June 2003 - Gwen's Patriarchal Blessing

Patriarchal Blessing

Given by Patriarch Keith R. Little

June 1, 2003

Sister Gwen Dickson Rich, in humility with a prayer in my heart and as an ordained Patriarch in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I place my hands upon your head this beautiful Sabbath morning, to pronounce a Patriarchal blessing.

            I bless you Sister Gwen that you will truly know and understand who you really are, that you are a daughter of a loving, living Father in Heaven.  May it bring comfort, joy and security to realize that you once lived with your Father in Heaven in the spirit world, before you came into mortality.  You felt His arms around you, you even knew those things that might be a part of your life here upon the earth.  Because of His love for you and because of your worthiness there, the privilege has been yours to be placed upon the earth at this special time.  A time appointed by our Father in Heaven for you, a time when it is a glorious time to be here when the fullness of the Gospel is here for you to enjoy.  It is also a time Sister Gwen, when there is much unrest, anxiety, and even lack of respect for life itself for some, but also a world of joy and happiness for those who are seeking for the finer things of life.  I bless you that this might always be your goal.

           

            Thou art of Israel, of the family of Abraham.  Thy blessings shall come through Ephraim.  I seal all those blessings upon your head this day that were promised by our Father in Heaven to those who are a part of that posterity.  I promise you, they can all be yours if you live worthy to receive them.

            May you realize the special gift our Father in Heaven has given to you, this earthly body.  A sacred gift.  Take care of it Gwen, respect it, protect it from harm or accident, never allow anything evil to enter your mind or your body.  Always clothe it properly that it might be respected wherever you go or whatever you might be a part of.  Remember, as you sojourn here upon the earth, that one day you will be called upon to return this gift to your Father in Heaven and report your stewardship to Him.

            Our Father in Heaven has endowed you with special talents.  Special abilities, with ambition, a keen mind, a strong body, with a very pleasant outgoing personality.  All these are gifts from our Father in Heaven that must be magnified and used not only to bring joy into your life, but to bring joy and happiness into the lives of those you will associate with.   May you realize the high and noble calling our Father in Heaven has given to you, as you share with God in bringing forth life here upon the earth.  You became a Mother in Zion.  Many opportunities will be yours to serve your Father in Heaven, but I say to you this day, this is your mission above all other things, to raise up a righteous family unto our Father in Heaven, a family that might enjoy the eternities together.

            I promise you, if you will humble yourself on your knees in sincere and pleading prayer to your Father in Heaven, answers to all your questions will come in due time.  Peace will come into your heart.  If you will place your trust in your Father in Heaven and have faith, and do that which you are directed to do from the promptings that will come, that goal that you have set for yourself will become a reality.  Unity will come into your family, the Patriarch of your family will realize the responsibility that is his.  Through your love and patience, and his love for you and his family, understanding will come and you will be able to share together the eternities to come.  I bless you with patience to wait for those things you have a desire to be a part of your life.

            I bless you that you will be able to forgive all people Gwen, even those who might seem unkind to you or even transgress against you, reach out a hand of friendship and love and forgiveness to them and you will be able to touch their hearts.

            Share what you have with others, those who are less fortunate, reach out to the poor and the sick, whether it is in body or mind.  Those who might need help, if you will share what you have willingly and anxiously I promise you, your table will never be empty.  You will always have a roof over your head, clothes upon your back, and be surrounded by those who love and sustain you.

            You are going to have some special opportunities to serve.  You will find joy and happiness in the Temple.  You will feel a peace there that you cannot find any other way, as you realize each time you enter that special place you are opening up the doors for others who cannot attend.  If you are true and faithful, if you will stay close to your Father in Heaven, while you are there you will feel the closeness of those choice people in your heart as they say “thank you” for that which you are doing for them.

            Now, you are going to find peace and comfort as you study the scriptures, as you pray for understanding, your life will take on greater meaning than ever before.

            You have been placed upon the earth to have joy, joy according to God’s plan, listen to the promptings that will come, have faith, and those desires you have will become a part of your life.

            Prepare a journal Gwen, a special document.  Make an entry into this journal each and every day, and I promise you this document will not only become valuable to you, but it will be a road map for those of your posterity who will follow, and it will help them know the way back into the presence of our Father in Heaven.

            Gwen, you will see the fulfillment of prophecy while you sojourn here upon the earth.  You will see the Gospel grow to all corners of the world, and your family will be a part of that growth.  As you read this blessing in years to come, may you remember this choice son that shared this day with you, and realize the joy and happiness he will bring into your life.  For there is a special blessing for him as well.  As you share this blessing with him, he will realize the responsibility that he has to never let you be lonely or go without.  May he take care of you and return unto you, the many, many things you have given to him. 

            Now Gwen, there is nothing in this life you cannot accomplish if you place your trust in your Father in Heaven, if it be His will and you are willing to work for it.

            Be aware of the adversary, he is strong, he is clever and he will try to present himself in your life in ways that will almost look right, but if you will find yourself on your knees in sincere and humble prayer you need not fear the adversary.  He will not be able to tempt you beyond that which you will be able to overcome.  If you will reach out your hand to your Father in Heaven you need never walk alone, He will walk with you wherever you go.

            Now, Gwen may you realize just how special you are, there is no one upon the face of the earth that is just like you.  Your Father in Heaven knows who you are. He can call you by name.  If you will invite Him into your life, He will help guide your footsteps and actions, and help you to realize the goals you have for yourself.

            Take joy in each day that you live, realize the blessings that can be yours.  May you remember the special role that you are called to fulfill as a Mother and Grandmother, the example you will set for those who will follow you.  I promise you, every righteous desire you have in your heart can be yours if it be the will of our Father in Heaven.  I bless you that your life will be full, even your later years will be productive and useful if you will obey God’s laws of health, and take care of your body.  Make yourself available to your Father in Heaven, and much joy and happiness will be yours.

            These blessings I seal upon you, and seal you up to come forth on the morning of the first resurrection, crowned a princess and a queen to live eternally with our Father in Heaven.  This I do through the power of the Priesthood, and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

16^th  Orson 20  bales, Dickson 50 bales, Rich 19 bales

June 1, 2003

Today I received my patriarchal blessing.  It was so special.  Before we even got there, the devil was trying to bring us down.  Landon accidentally knocked the furnace control off of the wall, and it broke and the furnace turned on and wouldn’t turn off. Then he sat down on our broken chair, and ripped his new pants.  We were not in very good moods as we set off toward Patriarch Keith Little’s home.  But I asked Heavenly Father to please let us be calm and everything was okay.  When we got there, he invited us in and talked to me for a little bit.  He inquired of my family, and my life, why I wanted a blessing, and what my goals were.  I told him how Landon and I have become active this past year and a half, and how I now am worthy to go to the temple, and of Roger’s inactivity, and how I had hope that one day he would realize the importance of the gospel.  I told him I wanted a blessing to give me guidance, hope, and promises for the future, and I told him my goal was to continue for the rest of my life to be close to my Heavenly Father, and not to fall into inactivity again.   We knelt in prayer, all three of us, and then he had me sit in a chair to give me my patriarchal blessing.  It was beautiful, and I was emotional through it.  He mentioned Heavenly Father’s arms around me, he mentioned that I would be a grandmother, he mentioned that I need to keep a journal, and that it would help my posterity be close to the Lord.  Landon was mentioned in the blessing.  President Little told me that he would be a comfort to me, and a protection to me, and that my posterity would be instrumental in taking the gospel to all the world.  I took this that Landon would fulfill a mission.  I am looking so forward to getting a copy of my blessing so that I might re-read it again, and refer to it often. 

May 2003

May 3 – Senior Cotillion – Zac went with CJ

May 6, 2003 - Haven’t written like I should.  A lot has happened.  When I went to Price, I accidentally left the car out of gear in a parking lot, and it rolled, and crunched the front of it.  Dang.  Price wasn’t that much fun.  It’s always great to be home.  

Zac and CJ went to the dunes (Jericho Sand Dunes, west of Nephi and south of Tooele) over the Easter weekend.  He proposed to her on bended knee !!  Can you believe that!!  The ring is beautiful.  They are planning an wedding on August 21, 2003 in Mark’s backyard.  We are all very happy for both of them.  

Landon’s last game of Freshman Baseball is today in Tooele.  He has been practicing for another team (St. Joseph’s American Legion team) that will start up soon.  He is a busy boy.  This will be another BUSY BUSY summer with baseball 3 times a week during June and July.  Wrestling camp  and the Stake Young Men and Women’s Pioneer Trek in June.  Football weight lifting, camp and practices in July and August.  Wedding and School starting in August.  It makes my head spin.  

My goal for this week is to read from the Book of Mormon everyday.  I am still praying regularly.  I need to get back to the temple.  I never did make it to the Manti temple when I went to Price because it was snowing over the mountains.  I have the lesson on Sunday in Young Womens.  This Sunday is also Mother’s Day.

May 9 – Gaylene Kimbal’s car accident

May 16, 2003 - Yesterday Landon and I spent a great afternoon in Salt Lake.  I had a Doctor’s appointment to have that red mark on my left cheek “zapped” with a lazor to remove it.  Afterwards, Landon and I went and shopped for him a cooler shirt to wear at the Crossroads Mall, then we went over to Temple Square and walked through it.  Landon had never been there before.  We went the two of the visitor’s centers, and the tabernacle.  Landon was MUCH impressed by the Jeruselem panorama that showed where Christ had spent the last week of his life.  We walked over to the Conference Center, but the tour was in between times.  The lady there told us that if we wanted to look out of the observation deck on the church office building, that we better go over there first, because it was almost 5 p.m.  We booked it over there, and WHAT A VIEW!!  It was really impressive.  After that we walked through the Prophet’s garden, and I showed Landon where our prophet today, Gordon B. Hinckley lives.  We then went in the Joseph Smith Building (Old Hotel Utah) to the distribution center, and bought some things.  Landon bought some picture postcards of Jesus to help him remember this special day.  We then went upstairs to “The Garden” restaurant, and had a WONDERFUL meal.  Landon got baby-back ribs, and they were GREAT.  After that we headed back to Ogden, and watched the Varsity Boy’s baseball game at Lindquist Field.  We met Roger there.  It was a GREAT day in Salt Lake.  Landon and I felt happy and good, and it must have showed, because one of the sister missionaries from Korea said, “You look so HAPPY!!” 

May 20 – cleaned Porterville cemetery with YW/YM.

May 27-28 – Freshman baseball tournament @ Ben Lomond

Email to Shirlee Wilkerson from Gwen

Hope she gets better fast - what about walking down the aisle??

By the way - I'm working on a couple of scrapbook pages from

the DairyPrincess contest for you

See ya,

Gwen

May 30 – CJ graduates from High School

                        
Karen Haddock’s last day at work  - she went to work for Red Hot Copies

January - April 2003

January 

January 3-4 – Bobcat Brawls at SkyView (wrestling)

YW on Tuesday nights

9^th  - my 42^nd birthday.  Went to the distribution center and got me some temple clothes, and then went to the Ogden Temple.  That night had dinner at Tami Bullock’s for the outgoing YW presidency, and then rushed over to the gym for Landon’s wrestling match – Ben Lomond @ Morgan.

I love the Temple

January 9, 2003

For the first time in more than 12 years, I have gone back to the temple.  I am so happy!  I went on my 42^nd birthday – Today !!  I went to the Ogden Temple.  It was a VERY VERY special day for me.

January 15 – Gwen doctor’s appt. OBGYN with Dr. Eggert.  Gwen and Landon to dentist in afternoon.
January 17, 2003 -   The Ogden Temple is closed for a couple of weeks, so this night (Friday) I went to the Bountiful Temple.  It was VERY VERY BUSY, and the Salt Lake Temple is closed also.  Roger and Landon are down to St. George to a baseball camp.

January 21 – sleighride party for YM/YW combined activity
January 23 – Wrestling @ Bear River

January 25 – Wrestling (High Country Classic) at South Summit
January 27 – took boys down to Mark Grogan, and weight lifter specialist for some instructions.

January 29 – Zac gone to doctor for his neck pain related to his accident last September.

February
February 6, 2003

Annette called this morning and said her mom had died.  Colleen only knew for the past 6 weeks, that she had cancer.  It is both horrifying and wonderful that she died so quickly. It is amazing how your life can change in such a short time.  We never know what is in store for us.  I talked to Colleen on Sunday the 2^nd.  She was medicated quite a bit, but still responsive.  I asked her if she would do me a favor, and when she passed to the other side of the veil, if she would find my little girl Ambure, and tell her I’ve finally figured it out.  That I know that God lives, and that Jesus died for me, and I’m doing everything I can to live right so I can return and live with them.  She said “I will” and nodded her head, and murmured, “finally figured it out”.  I continued to sit there and hold her hand, and I was crying softly, and she kind of came out of it again, and it was like she noticed me and wanted to comfort me, and she managed to raise her arm, and pulled my head down to rest it on her shoulder, and she said, “good friend”.  It makes me cry again, just thinking about it.   I appreciate so much, Annette and her family giving me the opportunity to share with them the last few days of Colleen’s life.  I just wish I could have done more for them.   It seems like death is becoming more and more a part of our lives.  I guess it will be even more so as we get older.  These past few  years, me and Annette have watched our grandparents die, our friend Lori, Dude, Cheryl, and now Colleen.  It is unbelievable to me, how people can lose loved ones and go one, without knowing that there IS life after death, and that WE WILL see our friends and family again.  I am so grateful for this knowledge.  It is sad for the ones of us who are left behind in this mortal world, but so wonderful for Colleen, who was a good and righteous person, and is now going on to the next stage.  She came to this earth for 66 years, and received her body, lived a good life, and has now returned to Heavenly Father and will one day be resurrected and reunited with her body, which at that time will be perfected, without that dreaded ovarian cancer.  She was such an example to me.  I often wondered how she could go to church as she did, week after week, without Vern, and not be mad and onery about it.  I never thought I would be able to do that, but I always admired her for it.  This past year, I have come to know for myself, that it is up to ME, and only me.  I love my Heavenly Father so much, and my brother Jesus for coming to earth, and dying for ME, and taking MY sins upon him, so that when I repent I won’t have to suffer for my sins.  This knowledge I have gained this past year, and the faith I have developed I will continue to nurture, for I know I need to always be pressing forward, or I will fall behind.  I have been happier this past year, than in anytime in my life up to this point, except maybe that year before our family went through the temple.  It scares me, because I know that if I relax and get lazy about it, I could fall back into inactivity and despair.  I love my family so much, and I love Annette and her family, and I hope I can be of some support at this sad time in their lives.  I will always remember Colleen, and her smile, and how kind she has always been to me.  I will do my best to continue to be a good neighbor to Vern, and to let him know of our concern for him.  He’s a good man, and I hate to see him lose his wife this soon.  I hope he will be able to get through this and go on, and not let loneliness get to him.  He has been so wonderful and supportive of her as she has gone through these past 6 weeks.  This experience has seemed to bring their family closer together, and that is a good thing. 

February 7-8 0 Region Wrestles at Grantsville – Landon took 4^th place and will go to state.
Feb – 10-12 (Mon-Wed) Gwen in Tooele to computer meetings

Feb 13-15 – at UVSC in Orem for State Wrestles.  Landon was beat out  losing both matches.   His first match was against senior Chad Young from Uintah who went on to win the championship.

February 15, 2003 -    Roger and I have been in Orem, Utah for the past few days watching the State Wrestles.  This morning (Saturday) I traveled North to American Fork, and went to the Mt. Timpanogas temple.  I went through a session, and then did initiatory work.  It was a WONDERFUL few hours.

February 19, 2003 -  Today  I went to Salt Lake and went through a session before attending an IAAO dinner at the Joseph Smith Building.  It was so special, as the session was done live (no film).  It was so beautiful in the Celestial Room. 

February 23, Stake Fireside concerning the upcoming trek this summer

February 28, 2003 -   Tonight I went to the Ogden temple again.  My mom and dad were working there, and I surprised them both.  They were SO happy to see me there, and my mom cried.

March
March 7, 2003 - Tonight was ward temple night at the Ogden temple.  I went down with my neighbor Sharlene Olsen.  We were the only people there (that we could see) from our ward.  It was VERY BUSY again.

March 9  - Stake Conference

March 12 – Wrestling Banquet – John Rock retires

March 14, 2003 - Roger and I went to Vernal for Landon to compete in wrestling.  While there, I was able to go to the Vernal temple.  It is an old chapel which has been converted to a temple.  It was smaller than other temples I have gone to.  It was SPECIAL.  I saw Larry and Jed Hall’s parents there.  They were such a cute little old couple.

March 18 – went with the YW down to “White Elegance” – a bridal store in Layton.  The girls tried on temple dresses.

Baseball has started – Landon is on the Freshman team, and Roger is helping to coach with Barclay Earl.

April

Today, April 5, 2003 I took my mom and we went to General Conference (Saturday morning session) at the Conference Center.  This is the first time me and mom have ever done this.  It was so special.  I could feel the spirit.  I am so happy.  It was snowing when we came out.

Tonight Landon went with Bishop Fisher down to Kaysville to the Priesthood session.  I wish that Roger and Zac were as in tune with the spirit as Landon is.  Landon is going to be the Teacher’s President – next week he will be set apart.  I am so proud.

April 15, 2003 - LuAnn’s birthday was yesterday and we went up last night for cake and ice cream.   Tomorrow I head to Price, Utah for the UAC (Utah Association of Counties) Spring Management Conference.  I’ll be gone till Friday.  I’m going to try and get to the Manti Temple before I come home on Friday. 

Went to Savior of  The World at the conference center tonight.  Tiana was in it.

December 2002

December

Assessor Meetings in Salt Lake all of the first week

13 – Court with Jeffrey Purcell (guy who hit Zac and CJ)

20 – county Xmas party

21 – Weber Duals, Rich Christmas party, Snowmobile Friends Christmas party
22 - Talk in Church

December 16, 2002 - Letter to Kyle Kimbal on his mission

Dear Kyle,

It was great to get your Christmas letter.  Sounds like things are going well.  We are proud of you, and the work you are doing.  Getting the message of Heavenly Father and our Savior’s plan to everyone is so important. 

We’ve enclosed a couple of videos, and would like you to give them to the family (mom and 6 kids) that you are teaching.  Wish them a Merry Christmas from your “second family” in Morgan. 

Zac will probably write before Christmas.  He’s been pretty “whooped” on CJ.  This may be the REAL thing?!?!?!  Don’t know what he’ll tell you………….  She’s even got him to sacrament meeting the past two weeks – amazing.  It’s her birthday today, and he is taking her to “The Testament” film at the Joseph Smith Building, and also to “The Roof” restaurant, and then to see the lights at Temple Square.  Well enough of that, better not tell all of his secrets.

Take care, and keep on doing the work with a purpose.  It’s amazing how Heavenly Father blesses us with his spirit, when we seek him with real intent.

Love the Rich’s

Roger, Gwen, Zac, Landon

December 22 – talk in church

Dear Brother’s and Sisters, I’m grateful to be here today.  I apologize for my voice and cold, and hope that you will bear with me.  I’ve known for 6 weeks, 3 days and about 12 hours of this assignment, and believe me, I didn’t want to add another week.  The Bishop told me he felt that I should talk today, and I believe that is true, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.  I’ll get into the reasons for that in a few minutes, but first the Bishop has asked that I tell you all a little about myself and our family.  I know a lot of you are acquainted with our family, but there may be a few who don’t know us, and so I’ll give you a quick overview.  I’ve lived in Morgan all of my life, my parents are Lee and Veloy Dickson who live in Morgan City, and my husband, Roger’s parents are Ben and LuAnn Rich who live right here in this ward.  Roger and I have been married for 25 years.  He’s a great husband and father and I love him very much.  My dad says he deserves a gold star in heaven, for putting up with me.  Roger works for Wonder Bread, and has to work on Sundays, and so you won’t see him here very often, but we’ll see what we can do about getting him here on his vacation days throughout the year.  We have four children.  Our first little girl Ambure, was killed in a car accident at 10 months of age.  The 24^th anniversary of her death is a week from tomorrow.  We are so grateful for our Heavenly Father’s plan, and know that families are forever, and that is we live that way we should, that we will have the opportunity to be with her again.  Our second girl is Amanda.  Amanda is 22, and lives in Mesa Arizona.  She’s single, and works for AT&T, loves her job, and loves the climate.  While we miss her, and wish she were closer, we realize that she is very happy in Arizona and this is a good place for her.  We get to see her a couple of times a year, and talk on the phone every few days.  Zac is our oldest son.  Zac just turned 21, and you’ll remember that he was in a serious car accident 3 months ago.  He is recovering, and seems almost brand new.  Yesterday, he went snowmobiling for the first time this season, and was able to throw his sled around without too much trouble, so he’s one happy guy. Anyone that knows anything about Zac, will tell you what a hard worker he is.  From the time he was 2-3 years of age, he would spend an entire day with his dad out in the field, or helping to get our winter supply of wood, or what ever job there was to do.   Landon Lee is our caboose.  Everyone knows Landon.  He’s a great kid, and brightens up our family.  It seems he has the best qualities of ALL of us, Roger, myself, and Manda, and Zac.  I don’t know what we’d do without him.  I especially enjoy his company at church on Sunday’s.  He never complains, and is always willing to do whatever is asked. 

            Well, back to the reason I’m here today.  As I said, the Bishop felt I should talk, and told me to tell you what is in my heart.  As I approached this assignment, I wanted to do a good job, and know I had to be closer to my Heavenly Father in order to do this.  So I decided I would try an experiment.  I began reading the scriptures daily.  I never would have believed it, but I can’t tell you the change that has come into my life in these few short weeks. A few days ago I was reading Sister Sheri Dew’s book, “No Doubt About It”, and  was directed a verse in Alma 32, chapter 27, which states: 

But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words. 

My experiment was actually in the scriptures!  I couldn’t believe it – but what I do know is that I had a desire, and my Heavenly Father has helped that desire grow, and I can’t explain in words, how wonderful it has been to have the Holy Ghost with me, like he has never been before, just because I have been praying and reading the scriptures daily!  I never would have believed it, except that I have experienced it for my self, and I am grateful to our Bishop for this assignment that put me on the right track.  I have wondered if I was the only one who wasn’t reading the scriptures daily.  You know we have been told we should by the prophet, and our teachers, and I have always had such a hard time with this.  I love to read, and will read novels right and left, but I never could get into the scriptures.  I asked a good friend who is very active in the church, if she thought that I was the only person who hadn’t been reading the scriptures, or if she thought that a majority of people had this problem. She said that she thought that there were probably quite a few who had a hard time with this too.  As I look our over the audience today, and there are so many of you who are so strong in the gospel, and I admire you so much, and I feel I am somewhat preaching to the choir about this subject, but maybe there is someone who has had a hard time like I have, and if so, I would even hope that you would just put the Lord to the test, and see if what he promises you isn’t true.  It will be life changing.  I know it isn’t easy finding the time, or even the desire at first.  It took our Bishop’s request to talk to spur me into action. Our good friends, Mark and Janene Walker, get up every morning with their family at 6:45, and Janene puts on the griddle, and fixes pancakes, and eggs, and they take turns reading scriptures around the island bar while she’s fixing breakfast.  Landon and I aren’t so fancy, but we’ve found something that works for us !! At 6 in the morning we are the only ones in our house, Roger and Zac having already left for work, but we’ll get out the Cocoa Puffs, and a couple of bowls, and between mouthfuls of food, we’ve been reading  and discussing the Doctrine and Covenants out loud, as this is the subject Landon has been studying in Seminary this year.  We have been regular at this, and it has made a difference in our lives.  Like I said, I never would have believed that the change would be so measureable, but it is !!  Roger asked me a couple of weeks ago, what had gotten into me?  And I told him, I’ve been praying morning and night, and reading the scriptures, and I can’t believe how good it makes me feel.  He said to keep it up !!  He liked it !!  Some days I find myself just walking around with a goofy grin on my face, and a bounce in my step, and I can’t believe how good I feel.  It is unbelievable. 

I know my message to you today has not been a Christmas Story, but I felt I needed to tell you of my experience.  My Father, Heavenly Father, and my Savior, my brother has poured out their love upon me, and I wish everyone could feel what I have felt these past few weeks, and this past year.  I would like to thank again, Pacome, for his invitation to Landon to come back to church, and for Landon to drag me along.  It  was a hard thing, but you have all been so welcoming to us.  I appreciate Lauri’s and Tami, and Sherry and their confidence in asking me to join them in the Young Women program.  I love them, and I love the girls, and I have learned so much this past year.  I know my Heavenly Father loves me, and I know that it is only through our brother Jesus Christ that we can return to him.  I love them both so much for the sacrifice they made for me personally.  I know each one of us individually has come to this knowledge, and while I am new at this, I can tell you that reading of our Father in Heaven, and our Savior in the scriptures will help us to know them.  They are always there for us, but we are the ones who need to reach out to them, both through daily prayer, and by searching their words to us through the scriptures. 

October and November 2002

October

Zac to doctor for 2-3 weeks every Tuesday

11 – Court Jeff Purcell ( guy who hit Zac's car)

24 – Vegas PBR

Gwen wrote this article for the Morgan county News

Lee Dickson was born to Reed and Anona Dickson, in Richville, on the 29^th of July, 1937.  As a kid he helped on the farm with his brother Norris Dickson, and sisters, Barbara Whittier, Maisie Whitaker, and Dixie Porter.  He graduated from Morgan High School in 1955, where he served as Studentbody President.  That summer he worked on the canal that was being built through the mountains to the lower valley, and for several summers after that he worked at Swifts while attending college the rest of the year. 

In 1956 he married Veloy Tonks (of Round Valley) in the Salt Lake Temple.  Lee attended Weber State and the University of Utah, where he received his B.S., M.S. and PhD.  He began his teaching career at Weber State, and taught for many years, before retiring in 1997.  He was, and is an excellent teacher, and many of his students remember him fondly.  His only regret is not being able to get through his oldest daughter’s head, the finer points of math; a subject he loved (as much as she hated it). 

Lee and Veloy have 3 living children; Gwen (Roger) Rich, Erika (Aaron) Bettinson, and Mark (Carrie) Dickson.  A son, Lance, died at birth, and a daughter, Tonya, was killed in an automobile accident when she was 17 years old.  Eleven grandchildren round out the family, and they, along with their parents know that “Grandpa can fix anything”.

 

Gardening has always been a hobby, and Lee has had a beautiful prize-winning garden every year;  regrettably this is a trait that has not been passed on to his children.  Maybe it was slaving away in the garden as kids (ha-ha); or more likely, it’s knowing that Dad and Mom will always have produce to share.

Lee is active in church, and has served in the bishopric, as Bishop of the 2^nd ward, and counselor in the Stake Presidency under two different Stake Presidents.  For the past 3 ½ years, he and Veloy have been serving as ordinance workers in the Ogden Temple, a calling they love and enjoy. They look forward to serving a mission, hopefully in the near future.  

For the last three years, Lee and Veloy have been fixing up a parcel of land for their kids and grandkids enjoyment.  Many many hours have been spent at “The Property” both working and playing.  Together as a family, they are building bonds that will last forever. 

November

7 – Holcim BOE hearing

8 – Elder’s quorum party

11-15 Gwen to St. George – UAC

20 – football banquet

November 10, 2002

Today is Sunday.  I taught my lesson in Young Women’s today.  It was on being dependable.  I have been in Young Women’s since April, and I’m enjoying it VERY much.  Lauri Robinson is the President, Coy Ann Kilmer is the 1^st councilor, and Tammy Bullock is the 2^nd counselor.  I work with Sherrie Rich (under Tammy) as an advisor to the Beehives.  This past year (since February) I’ve become active again (me and Landon).  

It started last February when his Sunday school teacher Pacome Zoku, and his class came and personally invited Landon to come to church.  Pacome was the companion of Elder Johnny Barrett who was killed on his mission in 1999 (I think). He’s living with Johnny’s mom and dad now.  Landon really likes him a lot.  

To get this journal up to date…… let’s see. Landon wrestled last spring at the Junior High level, played competition baseball (14U league) in the summer, and just completed his Freshman year of football.  Wrestling starts tomorrow.  He will probably wrestle at 125 lbs.  He’ s a great kid.  He’s enjoying his Freshman year, and all of the reports I get from everyone, from his teachers, to advisors, to church leaders, to neighbors, to friends, to friends parents, everyone without exception has nothing but great things to say about Landon.  He is the life of the party, and a joy to be around.  He is so kind and friendly to all, and he knows just how to wrap his mom around his little finger !!  Gotta love him !!!  

Zac is still working at CPI, and they have just moved into their new shop this past week..  It is in Mt. Green, so he’ll have to travel about 10 miles each way to work.  Needless to say I will be worrying about him on the roads.  He is recovering from his accident on 9-21-02.  His muscles and ribs and neck still hurt, but he has been released by the doctor.  His collarbone really hurts in the morning.  He and C.J. Matthews have really hit it off, and have become quite close.  It seems they are together everyday and night.  He is happy, and while I worry about him getting hurt, and things moving too fast, I’m happy for him too !!  She is still a Senior in high school, so I told him to take things sloooooowwwwww !!  

Me and Zac and Roger went with Ben and Luann and Linda and Bruce to the Professional Bull Rider finals in Las Vegas a couple of weeks ago.  Zac did not like the gambling, and came home 2 days after we got there.  Apparently he’s not like his dad and Grand dad Rich !!  

Manda is still down in Mesa, and loving it.  She is working for AT&T and is doing really well.  She told me the other day that she is bringing home $850 (bring home pay) per week !!!!  She’s now living in a one bedroom apartment, just her and Raleigh.  She has a really good friend, Jim Schutt, who she tells me, she’s going to marry !! He’s 34 (12 years older than her), and seems really nice.  He really likes sports, and is very close with his family.  He’s never been married and has no kids.  They have been together for 11 months.  I hope everything works out for them.  I want her to be HAPPY !!  She deserves it !!  

I’m going to St. George tomorrow for UAC classes for my work.  I’ll be gone all week.  I’m not really looking forward to it, but maybe I can get some Christmas shopping done !?!?!? I hope so.  

The son of some ward members tried to commit suicide last week, but was unsuccessful, thank goodness.  He is in the hospital, and on the long road to recovery.  I hope he can heal both in body and mind.  

This is a letter I wrote to the ward members, November 17, 2002

Dear Ken and Marie

I’ve been going through some news clippings I’ve saved over the years, and came across the editorial you wrote when my sister Tonya died.  As I read through it, I thought of the trials your family is now facing.   I have copied the article here below, and inserted your names (in bold) where my parents were.  I believe you were inspired at the time you wrote it (1988), and I believe it now applies equally to your family as well.

Editorial – Morgan News – June 1988

The entire county was saddened and shocked by the tragic loss (tragedy) the Adams family has suffered.  Our heart felt sympathy goes out to the dear family and their relatives.  Ken and Marie Adams are one of the most respected couples in the valley.  They come from families rich in pioneer heritage and rooted firm in religious beliefs.  Marie always has a warm smile to greet you with and Ken a kind word to share.  Over the years they have given comfort and encouragement to many.  Now it is the time to return the favor.  Raising children is never easy.  Worry is always a factor.  When very young, the concerns are such things as, are they healthy, are they developing physically, and are they learning how to crawl, walk, and talk.  Later as they enter school, worries revolve around teachers, friends, safety and learning.  Then the teenage years arrive and all worries of the past seem to escalate.  After this critical period of time, parents still worry about their children as they begin families of their own.  Even when children are in their 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s, living parents will worry about these older children. Life is always unpredictable, and accidents, and tragedies can strike at any time.  It seems most damaging when it happens to the young ones.  We feel deep emotion or each one of them and their loved ones.

We are so thankful that Kenny’s life on this earth has not ended.  We are praying daily for his complete recovery.  May God’s choicest blessing be with all of you. 

Love Gwen Rich and family

Me, I’m still as fat and sassy as ever.  Hope I can lose weight someday……. Now where have I heard THAT before?   Well I’m going to try and be better at writing in my journal.  Hopefully I can keep this up!!   I’m trying to read the scriptures daily, but not having much success.  The Bishop asked me to speak in sacrament meeting on Christmas Day, I’m scared!!  Our new Bishop is GREAT.  It’s Craig Fisher, and his councilors are Jim Wiscombe and Ben Russell.  They are such neat people, and I love them a lot.  Also, me and Roger went to an Elder’s quorum party last Friday night.  It was fun, it was a progressive dinner, and thank goodness Rodney and Vicki Rose were there, so we had some people we knew to chum around with !!  Roger was pretty uncomfortable at first !!!  

Tomorrow I head to St. George for meetings (Utah Association of Counties).  I’ll be back on Friday.

November 17, 2002

Today was Sunday – it was great !!  I look forward to this day each week !! Can you believe I feel this way ??  I can’t sometimes…..  I am so blessed and thankful my life has made a turn around.  Tonight was the Young Women’s Evening of Excellence.  It was great !!  Gwen Hayes, secretary of the Relief Society called me yesterday, and asked for my help in putting together a slide show presentation (on the computer) to show tonight.  It worked really well, and we got a lot of compliments on it !!  I want to get the presentation program used by Gwen, it’s called Kai’s Power.  It’s really neat !!  

My week in St. George was good.  I rode down with Helen Hansen, Morgan County’s representative from the Utah State Tax Commission.  On Monday night a bunch of us went to supper at Pancho and Lefty’s (Mexican cuisine).  On Tuesday we went to Outback Steakhouse, on Wednesday, the group went to Mesquite, but I stayed behind because I didn’t really want to go.  On Thursday we went to Chili’s.  My meetings were good, and I got 13 hours of continuing education.  I did a lot of shopping, and got me some new clothes, and a few things for Christmas.  

Yesterday, Saturday, I should have got a lot done, but we didn’t, just layed around (me and Roger).  

Landon went over to Kaley Nelson’s house with a bunch of friends, and played games on Friday night, on Saturday (Day) he went up to Park City Ski Resort with his friend Jared Olsen, and they met up with a bunch of Morgan guys, and snow boarded.  Logan Taggart, a Morgan kid, broke his wrist.  They had a great day.  When he got home, he went down to Tim Poll’s and had ANOTHER party !!!  What a SOCIAL GUY !!!!  He is enjoying wrestling.  

Zac and C.J. are together everyday.  They seem happy !!  Well, better go for now !!

November 22, 2002

Today we are having a luncheon at the courthouse.  Our office (Assessor) will sponsor it.  We are having different kinds of soups.  

Wednesday night, we went to a banquet for Landon’s Freshman Football.  It was at Larry’s Chicken Inn, and it was good.  Each of the coaches talked about the boys.  It was a nice evening.  Today Landon will wrestle off with a senior, Troy Welch, for the 125 lb. Weight for varsity position.  We told him to just to his very best, and no matter what the outcome, we would be proud, and he could be proud.  Me and Roger and pretty nervous for him, but he says he’s not nervous.   

Zac and myself went to Ogden yesterday. He was supposed to have had a doctor’s appointment, but she had surgery so it was cancelled.  His foot and leg have been hurting him, and also his collarbone/shoulder/neck.  I guess we’ll have to reschedule.  We went to Ogden anyway, and did some shopping, Zac bought him some clothes and Ross’s.  He got a bunch of sweatshirts (for work) and a couple of other shirts.  Spent $94.00  - he hated to spend that much money on clothes.  Then he went to Cross’s and bought him two pair of Wranglers for work $40.00.  

C. J. came up last night and they hung out.  She is in the running for FFA Sweetheart, and had to bake a “turkey” cake for judging.  Zac said he could see himself marrying her and making a life with her.  I like her a lot.  Apparently she hasn’t been attending church regularly, and told Zac she wants to go back.  She told him that she thinks they would become even closer, if both of them went to church.  I’m glad she has those feelings.  I just wish Zac did.  He’s like his dad……  Love them both, but one of these days they might be sorry that they didn’t take this religion stuff more serious.  

I have been working on my Young Women’s award, and the first value area is Faith.  I have completed the first project.  I’ve been reading the scriptures all this week, and had felt the spirit when I do, and all through the day.  It really does make a difference.  I think of my Heavenly Father often, and try my best to be a good person.  I have been paying my tithing since August 1^st.  I did a partial fast last fast Sunday, and want to try to do it correctly in the future.  I have changed my ways on Sunday, and am keeping the Sabbath Day holy.  It is hard for Zac and Roger to do this, I wish I could have some influence on them in this area.  I’m praying morning and night, and have cut down my swearing.  I need to work on not being so judgmental of others, and not gossiping or speaking badly of others.  I also want to increase my service to other people.  I love my Heavenly Father and my brother Jesus, who died for me, and suffered for my sins, and has felt personally all of the pain, and sadness I have felt in my life.  I know they love me personally, and want to see me succeed on this earth.  I saw the quote in Deseret Book, and I just love it – “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience, we are spiritual beings, having a human experience.  I want so badly to be worthy to return to my Father in Heaven, and have him put his arms around me and say, well done.  I will try harder to be the kind of person he wants me to be. 

September 2002 - Zac's accident

September

Landon still playing football

Dan still working on land guideline

21 – Zac’s accident

9/24/02

Just thought I’d take a minute and write down my thoughts and feelings of the past few days.  Saturday night at 8:50 p.m., Zac was involved in a car accident.  We got a call a little before 9 o’clock and it was Darrin Dawson.  Landon answered the phone, and I heard him say, “No, this is his son, Landon” – then I heard him say, “Oh, Hi – how are you?”  - then I heard the tone of his voice change, and I looked over at him and he had this horrified look on his face.  I knew right then that Zac had gotten in a car accident.  

I grabbed the phone, and Darrin told me that Zac had been broad-sided over by Gary Weitziel’s house.  (100 S. State Street intersection). I knew that Zac was in his little car, and that it would be bad.  I screamed for Roger and we all ran out of the house, and jumped in our truck and drove over to Morgan as fast as we could.  All the way, I was praying, “Heavenly Father, please bless our boy”, - over and over and over.  “Please comfort him and be with him and don’t let him be scared”.  

As we got closer, a calmer feeling came over me, and I knew that whatever the outcome – whether he was alive or dead, that everything would be alright.  As we turned the corner by the Spring Chicken Inn, we could see a ton of flashing lights, and so many vehicles.  We stopped in front of LaRue Waldron’s home, and ran down the street towards the accident.  I ran up to Blaine Breshears (a cop) and grabbed him, an asked him if Zac was alive.  He looked at me kind of surprised, and then reassured me that he was in fact alive, and had been talking to the EMT’s and that they were working to get him out of the car right now.  

I looked over and I could see him in the car.   I expected to see a lot of blood, but his blonde hair was beautifully shining through, and although he had a grimace of pain on his face as they were pulling him out onto the stretcher/body board – I was so thankful that he was alive, I almost could not believe it.  I was expecting the very worst, because of the way Ambure’s and Tonya’s accidents had turned out.  I immediately grabbed Rog’s cell phone, and called my mom and Roger’s mom.  The first words out of my mouth were, “Zac’s been in an accident, but HE’S ALIVE !!”.  

We were all pretty shook up, and as they were loading Zac into the ambulance, I reached over and touched his leg, and told him that me and Roger were here, and not to worry and that everything would be okay and that we loved him.  I rode down in the front seat of the ambulance, and Rog and Landon followed behind.  

As we pulled out, Austin Turner was driving, and he called on the radio and said they were transporting two victims to McKay Dee Hospital.  I looked at him, and said, “Who else is in here?”, and he informed me that C. J. Matthews had been in the car with Zac at the time of the accident.  I looked back into the ambulance and could not see her, because she was on a “shelf” at the side.  As the EMT’s were trying to assess their injuries, I could hear Zac responding to their questions, and that made me feel a lot better.  

He was complaining of his chest hurting really bad, and also his left ankle.  They wanted to start and I-V, and although I didn’t’ know it at the time, he was telling them NO – that he didn’t want them to stick him with a needle.  When Mary Alexander, the EMT that was trying to insert it asked me, “MOM, do we have your permission to insert and I-V” – I said of course, and I thought that was a little strange, but later found out it was because Zac was giving her a hassle about it.  Zac swore (the F-bomb) when they stuck him, but other than that was pretty cooperative.  He kept asking if C. J. was okay, as he could hear her hyperventilating beside him.  

As we were rocketing 90 + mph down the freeway, I wished I could have let Roger know that things were looking okay, and that Zac didn’t seem to be in a life threatening situation.  When we got to the hospital and they wheeled him into the E.R., he was really hurting in his chest, and was having a hard time breathing.  We stood by his side, and held his hand.  We told him we loved him, and that everything thing was going to be alright, and not to be scared.  He was blinking back tears and gritting his teeth, and he wanted his dad right there beside him.  

They cut off all of this clothing both in the car and in the ambulance, and he was mad about his brand-new Lucky’s !! ($70.00 pants)  The doctor thought they were going to have to put in a chest tube, and so they ushered us out for a minute.  They ended up NOT putting a chest tube in, but did put a catheter and another I-V line, and he didn’t think that was very fun at all.   They took a bunch of x-rays, and determined that his ribs were broken and his lung was punctured, and that his lung was 20% collapsed. The puncture had allowed air to escape into his chest cavity, and this is what caused the collapse.   Grandpa Lee Dickson gave him a blessing.   The doctor wanted to watch him closely to see if he would stabilize, and so he was admitted to the hospital.  

C. J. was banged and bruised up, but appeared okay until they took a urine sample and found blood.  They x-rays were ordered, and she was found to have a torn spleen and bruised kidney.  She was also admitted to the hospital for high observation.  Zac stayed in the hospital all day Sunday and Monday, and we were able to bring him home Monday night about 6 p.m.  

While in the hospital he had many visitors, and people who were very concerned for him called both at the hospital and at our home.  Words can’t express the gratitude and thankfulness we have to our Heavenly Father for sparing Zac’s life.  He and C. J. are so very lucky.  

When Roger came home on Sunday and took a look at the car he was pretty shook up.  When he called back to the hospital and talked to me his voice was shaking, and he said it was a miracle that they weren’t killed.  The man who ran the stop sign at State Street (as he was headed west) didn’t get a scratch.  He was driving a 1992 Dodge Ramcharger.  He had been up to Round Valley Golf Course to a party, and was driving with 3 times the legal limit of alcohol in his blood.  He was also talking on a cell phone.  The cops hauled him off to jail that night, and we haven’t heard anything since.  

As of this day (Tuesday) we are trying to work with insurance people and lawyers, and who knows where it will all end up.  I bet I have said “We are so lucky” about a jillion times – we are so fortunate, lucky, blessed, call it what you will.  We have our boy and are looking around us with a thankful heart, and not planning a funeral.  Thank you Lord !!