Friday, November 19, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
We are official now!
Monday and Tuesday of this week we attended SCTC Training. (Support Cadre Training Course) It is required of all personnel who work or do anything with the soldiers on the base. Our instructor had a heavy Spanish accent (seemed kind of funny since he claimed 22 years in the US Army). After we got used to his accent it was easier to understand his words, but he still had funny sentence structure or words at times. The course was about rules, laws, offices, reporting, sexual harassment, suicide prevention, punishment, and all things to do with soldiers. Most of those in attendance were platoon leaders, so we were the odd people there. Most things didn’t apply to our job, but it was interesting to learn what the soldiers have to deal with.
After Family Home Evening, on Tuesday, Private G___ asked for a blessing because of his big tests coming up. He asked Elder Elkins to give it. It was special and sweet. What a privilege to help these young men, and see their faith.
A new soldier had also asked for a blessing but didn’t stay around long enough on Sunday for it. Two returned missionary soldiers in his unit were asked to give him the blessing. It is also sweet to see this happen, soldiers supporting each other in the gospel.
After lunch we went to the base chapel and met the Garrison Chaplain, Colonel Garrison. (funny name for that position) We were impressed with him, and he was very gracious about our position and the LDS people. He told us about his brother who is an active LDS member. They have a good relationship with each other, and that sure helps us! It will be good to work with him.
Friday the mission cell phone was turned over to us. Elder DeLaney showed Bryan all of the forms on the computer, and Sister DeLaney explained lots of other paperwork to me so that we could completely take over now. They are really getting excited about going “home”, and we are glad to be here to continue the work.
Sunday there were eleven soldiers in attendance, including one female soldier. Private F__ taught the RS/Priesthood lesson and did a great job. He mentioned that he has 4 children and another on the way. He said that sometimes when he feels like quitting, and when he is doing push-ups or other hard things, he can almost hear his children saying, “Come on Dad, you can do it!” He told about a drill sergeant who got really mad at him because he refused to swear, even when ordered to do so. He said that the soldier was “forcing his religion” on him by not swearing. Private F__ explained that he was raised like that, and he wanted to set a good example for his own son. The drill sergeant swore that he would get him to curse by the end of Basic Training. (he didn’t) Times like that he said he would think of a Primary song to get the bad feelings out of his mind.
Fast and testimony meeting was wonderful. Elder DeLaney was conducting so he spoke of leaving soon and how much they have loved serving here. The soldiers bore their testimonies also of how much they appreciate the Military Relations Missionaries, and how much it helps them. Private A__ choked up when he said how much he appreciated all that the military missionaries do for the soldiers. Private T__ said that thinking of the beautiful wife that he is sealed to, gets him through the tough times, when he wants to quit. (He attends the LDS meetings faithfully) Private R__ told how he was greeted by the LDS missionaries at In-Processing (the day he reported here for duty). He was so grateful that they found him on that very first day.
Private T__ told about how he started attending church in Basic Training after 10 years away from the church. When he attended that first meeting he felt calm, and thought, “I’m home”. He said, "How nice it is to be able to slip away from military life on Sundays for a couple hours of peace and escape." If it weren’t for the Military Service missionaries, there would be no place for these LDS members to be together.
Since the soldiers have to miss their lunch to attend our Sunday services, we feed them afterwards. I made pumpkin bread (from our Halloween pumpkin), and 4 pans of enchiladas for lunch after church. The soldiers loved it! They all had seconds and said how good it was to have a home cooked meal. I was glad they enjoyed my first official meal. It will be interesting to cook like I’m cooking for a family again. I’ll have to cook healthy things, so these soldiers can stay in shape for their training.
My heart is full when I see these soldiers giving talks, teaching lessons, blessing and passing the sacrament in their camouflage uniforms and combat boots. They are so reverent and grateful for the opportunity. The church is true. We are so blessed to be part of this great work. We receive so much more than we can possibly give in this service.
After Family Home Evening, on Tuesday, Private G___ asked for a blessing because of his big tests coming up. He asked Elder Elkins to give it. It was special and sweet. What a privilege to help these young men, and see their faith.
A new soldier had also asked for a blessing but didn’t stay around long enough on Sunday for it. Two returned missionary soldiers in his unit were asked to give him the blessing. It is also sweet to see this happen, soldiers supporting each other in the gospel.
After lunch we went to the base chapel and met the Garrison Chaplain, Colonel Garrison. (funny name for that position) We were impressed with him, and he was very gracious about our position and the LDS people. He told us about his brother who is an active LDS member. They have a good relationship with each other, and that sure helps us! It will be good to work with him.
Friday the mission cell phone was turned over to us. Elder DeLaney showed Bryan all of the forms on the computer, and Sister DeLaney explained lots of other paperwork to me so that we could completely take over now. They are really getting excited about going “home”, and we are glad to be here to continue the work.
Sunday there were eleven soldiers in attendance, including one female soldier. Private F__ taught the RS/Priesthood lesson and did a great job. He mentioned that he has 4 children and another on the way. He said that sometimes when he feels like quitting, and when he is doing push-ups or other hard things, he can almost hear his children saying, “Come on Dad, you can do it!” He told about a drill sergeant who got really mad at him because he refused to swear, even when ordered to do so. He said that the soldier was “forcing his religion” on him by not swearing. Private F__ explained that he was raised like that, and he wanted to set a good example for his own son. The drill sergeant swore that he would get him to curse by the end of Basic Training. (he didn’t) Times like that he said he would think of a Primary song to get the bad feelings out of his mind.
Fast and testimony meeting was wonderful. Elder DeLaney was conducting so he spoke of leaving soon and how much they have loved serving here. The soldiers bore their testimonies also of how much they appreciate the Military Relations Missionaries, and how much it helps them. Private A__ choked up when he said how much he appreciated all that the military missionaries do for the soldiers. Private T__ said that thinking of the beautiful wife that he is sealed to, gets him through the tough times, when he wants to quit. (He attends the LDS meetings faithfully) Private R__ told how he was greeted by the LDS missionaries at In-Processing (the day he reported here for duty). He was so grateful that they found him on that very first day.
Private T__ told about how he started attending church in Basic Training after 10 years away from the church. When he attended that first meeting he felt calm, and thought, “I’m home”. He said, "How nice it is to be able to slip away from military life on Sundays for a couple hours of peace and escape." If it weren’t for the Military Service missionaries, there would be no place for these LDS members to be together.
Since the soldiers have to miss their lunch to attend our Sunday services, we feed them afterwards. I made pumpkin bread (from our Halloween pumpkin), and 4 pans of enchiladas for lunch after church. The soldiers loved it! They all had seconds and said how good it was to have a home cooked meal. I was glad they enjoyed my first official meal. It will be interesting to cook like I’m cooking for a family again. I’ll have to cook healthy things, so these soldiers can stay in shape for their training.
My heart is full when I see these soldiers giving talks, teaching lessons, blessing and passing the sacrament in their camouflage uniforms and combat boots. They are so reverent and grateful for the opportunity. The church is true. We are so blessed to be part of this great work. We receive so much more than we can possibly give in this service.
Monday, November 8, 2010
MAPS
MISSING MAPS
We drove across nine lovely states
With only one mistake.
Our trusty maps showed us the way
And which right turns to take.
We thought it might just take a while
To learn our way around.
But streets here don’t make any sense.
Some just aren’t to be found.
The people here are very nice
And show they really care,
But if you ask directions
They just stop and stare.
“Just ask your GPS,” they say,
“It’s really not too far.
Then you will know the easy way
To get there in your car.”
So where did all the maps go
We used to read and drive?
I guess they’re all locked up in--
The National Archive.
Remember back in grade school--
We used to color maps?
But now in school, do teachers say:
“Turn on your cell phone app’s?”
Don’t worry about us now
The simple answer’s “Yes,”
We did succumb to pressure.”
(We bought a GPS.)
Sunday, November 7, 2010
DC TRIP
Saturday, Oct. 30th we (along with the retiring missionary couple, the DeLaneys) took a hired bus full of soldiers to Washington, DC. It was a “religious retreat”, so the army couldn’t deny them access to this trip. The DeLaney’s were still in charge, so we were along for the ride, finding out how to do this kind of thing. It happens 4 times per year, so the next one will be in February. There were 27 service members, 3 spouses, and 5 children of service members. Fourteen soldiers were not LDS, but friends and “battle buddies” invited by the member soldiers.
We took them to the DC temple. Some with recommends went inside to do some initiatories, or just enjoy the spirit in the temple. Others went to the visitors center and had guided tours and films. They were all very respectful and some were curious.
Next we took them to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. Then the "mall" (no stores, it’s where the monuments and museums are). We were supposed to pick them up at the Capitol Building in 2 ½ hours. But there was a huge problem with that plan. Demonstrations were being held around the Capitol so we were unable to even get close to it. Police cars blocked off all the streets we needed to cross to get there. We drove that bus around for 1 ½ hours trying to get near, and also find a place to park till time to pick them up. There were so many millions of people walking and demonstrating that multiple streets were blocked off by police and it was really crazy. The poor bus driver was pretty stressed when we finally got to park for about 45 minutes.
The soldiers were warned to be careful because of the demonstrations. They were all wearing their BDU (Battle Dress Uniform, or camouflage), so they were easy to recognize. People might want to take pictures of them, so they had to make sure someone wasn’t holding a sign or something in the background, so that they didn’t end up on the national news. We didn’t hear of any trouble though. They were able to see the monuments and go through a museum or two.
I’ve never seen so many people in one place. There were two demonstrations being held. #1: “Return to Sanity” and #2: “Keep the Fear” I don’t even know what those things mean, and those people didn’t either because all of the signs we saw had really random and nonsense things on them. The best ones said things like, “I am carrying a sign!” There were many wearing costumes, all different. You’d have thought it was just a Halloween demonstration.
So we had to call all of the soldiers and it took two hours to catch all of them, since they didn’t all have their phones on, and they weren’t all in one group. The meeting place was changed and we were able to pick them up at the new place successfully. It was a challenge because the bus was not allowed to stop in any one place around the monuments for more than 15 minutes or he would have received a huge fine of $1000. They were at the new appointed place and quickly boarded the bus, without one soldier lost.
Next we drove out of the city and away from the traffic. About 6:30 we stopped at Golden Corral for dinner. The church paid for lunch and dinner. We all ate well, and the soldiers were happy to fill their plates numerous times. The manager made an announcement about appreciating our soldiers, and that pleased them. They perked up, smiled and shouted their army “oooOOOh!” (I don't know how to spell it.)
It was a long, stressful, but successful day.
We took them to the DC temple. Some with recommends went inside to do some initiatories, or just enjoy the spirit in the temple. Others went to the visitors center and had guided tours and films. They were all very respectful and some were curious.
Next we took them to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. Then the "mall" (no stores, it’s where the monuments and museums are). We were supposed to pick them up at the Capitol Building in 2 ½ hours. But there was a huge problem with that plan. Demonstrations were being held around the Capitol so we were unable to even get close to it. Police cars blocked off all the streets we needed to cross to get there. We drove that bus around for 1 ½ hours trying to get near, and also find a place to park till time to pick them up. There were so many millions of people walking and demonstrating that multiple streets were blocked off by police and it was really crazy. The poor bus driver was pretty stressed when we finally got to park for about 45 minutes.
The soldiers were warned to be careful because of the demonstrations. They were all wearing their BDU (Battle Dress Uniform, or camouflage), so they were easy to recognize. People might want to take pictures of them, so they had to make sure someone wasn’t holding a sign or something in the background, so that they didn’t end up on the national news. We didn’t hear of any trouble though. They were able to see the monuments and go through a museum or two.
I’ve never seen so many people in one place. There were two demonstrations being held. #1: “Return to Sanity” and #2: “Keep the Fear” I don’t even know what those things mean, and those people didn’t either because all of the signs we saw had really random and nonsense things on them. The best ones said things like, “I am carrying a sign!” There were many wearing costumes, all different. You’d have thought it was just a Halloween demonstration.
So we had to call all of the soldiers and it took two hours to catch all of them, since they didn’t all have their phones on, and they weren’t all in one group. The meeting place was changed and we were able to pick them up at the new place successfully. It was a challenge because the bus was not allowed to stop in any one place around the monuments for more than 15 minutes or he would have received a huge fine of $1000. They were at the new appointed place and quickly boarded the bus, without one soldier lost.
Next we drove out of the city and away from the traffic. About 6:30 we stopped at Golden Corral for dinner. The church paid for lunch and dinner. We all ate well, and the soldiers were happy to fill their plates numerous times. The manager made an announcement about appreciating our soldiers, and that pleased them. They perked up, smiled and shouted their army “oooOOOh!” (I don't know how to spell it.)
It was a long, stressful, but successful day.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Our Back Yard
OUR FIRST WEEK IN VIRGINIA
The first few days in Yorktown were spent setting up our apartment. Elder and Sister DeLaney gave us some kitchen items, 2 chairs, an old recliner, a folding table, dresser, and a king-sized bed. They will be giving us a few more things when they leave on Nov. 18. We also bought some end tables, desk, night stands and lamps from thrift stores. Thrift stores here are plentiful but the prices are about double what we are used to seeing at Deseret Industries in the West. It is interesting to set up a home without any of our own things, since we came out here in our Buick, and didn’t have room for much more than our clothes, Bryan’s computer, and some books.
We stayed the first 2 nights at the home of Buddy and Lu Lord. He is the third counselor in the Newport News 2nd Ward Bishopric assigned to Fort Eustis and is the presiding authority in our meetings. He can conduct interviews and priesthood advancements. They have a lovely (immaculate) home and have been wonderful. He even found a desk and dresser on the side of the road and picked them up for us.
Our apartment is on the bottom floor of a nice complex, Clairmont, in Yorktown. In the back yard there is a beautiful lake, which makes a pleasant view each time we walk to our door, since our entrance is on the side. We got a 2 bedroom place because the DeLaneys said that their one bedroom place was too small. So we have plenty of room, especially since we don’t have much furniture and other “stuff”. We are glad that we got ground level though, because there will be a lot of hauling of materials and food bins to our meetings. We use the 2nd bedroom as an office.
We were given a television. We weren’t going to worry about getting one, but the DeLaneys told us that we need to keep up to date on the news and watch the weather warnings so that we can be safe and also alert the full time elders of any dangers. (They don’t watch any TV) This is a hurricane area and this week we even had a tornado warning in our county. It turned out OK, but the local channel was adamant about the possible danger for a couple hours. We got a lot of rain, but that was all.
Sunday we attended services at Fort Eustis. There were about 6 soldiers, plus Brother Lord, the DeLaneys, us, and Brother Benoit, the assistant group leader. Bryan will be the Group Leader when the DeLaneys leave. The full time elders also came for Sacrament Meeting. There will normally be 2 to 25 soldiers in attendance.
The first meeting is a combined Relief Society/Priesthood for 30 minutes. (I haven’t met any female soldiers yet, but they could show up at any time) A soldier taught the lesson. Next is a ten minute break, then sacrament meeting for 45 minutes. Two soldiers bless the sacrament, another one passes the sacrament. A soldier gave the talk. Some Sundays we will have High Council speakers or other guests. The soldiers usually wear their uniforms, so that helps to get their names right, since they are written right there on the pocket.
I was really touched by the lesson and talk given by the soldiers. It gave me a better understanding and testimony of why we are needed here. Military life is so harsh and stressful, it is a blessing for them to be able to attend meetings with other members and feel the Spirit. I’m so glad that they have this program and that we can be part of it.
The soldiers here are in the second phase of their military careers. They have completed basic training and are now in AIT, advanced individual training. They specialize in helicopter maintenance and repair. They are here from 6 to 30 weeks and do not leave the base during their training, without special permission. That’s why we hold services on the base, because they can’t attend wards in town. Some are just out of high school. Some are returned missionaries, and some are college graduates. They are married or single, but they are not living with their families here. A few have brought the family and housed them outside of the base and can see them once in a while. They feel alone and stressed here and are glad for a chance to mingle with church members and feel the Spirit.
We learned that the Military Relations Mission was established in 2002. Before that time 10-15% of members who joined the military remained active in the church. Now, with the help of this program, 50% remain active. Our official job is called “Activation and Retention” and we do not generally get involved with proselyting. Since we have non-members in attendance sometimes, the full-time elders do the teaching for anyone interested.
On Mondays we attend “In Processing”. This is the day that all of the new soldiers who have come in that week are briefed, taught the rules, given their jobs and assignments, and fill out all kinds of forms. We have about 1 minute to introduce ourselves as “representatives of the LDS Church” and invite any members or anyone who wishes to be associated with the church to fill out a form. We get their phone numbers and a little information so that we can contact them and invite to meetings and activities. Sometimes we will receive an email from missionaries at basic training, telling of some that will be coming to our base. In our introduction we do not use the word “missionary”, nor do we wear our name tags, since proselyting is not allowed on the base, and that would seem to send the message that we are looking for converts. We do however, wear our name tags when we conduct services on Sunday, in the Chapel Annex.
On Tuesday we hold two Family Home Evening sessions in the morning and one in the evening for any soldiers who wish to attend. We have a short lesson, then games, refreshments, and visiting. The morning sessions are not well attended, but are offered because of the various class schedules.
Friday we attended 2 graduation ceremonies. Three LDS service members graduated this week. We take pictures and mail them a copy. It is nice for us to be there, since families aren’t usually able to attend.
So our first week was filled with gaining a wonderful testimony of our mission here. We are desperately needed for these service members to have contact with the church, a blessed relief from the stress of military life and worldly influences. Since Bryan is retired military, and we both have military ID cards, we can get on the base daily without hassle, which would be impossible for other people. What a great thing to know that we have been training for this mission all of our lives.
Monday, October 25, 2010
WEST VIRGINIA
As we're driving in the mountains we often have to stop,
If we don't pay at toll booths we'll get stopped by a cop.
Toll roads have a ransom we are required to pay,
We have already paid at three toll booths today.
Nevada lets the gamblers pay to pave the street,
A plan that I agree with and think is kinda neat.
I think I'll tell them next time, "A brilliant thought just struck...
Replace toll booths with slots, and let me try my luck."
If we don't pay at toll booths we'll get stopped by a cop.
Toll roads have a ransom we are required to pay,
We have already paid at three toll booths today.
Nevada lets the gamblers pay to pave the street,
A plan that I agree with and think is kinda neat.
I think I'll tell them next time, "A brilliant thought just struck...
Replace toll booths with slots, and let me try my luck."
ILLINOIS
(Or taking wrong turns)
We took a road to Illinois but found us in Missouri.
We turned around & finally crossed the mighty Mississippi.
We found Nauvoo then followed signs to "Joseph Smith Historic Site"
We walked around & looked at things but thought "Things just aren't right."
About then we both realized what we had failed to guess--
"Community of Christ" it said, (Ah yes--RLDS!)
We finally found the temple and felt much better there,
Magnificent and lovely and flowers trimmed with care.
A peaceful confirmation of why we're going east
A testimony to the truth, a missionary feast.
We took a road to Illinois but found us in Missouri.
We turned around & finally crossed the mighty Mississippi.
We found Nauvoo then followed signs to "Joseph Smith Historic Site"
We walked around & looked at things but thought "Things just aren't right."
About then we both realized what we had failed to guess--
"Community of Christ" it said, (Ah yes--RLDS!)
We finally found the temple and felt much better there,
Magnificent and lovely and flowers trimmed with care.
A peaceful confirmation of why we're going east
A testimony to the truth, a missionary feast.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
WELCOME TO IOWA
(Even if we may not ever mention it again.....)
Iowa stubbornness carries no shame.
They earned their pride from Music Man's fame.
Corn by the acre as silos are filled
Breathtaking scenery, this artist is thrilled!
Des Moines has a silent "s".
Why is anybody's guess.
Illinois isn't any better
Dropping that important letter.
As visitors to Boise find
The natives aren't so very kind--
Please use "s" instead of "z"
But Iowans would say Boi'ee.
Iowa stubbornness carries no shame.
They earned their pride from Music Man's fame.
Corn by the acre as silos are filled
Breathtaking scenery, this artist is thrilled!
Des Moines has a silent "s".
Why is anybody's guess.
Illinois isn't any better
Dropping that important letter.
As visitors to Boise find
The natives aren't so very kind--
Please use "s" instead of "z"
But Iowans would say Boi'ee.
LAMENTATIONS OF A TRAVELER
LAMENTATIONS OF A TRAVELER
Hotel, motel, motor inn
Some you lose and some you win.
Soft beds, hard beds, mine's just right.
But that's not where I sleep tonight.
I had to leave my bears at home
Around the house they're free to roam.
Will I say like Goldilocks said:
"Who's been sleeping in my bed?"
Duma Addendum:
20 questions in the car is difficult at best
Not like playing with our kids while traveling in the West.
The game would last forever, not ending very soon
We'd have to wrack our little brains to guess a flat raccoon.
Hotel, motel, motor inn
Some you lose and some you win.
Soft beds, hard beds, mine's just right.
But that's not where I sleep tonight.
I had to leave my bears at home
Around the house they're free to roam.
Will I say like Goldilocks said:
"Who's been sleeping in my bed?"
Duma Addendum:
20 questions in the car is difficult at best
Not like playing with our kids while traveling in the West.
The game would last forever, not ending very soon
We'd have to wrack our little brains to guess a flat raccoon.
KENTUCKY
Jenny was our baby dear
When we used to live out here.
Charleston, when she started school
Soon she proved she was no fool:
"There are 2 ways to say 'nine' she said
As she tossed her auburn head,
"You can say 'nine' or 'na-an'"
(That last one rhymes with man)
Last night at our motel, we met a southern belle:
"Have a good night sleep, y'all and don't forget the plan-
A continental breakfast is served from 6 to 9"
When we used to live out here.
Charleston, when she started school
Soon she proved she was no fool:
"There are 2 ways to say 'nine' she said
As she tossed her auburn head,
"You can say 'nine' or 'na-an'"
(That last one rhymes with man)
Last night at our motel, we met a southern belle:
"Have a good night sleep, y'all and don't forget the plan-
A continental breakfast is served from 6 to 9"
Monday, October 18, 2010
TREATISE ON NEBRASKA
Crossing time zones makes me later
And these roads can't get much straighter.
When will all these corn fields stop--
Cobs of corn and Jiffy Pop?
Cattle farms feed corn to cows
As much as cow diet allows.
We pass and stare in disbelief --
I guess that's how they grow corned beef!
.
And these roads can't get much straighter.
When will all these corn fields stop--
Cobs of corn and Jiffy Pop?
Cattle farms feed corn to cows
As much as cow diet allows.
We pass and stare in disbelief --
I guess that's how they grow corned beef!
.
Friday, October 15, 2010
DRIVING THROUGH WYOMING
Traveling in our P-day clothes
(Minus nametag, no one knows).
Crossing miles of brush and sand
Scenic hills and barren land.
I wonder what our God had planned
When He created barren land.
Maybe so we'd bend our knees
And thank Him when we reach the trees.
Jack-a-lope! Is that a myth?
Something they just tease us with?
We'll show 'em up. Did you hear --
Nevada has a big mule deer.
Moses must have passed through here,
Smiting rocks till springs appear.
I suppose they could make the claim
"That's how Rock Springs got its name."
(Minus nametag, no one knows).
Crossing miles of brush and sand
Scenic hills and barren land.
I wonder what our God had planned
When He created barren land.
Maybe so we'd bend our knees
And thank Him when we reach the trees.
Jack-a-lope! Is that a myth?
Something they just tease us with?
We'll show 'em up. Did you hear --
Nevada has a big mule deer.
Moses must have passed through here,
Smiting rocks till springs appear.
I suppose they could make the claim
"That's how Rock Springs got its name."
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Our District
MTC
Nametags, backpacks, suits and ties,
Crisp white shirts and shining eyes,
Teachers, scriptures, foreign tongue,
Sitting, learning, old and young.
"Called to Serve" with tears and smiles,
"Preach My Gospel" - crossing miles.
"Two by two" to far off lands,
White haired couples holding hands.
To Fort Eustis, Army Base -
Off we go to our new place.
We'll see what old hands can do.
(Helaman served an army too!)
LEAVING HOME
Big decisions, lots of prayer
When to go and what to wear...
He'll prepare the way - we know
Let's just trust in God and go!
Autumn weather nips the air
Off we go - an anxious pair.
Leaving grandkids, friends, and home
Thus begins our mission poem.
When to go and what to wear...
He'll prepare the way - we know
Let's just trust in God and go!
Autumn weather nips the air
Off we go - an anxious pair.
Leaving grandkids, friends, and home
Thus begins our mission poem.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Teaching Lessons
Today we practiced teaching an institute lesson. We team-taught for 20 minutes, then were evaluated by 2 other couples and an instructor. Then they had their turns teaching. I was really frustrated last night trying to figure out how to do all they taught us, but today it came together and we did well. Teaching isn't as scary when you sort of know what you're doing.
There are 2400 missionaries here now. Usually there are between 1700 and 2200 but many are awaiting visas for Brazil and other places. I'm glad we don't have to wait for that.
Have I mentioned yet that the food here is incredible? Imagine feeding 2400 hungry people 3 times per day every day. The menus are great and there is quite a variety to choose from at each meal. If anyone goes hungry it is their own fault! It is very organized and runs smoothly. The lines aren't even very long at any given time because of the variety of places that are serving. The only problem is gaining weight.
The Spirit is so strong here. We are learning so much, and it is all good. We love the teachers and the other missionaries. They have become such good friends, just like family to us. We are all going to different situations and it will be fun to follow their adventures as well as having our own.
The blogs for some of the couples are linked here on this blog.
There are 2400 missionaries here now. Usually there are between 1700 and 2200 but many are awaiting visas for Brazil and other places. I'm glad we don't have to wait for that.
Have I mentioned yet that the food here is incredible? Imagine feeding 2400 hungry people 3 times per day every day. The menus are great and there is quite a variety to choose from at each meal. If anyone goes hungry it is their own fault! It is very organized and runs smoothly. The lines aren't even very long at any given time because of the variety of places that are serving. The only problem is gaining weight.
The Spirit is so strong here. We are learning so much, and it is all good. We love the teachers and the other missionaries. They have become such good friends, just like family to us. We are all going to different situations and it will be fun to follow their adventures as well as having our own.
The blogs for some of the couples are linked here on this blog.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Where Will We Serve?
We have had a wonderful first week at the Missionary Training Center. We learned many new ways to teach the gospel and even had some volunteers to practice on. It turned out to be fun and not as scary as we thought it would be. This week we are getting CES training, (Church Educational System) in case we are able to teach some institute classes while we are out there. Our brains are so full, we literally fall into bed at night. 6:00 comes early in the mornings, and I've never been a "morning" person. It's a challenge, but we are doing great and loving all of the association with the other couples and the young missionaries too.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Leaving our Home
Today we made the break from our "things" and our home. We decided on everything that we would need for the next 18 months and left everything that wouldn't fit into our car. It was quite a challenge to pack, not knowing what we really did and didn't need. Fortunately, we will be able to buy things that we couldn't fit in. At least we won't be in a foreign country where they don't have soap and deodorant and hairspray and floss and those kinds of necessities. Ha ha.
Since we decided to turn off the electricity and water in the house, we had to drain the water heater and everything that holds water. Our neighbor used to be a plumber so he directed the process. We were SO greatful for the help. Then we put antifreeze in the toilets and all the drains (traps) so that the sewer smell won't back up into the house through the empty lines.
We also had to get rid of all the bottles and cans of food that wouldn't survive the heat and cold. We gave most of it away. An interesting operation, after being taught for so long to store a year's supply of food, then getting rid of it! IT sure takes a lot of faith to go through this whole process.
But we're on our way! We left our house and got part way to Salt Lake City tonight. We will watch conference with some of our children, then enter the Missionary Training Center (MTC)on Monday.
Wasn't Conference great today? We listened while we packed and cleaned. I can't wait to review those talks. The Spirit was strong and I loved listening.
Since we decided to turn off the electricity and water in the house, we had to drain the water heater and everything that holds water. Our neighbor used to be a plumber so he directed the process. We were SO greatful for the help. Then we put antifreeze in the toilets and all the drains (traps) so that the sewer smell won't back up into the house through the empty lines.
We also had to get rid of all the bottles and cans of food that wouldn't survive the heat and cold. We gave most of it away. An interesting operation, after being taught for so long to store a year's supply of food, then getting rid of it! IT sure takes a lot of faith to go through this whole process.
But we're on our way! We left our house and got part way to Salt Lake City tonight. We will watch conference with some of our children, then enter the Missionary Training Center (MTC)on Monday.
Wasn't Conference great today? We listened while we packed and cleaned. I can't wait to review those talks. The Spirit was strong and I loved listening.
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