Life during Coronavirus - March — The Johnson Family

Thursday, February 27th

Preventative Measures
For all Church members, there is wisdom in taking steps to remain healthy during this cold and flu season. These precautions include*:

Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or clean them with an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick (this may include avoiding shaking hands or other customary greetings).
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Maintain at least three feet (one meter) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Follow public health agency recommendations for using a face mask.

*Based on recommendations from the World Health Organization and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This was the day that Chris wondered about buying masks online and said we needed to up our food storage. We headed to Costco - (there was plenty of toilet paper) - and purchased our normal week’s worth of food plus a lot of extra things we could put downstairs. While we were there we grabbed a few cases of water bottles (as donations for Megan’s soccer scrimmage day) and heard the workers look at the pile and say, “This water will be gone in an hour.” Like us, people were definitely starting to think about what was coming and what they needed. Online, others looked at those people like they were ‘panicked’ and poked fun of them -Lots of joking about toilet paper and water bottles… but Chris and I didn’t really see what was so ridiculous. I can’t remember the details about where the Coronavirus was exactly at that time, but we knew that a lot of people around the world were definitely using their food storage or wishing they had more. It was a great time to review what we had and make a plan of what we needed.

Wednesday, March 11th - No audience for General Conference, NBA season is suspended

Over the next week Chris and I kept up on reports of the rapidly spreading virus. Wednesday morning we received a letter from the church stating that General Conference April 2020 will be done virtually. Members will not gather at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City or meetinghouses in areas where COVID-19 is active. We could see this coming.

Another announcement about missionaries no longer entering the Provo or London MTC. Missionaries will be remote learning from home. So different!

Lots of communication with both families. Chris shared the following text after news from the church:

“I think all the data coming out of Italy is prompting the government, church, and other large organizations to make these changes. I read a bunch of stuff from Italy last night and it is scary on a lot of lives. 2 weeks ago there were 322 confirmed cases. 1 week ago there were 2502 cases. Today, there are 10,149. They have now had 827 deaths with 196 of those occurring yesterday. First hand accounts from physicians over there describe hospitals overrun with Covid cases with makeshift ICU’s being created in other parts of the hospitals. Now they have published guidelines for criteria to be used about who will get ventilator care and who will be left to die. They may have to use age limits in addition to evaluations of estimated life years left based upon comorbidities to determine who gets treatment and who doesn’t. And current statistics indicate we are about 2 or 2.5 weeks behind Italy in the US. Hopefully we won’t see our medical infrastructure get overwhelmed in the same way but any measures we take to flatten the curve of infection might make a significant difference.”

Wednesday night news of the NBA stopping all games was big news and pretty dramatic. I was upstairs at the computer and Chris was in the living room as a text from Chris Silva came in saying,

“Did you guys hear about Rudy Gobert?!! They were about to tip off for the Jazz/Thunder game when the Medical personnel sprinted onto the floor because Rudy tested positive for the Corona virus. The NBA season is suspended.”

I went downstairs and we turned on the news. We also learned that Tom Hanks had the Coronavirus and that Trump just suspended all travel from Europe to the US. I turned to Chris and said, “We’re not going to Costa Rica, are we?” and he said, “Probably not.” We stayed up for awhile watching news, reading reports online and communicating with family and friends. Crazy stuff. As this night ended Sarah said… “What will tomorrow bring??”

Thursday, March 12th - So many announcements!

I talked to Ryan this morning and encouraged him to limit contact with Grandma Johnson and Grandpa and Grandma Walton because of the Coronavirus. At the end of our conversation he said, “Well, I’m headed up to Campus. Maybe for the last time.” Who knew that he was pretty accurate.

NBA closure news has had a trickle down effect as other teams and organizations continue to do what they can to stop large gatherings and keep people from spreading the virus. Thursday, while the kids were at school, we received a text that the Colorado HS Athletics Association decided to suspend all sports from now until April 6th. Megan received the text while in one of her classes and she and another soccer player exchanged looks and then started to get emotional. She said that in the hallways as any of the team would see each other they would talk and hug each other. She said it was horrible but pretty bonding. Megan's first JV game was supposed to be up in Denver tonight. Dad and I had plans to go watch her play and stay for the Varsity game which she had been asked to swing up and play for. It was definitely sad. The soccer teams met as a group after school and some Seniors were crying. I could feel that this was coming but was hoping to see her first JV and Varsity game before everything came to a halt.

Luke called from the school to let me know Theater Club was being suspended -- along with all extracurricular activities for Middle Schools. Soon emails came in from Pride Soccer saying all practices and games will be suspended until March 28th.

At around 3:00 we heard that BYU has suspended it's classes. No school today, Monday or Tuesday. Online instruction will begin next Wednesday, March 18th. They also encouraged students to head home for the rest of the Winter Semester but will have services open if students decide to stay. As of right now Ryan and his roommates are deciding to stay. We will see what happens. There is definite flexibility for him to come home for a week and go back whenever he wants. (?)

Then Matt and Luke went to swing dance for the last time.

Thursday at 4:00ish Scott sent the text and link with an update from the church: Gatherings of Church Members Temporarily Suspended Worldwide No more church. I forwarded it on to my Primary Presidency and Megan J.

And then another email about Temple closures and ‘live-only’ temple attendance by appointment only.

As we finished up dinner I got a text from Cynthia saying ‘2 Week Spring Break’ An email the next morning from the School District stated that school would be closed from March 16th - March 28th at which time they will make another decision about the future. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday will actually not be ‘spring break’ but are days of ‘on-line instruction.’

After dinner Dad and I decided we wanted to watch CONTAGION - a movie about a disease spreading across the world from several years ago. Dad made popcorn and we watched it upstairs. Very interesting, especially in our situation. The boys thought it was scary but good.

Friday, March 13th - Last day of School, Travel Ban for Military and DoD

Today will be the last day of school for Emily, Megan and Luke. Matt is home today because it's a teacher day for Elementary Schools. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the kids will be receiving online instruction and assignments from their teachers. Then we have Spring Break. Essentially it's a two week spring break but the added information of online instruction for next week came in an email this morning. New information is coming all the time. Once we get to the end of Spring Break the school districts will make a decision about returning to school or continuing with online instruction. The latter will likely happen. Definitely interesting times. Not sure I'm ready for HomeSchooling.

I talked to Ryan and he said he was about to take one last test in the testing center before it closes. They were making everyone sit far apart and sanitizing each desk immediately after each person leaves. Interesting.

Lots of things will change as our daily schedule is disappearing. My thoughts are focused on arranging a schedule in which the kids feel productive -- time for school work, cleaning, free time and some extra fun things we can do as a family during the next month. Maybe we will make new goals for ourselves. It will be interesting to see what happens.

We may or may not still go to Costa Rica. We are watching this unfold and praying to know what to do. It is unlikely the Theurers will go. The Jacksons and us may still go. Maybe Ryan could come with us?! We still have 4 days and a lot can change in 4 days.

It’s interesting to think about how some of these changes will impact Katie and other missionaries. Some are being sent home, some are being quarantined and will do missionary work from home. Can’t wait to hear from Katie on what this last week has been like. As the nation tries to promote social distancing I wonder what that means for missionaries. So crazy to think about her not going to church on Sundays. We will continue to do our hour of Come Follow Me and an additional Restoration activity each Sunday. When Matt heard that church was cancelled he immediately said, "So now we have 3 hours of Come Follow Me?" Love that kid.

It has been fun to talk to the kids about each thing that comes up. Especially the boys have been eager to listen and learn about what's going on.

Jon received word of a travel ban for all military. He and Megan came over on Friday night so we could talk about different options… either us going without him or postponing the trip for another time later this year. We facetimed with Ali but it just isn’t going to work for them. We wanted so badly to make it work. We determined to think and pray about it and make a decision about it the next day or so. Late that night we got further communication that the travel ban applied to DoD Employees and their families as well. No travel from now until May 12th.

Saturday, March 14th - First Day at Home

With no soccer games in Denver we stayed home all day… our first real day of quarantine. We spent the morning texting with the Jacksons confirming that we would NOT be traveling to Costa Rica in 4 days and cancelling our rental houses, zip lining and rental vans. It was sad, but I feel surprisingly peaceful about the whole thing. We are blessed to be able to travel frequently and we will just have to postpone this trip for sometime in the future.

We had a great family council with the kids around the kitchen table after we ate lunch together. We did a lot more talking about the virus and our circumstances and what our everyday life would look like moving forward. We brainstormed together and came up with a list of activities/responsibilities we wanted for each day and a schedule that would fit everything it. It feels pretty regimented right now but I hope that it gives the kids an idea of what each day will look like and a sense of order and balance. We’ll see how it goes.

I joked that I would be the principal of our home school. Emily then said she wanted to run for Student Council President and immediately stood to give a speech - talking mostly of Spirit Days and a good schedule that no one will cry about. Then Megan gave her speech focusing mostly on snacks every hour. We voted. They tied so they are CO-presidents. They will be planning Spirit Days for us. We decided our home school color was BYU blue. Pretty funny.

Saturday afternoon Chris, Emily, Megan and I broke out PANDEMIC and started to play. We lost. Not a good omen for our current situation, but fun nonetheless.

Because Mormon Prom was cancelled, Emily’s date with Spencer was altered. The group decided they would still get together and play games at Eric’s house. They ordered Olive Garden food and ate at the house instead of at the restaurant. Emily’s last social night with friends before we enforce social distancing. Glad they could have fun together.

Sunday, March 15th - First Sacrament at Home

We just had church at home for the first time. We gathered in the piano room to partake of the Sacrament. Emily played prelude and continued to play our opening and Sacrament hymn while Megan led. She picked Be Still, My Soul for our opening hymn and I got emotional as I sung

“Be Still, my soul: The Lord is on thy side; with patience bear thy cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide. In every change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heav’ly Friend Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul: The hour is hastening on When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone, Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: When change and tears are past, All safe and blessed we shall meet at least.

The last few days I have been seeing messages of PEACE coming from different sources. That amid the chaos and fear, we can still have PEACE when we focus on the Savior. It was another reminder to be at peace, the Lord is on our side. I continued to be emotional as Chris blessed the Sacrament and Luke passed it. We took a few minutes to be quiet and reflect and then headed to the kitchen table for our Come Follow Me lesson. First we talked about what we felt during our first Sacrament at home and then watched a video message of hope from our prophet, President Nelson:

My dear friends, Our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ know us, love us, and are watching over us. Of that we can be certain. These unique challenges will pass in due time. I remain optimistic for the future. I know the great and marvelous blessings that God has in store for those who love Him and serve Him. I see evidence of His hand in this holy work in so many ways. So, during these uncertain times, be comforted by this promise rom the Savior. He said, “I the Lord am bound when ye do what I say.” I promise you that joy is always within the reach of everyone who will hear Him and obey His laws. I love you. I pray for you. And I promise that you will receive comfort and peace as you continue to hear Him.

Our CFM lesson was Jacob 1-4 and we spent a lot of time discussing CHASTITY. We moved to the living room for our Restoration Activity. We will be starting a 7-DAY PRAYER CHALLENGE as we explore prayer and discover more meaningful communication with our Father in Heaven.

In a place of solitude with a pure desire for truth, Joseph Smith did something he had never done before—he prayed vocally to our Father in Heaven (JSH 1:14) and found the heavens open in a way he could have never imagined.
By trying something different, we too may find a greater connection to heaven than we ever have before. As we enter into this worldwide pause and navigate the unknown path ahead, we felt an urge to shift our gaze away from the fear and frenzy and back to Him—He who is at the helm, knowing the end from the beginning, preparing and guiding us every step of the way. words from Work + Wonder

Then back to the piano room for a closing song and prayer. Chris had a seminary meeting and then we headed over to the Jacksons for dinner. We are going to be taking social distancing pretty seriously so this will be our last night out with friends. It was fun to get together. We ate great food and played a game of 7 Wonders with Megan and Romney and then the adults played Pandemic. Good to be together one last time before we go into isolation.

Monday, March 16th - First Day of online Instruction at Home

Feeling some anxiety of not enough food on hand if grocery stores were closed down, I woke up and immediately headed to Target. At 7:30 there were already a ton of cars in the parking lot and I was surprised. Stock was definitely low on everything but several isles containing canned goods and baking items were completely empty. It was a little unnerving. The store was full of people - more like a 4:00pm shopping trip than 7:30 in the morning. Everyone was pleasant and when our carts bumped or when we needed to move out of the way, everyone was polite. We were able to grab one package of toilet paper and kleenex each, but that wouldn’t have lasted past 8:00am. No milk. No eggs. No baking supplies. Even still I carefully studied what was left on each isle and walked away with $470 worth of food. Some of the organic foods were left, which is what I would have purchased anyway.

When I got home at 8:45 the kids were eating breakfast. They had woken up and worked out on their own which totally impressed me. Megan especially felt bound to the schedule. They helped me unload the van full of groceries and reorganize some of the cabinets and downstairs pantry. Then they headed off to go get showered and dressed and start their e-Learning. Matt was excited to be starting his schoolwork a half hour before schedule. I sat with him at the kitchen table to get him going and then I headed off to Costco.

I talked to my parents on the way. I think they are doing a good job of self-quarantining. There are some aspects of bishoping that might need to be done in person, but most of this work has changed to emails and phone calls - even some of the interviews. When I got to the Costco parking lot I had to head all the way back to the corner for a parking spot. So many people. More than Target. My dad had suggested wearing gloves and luckily I had some in the van. I wiped my cart down pretty well and headed in. We could take only 1 container of milk and eggs. Otherwise things were pretty well stocked. Lines at the checkout were long.

Back at home I unloaded the van while talking to Katie. She and her companion are still able to head out into the community with certain restrictions. They’ve stocked up on more food and supplies, washed their surfaces and hands more — Katie says she washes hands like a surgeon haha — and are following instructions given to them by their mission president. She said it’s been a long week with all the new changes and announcements. I can imagine that she is a little more homesick as mission life looks a little different. It was great to chat. Chris and I both emailed her about what is going on in the world (Chris) and in our community (me) and I think she appreciates that as she is relying on what people tell her to inform her about what’s going on in the world.

The kids did great with online school. At 5:00 Megan, Luke and Matt were playing soccer outside, I was in the kitchen and Emily was taking a nap when Dad came home from work and Ryan walked in the door after him. I was SO surprised! I thought he was coming home on Tuesday, but during his Sunday night packing he decided to just come home on Monday. I’m so glad! He went outside and surprised the kids and they ran to give him hugs. Then he woke up Emily. Boy, are we excited to have him home.

We ate salmon, roasted vegetables and oranges for dinner and then watched a few funny videos on the TV with Ryan and then played Betrayal at House on the Hill. Ryan turned off most of the lights and added some spooky music in the background. Megan turned out to be the Zombies trying to attack the rest of us. She almost won. It was down to her and Dad in one last epic battle.

Back at home I unloaded the van while talking to Katie. She and her companion are still able to head out into the community with certain restrictions. They’ve stocked up on more food and supplies, washed their surfaces and hands more — Katie says she washes hands like a surgeon haha — and are following instructions given to them by their mission president. She said it’s been a long week with all the new changes and announcements. I can imagine that she is a little more homesick as mission life looks a little different. It was great to chat. Chris and I both emailed her about what is going on in the world (Chris) and in our community (me) and I think she appreciates that as she is relying on what people tell her to inform her about what’s going on in the world.

The kids did great with online school. At 5:00 Megan, Luke and Matt were playing soccer outside, I was in the kitchen and Emily was taking a nap when Dad came home from work and Ryan walked in the door after him. I was SO surprised! I thought he was coming home on Tuesday, but during his Sunday night packing he decided to just come home on Monday. I’m so glad! He went outside and surprised the kids and they ran to give him hugs. Then he woke up Emily. Boy, are we excited to have him home.

We ate salmon, roasted vegetables and oranges for dinner and then watched a few funny videos on the TV with Ryan and then played Betrayal at House on the Hill. Ryan turned off most of the lights and added some spooky music in the background. Megan turned out to be the Zombies trying to attack the rest of us. She almost won. It was down to her and Dad in one last epic battle.

Tuesday, March 17th - St. Patrick’s Day

We did a family workout from 8:00-8:30 which was great. Then I did FOUR boys haircuts. Chris stayed and worked from home, which worked out nicely. He brought home an extra monitor and was able to work on things consistently throughout the morning and early afternoon. The kids wore green and ate some rarely-purchased Lucky Charms for breakfast and then did a great job with on-line school. We ate pasta and ceasar salad for lunch and then headed into quiet time which turned into a family movie: Stargirl on Disney+, which we enjoyed. Ryan (and Katie) had read the book for Middle School in Germany and loved the book. Emily read the whole book again yesterday so was anxious to see it and we were all happy to watch as well.

As the movie finished I looked at my google calendar for some reason and laughed at the things that were supposed to be taking place right then. Luke should be getting home from Theater Club and heading to Soccer Practice. Matt should be getting ready for piano lessons. The Varsity Soccer team should be playing and Megan’s JV game should be starting soon. Then Youth Night should be happening. It’s amazing how quickly I’ve forgotten the normal schedule.

We played some Sushi Go as I started dinner and then Chris and the kids headed off to play Pickleball for awhile. Then we ate Rice and Curry Chicken Divan and then played two games of Dominion.

Chris and I skyped with Scott and Elisha and it was fun to talk to them and see how they’ve been doing through all of this. Scott is working from home most of the time. Their kids have been doing online school at home. Fun to connect.

Wednesday, March 18th

Chris went in to work today because he’s on Mammo and has several procedures with patients. There are now only three entrances open at the hospital. One for healthy doctors and workers, one for sick patients and one for the ER. He used to have his own locked entrance right by his office, but now he has to walk in with the masses.

Megan and the boys did some soccer practice downstairs. Then Luke did a PE workout that he had to write about online for his PE teacher. When I came down they were all doing Just Dance together. Totally counts for a workout. I ran on the treadmill and Ryan and I watched part of the first episode of Agent Carter Season Two. Fun to do that together.

We had chips, salsa and guac for lunch. Then we cleaned while Ryan headed downstairs to take a math test, which he had to scan in and send to the teacher. Matt completed all of his school work yesterday. The kids seem to be doing well keeping up with their assignments - except Luke. So hard to stay focused. I need to help him come up with a better system. I’ve think I need to help Luke understand and list his homework assignments. So much of it he’s able to do on his own, but us going through it together is definitely going to help him know everything he needs to accomplish and when.

We just got the email informing us that we will be e-Learning through April 17th now. I’m pretty sure that we will be doing at home schooling for the rest of the year, but for now we will tackle just three weeks after Spring Break.

I spend my time helping keep the kids engaged with school work, bringing them a snack at their individual tables, watching the news, journaling and editing pictures and communicating with family and friends: lots of 7 Moms texts going back and forth - Daylee is coming home from her mission in California because of her health - Brynn is coming home from the Philippines because the government there wants all non-native missionaries out of the country - Spencer and Brinnley got engaged last night! - the Theurers and all dentist offices need to close their businesses for at least the next 3 weeks - Dan as well - Carly is working hard on her online piano course which has been popular the last week or so. They are in Phuket, Thailand right now trying to stay in one place for awhile and lay low. So many changes. I’m sure this is a lot of basic life info but I think later on we’ll be interested on how this all went.

For Dinner we had a big salad and the leftovers of the rice and chicken curry divan. Then we played a game of 7 Wonders and then watched This is Us.

Cookie Wednesday just might become a thing. : )

Thursday, March 19th

We worked out together and then Dad made us some Christmas breakfast. It’s a complete blizzard outside - but of course no snow day from our e-Learning. Haha. The kids worked on assignments all morning.

We got a letter from Katie’s mission late last night that told us Katie and Tampa Florida missionaries have been in isolation since Monday night and that they will be able to communicate with us on Thursdays and Mondays. They can go on several walks a day but other than that they are working from their apartment. At 1:00 we were able to FaceTime with her and hear all about how she’s doing. Several missionaries who are at 21 months will go home at the next transfer. The current AP’s are training new AP’s. Sister Hurley has been in isolation for a week now and is not even able to go grocery shopping. Katie is worried she’ll be sent home soon. Lots of interesting changes. We were able to get a good tour of her apartment, which was really fun. She’s having a great time with Sister T and enjoy being close to the Senior Missionaries across the street and a nearby swamp with a scary alligator.

Lunch was roasted vegetables and honeydew. Now Megan and Luke are back to doing assignments, Emily is working on her bullet journal and Dad is trying to interest Matt in a new book: White Fang. Chris has today and tomorrow off and is starting to blog 1999! Exciting.

We skyped with Chris and Amy at 8:30 and it was SO fun to talk to them. We had great discussions about everything going on with Chris’ work, how their kids are doing and what life will look like for them in the next couple of weeks. So good to catch up. We need to chat with them more often!

Friday, March 20th

Family work out, jobs, movies, games. We watched Frozen ll -which came out on Disney + earlier than expected because of the virus. Love that movie. Such good songs.

Ryan and Matt spend the last couple days putting together this big geotrax track in their spacetime. I love that Ryan still wants to do this with Matt when they are together.

Chris and I chatted with Grandma and Grandpa Walton on Skype. Good to connect with them. In the afternoon Chris and the kids started a big Monopoly Game.

We played several games of 7 wonders together, and ate tacos for dinner. After dinner we facetimed with Grandma Johnson for awhile, which was fun.

Then we headed over to Daylee’s street to be part of the welcome home parade of cars on her street flashing our lights and honking horns as they drove up the street. It was pretty emotional for me seeing everyone there to support her. Lots of people had signs and glow in the dark bracelets and one family kept driving down the street to get in line again. When they came to us Chris shouted ‘Daylee, we love you!’ which is good because I was too emotional to speak. What fun to be a part of!

Back at home we watched Captain American Winter Soldier downstairs in the basement. Such a good one!

Saturday, March 21st

We had a great family workout. Emily and Maggie went for a walk. Chris, Ryan, Emily and I played a game of Istanbul. We had salad for lunch and then played another game of Istanbul. We walked over to the Jacksons and stood outside and talked to them for a little bit. The whole time Megan and boys had a snowball fight. We had waffles for dinner. Dad, Emily, Megan and Ryan started a game of Axis and Allies. We watched a couple episodes of This is Us.

Sunday, March 22nd

Chris woke up first and had a Stake Council Meeting online using ZOOM. Dad said President Rogers shared a lot of great things that strengthened his faith during this uncertain time. ‘Everything is going to work out.’ I woke up and straightened my room, got ready and then sat at the kitchen table to finish reading Jacob 5-7 and then watched the Don’t Miss This for this week. So great. The kids came down for breakfast and then we all headed to the piano room for the Sacrament. Great to have Ryan here with us. We moved to the kitchen table for Come Follow Me with a great discussion on Jacob 5. Then over to the couches for the Book of Mormon movie about Jacob 7 and then a movie on The First Vision for our Restoration Study. Good stuff.

We ate nachos together, played some games of 7 Wonders and enjoyed being together. At 4:00 we hopped onto a ZOOM call with all my siblings and parents. It actually worked great and was so fun to be able to chat with each other. I think it will be a tradition.

Mom and Dad - doing a great job of self isolating. Dad is doing bishoping stuff online instead of in person.
Scott and Elisha - Scott working from home. Kids doing online school and keeping busy with creative things.
Dan and Sarah - just got back from a trip to Hawaii. Settling in for isolation. Kids are on spring break still.
Amy and Chris - Chris just found out he will be fur-lowed -going without a month’s pay - likely split up throughout the year. Tricky. His human resource job is interesting to hear about.
Mike and Carly - just returned from Thailand. They are renting an apartment in Provo to self quarantine so that Grandma and Grandpa can stay safe. It was a hard decision to make to come home but with the US government urging all Americans home before borders close, they decided to quickly get tickets.
Brian - working from home. His basement renovation is almost complete. He really enjoys living with his roommates.

Sunday dinner was rice and Chive & Onion Cream Sauce, roasted parmesan carrots and peas. Then ice cream after Axis and Allies crew finished playing.

Ashlyn sent us some of her thoughts about a conference talk she studied to email to her ward. Such a good idea. Love that she sent them to us.

Unwavering Commitment to Jesus Christ by Elder Renlund
This talk is very timely for what is happening in our world today. Please listen to it. Your ears will perk up when he says he wishes sharing faith was as easy as it it to share the common cold or flu!
Elder Renlund tells the story of people in the Congo that after conversion, they made a pilgrimage to throw their previously idolized objects into waterfalls as a symbol to God that they discarded their old traditions and accepted Jesus Christ. We are all currently experiencing a different way of life challenging us to consider the value of the activities and objects that used to consume our time. Some things we miss and can't wait to get back to, but other old priorities may need to stay on the back burner or no longer be in our lives.
Elder Renlund says "being converted unto the Lord means leaving one course of action, directed by an old belief system, and adopting a new one based on faith in Heavenly Father's plan and in Jesus Christ and His Atonement.” I encourage us all to journal about our recent experiences. What are we struggling with? What are we worried about? What blessings have we seen? How has the past few weeks changed our perspective? What will we now do to build an unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ?
Elder Renlund tells us "Faith grows as we individually choose faith building actions: praying, scripture study, partaking of the sacrament, keeping the commandments, and serving others." Isn't it wonderful we can do all of these faith building actions in our homes?
There are so many beautiful examples of modern day revelations and prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes. Heavenly Father has a plan for us as a church and for each one of us individually.
I'm thankful for this time to re-commit in my conversion and covenants. Elder Renlund closes his talk with the words: "I testify that He is the firm foundation, He is dependable, and His promises are sure."

Monday, March 23rd - Missionary Monday Update

We worked out as a family again and then I ran on the treadmill for 10 minutes before heading upstairs to shower and get ready. I made another chart for me (I need it!) and new Quarantine Charts for the kids. (They asked for it) I’m a little bit more motivated to get things done with a chart. I added ‘Reach Out to Someone” on my chart and as soon as I saw my chart on the bathroom counter, I texted my Ministering Sisters: Missie Stilson, Megan Jackson and partner, Crystal Browning. Then I texted Tiffany and then Mindy Larson. Fun to hear from all these friends. Everyone is having their own story through this whole Coronavirus thing and it feels good to be able to really hear and understand each other in our different experiences.

We talked to Katie this afternoon. She’s doing well but is so sad to hear the latest with her friends… So much going on.

Sister Hurley found out this week that she will be sent home from Tampa Florida because of health issues around her asthma. So sad. Luckily Katie is in the apartment that will house the sister missionaries on their last night before going home… so they will have a final goodbye.

Hi family and friends! I never thought I'd actually write my last email but here I am. This week I will be returning home. The mission department is sending all missionaries home with respiratory problems, and I have asthma so I fit that category. I am heart broken I love my mission. I don't want to leave. I know that Heavenly Father always has a bigger and better plan for each one of us, even though we can't always see it. I don't know what my future holds, in fact no one does but he knows. That's why it's so important to trust in him. I know that no matter the time served is enough for the Lord. I know that I worked my hardest everyday to bring others to Christ and that is what matters. Something President Hollingsworth always teaches us is that we are disciples of Jesus Christ FOREVER even after our missions. Once I step off that plan that doesn't mean my mission stops there. In fact it's just the begining. I am grateful for my mission that taught me how to be a missionary even without a tag. I loved my mission. I love my ward family, the friends we are teaching, my mission family. I love seeing others say their first prayer, sing their first hymn, or reading the Book of Mormon. I love talking to strangers and telling them that there is one true church on the earth, and being able to have answers to their questions they've wondered their whole life. I love sweet moments watching those who we have come to love be baptized. I love representing the savior everyday, and seeing peoples lives change because of the Book of Mormon. I have loved seeing my life change. I will forever be grateful for my mission. God has shaped me into someone I never thought I could become. He has shaped me through the people I have met here, the Book of Mormon and most importantly through our Savior Jesus Christ. I have finally found who Heavenly Father wants me to becomeI can't really put my mission into words and I bet most people can't. But if there's one thing I do know is that my mission taught me is that Jesus Christ is REAL. His atonement is REAL. He knows how we feel. He knows what it feels like to be rejected, sad, lonely, persecuted. He understand because he's been there too. It taught me to trust in him, because his plan is bigger and greater than we could ever imagine. It taught me that Jesus Christ set up his PERFECT church and it's back on the earth today. The EXACT church and the EXACT priesthood. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet even though he wasn't perfect, no one is. I know he was called of God to bring Jesus Christ perfect gospel back to the earth. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I know Jospeh Smith translated it through the power of God. I know that one day we will all return to live with God and I get to live forever with my family. A piece of my heart will forever be in Florida. I have made some of my best friends here on my mission and met some of the most amazing people. Goodbyes are never easy, but I'm so excited to see my family. I love them more them more than anything. See you soon Idahome.💕 Love Sister Hurley Alma 26:27

Chris Kinnaird just arrived home from Africa. His last letter (from home) made me cry.

So, I got transferred to this insane new place. It's the biggest apartment in the mission, and the missionaries that live here range from 12 to 50 years old so, kinda weird. And they never keep any of the mission rules. So, I'll probably have to talk to them about that later.... But one of the missionaries cooks amazingly. So, I'll let them off the hook. Also, its freezing here. So, yeah, I'm home now because of Corona. For at least two weeks but the Stake President said it will probably be longer. It was probably the worst emotions I have ever felt in my life when I got the message we were going home, but also I knew God planned this even before I put my papers in so it's all good. There is one thing I would want you all to know that I learned going to Cote d'Ivoire. When I got to Africa, I lost almost all the comforts of daily life. The simplicities of America were gone and replaced by poor, tough or bland substitutes. Like washing clothes by hand now, or having only rice and chicken to eat, or not having running water for four months. At first, I thought it was because I needed to learn to be grateful for every little thing in my life. So, I got into an amazing habit that I still have of praying, at the instant, something that I see as a gift of God in my life, and thanking him for it. Now, as I reflect on it, being grateful is great. We see the leper who received eternal life when saying thank you to Jesus when he cured him. But there is a greater principal God was trying to teach me. That is, when we forget the bliss, or luxury, or desires of the human body, our spirit becomes more in control of the wheel. Even if the human desire isn't bad. When we place all that is holy, of the spirit, that is being said the work, covenants and giving life that is Jesus Christ, in the frontline of our life, we receive that very thing, life. I barely had anything in Africa material wise, but I had the most joy I've ever experienced. Because I let go of things people say to be grateful for, like wealth or earthly things, and thanked God for the most important thing, His son Jesus Christ. And we do not thank him only by prayer, we truly thank him by our works, by SERVICE. So, if anything I'm grateful for that. But also running water is pretty great too.OK, love you all. I'm still a missionary so if you're in my ward and need something, do not hesitate, I'm serious call my mom its on the portal. Elder Kinnaird

Annie Christofferson is being sent home from Uruguay for a 2 week quarantine and then a reassignment. She’s SO sad. We found out on Friday. It will likely be sometime in the next week. Her email today…

¡Hola Familia y Amigos! This week has been one of the craziest of my life. From not being in quarantine, to then being in quarantine, to then last night receiving the news that all missionaries in the South America South area would be sent home to their own country, it has been quite the emotional rollercoaster. Turns out I will be returning home in the next week or so, be in quarantine for 2 weeks in my house, and then be reassigned to a U.S. mission to complete my missionary service. I will not be returning to Uruguay as a missionary. I am completely heart broken. It is hard to describe the emotions of finding out that I have to leave a place I love so much way earlier than I had planned. But through it all, I still feel peace and comfort because I know this is God's plan for me. This morning I was reading in 1 Nephi 3, and I loved how it applied so directly to the situation of many of us missionaries around the world right now. "And now, behold thy brothers murmur, saying it is a hard thing which I have required of them; but behold I have not required it of them, but it is a commandment of the Lord.Therefore go, my son, and thou shalt be favored of the Lord, because thou hast not murmured.And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." Leaving our missions and returning home may be a hard thing. But it is required of the Lord. It was a hard thing to come out here and leave everything I loved. And now it's another hard thing to go home and leave everything I love. But I will go and do what the Lord needs me to do. I know all of this is, if endured with patience and faith and without complaint, will just help me become the person the Lord needs me to become. I trust Him. I love the Lord. I love Uruguay with my whole heart. I love my mission! Hermana Christofferson
Annie reached out to each of the other seven sisters and gave each of them a special message. Love how they love and support each other!

Brynn Almond arrived home to LA last night. Her mom sent a video of her at the airport seeing her family again. She cried as she hugged her mom and then said, “I don’t want to be here.” So heartbreaking. Chris and I both cried watching the video. I sent it to Katie and she cried as well. Today she stood in her driveway and cars paraded past to welcome her home. She’ll be quarantined for two weeks and then reassigned. She’s hoping for Tampa Florida. : )
Daylee Kirkham arrived home on Friday. So neat to be part of the crowd of vans flashing lights and welcoming her home. We arranged a group FaceTime with Katie and her and it was so fun to listen to them talk. Daylee’s mom later said, “I think the whole neighborhood heard Daylee yell, “KATIEEEEEEEE” when they started chatting. Very therapeutic! Thank you, Lisa for setting that up.”

Helllllllllllooooo Wow. Things can change so quick. I'll give you the run down of the week. Started normal, then limited interaction with people, no contacting, and now we will be isolated completely starting tonight. I never thought this would be my last email as a missionary...but it is looking like it will be...at least for a while. The church is sending home missionaries with health issues. My current location is one of the main spots on the USA where the virus is. I got the never wanted phone call from President Hunt today. They are sending me home. It's true my emails seem to be so positive each week, haha maybe because I haven't shared all the hard that happens everyday. My health has been a huge challenge on my mission. Several doctor's appointments, lots of prayers, priesthood blessings, faith, lots of faith, prayer, and most importantly---the power of Jesus Christ has gotten me this far. I hope to come out again! I absolutely love being a missionary, talking to everyone, getting to know everyone's stories. God is good my friends. Heavenly Father knows. I will be able to be in a better location not as affected and be able to heal. I have such an incredibly strong trust, faith and knowledge in my Savior Jesus Christ. He is real. He isn't made up. He is real and He is with us always. I have no idea what the future brings, I don't think any of us know, but our loving Heavenly Father knows. Please don't worry about this world, but place your focus on the Plan of your Heavenly Father! To all other missionaries having a hard time, smile!! Your Heavenly Father loves you knows something even greater. I love you all. Thank you for the constant support and love! Stay healthy and know you have your Savior Jesus Christ to lean on. GOD IS GOOD!!
Sister Kirkham:))

Hanna Chugg just arrived home the other day. She just finished her training at the Mexico City MTC. She’s pretty sad to be home as well but is handling it with the best attitude. Fun to talk to Geneva and get the update. She’ll still wearing her name tag at home anticipating a call in future days.
Abbey Anderson is still in self isolation in Sweden. Her emails are so UPLIFTING. Her mom said that she cried the whole time they video chatted and Katie said she sent a audio clip of her talking to them which was pretty emotional as well. Love how they love and support each other and are so wise in their counsel. Thanks for being able to express your emotions so well, Abbey!

Anyone else feel like you are on a rollercoaster and they forgot to buckle you in? yeah, me too. The Update: I arrived in Borås on Tuesday with my new companion Syster Gonzalez. Wednesday we were told to self isolate. So we now stay in our apartment, going on short walks occasionally throughout the day, and only go to the church if necessary. #cabinfever On Thursday, my companion was told that she was going home and she used a whole roll of toilet paper (sorry America) for wiping her tears and blowing her nose. On Friday, we lost a group of missionaries and at the same time, my companion got news that she would actually be staying for now. Down to about 80 missionaries in Sweden, we had another emergency transfer today and hoping we can get settled a little bit. (tack och lov the Swedish government is straight chillin right now)
Throughout the week, I have seen so many friends leave their beloved missions and go home, either to be released or receive new assignments. I imagine them feeling devastation, confusion, anger and sadness. And though there aren't words that sufficeth to give the comfort necessary, I wanted to share something that a friend reminded me of this last week. She recounted the story of Job. After having lost everything he had worked for and loved, Job finds himself in a state of intense grieving. My friend pointed out verses in chapter 10 when Job is talking to God. 1 My soul is weary of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. 7 Thou knowest that I am not wicked; and there is none that can deliver out of thine hand. 8 Thine hands have made me and fashioned me together round about; yet thou dost destroy me. 15 If I be wicked, woe unto me; and if I be righteous, yet will I not lift up my head. I am full of confusion; therefore see thou mine affliction; She reminded me, and I will remind you, that it is okay to grieve. When we lose something or someone we love, it's okay to grieve. When life takes an unexpected turn, it's okay to grieve. When we are ripped from the comfort of routine and thrown into the unknown, it's okay to grieve. When we feel devastation, fear, confusion, and anger, it's okay to grieve.
And then after you grieve, remind yourself of the precious truths we teach as missionaries. We have a Heavenly Father who knows us and loves us. He has a perfect plan designed for the benefit of His children (including you and me). We must have faith in Jesus Christ who suffered and died for our sins that we too may overcome the things in this world. And God hears and answers our prayers, perfectly.
I love all my missionary friends and I am sending stora kramar your way. :)
I have also thought a lot about Alma 8 this week. Alma was commanded to preach to the city of Ammonihah but was quickly spit upon and cast out. We read that Alma was "weighed down with sorrow" as he departed from the city. However, an angel of the Lord appeared unto him, sent to command Alma to go back to Ammonihah and "preach again unto the people". I love verse 18: "And he entered the city by another way...". Missionary work is sure being done in a different way right now. But that doesn't mean it's not God's plan. If fact, the "other way" IS His plan. So even though being quarantined, or going home, or not having enough toilet paper at home wasn't necessarily in our plans, just remember it was in God's. (yes, even the toilet paper.)
Self isolation has been a party and a half and we are getting to know the four walls of our apartment really well. If you want to send memes, jokes or good karantän memories you are making, it would be much appreciated. Also, here is a challenge: make a quarantine dance video and send it to me. please and thank you. oh also, I am on bikes again!! #throwback not that we get to use them that much but still, feels like my childhood missionary days again. #sharegoodness love yall. In the words of Elder Holland, "Keep your chin up, trust in God, and believe in good things to come!" kram, syster andersen

Claire Myers is in self-isolation in LA.

Hey all! This week has probably been the longest week of my entire life. We are in our apartment and I will be continuing my service here in LA. I just want to share with you all that I know that God knows each and every one of us. He has a perfect plan and sometimes that plan is not our plan. I feel my testimony of that has grown sooo much in the past 10 months. My heart has felt so broken this past week as I have heard about many of my friends being sent home for quarantine and then possibly being reassigned. And about other friends who are being sent home and who will be staying there. I can't even imagine how you all must be feeling right now. But just know that so many people are praying for you. God is so aware and He loves you! I love each and every one of you! Hermana Myers

Dallie Johnson is self-isolation in Richmond, Virginia.

Days are a blur when you're in self-isolation, but my companions and I are doing well! We're counting our blessings for sure.We have been teaching lessons over video chat, contacting people previously taught, reaching out to check on ward members, working on family history, sharing the gospel on Facebook, and whatever we can to continue sharing the glorious message of peace we are so blessed to know.
Someone shared this powerful quote with me this week! "Throughout scripture we encounter the need for us to remember that the Lord has His own timetable for unfolding things; it will not always accord with our schedules or our wants. When in our extremities, we urgently call for a divine response, there may be instead a divine delay [or unexpected assignment or heavier load to bear]. This is not because God, at the moment, is inattentive or loves us less than perfectly. Rather, it is because we are asked, at the moment, to endure more for the welfare of our souls. The blessed meek understand that God loves them even when they may not be able to explain the meaning of what is happening to them or around them" (Neal A. Maxwell).
His comments about "divine delays" also apply to every bit of devastation or heartache we may feel. My heart goes out to those who have received unexpected assignments in their missionary work and those who have been personally affected by COVID-19. When God's plan for us isn't what we expect, there's at least one constant we can always count on: He is our loving Heavenly Father, who possesses all wisdom and knowledge and power. I hope you are each able to feel His love during this time of uncertainty. If you are wondering what you can do to feel or recognize that love, please go to Him. If you're wondering how to do that, PLEASE reach out to me. I would LOVE to do anything I can to help!
Lots of love, Sister Johnson

Katie Johnson’s letter today:

Week 36, Transfer 6 Comp: Sister Tauanu'u Area: Tampa Bay YSA Hellooo everyone! I'm sure it's been a crazy week, how are you all doing??
Its been a week full of crazy updates including my bff Sister Hurley is leaving this week because of her health:/ She has touched so many lives on her mission !! I'm super lucky to be in the Tampa apartment where the sisters stay on their first and last night so we will get to spend her last night together!!
Also quick shoutout to the 7 sisters- my best friends, some of them have to go home, some to be reassigned. My prayers are with them as they have to say goodbye to the places they have come to love so much!! They have been such a strength to me throughout my mission and continue to be. They are always sending inspirational quotes and experiences and are encouraging each other to trust in the Lord through this hard time.❤
Sister Tauanu'u and I have done our best to keep our spirits up and have fun during the crazy updates that keep coming out. Her jokes and kindness are making this quarantine business a whole lot better!!! We have really missed social interaction so calling our people and other missionaries really helps. Plus the cutest senior missionaries in the world all live across the street from us and sometimes "go on walks at the same time as us" so they can see us haha! The Tampa zone started a Book of Mormon passing video this week, where one of us catches the Book of Mormon and shares our testimony or our favorite scripture and then tosses it off screen. And then we tag someone else in the zone and they have to create a video of them catching it and doing the same thing. It has been super fun and helped unite our zone a ton!! Cool to hear everyone's testimonies. And after everyone had gone, we got another video of the legends themselves! Some of the missionaries got President and Sister Hollingsworth to join in and sent us their video! It was so funny:)
The work is still going.. two people we are teaching are ANGEL and STEPHANIE. Seriously they are the best people ever. They video call us all the time and they have the best questions and desire to do what is right. So grateful for their examples. Please pray for them to receive the answers they are looking for and that they will continue to stay strong and follow the Savior. Angel is from Peru and has only been speaking English for a couple years. He just started praying and says the best most heartfelt prayers. I KNOW GOD TRULY HEARS US & He really answers prayers. Remember, God always has something better in store.
Sister Johnson

While I was video chatting with Katie she said, “Mom, I want to read you something I wrote.” Then she read me this section of scripture with words changed to describe the story of her seven sisters. So cute. I was emotional when she read it.

Alma 17
2 Now these seven sisters were at BYU at the time the mission calls first appeared unto them; therefore they did rejoice exceedingly; and what added more to their joy, they were sisters in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were women of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.
            3 But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.
            4 And they had been teaching the word of God for the space of nine months among their different countries and states, having had much success in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth.
            5 Now these are the circumstances which attended them in their journeyings, for they had many afflictions; they did suffer much, both in body and in mind, such as hunger, thirst and fatigue, and also much labor in the spirit, and the corona virus.
            6 Now these were their journeyings: Having taken leave of their fathers, in the first year of disney plus; having refused the proposals which the boys were desirous to confer upon them;
            7 Nevertheless they departed out of the land of Provo, and took their dresses, and their skirts, and their tags, and their journals, and their scriptures; and this they did that they might provide for themselves while in their missions.
            8 And thus they departed into their missions with their numbers which they had selected, to go up to the land, to preach the word of God unto the people.
            9 And it came to pass that they journeyed many months in their mission, and they fasted much and prayed much that the Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, and abide with them, that they might be an instrument in the hands of God to bring, if it were possible, their friends, to the knowledge of the truth, to the knowledge of the baseness of the traditions of their fathers, which were not correct.
            10 And it came to pass that the Lord did visit them with his Spirit, and said unto them: Be comforted. And they were comforted.
            11 And the Lord said unto some of them also: Go forth among the US and establish my word; yet ye shall be patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in me, and I will make an instrument of thee in my hands unto the salvation of many souls.

Well, after reading all of these missionary emails, talking to Katie and sharing thoughts and feelings with the 7 Moms I was emotionally worn out. What great examples these kids are of serving with all their hearts. I love each of them for their example to me and to each other.

Monday night we zoomed with all of the Johnson family. We basically couldn’t hear anything so we let the kids chat and then got on later with just the adults. It was fun to catch up. We’ve been Marco Poloing with Chris’ sisters and that’s been fun as well. So good to connect with everyone.

Tuesday, March 24th

Chris worked out from home today but still led us in a family workout downstairs. We did an hour of cleaning together and got all the bathrooms deep cleaned — including Chris working on unclogging some of our drains. Good stuff. Ryan had a lot of online class work. I joined him in his room for his religion class which was great. The kids worked on a puzzle and we watched a few things. Luke and Matt spend two hours at the soccer field playing with each other. The family went on a walk around the neighborhood to find them and pick up the mail. Nice to have a nice day. Chris and I worked on blogging several posts from 2000. So glad I have so much journaling to look back on. Chris is inserting pictures and journaling and then I review it and add some finishing touches. It’s a great system. Grateful for his help and enthusiasm.

We found out today that BYU Spring term will be online as well. Not sure how that will affect Ryan’s paid internship. Also at the end of the semester Ryan can choose between taking his letter grade A,B,C or choosing to switch it to a PASS/FAIL in which case it will not affect his GPA. Really generous and helpful for some tough classes only made tougher by being away from TA’s and teacher’s help. It’s such an interesting situation as each class and department tries to figure out what is best for the students. Professors have been really understanding as on-line issues have come up. Feeling grateful.

Wednesday, March 25th

Chris went in to work today. Early this morning he texted, “Just dictated my first COVID case. It is a really nasty looking chest x-ray. We have a completely normal radiograph from 1 week ago and then 2 radiographs in between with it looking worse and worse. Seeing this rapid progression is scary. 68 year old male.” So scary.

We found out last night that Chris’ department will be broken into two groups. Group A working one week while Group B is on Administrative Leave. Pay shouldn’t be affected right now. It’ll be interesting to see how this goes. We are in a good situation right now but that may change. So many people are having a hard time. The economy is suffering and lots of businesses are being closed down. Praying for so many right now.

The kids are doing well with their charts this week. It’s not exactly the Spring Break we were hoping for but the kids have been so understanding and are making the best of this stay at home situation. Emily and Megan decided to switch their bedrooms yesterday - but for a predesignated 2 month time period. They’ve been working on going through their boxes and closets and moving everything over which has led to some cleaning, some organizing and some dejunking. Love it! They kept the beds where they are so that limits things a little bit but have decided that when they switch back on June 1st, they will switch the beds then too. Kind of fun.

I was able to talk to Geneva for awhile this morning and then Ali in the afternoon. So good to get connected and hear how everything is going for them. Everybody has their own story of how this is affecting them.

The kids worked on finishing the Monsters Inc. Puzzle. Matt did the Darth Vader puzzle entirely on his own and was very proud. Emily worked on learning the chords to THIRTEEN on her ukulele. Megan practiced soccer in her room. Luke worked on the instructions to the new game they build for a good chunk of the day. (You can see the game behind him on the couch below) Good stuff.

Cookie Wednesday again. They made gluten free Monster cookies that look pretty good!

We had pizza/salad for dinner. At the dinner table Chris showed us the alert from the Colorado government: Public Safety Alert. We knew it was already in effect for Denver and were expected it at some point. I felt like I wanted to tackle Costco this evening instead of wait until the morning. I didn’t know if it would be super busy or not but decided to go and I’m so glad I went. The undercover area and all the way down the outside of the store were set up like a line to a Disneyland ride to get into the store. Markings were added to keep people in line 6 feet apart. Signs were up all over the store encouraging social distancing. Apparently in the morning and throughout some of the day you had to wait in line to get in. When I arrived at 6:45 there was no line at all. There were people shopping but it wasn’t busy at all, which was nice. I was able to get all the fruits and vegetables I needed. Mission Accomplished.

Back at home we watched Avengers Age of Ultron. We meant to watch it on Monday night, which we named ‘Marvel Monday’ but school work and zooming with Chris’ family took over so we moved it to today!

Thursday, March 26th

Today it seems like the days are going by slowly but I am thoroughly enjoying no online learning this week. Monday we will be back to figuring out that I woke up at 7:30 and started listening to a TED talk with Bill Gates talking about the need for testing and isolation. Then up came a reminder Safety Alert that we are on STAY AT HOME orders. It was quiet in the house so I said prayers, made my bed and headed straight for the computer to finish some journaling from the last couple of days. Trying to record everything we’re doing and thinking right now.

At 9:00 I gathered the kids and we worked out - doing another exercise section from the 8 Fit App. I love the format and the kids really get into it. This time we had a lot of 60 second cardio sections so Megan put on some music and we had a great time bouncing around and dancing to the music. Then we all copied Ryan with his actions for 20 seconds, then Emily, then Matt. It was a good workout.

I talked to my Mom this morning. She’s doing pretty good but naturally worries about how the virus and economic situation will affect her and all of her children. They are doing a great job of self-isolation but still talking to everyone over the phone and Skype.

I listened to Ryan’s Religion class while cleaning up the kitchen. His professor was teaching about three different parables. Before class their assignment was to write a modern version of the 10 Virgins. I thought it was funny so I thought I’d copy it here…

“And in March there was a cry made, Behold, here is the virus. Do NOT go out to meet him. And the foolish said unto their wise neighbor, Give us of your toilet paper, for our rolls are empty. But the wise answered not so, les there be not enough for us and you, but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to the store to buy, the virus came, and they that had toilet paper stayed inside and were not made sick. Afterward came the foolish home saying, let us in, for we have toilet paper now. But the wise neighbor answered and said Verily I say unto you, I know you not, for you have the corona virus, and I will practice social distancing, lest I too contract this death. Watch therefore and be clean, for you know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man cometh.”

I got to talk to Katie for a couple hours today. She’s doing great. She says “I’m thriving!” which I love to hear. She and I both don’t mind being inside our homes and can deal with isolation pretty well… but we also like to talk to people so we’re always excited and willing for some extra communication. She and Sister T get along great and are busy connecting with people, investigators and ward members to help the investigators, and even old area people soon to be baptized. She mentioned that she’d love some time to just sit and read the Book of Mormon but they don’t have time for that. They are still pretty busy. She was able to spend some time with Sister Hurley and a few other sisters leaving the mission this week and loved it — but the early mornings getting them up and off to the airport (4am) have taken their toll.

Emily is doing her first online piano lesson right now. Luke is finishing up work on their board game. Ryan is talking with a TA on Zoom to help him with his computer engineering project. Megan is reading in her new room. Dad’s still at work. And Matt is playing Toad Treasure Tracker on the Switch.

Dinner was roasted vegetables and salmon. Now Dad, Ryan and the girls are continuing their Axis and Allies game.

We just got a message from President Nelson asking for a World Wide Fast this coming Sunday.

Friday, March 27th

We had a good workout this morning. Dad thought the boys would be excited because it was THOR (Chris Hemsworth) leading the workout. But it was hard - we’re all going to be sore.

The weather was beautiful in the morning so I headed out on a walk by myself. 55 degrees and sunny but with a cool breeze. Nice to take the time to think and pray by myself. A neighbor from across the street slowed his car to chat for just a minute. Nice to get updated on how we’re both handling this situation. I ended up calling Megan Jackson and headed to her house so we could go on a walk together — trying to be 6 feet apart. It was fun to connect with her and then with Hans and Michelle on their way to the Middle School track. They told me one of our neighbors and his wife are both sick with the Coronavirus. A little bit shocking to hear of it on our street.

Luke and Matt have been working on their new board game for a week now. LOTS of time has gone into it’s production. Today Emily, Megan, Dad, Luke, Matt and I sat at the kitchen table and played it for the first time. Thank goodness for the lengthy instruction sheet. It’s based off of the game Istanbul but it’s about all the different Disneyland rides. They are pretty excited about it.

Chris worked from home today. We ate spaghetti and salad for dinner and then sat at the table for an hour talking about economics… people who were struggling financially because of no work… emergency funds… living paycheck to paycheck… credit cards… debt… interest… so many good topics. When Ryan entered the conversation late and answered a question correctly, Luke looked surprised and said, “How did you know that?” Ryan answered, “Luke, I have the same Dad as you. I’ve been taught that before.” It was a great review of so many things and a great real life example of why we have and need savings.

We talked to Grandma and Grandpa Walton on Skype tonight. Fun to chat with him on his 71st birthday and see videos about all his quarantine happy day wishes and videos — especially one from Dan and family that was epic. Haha Happy Birthday Dad!

We ended the night with the start to our weekend game tournament. All 7 of us played two games of Drawful and then two games of 7 Wonders. Fun to have games that we can all play together!

Saturday, March 28th

We did a family workout again this morning - this one focused on upper body. It was good. We’re all feeling a little sore from yesterday’s THOR workout.

I read several emails with information about how e-Learning will go for the next several weeks/months. Looks like they’ve come up with a good plan and I’m happy with the support and good attitude’s of Luke’s middle school team and Matt’s Elementary school teacher (Mrs. Craddock).

We played Castles for several hours. I love that game.

Dad went in to work for several hours (he’s on call this weekend) and I played Dr. Mario with Matt and then read Words of Mormon with Ryan and Luke. Dad and the kids finally finished their Axis and Allies game. Ryan and Megan won!

After dinner we played Settlers and Luke won! I headed up to my room for some alone time. I have a feeling I need to have that scheduled in from time to time. All the games and movies are fun but sometimes I need a little ME time. Chris and I decided that we’re going to schedule in a stay at home date night as well. Just the two of us doing something together upstairs while the kids are downstairs. The kids are already excited about it.

Sunday, March 29th

I woke up early and got ready while Dad was downstairs at his virtual High Council Meeting. He shared some things later and what different members of the High Council are learning from this time of isolation. He immediately sent texts to both families asking for a zoom meeting where we talk about that same idea… what have we learned.

Meanwhile I listened to the Don’t Miss This Video for this week. I’ve liked listening to it on Sunday mornings lately. We had a great family church meeting starting at 10:00. As part of our sacrament meeting each of us took time to write out a prayer. It's one of the 7-Day Prayer Challenges that we’ve been working on. We sat for 10 minutes, silent except for pens busy writing. It was a great experience for everyone. Like all the rest of the prayer challenges, I immediately started out emotional. As we started Come Follow Me and read the intro about Enos and prayer Dad asked everyone their thoughts about writing down their prayer. It was interesting to hear. Luke and Emily shared similar thoughts about how it was easier for them to stay focused and think of more things to say and be grateful for. I shared some thoughts at the end and was very emotional bearing my testimony of my experiences with the prayer challenge. I have even more gratitude for the opportunity to talk to my Father in Heaven. Taking the time to pray in different ways or with a different focus highlighted the importance of reaching out to Father and then listening for answers. Then we talked about Enos. Great stuff. Then our Restoration activity was watching a part of a video from David Butler and Emily Freeman and printing out important words from the First Vision: HEARD KNOWN DELIVERED FORGIVEN and BELOVED Megan printed the words out and we will add them to our Restoration Wall.

We listened to The Hardest Thing I ever Loved to Do. A song about Missions. Katie has been wanting us to listen to it and kept forgetting. It’s really so good. I do remember Ryan having us listen to it years ago but I had forgotten all the words and I cried all over again. Powerful.

We are starting to read the WORK and THE GLORY as a family. Dad read us a chapter yesterday and then we read the next two chapters after church. Ryan, Dad, Luke and I are loving it. I think Emily likes it too. Megan and Matt are tolerating it. Dad had to hand over the book to Ryan when it got to the part where Joseph Smith tells of the First Vision to one of the main characters: Nathan, because he was emotional. Lots of emotions today.

Dad had to go in to work for a couple hours today and while he was gone Ryan, Emily, Megan, Matt and I played Istanbul. Matt won. We ate tacos for dinner to break our fast.

At 7:00 we got on zoom and chatted with Chris’ family. We caught up and then chatted about what this experience has been like. It was a great conversation and a little bit emotional… especially Shelley who is really feeling lonely these days. So hard. At 8:30 we connected with the Walton Family and enjoyed a similar conversation. Great insights and things learned. Love all of our family.

Monday, March 30th

We had Virtual Family Home Evening with the Richins tonight. We shared with them our experience with our 7-Day Prayer Challenge. Each of the kids took a turn to share some insights from an experience they had had with one of their prayers. Matt talked about writing out his prayer . Luke talked about meditating after one of his prayers. Megan talked about saying a prayer of Gratitude . Emily talked about saying her prayer out loud. Ryan and Dad talked about writing out their prayer. And I talked about saying my prayer outside on a walk. We challenged them to 7 days of different prayers. It was fun to talk to them for a bit and bond with their cute kids. When Hannah saw Emily - with newly cut bangs - she said, “Oh, Emily looks like a real life movie star.”

We ate ice cream for FHE treat and then Dad read a chapter of of Word and the Glory book.

Tuesday, March 31st

Today was the first day back at e-Learning. I think I was kind of excited to get back on a schedule but half way through the day I changed my mind. We woke up and started our family workout at 8:00am. The girls ate, showered and then headed upstairs for their first video seminary class of the week. Dad ran on the treadmill and then tackled Matt’s questions as he got started on his school work and I spent 45 minutes with Luke going over every subject in detail and writing out a page-long to do list. I think it helped him… but boy it was a ton of work. There were definitely some glitches with schoology and we emailed back and forth with a few of Luke’s teachers trying to get things figured out. Hopefully that will improve. The kids worked pretty well until 1:00. We ate lunch together and then they headed back to their school work while Dad and I tried to shop for a few things online — which proved to be frustrating and took way too long —but I think we got some good things done. We ate dinner together - lime honey Mexican salad and tomato soup - and then headed downstairs to watch another Marvel movie: Civil War. The kids all finished their 7-Day Prayer Challenge and were rewarded with Ghirardelli chocolate. Are we ready for our next month of quarantine? Ready or not, here we go.