Doug's Love

When Heaven and Earth Come Togehter

2008-12-21T17:15:00.000-08:00

The distance between the earth and the heavens has always fascinated me. As a boy I could look at the night stars and marvel at their brightness and the distance between me and them. As a fan of Flash Gordon and Superman I often tried to imagine what it was like out there and if there were people, creatures, beings like or unlike me who were looking out from their world through the same stars I was look at wondering similarly if someone else was out there. Somehow I was certain that there was intelligent life beyond the stars. I was certain that someday I too would visit the heavens.

Even now on a clear night on the mountain I love to gaze at the myriads of tiny lights that create the cloud-like haze of the milky way. The frequent interruption of my gaze by a passing jet reminds me even more of how very far they are away. Then I look at the images of Hubble's view of the universe and even though I know it can only see a small fraction in width and depth of what is "out there," I marvel even more at the beauty, the immensity and the majesty of the heavens. What one of us, who in a moment of disconnection from the single dimensional plane of our own existence on the earth, hasn't felt the awe of gazing into the heavens. But, there were some whose heaven gaze on a star-filled night witnessed Earth and Heaven coming together.

That night and those hillside gazers' view would forever put real perspective into the closeness of the heavens and the nearest of its non-fictional residents. As those shepherds witnessed the heavens come to life with the view and voices of that heavenly choir, they understood more about the reality of intelligent life in the heavens than even those who have created and gaze through Hubble. That night, the heavens and the earth came together and their residents marveled together beneath a single shining star at that heavenly traveler who made it possible for each of us to become residents of His heaven if we would, but learn the simple lesson He brought of how to bring heaven to earth.

Now we gather again with families and loved ones across the planet to celebrate and commemorate that most celestial event of over two thousand years ago. And although the commemoration may be lost in the tinsel and the rush, I hope that you and I will find a moment or two to once again gaze into the heavens and remember that He who came is coming again to bring His heaven to earth - soon.

May you and yours have a most blessed week of celebration of His birth, life and love. May each gift that you give and receive be a reminder of those that He has given. And may your view of the new year be filled with thoughts of what gifts you may bring Him in your service, love and labors in His behalf. May you as the shepherds find joy and choirs of heaven in your heart as you feed and care for His sheep.

We have come far. We have far to go. Let us ever enjoy the journey and seek to bring heaven and earth a little closer with the heritage of our eternal family.

Onward and upward

Love Doug

Wasn't It Just Yesterday?

2008-11-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

I sat on the couch near the fireplace with the tiny bundle in my arms. As I peered down into the waking eyes of my newest grandson, Douglas Frederick Cloward I was struck with an overwhelming sense of dejavu. Wasn't it just yesterday that it was Brytt M Cloward's tiny face I was looking down into? Could it possibly be that "just yesterday" was, in reality, nearly 30 years ago.

Then, as families were preparing to leave after a fabulous Thanksgiving gathering and feast, I held a little larger bundle with arms wrapped around my neck as Brynnlee napped snuggled to my chest and again the feeling washed over me, "wasn't it just yesterday" that I held my own firstborn in a similar secure and heart warming sleepy embrace nearly 35 years ago?

It was a wonderful gathering. When Clowards meet they work, cook, eat, laugh and play and work some more. The first work project was to fill the wood bunker so we could keep the firs going and the cabin warm during the cold and windy days of Thanksgiving ahead. And as I watched Kaiden, the oldest grandson orchestrate the the line of grandchildren for the hand-to-hand wood transfer from the outside woodpile, I marveled at his young, yet strong encouragement of the children who struggled under the weight of the fire logs as they passed them along to the the next sibling. And I marveled, "wasn't it just yesterday" that I was at the hospital newborn room window looking in on this tiny first grandson and wondering what would lay ahead for him in years to come - years that seemed then so far off for such a tiny little baby boy.

Then, as nearly three- year-old Kensi presented a log at least 1/3 her weight to me with eyes searching for acknowledgment of her contribution to the process, I remembered that it was just last year that she stood aside and watched the wood passing tradition. Now, she was fully part of it. My praise of her help brought a smile bigger than the log she struggled to carry and I remembered "wasn't it just yesterday" that I struggled under the weight of some load to hand to my father and grandfather to step into the tradition and the heritage that I now carry on.

And now I know that, yes, it was just yesterday and that yesterdays are the birthplace and the the continuence of traditions, values and the birth and the enrollement of new members to the heritage of the family. It is in allowing even our youngest members to play a part in our traditions that enrolls them and initiates them to the values of work and the right of play. It encourages them in the art and the service of food preparation and clean up and gives them the right and the voice in the choice of play and laughter. Yes, yesterdays are soon todays. And 'er we blink, yesterday is tomorrow.

Then the phone rang and the oldest granddaughter's voice seemed to be from just the other room instead of from the other side of the country in Kentucky. And it seemed like it had been too many yesterdays since I hugged her and saw the bright sparkle in the eyes of the young lady she has become all too soon.

Douglas stretched and blinked with eyes looking beyond me. Was it his two-week-old eyes unable to focus, or was he focusing on something or someone beyond, above his grandfather? Brynnlee stirred from her nap on my chest and stretched, her eyes reaching mine with a smile of contentment that melted my heart and held the rest of my world at bay. Kaiden asked to use the soldering iron to fix an electronic connection on a game controller that was beyond my comprehension. Nicolas, Luke and Afton joined Ireland in coaxing for a grandpa's bedtime story, which is always followed up by a special grandpa's mint. It was a great story about the Goolagangi and there were exactly the right number of mints left in the tin for each grandchild. As they slid down off the bed (one of those you need a step stool to get onto) they left me with a newfound impression of my greatest blessings - each of them.

That was just yesterday! I will remember it forever.

I hope your Thanksgiving yesterday was unforgettable and that you remember it as if it were just yesterday, tomorrow. Tomorrows are too soon here and gone. Yesterdays are what we have to keep and to remember, but to make them count, we must see them in today - everyday. Heritage is what they remember about what you remembered and when you remembered them. They will remember what you valued enough to make them a part of -- work, play, prayer and planning.

I am so looking forward to Christmas when they will all once again converge on the Cabin together and again I will participate in the traditions of today's new yesterdays' wood transfers, food preparations, feasts, burpings, naps, stories - eyes and smiles - heritage.

You still have time to plan your yesterdays ahead.

Onward and upward.

Love,
Doug

Newness of Life

2008-11-19T09:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings again!

The second breakout of shingles was painful and the itching was compounded by the itch to see my newest grandson and namesake. Douglas Frederick Cloward was born to Brytt and Jinger last week and I had to stay away until the shingles were past the contagious stage. Ohh! Itch and pain! But finally the time and scabs passed and I saw and held him for the first time last night.

There is something wondrous, wonderful, awesome and healing in the touch of new life. Not that I am biased or anything about my grandkids, they are all very bright and I simply can't get enough of them, this one included. All children have energy of life that is contagious and sometimes overwhelming. Oh if I could just find the formula and bottle it! I can see it now -- life, energy and heritage in a bottle! Oh well, back to the books. That is likely as close to capturing the life, love, energy and renewing power of any life - including our own.

I know a little bit about the thoughts and the process of new life, having come back from the brink a time or two in recent months. Perhaps that is, in a very real sense, what we are all reaching for - a new life. We call it progress.

Don't we all want a better life? Not that the one we have isn't good, or even great, but all of us are working, living and striving for a new, better life for ourselves and for our families. And Heritage Makers are actively passing on the tools to help do just that. How and where we search for that progress is an adventure and a challenge with life altering potential. What we take in from our search can lead to triumph or tragedy. So here are a few thoughts on how, where and what to search for to discover and capture the joy of newness of life.

1- Cherish your own breath. Learn to find joy in simply breathing. Close your eyes and breathe four times thinking what a joy it is to breath unlabored. Fill you lungs and your heart with a feeling of gratitude for the breath of life - your life.

2- Savor the moment. They are numbered, few and priceless, but we often let them pass without savoring what they bring - experience, relationships, opportunity to respond, repent and to bless. Be sure that where you sell and use your moments is worthy of the most priceless gift and asset your have. Too soon you too will come to know that time runs out for everyone -- including you.

3- If you have eyes to see and ears to hear - DO IT! Really see, really hear. Seek sights that inspire, calm and make you feel small - you know the smallness that feels good. Listen for the music of the moment, the sounds of the symphony of life that is playing all around you. Turn up the volume by directing your reception toward the performer to fully appreciate the performance. Even silence is an instrument of powerful accent and soothing transition between the din of din of humanity's trumpets of rush. See, hear, smile and say "ahh" to all the performers and artists - especially the Master of both.

4- Make your own voice a healing balm. How? Sing a lullaby to a newborn or a crying child. Speak kind and understanding words to an agitated teen, complement a co-worker or associate and praise a spouse for the countless acts and works of service they give to you and yours. Your tongue has great power. See that is used for good before you say "Amen."

5- Reach out and touch yourself. Marvel at your own hand. Reach up and stroke your own brow to discover the healing, lifting power and gift that is yours to gather and to give. Then gather and give. Gather strength, flowers and messes, write a love note. Give a handshake, a handout and a hand up. Make sure that yours is the hand that puts cookies in the jar of life.

6- Savor the flavor. Peel and eat an orange over twice the normal time it would take. Marvel at the orange structure, beauty, scent, flavor and the gift it is. Taste this bit of life and savor it more. Then add the savoring skill to other morsels and meals.

7- Give gratitude three times a day to three people who aren't expecting it. Gratitude is the mother of virtues and the father of real joy in life. Recognizing the little contributions to your life and assigning and delivering the reward of your praise and thanks is healing and it is also contagious and compounding.

So friends, family and heritage makers, here is wishing you newness of life, love and business and a most happy and grateful holiday.

Onward and upward.

Love, Doug

Squeeze the Life Out of It

2008-11-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

That's right, squeeze the life out of it -- life!

Greetings friends, family, heritage makers and those of you who stumble onto my ramblings. Yes, I am still here, but have not been at the blog for a while. Why? I guess because I have been squeezing a bit of late. Health-wise I have been battling to get my white counts up (very slow progress over the last month - but progress.) The shingles lesions will create greater compassion, empathy and more efficient scratching. The doctors can't tell me when or even if that will go away. I have tried chili pepper ointment, crushed aspirins in lotion, different anti-depressants (not because I am depressed mind you) and anti-seizure meds and a host of other things. Nothing seems to work as well as my sweetheart's TLC (don't tell her that and I won't tell her if the sting and itch goes away).

Anyway, I am loving the extension and the challenge of my life in health, happiness, business, time and faith. I am learning to squeeze more effectively. One of the great lessons I am learning about squeezing life is that it takes less effort, not more. It takes more pause than busyness. It takes more of serving than being served. And it takes vigilant intentionality to avoid being swept away in the rush of everyone else's busyness, urgency, fear, uncertainty, greed and guilt.

Busyness seems to be produced when we rush to be right about things we may have little or no control over, at least that has been so in my experience. Yep, that is a confession. Urgency is usually, not always, but too often, the result of letting things of a lower priority, but higher desire, rob the priority and time of things of a higher, and usually more lasting priority. Fear is simply the absence, avoidance or the abandonment of faith. Faith is the principle and influence that moves us to action to do right rather than to be right. And it comes from an understanding of and a commitment to a higher power that is able to and willing to secure us in making right decisions and doing right things. That is the basis of righteousness - the quantity and the quality of being correct - in all things.

In these times we are all uncertain of the next shoe to drop and crisis to face. All must turn our heads up to dispel fear and the uncertainty of today's challenges and to find assurance of tomorrow's peace. As we do, we bring that peace and light forward into the present -- for ourselves and others.

Greed is the evidence of faithlessness as well as selfishness. It is evidence that a person feels that they must get as much as they can as fast as they can because there is not enough of it (whatever it is) nor enough time to get it and that only they can, by their device, get it because no one else will see that they get their fair share of it. I have discovered that greed is like dehydrated water. It simply never satisfies thirst. Perhaps that is why we are encouraged to hunger and "thirst" after righteousness. Because as we do, we find it most satisfying, healing and enriching.

Guilt is interesting, mine and yours. I am guilty of so many things, most of which have occurred when I was greedy or fearful or just too darn busy. I have been able to unburden myself from some of those things and I am working to uncover and unload as many more as I can in whatever time I have left. I probably will not get through the list, but perhaps I will yet more fully get out from under the load as I more fully discover and use His yoke. When I do, I breathe more easily and I am less greedy, urgent, uncertain and busy. I have found that it is true - His yoke lightens and lightens my load. I recommend it.

May you too find peace in this season of gratefulness by unburdening your hearts and minds and intentionally determining not to contribute to nor be swept away in the drift of busyness.

Happy Heritage Making and Thanksgiving!

Onward and Upward

Love Doug

Still Here and Loving Every Minute

2008-10-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings!
Yes, it has been too long since my last post. And so many things have occurred. It seems like life is ever changing in challenge, opportunity and priority. So, here is the short of the last five weeks.

Prior to our National Convention, Reunion, in Anaheim, my blood levels were way low and I had to go on daily Nupigen shots to try and boost my white counts up to where I was out of the Neutripenic range (no immunity). As a blessing, the counts came up and I was able to go with Judy and the rest of the HM team to the convention. I was so grateful to see so many of our HM friends there. The meetings and training were great.

When I returned, I went back to the Oncologist. He did a bone marrow biopsy to check for the Lymphoma, assuming that the delay in white cell rebound was due to lingering cancer in the marrow. The results and the PET scan confirmed, at least at that date, that I was in consolidation (clinical remission). Yes, we celebrated, but know that usually the disease revisits within two years or less.

As of Tuesday's check up, the blood levels again had dropped to the bottom, so next week it will be another bone marrow draw and test to see if they can figure anything out. Such is the life of a survivor who is committed to living fully until the job is done. Yep, it's clear to me I need more time, so I will likely be around for a while yet to learn whatever this adventure has to teach me.

We are in the midst of strategic planning for the coming year. It seems we can't finish one event fast enough to start planning and arranging for the next year's (sometimes two years in advance) event.

As for thoughts and insights into life in general, might I just share with each of you how very much I have come to appreciate little things around me and the many acts of interest, concern, love and service of those around me, especially from and with my sweetheart.

Judy has always noticed the sunrises and sunsets and the myriad of God's little gifts of nature and she has tried to get me to take notice. I did, at a glance, but I had not given myself the joy of pausing to savor the sight, gift and moment - with her. That has changed and I hope I can fill the void of so many lost moments of not noticing with noticing more from here out.

Little things like actually sleeping, or sleeping a full night, or a little while without the paining twing of the shingles neuralgia, a glass of water, delivered to me by my loving spouse and daughter are in reality HUGE things. The constant checking on my status, feelings and needs - pampering, makes my life so very sweet and rich. Don't miss the opportunity to give and receive little acts of kindness - they are, in the final analysis of life, are the real jewels we will carry with us, or bemoan our failure to recognize and gather them while we had the chance.

So, where from here? Day-by-day, week-by-week I will strive to recognize the real priorities. Repent and change when errors are called to my attention and pursue with all my vigor and resources the eternal happiness of my family and the success of our business and business associates. It is all a great and grand adventure and I love it all - every bit of it.

So, till next entry or visit I wish you health and happiness.

Onward and upward,

Love Doug

Liberty & Freedom from the Hospital Bed

2008-09-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

The room is perhaps 10x6x20 (hallway). There is a window on the side wall that looks out at the mountain and the helipad. On the wall behind my bed view is a poster picture of a cowboy riding along a high mountain stream, with the title FREEDOM. Any of you who have read one of my favorite books, Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" will appreciate that freedom is a state of mind and that liberty is control of options.

Freedom is the realization that you are free to choose, own and stand accountable for the choices of your mind and whatever actions your liberty, or lack thereof, permit you. Today, my liberty is largely limited to my hospital room again, but the blood counts are looking like tomorrow maybe they will deliver the key with the hard boiled (steamed, nuked, or otherwise lifeless) eggs. Oh what choices are expanded with that soon-to-be re found liberty. Yet, what accountability will come with that new found liberty as well.

So here we have consultants, moms, with a new found liberty of kids back in school and no longer being focused on last minute vacations, soccer and such --- what to do, ummmh? And then we have the president of the company, no longer confined to the bed and the pricks and pokes and pumps and pills and nurses and ----- ummmh, what to do?

Seems we all have some renewed and important choices to make over the next few days because the choices of the next few days seem to set the course and the priorities of those that follow. It seems that moments of choice of change are far more impactful to longer term actions than one might think.

So, what will it be? Let's see -- no movies, TV, Mall hop shopping, novels and restaurants over the past three weeks for me. Maybe I should really celebrate - do those things I haven't been able to do? Or rather, maybe I can run a little faster, speak a little louder and reach a few more ears and hearts with the message and the movement. I guess my choice will rally speak my priority and my priority will speak my passion and my passion will carry my message of priority and purpose and power. I think until the key comes I will seek the freedom and the liberty to speak out to yet another nurse and doctor about what ails their families and the sound cure that is found in heritage. They seem to be honestly interested in my diagnosis and prognosis and several have carried the message beyond the confines of my current liberty. And so shall they (your contacts) carry your message beyond your circle of influence and reach.

I look forward to introducing you to a simple new tool to help you help them to extend the reach of your liberty to inspire, instruct and motivate with your message of heritage. That is coming at Reunion -- a simple tool that will reverberate your message and your liberty, if you will only choose to use it. IT IS COMING.

Onward and Upward

Love
Doug

The Movement has begun - And a Little Child Shall Lead Them - and Us

2008-09-05T17:37:00.000-07:00

It has been oh so long for me to try to work, communicate and convalesce in the hospital, that is until I meet someone so much worse off and here for so much longer. Dear Lord and friends, forgive my impatience and lack of perspective. But oh, it has felt so long since I hugged the grandkids. But then the massive breakout of shingles across my neck, shoulder, back and head are too contagious for the little ones. It seems so long since I had the chance to give one of the Consultant's kids a sucker or treat at my office, let alone a hug for their moms. Thankfully a few call and visit with news and loves and coordination. Thank you for trying to keep me in the company of the business, if not in the office of the company.

Today I must share a powerful and pressing insight that has distilled upon my sleepless hours. I have come to more fully understand that heritage is children and heritage making is first and foremost about our, yours and their children.

I have had some pretty heavy thinking on that subject the last few days/nights. As I measure and value the things and people of my life, I believe that I have come to glimpse, ever more slightly, into what eternity must be, to be as rewarding and wonderful and the Word and the prophets have indicated. I now understand more why the Lord called the children to Him and counseled his disciples to forbid them not. I understand why He declared. "…for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven" and why we must not offend one of them. And how a millstone would not even begin to reward unkindness to the least of them. I see now why I am so driven by the last two verses of the Old Testament and why 2nd Timothy 3: is so chilling to my bones.

Our lives, His life and purpose is found in children, heritage, even "an heritage of the Lord." Oh that I could find the words to convey to each of you how clear this vision of reality is. How I wish that you could feel as I feel the urgency, the necessity and the opportunity to come to the rescue of the children who must face the voices of deceit and anger and half-truths and selfishness and pride and the rhetoric of special interests, politicians and the media. How I wish you could, as I have, had your heart opened to the view of eternity and the precious love He has for each child. How I wish you could see beyond the story to the eternal realities of their real story. How I wish you could hear the call of the Shepherd of the lambs calling for shepherds of the sheep to gather them to the "folds" of the books and posters and cards - with full explanation of their meaning and power and purpose - for heritage, not just stories.

My friends and family and heritage makers, please find your own moments of silence as I have these last few days and find eyes to see, hearts to feel and ears to hear to know ours is a work of saving the children. Teach them why they are special. Help them discover and cherish the values of the past and the family present. Prepare yourself to carry the message of Heritage through the workshops to thousands of moms and dads who already know the value of their little ones and the challenge they must face in the days ahead. Please, please come to understand what it means to be a maker of Heritage and a Heritage Maker.

Please do not lose the chore of the message in the process. Please rally with me in the creation and coordination of the movement and the cause. Don't get lost in the pages and papers. Rather, get immersed in the lives and voices of the movement. Give the message of heritage, heroes, values and strong resilient children to everyone who will give you the opportunity to share the message of the Heritage Workshop and the passion of a heritage conversation. Please -- join me in the confines of my conviction. Please lead them to their heritage.

Onward and Upward
Love, Doug

Life, Death and Heritage in the Balance

2008-09-02T03:52:00.001-07:00

It was a wonderful summer evening. The tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and onions were ripe and ready to be chopped and garnished with fresh cilantro, lime juice and real apple cider vinegar (not the fake stuff). A heavy dash of cumin, some oregano, sea salt and a couple of jalapeños for a little kick. So I chopped and mixed and the famous Cloward family Summer Salsa recipe was prepared and ready for delivery to the widows and friends on the mountain.

It was getting late so our visits Monday evening were quick as the moonlight cast its spell over the lake and season's last hatch of snow flies smashed on the window as we drove back to the lodge. We knew I was at, or near, the bottom of the CHEMO cycle and would likely experience the now all too familiar "drop" in energy and vitality. We just didn't know it would catch me that night with a vengance unlike the previous collapse.

At 10 pm Judy found me chilling and very feverish and I wanted to try to sleep. Sleep for me has become a memory from my prelymphomic night dreams. I was badly in need of rest. However, rest was the last thing on the agenda that Monday night. The night was long and I was far from the hospital when at 4:30 AM I finally got up one more time to get to the bathroom. This time, however, like the parking lot at the office after the last CHEMO cycle, I collapsed. Judy heard me hit the floor and was at my side in a flash. Luckily, John, one of our two not-so-near neighbors, was on the mountain and had his cell phone on. He was quick to get to us to assist Judy in getting me to the car. I didn't remember the ride down the mountain being so long before.

At the emergency room in Provo they again found my blood pressure at 70/30 and suspected with the 103+º temperature meant that we were dealing with a sepsis blood situation due to the absence of the white cells. They put me in ICU and started pumping fluid and antibiotics. I was was in pretty bad shape.

It has been a most difficult week since that flight down the mountain. But, as with all challenge, pain, difficulty and struggle, there has been growth and goodness, faith and friendship and blessing sufficient to the test. Thank you, thank you - please keep the prayers coming. I am off the mountain, but a long way from out of the woods.

The week was oh, so long. As I lay in the hospital bed and watched the coming and going of the life-flight choppers over the long holiday weekend, I was again pained to realize how many others were being called upon to suffer and die in accidents and traffic tragedies. The weekend traffic was heavy and the storms were fierce for so early in the fall. As I looked out at the mountain, the pale of the moon on the aspens from last Monday night's flight had changed to the pale of a new dusting of snow. Oh how I am so not ready for the summer to be past and my labors unfinished.

There is wood and coal to haul, chop and stack. There is staining for the logs and a bit of cement work that has been waiting since spring. And there is the proverbial cleaning of the lodge of the dust and growth of summer which has passed largely with me away from my mountain retreat. Alas, time, summer and life waits on none of us, lymphoma or not. It will all either get finished somehow, or it will wait. Today it will wait.

I am confined to the hospital until my

white cell and neutraphil counts rebound. That could be yet days, maybe weeks. So I continue to work from the bed and cell phone and hope and pray that things will resolve for me to be with each of you at the Reunion Convention - again, prayers please.

As the gurneys shuttled back and forth from the ambulance and the choppers, I couldn't help ponder the lives represented and touched by those on and at the side of the victims. How had they lived? What were their priorities? How had they spent their day, weekend, summer, life, love, passion, service, priorities and values - so far, or totally?

Each of us live in the shadow of the unknown. This allows us to freely choose how and on what we will spend our lives. It allows us the freedom and the agency to determine the "most" important things. For some of us it is "things," for others it is "people" and for some of us it is "cause." For the best of us it is a good balance of each, such that we are not left wishing and wondering when we are called from, or to the mountains of our lives. Balance is tricky business because a choice to focus on one aspect of living is also a choice to not spend it on another. The key is knowing, rather, choosing on what to focus on, when. It seems to me that it is a matter of seasons.

If we are in harmony with the seasons of our day, year and life, we will experience the least regret, loss and disappointment. If we "render" to God, children, spouse, health and work, that focus and time that rightfully belongs to them -- "their" seasons with us, we, while still having wood to chop, will not be so burdened by its constant call to spend our hours, days and summers.

We have just completed a season of summer, with kids and vacations, goings and comings and now back to school. For most Heritage Makers, this has been a season of putting the cause of heritage on back burners, or at least on simmer. It has been necessary while we have tended to the balance of the season of heritage we are both making and protecting. Now, however, the season has changed. It is time for heritage makers, particularly leaders, to rebalance and focus on the business and the "cause."

We have seen a drop in the attendance on Leader Calls and Sr. Leader calls over the summer as the balancing act has taken its toll on time and business priorities. And there are those of you who are not able to connect in at the time of the call, due to work. But now we issue a clarion call to each of our Heritage Makers consultants and leaders. Now is the time to shift and prepare for September, Reunion, fall selling, workshops and your clients and teams.

Important announcements are being made on the Leader call today. If you are qualified, please do not miss the call. If you are not yet a Director, please get with your Director after the call for details and then, please stretch and become an HM Director. We need you. The cause needs you and there is growth and excitement in the days ahead that you will not want to miss. Now is the season for "Fall Selling Salsa" and we have a great recipe for you. Things are about to get really "hot" and we don't want you to miss out on a single bite of the new taste of heritage in the making.

Leaders, today we will be discussing the Leadership Principle of Life and Death. I believe it will help to move you into the new month, season and mindset. I look forward to sharing some impressions from my bedside with you. Please be there.

Onward and Upward

Love Doug

Now is the Time - Your Time - You, yes you, are in my thoughts today

2008-08-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings! Of all the many things that are racing through my mind, life and heart that I could share today, I am moved to write about you. You? Yes, you. You who have had the interest in me and my thoughts to log in, this posting is for you--whether you are a member of my family, my heritage family or someone I have not yet had the great privilege to meet.

If you are reading this blog, this post is because my thoughts were on you. Many of you I know by name and by heart, others by reputation and comment, but all of you I know by your interest, faith and good will to me, my family and our shared vision of creating and supporting heritage makers in the homes throughout the world. You are likely here, reading this posting, because we share a mission of strengthening families and homes through the power of the stories of the events, traditions, values and heroes that make up their heritage.

Knowing this about you gives me the right and perhaps the responsibility to declare that this blog is for you. While I don't know if that is one or one hundred, I hope and pray that these thoughts will strengthen our connection and your resolve to the service and work of heritage making in your own family, team and community.

In these days of growing uncertainty in the world with so many voices and so many unsettling possibilities, there are likely many storms on the horizon. These are the days that challenge and try the hearts of men and women, moms and dads. These are the days we instinctfully search the horizon for safe haven from the storms. There are few constants that we can look to to find anchorage and safe harboring for our families. But there are safe harbors and safe principles and there are communities of refuge and there are paths of safety and there are leaders who know and can guide you on those paths. It is a gentle reminder of what, where and who these constants, harbors, principles, communities, paths and leaders are that I make the subject of my post to YOU today.

First, the constants I know are even firm and true and upon which we can tether our life and confidence in weathering the storms - well and secure. The first constant is that God lives and is a loving and understanding Father who knows you and me, His children and is powerful to save us and guide us when we turn to Him. This I know is true - He is constant and dependable. Next, His son, our Savior, is real. He lives and He knows the end from the beginning and is certain of the times and the challenges of our lives - your life, your family, your trials and your hopes and needs. He is there and He is approachable to all who will, in simple faith, believe that He is. We can speak to and with Him and He will answer in calming assurance and peace and will direct us specifically through His word (the scriptures and the Holy Spirit's promptings). This I know and testify is true - it is true.

Although it seems that the world is on a reckless runaway course with crazy people in powerful positions doing selfish, sinful, unthinkable things, yet HE, the God and Father of us all, is in perfect control knowing the beginning from the end. While He allows all men their agency and power in the day of their glory, yet in and through it all, He works His perfect work of bringing those who will come unto Him to ultimate safety, security, peace and happiness. Be assured by this man's testimony that this is true. He is the anchor you can rest fully assured for safety from the storms that He has warned us must come.

I also know that He is moving, not hiding, not resting, not waiting; He is moving in His preparations for His return to draw men, women, families to Him. Those who are not blinded by the craftiness of men and media and dogma and selfishness can see His hand and His people and His voice through His word and His servants as He keeps His promises to restore all things and complete every jot and tittle His prophets have spoken. This I know with absolute confidence. We are where we are in the history of His great plan of life for His children at a most wonderful, exciting and challenging time. We are so blessed to live in the here and now.

Though we each struggle under the burdens of our own heavy loads and trials, yet the blessing of living here and now with the blessings of knowing He lives and loves and is coming is incredible. Let us never loose sight of that fact, knowledge and comfort. Though we may momentarily take our eyes off of Him and the plan of happiness He has given us, yet we must remember where and how to turn back to Him in a moments notice when we need to set our anchor.

Now, as to safe principles - I have found that there are several critically important principles that will increase our sense of security, support and peace, especially during the trying times ahead. The first principle is that of obedience to eternal law. Eternal laws are the truths upon which the universe operates. They are constants and obedience to them will render absolute predictable results. The harvest of the results can sometimes vary, but the harvest is sure. These laws include the law of the harvest itself. That is, we will reap what we sow. That is, all seed returns to the sower pressed down and running over. Therefore, we should sow only good seed, the seeds that we want to be returned to us. Seeds of faith and trust, seeds of forgiveness and love, seeds of patience and forbearance, seeds of integrity and truth. IT is such a simple principle, but what a difference it makes in life generally and so importantly as we move into times of more uncertainty.

Another principle is the principle of work. The laborer is worthy of his hire when he/she works. This, too, is connected to the principle of the harvest. Eternity keeps a perfect balance and all accounts come due and are paid in full measure to the merit of the labor performed. We have all seen people who think that they are working, but in close review we discover they are more often "talking" about working rather than really working. In terms of payment for talk, well you know the saying "talk is cheap" and so is its reward. Those who will be most secure during the coming challenges are those who know what to do, how to do it and then go to it and WORK. If you are going to talk, make sure you are talking about the joy of the work and its rewards and the security it produces, but don't just talk about it - WORK.

Another vital principle is the principle of self-reliance and frugality. We are living in a time when so many seem to think he or she needs to respond to every marketing ploy to buy and have all the cars, toys, clothes and things that life can offer. So many couples succumb to the enticings of debt-burdened homes, furnishings and trappings, they feel that they "deserve" the good life, even if they can't pay for it yet. They extend themselves far beyond reasonable ability to repay the leverage on their paycheck and credit cards. These chickens are even now coming home to roost and are finding that the roost is ruined and so are the lives of families who have violated the principle or prudent self-reliance. Debt is a merciless taskmaster. He can and will pull you from any safe harbor and from the grasp of all security. Get out and stay out of debt is the message and principle we should speak, live and bake into our heritage.

Another principle upon which we can build our trust is the principle of enduring to the end. We see so many who put their hands to the plow - the plow of commitments, relationships, contracts, marriage and yes, consultantships, only to let go prematurely, before the job is done or the goal achieved or the book published, or the child raised, or the life and love matured and rewarded. Yet we also see the more rare, but inspiring examples of those who know and trust this principle and receive the rewards of success, happiness and power. I would hope and pray that every reader of this posting would evaluate their willingness to make and keep commitments, that they will endure to the end and receive the reward of their hopes and goals. By enduring to the end, you will bring your family with confidence into safe harbor. Chart your course, tell them where you are going and then stay on course, at the helm. Make and keep your commitments -- endure to the end.

The safe communities that you can be a part of during the troubling times are those who share your heritage, your family, church and your Heritage Makers team. Those like-minded and committed people with whom you associate can be communities of refuge and will strengthen your foundations and resolve to not only weather the storm, but to fully ride it out, to harness its furry to your advantage and success. Your association, conversation and shared convictions are what make the walls of the community strong and secure. They are the people and the places where you can rest assured that you are supported and secure. Build and expand the communities of your heritage.

As for the paths that lead to security in troubled times - they do exist. Interestingly, the path of direct selling has long been found to be a path leading to solution to the tight and troubled times of previous economic downturns. Why? Two reasons. First, people stop overbuying the more frivolous big things that create debt because they have less discretionary money to spend, but they are willing to spend it on more meaningful significant investments at lower costs. Heritage Makers products and services are a perfect fit to people looking for simple joy and value in times of tighter wallets.

Second, in tight times more people consider the opportunities for extra income to ease the budget and to restore a little more discretionary spending ability. Tight times also change careers with layoffs, downturns and slowdowns. There are more who are looking for options to the uncertainty of the time clock, the boss, the economy and who are considering a new need to enter the workplace. The realities of the Heritage Makers no previous experience, time flexibility, home-based work place, no inventory to invest in or manage, a simple you-do, you-get reward system that is predictable and virtually unlimited all shine brightly in contrast to the help wanted listings and options. Tough times are the beginning of good times for direct selling companies that offer real solutions and values to end consumers and who are looking for feel good, wise investments in things that matter and opportunities that open doors of possibilities. That is, if they know where these paths are, if there is someone to lead them to the path. This brings us to the issue of leaders.

These are indeed the times that try mens souls and they are the times that make real leaders. These are the times when the wise and prudent men and women see opportunity, not adversity. They see exciting openings in possibilities that can accelerate their success. They truly see that from the tough times come the great times. For those who are watchful, fearless and faithful, apply the principles and the promises that define and make leaders. These are the days that will make YOU, my friend and reader, the leader I know you know you can and should be. These are the days when all eyes are on you to see what trail you will walk through the storm, what principles you will live by, what faith in the reality of the ultimate plan of life you adhere to and testify of in how you live, love and serve in your family, your community and your heritage team.

NOW, not tomorrow, not next week or month or year, NOW they are looking to YOU. What you do today, in August, September and through the Fall will be vital to your success. As the shoes of our time continue to drop and the uncertainty of the world, its politics, its wars, its economy and its selfishness continue to pound the TV, the papers and the communication, people will be looking for answers. Now is when your words, voice, actions and commitment to things that really matter and your message of heritage in the making and Heritage Makers will make the difference for many who are watching you and waiting for you to speak out. Now is the time for you to unveil and unleash your passion, faith and trust in your commitment to being a Heritage Maker in your home and your community. Now is the time to step into real leadership.

These are the thoughts of my heart for YOU who have come to know and read them. I know, more than I may be able to convey, that now is the time, YOUR TIME.

Onward and upward,
Love Doug

The Message creates the Membership, the Membership drives the Movement

2008-08-08T16:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

On Wednesday we had a small group of leaders gathered at the office to work on the Workshop flow and Que Cards we will be introducing at Reunion. We had a great morning of challenging dialog and wordsmithing the framework for the "official" message of the HM story for new clients. . At noon while the team had lunch in the conference room I slipped into my office to lie down for a bit (I was at the bottom of the chemo cycle and needed a little rest). I laid down on the floor under the air conditioner and got chilled. I then went out to the parking lot to the car to sit and warm back up. Bryndi went out with me.

Something in the combination of the cold and heat and the chem cycle's low blood count triggered a sudden rapid drop in blood pressure and as I was trying to get out of the car I collapsed. Bryndi caught my fall to the pavement and went in for help. I was not out very long but unfortunately it was long enough for the leaders to gather and get a look at a fallen president.

Brytt and Marshyl gave me a priesthood blessing while I was still out and they got me home. They called Judy who drove down from the Lodge. She checked my temperature which was over the limit that signals potential infection in the chemo process. So I made the trek back to the hospital. They found my blood pressure was extremely low and they were concerned about illness and infection, so they put me in ICU. They cut in a central line, IV, and direct artery pressure monitor. They dumped a lot of fluid in me and I was feeling chipper and wanting to get back to work the next day.

But my white count and a couple of heart-stopping and self-restarted flutters kept me in ICU another day and then the low white cell count kept me yet another day. I feel great and motivated to get on with the work and life of heritage making and heritage makers. I fully expect to be released tomorrow. Besides that, I think that the hospital is considering charging me office space because I am always on the computer, cell phone and visiting/working with my HM visitors. There is still so much to do to get the vision, mission and methods planted in the hearts of our people - and yours.

As with the former time out in the hospital, aside from just moving my office here, there have been some pause moments for reflection, prioritizing, a lot of prayer and vision time. I have come to know that vision is the flow of thoughts and insight that is directed and connected by divine influence when one is seeking for and open to it. In other words, ASK ing for it. That is Ask, Seek and Knock ing. When I "ask" for answers, I usually find them in the scriptures. When I "seek" understanding, I find it their (scripture's) principled teachings and when I "knock" for application, I find that it opened, unlocked to my understanding, in His words - spirit. Thus, my vision becomes more clear and more timely to the needs of my life and the business as I make the time to ASK and am willing to accept His gifts and simple directions.

Some may be offended at the suggestion that I firmly believe that He is in the details of my life and our business. Make no mistake, His business is not ours. His is saving souls and bringing to pass their eternal life. Ours is helping mothers, and fathers, who will take the time, to proactively build a heritage of values, traditions, heroes and relationships that will carve their priorities, attitudes and ultimately choices -choices that are in harmony with those wholesome, contributive values and traditions. We help them build heritage fences that can keep their good things in and the bad things out of the lives of their children.

Sometimes in the "mechanism" of the business and the magic of the storybooking process we can put the cart before the horse and the process ahead of the purpose. Even the most Sr. Consultants and staff find themselves in this battle of vision/priority definition and messaging.
It was actually in the energy of this conversation that we were working on for the new workshop flow before I collapsed in the parking lot on Wednesday. It seems impossible that it can happen that we can get the story of Heritage Makers turned around to something that might better be titled "Storymakers."

So once again, I lay the vision before you, with the historical details of the convergence of people and preparation that has combined together both the vision (purpose) and the mission (process), which I sometimes refer to as the the cause and the crusade of the business.

Heritage Makers is a business that seeks to help families build, create, and share their heritage. That is the vision and core of our message and at least 10% of the story (time) and 90% of the impact (buy-in and buying rational). We complete this vision by implementing our mission of storybooking the events, relationships, values and heroes of the family. This makes up 60-70% of the story, our message, explanation and time.

How we achieve the mission is through our independent direct salesforce of consultants who bring mothers, fathers and families the message of heritage making - the why (vision) 10% and the how (Mission) 60%. The message of the business and service opportunity is the remaining 20-30% of the message.

If we get the message sequence or balance wrong, we miss the mark and success eludes us and the movement of heritage and Heritage Makers slows. For the most part we have been putting too much time in the how and what of storybooking (less than effective time) because of the complexity of the process and the tendency to add too many embellishing discussions, we can dilute the message and over extend the celebration time and complexity. We then put far to little time into the business message of opportunity for profit and sevice sponsoring. The result of not having the message right and tight has been slower than desired growth, progress, consultant career advancement progress and profit.

The vision of heritage, our purpose is understood quickly and mostly intuitively with the mention of some simple key concepts and words - heritage, traditions, heroes, family, traditions and values. Woven together the message of heritage, the why of our what we do, is clear. Simply holding a picture and a storybook up before a prospective client/consultant while making this heritage making vision statement is self evident and needs only a few carefully crafted and passionately articulated sentences and personal testimony. This can be guided and prompted with a few bullets on a single Cue Card. The bullets references a script (The Heritage Makers Message). Done effectively, the prospect "GETS IT" - quick. Not done well, the prospect does not get the impact and significance "priority" of why, why it is worth it and why now.

The mission, the how we do it, storybooking can also be simplified into an explanation with key concepts and triggering words. Then followed with an effective video presentation of how Studio works the mision message is exciting and compelling. This is best done with a TV showing the DVD that gives the prospect a quick, but thorough overview of the process. Done right the explanation and video can take as little as 20-30 minutes. This part of the message gives then the "BIG PICTURE" of the process and the understanding that - yes, they can do it and that it is fun and easy.

The sequence of the "How" message is simple pictures, to stories, to storybooks, to studio.

This leads right into the membership discussion and on into product package options (Studio and publishing). The idea of membership is not understood by most of our consultants or clients. Our "members" become such when they determine to become a heritage maker for their family, not when they choose a product or choose Studio basic or premier. In essence, when they hear the clear message of heritage making and buy into the idea of their ability to create and perpetuated their family heritage, story, they are a heritage maker. Yes, even before they become a client, they can be a member of your heritage making group. They should be invited to your monthly personal Digi Crops or your team's weekly Digi Crops, as new members of your heritage makers group.

There is much more to discuss about the Workshop structure and Cue Card and DVD tools that will have to wait until Reunion for the full explanation. This will be a very important simplification of the message process. We owe much to the efforts of Wendy McGee, Mary Hansen, Hallie Redd, Heidi Arave, Lena Fleming and Virginia Dixon in the work of helping to forge the message. Much is still needed to get this "cookie cutter" duplicatable message accepted, learned and implemented as our standard for the story of heritage makers -- the message of our business, the invitation to our membership and the progress of our movement.

This is the formula for our success: The message (words) and workshops drive the membership (mission- clients and sales). The membership (new heritage makers) drive the movement (vision-growth, progress, branding and recognition) success.

Again, the message drives the membership, the membership drives the movement, and the movement is our success.

It all starts with getting the message right, and tight (simple and short) with a "little" personalization and minimal customization. This will be the task and the trial of leaders to do it and teach "the HM way" not "their way," good as their way may be. To unlearn and relearn and implement the simple messaging system of the business is, with the introduction of the template system, the best shot we have for faster growth in membership and the movement - growth and profit.

Remember, the message creates the membership and the membership creates the movement.
Lets start now in getting the message right and tight - clear and simple. You might want to get a message to your members to read this blog post - now. Comments are welcome.

Onward and Upward

Love Doug

Residual Effects - the secret of heritage and healing

2008-07-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

The fourth round of chemo has come and now nearly gone it was a bit tougher to recover from this one. I am discovering, somewhat painfully, that there is indeed a thing called residual effects associated with the chemo process. This and next round brings us to a decision point of a stem cell transfer, or a Rituxan maintenance regime, or/and other and continued alternative therapies and lifestyle changes. We will be doing more research and consulting on these options over the next three weeks. But for now, life is good, so good and I count my blessings daily for life, love, faith, family and you who take an interest in our heritage in the making. I have had some insights that may help you in your own heritage and healing.

We had a wonderful family reunion at the lodge this month. The whole family gathered and celebrated with the traditions we have come to love and a review of the values we share and cherish. We rode the ATVs over the top of the mountain on the Skyline Drive. We took in the panorama of beauty and inspiration of the vibrantly colored wild flowers, breathed deeply the crisp morning mountain air of nearly 10,000 feet. And we drank in the cold spring waters and near intoxicating fragrance of the horehound hillside that surrounds the Sheepherder's potty.

Then on the boat we skimmed across the reservoir to our favorite fishing spot and listened to the grandchildren (and their parents) scream with delight as the big trout challenged their patience and then skills. The pictures will only verify the size and the memories long after the grill goes cold and the last morsel of lemon-peppered fillet is forgotten.

But, when the Cloward's meet, they eat! And we had some great feasts that always begin and end with all the family members working together creatively and joyfully in the kitchen and around the campfire. But the kitchen was not the only place we found joy in working together. At the lodge there is always work and projects. It is a never ending project to build and live in a log home in the wilds where nature and the elements combine and are largely left to decorate and landscape. So, there was wood to move, cut and haul. And there were weeds to pull and flowers to gather. For the grandkids, the rewards are ATV riding time, treasure hunts interspersed with grandpa's heritage stories about near-death miracles -- getting shot, crushed by a tractor roll-over, nearly drowned (twice), frozen to death and now the mysteries, magic and miracles of mantle cell lymphoma. The clues and the surprises (complements of Krysti) were great rewards of the adventure of the treasure hunt. But the deepening of family ties and the stories of struggle, prayer and faith, will long outlive the toys and goodies.

Family Reunions are always heritage in both the making and the celebrating. This year's gathering, however, added a new challenge and opportunity for growth, understanding and deepening of understanding and the ties that bind us together. It was a powerful lesson in another kind of "residual effects."

In our late night adult discussions with the siblings, we discovered that there had been holes in our vision, understanding and parenting over the years that had left some members of the family with some unprocessed, painful, memories, questions and misunderstandings. In pulling those bits of heritage past from the attic and clearing the dust and refocusing on the images, we were able to work through the meaning of the memories. Reopening old wounds can be both painful and healing. The pain comes to both the injured and to the offender. The healing comes from the understanding , acknowledgment, forgiveness and increased love from both. Hindsight can reveal both reality and misperception. It can reveal what was not understood, intended, or even real.

Once these "out-of-focus" or missed memories are revisited, the clarification and re-focusing can give new understanding, clarification of significance and meaning. While unintended injuries cannot be undone, the "lancing" and "venting" under the spirit of trust and love can provide needed healing and new depth to security of the relationships.

The "aha" of the process for me was the realization that heritage, that which occurred in the past and which we carry forward, can be the product of misunderstanding, or misinterpretation. More importantly, it can be "re-interpreted" correctly, or where necessary, its residual effects can be resolved and even changed from negative to positive, pain to joy, from limitation to empowerment. The residual effect of what was done, or not, done to meet the needs or build the heritage in the past can be the basis for building a stronger, positive heritage in the present and a more rich family legacy for the future.

I recommend that if you discover or suspect that children, siblings or parents have memories that may be having residual negative, or simply lack of positive effect in your heritage, that you counsel together in the spirit of strengthening your relationships, understanding, forgiveness and love. You surely may use the Cloward story of discovery, pain and healing as a reason to consider, examine and process the residual effects of your own family's past for potential strengthening of your family heritage. After all, its all a matter of the story and our understanding and interpretation of it anyway. So, don't hesitate to rewrite the meaning of your past for a better ending of your story. You to can use the power growing and healing from the residual effects of the journey of heritage making.

Onward and Upward,

Love Doug

Because Freedom Isn't Free

2008-07-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

It is the season of parades, fireworks, family picnic, a three-day weekend and great sales for local merchants. And what is the reason for the season? Oh yes, it is the 4th of July.

I’ll bet that your family, like my family, made the priority to gather and feast and celebrate. But what will we celebrate, besides being together? Did we take the time to remind our children and grandchildren of the great inspired founding fathers struggle to birth this nation of freedoms they so much wanted and that we may take so much for granted? Did we remind them of our love and loyalty to our great nation. Did we build their understanding of the heavy price our ancestors paid and that our military continue to pay for the luxury for us to sleep at night unafraid and safe. In our celebrating, did we enumerate and celebrate each of the grand freedoms of the the bill of rights? Did we celebrate and build upon their understanding of their national heritage? Did we remember and celebrate the reason for the season?

As I sat with my children and grandchildren around the campfire and sang the songs of patriotism and freedom, I remembered. As we expressed our love of country and prayed for the the safety and welfare of those who are not with their families this 4th of July, I was reminded. We, Heritage Makers, have a grand and important role to play in preserving our nation’s heritage – one family at a time, starting with our own. With so much media focus on what is wrong with government, I wonder if we see in the mirror of reality that what is wrong with America is centered in the homes of Americans, not in the seat of government. I fear that parents grumping and lack of grateful comment on being an American largely has caused the loss of the strength of our country – the faith and commitment of its citizens. It is so easy to place the blame on politicians for fading freedoms, that we forget who put them there and sustains them, or not. Do our children know how we feel about our country? What do they know? The answer is what they hear us say day-to-day and what we share with them heart–to-heart, and bedtime story-to-story.

What storybook have we written and read to our children and grandchildren that defines what it means to be an American, or Canadian? Have we done enough to celebrate the sacrifices of service of our grandparents and great grandparents in the military and wars of the past and of fathers, brothers, uncles, friends and countrymen who serve now?

Do we realize the power, the priority and the principle of our national heritage? And do we realize the price we will pay if we fail to remember and build a national heritage within the weave of our family heritage? We must realize and remember--that which we fail to remember and to celebrate--soon fades. Freedom without celebration is patriotism lost. Children without celebration of national heritage are patriots lost.

This is a year of deciding and setting the stage for so much serious consequence for our future, Americans and Canadians - families. No, I am not referring to the coming political jostling and rhetoric we will be bombarded with over the next several months. I am referring to this being the year that all heritage makers place their votes for the freedom and the national heritage in the voting box of the minds of our children.

We can campaign and vote for freedom with storybooks and celebrations that focus our children and families on the principles and the values that make our families and our nation great. Let us teach them, with the tremendous power of our stories, about the real strength of a, our nation. Lets teach them the principles of freedom and the responsibilities of free men and women. Let teach them throughout the remainder of the election process as it sets the stage for meaningful conversations and family discussions about why we support who we support and about why and how we vote for the candidates whom we feel will best represent our principles and freedoms.

Please, let's be freedom makers, as well as heritage makers. Perhaps we should begin by considering that it is one of our greatest freedoms to be able to be heritage makers. Let us not forget, that we might not lose by neglect or apathy. Rather, let's become known for the contribution we are to freedom, patriotism and strong families who carry the pledge and the flag proudly and responsibly and who have effectively integrated nation and family heritage.

Onward and upward.

Love,
Doug

A Leadership Makeover

2008-06-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long delay in posts, but as they say, life flies on wings of lightning. So it has been this last week. We had the privilege of spending the first half of the week with new HM Executive Director Virginia Dixon and her family. We rode the ATVs, fished the lake, shot clay pigeons and black powder and cooked, ate, cleaned, played and prayed together on the mountain and created a lasting legacy of friendship with the Dixon family. What a wonderful way of getting to know and appreciate our leaders and their families. It was especially great to get to know Ray better and to feel his love and leadership of his family. Thanks Caleb, Jordan, and Morgan for joining your mom for the celebration of her HM success and spending time with the Clowards at Aspen Lodge. We loved getting to know and love you more.

On Thursday we traveled to Park City for the Sr. Leader Round Table and Leadership Conference. We were at the the new New Park Hotel and the facility and comradery were great. The discussions insightful and energizing. The leadership training was invaluable and the friendships and networking supercharging for the business. We look forward to more of you attending with us at Reunion in September and at next year's Leadership Conference.

The most important information of the Conference focused on the shift from Heritage Celebrations to Heritage Workshops. Thanks to Wendy McGee, Hallie Redd, Heidi Arave and Mary Hansen for their roles in developing the new Workshop format and for the presentation to help Leaders get the vision of how we will move forward with the goal of every attendee becoming a heritage maker, not just a story keeper. We will continue to pilot this exciting shift in the way we present HM and will have Workshop Kits ready for Reunion. In the meantime we encourage all consultants to get with your upline leader to get the picture and start the transition of how we explain and teach heritage making in a workshop format.

The basic focus is a sequence of simple discussions and interactions with a small group (six) participants (not guests). The sequence is -- photos, stories, scanning, heritage, studio (new demo DVD is coming), premier, membership, packages, opportunities (workshop hosting, scanning and consultancies). As we get our entire consultant organization using the system and the simple scripts that will come on cue cards in the Workshop Kit it, we will "cookie cutter" the business so that it is simple and duplicative for all our new people. This will truly position us to move into momentum growth this fall and on into the next year.

It was an intense training and development event, but it wasn't all work. After all, it was a Leadership Makeover. There were the professional massages at check in, the spa products in the rooms, the Jacuzzi tubs on every balcony, the Alpine Slide after the ski lift to the top of Park City mountain. But the absolute best was just being together again with the other HM Directors and Sr. Leaders from across the country. To sum up the experience, we were truly --- inspired, instructed and motivated. Please get with you upline Leader to get more of the details about her Leadership Makeover and what she has brought back for you.

The next post will come after a bit of R & R on the mountain preparing for the next round of chemo and contemplating some tough decisions we must make about my treatment and life going forward. Until then,

Onward and upward

Love Doug

Binding Families Together

2008-06-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

I had a few tough days this round, but am up and running toward our HM Leaders Conference and our second Executive Family Retreat with Virginia Dixon's family at the lodge this weekend. Life is good and the adventure continues.

As we have developed the HM venture, we have struggled a bit to get clarity of the vision, mission, values and the message of the business. I am not talking out of school to share with you what has been a learning experience for many in this forging of a common vision and articulation of what our business is. I trust that this confession and explanation will shed light and help to clarify who, what and why we now declare we are as Heritage Makers - the company. For family and friends not associated with our business, I hope that you will find, that since my life is so fully entwined in our business that this is my, life journey and purpose for whatever days remain and thereby may be of interest to you as well.

This is the story of our story. It all started, really, with the creation of a concept word called storybooking, the process of creating a scrapbook with more focus on the story behind the pictures and the art, than the art itself. The new concept storybook was also to be a hard bound book, rather than an album of pages and pictures in a binder, the traditional scrapbook approach.

The authors of this novel new approach to capturing important life information in a storybook were Candace May and mother, Sharon Murdoch. This was their concept and they paid dearly to develop the idea into a real product service and eventually a business called "My Family Tales." They were joined in the crusade, to launch the fledgling business, by three other equally committed people who have ownership in the birthing of the storybooking venture. They included Christine Crandall, Heidi Arave and Lisa Nelson. There were others who made contributions including Mary Strand who put financial support behind the new business.

This history and the people of the storybooking concept and My Family Tales in the early 2000's set the foundations for what has become Heritage Makers. Their vision and mission statement was to "put a storybook in every home" for the purpose of creating real life heroes for the readers, usually children and the heroes were often the authors. Their ground breaking work was a vital preparatory part of the eventual creation of Heritage Makers business. From that first storybook for a beloved grandpa, a book that made him a real life hero for his posterity, we now have hundreds of thousands of storybooks, author's, heroes and children who understand, relate to and continue the legacy of their heroes, traditions, values and heritage.

As we moved the storybooking concept, product, people and business into the direct selling system, we did so with the focus of using the heritage enriching power of peoples' stories to the purpose, or vision, of strengthening home and family through those stories' ability to capture, preserve and celebrate family heroes and heritage. In a sense, the story became the means to the ulterior end, or motive, of strengthening the family and clarifying and celebrating the family heritage.

We have now grown our business and extended the storybooking process to a much wider audience. With the growth has come the need to clarify the Heritage Makers message and make it more succinct and duplicable. There have been many discussions around this subject. Some of those discussions have sought to broaden the vision, mission and business concepts, but we continue to come back to the foundations of story, family and heritage. Heritage Makers is a family centric message, business and mission.

So, who are we - Heritage Makers? What are we? What are we about? And how do we tell our story - clearly, concisely with a reverberating sameness that creates a resonance and conversation that can carry us into the homes and hearts of those who have not yet heard our name nor our story?

For the record, Heritage Makers is about family heritage. And heritage is captured and transfered though the medium of the family's stories, even when it is about individuals' stories.
In one sense we are a business of "family life publishing." We publish books about family life.
In is simplest terms, Heritage Makers is binding families together through the power of their own stories.

As we move forward to further clarify and script the HM story we will continue to focus on families and values and traditions and the incredible opportunity to be both an author and a teacher of the storybooking process.

This is why our passion is so focused on remembering the stories and the heroes and values they pass on and perpetuate. In the months ahead, our leaders will be focusing and sharpening their story-telling skills on a standardized approach to the Heritage Makers message, our story. The better we become at telling our story with that consistency, the more powerful our message and branding will become. We invite all of our community members to be ready to learn and share the story and message of heritage making.

Onward and Upward

Love Doug

Thoughts after Round 3, in Time for Fathers Day

2008-06-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

Thursday brought chemo round #3. The result and pattern seem to be following very close to Round 2. No problem the first 24 hours after the start of the drip, then a noticeable drop in energy, a little nausea and tiredness for the next 24 hours. The metal mouth, low grade headache and general weakness are manageable. The biggest challenge for me seems to be with the frustration of not being able to move forward at the pace I am accustomed to working. None of us like to have things stand in the way of our progress. Or is what stands in our way the very experience and tool needed for us to progress? Are my current limitations really the portal to my success?

While the good Lord has given us the marvelous gift of agency, the power and the right to choose, I have discovered that He has a way of giving us the life circumstances that, in large measure, control the range of our choices, by putting us in our own "ballparks" that limit and focus those choices to limited options. Those limitations, in large measure, determine the "pitches" we will get to swing at. Where, when and with whom, we live in the world determines our range of possibilities and sets the "bounds of our game and choices."

In his infinite understanding of each of our individual needs for experienced-based development, he has ordered our lives to provide the challenges that will focus our attention and limit our choices to things most important for our happiness. If we will but trust Him and obey, when we ask for His direction He will not leave us comfort less, nor without understanding and counsel. He coaches us through the voice of His spirit, to use our freedom to choose to our best possible advantage. I am clear that His work and His glory is our eternal Happiness.

Think about it. These are great gifts -- the world, family life, health, challenges, freedom to choose and His beloved Son to cover our choices when we mess up choices that would otherwise separate us from Him, eternally. His plan and His love are perfect for each of us - if we will accept them and Him as He has directed.

He is our loving Father in Heaven. There is a verse in Hebrews that is filled with principle and practice regarding this truth it gives all of us much to think about on Fathers Day.
It is loaded with insight and raises questions that can help us make the important choices in our lives.

Hebrews 12:9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

Another favorite scripture about our relationship to our Heavenly Father gives me hope of becoming more like Him as I follow His counsel.

1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Of course what the scriptures say about men applies to women, they are each the daughters of God in the same way that men are His sons. I love the notion in this verse, that even though we may not now understand (it doesn't clearly appear to us yet), that when the game is over for us individually, or for all of us collectively, when He returns, that we will see Him as He is and that we will be like Him. What an incredible declaration - we will be like Him. He will have worked His perfect and perfecting plan through our developing mortal experience and His son's atoning, saving sacrificing power in our lives. That to that end that we may be like Him. This is His purpose - His work and His glory. And our work and responsibility is to seek to understand and follow the Savior's example and gospel. He came to show us how to have peace and love, kindness and mercy, forgiveness and faith.

His plan for me and my family and for you and yours is perfect. The tests and the tasks, the pitches He throws to me are perfect for me. And yours are perfect for you. And so I will continue to swing with all my might and strength. I suspect that I will hit a few and miss many. But, I rest confident that the end of the game is known to Him and can therefore be known to me, and to you, if we will seek, ask and knock at His door for the answers.

As I am lavished with love from my children on this Fathers Day, I pause to bend my knees and to look Heavenward to my Father and your Father and to humbly acknowledge His love, His patience and His many gifts to me - including the challenges I now face. I know what seems to block my way is indeed, my way. In His way, He is focusing my life to become more like Him. I am so very grateful that He has done so with such marvelous gifts as my sweetheart Judy, my loving and righteous children, my heritage, my friends and you, my family of heritage makers.

What an incredible privilege it is to know that we are working, praying, sacrificing and speaking the vision, mission and message of family and heritage together. I hope that your Fathers day is filled with love for both your father here and our Father there. Our work and purpose, that which we can glory in is bringing our children closer to both.

Onward and upward

Love Doug

Creative Interpretaion – That Is Not My Reality

2008-06-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

Judy and I took a three mile hike across the mountain last night and celebrated the fact that we could. Thanks to the many of you, you whose interest, prayers and faith contribute to that fact. I wish that we could have each of you visit and see the life and feel the love that abounds at our log home at 8,0000 feet about sea level where the sky is bluer than the Robbin eggs, but not so blue as the blue birds. We pray that the days will come when we can host many of you at our mountain home and heritage making retreat.

It was brought to my attention recently, that my vision for strengthening home and family, and the heritage Makers mission, of doing it through the heritage enriching power and legacies of family stories, may leave some folks feeling left out. I refer tho those who feel that the legacy of their heritage would best be forgotten. Those whose stories are too painful to recall, let alone write, may feel like an outsider and have nowhere to turn with my suggestions of the Heritage Cornerstones and Keystone books.

It is true that some, certainly too many, have painful memories of family life that was not supportive and loving. When thoughts of the roots of one's life are filled with neglect, belittlement, abuse and pain it is hard to imagine finding much of anything positive to write about. To those of you who have such roots and such concerns for your future with Heritage Makers, I offer the following experience and insight for your consideration. And, I assure you that there is both place and great need for your experienced based participation and for your embracing of the need for our vision and mission. We need your leadership and example.

A friend of mine who is the founder and owner of another very successful direct selling company has a phrase that he uses every time someone points out why he can't do something he wants to do. Whether the reason is financial, practical and sometimes even legal, if he is blocked from pursuing his vision by one of these "why nots", he simply and firmly informs the naysayer, 'well that is just too bad, but "that is not my reality". And then he moves ahead and does it anyway, in spite of someone else's perception of what he could or could not. And he thereby proves his point. It wasn't his reality.

He is not ignorant of the facts, nor is his a simply "to heck with them" attitude. Rather, here is a man who has learned to create his own reality, in spite of what others see as limits to that determination. You might even say that he finds purpose, joy and opportunity in finding out what others think he can not do, and then he proceeds to do it anyway.

In studying his life I find that he has become a master at what I call "creative interpretation." When others see obstacle he sees opportunity. In fact he uses the obstacle as a stepping stone to his achievement and success. Spoken another way, what blocks his way, is his way to success.

Now, back to those whose own heritage was filled with pain and neglect, and who don't want to continue those values, or lack there of, and the traditions that were painful and demeaning. And to those who simply had no heritage to bring forward, I offer this insight. You have the grand privilege of applying the creative interpretation principle to determine what the significance of the events of your youth will be in your future. Clearly you can not change the facts, but you can determine the meaning and so what of the facts.

Those without heritage in their roots may plant and grow a new from the seeds of their own desire and vision a heritage of their own. They can be the authors of a first generation of values, traditions and relationships that are both worthy and laudable. You can change the meaning and influence of the past in the present. By how you think about, speak about and write about your past, in the present, you can change its effect on you in the future.

You can write your own stories, the cornerstones of your heritage, based on what you learned from those relationships and experiences. The tragedies turned triumph are the stories that move us most to be bigger, better, stronger, wise, kinder and successful. The Keystone book of What it Means to Be a ____, can be what it means to be you, if you do not have a family. It can be an expression of a brand new heritage of your own making if you were not bequeathed one.

In short, we are the authors of our own stories and heritage. We can choose what part of our past that we want to bring into our future and what part to leave in the past. Perhaps the grandest part of the adventure of life, especially family life, is that we get to choose, to say what is, to create the story - if we will. And then we get to help others become the builders of their heritage too. They can design, blue print and construct a heritage of their own, with you are the consulting architect.

Another powerful thing about creative interpretation is the healing that comes when you seriously look for the silver lining and the gifts that were delivered with garbage wrapping paper. Your attitude about your heritage can heal the past and enrich the future of your relationships, even with those who injured, or ignored you. You can rise above your past and you can raise others from your past with you. Why should you? That's easy, because you are a heritage maker and your can.

One of the great blessings of my illness has been the understanding of how priceless forgiveness is in the grand scheme of things. We cannot repent for the mistakes and sins of another person, but we each have been given the divine gift of bestowing forgiveness upon those who "sin" against or injure us. The act of forgiving another person, family member, past or present, is a gift we give ourselves to free us from caring their debt of guilt and justice. It is a gift to them to allow them to start anew with us and leave the past and ts pains and sorrows behind. Only the Master can forgive sins that prevent us from fellowship with Him, but we can heal our own bruises by forgiving our bruisers.

We can build a new and lasting heritage that does not carry forward painful or destructive traditions of our past. This opportunity to stop the cycle and start a powerful positive legacy for our selves and our families is the great equalizer in heritage making. Lets use it an dteach it effectively and gratefully.

Onward and Upward

Love
Doug

The Pricelss Moment of Ah Ha!

2008-06-06T07:19:00.000-07:00

Some moments in our lives are priceless. I could go into a long diatribe and expound on a variety of these precious glimpses of supernal joy, but today I want to share only two that occurred this week. They are precious and priceless for me and for those who were part of them, and they will be priceless value for those whom receive the effects of those moments of pure insight and understanding and then form them into duplicative moments for you and others.

The first moment actually spawned the second moment. It came after meeting with a group of our top Heritage Makers leaders and discussed at length the vision mission and values of the company. We were focused on developing a more effective languaging and a presentation sequence for consultants to pass heritage making story on to clients. We had talked about the four cornerstone storybooks that every child needs to establish the foundations of their heritage.

We had concluded the the first four most important storybooks included teh child's roots, that is a storybook of each of their grandparents - maternal and paternal. Those were the first two root books. Then they needed a storybook of their parents lives, before meeting each other, their love story, marriage and anticipation of establishing a family with a rich heritage of values and traditions. The fourth cornerstone storybook needed to be a book about the child - anticipation of his or her birth, childhood, talents and how much they were and loved and how they add to the family. These were the storybooks that would help the parents build self-esteem, a sense of belonging and begin to define the child's story.

Everyone was excited and agreed that these storybooks would make huge differences in the way children and on to young adults would view their lives, and family life. Then we talked about the other storybooks that would follow that largely would chronicle the important events and relationships of the child's and family's life. The metaphor of the building of family heritage continued with these additional self-published family library books. Then came teh discussion around what was the Keystone storybook for the family heritage building. What would be the single most import and influential storybook for the entire family and each child in it. What book would recall, capture and create the heritage, traditions and values, and transfer them to generations to come.

The answer was the storybook called "What it Means to Be a _________ (the family name). This would be a book that told the family story collectively with just a taste of the heritage past (progenitors) and heritage present (members of the family - mom, dad and kids (their vita and special gifts and place in the family). It would articulate and celebrate the traditions, values and priorities of the family. It would celebrate the family members, individually and collective. This storybook would be the story of the family and would give structured meaning and agreement on what it means to be a member of that unique family.

It was a lively and exciting discussion as each of us realized that that strorybooks as indeed the Keystone of heritage development within the family. It was blueprint for moms to define and project a framework for how members of their families live and a basis for her children to evaluate and make choices consistent with who they are because of their heritage -story. Now if this notion resonates with you, you too may have just had one of these amazing moments of "ah ha". You may have discovered the answer to the age old question of "how can I be there to make the right choices, when I an not there". The answer is even when you are not there you can give them their heritage that, like a shadow, will always follow and influence their choices.

One of the leaders in our group, Heidi A, who has been with us literally from the beginning and has been through all of the development of the vision, mission, values, systems programs, incentives, tools etc of the business had a powerful ah ha from this experience.

Shortly after our discussion about the cornerstone and keystone books Heidi had a discussion with her four year old son about what it means to be a member of their family. As they discussed things that were happening around them and in the world she ask Jace "would you do that?" " No, mom!" was the replay. "Why?" she asked him. "Because I am an A___ and we don't do that!"

It is one thing to theorize and conceptualize with the group. But, when the proof of the concept comes back from the mouth of your babes in a priceless precious moment of "ah ha!" you are moved with the reality and truth of the theory. You know the power of the concept and you increase in passion and commitment to the principle and its proliferation.

The second ah ha came in a meeting at the office that was centered around some of the same discussion of cornerstone and keystone books and how to incoporate this message in our website and communications. After about an hour of dialog and word smithing efforts of the team I shared Heidi's experience and email to me about it. It was then that Justin, another of those great souls who has been with Heritage makers from the beginning and has had the most to do with the development of our storybooking technology strategy, had the ah ha moment. I watch it as he said "Now, for the first time I get it! It makes perfect sense!" the it was the whole focus around Heritage Making, rather than just storybooking. He understood an a new, deeper, more profound level, why we are called Heritage Makers not just storybooers, or digital scrap bookers. It was for me a priceless moment for our home office team and those who were present to witness the ah ha.

Now what do ah ahs do? They shape or reshape the way we think about something. They change our priorities and understanding and actions. The make a difference in th eway we do things and thereby in the outcome of our efforts.

Get it? The ah ha is that we, Heritage Makers are trying to communicate the message of heritage making with the power of story and storybooks in such a way that we create an "AH HA" for everyone mom and dad who hears the message. This is our mission and it is what will create a conversation, a brand and a business (thousands of independent businesses). These are businesses that will leverage these ah ah moments I have shared and will spawn other ah ha moments that will establish the principle of heritage making and will make a difference for their family, their neighborhood, their community, the world.

If you are not a heritage maker, yet, I sincerely invite you to consider it. I hope this is an ah ah moment for you.

Onward and Upward

Love Doug

Lessons from Tears

2008-05-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

The last couple of days I have been at the bottom of the Chemo cycle. In terms of blood count, energy, etc. there is a significant drop about a 7-10 days after the treatment. Then I expect the body rebounds and I'll be up better than ever - preparing for the next round. Till then, it's onward and upward to bring heritage home!

One of the last things I do before I leave the bedroom each day is to be sure I have a small pocket comb in my shirt pocket. It is a habit that has been developed over years and reinforced by those rare occasions when I forgot and the wind reminded me that I needed to reposition the tufts of hair. As I put on my shirt and shoes yesterday, I caught myself turning to reach for the comb on the bathroom vanity. I laughed out loud. Later in the afternoon, I went outside to walk to the knoll for a little contemplation time. As I climbed to the crest of the hill to take my traditional seat on the sandstone perch that has become my seat and altar over the years, the wind whipped up and I found myself automatically reaching for the comb in my pocket.
I laughed till I cried! Maybe I should think about marketing a "Chemo comb."

Then this morning, after reviewing the impressions and dreams of the night with Judy, I found her at the vanity blow drying her hair and her tears. And so it is that the subject of my entry today will be what I have learned about tears.

There are different kinds of tears. We have all experienced them and recognize the difference between tears of pain from a skinned knee and a bruised heart and the tears that come from the mother who wipes those tears from the child's eyes. There are tears of anger, tears of frustration and tears of grief and loss. There are also tears of joy and tears of gladness, tears of compassion and tears of quiet reflection -- and there are cleansing tears.

In my life experience, the worst tears are tears of remorse from the realization that you have injured another person - wrongfully. They are tears of guilt from knowing that you caused someone pain. Those tears are most pain-filled when that someone is a loved one. There are also tears of regret from opportunities missed, for time that cannot be recalled for a different choice of words or actions.

On the other hand, the sweetest tears of my life are those that come in response to the selfless acts of others to care for and bless me. They are tears of recognition of the sacrifices and the kindness, especially unmerited kindness and service, that came to my rescue when I could not rescue myself. Such are the tears of testimony of grace, the atonement and forgiveness. These are the tears of humble gratefulness and discovery of unconditional love and kindness. And, there are those occasional, sweetest-of-all-tears, that come when we are the giver of that kindness and love and we see in the eyes of the receiver the healing and the hope and the cleansing that comes from our gift.

In our hectic day-to-day lives, our hurry-ups, fears and frustrations, it is easy to go for long periods without shedding many tears of joy and recognition. It is easy to let stress and emotion build and grow until they boil over -- usually not in cleansing or healing ways, rather in anger and frustration and blaming flows of hot tears. Seldom in our modern, self-serving and securing lives, do we find ourselves in the situation where the experience, the moment, or the conversation brings forth those automatic cleansing tears of joy, of peace and of humanity. We savor those -- cool, healing, refreshing tears of love and compassion. Most of the time we are starving for wet cheeks that need not be wiped to hide the response of our human softness.

These are the tears of so many of our Heritage Makers events. The are the tears of the client receiving her first book. They are the tears of giving that precious acknowledgment of the life legacy to a parent, grandparent or friend. Tears of heritage flow freely as we hear the stories, accept the thanks, see the books and watch their tears. Heritage Makers is not a business of hype, rah-rah, passion for success, wealth and status. Rather, ours is a business of tears -- sweet, priceless tears of compassion, understanding and unity. These are the shared tears of our vision, mission, values and service. They are mixed with tears of laughter, joy and happiness. They are the fruits of lives that have found purpose, contribution and community.

So today, if you would have happiness, success, purpose and joy -- cry. If you would end your day feeling fully fulfilled and enriched -- cry. If you would discover the healing and apply the balm -- cry. Shed a few tears of sorrow, a few of forgiveness, a few of acknowledgment and a few tears of vicarious pain -- cry.

Like dreaming, we often forget how to cry. We build a dam to hold back the pain, the weakness the vulnerability and then we hide behind our toughness, our busyness and our pride. Men are particularly adept at this dehumanizing and joy-robbing process. Sadly, even some parents try to turn off the child's tear-machine. Taunting friends and an unfeeling world make tears synonymous with weakness. They declare tears unwelcome.

To overcome the world -- cry. To stand stronger, more confident and secure -- cry. To know that you are real and of worth, welcome your tears -- cry. And if you would cry, remember. Write and share your stories -- your tears. If you would experience the the healing, automatic, calming, cleansing tears of compassion, the tears of power and purpose -- help them find, write and share their stories - their heritage.

Today I hope you have a good cry and that your tears bring and share the joy of heritage.

Onward and upward.

Love

Doug

Understanding and Building a Heritage of Love: The Rest of the Story

2008-05-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

WARNING! Disclaimer: Read this blog post (by Judy) at your own risk. You must read Doug’s blog entry entitled, “Understanding and Building a Heritage of Love,” FIRST, then mine.
This post is in response to his queries. You’ll understand. Tissues are advisable. Allow enough time. I am a detail-oriented person. I love to proofread, deep clean drawers and WEED! Assuming most who read my post will be female, I will continue. It’s all in the details, right?!

Saturday, May 27, 1972…a day that changed my life forever! In writing this down, I am realizing the strong heritage threads that helped me along my path to Doug. Here is my brief version of our love story, filled with my heritage-rich values and traditions.

As Doug said, I was VERY naïve (and gullible)! I was a city girl and lived in Arlington, Virginia my whole life until I married Doug. I knew nothing of hunting, fishing, animals or pets (except one carnival-won goldfish who met its fate when I cleaned the fishbowl out in the sink).
My brother had a parakeet “Greeny” who could wolf whistle and say, “I hate school,”
“Pretty baby,” and “I love you!” We found Greeny dead in his cage upon returning from a family vacation.

I loved life and learning, the English language, math, music, the outdoors, sewing, sports, cooking, writing, handicrafts, and people. I loved the Savior and my religion was my life. I was very obedient, excelled in school and anything I pursued. I began singing acapella with my three sisters when I was 5 years old and we won a county-wide talent show singing
“The Toothbug Song.”

All my siblings and parents were college graduates and served missions. I always planned to serve a mission and graduate from college. This kept my interests focused on my future and helped me avoid the high school love life. Classical music, the Beach Boys (thanks to my brother!) and the Carpenters were favorites.

I received a special blessing when I was 10 years old and always felt from then on that I would know immediately the man I was to marry when I met him. This blessing influenced my words, my actions, and my prayers. I received subsequent blessings as I requested them and they all were a significant help throughout my teenage years. Because I fell in love so easily (I was boy crazy), these blessings kept me on the straight and narrow. As I would date, I would think,
“Is he the one or a possibility?” If I couldn’t answer yes, I wouldn’t date the guy again. (I didn’t feel it was fair to lead him on if I already knew I wouldn’t be marrying him.) So I dated a lot of young men, but the majority, only once. Because of my standards and receiving “no” answers to my prayers, I broke several hearts along the way (…Ben, Archie, John, Joel, Bob, Wayne, Lee…)

I always looked for the good in others. I truly loved everyone. Some of my favorite family sayings and mottos were:
• If you can’t find something nice to say about someone, don’t say anything at all.
• Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me.
• A person doesn’t care how much you know unless they know how much you care.
• I am, I can, I will!
• Choose you this day whom ye will serve….but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15)

My parents were entrepreneurs. My father’s work involved a lot of travel and he was a 2-million-miler on the airlines (like my future husband—an omen to come). He, too, wasn’t home most of the time, so I, too, was raised mainly in a single-parent home (another preparatory step for me). My parents had 4 beautiful daughters and one good-looking son. They wanted to help us avoid life’s pitfalls by setting high standards for our family. Everyone around us was not of our faith. I was in the world but not of the world. Our meals were very simple and nutritious but highly unorthodox (and pretty flavorless!). I rarely saw a doctor and had my first and only dentist visit as a senior in H.S.

I had high standards and chose to live by them:
• Wear modest clothing.
• Do not swear nor use foul language.
• Do not drink coffee, tea, alcohol, smoke, or do drugs
• Do not date until I’m 16 and start with group dates.
• No bear hugs, holding hands, arms around your back, huggy-bear dancing, and no kissing.
(I was saving my kisses for my husband, my one and only!)
• Know how to get answers to my prayers.
• Marry for time and all eternity in God’s temple.

Unlike Doug, I liked to flirt. I figured flirting was safe because I wouldn’t date until I was 16. Lots of guys really liked me but I just considered them great friends. My first “love” was in 9th Grade. The first time I saw Lynn singing in a choir, I thought I saw a glow about him. From then on I just “knew” Lynn was the one meant for me! He was tall, handsome, spiritual, had great standards and was a great ballroom dancer. He lived three cities away so I became his “secret admirer” and sent him notes, letters, and homemade goodies via a family friend. Every time I sang the romantic Carpenters songs, I thought about Lynn. (I was really nuts over him!) Kids were teasing both of us about liking each other so when we were both old enough to finally date, we never did! Lynn never even called me – EVER! I was totally crushed. He crushed my crush on him for good! (Can’t blame him, I must have seemed like a stalker or something!) My other 9th Grade “love” was Tim. I always knew I could never marry him because he was like a brother to me. He was so incredible, spiritual, mature, wise, smart, and again, a great dancer. We entered a regional church dance contest and won (as did Lynn and his dance partner). Boy, was I in heaven! The winners were sent to Annapolis to dance!!! I was able to dance with Lynn 4x that dreamy night! My mother was always hoping I’d marry Tim someday. My whole family loved him. It never crossed my mind. He was just my best guy friend till I married Doug.

My 2nd semester at BYU, I fell in love with Lee, a 25-yr-old navy man who was short, dark, handsome, kind, spiritual, not a dancer, but that’s another story. We dated 3 months, (my first official kiss during that time) and he wanted to marry me. When I prayed about him, I received a definite “no” answer. So I broke his heart and we went our separate ways. I am so grateful for faith and standards that helped me to remain clean and pure for my future husband, Doug!

I wanted to give you a perspective of how I was raised and what was important to me. So now I will add my memories of our first fairy-tale encounter 36 years ago…

I remember when Doug called me and asked me out on my first (and to become my last) blind date. My apartment was SO noisy. It was dinnertime and my five roommies were all in the kitchen (where the only phone resided). I took the landline phone receiver and stretched the phone cord as far as it would go, just beyond the kitchen door. There I sat with one hand to my ear and my back to the door, trying to decipher Doug’s deep-throated voice. I had never heard such a deep voice before! It intrigued me. I don’t remember the conversation lasting very long and I was somewhat ticked that I was having a hard time hearing everything he said because of the kitchen commotion.

BYU ended that week. I was in the process of deep-cleaning our apt for final inspection before I made my 3-day car trip back to Virginia. I was at my heaviest weight then. (Now that I’m “antique” [over 50 yrs old] my weight has gained more acceptance!) I figured that it was a free meal and he’d never be interested in me as heavy as I was, so I quickly got dressed for our double-date. I don’t remember showering for it or anything. It was a date up the canyon to eat a cow his family had raised and killed. This seemed so barbaric to me. I was going to eat a cow steak?! I couldn’t comprehend it. I certainly wasn’t looking forward to eating COW!! [I must explain. I was raised with little meat protein. Chili, stew, chicken soup, cottage cheese with fruit cocktail, scrambled eggs and mac&cheese with peas and Vienna sausages were basic dinner meals. We consumed milk, eggs and cheese. Pork chops were my dad’s specialty several times a year.] I wore my light-brown hair in braids and don’t remember putting on much, if any, makeup. It was a one-time, never-to-be-seen again date and I really didn’t know anything about Doug, but I loved Arlene and trusted her.

On the way over to Mapleton, I asked Arlene what Doug was like. She told me that he was tall, blonde (I thought ‘Oh, dear, he’s probably good looking, too—he’ll never remember me!’), and a spiritual giant. (This last quality REALLY impressed me. He was sharp! I figured I didn’t have a chance with him and didn’t give it any more thought.)

When I met Doug, he was good looking! Seemed very mature. Deep thinker. Quiet.
I don’t remember much at all about our picnic in the canyon except the canal and the cow. When we were hopping back and forth across the canal (which was foreign to me) I remember thinking how sneaky Doug was. I NEVER held hands with a guy, especially on a first date. (Remember, I usually only settled for first dates!) Chivalry? I don’t think so. However, it was sweet that he offered to take my hand so I wouldn’t fall in and get wet…and it felt SO good! (although it seemed that the “canal” was more like a cement irrigation ditch that I could have crossed by myself…!) I was really impressed with our cow picnic. The meat didn’t look like a cow at all (I didn’t realize that cow and beef were the same thing) and tasted so good!

As for the movie, Kidnapped, I had never read the book. I was totally clueless! The movie was SO confusing to me. I kept bugging Doug and asking him what was going on. (Never would recommend that movie for sure!)

Walking around the Provo Temple grounds was the best part of my blind date. Like Doug, I learned so much about what we both thought and yearned for and hoped for. When we got back to the Vaughn’s VW, we couldn’t see inside—the glass windows were thoroughly fogged over!

I remembered Doug taking me home alone in the car. (Vaughn wanted more time with his soon-to-be fiancé, alone!) What I do remember is Doug putting his arm around me. This felt so good but I had never let a boy do that with me, EVER before! And on a first date?! I even moved over to the middle of the bench seat! (What was I thinking? I knew I was going to marry him!) I would ask Doug a question about himself or his family and he immediately asked me the same questions! So I did what any naïve girl would do -- I answered his questions (which were really my questions for him)! By the time he dropped me off, he knew everything about me and I knew nothing about him. Funny thing was I was totally enamored by him! Doug made me feel so special. I don’t remember the kisses at the door at all (they must not have knocked me off my feet).

I do remember thinking how I had dated really sharp guys but they all seemed to pale in comparison to Doug. I wrote in my journal that night, “I met a wonderful man tonight. His name is Doug Clower?...” I didn’t even know how to spell or pronounce his last name! I only remembered his first name, a name I would come to love and revere and honor. But I did know that my body was feeling the effects of one incredible night! When I kneeled by my bed to say my prayers, I asked, “Is he the one I’m supposed to marry?” That was all I said about Doug. And I slept peacefully, until 6 am! I was suddenly awakened by different voices coming into my mind saying, “He’s the one you’re to marry. Don’t counsel the Lord. He knows what’s best for you,” etc etc etc. These voices continued until 7am when I said in my mind, “OK. I’ll marry him!” At that moment, the voices left and I got up. For the next six hours, I felt as though I was in a different dimension. I was on the earth but truly felt like I was apart from it. I went to church and had this high vibrational feeling the whole time. It felt like the powerful feeling I’ve had when I’m testifying of the Savior to someone but 100x stronger. I can’t explain it. I only knew that it was real and I had had a direct answer to my humble prayer. I have never experienced that kind of intense, overpowering feeling since.

Boy, I was so excited to see the man I knew I was going to marry! At 1pm that afternoon, Doug came to the door of my apt and offered me his hand. When I took hold of his hand, this high vibrational feeling left and I was relieved to be on “earth” again.

While he drove me to Cascade Springs, I remember looking at him differently. After all, I was looking at my future husband! I wondered what the day would come and I was just taking everything in as we talked and sang a lot of church hymns in the car. As we neared Cascade Springs, Doug asked me to close my eyes (he didn’t want me to see Cascade Springs), which I did. He didn’t put a scarf around my eyes, he simply asked and I obeyed. The following experience taught me all that I would ever want or need to know about Doug’s “core”—who he really was. For the next 20 min Doug lead me on a trail through Cascade Springs with my eyes closed. (I never even tried to peek! I trusted him.) At times he would hold my hand, other times, not, as I tried to find my own way on a “sightless” path. I could hear rushing water by my feet. Sometimes Doug would take a tin can with a rock inside and shake it back and forth.
I was to walk alone and follow the sound (a still, small “voice”). Other times he would hold a stick and have me hold onto the stick as we walked through this little paradise. Periodically, Doug would have me stop and ask me to try and visualize what my eyes couldn’t see. At the end of walk, he asked me to open my eyes and not say a word. I did so. (We were at the beginning of our walk.) What I saw was unbelievable to me. I thought Utah was dry and desolate and ugly, but before my eyes was a vision of green plants, flowers and trees with a rock-lined stream that meandered by a very narrow dirt path (which had some steep drop-off areas!) through this oasis in the middle of a desert mountain! He then took me by the hand and led me on the path we had just walked, in silence, stopping me once again to try and remember what I had visualized before. It was more than I had imagined possible in this dry place. (Utah was desolate, or so I thought, and you had to plant trees. In Virginia you had to remove trees to plant houses!)

After that experience, I felt like I had known him forever. He was my best friend. I felt as though there was nothing more I could learn about Doug. We were soul mates.

We didn’t talk much on our way back to the Provo Temple that evening. It was as though I could read Doug’s thoughts. Talking wasn’t necessary. Listening with my heart and head was enough. Sitting in the car by the temple grounds, Doug asked me, “If I were to ask you to marry me, what would you say?” I responded, “I’d have to say yes, because I know I’m supposed to marry you!” Doug then asked, “May I kiss you?” I said, “Yes, because I know I’m supposed to marry you.” (Dumb, huh! I was SO not romantic at a potentially romantic moment!) Then Doug gave me a kiss.

At this point you need to know that “Cinderella” was my favorite fairy tale. I knew my prince charming would come some day and sweep me off my feet and carry me away to his palace and we’d live happily ever after. Well, my prince charming had come but the kiss didn’t sweep me off my feet. I was always expecting fireworks or bells or something fantastic. Nada. Doug asked me again if he could kiss me. I said, “Yes because I know I’m supposed to marry you but nothing happened the first time!” So, he kissed me a second time. Mind you, our lips were pursed shut (fortunately!). Nothing happened the second time. Well, Doug asked me a third time if he could kiss me and I said, “Yes.” We kissed. He stopped having to ask me after that kiss and I stopped counting… (Years later I asked Doug how he knew how to kiss? He said he had practiced on the few girls he had dated before me – they taught him how! The nerve of him! Here I was saving ALL my great kisses for him!...good thing I didn’t think to ask him about his kissing that night!)
We then discussed what names we wanted to give our children, how many, when we were going to get married, which temple, etc etc etc. [Remember, I was leaving for VA for the summer and we had so little time to discuss these important topics!] Doug was planning on ROTC so we considered getting married in August. I remember telling Doug, “Just because you’re the right one doesn’t mean it’s the right time. I have to pray about it!” And, pray about it, I did. Now that’s another story!

I knew who I was going to marry at 19. Females leave on missions at 21. I figured the Lord wouldn’t tell me who I was going to marry at 19 unless he wasn’t planning on me serving a mission for Him at 21. I only had one year of college and the prospects of getting my degree before I married wasn’t in the picture. I was already SO in love with Doug!!!

In hindsight, I’ve always thought it was great that the Lord let Doug know he was going to marry me when he saw me. Had he have really known what he was getting himself in for, he might have wanted to reconsider! Boy, was I inexperienced, gullible and naïve, which was turned out to be a GREAT thing!!

That night, I called my oldest sister, Bonnie. She and her husband were in Utah visiting his relatives. I told her I knew who I was going to marry. Bonnie responded, “It’s okay, Judy. You’ll be leaving in two days for Virginia. When you get back there, we’ll take care of everything.” I couldn’t believe it. My wise sister who’s valued opinion took me for a loop.
She didn’t believe me! I thought, if SHE didn’t believe me, nobody would! So I vowed I’d keep my mouth shut for the summer (it would be our “secret”) until I could see Doug again at BYU.

The next night we drove to Salt Lake City to return my borrowed cookware to Bonnie. I directed Doug on a wild ride trying to find that SLC address! [It took me one MARRIED year of driving on Utah streets to understand the N,E,S,W street names!] What was only a couple of blocks away to ended up being a 1 ½ hr drive throughout SLC, including a view of the night lights up on the mountain. [I think Doug married me to polish his patience!]

When we parted for the summer, Doug gave me an man’s silver agate ring to wear. The agate reminded me of Cascade Springs—it looked like the trees I had seen. So, he wrapped duct tape around the narrow part so that it would stay on my finger. He was right. Every time I looked at the ring, I immediately was taken back to that magical place. Little did I know that any guy seeing that ring wouldn’t even try and ask me out! Smart, Doug! However, I never wanted to date anyone again. I had found my one and only!!!

During the summer of ’71, Doug would compose guitar music and record it on a cassette tape for me. We had a long-distance, letter-writing and audio-tape relationship. Five-minute phone calls were sparse. And this is just the three-day beginning of the rest of our lives together.
But that’s another story…

One more thing. Remember how I said after Cascade Springs, I knew Doug as well as I ever could? That was true until we married and went grocery shopping. I went for the Grapenuts and Doug went for the Cornflakes! I couldn’t believe it! He didn’t know I liked crunchy and I didn’t know he liked soggy! (I thought for sure this was an omen for rough times ahead!) I thought I knew Doug! We made a compromise—I ate my cornflakes immediately so they stayed crunchy, and Doug sogged his Grapenuts for 5 min before eating them. Whew! That was a close call for me…until I saw Doug put his piece of cake in a bowl and pour milk over it!... :)

Just thought you might be interested in knowing that since I’ve known Doug, I’ve encountered a lot of “first-times” for me:
• Eating an avacado, raw rhubarb and artichoke and discovering their differences
• Discovering the flavors of spices I’d never ever heard of before!
• Eating steak, Mexican food, oysters, crab, fish, clams, frog legs, snake, escargot, calamari, ashcakes, dutch-oven everything (to name a few!)…
• Hunting & fishing and all that went with it!
• Real camping [I only knew KOAs w/showers and toilets]
• Shooting guns, targets and clay pigeons [and they don’t even have wings!]
• Seeing and learning how to spot and call deer, elk and ducks.
• Seeing foxes, rock chucks, ermines and setting traps to catch mice.
• Discovering and learning why some cow pies are green.
• Discovering how flies and chickens mate
• How to cook rice [you don’t stir it for 20 min!]
• Learning how to fry an egg and not serve a Frisbee!
• How to tease and take teasing.
• Rappelling [I was 8 mos pregnant w/our first child and then went Commando style!]
• Discovering the difference between a green pepper and jalepenos!
• Milking a cow and gathering eggs.
• Gathering wild asparagus, mushrooms and watercress.
• Learning that deer, fox and fish live in Virginia of all places!!!
• Riding a snowmobile and four wheeler
• Penicillan, allergies and HIVES!
• Riding in a boat
• Learning what constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and flatulence were!
• Raising dogs.
• Seeing, hearing and feeding hummingbirds from my hand.
• And much, much more!

Looking back 36 years later, would I do it all over again? ABSOLUTELY! (We have six choice children and 9.4 cuter-than-a-bug’s ear, brilliant grandchildren that can to attest to that fact!)
I love Doug. He is my best friend, advisor, confidant, and the one I want to live with through all eternity! Thanks for the listening. Wow! What a guy!!!! Doug is a visionary, a leader and a sensitive, caring, understanding man. Heritage Makers is his love and passion (next to me, of course!) And I think he’s a pretty incredible man!

Love to you all!
Judy

P.S. from Judy…all is WELL

2008-05-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

When Doug left for work this morning, he said to me, “I haven’t felt this good in two years!” He has a high tolerance for pain. I guess that tells you how he’s felt in the past. But today is a good day and we are trying harder to live healthy and well.

I have a confession to make…I’ve never been on a blog before, let alone know what one was! I wasn’t able to check out all of Doug’s blogs until now. Boy, have I missed out! I just posted my first comment and it was much easier than I thought! I plan to submit more comments in the future. I’m sure glad Doug is sharing some of the marvelous healing insights he has been having.

I’ve heard through the HM grapevine that people are wondering how Doug’s wife is faring the Mantle Cell storm. I agree with Doug. Mantle Cell is my friend, too. The first 2½ wks were a stretch for all of us. We thought we had lost Doug three times. Certainly I have had my “I’m too young to become a widow” thoughts and “Where are all of the important papers?” and “Where’s my list of what to do?” etc etc etc. But through it all, all is well, all is right. Our family has felt your prayers and faith on our behalf – a balm so desperately needed and so generously given. Thank you for your love and support!

Doug has had symptoms for about a year now, progressively increasing these past six months. His energy level was decreasing, though his Heritage Makers pace remained the same. When he was in the hospital, I had the strong impression that had he have heeded our pleas to get checked out much sooner, he may not have known the whole story and may have continued life as normal. I am so grateful for the wake-up call. Through it all, I have gotten my Doug back, the one I fell in love with 36 years ago!!! We gaze in each others’ eyes more, we dance more, we listen more, we speak in softer tones, our prayers have penetrated the heavens, our faith has increased and we are SO grateful for every moment, hour and day that we still have together. Please make sure you hug those you love and tell them you love them, every day. When it comes down to what’s really important, it’s not things – it’s people. Let them know how their lives have enriched yours. Make each moment count. We do and will continue to.

I am amazed at how creative storycards and storyposts can be! When thoughts are expressed through the written word, they can be reviewed, remembered and can literally heal a broken heart, give strength to the weak and renew love, again and again and again. It’s a written thought expressed that keeps on giving every time it is picked up and read. I hope you realize what a gift you have to give to others by offering them Heritage Makers.

Today’s blog from Doug is a great example of that. He is journaling his life-changing experiences and thoughts through story. It is strengthening our family in times of weakness and putting smiles and chuckles in our day. We can now make these thoughts permanent, through Heritage Makers. Our children will know what our family values and treasures most and can reread and retell these sacred moments with their children. Heritage Makers helps bind a family’s heritage through story. What a life-changing, timely concept!

As for our love story…my next post will be the “rest of our story.” Truly, a dream come true!

Love to you all! Judy

Understanding and Building a Heritage of Love

2008-05-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

It's 4 AM. I beat the mountain bird choir, the sun and my sweetheart out of bed today. As I indicated in the last post, I thought I would share some realizations with you that have been clarified in the recent events. I have been pondering how to share the love of my life with you.

I hope that my experience will help to refocus your own love and realization of the precious gifts we receive and can give to not only to the most significant human being in our lives, but to our posterity as we consider how to build and bring a Heritage of love home.

I was not one of those who dated much in school. I was not one of the popular curious who was pulled into early dating and social relationships. Oh, it wasn't because I was abnormal and wasn't noticing and thinking about girls. Life on the farm, in a largely single-parent home, with chores, close sibling ties, leadership positions in FFA, debate, and other extra-curricular activities kept me too busy to pursue a female fancy. I was much more serious, and to some extent, more studious than most of my peers and found the values and activities of the "popular set" a bit out of sync with my values and priorities.

Yet, from my earliest remembrance, I always called upon God in daily prayers for the girl I would marry and for her family and parents to raise her to be ready for us to meet and know each other. I know, this sounds a bit preposterous for a young person, particularly since it did begin when most of my friends were still seeing girls as yucky and only good for teasing. How this interest and pattern of praying for the person I would marry developed I am not sure. Whether my mother instilled something into my early prayers, or some other event or training implanted that priority, I really don't remember. But I remember the prayers and the feeling that it was important, and that I should continue to put that petition before the Lord. And I did.

There were a few (very few) girls I dated before serving an LDS mission for two years in South Texas at age nineteen. Oh, I always had "girl friends," that is, who I thought were cute and had some interest in their attention. In Kindergarten it was a dark-headed, sleepy-eyed cutie named Christy. I always picked her to help hand out the milk and crackers when it was my turn for that exalted privilege. The other boys picked their buddies. In First Grade it was a cherry-farmer's daughter named Diane who caught my eye. My interests were limited to speaking to her on the playground occasionally, but she was the one in that class that caught my eye and at least a corner of my heart. Then in Second Grade, the apple of my eye must have been a bit green because I don't remember the name, just that she was a third grader and liked playing on the tricky bars. Fourth Grade was the beginning of competition for my mental attractions and that year, a cute little blondie, Judy (a shadow of things and a name to come), caught my attention. Then there was Kristine, Jane and Utahana. These same young ladies rotated in priority of interest through Fifth Grade as well. When two of them asked me if I would dance with them and some of the other girls who wanted to learn to dance at recess, it was more than my young male ego and shyness could handle -- I refused. One of the great mistakes of my Fifth Grade year, I am sure. Sixth Grade did not add new female faces to the class and so the cohort or admirees continued, although I think I began to see differentiating character traits emerge as they became more involved in the "popular" contest and looks.

Then came the giant step to Jr. High School and one day a new move in from California sat next to me in Mr. Orton's Typing class. She was gorgeous, smart and experienced in city and social life. And she was absolutely out of my league! Oh, she was nice, but it took only a few weeks to discover that her standards were as foreign to me and my ideals as were her California beach parties and no-parents-home bashes with the very element of the school whom represented most of what I believed was wrong. Oh, shattered image! (No wonder I cannot now remember her name.) But, there were some real cuties that caught my interest and fancy, even if the possible relationships were daydreams and not evening dates. I have watched some of these young ladies from the distance now and see that some were indeed headed in the right direction.

High School was so busy and full with the adventures and challenges of striving for straight A report cards, competing in extra-curricular events, (although athletics had never been important to my dad, so it was not to me) and I found more than enough challenge and ego satisfaction in more mental self-development options. Interesting. Now I find in my own children that they too did not find the interest or allure in athletic prowess or events. There is a heritage message there for another time...

I dated a few girls in high school and found interest in a few close friends, a couple of whom had more interest in me that I in them. There were really no romantic stories or encounters during my high school years. I was focused on a life-long goal of missionary service and it preempted and trumped any pursuit that might have led to a serious relationship.

After High School, I worked the summer on a road construction labor crew on the Idaho border to earn money for my mission and school. The job location was a desolate little place smaller than my very small home town of Mapleton, Utah. We were up at 5 AM and back at 6 PM. I had little time or interest in anything other than a short date with my guitar before retiring. On the weekends between the roadwork, I double- and triple-dated occasionally with my brother and best friend, who were much more the Casanovas than I, although they each had settled on a single-focused interest during much of their dating adventures.

Then in the Fall, I accepted a scholarship to college and completed my first semester at Brigham Young University, where among all the ordinary basic courses a new freshman would take, I took a social dance class (probably to rid myself of the regrets of having turned those fifth-grade girls down). And while I did not develop any special interests, I had a great time trying, with difficulty, to get my feet and body (with a very poor sense of rhythm) to learn Latin steps and rhythms, swing, waltz and jitterbug. It was fun and I thought how great it would be to find my sleeping beauty and sweep off her feet, if I could just get mine to go the right way! Then came my call to serve a mission in South Texas for two years and I left home and fancies of female companionship and the ballroom, behind.

Now, for those of you who are not familiar with the conditions of an LDS mission, a bit of background will help. It is a period of two years of dedicated service. It is self- or family-financed, no choice of location to serve, service is with another 19- to 22-year-old (same gender) from somewhere else in the world. Often, (though not in my case) there is a new language, culture and life to learn. You are with your companion 24-hrs-a-day, seven-days-a-week. You wore a suit every day, live in a small apartment, do your own cleaning, cooking and washing. Your name is Elder Cloward, or Elder Jones or "Elder" so and so. First names are lost in your name tag and the title of your calling as a missionary.

There is no TV, radio or other distractive vices. You have two phone calls home each year (Mothers Day and Christmas). You are up at 6 AM, have personal scripture study, companion scripture study, shower, prepare breakfast, clean, review the work plan for the day and head out to serve and return to plan the next day at 10 PM. You do get 1/2 day off for doing your washing and personal preparations (including writing a letter home to family and reports to the mission president). I was grateful that I did not have to split that time with another letter to someone else at home.

The story of the service in those very busy days is the subject of another discussion I would love to have with any interested person, but is not necessary for the discussion of the topic at hand. However, I would point out that the reason for this long explanation of the missionary service is absolutely connected to the subject of learning to love, serve, and live with a spouse.

And of course there are no girls, no dates, no phone calls and no dancing for missionaries. It is a time of complete focus and dedication to the Lord. For those who stay dedicated, the vast majority of the now over 60,000 such souls who are serving, the experience is invaluable in learning the most important lessons of life: faith, commitment, dedication, selflessness, service and love. I have often thought that every church group would do well to provide similar experience for their young men and women,

It was a great time to let girls take a far backseat, but my prayers continued and my specific prayers, that I would know her when I saw her, brought both calm and curiosity for the future.
I knew that the Lord knew the intent of my heart and the honesty of my plea.

After two years I returned and within two weeks was in the middle of the Southern Utah desert with an army blanket, a pocket knife and 400 miles to traverse in a 30-day survival program. I had longed to participate in and to learn limited-resource living skills and to get back to the outdoors I so loved. That too is the subject of another discussion for anyone interested in the prowess of building fires without matches and finding incredible edibles in the desert.

Strange as it may seem, there were several young ladies who joined us for the month of snow storms, heat, solo, forced marches and other challenges that the course required. And even though it was in the middle of the desert, there were no curling irons, showers, nor burgers. I found interest in tough personalities and conversations with these hearty young ladies, though not romantic, they were interesting and engaging in discussions of life significance. You might call it a 30-day group date that ended up with all of us having a great respect and love for the companionship and shared-life experience. This adventure also proved to be a preparatory event that would soon bring me face-to-face with the dating and companion selection process.

Upon my return from the desert, I was immediately the target for "line-ups" (female dates) from every relative and neighbor who had the perfect fit niece, friend or acquaintance for me to take out. And so I cooperated and had enough blind dates to earn a white cane! Some of these re encounters with the female gender were fun and interesting, although, I found most of the girls to be so immature, in terms of conversation, thinking and priorities, that I found it hard to relate. It felt like I had to try to remember what it was like to think like a teenager or play a dating game I had never learned! It rapidly became a waste of time and I lost interest in the learning or playing the game. I did date one of my pre-mission friends who had dated my best friend, who was then on his mission in the Philippines. JoAnn was as close a possibility of a companion as I had ever known. Her values, priorities, and personality were, if anything, above my own. She was a wonderful friend and over the course of a number of dates, taught me much about relationships, girls, feelings, trust and priorities. While the relationship did not continue, the friendship did even after we were both married. She was an important link in my education and understanding of the dating process.

Then came that day, when on my knees, I took my situation to the Lord and laid it before Him. No angels, words, nor other profound event occurred other than I was absolutely clear that He had heard me and understood my situation and resolve. That resolve was that I would move on with my work and education and simply leave the dating scene behind until He brought it into priority for me. I went to bed that night with assurance that my burden was now on the Lord's mind and shoulders. I had long since come to know that rest and peace in other areas of my life challenges.

However, that was two weeks prior to a commitment I had made with a friend who had served with me in Texas who had just returned home and wanted to double-date with me and a young lady he had met (and whom I had come to know). He called a few days later to arrange to come and stay with me for that weekend. My response went something like this -- "Oh, Vaughn, you come down, but I have given up on the dating scene, so you stay with us and go out with Arlene, but I won't be going out with you." His response was "Hey, you can't do that! I 'll get back with you." Well, getting back with me was a call very late that night form Arlene. As I wiped the sleep from my eyes, I heard her say something like -- "Listen, I have been thinking and praying about the girls I know who I think you would like and I have two who I think are good fits. I have already asked one and she is not available for Saturday, but the other one is." I don't even think she told me the name.

Well, I had not perused the date and although it seemed a little odd that I had just told the Lord I was out of the market, I felt like maybe he had put me back in, at least to keep this commitment to Vaughn. So, I agreed and finished the work week wondering what Saturday would bring.

What it brought was a delightful meeting and interaction with a young lady from Akron, Ohio who was perhaps the first encounter with someone who was indeed a possibility for a serious interest. I had a great time. I leaned over to Arlene and thanked her for the introduction and then asked, "Wow, if this was choice Number Two, what is Number One like?" She informed me that Number One was fantastic and that she was available for the next Saturday and so were she and Vaughn. Actually, they were getting quite serious and another double-date would be just what the doctor ordered, for both of us.

This time Arlene gave me the name and I was to call to set up the date. She and Vaughn would pick her up on Saturday morning and meet me at home. I remembered her name was Judy and she was from Arlington, Virginia. I called her apartment at the university and the noise of the other girls made it difficult for her to hear, but she accepted the date. She later recounted that it was the last Saturday she was in town, the semester had ended, and she was headed back to Virginia for the summer. Nothing could come of it and it was a free meal. She liked and trusted Arlene and my deep voice was intriguing. I will not try to describe further her pre- meeting thoughts or experience. She may choose to share that adventure on her own.

The next several days I found myself with a new and exciting sense of anticipation for this adventure of meeting someone who had been the subject of thought and prayer and whose first set-up had been so good. I felt excited and a bit nervous for Saturday's encounter.

I got started with the chores late that morning and upon returning from the milk barn with a bucket of milk in both hands as I stepped past the front room window, I saw Vaughn's green Volkswagen pull into the driveway. I paused and watched as he helped Arlene out and then helped my last blind date from the back seat. That moment something moved inside of me -- a feeling, a familiarity, something, and I knew that this would be no ordinary date. I went to the kitchen and put the milk in the strainer. Mom, offered to finish up for me and I went out to meet them.

Our date was a hike and picnic in the canyon above my home. It was a beautiful Spring day and after exploring the area, hiking up the trails and jumping back and forth across the cement ditch that diverted some of the canyon stream into the communities irrigation system (and which was just wide enough to need to hold hands to insure a safe crossing), we settled into fixing lunch. It was the first time Judy had ever had a outdoor barbecued steak. In fact, it was the first time she had ever eaten a steak in her life! That seemingly odd fact was a shadow of how she had been raised and a most significant insight into the background and upbringing of this girl whom I seemed to know so well from the moment I met her. Indeed, her life story to that point will be fascinating, almost unbelievable to those who know the facts. Judy had had a pristine upbringing that had afforded her an abiding testimony of Christ, a profound faith, a gentle and guileless kindness, a selfless priority and an innocence that was unscathed. She was a child of truth and goodness like no other person I had ever met.

Upon my return from the picnic and our hurry to get to the movie and the rest of the day-long date, I passed my mother in on the stairs as I put away some of the picnic supplies. She had seen my unusual interest and excitement in the kitchen earlier and said "So?" My response was, "I think she is the one," although in my heart I was saying 'that is the girl I will marry.' She said, "You think so, huh?" Like any mom whose son said "she is the one" after the first date (actually, the first few hours), she may have been skeptical, but she knew I was not.

We moved on to the movie, Treasure Island. The movie was less than we had hoped, which was a good thing, because I couldn't have focused on the movie anyway. My heart and mind were racing, supercharged, energized like I had never experienced before. It was like living a dream, the date I had always dreamed, and prayed about. It had been as I prayed -- I knew her!

After the movie, we drove around the Provo Temple and cued by Vaughn and Arlene's obvious interest in some serious talk, Judy and I left the car and walked around the temple block several times. We learned more about each other in that hour of conversation and questions about life, priorities and family than most couples learn through a lifetime. There is little that I have learned about Judy that I did not come to know or sense that night.

When we got the girls back to their apartments, Vaughn walked Arlene to hers and I walked Judy to hers. I asked if I could pick her up after her church meetings to take her to a favorite spot called Cascade Springs. She agreed and then I asked her if I could give her a kiss. This was totally out of character for me, yet it was totally the right thing -- natural and good. Although the kiss was so inexperienced that it took a few more to get the "good night" said right, it was the end of a perfect day and the beginning of a more perfect life.

Judy can tell her own story of that night and the prayer, and voices that woke her and were in her mind until I knocked at the door and took her hand. It was like being back together having always been together and the ride up Provo Canyon was magic. I will never forget the moment I turned and looked in her eyes and asked with absolute seriousness, "What would you say if I asked you to marry me?" Ya, right, it had been less than 24 hours since we had met, or re-met as we have come to know. "We'll I know I am supposed to marry you," was the reply.

That day, that date and the ensuing date on Tuesday, the last day before she returned to Arlington and I stayed to work the summer was a whirlwind of feelings, realizations and wonders. Too much to share in this, already long lead up to what I want to share. Perhaps Judy will finish that story of how we discussed our children's names that second date, under separate cover. Needless to say, that summer apart was an incredible continuation of developing the relationship and planning our life together.

I had taken a job back with the road construction company for that summer before I returned to school and my schedule was very full. Up at 4 AM, milk the cow, take care of farm chores and take the two-hour drive with my dad to the job site in the mountains. Then 7:30 Am to 5 PM I danced with a shovel, Whacker compactor, laid and covered culvert pipe, flagged traffic and greased the pug mill and occasionally ran the roller on the new pavement. Then, back down the mountain to the mailbox where it was not unusual to have multiple letters and cards from my absentee fiance. After my evening chores and a quick bite of dinner, I spent long hours writing back to Judy. Long distance phone calls were very expensive in those days. Then to bed by 10 PM to sweet dreams and visions of this girl who was the answer, completion and purpose for the rest of my life.

That was now thirty-six years ago. The course of our life together has had many twists and turns that have all seemed to weave together in purpose and plan to where we are today. Now we are on the cusp of new challenges and opportunities to focus our lives, service, family and priorities into completing the adventurous life we have shared.

Those who know us know that Judy and I have a singleness of purpose and service. She has been a veritable definition of a "help mete for man." Her undaunting commitment to me and my work, our family, faith and marriage has never wavered. She has been, is, and continues to be, my everything. She has crafted a family of honest, faithful children who share our life view, purpose and priorities.

While I was gone so much in travel and business, she was always there doing what great mothers do, building the legacy of our family story. She has told the stories, set the priorities, established the values, wiped the tears, sung the songs, played the games, gone to soccer, school events and tucked the kids into their heritage. Oh, I helped, when I could, when I was around, I taught them to work, and cook and pray, but it has largely Judy who nurtured the day-to-day deposits of heritage in the Cloward home. For that I will be eternally grateful and we will both be eternally blessed.

Perfect parents? Oh my, no -- not by a long shot! Ask any of the kids and you will find a litiney of mistakes and dropped balls in our parenting. They will tell you that they taught us how to be parents and that sometimes we failed the tests. But they will each tell you they knew that we loved them, maybe most of all, when we did mess up. We are the parents of an eternally-focused and committed family with a heritage that is clear, values that are lived and traditions that continue to enrich our lives and those who share them with us. Are we done? Not by a long shot. There is still so much more heritage to create, to transfer and to celebrate. The legacy is a work in progress. We continue to build it together. And they continue to customize and fine-tune that legacy into a heritage of their own, as they define their own family stories and build on the foundations of grandparents, parents, and our shared eternal priorities.

So, what is all of this long lead up to you, my friends and associates, readers and colleagues? It is this: The first and most important continuing priority for building a lasting legacy of family heritage that will give you the greatest happiness and joy in this life, and I believe in the life to come, is for each of us to remember that our love and respect, partnership and commitment to each other - sweethearts, companions, mothers and fathers, parents, children, is the foundation for our heritage. We must not let our foundations weaken, crumble or go out of repair and priority.

Remember. Remember your own love story and continue to live and write it into your own and and the hearts of your children. The greatest gift you can give them is indeed, a pure and undefiled love of each other. Your love story past, present and future is the framework for their security and their happiness. Build a Heritage and a Legacy of Love of each other and write your story - for them.

Now, I must tell you that my blogs will be a bit periodic with changes or needs to update you on the health and happenings of the journey. I must now turn my priority to writing a book that I am compelled to complete. The book - "Bringing Heritage Home" is waiting to be written and shared. I trust that it is a worthy project and will be a good read. But then, you can be the judge of that.

Onward and Upward!

Love,
Doug

Family Together Again on the Mountain

2008-05-26T08:54:00.001-07:00

Greetings.

Over a foot of new snow came to the Lodge over the last three days - and so did we. The Cloward's convened at the lodge for some heritage rejuvenation and some work to prepare for the next Dream Team and our next Executive Director Family Retreat. We surely love to work together. And after the work comes the laughter and the cooking and the singing and the joy of being together -- again.

We made four rhubarb strawberry pies to go with feasts of pot roast, corn on the cob, great salads, watermelon, oven fries and too much more to remember, without feeling guilty. We had friends and family to feast with, celebrate and make memories. We wish you all could have been here. I was grateful that the chemo did not rob me of another precious weekend of heritage making. As you can imagine, this time the joy was all the sweeter knowing that we came close to having had our last gathering, without having known it would be so.

So it is with each of us. None of us really ever know when it will be the last, or the end to things we tend to take for granted. The Clowards have come to savor even more these precious moments we are together - come snow or shine. As you look at your little ones and your big ones, take just a moment more to savor the precious moment and add a little bigger smile and a little longer hug. We have come to remember that heritage in the making is much more precious and so much more short than the heritage we then remember and celebrate.

Friends and Associates who Have Made the Difference

Last night was another of those precious times of being up and down often enough to have a little think and ponder time in waiting for sleep to find me again. I found that some of my thoughts centered on the people in my life that have had a profound influence. Some of these were significant because of who they were, some because of when they come into my life, some because of what they contributed and some because they were a gateway to experiences that have blessed my life. Regardless of why they have been important to my life, I started listing them and thinking about their contributions.

Many of these have been teachers,youth leaders and business associates. Most in recent years have been clients and business partners. None of them will likely read this blog, but I must let them know that they have contributed to my life. Although it will surely miss many here is a partial list of those who came to mind last night.

School Years

Third Grade - LaVon Burningham, a great teacher and neighbor.
Fourth Grade - Phil Argyle, a bit rough and tough on me, but nurtured my love of art with a mother's day project that he praised. It was a simple plywood with a rope-trimmed tray that I painted a pixie on. His admiration of the project was given at a pivotal point in my young life.
The Clement Brothers - Steven, Gary and David, neighbors and good examples
Tom, David and Harry Tippets and their folks, friends who shared the early adventures
Eric Orton, my best Jr. High school friend
Lon Sorensen, my high school brother and lifelong friend (and his wife Marie)
Merrill Carter, my high school debate coach.
Loren Phillips, my high school FFA adviser.

Mission Years

Vaughn Stuart, my mission buddy and dearest friend
Elder Tom Griggs, mission companion - a dedicated hard worker
Elder Gary Cox, another great companion who knew how to work

After Mission and College Years

Arlene Prows Stuart, Vaughn's wife who introduced me to Judy, my eternal sweetheart
Michael Hess, my other "brother" who has been there for me and with me through much of our shared life challenges and joys
Thayne Packer, Youth Leadership Department Chair whose trust and confidence set my feet on the path of my life mission in working with youth and children
Rulon Skinner, professor of scouting education whose dedication to well prepared teaching of your services still effects my teaching and leadership
Doug Nelson, Survival buddy, fellow faculty member and life-long family friend, confidant and brother
Keith Hooker, the flying Doc whose heart is golden good and who has given me great adventures, experiences and service and continues to be there for me and my family

The BYU Years

Kyle and Kitt Hooker, Keith's sons who worked with me in the Wilderness and Handcart trips and back-up support and helpers. They have grown into great men.
Shanna Watts Ballard, my primary partner in the creation and conducting of the Pioneer and Wilderness Treks and a dear and lasting friend of the family.
Delbert Jay, the dependable back-up man of the trips
Herb Flower, Kevin Card, Sheldon Worthington, Dennis Chapman, Tom Tippets, Pam Budge Tippets, Kevin Marrett, James Loveless, Lori James Marrett - these and many others were key players in the early leadership of the Wilderness and Pioneer Trek Youth Conference Programs that I developed with their help while teaching at BYU

The Direct Selling Years

Dale Lee, Kerry Asay, Kim Asay, Don Lenhoff, Gene and Kristine Hughes of my days at Nature's Sunshine.
Mark Jacobs of Watkins products was also a key player in my early consulting career and afforded me the opportunity to serve and learn with his team in the halls of the Watkins Company, the great pioneer of our direct selling industry.
Becky Wright and Lisa Brandau of At Home America, whom I learned more from and with than any other client in my Direct Selling consulting career. These sisters taught me more about entrepreneurship and commitment to a family-based business than all my other experiences in the industry combined. They live it. I am eternally grateful for their association and friendship. I only wish my dream of being in business with Becky had come to pass. I still have hopes that that dream will come true in some way with Heritage Makers.
John Tefft, formerly of Shaklee, business associate and dear friend who has become a brother.
And there are many more good direct selling associates, too many to try to mention, who have contributed to my understanding of the art and science of direct selling.
Special mention must go to the DSA staff and friends who I had the privilege of working with over many years in in seminars and conferences, committees and workshops.

The Heritage Makers years

Now in the culmination of my life work, I look to my association with my Heritage Makers Associates for their roles and contributions - they include, Sharon Murdoch and daughter Candy May, the founders of the storybooking movement; to Chris Crandall and Heidi Arave, for their dedication and persistence to make sure storybooking was birthed and cared for until we found each other. Then to Brytt, my son, whose focus on creating a direct selling business that served families pushed me to formulate Heritage Home Studio, just at the convergence of meeting the My Family Tales team. Then to Randall Harward for his belief in the vision and for the financial contribution that allowed us to plant the seeds and begin the journey to where we are today. And next, to Justin Biggs, our partner and technology anchor who saw the vision and whose continued dedication and service is so vital a part of our progress and stability. He was instrumental in bringing another key player, Karl Hale whose leadership in building a world-class team of programmers who have given us the great Studio tool. Next came Marshyl, then Bryndi family members who have been dedicated and have contributed much. There have been several other key employees who have made contributions and moved on. But the most important worker bee in the early days may well be my sweetheart Judy who was and is always there to help with whatever was needed. Records, shipping, printing, you name it, she has and always will be a quiet helpful presence in our business. Then came my partner Chris Lee from the My Family.com connection. He engineered both the purchase and the buyout of Heritage Makers to and from MFC and came with the deal as we left. And now he plays the critical role of CEO to manage the business of the adventure. His partnership and role in the growing success of the company and his commitment to the business and me, make him a very key and favored player in this phase of my life and work. I am grateful for his association, strength and partnership.

There are also those absolutely key players in our field organization that make up the most recent significant associates of my life. These are the women and men wh0 saw the vision and opportunity of the HM business and then jumped in with their hearts and their feet and have breathed life into the vision, service and business with their storybooks and their sharing of the message and cause of heritage. They now take up the bulk of my focus, thinking, association and time. They are the all-star team of my life work and purpose.

They are a small group who represent a larger and growing group of consultants who are following their leadership and faith in the business and the home team's commitment to the vision, mission and the direct selling method for long term success and stability.
Generally, these stalwart associates are now the Directors and Sr. Directors of the
business. They have largely come from two key members of the organization who
have become dear, dear friends and partners in the vision and future of our Heritage Making business. Wendy McGee and Virginia Dixon and their Sr. Director teams' continue to partner in the development and expansion of the HM dream. For their partnership and dedication I am so very grateful.

But, of all the human beings who had had impact on my life none have had the singular contribution and partnership as my brother Paul and my sweetheart Judy. Paul and I were a little older than our sister Amy and because we were into boy stuff we did not have as much time nor experience together. Yet we were close because both parents worked much of the time we tended each other and had many great adventures of work and play. One of our high priorities was to make our parents proud of us. It brought joy and a sense of "adultness" to us to make certain the chores were done, plus a little extra. In retrospect, the toughness of growing up with a father who was away most of the time, a mother who worked and ran the farm and the need for our sibling interdependence all combined for a significant contribution to our character. And it certainly was the stuff of strong bonding for Paul and I.

This blog has rambled a bit too long about those who have contributed to my life work and joy in living. So, I will hold for my comments about my sweetheart till tomorrow's post. Who knows? I may give you some of the really juicy fun stuff of our less-than 24-hour engagement.

I am certain that there are many others, not mentioned, who have made major contributions to my life. Teachers in church, youth Leaders and neighbors, coworkers and friends. To each of you who have been the source of enrichment and contribution to my learning, faith and testimony, my work and my life, I extend grateful appreciation.

Relatively speaking, the list is short, probably for each of us, which makes the names on our lists significant and precious. We have shared moments of our ever-so-short lives. The older I get, the more I come to believe that these associations are not by chance or coincidence. I fully believe that the day will come when we see the greater pattern of the Father's blueprints to be much more detailed than we assume in our day-to-day associations. I believe that we are blessed by and bless each other in a circle of close associations that come and go as we move through life. And that hereafter we will see and appreciate those contributions and the majesty that orchestrated our proximity and time together.

That is it for the thoughts of the day about those who have been the spice and joy of my life and work. I go to bed now knowing full well that there are more wonderful, incredible people I will meet and who will contribute to my life and work, and for who just maybe I may make a contribution to theirs as we move onward and upward in the cause of truth and Heritage. I so, so look forward to our meeting and working together!

Love,

Doug

Another Day, Another Miracle

2008-05-24T13:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings, again!

Well I have been informed that along with my former list of bald headed greats, I might look like I need to add Mr. Clean, the long lost fourth Ninja Turtle, Yoda or the turtle in The Never Ending Story. I think I like the notion of a new bald hero - Mr. Heritage. But, you can decide or add your own option on your comment posts.

Thursday morning was spent in the office for more great planning and coordination meetings regarding Studio enhancements, photo management priorities, scanning support tools etc. It was exciting and I wish each of you could have been there to feel the energy, but you'll be getting it at Leaders Conference and Reunion.

Thurs afternoon Judy and I went to the SLC Bone Marrow and Stem-Cell Hospital for review of my situation and possibilities beyond Chemo. I must admit the doctor, one of the best, talked straight and was not very encouraging, but he laid out a strategy of a first step, Chemo, second Stem Cell transplant and then as a last possible life extender donor Bone Marrow transplant. He went over the history of the treatment of Mantle Cell Lymphoma and the process of the transplants. We left knowing that he doesn't know all the treatments there are or that I have been getting. We all know that healing comes from the body as directed by its divine self healing processes and by intervention when necessary by our all powerful and merciful God. I assure each of you He has heard our (your) prayers and continues to give miracles and understanding. Thank you all again for your faith and contribution.

Friday morning was spent in meetings at the office, including a great meeting with Wendy McGee and darling daughter, Delanee. We discussed strategy and directions for Leadership Conference and Reunion that are in process. She was excited and I was blessed by her visit and infusion of commitment, vision and leadership. She and her team are flat going to make things happen over the next few months!

Then it was on to the second round of Chemo. I must admit I went with a bit of trepidation, given the near death of the last treatment of Rituxan, but I had been assured the next round of Rituxan would not be as severe. They were right. The infusion took about four hours and I returned home ready for the onslaught of nausea etc. It is now Saturday afternoon and I am back at the lodge and have had little nausea and no vomiting (praise the Lord, knock on my bald head and a piece of wood for a continuation of that blessing)! I feel a little tired but will be well rested to jump back into the forging of HM with you after the recuperation of the holiday weekend.

As we look ahead at expanded and enhanced strategy for growing our (your) HM business it has become so clear that we need to move our focus to a paradigm shift from the current primary goal thinking of "sell and sponsor" to a fundamental precursor that is largely untapped by our current business model. When this paradigm is fully explained and your paradigm of the way we do the business "shifts," I sincerely believe that we will see the business jump into momentum. We are therefore preparing materials and a presentation, live and web to present at Leadership to help you make the shift in thinking and the way you grow your business.

A sneak peek of this concept is that it focuses on Heritage Making Workshops as the introductory step to the business, not just a "help them get started" workshop that many of you are using as a follow-up for new clients. The Heritage Making Workshop's primary goal is for everyone who comes to join us as a Heritage Maker in their home. The flow of the workshop will become the cookie cutter for all of our people, especially new consultants who will have seen and participated in this simple and scripted process themselves.

The elements 0f the flow, scripts, and tools will go like this:

1. Photos.

Why did our grandparents sacrifice for these expensive photos of their times?
Why did our parents follow the pattern of taking pictures of everything they did and of all the friends and family they knew?
So, why do we continue the process into the digital age? Our grandparents handed down their relatively few pictures to our parents, they added their boxes of photos before they gave them to you. If you haven't received the legacy of all these boxes of photos yet, count on it you or one of your siblings will. (Judy was the elected sibling of 30 such heritage-rich boxes in her family!)
Why were the pictures taken? What was the intended use and what will you do with them now? Will you continue to stockpile, store, hide, and worry about their security and what to do with them? The answer is to capture and secure the stories behind the pictures and to preserve the stories for future remembering and passing on to the next generation. But how? Do we just keep stock piling the photos and throw those away when the stories and details have fully faded or been lost?
Oh, yeah, right, you can scrapbook the pictures. Many have and many do. But those who have for very long find out how very time consuming and expensive it is. They discover how all the good intentions to get each child's or event scrapbook copied is an elusive butterfly that soon becomes a dragon. The joy of scrapbooking fades as you discover how difficult it is to find the time, deal with the mess, and acknowledge that you may not have the creativity to create the masterpiece you want. When you do, it is a one-of-a-kind, precious treasure that you want to put up to avoid damage, peanut butter and jelly, and the request to "borrow" the book.

2. Digital Era.

Now we enter the digital age and the possibility of scanning the pictures to make them secure, to do something with them on the computer. Anyone who has tried scanning their photos on a typical home-use flatbed scanner knows the frustration and the time. Dragging the boxes, sorting, and scanning is more than a weekend project. It is a headache for sure.
Heritage Makers' High-speed Scanning Service offers clients the solution to both their photo security concerns and their "what to do with them issues." The primary reason for taking the pictures is to retain the stories and relations behind them. This scanning service makes it possible to overcome the mess, time, and frustration of the process.
You then show a brief DVD video of the scanning process.
Then, with new high tech picture enhancement, meta tagging (journaling) and album management tools that are being added to Studio, the dreams of our ancestors who took the photos and our hopes for doing something with them to retain their stories and to pass them on in a more useful form can be accomplished. Encourage them to take advantage of the scanning service and the special deal you have for them tonight. This is where you discuss turning the photos into heritage.

3. What is heritage anyway?

Simply put, heritage is the story of your family, your history, significant people, events, traditions and values. Your Heritage is your story. Do you know it? More importantly, are you teaching your children their family story so they know and can live the traditions and the values you cherish -- their roots? Do they share your view of the world, life, and its purpose?
What happens to children who grow up not knowing the roots, values and purpose in life?
Most often without this vital sense of belonging and heritage they will seek to find or make it on their own or adopt the heritage of their friends or gangs or others who have an overt statement of values and priorities that are often at odds with yours and societies.
The lack of feeling this purpose and direction, goals and expectations that are part of heritage and that create this vital sense of belonging and connectedness, leads to depression, withdrawal and low self-esteem. For far too many children, especially teenagers, the only escape from the emptiness and lack of meaning and purpose is taking their own life. In extreme cases, where a heritage of violence has supplemented a loving home-based heritage, they take others with them. When the focus of their lives is allowed to be on violent video games and movies themed with criminals who get the attention they lack, some teens want to leave a legacy of terror.
Current statistics indicate that suicide is the number 3 cause of death among young people ages 6-24. Heritage making is a vital, though not understood, role of every parent. Heritage Makers is dedicated to helping parents, primarily moms, understand how to build the heritage in their homes and transfer it effectively to their families through the power of storybooking.

4. Storybooking Heritage.

Storybooking your heritage is the powerful and exciting introduction to Heritage Makers company and products. Here is where you will show and tell a group of key storybooks and other HM products. You will get them to briefly identify (not tell) a story they would like to have in a storybook (and will have some fun ways to help you get this information from them). The Story Card Game tools will be very helpful and exciting in this new approach.
After showing them samples of the products and getting them in touch with their own stories, you move on to a demonstration of HM Studio. This is done with an updated DVD demo that shows all of its new features and powers and helps guests see how fun and easy it is to become a Heritage Maker in their home.
We then discuss the four cornerstone storybooks they can make to help each child in their home understand and connect to the family story and their birthright of heritage. These storybooks include the paternal and maternal grandparents stories. These first two books (with simple templates and guides) chronicle basic information about their grandparents and help them see their grandparents as heroes and how their values and traditions have been passed onto their children -- you, and now onto them -- your children.
The third storybook is your story. How you and their father met, fell in love got married and began building a life and a heritage for their family and how they looked so forward to that child joining them in the great adventure of building a family and a home together.
Lastly, the fourth cornerstone is their own first storybook to tell of their birth, uniqueness, talents and the joy they bring to your home. These are the cornerstones for every member of the family, and we offer starter packages for new Heritage Makers that prepare them to create these books.

5. Becoming a Heritage Maker.

Then we offer an invitation to the guests to become a Heritage Maker, a member of our community of proactive, intentional heritage making. We explain how they can become a member for free with Studio basic, or they can get a Studio Plus account for free with a purchase of a heritage maker starter pack of credits. If they are as excited about becoming a heritage maker as you, they will want to become a Premier Member, and we show and tell the differences and offer the starter packages.

6. The HM Business.

Explain what the HM business is as a personal storybook publishing consultant. Consultants simply share the message in workshops like this and then they are available to coach and help members of their HM community. They coach them to storybook their Heritage and to establish their own HM community of heritage makers as a Consultant.
You express your love for the business and how you would love to welcome them as a member of your heritage makers community in any way they would like to participate.

7. Take Orders.

Then you, and any other consultants who have brought guests, meet with them individually to sign them up as a member (Free, Plus or Premier) and to take orders for the Packages and product.

While the system is similar to a Celebration , the fundamental difference is the mindset of bringing them into the community. This is the first objective--sign them up. Then service them with Studio and Product options. This is the shift. We want them as heritage makers in their home -- however they want.

Again this is the concept and the scripting and tools are coming. Prepare to change the paradigm and to reap the harvest of a rapidly expanding community of heritage makers!

Please understand our mission is membership! Please pass this vital concept (maybe the blog info) to others who need this clarifying focus on the nature, purpose and future of our business.

Onward and Upward!

Love,
Doug

2008-05-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings!
"No, I did not pull my hair out and yes I am still your grandpa." a hat helps to keep me a little warmer and to camouflage the stranger the grandkids see. Who is that guy anyway? Is he Daddy Warbucks, Shrek in real life, Dallin Oaks, Lex Luther or Yul Brenner? You decide (hint Daddy Heritage might be closer).

Ah, another morning with gratitude, excitement and curiosity. Yesterday morning was taken up with a German holistic MD. Reminders of basis nutrients, how to alcholize the body, foods to avoid and foods to increase, alternative therapies and how to buffer myself against the short and long term effects of chemo. The next round is tomorrow. Then it was back to the office for more strategic discussion about priorities and initiatives for product and technology development to support simplification and functionality of Studio and maximization of effectiveness for telling the HM story. It was all very good and I love working with a small, but oh so committed Executive Team. Justin particularly shined today with work on a new user interface for HM - EXCITING. Although the vision and workload of these projects will take six months to complete, the simplification and user friendliness will be incredible.

Then I went to a Scan Party Wendy McGee was doing. It is always such a treat to see Celebrations and Scan Parties in action and this one was especially fun. Seeing new comers to HM discover the concepts, and vision of storybooking their heritage is energizing. Thanks Wendy - it was great to be back where the heritage really meets the road.

Thank you to all of you have created and sent such thoughtful, encouraging and sharing cards letters and books. Each day I get to the office and there are greetings from many of you from across the country. Thank you, thank you. Catching up with formal thank you may take me a bit of time. In the mean time please know that your faith and cards, gifts and books are precious and deeply appreciated. I will save and share them at Reunion so you can see a display of the incredible creativity our HM family has channeled through Studio and StoryCards.

I wanted to share a gift that was waiting on my desk yesterday and which I will treasure forever. It was one of the most beautiful, well done, touching, encouraging and precious books I have ever seen, let alone received. It was a legacy edition gift from the members of Dream Team #10 . It is incredible - we (Judy I ) laughed and we cried. Thank you. Thanks to each of you for you time and investment in my healing and recovery. Until we can hug you in person (at Leadership or Reunion) know that you MADE MY DAY!

Tomorrow it is a trip to SLC to meet with the Bone Marrow transplant team for evaluations. Then Friday round two of the chemo, hopefully with less drastic reaction. Then the weekend to start climbing back from the chemo punch. I must admit I am curious as to how my body will handle the next punch of chemicals. But, I am funneling more of the "good" stuff to help it rebound. I'll give you the recap of the bout after the bell of round 2 - unless it knocks me out for a day or two?

Now, as to sharing of the thoughts and impressions of the night and day. So, here is a question for you. Do your children know what heritage is generally? Do they know the meaning of the word? And do they know what their heritage is? Can they tell their (your) story and articulate your primary values, traditions and why they are so important to your family - their heritage? I see the public service add about "Parents do your know where your kids are?" And, "have you talked to your kids about drugs?" And, "alcohol" and so on, and think, maybe the focus should be, "parents do you kids know their heritage, the meaning of their name?. "Do your children know who they are, what they stand for, how significant they are to you and to their family?"

Don't make the mistake of thinking that this, like the discussions about the "birds and the bees" is something that can wait. This is a discussion that is ongoing, deepening, enduring and wonderful. Start it now, before the public service adds cause you to wonder and to act, perhaps too late. Ours is such a great opportunity and responsibility, such a great adventure, such and important contribution. The message of heritage, if you make it, if you deliver it in your HM conversations, in your celebrations at your scan parties, is, in the long run, more important that what they buy or if they join. Please, never forget that the message is the mission.

I am fully satisfied that those who deliver the message most consistently and most effectively will, in the long run, be most successful financially. They are our Diamonds. They are the real leaders. So again I ask, "do your children know? Start, or continue, their heritage conversation today.

Onward and upward.

Love - Doug

Leadership, Love and Me

2008-05-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Greetings.

Here again to tell you bald is beautiful (if you have no options) and sunsets on the mountain are beautiful even if you do have options. Back at the office from a fantastic weekend with my sweetheart. Today I focused on plans for the Leadership Conference, giving the Leadership Principle for the Directors call, coordinating with several Leaders from across the country and planning for Reunion opening night. Yes, it was a very full day, just like yours, and I hope you enjoyed your busyness as much as I did.

The day’s focus on Leadership left me with some impressions. First, how vitally important good leaders are in our business and our lives. They are often the “spark plug” to our understanding, commitments and action. And they play an important catalytic role in our success. I was also struck with the reality that even leaders need leaders, who need leaders and so on. This means that all leaders are ultimately followers, empowered by leaders' influence, training and expectations. I thought about our ultimate life leader, even the Savior Jesus Christ and how His leadership taught us how to live and lead. His training was simple -- it was His gospel of love. That gospel He also called His yoke. A yoke is something we use to lighten or balance our load. It makes it easier to carry. This gave way to the thought that great leaders provide yokes for their team members. They show the way to use the yoke (system) by doing it (example) and then they teach the principles and practical practices of using the yoke. He and they teach us how to be and how to achieve our purpose in business and in life.

It is also clear that we are all leaders and leading – self, children, team members and strangers. We must be careful to do the right things. If we teach incorrect principles, by precept or example, we may set in place false assumptions that may lead to false traditions and roads that do not lead our followers to success or happiness. So, I am examining my leadership and my principles to make certain that I am not following false principles or traditions, and that I am teaching only truth and correct principles. I invite my associates to consider doing the same thing. This is akin to sharpening your leadership saw.

On another front, the last couple of days I have been focusing on my sweetheart and her relentless service, love and support. I have noticed, more clearly, her countless services, kindnesses and how she is the perfect helpmete for me. Further, I have come to understand how much of what she does is unsung, unrecognized, even by those she serves most – me. So, I am committed to notice, recognize, thank and help her more. Perhaps this “leadership” will encourage my men readers and friends to “follow” my lead. I suspect the results will pay great dividends to both of us.

Regarding my health journey, tomorrow it's a visit to a blood work specialist in northern Utah, on Thursday an evaluation for bone marrow (or stem cell) transplant, implant, therapies and then Friday, back to my new friend Chemo. The weekend will be interesting indeed. Your continued thoughts, prayers and good will be muchly appreciated as I enter this uncharted path. Thanks, in advance!

Remember, lead in truth, love in gratitude and pray in faith.

Onward and upward.

Love, Doug

Personal, but not Private: Answers in Hindsight

2008-05-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings again!

I feel great, physically and more. I feel filled with gratitude, clarity and focus on the days and the long-term priorities of my life and our purpose. May I share my weekend with you, up front and personal, to the end that you may find vicarious understanding and clarity in your own life and yearnings? I know I do so at the risk of being misunderstood. Again, this is personal, very personal, but I feel compelled to not keep it private.

One night while laying in the hospital, a simple thought came into my mind briefly enough for me to recognize the thought. It was, Mantle Cell is my friend. That was all. I did not reject the the thought as crazy or ridiculous. I simply acknowledged that the thought had come to me. It had not been created in my thinking process. It had just come. I have come to know that most personal revelation (inspiration - answers to prayer) come in this way. A quiet, simple thought comes and leaves me (us) with the option of what to do with the thought -- accept and consider it or reject and discard it. So, Mantle Cell Leukemia was my friend? The obvious follow on thought was that you do not fight a friend. Rather, you acknowledge and embrace the friend.

I determined that the battle was not against cancer, rather, the battle, quest, was for health. So, I proceed to eat and live as healthy as I know how, without becoming radical nor fanatical. A friend introduced me to a green drink product that Judy and I are now both using and believe it is helping in our race for greater health. As we teach in Dream Team, more clean water, deep breathing, mild large muscle exercise (walking at this point -- next, hiking), good nutrition and adequate sleep, rest and moments of sweet calm stillness. This then is our non-battle with the disease. We'll let all of our combined prayers fight that battle. And in wisdom will work with the doctors' skills for that role in the process. That is the strategy.

The weekend was warm and wonder-filled. Life here on the the mountain is teeming everywhere. The snow is gone at our elevation, the leaves will be out next week and the hummingbirds are returning in mass. Little yellow and white ground flowers are building a carpet of beauty and wonder. If you were here we would lay on our bellies and get our noses close to the tiny miracles of life. Then we would raise our heads (my bald head) and we would hear the songs of the birds as they declare their territorial nesting and feeding rights. And we would laugh at the child-like squabbling of the hummingbirds as they try to exert their claim over the flowers and the feeders. And we would laugh. Remember the HM family invitation for all new Executives to join us here for just such revelry.

Saturday I walked to the knoll behind the lodge and sat facing the sunset over the mountain. It is such a great place to breathe, ponder and pray. And I did.

Then I cranked up one of the ATVs and took Judy for a ride around the area and some brief visits with our maintain friends who were here for the weekend. And we remembered how good it is to have the gift of friends. Then a quiet, simple dinner with my sweetheart, a little eyes gazing, scriptures, prayers and the restful full night's sleep. So good.

Sunday morning brought sweet Sabbath study and a return to our tiny church on the mountain. Hugs and love from friends who had focused their faith and prayers in my behalf these past three weeks overflowed. I taught the priesthood lesson and a joy-filled potluck lunch following the services. Fellowship is healing.

Now for the personal insights and confessions. I hope the openness is not uncomfortable.

For a very long time, years, I have in the private recesses of my thoughts and prayers had concerns over the contributions of my life in contrast to the blessings, talents and my yearning to make a difference. I have often felt that it was just not enough -- on several fronts. And my sins and shortcomings were not other than the general variety that most of us deal with in our fallen, mortal state. Nonetheless, mine haunted me and I worried that they had and were removing me from greater opportunity to serve and make a meaningful contribution. I know that may come across as naive and over zealous, but it is true, I thought, and I worried long and much about it -- particularly during the last year. It was cankering (cancering) my soul.

Simultaneously to this thorn in my heart, I was also heavy with the awareness that I was living largely without joy. That is to say, I was so busy doing the tasks, of admittedly good things, yet lightheartedness (not light mindedness) and laughter and personal play were missing from my life. And therefore I was not able to fully share in the joy of life, even the joy I was striving to create for my family and others. Fishing trips, ATV rides, feasts, lessons, work -- project after project -- task after task, were facilitations to creating joy for others. But I was not smelling the roses. I wasn't pausing enough and partaking of the joy that was all around me. I was always two projects ahead, two days, weeks, months, years of tasks ahead in my mind. I was looking beyond the moment and its own priceless harvest of joy to the creation of the next event. I felt it and my family saw it. I think this sickness of task orientation may affect (infect) many, if not most, men. We are fixers -- next, next, next. Again, I felt the sickness and had been praying earnestly about it during the last several months. I needed healing.

Then came my friend, Mantle Cell Leukemia. And then came yesterday and the night of new thoughts. And it came. The medicine and answers to my honest cries for help both for contribution and for joy had been ever so graciously administered by a loving God in the form of cancer - Mantle Cell. It stopped me, shall we say, "dead in my tracks" (tasks) and held my "busy"ness at bay. It stopped my rush and gave me the ever so needed pause to see and to understand.

And now my understanding and vision is crystal clear. Their is no greater contribution that I can make with my talents, and my time, than that which I am doing in forwarding the cause of heritage making -- practical family history -- and bringing mothers home with the understanding of how to build their children's life foundations and heritage. It is enough and more. I shall not want more than you, my Mantle Cell friend.

In the quiet moments in the hospital and more since as I have begged for forgiveness of the impact of the rush of my life on my sweetheart -- as I have gazed in her eyes, held her close, walked hand-in-hand and talked, really talked and really listened -- as we have pondered our future and its uncertain days and trials -- together, I have found the joy I had passed by and that now I savor and live for. Now I see, feel and have found the joy that is all around me and I will not miss again partaking in the feasts I help to create. Nor will I be slow to cherish the feast of life the Lord and others set before me. And I will become as a little child, filled with amazement, life, trust and joy. Thank you my friend, Mantle Cell. And thank you dear Father for the answers to my needs, my weakness and my pleas.

And thank you for allowing me to share. In the sharing, there is further healing. And I sincerely hope that for those who read, they may find, vicarious healing, meaning and answers and direction for the balm so readily available to each of us.

I do so look forward to the continuing gifts of my new friend and companion for all he has to teach me. And with His and your permission, I look forward to sharing that journey and adventure with you.

Onward and Upward!

Love - Doug

Back to Our Mountain Home - We Waltzed in the Moonlight

2008-05-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings.

I am sorry to report that there have been glitches in the blogging tool and a couple of postings have been lost - sorry. There were, I think some valuable insights, but recreating them seems now back looking instead of forward. So I will move on and tell you about a most wonderful night and day.

I find myself continuing to wake in the wee hours, rested sufficient to appreciate the moments of think, meditation and reflection. Last night I found myself contemplating the interest and contributions of the many who have come to my rescue with prayers, thoughts, cards, visits, calls and thoughts. What an amazing thing and testimony of the human spirit to reach out and to help. Truly there is an element of the Good Samaritan in each of us and an extra portion seems to be resident among our family, friends and associates.

As I considered these acts of kindness, I was drawn to those whose service and gift centered on the gift of food and feeding. How I remember looking at that hospital breakfast - a small muffin and 1/2 cup of oatmeal. I knew I still had some life in me because I didn't know whether to cry or just chuck the tray across the room. I might have had I had the energy to try!

Then, Thursday, a special friend brought a feast of specially prepared salads that were delicious, good and such a relief from the institutional food of the hospital. Then once more, that night before the Friday I was to be released, the Friday when life seemed to be fading and one foot was reaching across the veil, that night, Rebecca Carter came back and brought in what might well have been my last supper. It was an incredible feast, a dinner prepared by the skill of her sweetheart that was so savory and good!

And as I reflected on the gift and the talent that was surely his good and hers, I realized in a deeply profound way how our gifts of service with our talents, be they great or small is perceived by the masses as "unto one of the least of these, you do it unto me." Then when I was released, no doubt blessed by that meal's nourishment and enjoyment, I went to the condo and a neighbor I had never met, brought in dinner that was good, kind and a gift of love, support and a blessing.

So be it the gift of music bestowed by my children and grandchild in those first challenging days, so enjoyed and healing, the gift of presence from concerned and loving friends, or these special gifts of talent and service-seasoned meals, I have been blessed and inspired by what we can do to reach out and bless. I look froward to being a better giver in the days ahead. Those were the thoughts and lessons of the night. Thank you Rebecca and each of you. Your gifts will be multiplied.

The Dawn of a Perfect Day

After the lessons of the night, the dawn found Judy and I strolling through the beautiful temple grounds of the Provo Temple. The flowers and fragrances were energizing and calming -- interesting combination. Then we went inside for a couple of hours of service and came out uplifted and ready for the other adventures of the day.

I was at the office a little early to great the staff and learned that a major breakthrough had been achieved in the technology of our business for speed and reliability of the Heritage Makers service. Wow! Another gift of talents to appreciate.

Then I had appointments with a nutritional counselor, long-time friend and associate Steve Smith who helped me get set for the needed improvement in whole-food nutrition that will support me in my new resolve to live with more focus on a healthy lifestyle and foods. He introduced me the URI products. I am sure I will be sharing my experience with this product as time goes on.

Then it was to see the doctor for blood work. Ever notice how long it takes to get in - beyond the appointment? Then I remembered I was not the only one who was calling on his service and that this was one more exercise in developing patience. The wait for the doctor was therefore healing to my impatience. After a brief stop at the store for some groceries, we drove toward our home for the first time in over three weeks.

As we approached Diamond Fork Canyon, where I had conducted Youth Conference Survival and Handcart programs for literally thousands of young people and church groups in the '70s, I suggested to Judy that we go into the canyon and look for spring watercress. As we drove through the canyon to check the springs, I realized that I had not been back into the canyon for many years. My mind was flooded with the memories of hundreds of days and a sea of faces of people I had helped lead, taught to build matchless fires, to climb the mountain, to rappel down the cliffs, walk alone in the night and to focus on the weightier matters of life, of family, of personal spirituality, of confidence and of forward thinking. Savoring those moments was sweet and tender.

The canyon was dressed in its spring beauty - just for me I am sure. It was another gift of joy for the day of my return home.

As we climbed the hill and dropped into our little mountain cover of aspens, my heart stretched and I knew again how sweet coming home is. We set the groceries on the counter and went to the front porch swing. It became a magical moment as the nesting bluebirds welcomed us back as they darted back and forth from the nesting box just a few yards from the swing. We were watching Rocky, the rock chuck, nibbling off the fresh new growth of greens when we were buzzed by hummingbirds already back from their hiatus to warmer climbs. Again they buzzed as if to say "well, we are back, where's the welcoming feeders?" Judy got the hint and retrieved the feeders filled with fresh (fake) nectar. Spring is indeed back to the mountain and so are we.

We walked around the property hand-in-hand to check the effects of the long winter on the little seedling trees we had planted, four, five, six and seven years ago. The growing season and water are in short supply here on the mountain and many of the surviving trees are yet barely taller than when they were seedlings. But a precious few have withstood the challenge of the environment and are thriving.

Then our good friend John Ward came by and we had a good talk about our friends on the mountain and the Association. Again I was reminded about how good friends are and how sweet their association is. I find this special friend often in my thoughts and hopes for joy in living.

Then it was a simple dinner with my sweetheart as the last of the day faded over the west mountain and the blue sky was replaced by a brilliant bright full moon. The aspens and the hills were illuminated by its glow - wonderful!

Then to cap the evening, Judy put on her favorite Josh Grobin music. We listened to his great gift of voice and then I took my sweetheart's hand and we waltzed in the moonlight.
This moment, opportunity, gift was not lost. The day was perfect, full and sweet. I look forward to the next dance.

More tomorrow. 'Til then, Onward and Upward!
Doug

Home at last!

2008-05-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

One of my favorite sci-fi movies is “Number 5 Alive." I recommend it, I am Alive! Thanks especially to my two young friends, Teague and Jake—out of the mouths of babes, a little child shall lead them.

I was released at 12:30 PM after having the dialysis lines and central lines removed.
Though I had to arrive at the executive meetings still in PJs, I greeted the Heritage Makers staff at 1:30 with a brief overview of my situation, my resolve, and a reminder of the incredible privilege and responsibility we have working together. We spoke of our commitment and excitement to step the pace of service to our consultant and client base. We spoke to the cause of heritage, mothers in homes, and children with a clear understanding of their importance and potential.

Then the executive moved into strategic discussions about further advances in Heritage Studio, products and simplifying the story booking and heritage making process. It was wonderful to be back, although I was weak and tired quickly. Oh there are exciting things ahead for all of us as we continue to work more on the breath of life into HM. Yes, it too is “ALIVE."

Tonight I sleep in my own bed with no pricks, prods, IVs and urinals… Hallelujah! I look forward to sweet dreams and further insights into the goodness of God, life, and my wonderful Heritage Makers family. I anticipate dreams of the many new Heritage Makers that will be joining you, us, in the weeks and the months ahead. The adventure is alive, and so am I. Thank you, once again, for your continuing love, support, faith and dedication. Until tomorrow's post, onward and upward!

Love,

Doug

Sunday

2008-05-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings and Happy Mother’s Day to all you wonderful Mothers!

I continue to recover from the rituximab fire storm and anticipate being released from the hospital tomorrow. Not certain how the weeks and months ahead will transpire but have great hopes and faith that energy and health will be sufficient to carry on. Continued clarity is developing on the simplicity of life and its many blessings and those things that challenge the simplicity and recognition of those blessings is becoming abundantly clear.

How vitally important it is for us to inoculate our children with an awareness of who they are, their values and heritage to protect them against the enemy of all families. And then we must help them remember, remember, remember that they are loved, loved, loved. So such is our goal, our challenge and our opportunity and we will carry on, carry on, carry on. Until tomorrow… Onward and Upward!

Doug

Saturday: The Sun Shines Through

2008-05-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

Still here, although yesterday there were there moments when I feared I would not be. The rituximab biological treatment created what the doctors referred to as a fire storm throughout my body. As the treatment targeted the massive lymphoma, killing the cells—the cells released toxic chemicals into my body. I had convulsions, shakes, and nausea beyond my ability to cope. I passed out into the arms of family and medical personal. It was a long 24 hours, but sometime in the wee morning hours, after a moment, I was fairly sure that my time had come. I awoke again to another newness of life and a greater sense of calm surrender—sweet surrender.

I continue to be amazed at the organization, professionalism, capability, and care of my physicians and hospital staff, but mostly, I have come to understand the quiet power in the melodic voices of my children singing by my bedside. They sing the songs of faith, love, and the simple purity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so blessed.

I find myself wanting to use what little strength I have to respond back to those of you who are noting and responding to the blog. There have been so many sweet cards -- beautiful gifts of kindness, and outpouring of love. I fear I might forget to mention every one, so I mention the many with special appreciation. Thank you. Thank you for particularly those moments when you bring me into your home, family, and private prayers.

As I look forward to the days ahead, not fully certain of the challenges that lie ahead, I am caught with thoughtful fascination about what will transpire in my mind, from my writing, from the business, from my associates, all these marvelous elements/components of my life are in motion, and I am quite confident to worthy and significant contributions. There is a special place on top of the mountain that I have taken a few of you on the four wheelers where the panoramic view of vistas hold back the world and create a setting similar, I am sure, to where the early disciples sat at the Master’s feet as He explained the simple truths of His gospel, love, kindness, and the attitudes of which we should treat and love one another. I too, would be so blessed to invite His sheep to that mountain meadow to speak of Him and how we might better serve Him by serving one another, especially helping mothers help their children come to know Him, and trust Him, and serve Him.

As we write our stories, let’s remember to infuse them, whenever possible, with gospel principles, attitudes, and perspectives. As we continue to build our own heritage of joyful family life and a legacy of heritage making, let us find joy and reality in this tool of building lasting legacies for families.

Onward and upward-- together! I love you.

Doug

Lest We Look Beyond the Marks

2008-05-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

(A day late on this post due to the processes--Post for Thursday)

Greetings,

Again, such out pouring of love, concern, faith continues to strengthen me and bring the miracle of healing in many dimensions in my life. Last night as I lay pondering the ceiling, the simple story thread moved through my mind. I share that with you today as my post and my blessing.

Lest We Look Beyond the Marks

It was the last lecture on the Book of Romans and the entire congregation was excited for the sermon. He was a masterful teacher, a gifted scholar with degrees in ancient language –Greek, Hebrews and Latin. He had studied far and was known wide for his excellence in preparation and historical accuracy. He could hold the parishioners spellbound on the explanation of a single verse. Some said his gift was as if he had stood beside Paul as he spoke the original words. He was so filled with understanding. This would be a wonderful sermon.

The crowd gathered early. The seats were nearly filled. Near the back a young man quietly seated himself on the isle. He had been in attendance during earlier sermons and had even caught the eye of the noted preacher as he nodded appreciation for the presentation. He was young mid-thirties, clean with soft light cotton pants and shirt. He fit right in with the happy eclectic group of couples, singles families and churchgoers.

Then following a beautiful and inspiring vocal from the choir the opening prayer was offered. They prayed for the meeting and gave reverent gratitude for the building and the sacrifice of the people who had come together to build and care for the edifice. And they prayed in gratitude for the preparation of the great teacher and doctor who was prepared to help them walk in greater understanding of the gospel and of its author. As they said amen a frail little man came through the door where he had paused for the prayer. He was no stranger here although he had not been well enough to attend the recent sermons. He had been one of them, for many years.

He would not miss this important evening of worship. He told his wife he must leave her again at the graveside to get to the meeting on time. He often visited the cemetery before church to reflect and remember. He had spent much time in faithful service with his dear one before her passing and now he longed for her to be with him for the fellowship and the meeting. But, it would not be long before he joined her - he knew.

He, like the others had prepared himself with extra scripture reading for tonight. He had found himself reading the account of Simeon who was faithful and devote and who was told he would not see death until he had seen the Christ. Oh that devote men in this age could meet the master-- he had thought. But tonight, he would get a little closer through the preparation and diligence of the great preacher who had come to know Paul’s word so well. The little man took one of the few remaining seats at the back of the room as the great theologian opened his text.

The sermon was superb, breathtaking, everything everyone had hoped it would be. He opened the words from perspectives of dialect, historical perspective, cultural nuances and gave a true account of Paul’s words to the Romans. Copious notes were taken, insightful responses from members of the congregation were shared as powerful insight and understanding flowed from the pulpit. It was magnificent!

As the text closed a resounding amen brought the parishioners to their feet and the throng pushed forward to congratulate and greet the preacher. The old man too, moved on feeble feet forward to join them, but his cane slipped and he fell forward nearly at the feet of the young man with the soft cotton pants. The crowd did not see his pain nor his embarrassment as they hurried on to the stage.

Bending to raise him, the young man gently helped him up. As he looked into the eyes of his rescuer, the old man’s gaze met an expression of gentle love. It seemed so familiar. What -- were these not the eyes, were these not they, even the eyes Simeon had beheld? He could not speak as the crowd pressed past. Then, those bracing gentle hands drew the little man’s face close to his and he smiled acknowledging, as he helped him to his feet. The old man released his tight grip on the young man’s scarred hands and a tear ran down his aged cheek as the rescuer turned and stepped through the door and from the crowd...

When He came to the Synagogues they knew about Him, but they did not know Him. May what we have been told about Him not prevent us from knowing Him so that when we fall-- we will recognize His hands and His eyes as he lifts us to His love.

Onward and Upward.

Doug

Wed Morning: Quiet Thoughts

2008-05-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

It was a quite long night. It was restful, but not sleep filled. No pain or anxiety -- contemplation, perspective, and thoughts on the day’s experiences. I am finding myself yearning more each day to express my love for life, for kindness, for people, for service, and for the simple beauties of living. There are have been reflective moments when the veil has thinned, giving me panoramic views that were always there, are always there, if we will look. With those views have come precious understanding about the human family our inner connectedness, and yet a perverse diverseness that divides us from each other. Life has become so very, very simple. Oh, I yearn to have the words to paint the picture of a reality that belongs to each of us, but which we have forgotten in our struggles to be succor and significant. Truly our greatest significance is in our common bond of humanity. Oh, that we would learn.

Yesterday brought three precious moments. During a walk to x-ray, I encountered a little old man and a little old woman, stooped with age and with life -- perhaps in their 80’s. He was holding her hand and smiling gently and walked ever so slowly. I knew that likely before me one or both, would pass—yet there was such joy in their sweetness, in their gentle smile to each other. Then I thought of my own sweetheart, and I smiled. And then standing, looking out the window, I watched the flowering cherry trees as the breeze took the petals to the ground in a ballet of white, flittering beauty. Such a simple view, but such profound beauty. Following the day's transfusions, therapies, meetings with doctors and office coordination, the evening settled with the sun setting, behind my window, on the mountain still covered with snow. The valley lights sparkled brightly. I don’t remember noticing the lights like that before. Bright colored red, green, and blue lights on top of the power station, warning planes away, caught my attention like a child seeing Christmas lights for the first time—awesome, simple, beautiful—they have always been there, but now I notice.

The day ahead: more blood transfusion, but no dialysis. The markers are moving forward positively, the Chemo seems to be doing its job. I will be ready for the rituximab on Friday and likely able to leave the hospital during the weekend. Again, my profound awareness of the many prayers, faith, love, interest reaching hands and hearts that have crossed the miles and the barriers, parted the heavens, secured my health, my family, and I believe, my future, to yet be/do better. Thank you, thank you—my friends and family.

Doug

Tuesday Morning

2008-05-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

Greetings again,

The rooster crowed on someone’s farm and my bluebirds on the mountain were undoubtedly calling my name at 5:00 AM this morning. The fish are schooling, the deer are moving back up to the mountain, the foxes are rolling and preparing their dens, and the snowbirds are making room for the hummingbirds. This is a good day of spring. I awoke after having dreamed I was back on the mountain facing the pending attack of a giant bear. As I came to, about 2 AM this morning, I realized the bear was sleeping on the couch in the room, my darling daughter Krysti found she was allergic to her hospital pillow. Her snores would have scared any bear! A quick visit from the nurses’ station scared the bear away and I slept soundly until the rounds of pokes and prods started again. I feel great. I am filled with conditional desire, almost overwhelmingly so, to express the thoughts, feelings, and realizations that continue to flow from this wake up call. We miss so much in the "busy"ness and forget so much in the next item on the agenda that I fear that these precious moments of realization may slip by with all the other memories without truly being savored or shared. But alas, I will pray that the opportunity for quiet moments of deeper reflection and sharing may be granted me, with you, in the days—years ahead.

Doctors report this morning: white blood count continues to drop while the Chemo works. No dialysis today and another day of reprieve before they give me the Rituximab… so onward and upward. I will be doing some planning for the Principle of Leadership for the leadership call, planning for the Leaders Conference, Reunion, Studio expansion and renewed vision of Heritage Maker's real vision, mission, and opportunity. The pause has helped me to crystallize in our minds where we are going, why, and how we will get there, together.

Note: Must comment about the incredible appreciation for family, especially Judy. The quiet strength in her eyes, the gentleness of her squeeze and the confidence, trust, and love—is overwhelming. Be sure today to look your sweetheart in the eyes.

Onward and Upward.

Doug

A Beautiful Sabbath

2008-05-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings from a beautiful Sabbath day!

After last night’s dialysis, I wasn’t sure I was going to make it, but a calm surrender let me sleep and rest until midnight when a shot of lasix had me bouncing in and out of bed relieving the fluids. Even so, the Sabbath dawned brightly and I felt better than I had felt in a long time. My sweetheart at my side with gazes in eyes, squeezes of hands…a reminder that we had yet another day. The doctors determined not to proceed with the Rituxen treatment for fear that my system would not be able to handle the shock. White cell count has dropped to 150,000 (3,000-10,000 is normal) which is a good sign the Chemo is working. The doctor came in to give us the news about the Rituxen and informed he would administer it hopefully midweek after the white cell count has dropped significantly. The prognosis, while day-to-day, appears to be a 21-day cycle for the next round of Chemo, followed by a third, another 21 days out, at which time there will be an evaluation of the progress and consideration of possible trial therapies that may be available including stem cell and perhaps bone marrow transplant.

The day was one of the sweetest of my memory with all family members gathered around, walks in the hallway and even outside, choirs of angel children singing the hymns of Zion and of our childhood--laughter and memories too sweet to describe. Yet I wish that all those who we call family and friends could have been present for the rich outpouring of voices in spirit, memories and love. We had all prayed for a day of miracles. There were so many around the world who we hold dear whose prayers and kind thoughts combined were given to us with miracles of this precious day. Thank you. Thank you!

This afternoon Paul and Becky and family had prepared one of the family’s favorite dishes… Thousand Mile Stew in dutch ovens! They hauled the dutch ovens (via a wheelchair) into the hospital cafeteria where we had a family gathering of a taste of the past and a celebration of the present, to combine hopes and prayers for the future. Paul has been my sidekick counterpart through all these years. He is ever available for help, as is his family.

Following the feast, it was a return to dialysis where the girls serenaded me with two hours of heavenly chorus and other friends and loved ones came to visit. The outpouring of love and reminders of people who care wets my cheeks and my pillows. I feel like I’ve been through four funerals, all for me! They have been wonderful. I highly recommend that each of you should have your funeral before you die. Better yet, make sure that you don’t miss the opportunity with all those who you may not see again, before that notice. Be sure to extend your love and appreciation for their life, contributions, friendship, and love.

I continue to reflect upon the experiences, particularly the past year of insight into the gospel of Jesus Christ. Its wholeness, its miracle, its comfort, and its purpose, and I yearn for those I know who know not what I know, to know. As I look to tomorrow, I’m uncertain of the challenge, but clear of the opportunity to keep swinging, reaching, hoping, praying--WORKING.

If all of this resolves itself and I find myself with more time, I will be a better friend, a more compassionate father and husband, and more committed servant. And I may feel a little foolish for what might otherwise appear to be my own epitaph, but I find the need for expression and healing purposeful. I hope my words ring true and remind you that you are remembered and loved.

‘Til the rooster crows, good night!

Doug

Complete Bliss!

2008-05-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning

2008-05-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

Greetings and salutations,

The ship is still at sail with new adventures in life that are better appreciated vicariously than personally. Yesterday’s drilling of three core samples into the pelvis to draw bone marrow samples is not what you would wish for a Friday afternoon adventure. Then being personally introduced to a round of three different poisonous, highly toxic, highly DNA disruptive medications (Chemo) up close and personal leaves one yearning for a breath of cold mountain air.

However supported by loving family, with voices of angels, laughter and loving memories of moments past mingled with the knowledge of a gathering of friends in CA is sustaining. Krysti and Brytt’s safe arrival to my bedside completed the comfort and the security for a relatively quiet night's rest. I woke this morning almost forgetting that I was in the hospital straining to hear the sounds of the birds flocking back to the mountains… the sounds that have been my joyful spring chorus over these last five years. But alas, the realities of the moment, the sounds of the alarms, and the call to more pricks, shots, and pills returned me to the battle front.

In the few moments in between visits, I find my mind sorting the past, filtering the memories, prioritizing the gifts, treasuring the relationships, marveling at the tapestry of my life. Though I don’t stand… I lay all amazed at the love He has offered me. Regrets, few. Wishes, many. Clarity, more. I find myself with greater understanding of the difference between being believing and being unbelieving. I choose and so heartily recommend to those I love and my friends to be believing.

Looking forward, if I could have a closing discussion with each of you I would say these words:
My strongest desire would be for you to know that I know that He lives. The gospel of Jesus Christ has indeed been restored in our day. And He is preparing a people and an organization to receive Him and to work with Him as He returns the tribes of Israel and fulfills every jot and tittle. He has spoken through the mouths of prophets since the world began. This I know and yearn for you to accept my testimony sufficient to ask Him if my testimony is true and then, for you to live according to your testimony of His answer.

Now, on to the possibility that there will yet be a little reprieve before my farewell. My priorities are:

More quality time with my wife, walking hand-in-hand, eye-to-eye, heart-to-heart, celebrating the eternal relationship that is ours.
Spending quality time with my children and grandchildren—just being together—laughing, singing, playing, working, living, loving, and celebrating.
Spending time with the many who are extended family and friends whenever I have the occasion to be in their presence and to express more sincere interest and love, encouragement, and faith.
Heritage Makers: Because of these last years, we have set our hands to the plow of building a community of like-minded, family-centered people who share our vision of the divine nature, purpose, and importance of families. Transcending the bounds, fences of doctrine, I would seek opportunity to be in their presence to deliver the treasures of my own family life and revealed truths that can influence theirs. I would hope to yet teach the next Dream Team to a group of leaders whose hearts where prepared to be empowered with principles and truths that would carry on the Heritage Makers vision, mission and legacy.

For those stalwart pioneers who have joined us in the Heritage Makers adventure in the early and difficult days, my sincere appreciation and empathy for the challenge and the faith that has been necessary to birth and nurture this baby while you have struggled to care for your own families. It is my prayer that you will continue to find the strength, focus, compassion and the kindness to work together in a community beyond business, beyond books, and beyond doubt.

These are the thoughts of the morning. More after I rest a bit.

Love,
Doug

Friday: Moving Forward

2008-05-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings and good morning from the good ship Lolly CHOP (CHOP the acronym for the type of Chemo therapy I will begin today)!

Had a relatively calm night with the occasional prods, pricks, shots, rolls, pressures, and friendly bed pans. This is definitely not a cruise you want to take! And I am looking forward to getting my feet back on ground (hopefully not underground).

I am learning much about life, heritage, happiness, purpose, friendship, faith, faithfulness, and prayer. …Feeling great power from God, Christ, friends, and you. Not often in life are we given a wake up call with a bit of time to reflect, and to recall, to remember, and to realize that the precious moments in life are just that -- barely moments. We must never sacrifice visions of grand quality, for quiet moments of priceless peace and connection.

Many of us begin our Heritage Makers journey having recognized an opportunity to snatch a memory from the brink of fading loss. Or we joined for the pleasure of creative outlet, social connection, or fanatical reward. Each of these things individually are worthy and wonderful, yet combined, they are powerful and perfect to enable common folks to facilitate uncommon results in their own lives and the lives of those with whom they will risk a heritage conversation.

Although each of us are at a different place in our life, heritage, and business journey, we must each walk the same trail. That trail undoubtedly brings us in contact with others who are seeking often unknowingly for their own roots, heritage, and to build a legacy of contribution and significance. This is the heritage that leaders can help build. As you walk today, through your trail and your trials, keep your eyes on the horizon for the eyes of others who are looking for you, but just don’t know it--yet. Open your mouth and have a heritage conversation and a miraculous experience.

Onward and upward!

Doug

Thursday Morning.

2008-05-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Greetings Heritage Makers,

From the Intermountain Regional Medical Service Flagship, anchored in Provo Bay, I bring you salutations! With a room upgrade with a porthole view directly out to East Bay where the Heritage Makers Yacht (for Dream Team members it is Y.O.T.) is anchored, I wish I could say that this tour was resulting in a recommendation for our next TAC trip, however, my experience with the cabins has been lest then favorable. The service ratio has been acceptable; however, the galley is deplorable. The onboard entertainment is left to the cries, gowns, bells, mornings, flashings, and occasional nurse’s desk laughter. When the stethoscope clad cruise directors make their rounds, it is not a laughing matter. The adult humor is largely limited to potty talk and urination frequency/color. It’s a real joke. The bartenders keep me supplied with a constant flow of steroids, insulin, and caustic drinks, not on the “recommended list." (I don’t think they would be legal on the outside. All these legal drug pushers are friendly, concerned, and willing to take payment on the backside -- if there is one.) Respiratory Therapist pipes don’t contain crack or other contraband, as far as I know. But seem to keep my air pipes moving. Such it is on the Goodship Provo…

New news today redirects the initial prognosis from CLL to either Mantle or Marginal Cell Lymphoma. We should know which port-of-call we are headed for before the end of the day. Each with its own unique offering from the Chemo bars. Spirits are up, hopes are high. We receive your faith and prayers with gladness. Wish we could give you a hug, look forward to the time we can. Keep the faith, spread the heritage, send the cards, recruit the next generations of Heritage Makers.

More at the next port…

Love,
Doug

(We sent Mom home so she could have some moments with the washer. She is our Editor! So--the grammar/punctuation/spelling on this post, are all brought to you by Bryndi! Ha, ha, I know, it is very sad! FYI, Dad is not kidding about the potty jokes! Good times!)

Ed. Note: Today is May 26th. I am now reading all of Doug's blogs and trying to make them more readable, including this one...ha, ha! (I will add my two cents soon, I promise! ) So much has happened so fast and my heart is so full...thank you ALL for your love and prayers and faith! Through it all, I have gotten back the man I fell in love with 36 years ago! I am so grateful for life and all the wonderful people who continue to bless our lives. Every day is precious. Make each day count. And make sure you tell those you love that you love them. This journey has truly been a blessing in our lives. We are trying to LIVE one day at a time and fill our lives with more joy and health which brings more wonder and delight. "For with God, nothing is impossible." Miracles have not ceased! Life, itself is a miracle. Treasure it, "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also..." Aren't families GREAT!!! And to be part of the Heritage Makers family is incredible! I sure love my wonderful, thoughtful husband, Doug and I'm so grateful for every day I can share with him.

Forever 'n' Ever! Judy

Alive and Kicking!

2008-04-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Greetings again!

I am alive and kicking. I am trying to stay up with the constant prods, pricks, and tests and survive the onslaught of rubberized institutionalized rubber chicken, scrambled yellow something and dry toast. (You can tell I'm feeling much better focusing on the important things, like surviving hospital living!) For the moment I am still stuck in critical care with lots of attention, great nurses, capable doctors, and they are making progress hacking through the pneumonia and septic blood. We expect to break through and out of critical care today and onto the heights (7th floor) of oncology. They tell me there I will have to go through further cleansing to the degree of loss of all bodily hair and other functions to enable me to see the battle won against the infiltrating lymophocytes.

We continue to have significant success with the natives telling our stories, comparing family legacies, teaching about heritage and heritage making. We will undoubtedly leave more Heritage Makers among the natives to carry on the work of heritage making among those whose stories bring them here.

I'm able to continue working on the strategic aspects of the business and am looking forward to exciting developments and training at leadership and on to the ride of your life at Anaheim this Fall. Though my own my own ride between here and there is strategically less clear, I'm bound and determined to bring what's left of me to enjoy the adventure and comradery of the heritage-making family. I will keep you appraised of the progress and saga on the climb to oncology in the coming days.

Please forgive my inability to respond to you individually but the priority has to be to the constant alarms, nurses prods, pills, tests and bedpans. (What a contrast to Aspen Lodge!) Thankfully, I have the loving support of Judy, family and the home office staff to remind me that there is life beyond Utah Valley Medical Center. I also have the faith and love and support of the HM family, leaders, and consultants to spur me on to climb through this part of my story.

Onward and Upward!

Have a great heritage-making day!
Doug

Tuesday Morning

2008-04-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Good morning family and friends (and any of those who don't yet consider themselves such). Initial testing has returned and confirmed that the more common CLL leukemia has made its first winning battle. But now that we know what we're up against, the battle strategy is becoming quite clear. I remain in the hospital in intermediate care to stabilize blood pressure, eliminate pneumonia, and get rid of the septic blood (strep). They are also working to get the immune system normalized as much as possible to be able to cope with the effects of Chemo therapy.

The first round of Chemo is likely to start before the end of the week. T he only thing they have told me for sure in terms of results and side effects is that I will be joining the group who are no longer contributing to the barber organization. I may invite Krysti to develop a new business model that caters to baldness and head care for that group since I will be joining that rank periodically over the months and years ahead.

There is no known cure for this type of leukemia (blood cancer), however the prognosis is a semi-normal life with rebalancing of the blood system. Chemo will likely change the work pattern a bit. It is my hope to be through the first round and into sufficient energy and lucidity to conduct Leader's Conference, and certainly I will expect to be in full swing and vigor (without other excuses) to conduct our fabulous Reunion in Anaheim.

While my work at the office will mostly be by phone and email for the next couple of months, I will remain focused on communication and future planing for the ongoing development of Heritage Makers. It has become ever so clear that we are at a point that the foundations are fully laid and all further add-ons will enrich the story, mission and vision. In essence, the bulk of the creative side of the business will be firmly in place with occasional enhancements along the way. The scanner system will allow for increased early income to new consultants and accelerates the client's ability to get their projects started and completed faster.

The system seems now to be largely bullet-proof. This now is the time and a phase in our company where early leaders are called to step up and take full advantage of our incredible business and service and to grow their organizations as the mechanism to bring family-saving memories home in print and mothers home to families. I trust that our great early pioneers and leaders will continue to prove the business model as the very best possible for long-term sustainable economic success and personal freedom.

I'll keep you appraised daily on personal progress and business thoughts. I plan to spend my recovery time in writing a book about bringing heritage home, which I believe may be a keystone to our business story.

Onward and Upward!

Doug

Monday Morning

2008-04-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

Doug slept pretty well through the night. This morning he looks good and his fever seems to have broken through the night. His kidneys have not been working on their own so they are today's and tomorrow's primary concern. No news on the pneumonia yet, he will have some more x-rays of his lungs later today. We expect that the antibiotics will do their part. Generally he has energy and is comfortable...which means he wants to work, but we are insisting he rests.

As I look at Doug it reminds me that mountain men belong on the mountain, not the hospital! He looks as foreign in his sterile surroundings as an elk in a department store. I am sure that his cabin is missing him as much as he is missing it.

Pills, pokes, and high spirits.

2008-04-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Bryndi and I spent the afternoon today with dad. Although he said this morning was quite a rough ride, this afternoon the nurses have been able to stabilize his blood pressure and give him enough medication to help him feel a little more comfortable. Right now he is getting some well deserved and needed sleep. We are grateful for the blessing of having a great medical team waiting on him.

Just a few minutes ago, the doctor said that the negative trends (low blood pressure and kidney failure) seem to be leveling out. He is receiving antibiotics to help him fight off the pneumonia. Once that is done, he will likely start chemo to treat the leukemia. We are optimistic that the pneumonia and "bad blood" will be fought and won over the next few days.

Although his body is right now a pin cushion, his spirits are quite high. Family spirits are also good, considering. We all feel that he and we are in the Lord's care and we feel all of your prayers.

To all Heritage Makers

2008-04-27T18:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Heritage Makers Family,

On Thursday, April 24th, what started out as what we thought was a severe stomach flu, progressed to a most difficult situation. After, three days with difficulty breathing and sleeping, I became aware that there was something more to my illness. When I tried to present about ScanParty and Compensation at the Provo Regional, I was not able to stand, and I requested that Brytt complete my presentations.

Marshyl returned me back to the condo and Judy called my physician, who thought that I may have pneumonia and told me to check into the hospital. We checked in at 4 pm Saturday. By 2:00 am the following morning, the blood work and CAT scans indicated that I have a high probability of CLL (Chronic Lymphoma Leukemia). The scans also revealed vastly swollen spleen ("5x its normal size, the size of Texas"), liver and lymph nodes. The pneumonia in the right lung had also migrated to a septic blood condition because there were not enough good white blood cells to kill the infection.

I just wanted to give you the facts as they are. The good news is that they are trying to kill the pneumonia and bad blood. Once that is in check, they should be able to start Chemo.

I appreciate all of your faith and prayers and I feel the strength of your love and your care. Please do not send flowers as I can't have them in my current hospital room. However, storycards would be nice...lots of storycards. As would an extraordinary month in sponsoring and sales : ) .

Next time I get the pleasure of visiting each of you, I will probably be without my beard and perhaps a shiny head for a short time. But who knows, that might be an improvement.

Again, thanks for all you do in sharing and keeping my vision of Heritage Makers alive. I have been reminded how precious the moments are and how important it is to preserve and share them.

Love to you all,
Doug

PS. I and the rest of you who will be joining me for Dream Team will look forward to Judy’s great cooking. Hospital food sucks.