Saturday, February 9, 2019
Potts Missouri Mission Volume 2 February - March 2019
Potts Missouri Mission Volume 2 Feb. - March 2019
Saturday, February 2, 2019
#1 Missouri mission Dec 2018-jan. 2019
OUR MISSOURI MISSION VOLUME ONE
Jan 6 edit
For those who want the condensed version of our first month:
Here is a quick summary of our first month in the mission field. I hope to get our blog out (with pictures) by next week.
We've had the opportunity to meet with many members and many families who are not currently active. We have been touched and Blessed by the people we have met. By their friendliness, their love, their appreciation and so many wonderful dinners.
We have a beautiful apartment we're staying in. It has lots of space. It's reminds me of my Grandma's place in that it's kind of old-fashioned and not updated but we have come to love it and appreciate it.
We are now doing community service as we read to children at the elementary schools, as we help serve lunch at the senior citizen Center and we are preparing to start a NANI support group to help those who are mentally ill.
Our days generally begin with our personal study then we have companion study than we usually do community service and then we begin calling and getting appointments for visits. We even were able to do a Facebook face to face chat with a sister who has less active. We think we'll do more of that in the future.
Our Bishop is an amazingly and powerful man and a very wonderful chief.
We work with Brother Hale who is in the elders Quorum is an author of forty books and a very spiritual person. We're grateful for his support and leadership. We also work with young missionaries, Elder Madsen and Elder Rogers.
All in all we have felt the Lord's blessings and his help. We have had great health since we spend here in Missouri Cape Girardeau Missouri and we loved all the Marco Polo's we get from our family
For more details and pictures, enjoy the travelogue below (the straight shooting unedited version! :) Were too busy making memories and haven't the time right now to edit them!! :)
Our Last month in Utah with Tiffany and Cindy and our First Month on our Mission in Missouri
Dec. 1
Last night I spent time with each of Heidi's older girls to teaching cognitive Therapy/bug zappers. When they do a worksheet they get a quarter.
Today there was Lots of cleaning to get ready for Heidi's return. We left to Go home today instead of leaving Sunday because there is a snow storm that's coming.
On the way home I finished listening to CARRIED. it was excellent!! We accidentally left divits bed so we had to go buy her a new one.
1. We also went over December plans on the way home. Working on budgets can be challenging. Mom had a nice dinner for us. We're enjoyed staying at her house tonight.
&& I am thankful for thoughtful friends who listen and help me with my raw feelings, I am thankful we arrived back at moms safely.
2
Church with mom. Testimony of 7 year old girl "the temple is true". We Helped Cindy with her Christmas decorations. She made hot chocolate and ebleskiter . It was very Good. Dinner and The Christmas devotional at moms.
3
Up in the night. Cute show about a professor before bed. Tiff called twice to wish us happy traveling.
I helped mom get ready for Darrin to come put her surround sound in. Dan worked on medicare.
We left for the airport around one o'clock and flew out at 3:45. We arrived at Tiffany's around 9 o'clock p.m.. They had the Room all nice with goodies on the bed too.
&& I am thankful for the miracle of love and cell phones.
4
We had trouble getting to sleep but were able to wake up this morning and take Maddie to the bus stop. Today was Gracie's day with Grandma and Grandpa so we took her to the Dollar Tree to get a few things then to the movies to see the Grinch movie to McDonald's for lunch and playing nurf games. After that we came home and made chocolate chip cookies. Dinner was from a Mexican takeout place and very very good. At night Tiffany and Adam had nerf wars. It was fun to watch.
&&& Because my neck is very weak, when Gracie jumped on my shoulders I felt a twinge and it scared me but somehow everything was alright. Thank you heavenly father.
5
Dan and I picked Maddie up from school at around 11:45. We 1st went to McDonald's for lunch then we went to see The Nutcracker movie about the 4th realm. It was good and fun. Afterwards we went to All a dollar then to target to play follow the leader and get a donut. Fun day
Tonight Tiffany made us all hot chocolate complete with whipped cream and sprinkles!
6
&& Someone paid for Cindy's washer to be fixed yesterday. It was such a miracle and Mike agreed to pay for her dental for a while. She said God is watching over her. I am thankful for warm Coats, for cell phone so I can talk to people in Missouri, for Dan's emails that bring insights, for a warm fire place and memories with our Checketts family.
I made French toast and omelets. Today we watched Max for the day for his date. We played cars and other toy games. A fun day with 2 year old Max.
At night Tiffany took us out to a Japanese restaurant. It was quite an amazing experience and it was very good.
7
In the morning Gracie requested pancakes so I made homemade pancakes and homemade syrup. Maddie had a hard time when she couldn't find her backpack.
&& I am thankful that sometimes I am willing to listen instead of get defense, I am thankful that Maddie got to school on time , I am thankful for brooms and for my hands And arms that allow me to be of service and that
Dan and I had a chance to serve at "starving children". We helped package Food for children in Africa. At night we watched the kids while Adam and Tiff went out.
Fb Story:
The Value of a Dad
This morning Dan and I were going to walk our grandaughter, Maddie, to the bus stop but she couldn't find her backpack. To Maddie this was devastating Because all the other kids brought back packs and there were things in her back pack she felt she needed for school. Her distress was real and finally we sent a text to her dad who works from home. He came up stairs and within 5 minutes he had calmed her down and helped her find a different backpack and assured her that everything would be OK. Oh, the value of a dad.
.....
Joseph moved out of Ashtyn's place last night.
8
Breakfast with Santa and the Checketts. Tiffany truly has the ability to make people feel special.
We watched the kids while Tiffany and Adam had a get away😊 sometimes I forget how long it takes for baths, pjs, reading stories, treats, brush teeth, prayers and tucking in.
9
&&fb I am thankful that Tiffany has a Robot vacuum, I'm thankful for warm hats, i am thankful for Fiji her cat who is so friendly, i am thankful for water to drink in the morning and i am thankful that I can keep in touch with dear friends who live far away like in Sweden and England!!
5 minute story:
A text to my friend Megan:
SOMETIMES THE ANSWER IS YES...FOR A WHILE
When Dan and I felt we were supposed to adopt, we learned about a little boy and girl and fell in love them. I felt so strongly that they were supposed to be our children but in the end a different family was chosen. I was confused and devastated because I felt our answer was yes.
The next day as I was thinking and crying and crying I felt Heavenly Father teach me. I realized that just like how Nephi followed the liahona through the wilderness there were times that he was led in one direction and times in a slightly different direction. It didn't mean Nephi followed the Liahona wrong the 1st time. It meant there were things he needed to learn on one trail before turning.
As you continue on your adventure please remember this little lesson and I pray you may know that doesn't mean your original answer was wrong.
Love, Patricia
We took the kids to church. They liked their classes. After lunch Dan and I cleaned to be ready for Tiff and Adam's return. Next I worked on mom's birthday for next week.
At night we did the german candle lighting tradition they also gave us each gloves and a massager/roller. We felt such love
Thoughts I shared at family meeting: i am thankful for Kallis determination and commitment to family, for Tiarra's drive and her honesty, for Michael with his enthusiasm and charisma, for.Joshua and his love of animals and enthusiasm for doing marco.
I am thankful for McKinley and her musical talent and willingness to babysit and help, for Ireland and her determination with gymnastics and art and her extra hugs, I am thankful for Kezia and her gifts, sharing her room and her smile and hugs when she sees us again, for Link and the many rainbows and dream visits. For Noelle with the way she asks questions and learns and teaches Oaklyn. I am grateful for the way that Oaklyn says "snow" And says "Gamma" and runs to hug me every time she sees me.
I am thankful for the way that Max giggles during bath time and wrestles with his dad, for maddies tender heart and how she begs for her piggyback turn with grandpa, for Gracie snd the way she wakes up early with grandma and the way she dances ballet.
I am thankful for Parker, for the way he reads scriptures and comes up with creative activities and does the "floss", for Spencer and his flexible spiderman body and how excited he get when he learns a new skill. I am thankful for Caden and how well he clears out the dishwasher and reads so good, for Rachael and how hard she works to keep up with her big brothers and her winning smile. I
I am grateful for every one of our grandchildren. We will miss them while we're gone but we pray that we may bless them through our service
10
This morning we enjoyed our time with Tiffany and Adam and the kids before we left. By 10:30 we were at the Mall of America looking for boots for me and going to the movie CREED. Our flight went well but our shuttle pick up was very poor. We slept at moms house at night.
11
This morning we went to Trisha's house to visit and and to get the car. Then to move into Cindy's house then I took tiarra out for her birthday. With Tiarra I went to fashion place mall for her clothes then to a vegan eating place in downtown salt Lake. Meanwhile Dan Took Kall to a dentist appointment. In the afternoon Robert came to give bids for Cindy's home improvements. At night Cindy made a nice dinner for Tiarra, we then retrieved Ireland's coat.
5 min. Story
I Forgot Where I Came From
The morning with it was frosty cold and I was in a hurry to get to an appointment but I needed to make an extra copy of the key to the house. I stopped at Walmart, dodged the ice and hurried inside asking the first clerk I saw where the key machine was. I was directed to the farthest side of the store. First I tried to pay with my my credit card but it didn't work, next I tried a $5 bill then learned it only accepted exact change.
With a sigh and a grunt I dashed to the in-store McDonalds. I looked at my watch then begged the attendant to give me change. She took pity on me and soon I was back at the key machine this time I had my required 3 dollars. I put in $1 then another a dollar and it would not accept the 3rd dollar. It simply didn't work. In exasperation I strode to customer service for my stolen $2. "Sorry, we can't help you. You'll have to talk to the vendor" she informed me. It wasn't worth $2 to argue.
By the time I left I knew I would be late and I once again skirted the ice pools on my way to the car. I looked up and down the isles of cars who waited like frozen soldiers awaiting their next orders. My car was nowhere to be seen. "Oh no!" I thought "Has it been stolen?"
Eventually I managed to make my way to the other side of the parking lot and there it waited just where I had to parked it.
I thought how much this was like life. Sometimes we forget where we started. We run around like a chicken with their head cut off trying to find ourselves without remembering where we originally came from
12
Joseph called early this morning to see if he could borrow one of our cars since his car is having trouble. He came by for a nice long visit.
After a visit to the doctor I spent time woth my sister Cindy and got keys made. I came home and focused on organizing and cleaning, then I made dinner.
Cindy and I went to the relief society dinner at night. It was hard for Cindy to be there and she cried some but imagine her surprise when there was a love note from heaven waiting at home. Two people are doing the 12 days of Christmas for her family and she is doing it for someone else. What sweet love notes from heaven.
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5 minutes story
The Love we need when we need it..
Going to the Christmas Relief Society dinner was difficult for Cindy. She no longer fit in among the married woman since she was in the middle of a divorce.
I felt fortunate to sit beside her. As her mother, I could tell that her emotions were on the surface. After dinner as the Bishop spoke she put her head down and let tears escape like ice cycles on the eve of her house when given permission by the sun. Unsure as to how to help, I simply held her hand hoping that the tears might bring healing.
After the meeting 2 or 3 Sisters came up and gave her a hug and assured her of their support. We hurried to our freezing cold car. She just wanted to get home. As Cindy opened her front door she was greeted by Joshua, her 11 year old son who exclaimed, "Look mom,! Someone rang the bell and left us a 12 days of Christmas package!!! There is something also from Amazon!!! Can I open it?"
Despair and discouragement turned to love and gratitude as Cindy felt the miracle of Christmas and the Love of her Heavenly Father just when she needed it most
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THE RIGHT KIND OF TOOL
My daughter Cindy, and I, were working together in the basement to lay vinyl plank floor. When we got to the part where we had to trim the planks to fill in the gaps near the wall and make them 2 or 3 inches" wide narrow it became very difficult. We were using a razor to cut them. We had to pull the razor across the face of the plank over and over, but it kept slipping off the line.
The wood It was very hard to break and it rarely broke was in a straight line like we wanted. Finally, we explained our dilemma to Robert, our handy man. Who was working ...in the living room. He listened, then suggested we let us borrow a few of his tools: a stronger razor and metal rolls that helped us hammer and pull the planks snug. He also suggested that we use another older plank to help draw and cut straight lines. His suggestions This made all the difference in our ability to complete the project successfully.
I thought about life and how often we struggle with inadequate tools before learning and choosing to use the right tools we need to finish life successfully. Some of the best tools I'm thinking of are cognitive therapy, bug zappers, similar to cognitive therapy but shorter (explained in beatingblues.com., helpful scriptures and quotes, good friends and family members who help us be a better people and other tools in life that fill in the gaps caused by our weaknesses that sometimes keep us from completing a task.
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13
I am thankful I could get my guitar out and sing to my heart's content, I am thankful Cindy makes us feel so welcome and we can help her in many ways right now, I'm thankful when the kids say thank you, I am thankful as I look around Cindy's house and see so many evidences of her love and caring and I am thankful for her beautiful statues of Christ
After dinner we went to see Spencer and his elementary school performance and out to Leatherbys afterwards.
Dan and Cindy stayed up late working on the Christmas Pyramid and even fashioning a candle holder out of pottery and firing it in the oven and using a soft piece of wood to fashion another part of the Pyramid that holds the fins. They didn't get to bed till nearly midnight. Kalli and Brayden stopped by and they lit the candles and watched the Pyramid turn. What memories!
14
I made oatmeal. Christmas time shopping with Dan and Joshua (not so much fun). I taped in prep. For painting in the d.s. kitchen.
We went to Alan and Heidi for dinner. Fun, yummy
15
In the morning we enjoyed creating a surprise for Cindy's we cleaned and vacuumed out her car. Next we picked Tiffany up at the airport then Dan took Joseph back to his place after he dropped the car off for Tiffany for a few days. In the afternoon and evening we enjoyed time with the family at Trisha's house.
Tiffs generosity showed as she paid for pizza for everyone.
16
We went to church with cindy, gingerbread house decorating. Dan picked up Joseph.
After that I talked about each one of our children and the attributes that they have and how we will take those examples into the mission home. I also talked about each one of our grandchildren and how much we love them and pray that our service may bless them.
Dan spoke of Nephi building the boat With faith that God would teach him how. He spoke of laman and Lemuel And how they did not believe it Dan talked about miracles in our lives and how much we can learn from them. He talked about when Tiffany was life flighted after a bicycle her encounter with a car. She had a subdual human following the trauma and yet after a very special blessing the hematoma disappeared before she had to have surgery.
He spoke of my brain tumor and how my roommate in the hospital died a few months after surgery but how well I have been doing since then. What a miracle and blessing
He then shared about his testimony of the book of Mormon that came prior to going on his mission to Germany.
17
He finished by sharing an experience he had with the scouts when hail came down heavily and he was very concerned about their safety but how the power of prayer and God's miracles they got back safely.
I can honestly say that this was the most touching and powerful spiritual family home evenings I have ever experienced in my life. We thank all of our children for blessing us this way. Everyone was there except Tiarra (worked), Adam, Maddie, Gracie and max (back in Minnesota)
Thank you Father
Trisha, Heidi and tiff prepared a beautiful bday breakfast for her, I took Tiff to the airport.
Dan helped Cindy at her school then painted and painted.
After the bday breakfast for mom she learned that my sister cindy, fell from her bed when she tried to crawl out of the bottom of the bed!! Mom spent the next 4 hours in the hospital.
I went to a luncheon at Ninnies house. It was great fun. Next Dan and picked up chinese food and went to moms along with .Michael and Cindy to wish mom a happy bday!!
Then Dan and I went to walmart to get supplies for Cindy's school and 12 day of Christmas gifts
&&& I am thankful we could help Cindy get things packed to take to school today, I am thankful for Michael's greeting and for Joshua and Cindy's greeting has well. I am thankful for the opportunity of serving by cleaning, painting and cooking and of reading general conference messages.
18
Up by 3 am. couldn't sleep. Painting with Dan in the basement. Doing cog. Therapy. Lunch with kerri at noon, taking Kalli to Drs. At school Cindy was given another sub for Santa from a business. Boxes and boxes and bags of supplies laundry detergent in the like. The 3rd big miracle this Christmas season!
Tonight we went to Michael's concert. It was awesome!!!
Later we did a Marco polo about all the amazing gifts and love Cindy got from her 12 days gifts!!!
Cindy was teaching her third grade students. Stress from the pending divorce and the subsequent financial burdens had taken it's tole. while helping one of the children she heard over the loud speaker "Miss Cindy Edwards, please come to the front office"
She left her aid in charge and as she walked to the front office. she wondered which parent or situation awaited her. As she entered the office she asked the attendant "So, what have I done wrong now?" The woman smiled and asked her how her day had been. "OK" she responded "it's been alright" to this the aide responded "your day is about to get better!
She then led Cindy to another Room at the school. When CINDY opened the door her face registered surprise and confusion as she looked at a room full of boxes and bags, bows and gifts.
She was then told " another teacher put your name in as a candidate for sub for santa from a local business she explained and you were chosen.
There must have been $400 - $500 worth of gifts and food and cleaning supplies and everything for her and her family.
This miracle added to the two sub for Santa's that Cindy's family had been blessed with and the miracle of somebody coming over and fixing her washer without cost in addition to that her mom and dad had moved in for 3 weeks prior to their mission to help her get her basement ready for renting.
Her Dad helped her paint and repair and prepare her basement with many remodel projects to get it ready to rent.done. Her mom tried to get things cleaned and in order in make sure that dinner was taken care of at night. God truly did make a miracle as great as the parting of the red sea.
Joseph came over and helped with the washer. Dan finished the electrical needs and put it back together. I have been helping Cindy get the rental Room ready. It still needs to be painted and she's thinking about laying lamolium planks herself!!
23
Dan said"...so far (including this morning) weve helped with troubleshooting the furnace, washer and dishwasher!!
For the sub for Santa today they got a quart jar full of money on the last day!!!!!
&&& ITS ALL THE LITTLE THINGS like a phone, a furnace that mysteriously stops then starts again and after Dan found the Christmas pyramid in the garage when we cleaned it out, having weeks of neck strength and agility despite forgetting to do neck exercises!, having strength to do cleaning, organizing, cooking, and painting.
24
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SOME DAYS ARE MORE FRUSTRATING THAN OTHERS
It was pretty crazy this morning. I got up early and went to Walmart for some shopping. When I got home Dan said 2 of the items needed to be returned. We went to Walmart to return things. Afterwards we headed to home depot to buy Cindy's planks, paint and other supplies. We got the cash out that Cindy gave us but it was different than we thought. I was frustrated. By then I had a headache.
We then got a phone call from a man who said he was going to pick up the couch. We also had to call Cindy about the cash discrepancy which wasn't much fun. When we got home Dan helped with the couch. It turned out to be quite a mess to get the couch out of the basement. They 1st took the window apart and that didn't work so they ended up having to take a door off to get the couch out. That was another fiasco and story. After looking for the Sanding supplies I decided to call home depot. I learned that we had left them at the store so I ended up taking another 45 minutes to retrieve them. What should have taken 2 hrs. Took 5!!!
Christmas Eve at mom's began at 4 o'clock this year. Most people came. Unfortunately Dan didn't feel very good so he stayed back. There was so much food that I ate too much! The white elephant game was lots of fun but we kind of came out on the short side. Oh well. Time to get to bed and welcome Christmas morning P.s. we did a final candle lighting and reading the night before Christmas
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25
Dan is still sick with a nasty chest cold. . I went upstairs to enjoy the lights. Joshua told me that it is his tradition to turn loud music on Christmas morning!!!
&&& I am thankful we feel home here at Cindy's. I am thankful Heidi will come
Heidi looks good and I think for that period and bank for the hugs and love of her large to family. I am thankful for the manger scene underneath Cindy history and the many tokens of presents lined up stocking for it. There's great love in this house and I am grateful to be here during our last 3 weeks before we leave and I'm thankful Heidi and her family are expected to come day after tomorrow
25 Christmas
This morning it was very nice. Kalli came about 9:30 and we opened stockings. Cindy put a lot of thought into them. Then we opened from the youngest to the oldest opening gifts. I have to say that my favorite was the book Mormon Cindy gave to us to take on our mission that included the testimonies of Cindy and Michael and Joshua. There were a lot of gifts from their sub for Santa (see photo). There was a lot of love felt by all.
25.
Trisha and her family came to Cindy's for lunch. Joseph came afterwards with Christmas for the Edward's
26
Today Elder Erickson called to tell us that we will serve in Cape Girardeau , Missouri. We did a macro.
27
This morning I spent 2hrs. Cleaning. Next comes ripping out carpet And laying vinyl planks! Cindy decided to get a "new" washer through ksl. Because of all the problems the old one had. She found a year old LG machine. Dan and Michael made it happen!!!
&&& Tender Mercies:
Cindy was able to find a wonderful washer at a great price (thanks ...to trisha for letting us borrow her SUV and Dan and Michael got getting it and getting rid of the old washer), having Robert's expertise and his plank cutter, Dan taking the whole family out, getting a big family picture...
When Cindy and I finished most of the renter room in vinyl plank,we went to meet Dan at the theater to see Mary Poppins!! I am thankful that my headache medicine kicked in and that I found my toothpaste and almost all the suitcase stuff!
Dan cleaned something on the furnace, retouched the paint up and I helped cindy finish the floor boards
30
Part of a letter to our friend Joann Pitts this morning:
Hi Joann, . Dan and I leave to go in the MTC day after tomorrow hard to believe. We now know where we will be in Missouri it is called Cape Gerardo. It is 5 hrs away from Lee and Nancy. It is a medium sized place with two Walmarts. Named after a French man. We're excited. It's been a pretty busy 3 weeks helping Cindy get ready to rent the basement We've laid floors, fixed appliances, learned how to do all sorts of things and helped with a lot of cleaning and organizing. My mom is having a special good bye dinner for us tomorrow night and we are packing the car up to the gills today. Well, that's enough of an update about us. What are you up to? Love Dan and Patricia .........
29 Dan helped to fix the basement door then he went to the movies and to lunch with Joseph. Dan and I helped Cindy with her trip to the dump then took her stuff to savers I took Cindy out to Zupas for lunch
Bed early, rise early
You have a Unique light
Have patience x 2.
See them in white like temple clothes
You will be able to reach down and lift up
Specific people will be brought into your path at specific times. You will know you are meant to lift up
Your testimony of atonement deeper
Things I remember from your blessing:
-If you seek, you'll be blessed to have a special knowlege and assurity of the atonement
-you'll be blessed with no major health concerns.
-your mind is blessed that you may have unique ideas to share the gospel and
of the atonement...
don’t underestimate the power of a short and bold testimony
Dan's blessing
Increase of priesthood power
Council together, listen to your companion
Health concerns? Seek medical help immediatly
Obey the laws of the land
Counsel with other priesthood leaders Dont be afraid to share
-gift of tongues-feeling comfortable speaking the words of the gospel and bearing testimony
-Council together often
-Strengthen keys of the priesthood and recognize authority of mission president, stake president and bishops
-Blessing to know of the individual power of the atonement.
Words from general conference will help you know what to say
Speak the language of understanding
Draw upon your past
is a disconnect
THE PORTER FAMILY Came!!!!!!
Brother Chai came too!!
Miracles!!!!!
At night the Caldwell family had a scam for dinner and come follow me and a guitar fest with their son and 3 daughter and my guitar
Trisha shared with me that church was extra special today. As sister she has been ministering to for 3 years came to church today and there were two other families that hadn't come for a long time she's a great Fellowship per person!!
28
The Coppeiters had us over for a delicious dinner. 1 daughter, 1 grandpa. Wonderful evening.
Jan 6 edit
For those who want the condensed version of our first month:
Here is a quick summary of our first month in the mission field. I hope to get our blog out (with pictures) by next week.
We've had the opportunity to meet with many members and many families who are not currently active. We have been touched and Blessed by the people we have met. By their friendliness, their love, their appreciation and so many wonderful dinners.
We have a beautiful apartment we're staying in. It has lots of space. It's reminds me of my Grandma's place in that it's kind of old-fashioned and not updated but we have come to love it and appreciate it.
We are now doing community service as we read to children at the elementary schools, as we help serve lunch at the senior citizen Center and we are preparing to start a NANI support group to help those who are mentally ill.
Our days generally begin with our personal study then we have companion study than we usually do community service and then we begin calling and getting appointments for visits. We even were able to do a Facebook face to face chat with a sister who has less active. We think we'll do more of that in the future.
Our Bishop is an amazingly and powerful man and a very wonderful chief.
We work with Brother Hale who is in the elders Quorum is an author of forty books and a very spiritual person. We're grateful for his support and leadership. We also work with young missionaries, Elder Madsen and Elder Rogers.
All in all we have felt the Lord's blessings and his help. We have had great health since we spend here in Missouri Cape Girardeau Missouri and we loved all the Marco Polo's we get from our family
For more details and pictures, enjoy the travelogue below (the straight shooting unedited version! :) Were too busy making memories and haven't the time right now to edit them!! :)
Our Last month in Utah with Tiffany and Cindy and our First Month on our Mission in Missouri
Dec. 1
Last night I spent time with each of Heidi's older girls to teaching cognitive Therapy/bug zappers. When they do a worksheet they get a quarter.
Today there was Lots of cleaning to get ready for Heidi's return. We left to Go home today instead of leaving Sunday because there is a snow storm that's coming.
On the way home I finished listening to CARRIED. it was excellent!! We accidentally left divits bed so we had to go buy her a new one.
1. We also went over December plans on the way home. Working on budgets can be challenging. Mom had a nice dinner for us. We're enjoyed staying at her house tonight.
&& I am thankful for thoughtful friends who listen and help me with my raw feelings, I am thankful we arrived back at moms safely.
2
Church with mom. Testimony of 7 year old girl "the temple is true". We Helped Cindy with her Christmas decorations. She made hot chocolate and ebleskiter . It was very Good. Dinner and The Christmas devotional at moms.
3
Up in the night. Cute show about a professor before bed. Tiff called twice to wish us happy traveling.
I helped mom get ready for Darrin to come put her surround sound in. Dan worked on medicare.
We left for the airport around one o'clock and flew out at 3:45. We arrived at Tiffany's around 9 o'clock p.m.. They had the Room all nice with goodies on the bed too.
&& I am thankful for the miracle of love and cell phones.
4
We had trouble getting to sleep but were able to wake up this morning and take Maddie to the bus stop. Today was Gracie's day with Grandma and Grandpa so we took her to the Dollar Tree to get a few things then to the movies to see the Grinch movie to McDonald's for lunch and playing nurf games. After that we came home and made chocolate chip cookies. Dinner was from a Mexican takeout place and very very good. At night Tiffany and Adam had nerf wars. It was fun to watch.
&&& Because my neck is very weak, when Gracie jumped on my shoulders I felt a twinge and it scared me but somehow everything was alright. Thank you heavenly father.
5
Dan and I picked Maddie up from school at around 11:45. We 1st went to McDonald's for lunch then we went to see The Nutcracker movie about the 4th realm. It was good and fun. Afterwards we went to All a dollar then to target to play follow the leader and get a donut. Fun day
Tonight Tiffany made us all hot chocolate complete with whipped cream and sprinkles!
6
&& Someone paid for Cindy's washer to be fixed yesterday. It was such a miracle and Mike agreed to pay for her dental for a while. She said God is watching over her. I am thankful for warm Coats, for cell phone so I can talk to people in Missouri, for Dan's emails that bring insights, for a warm fire place and memories with our Checketts family.
I made French toast and omelets. Today we watched Max for the day for his date. We played cars and other toy games. A fun day with 2 year old Max.
At night Tiffany took us out to a Japanese restaurant. It was quite an amazing experience and it was very good.
7
In the morning Gracie requested pancakes so I made homemade pancakes and homemade syrup. Maddie had a hard time when she couldn't find her backpack.
&& I am thankful that sometimes I am willing to listen instead of get defense, I am thankful that Maddie got to school on time , I am thankful for brooms and for my hands And arms that allow me to be of service and that
Dan and I had a chance to serve at "starving children". We helped package Food for children in Africa. At night we watched the kids while Adam and Tiff went out.
Fb Story:
The Value of a Dad
This morning Dan and I were going to walk our grandaughter, Maddie, to the bus stop but she couldn't find her backpack. To Maddie this was devastating Because all the other kids brought back packs and there were things in her back pack she felt she needed for school. Her distress was real and finally we sent a text to her dad who works from home. He came up stairs and within 5 minutes he had calmed her down and helped her find a different backpack and assured her that everything would be OK. Oh, the value of a dad.
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Joseph moved out of Ashtyn's place last night.
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Breakfast with Santa and the Checketts. Tiffany truly has the ability to make people feel special.
We watched the kids while Tiffany and Adam had a get away😊 sometimes I forget how long it takes for baths, pjs, reading stories, treats, brush teeth, prayers and tucking in.
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&&fb I am thankful that Tiffany has a Robot vacuum, I'm thankful for warm hats, i am thankful for Fiji her cat who is so friendly, i am thankful for water to drink in the morning and i am thankful that I can keep in touch with dear friends who live far away like in Sweden and England!!
5 minute story:
A text to my friend Megan:
SOMETIMES THE ANSWER IS YES...FOR A WHILE
When Dan and I felt we were supposed to adopt, we learned about a little boy and girl and fell in love them. I felt so strongly that they were supposed to be our children but in the end a different family was chosen. I was confused and devastated because I felt our answer was yes.
The next day as I was thinking and crying and crying I felt Heavenly Father teach me. I realized that just like how Nephi followed the liahona through the wilderness there were times that he was led in one direction and times in a slightly different direction. It didn't mean Nephi followed the Liahona wrong the 1st time. It meant there were things he needed to learn on one trail before turning.
As you continue on your adventure please remember this little lesson and I pray you may know that doesn't mean your original answer was wrong.
Love, Patricia
We took the kids to church. They liked their classes. After lunch Dan and I cleaned to be ready for Tiff and Adam's return. Next I worked on mom's birthday for next week.
At night we did the german candle lighting tradition they also gave us each gloves and a massager/roller. We felt such love
Thoughts I shared at family meeting: i am thankful for Kallis determination and commitment to family, for Tiarra's drive and her honesty, for Michael with his enthusiasm and charisma, for.Joshua and his love of animals and enthusiasm for doing marco.
I am thankful for McKinley and her musical talent and willingness to babysit and help, for Ireland and her determination with gymnastics and art and her extra hugs, I am thankful for Kezia and her gifts, sharing her room and her smile and hugs when she sees us again, for Link and the many rainbows and dream visits. For Noelle with the way she asks questions and learns and teaches Oaklyn. I am grateful for the way that Oaklyn says "snow" And says "Gamma" and runs to hug me every time she sees me.
I am thankful for the way that Max giggles during bath time and wrestles with his dad, for maddies tender heart and how she begs for her piggyback turn with grandpa, for Gracie snd the way she wakes up early with grandma and the way she dances ballet.
I am thankful for Parker, for the way he reads scriptures and comes up with creative activities and does the "floss", for Spencer and his flexible spiderman body and how excited he get when he learns a new skill. I am thankful for Caden and how well he clears out the dishwasher and reads so good, for Rachael and how hard she works to keep up with her big brothers and her winning smile. I
I am grateful for every one of our grandchildren. We will miss them while we're gone but we pray that we may bless them through our service
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This morning we enjoyed our time with Tiffany and Adam and the kids before we left. By 10:30 we were at the Mall of America looking for boots for me and going to the movie CREED. Our flight went well but our shuttle pick up was very poor. We slept at moms house at night.
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This morning we went to Trisha's house to visit and and to get the car. Then to move into Cindy's house then I took tiarra out for her birthday. With Tiarra I went to fashion place mall for her clothes then to a vegan eating place in downtown salt Lake. Meanwhile Dan Took Kall to a dentist appointment. In the afternoon Robert came to give bids for Cindy's home improvements. At night Cindy made a nice dinner for Tiarra, we then retrieved Ireland's coat.
5 min. Story
I Forgot Where I Came From
The morning with it was frosty cold and I was in a hurry to get to an appointment but I needed to make an extra copy of the key to the house. I stopped at Walmart, dodged the ice and hurried inside asking the first clerk I saw where the key machine was. I was directed to the farthest side of the store. First I tried to pay with my my credit card but it didn't work, next I tried a $5 bill then learned it only accepted exact change.
With a sigh and a grunt I dashed to the in-store McDonalds. I looked at my watch then begged the attendant to give me change. She took pity on me and soon I was back at the key machine this time I had my required 3 dollars. I put in $1 then another a dollar and it would not accept the 3rd dollar. It simply didn't work. In exasperation I strode to customer service for my stolen $2. "Sorry, we can't help you. You'll have to talk to the vendor" she informed me. It wasn't worth $2 to argue.
By the time I left I knew I would be late and I once again skirted the ice pools on my way to the car. I looked up and down the isles of cars who waited like frozen soldiers awaiting their next orders. My car was nowhere to be seen. "Oh no!" I thought "Has it been stolen?"
Eventually I managed to make my way to the other side of the parking lot and there it waited just where I had to parked it.
I thought how much this was like life. Sometimes we forget where we started. We run around like a chicken with their head cut off trying to find ourselves without remembering where we originally came from
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Joseph called early this morning to see if he could borrow one of our cars since his car is having trouble. He came by for a nice long visit.
After a visit to the doctor I spent time woth my sister Cindy and got keys made. I came home and focused on organizing and cleaning, then I made dinner.
Cindy and I went to the relief society dinner at night. It was hard for Cindy to be there and she cried some but imagine her surprise when there was a love note from heaven waiting at home. Two people are doing the 12 days of Christmas for her family and she is doing it for someone else. What sweet love notes from heaven.
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5 minutes story
The Love we need when we need it..
Going to the Christmas Relief Society dinner was difficult for Cindy. She no longer fit in among the married woman since she was in the middle of a divorce.
I felt fortunate to sit beside her. As her mother, I could tell that her emotions were on the surface. After dinner as the Bishop spoke she put her head down and let tears escape like ice cycles on the eve of her house when given permission by the sun. Unsure as to how to help, I simply held her hand hoping that the tears might bring healing.
After the meeting 2 or 3 Sisters came up and gave her a hug and assured her of their support. We hurried to our freezing cold car. She just wanted to get home. As Cindy opened her front door she was greeted by Joshua, her 11 year old son who exclaimed, "Look mom,! Someone rang the bell and left us a 12 days of Christmas package!!! There is something also from Amazon!!! Can I open it?"
Despair and discouragement turned to love and gratitude as Cindy felt the miracle of Christmas and the Love of her Heavenly Father just when she needed it most
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THE RIGHT KIND OF TOOL
My daughter Cindy, and I, were working together in the basement to lay vinyl plank floor. When we got to the part where we had to trim the planks to fill in the gaps near the wall and make them 2 or 3 inches" wide narrow it became very difficult. We were using a razor to cut them. We had to pull the razor across the face of the plank over and over, but it kept slipping off the line.
The wood It was very hard to break and it rarely broke was in a straight line like we wanted. Finally, we explained our dilemma to Robert, our handy man. Who was working ...in the living room. He listened, then suggested we let us borrow a few of his tools: a stronger razor and metal rolls that helped us hammer and pull the planks snug. He also suggested that we use another older plank to help draw and cut straight lines. His suggestions This made all the difference in our ability to complete the project successfully.
I thought about life and how often we struggle with inadequate tools before learning and choosing to use the right tools we need to finish life successfully. Some of the best tools I'm thinking of are cognitive therapy, bug zappers, similar to cognitive therapy but shorter (explained in beatingblues.com., helpful scriptures and quotes, good friends and family members who help us be a better people and other tools in life that fill in the gaps caused by our weaknesses that sometimes keep us from completing a task.
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I am thankful I could get my guitar out and sing to my heart's content, I am thankful Cindy makes us feel so welcome and we can help her in many ways right now, I'm thankful when the kids say thank you, I am thankful as I look around Cindy's house and see so many evidences of her love and caring and I am thankful for her beautiful statues of Christ
After dinner we went to see Spencer and his elementary school performance and out to Leatherbys afterwards.
Dan and Cindy stayed up late working on the Christmas Pyramid and even fashioning a candle holder out of pottery and firing it in the oven and using a soft piece of wood to fashion another part of the Pyramid that holds the fins. They didn't get to bed till nearly midnight. Kalli and Brayden stopped by and they lit the candles and watched the Pyramid turn. What memories!
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I made oatmeal. Christmas time shopping with Dan and Joshua (not so much fun). I taped in prep. For painting in the d.s. kitchen.
We went to Alan and Heidi for dinner. Fun, yummy
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In the morning we enjoyed creating a surprise for Cindy's we cleaned and vacuumed out her car. Next we picked Tiffany up at the airport then Dan took Joseph back to his place after he dropped the car off for Tiffany for a few days. In the afternoon and evening we enjoyed time with the family at Trisha's house.
Tiffs generosity showed as she paid for pizza for everyone.
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We went to church with cindy, gingerbread house decorating. Dan picked up Joseph.
Tonight we went to Trisha's house and had a very nice dinner. After that Tiffany gathered everybody together for family evening. We had an opening song and prayer. She talked about our mission and showed a map of where we are going. She then asked us Dan and I are given a chance to share our thoughts about our mission.
I went first. I told about an experience I had in West Jordan following a personal study when I was given direct words in my mind and heart that spoke"Jesus is the Christ the Son of the living God." I shared how much that meant to me and how it has blessed me over the last 20 day years. After that I talked about each one of our children and the attributes that they have and how we will take those examples into the mission home. I also talked about each one of our grandchildren and how much we love them and pray that our service may bless them.
Dan spoke of Nephi building the boat With faith that God would teach him how. He spoke of laman and Lemuel And how they did not believe it Dan talked about miracles in our lives and how much we can learn from them. He talked about when Tiffany was life flighted after a bicycle her encounter with a car. She had a subdual human following the trauma and yet after a very special blessing the hematoma disappeared before she had to have surgery.
He spoke of my brain tumor and how my roommate in the hospital died a few months after surgery but how well I have been doing since then. What a miracle and blessing
He then shared about his testimony of the book of Mormon that came prior to going on his mission to Germany.
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He finished by sharing an experience he had with the scouts when hail came down heavily and he was very concerned about their safety but how the power of prayer and God's miracles they got back safely.
I can honestly say that this was the most touching and powerful spiritual family home evenings I have ever experienced in my life. We thank all of our children for blessing us this way. Everyone was there except Tiarra (worked), Adam, Maddie, Gracie and max (back in Minnesota)
Thank you Father
17 Moms birthday today.
I set up the google display with pictures, we sang to mom. Trisha, Heidi and tiff prepared a beautiful bday breakfast for her, I took Tiff to the airport.
Dan helped Cindy at her school then painted and painted.
After the bday breakfast for mom she learned that my sister cindy, fell from her bed when she tried to crawl out of the bottom of the bed!! Mom spent the next 4 hours in the hospital.
I went to a luncheon at Ninnies house. It was great fun. Next Dan and picked up chinese food and went to moms along with .Michael and Cindy to wish mom a happy bday!!
Then Dan and I went to walmart to get supplies for Cindy's school and 12 day of Christmas gifts
&&& I am thankful we could help Cindy get things packed to take to school today, I am thankful for Michael's greeting and for Joshua and Cindy's greeting has well. I am thankful for the opportunity of serving by cleaning, painting and cooking and of reading general conference messages.
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Up by 3 am. couldn't sleep. Painting with Dan in the basement. Doing cog. Therapy. Lunch with kerri at noon, taking Kalli to Drs. At school Cindy was given another sub for Santa from a business. Boxes and boxes and bags of supplies laundry detergent in the like. The 3rd big miracle this Christmas season!
Tonight we went to Michael's concert. It was awesome!!!
Later we did a Marco polo about all the amazing gifts and love Cindy got from her 12 days gifts!!!
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MIRACLE AS GREAT AS THE CROSSING OF THE RED SEA
She left her aid in charge and as she walked to the front office. she wondered which parent or situation awaited her. As she entered the office she asked the attendant "So, what have I done wrong now?" The woman smiled and asked her how her day had been. "OK" she responded "it's been alright" to this the aide responded "your day is about to get better!
She then led Cindy to another Room at the school. When CINDY opened the door her face registered surprise and confusion as she looked at a room full of boxes and bags, bows and gifts.
She was then told " another teacher put your name in as a candidate for sub for santa from a local business she explained and you were chosen.
There must have been $400 - $500 worth of gifts and food and cleaning supplies and everything for her and her family.
This miracle added to the two sub for Santa's that Cindy's family had been blessed with and the miracle of somebody coming over and fixing her washer without cost in addition to that her mom and dad had moved in for 3 weeks prior to their mission to help her get her basement ready for renting.
Her Dad helped her paint and repair and prepare her basement with many remodel projects to get it ready to rent.done. Her mom tried to get things cleaned and in order in make sure that dinner was taken care of at night. God truly did make a miracle as great as the parting of the red sea.
...
Tiff has walking pneumonia.
Dan took Joshua out for a shake. Kalli and Brayden came for a visit.
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This morning Dan and I had a chance to go to Cindy's school and teach the kids about Germany and the German traditions.
I then wrapped presents for Cindy then we worked together to get the basement ready to have the laminate panels lay down starting tomorrow
!!! Sister missionaries can now wear slacks!!!
&&& Fb I am thankful for the change that allows me to wear slacks on our mission instead of just dresses. I am thankful that we could be at Cindy's this Christmas season and be able to help her. She is very good at showing her gratitude. This morning she gave me earings and the Dan a tie clasp for our mission. She's very thoughtful. I am thankful for her tradition of drawing 1 or 2 questions out to discussed together during dinner. I am also thankful we could go and volunteer at her classroom and teach them about German Christmases!
At night dan finished painting, we cleared out part of the music room and tried to move the couch. The miracle was that we were able to get most of his equipment safely underneath the stairs
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Cleaning and organizing for cindy. Robert came to lay the floor planks. We orked 2 hours on getting the washer to unlonk.
Tiarra accepted at suu!!!!!
I made German pancakes this morning. Cindy, Michael and I worked hard on organizing the garage then Dan took Michael to lunch
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Dan said"...so far (including this morning) weve helped with troubleshooting the furnace, washer and dishwasher!!
For the sub for Santa today they got a quart jar full of money on the last day!!!!!
&&& ITS ALL THE LITTLE THINGS like a phone, a furnace that mysteriously stops then starts again and after Dan found the Christmas pyramid in the garage when we cleaned it out, having weeks of neck strength and agility despite forgetting to do neck exercises!, having strength to do cleaning, organizing, cooking, and painting.
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SOME DAYS ARE MORE FRUSTRATING THAN OTHERS
It was pretty crazy this morning. I got up early and went to Walmart for some shopping. When I got home Dan said 2 of the items needed to be returned. We went to Walmart to return things. Afterwards we headed to home depot to buy Cindy's planks, paint and other supplies. We got the cash out that Cindy gave us but it was different than we thought. I was frustrated. By then I had a headache.
We then got a phone call from a man who said he was going to pick up the couch. We also had to call Cindy about the cash discrepancy which wasn't much fun. When we got home Dan helped with the couch. It turned out to be quite a mess to get the couch out of the basement. They 1st took the window apart and that didn't work so they ended up having to take a door off to get the couch out. That was another fiasco and story. After looking for the Sanding supplies I decided to call home depot. I learned that we had left them at the store so I ended up taking another 45 minutes to retrieve them. What should have taken 2 hrs. Took 5!!!
Christmas Eve at mom's began at 4 o'clock this year. Most people came. Unfortunately Dan didn't feel very good so he stayed back. There was so much food that I ate too much! The white elephant game was lots of fun but we kind of came out on the short side. Oh well. Time to get to bed and welcome Christmas morning P.s. we did a final candle lighting and reading the night before Christmas
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Dan is still sick with a nasty chest cold. . I went upstairs to enjoy the lights. Joshua told me that it is his tradition to turn loud music on Christmas morning!!!
&&& I am thankful we feel home here at Cindy's. I am thankful Heidi will come
Heidi looks good and I think for that period and bank for the hugs and love of her large to family. I am thankful for the manger scene underneath Cindy history and the many tokens of presents lined up stocking for it. There's great love in this house and I am grateful to be here during our last 3 weeks before we leave and I'm thankful Heidi and her family are expected to come day after tomorrow
25 Christmas
This morning it was very nice. Kalli came about 9:30 and we opened stockings. Cindy put a lot of thought into them. Then we opened from the youngest to the oldest opening gifts. I have to say that my favorite was the book Mormon Cindy gave to us to take on our mission that included the testimonies of Cindy and Michael and Joshua. There were a lot of gifts from their sub for Santa (see photo). There was a lot of love felt by all.
Trisha and her family came to Cindy's for lunch. Joseph came afterwards with Christmas for the Edward's
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Today Elder Erickson called to tell us that we will serve in Cape Girardeau , Missouri. We did a macro.
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This morning I spent 2hrs. Cleaning. Next comes ripping out carpet And laying vinyl planks! Cindy decided to get a "new" washer through ksl. Because of all the problems the old one had. She found a year old LG machine. Dan and Michael made it happen!!!
&&& Tender Mercies:
Cindy was able to find a wonderful washer at a great price (thanks ...to trisha for letting us borrow her SUV and Dan and Michael got getting it and getting rid of the old washer), having Robert's expertise and his plank cutter, Dan taking the whole family out, getting a big family picture...
When Cindy and I finished most of the renter room in vinyl plank,we went to meet Dan at the theater to see Mary Poppins!! I am thankful that my headache medicine kicked in and that I found my toothpaste and almost all the suitcase stuff!
Dan cleaned something on the furnace, retouched the paint up and I helped cindy finish the floor boards
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Part of a letter to our friend Joann Pitts this morning:
Hi Joann, . Dan and I leave to go in the MTC day after tomorrow hard to believe. We now know where we will be in Missouri it is called Cape Gerardo. It is 5 hrs away from Lee and Nancy. It is a medium sized place with two Walmarts. Named after a French man. We're excited. It's been a pretty busy 3 weeks helping Cindy get ready to rent the basement We've laid floors, fixed appliances, learned how to do all sorts of things and helped with a lot of cleaning and organizing. My mom is having a special good bye dinner for us tomorrow night and we are packing the car up to the gills today. Well, that's enough of an update about us. What are you up to? Love Dan and Patricia .........
29 Dan helped to fix the basement door then he went to the movies and to lunch with Joseph. Dan and I helped Cindy with her trip to the dump then took her stuff to savers I took Cindy out to Zupas for lunch
Tough times as Cindy and I talked about the situation with Mikes family. She quietly knelt to pray in her room to discuss what she could do to help. What a beautiful example.
We watched "wrinkle in time" with kalli on TV.
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It was so nice to come into the remodeled downstairs living Room. We were grateful for Roberts expertise and the gift of the holy ghost. Dan and I were grateful for the chance to help Cindy and her family the last 3 weeks.
&&& I am thankful I could teach Joshua about bug zappers, and that the Apple juice didn't break when it hit the floor and that I found Dan's keys when they were lost in the laundry!!
Church in the morning was nice. Next Dan and I packed our car and had our planning session. At 3:00 we were set apart. Mom, cindy and her boys and Trisha and her family came. We have sketchy notes about our testimonies and blessings from this special meeting. (If you'
MISSIONARY BLESSINGS
Patricia's blessing
Read script and have prayer together in the morn.Bed early, rise early
You have a Unique light
Have patience x 2.
See them in white like temple clothes
You will be able to reach down and lift up
Specific people will be brought into your path at specific times. You will know you are meant to lift up
Your testimony of atonement deeper
-If you seek, you'll be blessed to have a special knowlege and assurity of the atonement
-you'll be blessed with no major health concerns.
-your mind is blessed that you may have unique ideas to share the gospel and
of the atonement...
don’t underestimate the power of a short and bold testimony
Dan's blessing
Increase of priesthood power
Council together, listen to your companion
Health concerns? Seek medical help immediatly
Obey the laws of the land
Counsel with other priesthood leaders Dont be afraid to share
-gift of tongues-feeling comfortable speaking the words of the gospel and bearing testimony
-Council together often
-Strengthen keys of the priesthood and recognize authority of mission president, stake president and bishops
-Blessing to know of the individual power of the atonement.
Words from general conference will help you know what to say
Speak the language of understanding
Draw upon your past
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Next we went to moms for dinner. It was a beautiful sit down dinner and she made my favorite dish stroganoff. She also included names at the plates!! After that Dan helped Cindy with her lawyer stuff. Afterwards she received s beautiful blessing from her Dad and Jason.
Josie sent a text wanting to know when we ended up coming to breakfast in the morning.
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Crazy day. Up early. We went to breakfast. Josie met us at Village Baker to go out to breakfast. Trisha, Cindy and Heidi were there too. Next we went to Instacare so Dan could get help woth his sinus infection. Next Heidi and her family came to the MTC and took pictures. Then we hurried to walmart for Dan's prescription then we finally checked in. We had orientations, checked into our room, the cafeteria was insane with hundreds of missionaries from young to old. Then more classes. We were divided into districts. At night the video of Elder Bednar was shown (an amazing experience).
For happy new year we clinked our glasses of water! Happy new year!!
MTC notes through the day available upon request.
JANUARY 2019
Facebook:. From the MTC in Provo: I am thankful for this quiet time in the MTC hotel Room before beginning this day of inspiration,
I'm thankful for the many ways our family shared their support before we left on our mission, I am thankful I can talk to text, I'm grateful that this Room is the warm because cold walking between buildings, I am thankful also for the many beautiful pictures of Jesus that hang on every wall and for the words of Elder Bednar yesterday that help me understand the reaching arms of Jesus to others.
I pray that we may be able to reach out to others as well in love and service
.
Notes:
" match your inviting with your love"
.. you extended invitations to your kids to walk etc. With encouragement and love.
" will you"...promise blessings...
He (Jesus) praised them first ("spared because ye were more righteous")
Need...doctrine...invite
Ch. 10 preach my gospel...If you listen... we won't wonder right to say.
president Holland
inviting and testifying.
We assist the Holy Ghost through inviting
Bednar
What is my role as a sister in missionary work?
Personal study to prepare
Pray about those we serve
Recognize when we have been given words to say at the moment I needed them? Share
Have I had strong feelings of love for the people I have met? Share
How have my prayers been answered? Share
True conversation happens when the holy ghost testifies
Without the spirit we cant teach
The holy ghost has many roles. He testifies, he comforts...
Follow the spirit by being a good boy and a good girl
DEVOTIONAL BRO. AND SISTER TAD CALLISTER
I got to sing in the volunteer choir.
(Author of the infinite atonement )
Day 1.
God is eager to reveal his mind and will to us. -pres Nelson
2. Sphere of responsibilities
..... found a celestial spouse
.......inspired parent
If we do not receive guidance, act upon your best judgment
Treasure up and record spiritual impressions...then they will become frequent
Help others to recognize the spirit
Fruits of spirit:
Peace
Intent to do good
Enlightened in understanding
&& I a.m thankful for fluffy snow that doesn't stick, a sister in our mission who is friendly and is a always complimenting. She also invited me to sing in ther volunteer choir. I am thankful.
2
Be not not ashamed to share.
More workshops and classes
Joseph and Ashtyn broke up
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*****
From a text to Darla:
I was thankful for the healing power of the spirit as I read a message and heard from a sister the words I needed to hear: about times we teach:
1- cast satan far from you
2- if you teach with a spirit of love even if you don't teach exactly the perfect words, they will hear the right message through the spirit.
That changed my heart.
I was so blessed.
*****
&& I am thankful I could sleep well, that the room temperature was just right in our Room, I am thankful for this last day at the MTC and the experiences we will have, I am thankful for Dan this day and for his commitment and dedication, I am thankful for the example of those around us, for our health, for our travel allowance, I am thankful for things of the spirit and for the support and inspiration from Father.
3- more glasses and teaching 2 single sisters, sister Doig and Barrus.
Dan felt sicker today. I felt sick some. He went to bed at 3:30.
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Rough start. Trouble sleeping. Chills.
Oops! We left our charging cords in the room.
Fb&&& I am thankful for freeze dried fruits and goodies Trisha sent with us. on. I am thankful that in 4 days we would be on our mission in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. I am thankful for the many things we were able to learn and feel while we were at the MTC and for the many wonderful examples that surrounded us.
The drive to Denver was long but we made it (Tender mercy.) I ended up getting a urine infection today (nausea, pain etc)..but we were able to find a "just in case" prescription...that was a tender mercy along with a nice hot tub right across the hall from our room and a great husband who drove me to the store for the helpful "urinary pain pills." I am more comfortable now. Thanks for your prayers as we travel
Note to the girls:
During couple study we read from COME FOLLOW ME the following quote: "encourage family members to share what they are learning!! "
We would love to hear from you and our grandchildren meaningful scriptures.
I will start.
D&C 8:2 I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, D&C 8:2.
As we begin our formal mission in 2 days there are many new people and places and things. There are many things we do not know but we are assured that all is well and we will be told what we should do and say as we lean our ear unto God.
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Driving and driving. Stayed at best western in Topica, Kansas.
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Sunday. Still having nausea because of the antibiotic. 🤢
We still went to part of Church
Maybe anb investigatordon’t even know about Jesus Christ, but if they are seeking goodness and virtue and truth during their lifetimes then I believe that they are his seed. Because every good thing comes from Christ." - Michelle Schmidt
We arrived at our hotel In St. Louis around 3:30. Dan tested. I tried to get rid of my headache.
TRUTH ATTRACTS TRUTH
Dan and I were having our couple study and we read in Ephesians 1:10
That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
I thought of Cindy and of the magnetic goo she made. I thought of how strong magnets where attracted to this glob and attached themselves to it.
I then considered those who are looking for the truth and how they will be attracted to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray that we recognize those who are looking and help them find the gospel.
Cindy and Trisha got together for the on fast Sundays.
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I was up by 4:30 a.m. because I am excited! So many questions answered by the end of the day/week:
1. How big is the apartment? Can wr easily get our stuff in?
2. Will i feel OK for the day?
3. Branch or ward?
4. Temple excursions?
5. How many neighbors near?
6. Walkway nearby?
7. What is our address?
Father, I'm excited to get more of a routine, ...to meet our fellow missionaries and begin this new chapter. Thanks
I am grateful that Dan does what it takes to care for house kidneys, that Dan's phone is charging again, that we have internet here, that Cindy and Trisha got together for the last night and that in less than 2 hour wr get to meet Pres. Bateman and begin our new chapter in cape Girardeau!!
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Tiff called. That was so nice.
Today was a very big day. We started at 9 meeting with president Bateman and hearing his vision of our mission and meeting the people in the office and getting a tour there. After that we left and drove 2 hours to Cape. There were 2 missionaries who helped elder Erickson move things into our new apartment. It's actually an older apartment but it's new to us. It has 1200 ft² and 2 bedrooms and 2 baths! We are ready to have you all come visit us!
After that we went to Walmart and elder Erickson (through the church) let us choose and lots of things to finish our household and get set. Dan and I bought some things too.
We are now sitting and recuperating after this busy day. Lots of boxes and things to put away but a lot of gratitude in our heart for this place new place that is starting to feel like home.
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I received a text at 6:30 pm telling me that there was a relief society activity at the church house and at 6:30 pm. Sister Dickson tried all day to get my phone number and finally succeeded at the last minute.
I hurried and got ready and drove about 12 minutes to our church house. It was a beautiful drive along windy, /free lined roads, almost like driving in the canyons but with many trees in between!
I was blown away when I entered the Relief Society Room and found about 35 sisters all laughing and talking. They were seated in huge circled. When I walked in one of them called to me "Are you sister Potts?" " Yes" I responded. At least a dozen women responded with "Hi...welcome..." They waved and smiled and were so very kind.
I was then invited to join with them as they played a getting to know you game. Each sister had chosen 3 things that might be hints about themselves and put them in a paper sack then placed them in the middle of the Room.
They then took turns taking a sack from the center of the Room and pulling out these 3 items in their paper sack. There was much laughter and discussion back-and-forth as they got to know each other better.
I took notes and felt overwhelmed with their goodness and their kindness. By the end of the night one sister asked us to come visit a non member to tell her about the gospel, another asked if we could substitute for family history, another said she and her husband (the stake president and his wife) wanted to take us out to dinner!!! Wow!!!
Trouble sleeping.
8
What we accomplished today
We did most of our household shopping and grocery shopping
We got my phone fixed
We researched and ordered our printer at Best Buy
We ordered the Internet and got it working
Patricia was able to get a lot of our house organized
Patricia attended relief Society
Challenges as we worked toward ideas for community service and ward service
In the afternoon we e helped at the family history center
At night we met with the bishop
I also organized all the house except the study.
10
Today has been a busy day. We met with the young missionaries The Zone leaders at 9:45 stand at 10:30 we served at the Senior Citizens Center. We helped with lunch.
We are so excited!!! The bishop gave us a list of 20 members who have been less active. The first sister I called on the list agreed to meet with us at within an hour. We are praying for the spirit to be with us. Thanks for your prayers...
In the afternoon we visited sister Capone and her husband. She is a member but he is not. They have a house in the country it is great! I put it on Marco Polo
At night the bishop and his wife picked us up and we drove across the Mississippi River to Illinois to visit Janus Burgus, a woman who was baptized a year ago because of seeing an ad from the church on TV and calling about it and getting a book of Mormon. She is an amazing black woman who made us dinner and we had a wonderful discussion afterwards.
11
&&& I am thankful for swift key app because it helps me with my voice to text, since I have about 25 things on my list today I am very thankful that I only need to follow it one prayer at a time___
*****
11
Mending Dan's pants. Texting sisters from yesterday
- awesome m meeting with Bro Hale and missionaries
Walmart, lube and oil, dollar Tree shopping, visiting James and Angela at the hospital
12
talking about how to do our missionary work.Dan and I brought cookies to our neighbor across the way. With Willowy and Roy Brown. They were very friendly.
We spent time switching phones to AT&T and then began contacting people in our mission. Dan was able to make two appointments. I was able to spend some time with the steak public affairs specialist Uncle. She was very delightful.
13
During inspiration time Dan talked about the promises in the into. Of The Book of Mormon. It promises that it will help us receive:
1. A testimony of the Book of Mormon,
2. Learn that Jesus as Our Redeemer
3. Realize that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on the earth
4. That Joseph Smith restored the Church of Jesus Christ
Now that's powerful!
Today we went to church for the first time in Cape Girardeau. People are very friendly and welcoming. In the afternoon we went for a walk.
After that we found out that our neighbor Willoughby is losing her sister to cancer so I went to pray with her and dropped by a book of Mormon ( she has a beautiful picture of a tree and I told her it reminded me of the tree of life and she was interested in the story) She was so sweet she came over afterwards to say thank you.
At night we went to dinner at The Bishop's house. After that we had planning then Dan blessed our apartment. Thanks Honey.
14
Another very busy day. This morning we met with the missionaries during a video conference at 9:30. It was Elder Farley's birthday so we celebrated that as well. Next we went to sign up for the water bill with the church as the bill payer. Next we went to Brother Hales for a meeting about our missionary work and we had a visit with Dean Deggs, the bishop asked us to visit him. He is bipolar. 60, looking for a Job. At night I worked more on service ideas and sharing notes seamlessly and calling my mom while we walked at the mall.
15
Fb&&& I am so thankful for better technology on our phones. We can now share calendars, share notes and I love the voice to text app called Swiftkey. It eliminates most of my mistakes when talking to text.
I am also thankful for the people we have met during this week on our mission in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. So many incredible people. Including Elder Farley who will be transferred this week.
Going on a mission with my hubby has had some hard moments but so many more Sweet Moments such as when we went shopping for things to put in our apartment. It reminded both of us of when we were newlywed and went shopping to buy things for our little downstairs apartment. Through this experience I am able to see the spiritual giant Dan is. Thank you thank you Heavenly Father.
This morning I got an eye exam and ordered my glasses, we went to visit the Nashes in our word and also talked about community service ideas, we ate lunch, I visited Willa and at night we went to dinner brother Hale and with he had his wife and their six children. So fun
16 - 18
Today recipe day so we worked on household financial and family things. In the afternoon we served at the Family History Center.
TRY TO PASTE AGAIN
A representative from an am I called and talked to us about volunteering in Sikeston or beginning support groups for mentally ill here in Cape Girardeau. We are thinking about it
Today we went to our District meeting and at night visited the Porter family and they took us to dinner at the Pizza Inn😉
This reminds me of your gifts of health and energy. You may cast in little but it is great in the sight of the Lord.
His disciples as He walked toward the treasury of the temple. You know the story. Elder James E. Talmage taught that there were 13 chests, “and into these the people dropped their contributions for the [different] purposes indicated by [the] inscriptions on the boxes.” Jesus watched the lines of donors, made up of all different types of people. Some gave their gifts with “sincerity of purpose” while others cast in “great sums of silver and gold,” hoping to be seen, noticed, and praised for their donations.
“Among the many was a poor widow, who … dropped into one of the treasure-chests two small bronze coins known as mites; her contribution amounted to less than half a cent in American money. The Lord called His disciples about Him, directed their attention to the poverty-stricken widow and her deed, and said: ‘Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living’ [Mark 12
&&fb I am thankful for the box that Cindy sent with for us as greenie missionaries, I'm thankful for good missionaries in our area, and thankful that Dan is so willing to serve in whatever way he can, I'm thankful for opportunities to help the children read in our area, I am thankful for plenty of clothes to wear, for a wonderful evening touring with our new neighbors Willa and Roy last night and for Heavenly father's goodness in giving me energy and health at this time. Thank you, thank you Father
19
Quiet morning, zone meeting
Zone message:
Celebration: Brother Potts called a less active member and left a message about visiting. Within a week he heard back. We visited the Brother this afternoon. Brother Potts shared a conference talk and left him with a challenge to read Mosiah. We also invited him to church😊😊
Super cold and icy. Church shut down for tomorrow. Walmart too!!!
20
When from my personal study. When we hear the voice of Our Father in Heaven bearing record of Jesus Christ he says "my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" Elder Madsen and Elder Rogers came over. We had sacraments and a sacrament meeting where we shared our testimonies Dan shared company from General Conference. It was a beautiful morning we are thankful
Willa's sister, Janet, died today.
We visited Dolores Robinson this afternoon. She's in her eighties. She used to Tune pianos. She has church pictures throughout her home
After that we went to be Windbigler's for dinner. They are a wonderful and very active family. They have 2 sons who played guitar for us. Carter and Luke. His father and mother are staying in the basement right now. His Mother has pneumonia.
He said the stake Pres. Prayed us there.
No one to compare with as senior missionaries.
Next we went next door to visit Willa. Her sister Janet is in a comma. She is expected to pass away in 24 hours. Willa. And her cousins Peggy (smart phone) and Geneva (hard of hearing). We talked about the plan of Salvation.
21
I got my glasses today. We visited Bro. Burrell then sister weaver. Made dinner for Willa and family. Contacted 8 sisters for appts through txt.
22
&&& I am grateful for the 14th people we have been able to visit and the 11 days we spend here, I am grateful for our health and for this little place we are in, I am grateful we could have the sacrament with the elders last week and grateful for the people who have been willing to let us know the needs of the st. Here in this part of the vineyard, I am thankful I can do my stretching now and I'm thankful for Marco Polo. Thanks father
Visiting Willa and bringing lunch, walk ING at Walmart, lunch at Sister Muellars and with Sister Dickison. Teaching Bro. Beggs about bipolar, meeting with the bishop... It was amazing!!! We can see directions helping with just serve and mental health.
23
today we went to St Louis for his own conference. It was an all-day event from 9:30 to 4:30.
You are a child of light. No wonder you were full of hope!! Isn't it wonderful when we experience who we really are?
You would have smiled to see me yesterday during the zone Conference. I crashed and I knew I had to rest. I found an empty classroom and put 6 soft chairs together, laid on them, put Dans coat over me and slept for 45 minutes! 😊😊👍
After the conference we went to go to St Louis Temple (8 on the session) and stayed overnight at Days Inn before coming back home on Thursday morning.
24
We drove back from St Louis to Cape Girardeau. We went to Willy's sister's funeral at noon
This is our vision and goal for our mission. They asked us to help introduce others to the come follow me program and meet members and with less active members and to help them. We also will be helping with the Sabbath day observance to help make that a delight.
Miracle number three. I had a lady call me who is looking for a way to get their volunteer website up and working. They have 97 organizations who need volunteers. We have "just serve" that we could offer her an internet connection! It could be the lost puzzle! I feel so blessed. I was able to connect her with Linda Nash!!!!!
Willa's sisters funeral. We conquer in Christ. We brought her a planter and card and visited. Walked at the mall. Feeling overwhelmed
25
Woke at 3 am. Trouble sleeping. Noises. Helping smith's move, visit Sister wheeler, brother Hale meeting was canceled. Our fellow elders missionaries came over and because Elder Madsen with sick. He was requesting a blessing. I got a thermometer so we could check his temperature. Next we met with Bro. Chai. Then worked on a photo for Willa Brown.
Sat 26
Today we worked on P day cleaning and visited sister Kaufman in Jackson. At night we went to dinner at the Funks. 5 kofd. Great time in their beautiful home
I am thankful for the spirit that was strong last night as brother Funk spoke about did Revelations that came from president Dixon, I am thankful for this nice apartment, for my health, 4 clothes that I feel good in and 4 Marco Polo so I can see the family everyday
SPIRITUAL MOMENT. Last night when Brother Funk shared with us his experience with the stake presidency when they received the Revelation about preparing ourselves to invite others that we may one day have a temple here in Cape Girardeau was very powerful and definitely. That tingling of the spirit. I'm so thankful for God's love notes.
Church..Shelby Caldwell.. Nephi was told to LOOK 13 times... Story about her garden... Eyes to see for candy for her lesson... Welcome the task that takes you beyond yourself... EYES TO SEE AND FAITH TO FOLLOW
Discontent
28
The Coppeiters had us over for a delicious dinner. 1 daughter, 1 grandpa. Wonderful evening.
&&&fb I am thankful for kind brothers and sisters who have invited us into their families and their homes and their hearts. Missouri? . We have been given dinners and prayers and countless welcomes. We feel so blessed. We're thankful for our health and for a supportive family and friends back home. Feel the hand of the Lord every day as we have study together and visiting people and praying for them. Thank you Father in heaven for this amazing experience
Today we visited a brother in the hospital and drove 60 miles to visit the Thomsens. Wonderful visit.
30
I went to district meeting then got to help a lady at the hospital. Dan helped with Cindy's appointment with her attorney for mediation. Although the settlement was not very much she agreed and they settled. She is grateful it won't keep dragging on.
31
Busy day. It began by helping children read at Franklin Elementary at 8:30 a.m. From there we went to the senior citizens Center and served lunch family had a meeting at brother Hales powerful his powerful testimony and challenges. At night we went to Felix and Tina's home for dinner. Brother Delliskave made chicken and rice. We visited quite a while then we stopped at all these witches the German grocery store here and take that lots of people go to because it's got good prices.
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