46 Years


Even after meetings last week, we are not sure how the merging of zones will affect our responsibilities in the zone.  The next few months are likely to be a challenge for me with my “ducks-in-a-row” mindset.  The “ducks” probably won’t be in straight rows for a while.  Library leadership has some long range goals, but for now the goal is to see that all missionaries can help set up Family Search accounts and aid guests with research.
            Speaking of merging, we’ve been doing hours of that in the new training. I wanted to be working on my own lines, instead of merging fictitious individuals in beta.    But, I reminded myself, “Missionary first; researcher, second.”   Or more to the point, “Trained missionary first…” 
            The new training did motivate us to learn how to add audio files in memories.  I am delighted to share the voices of Grandpa and Grandma Mitchell.  In 1977, they sent a cassette tape to Kansas on which they had recorded memories and their testimonies.  A treasure!  We also added to my great uncle’s page, audios of his recitals of Marriot Edgar stories, a cherished family reunion tradition. 
            We were excited to share the audio additions with my cousin, Kathy, when we spent Thursday evening with her and her husband.  Kathy’s father is my grandfather’s brother.  We grew up on the same street.  She was delighted with the audio clips.  More to come.
            It was a good week to meet with old friends:  the Sweeneys from Olathe; Michelle, my high school friend; and the Carpenters, MTC friends.  The Carpenters helped us celebrate our 46th Anniversary with lunch at the COB.  (They didn’t know we were celebrating 😊, but it still “counts.”)
            Thursday afternoon, we went to the Ogden Temple.  Since its “makeover,” it is not Provo’s twin anymore!   I am at a loss for words when it comes to describing the beauty of the temples.  Nor can I pick a favorite. The campus, which includes the Ogden Tabernacle, is striking.  Many of the walls are stone with dark wood.  Instead of a large chandelier in the celestial room, there is a magnificent dome.
            We attended two performances in the Assembly Hall—a mission “perk.”  One was the “Letter Carrier Band.” Stirring marches and fun drummer.  The other was a piano duet recital by Bishop Causse and his friend, Nicholas Giusti.  Amazing!  Absolutely! We chose to sit on the balcony close to the stage which means we were practically on the stage.  Facing Bishop Causse, we couldn’t see his hands, but enjoyed his expressions.  We certainly could see Giusti’s hands as they flew (and sometimes pounded) across the keys, creating “magic.”  Go look for them! 
            Sunday evening was a heavenly start to the week.  We were with Christopher and his family for their back-to-school-kick-off-dinner which we ate outside in their charming pergola.  Afterwards, in keeping with family tradition, Christopher gave his kids a father’s blessing.  “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” 

Ogden Temple--10th temple of mission

BYU Education Week brought the Sweeneys to Utah
   
             

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