The latest and greatest from Hermana Partridge. A few thoughts about our the last few days here in the Beautiful Republica Dominicana. Friday night we arrived home to our apartment about 7 which is early for us, only to find the electricity out and the clock blinking 3:30. It was very hot and our little fridge hadn't been working probably since 3:30 in the afternoon. But things were still pretty frozen in the freezer so we left everything where it was and waited. Electricity goes off sporadically throughout the city so we figured it was one of those times. No AC of course so we went out to get a bite to eat and got very lost, parked the car in a parking garage where we thought we were going and found out it wasn't so we walkeda few blocks along a busy highway with horns honking and people everywhere. Found the "mall" we were looking for; went in to eat and since we had to pay 200 pesos to get out of the parking garage, we didn't have quite enough pesos for dinner. (We didn't want to use the ATM with so many people around since the MTC filled us with dread about being "targets" so we bought two ice cream bars, walked around a little and headed back to the parking garage and then home to our apartment with still no power. The whole building was dark but there were some lights on in the parking lot so we weren't sure what was going on. We have auxillary power which comes on automatically and we found a plug for the fridge we could use with a long extension cord and a 3-prong adapter. We went to bed.
Brother Breton had invited us to go to Puerto Plata with him Saturday morning early...5:00. We set the alarm for 4:30 and went to bed about 10.. It was very hot and humid and we tossed and turned. Much too soon it seemed, the alarm went off and I got up and started getting ready, brushed my teeth and was about to take a sponge bath (no water heater since no electricity except reserve) when I looked at my watch and it said 11:55. I thought, "Dang, my battery must be going out." Went to the alarm clock to see what the correct time was and the alarm clock said 4:55 am. I woke Bill up immediately and said told him we must have slept in; we needed to be at Bro. Breton's in 5 minutes. He looked at his watch and it said, 11:55. So the auxiliary power must have gone off and come back on long enough to make the alarm clock wrong. Anyway, we set the phone to awaken us, went back to sleep...I use the term loosely... tossed and turned some more and got up again at 4:30. No power at all so I stuffed the freezer with milk and meat and mayo and such and we left for the coast.
The problems at the apartment soon went floating away when I saw the ocean! A little over 1 hour's drive and there we were! Brother Breton took us to the beach and left us to go to his meeting. We walked along the beach, watched the sun come up and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Bill took a nice nap while I walked and walked and drank in the ocean. It filled my soul! We ate breakfast at the local La Sirena (the Walmart of the DR) with a beautiful ocean view. I told Bill that's where I want to shop every week! (In my dreams!) It was just what we needed to calm our electricity deprived troubled hearts. The drive back was gorgeous, too. This part of the island is the most beautiful I'm told. I totally agree with that even though we've not seen any other parts!
We got home to a powerless hot and humid apartment. We called agent and he said he'd check into it but we probably wouldn't get any help from the power company until Monday. The elders offered to come and get our food so we wouldn't lose it since the freezer was thawing by now. Turns out the power company made a mistake and turned off our power. We were the only ones without power and we thought the whole building was out. But, our good agent got his "man" to come and get our power on which he did in short order. So, all was well. The bedroom cooled down, fans back on, food getting cold and fridge working. Lots of loads of laundry to do and hang up in the "maid's quarters." But hot and humid so nothing dried and probably won't be until Monday.
Last night we went into "town" to try to find a particular store and we had a hair-raising scamper through narrow streets, going the wrong way on a one-way street, people everywhere, horns honking (mostly at us) and still not finding what we wanted. And to top it off, the humidity fogged up our window, the defroster wasn't working and we could hardly see anything. Driving here at night is risky business to say the least! And daytime isn't much better...at least in the daytime we kind of know what part of the city we're lost in...at night there's just no hope! If I weren't trying not to scream I'd be laughing at people going through red lights, pedestrians everywhere, motor scooters darting in and out of traffic, totally ignoring any signals. Bill has done a great job not getting us creamed or creaming anyone for anything else!
I was going to drive myself to the church for the General Women's Meeting...it's just 5 minutes away...but after that near-death experience, I opted for Bill driving me there and picking me up! I got to hear the meeting in English which was heavenly. I sort of felt bad that I wasn't trying Spanish but I needed to hear everything they said and it was a great uplift. I needed it.
Today is the Sabbath. We visited 2 wards, attended the YSA classes and invited them to enroll in Institute. Everyone is so friendly and sweet and I don't understand anything they say and I stick close to Bill and pray no one asks me any questions. If they do I just smile and say "Buenos Dias" and "Como Esta" and "Muy Bien" and "Gracias!" and hug and kiss all the women on the cheek (the custom here) and smile some more.
So, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!
Beunos Tarde! .
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Friday, September 28, 2012
28 September 2012
It was funny, but Bonnie was not too pleased. It happened yesterday. I felt sorry for her after I laughed, and when she saw the whole thing she was sort of pleased but then again, not.
I was in the kitchen. I saw a lizard all of a sudden scurry across the top of the wall, right next to the ceiling. I said, "Wow, there goes a lizard." Bonnie was in the other adjoining room and immediately jumped up on the couch. She was scared and afraid and didn't want to see it. She started to panic and ask how long it was. I said about six inches long. I grabbed the broom and went after it. She was still standing on the couch, sort of like Barbra Striesand in Hello Dolly. Sort of funny, at least to me. I chased the little guy to the front door, opened the door and brushed him out. She finally came down off of the couch and started to breath again. She asked where he was, how long he was, if he had fangs, (sort of) and finally started to calm down.
I had to stifle my laugh and console her. She doesn't want anything in her apartment, especially a lizard who climbs walls, walks on ceilings, and runs fast, anywhere they want to run. I calmed her down. I took out the garbage and continued to make sure the couch was going to make it, no I mean, she was going to make it through the sudden scare she experienced. Then there was a knock at the door. She was wondering if the lizard was knocking at the door asking for entrance again. I assured her I knew it wasn't the lizard. It was our neighbor.
NOTE: We were told that all we had to do with our garbage was put it out in the back of the apartment, and someone would pick it up. We are on the second floor so there are steps to get there to get rid of the garbage.
Our neighbor said that from now on, we had to take the garbage down the stairs behind our apartment to the bin at the bottom. The reason was, the last couple of nights, there were large rats mulling around the garbage where we put it. Of course, Bonnie climbed on the couch again, seeking something higher than a couch to stand on. The nieghbor said that if we take the garbage down, then perhaps the smart rats won't climb our stairs and be waiting ourside our back door, knocking at the door. So we have to take our garbage DOWN to assure that rats are not outside our back door.
Bonnie then was grateful for a small, insignificant lizard, compared to large rats. Oh the blessings of being on a mission down here. Oh the joys.
When we first arrived, I blessed the apartment using the Priesthood, and thus I know we won't have Rodents Of Unusual Sizes come knocking. I hope that helps Bonnie come down off the highest place in our apartment.
I was in the kitchen. I saw a lizard all of a sudden scurry across the top of the wall, right next to the ceiling. I said, "Wow, there goes a lizard." Bonnie was in the other adjoining room and immediately jumped up on the couch. She was scared and afraid and didn't want to see it. She started to panic and ask how long it was. I said about six inches long. I grabbed the broom and went after it. She was still standing on the couch, sort of like Barbra Striesand in Hello Dolly. Sort of funny, at least to me. I chased the little guy to the front door, opened the door and brushed him out. She finally came down off of the couch and started to breath again. She asked where he was, how long he was, if he had fangs, (sort of) and finally started to calm down.
I had to stifle my laugh and console her. She doesn't want anything in her apartment, especially a lizard who climbs walls, walks on ceilings, and runs fast, anywhere they want to run. I calmed her down. I took out the garbage and continued to make sure the couch was going to make it, no I mean, she was going to make it through the sudden scare she experienced. Then there was a knock at the door. She was wondering if the lizard was knocking at the door asking for entrance again. I assured her I knew it wasn't the lizard. It was our neighbor.
NOTE: We were told that all we had to do with our garbage was put it out in the back of the apartment, and someone would pick it up. We are on the second floor so there are steps to get there to get rid of the garbage.
Our neighbor said that from now on, we had to take the garbage down the stairs behind our apartment to the bin at the bottom. The reason was, the last couple of nights, there were large rats mulling around the garbage where we put it. Of course, Bonnie climbed on the couch again, seeking something higher than a couch to stand on. The nieghbor said that if we take the garbage down, then perhaps the smart rats won't climb our stairs and be waiting ourside our back door, knocking at the door. So we have to take our garbage DOWN to assure that rats are not outside our back door.
Bonnie then was grateful for a small, insignificant lizard, compared to large rats. Oh the blessings of being on a mission down here. Oh the joys.
When we first arrived, I blessed the apartment using the Priesthood, and thus I know we won't have Rodents Of Unusual Sizes come knocking. I hope that helps Bonnie come down off the highest place in our apartment.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
27 September 2012
Great. After I blogged (is blogged a word?) I learned a few lessons. Bonnie was getting ready and I decided to help make breakfast. I opened our baby frig and saw some eggs. I love potatos and eggs and I saw some potatoes. So I turned on the stove and started to fry some mashed potatoes. (Mashed potatoes do NOT fry too well.) I didn't know they don't fry! Well, I decided to add a few slices off hot dogs, cut up. Then I cracked two eggs into the mess. Well to say the least, it looked like awful mush, a concockshun (sp?) that smelled awful and looked worse. Needless to say, we threw it out. So much for trying to help. She then suggested cereal.
Then, I went to the baby frig to get the milk. Our milk comes in little card board boxes and you have to cut off the little top to pour it. Well Bonnie had already cut off the little top to pour, and I decided to help again. I pushed and tried to open the little opening, and it squirted all over everything, including my tie, shirt, and the floor, shelf, and I then and there decided I was not going to help any more. All I do is get into trouble. I even decided to make some toast, and burned it. I may be able to teach a class in Spanish, but I am a total failure when it comes to making breakfast. I will leave that to my beautiful companion.
Then, I went to the baby frig to get the milk. Our milk comes in little card board boxes and you have to cut off the little top to pour it. Well Bonnie had already cut off the little top to pour, and I decided to help again. I pushed and tried to open the little opening, and it squirted all over everything, including my tie, shirt, and the floor, shelf, and I then and there decided I was not going to help any more. All I do is get into trouble. I even decided to make some toast, and burned it. I may be able to teach a class in Spanish, but I am a total failure when it comes to making breakfast. I will leave that to my beautiful companion.
27 September 2012
Yesterday I was asked to teach another class, this one on the Book of Mormon, then when I was ready to teach it, the regular teacher showed up, thus I didn't. It was good to prepare and learn.
We have a guard who watches over the new Institute building. I walked out a few nights ago and talked with him. He said that his tio (uncle) died recently, and thus I saw an opening. I started to talk with him about death, and the gospel. He received it well, and thus started a friendship. He brought me an avocado, and I brought him an Oreo or two. We have this relationship starting which may as well end in his baptism. I was directed (by Him who knows all) this morning to find some scriptures about death and such, present them to him, and have him read them. We shall see what happens, for this is the beginning.
We also have a bread shop right next to our apartment, and we are trying to make a friend there of the lady who sells bread. This too shall take a time, but it is a start, for we are mainly supposed to work with the young kids. But there are many all over who are hungry for the gospel, and they just know not where to find it, and we shall show them.
We had a meeting last night with the youth council. We told them that we were going to be inviting "less active" young kids to come to the Institute, but we had to have something that they would want to come and enjoy. Thus they are starting to put together a calendar of upcoming activities. We planned another meeting this coming Sunday, and of course they assigned Bonnie to bring cookies, even "NO BAKE" cookies. We are "IN".
Bonnie found this wonderful young lady who is going to take an hour with her each day tutoring her with Spanish. She is so dedicated to learn. I am muddling along. We both take at least one hour each day to study Spanish. One day we shall be prepared.
Still outfitting our apartment with things. We are almost there. Still have a difficulty with our water, but the "outfitting" elders are working on that also.
The President of the Mission has told me of some of the needs he has. Though we are not supposed to work in that part of the church, with the full time elders, I am striving to create a way to do that without getting in trouble.
We are also thinking of creating a "Pass Along" card for this area. I believe it would go well here. Just need some assistance in creating it. Don't know if they have graphic designers here?
I would suggest a senior mission to you all. Create a dream/vision now and work toward it, it is a joy, a wonderful thing between two who are in love and enjoy each other. It is full of surprises that come daily, often, and gives us opportunities of growth constantly.
We have a guard who watches over the new Institute building. I walked out a few nights ago and talked with him. He said that his tio (uncle) died recently, and thus I saw an opening. I started to talk with him about death, and the gospel. He received it well, and thus started a friendship. He brought me an avocado, and I brought him an Oreo or two. We have this relationship starting which may as well end in his baptism. I was directed (by Him who knows all) this morning to find some scriptures about death and such, present them to him, and have him read them. We shall see what happens, for this is the beginning.
We also have a bread shop right next to our apartment, and we are trying to make a friend there of the lady who sells bread. This too shall take a time, but it is a start, for we are mainly supposed to work with the young kids. But there are many all over who are hungry for the gospel, and they just know not where to find it, and we shall show them.
We had a meeting last night with the youth council. We told them that we were going to be inviting "less active" young kids to come to the Institute, but we had to have something that they would want to come and enjoy. Thus they are starting to put together a calendar of upcoming activities. We planned another meeting this coming Sunday, and of course they assigned Bonnie to bring cookies, even "NO BAKE" cookies. We are "IN".
Bonnie found this wonderful young lady who is going to take an hour with her each day tutoring her with Spanish. She is so dedicated to learn. I am muddling along. We both take at least one hour each day to study Spanish. One day we shall be prepared.
Still outfitting our apartment with things. We are almost there. Still have a difficulty with our water, but the "outfitting" elders are working on that also.
The President of the Mission has told me of some of the needs he has. Though we are not supposed to work in that part of the church, with the full time elders, I am striving to create a way to do that without getting in trouble.
We are also thinking of creating a "Pass Along" card for this area. I believe it would go well here. Just need some assistance in creating it. Don't know if they have graphic designers here?
I would suggest a senior mission to you all. Create a dream/vision now and work toward it, it is a joy, a wonderful thing between two who are in love and enjoy each other. It is full of surprises that come daily, often, and gives us opportunities of growth constantly.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
25 September 2012
It has been a little over one week, and we both feel it has been many months. We have talked to most of our family by SKYPE and such. Bonnie is happy.
We are still learning our duties. We went to a ward Sunday and tonight I talked to one of the youth that was in that ward. We set up a plan to visit all the inactive youth from that ward and invite them to institute. There are about as many inactive as active in "active" wards, and many more in other wards. It is our duty to invite all the youth in this city of one million to come to institute. That is all. Nothing hard.
I taught my second class tonight about Joseph Smith's antepasados, or his ancestors. I loved it. I still pause and ask the class how too say certain words, but they love that. Last week I had eleven kids, this week I had seventeen. I love to teach.
We continue to meet new kids, adults, and others. It is fun. How can anyone meet us and not love us? There are many who are so desirous of helping Bonnie learn Spanish.
We are still outfitting our place, getting those things we need, and will probably be doing so for about 18 months. We are now trying to find someone who can make screens, so that we can open our windows when it gets cooler, for we can't now or the misquitoes will carry us away. But even now, when we have our windows closed all day, it is hotter in the place than out. (It was 97% humdity the other day.)
Today, in the middle of the day, I was sitting in a room realizing that I was a representative of Christ, and He had send me here. That means that every hour, every minute I have to be accountable for the things I do and the things I do not do. What would He have me do? There are people all around us who are not members and they may be searching for what we have. If I don't open my mouth and begin, then perhaps no one will. But the key is beginning. I need to create a friendship, and then talk about what we believe. It is a joy.
The young saints down here do not know how to sing. They sing loud, but they also sing off key. They always sing all the verses, and often it is hard to know what song they are singing.
We are still learning our duties. We went to a ward Sunday and tonight I talked to one of the youth that was in that ward. We set up a plan to visit all the inactive youth from that ward and invite them to institute. There are about as many inactive as active in "active" wards, and many more in other wards. It is our duty to invite all the youth in this city of one million to come to institute. That is all. Nothing hard.
I taught my second class tonight about Joseph Smith's antepasados, or his ancestors. I loved it. I still pause and ask the class how too say certain words, but they love that. Last week I had eleven kids, this week I had seventeen. I love to teach.
We continue to meet new kids, adults, and others. It is fun. How can anyone meet us and not love us? There are many who are so desirous of helping Bonnie learn Spanish.
We are still outfitting our place, getting those things we need, and will probably be doing so for about 18 months. We are now trying to find someone who can make screens, so that we can open our windows when it gets cooler, for we can't now or the misquitoes will carry us away. But even now, when we have our windows closed all day, it is hotter in the place than out. (It was 97% humdity the other day.)
Today, in the middle of the day, I was sitting in a room realizing that I was a representative of Christ, and He had send me here. That means that every hour, every minute I have to be accountable for the things I do and the things I do not do. What would He have me do? There are people all around us who are not members and they may be searching for what we have. If I don't open my mouth and begin, then perhaps no one will. But the key is beginning. I need to create a friendship, and then talk about what we believe. It is a joy.
The young saints down here do not know how to sing. They sing loud, but they also sing off key. They always sing all the verses, and often it is hard to know what song they are singing.
Monday, September 24, 2012
24 September 2012
I guess I did it, and here is a picture of someone sitting on their fire wood driving along the hiway. Bonnie is continuing to take pictures and we shall send them if I can find out how to do so.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
23 September, 2012
Hermana Partridge here. A few thoughts about my first Sunday going to church in a foreign ward. One word...OVERWHELMING! I have a new appreciation for my children and their spouses who served in foreign lands. The people talk so fast, even Elder P. having a hard time keeping up. During Sacrament meeting I understood very few words. Met in the Young Adult Sunday School class. Bill introduced us and I just prayed he wouldn't ask me to say anything. He did, of course but all I had to say was "We have 6 children and 20 grandchildren!." I'm getting pretty good at that in Spanish. Relief Society was wonderful...I understand maybe 3 words but oh, the spirit! I definitely felt that very strong and I was able to say thank you to a woman who shared an experience (I have no idea what it was..but I heard.something about missionaries though and reading and praying and the Holy Ghost.) I felt like Samwise Gamgee in Lord of the Rings when he overheard Gandalph and Frodo..".What did you hear?" "Oh, nothing....well, something about a ring and some orcs and the end of the world...but please don't turn me into anything....unnatural!" :)
But truly, the tears flowed, the sweet sister gave me a big hug and I thought how wonderful it will be when I can understand and really share in the spirit of such moments. Va a venir! It will come.
A word about water. We can't drink the tap water. Must be boiled or we purchase big 5 gallon jugs of purified water. As I brush my teeth carefully everyday with my clean water in a little glass, trying not to run the tap water over my toothbrush out of habit, I'm ever so mindful of the need for pure water. As drink from our big jug or pour that precious liquid over our dishes and utensils after soaking in Clorox solution, I'm reminded of the "Living Water" that Jesus Christ offers the world. The Gospel truly is as vital to our spiritual lives as pure water is to us here on this island. Today I went to the car to bring in a 5-gallon jug of water we bought yesterday at the store. We gringos have to pay a hefty price for deposit on the bottles but the water is inexpensive - 30 pesos (under $1) for a jug. Anyway, I got it out of the car and hugged it close to me to carry it up to our apartment...Elder P. can't lift it because of his back and I thought I was strong enough...but it slipped out of my arms and split open and water started running out. I frantically picked it up and carefully carried it up the stairs with that precious liquid spilling out along the way. We got the remainder safely in a cooler. I didn't care at all about the jug, just the "living water." I'll never take it for granted. And I hope I remember how important the Gospel of Jesus Christ is to all the world thirsting for the truth! (Think of that when you brush your teeth tonight.)
I finished eating an avocado that was about the size of a football. We had a smoothie this morning with much fruit, I love that smoothie. Mom has talked with many kids and grand kids yesterday and today. She is much better off when she does that.
I am starting to get my vision factory started, seeing things that we can do, should do, and will talk with the Mission President tomorrow, though we do not work with him. Crazy.
Nuff for tonight, we do appreciate your interest in us and supporting us in what we are just beginning to do.
But truly, the tears flowed, the sweet sister gave me a big hug and I thought how wonderful it will be when I can understand and really share in the spirit of such moments. Va a venir! It will come.
A word about water. We can't drink the tap water. Must be boiled or we purchase big 5 gallon jugs of purified water. As I brush my teeth carefully everyday with my clean water in a little glass, trying not to run the tap water over my toothbrush out of habit, I'm ever so mindful of the need for pure water. As drink from our big jug or pour that precious liquid over our dishes and utensils after soaking in Clorox solution, I'm reminded of the "Living Water" that Jesus Christ offers the world. The Gospel truly is as vital to our spiritual lives as pure water is to us here on this island. Today I went to the car to bring in a 5-gallon jug of water we bought yesterday at the store. We gringos have to pay a hefty price for deposit on the bottles but the water is inexpensive - 30 pesos (under $1) for a jug. Anyway, I got it out of the car and hugged it close to me to carry it up to our apartment...Elder P. can't lift it because of his back and I thought I was strong enough...but it slipped out of my arms and split open and water started running out. I frantically picked it up and carefully carried it up the stairs with that precious liquid spilling out along the way. We got the remainder safely in a cooler. I didn't care at all about the jug, just the "living water." I'll never take it for granted. And I hope I remember how important the Gospel of Jesus Christ is to all the world thirsting for the truth! (Think of that when you brush your teeth tonight.)
I finished eating an avocado that was about the size of a football. We had a smoothie this morning with much fruit, I love that smoothie. Mom has talked with many kids and grand kids yesterday and today. She is much better off when she does that.
I am starting to get my vision factory started, seeing things that we can do, should do, and will talk with the Mission President tomorrow, though we do not work with him. Crazy.
Nuff for tonight, we do appreciate your interest in us and supporting us in what we are just beginning to do.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
22 September 2012
Well we finally have internet in our apartment. We also have phone. We have spent much of this past week getting set up, purchasing things we need, repairing things that needed repair, and just setting up house.
When Bonnie and I walked down a road long ago, in Fairview, in the midst of a rain storm, it was more than forty years ago, I was planning on asking her to marry me. Just two young, innocent, kids wondering what laid beyond those threatening rain clouds. I was afraid. She was much more confident than I was. I was scared to death. We left the road and climbed up a small hill on the side of the road. When we arrived at the top, I knew I had to stop putting it off. We sat down, I said I prayer and looked at her beautiful red headed face, and almost lost my nerve. All of a sudden, the clouds parted and a bit of sunshine came out and shone on us both. It was my sign, as if I needed one.
I took her hands in mine and actually said, "Do you want to play house with me?" She cried and I probably did too, but would not admit it. That is how it all started, with a small miracle with the weather, and a crazy young man asking this beautiful young woman to marry me.
Now we are setting up our house to continue "playing house," but in a different country.
It is hard to set up house when there is so much missionary work to do, but it has to be done so we can concentrate on the work that the Spirit is telling us to do. Hopefully this next week we can concentrated more on our duties rather than setting up house.
It has been an amazing adventure being married to this wonderful man! Setting up "house" with him again in a far away land has been a joy! Much more fun for me than for him. But I, too, am anxious to get going on "The Work." We're here for His purposes and it will be fun to see what those are in the coming months. :)
When Bonnie and I walked down a road long ago, in Fairview, in the midst of a rain storm, it was more than forty years ago, I was planning on asking her to marry me. Just two young, innocent, kids wondering what laid beyond those threatening rain clouds. I was afraid. She was much more confident than I was. I was scared to death. We left the road and climbed up a small hill on the side of the road. When we arrived at the top, I knew I had to stop putting it off. We sat down, I said I prayer and looked at her beautiful red headed face, and almost lost my nerve. All of a sudden, the clouds parted and a bit of sunshine came out and shone on us both. It was my sign, as if I needed one.
I took her hands in mine and actually said, "Do you want to play house with me?" She cried and I probably did too, but would not admit it. That is how it all started, with a small miracle with the weather, and a crazy young man asking this beautiful young woman to marry me.
Now we are setting up our house to continue "playing house," but in a different country.
It is hard to set up house when there is so much missionary work to do, but it has to be done so we can concentrate on the work that the Spirit is telling us to do. Hopefully this next week we can concentrated more on our duties rather than setting up house.
It has been an amazing adventure being married to this wonderful man! Setting up "house" with him again in a far away land has been a joy! Much more fun for me than for him. But I, too, am anxious to get going on "The Work." We're here for His purposes and it will be fun to see what those are in the coming months. :)
Friday, September 21, 2012
21 September 2012
Wish we were there to see Braxton sealed today. Our hearts are with you. I can just see his cheery smile, his chiston manner, and wish we were there. Had a dance last night, and I am driving like a drunkard. Bonnie will continue.
Yes, our hearts will be in the Jordan River Temple tonight. We're so grateful for the blessing of Braxton in our lives and now to be part of us forever! Words can't express...We will be feeling the spirit of the Temple all day.
A little about our the last few days. It's been a whirlwind in so many ways. Jumping right into Institute life has been amazing. The students have embraced us (literally) and the spirit here is wonderful. Last night they had a "fiesta" to welcome us and a reunion for 2 past CES couples who are here visiting. What a joyful experience. The students know how to party! I danced the merenge y bacheta...Dominican dance...with the sweetest boys. (Yes, it's OK for us to dance...we're told we're the party missionaries!) Elder Partridge even tried to wiggle. Wow, can they all move their hips! I will send pictures as soon as I can get them off my camera. We have very little time at the apartment to do such things. No internet yet at our apt. so we use the institute's when we have a minute.
A word about the driving....actually 3 words. Honk And Go! Oh my! And I mean honk for your life! And if there's a space in the road...Take it! Cars and people and scooters coming at you from all angles. No one pays much attention to traffic rules...going through stop signs, going the wrong way on one-way streets, darting across lanes (lanes is a very loose term here...like there are NONE! We're on mostly 2-lane roads (for America) with 3 or 4 cars all vieing for the same space. And hey, you see someone sellling beautiful flowers you want to buy, I'm talking huge bouquets for less than 5 bucks (ie. the Mission President's wife driving us around 2 days ago)...just stop in the road, get out of your car and buy them. People just go around you. Sister Douglas has become a Dominican in 3 short months. I can't wait until I feel so brave! Our Institute Director's wife guided us from her home to the Institute last night (after our being lost for 30 minutes) and I thought we were going to die for sure! I'm just closing my eyes and thinking of Euphrania!
The food, the sights, the sounds, even the smells are enchanting. Flowers everywhere. The people are so delightful! So I'm able to ignore the heat and humidity. Pictures coming soon!
I agree, and I love driving here, honk and go. I have almost been killed a few times, but not yet. It is MY KIND OF DRIVING. The locals say that I speak pretty good spanish. Still have to practce. The problem comes when I teach a class, and then I ask a question. They answer and I have to look dumb and say, " WHAT? Please say it slower." It is frustrating for me and them. We are having a "great" time with our apartment, today the toilet plugged up, and we had two more leaks in our bathrooms. We are still purchasing "things" for living, at least we have food and we have a frig that does cool and even freeze.
We may have internet in about two to three weeks. Who knows, so we can only write on the blog and skype during times at the Institute.
Enough, we are loving it here, and especially the kids. I have a few ideas I am presenting to the Institute director as well as the mission president. I am sent here and Bon to try and bridge the GAP between the two. More on that later.
Yes, our hearts will be in the Jordan River Temple tonight. We're so grateful for the blessing of Braxton in our lives and now to be part of us forever! Words can't express...We will be feeling the spirit of the Temple all day.
A little about our the last few days. It's been a whirlwind in so many ways. Jumping right into Institute life has been amazing. The students have embraced us (literally) and the spirit here is wonderful. Last night they had a "fiesta" to welcome us and a reunion for 2 past CES couples who are here visiting. What a joyful experience. The students know how to party! I danced the merenge y bacheta...Dominican dance...with the sweetest boys. (Yes, it's OK for us to dance...we're told we're the party missionaries!) Elder Partridge even tried to wiggle. Wow, can they all move their hips! I will send pictures as soon as I can get them off my camera. We have very little time at the apartment to do such things. No internet yet at our apt. so we use the institute's when we have a minute.
A word about the driving....actually 3 words. Honk And Go! Oh my! And I mean honk for your life! And if there's a space in the road...Take it! Cars and people and scooters coming at you from all angles. No one pays much attention to traffic rules...going through stop signs, going the wrong way on one-way streets, darting across lanes (lanes is a very loose term here...like there are NONE! We're on mostly 2-lane roads (for America) with 3 or 4 cars all vieing for the same space. And hey, you see someone sellling beautiful flowers you want to buy, I'm talking huge bouquets for less than 5 bucks (ie. the Mission President's wife driving us around 2 days ago)...just stop in the road, get out of your car and buy them. People just go around you. Sister Douglas has become a Dominican in 3 short months. I can't wait until I feel so brave! Our Institute Director's wife guided us from her home to the Institute last night (after our being lost for 30 minutes) and I thought we were going to die for sure! I'm just closing my eyes and thinking of Euphrania!
The food, the sights, the sounds, even the smells are enchanting. Flowers everywhere. The people are so delightful! So I'm able to ignore the heat and humidity. Pictures coming soon!
I agree, and I love driving here, honk and go. I have almost been killed a few times, but not yet. It is MY KIND OF DRIVING. The locals say that I speak pretty good spanish. Still have to practce. The problem comes when I teach a class, and then I ask a question. They answer and I have to look dumb and say, " WHAT? Please say it slower." It is frustrating for me and them. We are having a "great" time with our apartment, today the toilet plugged up, and we had two more leaks in our bathrooms. We are still purchasing "things" for living, at least we have food and we have a frig that does cool and even freeze.
We may have internet in about two to three weeks. Who knows, so we can only write on the blog and skype during times at the Institute.
Enough, we are loving it here, and especially the kids. I have a few ideas I am presenting to the Institute director as well as the mission president. I am sent here and Bon to try and bridge the GAP between the two. More on that later.
20 September 2012
It has been a crazy few days. After sleeping with the mission president, or at least in his house, we were given an apartment, which has multiple problems. No water, the shower doesn't work, the frig doesn't work with much food in it, no dressers, no desk, no drapes, air conditioning in only two rooms, no carpet, (when you want to pray, either you pray for ten seconds, or get knee problems) little STUFF that you would need in a kitchen, etc.
It has been fun. We are meeting manyof the natives, the young kids, those taking institute, trying to get around in this crazy city, driving like a maniac, or if you don't drive like them, you won't drive anywhere. I love it, Bonnie is always shreiking or closing her eyes, no or little traffic lights, almost no lanes in streets, many motorized bikes that weave through the cars, everyone stopping where they want, even in the middle of the street, you just have to use your horn and gas pedal.
It has been fun. We are meeting manyof the natives, the young kids, those taking institute, trying to get around in this crazy city, driving like a maniac, or if you don't drive like them, you won't drive anywhere. I love it, Bonnie is always shreiking or closing her eyes, no or little traffic lights, almost no lanes in streets, many motorized bikes that weave through the cars, everyone stopping where they want, even in the middle of the street, you just have to use your horn and gas pedal.
Friday, September 14, 2012
September 14, 2012
In THREE days, we will be in another country. Having been trained, prepared, and nurtured in our upcoming duties, we will be privileged to represent Jesus Christ and His Kingdom on earth. I can't believe it. The training was wonderful, the MTC food was too plentiful, but the Spirit there was incredible. We learned yesterday about the PEF and that it was the best kept secret in the Church. They need thousands of more seniors to assist in this great program to touch the lives of millions and help the church be prepared for the great growth it expects in the upcoming years.
Three days, and we will be gone. I still can't believe it, but the excitement is getting greater and greater.
Three days, and we will be gone. I still can't believe it, but the excitement is getting greater and greater.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
September 12, 2012
We left the MTC today. I guess we graduated. We spent the first three days of this week learning about CES, or S and I, or Seminaries and Institutes. We feel like we have been filled with insights, a new way to teach institute (that the Church just brought out in April of this year), hit over the head with a new, golden club. It was a beautiful club, but our head hurts, filled with new ideas, counsel from the brethren, etc.
Then he passes their ideas on to one of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He ponders, prays, and considers where each couple should go. (This was explained in Priesthood meeting a few years ago.) He makes his decision and then passes his feelings on to the Prophet. After President Monson approves this or makes his own changes, then these decisions are sent back to the specific department (one of the 17). In our case CES. Brother Bell said it is like Christmas to see if through all the committees, they agree with the suggestions of the departments. Then we are sent our call, on July 28th.
The food there is great, too much of it. One missionary gained 43 pounds there in eleven weeks. No, we didn't, but we sure ate a lot. It seemed that every time we went to class, the instructor would say, it is time for lunch, or dinner. Today, our last day there, I sort of felt like I didn't ever want to eat again. Lots of great food to choose from, but I was sick of it. I wanted Bonnie's home cooking.
Elder Bell (the brother over the Senior Missionaries) told us of the process of us getting our call. He said that they receive between 35 and 50 applications per week for seniors. (This number has gone up about 30% over the last year.) (Probably because of the limit of housing for the senior missionaries.) (Also because of the "call" from the brethren.) He said that for the first week, these applications are reviewed by the medical staff and rated one to four. The "fours" could need great medical attention in their fields of labor. They also need a great deal of medicine to keep going. The "ones" are very healthy and may not need much medical attention and limited drugs to keep going.
Then they are all sent to seventeen (17) different categories of mission or departments. For example: Accounting, Proselyting, Farming, Motor Pool, CES, PEF, Office Help,Temple, Counseling, etc. Each of these departments checks with the applications of the Senior Applicants and selects those who they desire in their area. They match them with the openings they have across the world in their areas of expertise.
Then they send them to the missionary committee. The Missionary Committee makes their recommendations according to the requests of these seventeen departments. Their recommendations go to a brother Zwick. He prays, ponders and makes his own suggestions and tries to prioritize which senior missionary couple should go where. Then he sends his suggestions to a committee of three from the quorum of seventy. These three brothers again evaluate according to their inspiration, making suggestions again, where they think each couple should go, which opening to fill, or whatever.
Then he passes their ideas on to one of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He ponders, prays, and considers where each couple should go. (This was explained in Priesthood meeting a few years ago.) He makes his decision and then passes his feelings on to the Prophet. After President Monson approves this or makes his own changes, then these decisions are sent back to the specific department (one of the 17). In our case CES. Brother Bell said it is like Christmas to see if through all the committees, they agree with the suggestions of the departments. Then we are sent our call, on July 28th.
For those interested, no the seniors are not given "Dork Dots," which the new young missionaries get. That is an orange dot placed on their missionary tag showing everyone that they just entered the MTC, and they are allowed to be dorks, or I mean unsure of everything. (Bonnie would get mad at that statement.)
Tomorrow, we go to SLC, Church Headquarters to learn all about the Perpetual Education Fund. We will be involved in that in the DR I am sure. Would love to share many more events and lessons we learned, but should not let you get too tired reading.
Strange, but today I had a thought (inspiration) come into my mind and I started to lament the time when we leave the Dr. It is going to be very, very difficult, because of those we will grow to love and have lived with for so long.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
September 8, 2012
Well, we made it through the first week. We are back home for tonight and tomorrow. Then back to the MTC for CES training. The first week was totally Preach My Gospel training. Every senior couple goes through that training. It was wonderful and we received the real feel for teaching the gospel.
We were part of the largest influx of senior ever at the MTC. There were about 118 on Monday. That is why we lived at the Marriott while at the MTC. They didn't have space for us at the MTC. Crazy huh? In the evenings after all the training was done, we both had different tutors. Bonnie had a beginning tutor while I had a native tutor. It was fun. Bonnie is really doing well, studying constantly and improving. She, of course, is frustrated because she is not progressing as fast as she wants to, but I am proud of her. My tutor says that I speak very well, but I have to slow down. Those who know me know that I seldom slow down with anything. I mean, especially when I am teaching, talking as a high councilman, or anything else, I act as if it is a race and teach, speak fast. When I do, the path between my mind and my mouth have many road blocks. I seem to say things that my mind does not send and my mind says I said what I tried to say, but those listening say I did not say that. Is that having a muddled mind, or was that just old age?
Our minds are filled to capacity. However, we have four more days of learning, being trained, etc. It will have to expand.
We eat and eat and eat, sit and sit and sit. Bonnie came up with a new hymn. It goes something like this, "God be with you till we eat again,.... til we eat, til we eat, til we eat..." Every time during this past week when we finished a session of training and realized it was time to eat, we almost decided we would go hungry, but we figured we needed strength, and thus we ate, and ate, and ate. They put on a great feed at the MTC, and I am sure I gained about five pounds, or perhaps twenty. ...till we eat.... The selection is large and you can always find something that fits your desires.
We are filled with so many inspirational stories, methods, and teaching hints that we are totally exhausted. At least we have a day or two to rest before opening the mind to have more stuff poured into it. That is OK and the excitement about going down there is growing every day.
Monday, I get to teach a lesson on the Book of Mormon, Alma to a few hand selected volunteers getting ready to teach institute. I am excited. It is so fun to teach.
Don't figure we will have much time to share this coming week, since we will be learning another part of our duties. But we will write when we can.
We were part of the largest influx of senior ever at the MTC. There were about 118 on Monday. That is why we lived at the Marriott while at the MTC. They didn't have space for us at the MTC. Crazy huh? In the evenings after all the training was done, we both had different tutors. Bonnie had a beginning tutor while I had a native tutor. It was fun. Bonnie is really doing well, studying constantly and improving. She, of course, is frustrated because she is not progressing as fast as she wants to, but I am proud of her. My tutor says that I speak very well, but I have to slow down. Those who know me know that I seldom slow down with anything. I mean, especially when I am teaching, talking as a high councilman, or anything else, I act as if it is a race and teach, speak fast. When I do, the path between my mind and my mouth have many road blocks. I seem to say things that my mind does not send and my mind says I said what I tried to say, but those listening say I did not say that. Is that having a muddled mind, or was that just old age?
Our minds are filled to capacity. However, we have four more days of learning, being trained, etc. It will have to expand.
We eat and eat and eat, sit and sit and sit. Bonnie came up with a new hymn. It goes something like this, "God be with you till we eat again,.... til we eat, til we eat, til we eat..." Every time during this past week when we finished a session of training and realized it was time to eat, we almost decided we would go hungry, but we figured we needed strength, and thus we ate, and ate, and ate. They put on a great feed at the MTC, and I am sure I gained about five pounds, or perhaps twenty. ...till we eat.... The selection is large and you can always find something that fits your desires.
We are filled with so many inspirational stories, methods, and teaching hints that we are totally exhausted. At least we have a day or two to rest before opening the mind to have more stuff poured into it. That is OK and the excitement about going down there is growing every day.
Monday, I get to teach a lesson on the Book of Mormon, Alma to a few hand selected volunteers getting ready to teach institute. I am excited. It is so fun to teach.
Don't figure we will have much time to share this coming week, since we will be learning another part of our duties. But we will write when we can.
September 4, 2012
As we go to eat in the cafeteria, I am amazed at the number of elders and sisters there. At times, there are so many you can't walk anywhere. One of the sisters said that they are at capacity now, and that is why we are living at the Marriott. I look at those senior couples that we are meeting and the other younger missionaries and I am amazed. I realize that these missionaries are going the world over to teach the gospel. It is really wonderful that they will be going to teach, to influence, to touch, to love and to serve. It dawns on me that this MTC is constantly preparing misionaries to go the world over to share the message of Christ.
We are just two additional missionaries. We are two of thousands here, but in the DR we will be what is needed. We will be loving many, teaching many, serving many and making a difference in the DR. The same should be said of the other thousands who are leaving here after a short time and touching many.
We are just two additional missionaries. We are two of thousands here, but in the DR we will be what is needed. We will be loving many, teaching many, serving many and making a difference in the DR. The same should be said of the other thousands who are leaving here after a short time and touching many.
Monday, September 3, 2012
September 3, 2012
We were set apart last night with all our family present. It was a wonderful experience. So starting last night about 5, we became full time missionaries. Both received beautiful blessings.
We entered the MTC today and were told we are part of the largest group of senior missionaries ever.There were 118 of us. We were told our housing would be at the Provo Marriott, and thus we commute every day to the MTC.
We have two pictures to post, but do not know how to do it. We sang, as our first song in the MTC, "Called to Serve" and of course Sister P shed a lot of tears. The next speaker commented on her tears, hoping they were tears of joy and not pain. We were sitting on the front row, which is why he took notice of Sister P.
There are "wall to wall" missionaries during breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but we did get our share. And it is good food. Tomorrow will be busier than today, but we are excited.
We entered the MTC today and were told we are part of the largest group of senior missionaries ever.There were 118 of us. We were told our housing would be at the Provo Marriott, and thus we commute every day to the MTC.
We have two pictures to post, but do not know how to do it. We sang, as our first song in the MTC, "Called to Serve" and of course Sister P shed a lot of tears. The next speaker commented on her tears, hoping they were tears of joy and not pain. We were sitting on the front row, which is why he took notice of Sister P.
There are "wall to wall" missionaries during breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but we did get our share. And it is good food. Tomorrow will be busier than today, but we are excited.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
D(eparture)-Day Minus 2 -- A Call to Serve, YOU!
-Well tomorrow we get set apart. Then into the MTC. I have a daughter who usually "spices" up my blog, since I am a child when it comes to those things. I am using a generic "face" of this blog. I would love to have someone who would be interested create a nice looking blog face. If you are interested, please let me know. My daughter is moving yesterday and today and she just doesn't have time.
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