tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7117473623720162902024-03-19T04:56:03.641-07:00Carlton's CornerThoughts, insights and experiences of Carlton Christensen.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-19907009689068916762023-10-06T03:35:00.000-07:002023-10-06T03:35:01.675-07:00The Power of a Book - Changing the Course in One's Life<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQsM0ij8T1X2U6Ljt3obmgTHddZRRpChSJNPnHRe1E1RRpyOz_QIUX8qkNqW2tdqK97CPlGhXgto5bd2Znbr2Zpj7AejVZh_aXPrAWgEKU8MhguRe-CSn85NI3XXEB9DDYQ-zy3sn0XH1Yw_ZH48jrBNMT4kv7tv5mEt2GRE-3OPgHxIRwb2eJNYB1314/s4000/20231001_203814.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQsM0ij8T1X2U6Ljt3obmgTHddZRRpChSJNPnHRe1E1RRpyOz_QIUX8qkNqW2tdqK97CPlGhXgto5bd2Znbr2Zpj7AejVZh_aXPrAWgEKU8MhguRe-CSn85NI3XXEB9DDYQ-zy3sn0XH1Yw_ZH48jrBNMT4kv7tv5mEt2GRE-3OPgHxIRwb2eJNYB1314/w320-h240/20231001_203814.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My first book on electrical wiring diagrams</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Books can have a powerful impact on our lives and the other day, I came across this book on electrical wiring diagrams and it reminded me of how much it changed my life. While not the book you would cozy up with on the beach, or read it to your children to share your enthusiasm, it had a pretty profound impact on my own life. I've posted often about home improvement projects that I've done, skills I've acquired over time, including electrical, plumbing, carpentry and most recently welding. I don't profess to be an expert at any of them, but they didn't magically come to me, nor did I work alongside any one individual to learn all of them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As someone who lost their father just after his tenth birthday, I was more or less thrust into doing home improvement projects over time by necessity. My mother was not a passive participant in life and after my father's death, did a number of projects around our home including the acquisition of three neighboring homes and a basement apartment for rental income. One of those projects was the construction of a 25' greenhouse behind one of those homes for my brother Brad. He had done much of the construction work, including plumbing, but we needed to do some electrical work, which is where it started for me. Our step-uncle, MC Laird, was kind enough to guide us in the process. Each significant step along the way, he not only helped us know what to do next, but more importantly, was willing to show us. Mom at the same time, had moved a double garage onto the property and both of them, needed to be wired with newly supplied electrical service. As I started to learn how to wire it, I couldn't always remember the wiring diagrams and we came across this book at Salmons, a home improvement store in Rose Park that has since closed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylHQZ9ciM8YdUzlgkxsgG3dLYTcoI7810C5025RcoTqNN0X1V-7F_5VAGVWZ_qoqYytDTObi9tb2KAAGqALK8HtjB7s0X5K5ZxVMLwGtzicxyTXNSONvqlFKHg2rQJHcUrfY5aUcOu7ChCCq0wwXnKcL3Rqwa9d-9FTxWFDOZRg-vAoqyV3Z8ZslddDj9/s4000/20231001_203835.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylHQZ9ciM8YdUzlgkxsgG3dLYTcoI7810C5025RcoTqNN0X1V-7F_5VAGVWZ_qoqYytDTObi9tb2KAAGqALK8HtjB7s0X5K5ZxVMLwGtzicxyTXNSONvqlFKHg2rQJHcUrfY5aUcOu7ChCCq0wwXnKcL3Rqwa9d-9FTxWFDOZRg-vAoqyV3Z8ZslddDj9/s320/20231001_203835.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This book contained most standard wiring diagrams, including three way or four way switches, doing a daisy chain of lights on one switch and just about any need I came across. It enabled me to do things I hadn't done before and those skills while refined over time, enabled me to help hundreds of people with a variety of projects. I've wired basements, done expansion projects in my own home, and a variety of projects including recently building a railings for my mother-in-law, daughter and a neighbor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JR-VhL6OnpM3KL1hzPkmOnEH-j1q-O4Rz26oaoZ6vi_VxWwrOGONO8t7L_BUnVirLGuoYzQ4wqiaiL6Iu9JGpYqMRhzKVSCJVLtHQs01tligNALV7EkF80jB2N4hFdq7G8QWvr4_6o7mUfLf0dDMByYYcfo_M8HdFvXNAfJr3aEosG3VHAPpi4f0ZTBp/s4000/20230904_100621.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JR-VhL6OnpM3KL1hzPkmOnEH-j1q-O4Rz26oaoZ6vi_VxWwrOGONO8t7L_BUnVirLGuoYzQ4wqiaiL6Iu9JGpYqMRhzKVSCJVLtHQs01tligNALV7EkF80jB2N4hFdq7G8QWvr4_6o7mUfLf0dDMByYYcfo_M8HdFvXNAfJr3aEosG3VHAPpi4f0ZTBp/s320/20230904_100621.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There have been similar people along that pathway, like my Uncle MC, who helped me get past confidence barriers and to venture forward with something new. Each of those steps were profound milestones in my life that then opened up new realms of possibilities for me. I've enjoyed the feeling of accomplishment that comes from each of those projects, and I enjoy helping others who will benefit from that service. It unquestionably has saved tens of thousands of dollars and it has allowed me to provide service for my family in ways that I may never have learned had my father lived to a his elderly years. I miss my father and now my mother dearly and know my life would have probably taken a different course had my father lived. However under the circumstances, and making the best of what we might be dealt with, I am grateful for the power of a simple book.</div><p></p>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-32326078206757124262023-01-05T06:53:00.004-08:002023-01-07T04:12:29.567-08:00One year later, my surgery was successful in giving me a new lease on life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjQDLIk59WDGquEj7iq9hFt9IJFwC6baFgWzNwI8MNDeQKQz9B4b_ouAzfzafWoSuxowwwIlP2xsBW3Sr2QlvYfWKoTzEIqC7JzghKacG5qGhhxxFjfPlIkuKdwmYLi4HusRR5a3hQJWrQeUtu-6aQBX-yUY0vCT8P3_3DQbMTOIgsQu3qyJxnoiKYA/s662/Carlton%20Combined%20Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="218" data-original-width="662" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjQDLIk59WDGquEj7iq9hFt9IJFwC6baFgWzNwI8MNDeQKQz9B4b_ouAzfzafWoSuxowwwIlP2xsBW3Sr2QlvYfWKoTzEIqC7JzghKacG5qGhhxxFjfPlIkuKdwmYLi4HusRR5a3hQJWrQeUtu-6aQBX-yUY0vCT8P3_3DQbMTOIgsQu3qyJxnoiKYA/s320/Carlton%20Combined%20Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Profile Pictures from 2019 on the left, 2012 on the right</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">and </span><span style="text-align: left;">2022 in the middle</span></div><p>It has been a year since I created a blog post, which talked about my decision to have Bariatric Surgery (Gastric Sleeve). That occurred one year ago today. It has made a significant change in my life and my overall health. It has not been without incident nor discomfort. I've eaten very little bread in the last year and many of the baked goods that I would eat have left my diet, along with other carbs, including pasta. One of the benefits to having been so public about it, is the opportunity to help others considering it and to be supportive of others who have had the surgery themselves. It is not an easy decision and the pathway is not always certain in how your body responds nor your ability to not return to prior habits. A stomach can grow over time and non healthy things can be reintroduced to your diet. I have even added a few things back in time that I enjoy, but I've tried to do it in much more moderation than before. I can't really do this again financially and emotionally it would be difficult as well. I will gain some weight, but I know if I am mindful, many of the habits will be long term.</p><p>My year was filled with trips, conferences, vacations and other experiences and I thought it might be good to just show the changes as I went through the year. I've had to purchase new clothes (did my best to utilize what I had as long as I could, but when the pants fall off or the polo shirt has to be buttoned all they way up to stay on you correctly, it is time to get new clothes. I went from a 6XL to a 4XLT and even 3XL fits in some cases. My pant sizes when down from 54/56 waist to a 48 waist and even my undergarments have had to be replaced. It sounds wonderful, but I've invested thousands of dollars to have suits remade to the custom sizes my height requires and to purchase replacement clothes. I'm not done yet, and it's fair to say, there is probably another couple more thousand dollars still to do. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQfU0WdLOynzV71nkgVNc3NhcAIyXKHwPN_J8vGjnkOJa_LXo4pyTtkug6Cq2UNl3BAFDAoNcaLxksmqDjlDO7hTv_8Oz0up7Dsxk0mblZzag5DtoQ4y0WgRLVibha7bIFBY_2yqPrVdIMLKw2A_uWJ0YnvZQHrZLxYYWTfDAShlbwTqrQvPLf0mWMw/s4000/20220315_134933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQfU0WdLOynzV71nkgVNc3NhcAIyXKHwPN_J8vGjnkOJa_LXo4pyTtkug6Cq2UNl3BAFDAoNcaLxksmqDjlDO7hTv_8Oz0up7Dsxk0mblZzag5DtoQ4y0WgRLVibha7bIFBY_2yqPrVdIMLKw2A_uWJ0YnvZQHrZLxYYWTfDAShlbwTqrQvPLf0mWMw/s320/20220315_134933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">March was my first trip trip, a visit to Washington DC. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">It was a tough trip physically for me </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">but colleagues and others helped me through the awkward moments</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: left;">Almost immediately, I went off most of my diabetic medications, blood pressure medications and corresponding vitals improved. I've since been put back on a light blood pressure medication, but it is preventive in nature and my A1C has remained stable and blood glucose levels in an acceptable range.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYlHRS1t_j66pLvFCV91lj6fZJS5rXxJoB9zJQRjuoVOpf26ESar0KI-_u7nADnvqVgMHUVfwc1zMHaTATxjUy5z6Eo5QIGpnBvpGEAJIOcZ6whXeqcAQtzv67inlsHxxcQHyTxt7-KBGAn0V1YF3NPzDzpzBhObrBNcdslkAH11bkZpCxAUOwraCYQ/s4000/20220423_190331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYlHRS1t_j66pLvFCV91lj6fZJS5rXxJoB9zJQRjuoVOpf26ESar0KI-_u7nADnvqVgMHUVfwc1zMHaTATxjUy5z6Eo5QIGpnBvpGEAJIOcZ6whXeqcAQtzv67inlsHxxcQHyTxt7-KBGAn0V1YF3NPzDzpzBhObrBNcdslkAH11bkZpCxAUOwraCYQ/s320/20220423_190331.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>In April, my wife Cathy and I went on a 7 day Hawaiian Cruise that was a celebration of our thirtieth wedding anniversary that happened in 2020. We added a couple extra days to also visit the Polynesian Cultural Center as well as attend the Hawaii Temple. We spent a good part of the day in Hilo, visiting my former Mission President and his wife. In a circumstance where food is plentiful and you can eat all you want, I had to figure a way to balance it. You physically can't eat that much, and since most of your diet has to be protein, you find the best way to do it. I have and continue to eat a lot of eggs; Omelets are a goto item when I eat out out for breakfast and potatoes are few and far between.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9tD2dIau30_xGIbpAIzOozIngYOZeXHrBCMA0nCPuNeIGdNXr0WTv1mbsz5v_G-1wOhJfXkferjUijxY29ybkey1HMTLNNsdCjnOoGVCW7nPhP998MkHFeHbNFiJTkbY7Quce04KuH44cKBLbGkC2ELzeHkzO3_bh_m-Zp90-naNpNuomYb60imx9Q/s1280/IMG_7821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9tD2dIau30_xGIbpAIzOozIngYOZeXHrBCMA0nCPuNeIGdNXr0WTv1mbsz5v_G-1wOhJfXkferjUijxY29ybkey1HMTLNNsdCjnOoGVCW7nPhP998MkHFeHbNFiJTkbY7Quce04KuH44cKBLbGkC2ELzeHkzO3_bh_m-Zp90-naNpNuomYb60imx9Q/s320/IMG_7821.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A trip with the Downtown Alliance to Cincinnati. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">An evening photo with Salt Lake City's Mayor, </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Erin Mendenhall and her husband </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">and my former colleague, Kyle LaMalfa.</span></div><p>It was a pretty amazing experience when I could pull out the tray table on an airplane and lay it down flat in front me. It had been decades since being able to do it and frankly when I looked down, I can now see my belt. It usually disappeared shortly after putting it on and while I could feel it, it was hidden for the remainder of the day!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEEyjIS8dbizAJKpdOLl8J9ln2V6TGuDl2h6hL7Conb2CpdlEjZuyV7Rdeb6h8HPwdFUoWltjLK48-J8R8Syllp-hf_0tmaNHrYLChgWWiX6JyKGID_BV0Rv-BdvggTnzgrnPSfoGMWhLdLZCuYQpGFf5E5fFJHfDYZH9KhD2H_Gncn3sEdxyaSBmbQ/s4000/20220924_095819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEEyjIS8dbizAJKpdOLl8J9ln2V6TGuDl2h6hL7Conb2CpdlEjZuyV7Rdeb6h8HPwdFUoWltjLK48-J8R8Syllp-hf_0tmaNHrYLChgWWiX6JyKGID_BV0Rv-BdvggTnzgrnPSfoGMWhLdLZCuYQpGFf5E5fFJHfDYZH9KhD2H_Gncn3sEdxyaSBmbQ/s320/20220924_095819.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">My family and I helped with my Rotary Club </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">service project to repaint picnic tables</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">in City Creek at the Rotary Picnic area at the top of the canyon</span></div><p>Working on projects became easier. It has been easier to get up and down when I needed to get on the ground. Bending over to pick something up became much easier and my stamina improved. This last year, I've done a number of large projects, participated in youth camps and also enjoyed some fun. Clearly easier to do and I'm grateful to be able to do these kinds of things.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJj5pGcM9_jQ_Cx6Fu5OvgbzRFwzuXQqy_SAfUD-j6sexdNQlXipxDe9I6ysYntZKABqiOtlnBynRaVbbcKOUR6yJFlyZ-UJ4wBZ8WxudzfQcKz6IMUMnfuy2p7opLg44Hk8Z0xej4UeUnmjUUQQPXz9qvzTMUkFqOWh2h6cr7tgJ03Q7_vpVcXWVG9w/s4000/20221127_101534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJj5pGcM9_jQ_Cx6Fu5OvgbzRFwzuXQqy_SAfUD-j6sexdNQlXipxDe9I6ysYntZKABqiOtlnBynRaVbbcKOUR6yJFlyZ-UJ4wBZ8WxudzfQcKz6IMUMnfuy2p7opLg44Hk8Z0xej4UeUnmjUUQQPXz9qvzTMUkFqOWh2h6cr7tgJ03Q7_vpVcXWVG9w/s320/20221127_101534.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I continue in my role as Stake President and </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">shared my testimony one Sunday with the children </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">in our Spanish Ward, Mt Ensign 2nd</span></div><div><br /></div><div>In Church as well as my work, when you speak and participate in a large public way, it has not been uncommon for someone to make comment about how much better I look. It's almost embarrassing in many ways, but I know the comment is genuine and generally geared toward their interest in my overall health. It has probably put some strain on me, in not wanting to return to old habits. I've made this a pretty public journey and as such, the effort is a pretty public one. I know now that it will not be perfect, but I will do my best. </div><p>I don't know how long I will have the blessing of being here on this earth. I've already lost a brother and have two other siblings with poor health. My father died from Cancer at age 49 and at 57, have been gifted more years than he. My plan is to live to a good old age, I've been purchasing wood working tools for my workshop so I can putter long into my life, but if Heavenly Father took me tomorrow, I have few regrets. I have been blessed with an incredible wife and two lovely, sweet and faithful daughters. I will have spent 25 years in public service and later this year, it will have been 30 years since I was first called as a Bishop. The last nine years as Stake President have been an incredible experience filled with blessings from Church leaders that have helped me immensely. Interactions with the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russel M. Nelson has reminded me that we do in fact have a living Prophet of God upon this earth. The work left to do, far exceeds my daytime responsibilities at the Utah Transit Authority, but I am grateful for the privilege of being there and working with wonderful people who have been supportive and helped me get through this last year. I truly have been blessed this last year with a new lease on life.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiO7G9itmfLV8PPsqazsiRnvvfEavngBlmNIr4mC0xIPQmyzUdmBs-QMhTIiqsTL1raoX-CObm1FKs51mvHUXgtQ2j37OQ7LQg8v5kOWnfHN-LO0MyKuPcAU_eNnaWLIqC2UR8dqSrQD9mVLu5hyy4C90g0t34hE6Xe-uX5fxTsy9bkjiJbQV1ctIjg/s4000/20221226_175423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiO7G9itmfLV8PPsqazsiRnvvfEavngBlmNIr4mC0xIPQmyzUdmBs-QMhTIiqsTL1raoX-CObm1FKs51mvHUXgtQ2j37OQ7LQg8v5kOWnfHN-LO0MyKuPcAU_eNnaWLIqC2UR8dqSrQD9mVLu5hyy4C90g0t34hE6Xe-uX5fxTsy9bkjiJbQV1ctIjg/s320/20221226_175423.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">My family and I had the privilege of serving at the </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Giving Machine at City Creek Center </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">where hundreds came to donate to charities </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">both locally and internationally that help those in need.</span></div>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-51524144442695085642022-01-17T07:37:00.002-08:002022-01-17T08:01:26.341-08:00Bariatric Surgery - a decision for my health<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihMue5s26xALN7LoV-eY9NBP3vGPugcObANlLwsGuRMr5IfMdOxLK1iXUaiK01HvDAA-UognBMqWfgnRcxQKJTb1p4EQvNv9osT7GkgY2IFmC4bGuynGG4Q0iQLCxdwQmFUizLmrdPOdBsh1OpOwmv6gdFpJ5LJhWkFmk-2ecepN1Eb5zQpwOegDFhAw=s4032" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihMue5s26xALN7LoV-eY9NBP3vGPugcObANlLwsGuRMr5IfMdOxLK1iXUaiK01HvDAA-UognBMqWfgnRcxQKJTb1p4EQvNv9osT7GkgY2IFmC4bGuynGG4Q0iQLCxdwQmFUizLmrdPOdBsh1OpOwmv6gdFpJ5LJhWkFmk-2ecepN1Eb5zQpwOegDFhAw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Employee Day at Front Runner Warm Springs Facility <br />in 2019</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>My life has been a very full and fulfilling life. If it ended tomorrow for some unknown reason, I feel good about most of it and have learned from the rest. However, I want to live longer and be with my family here on earth for as long as I can and so I decided a year ago to pursue having bariatric surgery to help me with my weight. I have not always been overweight, in fact in my earlier years, participated in competitive basketball. My freshman year in college, I worked out pre-season with the BYU Basketball team but decided to quit out of a lack of desire prior to season tryouts. Later, when I returned from my mission, I was introduced to the University of Utah basketball coach by a family friend and worked out with them part of a summer, but then decided not to play. It was really not until my late 20's that I started to put on more weight than I should. I was called and served as a Bishop at age 27 in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and my life got much busier and my physical activity less so. Then I ran for and got elected to the Salt Lake City Council in 1997 where at age 31 served for another 16 years, longer than any elected official there in the prior 100 years. I did a lot of sitting and was in a lot of meetings, and didn't take the time to really care for myself. None of it was overnight, but progressively it got worse and more importantly, my health and the complications of weight, got progressively worse.</div><div><br /></div><div>In 2012, at a particularly difficult time in my health and subsequent self-esteem, I decided to involve myself with other local elected and public officials in Intermountain Healthcare's My Heart Challenge. I wrote quite a bit about that experience in the following blog posts:</div><div><a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2012/04/sometimes-success-is-measured-in-not.html" target="_blank">Sometimes success is measured in not regressing!</a><br /></div><div><a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2012/05/daisy-is-losing-it-too.html" target="_blank">Daisy is Losing It Too!</a><br /></div><div><a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2012/07/my-heart-challenge-results-announced-i.html" target="_blank">My Heart Challenge Results Announced - I Win Most Improved!</a><br /></div><div>There is nothing more motivating than having TV and newspaper photographers documenting your weight loss and having it discussed on the morning news. I lost 41 lbs. during that challenge and truly felt better and a number of health measurements improved. I did better at understanding my health and what factors would have the greatest impact. I felt more liberated physically and it like most things, became a joint effort between me and my wife Cathy.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7zP4Hk_a6JSbAEQ2WktGeUQPh0W0yRIDu4ljQ1tTs2Ft6ZxDuVVzT_UXbhpSQT9UMAkoOJtZnxTdlN40komm2uS5ANlyK9BK8jaOKjidJbUSG6MIVgclfbJGbHRRnLVVRvoKyyxeRjN3h3B1PuxrTmzArM9aPtkZGLbW8Yc6a-YIXOyoaUY_FJgex4A=s2766" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2766" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7zP4Hk_a6JSbAEQ2WktGeUQPh0W0yRIDu4ljQ1tTs2Ft6ZxDuVVzT_UXbhpSQT9UMAkoOJtZnxTdlN40komm2uS5ANlyK9BK8jaOKjidJbUSG6MIVgclfbJGbHRRnLVVRvoKyyxeRjN3h3B1PuxrTmzArM9aPtkZGLbW8Yc6a-YIXOyoaUY_FJgex4A=s320" width="262" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Pro-Golfer Tony Finau on a Thanksgiving<br />Dinner giveaway for the Rose Park area</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>However bit by bit, the weight returned and while I had moments where I dropped 30 lbs. they seemed to find their way back. In the normal course of life, I burn through a lot of calories, more than most and actually can lose weight at 3,900 calories a day. My weight didn't fluctuate a lot, but it also didn't stay in an improved state either. Far be it from me, to judge others in their challenges with weight. I think a number of factors in addition to eating flow into it. Genetics certainly plays a role. Underlying health challenges without a doubt factor in and of course exercise and staying active. While I've worked on exercise, I wouldn't get any gold stars on my forehead with that accomplishment. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjU9nsPFoy175dHHevGt09XfqLEriSSbWFC7k3IPvGHFlmRG4z8NkeQv8N_X3cFC2XuPTileH0AVcjlV4pKRTR54u0pw8tJMiK3RLaXRwqJp_YOJ14mev73nVWBQ8TLiZ2ygoyglYAfxnBa_L41mZOhvoD87mgFHYDCs3CFvvU0_BBUYcyva74qA_cPww=s6960" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6960" data-original-width="4640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjU9nsPFoy175dHHevGt09XfqLEriSSbWFC7k3IPvGHFlmRG4z8NkeQv8N_X3cFC2XuPTileH0AVcjlV4pKRTR54u0pw8tJMiK3RLaXRwqJp_YOJ14mev73nVWBQ8TLiZ2ygoyglYAfxnBa_L41mZOhvoD87mgFHYDCs3CFvvU0_BBUYcyva74qA_cPww=s320" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was invited to offer the opening<br />prayer for the Utah State Senate a few years ago<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I've never been ashamed if you will of my weight, although when I looked at pictures of myself, it was a little painful to see how big I was compared to others. It's been difficult in recent years to get myself off the ground or do some of the things I like to work on in my home improvement projects or simply picking things up. It's been embarrassing at times when I've dropped something and others watching me bend over to pick it up, stepped in because they could see it would help. While my doctor had been encouraging me for years to consider bariatric surgery it wasn't covered under the health plan I was on with a prior employer. The cost was just too much for me and so while I considered it, decided I had other financial commitments to keep. Until recently, I was ok with just keeping the status quo. However in 2021, with the increasing problems of diabetes and other health consequence, realized if I didn't take better control of things, I would not likely have a long or the healthy life as I desired. I also discovered that my current employer's health plan would cover one bariatric surgery in a lifetime, making it much more obtainable. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimYMUOwpZXUNhAFwKBFRyOAYDSLjwIPXsPyFMEdk6rCd65w17k82nREgDgReguKn0BMml4Z2WMP7yU19IIGcJCsjbuiJWofDrtFIb0Mm5JxtOyGkZaeV3bg1iPYEu-WOSKnrgV3h9jCEA1VLp-tKtvRNIK5SXct-V1jDwM-kDokhst1zaGIELyl6JsMw=s2799" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1825" data-original-width="2799" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimYMUOwpZXUNhAFwKBFRyOAYDSLjwIPXsPyFMEdk6rCd65w17k82nREgDgReguKn0BMml4Z2WMP7yU19IIGcJCsjbuiJWofDrtFIb0Mm5JxtOyGkZaeV3bg1iPYEu-WOSKnrgV3h9jCEA1VLp-tKtvRNIK5SXct-V1jDwM-kDokhst1zaGIELyl6JsMw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family on our summer vacation in Sun Valley, ID</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The process of qualifying for bariatric surgery is not simple, as it should be. The outcomes are not reversible and the decision should also come with commitments to maintain your new weight and do much better. I started about a year ago, going through a number of pre-qualification processes and then hit the challenges of postponement for elective surgeries due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Initial recovery time is roughly 1 to two weeks, so finding and maintaining a window where it could happen as Chair of the Board for the Utah Transit Authority, was also not a simple task. I owe a great deal of gratitude to our staff who helped me once a date was set, particularly my assistant, so I could focus on my health and frankly me. On January 5, 2022, I had the surgery performed by one of the best surgeons in this area. Dr. McKinley performed the Gastric Sleeve procedure, which took away most of my stomach, including a portion that contains the gland that causes you to be hungry. So far, things have gone well and I've been grateful for the support I've received by many.</div><div><br /></div><div>I know the road ahead will have many bumps and challenges. I was nervous right up before the surgery and still questioning whether I should move forward. I have a devout belief in my faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and as a member of his Church. On the day prior, I received a special blessing from one of it's leaders and in the course of that blessing it reassured me that I was making the right decision and all would be well. It was a tender moment for both me and my wife Cathy, who joined me for this blessing. I have been blessed since the surgery to eliminate three of the four diabetic medications I had been taking and more recently, eliminating my blood pressure medication. While I had lost 30 lbs. on my own prior to the surgery, I have lost another 35 lbs. since my surgery about 10 days ago. The doctor is hopeful that I might lose 100 to 150 lbs. in the coming year. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-l5ZQcyHOfoc3siMpU43G0I_gQD34-DxyD3tKOBnq0Wm9EBG0bQV6psuaDMVaXZV-KUBbKVqP4Jxp1gfdGTmXqnbVMVSYCB8AkrTXWaWJEO184GbW9Szt9GZjJC8iS3FYMbTdm5fO-SS8wmq8RAYUfANhqvhfKBxt3d2t22Yqqk3kl2NCvKZ20Gho9g=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-l5ZQcyHOfoc3siMpU43G0I_gQD34-DxyD3tKOBnq0Wm9EBG0bQV6psuaDMVaXZV-KUBbKVqP4Jxp1gfdGTmXqnbVMVSYCB8AkrTXWaWJEO184GbW9Szt9GZjJC8iS3FYMbTdm5fO-SS8wmq8RAYUfANhqvhfKBxt3d2t22Yqqk3kl2NCvKZ20Gho9g=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While this was my visit to Medford, MA Harbor Freight<br />I got one of my exercise efforts by spending portion of the <br />morning in my local Harbor Freight store!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>There are emotionally difficult times ahead as well. My diet right now is roughly 4 to 5 ounces a meal of mostly liquid or very light food of no sugar yogurt or cottage cheese. It was hard watching my family eat a yummy Sunday meal yesterday while I had my Cream of Chicken Soup. I will need to take vitamins the rest of my life to help maintain my health. It will be a number of months before my diet, albeit at much smaller portions returns to anything in a normal category. However I have no regrets and look forward to returning to my normal daily activity in this coming week. While I have some up and down days still to come, I look forward to some new found freedom that this decision will bring me and look forward to torturing my children as long as I can!</div><div><div><br /></div></div>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-74407434826714061102020-12-22T04:58:00.002-08:002020-12-22T05:51:45.836-08:00Miracles often come through the kind acts of others - blessing both!<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNK7BDZcid2nyEWg-TcQZTWK7BuG4poLw_cUUwdbDumaJowvTliU_t2E1wJqlbNuOEnTmpserS9Dd5p0m_JlmxWkNyFcug9sl4BOcNsadfzNxZ8yiL7mMLWZdv7OdU3oMh0na2NNDN4aCH/s4032/63029339055__626B0F3D-1C3F-40A7-80EB-434AC8290008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNK7BDZcid2nyEWg-TcQZTWK7BuG4poLw_cUUwdbDumaJowvTliU_t2E1wJqlbNuOEnTmpserS9Dd5p0m_JlmxWkNyFcug9sl4BOcNsadfzNxZ8yiL7mMLWZdv7OdU3oMh0na2NNDN4aCH/w320-h240/63029339055__626B0F3D-1C3F-40A7-80EB-434AC8290008.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our living room acted as an assemblage area for<br />our Sub for Santa project.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />2020 hasn't been the year I would have foreseen. While we all wish for changes in life's circumstances, there have been many miracles to go with these challenges. These miracles have come through blessings in my life that came from the kind act of others. While I certainly was able to render assistance to others, I just wanted to take a few minutes and share how different acts of others, were direct answers to my prayers. A testament to the fact that our Heavenly Father often blesses our lives by the acts of others, ultimately blessing both.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSFupTTfiuWwAmyKMrXjdHfbxcK0yremx3xV4KUqOOvSgWVROtwMSUF1G3OVYBxC5nnVmos1ovvZqSebCKu6SZt_D34FB2bruIbPbw2_jIVzgPV5CYqhqlLzUohR7rryjZuaXl_fNuXn7/s4032/20200424_105451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSFupTTfiuWwAmyKMrXjdHfbxcK0yremx3xV4KUqOOvSgWVROtwMSUF1G3OVYBxC5nnVmos1ovvZqSebCKu6SZt_D34FB2bruIbPbw2_jIVzgPV5CYqhqlLzUohR7rryjZuaXl_fNuXn7/w225-h400/20200424_105451.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Replacing our driveway from <br />rutted asphalt to concrete</td></tr></tbody></table><br />For many years, 90 feet of our back driveway, which was put in by my mother in the late 70's became rutted and challenged. I had tried some spot repairs with asphalt cold patch, which helped for a while, but eventually it was beyond repair. While I had tried to get bids to repair it, I actually couldn't get anyone to come look at it and it seemed like there was no great path. My brother-in-law Bill Nielsen offered to help us pour a new section with concrete. My neighbor Brandon, who also wanted to do a driveway extension as well, offered to rent a skidster and help remove the old asphalt. Brandon also helped us pour our concrete. It also just happened that the Federal Government decided to do stimulus checks, providing me the needed gap money to pay for the concrete. What seemed insurmountable, found a solution through the kind acts of others. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQqcHulChGSwqyvcNxEqqWWzzG32A71VBszWKwaEB3MIZSRm6EH8h3yxgamqVOAwMBWQFO2xh0Q2j7XYSd-dDsrJcvCcb_1ZBx4yBSn1Bp8uNa_nqweAjuHggD3Lt352cAwb43YeQSbBs/s4032/20200925_180729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQqcHulChGSwqyvcNxEqqWWzzG32A71VBszWKwaEB3MIZSRm6EH8h3yxgamqVOAwMBWQFO2xh0Q2j7XYSd-dDsrJcvCcb_1ZBx4yBSn1Bp8uNa_nqweAjuHggD3Lt352cAwb43YeQSbBs/s320/20200925_180729.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Park & Riverside Stakes efforts to provide<br />firewood for the Navajo Nation</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Last September, on the day after Labor Day, our community experienced hurricane force winds, causing many of our canopy trees to come down. As I looked at piles of trees on both sides of the streets in my community, it seemed like no easy solution would be available to us in the short term, however neighbor after neighbor helped each other remove trees that seemed formidable and with the help of crews from the Utah Department of Transportation, our community was cleaned up in a matter of a few weeks. Near the conclusion of this effort, word came to us to provide firewood for the Navajo Nation which had been hurt severely by the COVID pandemic. Each Stake in our area had been asked to provide a semi load of wood, but much of our wood had been picked up. However the call went out, we collected the equivalent of two semi loads together with the Rose Park and Riverside Stakes but when it came time to have the wood loaded, we had been unable to secure a front-end loader to load the wood. We had exhausted all our sources, when I knelt down and prayed, asking my Heavenly Father for help. When I arose, I decided to call a rancher down the street from our church recreation property and he graciously provided us a front end loader free of charge. We loaded both semi trucks in an evening.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjJ3veUk97OqUioTQsQOv3_YLkGBvLtLVridG0Ag4ptZ2YhnhMHMTnXE77k26Mksbid3ptCWYKS1IY-qLNHaAGnFCJFK9cs8Lpnmpcl8Q-p6PdSwjvxGvJDmI220PogPWXFKn0aaB-bm3/s4032/20201221_204701_019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjJ3veUk97OqUioTQsQOv3_YLkGBvLtLVridG0Ag4ptZ2YhnhMHMTnXE77k26Mksbid3ptCWYKS1IY-qLNHaAGnFCJFK9cs8Lpnmpcl8Q-p6PdSwjvxGvJDmI220PogPWXFKn0aaB-bm3/s320/20201221_204701_019.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Presents loaded in the car to take to our <br />Sub for Santa family</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>A few weeks ago in my Rotary club, they asked for volunteers to help families attending a very modest neighborhood school on the west side of Salt Lake City. I had decided it would be a good experience for my family, so I volunteered. I didn't think much about it, until a few weeks ago, when a day after my furnace was declared dead requiring us to not only replace it, but a second furnace in my basement as well, I received an email outlining a family of four children, who had some very basic needs for Christmas. We decided we could use our credit card and meet the commitment, but then felt like I should ask family and friends if they wanted to help. Over the next five days, contributions in cash and items came generously to the cause. A dear friend and her husband who works for a local retailer offered to purchase items on his employee day, saving us substantial money. A local neighborhood business owner, brought over a gift card to a local grocery store, others brought stockings, toys and my own family contributed time and efforts. When we delivered the items last night, we discovered that neither the father or the mother had been able to work, the father was recovering from a recent surgery and as the children carried the wrapped presents in, the joy on their face were unmatched. What personally hit me hard, was to see the joy on the father and mother's faces that they were able to provide Christmas for their children. And finally to watch the children be excited as they rolled their new bicycles into their homes. It was a sweet sight to see. All in all, nearly 15 people helped us in different ways to help someone else. It was a miracle and in the end, our own cash outlay, was very modest, and the joy we shared with others, was a tender mercy this Christmas season. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjRjYasZd2c1bI1fM7GUf-xWsFwdScABfK4DJshr_ufuAd22_h4RV2kVD8Mz_RAzT1e_Y1umUd9bLxq8SkRouxeJ0E1YVr247bICq8pXSXJjKxIH6rHiJ3u5cjvz-mlGUpqTsyKQxs1wF/s4032/20201221_204721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjRjYasZd2c1bI1fM7GUf-xWsFwdScABfK4DJshr_ufuAd22_h4RV2kVD8Mz_RAzT1e_Y1umUd9bLxq8SkRouxeJ0E1YVr247bICq8pXSXJjKxIH6rHiJ3u5cjvz-mlGUpqTsyKQxs1wF/s320/20201221_204721.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New bicycles strapped down on the trailer to<br />deliver to each of the four children. Provided by<br />the generosity of others and through the discount of a friend</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><p><br /> </p></div>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-18654928662220736002020-11-26T06:46:00.001-08:002020-11-26T10:38:48.783-08:00Lois Greaves Nielsen - My Other Mom<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMrSb72DtiC7hV8zq1bPeHz-9Ekj-9Hz2p_q6n1PvyUQ2uWdt0rm276gaMnIFwntRW0HTTlGLBltnCGnD_raQ7gGs9uX_lT_qn_eXXqtnrR-YeWsCFB5tsb0vDhrIXHzNGWXG1LyPBemX/s692/C%2526C+-Outside+Temple+Entrance+Kissing.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="545" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMrSb72DtiC7hV8zq1bPeHz-9Ekj-9Hz2p_q6n1PvyUQ2uWdt0rm276gaMnIFwntRW0HTTlGLBltnCGnD_raQ7gGs9uX_lT_qn_eXXqtnrR-YeWsCFB5tsb0vDhrIXHzNGWXG1LyPBemX/w252-h320/C%2526C+-Outside+Temple+Entrance+Kissing.jpg" title="Cathy & Carlton with Lois in the background following our marriage ceremony at the Salt Lake Temple" width="252" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Mom" looking on after the Wedding <br />Ceremony of Carlton & Cathy Christensen</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div>I first met Lois Nielsen when I arrived at her home to pick up her daughter Cathleen in what was a "blind date" on February 10, 1990 at their home in Layton, Utah. When I came into their home, I noticed nearly an entire wall filled with pictures. I was amazed at the quantity, and replied, "Do all these people belong to you, or did you just keep the inserts that came with the frames?" I think we hit it off from there. What I didn't realize that evening, is what a profound impact she would have on my life and my family. I often amazed at the joy she garners from the simplicities in life and the satisfaction of some of the more basic elements in her life. Early on in our marriage, Lois and her husband Frank Nielsen allowed me to call them "Mom and Dad" respectively. Sixteen years after the passing of my last parent, she remains the only living grandparent to our children and I am grateful for the continued influence she has upon our family.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcXVmNY92C_OnlXu5z0vDqhWjYciT7x3ys9mExot0gAm9bciK3AjOfxsiRCAvwBTqLmoeohfpM7RM4Yt09n7r1GinL87OK8aqK5Oa5vBcs0kjQB5COCCr65XOHwWKPczC0PVoyLTYpVHS/s638/Greaves%253B+Lois+Mary+Greaves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="473" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcXVmNY92C_OnlXu5z0vDqhWjYciT7x3ys9mExot0gAm9bciK3AjOfxsiRCAvwBTqLmoeohfpM7RM4Yt09n7r1GinL87OK8aqK5Oa5vBcs0kjQB5COCCr65XOHwWKPczC0PVoyLTYpVHS/s320/Greaves%253B+Lois+Mary+Greaves.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Mom was born to William Lloyd and Olive Hill Greaves. Born in the middle of her family, her father worked for much of his career at the printing presses of the Deseret News and her mother, later for Bennet Paint. They raised their family in a modest home located on West Temple in what is now known as South Salt Lake. They were faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in a variety of ways in the Church, helping family and helping neighbors.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFmp3vVS264r7TfKk7YcohUZ8VkIIWOx2mjzBhQar4LDEOEJy0XlFxPBKOGqIrJ8_vq0ndU_z56dzCm3q3H5W3TTgl-mBjtr5vfJgC78O1-HDzzmbJQ6Mx-iIdlihjBjwssOp8c2fLRRT/s1981/Greaves+Family-William+Lloyd%252C+Jo+Ann%252C+Enid%252C+Olive+Hill%252C+James+Lloyd+%2526+Lois+Mary.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1467" data-original-width="1981" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFmp3vVS264r7TfKk7YcohUZ8VkIIWOx2mjzBhQar4LDEOEJy0XlFxPBKOGqIrJ8_vq0ndU_z56dzCm3q3H5W3TTgl-mBjtr5vfJgC78O1-HDzzmbJQ6Mx-iIdlihjBjwssOp8c2fLRRT/s320/Greaves+Family-William+Lloyd%252C+Jo+Ann%252C+Enid%252C+Olive+Hill%252C+James+Lloyd+%2526+Lois+Mary.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lois is on the far right, middle row</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Mom married Franklin Harvey Nielsen at the age of 19. Their married life started up near Dad's family farm located in Marion, Summit County, Utah. There were many challenging days as they raised their family. They moved often to find good employment and their entertainment of the family often came from within the family and their conversations. Even today, once the Nielsen Family gets going, unless it is a topic you want to engage with, you should have a project you can go and do. There is no stopping them! Their frequent relocation, often living in cities where they didn't own their home, certainly could have created instability, but they both did an amazing job in keeping their family together and making the best of what life provided.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLswHlhWRMEIE5cSdBBBcK-q2g_W46gNvG1P7GBRDo42_riPd_MmHmFfzVVILCnkLjWHzfbMTf60kL45IF_-S206fCxphmNMT8V_3VGVhVBaqscmABpQyc70p6CYjFVrZUq87cXDc1E_A/s1995/Lois+Mary+Greaves+%2526+Franklin+Harvey+Nielsen%252C+Sr.%253B+Wedding+Reception.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1995" data-original-width="1574" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLswHlhWRMEIE5cSdBBBcK-q2g_W46gNvG1P7GBRDo42_riPd_MmHmFfzVVILCnkLjWHzfbMTf60kL45IF_-S206fCxphmNMT8V_3VGVhVBaqscmABpQyc70p6CYjFVrZUq87cXDc1E_A/s320/Lois+Mary+Greaves+%2526+Franklin+Harvey+Nielsen%252C+Sr.%253B+Wedding+Reception.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frank and Lois on their wedding day</td></tr></tbody></table><br />When Frank & Lois finally secured a home on Camelot Drive in Layton, it became in part, their castle where they did the best to provide for their family. Music was an integral part of raising their family and each child grew up singing together and sharing their talents. While spouses have joined their musical groups from time to time, my participation is still pending. Apparently singing on-key, is a requirement! Dad in his later years became disabled. A crippling disease that took its toll on his large frame, left him bent over and unable to get around without canes and a mobility cart. It left Mom as the primary provider as she returned back to work and ultimately left her as a widow at a much earlier age than I am sure she anticipated.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgehCgiofNHkyyMLFq76cPSxEsem4f6G397jNdmTi1A9NacsN7I0LIli6Bb8eyeLyej9DQgVOpQjpaApzB1o3tIRMSdCPVqUhm9BT2XQOp6bu8LPLSbbEvL1J0CixHmyVUjVM9kU_C2N7ib/s1923/Nielsen%253B+Lois+Mary+Greaves++%2526+Franklin+Harvey+Nielsen%252C+Sr..jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1923" data-original-width="1507" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgehCgiofNHkyyMLFq76cPSxEsem4f6G397jNdmTi1A9NacsN7I0LIli6Bb8eyeLyej9DQgVOpQjpaApzB1o3tIRMSdCPVqUhm9BT2XQOp6bu8LPLSbbEvL1J0CixHmyVUjVM9kU_C2N7ib/s320/Nielsen%253B+Lois+Mary+Greaves++%2526+Franklin+Harvey+Nielsen%252C+Sr..jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Like any of us, their marriage while not perfect, was perfect in love. As they progressed in life, they like the rest of us found forgiveness and kindness. Honesty was always a staple of their life and they accepted the consequence of any mistakes. They moved forward the best they could and just wanted happiness and love for their family. I have seen Mom sacrifice much to have her children succeed. She is not one for having a lot of physical possessions. I imagine one day at her passing, you could really go through her personal belongings in less than a couple of hours. Where her wealth lies, is in the conversations, the quilts, the bears and the baby blankets she makes for others. As one who has great faith with a focus on family, you frequently find her praying for her children and grandchildren. </div><div> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHgGAgDfK4oXifydMIl1G988_WwQI2HI3Jy4TtQXqSBMTF0sgI5QqCplPudcXZvskJfqYEc5d32vdNDV-aImTZMXGN_xqhkVNMSdxtwKcu7C8IArfJq8ru78DnVeKHt0KNn53OKJ9OonU/s2048/Nauvoo+054.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHgGAgDfK4oXifydMIl1G988_WwQI2HI3Jy4TtQXqSBMTF0sgI5QqCplPudcXZvskJfqYEc5d32vdNDV-aImTZMXGN_xqhkVNMSdxtwKcu7C8IArfJq8ru78DnVeKHt0KNn53OKJ9OonU/s320/Nauvoo+054.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On a family vacation to Nauvoo, IL, mom agreed<br />to go horseback riding with Carlton's family.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Mom, a diligent student of the gospel of Jesus Christ, always wanted to visit Nauvoo, Illinois, an early settlement location for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 2004, Mom joined our young family and we visited it and other locations in Missouri. It just so happened that my eldest brother Elliott was also there with his family, affording us some joint opportunities to be together. One afternoon, they suggested we join them for a 2 hour horseback ride around the adjoining countryside. It had been a few years since Mom had been on a horse, but in her usual, let's give it a try attitude and the help of a set of stairs, went for a ride. We have loved her interactions with our family and it doesn't take much for me when projects need to be done around her home, to engage my daughters Jessica and Sarah. They will do anything for Grandma.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/de60azyULUY" width="320" youtube-src-id="de60azyULUY"></iframe></div><br /><div>In her acts of service, Mom makes stuffed bears for children. She was looking for a home for them and I suggested the Police Department for the Utah Transit Authority might could use them. It's fair to say they are heavily subscribed to and officers use them to share with little children they encounter in the course of their service. Mom has never been one to seek attention or need acknowledgement, but this year, after the need for isolation, we decided she needed a few people to wish her Happy Birthday. Last May, when she turned 82, the UTA police were kind enough to pay her a visit. I kept it a surprise and it definitely made her day. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am often getting in trouble with Mom, when I do projects around her house. She thinks I spend too much, but I think I don't do enough. I have such gratitude for the goodness of this wonderful woman who has allowed me to be part of her life. I am grateful for the impact she has had in her family and upon mine. I am the direct benefactor of her youngest daughter Cathy, our children Jessica and Sarah and most importantly her testimony of faith and fortitude. I am grateful to have two moms in my life.<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p></div></div>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-72181937745528570062020-04-06T05:43:00.000-07:002020-04-29T16:52:09.574-07:00Happy Birthday Clayton - My life was blessed the day you were born!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have had this picture on my cell phone lock screen since the day my brother Clayton passed away. I cropped it out of a picture with my brothers from a trip we took in 2016. We spent a week going up the coast of Maine and a day out on a sailing yacht in Camden Bay. I keep thinking it is time to change it, but decided that day might be today, April 6, 2020. This would have been my Brother Clayton's 68th Birthday. It has been a crazy few months since he passed away. We had two other deaths in the family, in the midst of a worldwide pandemic and locally, in Salt Lake, we also had an earthquake. One bright spot would be the fact that Clayton would appreciate how the United States has had to become dependent on online learning both in K-12 and in Higher Education. Clayton often took grief through the years from other academic scholars that there must be some level of satisfaction to see the world dependent on it in order to continue student education.<br />
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Saturday's mention of Clayton by Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was also a reminder of how much Clayton loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and his most favorite work, sharing the gospel with others. It also demonstrates how his testimony continues to bless the Church in numerous ways.<br />
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While our parents had us at opposite ends of the family, I was always grateful how Clayton looked out for me and was desirous to have me succeed. Clayton's sacrifices on my behalf were many and I can honestly point to numerous times, when Clayton's example of love and kindness has helped me to succeed. Early on, I just wanted to follow Clayton's pathway, but it became apparent that it would be nearly impossible to follow. I was OK with modest outcomes but I was always touched when Clayton called me after a visit to Utah and indicated how someone had introduced him as Carlton's brother. While those were few and far between, it was always kind of him to call.<br />
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Clayton's marriage to Christine Quinn had a profound impact on our family. They were an amazing partnership of kindness and courtesy that were the consummate example for my wife and me to follow. There were never modest dinners in their home and Christine continues to be an important part of our family. This last January on the week after New Years, when my brother Spencer and I spent a week in Boston caring for my brother, I was reminded of how dedicated Christine was to his physical ability to function. Christine worked long and hard in hopes of Clayton living and skirting past death one more time. I can't imagine anything she could have done differently and in many ways, couldn't think of his living during this current pandemic with a compromised immune system.<br />
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Clayton's ease of comfort, weather it be with national or international leaders, or the person down the street, he always made them feel the same. Everyone felt valued by him and some of the most touching things following his death are the numerous times individuals have conveyed their interactions with him and how important he made them feel. Some might be expected, but most were not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40Xcl-qWjkDKLYNmbKWKpwAVpA6lpvQMNxoqajEo9QgVR2Jj0Bsd5d-WQiDgxcPCJ-UeuDIAT4OeXMYaT_twyYfbhCYOgXJRtB1F61JgLdEgGgKY8x1Rzbk5UCOqSq5LvP95XlLy5BqCc/s1600/DSC02862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40Xcl-qWjkDKLYNmbKWKpwAVpA6lpvQMNxoqajEo9QgVR2Jj0Bsd5d-WQiDgxcPCJ-UeuDIAT4OeXMYaT_twyYfbhCYOgXJRtB1F61JgLdEgGgKY8x1Rzbk5UCOqSq5LvP95XlLy5BqCc/s320/DSC02862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Clayton was always instrumental in the gathering of our family. Whether it was General Conference times where we gathered for Priesthood Meeting or family vacations, including a week on an Alaskan Cruise. It was Clayton and Christine's kindness that enabled those gatherings to happen and they continue to be wonderful memories for all of us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxerQNCw4TUdCnx-20Y2hzrtesASuw-Qp-lIUE75WEum5rCp_fa20EsJSeh94kuiDgL8nvSO8IhYw-TLv-GiL7igRN6BIVOWUF8zDlXoowEMCEEhyfMgaaKa5lb8QFF3HCVbI0K6L1o3u/s1600/1962_Robert_zcmi_with+boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1012" data-original-width="1286" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxerQNCw4TUdCnx-20Y2hzrtesASuw-Qp-lIUE75WEum5rCp_fa20EsJSeh94kuiDgL8nvSO8IhYw-TLv-GiL7igRN6BIVOWUF8zDlXoowEMCEEhyfMgaaKa5lb8QFF3HCVbI0K6L1o3u/s320/1962_Robert_zcmi_with+boys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevJO6iesx7h1j1jxvAboiYNmxrlW9ANSn3TvDoW5NcLv2iw38WiDr6fHqkFyniGrtz5Oct2Hpj4wRFeZ73P_byu1Q0duidiTJsHpP4t2tZLUKQWKqudfhl35Tez3HK-wEjdv4xajeOshq/s1600/1951_Robert_Elliott++wagon+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevJO6iesx7h1j1jxvAboiYNmxrlW9ANSn3TvDoW5NcLv2iw38WiDr6fHqkFyniGrtz5Oct2Hpj4wRFeZ73P_byu1Q0duidiTJsHpP4t2tZLUKQWKqudfhl35Tez3HK-wEjdv4xajeOshq/s320/1951_Robert_Elliott++wagon+train.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My family was one of modest means. We learned much from both our parents and learned how to have fun through some very simple activities. That notion of getting hands dirty and just doing what it takes to get the job done, working with our children and not being afraid to try something new. That value or understanding that each experience is a privilege and not a right and we should never stop trying to understand how something might be done better.<br />
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Today, I may change my lock screen and wallpaper from pictures those with Clayton, but I don't think I will every delete his contact. My hope is that Clayton might still call one day, tell me what he is doing and which really cool people he met. Happy Birthday dearest brother, and thanks for being such a great example.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-74254365216368112002019-10-03T14:11:00.002-07:002019-10-04T05:59:17.104-07:00Big Red - the yellow wagon<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g3T6A3BPWpzZcVBU7qe7OO4eh7lhIG8aa271NweVUxRvzVfsr2c60bZNe9tqgm_puQ0HqQRKB2V0EdD7AmrKZhVQzIprh0xcXfw4-WBIchdICPcnPw7J4SkE2R5CrQcMM5xiqpBUkAaa/s1600/20140615_210249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g3T6A3BPWpzZcVBU7qe7OO4eh7lhIG8aa271NweVUxRvzVfsr2c60bZNe9tqgm_puQ0HqQRKB2V0EdD7AmrKZhVQzIprh0xcXfw4-WBIchdICPcnPw7J4SkE2R5CrQcMM5xiqpBUkAaa/s320/20140615_210249.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Father's Day 2014 - Jessica and Sarah take Dad for a ride</td></tr>
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Many of you know that my brother Brad runs a nursery, Deseret Nursery and as part of it, has a lot of garden carts for customers use while they purchase plants. One particular time, Brad purchased a very large cart, yellow in color, but named it Big Red. While he decided early that it was too big, some of his customers were drawn to the name because if you know my brother, the fact that a yellow cart was named Big Red, is not an unusual thing for him to do! Well Cathy and I decided to purchase the cart from him and keep it at our home.<br />
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In our initial year of use, I was drawn to the size of it, and having been decades since being pulled in a wagon, asked my girls to take me for a ride around the neighborhood for Father's Day. It was a lovely experience. Later, for our Stake Youth Conference, we used it to haul food and other items, since the distance to the parking lot at the camp site was a little longer than most would want to carry.</div>
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In the years that would follow, we used it to haul wood around the yard, leaf bags for recycling and other uses as they came along. It worked well, with one exception in that it seemed like one of the tires was always going flat on me. I did purchase replacement tires from the original seller, <a href="http://www.growerssupply.com/" target="_blank">Growers Supply</a>. They were $30 a pop, and would work fine until another would go flat on me. I tried the green slime, even tried to pull the tube out once but always a pain and a tire would be flat when I really needed it. This year after a service project at my Church's recreation property, it picked up some goat-heads and alas one of the tires went flat on me again. I was about to order a new tire, when the thought of going with a flat free tire resonated. I knew I would most likely have to replace at least a pair at a time, and looked everywhere for them, including from the original seller. </div>
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Then a few weeks ago, I came across a web site, <a href="http://www.zoro.com/" target="_blank">ZORO.com</a>. After many measurements, thought I had the nearly perfect match, they were 2" smaller in diameter, but same width. This created the need to replace all four wheels, but in the end a good investment. They came very timely, looked great and when I went to put them on, realized the axial width I measured was for the width of wheel, leaving no room at the end for a cotter pin to secure the wheel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHA6-6PIB4541qRu8DN0bf-Gkfr2Zqs_KXBkv25IxVSJIFQM8U45ao72zn-Cz63PeCIDXjSUrdeaHgKs5dMVuheRUe1DbFir29VdVsuwMy7w7xoqBOp9tQKf1N0ztlAT2b90qlW3_MNPd/s1600/20191002_204037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHA6-6PIB4541qRu8DN0bf-Gkfr2Zqs_KXBkv25IxVSJIFQM8U45ao72zn-Cz63PeCIDXjSUrdeaHgKs5dMVuheRUe1DbFir29VdVsuwMy7w7xoqBOp9tQKf1N0ztlAT2b90qlW3_MNPd/s320/20191002_204037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I called the company to explore options and was set to call back the next day to talk with their product reps, when an idea came that since the axial was fixed, could I weld something on the end to hold the wheel on. Since they were flat free, I didn't really need to take them off again. I'm not a welder, but in exploring the option with friends, even briefly thinking of purchasing a welder, I went to "the top of the mountain" to ask the genius of our neighborhood, Martin Baker. Martin knows everything, has fixed items I could never imagine being repaired and has tools that even I don't own. I was going to an evening community meeting and he agreed to solve my dilemma. Martin drilled a hole in the center of the axial, tapped it for threads and then put in a bolt with washers. It worked perfectly! By the end of my community meeting, Martin had all four wheels connected. He even fixed a cotter pin issue in the handle for me. No finer man exists, I'm always indebted to Martin Baker!</div>
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I brought Big Red home last night and the yellow wagon is ready for the next job around Christensen Acres. I sometimes demonstrate my pride in my projects at completion by assimilating myself to Sparticus, but alas, even Sparticus has limits and everyone needs a Martin Baker in their life.</div>
Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-3004039292443922052019-03-03T08:10:00.001-08:002019-06-10T03:45:09.823-07:00Making sure you're following the right Measurements in your life!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6keld3HFP_7903WSrIzcQvb81e1WUn9FYtL8bnstrol5RxjwRdbT8Cl3gX1bVSgO9HZ8OflEwF4Pnr5G4ZWjDIsnZivPK3AP97gdkSd0u5aVrzYBu2QYlUJrq7ckGQ1PXL1SU8T3G437J/s1600/20180915_130557+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6keld3HFP_7903WSrIzcQvb81e1WUn9FYtL8bnstrol5RxjwRdbT8Cl3gX1bVSgO9HZ8OflEwF4Pnr5G4ZWjDIsnZivPK3AP97gdkSd0u5aVrzYBu2QYlUJrq7ckGQ1PXL1SU8T3G437J/s320/20180915_130557+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Christensen Acres Weather Station</div>
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A few years ago, while going through Costco, I came across a weather station and decided to purchase it and then gave it to my family to give to me for Christmas! I later linked it to the internet, and if you Google "<a href="https://www.wunderground.com/personal-weather-station/dashboard?ID=KUTSALTL146" target="_blank">Christensen Acres</a>" you can get live weather data straight from my backyard! It was a fun novelty to me and occasionally added entertainment during a boring meeting. As a year or so progressed, we added our <a href="https://enlighten.enphaseenergy.com/pv/public_systems/g6Sv675272/overview" target="_blank">Solar System</a> and it helped to link the weather station to it. I initially attached it to the roof of our backyard playhouse, but found it was too close to the shingles in a heavy snow storm and in the summer, picked up the heat from the asphalt shingles giving me artificially high temperatures during the summer. I placed it up higher to get away from the shingles, and it helped, but finally decided to attach it to the north end of a bench swing we had, that would move it away from the high heat, looked better in the placement and put it up high enough to get better wind readings as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmcv2lULZPnafw1bRfkuBoXqZbUQbJbGWk9mjejK6nxvczoN9S90_C5Zo-RWUBDhQQxyKKQ3_6WumPob930MUdJNJqGB0esmqw6wX6EhZrU7Yk5LpZNv-VVGiio8XzE_4QGBiz2PsgCYX/s1600/20180526_215639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmcv2lULZPnafw1bRfkuBoXqZbUQbJbGWk9mjejK6nxvczoN9S90_C5Zo-RWUBDhQQxyKKQ3_6WumPob930MUdJNJqGB0esmqw6wX6EhZrU7Yk5LpZNv-VVGiio8XzE_4QGBiz2PsgCYX/s320/20180526_215639.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Last May, we decided to update our 65 year old Sprinkler system with automated valves. I purchased a Rachio 3 Smart controller and it had an option to link it weather stations, including just mine, which I was really excited about. The Rachio controller worked great. It monitors the temperature, adjusts watering schedules accordingly, if it's windy, skips that night, etc. I just had one problem that I didn't fully appreciate until I received my first water bill, anticipating doing better than last year. It was much higher than historical levels. I wondered if I had done something wrong, then realized that I had noticed my weather station reading much higher temperatures than surrounding systems. I first brushed it off, thinking that only I really used that data, but suddenly realized that it's accuracy had a direct impact on other things in my life! The weather station had a problem with keeping ambient air temperatures controlled and those high temperatures were giving false readings to other systems. I decided to replace my weather station with a more robust system that had two solar panels, giving it more flexibility in controlling ambient temperatures and more accurate readings. I compare it periodically to other friends stations in the area to make sure that I'm in line with theirs as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo70SXmeEylcTeWc52zAL_HL8HTEYmI0HBH5w8-HEdhoNwDUxdkRovTKr-J_39UlD2RyvVf2CEsWd6I8NyW4sKhV87V9xdxMJxGeXt3zB87y0_czRBUFXNXnYQBI-UvjuZ3CjgXzp_kUqK/s1600/20190303_070845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo70SXmeEylcTeWc52zAL_HL8HTEYmI0HBH5w8-HEdhoNwDUxdkRovTKr-J_39UlD2RyvVf2CEsWd6I8NyW4sKhV87V9xdxMJxGeXt3zB87y0_czRBUFXNXnYQBI-UvjuZ3CjgXzp_kUqK/s320/20190303_070845.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christensen Acres weather Station (in the circle) compared<br />
to surrounding stations</td></tr>
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Obviously geography (proximity to the Jordan River) and placement affect variations in readings, but usually I'm in the same ballpark now. My hope obviously is that this summer's watering accuracy will be much better than last year!<br />
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This has caused me to think a lot about how so often we find ourselves in places or circumstances where we shouldn't be. Are there aspects of our lives and the measurements we follow simply leading us in a direction we might later regret? Is it a wonder we are where we are, if the measurements we use aren't the correct ones, much like my old weather station? My brother Clayton, wrote a great book a number of years ago, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Will-Measure-Your-Life/dp/0062102419/ref=sr_1_2?crid=VEPCEB66JTNM&keywords=how+will+you+measure+your+life+clayton+christensen&qid=1551628358&s=gateway&sprefix=how+will+you+measure%2Caps%2C320&sr=8-2#" target="_blank">"How Will You Measure Your Life"</a> that was on the NY Times best sellers list that has some great thoughts on the subject. More importantly however, will be an opportunity on the first weekend in April and then later on the first weekend in October, when we will hear from prophets of God. These are the times for the General Conference of the <a href="http://www.lds.org/" target="_blank">Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints</a>. You will hear loving teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Receive instructions that will give one guidance as they contemplate and get through the challenges of this life. They are not messages of fear, but of hope. They are not messages that constrain, but rather free me to know where I will truly find happiness. How grateful I am that my Heavenly Father didn't leave me to figure it out entirely on my own. While he gave me choices, he also has given me guidance to help me know for myself the direction he wants me to go. I hope you will join me in listening or watching through multiple options. It's the right weather station for this life!<br />
<br />Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-89789779175004813702018-12-13T04:10:00.002-08:002018-12-13T04:26:36.992-08:00Power of the 90 Gallon Garbage Can - Taking the frustration and making it a success<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTULt4JGN4GRdCbBTbW9w83s-Dtk-tl9WCqoLrDWJnBIBpwKIYWndQVspzOEaMUcQXswY-MxPEGoJ40XnwYSvaF7opv7tlLEUOuEynThz4nLc8RfINpW1ZJJSaEgBCqKvxGShOiF1KBTdz/s1600/20180706_072035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTULt4JGN4GRdCbBTbW9w83s-Dtk-tl9WCqoLrDWJnBIBpwKIYWndQVspzOEaMUcQXswY-MxPEGoJ40XnwYSvaF7opv7tlLEUOuEynThz4nLc8RfINpW1ZJJSaEgBCqKvxGShOiF1KBTdz/s320/20180706_072035.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salt Lake City changed its neighborhood cleanup this last<br />
summer and some didn't get the message. Looked at this for<br />
months - Note the overflowing small can</td></tr>
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I served on the Salt Lake City Council for 16 years, and each of those years, discussed the garbage fees charged to residents in the city. A number of years ago, the city added smaller garbage cans to allow homeowners the opportunity to not have the full size 90 gallon can. For many, the logistics were easier, since they didn't really fill the larger can. Staff made the arguments that if people had the smaller can, they would recycle more. In fact pricing favored the smaller cans as an incentive for people to switch, which in their theory would cause them to recycle more.<br />
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I believe in recycling, often that can is full and I take advantage of neighbors cans to make sure all my cardboard gets out. However year after year, I made the argument that in the pricing, there is a fixed cost to collection, regardless of the size of the can and the weight potential should be the variable pricing. However for many of those years, the 90 gallon can took the bulk of the pricing as an incentive to shift. I often made the argument that if you shifted the bulk of people over, then the cost would have to be made up in the smaller cans and that would be a big shift for many of those users after they had been shifted to the smaller cans. I always lost out in the discussion, and in the scope of life, if you have to take a loss, that's one I can handle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWDpYBXlVrZGdMK4vUfXE7-gTb1XaTwntapnNHI3SuLopq-aJNpYS47R7kYGy8gjMh_GZMrplGaRhwbmMXsSxnPGicFCU-R_uZGPZusnxTA9MFzpYw1CUL8yCVKMXwOtfqn5_7TMDiyC8/s1600/SLC+Garbage+Fees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="1292" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWDpYBXlVrZGdMK4vUfXE7-gTb1XaTwntapnNHI3SuLopq-aJNpYS47R7kYGy8gjMh_GZMrplGaRhwbmMXsSxnPGicFCU-R_uZGPZusnxTA9MFzpYw1CUL8yCVKMXwOtfqn5_7TMDiyC8/s320/SLC+Garbage+Fees.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salt Lake City Garbage Can Fee Schedule</td></tr>
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More often than not, I see users of small cans with overflowing garbage, which in reality isn't much less than what I typically put in my 90 gallon can, yet I pay more. Then came last summer. Salt Lake City changed its neighborhood cleanup methods. It's fair to say, the new method got off to a poor start, leaving many garbage piles through the neighborhood for much of the summer. I tried myself to schedule a time, but it was out months, and on top if that, my truck wasn't running and I didn't have an easy way to haul things off to the dump. I decided to exercise the power of the 90 gallon garbage can!<br />
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I had renovated my back yard, installing new new pathways with pavers. I had trimmed back trees, including removing an apple tree for a neighbor and discovered that if I cut things up in smaller pieces and placed them in my brown or green waste cans or systematically placed discarded items in the 90 gallon can, they went away! In fact, I had a quest last summer to see if I could avoid personally going to the dump and take full advantage of my 90 gallon can. Just last week, I threw away a chair and a small cupboard that was introduced to my mallet. I am always careful to not make it too heavy, but if it fit in my 90 gallon can, it was as good as gone. I ended up last year, not ever using the neighborhood cleanup or making a trip to the dump for personal needs, yet it's fair to say, I threw a number of things away.<br />
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While I am not sure the pricing is still equitable, I've learned to live with the disparity and with my new found success of disposal simply say, "P<i>ower to the 90 gallon can!"</i>Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-38962848128403139832018-06-17T07:34:00.000-07:002018-06-17T07:34:37.012-07:00Playhouse has new siding and the girls have grown up!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupP7ULaHBjgr85wRoA33We1XHVCFMkh4Vc4B9Dfsbz2GHCD208YtxGhs7th-5Nt4tRcisIsj4TwHisGlY1JDQA4Kl1_-mZpK2TcWS9_9dZobUyqhGBMjTXdJvoB_K3LJ90QNWvDP-dcCk/s1600/20180617_074626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupP7ULaHBjgr85wRoA33We1XHVCFMkh4Vc4B9Dfsbz2GHCD208YtxGhs7th-5Nt4tRcisIsj4TwHisGlY1JDQA4Kl1_-mZpK2TcWS9_9dZobUyqhGBMjTXdJvoB_K3LJ90QNWvDP-dcCk/s320/20180617_074626.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Years ago, with the help of my brother-in-law Bill Nielsen, we built<br />this playhouse for our girls. We recently put on vinyl siding to<br />improve the looks and help preserve it</td></tr>
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We have been working super hard this last month doing improvements to our backyard that we've wanted to do for a while, motivated by our hosting a dinner gathering for some friends and their recent finalization of their adoption of a wonderful little boy. It was one of those things, where one project led to another and then to another and a few thousand dollars into it, we have added some wonderful features to our backyard. One of those improvements was the siding of our girls playhouse, which was originally built out of wafer board, and painted. The years had taken it's toll on both the paint and the wood, but we not only wanted to keep it, but also have a place that one day our grandchildren could come and play. We originally built it, so that at 6'10" I come come to "dinner" or visit my girls without having to bend my head. It proved to be a wonderful gathering place for multiple girls, giving each of them their space to play. Our oldest now teaches elementary school and is looking for her first home, our youngest is a semester or so away from her associates degree at a local college. Memories we seem to be able to hold in the context of their time, but everything else tends to grow, which is a good thing.<div>
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Today, which is Father's day, is also the 7th anniversary of the beginning of my blog. My <a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2011/06/fathers-day-i-probably-havent-done-lot.html" target="_blank">first blog</a> was about my feelings as a father and while I didn't know if anyone would read my blog, I have been pleasantly surprised at the results. That first blog, continues to find its way into my top 10 blogs from time time, reminding me that there are other dads who may a feel the same inadequacy as a father as we struggle to do our best.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoech5v_76DQQixP9pjdbFJ-DBALGDixEjMXJOsEqEvFGdVrCHZYqvLRXvfeOEwW9AV4Fen6AoHXenk9mSn1w7wWjus7xvos8r3Nr6iL9Njnd_crOs6U7FVezm-zY9Hgooi-zJDk3ObXO/s1600/Blogger_+Carlton%2527s+Corner+-+Overview+stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="346" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoech5v_76DQQixP9pjdbFJ-DBALGDixEjMXJOsEqEvFGdVrCHZYqvLRXvfeOEwW9AV4Fen6AoHXenk9mSn1w7wWjus7xvos8r3Nr6iL9Njnd_crOs6U7FVezm-zY9Hgooi-zJDk3ObXO/s320/Blogger_+Carlton%2527s+Corner+-+Overview+stats.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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I have also been interested to see that the most widely read blogs are about family, mine in particular. I didn't really start it out that way, but I have on occasion written about the people who mean the most to me. Of particular note, is the fact that one of the pieces I wrote about my wife on Mother's Day has become the most popular. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJ1fmWh1ukTE6xSwNf7SY-irhR-jpcSjnuYa3OKTySuzHNHAHwx_GLJGMLw6n2OJdXzVLr56bKiqnPch84KBwDhkl0hOBxmRQLieg4ryPS16k1ApQuRgHhuhJ4zG7man8qGKpmUg6rIco/s1600/Blogger_+Carlton%2527s+Corner+-+Audience+stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="387" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJ1fmWh1ukTE6xSwNf7SY-irhR-jpcSjnuYa3OKTySuzHNHAHwx_GLJGMLw6n2OJdXzVLr56bKiqnPch84KBwDhkl0hOBxmRQLieg4ryPS16k1ApQuRgHhuhJ4zG7man8qGKpmUg6rIco/s320/Blogger_+Carlton%2527s+Corner+-+Audience+stats.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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While most of my audience is from the United States, it has reminded me that the questions or thoughts I have, may have interest elsewhere. In the end, I mostly write for myself. I am grateful that others are interested. It has given me an outlet to share thoughts and impressions and even on occasion pass along my review of a local business or something I thought was interesting or helpful. Carlton's Corner always has a place for my girls to come back to, whether or not it's in the playhouse! I am very fortunate to be their father and the wonderful blessing they have been in my life. Thank you to those who take the time to read on occasion and whether I know you or will get to know you, you have also blessed and made my life better.</div>
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Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-2671559015912426062018-02-11T12:59:00.001-08:002018-10-07T13:57:14.575-07:00Big Guys with Ties - Keeping it together<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3ipwXmJoOixe5k-jgpF-y0yiT18yuItTpFMCc_zSu5wWUHZWdB6zrtd2FhosT-OEf5SL1Y8Lk-mpXiRVTetYlPAp2ObhCWObeE0BqNquV0gHssCCPcR8YEbFx_HgrX74M6zRPAkM2Hf5/s1600/20180211_125401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3ipwXmJoOixe5k-jgpF-y0yiT18yuItTpFMCc_zSu5wWUHZWdB6zrtd2FhosT-OEf5SL1Y8Lk-mpXiRVTetYlPAp2ObhCWObeE0BqNquV0gHssCCPcR8YEbFx_HgrX74M6zRPAkM2Hf5/s320/20180211_125401.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solution not even imagined by the manufacturer!</td></tr>
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Ok, I've written about some pretty strange things, but none quite so personal and challenging as my ties! When your are tall like me (6'10") and a pretty long torso, it's hard to keep my front and back part of my ties together. I wear a suit at least five days a week. On top of that I speak to different congregations weekly as <a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2013/11/stake-president-my-new-calling-in-lds.html" target="_blank">Stake President of the Salt Lake Rose Park Stake</a> in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or speak in my role as <a href="http://www.slco.org/regional-development/" target="_blank">Regional Development Director</a> for Salt Lake County and its always embarrassing to look down and find my tie going two different directions. I think after 40 years of wearing a tie, I finally found a solution that I don't think was in the minds of the manufacture, 3M when they marketed the product.<br />
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The problem you have at my height, is that the back part of the tie, doesn't go long enough to match up with anything that can hold it. I've tried tape, both regular and double stick - doesn't hold. I've had well meaning friends give me tie clips, but if you placed them where you would need them they would be two inches below the tie knot. I had some ties custom made abroad, but very expensive and frankly didn't hold up well. Those ties they sell in Men's clothing stores that say "extra long", well maybe if you're 5'8", but not for real tall men. Silly as it sounds, those "extra long ties" are the ones that are just leaving me 3" to 4" on the backside when tied.<br />
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A few months ago, my wife Cathy purchased for me four different kinds of Velcro tabs or dots. Some were super heavy duty and while they stayed on the tie permanently, they were also nearly impossible to line up afterwards and usually took three or four times to tie them to come close. Made it very difficult to untie the tie because you had to work around the Velcro surfaces. And if you pulled them off, left a very sticky mess. But they did hold the tie together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2POtXRaFvZOdJdNu8Uc7I-_YCHKpZwqcj1fX5di2S69PkE-7GELDV3cAJXhj8SWV4gp0NTBNU7OLwxrtUyzlvGTCWJQ7u-csIG8NkfQHLfcu8JrHZwrfcIHV5f_zLqxb1NH3FYfgtp7a/s1600/20180211_125303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2POtXRaFvZOdJdNu8Uc7I-_YCHKpZwqcj1fX5di2S69PkE-7GELDV3cAJXhj8SWV4gp0NTBNU7OLwxrtUyzlvGTCWJQ7u-csIG8NkfQHLfcu8JrHZwrfcIHV5f_zLqxb1NH3FYfgtp7a/s320/20180211_125303.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstration on how the Velcro dots hold the<br />
tie together</td></tr>
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Then I tried the Scotch Create Fastener Dots. They are fairly inexpensive, and do hold to the clothing. However the beauty is they come off fairly easily if I just peel them off the tie with little or no residue. I realized for the small cost and constant frustration of trying to line up the more robust Velcro dots, that I could just place these dots on for the day, it held my tie together and at the end of the day, I just peeled them off and threw them away and untied my tie like I normally do. My days are often 14 hour days and they stay together most of the time without any extra effort on my part. At age 52, can I tell you how liberating this was to me! How normal it made me feel and most importantly how I didn't have to cover up for my tie becoming like an upside down V when talking to a crowd or just a co-worker. I'm sure they are available in craft stores, if they were smart, a big and tall store, but save yourself the time and get them on <a href="http://a.co/aHZS79P" target="_blank">Amazon.com</a> and have it shipped to you in two days. Now it doesn't solve the myriad of problems in the rest of my life but for now, my ties are keeping it together!Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-18436088626559610602017-12-24T06:08:00.001-08:002017-12-24T06:31:27.458-08:00#LightTheWorld with Luminaries tonight in Rose Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswiuHo3YsqOYnQl5eaiH7aW0XI_MNlZQJcODLNBb6Mh5BJx96MeRN9pyjfPz7gpuDD7GtERuWw69Jue0DL8Yx46QUPMXye8ZxSuEwxQsOR2FpAwUuu2-WsfaLpGLhqPpAcKh5mJXHuCWu/s1600/Rose-Park-Light-The-World-2017-Web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="758" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswiuHo3YsqOYnQl5eaiH7aW0XI_MNlZQJcODLNBb6Mh5BJx96MeRN9pyjfPz7gpuDD7GtERuWw69Jue0DL8Yx46QUPMXye8ZxSuEwxQsOR2FpAwUuu2-WsfaLpGLhqPpAcKh5mJXHuCWu/s400/Rose-Park-Light-The-World-2017-Web.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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This evening will conclude the Rose Park Stake's efforts in the #LightTheWorld effort as we follow the examples of our Savior, Jesus Christ. After much preparation, dedication and sharing of personal testimonies, this evening, we do an outward example of that effort by placing luminaries in front of our homes and also sharing it with neighbors. It is a small gesture that represents a much larger commitment as we share our testimonies with others. I've written about it earlier in this blog, but invite any who are interested to join us.<br />
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Thursday evening, we invited members and neighbors alike to come to a wonderful event held in our parking lot of our Church Building that included music, propane fire pits for warmth as well as food. We not only were able to interact with each other but to also pick up a kit for the creation of 10 luminaries to place in front of our homes. We likewise encouraged those taking them to also take one to share with a neighbor. This was an idea, that came from our Stake's Cultural Arts specialist last year, Joni Astorga. When she presented the idea, I questioned it somewhat, but then realized it was exactly the right way to end a month long effort. She was receptive to the spirit and the Lord knew I was too set in my ways! We learned a lot on the production side of things since last year, and while we were challenged with rain on Christmas Eve (when does that ever happen in Utah!), I was very touched by <a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2016/12/lighttheworld-day-25-devoted-followers.html">the faith of the members of the Rose Park Stake</a>.<br />
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If you happen to live nearby and would like to participate, feel free to stop by my home or give me a call. Or better yet, ask your neighbor, who is a member, if you can have one too. We have some extras and would love to have them used. The weather looks more encouraging and most of all, with our without luminaries, our light shines as an example of that commitment to follow his path. Merry Christmas to you, Carlton.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-23527751175420403212017-12-20T06:43:00.001-08:002017-12-20T06:43:58.477-08:00#LightTheWorld - What's really important in life when it's all said and done<br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wTRaaImVfvc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wTRaaImVfvc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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I've written about my father, <a href="https://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-father-passed-away-38-years-ago-today.html">Robert M. Christensen</a> but when I looked at this particular video, it reminded me of a wonderful dream he had shortly before his death that I included previously, but felt I wanted to share it again. It continues to have deep meaning to me when I let the things of the world hold me down, I'm reminded time and again, what truly matters. The older I get, (I turn 52 later this week), the more I am reminded what I can't do without, my family, my faith and my service in God's kingdom. Sometimes after the pettiness of politics or undertow of the workplace, I come back to a place that says, this is what I want in the end. I am grateful for employment and the opportunity to provide for my family and hopefully take care of Cathy when I'm gone, but in the end, it's the items in this dream that really matter.<br />
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From the Autobiography of Robert M. Christensen:<br />
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"On my first visit to the hospital in August of 1975, after being informed that I had a potentially terminal illness, I lay thinking over my life, my future and my family. A remarkable vision was given to me at that time. I first saw a large pile of goods, and I recognized them as my own physical possessions. With them were other worldly goods which I dealt with every day in my work at ZCMI. Suddenly, they disappeared from my view, and I did not feel the slightest desire to look for them or to inquire as to where they went. My vision then showed me three things: one was my righteous family, the second was my knowledge, understanding and testimony of the restored gospel, and the third was the work that I had accomplished in the building up of the kingdom of God. Then, as though the person were standing at my side, a voice spoke to me and said, “This is what life is all about. That’s all there is that is important. That’s all there is to life.” I was then filled with a very comfortable feeling that the Lord had accepted my work and my life.<br />
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I want my family always to remember this story, and to place their values on the spiritual rather than the material things. I hope they will live their lives in such a way that theirs will be the riches of eternity. I want my family to know that I know with all my heart that God lives and is willing to bless us constantly through our lives, and that he wants each of us to succeed in living the gospel so that we can return and live with him in the Celestial Kingdom. I know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior and Redeemer of mankind, that he is the Lord of this earth and that he stands at the head of this church today. He reveals his will to his prophets and to every righteous priesthood holder and member of the church who seeks for divine guidance.<br />
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I have a great belief in the Holy Ghost, and on many occasions in my life, the power of the Holy Ghost has descended upon me and given me the knowledge and help which I needed in accomplishing the Lord’s work. I believe that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church upon the face of the earth. And it is only by membership in the church that we can receive the ordinances of salvation and the principles and doctrines which are needed for entry into the celestial kingdom. I believe in living prophets and that as members of the church, we need to follow the living prophets. While we glean much wisdom and guidance from the prophets of old, it is the living prophets who show us the way to go today. I leave this testimony for the guidance of my family, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-54729714718464726792017-12-10T05:37:00.001-08:002018-10-07T13:57:54.310-07:00#LightTheWorld - A Testimony of the Book of Mormon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/98KYCbh1M9g/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/98KYCbh1M9g?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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While serving as a missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Fukuoka Japan during 1985-86, I was assigned to a suburb of Fukuoka, in an area known as Ijiri. I was serving as a zone leader when they asked me to speak and bear testimony at a fireside for new or investigating members. </div>
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Pondering what I might say, I knelt down and prayed, asking the Lord for help. I was timid about it, that while conversant, my Japanese was certainly not the best. I had spent 9 months previously working in the mission home as Financial Secretary, and speaking opportunities were not quite as abundant. As I knelt to pray, I saw a picture in my mind of the Japanese Book of Mormon.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D6RIcddZAwphaMy76h4NFD5U8GwMai-_HEjoYpdYIrpZwnSBZW-VbC79ONmnY6PjolGgc1CLNaB-GXd_yIN-RZZChNxcuXHRgpVDEedFSz_wTHUYWsioBqus-sUlNbHYWMkSDfJ-UUTz/s1600/2def65ce379320bd45f6b63b687275cd+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D6RIcddZAwphaMy76h4NFD5U8GwMai-_HEjoYpdYIrpZwnSBZW-VbC79ONmnY6PjolGgc1CLNaB-GXd_yIN-RZZChNxcuXHRgpVDEedFSz_wTHUYWsioBqus-sUlNbHYWMkSDfJ-UUTz/s320/2def65ce379320bd45f6b63b687275cd+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese Book of Mormon</td></tr>
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I had a very distinct feeling that I should testify of it, and when I finished my prayer, got up to write down a few thoughts, so that I could remember what I needed to say. As I began to write, a very distinct impression came to me and a voice which said, "A testimony comes from the heart, not a piece of paper" to which I replied, "but you're not giving it in Japanese". However I knew if I trusted in the Lord that when the time came, I could speak.<br />
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A few days came and the meeting started, and my turn came to speak, I held the book in my hand and began to testify of its truthfulness. (It of course fit in one hand, mine are pretty large!) I felt the words flow from my mouth in a manner that I never had before and spirit guided me in the words that I should say. My companion later remarked to me that he had never heard me speak like that before and a few weeks later, during a testimony meeting, a member commented how she had been in that meeting, heard the testimony and had chosen to read the book again.<br />
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More important, I was reminded how the book is true. How I love it's teaching as it is another testimony of the Savior, Jesus Christ and that by reading it, we become closer to him and our Heavenly Father. As we do so, the Holy Ghost will testify to you of its truthfulness, to which I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.<br />
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Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-52774417270398752512017-12-02T08:21:00.002-08:002018-10-07T20:32:27.871-07:00#LightTheWorld Fast Offerings - A way to respond to the Savior's call to feed the poor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There are many wonderful ways to respond to the Savior's call to feed the poor. Many organizations do much good in answering needs around the world. One of the most simplest and cost effective ways, is through a monthly opportunity, known as Fast Offerings. In the Old Testament's book of Malachi 4:8-10 it reads:<br />
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8 ¶ Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.</div>
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9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.</div>
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10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.</div>
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We often think of it just as tithing, but the Lord expects us to do more. However in doing it, he offers an incredible blessings and promises. In a true fast, we abstain from eating two meals in a 24 hour period and offer the equivalent of that cost of food (or more if we choose) as an offering to our Church's Bishop to use in caring for the poor as he sees fit and within guidelines set by the Church. Through coordinated systems, offerings are first used in our local congregation and if there is more than needed, used elsewhere. In some cases, if the needs are greater than donations, the Bishop can use excess fast offerings from other congregations in the needs of his own. It's a beautiful system where you look to your own resources, that of family, and then food and basic necessities. Much good comes from it, and most if not all families at some point are blessed from it, but certainly in giving to others.<br />
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A friend of mine, Bishop Dean L. Davies gave a wonderful address in General Conference a few years ago about both the responsibility and blessing of the the Fast, which I've included above.<br />
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There are those not of our faith, who are helped as well as donations to the Humanitarian Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints go worldwide, including communities locally who are suffering from disasters and other challenges. Those donations, while separate, also aide in the challenge issued by the Savior and can be <a href="https://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services">made here.</a><br />
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Tomorrow is Fast Sunday, and today I made my donation for fast offerings as well as the Humanitarian Fund in preparation of that day. How grateful I am for both the opportunities and blessings that come from such a sacred opportunity and charge from the Savior to care for the poor. It's not the only way I choose to do it, but it is without question, divinely inspired and a blessing in my life.</div>
Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-9329131365643669802017-11-23T07:57:00.000-08:002017-11-23T08:11:38.786-08:00My Family - A blessing in my life!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIqodfL8Cjew12czaj_Uv54YVg6Zq4QDunbm4i4lI4fm8AscQC9sj_Vf6zLiBYTAsPU-cKEAQ9T3ctLj9mL4IKlocqxzRluqKA7vshp_uj2PO17g48DRygryQXnhSCViD-GszwUwVKnu4/s1600/1963_familt+portrait2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIqodfL8Cjew12czaj_Uv54YVg6Zq4QDunbm4i4lI4fm8AscQC9sj_Vf6zLiBYTAsPU-cKEAQ9T3ctLj9mL4IKlocqxzRluqKA7vshp_uj2PO17g48DRygryQXnhSCViD-GszwUwVKnu4/s320/1963_familt+portrait2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family photo, taken before my birth. Since I was born after<br />
the death of my brother, we do not have a complete photo</td></tr>
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It's been a little while since I last penned something on this blog, and I thought with Thanksgiving today, it would be appropriate to express thanks for my family.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2014/05/verda-mae-christensen-treasure-in-my.html">My Mother Verda Mae Christensen</a>. She was my cornerstone for much of my life. Helped me through some of my most difficult challenges and reminded me that I should always be looking to help another. She was my neighbor, my friend and my teacher.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-father-passed-away-38-years-ago-today.html">My Father - Robert Christensen</a>. He taught me to love the simple things in life. I idolized him and he taught me to love and serve in the gospel of Jesus Christ. I still shed a tear or two from his death when I was 10 years old but he continues to teach me by memory and in some case, sweet and tender moments that remind me that life is eternal.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2015/02/celebrating-25-years-from-our-first-date.html">Elliott</a> who became the Patriarch of our family. He has been there at every turn of life, including how I met my wife. He covered my student insurance when I didn't have a job, was a witness for my marriage and ordained me a High Priest when I was called into our Bishopric at age 25. I am always grateful for his constant guidance in life.<br />
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<a href="http://www.claytonchristensen.com/">Clayton</a> who while world famous and well known by many notable people, has been a mainstay for me in many ways. His generosity is endless and during a period of college while doing an internship in Boston, he gave up his car to me for 10 weeks while I put 5000 miles on it for work. While his health challenges have been overwhelming by most of our standards, he continues to get through it and continue the work he was put here to do.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2014/06/fathers-tribute-to-his-son-milton.html">Milton</a> is the brother I truly never met. He passed away at age 11, six months before I was born, but I have been touched by stories of him and how much his life effected our family. A year ago, I walked in our youth trek for him and while we never have been able to have a son, we contemplated naming that son after him. I know my parents are grateful to once again be with him as they continue to do the work for our family.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2015/07/celebrating-25-years-with-many-more-to.html">Maribeth</a> has blessed my life on many occasions and is a survivalist and has amazing optimism. She made Cathy's wedding dress, working all night one weekend even though she had a heavy teaching load at Rick's College. Maribeth was always one for adventure and it's been hard to watch her struggle with health and it's toll but she continues to skirt death and do what she can. She is a loved teacher who put the student first and despite some institutional issues that made that difficult, she pushed forward and has never given up.<br />
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<a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2016/12/lighttheworld-day-22-gratitude-goes.html">Spencer</a> is a favorite in our household. Well loved by our girls and we always look forward to having him stay with us. He is often helping others around him in his Houston home, whether in natural disasters or just being a friend. He works hard to provide for his family and loves his sons and new granddaughter. I can always depend on Spencer for a good joke and interest in my latest project and I often take advantage of his generous nature to get his help.<br />
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<a href="http://perennialsforutah.com/about_us">Bradley</a> was my best man at my wedding and has been by my side in nearly all my growing up years. He works really hard to make things beautiful in this world with his nursery. Brad often looks to the good in people and errors on the side of giving them the benefit of the doubt. Frequently does quiet and generous acts to help others and while not perfect, knows God and strives to do what he can to follow him. If I want the real truth to life and politics, just spend 15 minutes on the phone talking to him!<br />
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<a href="https://www.davis.k12.ut.us/Domain/2308">Nancy</a> has been my constant through my whole life. She loves her kindergarten students, her grandchildren and of course her family. She has been an accomplice in my life to crazy projects like the sewing of my <a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2012/10/happy-halloween-yes-i-do-wear-costumes.html">kangaroo costume</a> and numerous art projects including graduation announcements for my children. She was my neighbor for many years and has not been timid in using photo shop to place me in many historic events. When you're doing a honk-n-wave for your campaign, make sure Nancy is there.<br />
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Everyone of my family have different traits and strengths and have blessed my life in so many ways. My heart if full of gratitude of being born in a family as wonderful as mine.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-75985396905198850312017-07-27T04:25:00.002-07:002017-07-27T06:12:34.401-07:00I like lights - Every Holiday Deserves a Celebration!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have this fascination with holiday lights. In fact, I usually do lights for not only Christmas, but Valentines Day (President's Day), St. Patrick's Day, Easter, 4th of July (Pioneer Day - State Holiday), Halloween, and Thanksgiving. Even during Christmas, I swap out my nativity scene on the front porch with a New Year's theme for a variation. On top of the holidays, I've also been known to put up lights for the Olympics, and occasionally, I even set up a lighted "U" for the University of Utah vs BYU Football Game. Definitely on the obsessive side, but fun nevertheless. This love affair, really started with the Christmas after my father died in 1976 <a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-father-passed-away-38-years-ago-today.html">(see related post)</a>. He usually put up some lights, although not very extensive. However in that Christmas following his death, I realized as a young 10 year old boy that if I didn't do it, that they might not get done that year. Those early years were far from a spectacular spectacle, but they did add color to the holidays. I also didn't understand too much about electrical loads and it is a wonder the house didn't burn down!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathy and I owned the house next door to the family home at<br />
830 N 1500 W, which is really where the obsession started</td></tr>
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We really have only lived in two houses in our 27 years of marriage, and they just happen to be next door to each other. I think we would really stick out on the street but our neighbors across the street, Dennis and Linda McKone also have lights for exactly the same holidays. I've teased new neighbors that the owners association (of which there is none) requires their participation, but for the most part, with the exception of Christmas, it has been Denny and Linda's home and ours. It's technically not a competition but Denny always seems to get his up a day or two ahead of me. He usually does his in good, sunny weather, I'm usually out there at 10 p.m. at night often in inclement weather trying not to kill myself. My daughters have a favorite activity each holidays, which is to report to me that Denny and Linda already have their lights up. The one time, I thought I bested them, it turned out Denny had been in the hospital and when I realized it a few days later, I felt pretty bad about doing that victory dance. They have been wonderful neighbors to us.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denny and Linda McKone's House</td></tr>
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A few years ago, we installed a <a href="https://enlighten.enphaseenergy.com/pv/public_systems/g6Sv675272/overview">solar system on our house</a>. It has helped defray costs, but doesn't do to well in the winter when snow sits on the panels. As you can see from the usage history below, December/January is my highest utility use time. It's ok, it brings me a lot of joy, but not too efficient!<br />
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I have been slowly converting lights as they wear out, to LED, but it's a gradual process, I do have a lot of lights! Earlier, I wrote a blog about <a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2011/12/land-of-misfit-christmas-decorations-we.html">Christmas decorations that people gave me for my backyard</a>. One of those items are the old Christmas wreaths from Bountiful, UT. Needless to say, they are beautiful but not very power efficient.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Wreaths purchased Surplus from Bountiful City<br />
by my friend, Fred Ross</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dennis and Linda McKone's Home - We watch each <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">other's</span><br />
Fireworks on the 4th of July</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Annual 4th of July Ice Cream Social and Fireworks</td></tr>
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While lights just were put away for July, they will be back in October. If you need a little holiday cheer, just be sure to drive down 1500 West in Rose Park. Eventually that Homeowners Association will force compliance from the rest of the neighbors!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Patrick's Day</td></tr>
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Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-8164226316583119782017-06-19T05:29:00.001-07:002017-06-19T05:29:47.953-07:00Shingle Oil - Great option for Fences!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4sW9izChEjkhs96XETfuAlh8LNv42bERokpJtqcv2iewAuoDwlAW31fHp0xv789aekMy7XCUuegVFnW97E_B-ePLH5bgzoNeX_9_p09ZXaWXffAPpMI2QnDuk89xrmeB8xM9TPwQsj0Y/s1600/20170617_195646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4sW9izChEjkhs96XETfuAlh8LNv42bERokpJtqcv2iewAuoDwlAW31fHp0xv789aekMy7XCUuegVFnW97E_B-ePLH5bgzoNeX_9_p09ZXaWXffAPpMI2QnDuk89xrmeB8xM9TPwQsj0Y/s320/20170617_195646.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted a few weeks ago, shingle oil brought out the natural colors</td></tr>
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Of all the things I didn't plan to write about in my blog, was the use of shingle oil for fences if you want to maintain a natural color. A number of years ago, our neighbors approached us about sharing the cost of a fence, but they wanted to go with a cedar board, rather than some other material. My concern at the time was care and painting of it, but they have been some of the best neighbors ever and we did need a new fence. They initially painted their side with Linseed Oil, which we did too, and it looked nice, but really only lasted a couple of years. I probably delayed putting another coat, about two years too late, and water stains had taken it's toll. <br />
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A few years ago, I was in Home Depot to get some other things, and decided I should buy a 5 gallon container of Linseed Oil to coat the fence. As I was asking the clerk where to find it, a professional painter was nearby and overheard the conversation. He approached me and indicated he had purchased two 5 gallon containers of shingle oil for a client, and then they had changed their mind. He then told me that if I wanted to come by his house (which was nearby) that he would just give them to me. I asked, "Shingle Oil, what's that and can it be used for fences?" He said, he couldn't see why not, it would just be a natural straw-like color and it preserves a wooden roof, so he couldn't see why it wouldn't do a fence. I thought to myself, I could always try a far corner and if it didn't work, I wasn't really out anything, so what did I have to loose, so I went and picked them up. Linseed oil is around $75 for a five gallon container, so it had the potential of saving me a small amount of cash!<br />
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A couple more years went by and I had delayed doing anything until this spring, when I pulled the first bucket out, and decided to give it a try. I was actually impressed with how well it applied with my sprayer, didn't seem to be as messy as linseed oil and as I read about it, the information indicated you could go as much as 10 years between applications. Also the information indicated that fences were one of the applicable uses. As I was doing my fence, the same neighbors who had originally proposed the fence, were talking with me about how their side needed to be done. They had just had a baby girl so I indicated that I would be happy to put the same stuff on for them. They mentioned that when they did the Linseed Oil, it took nearly two 5 gallon containers for them, so I went about trying to find somewhere locally who sold it. I had one of the free 5 gallon containers left, but needed to buy one more. I tried the hardware stores, paint stores and even roofing companies, but no one carried it and even sounded puzzled when I asked about it. There was an online option out of California, but I had scheduled Friday afternoon off to do the job and hated to leave it half complete. I decided to do a search on Chevron product distributors and came across a company on California Avenue here in Salt Lake City, <a href="http://www.kellerstrassoil.com/">Kellerstrass Oil Company.</a> The guy that answered the phone was super nice about it, didn't have the 5 gallon containers at this store right now, but had a truck coming down from Ogden and would have it by afternoon for me. It turns out he threw a couple more containers on the truck, just in case I ran out and needed more! Their price was pretty comparable to the online price, or about $94 with tax for the 5 gallons.<br />
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Since my neighbors offered to cover the cost of the new container, I started with it, and nearly did the whole job with it, but had to open up my free container to finish the job. With my daughter Sarah's help, we finished it in about 4 hours and rendered a little service. If you have one of those wood cedar fences and are keeping the natural look, you should consider Shingle Oil as an option. By the way, just save yourself some time, and just go to Kellerstrass to get it!Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-55029998492492366812017-04-16T05:06:00.002-07:002017-04-16T05:06:37.416-07:00#PrinceofPeace - Finding peace through compassion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is difficult to watch this video without reminding ourselves of similar circumstances within our lives where either our own children, or those who are close to us have suffered something similar that reminds us how tender life can be. I think we each try and take that challenge and do something with it to bless the lives of others. It never fully takes that pain away, but it does help us channel it in a way that can bless the lives of others. As the Savior has said, when we lose our lives in service to others, we really find ourselves.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My older brother Milton, who passed away<br />in 1965</td></tr>
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In July of 196 when my older brother, age 11, was in a his final days here on earth, suffering from aplastic anemia or a form of what is now Leukemia, was in his hospital bed and could not speak because his tongue was swollen. He wrote a note to my mother, who was three months pregnant with me. Because of the circumstances, they had not told Milton about the pregnancy and my birth date would not be for another six months. Milton wrote a note to my mother and asked, "Who is that child sitting in your lap?" My mother initially dismissed it to his sickness, to which he later wrote, "you don't believe me, do you?" Mom later realized that what Milton probably saw was me, who was not yet born, and to whom he wouldn't see in this life. Nevertheless, it reminds us that families are eternal and the blessings of being a family come both in this life and the life to come.<br />
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While we are blessed in this life by the compassion of others, we are also blessed with peace on this Easter Sunday with the knowledge that we will be resurrected and can be with each other for eternity. While I do not know the day I will see my older brother, I do also know that he lives and I will be with him one day, along with my family, my wife Cathy and our children. I am grateful for the peace this brings in my own life.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-28688872218104793102017-04-09T05:20:00.000-07:002018-10-07T13:59:16.776-07:00#PrinceofPeace - Finding Peace through God's Word<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I would be the first to admit that I'm not as avid of a reader of the scriptures as I would like to be, but every time I do read from it, I'm strengthened. It does mean that I do need to read it more and be more consistent. We have four basic scriptures in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Bible - Old and New Testament, the Book of Mormon - Another Testament of Jesus Christ, the Doctrine & Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price. Each are separate accounts of how God has loves everyone of his people, giving them guidance through a prophet of God and encouragement through life's trials as well as admonishment or warnings of things to come. If one is learning about the Church, I would definitely start with the Book of Mormon, which is the keystone of our religion and testifies of Jesus Christ. There is a promise in it that if you do read it, pray, you can receive for yourself a testimony to it's truth. I have done that and many others have done it as well. While written many years ago, it really testifies of today.<br />
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One such scripture in the Book of Mormon is from chapter 34 in Alma, it reads:<br />
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<i>32 For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors.</i><br />
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<i>33 And now, as I said unto you before, as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore, I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; for after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness wherein there can be no labor performed.</i><br />
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<i>34 Ye cannot say, when ye are brought to that awful crisis, that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye cannot say this; for that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time that ye go out of this life, that same spirit will have power to possess your body in that eternal world.</i><br />
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<i>35 For behold, if ye have procrastinated the day of your repentance even until death, behold, ye have become subjected to the spirit of the devil, and he doth seal you his; therefore, the Spirit of the Lord hath withdrawn from you, and hath no place in you, and the devil hath all power over you; and this is the final state of the wicked.</i><br />
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<i>36 And this I know, because the Lord hath said he dwelleth not in unholy temples, but in the hearts of the righteous doth he dwell; yea, and he has also said that the righteous shall sit down in his kingdom, to go no more out; but their garments should be made white through the blood of the Lamb.</i><br />
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<i>37 And now, my beloved brethren, I desire that ye should remember these things, and that ye should work out your salvation with fear before God, and that ye should no more deny the coming of Christ;</i><br />
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At first blush it may seem like you have no choice and you are doomed, but just the opposite. If you do your best in this life, access the atonement of Jesus Christ in your life and prepare to meet God, then the actions you take, only benefit you in the life to come. It doesn't help you much if your thought is doing something at the last minute and hope you get buy. Really God knows your heart and while we might pretend we are something we are not to change the impression of others, we simply can't hide it from God and it will be evident. Why put it off. Why not enjoy the full blessings of this life, in living our best to be with God. He doesn't expect us to be perfect and I am certainly not. I love the peace that comes through God's word.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-20321196166965589062017-04-07T05:41:00.000-07:002017-04-07T05:41:09.016-07:00#PrinceofPeace - Peace coming through faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's pretty difficult to not shed a tear when you watch this video. I think we all have struggled at times with a circumstance either in our lives or with others that we love, that despite their faith, the trial seems so unfair. Recently, a couple who are good friends, after many years of waiting were expecting a beautiful baby girl and all seemed to be on track. However circumstances changed, the baby was delivered way too early and only lived for a short time. We ask ourselves in circumstances like this, why must they suffer so much, when in some case babies come and aren't cared for yet live a life of struggle and sadly abuse. With the agency that God has given us, also comes the bitter-sweet moments of our faith, which help us endure the outcomes. Some are very joyful outcomes and others of great heartbreak. <br />
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Even in those most difficult of circumstances, we feel our Savior's love and in fact does bring us peace. It isn't that the pain has gone away, but we realize a much deeper love than a sheer moment in this life sometimes brings. Sadly tragedy does come to each of us, and sometimes in the most unexpected way. While there are no guarantees on how our lives turn out, and it would be easy to let fear keep us from moving forward or trying anything new, we also do not grow without the exercise of faith. With that faith, however, we also gain more joy and peace.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-53053211654466719502017-04-02T07:11:00.000-07:002017-04-02T07:11:05.211-07:00#PrinceofPeace The true answer for the questions that bring us lasting happiness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has always been challenging in life to watch others who desperately are looking for answers to happiness or solutions to life and look everywhere else but towards the Savior, Jesus Christ. It's not that their efforts aren't genuine nor their efforts substantial, I even have to remind myself when frustrated with a circumstance that I am looking in the wrong direction for an answer. I've even watched some very good people who live one aspect of their life in one way and apparently their beliefs in a different way. The true answer is that they should really be the same. I definitely know I'm not perfect, nor has there not been moments in my life where others might say the same. It is for that reason alone that I'm grateful for the Savior's atonement that provides me an avenue to improve.<br />
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As we approach the Easter Season, I am reminded the greatest gift he could give us all is a knowledge that he wants us to be able to return to our Heavenly Father, to be with him and to be forgiven of our sins if we just repent and come unto him. There is much good in the world, much of it silent in nature and done with kind gestures even from strangers to strangers. The world is in need of more kind gestures, a spirit of peace and one in which we follow the Savior's path. While not recognized in his earthly life the way others might expect, the Savior taught us true selfless service and with such a genuine way that his example will always be our pathway home.Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-55254423629237407152016-12-25T06:20:00.000-08:002016-12-31T07:45:19.574-08:00#LIGHTtheWORLD Day 25 - Devoted followers of Christ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's Christmas Day, I'm up a little earlier than the family, in my recliner next to the fireplace and the Tree lights displaying the beauty of the season. Perfect setting for my final blog on the #LIGHTtheWORLD series. While it's taken some extra effort to pen 25 different entries, a few of you have been gracious to read it. As I've mentioned in a few blogs, I serve as <a href="http://carltonthegreat.blogspot.com/2013/11/stake-president-my-new-calling-in-lds.html">Stake President in the Salt Lake Rose Park Stake</a>. It's a wonderful place to live, and while we have our challenges, we have some very faithful members who follow with great faith. As I drove around last night to view some of the homes participating in the <a href="https://goo.gl/photos/pe4iGPCFrEEC23zS8">#LightRosePark</a> effort with luminaries and the challenges with more than .3 inches of rain on Christmas Eve in Utah! It reminded me of a story from my father, Robert Magleby Christensen's autobiography that I would like to share:<br />
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<i>At the time of the beginning of the welfare program in the Church, the general authorities asked each stake to develop an agricultural production project to produce a food commodity. The stakes were asked to use some imagination, so that they wouldn’t all produce the same commodity. One of the leaders in Sevier Stake was an agriculture teacher, and he came up with the idea of planting Jewish Artichokes. The seed was secured, and the farmers were asked to plant an acre each. The faithful people, of course, responded to the request. At the end of the summer, they discovered that no one liked artichokes and there was no market for them. And so the artichokes remained in the ground. They continued to grow like weeds each year along with other crops planted in the same soil.</i><br />
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<i>It was about two years later that I went to work to thin sugar beets for my bishop, Wallace Sorenson, and he started me out in the artichoke patch. All day I chopped out artichokes with my hoe. In the evening, when the bishop came to take me home, I said, “Bishop, why did you ever plant those worthless artichokes?” His reply was, “Robert, that’s the best crop I ever planted. Whenever I look at the artichokes, it reminds me that I did the thing the presiding brethren asked me to do. As you ride up and down the lanes of the valley, wherever you see an artichoke patch, you know there’s a faithful member of the church.” This taught me a lesson I have tried to benefit from throughout my life..</i><br />
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While participation was definitely not a test of faith, many recognized the value, reached out to neighbors to invite their participation and despite the rain, set them out and while some got washed out, the light was apparent. Many posted pictures of their homes in a Facebook Group for our youth, with their stories or comments and I was particularly touched by a comment from Joe Davis, who serves as 2nd Counselor in the Rose Park 2nd Ward and is just one of the finest people I know. With Joe's permission, he writes:<br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><i>Even a little rain does not dampen our spirits. Long ago the Lord asked his people to place lamb's blood on their door posts to show their faith in him and have the destroying Angel pass by. Tonight i show a symbol of my faith in him and celebrate the coming of the Savior Jesus Christ into the world. I have a testimony of his divinity, his sacrifice for us, and most importantly his love for us. May the season bless your lives and bring charity to your hearts. God bless all on this holiest of nights.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><i>Merry Christmas - Joe Davis</i></span></span></div>
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While I hadn't thought of it in that context, it reminded me of the all the devoted followers of Christ that I live among and how they Light the World right here in Rose Park. I am grateful to be among them. Merry Christmas!</div>
Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-73202745488255843822016-12-24T22:03:00.000-08:002016-12-24T22:03:01.052-08:00#LIGHTtheWORLD Day 24 - Caring for Others<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This evening I called my dear friend Alice Telford. I called to thank her for my birthday card. It was a little on the edge, but funny and it definitely reflected our relationship. I use to have the office next door to Alice at Zions Bank when I worked there. Alice rode her bicycle long into her 80's and was known for her health and zeal. While she could have retired, Alice chose to work to stay engaged and served mankind in a number of ways. She and I would kid each other about politics, and she often brought in copies of the Salt Lake Tribune and said, "I know you don't read it, but I'm watching these articles for you and will bring to your attention things that matter." She is so genuine and direct, I just loved my conversations with her and she has become a friend of our family. A few years ago, she was driving when someone hit her car in an intersection at a high speed. A healthy woman was nearly lost and she has fought back to get her health back. While I've visited her on occasion, she continues to look out for me. Alice has had a number of articles written about her including one in the <a href="http://archive.sltrib.com/story.php?ref=/sltrib/news/58037131-78/telford-cycling-red-ride.html.csp">Salt Lake Tribune</a> another one <a href="http://archive.sltrib.com/story.php?ref=/sltrib/news/56218070-78/vietnam-gillingham-john-photos.html.csp">about her son John</a> who died in the Vietnam War and one written by Lee Benson in the <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765594978/Salt-Lake-woman-knows-the-secret-to-a-long-life.html">Deseret News</a>. Alice and I talked about a number of things and concluded by wishing each other Merry Christmas.</div>
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While Alice doesn't lack for friends, I'm always surprised how anxious she is to hear from me. I think in reality we all have moments in our life, where we want to hear from others. Showing that concern and interest in others is always a good thing. We are after all, the hands of the Savior in helping mankind. While we may not always share the same faith, or same level of belief in that faith, we can still care for one another.</div>
<br />Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-711747362372016290.post-13369158341559924402016-12-24T07:57:00.000-08:002018-10-07T20:37:40.845-07:00#LIGHTtheWORLD Day 23 - Peacemaking, a needed elment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I served in public office for 16 years and then the last three years (total of two decades) in an appointed role with government and peacemaking is an ever needed art by those participating in the process. I've often told people that if my basis for making friends meant we would be in total agreement as a basis for that friendship, I would loose 2/3 of my friends. While I don't necessarily need to change my moral positions, I do know that when I listen to others, I at least see other viewpoints and understand the differences. I'm definitely not perfect, there are plenty of news stories or public records to remind me, but some of the most far reaching accomplishments of my service came in circumstances where two sides came together and found a place where we both could be satisfied with the outcome. It's a never ending process, whether it's within our family, community or even in our places of worship. However Jesus Christ admonished us to find peace and do things in a loving way. While generally the optimist, I'm hopeful that some of the harsh dialogue of recent months might find a place of unity where at least respect can reside.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0kSeGpoAfRc2N3WmeisjXq9w7akh20Bkr_G_U4LZgpJ0Wh-XSDeLeRjUmyRWU2LYmSylcqBFICQ4IS1Zkn0OPNGXtVfPq2WEXGzscGQlsDbsaleageUyn6p5EjdGyr7FJ7IKvSp0tfP_/s1600/0001570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0kSeGpoAfRc2N3WmeisjXq9w7akh20Bkr_G_U4LZgpJ0Wh-XSDeLeRjUmyRWU2LYmSylcqBFICQ4IS1Zkn0OPNGXtVfPq2WEXGzscGQlsDbsaleageUyn6p5EjdGyr7FJ7IKvSp0tfP_/s320/0001570.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joseph Smith, picture courtesy of Church of<br />
Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints<br />
www.lds.org</td></tr>
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While yesterday was my birthday and we spent a wonderful evening with my family, it was more importantly the birthday of the Prophet Joseph Smith founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If you study the teaching and actions of Joseph Smith, he has a long history of making peace and being fair with others, even to the premature death of his own life when taken at the hands of a mob who attempted to end the work of God that he had begun. Through the Prophet Joseph Smith were revealed many revelations, including the <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/pgp/a-of-f/1?lang=eng">Articles of Faith</a> which when you study them give you an a quick overview of our faith, but also gives us some great guidance on how we should treat and conduct our life. Joseph Smith spent his life testifying as to the divinity of Jesus Christ and like today, reminds us that God has restored a living prophet to convey his message of peace, love and respect.<br />
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The Savior did bring peace to this earth, and so can we.</div>
Carltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11164843153136134645noreply@blogger.com0