colonel. I attended every general training in the city of Nauvoo which was 30 miles above the Morley Settlement.
I attended the first conference that was held in the city of Nauvoo, presided over by the Prophet Joseph Smith. After the conference was over my father and I met with a lot of the brothers in the house of Joseph Smith. The Prophet talked to us for some time upon our persecutions and drivings from our homes and property and said he was going to the city of Washington to lay our grievances before the President of the United States. This was in October 1839.
*** *** *** ***
I cannot add anything to the History of the Church for it is plainly written by many. But I left Nauvoo and traveled in the first camp.
*** *** *** ***
I worked a month in St. Joseph in a wagon shop. Took a trip to St. Louis and back on a steamboat. Returned to Pisgah in the fall of 1847 where I remained manufacturing chairs and so forth until the spring of 1850. Then I crossed the plains witnessing the awful calamity caused by Cholera. Both Saints and sinners were left on the Plains by the hundreds. Arrived in Salt Lake Valley about the 11th of Sept. Was called to Sanpete where I arrived in Nov.
In the spring of 1851 was again enrolled in a military company belonging to the Nauvoo Legion. I was first elected third Corporal and gradually promoted until the Walker War broke out when I held the office of Orderly Sergent. These duties I performed during the war. Then I was gradually promoted until I held the position of first Lieutenant. Syrenna Taylor who was Captain soon died. I was then elected and received a Captain's Commission. Afterwards I was elected Major but soon removed to Southern Utah and did not obtain a commission.
I had served six years in the city council in Manti City. I acted for some time as councilor and spokesman to Gad Yale who presided over the mass Quorum of Seventies. On May 16, 1857 was ordained one of the presidents of the forty-eighth Quorum of Seventies by President Joseph Young. I acted as teacher for many years in Manti, had charge of the first teachers ward. I belonged to the Manti Thespian Society for many years. At the time of the Reformation for more than one month I attended from one to three meetings in a day. I was a teacher in the first Sunday School that was organized in Manti.
In November 1862 I visited Southern Utah to which place I removed in November 1863. I lived in Shonesburg where I continued my labors as a ward teacher of the Rockville Ward and also as Superintendant of the Sabbath School. I manufactured a great many chairs, did some farming, raising fruit and so forth. Again I acted as Orderly Sergent in the Militia. In 1866 was again called to serve in the Indian War known as the Navajo or Piede war. Afterwards I again received a First Lieutenant Commission which office I held until bearing arms was forbidden by a wicked governor.
In the 6th of April 1870 my wife died and was buried near my two sons who had previously died.
I was appointed by president Jacob Gates to reside over the seventies of the Rockville Ward then consisting of four settlements, namely Rockville, Grafton, Shonesburg and Springdale. At the time of the localizing the quorums of seventies I was set apart under the direction of President Gates as one of the presidents of the nineth quorums of seventies with headquarters at Toquerville. I travled with Brothers Dodge and Savag from settlement to settlement to complete the organization of the quorums and to stir up the seventies by way of their duties and to prepare them for missionary labor. I performed some home missionary labor in the St. George Stake of Zion. When the United Order was organized I took great interest in laboring for the benefit of the community until the Order was dissolved. Soon after President Brigham H. Roberts counseled the old men of the Seventies to go into the High Priests Quorum. I obeyed the council and was ordained by Daniel Duncan McArthur. I have attended many conferences in St. George, attended conference in Salt Lake City at the time of the dedication of the temple on the 6th of April, 1893. I had previously attended the laying of the cornerstone of that great temple on the 6th of April 1853, just 40 years previous to the time of it's dedication. I attended a number of general conferences in Salt Lake previous to this time. I had the privilege of attending one celebration of the 24th of July, twenty miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon with President Young's party. I assisted what I was able to in building the St. George Temple, the Manti temple and also the Great Salt Lake Temple. I have spent a great deal of time and means, considering what little means I possessed, in gathering records, laboring for the benefit of the living and the redemption of the dead.
On the 6th day of Sept. 1902 I was ordained a Patriarch by Apostle Mathias F. Cowley. I have blessed up to date (Mar. 5th 1904) three hundred and one persons including all of my posterity that are still living excepting two little babies. I have been afflicted in many ways. My second wife wo had been sealed to me in the Endowment House in Salt Lake City on the 2nd. of Jan 1871 died 20 June 1902. On the 26th or 27th of April 1881 I was seized with a terrible pain in my right eye which continued to grow worse until I was nearly blind. On the first day of May I met Robert Picton at Rockville and started on the Home mission to travel around the Stakes. I suffered immensely with my head and eyes, could scarcely see anybody or anything but filled my mission. I did not miss one meeting and spoke to people on the principles of Tithing the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, for that was the mission given to us. I returned home on the 3rd of June. When I returned home I was in great misery but after two or three bottles of Ray Ways Ready Relief [Rawleigh's Readi-Relief ?] I got so I could do a little work. But I continued to suffer with my head and eye, my right eye going entirely blind and my left eye blind by spells until eight years ago this month when I became entirely blind to see no more in this life. I have come near to the brink of the grave a number of times but through fulfillment of promises of the Servants of God I have been able to do a considerable work in the temple and am still anxious to work in the temple. I have a great work before me which I would like to perform before I pass away, but oh how long shall I have to wait for help? I have labored from one day to eight weeks at a time as time would permit since the temple was opened for endowments. It has now been six months since I have been to the temple and I cannot go without assistance and my pleadings are in vain. I am now eighty-two years and about four months and would like to complete my work for the dead.
As Saviors on Mt. Zion we must redeem our dead.
They died without the Gospel, we labor in their stead.
And when we pass beyond the veil how our friends will meet us there,
As Saviors upon Mt. Zion, a crown we then shall wear.
Then come ah come, dear children, no more the work delay.
It is a glorious labor, a labor that will pay.
Oh let me no more plead in vain, your duties now fulfill.
Then come, oh come, dear children, you know the Master's will.
EXCERPS TAKEN FROM THE BIOGRAPHY OF SAMUEL KENDALL GIFFORD
Which was dictated by himself and written by
Hannah Jane Gifford Tuttle, a Granddaughter.
My father, Alpheus Gifford, (on hearing of Joseph Smith, the Prophet who had lain the foundations of a new church, and who was everywhere spoken evil of) was prompted by the Spirit to go to Palmyra where the Church was organized. Here he learned the truth and was baptized. This was in 1830 or very early in 1831. I was told by my uncle that it was in 1831 but President Young told me afterwards that it was in 1830. He (father) was ordained a Priest and returned home in company with Enos Curtis who accompanied him to Palmyra and also received the Gospel. Father brought home with him five books of Mormon and was full of joy and Thanksgiving. He preached the Gospel until the Church was moved from New York to Ohio when he and several others went to Kirtland to again visit the Prophet. That was in 1831. Father was there ordained an elder. He returned again to Pennsylvania in connection with his brethren, for that was their home. Mother also received the Gospel.
Early in the spring of 1833, Elias Higbee, Issac Higbee, and John S. Higbee chartered a steamboat in which they went with their substance and took my father and family with them down the Ohio River and up the Missippi(sp) River to St. Louis Mo. From here they traveled by team to Independence where we arrived early in the spring of that year. We settled first on the Big Blue River, later in what was known as Batson Settlement which was presided over by Peter Dustin. And later in another part where we lived in an old log house without a floor until the 12th of November of the same year, 1833. Then we were driven by a ruthless mob and were obliged to leave the country. Myself, my brothers Ichabod , William and Henry and my sister Rhoda had been baptized by Soloman Hancock in the spring or early summer of that year.
On the 14th inst. we crossed the river into Clay Co. We went about two miles from the river where a branch of the church was organized with John Lowry as president. We remained there after being threatened by mobs stirred up by men from Jackson County. In 1844 (sp 1834) Joseph Smith with some hundred and fifty men came up from the east in what is known as the Zion's Camp. Failing to agree with the people of Jackson County to have the saints restored to their homes in Jackson County. As the people of Jackson County and Clay Co. together had threatened the utter destruction of the saints if they did not leave Clay County, a treaty was entered into by which the saints were permitted to remove to a portion of Ray County and called Caldwell County, where a city was laid off and named Far West. Here I was enrolled in the first company, I believe, of militia that was ever organized by the Latter-Day Saints and here I first saw the Prophet Joseph Smith. And I saw the chief corner stone placed in it's place, of the temple that will some day be built in Far West. But the people of Missouri were not satisfied to let the Saints have a resting place and remain in peace in that state. Mobs were constantly disturbing the Saints. Men, women and children were massacred. The chief apostle, David Patten, was slain and finally by the exterminating order of Governor Lilburn J. Boggs, an army of two or three thousand was sent to Far West.
*** *** *** ***
After a time my father and others moved some twenty miles up the river near the town of Lima and settled where some were in Adams County and some in Hancock County across the line. And here a branch of the church was organized, presided over by Isaac Morley. We remained here in peace for a short time.
Again I was enrolled in a military company belonging to the Nauvoo Legion. Soloman Hancock was our mayor (major?). Stephen Markham was our colonel. I attended every general training in the city of Nauvoo which was 30 miles above the Morley Settlement.
I attended the first conference that was held in the city of Nauvoo, presided over by the Prophet Joseph Smith. After the conference was over my father and I met with a lot of the brothers in the house of Joseph Smith. The Prophet talked to us for some time upon our persecutions and drivings from our homes and property and said he was going to the city of Washington to lay our grievances before the President of the United States. This was in October 1839.
*** *** *** ***
I cannot add anything to the History of the Church for it is plainly written by many. But I left Nauvoo and traveled in the first camp.
*** *** *** ***
I worked a month in St. Joseph in a wagon shop. Took a trip to St. Louis and back on a steamboat. Returned to Pisgah in the fall of 1847 where I remained manufacturing chairs and so forth until the spring of 1850. Then I crossed the plains witnessing the awful calamity caused by Cholera. Both Saints and sinners were left on the Plains by the hundreds. Arrived in Salt Lake Valley about the 11th of Sept. Was called to Sanpete where I arrived in Nov.
In the spring of 1851 was again enrolled in a military company belonging to the Nauvoo Legion. I was first elected third Corporal and gradually promoted until the Walker War broke out when I held the office of Orderly Sergent. These duties I performed during the war. Then I was gradually promoted until I held the position of first Lieutenant. Syrenna Taylor who was Captain soon died. I was then elected and received a Captain's Commission. Afterwards I was elected Major but soon removed to Southern Utah and did not obtain a commission.
I had served six years in the city council in Manti City. I acted for some time as councilor and spokesman to Gad Yale who presided over the mass Quorum of Seventies. On May 16, 1857 was ordained one of the presidents of the forty-eighth Quorum of Seventies by President Joseph Young. I acted as teacher for many years in Manti, had charge of the first teachers ward. I belonged to the Manti Thespian Society for many years. At the time of the Reformation for more than one month I attended from one to three meetings in a day. I was a teacher in the first Sunday School that was organized in Manti.
In November 1862 I visited Southern Utah to which place I removed in November 1863. I lived in Shonesburg where I continued my labors as a ward teacher of the Rockville Ward and also as Superintendant of the Sabbath School. I manufactured a great many chairs, did some farming, raising fruit and so forth. Again I acted as Orderly Sergent in the Militia. In 1866 was again called to serve in the Indian War known as the Navajo or Piede war. Afterwards I again received a First Lieutenant Commission which office I held until bearing arms was forbidden by a wicked governor.
In the 6th of April 1870 my wife died and was buried near my two sons who had previously died.
I was appointed by president Jacob Gates to reside over the seventies of the Rockville Ward then consisting of four settlements, namely Rockville, Grafton, Shonesburg and Springdale. At the time of the localizing the quorums of seventies I was set apart under the direction of President Gates as one of the presidents of the nineth quorums of seventies with headquarters at Toquerville. I travled with Brothers Dodge and Savag from settlement to settlement to complete the organization of the quorums and to stir up the seventies by way of their duties and to prepare them for missionary labor. I performed some home missionary labor in the St. George Stake of Zion. When the United Order was organized I took great interest in laboring for the benefit of the community until the Order was dissolved. Soon after President Brigham H. Roberts counseled the old men of the Seventies to go into the High Priests Quorum. I obeyed the council and was ordained by Daniel Duncan McArthur. I have attended many conferences in St. George, attended conference in Salt Lake City at the time of the dedication of the temple on the 6th of April, 1893. I had previously attended the laying of the cornerstone of that great temple on the 6th of April 1853, just 40 years previous to the time of it's dedication. I attended a number of general conferences in Salt Lake previous to this time. I had the privilege of attending one celebration of the 24th of July, twenty miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon with President Young's party. I assisted what I was able to in building the St. George Temple, the Manti temple and also the Great Salt Lake Temple. I have spent a great deal of time and means, considering what little means I possessed, in gathering records, laboring for the benefit of the living and the redemption of the dead.
On the 6th day of Sept. 1902 I was ordained a Patriarch by Apostle Mathias F. Cowley. I have blessed up to date (Mar. 5th 1904) three hundred and one persons including all of my posterity that are still living excepting two little babies. I have been afflicted in many ways. My second wife wo had been sealed to me in the Endowment House in Salt Lake City on the 2nd. of Jan 1871 died 20 June 1902. On the 26th or 27th of April 1881 I was seized with a terrible pain in my right eye which continued to grow worse until I was nearly blind. On the first day of May I met Robert Picton at Rockville and started on the Home mission to travel around the Stakes. I suffered immensely with my head and eyes, could scarcely see anybody or anything but filled my mission. I did not miss one meeting and spoke to people on the principles of Tithing the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, for that was the mission given to us. I returned home on the 3rd of June. When I returned home I was in great misery but after two or three bottles of Ray Ways Ready Relief [Rawleigh's Readi-Relief ?] I got so I could do a little work. But I continued to suffer with my head and eye, my right eye going entirely blind and my left eye blind by spells until eight years ago this month when I became entirely blind to see no more in this life. I have come near to the brink of the grave a number of times but through fulfillment of promises of the Servants of God I have been able to do a considerable work in the temple and am still anxious to work in the temple. I have a great work before me which I would like to perform before I pass away, but oh how long shall I have to wait for help? I have labored from one day to eight weeks at a time as time would permit since the temple was opened for endowments. It has now been six months since I have been to the temple and I cannot go without assistance and my pleadings are in vain. I am now eighty-two years and about four months and would like to complete my work for the dead.
As Saviors on Mt. Zion we must redeem our dead.
They died without the Gospel, we labor in their stead.
And when we pass beyond the veil how our friends will meet us there,
As Saviors upon Mt. Zion, a crown we then shall wear.
Then come ah come, dear children, no more the work delay.
It is a glorious labor, a labor that will pay.
Oh let me no more plead in vain, your duties now fulfill.
Then come, oh come, dear children, you know the Master's will.
Samuel Kendall Gifford
Last year I made a blog about Samuel Kendall Gifford which linked to his Journal online.
Today I stumbled across another version of this journal which includes some new stuff not in the previous version including an explanation of how that version came to be typed up. (by Annie I. Matheson who is a second cousin to Dad):
In Explanation.
This Journal was rescued from a heap of rubbish that was to be burned so I feel that we are very fortunate to have it. I also feel it a great privilege to be the first to copy it from the original writing. It's like turning back the pages of the past and meeting my own great-grandfather. In the beginning of the Journal the writing is clear and legible but towards the last it was quite hard to read so the last part must have been written when his eye-sight was failing him. I have kept it in his own words but where the sentences run together I have broken them up a bit. Many words he spelled as they were pronounced such as spiret, discription, steemboat, prisner, staid for stayed, wheal for wheel and sence for sense but the rest are as written. He was a self-educated man so I think he did better than average. Where words are missing from the Journal is where the corners of the pages were worn off.
I was quite disappointed that such a fascinating Journal should break off so completely before it was finished so i wrote to different ones who remembered him to see if they could add more to the word picture of this wonderful man. I received a short biography of Samuel Kendall Gifford which was dictated by him to Hannah Jane Gifford Tuttle, a granddaughter. In order to avoid too much repetition I took excerps from it that I thought would add to the Journal. I also received information from an aunt, Fannie C. Gifford and my mother, Annie C. Isom. My mother also drew a picture of the Gifford Chair which I am enclosing herewith.
Annie I. Matheson
P.S. I was one of the tiny babies of the great grandchildren who was fortunate enough to receive a Patriarchal and Father's Blessing under the hands of this wonderful man.
Today I stumbled across another version of this journal which includes some new stuff not in the previous version including an explanation of how that version came to be typed up. (by Annie I. Matheson who is a second cousin to Dad):
In Explanation.
This Journal was rescued from a heap of rubbish that was to be burned so I feel that we are very fortunate to have it. I also feel it a great privilege to be the first to copy it from the original writing. It's like turning back the pages of the past and meeting my own great-grandfather. In the beginning of the Journal the writing is clear and legible but towards the last it was quite hard to read so the last part must have been written when his eye-sight was failing him. I have kept it in his own words but where the sentences run together I have broken them up a bit. Many words he spelled as they were pronounced such as spiret, discription, steemboat, prisner, staid for stayed, wheal for wheel and sence for sense but the rest are as written. He was a self-educated man so I think he did better than average. Where words are missing from the Journal is where the corners of the pages were worn off.
I was quite disappointed that such a fascinating Journal should break off so completely before it was finished so i wrote to different ones who remembered him to see if they could add more to the word picture of this wonderful man. I received a short biography of Samuel Kendall Gifford which was dictated by him to Hannah Jane Gifford Tuttle, a granddaughter. In order to avoid too much repetition I took excerps from it that I thought would add to the Journal. I also received information from an aunt, Fannie C. Gifford and my mother, Annie C. Isom. My mother also drew a picture of the Gifford Chair which I am enclosing herewith.
Annie I. Matheson
P.S. I was one of the tiny babies of the great grandchildren who was fortunate enough to receive a Patriarchal and Father's Blessing under the hands of this wonderful man.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
our little shepard
kleigh was in his first christmas pageant tonight and he played a shepard he hated his costume, but was cute none the less
Friday, December 18, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Christmas is on its way ....
Hi,Last year we talked about posting a Christmas Gift schedule (for those that may not know the rotation or have forgotten where we are). This might also be a good time to ask that you provide the person who has your family current addresses to send things.
This year's Rotation
Larry's family gives to Patti's family
Karen's family gives to Heidi's family
Jim's family gives to Larry's family
Linda's family gives to Karen's family
John's family gives to Jim's family
Bob's family gives to Linda's family
Patti's family gives to John's family
Heidi's family gives to Bob's family
The rotation for next year changes so the giver moves down one person, and of course the receiver moves up a person.
I would just like to say it is a tribute to our large family that after 30 years, this system still works. Enjoy the holiday season and don't let it the rush of commercialization take away this special time of year.
Of course, if I am wrong, please feel free to comment and correct me.
love ya all,
Linda, Dave and Sam
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Happy Day-after Thanksgiving
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We had a quiet one at home and timed our dinner so that Cade could participate with us for his first Thanksgiving. He had yams, cranberry and turkey!
Now for Christmas. Merry Christmas everyone!
Love,
Cherry, Ross & Cade
Now for Christmas. Merry Christmas everyone!Love,
Cherry, Ross & Cade
Friday, November 13, 2009
Dan and Elaine
Dan and Elaine announced their engagement via Facebook this morning.
Welcome to the family Elaine.
Let us know the dates.
Love Dad
Monday, November 9, 2009
Andy MTC comments
So my first couple of days have been a little... stressful and difficult, but also very fun. Right after you dropped me off I was guided throughout the MTC getting my tags, books, room, and other things. I really barely had time to think. I met my District the first day. A district contains all the missionaries in your class. Some are going to the Dominican Republic, Las vegas, Alaska, New Mexico, Chicago, Washington DC, and then me, Alabama. An elder is actually FROM Alabama, so I've been talking to him about how it is there. It makes me more excited to go haha. I might even experience tornadoes. Everybody seems to really love it here. As hard as it was for me at home to wake up early or go to bed early, it seems to be a lot easier here. Although I am very sleepy throughout the day and sometimes fall asleep during classes and meetings, I can still wake up around 630 everyday and do my morning routine. What else... oh, I have seen a lot of friends that i made back at BYU here. One of my neighbors here was actually one of my neighbors in my dorm at BYU. Oh, my Spanish? no bueno. It's harrrrd haha. But it's only been a couple days i guess.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Andy's Flute Farewell
Andy performed on his flute at his Nana's ward 3 weeks ago. Later that day, he performed again at his aunt's home where we could get a video of it. Enjoy the link from his Mom's family's blog.
Elder Chow: BAMS
Andy was set apart after church today with a very nice blessing from his Stake President and a very large retinue of family and friends listening in and providing love and support.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Picture of Brigham City Temple Site
New Temple Site in Brigham. This picture is from March 5, 2006
so there may be some major changes since then. Mom said the old playing field west of Central School had been built upon. Its still open in this picture.
so there may be some major changes since then. Mom said the old playing field west of Central School had been built upon. Its still open in this picture.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Central School
The LDS Church will build its recently announced Brigham City temple at 250 S. Main St., directly across the street west from the church's Brigham City Tabernacle.
When completed, it will bring the total of Utah temples to 14.
A great location and walking distance from home!!
When completed, it will bring the total of Utah temples to 14.
A great location and walking distance from home!!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Robert's Birthday
Happy belated birthday. Hopefully you had an enjoyable day. Someone with more blogging knowhow and/or time can add a picture.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Happy Birthday Dad
Dad with his dad and brothers. Happy Birthday. Patti is in charge of getting a recent photo uploaded.
Love Larry
Friday, October 9, 2009
Family Reunion 2010
I know it's very early to be talking details about the reunion but now that we are trying to combine with Uncle LeRoy and Aunt Mary's family, it takes a bit more logistical work. Ruth has contacted me to let me know it is actually her turn to host so I am now working out details with her. Here is what we have tentatively set so everyone is in the loop as well.
Mom and I decided that the weekend of July 24th would work best for her to be able to make it and since it's technically her turn to host, I want to make sure she's here. That would be Thursday through Sunday (the 22nd through the 25th.) Tentatively, this is what Mom and I discussed:
Is there anything else you would like more information about? Let me know and I can do a Q & A. We will also look into starting up a Reunion website of some sort as well.
~Cherry
Mom and I decided that the weekend of July 24th would work best for her to be able to make it and since it's technically her turn to host, I want to make sure she's here. That would be Thursday through Sunday (the 22nd through the 25th.) Tentatively, this is what Mom and I discussed:
- Thursday night: Big family dinner for those who can come in on Thursday
- Friday: Tourist activities on your own to include a) Crater Lake about an hour away, b) Central Point Temple about an hour and a half away, c) Lava Beds & Caves about an hour away, etc.
- Saturday: Family Reunion day. Thinking it would be fun to gather at a park for games and then a big lunch, then a putting challenge at the Running Y which is very family friendly and fairly cheap. Then dinner and (legal) fireworks most likely at our house in Klamath Falls.
- Sunday: People can return home or can go to church on their own. I could provide info later for those who want it.
Is there anything else you would like more information about? Let me know and I can do a Q & A. We will also look into starting up a Reunion website of some sort as well.
~Cherry
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Job Hunting
We just wanted to let everyone know that i found out today that i am being promoted. I start working at another Gamestop on Monday as the Assistant Store Manager.\
Kleigh
Kleigh
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Congratulations.. Brigham City
New temple for Brigham City.
Just in time. Now Mom and Dad can walk to the Temple. Any ideas where it will be located? The old Central School site?
President Monson said that there are 130 temples now operating, 16 already announced or under construction and five more announced today. So that means Brigham has a good chance of being #150 which would go well with Mom and Dad's record.
St. Louis #50
Boston #100
Brigham City ~#150
Just in time. Now Mom and Dad can walk to the Temple. Any ideas where it will be located? The old Central School site?
President Monson said that there are 130 temples now operating, 16 already announced or under construction and five more announced today. So that means Brigham has a good chance of being #150 which would go well with Mom and Dad's record.
St. Louis #50
Boston #100
Brigham City ~#150
Heritage of Faith
When we were back home last, Mom passed on to me this family Bible. It's available for anyone to see when you come and vist us. In case that's not practical, here are some photo's to help you feel the experience.
Friday, October 2, 2009
2010 Family Reunion
Hi Everyone,
I've had a couple conversations with mom's cousin Brenda (Stoddard) about the family reunion next year. (Uncle Roy's daughter.) She is in charge of their family reunion and thought it would be fun to combine the two groups. So far we have talked about still having it in Klamath Falls but the date is up for discussion. Would you prefer . . .
July 4th weekend
July 24th weekend
Please let me know so we can start getting things pinned down a bit better. Once we have decided on a weekend, I will start gathering all the information as to where people can stay, how much things cost and what kind of activities to plan. I know it's early, so for now we just want to get the date.
I've had a couple conversations with mom's cousin Brenda (Stoddard) about the family reunion next year. (Uncle Roy's daughter.) She is in charge of their family reunion and thought it would be fun to combine the two groups. So far we have talked about still having it in Klamath Falls but the date is up for discussion. Would you prefer . . .
July 4th weekend
July 24th weekend
Please let me know so we can start getting things pinned down a bit better. Once we have decided on a weekend, I will start gathering all the information as to where people can stay, how much things cost and what kind of activities to plan. I know it's early, so for now we just want to get the date.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
I know it's late but...
Just wanted to shout out a "Happy Anniversary" to Linda and Dave. It crossed my mind everytime I wrote the date.
Love ya guys!
Love ya guys!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Six Months Old
Cade turned six months old on Sunday.
He's sitting up really well . . .
And he's eatting fruits and veggies. Yummy, squash!
He's sitting up really well . . .
And he's eatting fruits and veggies. Yummy, squash!
Friday, September 4, 2009
prayers are needed
some of you may have seen my post on facebook. its jenn kcs wife. my dad passed away last night.
hes been very sick since 2006 or a little earlier. ever since he broke his hip and pelvis its been down hill struggle. he is with his savior now nd that does give me much peace.
also keep my cousin in your prayers she tried to take her life a few weeks ago. and then collapsed yesterday and is in the hospital
hes been very sick since 2006 or a little earlier. ever since he broke his hip and pelvis its been down hill struggle. he is with his savior now nd that does give me much peace.
also keep my cousin in your prayers she tried to take her life a few weeks ago. and then collapsed yesterday and is in the hospital
Happy Birthday Dan
It was great to see you in Utah. Hope you are enjoying the East Coast and that all your dreams are coming true.
Love Dad
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Happy Birthday Mom
Always young at heart.
Hopefully some others will add to the blog.
Perhaps some more recent pictures?
Have a great birthday.
Love Larry
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Kleigh's New Glasses
Just so that everyone is aware, Kleigh got glasses yesterday. Here is a picture of him.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Family Reunion 2010?
Are Jim and Carla hosting next year's family reunion? I was thinking it was Linda's turn (and we were going to do it for her.) Just trying to tentatively plan ahead.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Back to the beginning !!
This didn't work right, so copy and paste this string into a browser:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=embed&saddr=Lauderdale+AL&daddr=Lowryville+Tn&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=34.996254,-87.963409&sspn=0.65361,1.053314&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=34.98153,-87.88075&spn=0.326865,0.526657&z=11
Point A is Lauderdale Alabama, the birthplace of Solomon Joseph Despain (Mom's great grandfather) in 1823. Point B is Lowryville Tennessee, the birthplace of Solon Huff McGee (Dad's grandfather)in 1853. Both moved their families west and joined the church. Interesting that these locations are within 40 miles of each other.
What else do these points have in common? They are both within the mission boundaries of Andy's call to the Birmingham Alabama Mission- Spanish Speaking.
Congratulations Andy. Some good people come from this part of the country.
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=embed&saddr=Lauderdale+AL&daddr=Lowryville+Tn&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=34.996254,-87.963409&sspn=0.65361,1.053314&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=34.98153,-87.88075&spn=0.326865,0.526657&z=11
Point A is Lauderdale Alabama, the birthplace of Solomon Joseph Despain (Mom's great grandfather) in 1823. Point B is Lowryville Tennessee, the birthplace of Solon Huff McGee (Dad's grandfather)in 1853. Both moved their families west and joined the church. Interesting that these locations are within 40 miles of each other.
What else do these points have in common? They are both within the mission boundaries of Andy's call to the Birmingham Alabama Mission- Spanish Speaking.
Congratulations Andy. Some good people come from this part of the country.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Thanks Monte and Heidi
The McGee Family Reunion held at Monte and Heidi's cabin. Rachel A has a nice post with more pictures.
The location was 5 miles off the paved road with the last one mile nearly straight up the side of the mountain with a path reminiscent of a road. If it had rained during our stay it would have been a disaster, so there was much prayer going on. Monte's brother called early Saturday morning to warn us of all the heavy rain along the Wasatch front, but while the thunder and lightening passed around us, we had hardly any rain and the roads stayed safe and passable. The count this year was about 33, although some people left before the last people arrived. The Saturday dinner was great with ham and turkey cooked by the experts Jim and Monte.
Highlight for us was Dan coming from Philadelphia with his friend Elaine who nearly won the overall Horseshoe competition.
Of course one other miracle was that Melody was able to attend a short 4 weeks after her open heart surgery. She also made a great showing in the horse shoe competition and gave no indication that she had any physical limitations. Of course she had a priesthood blessing before her surgery.
Please add pictures and your own comments to help document your experience this year.
Thanks again Monte and Heidi for hosting.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Family Pictures
Aunt Myrna sent me some more Family History. In looking through I found a few new pictures I hadn't seen before. This is a family portrait of Samuel Kendall Gifford and his family. We had individuals cut from this picture but this has them in context.
Front Row: left to right: Samuel Kendall Gifford (GG Grandfather); Ursula Curtis Gifford (2nd wife); Cornelia Gifford; Alpheus Gifford (our GGrandfather)
Back Row: Oliver DeMille Gifford, Lora Ann Gifford, Freeborn DeMille Gifford, Adelia Mariah Gifford, Moses Elias Gifford. Picture probably taken in the late 1880's or 1890's as the youngest shown here with a moustache was born in 1869.
John A Maynes and his wife Selina J Maynes
I am learning how to use Google Clips: You can click on the picture to see the whole article.
From the LDS Biographical Encyclopedia
From the LDS Biographical Encyclopedia
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Seems like Yesterday
Happy Anniversary Michele!
10 years. Sure went by fast. You make life very happy.
Thanks for sharing.
Love Larry
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
McGee Family Reunion Aug 14th-16th
Here are Monty and Heidi's official directions to the cabin (may be similar to mapquest minus the balloons)
- Head south on I-15
- Take Exit 258
- Head east on US 89
- Join onto US 6
- Head east to Price
- Go 57.5 miles
- Turn left at Highway 191
- (Call Monty 801-668-6614 or Heidi 801-668-6614 and Monty will meet you at the last balloon and lead you the rest of the way. We have good service, but in case he doesn't answer, leave a message with the time you're calling and where you are.)
- Go 15.2 miles
- At the top of the summit, Exit onto the dirt road, You will see balloons.
- Follow the balloons until the last balloon says stop
- If you've passed the sign that says Ashley National Forest, you've gone too far.
Here are some pictures of where you'll be staying.
Monty and I will be leaving Saturday Aug. 8th and staying until Sunday Aug. 16th. Those of you that want to come up are welcome. Just bring what you want to eat before our dinner on Friday night.
Now for the official schedule. (Food will be provided unless your name is listed to bring something.) Remember there is a $10 fee for families and $5 fee for singles to help cover the cost of food. :)
Friday Night Dinner 6:00 p.m.
Hamburgers, Hot dogs, Chips, Smores
Potato Salad(Betsy)
Fruit Salad (Carla)
Caesar Salad (Catie)
Saturday Morning Breakfast 8:00 a.m.
Pancakes, Bacon, Sausage, Eggs, Hashbrowns
Saturday Games 9:00 a.m.
Scavenger Hunt
Crafts for all
Horseshoes
Potato Sack Race/3 legged race/Suitcase race
Candy Bar Game
Card Games
Volleyball/Water balloon Volleyball
Croquet
Saturday Lunch 2:00 p.m.
Turkey
Ham
Stuffing
Corn on the cob
Rolls
Peach Cobbler (Jim)
Cherry Cheesecake (Mom/Grandma)
Green Salad (Betsy)
Pasta Salad (Catie)
Jello Salad
Family Games 3:00 p.m.
Skit in a bag
Mafia
Saturday Dinner 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Hot Dogs
Smores
We have located extra tents and sleeping bags. If you will not be bringing your own, please let us know what you need.
Speaking of 'Over the Hill'
We're looking to find the location of the Family Reunion. Heidi told me Sunday she'd put a link up on the Blog so we could look for it ourselves, but still no word from her. The closest I can figure out is that it is somewhere off of this road. Heidi and Monte, can you point us closer?
Where is Monte and Heidi's cabin?
Dan will be flying in late Friday from Philadelphia so we want to have driving directions all figured out before we go.
Thanks for your help.
Larry
Where is Monte and Heidi's cabin?
Dan will be flying in late Friday from Philadelphia so we want to have driving directions all figured out before we go.
Thanks for your help.
Larry
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Today is Dad's 50th Birthday. We just wanted to wish him a happy birthday. This picture is from my trip to Alaska. I think he would rather i used this one than the one with the pink apron. Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Happy Birthday
William, son of Jesse and Laura; brother to Whitney.
Born Wednesday 29 July 2009 at about 3pm MDT in Denver.
8 lbs 9 oz.
21.5 inches.
Congratulations to all.
Facebook message:
Jesse watched Laura make a baby boy (Will). Just before 3pm, 8 lb 9 oz, 21.5 inches. Cord got wrapped around his neck right at the end and his heart rate plummeted, suddenly doctors and nurses were swarming everywhere, but in the end everything went okay.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Congratulations
Just checking to see if I could make the picture easier to see. Congratulations and best wishes for many more.
7 Years
Well for anyone that isn't aware, Jennifer and I are celebrating our Wedding Anniversary today. We were married 7 years ago today. Sorry for how small the picture is. This is one of the few pictures that we have of us together.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Once again . . . about the reunion
So, I still have not heard from everyone about the reunion. Check out my previous post and please comment on this one if you haven't already responded. Time is really running out! I don't know what is going on by way of plans since I am not in Utah, but here are the tallys for people:
YES (sorry if I misspell names, I don't see your names enough in writing to remember the correct spelling)
Josh, Catie, and Benjamin
Brittney
Larry and Katie (?)
Rachel
Elizabeth
Sara
Rebecca (?)
Adam, Betsy, and Daniel
Monty, Heidi, Noelle and Carson
NO
Frank and Patti
Kleigh, Jenn, and Kleigh Jr.
Michele, Melody, and Andy (?)
MAYBE
Ross and Cherry
Also, Brittney said that her parents have a lot of things, but we don't have any specific numbers, so we don't know what we still need for those who are coming. Please respond no matter what your answer is, we really need to know!
P.S. I think we will be collecting the money when you get here . . . but I don't really know.
I look forward to seeing those of you who will be there! This may be the last McGee family reunion that I get to go to!
YES (sorry if I misspell names, I don't see your names enough in writing to remember the correct spelling)
Josh, Catie, and Benjamin
Brittney
Larry and Katie (?)
Rachel
Elizabeth
Sara
Rebecca (?)
Adam, Betsy, and Daniel
Monty, Heidi, Noelle and Carson
NO
Frank and Patti
Kleigh, Jenn, and Kleigh Jr.
Michele, Melody, and Andy (?)
MAYBE
Ross and Cherry
Also, Brittney said that her parents have a lot of things, but we don't have any specific numbers, so we don't know what we still need for those who are coming. Please respond no matter what your answer is, we really need to know!
P.S. I think we will be collecting the money when you get here . . . but I don't really know.
I look forward to seeing those of you who will be there! This may be the last McGee family reunion that I get to go to!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Happy Birthday(s)!!
Happy Birthday Mom/Linda! The big 5-0!!!
This photo was taken while she was being "Grandma".
Happy Birthday Laura!
This photo was stolen off of her facebook. = )
This photo was taken while she was being "Grandma".Happy Birthday Laura!
This photo was stolen off of her facebook. = )
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