February 2011

Presidency Message:

Today is the last day of 2010. Today I attended the temple and as I drove up the road to the Sacramento temple, I reflected on what a miracle it is to have a temple so close to us! I grew up in Sacramento, only about fifteen minutes from where the temple is, and as a youth I never dreamed of having a temple in Sacramento. About three years ago I attended a singles conference and was challenged to "step-up your temple attendance." Each year since that time I have tried to go more than the year before. And so for the year 2011, I challenge each sister in the El Dorado Ward to "step-up your temple attendance." If you do so I promise that you will enjoy a better relationship with your Heavenly Father and feel the presence of the Holy Ghost more in your life. Also you can feel a great peace of mind when your family has been sealed together and you know that that family unit can not be broken by death. It is my hope that for this new year each of you may rejoice in the blessings of the temple.

February Birthdays:

Feb 1- Leah Schroeder
Feb 5- Lori Beyer
Feb 6- Ana Stanger
Feb 9- Ana Mohetau
Feb 11- Frances Gatsman
Feb 11- Anita Mc Bride
Feb 13- Lesia Balderama
Feb 14- Ana Cazale
Feb 15- Setphanie Loya
Feb 16- Rochelle Anderson
Feb 17- Mary Gainer
Feb 18- Erin McDonald
Feb 20- Rosalinda Venegas
Feb 22- Georgia Conner
Feb 23- Marguerite Fryer
Feb 28- Joyce Godi

Relief Society lesson schedule:

Feb 6~~~ "Rejoice in the Blessings of the Temple"
Given by Sister Behling
Feb 13~~~ Gospel Principles manual: Lesson #27 "Work and Personal Responsibility"
Given by Sister Pocock
Feb 20~~~ Gospel Principles manual: Lesson @28 "Service"
Given by Sister Maldonado
Feb 27~~~ November 2010 Ensign: "Pride and the Priesthood" by President Uchtdorf
Given by Sister Hunt
(click to get a copy of this talk: http://http://lds.org/ensign/2010/11/pride-and-the-priesthood?lang=eng

**Don't forget your manual/Ensign each week so you can participate in the lesson**


Visiting Teaching message:

February's message can be found by clicking on the following link:
http://http://lds.org/liahona/2011/02/a-restoration-of-all-things?lang=eng

August 2010

Presidency Message

The focus of the Relief Society theme this month is :

“Find nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood.”

The family is central to the creator's plan for His children. Women have been given the privilege of helping accomplish that plan of happiness.

Prophets have been relentless in declaring that the role of homemaker is one of the most sacred, noble and meaningful pursuits possible to a woman.

Pres. Spencer W. Kimball said to the sisters of the Church:

“Each of you should be grateful to be a woman!...to be a righteous woman is a glorious thing in any age. To be a righteous woman during the winding up scenes on this earth, before the second coming of our Savior, is an especailly noble calling. The righteous woman's strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times. “

The noblility of this calling from the Lord presents an opportunity to strengthen the family and fill the earth with greater kindness and gentleness, greater love and compassion, greater sympathy and empathy.

Mary Ellen Smoot, former Relief Society General President, said:

”It is time to give ourselves to the Master and allow Him to lead us into fruitful fields where we can enrich a world filled with darkness and misery.”

The Joy that comes from exercising our privileges as a woman cannot be underestimated as the Lord blesses us. With the direction and inspiration of the Spirit our efforts become, ”an Instrument in the Hands of God.”

May we be equal to our task,
Virginia Bird

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for the month of August, but mark your calendars for the General Relief Society meeting, on Saturday the 25th of September.

The D.I. Trailer will be available at the Brookside Building from September 7-28.

Bits and Pieces

Congratulations to Rebecca Paul, who is expecting baby number three!

Birthdays

2nd- Elena Romero

3rd-Datha Pocock

4th- Deborah Bond

5th- Jana Moulton

7th- Rose Hopkins

9th- Jennifer Perdue

10th- Leena Basurto

10th- Yessica Cervantes

13th- Michelle Orr

14th- Adrianne Demattei, Julie Anne Harris

15th- Eleanor Momi, Jeanette Tuitavuki

17th- Karen Lawry

18th- Heidi Stanger

21st- Melinda Chaney, Melissa Walker

29th- Connie Krause

Zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Barbecue

By: Zanne Peters

"Use your slow cooker to prepare this great twist on basic barbecue chicken. Throw the chicken breasts in frozen, and serve with baked potatoes."

Ingredients

• 6 frozen skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 (12 ounce) bottle barbeque sauce
• 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Place chicken in a slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, Italian salad dressing, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the chicken. Cover, and cooke 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.

Visiting Teaching Message

"Our Responsibility to Be Worthy of Temple Worship" (Click to view)

July 2010

Dear Sisters, on the first Sunday of the month the lesson is going to be on Strengthening our Homes and Families. As I look around at the attack on the family that is happening in our society we probably need several lessons on this topic. " Adultery, divorce, cohabitation, child and spouse abuse, abortion, homosexuality, teen pregnancies, pornography,disobedient children, economic struggles, and increasing unwillingness amont married couple to bear and rear childrennnnn-- all these and more are proof tht the adversary understands very well the central role the family plays in the destiny of God's children."

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has counseled and warned us."Satan makes a major effort to destroy the sanctitiy of the family, demean the importance of the role of men and women, encourage moral uncleanliness,...and to discourage parents from placing the bearing and rearing of children as one of their highest priorities.

Even in such circumstances, we need not fear. God is with us. In the end good will conquer evil. In the hear and now, however, we must take our place on the front line in this war that began in the premortal world and do all we can to preserve and protect the sanctity of the family." May the Lord be with us on a daily basis as we strive to strengthen our own home.
Shanna Behling

Summer Fun Schedule!

Free lunch Monday to Thursday at TCK School, 6511 Clarksburg Place, 11:00 am to 11:30, 1-18 years old, thru June 24th

Monday Free Day

Tuesday Park Day have kids play, bring lunch if you like

Wednesday Movie Day free movies at Holiday 8 Cinema on West Lane (the free movies are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays)

Thursday Story time at Cesar Chavez Library downtown followed by Weber Point Water park

Friday Free Day

June Time Place

Tuesday 15th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Park by 8 Mile Target cross streets Consumes and Mukelome

Wednesday 16th 10:00 AM Doogal (G)


Monsters Vs. Aliens (PG)

Thursday 17th 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

Tuesday June 22 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Baxter Park


Whistler and Muir Woods

Wednesday 23rd 10:00 AM Tale of Despereaux (G)


Planet 51 (PG)

Thursday 24th 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

Tuesday 29th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Grupe Park


Cumberland and Meade

Wednesday 30th 10:00 AM Wallace and Gromit (G)


Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (PG)

Thursday July 1st 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

July Time Place

Tuesday 6th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Park by 8 Mile Target


cross streets Consumes and Mukelome

Wednesday 7th 10:00 AM Kit Kittredge: American Girl (G)


Aliens In The Attic (PG)

Thursday 8th 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

Tuesday 13th 10:30 AM Mickey Grove Park and Splash area


Cost $3 for parking


11793 North Mickey Grove Road, off Eight Mile Road

Wednesday 14th 10:00 AM March Of The Penguins (G)


Where The Wild Things Are (PG)

Thursday 15th 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

Tuesday 20th 10:00 AM ARCTIC TALE (G)


Kung Fu Panda (PG)

Wednesday 21st 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Park by 8 Mile Target

* Card Party at the Park* cross streets Consumes and Mukelome

Thursday 22nd 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

Tuesday 27th 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Grupe Park


Cumberland and Meade

Wednesday 28th 10:00 AM Clifford's Big Movie (G)


The Spy Next Door (PG)

Thursday 29th 10:30 AM Story time at Cesar Chavez Library

June 2010

Presidency Message

In "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" it proclaims that "marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children"

President Spencer W. Kimball states "Life is eternal. The greatest joys of true married life can be continued. The most beautiful relationships of parents and children can be made permanent. The holy association of families can be never-ending if husband and wife have been sealed in the holy bond of eternal matrimony. Their joys and progress will never end.

If we have already received this great blessing we must guard it and do all we can to keep it strong . If we have not yet received this blessing I pray that we will make it a goal . We know that this isn't always possible in this life, but know that this blessing is promised to all faithful sisters whether in this life or in the life to come.

-Judy Moor

Bits and Pieces

We would like to welcome Monica Fisco and her family into the ward! To learn more about her, read the spotlight towards the end of the newsletter.

Upcoming Events

June 12th @ 9:00- Visiting Teaching Workshop and Speaker. Breakfast will be served, and a nursery will be provided.

June 11th and 25th @ 7:00- Pie Night at Shanna Behling's.

Spotlight-- Monica Jane Fisco

Birthdate: August 16, 1983

Favorite Hymn: More Holiness Give Me

Favorite Scriptures: D&C 76:22-23

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Food: Italian

Husband: JR Fisco

Children: Bradley Cole Fisco, age 16 months

I am the youngest of seven children. I grew up in Grand Junction, Colorado. My dad is an architect for the church, and my mom is an amazing mother, and also a medical assistant. I graduated high school in American Samoa, and went on to study at Snow College in the University of Utah. I studied Spanish and am re-enrolling in school to study interior design.

I met my husband while serving a Spanish speaking mission in the Missouri Independence Mission, where he was also serving, and later were reconnected through a mutual friend. We were married in the Jordan River Temple in 2007, and had Bradley in 2009.

I am a photographer by hobby and occasionally by profession. I enjoy biking, hiking, swimming, and kickboxing. I want to become an interior designer and a mother of many children. I'm excited to get to know everyone in the ward and become part of the ward family.

Anything wrapped in tortillas is always a smash hit. I set out this grilled chicken (seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and oregano) and assorted toppings and let guests build their own fajitas.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado, cut into chunks and tossed in 1 teaspoon of lime juice
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Fresh ciliantro, chopped
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half
• 1 small red or yellow pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 8-inch flour tortillas

Instructions

1. Place your toppings (avocado, salsa, sour cream and cilantro leaves) in separate bowls and set them on your table.

2. Next, make the rub. Combine the cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt in a shallow bowl. Lightly rub the spices into the chicken with your fingertips until the meat is coated on all sides. Heat your grill to medium. Grill the chicken on both sides, just until cooked through, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat, slice thinly, and set it on a platter.

3. While the chicken is cooking, toss the pepper and onion in the olive oil. Set them on the grill, using a vegetable screen, if desired, and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, turning once. Remove from the heat and set on the platter with the chicken.

4. Place the tortillas on the grill for 5 to 7 seconds on each side, turning with tongs, until hot. Set out the grilled chicken, pepper, and onion with the toppings and tortillas. Let guests assemble and roll their own fajitas. Serves 4 to 6.

Tips:

Kid's Steps: Kids can set toppings in bowls and rub the spices into the chicken (washing hands thoroughly afterward). - Family Fun Mag

"A sister in this Church has no other responsibility outside of her family that has the potential to do as much good as visiting teaching." -Julie B. Beck

To view the visiting teaching message click here.

Mormon Messages featuring NieNie and Elder Holland

This video of one of my favorite mothers was just released through Mormon Messages. I have been a follower of NieNie's blog for quite some time now, and I know this video will inspire you. Grab a box of tissues and press play. Happy Mother's Day Month! And enjoy May's Newsletter below.

With love,

Kali Matthews, Newsletter Editor

May 2010

SOME RICHES DO GROW ON TREES -- FAMILY TREES!
Mothers—Presidency Message

This time of year we salute the women of the world. Especially Mothers. Here are some words from an Apostle of the Lord.

Elder Boyd K. Packer
“The God-given instinct of motherhood is common in all of God's creatures. Never has there been a time when it is more important to encourage and protect the ideals of motherhood. Never across the earth has there been more said about women, about womanhood, about motherhood. So much talk.....and so much of it misguided.
They talk about a woman's sphere,
As though it has a limit;
There's not a place in earth or heaven,
There's not a task to mankind given,
There's not a blessing nor a woe,
There's not a whispered yes or no,
There's not a life, or death, or birth,
That has a feather's weight of worth
Without a woman in it.
(Anon.)

There is so much to be lost if the ideals of womanhood and of motherhood are tampered with or tarnished.

The bearing of children is but the beginning....a few months and it is finished. Fostering and molding a child's character is never done. It takes a lifetime and more.
The sensitivity of a mother,
The courage of a mother,
The selflessness of a mother,
The lessons of a mother,
The love of a mother,
The gift of life,.........These are the supreme gifts of God. He has said that not even a sparrow would escape His notice. How readily, then will He bless those mothers who seek Him”

Let us all remember our mothers and as we come closer to the Savior, may we become
more like Him that we may better serve His children all around us.”

Virginia Bird

Upcoming Events

Saturday, May 8th- Mormon Helping Hands will provide an organized opportunity for service to the community from 8am-noon at Angel Cruz Park (north of El Dorado Chapel). Bring neighbors, friends, or those you visit teach. To sign up call the Boyds (477-6408) or email Brother Parker (parker.bret@gmail.com)


Thursday, May 13th- Relief Society Pamper Night. Please bring your favorite appetizer. We will be giving a prize for presentation and most original. Come learn massage techniques, skin and hair care for summer, and give yourself a manicure. Don't miss out!
*Note- there will be a Relief Society Board Meeting to follow



Friday, May 14th and Friday, May 28th- Pie Night at Sister Behling's house 7pm-9pm

Saturday June 12th- Visiting Teaching Conference


Remember to purchase tickets by May 22 to attend the Youth Camp Fundraiser, Polynesian Luau! It is Saturday June 5th and features entertainment from Hawaii, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and New Zealand. Also enjoy an authentic Polynesian dinner. Tickets are $25 per person and $75 for a family of 5. Children 3 and under are free. Call 474-8213 for more info.



Bits and Pieces
We would like to congratulate Vanessa Parks on her pregnancy. We are so excited for her!


We are also glad to welcome Patricia Hunt into the ward. You can learn more about her and her family in the spotlight featured below.



A Happy, Happy Birthday to...

1st- Chenda Hak
2nd- Kimberly Boyd, Emily Payne
3rd- Jasmine Burns, Sarah Rojas
6th- Lucila Rojas
7th- Ardith Holcomb, Camille Krueger, Lina Devincenzi
8th- Mary Jack
9th- Cynthia Alvarado, Virginia Bird
11th- Patricia Hagen, Jessica Roman
12th- Vera Grow, Sandra Neer
13th- Ladonna Chambers
14th- Peggy Telschow, Mahealani Tuitavuki
15th- Jennifer Edvalson
16th- Betty Walker
20th- Carolyn Bolen, Cathy Hale
21st- Ling Gregory, Amber Heselton
22nd- Rita Ross
23rd- Fedelyn Gasmen
25th- Jeannie Martinez, Sally Ramos
27th- Martha Christian, Heidi Orihuela
28th- Julia Alvarado
29th- Marjorie Stricklin




Spotlight- Patricia Hunt
Birthday- March 30th
Favorite Hymn- Count Your Blessings
Favorite Scripture- All of them
Favorite Color- Purple
Favorite Food- Chocolate
Favorite Calling- Teaching of the Times Instructor
Children- She has an 11 year old son named MacKenzie and a 7 year old daughter, Whitney.

Patricia was born in Newark, California. She was raised in the Bay Area. Her mother is from Texas, and her father is from St. Louis. She has one older brother. She was head cheerleader in high school and has always enjoyed public speaking. Most of the work she has done has been administrative. Patricia ran an unemployment office. She also drove a school bus and worked at a funeral home at one point. She is currently unemployed and is looking for a job in administration. Patricia is going back to school and studying Human Resources. Her talents and hobbies include reading, riding bikes with her kids, rollerskating, and going to the gym. Her favorite books are murder mystery and romance.

She was introduced to church members at an early age, having two LDS families in her neighborhood. She became good friends with one girl, and said she felt something special in their home which she later learned was the spirit. Later she met and married an inactive member of the church. They are now divorced, but she converted to the church beforehand. The missionaries and home teachers stopped by a lot to visit her husband and she was often the one to talk to them. Patricia was baptized in 2003. We are so glad she and her cute kids moved to our ward and are excited to further get to know her.



“Visiting teaching becomes the Lord’s work when our focus is on people rather than percentages. In reality, visiting teaching is never finished. It is more a way of life than a task” (Julie B. Beck, “Relief Society: A Sacred Work,” Ensign, Nov. 2009, 114).



To view more about this month's Visiting Teaching click here.