Nov. 10, 2010. Taking a wild shot at blogging. Let's give you some basic update info:
Dad: still doing the Jewelry store thing. The Neighborhood Jeweler is still alive, and reasonably well. The economy is certainly taking it's toll, but we are blessed with a loyal clientele who continue to come through the doors. We have had several of our clients pass away this past year. One of them was a lady that used to live across the street and down a few houses from us in Canoga Park. Bill Hickock (her husband) still makes regular visits in.

I still ride my bike to and from almost every day- I miss when I have meetings or appointments that don't give me enough time to ride, shower and be on time. I know a number of people that I see multiple times each week while riding; crossing guards, several walkers, a couple of joggers, etc. I love my time riding. Can't imagine how stiff my knee would be without it.

I have been serving in the Bishopric since February- 2nd Counselor this time. The Deacon's Quorum that I work with is unique. Our President is the only "Lifer" member in it. His 1st Counselor is a convert of 3 months. 2nd counselor about a year, sec about 8 months. When we have scouts during the week, we have those 4, and there are 4-5 nonmembers who come as well. It has been fun, and certainly increases the missionary opportunities for them (and us).
I love the Bishopric- Our Bishop has been our home teacher for 8 years, and we have a special bond with him. He has become one of my closest friends as well. We are not very similar- he is the assistant technology dean for the Clark County school district, and is a total tech wiz. He has a sharp sense of humor, but doesn't display it lots. He is humble and desires to follow the Lord, and I enjoy working with him. Dan is a man of God. He has laughed more though since teaming up with me and Kim.
Kim, the 1st counselor, is a former bishop, and is kind, and soft spoken. He has a manner that just generates trust and respect. He is quick with a compliment, or a word of comfort, and if he has ever been angry, I have never heard of it. He and I go visiting one evening per week, and this has become one of the things I cherish most about this calling.
I have been subbing a bit in Seminary- talk about a blast- only one lesson every once in a while is a breeze. I have been teaching a temple class to a young couple in our home on Monday evenings as well- fun way to spend FHE. They are Nicole's sis-in-law, and her husband. it has been sweet to watch the growth and maturing they have been doing. I love Allison and Gregory.

Judy and I celebrated anniversary #29 in September. Remarkable that ANYONE could tolerate me as long as she has. Willingly, too. We went to Brian Head with Aurie and Brandon for a few days, and loved it. We spent some time hiking at Cedar Breaks, and went to their feeble try at Oktoberfest. We evidently got spoiled by having been to Snowbird's and Park City's festivals a handful of times before. Like the difference between a talented Flautist, and kazoo player. Oh well. The time there was fun. We went to church in Parawan- picked a ward to show up, and were surprised to see on the stand Steve Weston. Steve used to be in our Stake Presidency here in Las Vegas, and is the son of the late and great Floyd Weston. He was the visiting High Council Rep, and chose to stay for the rest of the meetings, and we had the chance to catch up with him a bit.

Brandon has been attending the singles ward, and has a handful of different callings. He is enjoying himself a lot there. He goes sometimes to institute, and there are great family home evenings and other activities. He is quite at home there. He is not doing very much work for the cutlery company any longer- the economy has been brutal to their sales force. He is currently looking for work again, and would appreciate your prayers his behalf.

Aurie continues to work at the Animal hospital, and loves her work. She has a great touch with animals, and it shows. they respond to her very well. I took her with me to visit a new family I am home teaching, and the sister told us to beware of the little biting machine that she had there. The dog warmed to both of us, and never nipped once at either of us. Betty was more than surprised. She also is going to the singles ward, and began a week or so ago to start her papers for her mission. She has been going out with different guys, but is currently seeing a young man named Austin. He is a bass singer, and I have heard him- nice voice.

Judy continues to be at Deseret book, and loves both the materiel that she works with, as well as the association with coworkers and clients. The book store is on the edge of our stake, and she sees many members regularly. Having served in 2 stake callings myself, you would have thought that I would have a better base knowing the stake members, but I am not even close. She not only knows more people that I do, but has fostered real friendships with them too. There is hardly a day that if we are out together, that we don't run into someone that she knows, and then she tells me after who they are... She is amazing. She is the chorister in Primary again- 3rd time I think. She loves working with the kiddies. She would go back to the nursery in a heartbeat though (as would I).