Succession of a Prophet

I have loved reading what others have posted about President Hinckley and can honestly say "ditto" to everything I've read. He was and incredible man and touched my life in more ways than I can say. I've thought a lot in the last week about things he taught in my youth that completely affected the very path of my life. What an incredible man!

While I honor President Hinckley, I have a slightly different purpose for this post. It is a VERY long post and I won't be at all offended if it's not all read, but I think it's important stuff, so if you have time, please read it. This morning I googled President Hinckley and read a news article in the Salt Lake Tribune about who would succeed President Hinckley. These are the words of the article: "President Hinckley died Sunday; if tradition holds, the first counselor will take the helm."

I figured that a Utah newspaper, however liberal it may be, would at least be able to get the facts right about the MAJOR religion of the state. For some reason, it really frustrated me and maybe it's because during our ward's testimony meeting yesterday, people seemed to intentionally avoid saying that Elder Monson would be the next prophet and president of the Church. That got me thinking that maybe people don't know the doctrine of succession in the Church and perhaps many do think tradition has something to do with it.

So the purpose of this post is to enlighten those who may not know this doctrine and maybe it will reach the Salt Lake Tribune since I have no idea how I would write a letter to the editor...

The next prophet in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not, as some people think, the first counselor in the First Presidency. In fact, when the prophet passes away, the First Presidency is dissolved. Those of you who watched President Hinckley's funeral noticed that Thomas S. Monson introduced himself not as President Monson, but as ELDER Monson. An article on BYU's website that Nate pointed out to me explains really well the principle of succession. Click here to read that. The article states that everything is done in seniority. Elder Monson is the senior apostle, which is why he will be the next prophet - not because he was the first counselor. I think there is this idea that the next prophet is chosen by the twelve apostles through revelation -- that's what I used to think at least. However, that is not the case. Nate was telling me about something he heard -- and of course I've forgotten who said it -- that the Lord has created this principle of succession for a reason. If he doesn't want the next most senior apostle to be the president of the church, then basically (and I don't mean for this to sound callous) that person will no longer be alive to fulfill that responsibility. That's how the Lord handles succession of leadership.

Another interesting position in all of this is that of Elder Boyd K. Packer. To be perfectly honest, I didn't understand this, so that's why I'm posting about it now that my husband has enlightened me. I think this is important to know, especially since we're in this situation and it really is doctrine, so we should know it. Anyway, Elder Packer has been the Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He wasn't actually the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. President Monson was. But since President Monson was in the First Presidency, he couldn't act as the president of the quorum. So Elder Packer acted for him, basically. Now that President Hinckley has passed away and the First Presidency has been dissolved, Elder Packer is no longer the acting president of the quorum.

One final important key to all of this (no pun intended) is that of Priesthood keys. Elder Nelson wrote an article concerning this idea that can be found at LDS.org and is entitled "Keys of the Priesthood." The President of the Church (the most senior apostle) is the only person on the earth who holds all the keys of the Priesthood. The 12 apostles, combined, hold all the keys, but the current prophet is the only man who holds ALL of them. After the death of the President of the Church, the Apostles meet and bestow all the keys on the new leader of the Church.

I hope this was as clear as I wanted it to be. I think the SL Tribune article really got to me and I just wanted to clarify as much for myself as for all of you. Please, if you hear someone discussing this matter, join in and share what you know. As silly as it may sound, just knowing all this and learning more about it because we're in the midst of it has strengthened my testimony of this principle. The Lord knows what he's doing with his Church on this earth. He will never let his children be led astray. In fact, President Woodruff said in the 61st Semiannual General Conference "The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty." How true that is. I believe that the succession of leaders of the church is the Lord's way of preventing what President Woodruff talked about.

Sorry this is so long. If you have any further insights, please share! That way, maybe I won't feel too preachy. :)

The WHOLE Clan!

For Christmas, we managed to get the entire Cox family together, which was quite the feet and quite fun! Besides this family picture, we really didn't have any structured activities (though, the guys started an igloo that everyone ended up helping with)!

This is just a cute picture of the youngest niece and nephews, who had a blast playing together! I have a feeling each one is looking at his/her own parent in this picture.... :) I also have a feeling the next "batch" is on it's way soon! (no, that's not an announcement -- I know you're all thinking it).

Hey, check out this website. A friend mentioned it and I checked it out today. I had no idea this existed, but it's interesting and helpful! Click here.
Enjoy! :)

Ramblings....about books.....please read if you're looking for something good to read!
I started a new job last week and they don't have my computer system set up to do my job yet, so I'm left to do whatever I want in my little cubicle. For awhile I surfed the internet and looked at blogs and pictures of celebrities for several hours. Then I wised up and started reading a book. First I read "My Antonia" which was a good book, but nothing fantastic. I would compare it to "Little House on the Prairie" but for an older age level. It was not very challenging though (I mean that in the sense of getting me to think about what it meant).

Once I finished that, I decided to read a book one of my roommate read in college. I knew nothing about it, but saw it in the library and thought I'd give it a try. It's called "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck. I've only ever read one of his books -- "The Pearl" -- and I hated it. I didn't understand it and the ending was depressing, so I was a little leary of reading Steinbeck again. As I first started to read, I didn't really like it, but I figured I'd give it a little more time. And I'm very glad I did. It's an incredible book. I tried to explain to Nate why I like it so much, but I couldn't. I think I just like the way Steinbeck writes and that it forces me to think about what he's writing and actually put myself there. I could try to give a synopsis of the book, but I would end up making it sound horrible or give something away. Basically, it's the story of Cain & Abel, but told in such a subtle way, you have to pay close attention to catch that. I highly recommend it. It does have language, whorehouses (no explicit details) and "thematic elements" -- the villain is the worst I've ever read -- It's a pretty deep read, but worth it in my opinion.

I made a list of the books I want to read -- it's about 25 books long and I know I'm forgetting several books -- so expect lots of posts about good books (especially if I don't get work to do soon! :)

If I do this enough times I might just get everyone on my list. I did another one with my hair in a ponytail that I refuse to post. My top choice was Howard Dean. Paul Newman was also on my list...But hey! I look like Vanna White apparently. And all those kids in junior high were wrong. None of them have included Brittney Spears (luckily...I can't imagine the comments I would get on that!)

So there you have it. I look like Condoleezza Rice. And Beyonce. I actually tried it first of a picture of me with my glasses on. Not a good idea. Larry King was on my list. Yikes.

Also, on the same website you make this, you can morph yourself into one of the celebrities you look like. I morphed myself into Dakota Fanning and midway through, it really looked like a picture of me when I was younger! Cool stuff.

I know, I know. I said that once I was done with school, I would post more. I've been done with school for almost a month and here I am! I don't have any pictures to post because I don't take pictures. However, now that I am not in school and my husband is still as busy as last semester, I've decided I need a hobby. And I think it might be photography. I was looking at a friend's website and loved the pictures they had taken (not sure if it was the wife or husband who took the pictures -- not important). Anyway, it got me thinking that it's something inexpensive that could be really cool! I took a couple of pictures at my cousin Alta's wedding that I really liked, so I might have the knack for it. Who knows...I guess you'll find out if I start posting random, non-person pictures, huh?
My husband's best friend's wife has a blog on which she puts things she's been thinking about - kind of like a journal that the world can read. I guess that's what blogs are supposed to be, but I guess I always thought of them as somewhere to post pictures (they are that as well). Anyway, I may be posting more because I want to share something, just for the sake of sharing. That way, it's like something I might forward in an e-mail, but it's your choice to look at it (don't worry, it won't be those lame-o, cheesy, "if you don't pass this on, your lungs will catch on fire" kind of things.
That's all. I have a feeling no one will be reading these. That was pretty boring.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!
I know you're all amazed that I'm posting...but I told you when I had more time I would. And since I get this beautiful three day break, I thought I post some pictures of Thanksgiving with the Frakes. So...here goes!

Frakes Family (minus Travis)

Good lookin' guys!
Pretty Ladies (no, I'm not pregnant - I definitely think I look like it...apparently I slouch a bit)
Our Christmas Picture!
Paige and me!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and thought about all we have to be thankful for. Despite my constant complaining about school, I'm so grateful to be getting an education and that I am able to finish. I'm grateful for all of you and the love we share as family and friends! Enjoy the Christmas season!

Okay, so I'm completely copying Melissa, but I wanted to tell everyone about this movie Nate and I went to and I didn't want to wait until I talked to everyone (since I talk to most of you about once every three months!) The movie is called Stardust -- I'm sure most of you have heard of it and maybe some of you thought what I thought "That looks so dumb." Nathan, however, heard good things about it and decided we should go. I ended up loving it. It's one of my favorite movies that quick. The music is great, the effects are pretty cool. It's strange, I'll grant you. You start out thinking "what is this movie" but end up liking the idea if you can get into the whole fantasy thing. I recommend it for anyone who hasn't seen it yet! Thanks for the idea Melissa! And we will totally take you up on the offer for the Hula Hut when we come to visit....

Okay, I have 20 minutes until class, so I'm gonna make this quick.... :) So here's my meme....
The rules are...
A. List seven habits/quirks/facts about yourself.
B. Tag seven people to do the same.
C. Do not tag the person who tagged you or say that you tag "whoever wants to do it".

1. I have a shoe and purse fettish. I never really buy them because usually the ones I like most are too expensive, but I always notice people's shoes and stop in every store that has either shoes or purses. Plus, to make matters worse, my shoes, belt, purse, etc. need to match. I'm getting better about not making my purse match, but for a kid who wore the most random outfits, I sure like to have my clothes match a lot now. That kind of turned into two things, huh?

2. I don't like M&M's (just the plain ones), because someone told me one time that you have to run the length of a football field to burn it off. That's all I think about when I see plain M&M's. However, I have no problem eating peanut M&M's or peanut butter M&M's both of which I think are less healthy, so I'm not sure what that's about.

3. I am super baby hungry. And it's not really for brand new babies (though they are cute). It's more like "Toddler hungry" - from about age 1 year-3 years. I think they're so cute and I want one. :)

4. Kind of going along with the last one, I think pregnant people are so cute. I've never talked to a woman who actually thought she was cute while she was pregnant, so I don't think I will of myself, but I think the clothes are cute and just that cute little bump!

5. My favorite thing to do in life is watch a good movie. Seriously. I LOVE watching movies and if make me sound totally lazy. Maybe I am!

6. Sometimes I open my eyes during prayers to watch the person who is praying, just to see what their facial expression is like. Some people are just kind of stoned-faces and some people really get expressionate (is that a word?). I know I really shouldn't do that, and I don't all the time, but if it just seems like the person might be showing expression, I'll open my eyes, just to check.

7. My favorite food in the world is Ramen. I know most people say it's gross and only eat it because it's cheap, but it is my FAVORITE and has been since I was about 4. I know it's really bad for me, but I just love the taste (probably because it's so salty and I love salty foods!).

So that's that. I'm not sure if I did it right, but there you go. Off to class I go!
Oh, and the 7 people are: Melanie, Suzie, Dad, Ryan Harding, Christine Harding, Emily (I can't remember if you already got tagged), & Shan (same as Em).

I saw Em's post and realized I don't need to post pictures to say hi and explain why I haven't posted. My reason isn't the same as Em's (in fact, I should probably give Em my camera for awhile...). To explain my lack of blogging, I need to explain my life right now. Here's an average day: I wake up at about 6:30 or 7 (depending on how tired I am), go to work for about 8 hours, go to school for 2 1/2 to 5 hours, do homework until I pass out, do it all again the next day. Oh and weekends consist of homework. :)
Nate and I decided right before this new semester started that since he would be doing the accounting junior core (which, we were told over and over was hell on earth) and I would never see him anyway, PLUS we figured out it would be cheaper this way, I am now taking 17 1/2 credits of night classes while working full time during the day (but there's a light at the end of the tunnel - I will graduate in December!!!). Needless to say, we don't have time to do anything that would make very interesting pictures. To add to that, our camera card isn't working. We can take pictures, but we can't get them off the camera. The plan is to get a new card, but we don't have time for that (I use that phrase a lot lately :)
But for those of you who actually still check our blog from time to time, know that I look at yours and love to hear what's going on in your lives. And just for information, I just found out the girl I work with is pregnant, which leaves only 1 other married friend who isn't pregnant...what can I say, I'm feeling the pressure! :) But no, not pregnant. Can you imagine me pregnant and working full time and taking night classes full time? That's a joke. :) Hopefully you all will hear from me again...someday... Love you!
Alisa & Nate

I feel terrible. I think I was the first one (at least from our family) to start a blog and I now look at all of your cute posts and never put anything. Part of the reason is because we don't have internet at our house anymore. I'm hoping once school starts again I'll be able to find time to add stuff while I'm on campus (by then, however, Nathan will have started the accounting program and everyone tells me I won't see him for the next few months, so maybe I won't have much to post...) The point of this is, I feel terrible that I haven't posted and actually have some pictures to post, so I'll do that as soon as I get the chance! Until then, we're doing great and look the same! :) We love you all!

Take the Quiz here!

AJ showed me this link and I think I knew a long time ago I was most like her. Take the quiz! It's really fun (especially if you're a Jane Austen freak like me)!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

ALTA'S MARRIED!!!

I finally used my camera again. I had a great excuse! And I thought I'd share with those of you that couldn't be at Alta's wedding how beautiful she looked, how beautiful the day was and how much fun we had! (And of course, how much we missed all of you...)








Here's the happy couple and something you'll never see again -- Michael holding a pretty little bouquet (though I've seen lots of pictures of guys holding the bouquet at some point in the picture taking...)















I decided we needed some new pictures of us that weren't from Moab, so we took a few at the wedding. Cute, huh? :)









She looked so beautiful! She said I should have been crying in this picture because she was crying in our picture together at my wedding.









The flowers on the temple grounds were beautiful. I think I took too many, but this was my favorite.

LOOK I'M POSTING!!!!!

It's even before the 21st! :) However, Nathan and I apparently have forgotten that we have a new, nice camera that takes great pictures. We really haven't taken many. But I will post some from our trip to Moab. That seems to be the only cool thing in our lives. Moab. :)This is the first picture we have from Moab in the few times we've been there that I look HUMAN. It was insanely cold that weekend and it rained most of the time we were there (we decided this would be a good time to camp...)
I was in a semi-bad mood this day (probably partly because none of us got any sleep because Darren heard someone outside the girls' tent and no one slept well for the rest of the night). But my hubby still loves me, despite my crabbiness! :)

Okay, you were probably expecting more from me, but I'll be honest -- I don't have anything cute to take pictures of. Nathan and I are pretty boring compared to all ya'lls chilluns. :) But we both want you all to know that we love you and think of you often! If I can figure out the One True Media thing, I'll post a sweet video too. :)

For those of you who are wondering if I dropped off the face of the earth when I started this new job...I have. :) Or at least I feel like it. I promise to post pictures sometime between now and April 21. :) I know that's a long time, but that's when I'm done with school and have spring break at work. Until then, know that I love all your pictures and will try to be better. :) I love you all!

I got a new job! I am the new office manager at Kids Village, a preschool/elementary school for children from 2 years old through fourth grade. I love it! I get to spend the whole day with kids and work in an office! I'm very excited about it (though I am changing my whole graduation plan for it... :) I don't have any pictures, but if you're curious, the website it www.kidsvillage.net.

Okay, so I realize this isn't a picture of me, but I thought this was a great picture of grandma and grandpa with a cute little addition. Hopefully they'll still be around when I have a little cutie to take pictures with them!
...And the next generation of grandpa. Poor Mr. Charlie who would only go to sleep being bounced a certain way...grandpa did a pretty good job, huh?
On our drive home, we needed a break after driving across the reservation in Arizona, so we stopped at the north edge of the grand canyon and took some fun pictures. And Stella was in a great mood (and AJ and I were a little bit too hyper :)




And since I don't really put many pictures of Nathan and I (and since this is supposed to be a blog of US) I thought I'd put one of our cute engagement pictures back when my hair would do what I wanted it to. :) Plus, it's a good picture, eh? I think we look like clothing models. He he

This is me in my new glasses. In case you didn't know, I got glasses. :) I have been having trouble reading and getting lots of headaches, so I went to the eye doctor and found out I need them for reading, but also that I have astigmatism -- three times worse in my right eye than my left!
Last Friday, Nathan, his friend Damien, his girlfriend Natalya and I decided to do something super crazy. We went to the hot springs down by Fillmore when it was probably about 0 degrees outside. This is what happened to our hair by the time we got from the spring back to the car (about 200 yards of running to keep from getting hypothermia). It was an adventure, but I don't think I'll ever do it again when it's that cold!

Okay, I'll admit this pictures pretty gross, but I wanted you all to see my owie. I fell on the ice when I was walking to work one morning and ripped my favorite pants and ruined my favorite shoes, as well as ripping up my knee and foot. It still hurts. :(
And the best picture! I promised at least Melanie and mom that I would take a picture with Stella in her Ugs. She's such a cute, silly little munchkin. She also has some very-80's-style high top tennis shoes. They're pretty awesome. :)