A taste of Europe

There are few things more sad than dropping a big scoop of ice cream on the ground. One thing that is worse is dropping amazing gelato — not just onto the ground, but onto a busy sidewalk in a major European capital! Dang!

Landmarks

Every couple of years we take a group of high school students on a European excursion. This year we had a group of 30 students that we took to Ireland, Wales, England and France (Paris and Normandy).  Invariably, there are amusing things that happen. This week I'll be sharing a few of those.

One of the boys we took is a varsity football lineman, Ben, He's about 6-feet 4-inches and weighs in the neighborhood of 275 pounds. He's a big kid. He was thrilled when he finally got to meet the other Big Ben!

Sketchbook: Volunteers

I certainly don't believe that I'm the only one who thought of the Hunger Games when the Church announced that those who are called to serve in Russia will be "volunteers" rather than "missionaries" in compliance with a new law.

And on the seventh day...

For it is written, "snooze ye this day."

Service is as service does

Any good reports?

History lesson

As we're getting ready to go back to school, I'm reminded of this Zarahemla Times cartoon that gives a certain perspective on history.

What is real?

You've gotta be careful with those lesson displays!

Expansion set

In case you couldn't tell, we're in the market for back to school supplies.

Sketchbook: Eternal audit

You gotta keep an eye on those bishops!

A special day

This quote may have come from someone in our house yesterday.

Sneak preview

Here's a sneak preview of a safety campaign we may be doing at the Oregon DOT, which may or may not be a parody of Pokémon Go. Stay tuned for more details!

Faster than a speeding deacon

So, um, speed offerings?

With a slightly sweet sauce

I was introduced to spaghetti noodles with chili when I visited Washington, D.C., a few years ago. It was at a small, trendy restaurant — and I haven't seen it offered anywhere else since (and I'm OK with that!).

Scripture power, unplugged

Sometimes it's easier to misunderstand the scriptures. *



*D&C 64:23 "for he that is tithed shall not be burned..."

The thrill is gone

Don't even ask about "Once there was a Snowman."

Sketchbook: Medaling

Maybe offering medals would be good incentive for some folks to do their home teaching. Maybe.

Fitting into the ward family

Sisters can always tell you exactly where you fit in.

Pride matters

Even the Zoramites have their rules, right? 

Scraps off the table

Tonight is our second night of feeding the missionaries this week. We have no leftovers.

Many mighty works

He had to do something to fill the time before they set sail for the Promised Land, right?

The extra mile effort

It's probably a little late for a Ghostbusters-themed gag, but here it is. 

Problem solved!

I'm glad that in our family, at least, we've grown out of the need for babysitters.

Sketchbook: Taking Alma's advice

Let's just see what beginneth to grow...

If only it were that easy

Wouldn't it be awesome if there were a family history app that was like Pokemon Go? You could track them down, catch them — and when you get to a GenealogyGym you could have battles!

I think I'll suggest that to the IT folks at Church Headquarters...

Editor's Note: With any luck this will be my last gag based on Pokemon Go.

Pokémon habitat

...because Snorlax is a sleeping type, and high priests are notorious for sleeping...

Summer breaking point

Yep, that's been our summer, give or take a few things. 

Arrow of Light

Summer homework

I think we're still making up for last year at our house!

Far and wide we tell the story

This probably should have come with a pre-printed apology. 

Sketchbook: Diaper rodeo

...and sometimes it is the faster the better!