I have traveled and lived in many different countries in many parts of the world. I love America and I love the other places I’ve known. Today we celebrate America and the opportunity we have to live and raise our families here. It really is a gift.
From my journal:
Jeffrey had the yard set up with a long row of tables hugging the west end of his huge yard, where the shade was. Ben was setting up the volleyball net. Family members arrived, some with food. J&K did the burgers and brats. We had some potato salad and watermelon, chips, Garret did his onion rings, Lisa & Steve Owens from ID brought some potato boats with cheese and sour cream and we had lemonade and some sodas.
The food was good, especially the corn salad. Di made all kinds of treats–cinnamon rolls, pecan sticky rolls, frosted sugar cookies, macaroons, and German Chocolate cookies. Then she topped that off with 2 fresh peach pies. We brought 2 freezers of ice cream.
A very lively game of volleyball started after dinner and went until dark. Lots of good players of many ages. Claire and Graham both played while we entertained Caleb with a ball while visiting with others. It was a really fun evening.
I was curious to see if Alpine neighborhoods would comply with the NO FIREWORKS rule from Gov. Cox (because it’s been so dry). Usually every Alpine neighborhood sets off fireworks and we watch from Jeffrey’s balcony. There were none. I was so happy about that because I’ve seen stands up selling them. So after it got dark, we all helped clean up and headed home. It was fun. Claire enjoyed seeing everyone.
A message from our Church Leaders:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has extended an invitation to members and friends throughout the world to participate in a unified fast.
In their message, President Dallin H. Oaks, President Henry B. Eyring, and President D. Todd Christofferson wrote:
“All are invited to participate in a unified fast to express gratitude for religious liberty and to pray that it be strengthened throughout the world.”
The unified fast is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, the day following Independence Day in the United States.
We invite each member of our stake to prayerfully consider participating in this special fast as you are able. As we unite our faith and prayers, may we express heartfelt gratitude for the blessings of religious freedom and petition our Heavenly Father that these precious liberties will continue to be protected and expanded throughout the world.
Thank you for your faith and willingness to join with Saints across the globe in this sacred opportunity to worship, give thanks, and seek the Lord’s blessings.
With love,
The Orem Stonewood Stake Presidency
