Happy Easter! - April 19, 2014

This weekend we rejoice in celebrating the resurrection of our precious Savior.  We are so blessed and grateful for his atoning sacrifice that makes it possible for us to repent, change our lives and hearts, and return to our Heavenly Father.  This is the most glorious gift we can ever receive.  "How wondrous and great" is He.

Today we are also grateful for the gift of healing.  Last week Lynn had a heart surgery--not open heart.  He had a procedure to correct atrial arrhythmia and flutter.  After five+ hours in surgery, the surgeon finally emerged with a big smile.  Everything went well, and Lynn is doing fine.  He has had to be a bit slower, not lifting, resting more, and trying to be patient.

We are blessed to have permission to attend the Atlanta Temple when the Branch has a temple trip.  The Branch has now designated a monthly temple day, so we look forward to that opportunity.

Our poor Toyota Avalon is paying a price for serving us well on our mission.  We recently had to replace an axle, then spark plugs, four new tires, with rack and pinion steering coming soon.  Gas prices are going up, up, up.  Last month's gas bill was $500.00.  We drove 3500 miles.  The rough mountain roads are tearing up things, and the constant driving is taxing.  However, if we wear out our car in serving the Lord, that's okay.  He blessed us to have it, so He can use it however He sees fit.

Two of our investigators, Rachel and Daniel, have committed to baptism!  They are excited and preparing well.  Carolyn Barmes has also been preparing and has set her baptism date!  In May we will have three baptisms!  We are stoked!  Most of all, we are thankful to see these dear people taking steps to change their lives and embrace the Savior's true gospel.

This morning the Branch hosted an Easter egg hunt for the children of the area.  Even though it was raining, some families still came.  About 15 children gathered candy-filled eggs, making a haul since there were enough eggs for 30+ kids. They didn't care about the rain as they scampered around filling their baskets with goodies.

We really appreciate your prayers and love.  Thank you for your love and support!  

Love from N.C.--
Elder & Sister Ogden

Beautiful dogwood in full bloom

Pink dogwood

Old moonshine equipment for sale

Elder Gerig, our newest Elder,
practicing on his drum pad

Rob, the hairy potter, showing
one of his 6' character pots

Pypper Pendergrass hunting Easter eggs

Happy Birthday Jesus and the Church! - April 6, 2014

Today marks the anniversary of our Savior's birth, as well as the organization of the Church in the latter days.  To top it off, we were able to watch Conference!  Most members of our Branch were able to sit at home and watch the sessions on TV or computer.  We could have, but we gathered with those who wanted or needed to view it at the Church.  We pooled our food resources for a nice dinner between sessions both days.  Laurel watched the Priesthood session at home on Saturday evening.

We feel rejuvenated and filled to the brim after listening to so many inspiring messages from our leaders.   Even though there were messages of warning and direction, there were also many words of joy and encouragement.  They all remind us that Father in Heaven loves us deeply and wants to help us through our life struggles so that we can return to Him.  Hopefully we will now go forth with renewed vigor and determination to live our lives better, love deeper, forgive easier, repent quicker, teach more effectively, and find joy every day. 

Much of our time lately has been spent in the car--driving people around that are trying to move, getting some to/from FHE or Church, getting to/from our long-distance FHEs.  We drove a lot this past week taking invitations to people about Conference.  Also, we are making several trips to Asheville for Lynn's doctor appointments.  His heart ablation (procedure to repair is irregular heartbeat) is on Wednesday, April 9.  We are confident all will go well and he will be fine.  Prayers are appreciated, though.

Our testimonies continue to grow as we teach others about Christ's gospel.  We are very blessed and grateful for our wonderful life.  This is the way to begin and cap off a life together, with a honeymoon!  Our mission is like that!  We love spending all our time with each other doing the Lord's work.  We love Him!

May you each enjoy a renewal of love, testimony, and joy with this beautiful spring.
Love always--
The Ogdens

Early wild flowers in the woods.

Laurel had to yield to the
temptation of wading.

Giant bumblebees are out everywhere!

Picturesque covered bridge
at Granny Squirrel Drive.

Bluegrass band from
Berea College
(The bearded guitarist has the
normal look for N.C. mountains.)

Dogwood blossoms beginning to burst.

A fresh haircut always
makes her smile!

Lynn says the sign should
say "Grandma Laurel".