New Year's Day was transfer day for the mission. Elder Bacon left us after four months, but Elder Crestani remained as our new District Leader. It's always inspiring and fun to attend the meeting where new companions meet, new "Goldens" (some missions call them greenies) are introduced, and we get to see old friends. Transfers always take place in Knoxville, so it's a long day for those of us who live far away.
We have driven many miles trying to visit people, most of whom weren't home. :( However, we always leave a note and some banana bread or cranberry bread. It's not even possible to call ahead to make arrangements for a visit to some people, because they don't all get cell reception unless they come into town. Not that many people have land lines. Each time we light out we never know what adventure we are embarking upon.
The Elders have spent most of P-day with us today. The weather is bitter cold, as it is in most of the country right now. We played Aggravation, did our grocery shopping, and ate lunch and dinner together. They emailed their families from our computers since the library was closed today. (The head guy couldn't get off his hill to get to town. :/ )
Below is included part of a letter to our family. They asked that we add it to our blog.
We are also involved with the Elders in teaching a Hispanic family that dropped into their laps. It's amazing how the Lord prepares some people. It's a thrill to witness. The mother is a member who had been looking for the Church for seven years and never found it here. Can't believe it! Now her husband is SO ready! He believes every single word he is taught! He says, "I believe it all. Our home feels so much better since you (the missionaries) are coming. I just want to know what I have to do to be baptized." Amazing! And thrilling!
I cannot believe the tremendous increase in love that I feel for all my fellow man since coming on our mission. Disappointments are very deep when people make damaging choices in their lives, especially when they cause pain or suffering to others. Conversely, joy is incredibly deep when people choose to follow the Lord in the truth. I am very grateful for this experience.
Dad continues to have heart problems. He is again wearing the monitor. Apparently atrial fibrillation continues and is a concern. His doctor here in Murphy is sending him to a cardiologist in Asheville. We'll see what they decide. There may be oblation therapy. Robert recently had to have that done. They are so much alike, perhaps their hearts are, too. Of course, he doesn't let all this slow him down.
I've been experiencing some lower back trouble this last week. It's so annoying! I keep plugging along, though. Someday it will go away as quickly as it came, I hope.
We finally got enough snow to cover the grass and the roads. I was so happy! I ran out in my pjs for a short bit just to enjoy the gift.
It was great!
Hope everyone is well, safe, and determined to have a wonderful year. We love you all SO VERY MUCH!!
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| Thank you gift for caring for sick Elders |
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| Good-bye to Elders Bacon, Watson, and Hunt at transfers |
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| Elder Ogden and Elder Ogden |
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| The talking monkey that drives |
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| Hardscrabble Road, NC-- Grandpa Ogden was born in Hardscrabble outside of Richfield, UT |
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| Not sure if this is a joke or not! "Caution! This place is now protected by God, guns, and the law." A scary sign to encounter in the night. |
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| Having fun in my pjs |
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| Hey North Carolina, this is a Utah house! |
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| At last! |
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| Elder Bacon, Pam Voyles, Elder Crestani |
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