Sketchbook: Our menu options have changed

Ever feel like Heavenly Father might be too busy with other things, or that there are other prayers higher up in triage than yours?

One of the first times I remember my prayers being answered was when I was about five years old. There was some toy that I had lost. I searched everywhere, but to no avail. I was in despair.

But then I said a prayer, and as soon as I opened my eyes, there it was — in a place I looked a billion times before. My prayer was answered.

Since that time, I’ve remembered that if Heavenly Father took the time to answer that simple child’s prayer, he would be there for me whenever I needed him. Even if it was outside regular office hours.

 

How many times removed?

It's always fun to use the "Relatives Around Me" function. It often comes up with interesting surprises!
 

Have you looked everywhere?

If the librarian can’t find it, the only thing left to do is ask his mom. 

 

A world of white

That technique of visualizing the people you work with dressed in white, for either baptism or going to the temple, can be a good technique. And yes, there are times when it's easier to imagine.
 

Sketchbook: Many are cold

It’s true — there are many colors of white. Some are more ready than others. 
 

Songs of the saints

There are some Primary songs that inspire deep thoughts. Snowman is one that I think about often.
 

Over and out

I’ve seen Relief Society presidents have those days!

 

Ready to rock and roll

The elders quorum never stampedes when class is over.
 

Sketchbook: Qualifications for the work

OK, I know there are many well-coiffed bishops. I've also seen many of them grow into their calling and out of a need for hair care products during their time in office. 

We're good at feasting

Our elders came to dinner the other night and said they only wanted salad. Until the main course came out. And the bread. And the dessert.

We didn't have many leftovers that night — except for salad.
 

It's bursting forth

Here in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, the heavens are opened quite often. 
 

When moved upon

I'm really trying hard not to say that this was inspired by one of my old missionary companions, but I'm not being very successful with that.
 

Sketchbook: Angels among us

Have you ever had the experience of clearing your driveway just to have a snowplow come by and fill it with snow and ice again?
 

In my hometown

Sigh. The first transfer is always the hardest. 
 

Modern problems

It's true — Samuel Smith didn't have the problem of accessorizing his outfits. Besides, what goes well with tar and feathers?
 

I can't name that tune

It's possible that this is one of the reasons I gave up piano lessons as a kid. Even with the music, nobody was able to recognize the songs I was playing.
 

Sketchbook: Make a joyful noise

I had hoped to start off the year on a spiritual high note, but the Sketchbook doesn’t always cooperate. 
 

Surprises

Football bowl games are upon us. And for us, it’s also time to clean out the fridge after the holidays. In both cases there are often surprises — and they’re not always pleasant. 
 

Building up a teaching pool

I started this by imagining what would happen if you tried to baptize a snowman. As his sins washed away, wouldn’t he? Would he make the water in the font too cold? Although in my experience, that seems to be less of an issue. 
 

2024 Countdown: The Top Ten (part 2)

 And now, the rest of the 2024 Top Ten! I've been waiting all year for this!

5. I think many of us feel this at the end of summer break.

4. It doesn't really get bad until it's time for the hump day photo.

3. Its course is one eternal round.

2. This one seemed to resonate with many bishops. MANY bishops.

And now, the No. 1 cartoon for 2024, quite possibly taken from my family history...

That's a wrap for 2024! Thank you for your readership and your support. May you have a blessed and happy New Year!