Complicated date‏

AnnMarie wrote: I don't know if anyone can help me.  I have to work for Jared June 7, 8, and 9.  Rachel's dance recital is on June 7 at 6:00 at UVU.  I had asked them to make the rehersal at 4:00 or later so she could attend.  They told me that it will be at 10:00 am on that day.  There is no human way for me to be there -- court is so full d(with all the drug preliminary hearings) and I was already stressed just trying to figure out how to have her there at 5:30.  Alyssa will be finishing up driver's ed at THS at 10 am so she can't help, Megan will be finishing band practice at 9:30 am but is not able to get Rachel there, and Kyle will be going to driver's ed. class.  Brandon cannot take any time off.  I have no idea what to do.  Will you be at county commission or something on that day?  I know you will have articles to write.  Just let me know.

 

Alyssa will watch Matthew and Rachel this week for me so I don't need help from anyone.  But next week is another question.

 

Sorry,

AnnMarie

Myrna wrote: We will be home June 6. The meeting is that day--June 6--and so we should be OK. I have a meeting on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. but I will be free in the morning. I would like to attend her recital. In fact, we could handle the p.m. and Dad, of course, is completely free.

AnnMarie wrote: If he could be here at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday then I will leave for court.  Megan is done with band at THS at 9:30 am.  He would need to take Rachel and Matthew with him (leave my house at 9:15), pick Megan up and take them out to UVU's Ragan Theater for the 10:00 am call time.  Megan can help Rachel with the rehearsal from 10:00 to 10:45.  Then he would take them all back to the house.  He could go run errands or do whatever he needs to do until 5:15.  Megan and Alyssa will get Rachel's hair and makeup done and then he could take all of them out to the theater.  The girls can take her to her group and then they can wait to be seated.  I will leave the tickets with them.

 

I am sorry it is crazy.  I had hoped they would accommodate me since I am their longest-time customer.  Brandon can't take any time off since he does for Matthew's games and will have to for youth conference since I now have to cover all of Jared's court for June.

Myrna wrote: It works!

 

EXTRAordinary

This week I was reflecting more on the word extraordinary and what it truly means to be extraordinary. As you can all tell I was also thinking about it last week, but I hadn't quite finished processing the whole subject. I have been blessed with the opportunity to befriend two absolutely fantastic missionaries here in my mission, they also happen to be in the same zone as me right now. Both of these missionaries happened to be Mission Financiers here in the North Mission and both are finishing their time in thier missions here in the Puerto Cabezas Zone. Last night I was discussing to them some of the superfluous culturistic things that exist within our mission, mainly the constant belief that good missionaries baptize lots of people.

While I do recognize that good missionaries can baptize lots of people, I would like that bad missionaries can baptize lots of people and good missionaries can baptize, just not quite as many people. This used to bug me quite a bit. To be honest. But last night I was able to discusses this blatent problem with such successful and fantastic missionaries. While talking I realized something. After my mission, such numbers won't matter; rather after my mission the names of those I baptize will matter. Their eternal progression will matter. As long as I work my hardest and I baptize, I am completing what the Lord expects/requires of me, as well as what is expected of me from my mission president. However, the number is not particularly important. My successes are measured by me and the Lord, nobody else is important.

A few days ago I was listening to an address given by Sister Holland to the BYU Student Body years ago. In her address she spoke about being the best you, or me. We are all a piece of fabric in a tapestry and each one of us significance and importance in the eyes of the master weavers that are our Heavenly Parents. At times we believe that our color is not pretty, magnificent, or whatever, or that from our view the tapestry is not as attractive as we would like it to be. Our view is limited. Our perspective of ourselves is skewed by our views of others and the comparisons we make between the two parties. Yet, in the end, the tapestry is marvellous. It is spectacular. Every piece is extraordinary and plays its part in the piece. We need to play our part, make our hue, our color stand out. We are all different, we all have a purpose that the Master Weaver knows and sees, yet at times we cannot see our part nor can we understand the role that we have. 

Anyway, at the end of her address she spoke out about comparing ourselves with others. She used a fantastic example of comparisons. She spoke about prophets of the Old Testament. She stated that each prophet had a specific mission here on the earth. I then realized that you cannot take prophets and compare one to another and say something like "Well, Moses was a better prophet than Abraham..." etc. Thus we do not have the need, nor should we compare ourselves to others. We each have our own role, our own color. We should not limit our own vision, we should look higher. Quite amazing.

This week I realized something quite interesting. I am extraordinary. I am unique. I am my own hue, color, piece in the tapestry. I know that I am different from others, but I still want my color to stand out. That is why I am developing myself more. I am fixing my imperfections, improving my quality, and becoming the beautiful shade that I am meant to be so that when I am able to look back at the tapestry I can recognize myself and see that I became the beautiful blue, the rich mohogany, or magificent green that I was supposed to be. I know who I am, I know that God has a plan for me and I will follow Him in faith. I am working hard (and I have not gotten sick this week!), I am loving the people that I am serving and I am so excited for the future of my area, for my future companions, etc.

I love you all. I hope that you all know that I think that you all are Extraordinary Children Of God. Heirs to a King. Imagine that! I hope that you all have a wonderful week this week! Be positive, be happy and make good choices. Pray hard, serve harder.

Love,
Elder B

Thanks from Alyce

Alyce Childs wrote:

Myrna, can you please forward this to all of your kids for us?  Thank you and we love you.

Thank you so much for everything that you have done for us. We love you just as much as Garth did and does.  We are blessed to have you all in our lives.  We hope that each of you are doing well and that we will see you soon. Love always.   Alyce and kids.


Myrna wrote: We love you and we always will! Let us know if there is anything more we can do. We will see you soon.

From Toni About Cancer

I had another nuclear bone scan this last Monday & just got the results yesterday.  The bottom line says...

"No new lesion per se is identified on this exam, although some of the lesions appear more intense compared to the prior exam & are concerning for interval worsening of the metastatic disease".

CRAP! Don't like that very much!  My oncologist just called & said he has decided to double the dosage of my monthly injection of Faslodex, which is just an estrogen killer like my daily pill is also.
So......on we go...but it scares me.

Happy Memorial Day!
Love & hugs, Toni/Mom


Myrna wrote: Yes, it does sound scary but you seem to be doing very well. We will just pray that you live a long life and fool all of the doctors. One of these days the researchers are going to figure out a cure. I just pray it is soon enough to help.

Flowers for Springville for Memorial Day

Myrna wrote: Would one of you put some flowers on my mother's, grandmother's and grandfather's grave in Springville? Thanks! It doesn't have to be expensive.


AnnMarie wrote: I was planning on going there on Sunday like we normally do when you are here.  I will try to find some nice flowers and will clean them up like you would.
AnnMarie

Myrna wrote: Thank you! I am so thankful that I have your help. Auntie Helen is doing the Trauntvein graves.

Shawn wrote: Thanks. I have been a bit swamped with the move.

From Barb McGee

Barb McGee wrote: Send me a copy of his full name, death date, and parents, so we can put it on our Petty site.  Sorry about your loss. Barb

Myrna wrote: Thank you. I am sending the full obituary, including the photo.

Heads Up!

Myrna wrote:

AnnMarie, Julie is wanting to call you to help out with her girls on Friday. She is hesitant to do so. I told her to try you and see. She has a Dr. appointment to check her healing. I think that will be difficult with three little girls and a baby. Maybe you could find time to call her and see if your schedules can mesh. I don't know if that is possible or not.

Love you!

Toren's Sixth Grade Graduation

Kimberly wrote: Toren’s 6th Grade Graduation is Thursday at 7:15pm.  It’s a small affair.  Just his class, so 15 minutes, says the teacher.

I know there is a lot going on this week already.  Maybe a phone call to let him know you know, would be much appreciated.

Myrna wrote: We will certainly try! Tell him congratulations!! I will get him a card.

We Are Going Again/Also Toren Class Graduation

Myrna wrote: We will be away from home again for the next two weeks. We fly out tomorrow a.m. (Wednesday) and will not be back in Nephi until June 6. We are going to Todd's for Michael's graduation in Ohio and then we are going to Melanie's for Ben's graduation in Massachusetts. 

You may contact us at this email address.

My cell phone number is (435) 469-0373.

Thank you!


Kimberly wrote: Have a great time!

Toren’s mini graduation is this Thursday at 7:15 p.m..  It’s only his class, so it’s short—teacher says 15 mins.  I just found out last week, but I knew you were leaving.  But just a heads up, so you know I told you. J


Lyla Spencer wrote:

Hi Myrna,
Sorry about your cousin, I ment to tell you tonight.  Hope you have a wonderful visit with your family, enjoy every minute of it and please be safe.  Let me know how it goes.  I was good to see you at the meeting and will miss you, you do a wonderful job at reporting no matter what our lame council says!!

Take care and I will see you in June.
Love ya, Lyla

Easy Come

Myrna wrote: I no longer have text messaging on my phone. Jim cancelled it because he thought it was too expensive for our family bundle with AT&T.


Melanie wrote: Well...it was good for me while it lasted. Tell him thank you. I needed it last week. Melanie

Myrna wrote: So did I! He found out that it costs 20-cents per text plus the monthly fee.


Kirsten wrote: You just have to have a "texting" plan, so that there's not a per text fee.

Kirsten

Myrna wrote: Guess what? There was a monthly fee AND a texting fee. We are locked into the contract until this fall.


Todd wrote: I don't know that Kirsten wanted you to reply to all. Texting is an add-on for plans and can be added, removed at any time. It is typically bundled. That is what we did with ours. You can reply to all with this, but I prefer you do not. Jim is wonderful to have a plan and include you in it.

http://www.wireless.att.com/answer-center/main.jsp?t=solutionTab&ft=searchTab&ps=solutionPanels&locale=en_US&_dyncharset=UTF-8&solutionId=53572

Myrna wrote: I wanted you ALL to know that we have a stupid plan. Jim can't wait to change it. There are only two plans available in Mt. Pleasant. We had a good plan, Altell, but they were bought out.

Tribute to Garth

TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2011

Tribute to Garth

At the conclusion of the funeral for Garth L Childs, in Huntington on Thursday, May 19, I was grateful for many the many comments made from the pulpit and from those who came to his viewing and funeral as they shared their thoughts as we gathered to celebrate his life.

I for one, was particularly grateful that I had grown up thinking of him as brother and that he allowed me to be "Big sister" though we were only first cousins. I was happy to have been a small part of his earthly life and to have the happy memories that I do. He was so beloved by me, my husband and my children. He was greatly loved by his family and his community. A large group of people who were family and friends gathered and others, who could not be in attendance, sent messages of love and condolence.

I am grateful for his example. He has been a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

I am grateful for his service to his God, his country, and to his fellowmen. He is a man who knew how to love. He has always been willing to volunteer his time and efforts to help others. I am grateful for his example of what it means to be a dedicated servant and of what it means to live a Christ-like life.

As pain became his physical companion, his spirit became ever stronger. I appreciate his example of enduring faithful to the end. He was always a kind and gentle soul and he became more so.

We are grateful for the lessons he taught us. He lived life and his personal relationships and taught us to do the same. He never asked, "What can others do for me?" but, "What can I do for others?" He loved the beauty of the world and, through his eyes, we saw that beauty.

He taught us what it means to be happily married and what it means to cherish and be cherished by a companion.

He was a father to be grateful for and a grandfather to cuddle.

Thought we will miss him, we would not have him suffer more pain. He has been through the refiner's fire.

We ask only that we remember and cherish all the happy days we spent together. We ask, in particular, that our Father in Heaven will help us to live our lives in such a way that we may be with him when our lives end. We ask that we may be helped to follow his example and to be worthy to live with him in eternity.

How thankful I am for the plan of salvation that sent our Savior to this earth to die for each of us that we may be forgiven of our sins and once again to live with our Father, our Savior and our loved ones for all eternity

One Year! Huh?!

This week I hit a year on my mission. SO WEIRD. Honestly. When I got here to Puerto Cabezas about 11 months ago I never thought that this day would come (I think that back then I was going to die on my mission rather than going home at the end of it). The funniest thing of all is that I still feel like it was yesterday that I got here. I can remember getting set apart, going to the airport and all as if it were yesterday. Totally bizarre for me.

This week I got SO sick. It was the first time in my entire mission that I felt that sick. I call the mission nurse and she told me that she thinks that I have gastritis. I have to be careful about eating spicy foods, lots of onions, etc. I also have to take this pill for like a month! So annoying to try and remember it. I did still go out and work that day. I didn't work a LOT but I did do what I needed to do in order to help out people in my area. It was awful though. I also got very sunburned, so naturally I am very tan right now.

While I was sick I received some rather cool revelation for my life that I think some of you might enjoy. I hope that this helps out some of you who may be thinking that you are just "normal" or "average" and that you aren't that unique. First of all, get sick. Just kidding. But really, being sick always makes me super humble and makes me reflect more on divine help and inspiration. Okay, so step one should always be to read your Patriarchal Blessing. This opens up the means of communication between our Heavenly Father and our hearts and minds, so if we read and ponder on the words therein, we will be able to have heaven's inspiration ever close. Step two is to study things out in our minds. Sometimes we think about something for like 5 minutes, come to a conclusion and then decide that's best. No. That's not how it works. You study it out, ask Father for confirmation on the ideas, thoughts and feelings that you receive and then you act. So that brings us to step 3, ACT. Do something about the revelation or inspiration you receive. If it is personal revelation for a problem, trial or dificulty in your life, GO WRITE IT DOWN. Save such things in a very sacred place and review them at times.

Okay, that brings us to what I was trying to say like one paragraph ago. If you a are feeling average, think for a while. Do you really think that you are where you are in your life because of mediocracy. If the answer is yes, start acting differently. Be the person you can be. Recognize that you have divine potential and act on it. Do something to prove to others that you can and will be your own you. I am Elder Braden D. Bolton. I have a different mission than my companion on this earth, I have a different mission from my family members on this earth. Some of us may be called to do similar things (i.e. be parents, hold Church callings, be spouses, be employees, etc), yet each one of us has the opportunity to be our own me. This kinda sounds like dribble right now, but this is how I feel and what I want to express to you right now.

We are all different. We all have varied potential on this earth, but our divine potential is all the same. We are all born to be Kings and Queens. We need to recognize that and prepare ourselves to be such. I teach this principle to others on a constant basis, and it always astounds me how much of an impact it can have on someone. We need to recognize this and apply it to our lives. We need to be better, live up to our potential and become the Princes and Princesses we are meant to be on this earth.

Well, I love you all and wish you happiness and success in your lives this week. 

Love,
Elder B

Re: Yes, we still love you!

I am so sorry grandma, I was reading the emails that you sent me and trying to think about what I could possibly say to you.

I know that Uncle Garth is enjoying his rest now, that he has passed his test and that he is enjoying the rest that the souls of the just enjoy when they have lived righteously on this earth. The pain of those passing from this earth is fleeting and will be swallowed up by the knowledge that he was a great man, that he did his part, he was true and faithful, a great example to all those around him.

I am truly sorry grandma that such a great friend and a companion has been lost to you lately. I know how it feels to be close to someone and have them taken from you very abruptly. It hurts. But, the best thing is that after a little bit of time, the wound gets better. These times are somewhat like scars: they may look a little bit harsh at first, but when one truly thinks about the experience that led to the scar, one remembers the miracle that is healing. When we look at our scars, we remember the pain, but at the same time we remember that we have gotten stronger because of such and experience.

I love you grammy. So does your Heavenly Father. Turn this trial over to him and you will be lifted up and feel stronger than before.

Love,
Braden

On Mon, May 23, 2011 at 4:11 AM, L H and Myrna Trauntvein wrote:

This has been a wild week. My brother/cousin was buried on Thursday. I said the closing prayer at the services and Grandpa dedicated the grave. We have been staying with Julie and trying to help out. Your Mom had surgery and so did Aunt Amy J (Eric's). On top of all of that, the made 27 drug dealer arrests in Nephi. 

We did want you to know that we STILL love you, pray for you and care about all you are doing.

About Liberty Jail from Eva

 Eva wrote: Liberty Jail is a lesson to us.

I learned a lot from this video, and hope you will find it - at the very least, interesting.
Love,
Jim Price

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSsUAzUF8V4&feature=player_embedded

The painting: Joseph Smith’s “Windows” at Liberty Jail by  Andrew Knaupp.
"Windows at Liberty" is a unique painting of the Prophet Joseph Smith's experience in Liberty Jail by Andrew Knaupp. To learn more about Andrew Knaupp, please visit http://www.artbyandrewk.com

Eva Wrote

Dear Myrna, You did a great job writing his obit.  He would have been proud of you.   May you be blessed with peace.  Love you,   Eva

Where We Are At

Myrna wrote: We are at Julie's. Please call there. Or call my cell. Or e-mail.


Lyla Spencer wrote:
Thanks Myrna,
Congrats on your new gradson, hope he is doing well.  Please enjoy yourself, hope to see you at our next meeting.
Love ya!!


Blaine Malquist wrote: Just thought I would give you an update on what is happening with the Mosquito spraying.  Juab County was served with a notice of claim this morning.  We have been told not to comment further at this time.  We are going to a funeral tomorrow for a dear friend Nellie Alkire.  She was 100 years old on May 1, 2011 and still mentally going strong, although she was unable to walk.  She served with Sr. Pinegar at the Mt. Timpanogas temple until she was 92.  She died two weeks after her birthday.  When we are able we will let you know more.  Thank you for all you have done for us and the work you do keeping all of us informed.  Blaine.

Myrna wrote: I used your quote about not being quoted. Thanks.

Graduation Money is Written Down

Myrna wrote: How much did we give Brigitta for graduation? I cannot find the record I was keeping but I did the same for Siovhan and Braden. Now I have Michael and Ben. Of course, I am at Julie's and have not been home but I did a search before we came. You can text me.

Shawn wrote: I do not remember. Maybe Kimberly does.

Kimberly wrote: I think it was 50, but I am not positive.

Myrna wrote: It was $100. I found my records. I had it in my address book. Dad remembered that I put it there.


Shawn wrote: Thanks. I was not sure I actually heard how much you gave her, although I knew you had done so.

From Denise

Denise Allen wrote:
I really enjoyed your letter, And when I went and seen Garth in the hospital it
brought back so many memoires that I had put away. But he is with his mother
and Richard and now she has two of her sons with her. What a great reunion that
must have been if only we could see it.  love you and see you thursday, Denise


Myrna wrote: I know that was very difficult for you. I think my Grandmother was also there and, I believe, that Baby Girl is having a great time getting to know her brothers.

Flowers for Garth

Leonard wrote: We will buy flowers from our family. None of you need to worry about it.

Myrna wrote: Dad says he did not mean that none of you could contribute to the funeral flower fund. He just meant that I was to tell you that, if you wanted to and if you could, you could contribute but we would do it from all of the family at any rate. I was thinking a $50 spray, because I know he will have many flowers from many groups. Then I was thinking that we could give Alyce $50 in addition to help with the funeral expenses. In our family, we used the money, in the past, to help pay for the gravestone.

Todd was thinking that we should do a $100 funeral flower arrangement.


Amy J wrote: Whatever you feel is best will be great with us.  Let us know how much you need from us, $20, 30, 50.  Let me know.

Amy


Kirsten wrote: I think there are enough of us, we could get a nice spray and have some money leftover. Yes? I know we would like to contribute either way. How are their medical expenses? Do they absolve them because of death or are they left paying for them?

Kirsten


Kimberly wrote: In Utah, the spouse is responsible for uncovered medical charges.

Kimberly


Kirsten wrote: Mom, does she have a fund set up to help with expenses? That might be an easy way to contribute...

Kirsten

Garth L. Childs

Garth L. Childs

HUNTINGTON-Garth L. Childs, age 67, returned to Heavenly Father on May 15, 2011 in Price, Utah. He was born March 10, 1944 in Price, Utah to Max L. and Vivian Renee Smith Childs. He was sealed to Alyce Grace Geary on June 18, 1971 in the Manti Temple.

Garth graduated from North Emery High School and also attended two years at College of Eastern Utah. He served an honorable mission in the Hill Cumorah Mission in New York and Pennsylvania. He also served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War from 1964-1968 and served with the Utah National Guard during Desert Storm from Jan. 24, 1991-June 18, 1991. He was an EMT for more than 20 years with the Huntington Volunteer Fire Dept. where he worked for more than 35 years and became Fire Chief before retirement. He was a member of the Emery County Jeep Posse and the Utah Army National Guard. He served in the church as a Boy Scout Leader, a Stake Mission President, Elders Quorum President, Counselor in the Bishopric, Young Men's President and on the Stake High Council. Garth had worked for the Emery County School District, and also was a member of the American Legion and the Mine Rescue Team. He was named as Emery County "Person of the Year" in 1998, and Tri State Rocky Mtn. "Man of the Year" in 2002. Most importantly he was a good husband, father, grandfather, and servant of the Lord who endured to the end.

Garth is survived by his beloved wife Alyce Childs of Huntington, his four children: Kimberly Anne and Shayne Monson of Kingman, Ariz., Kristine Kate and David Bird of Huntington, Utah, Kevin Jeremiah M. Childs of Gresham, Ore., Kalvin David and April Childs of Washington, Utah, three grandsons, Kameron Monson, Derek Childs, and Connor Childs and four granddaughters, Kaira Monson, Grace Childs, Desiree Childs, and Kadrianne Bird. Garth is also survived by his brother, David and Kim Childs of Tacoma, Wash., his sister Myrna and Leonard Trauntvein of Nephi, Utah, and a sister-in-law Denise Allen of Emery, Utah. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Richard Childs, and an infant sister.

Friends may call for a visitation at the Heritage Funeral Home at 620 N. Main St. in Huntington on Wednesday May 18, 2011 from 6-8 pm. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the Huntington Stake Center on 100 North Main Street in Huntington. Burial with military honors from the Huntington American Legion will follow in the Huntington City Cemetery under the trusted care of the Heritage Funeral Home.

Friends may sign the guest book for the family on line at www.heritagefuneralhomeut.com. 

From Helen

Dearest Myrna and Tim: thank you for your e-mail. Please know you have my deepest regards at this very tender time. The sojourn of a soul to the Spirit World always leaves such a lonesomeness, filled with gratitude, love appreciation and a deep sigh of " Oh, my word, my very word, just for now."

Thank you for the information about Julie and baby Jens, pray all is well. Have called several times at your home,  and then realize you folks are probably staying in Mt. Pleasant caring for the grandchildren.

Do want to let you know also, Tim, I am going to do decorating of all the graves this year- already have the flowers, and plan on doing the round trip on Thursday the 26th May- am also taking flowers, from Claire, for her graves in Manti.

Pray all is going well for the rest of the family- Again deepest love and regards. What a comfort comes from the  principle of the gospel expressed in The Doctrine and Covenants Section 130:1-2.
Love to all-  Helen, Aunt Helen.
Anything I can do please let me know. Thanks.

From Eva

My Dear Myrna,

 I am so sorry for your loss.  I can only imagine the pain you surely feel.  My only experience with losing a sibling doesn't really count.  I have always felt a loss at never having known my oldest brother, one day in the not too distant future, I will finally get to be with Jimmy. You know your brother. I still have the pleasure of knowing what mine looks like ahead of me; like Dick, Tim or maybe my uncle Neldon who I also never knew except from his 14 year old picture we always had on our wall  May God bless you with comfort and peace.  I love you,  Eva

From Toni

Toni wrote: I'm so sorry for your loss Myrna.  It sounds like you had a wonderful childhood full of fun & laughter with your 'brothers'.  I envy that. Focus on all the good memories...... Love you, Toni

Thanks for Letting Me Know from Raymond Smith

Raymond and Karen Smith wrote: Thank You For letting me know!

I can only remember meeting my cousins Garth and brothers, once. That is the only time I can remember meeting Renee and her husband.

I have a son and his family who have live in Western Colorado for about six years. For seven years they lived in Wichita Kansas with about four years between in Florida. We have gone through Price many times to visit them in Colorado and a few times when they were in Kansas.
I think I still have family in the area but I don't know for sure and I don't their names. I often think about them and think about you growing up in that area and wonder where you lived.
You came to visit is many times but we never went here to visit you. That I remember.
My son is being transferred to Denver so I wont be going that direction very much any more.

I worked with a man that moved here from Price. Lowell Hansen, who said his best friends in Price were my cousins. He know them better than I did.
                                 Ray Smith

Myrna wrote: You did come to visit us a few times. Your folks came when we needed them for priesthood blessings and other important family matters. Garth and Alyce Childs lived in Huntington. They have a son in St. George, a son in Washington state, a daughter in Arizona and a daughter in Huntington. She (Kate) and her husband, David Bird live just through the block from Garth and Alyce. Cousin Richard is buried in Ferron Cemetery. His wife is remarried. They have a son in Price and one in Cedar City and a daughter in Ferron. Cousin David lives in Washington State and is married but only has step-children.

Yes, Lowell would know them. He knew my father as well.

We have a daughter, Kirsten Waite, who lives in Colorado Springs.

We are sorry

Dearest Myrna,   We are so sorry about Garth.  I knew he has had some issues with the cancer for sometime.  I had assumed he had some success with his treatment!  Dad told me of his illness sometime ago and that his wife had breast cancer as well.   Where does his wife and family live at this time?  If you have further details of where  I can send flowers or a card please let me know.  You are so close I see this now.  Know that we send our sincere sympathy to you at this time.  Often wondered if David continued living in their home in Emery County?   We would stop at their place sometimes when going camping or fishing and visit.   I remember Garth to be older and Richard my age.  Remember Dad always close to Renee and Max, even after Max was in the nursing home he would still go visit him.  What is David doing by now?  Tell me of their families.  Your loving sister,   Charlotte and Wally

Running out of Creativity

I'm running out of creative juices! I cannot think of any interesting title to put for this particular email. Bah.

The weeks just keep flying by. I am amazed by time in general here on my mission. Days pass by like hours, weeks like days, and months like weeks. Argh! Everything is always so fast and so wild, but I guess that life is just that way in general. I guess that I better just get used to it now so that when real life smacks me in the face after my mission, I can handle it. Take it standing. Keep calm. Carry on. :)

This week my companion and I learned some amazing lessons together and when we were working on divisions with our District Leader. We were working really hard this week in order to get to our goal of getting at least 5 families with 1 time at church, a baptismal date, and the message of the Restoration and we were able to see a change in how we were working and how our investigators were progressing. We both recognized that our success was going to be hindered if we did not start trying to get people progressing as our mission standards dictate. I was so happy to see that we were finding different kinds of families and that we were able to have quite marvellous experiences in our lessons. I also noticed that my companion and I have been growing closer together, that we have been teaching in unison more and that we have been happier in general.

We also did divisions this week and I was able to go out with Elder Silva, my district leader's companion. He and I get along really well and we have a lot of fun/work hard together. He is from Costa Rica, and I have some strange affinity for Costa Ricans. Love them. Anyway, he and I went around teaching so many people in his area. We were literally running all over the place looking for some families, trying to find out where others had disappeared to, etc. Finally at night we went and taught this really cool couple that he and his companion had contacted the previous morning. We got there and taught an amazing lesson about the Restoration! It was one of the most amazing lessons I have taught on my mission. The flow was near perfect, the people were listening, they wanted to know the truth, they asked questions and understood the answers. I was just so excited. It meets the journal entry requirements. Haha. 

The work here is progressing, like the families that I am teaching. ;) I am impressed by the minor, but significant, successes that I am having. There is always opposition, so not all of these things were not met without trials, but I would much rather have a few measly problems that pass by and witness miracles than not. Right?

Side note, I am now teaching SO much better in Miskitu (or Miskito to a non-Miskitu tongue). People understand me better and I am able to understand them better than I was before. Blessings. Wow. I remembered this week that when my mission call was on its way I prayed that I would be able to go to a place where I would be forced to learn a language and be humbled. It took me sooo long to realize that was fulfilled! The Lord knows what we want, our real desires, and helps to fulfill them according to our faithfulness and the real necessity of such a desire.

I love you all so much and I love my opportunity to serve here in this place at this time. LOVE IT.

Love,
Elder B

Help with the news

I may need some help getting the news this week. I am not certain, as yet, when the viewing and funeral will be. I am thinking that I may be in Price for Wednesday, for certain, and maybe on Tuesday. I just don't know.

Sympathy from Friends

EllaDean wrote: Myrna
I am so sorry to hear your sad news.  Siblings are so hard to lose, especially when you are so close, even if it one who is a sibling as your Garth was to you.  I lost my sister who I was very close to, in June of 2007.  She had a stroke, and because of that, I tried to do all I could for her.  Her children didn't live close, and Ispent mny hours with at the nursing home, and took her so many places she would like to go.
You have my heart felt sympathy.
Love
"Sister" Hunter

Merilyn wrote: Myrna—so very sorry for your loss.  I never feel badly for the one who gets to go, but it’s a sad, empty feeling for those left behind.

Love you,   Merilyn

Marti Wright wrote: Am so very sorry Myrna. But, you know he is in a much better place than the rest of us. It took me a long time to figure that one out after my son Beau died. You will see him again someday. He'll be forever in your heart and memories.

Hugs to you and yours.
Marti


Maxine Gordon wrote: It is very hard to part with loved ones no matter how sick they are. Please accept my deepest Sympathy.  I am glad you shared this with me.  I found it very interesting.  Thank you.

Charlotte Freeman wrote: Sending deepest condolences.  Thank you for the little glimpse into your personal history...it makes for good reading...Charlotte



Colleen Bender wrote: Dear Myrna,
It is difficult to lose someone so close whom you love so much.  Thank you for sharing a part of your heart with us.  “I cannot cry too much because it was time.”  I feel as you do.  We accept the will of the Lord and know that someday we will all be together as “family” again.  That is the comfort the gospel brings.   We love you.    Colleen


Kaylene Armstrong wrote: So sorry to hear about your loss. You were indeed blessed to have such a wonderful family to care for you. I don't need to tell you about him being in a better place and the other comforting platitudes people spout at a time like this. You know all that. But I do personally know what it is like to lose someone you love so much. Even though we know we will be together again one day, the staying behind just hurts like crazy. And I know it was time to let him go, but we are never ready to lose people we love. That's just the way it is.
Hugs.
-k-

Tyrone Powell wrote: I’m happy and I’m sad for you. May the Lords blessing of conform be with you and David.


Ruth Ann George wrote: Dear Myrna,
So sorry to hear of your loss,  but I know that you have a very strong testimony and know that you will be able to "boss"  them around again sometime,  I hope not  too soon.   You are in my prayers  and you have my deepest sypathy.   You are such a nice person to know.   Ruth Ann

V. B. Saunders wrote: Sorry to hear about-my best wishes-Bill


Myrna,

Joyce Staley wrote: I am soooooo sorry to hear about Garth.  Everyone in my office knew and loved him.  He came into my office last Nov or Dec and we had a great talk.  He was a very wonderful man.

Thanks for keeping me updated on this.  He will be missed!

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Love,
Joyce

Words from Gordon and Roberta Smith

Dear Myrna and family,

We wish to extend our sincere sympathy to you in Garth’s passing.  What a wonderful opportunity to have been such a close loving family.  Not all circumstances would have been such a positive experience as yours was.  We appreciate your letting us know about Garth.

Also, congratulations on the new arrival.  As you said, comings and goings.  Our lives are full of changes, daily.

Again, our sympathy, and do hope you and Leonard are doing well.
Love, Gordon and Roberta

Brother is Gone Ahead.

My beloved cousin/brother died this morning. I call him brother because, as children, we were together as one family. After my mother's death, when I was 11-months old, I went to stay with my grandmother, a full-time elementary school teacher. My Aunt Renee, my mother Elaine's only sibling, and her husband shared their two-bedroom apartment with us. Therefore, we lived as a family. Garth was born when I was three--my birthday in December and his in March. My great-grandmother was going to be my caregiver while my grandmother was teaching, however, she fell and broke her hip. My grandmother was the principal of the Wattis school at the time of my mother's death but gave up that position to teach in Price. Aunt Renee and Uncle Max lived in Price. World War II had started. My father went to war. 

Aunt Renee was the one who potty-trained me and provided daytime care. Garth was born when I was three and I thought he was the best thing since the creation of the world. I held him and patted him and, probably, drove Aunt Renee crazy. He was always my prince. After a time, my great grandmother came back to be with us. There was no room in a three-bedroom house for all of us. We moved to a small rented house nearby and Garth, later David, and when I was age 11, Richard, continued to spend countless hours together. I was "Big Sister" to all of them and I took my responsibility seriously. I bossed them around and they, mostly, complied. We played like brothers and sister and, we thought, we were. How I love those boys (now men) who have always been there for me. 

I cannot help but be sad that they are leaving and I am the one left--the oldest. Just David and I remain because cancer has claimed Richard and, now Garth. I cannot cry too much because it was time. Daily pain is a terrible thing.

Grandpa trained here.

On December 28, 1941,  Rear Admiral Ben Moreell, Chief of the Bureau of Yards and Docks (BUDOCKS), requested specific authority to activate, organize, and man a unique, very special organization that would support the Navy and Marines in remote locations and defend themselves if attacked — the Naval Construction Battalions. On January 5, 1942,  he was given that authority and the original Battalions were formed at a new Naval base in Davisville, Rhode Island. (Grandpa Pitts trained here.)

The first naval construction unit to actually deploy from the United States left Davisville, Rhode Island, less than two weeks later on January 17, 1942. It was designated the First Construction Detachment. The 296 men arrived at Bora Bora on February 17, 1942. 

On March 5, all Construction Battalion personnel were officially named Seabees by the Navy Department. Admiral Moreell personally furnished them with their motto Construmus Batumius, or We Build, We Fight. A logo, the Fighting Bee, was created by a Rhode Islander at Davisville.

The Davisville Advanced Base depot became operational in June, 1942. Camp Thomas, a personnel receiving station on the base, was established in October of that year. It eventually contained 500 Quonset huts for personnel. On August 11, 1942, the Naval Construction Training Center, known as Camp Endicott, was commissioned at Davisville. The Camp trained over 100,000 Seabees during the Second World War.

The Navy built their Battalions with experienced, highly skilled craftsmen … electricians, carpenters, plumbers, equipment operators — virtually any construction or building trade was welcome in the Seabees. Seabee units were quickly engaged in construction and combat. By July 1942, the first Naval Construction Battalion landed on Midway Island to begin work on the new airstrip on Sand Island and to start the massive clean up of damage caused by the Japanese bombing.

I Hope This is OK

Jim is going to take the girls up to see Julie. He will meet us there. We are going to hurry to Price and then to UVRMC. I am certain that we will not be long. We will bring Rachel back with us and will complete plans as we made them yesterday. Dad and I will be up with the girls and will meet you either at your house or at the hospital, as you wish. I just feel that I need to go and say goodbye to Garth. Kalvin said that Garth is not having much success in being awake but I need to say goodbye.

The Goings and Comings

The goings and comings in my life seem to occur at the same time.

We are so happy to announce the birth of our 32 grandchild, Jens Jones, who arrived safely and in good health. He was delivered by C-section on May 10. He weighs 8 pounds and 10 ounces and was 19-inches long. He is blond as can be. Julie is feeling fairly good, considering.

My beloved Garth, my cousin/brother, is dying. He is in Price Hospital and has found out that the cancer has spread to his liver. There is no way to reverse that. He has been fighting this for many years but is now losing the battle. I am watching little girls but have been talking to Kalvin on his cell phone. His number is 1-435-469-0370. Garth is in room 111 at Castleview. He has had a brain-bleed and is having trouble with his short-term memory. Kalvin says he would, likely recognize me but is in so much pain he may not respond. Kalvin said Garth is surrounded by many people who love him. The hospital number is 1-435-623-4800. He has asked, many times, if he has lived a good enough life. He is my example of good-living. Rachel tells me not to cry because, "We all die but we all come back alive and, after we resurrect, we all can be together."


Merilyn Jorgensen wrote: Dear Myrna—Congratulations—and condolences.  Rachel seems to have the best handle on it all. Merilyn


Toni wrote: I'm so sorry Myrna & I pray you are right.
I'm still doing ok with the cancer I think but since it does not show up on most of my tests it's hard to tell.
Today I'm really sick but it's just a very bad cold, going back to bed.
Love & hugs to you and yours!  Toni
32 grand kids!!!!  How come I only got one????


Al wrote: Myrna; the phone number listed in your email, 469-0370 appears to be incorrect I dialed it and checked with the fellow who answered that I dialed correctly but that his name was not Kalvin and he did not know you. I thought I would call and leave a message for Garth. The last time I saws him was at my Father's funeral.
Al Pitts
Manufacturing Engineering, Boeing


Melanie wrote: Dear Mom,

I am sorry that things are ending like this for Garth and Alyce. Funny that a guy like that asks if he has lead a good life. I adored him when I was younger. I wish I could tell him that.

Rejoice in the happy times. Remember that you had many of them.

I love you. I will wait to hear the details for the funeral. I am glad that the family has circled the wagons.

Melanie

Todd wrote: He is a wonderful man and will always be my "Uncle".


Charlotte Freeman wrote: Congratulations on #32.  I just returned from 3 weeks in Vegas enjoying our #13...baby boy, Simon.  Our daughter Kimbre was ill while I was there.  So I was able to be nursemaid as well as doting grandma.  Simon is baby boy #3 for our youngest daughter Leslie....I adore her children...as a matter of fact...I adore all our grandbabes from age 1 month to 16 years!!!!

Am sorry to hear of your cousin/brother's condition.  Cancer is no respecter of ANYONE...I know...Mama, Anita Jean, LaRae and LaRue (my sisters) all succumbed to it...You know I get regular checkups!!!

Returned last night and today cleared out my auto, put everything away, did laundry and put that away also.  Took my hubby to the Dr.  Norman had fallen and really bruised his leg around the shin and knee...but all is well...however, he is VERY tender and sore (rat stove up...as they say down south).

Take care...Charlotte


Myrna wrote: Grandchildren are the best! We are delighted with everyone of ours. I can tell that you are as well.

Sorry about Norman. Tell him to get better quickly.

My brother/cousin is still with us but barely. I HATE that people have to suffer so. I still think I was setting up chairs when Heavenly Father mentioned the part about pain. Cancer is going to make me the only family survivor. I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Kim Pitts wrote: Congrats on the  new grandbaby!!!! I bet he is a little doll!!! And I am so sorryabout Garth. Our sincerest condolences and prayers are with you during this time. It is never easy. I pray for God tosend you extra angles and many Blessings, Sweetie!

Myrna wrote: He died this morning, Sunday, at 1:30 a.m. Thanks for your support.

Kim Pitts wrote: I am soooooo sorry, Myrna...love you, Sweetie. I am here for you, always

Even Superman Needs a Mom

Happy Mothers Day!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrvYNR3whd0&feature=player_embedded

“Even Superman Needs a Mom” lyrics:
Last week I fought a dragon strong
Then climbed a castle wall.
Too bad I fell from off the roof
Mom’s flowers broke my fall.
Then yesterday, I sailed to sea
The pirates at the door.
Too bad the tub was just too small
To keep the ocean off the floor.
Today, I launched a rocket to
The moon for mom to see.
Too bad the wheel came flying off
And so I skinned my knee.
But mom was there to pick me up
And make me feel alright.
Then send me out to save the world
And put my cape on tight.
Someday I’ll grow and fly away
Little doesn’t last for long.
But when I’m big I won’t forget
Even Superman Needs a Mom.

"Every time we cheer another’s heart, every time we ease another’s burden,
every time we lift a weary hand, we show our gratitude to that God to whom
we owe all that we have and all that we are.” Joseph B. Wirthlin

Shawn wrote: Dane used to have that same Batman costume.

To the World

This week was a rather crazy but fun one. The APs came out from Managua and we stayed, docked at port. We were all rather sad and upset because every once in a while it is good to get out of the small town and go to the big city to go shopping, get our mail and packages, and just breathe in the city life. However, there was some emergency and Elder Fallabella from the Quorum of the Seventy couldn't come. Life happens. My companion and I decided to use the resentment we felt out on TRACTING. We had a lot of fun and found some really fun families during the week.

We were able to baptize a really cool group of people this week. My companion and I baptized a man named Jorge who has an interesting life story. Basically, he has been involved in drugs since his youth and one day he hit an all-time low, that's when he saw my companion (and his ex-companion) walking by his house. He called them over and started talking to them about his life and all the problems he was having. They taught him about the Restoration and then gave him a copy of the Book of Mormon. Ever since then he has read it every day and reads it especially when he has temptations to go back to his old habits. It has been so much fun teaching him, hearing his testimony growing, helping him through his problems, and then receiving the enourmous blessing of having him ask ME to baptize him. It has been a rather interesting experience with him, but a really fun time.

My companion and I are going to start up Miskito classes again, as I have been sick the past week and have missed out on classes due to the constant flu-like symptoms that made me SOOOO tired. We are super excited to learn a lot together and we are super happy to be seeing some miracles in our area.

I had the wonderful blessing of calling the fam yesterday to talk to them about, well, everything. It was really funny to just pick up where we left off. And seriously, what didn't we talk about? It is really cool to know that God loves me so much that He blessed me with such an amazing family and the ablility to be with them forever. I know that families are ordained of God and I am so grateful for the opportunity that I have been given to help families embark on their eternal journies.

I wish you all successes this week and I hope that you are reading your scriptures, praying, going to the temple and being good little boys and good little girls. :)

Love,
Elder B

Erin Wrote

Erin wrote: we are all fine and you know you want to help but we are fine and i will call you tonight if i can. my mom is getting me a theripist.  i get to see her on the 12th plus i have my play on the 12th  and we will send you all the pictures we get. caydin is fine but he is biting people again but this time he has a full set of teeth. OUCH! donovin is fine. love you erin.

Myrna wrote: You are such a dear heart! We love you so very much and we can't wait to see you. Dad said you had really grown a LOT. I think it is good that you have a therapist but the school counselor sounds like a good person to talk to. Donovin is playing football! I don't know what to tell you about getting Caydin to stop biting. I think he will outgrow it, don't you? We love you. Have a happy week.

Love Else and Erling Knudsen

Hi Trauntwein

I was sitting in church last Sunday, and as uselig easter morning we sang, I think it is "he is risen"

and as I do every easter when we sing that I can see and hear you in the row in front of me and singing Haleluja, I have done that every easter, I even do it now in the new charpel. Every year I have said to myselves, that I should tell you, but never got around to it, but now I do. I know I am not very consisting in writing, but there is so many to write to, that I would just have to sit in front of the computer all the time and write letters. But I think of you often. Erling will not touch the computer. He has his last workday today, That will be nice, I have now been on a pension since january. And am looking forward to have him home, even when i means we will not have so much money, but we will be fine. I think-

I can't remember if I told you that Rita died last July. It is strange that she isn't here anymore. But we had a visit from Ernst and his wife the Friday before easter. It was nice. We do not see much of Anna Marie and her children in church, She comes once in a while and her oldest sun comes when she does, but the other two doesn't. We still have all the missionaries in the ward for dinner once a month. We have3 or four couples and two elders and two sisters mostly, but sometimes we will be 16. Line is usely home for the missionarydinner too. But she does not come to church. only for special ocasions. But Janne was here last sunday with her whole family. That was nice. I love that. I better cloce. Tell Myrna hi. We love you both,

Love Else and Erling

From Elsa

Hi Trauntwein

I was sitting in church last Sunday, and as uselig easter morning we sang, I think it is "he is risen"

and as I do every easter when we sing that I can see and hear you in the row in front of me and singing Haleluja, I have done that every easter, I even do it now in the new charpel. Every year I have said to myselves, that I should tell you, but never got around to it, but now I do. I know I am not very consisting in writing, but there is so many to write to, that I would just have to sit in front of the computer all the time and write letters. But I think of you often. Erling will not touch the computer. He has his last workday today, That will be nice, I have now been on a pension since january. And am looking forward to have him home, even when i means we will not have so much money, but we will be fine. I think-

I can't remember if I told you that Rita died last July. It is strange that she isn't here anymore. But we had a visit from Ernst and his wife the Friday before easter. It was nice. We do not see much of Anna Marie and her children in church, She comes once in a while and her oldest sun comes when she does, but the other two doesn't. We still have all the missionaries in the ward for dinner once a month. We have3 or four couples and two elders and two sisters mostly, but sometimes we will be 16. Line is usely home for the missionarydinner too. But she does not come to church. only for special ocasions. But Janne was here last sunday with her whole family. That was nice. I love that. I better cloce. Tell Myrna hi. We love you both,

Love Else and Erling

My Letters Are Just Rants

Sometimes I feel as if my letters are simply rants from a crazed Miskitu missionary, but then I go back and read them and they are kinda cool. Props to me! Hahaha. Just joking. My letters are really the only personal expression that I get out on a constant basis to people who actually listen to my ideas and respect them. A lot of people don't actually listen to my ideas and my thoughts, so I tend to keep them to myself.

Now, while my mission has opened my mind to thinking and thinking in a new way, more charitable, more kind, more broad and open, many others are not that open. i know that i am not perfect, seriously, i wouldn't be writing a letter like this if i were, but i also do know that i am doing well in my mission because i apply all that i learn. i feel bad for those that do not. i feel bad for those missionaries here who take advantage of others, who do not restrain their mouths, who are rude, ignorant and speak without knowing what they are really talking about. It is truly quite sad for me to see other missionaries revered and respected for baptizing a ton of people in their missions and they are just rather rude and unkind people.

In my opinion, I would be terribly ashamed if I returned from my mission like some of these missionaries do. I want to go home knowing that I am a better person, a more humble servant, a true disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. I have a long way to go, but i am glad that I have like a year left to fix more kinks and iron out some of the ugly wrinkles in my personality. I still have a year...wow. So wierd.

I am happy right now. I know who I am, I know God's plan, I am following the Spirit. I believe in the Savior Jesus Christ, I'll honor His name. I'll follow His light. His truth I DO proclaim. I love you all and I hope that you have all have a good week. Remember who you are, remember who defines your successes and who you want to respect and revere you.

Elder B