Grey Lanyards!

Having completed the sixteen e-learning modules about helping guests at the Family History Library, plus the first four lessons specific to US/Canada research (Vital Records was a beast), we were presented our grey lanyards on Friday by the zone leaders.  The lanyards mean that guests can ask us questions.  They don’t mean that we will know the answers. Oh well, jump in and start swimming.  And cry help!

            The week started out with a blanket of beautiful snow which gave an added sparkle to the lights—and a little more hurry to our steps.  We only had to dash across the street to the Conference Center for the First Presidency Christmas Devotional.  Even though our tickets had us seated in the middle, second section back, the speakers were still “tiny” so we relied on the big screens for facial expression.  I had forgotten how enormous that place is!   The music was powerful!  I was especially moved when the organ came in on “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”  And the fifty-six trees around the choir and organ were magical—like glitter trees.

            Tuesday evening, we dashed across the street again, this time to the CC Theater for Savior of the World.   We were pleased that our kids from Utah Valley could join us.  We hosted a hurried dinner beforehand in the apartment using the computer desk as an extension to our tiny table—accommodations for eight.:)   We all agreed that the music in the production was inspiring. I came away with a greater appreciation for Mary. 

            When we in the Joseph Smith Building on Monday night for the zone Christmas dinner, we were amazed by the lines waiting to use The Giving Machines.  Heartwarming, yes, to see the crowd of generous people. But it left us wondering how we could time a “facetime purchase” with the Debenham family.  We checked it out on Wednesday, but the lines were too long again for their “window.”  We were successful on Thursday—and it was so much fun—at least for me and Elder Challis.  Per our grandchildren’s instructions, with them looking on, we bought a goat, thermal blankets, first aid kit, and fingerling fish.  Elder Challis and I added some polio vaccine and seeds for farm ground.   We are grateful to belong to a church that wants to Light the World—and for grandkids who want to help.

            Early Thursday evening, Elder Challis’ sister, Annette surprised us with a visit and dinner at the Lion House. That certainly “lighted our world.”

            Friday, we drove to Salem to have a “sleep over” at the Nauman house.  The excited reception we had from Hal (19 m) and Henley (3) was priceless.  Saturday, Elder Challis played all morning with H and H while I helped Jaynie pack up her kitchen in anticipation of their move to Pleasant Grove this week.  They have been semi-packed since August.  This is the fourth “deal” on their home, the previous three falling through when the buyers could not sell a home.  Fourth time’s the charm, we hope!  If it seems like we have been packing and unpacking a lot—we have!

We have been mourning the loss of companionship of a dear friend in Olathe.  Her funeral was on Friday;  we wanted so much to be there, to be "home" with those who love her.  We are praying that the Comforter will attend them.  She blessed us all with her musical talent and caring ways.  One of her favorite songs was "Behold, the Wounds in Jesus Hands," I think because she had such a powerful testimony of Christ's power to heal and comfort.

Photo taken from Joseph Smith Building

Morning lights. 

Bringing cheer to the apartment.