Greetings and Happy New Year Eve!!!
One of the sisters in our Ward had her baby boy 5 weeks early and are with out a crib. Does anyone have a crib to donate or sell inexpensively. Could you let me know and I will let them know. This is her first baby and finances are a little tight for them at this time. They are set with most every thing else...they were saving for the crib.
Thank you!!!!

Also...I have a sewing machine that sometimes works and sometimes messes up. I think it needs some type of adjustment or something. So if you can work on a sewing machine and think you could repair it.....let me know...it is free to the first person who contacts me.

Happy New Year!!!!!

I hope everyone had a most wonderful Christmas and that your New Year will be the best ever.
I read a quote today by Ralph Waldo Emerson that says "Write in your hearts that everyday is the best day of the year." I hope I can do that as the new year begins. I am sure going to give it a try. There are little miracles around us all the time.
Thank you to those sisters who donated so much to the little boy whose Mother didn't have money to buy Christmas presents. You are all wonderful and thanks too...to the Visiting Teacher who delivered the gifts and brought it to our attention!
Sis. Head and I will be working on the Visiting Teaching and making changes as needed. Please email me or call me if you need changes with your VT route or if there are problems getting together with your companion etc. Email address......ma1willson@aol.com and phone number is 228 831 8128. Or if you are reading this and your are not a VT and want to be one...let me know. Also...if you are not being visitied by your VT's and are wondering who they are....I can make changes. Pat and I prayerfully make assignments to the best of our abilities but sometimes things just do not work out. It is okay because we are fine about making things better for all of you.
I also read this quote yesterday....."Snow flakes are one of Nature's most fragile things, but just look what they can do when they stick together." We as sisters are all fragile in our testimonies and in our lives in many ways. We need each other to strenthen each other. We need to stick together. I love you all!
Happy New year! May it shine bright and wonderful for all of us!!! It is so wonderful that each hour, day and week and year can be a new beginning for us. We are truly blessed!!!!
Forgive me for missing the past two RS meetings. I fell down and hurt my shoulder and cannot sit too long with out great pain plus the medicine I am taking makes me very sleepy. I am better and I hope to be there for all threee hours Sunday!!! Happy Day to all!!!!

Just in from a Faithful Visiting Teacher...we have a single sister in our ward who has been working more than one job to support her family. She is worried because she doesn't have much of anything for her very active adorable son for Christmas. He is about four years old. I would say he wears a size 4 or 5 or so. If you have some mostly new or new clothes or toys for an active four year old boy please let me know.
Thank you in advance. His name wasn't on the Angel tree because we didn't know there was a need. I am so thankful for wonderful Visiting Teachers who get their VT done and become such good friends that they can spot a need when there is one.
Thank you again!!!!

I want to thank you all for bringing your gifts yesterday. We were missing about 8 gifts but somehow we had enough for all but one litle girl. And my husband had ordered something to have at our home when the Granddaughters come and we are going to donate that and all will be well. Strange...as I felt a true Christmas miracle happened last night....as I was getting them ready and gave them over to the youth to wrap the gifts seemed to be more than we started with. It was a strange thing. I cannot explain it. I was amazed. Misssing gifts....yet all children had a gift....but one.....and we have the perfect thing at our home. Miracles do happen or else those YM/YW were really Christmas elves at work!!!!
Remember the Party at my home Friday....hope to see you there.
Thanks again for your kindness and support!

Just a gentle reminder that gifts for the Angel tree are due in by 6:30 tonight at the Church. If you cannot get it there please contact me and if you are close I wil try to pick it up or have someone else near by do it...or even meet you somewhere. Call me...Toni at 831-8128. You can leave a message if I am not home and I will call you back. Thank's to all the wonderful families who have helped in this!
We have had so many wonderful Baptism's lately and we wish congratulations to all of them....Maribel and Heather are the newest members in RS. Welcome! We also have a new YW as well as a few young men in Primary who turned 8. Welcome to all!
Sunday was a wonderful day at church...all the lessons were wonderful and uplifting as well as the Christmas program in our Sacrament meeting.
This Friday the Annual RS party is at my home at 21077 Robinson Rd. Call if you need directions. My phone number is listed above. Also, if you are planning on coming please let me know if you get a chance ......call, email, or reply to this message. If you do not have time to reply come anyway...I am just trying to get a head count of some type to be sure I have enough refreshments. Only respond if you are coming...thanks...
email address,..........ma1willson@aol.com......thanks!!!
I hope to see many of you Friday night!!!

Seems we have a change in the Baptism for Saturday...it will be at 12 noon and not 1pm. I think I have faulty ears or I am getting the messages wrong.
Thanks to those who came to the Baptism for Heather last night. It was wonderful and she will be a great member. Her sweet parents were also able to attend.
I remember when I first joined the church so many members use to come to the Baptism's...it was such a big exciting adventure. Sometimes it saddens me that our lives are so busy we cannot find the time to attend. It is such a beautiful faith promoting experince. Brings back and renew's those wonerful spiritual feelings of our own Baptism's. Truly a blessing to attend and a wonderful support to those coming into the church.
Remember this bog is for you...any comments, needs, good news, something for sale, babysitters needed etc. Let me know and I will post it!
See you Saturday at the Primary Activity, Choir practive, Baptism or Ward Christmas Social!!!
Have a happy Friday!

It is Thursday and as you have probably heard there is a Baptism tonight at 5:30pm. Sure hope you can be there. There is also a Baptism on Saturday at 1pm. So wonderful!!!
This Saturday at 9am will be the Primary Breakfast until 11. Also Choir practice at 9am....the baptism at 1 and the Ward Christmas party at 5pm. Saturday is a very busy day for many of us!
The Relief Society is in charge of the food for the Ward Christmas Party. I could sure use some help right before....getting the food on the food tables and afterwards cleaning the kitchen. Any help you can give will be appreciated. Many hands make quick work! Is that the saying...cannot remember but sounds right to me?! I am thanking you in advance!!!
Sunday in Relief Society Sis. Kellie Griggs will be teaching us! She is a great teacher and a delightful person. She also keeps this Blog page looking so cute and fun!
On a very sad note....Sis. Astrid Hunter is in the Select Care Facility in the old Garden Park building. She is not doing well. She is in room 203. The cancer has spread it seems. Keep her and her family in your prayers!
Also....Bro. Oakerson and Bro. Capps father's passed on last past week.
Give them a smile when you see them and keep them in your prayers.
I want you to know that I love all of you so very much and am indeed thankful for all the love and support you freely give to so many. It is such a testimony builder!
Also...as you know we still have some names on the Angel tree....please if you can, chose a tag from the tree and purchase a gift for that person. We would be so thankful. Return the gift with the tag attached. We will do the wrapping for you. It is as easy as that. Don't forget to attach the tag as a few gifts have been turned in without a tag and we are unsure who the gift is for. If you dropped one off and didn't put the tag on please contact Bro. Willson.
Happy Week....hopefully we will all enjoy the beautiful sunshine outside. It is cold but beautiful!

Thanks again to wonderful Sis. Griggs for making the blog page look so beautiful and festive! She is the best!!!
Thanks also to Sis. Linda Ware for her imformative lesson last Sunday. We do sometimes judge others too quickly with out knowing the full story. I loved learning more about Martha and Mary. Sometimes I am more Martha than Mary so it was great to hear that she do was doing what she felt was best to show her love for Christ.
Next Sunday I will be teaching! I hope you will still want to attend Relief Society!
The Ward Christmas Party is going to be Saturday December 11th at 5pm until 7pm. Santa will be there. It will be a pot luck dinner. The ward will provide Turkey and Ham. Bring something wonderful to eat and your family and or friends and come for a fun time. If you haven't signed the food list...don't worry...bring what you can and come join in fellowshipping with your friends.
On Friday the 17th is the annual RS party for all sisters who want to come. It begins at 6:30 pm at my home....21077 Robinson Rd. My house is located on the south side corner of Robinson and County Farm Road. We are almost exactly four miles north if you take Exit 28 off of I 10. Turn off of County Farm onto Robinson Rd. and keep those wheels turning right into my driveway. If you want to bring some type of finger food to share you may....if you do not want to do not worry. Come in comfortable clothes. It will be a relaxed evening of talking and sharing and lots of laughing...we hope!!
Do not forget to check out the Angel Tree in the foyer of the Church. We have 39 names on there this year. If you can get a gift for someone on the list they need to be turned in by December 15th so they can be wrapped and packaged and delivered to the homes. Turn them in to a member of YW or RS Presidency or Bro. Willson in the clerks office. Thank you so very much for your kindness and willingness to share!
Also...the ward Choir is singing on Sunday December 12th in Sacrament Meeting. Please come join us. We need you to sing. You will be blessed!!!!
Let me know if we any of you have any info you would like me to put on the blog. I will get the word out for you!
Sis. Grimes was in Church Sunday! She is feeling better! Also Sis. Alice Brakum was there too. Your prayers are certainly working. Thank you! Sis. Louise Whitehead is still very ill and is now in Memorial Hospital. She and her family need lots of prayers and love!!! Thanks to all of you!!!!!

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving! And if you went shopping on Black Friday I hope you were able to get all the wonderful things you were wanting to buy! Me...I did it a few times and that was enough for me. It is fun and exciting however!!!
I want to thank those who came to the RS Super Saturday. The day was wonderful and if you didn't come you really missed a fun time. Sis. Jaime Connor and Sis. Melanie Wade did so much to make it fun for all. Thanks also to my sweet husband and the Bishop for helping in the nursery. We had some wonderful soup and the recipe for the Chicken soup is in the December RS newsletter. I will be including the Taco soup Beth made in the blog today if I do not forget to type it in.
Remember to keep Sis. Grimes, Sis. Louise Whitehead, Sis. Alice Barkum and The Oakerson Family in your prayers.....and any others who may have a special need for prayers at this time.
And be kind to everyone...so many of us have big struggles at this time. Thank you!!!

TACO SOUP

1 pound of lean ground beef
1 can corn
1 can chili bean
1 can black beans
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 package taco seasoning
1 package dried ranch dressing mix
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Put all into a crock pot except Cheese. Do not drain cans. Cook on high...stirring occasionally for 2 to three hours on high or until ground beef is cooked and tender. Add Cheese and stir until melted. serve. You may top it with corn chips if desired.
*To cook it on the stove....crumble and cook ground beef. When ground beef is cooked add all the remianing ingredients except cheese, bring to a boil. Lower heat to medium and cook for about 15 minutes. Add cheese..stir until melted and serve.

I hope you enjoy it!
I will get Sis. Connor recipe for her chili and post it soon.
Have a wonderful day!
We will see you Sunday!!!

Saturday will be our Super Saturday at 9am! If you are bringing children please bring a sack lunch for them. We were not able to find any priesthood to tend the children so I may ask all those who have children to take a 20 minute turn in the nursery as needed. I hate to do this. I will stay the whole time in the nursery but if there are a lot of children I may need some help. I will bring a movie for them to watch and some things to do. It will work out!!!!
Anyway , I know it will be a fun and exciting day for all of us. I am so looking forward to it.
We will have a light lunch of Soup, bread, crackers and dessert......And end by 12 at the latest.
Sis. Melanie Wade and Sis. Connor have lots of fun crafts planned. so come on over and enjoy the day.
And do not forget Sunday is Linger Longer. Sis. Ruthie Wade is going to be out of town again so there will not be anyone in the kitchen to heat up the food....if you can use your crock pot or bring something that doesn't need to be heated it would be a big help. I know some wonderful sisters stepped in last time to help get the food ready...and we do so appreciate them.
Have a happy Friday....and we will see you Saturday!

Sisters.....due to my forgetfulness I didn't pass out the sheet to get some Men to watch the Children in RS on Saturday. So, I am asking for your help. Do you know of any men who would be willing to assist us in this. We need two men at least. Young men are welcome also. Let me know.....228 831 8128. Thank you!!!
Also we are gathering names for the Ward's annual Angel Tree. If you have names to contribute to the tree please let me know. You can call me or email me......ma1willson@aol.com, ph 228-831-8128 or cell 228-669-7914. I will need the names by Tuesday night if possible.
I am usually not so unorganized....lots going on in my life right now. I am so sorry! I would appreciate any help you could give me!
Saturday is the Annual Super Saturday Craft Day. Please try to come. We will begin at 9am and go until noon at the latest. We will serve a light lunch of soup and rolls at 11:30 or so.
Please bring a sack lunch for your nursery aged children.
We had a wonderful lesson in RS yesterday. I always love Sis. Griggs lessons. She presented a beautiful lesson on the Ordinance of Baptism. It is wonderful to be reminded of the covenants and promises we made when we were baptized. I am a convert and was baptised at the age of 21 however it has been along time. As I was listening to the lesson I could actually remember my feelings on that day. I admit I was afraid. It has been one of the best decisions of my life however. I love the lessons we are having this year. It is good to revisit the basic foundations and beliefs of our Gospel.
Thank you again for being understanding of my forgetfulness about the nursery and Angel Tree!!!!!

It is Wednesday and here I am finally.......
Great big Thanks go to dear Sis. Yuko James as the best VT this week. She went in and organized and packed for Sis. Jewitt. She even had a wonderful work belt with water, gloves, markers, tape, sissors etc. Big thanks also to her helpers Sis. Allen and Sis. Van Camp. And of course to the wonderful men under the direction of Bro. Brad Griggs who carried boxes and moved furniture. Everyone worked together and made it so much easier. We have a lot of unsung hero's in our Ward who never get the credit they deserve and these are but a few of them. I am so appreciative to all of you who make dinners, babysit, comfort, love and do so much to make all our sisters feel loved. I send all of you my love and hope for wonderful blessings in your life.
Thanks also to Sis. Conner for her beautiful lesson Sunday. Tithing is such a big part of our lives in the church. I can testify of the blessings it has been in my life. We are not rich but the paying of tithing and the faith that goes with it has blessed my life as we have faced challenges and trials. I feel it this very day!!!!
Next Sunday Sis. Kellie Griggs will be our teacher. She will be teaching Lesson 20 on Baptism.
Hope you can find the time to read the lesson before hand. She is a great teacher!
Sis. Barkum is still in need of cards, letters or phone calls. Please call her when you can. It is alright if you do not know her...she is fun and delightful and thrilled for any contact she gets from the sisters in our ward. She is a specail lady, as all of you! Her phone number and address are on one of the previous messages!
Saturday November 20th will be our Super Saturday Christmas Craft day. It starts at 9;30. We will have a nursery and ask that you bring a sack lunck for your children in the nursery. We will have a lunch of soup and rolls and a dessert. The displays of the items we will be doing are on the tables outside of the RS room on Sunday. Some items are free others very inexpensive. However, if you want to make something and do not have the money right now...let me know and we can fix it for you!
Hope you are having a wonderful week!!!

Sisters....
Sis. Jewitt is moving and truly needs some help packing up by Friday. If any of you could help Thursday or Friday please contact me. We really need some helpers!!!!! Please!!!
Contact me...
8318128...if I am not home please leave a message. I will call you back!!!
Thanks!!!!!!

I hope every one has the opportunity to get out to vote today! What a blessing we have to voice our opinions by voting in this wonderful country we live in.

Sis. Oakerson is still in Florida with her daughter Laura. Please keep them in your prayers.
I heard from her today and she said to thank all of you for the prayers and happy thoughts coming her way. She feels great love and appreciation to all of you. I told her I would let you all know.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!!!!

Today was a very nice day at Church. We had wonderful talks in Sacrament Meeting and an equally wonderful lesson in RS. Thank you Sis. James. We really appreciate her and all the efforts she put forth in teaching us today about Temples and their importance in our lives. May we all learn from her lesson and do all that we can to attend the temple for the first time or to go back again as often as possible.

The Ward Fall Festival was lots of fun Saturday. I want to thank the Primary Leaders and Teachers for making it such a success. It really takes a great deal of time and planning to have a wonderful activity for us to attend. Plus all the work to clean up and recover from all the "fun" had by all. It was extra delightful. Thank you again

On Saturday Novemeber 20th RS will be having a "Super Saturday Christmas Craft Day". It begins at 9:30am and will end around 11 or 11:30 or so. I think we will be having a light lunch....maybe soup and or sandwiches. I am not sure. Sis. Jaime Conner and Sis. Melanie Wade are planning this wonderful activity. If you are interested in signing up for the classes please check out the display near the RS room. Some will be free of charge and others no more than 2-3 dollars. I know it will be a fun day for all of us.

Sis. Butler is recovering quite well! She had a knee replacement. Her husband said she got up this morning and even made her own breakfast! We are all so happy she is doing well.

Sis. Alice Barkum is still having some pain and she really needs phone calls and or get well cards.
Her phone number is 596-8793 and her address is 4705 11th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501

I also want to thank Sis. Sonjih Anderson for doing the newsletter. She really works hard on it. The newsletter is such a help and is especially great to send or pass on to your less active sisters and friends who may or may not have access to the use of a computer.

The youth will be attending the Temple the Saturday after Thanksgiving to do Baptism's for the dead. If you are interested in going with the youth contact a member of the YW/YM Presidency.
You may also submit names for Baptism for the youth to do that day if you would like.

Please let me know if you would like to make announcements or if you have something to sell or give away. Or if you are looking for babysitting jobs etc. I will post it for you.
Just let me know.

My phone number is 831-8128 or email me at ma1willson@aol.com
Thanks and have a wonderful week!!!

If you have completed your VT in October or even if you haven't please contact your Supervisor and let them know so we can get it posted into the computer. Thank you very much!

And it you do not get a newspaper on Wednesdays....Winn Dixie is having their Special....buy two Toomstone Pizzas and get one 2 litter Soda, one box of Pizza rolls and a package of Ice cream [blue bunny]cups for free. You pay for the pizza and the rest is free. It expires Tuesdy evening.
I was in there the other day and the lady in front of me bought two specials and no one said a thing!!!!

Today is Tuesday, all day! As my mom would say when we would ask her what day it was when we were little!
Tonight is the RS meeting at 6:30pm!
We are having a PMS night....popcorn, movie and socializing. I am sure it will be a fun easy no fuss night to relax. We do have some wonderful Priesthood who are willing to watch the children if you have no one at your home to attend them.
Sis. Frisby is moving Sunday and needs someone to help her pack up a few boxes in the next few days. Please give me a call if you are willing to do so....ph. # 228-831-8128. She lives not far from Sams club, down Coleman Road in a small Nursing Home.
Sunday October 31st is Halloween and on October 30 is the Ward Fall Festival at 1pm. I hope you will bring your children and come. There will be hot dogs and chips etc. for Lunch.
Also on Sunday we will have a lesson on Temples given by Sis. Yuko James. We are so excited. She is such a gifted lady! We are happy she will be blessing us with her talents!!!!
Please le me know if you have any info you would like to post on this blog....
Sis. Barkum is improving. Sis. Grimes is still not as well as we would hope she could be.
So please keep them in your prayers. Sis. Butler was supposed to have her knee operated on. I haven't heard anything as of yet. I need to call and find out!
Thank you all for all you do! Remember the month is running out...please try to get your VT completed if you can!
Have a great day!

It's Thursday already! This has been such a busy week for me and I am sure for many of you!
Some changes in the dates of the Relief Society Activities....
The Saturday meeting scheduled for this Saturday has been Cancelled.
The Upcoming events are....
Tuesday Night PMS night at 6:30pm [Popcorn, Movie and Socializing]
Saturday Nov. 20 at 9:30am Relief Society Super Saturday Event
December 11th at 5pm, Ward Christmas Party...Santa will be there!
Sunday we welcomed Sis.Jackie McDaniel as our newest teacher and she did a fabulous job teaching. We really apprecaite her accepting the call to teach in RS.
Next Sunday Sis. Ware will be teaching. The lesson will be taken from the talk by President Eyring entitled "Help Them On Their Way Home". I know she will present a great lesson.
Sis. Brakum is home and doing well. She is grateful for all your prayers and calls! Thank you!
Sis. Oakerson is still in Florida with her daughter Laura. She still needs our prayers and she said to tell you all she sends her love! She is even making arraingements to have her VT completed while she is away! What A woman!!!
Remember the month is almost over...try to get out and complete your VT. Calls and letters are just as important. Thank you all so very much for being dedicated to your church responsibilities! You are the best!
If you are interested in blessing the lives of the Primary children at the Ward Social...we are still in need of some sisters or brothers to decorate one of the doors in church and pass out candy to the children. If you are interested please contact me or Sis. Follett!
See you Sunday!!!! forgive my mistakes....I am in a hurry today!!!!

A wonderful Tuesday Morning to all of you!
Sis. Alice Barkum is still in the Hospital as of last night. She in Room 433 at Memorial Hospital. The phone number to her room is 867-4433. She loves to hear from everyone!!!!
Sis. Oakerson is still in Florida. Her daughter Laura is battling Cancer. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers. Bro. Oakerson said the doctors say Laura has 6 to 9 months to live unless a miracle happens. Lets pray for a good outcome if it be the Lords will. Laura Oakerson Benjamin and her husband have one daughter.
Many of our sisters have some serious trial lately. Please be gentle and kind to your friends and neighbors....we never know what could be happening in their lives.
I want to thank Sis. Kellie Griggs for a most delightful lesson Sunday on "Faith in Christ".
She taught such a very spiritual and uplifting lesson. Sis. Griggs' lesson really brightened my day and made me appreciate my own feelings of Faith and want to strengthen them. Thank you Kellie!
Next week we will have a new teacher in Relief Society. Of Course, we all know Sis. Jackie McDaniel. She is our newest teacher and will teach every other month on the third Sunday of the Month. Next Sunday's lesson is #19 Repentance. Hopefully you will be able to read it in advance. For some reason it enhances our learning process if we are prepared in advance. Prepardness blesses us in many aspects of our life....Spiritually, Physically and Emotionally.
How much easier is it to face life and all it brings if we feel the confidence of knowing we are as prepared as we possibly can be!
I am sending happy wonderful thoughts to all of you this week!!!!

Sis. Alice Barkum is in the hospital. Lots of miserable kidney stones! Please keep her in your prayers. She is in Memorial Hospital...room 433.
Thanks!

Canference was so wonderful this weekend. I enjoyed the wonderful talks and the wonderful feeling of love and peace I felt.
President Monson's talk on Graditude and his saying there is a lot of good in the world was so uplifting to me. It kept me up thinking about it!
We are so bombarded with negativity lately....global warming, divorce rate, home forclosures, jobs lost etc. I read that one in four homes was going into forclosure....that means 3 out of 4 are not. Unemployment is 10 percent....but that means 90 percent are working. Divorce is 50 percent and that is ever so sad but that still means 50 percent are staying married. What happened along the way to make us, as a people, so negative in life?
One of the Prophets said...we should be some of the happiest people in the world...we have so much. Yet, it does seem we forget to look on the brighter side of things.
I am commiting myself to improve...I hope you will too!
Next Sunday Sis. Griggs will be teaching the lesson in Relief Society....Lesson 18...Faith in Jesus Christ. I hope you will try to find time to read it in advance of Sunday. We all need to builf our Faith. Maybe we will become more positive and uplifted!

Thank you to all the wonderful Brothers and Sisters who provided food for the Waits family today! You all were so wonderful and generous. Thank you so very much.
The service was very sweet and loving. Sis. Baker sang "O My Father" and it was so touching. I think everyone cried. Adam Waits and his children made little "Lady Bug" pins for the family to wear. Sis. Bev loved Lady Bugs. It was very delightful.
I am always touched by how kind and generous the members of our Ward are. Thank you!
Remember tomorrow Conference begins at 11 on your TV at home or at the church.
The sessons on Saturday and Sunday or 11 and 3 and on Saturday night at 7pm for the Priesthood.
I should have a social at my house for all the ladies tomorrow night....if only I were prepared for such a thing I would do it. I would have to finish cleaning from the family visits we have had lately and I have been lazy this week and haven't gotten it all done. Who would really care....probably only me!
I told my husband I am so excited to be able to sleep in late on Sunday and then I remembered he retired and we can sleep in late every day now. He still wakes up at five and me at six. I do find myself staying in my pj's all morning now. I suppose this is one of the perks of older age!!!!
I do encourage you all to watch Conference and listen to the words. How blessed we are to have a living Prophet to lead and guide us. The RS broadcast was so heavenly last Saturday night.
I hope you find a way to read it or see it as soon as you can if you were unable to do so Saturday.
This months Ensign is all about The Temple....so beautiful! I think wwe need to plan another temple trip soon! Let me know if you are interested!

I want to thank all who praticipated in our wonderful Relief Society Meeting Tuesday evening. We had a lot of sisters in attendance, lots of wonderful food and fellowship. Thanks to all the sisters and brothers who assisted in the Nursery. I want to let Sis. Melanie Wade and Sis. Jaime Connor know how much I appreciate all the work and effort they put forth in preparation and energy to make it such a success. We are so very blessed in our Ward with wonderful Sisters who always go above and beyond in serving. I thank you all very much!
Many of the sisters brought things to share from their heritage. We are a very diverse group of sisters. It is a wonderful thing!
Please let me know if you would like anything announced on our Blog....

Sis. Beverly Waits.....
Wake Tonight from 6- 8 [Thursday]
Funeral Service Friday at 11am
Bradford Okeefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue, Biloxi, MS

If you are providing food for the funeral please have it to the Waits home by 1pm. Beth is also bringing food and she may be willing to take yours if you give her a call.
Thank you everyone!

On a very sad note today....Sis. Beverly Waits passed away this morning. Three months to the day after her husband. We will miss her very much. We send our deepest love to her family.

Wow!!!! Doesn't this blog look beautiful! Thanks to Sis. Kellie Griggs who is fantastic! Finally someone who knows what they are doing!!!!!

Today we had a wonderful lesson taught by Sis. Linda Ware....it was about raising our children. Mine are grown but they are still my babies. Now I have the opportunity to love my grandchildren. She said it is important to listen to our children...to have some one on one time with them. The lesson was given from the conference talk by Robert D. Hales....The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation. It would be worth reading if you have not done so already.
I was so excited to see so many wonderful sisters from our ward at the RS dinner and broadcast Saturday night. I counted around 35 sisters. What wonderful talks. Very uplifting. We will recieve the DVD of the broadcast sometime in late November. You may want to check it out from the library and view it if you were not able to see it.
Please let me or Sis. Griggs know if you would like to post something on this blog.....if you have something to give away or sell, if you need a babysitter, ride, or just some exciting news you would like to share....this is the place!
Sis. Oakerson is in Florida with her daughter Laura. Laura has cancer and the prognosis is not good. Please keep them in your prayers.
Sis. Grimes is doing better.
Sis. Beverly Waits is still in the Long Term care in the old Garden Park hospital. I am sure she would love a visit.
Thank you all for being such wonderful Sisters....always willing to serve when called upon in anyway! Remember to get your VT completed.....you have a few more days!!!!
Have a wonderful week!!!!

Monday afternoon!!!! I have company so I better work on this now because I may not get around to it later!
Thank you Sis. Butler for the lesson Sunday. As I always say...we have wonderful teachers that add so much to our RS Sunday lessons. I appreciate all of you!
Next Sunday Sis. Linda Ware will be teaching. I cannot locate my list at this moment to find the lesson but I will update it when I find the info.
Next Saturday night is the RS Broadcast...Dinner at 6pm....broadcast 7pm.....bring some food to donate if you can! It will be given to the Food Bank in Waveland.
And the following Tuesday will be our RS Tuesday night meeting. I think Sis. Wade and Sis. Connor have some fun and excitment planned!
Sis. Beverly Waits is in the Select Care Facility in the old Garden Park Hospital. She will hopefully be released in the next few weeks. She would love to have visits when and if you can.
Does anyone read this? Just wondering...I am so open to suggestions or imput for this! Let me know! It is Monday evening.....hope you remember to have FHE.
My Brother died last Thursday and I just cannot get into this today! Forgive me!
Have a wonderful evening and love your family and don't get up set over the small and unimportant things. Families are such a blessing!!!!!

It is Wonderful Wednesday! Wonderful because I have been on the little sickly side and I am better today mostly! I know all of you are thrilled about that and I do thank you so very much!
Sunday was a beautiful day. Sis. Kellie Griggs presented a wonderful lesson in RS. We really appreciate her very much! She talked about the church in former times. It is great to be reminded that our Church was and is a church founded on the teachings of Christ.
Next week Sis. Butler is scheduled to be our teacher. The lesson wil be #17. This lesson is on the Church today. We are so fortunate to have such wonderful lessons to learn from and wonderful teachers to present them.
Don't forget this Sunday coming will be the Primary Sacrament Meeting Presentation. Try to get your children there on time if you can! I know it is especially difficult at times to do that. I had six little ones long ago and my grandchildren this past summer. It was hard for me!!!!!
Also...there will be the monthly Linger Longer after church. Bring enough food for your family and a few missionaries! Remember to take your pots and pans off the serving table when you finish eating. That way it is easier for the rest of us to clean the tables etc. You will need to take your things home dirty....because well...there is enough stuff to wash as it is and we do not want to do more. You would have one to wash and we would have many! Does that seem fair????
This Thursday night....we are having a Baptism for Sis. Tiffany! Everyone is invited. It will be at 6pm. Try to come and show her your support. I remember when I joined the church everyone came and it was a wonderful time. I guess our lives have gotten so busy we cannot find the time anymore. So sad......
Also...the RS broadcast on the 25th....dinner at 6pm....broadcast at 7pm......please bring food to donate to the food bank in Hancock County if you can!
And the RS meeting Tuesday the 28th...Our Heritage....contact Sis. Wade or Sis. Connor for more info!
See you all soon!

It is Friday and the week is mostly gone. My internet connection was out until Wednesday and yesterday was my husbands Birthday...so here I am today.
Sis. Beverly Waits is in the ICU at Garden Park Hospital. She is certainly in need of our good thoughts and prayers. Please remember her family in your prayers as well.
Sue Grimes was in the hospital as well but is now home. She is doing much better. Bro. Grimes is feeling pretty tired taking care of her. If you have time they would love visits from each and everyone of you. They have changed some of her medications and hope this will help her to begin to have a little more energy.
This Sunday in RS we will be blessed with a brand new teacher. Sis. Kellie Griggs says she is excited to have this new calling and we are certainly thrilled to have her teach. I think it is a remarkable thing in our church that we are blessed with so many talented and delightful sisters who are so willing to serve. We love and appreciate all of you so very much!
Do not forget that Sunday September 19th will be the Primary Sacrament Meeting Presentation and also the Linger Longer Sunday. So.....Bring your family and friends and your favorite foods to share and come have a wonderful day.
Saturday September 25th is the RS Broadcast from Salt Lake. The Broadcast begins at 7pm...however at 6pm there is a dinner for all the sisters. Their will be a nursery for the children if you have no one to take care of them in your home. We are asked to bring food to donate to the Food Bank in Waveland if possible. This Broadcst is always very uplifting and spiritual. Try to come!!!
Also this Month we are having the RS week night meeting on September 28th. It is a Heritage Night. Please bring items from your Ancesters to display and/or stories to share. Contct Sis. Melanie Wade for more information.
Well, I guess this is all that I have to share at this time. I am waiting for any thoughts and ideas to improve this little blog.
See you all Sunday!!!!!

It's Wednesday.....It has been a crazy busy week so far! Hope it is going well for all of you!
Last Sunday the Bishop presented a wonderful meeting. He covered three things of which we should be striving for. Being prepared was number one. We need to be working on our three month supply of food, money etc. If you were here during Katrina....you must remember the joy of having food and water stored in our homes. What a blessing it was. One of the most wonderful items to have in your home in an addition to food and water to me was baby wipes. It was so hot and water for bathing not so easily available. Baby wipes could cool you down and make you feel clean and wonderful. Also the disinfecting wipes were wonderful to wipe down the kitchen counters and bathrooms. It was so hot you know those little germs were having a happy time all over our homes. Just my two cents worth!
Bishop also encourged us to be a PRO by Praying, Reading the scriptures and being Obedient!
And he passed around the "Iron" rod for us to hold on to. A wonderful reminder...it is certainly easy to let go and wonder away form the our true destination. He did a wonderful presentation!
Next Sunday Beth Berry will be teaching in RS. Her topic is serving in the church.
We want to welcome Sis. Jaime Connor as our new 2nd Counselor in RS. Her husband is in the Navy and they are living on the CB Base. She has four children and their last assignment was Hawaii! How blessed can you be? Sis. Connor will be working with Melanie Wade in making our extra RS meetings the best ever.
We sure will miss Susan. She and her family are moving to Montana. She is the most deligthful person and has done a wonderful job in RS these past four years. We love her and will miss her very much. Remember her home is forsale or rent. They are willing to sell the house for what they owe on it. It has been apprased at over 250 thousand but they will see it for less than 185 thousand. It is a wonderful home!!! Check it out!
Also, Bro. and Sis. Oatman are selling their home. I do not know the details. It is also a lovely home. Bro. Oatman has been reassigned to Florida. He has already moved there. Sis. Oatman is the YW's President. She is a wonderful dedicated sister. We will miss her also!
I hope you all have wonderful rest of the week!
I haven't heard if Sis. Waits is still in the hospital. I will check on her today and let you know!
I am sure I am forgetting some info I should be sharing...so it you know of something let me know!
Anyone have thoughts on making this a little better let me know. I am limited in my abilities in this knowlwdge of the blog world and would appreciate any help I can get!
Thanks!!!

Sister Beverly Waits is still in the hospital [Garden Park]. She is doing better now and is getting around. Hurray!
Thanks to the Sisters who brought food to Sis. Paula Butler. She is also doing much better. Waiting on more testing etc.
That are the only updates I know at this time.
See you Sunday!
It sure is rainy today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There is a Military man in our ward. He is about 25-30 years old and divorced. He is looking for someone to do some basic cleaning for him and his daughter once or twice a week for about an hour os so. His daughter is in 1st grade. He lives on the CB base. If you would be interested please let me know. He seems to be a very nice young man. He helped in the Nursery in RS Tuesday night.
Tomorrow we will be having a combined meeting with thePriesthood in the Chapel. I am not sure what the topic will be but I am sure it will be wonderful.
Susan Soule is moving and her home is for sale. It is a wonderful four bedroom with two and a half baths, Family room etc. If you know anyone moving in let them know about the house. They are willing to rent it. He has to report to his new job in November. The location is wonderful! Off the beaten path but near the interstate. It is two stories. I love it! If I didn't have a house I would buy it myself!
Happy Saturday!!!!

It's Monday and it is a wonderful day! If I tell myself that enough it will become a wonderful day...
Thanks for all the wonderful comments in RS yesterday. You ladies are the greatest. The lesson was wonderful. Thank you Linda!
We were blessed with the Stake RS Presidency visiting yesterday. We so love and appreciate them for helping us so very much. We want to thank Sis. Allen for her wonderful spiritual thought and candy she shared with us.
Sis. Waits is still in Garden Park Hospital. If you have a chance, drop on over and visit her. She has certainly gone through some trials lately. Sue Grimes is a little better. I spoke with Bro. Grimes Sunday and he said the extra medicine is taking more of the fluid off and of course that makes her feel so much happier.
Let me remind you that this is your last week to get your Visitng Teaching completed. Call Sis. Head, Sis. Singley or me to report on your progress. Thank you so very very much!!!!!
We are thrilled to have a new teacher for our second Sunday lessons. I am sure you heard her called and sustained Sunday morning. If not, it is Sis. Kellie Griggs. We are so thrilled at her desire to teach. She is wonderful sister! She is new in our Ward!
Next week we will meet with the Priesthood in the Chapel. I do not know the subject at this time. It is always nice to have the opportunity to sit with our husbands and friends and learn important messages from our Bishopric.
Do you know you can go to LDS.org and register under the right side "Wards and Stakes" and fill out a short registration form and have easy access to the Ward and Stake Calendar and even Ward lists if you need phone numbers etc. It makes life so much easier!
Have a great week! Forgive my mistakes...I do not have time to reread it today!

For you wonderful few but special sisters who read this...I found my teaching list! Hurray for me!
The lesson Sunday will be "When the Lord Commands" by Bruce A. Carlson.
Sis. Linda is a wonderful teacher. The last Sunday she taught the RS room AC was out and we met in the Cultural Hall. The workmen have repaired that and we have been happily enjoying the wonderful cold room. We are grateful indeed!
Beth Berry will teach the first Sunday of September.
Hopefully we will soon have some new teachers called to teach the second and third Sundays of the month!
Susan Soule will be moving by November or so. She will be missed so very much. She has been with us since the beginning...almost five years ago. She did serve in YW's for a year and then came back to RS. Her husband is taking a new job closer to home. Susan and her family are from Utah and they will be heading for Montana. Lots closer to home than Mississippi. She has her house for sale. If you are interested in buying a wonderful four bedroom home....contact her!
See you all Sunday!

Susan Soule and I went to visit Elaina in the hospital yesterday. She looks wonderful and got out of the hospital today. Thanks to her VT's....Kristal and Liz for bringing her dinner tonight. Also thanks to Sis. Allen for being willing to bring her dinner tomorrow night.
We also visited Sis. Bev Waits. She is also in the hospital. She was pretty tired when we saw her. I think she is doing better. I do not know when she will be released from Garden Park. We hope soon!
Remember to keep both in your prayers! As well as Sue Grimes. She is not feeling as well as she would like! Bro. Grimes is also not well! They are the sweetest couple and love each other so very much! They have been married around 55 plus years. I cannot remember how long but a long time. If you are ever out and about near their home just drop on over to visit. They love the company.
Sunday Linda Ware will be our teacher. I cannot find my little list with the lesson. However if you have the newsletter you will find the info there.
I have been trying to clean and rearrange my office...I think it is a bigger mess than when I started. I keep saving things that I need but I've saved them so well....I cannot find them!
Oh well!
Has anyone thought about meeting weekly? I haven't recieved any feedback from anyone.
Enjoy the moments of your life!!!!

Happy Tuesday Everyone!!!!!

Today Sis. Elaina Deshamps is in the hospital having an operation. She is a fairly new member of the church. Please keep her in your prayers and thoughts today. And if you are interested in providing food for her and her family when she gets home...let me know.

Sunday was a wonderful day as usual. Thanks to all of you who so kindly brought food to the Linger Longer and stayed to help. You are so grately appreciated!!!!!!!

As usual we had a wonderful lesson in Relief Society. Thanks to Sis. Jalyn Wade for teaching the lesson. She is new to our Ward as well. She is also a newlywed! We are so happy she was so willing to teach! She is very talented!

I think I am out of the loop this week and do not know much of what is going on in the Ward.

If you know of any need of anyone please let me know.

Last week I said we had a new family in the Ward. I wasn't sure of her name. Her name is Tara Elizabeth Erwin. I didn't see her this week. We hope you will get to know her as well as all our new sisters.

I have been thinking about maybe having a weekly meeting at the church...during the day.

No babysiting...no food. Just maybe scriptue study, quilt tying etc. A one hour meeting for those who would be interested....no pressure on anyone. A relaxed meeting. What do you all think?

Any thoughts or ideas on this. I would love and appreciate your thoughts and opinions.

It might help us to get to know one another a little better. We could meet in the nursery room. Kids could wander around and play and the sisters can do assorted activities. I could teach you all how to make my famous Pettit Fours. I learned how to make them in Germany from a German sister. We could study the Book of Mormon. Maybe read a chapter and discuss what we can learn from it. Something easy that doesn't put more pressure on anyone.

I am so open to ideas!!!!!! Let me know!

Have a wonderful day...a delightful week!!!!!!!!!!!

This Sunday will be the monthly "Linger Longer"!
It is held the third Sunday of each month except December. We actually have a Ward Christmas Party early in the month in December.
So bring enough to feed your family and some hungry Missionaries. That way there will be enough for all. There isn't enough oven space for reheating everything so bring something in a crock pot or something that doesn't have to be reheated. Sis. Ruthie Wade is always helping in the kitchen warming the food and getting everything ready and then cleaning up. Give her a big hug and thanks for all that she does to make it such a success! And thanks too to all the others who so willingly stay behind and help. Sometimes we are still there cleaning after 2pm or so.
I know I haven't been there the past two times. Yes, I skipped out! I really had good reasons however! I will be there this month!
Remember to clean up your own pots, pans etc [just take them home dirty]. You will have one thing to wash and the kitchen workers will not have so much to do. It is such a help if you do that. Do I sound like a cross woman or what? Sorry! I do not mean to be! I am looking out for Ruthie! She never complains! It isn't even her calling and she does it anyway! She is a much better woman than I am! I love Ruthie! I love all of you! We are truly a blessed ward with so many wonderful loving sisters as you all are!
Again...please forgive any typos or misspellings....be gentle on me!

It 's Monday!
Wow...school started in Long Beach today and will start in Gulfport on Wednesday! The summer seemed so very short for me this year. And now that my husband has retired for the second time I am adjusting to having him home everyday. So far so good! It is a good thing I like him and he can cope with me.
We had a very wonderful lesson in RS Sunday. The lesson was the second on the Priesthood.
I do apprecaite the excitment and honor of the Priesthood our teacher brought to the lesson.
It is good to be reminded how blessed we are to have the Priesthood in our lives. I am an old Grandma now, however I am so thrilled when my grandson Conner has the opportunity to pass the sacrament to me in Sacrament meeting. I think I am more touched than when my own sons were at that age.
We thank Kristal Zanhiser for blessing us with her willingness to teach Sunday. She just reciently moved into out Ward along with her roommate Liz Brackney. We have been so blessed with so many wonderful new sisters and families in our ward in the past two months. We welcome all of you.
I hope I can name all the new families who have moved in since June...
The Navy Wives....Chelsey Crew, Brandy Stubbs, Jaime Connor, Sis. Medina and a new family who arrived Sunday. I didn't ahve a chance to meet them...I think the Bishop said their name was Irving. I am not sure. We will know next week. Other new move ins....Kellie Griggs, Marjorie Anderson, Alice Barkum, Jalyn Wade, Samantha Houck. Plus our newest Baptized Sis. Elena Deschamps. Our Ward sure is growing! We are so happy to have you in our ward and please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your stay here a little more pleasant. I wish I could change the weather...but it is out of my hands!
Next Sunday Sis. Jalyn Wade will be teaching the lesson in RS. It is Chapter 15....The Lord's Covenant People.
Sis. Sue Grimes is still not well. Please keep her in your prayers!
Please remember to get out there and get your VT done. If you lost your list or didn't get one some how....call me 831-8128 or Contact sis. Pat Head. We will get it to you as soon as possible!
We love you all!

Thanks to all who helped with food for Sis. Blackstocks funeral. Everything was wonderful.The service was very uplifting. She was such a delightful lady. We will miss her very much!

This Sunday our lesson in RS will be taught by Chrystal Zanhiser. She is a wonderful teacher. The lesson will be from chapter 14.
If you have time to read it before hand it will make it all the better for you!

Our next Relief Society Tuesday night meeting will be August 23rd. Sis. Melanie Wade has some cute little scrap booking things to do. Not into Scrapbooking, well.....bring something you need to finish....or come to visit and enjoy one another's company. We will have light refreshments.

I was at the church today and they put up some beautiful new pictures!
It makes everything more beautiful than ever.

See you Sunday!

Sis. Blackstock died this morning around four. She was surounded by her family. There will be a memorial service Wednesday. I am not sure of the time but will post it when I find out.
If you would be willing to provide food for the family after the service please contact me...Toni at 831-8128. Thank you!

WELL......the Saturday Morning Relief Society Meeting was a wonderful success!!!!
Sis. Marci made the most yummy delicious Strawberry Jam and Sis. Paula made the most soft wonderful and tasty bread! We also had our jars with heavy cream in them and whipped up some wonderful butter for our bread and jam! I want to thank Melonie Wade for getting it all organized and ready for us to enjoy. It was a most wonderful activity. Thank you all so much for attending!
And thank you all for bringing examples of the wonderful things you have made. It was so wonderful that so many of you were willing to share. We have the most talented sisters in our Ward! We are truly blessed!
Tomorrow is Fast Sunday and I will be teaching the lesson in Relief Society. Both of my counselors will be out of town. That happened earlier in the year when I taught. I have to wonder if they are trying to tell me something. The lesson will be on Faith and developing a strong Testimony.
I hope it will be a good lesson!
Sis. Blackstock is not doing well at all. Please keep her and her family in your hearts and prayers at this most difficult time.
I will try to write more soon!! I hope you are doing well, Branda! We were glad to see you!

Okay, I am going to try this again! I hope to start adding something each week!
This Saturday we will have a Relief Society Saturday Meeting at 9:30until 11am.
Bro. Willson will be in the nursery! Thank you sweet Husband!
We are going to learn to make Strawberry Jam with Sis. Marci Christensen, Bread with Sis. Paula Van Camp and we will be shaking our little jars and make some butter to spread on our bread and jam!
It should be a fun morning. Hope you can attend. Also, we will have s a display table of things sisters have made...so we can see all your talents! After all we are all so talented!!!! Maybe not me...my crafting days seem to be over for now! I cannot get myself to do any! However, I love seeing all the items others make. You may give some inspiration or something!
Sis. Blackstock and her family are certainly in need of prayers! Bro. Blackstock says she is home now. Things are not looking good and she will be with us just a month or so. He says he doesn't need anything. But I am sure letters and maybe phone calls will be appreciated. Maybe even some food...if you make something extra and want to share!
Thanks to all the sisters who have helped with food for the many situations we have had in our ward lately. We sure do wish the Waits family our love! We miss Everett Waits so much. Also, Sis. Jackson's father passed on a few weeks ago. We wish all of you our love and support!
We have had a few new babies lately...Regena Hinds had a baby girl a few months ago. Krisi York had a baby girl a month or so ago. Chelsea Paystrup had a baby boy last week. Katrina Herbert had a baby girl also about three weeks ago. Sis. Rugg may be having her little Son this Friday! We are thrilled for all of them.
Wednesday Sis. Katrina Herberts 5 year old daughter had an operation to fix the hole in her heart. She is doing well and will probably be home today. The miracles of life!
Have a wonderful week! See you Saturday or Sunday!
Please forgive me if I have missed anything in this news that I should of shared and forgive my typing problems!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentines Day!
We had a wonderful lesson in RS yesterday. And we have a wonderful RS week night activity coming Feb. 23rd at 6:30pm. It will be a night about Temples and preparing for the Temple.
Sis. Melanie Wade will do a demonstration on making Fabric Temple Bags and will pass out a pattern so you can make one too. We do have sewing machines in the RS closet that can be checked out on a weekly basis if needed. Plus we have many sisters in the ward who are willing to give a helping hand to those who need some sewing tips. We will have a class on getting names ready for baptism and a little plastic cover to protect your Temple recommend if you want to do that. And possibly a class on making a new Temple clothes Packet...if anyone is interested. Please let me know. We encourage all of you to get your Temple recommends and join us that day!
The youth are having a Temple Trip planned for May 15th at 9 am. We can have names ready for them to Baptize for us. Sisters who want to can do Baptisms for the dead with the youth. This a Ward Temple trip also. Please let me know if you will be needing a ride in May.
Bro. And Sis. Herrin's baby was born last Monday and is being operated on this morning. He has a birth defect in his heart. Please keep them in your prayers.
Sis. Dodge and Sis. Grimes are still ill and need our good thoughts and prayers. Please remember them in your prayers.
Have a great week! We love all of you!

It is February 2nd....I wish I could find someone who would be willing to take over this on a weekly basis. If you are interested please let me know and I will get you all set up.
Sis. Grimes is now in the Lake View Nursing home for about 5 more weeks or so. She has had some health issues lately. She is improving. I am sure she would love to have a visit when you have time.
Bro. Scott is in the old Garden Park Hospital behind Memorial. I do not know what it is called. Sis. Scott stays there with him all the time and needs some relief. IF you could encourage your husbands to stop by sometimes for an hour or so or if you want to she would be so appreciative.
If you let her know in advance she will be able to get home for a shower or a change of clothes or a little time out.
This Sunday February 7th Susan Soule will be teaching on the subject of Temples. We are planning a temple trip in May on the same day as the youth trip. So get yourselves and your Temple recommends in order and join us.
We are so blessed to have some new families move into our ward this past week. Look for new faces Sunday and welcome them in....The Davis Family and the Manley Family. We are very happy to welcome them into the ward.
We had a wonderful Relief Society Week Night meeting in Jan. We had about 24 in attendance! Hurray!!!! Sis. Perrins taught a beautiful lesson on the dreaded "Stress"! It was great and fun and I learned a lot...and I am an old woman so just think if you were young what you could have learned had you been there. Our Next meeting is February 23rd....Tuesday night. It will be an exciting time for all of us. I am making a yummy cream cake for dessert...so I hope you will be there to enjoy it!
Have a wonderful week! Plase get your VT done early as this month is goes by quicker than most!!!!