12-25-2015
Dear family:
It was so good to visit with all of you yesterday! It made our Christmas so very special, and certainly did help with the homesickness. It has been a little hard to get in the "Christmas spirit" with green grass, blooming flowers, and no snow. It gets cold, especially when the wind is blowing (95 percent of the time), but never below freezing. It just rains every day. There is a saying around here: It's easy to tell the seasons. If the rain is cold, it's winter, if the rain is warm, it's summer.
We apologize for being so tardy with this letter, but we knew we would be visiting with you on Christmas, and we have kept ourselves busy so we wouldn't miss being home for the holidays. It would probably be best to start from the beginning to catch you up. As of today, we have been in Ireland for two weeks, and we seem to be adjusting well.
Friday, December 11:
After a smooth and uneventful flight, we arrived in Edinburgh with our 200 pounds (exactly!) of checked luggage and 100 pounds of carry-ons. We got off the plane in a driving rainstorm (imagine that!) and were met by Elder and Sister Broughton (mission office couple), who took us to the Mission Home. The Mission Home is an old estate, and, boy, is it elegant! High ceilings, ornate carvings, wood paneling, secret passageways. We were greeted by President and Sister Donaldson, and President and Sister Thompson (counselor in the mission presidency). President Donaldson is one of the kindest, most jovial, loving, deeply spiritual men we have ever met. He is the kind of person you can love almost immediately, and you can tell he loves his missionaries.
After a much-needed nap at the Broughton's "flat" in the early afternoon, we returned to the mission home for an hour-long interview with President Donaldson. We shared testimonies, laughed and cried together as we talked about our families, our experiences, and the work ahead. We are assigned to Dublin as the Self-reliance couple for all of Ireland, and the YSA couple for the Dublin stake.
The interview was followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by Sister Donaldson. We felt bad she had to feed us because she has to cook almost every day for somebody or other, but it was such a beautiful dinner, and we enjoyed visiting. We spent the night at the Broughton's flat (pretty nice, really).
Saturday, December 12:
We were up early for a bus ride and short walking tour of downtown Edinburgh, including walking up to the castle. It was cold and rainy (imagine that!) so we didn't stay long as we had to get back for the short flight to Dublin. It was a worry as to whether or not the plane could hold all our luggage, but it worked out well.
We got off the plane in a driving rainstorm (imagine that!) and loaded all our luggage (200 and 100
Dear family:
It was so good to visit with all of you yesterday! It made our Christmas so very special, and certainly did help with the homesickness. It has been a little hard to get in the "Christmas spirit" with green grass, blooming flowers, and no snow. It gets cold, especially when the wind is blowing (95 percent of the time), but never below freezing. It just rains every day. There is a saying around here: It's easy to tell the seasons. If the rain is cold, it's winter, if the rain is warm, it's summer.
We apologize for being so tardy with this letter, but we knew we would be visiting with you on Christmas, and we have kept ourselves busy so we wouldn't miss being home for the holidays. It would probably be best to start from the beginning to catch you up. As of today, we have been in Ireland for two weeks, and we seem to be adjusting well.
Friday, December 11:
After a smooth and uneventful flight, we arrived in Edinburgh with our 200 pounds (exactly!) of checked luggage and 100 pounds of carry-ons. We got off the plane in a driving rainstorm (imagine that!) and were met by Elder and Sister Broughton (mission office couple), who took us to the Mission Home. The Mission Home is an old estate, and, boy, is it elegant! High ceilings, ornate carvings, wood paneling, secret passageways. We were greeted by President and Sister Donaldson, and President and Sister Thompson (counselor in the mission presidency). President Donaldson is one of the kindest, most jovial, loving, deeply spiritual men we have ever met. He is the kind of person you can love almost immediately, and you can tell he loves his missionaries.
After a much-needed nap at the Broughton's "flat" in the early afternoon, we returned to the mission home for an hour-long interview with President Donaldson. We shared testimonies, laughed and cried together as we talked about our families, our experiences, and the work ahead. We are assigned to Dublin as the Self-reliance couple for all of Ireland, and the YSA couple for the Dublin stake.
The interview was followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by Sister Donaldson. We felt bad she had to feed us because she has to cook almost every day for somebody or other, but it was such a beautiful dinner, and we enjoyed visiting. We spent the night at the Broughton's flat (pretty nice, really).
Saturday, December 12:
We were up early for a bus ride and short walking tour of downtown Edinburgh, including walking up to the castle. It was cold and rainy (imagine that!) so we didn't stay long as we had to get back for the short flight to Dublin. It was a worry as to whether or not the plane could hold all our luggage, but it worked out well.
We got off the plane in a driving rainstorm (imagine that!) and loaded all our luggage (200 and 100
pounds, respectively) into the Thompson's little car, who flew over with us because they
live here. It was really nice to have them help us with the details. The hardest part was
getting through the immigration checkpoint at the airport. When we told them we could
be staying for two years, it gave them some concern. It took us a full twenty minutes to
get through, but the angels helped us.
The drive to our flat took only twenty minutes, and we were pleasantly surprised. This is really quite a nice place. A little small, but clean and warm. It even has an electric fireplace for Mom to warm herself by. The kitchen is not too bad and is pretty well stocked with utensils. There is a nice shower,small but enough hot water, a decent bedroom with a nice bed, washer and dryer, and some storage space. It is on the church grounds (actually connected to the Stake Offices), and the whole complex is surrounded by a fence with a lockable gate. We even have a little backyard. What more could we want?
We had not been here long (one hour or less) when we had a visit from President O'Farrell (Stake President) and his wife. It was a wonderful visit, and we felt very welcome. They are great people. We talked about the Church in Ireland, and our upcoming work with the YSA. We even learned that sacrament meeting is at 11:00, which means that the Church is true here too. We worked late into the night to get all 300 pounds of luggage unpacked.
Sunday, December 13:
It wasn't too far into the morning when we got a visit from the "lovely" Bishop (that is really what they would say) --Bishop of the Finglas ward (our ward here). He is also so nice and welcomed us warmly. He is from Sweden, but works in Dublin. His family is still in Sweden, so he commutes back and forth every few weeks to take care of work and being bishop. That's quite a commute! We attended the whole block of church, which was a pretty normal Mormon Sunday meeting block except for all of the Irish accents, some thicker than othersAmazingly, we were able to understand almost everyone, and felt warmly welcomed. After church we got the international call thingy up and running, and talked to the family, who had not heard from us since we left. How fun it was to hear everyone's voice - a great pick-us-up.
Monday, December 14:
We thought we might be able to catch our breath a little before our scheduled visit at 3:30 pm with Les Pointer, who is the Area Self-Reliance Coordinator, based in Manchester, England. We found out that catching our breath is not an option. President O'Farrell took Dad to the phone store to get a local SIM card. It took a long time, but he was so patient and unselfish with his time. He also programmed a lot of addresses into our Garmin. We feel like we couldn't have done any of this without his help. After that
The drive to our flat took only twenty minutes, and we were pleasantly surprised. This is really quite a nice place. A little small, but clean and warm. It even has an electric fireplace for Mom to warm herself by. The kitchen is not too bad and is pretty well stocked with utensils. There is a nice shower,small but enough hot water, a decent bedroom with a nice bed, washer and dryer, and some storage space. It is on the church grounds (actually connected to the Stake Offices), and the whole complex is surrounded by a fence with a lockable gate. We even have a little backyard. What more could we want?
We had not been here long (one hour or less) when we had a visit from President O'Farrell (Stake President) and his wife. It was a wonderful visit, and we felt very welcome. They are great people. We talked about the Church in Ireland, and our upcoming work with the YSA. We even learned that sacrament meeting is at 11:00, which means that the Church is true here too. We worked late into the night to get all 300 pounds of luggage unpacked.
Sunday, December 13:
It wasn't too far into the morning when we got a visit from the "lovely" Bishop (that is really what they would say) --Bishop of the Finglas ward (our ward here). He is also so nice and welcomed us warmly. He is from Sweden, but works in Dublin. His family is still in Sweden, so he commutes back and forth every few weeks to take care of work and being bishop. That's quite a commute! We attended the whole block of church, which was a pretty normal Mormon Sunday meeting block except for all of the Irish accents, some thicker than othersAmazingly, we were able to understand almost everyone, and felt warmly welcomed. After church we got the international call thingy up and running, and talked to the family, who had not heard from us since we left. How fun it was to hear everyone's voice - a great pick-us-up.
Monday, December 14:
We thought we might be able to catch our breath a little before our scheduled visit at 3:30 pm with Les Pointer, who is the Area Self-Reliance Coordinator, based in Manchester, England. We found out that catching our breath is not an option. President O'Farrell took Dad to the phone store to get a local SIM card. It took a long time, but he was so patient and unselfish with his time. He also programmed a lot of addresses into our Garmin. We feel like we couldn't have done any of this without his help. After that
came visits from the Zone Leaders (Sister Pettit fed them lunch), then the Thompsons,
(mission counsellor) then the area Physical Facilities Rep. We discovered that this little
"cottage by the church" is a pretty busy little place.
Les Pointer showed up at 3:30 to begin four days of fairly intensive Self-Reliance training. He is an employee of the Church, and is responsible for England, Scotland, and Ireland. We began by covering all the little details: car, phone contacts, credit card, church unit information, etc. It took the rest of the day, and Sister Pettit fed him dinner before he left for the hotel. We were still feeling the affects of jet lag so the time went by slowly.
Tuesday, December 15:
Brother Pointer came by to pick us up for the two hour drive south to Limerick, where we met with the Limerick District Self-Reliance Committee. It was our first chance to see the Irish countryside, which is as beautiful as they say it is. It is mostly green rolling hills, divided by hedges, and quite a few herds of sheep. We would have seen more, but it was raining heavily (imagine that!).
We had a three-hour meeting with the District Committee, and we were pleasantly surprised at how "into" Self Reliance they already are. We came away with several assignments, provisional dates for Devotionals, and an assignment to speak in the Waterford Branch. This is going to be a good district to work with, because they are so supportive of the program.
We hurried back to Dublin to have another two-hour meeting with the Dublin stake SR specialist, Kathryn Lamb. She is enthusiastic, but we are going to have to convince her that we are here to help, not take away her job. We'll proceed carefully. Long day.
Wednesday, December 16:
I (Dad) was embarrassed because I got part way into the day before I remembered it was Mom's birthday!! Uh- oh. We had a full morning of training (it's quite an experience to sit in semi- interesting (repetitious of SLC) training while you are in the middle of full- scale jet-lag), and then left for Belfast, which is two hours in the other direction--even harder to stay awake. We met with the Stake President and the entire Presidency to talk SR strategy. Again, they were supportive, and we came away with future meeting dates, including a time to train the bishops and high council.
Before we started for home, we stopped at an Italian restaurant to try at least a little celebration for Mom's birthday. We had pizza and pasta, and they brought ice cream and a candle for her and sang Happy Birthday. Not much, but at least a little something. She is so patient!
Les Pointer showed up at 3:30 to begin four days of fairly intensive Self-Reliance training. He is an employee of the Church, and is responsible for England, Scotland, and Ireland. We began by covering all the little details: car, phone contacts, credit card, church unit information, etc. It took the rest of the day, and Sister Pettit fed him dinner before he left for the hotel. We were still feeling the affects of jet lag so the time went by slowly.
Tuesday, December 15:
Brother Pointer came by to pick us up for the two hour drive south to Limerick, where we met with the Limerick District Self-Reliance Committee. It was our first chance to see the Irish countryside, which is as beautiful as they say it is. It is mostly green rolling hills, divided by hedges, and quite a few herds of sheep. We would have seen more, but it was raining heavily (imagine that!).
We had a three-hour meeting with the District Committee, and we were pleasantly surprised at how "into" Self Reliance they already are. We came away with several assignments, provisional dates for Devotionals, and an assignment to speak in the Waterford Branch. This is going to be a good district to work with, because they are so supportive of the program.
We hurried back to Dublin to have another two-hour meeting with the Dublin stake SR specialist, Kathryn Lamb. She is enthusiastic, but we are going to have to convince her that we are here to help, not take away her job. We'll proceed carefully. Long day.
Wednesday, December 16:
I (Dad) was embarrassed because I got part way into the day before I remembered it was Mom's birthday!! Uh- oh. We had a full morning of training (it's quite an experience to sit in semi- interesting (repetitious of SLC) training while you are in the middle of full- scale jet-lag), and then left for Belfast, which is two hours in the other direction--even harder to stay awake. We met with the Stake President and the entire Presidency to talk SR strategy. Again, they were supportive, and we came away with future meeting dates, including a time to train the bishops and high council.
Before we started for home, we stopped at an Italian restaurant to try at least a little celebration for Mom's birthday. We had pizza and pasta, and they brought ice cream and a candle for her and sang Happy Birthday. Not much, but at least a little something. She is so patient!
Thursday, December 17:
It was pretty much a full day of training. We stayed up late last night to try to put our notes in some semblance of order, and ended up creating a flow chart of the whole process. It helped us a lot, and we used it to serve as a guide so we could ask questions at the right time and short cut the repetitions. All in all we are beginning to get a grip on a complex and constantly developing program. We have much work to do. Mom fed us all dinner before Brother Pointer went to the hotel.
Friday, December 18:
We finished up the training this morning in time to drive Brother Pointer to the airport for his flight back to England. He drove to Ireland and flew home so he could leave the car for us. The car is a small English-made hatchback, and we get a credit card for gas when we drive it to SR or YSA-related functions. We're grateful to have the car, but it was quite an experience to have him walk into the airport, leaving us to drive home without once being behind the wheel! Remember, they drive on the "other side" of the road here! No real street signs or addresses, to boot!
The Garmin has saved our life! How did Grandma and Grandpa ever do it? Go slowly, follow the cars in front of you, and look to the right on the roundabouts - always to the right. My oh my. It's a good thing this car is a little older (we get a new one in a few months) because there are permanent fingernail imprints in the door handle on Grandma's side of the car, and permanent finger imprints in the steering wheel on Grandpa's side. Hopefully, we'll get better at it. We got home OK and collapsed after a big week of training and a nice relaxing drive home from the airport.
Saturday, December 19:
Early in the morning, we took Sister Montoya from Mexico downtown to take the TOEFL, (English proficiency test) because she is applying to BYU. As it turns out, she didn't have all the documentation she needed, so she will have to take it another time, and would like some English lessons in the meantime.
Today, we think, is p-day, so we worked on laundry (the washer and dryer are small, but adequate, although it took an hour or so to figure the hot water out), house cleaning, and even a little yard work (yes - yard work). We also spent quite a bit of time looking around the church to see if our idea for a live nativity next week was possible. We called the bishop, and he was supportive of our idea to have a nativity display, a live nativity program, and treats on Tuesday night. We snooped around the church, and actually found the makings of an old nativity stable and other Christmas decorations. Our idea just might work! We made a flyer to pass around in church to advertise the event. We also did our first real grocery shopping, and have been pleasantly surprised at the quality,
It was pretty much a full day of training. We stayed up late last night to try to put our notes in some semblance of order, and ended up creating a flow chart of the whole process. It helped us a lot, and we used it to serve as a guide so we could ask questions at the right time and short cut the repetitions. All in all we are beginning to get a grip on a complex and constantly developing program. We have much work to do. Mom fed us all dinner before Brother Pointer went to the hotel.
Friday, December 18:
We finished up the training this morning in time to drive Brother Pointer to the airport for his flight back to England. He drove to Ireland and flew home so he could leave the car for us. The car is a small English-made hatchback, and we get a credit card for gas when we drive it to SR or YSA-related functions. We're grateful to have the car, but it was quite an experience to have him walk into the airport, leaving us to drive home without once being behind the wheel! Remember, they drive on the "other side" of the road here! No real street signs or addresses, to boot!
The Garmin has saved our life! How did Grandma and Grandpa ever do it? Go slowly, follow the cars in front of you, and look to the right on the roundabouts - always to the right. My oh my. It's a good thing this car is a little older (we get a new one in a few months) because there are permanent fingernail imprints in the door handle on Grandma's side of the car, and permanent finger imprints in the steering wheel on Grandpa's side. Hopefully, we'll get better at it. We got home OK and collapsed after a big week of training and a nice relaxing drive home from the airport.
Saturday, December 19:
Early in the morning, we took Sister Montoya from Mexico downtown to take the TOEFL, (English proficiency test) because she is applying to BYU. As it turns out, she didn't have all the documentation she needed, so she will have to take it another time, and would like some English lessons in the meantime.
Today, we think, is p-day, so we worked on laundry (the washer and dryer are small, but adequate, although it took an hour or so to figure the hot water out), house cleaning, and even a little yard work (yes - yard work). We also spent quite a bit of time looking around the church to see if our idea for a live nativity next week was possible. We called the bishop, and he was supportive of our idea to have a nativity display, a live nativity program, and treats on Tuesday night. We snooped around the church, and actually found the makings of an old nativity stable and other Christmas decorations. Our idea just might work! We made a flyer to pass around in church to advertise the event. We also did our first real grocery shopping, and have been pleasantly surprised at the quality,
variety, and prices of things. Although milk is a little more expensive ($3-4 gallon),
there are many things that are cheaper and fresher. They have very good cheese. Yay!
We are really not having to make many adjustments, food-wise. We made treats for a
YSA activity tomorrow night.
Sunday, December 20:
We had a very nice Christmas program in Sacrament meeting, with good meetings all around. Our Tuesday night activity was announced, and we passed out the flyers. We feel welcome. We also got invited to the Greene's home for Christmas Day dinner. After church we hung some small posters along the fence around the church property advertising the nativity evening so people on the street could see them. The missionaries were quite excited about the prospects of bringing their investigators and getting walks- ins too.
Because the bishop had been at the church all day with no family to go home to, we. also invited him and his young single clerk to come over for a quick meal before we left for the evening. They seemed so happy to get something warm and homemade.
In the evening, we drove to the center of Dublin to attend a YSA activity at one of the youth's homes. What an adventure! We went down narrow, winding streets in heavy traffic. When we got close, we called a YSA at the party. We couldn't get an answer for a awhile so we didn't know where to park or even if we were in the right area, but finally we got through and she came down to walk us the final distance,--- after we had found a parking spot (that was an adventure in itself, --- truly the angels helped us with that one, too!).
As it turns out, the young man hosting the party was an American working in Dublin for a software company, and he had arranged to use the entire top floor of the company building, which was huge, and included a place to eat, pool table, ping-pong, and many other amenities. There were 30 or more youth there, and we had a great time. It gave us a great chance to connect with so many youth that we likely would not otherwise have met. We got phones, emails, and pix ID on everyone. It was a farewell party for the host, who is leaving for America tomorrow. We will miss him, as he has been a real leader for the group. It is an excellent example of living the gospel wherever you are because of the great impact he has had on the youth in this area. The program has become quite weak since the senior couple left --- and if not for this young man might have been totally gone. After treats (really, dinner), we spoke and there was a short testimony meeting--- then the fun. People stayed for a long time, we took pictures and didn't leave until after 10:00. Wonderful evening!
Sunday, December 20:
We had a very nice Christmas program in Sacrament meeting, with good meetings all around. Our Tuesday night activity was announced, and we passed out the flyers. We feel welcome. We also got invited to the Greene's home for Christmas Day dinner. After church we hung some small posters along the fence around the church property advertising the nativity evening so people on the street could see them. The missionaries were quite excited about the prospects of bringing their investigators and getting walks- ins too.
Because the bishop had been at the church all day with no family to go home to, we. also invited him and his young single clerk to come over for a quick meal before we left for the evening. They seemed so happy to get something warm and homemade.
In the evening, we drove to the center of Dublin to attend a YSA activity at one of the youth's homes. What an adventure! We went down narrow, winding streets in heavy traffic. When we got close, we called a YSA at the party. We couldn't get an answer for a awhile so we didn't know where to park or even if we were in the right area, but finally we got through and she came down to walk us the final distance,--- after we had found a parking spot (that was an adventure in itself, --- truly the angels helped us with that one, too!).
As it turns out, the young man hosting the party was an American working in Dublin for a software company, and he had arranged to use the entire top floor of the company building, which was huge, and included a place to eat, pool table, ping-pong, and many other amenities. There were 30 or more youth there, and we had a great time. It gave us a great chance to connect with so many youth that we likely would not otherwise have met. We got phones, emails, and pix ID on everyone. It was a farewell party for the host, who is leaving for America tomorrow. We will miss him, as he has been a real leader for the group. It is an excellent example of living the gospel wherever you are because of the great impact he has had on the youth in this area. The program has become quite weak since the senior couple left --- and if not for this young man might have been totally gone. After treats (really, dinner), we spoke and there was a short testimony meeting--- then the fun. People stayed for a long time, we took pictures and didn't leave until after 10:00. Wonderful evening!
Monday, December 21:
We spent much of the day working towards the Nativity Program for Tuesday evening. We made a big poster to hang on the building sign to advertise. It could be seen from the intersection outside of the church, and we hope someone will come in. We spent a long time getting serious about designing the stable from all the odds and ends we found under the stage--- you know that messy stuff that sometimes just gets pushed out of sight. we worked on arranging for electrical cords, and planning details for the activity. It took longer than we thought it would.
We also had a lot of shopping to do to fill the menus for the dinners we planned to host during the coming week. In the evening, Mom taught an English lesson to help Sister Montoya better prepare for her English test.
Tuesday, December 22:
Tuesday was the day of the nativity program! We really worked hard to get the stable and manger put together, tables up and covered, electrical hooked up, nativities arranged, treats made, and a myriad other details. It took a long time, but it was worth it.
The evening went very well. We probably had 30 people come---which might seem like failure but it did serve some good needs.
At the last minute, when it looked like the YSA weren't going too come with costume materials, like we asked them to, Grandma grabbed every available sheet and blanket from our house, and got the missionaries and a few members dressed as shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and wise men. There was enough to get everyone costumed, with not a single sheet left over! We had set the stable up on the front lawn of the church, did a live nativity scene where everyone who passed by could see it. A couple of people even stopped by to ask about it. We then moved it inside, and did it again, with Christmas carols interspersed. Some of the members had brought their nativity sets, and after the program we walked around the displays and visited with those who. Brought sets and investigators. The treats-- especially the pumpkin choc chip bars were a big hit. All in all, we counted it a success. For one, it gave us a holiday mood. Three very nice YSA from Brazil stayed with us late to clean up. They were such a big help!
Wednesday, December 23:
Wednesday (and Thursday morning) were baking days. Mom was cooking just like home--- except she had to do a bit of improvising with available ingredients. Apple pudding cake, Christmas candy cane breads, stuffed mushrooms, funeral potatoes, cordon bleu, and rolls. Things turned out remarkably well and we only had to make a few extra trips to the store. We came to a kitchen with a few "staples" on hands, like
We spent much of the day working towards the Nativity Program for Tuesday evening. We made a big poster to hang on the building sign to advertise. It could be seen from the intersection outside of the church, and we hope someone will come in. We spent a long time getting serious about designing the stable from all the odds and ends we found under the stage--- you know that messy stuff that sometimes just gets pushed out of sight. we worked on arranging for electrical cords, and planning details for the activity. It took longer than we thought it would.
We also had a lot of shopping to do to fill the menus for the dinners we planned to host during the coming week. In the evening, Mom taught an English lesson to help Sister Montoya better prepare for her English test.
Tuesday, December 22:
Tuesday was the day of the nativity program! We really worked hard to get the stable and manger put together, tables up and covered, electrical hooked up, nativities arranged, treats made, and a myriad other details. It took a long time, but it was worth it.
The evening went very well. We probably had 30 people come---which might seem like failure but it did serve some good needs.
At the last minute, when it looked like the YSA weren't going too come with costume materials, like we asked them to, Grandma grabbed every available sheet and blanket from our house, and got the missionaries and a few members dressed as shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and wise men. There was enough to get everyone costumed, with not a single sheet left over! We had set the stable up on the front lawn of the church, did a live nativity scene where everyone who passed by could see it. A couple of people even stopped by to ask about it. We then moved it inside, and did it again, with Christmas carols interspersed. Some of the members had brought their nativity sets, and after the program we walked around the displays and visited with those who. Brought sets and investigators. The treats-- especially the pumpkin choc chip bars were a big hit. All in all, we counted it a success. For one, it gave us a holiday mood. Three very nice YSA from Brazil stayed with us late to clean up. They were such a big help!
Wednesday, December 23:
Wednesday (and Thursday morning) were baking days. Mom was cooking just like home--- except she had to do a bit of improvising with available ingredients. Apple pudding cake, Christmas candy cane breads, stuffed mushrooms, funeral potatoes, cordon bleu, and rolls. Things turned out remarkably well and we only had to make a few extra trips to the store. We came to a kitchen with a few "staples" on hands, like
spices, vinegar, baking powder etc.-- but it was a good bit of work to get real supplies on
hand. Staying busy when the holiday is for families, and we are far from ours, was a
good thing.
Thursday, December 24
After the day and a half of baking was finished, we actually had to hurry to get ready for our Christmas celebration and guests. We had invited the locally assigned missionaries to come to our home for Christmas Eve two Sundays earlier and we wanted it to be a fun time, plus we needed to do a little shopping so we had something to give each other. We had seen a few things we were waiting to get at the last so they would be fresh, only to realise that wasn't such a good idea here. When we got to the stores, most fresh foods were sold out! And others stores for gifts closed early! Good thing nothing was critical. We did find substitutes for the original plans.
Christmas Eve did turn out quite fun. We had ten of us in this tiny apartment with one big table which meant no room for dancing--- or even for standing! After a nice dinner we all shared our family traditions and then played Christmas carol charades and a few other guessing games. (We told about our fondue ---and the burned carpet). It was fun to hear the elders and sisters tell their memories because they usually told about being with extended family and how much they loved it. It makes us realise how important our family memories may someday be for our grandchildren when they go on missions. It seemed to give them such a sense of belonging even when they are not there.
Friday, Christmas Day
The first things we gave each other for Christmas was sleeping in! It felt so good,--- since there were no little kiddos anxious to see what Santa brought them. Then we ate traditional Christmas breakfast in our pjs. We texted you all to see if you were awake j/k (some of you were!) really to get a time for calling. Thanks for accommodating since everyone wanted 11:00. :)
Next we unwrapped a few gifts and cards we had brought from home and unceremoniously pulled our unwrapped "gifts" out of the bags for each other. Really it was just right.
Early afternoon, a "lovely" man from the ward who is a taxi driver "collected" us and took us and another couple to his home for dinner. He gave us a great tour on the way of the east bay of Dublin including the docks and fishing boats.
The dinner at their house was wonderful. We were a little wary that we might get haggis or blood pudding or something cultural, but it was just great food. The only unusual thing was how many potatoes she served. Ireland is famous for roasted potatoes, which are done way better than anything I have ever made. They have a beautifully browned crust and almost mashed soft center. She also served two big scoops of mashed potatoes! ---along with so much turkey and ham ( already on each plate ) and wonderful parsnips and carrots.
Thursday, December 24
After the day and a half of baking was finished, we actually had to hurry to get ready for our Christmas celebration and guests. We had invited the locally assigned missionaries to come to our home for Christmas Eve two Sundays earlier and we wanted it to be a fun time, plus we needed to do a little shopping so we had something to give each other. We had seen a few things we were waiting to get at the last so they would be fresh, only to realise that wasn't such a good idea here. When we got to the stores, most fresh foods were sold out! And others stores for gifts closed early! Good thing nothing was critical. We did find substitutes for the original plans.
Christmas Eve did turn out quite fun. We had ten of us in this tiny apartment with one big table which meant no room for dancing--- or even for standing! After a nice dinner we all shared our family traditions and then played Christmas carol charades and a few other guessing games. (We told about our fondue ---and the burned carpet). It was fun to hear the elders and sisters tell their memories because they usually told about being with extended family and how much they loved it. It makes us realise how important our family memories may someday be for our grandchildren when they go on missions. It seemed to give them such a sense of belonging even when they are not there.
Friday, Christmas Day
The first things we gave each other for Christmas was sleeping in! It felt so good,--- since there were no little kiddos anxious to see what Santa brought them. Then we ate traditional Christmas breakfast in our pjs. We texted you all to see if you were awake j/k (some of you were!) really to get a time for calling. Thanks for accommodating since everyone wanted 11:00. :)
Next we unwrapped a few gifts and cards we had brought from home and unceremoniously pulled our unwrapped "gifts" out of the bags for each other. Really it was just right.
Early afternoon, a "lovely" man from the ward who is a taxi driver "collected" us and took us and another couple to his home for dinner. He gave us a great tour on the way of the east bay of Dublin including the docks and fishing boats.
The dinner at their house was wonderful. We were a little wary that we might get haggis or blood pudding or something cultural, but it was just great food. The only unusual thing was how many potatoes she served. Ireland is famous for roasted potatoes, which are done way better than anything I have ever made. They have a beautifully browned crust and almost mashed soft center. She also served two big scoops of mashed potatoes! ---along with so much turkey and ham ( already on each plate ) and wonderful parsnips and carrots.
The dessert was also huge, but a little lighter. We could not eat all that was served, but
she reminded us they had a BIG dog. With our appointments to talk to each of you, we
didn't stay much more than to eat even though we had allowed 3 hours for the dinner.
It is just so different for us to have to allow for travel so far, but the members here are so faithful to come to church and activities and support others even with big distances of 30 to 60 min. to travel. A short drive is "only" 15 min. away. It makes us have to evaluate how we plan the meetings needed for implementing Self Reliance.
Best of all, we LOVED talking to each of you on Christmas! Thank you all for making time for us and sharing your joys! We felt so blessed to have the technology that made us not be too homesick. We are sure we have the Cutest, Best, Most loving, Smartest Grandchildren!!!! Ever!
Saturday, December 26
We are never quite sure when we should be taking a "P" Day because so far our days have been a mix of needs, but this time it was pretty easy. Day after Christmas is "Boxing Day " in Europe ( not sure what that means). We decided to go back to the shopping center ( small mall) Only to find it closed. We tried another bigger mall and it did have some sales we got in on. We found a warmer casual coat for Dad and another sweater and a hat for me. But mostly we did laundry and worked on our talks for Sunday.
Sunday, December 27. (Porter's Birthday!)
This was an early day for us to get on the road. We had two plus hours to go. To a new city. And not sure of our ability to find the church since it was not in the Garmin yet--- and it didn't like the address we tried. The day was rainy---usually is, but the roads are nice. We had been warned that things have been flooding in some of the outlying areas, but it wasn't too bad. Luckily these are much better roads than only a few years back. The trip used to take at least twice as long they say and often with road troubles. Waterford (famous for Waterford Crystal) is actually a pretty big city, but the branch is only about 70 active. The District has the goal of becoming a stake this year so they are hopeful that Self Reliance can help them achieve it. We are too!
We had a little miracle with getting there. We were getting closing to where we thought Waterford was, but not that close, when the Garmin had us get off the main road into a small town. It was quaint, but not right at all, and not in the right direction at all. Then just as suddenly as it led us wrong, it got on track and took us back to the main road. We had decided to do the same, so maybe it read our plans.
We traveled another 20 minutes or so and came to Waterford, but Garmin was acting all wacky again, which was not great because we didn't want to be late for sacrament meeting --to speak. Then just as we turned the corner, there were Elders! ---who of course wanted a ride, and we're happy to show us the way. We did have a good address,
It is just so different for us to have to allow for travel so far, but the members here are so faithful to come to church and activities and support others even with big distances of 30 to 60 min. to travel. A short drive is "only" 15 min. away. It makes us have to evaluate how we plan the meetings needed for implementing Self Reliance.
Best of all, we LOVED talking to each of you on Christmas! Thank you all for making time for us and sharing your joys! We felt so blessed to have the technology that made us not be too homesick. We are sure we have the Cutest, Best, Most loving, Smartest Grandchildren!!!! Ever!
Saturday, December 26
We are never quite sure when we should be taking a "P" Day because so far our days have been a mix of needs, but this time it was pretty easy. Day after Christmas is "Boxing Day " in Europe ( not sure what that means). We decided to go back to the shopping center ( small mall) Only to find it closed. We tried another bigger mall and it did have some sales we got in on. We found a warmer casual coat for Dad and another sweater and a hat for me. But mostly we did laundry and worked on our talks for Sunday.
Sunday, December 27. (Porter's Birthday!)
This was an early day for us to get on the road. We had two plus hours to go. To a new city. And not sure of our ability to find the church since it was not in the Garmin yet--- and it didn't like the address we tried. The day was rainy---usually is, but the roads are nice. We had been warned that things have been flooding in some of the outlying areas, but it wasn't too bad. Luckily these are much better roads than only a few years back. The trip used to take at least twice as long they say and often with road troubles. Waterford (famous for Waterford Crystal) is actually a pretty big city, but the branch is only about 70 active. The District has the goal of becoming a stake this year so they are hopeful that Self Reliance can help them achieve it. We are too!
We had a little miracle with getting there. We were getting closing to where we thought Waterford was, but not that close, when the Garmin had us get off the main road into a small town. It was quaint, but not right at all, and not in the right direction at all. Then just as suddenly as it led us wrong, it got on track and took us back to the main road. We had decided to do the same, so maybe it read our plans.
We traveled another 20 minutes or so and came to Waterford, but Garmin was acting all wacky again, which was not great because we didn't want to be late for sacrament meeting --to speak. Then just as we turned the corner, there were Elders! ---who of course wanted a ride, and we're happy to show us the way. We did have a good address,
but for some reason the gps was not liking it. Later we realised that had we not taken the
little town tour earlier we would have missed the Elders and likely not found the church
building --- which is part of an office building out of the way. We love miracles!
Well our talks went fine and we attended the rest of the block which really felt like the mission field. Many people were on holiday and sick, but at best it is obviously small. We were impressed with some strong testimonies of the saints who seemed to really appreciate all the missionaries there. (10! Counting us ) about 1/3 of all there.
Following the block we were invited for dinner at the District Pres. Counsellor' s home. We appreciated the time we could,spend with their family as it gave us some greater understanding of Irish families in the church. The Pres. is so humble and full of faith in what SR can do for them. We talked all the way home how we can best serve their district.
Monday, December 28
Today we spent the entire day studying! We felt after Sunday that we could benefit most by studying the SR materials with " new eyes of understanding" and beginning a new power point presentation to use with assignments we have coming up. We want so much to have time well used for these good people who are so willing to sacrifice, but have less to give.
We are afraid this all has been boring, but we do want you to know we have been busy, we have made it through Christmas, and in all, and we are doing well. We love you all so much and hope you are still enjoying the holiday time with lots of fun!
Take care! HUGS!!
Mom and Dad. Grandma and Grandpa. Elder and Sister Pettit
(We took turns writing)
Well our talks went fine and we attended the rest of the block which really felt like the mission field. Many people were on holiday and sick, but at best it is obviously small. We were impressed with some strong testimonies of the saints who seemed to really appreciate all the missionaries there. (10! Counting us ) about 1/3 of all there.
Following the block we were invited for dinner at the District Pres. Counsellor' s home. We appreciated the time we could,spend with their family as it gave us some greater understanding of Irish families in the church. The Pres. is so humble and full of faith in what SR can do for them. We talked all the way home how we can best serve their district.
Monday, December 28
Today we spent the entire day studying! We felt after Sunday that we could benefit most by studying the SR materials with " new eyes of understanding" and beginning a new power point presentation to use with assignments we have coming up. We want so much to have time well used for these good people who are so willing to sacrifice, but have less to give.
We are afraid this all has been boring, but we do want you to know we have been busy, we have made it through Christmas, and in all, and we are doing well. We love you all so much and hope you are still enjoying the holiday time with lots of fun!
Take care! HUGS!!
Mom and Dad. Grandma and Grandpa. Elder and Sister Pettit
(We took turns writing)
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