Mom and Dad gave great talks that were inspiring and touching. They both shared some experiences from their previous mission that were very interesting. Mom talked on how "preparation proceeds power" in the gospel and in life. She spoke specifically on the power of prayer, especially in how it can help us to prepare to serve more effectively. Dad spoke on the power of bearing testimony and what bearing true testimony meant. He shared a very touching story of an Elder about to give up on his mission and go home as he was struggling with the language and had begun to doubt his own testimony. The priesthood leader counseling the young missionary was prompted to tell him he knew that the Elder knew that Heavenly Father loved him. The Elder finally admitted he did in fact know that. The priesthood leader went on to tell him that knowing just that, was enough for him to continue on as a successful missionary. Dad challenged the parents to bear testimony to their children daily in the simple things they say and do. This way the parent and the child grows up knowing these simple yet vital truths that will qualify them for whatever work the Lord called them to do.
Mom and Dad had almost 2 large rows of family (mostly grand kids) there to hear them speak and feel their spirit. It was cool to see. We missed those of you who could not come -- we know it's a bit of a trip for you easterners, but we could feel your support from afar and that was great too.
All present for the sacrament meeting were blessed and inspired to feel of Mom and Dad's missionary excitement and spirit. They will no doubt bless NY hugely over the next 2 years! Although we will miss them very very much!!
Aside from the spiritual teaching we received, we also had some good ole family fun. As the pics reflect on the blog you will see we had fun cheering on the Cougars to victory! A great game that we all loudly enjoyed while eating pizza and other goodies. We also played games like Pit and Monopoly to name a few. The kids had a great time seeing each other and playing together. We were all very happy to see Amber and get to spend some time with her too. Erin gave the open house attendees a beautiful violin performance she had prepared for Grandma and Grandpa. She was complimented with a wonderful violin performance by Amber and a trio number by Darren, Erin, and Spencer. I was a very good "observer" - that is my musical forte'. :) The open house was elegantly catered by Kerry, with a bit of help from Me - it was very evident Kerry is the real pro. Thanks to her, we all enjoyed yummy treats and good conversation and visits from ward members and family who came by to wish Mom and Dad well on their mission. We got to see Carie D. and Aunt Nadine and cousin Stacy whom were all great to see again!! Mom and Dad had lots of well wishers come by to send them off. A special thanks to Kerry and Ryan who put the Open House together and made it so successful! Great job to them!!
I will post some of the pics we took for your all to enjoy. We were so busy visiting we didn't get as many pictures as we would have liked, but we can enjoy these. Please feel free to post your comments and post your family happenings on your family tab. We look forward to hearing more about what is going on in your families! That's my Farewell Report for now. . . . Love, Mel
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