Its all Relative

Yesterday was a day of service.  We drove to a town about 25 minutes from here to pick up our friend Gisele and bring her to the church so she could work in the library.  She is perhaps the most dedicated ward librarian on the planet. She likes to come in at least once a week (this was her 2nd time this week) to organize and inventory the books, etc. in the library.  She got the approval to purchase some office supplies but since she doesn't have a car, we volunteered to purchase them for her, and then the branch will reimburse us.   Later in the day we drove her to Trois Rivieres (Three Rivers), a city about an hour north east of here for a dentist appointment.  On the way home I noticed the temperature on the car's gauge said it was 3 degrees fahrenheit.  Wow, I thought, it is cold outside!  We were happy to return to our warm apartment.  Luckily I reminded Paul to plug in the heater for the car engine.  This morning I realized that everything truly is relative:  this morning the temperature was -25;  that is negative 25 degrees fahrenheit!  I have never experienced anything like this.  We had an activity with the leadership of the branch and the stake presidency today where we went to visit individuals who haven't been to church in a long time.n's morning, and I was amazed at how everyone, although they mentioned the cold, acted like it is normal.  I bundled up in several layers and I wasn't too cold, except for my face.  I am so grateful for my lined boots and a long wool coat, worth every dollar. Tonight the temperatures will rise (it will be a warmer minus 4) but then the snow arrives.  We are expecting 10-12 inches by tomorrow evening.  I know the schools were closed in Virginia for two days because of the 3-4 inches of snow they received, but church and school will continue as usual here.  Paul is absolutely giddy about the challenge of driving around in the snow tomorrow to pick people up for church; me,, not so much.

Winter is coming

With highs for the day in the low teens, one might consider us in full-out winter.  Not so. We have been told by the locals that, come January, we will relish a day with a high of 17 degrees.  Am I smiling?  No, I am not. We have had a couple of snow storms but not much more than a few inches.  With the cold temps, however, the snow doesn't melt.  The beautiful reservoir near us is frozen over, as is the river that runs through town. We spent a little time the other day taking some pictures of how the Quebecois prepare for winter's onslaught:

These green tarps are apparently placed on the grass to protect from the huge amounts of snow that will be dumped/pushed onto yards from the snow plows.  We suppose that they must really work because we have seen them everywhere.

These lovely plastic structures are erected early in November in anticipation of the snow.  Do they do this in the Northeastern parts of the U.S.?  I don't know.  While hardly attractive, one has to admit they are less expensive than a permanent garage, which isn't needed in the summer months.   And, shoveling one's driveway is eliminated. We have seen blocks of cement laid at the base to hold these in place during the frequent winds we have (Oh, so lovely to be outside at 2 degrees F with a stiff wind!).  The plastic at the entrances to the front doors supposedly cut down on wet junk getting into your home.  We have even see a few really serious residents connect their "garage" to a door covering, making it possible to walk from car to home without going into the snow. And here is a "double" garage:

These Quebecois are serious about being as comfortable as possible in the winter.  I guess they need to be since we have been told that winter lasts until sometime in April. 

Feasting

    Last week we drove to Montreal for a zone conference with Elder Piper of the Seventy.  He was here to conduct a "mission tour".  How well I remember these from our other mission!  It is a time of high stress for the mission president and his wife, but also a chance to be taught what the prophet and apostles want us to know.  The tours now are conducted almost solely by the Seventy because of the number of missions throughout the world.  Even though they come to provide support to the mission president, one still is anxious to have everything perfect so a good report will be made on "your" mission.  As I listened to Sister Patrick give her remarks in beautiful French with no notes and then saw her dealing with her four children, one of whom wasn't necessarily thrilled to be spending a scheduled school holiday in a stake center with at least 100 missionaries, I marveled at her capacity to be unflappable.  She had called me on Sunday evening to ask that I talk to couple of sick missionaries because she was "trying to have a nice dinner with the Pipers."  I was happy to accommodate and gave both of them my normal spiel about drinking lots of water, getting some rest and taking Tylenol if necessary, which always seemed to work in Geneva as long as I added a few "motherly "words of sympathy and encouragement.  Anyway, the conference was great and it gave all the missionaries a spiritual lift, us included.
     "L'hiver commence" (winter begins) here in the north.  We have had highs in the 30's but so far just a little snow.  More is on the way for this weekend, if the forecast is correct.  I purchased some lined boots and a long wool coat, and Paul got some leather "boots" that are more like shoes, but they go up over his ankles.  He is more concerned with looking fashionable and "sharp" than I am.  The Arctic geese are still here and most days the entire surface of the lake/reservoir is covered with them.  One day as we drove past a huge flock of a hundred or more took flight at the same time. But we are assured that once we have some real snow they will head south.  I guess 21 degrees at night doesn't seem unpleasant to birds from the Arctic.  I will post some pictures in the next couple of days of how the locals prepare for the onslaught.
     I never got this posted, so will add a few more things and get it done.  It is now November 24th, and although it is nearly Thanksgiving in the U.S., there is no sign of a holiday here.  We went to Costco yesterday to purchase some food for a family in the branch;  I searched in vain for one of their famous pumpkin pies.  I did find a couple of frozen turkeys.  It is strange to be so removed from all the hoopla of Thanksgiving dinner and 'Black Friday'.  We will be teaching our regularly scheduled English class on Thursday night, and will go to bed early with absolutely no thoughts of getting a deal at a store.
    We are going to begin teaching the temple preparation class to two single individuals; we already are teaching another who is nearly ready to go to the temple.  We are also planning a marriage class, and we meet weekly with a man who is participating in the addiction recovery classes via phone.  We continue to work with several less-active members, and a couple of investigators.  It doesn't always seem like we are busy, but the days fly by and I have much to put into the record of our work.  Once again recently I had a confirmation from Heavenly Father that we are here for a reason.  One of the sisters who is preparing to go the temple looked me in the eye and said, "You may sometimes think you are doing anything very important here, but I an assure you that, if for no other reason, you are here for me." She couldn't possibly know how important this statement was to me!    
   

Really?

   On November 3rd we were on our way to visit a family when we saw this , all lit up in a yard:

This may be the earliest date I have ever seen holiday decorations other than in Walmart.  Nov. 3rd, really?  I suppose they are just getting a jump start on the impending snow storms, predicted to begin this next week.  And, to their credit, this is a Snowman, not a Santa...
    Speaking of colder temps,  we have already been 'enjoying' (enduring?) some 20 degree temperatures, complete with a brisk wind. And we have learned that the temperature has a huge impact on the Arctic geese.  The members of my English class told me that the geese arrive in early October and will remain until the first significant snow, which could be up to two months from October 1st.  (I, for one, am hoping they are here well into December.)  As I said, they leave the lake every morning and return later in the day.  They head off to nearby fields to feast on the remains of the harvested crops, mostly corn and corn husks, then come back to the water for the night.  Every morning about sunrise, we can hear deafening honking above as they fly to find food.  Then, later in the day, they return.  It defies description.  We have taken numerous pictures, but what we really need is a good video recorder. (Now where is that huge monster camera Paul used to haul around on his shoulder when the kids were young?)

    To add to my previous post about receiving little ( and big!) heavenly encouragements to help us continue on, we received a nice email from one of our former missionaries the other day.  He is a ward missionary in his ward and he wrote to tell us that one of the zone conference teachings from 6 years ago had been very useful now, in his new calling. He wanted to thank "President Peterson"  for his insights. What is interesting about this is that we had forgotten those ideas, and now we can use them in our own member/missionary work.

More on those who pop up; and language faux-paux

     We continue  to have confirmations that Heavenly Father is aware of us.  He keeps nudging us onward at just the right times so we remain motivated and encouraged.  Specifically, often when we go out to do an errand we run into someone who asks us about the church, or about what we are doing here.  I wrote earlier about the woman at the coat store.  Recently, on another evening as we waited for our Kentucky Fried Chicken order (you know Paul and his concept of "eating out"), a young man engaged us in conversation about the "Mormons".  He was a member of a pentecostal organization, but was very nice.  Again, a positive experience for him and for us.  Another evening we were at Sears (the most 'up-scale' store here- ha!) where they had a couple of coats on sale. The young man working at check-out asked us if we were Mormons. He was very cordial and told us his father is a Mormon.  We have had other encounters as well.
     In another little validation, while we at stake conference last weekend the visiting authority showed the congregation a new video on member/missionary work (excellent,  by the way) which he encouraged all to watch and use in their families. We had discovered this video the week before and have already been using it with the families we visit.  We weren't smug, but grateful that we had been led to do something which was approved of and encouraged by our church leaders.
     Maybe I need these assurances more than most, but these seemingly small events serve to remind me that this isn't my work, and that He knows my needs, and those of each of His children.
     On another topic, we continue to provide some comic relief to those around us by saying dumb things in French.  I thanked a lady for bringing one of our less-actives to stake conference, using the word for bringing things, not people- I guess you had to be there to get the full effect of its stupidity.  Yesterday we had to get our car winterized and while waiting we watched in awe as the young woman who handles the office made calls, printed out receipts, talk to customers, etc.  In trying to pay her a compliment Paul said to her "You are the brains of this operation".  She looked a little startled, then smiled politely.  Later we were told by a native that this expression doesn't make sense in French, and that what he has really said  was "You are the brain in this surgery."  I have been known to get flustered and say "Au Revoir" instead of "Bonjour".  This happens sometimes at a grocery store, where one would normally say hello to the clerk at check-out;  I say "good-bye".  In my defense it is because I am distracted with worry that I might be asked a question I don't understand, like "paper or plastic", or "Do you have a rewards card?".  I know the definition of idiot is in order....    

Les Oies Blanches-White Geese!

    Apparently all the stories of birds flying south for the winter originated here.  We have a nice-sized reservoir near us and about a week ago we noticed large groups of white birds resting on the water. The number has increased over the last week to the point that the water looks more white than blue.  A few days ago we noticed that Victoriaville was holding a fete this weekend to celebrate the white geese. A little googling provided some interesting facts about this annual phenomenon.  Apparently the geese congregate here because hunting is not allowed; they somehow know this, and thus can rest safely.  Most of these are white Arctic geese, not the Canadian geese we sometimes see in the U.S., although there are some these darker ones as well.  They seem to come in the early afternoon, and by early evening hundreds of them are flying, in formation, away from the lake.  It is something to see and hear, but it is nearly impossible to capture the whole effect in  a picture. However, here are some of the fabulous pictures my talented Elder Peterson took:
       

Guest Birthday Posts #5 & #6

Today, on Dad's birthday, we will end our guest posts with the 2 youngest of their children.  We (your 6 children, 5 son/daughter-in-laws, and 17.5 grandchildren) are truly grateful for the service you give and the example you continually set for all of us.  Thank you!

Guest Blogger: Brett

Mom and Dad,

Happy Birthday!

While I was a missionary up in the northern part of the new territories in an area called Fanling, one afternoon while on exchanges we had a small but subtle prompting to go to an area that is not very conducive to street contacting. It is a large square in the center of some apartment buildings that contained a big fountain in the center of the square. We were walking around the fountain and contacting people who were walking around the square. At one particular time we stopped someone and my companion was talking to this person and trying to have a street discussion with them. I was praying in my mind that this individual would open their heart and feel the spirit testify of the truth and the intent of our message. I remember seeing a kid about 8-10 years old (its hard to tell how old Chinese kids are because of their misleading size) out of the corner of my eye walking along the edge of the fountain. The fountain didn't have any water in it. The drain at the bottom of the fountain was about 2 feet by 1 foot and had a metal mesh sheet covering the drain. The corner of the metal mesh sheet had been bent and was pointing up into the air about a half of an inch. My companion continued to talk to the person that we stopped as the kid continually went around and around the edge of the fountain. All of a sudden the kid tripped and fell into the fountain. He landed head first on the corner of the metal mesh grate and it lanced his head. Instantly as he stood up his head began to gush with blood. My companion and I ran over to the kid and began to administer to him. As if I was reading the boy scout handbook word for word, I pulled out my handkerchief and put it on his head to try and stop the bleeding. I then told my companion to help me lay him down and elevate his legs. We were quickly surrounded by a group of people just watching what was going. We were the only people helping! After a few minutes the mother of this kid comes running up and starts screaming etc... my companion calms her down and I ask someone standing nearby to call for an ambulance. Eventually the paramedics arrive and take over for me and my companion. We then go to a nearby restroom to wash up etc before we head home.
This was an awesome experience for a lot of reasons. Some that I can think of:

1. We were in full proselyting gear helping someone

2. We were actually recognized by bystanders for the help that we were giving

3. I had an overwhelming confirmation on the bus ride home from that experience that I was in the place that I was supposed to be doing the things that I was supposed to be doing at the right time.

As I reflect on this experience, I only wish that bystanders seeing us teaching someone the eternal truths of the gospel on the street would garner such acceptance of our message as the physical help that we were able to give that little boy. Because at the end of the day we are all in need of this same emergency assistance, only spiritually.

I loved my mission. I loved my mission for the experiences that it gave me the good, bad, and the ugly. It made me appreciate the place where I was born, the family that I was born and raised in, and the blessings that I received while growing up. It also helped me to understand that all things are for our good and are given or presented to us for our benefit.

Guest Blogger: Jaclyn (in her own words - it's "short but sincere" - I'll add that it's a fabulous and most perfect way to end our birthday posts!)

One of the things I loved most about moving to North Carolina after being at BYU for so long was attending a ward where we actually had investigators. The missionaries would sit at "the pit" on campus once a week and talk to students going to and from classes and invite them to church or institute. I was able to attend several baptisms in the two years I was there and it was always so uplifting to see the faith and courage of my peers who were accepting the gospel, many of them doing so without family support. It had a great impact on my life and caused me to look more closely at the way I was living my religion. It helped me focus on making sure that I wasn't only active in the church, but active in the gospel as well. I'm so blessed to know those people.  It has been so wonderful to see many of them serve missions, get married in the temple, and take on leadership responsibilities in the church in the last few years. It is a testimony to me that the gospel of Jesus Christ changes the lives of those who embrace it for the better.

Guest Birthday Post #4

October 22 - Guest Blogger: Paige

I was thinking a few weeks ago how I haven’t had the experience of converting someone to the gospel.  I haven’t served a mission, and I’m very uncomfortable bringing up religion (or politics!) to anyone unless they specifically ask.  Then my son got baptized, and I realized I had done it!  I had taught someone the gospel and the result was a baptism. :)  And what a good little convert he is, too--the next night he read his new scriptures for two hours.

One thing I do really enjoy is answering questions and dispelling myths online.  I’m more comfortable writing than talking, and it makes me feel good to set the record straight on a lot of misconceptions people have about the LDS church and its members.  My own testimony is strengthened when defending my beliefs, and I’ve had some really meaningful religious discussions with friends and other people online.  I’m very grateful for the opportunity technology has given this shy girl to share the gospel in a way that I believe really makes a difference.

Birthday Guest Post #3

October 21 - Guest Blogger: Courtney
    It's been hard trying to figure out what I wanted to share but the experience that has entered my mind more than any other is one that I didn't understand until months after I got home from my mission.  Over the course of my mission I had several fevers, many of them quite severe.  They never kept me from doing the work, even when I felt like I needed to be in bed.  2 months before ending my mission, I was called to train a new missionary.  There was another sister in a neighboring area that also was called as a trainer, but on her way to pick up her new missionary, she was in a car accident.  That entire first month, I acted as trainer for both new missionaries and we worked both areas.  The next month, my last month in the mission, I got very sick and had a fever that lasted 2 weeks.  I was in bed the majority of the time and too sick to go outside of our apartment.  We had to make arrangements with ward members to take my companion out and she, being 1 month out on the mission had to carry the majority of the burden of running an area.  I had never felt so frustrated in my life, knowing that not only was I putting great responsibility on my companion, but that I was missing out on the precious time I had left.  After my mission ended and I was in Utah out at school, I got a phone call from that companion.  I was shocked to hear from her as she was supposed to still be in Argentina.  She told me that she had 6 more weeks in that first area and then on her next transfer, she was sent to a new area and was made a trainer!  She was in that area about 4 weeks when she got very ill and it was discovered that a hole in her stomach was leaking stomach acid into her bloodstream, essentially poisoning her.  She was sent back home and needed to end her mission.  After speaking with her, it hit me hard that my trials at the end of my mission weren't so much for my benefit, but hers.  She needed to have a complete mission experience: serving in 3 different areas, running an area on her own, and training a new missionary.  She needed this complete experience but had only about 5 months total in the country to do it all.  She expressed to me that although she was frustrated to leave the mission early, she felt very at peace that she had the experience as the Lord had intended her to and she knew that her mission was complete.
   I do think it's a hard lesson to learn, but eventually we understand that not every experience we have is for our benefit... our Father in Heaven loves all of His children.  He gives us ALL opportunities for growth in this life in a variety of ways.  You may not understand the why of everything you experience, but He does.  It's up to us to do the best we can in any situation and trust that He will take care of the rest.

Birthday guest post #2

October 20: Guest Blogger - Andrea

I had many meaningful experiences while serving a mission but there is one lesson I learned that I think of often, especially since I have become a mother.  

I had served what would be considered a successful and honorable mission. I worked hard, strengthened and shared my testimony, found people who were interested in the gospel and taught them about Heavenly Father's Plan. I had been faithful and had seen the power of God at work in his children's lives. One evening during my last few weeks as a missionary, my companion and I found ourselves with a little free time on our hands.  I think we had had an appointment to teach a lesson that had fallen through.  We were at the chapel in a part of town that had been thoroughly visited by missionaries.  It was a dark and stormy night, literally.  We discussed our options and felt strongly that we should go tracting.  We did.  We were out for what seemed like a couple of hours, knocked on many doors, talked to a few people, but had no results that would have been consider outstanding or significant. As we walked home I had an overwhelming feeling that what we had done was correct.  That the Lord was pleased with our obedience.   

As I continue to experience the lessons that come with every choice, those feelings becomes of more value to me.  I have known the confidence and the peace that comes with obedience and I am (still!) learning that it is preferable to all other situations. As with that last tracting endeavor, not all decisions we make, good or bad, will have immediately visible or tangible fruit, but every decision we make is of consequence, sometimes to nothing else but the making of who we are and what we will become. These building blocks cannot be taken lightly because they will eventually define us. 

Happy Birthday! (Introduction)

  As many of the blog readers may know, Sister Peterson's birthday is today (Oct. 19) and Elder Peterson's birthday is in a few days (Oct. 23).  As a celebration of their lives and missionary service, their children decided to share some missionary experiences that have impacted them or their family in some way.    These experiences will be posted everyday between their birthdays.  Thank you both for your amazing examples!  Happy Birthday!!!

OCT 19 - Guest Blogger: Trent

Power of planting a seed

When Jane was 5 years old she saw and interacted with missionaries in her home after they tracted into her mother and visited them a few times.  It wasn't until 13 years later that Jane was asked by a friend if she wanted to attend an activity at a nearby chapel.  It was the initial interaction and memories of those earlier missionaries that gave her the comfort to attend that activity which led to her eventual conversion and joining the church.  So you never know what seeds are being planted and how long it will take for them to grow.  Your example and the influence you have on others is so easy to dismiss because we rarely see the impact of our own actions on others over time.

Home and Back

   Last Thursday we left our mission boundaries in a big way.  We flew to Utah for the baptism of Paige and Matt's oldest son.  It was a short visit and we were determined to stick to the East Coast time schedule, which meant going to bed at 9:30 or so, and getting up about 4:30. Technically we should have been asleep by 8:30, but that just wasn't possible.
   We had a lovely time, the baptism was marvelous, and we were able to see many family members.  I will admit there was just a minute or two when I fantasized about staying. Then I remembered the individuals who are counting on us: for rides, for English class, for lessons, for nurturing, for the food boxes every Saturday, etc., and I knew we needed to return asap. It is amazing how intertwined we are in the lives of these people already. We arrived back in Montreal on Monday night, a 9-hour trip which included a four hour layover in Chicago (we will endure anything to save a couple of bucks). On the bright side, Paul re-entered Canada on his Canadian passport and thus expedited the customs requirements.  Is this a definition of getting in on someone's coat tails? If so, it was well worth it. Guess I will continue to stick with him.
   Today I reflected on the marvel that we are here, in Victoriaville.  There are at least four single church members here who have become friends and with whom we have ongoing interactions.  There was a retired couple here in the branch who had been helping these individuals, but a couple of months ago they were called as senior missionaries and are attending a branch in another city (while living at home).  Today I wondered who would have been able to pick up the responsibilities for these wonderful individuals if the mission president had decided to place us somewhere else in Quebec.  As challenging as it is some days to feel that we are as busy as we would like to be, there is no doubt that the Lord knew the needs of these singles, and provided us to help fulfill those needs.  He does love His children.

They pop up everywhere

    In the last month or so, we have literally been handed some opportunities to share our beliefs with others.  I mean, even when we haven't been looking for likely individuals, (I know, I know, we should always be looking )  there one is, right in front of us.  Here are a few examples:
    Paul and I went to the mall one day to look at warm winter coats.  We had been told not to buy one beforehand because there would be better, and warmer ones here.  (I am not sure that is true, by the way.)  As I was looking at one, a sales lady came up and asked if she could help us.  Since I wasn't completely sure what she said and didn't know how to fluently answer her, I turned to my companion.  He struck up a conversation with her and in doing so, found out she is a widow but her mother-in-law is a member of the church, an English speaker, living in another part of Quebec. We talked with her a bit about the church, why we are here, and invited her to English class. She didn't come, but at least she had a nice conversation with a "Mormon". It might help when she meets another later.
   Then, we had the experience at the hair salon where the stylist wanted to know all about what we teach people. ( See the 'Flash to the past' post) We visited her at her home, with her 14-year-old daughter, showed them the Restoration DVD, and gave them each a copy of the Book of Mormon. They came to church once.  She now says she isn't too interested in hearing more, but since her daughter is, we still have hopes that this will continue.   We will keep trying.  The point is, we were able to teach her some gospel principles.
  For me, the most exciting and challenging encounter occurred last week. I have been meeting with a woman who attends our English class.  She offered to meet with me once a week to help me with my  French.  I have a conversation with her in French for thirty minutes, and then we switch.  Last Wednesday she came  in and said. "I would like you to tell me about Mormons,  I read a little about a man named Joseph Smith and am wondering about him.  Tell me about him in French." So, for the next twenty minutes I bumbled along in terrible French, telling her of Joseph's experiences with prayer, the first vision, and the Book of Mormon.  I gave her a copy of the Book of Mormon, asked her to read the Introduction, and said we would discuss it further this coming week.  I am a missionary!  And it felt good.

Want a laugh today?

   My back has been giving me fits for the last week or so and it is difficult to keep positive when in pain ( at least for me).  We have been experiencing some glorious "Indian summer" days (not sure that is still politically correct to say?), and so, to lift my spirits,  for our Preparation Day we drove to a city abut 45 minutes from here in search of what we had been told was a restored "old town"  similar to those in Europe.  Unfortunately, from what we could determine, it turned out to be more of a tourist trap, where one pays to enter and see some old buildings.  When we drove past, there were two women about my age, standing out front in costumes from the 1700's.  I could't take a picture because it would have been too obvious.  The funny thing about this was that when we pulled up to ask them a question about the site, they told us it was closed.  Apparently, their job that day was to stand out front, in costume, and tell people it was closed.
    With that outing a bust, we decided to go have lunch.  Since the weather was absolutely gorgeous, we found a restaurant with outside seating and ordered salads.  They were the some of the most beautiful salads I have ever seen.  Here is Paul with his crab salad:

    Now for your entertainment, here is me with mine.  I laugh every time I look at this picture, mostly because the only other response would be to cry:

  In my defense,  I didn't know he was taking the picture.  Paul's comment was, "There is nothing I can do to please her!"   Hope this makes your day better, as you gratefully contemplate that you don't look like this...

It's nice, and a little unbelievable.

    Life in Victoriaville is vastly different in some ways than in life in northern Virginia.  In some ways it feels like the way it was "in the good old days".  Except for grocery stores, the stores all close daily at 5 or 6 p.m., including those in the mall.  The mall, and other businesses, (except grocery stores)  are all closed on Sunday, and the grocery stores are closed by about 5 on Sunday.  There is a definite tranquility in the downtown area on Sundays, and although many people go on walks around the lake or on the numerous paths (which wind through the town) and do not go to a church service, Sunday feels like a day of rest.  Here is another example which just seemed incredible to us. Last Wednesday afternoon we took our car to have new tires put on and a block heater installed.  Block heaters, for those of you who live where the temperature never dips below 0 degrees fahrenheit, are devices which keep the engine warm enough to prevent freezing.  Every parking space in apartment buildings and homes has an outlet attached to a board, in plain view, which one uses to plug in the block heater. Here is what they look like:

 
   And just so you know what we are in for as far as winter is concerned,  when was the last time you saw this on the side of the road? (Yes, that's a snow mobile)

     The garage lent us a car for the day without even looking at a driver's license. True, they had our car which was much newer than the rental.  Anyway, the bill for four new snow-ready tires, and the block heater was significant.  When we went to retrieve our vehicle, the woman who runs the garage with her husband told Paul their computer was down, and asked if he could come back this next week to pay the bill.  We hadn't given them so much as a driver's license, a credit card number, or any I.D. of any kind and away we drove with all the new items. We aren't sure if our missionary plaques convinced her of our honesty or if she have that much faith in mankind generally.  I would like to believe that in some parts of the world trust is still a viable characteristic.  Update:  when we sent in to pay the bill yesterday, Paul asked the owner if they often let people take their repaired vehicle and pay later.  She said that yes, on occasion they have to do that, and they just hope the individual will return and pay them!

Boxed Service

Every Saturday morning, Elder Peterson meets the Elders at a local grocery store.  I would go with him, but there isn't room for me after he picks up crates of donated food items from the store.  The owner is the sister of a member (used to be his father, but he retired) and she has generously decided to donate all food that is expiring but still, in most cases, edible.  Each week we are given enough to fill the entire back of the Sequoia to the top.  Last week Paul had to make two trips because there was so much, including boxes and boxes of frozen items. The food is brought here to our carport where we divide it up among about 10 families, sometimes more if we have lots of food that week.  Last week we literally took food to half the branch members.  This takes us several hours, and it isn't necessarily a clean activity, so we don't wear our proselyting clothes.  So far the weather has cooperated but I wonder what it will be like when it is 10 below and windy :)

 Last week we had so much frozen food that we went to Walmart and bought a small chest freezer which was on sale. Later in the week, we then gave as much of the frozen stuff away as we could.
  I also made loaves and loaves of banana bread which we distributed to all the Elders in our district at District Meeting, and to members when we stopped to visit.  Sometimes it is a challenge to know what to do with what we are given.  For example, a few weeks ago we were given 40 jars of Cheez Whiz.  Why did the store have so much left over?  Exactly. No one eats that stuff.  We gave some away, ignoring the surprised and unappreciative responses,  and stored some in our little storage unit, hoping that we could put it the boxes when we didn't have as much other food.  Now, though, I think we are going to have to throw some of it away. This is a very "green" community so I felt compelled to recycle the jars. I thought I could soften it up by putting it in hot water--nope.  The difficulty of getting Cheez Whiz out of the jars should be an indication of the lack of its nutritional value. After spending considerable time to clean out just 8 jars, I decided that the environment might have to suffer a little. It will undoubtedly be found in some coming century and be a mystery to all.  However, despite the plague of Cheez Whiz, it feels good to do some service!

Flash to the past equals success

When Paul was 10 he wore his hair in a buzz cut.  His hair was so short he couldn't part it, and it looked cute on him (from the pictures I've seen).  Well,  fifty-three years later,  the effects of gravity, sun, and lots of cookies and brownies have not necessarily made a buzz cut the best option today.  This week he had to try it out again.

Now for the story behind this new do.  Last Tuesday we were both in need of a haircuts.  Remembering our frustrations in Switzerland with this task, I practiced saying, with firmness, "not too short" in French.  We had chosen to try a place called, appropriately, "Adam and Eve", but there was a sign on the door saying "Closed for Labor Day", even though it was the day after Labor Day.  So, we  searched for somewhere else that didn't require an appointment.  We found one a few blocks away and went in.  A delightfully friendly woman cut my hair first, and since I couldn't really communicate much,  my cut was acceptable.  Then it was Paul's turn.  He told her just to take a little off and she said she would.  However, she immediately asked him about our plaques and what church we represented and the conversation took off.  Unfortunately for Paul, so did his hair, for the more they talked, the more she cut!  Her 14-year-old daughter had come to an activity with a branch member one time, so she knew where the building is.  We told her about our English class, starting that evening and she was excited to come, which she did.  A couple of days later we went back to her shop to invite her to come to church on Sunday.  She said she and her daughter had already talked about it and they were planning on it. We are hopeful to see them tomorrow.
     To continue the story, we went the next day to visit a woman who moved here two years ago but hasn't chosen to come to church yet. She is originally from Haiti. We have gone by her office (she won't give us her home address or phone number) to see her before; she is always very friendly. We happened to check the birthdays of branch members that morning and saw that her daughter's was that day, so we took a card and Costco muffin for her (oh, how grateful I am for a Costco just an hour away!) .  Anyway, we told her about the woman we had invited to church this week, who is also from Haiti.  Turned out they know each other, and this woman had actually been her teacher in Haiti, several years ago.  What are the chances of that? We asked that she come to help make our new friend feel welcome--we are hopeful she will be there too.  Paul's brutally short hair may very well lead to some real missionary successes.

Some Special People

  Since arriving we have met some individuals who have faith-promoting life stories.  The first week here, we met Dianne.  She is confined to a wheelchair (one of those motorized ones!) as she is paralyzed.  I wrote earlier about her strong Quebecois accent, although she can speak English.  We go to her apartment each week for a Family Home Evening of sorts; mostly we sing a hymn, and then the single man who also attends reads a chapter or two of the Book of Mormon.  Dianne is an inspiration to us--her positive attitude is reflected every time we see her.  She doesn't have much, materially, and is certainly restricted physically, but spiritually she is immeasurably wealthy. She is happy to be alive, and she makes us appreciative for all we have been blessed with and reminded that we need to express our gratitude continually.
    Another lady we have come to know is Gisele.  Her story of how the missionaries found her demonstrates how Heavenly Father truly knows His children.  As a child, Gisele was drawn to religion and carried her Bible with her constantly.  She told us she had always believed in God, and was devout in her Catholicism.  However, as an adult, her husband was abusive and she felt there was no way to survive except to divorce him.  Of course,  the Catholic Church does not accept divorce, and Gisele felt ostracized from the church.  One day she was praying to God to send someone to help her. There was a knock on her door.  Voila! Two missionaries asked if there was a man there--they had talked him earlier and he had told them to come to this apartment. At the time, Gisele was living in a garage apartment, behind a house, not seen from the street, and with no number on it.  Gisele knew no one of that description, but she asked them about what they were doing and invited them in.  They couldn't go in but they gave her a pamphlet to read.  She read it all that afternoon, and saw references to an "Alma".  She called the missionaries and asked them who this was, and they said he was a prophet in a book of scripture they had.  She told them she needed that book!  They returned with a member, and when they gave her a copy of the Book of Mormon she told them she knew it was true before she opened it. By the way, the Elders never saw the man again.  She was baptized in 2008, but due to some very serious health problems, she has slipped away a few times.  We found her name on the less-active list and went  to her apartment the first week we were here. We left a card at her door when she didn't answer.  When we called her later, she asked that we come to see her. We are now teaching her every week and she told us she would like to get to the temple before we finish our mission.  We are hopeful that we can accompany her.  Her health is declining, so time is not on our side. Each week we take her home at some point during the 3-hour block when she can't stay any longer because of the pain. The first night we visited her, she looked me in the eye and told me that I was on my mission so that I could help her.  It was a confirmation to me that I needed then.
   There is another lady I want to write about, and her story is just beginning.  She came to church today and stayed for the full three hours.  She first saw missionaries in Quebec City awhile ago.  She and her husband were eating at a MacDonald's and she saw two young men in white shirts and ties. One of them got his food and sat at a table, then waited until the other sat down before he started to eat. She was amazed at his politeness--young people today don't do that.  She spoke to them, told them she wanted to know more,  and they took her name and sent missionaries to her here.  She has had just two lessons, but today at church, after Relief Society, I gave her one of our missionary cards with our name and number.  She said, "Oh, does this mean you will be my visiting sister?  Today we talked about them and I would really like to be assigned one."  I had missed most of the RS lesson to take Gisele home, but I gather the lesson was on some aspect of visiting teaching.  This is what we would call "a golden investigator" !  (And just so no one will surmise that my French has progressed miraculously, let me add that this woman speaks fluent French, English, and Spanish).  We are going with the Elders later this week to teach her again.
   There are others to write about, but I will leave those for another time.  Missions are great.

Double Trouble

    Yesterday Paul received his Canadian passport.  He can now avoid the draft by coming back the motherland.  We are not sure how useful this will be but it is kind of nice to have duel citizenship. At least now, if we are stopped, he won't have to explain why he doesn't have a visa.

     We have spent quite a bit of time in the apartment this week, working on missionary things. We assembled the branch area book, similar to what each companionship of missionaries has in their apartment.  We met with the branch president and his counselors to encourage them to work with their ward council and create a branch mission plan. Paul worked some more on the small brochure to hand out to members to help them in their missionary efforts. We also made two trips to Costco (an hour away) to get supplies for a father's and sons activity on Saturday. While necessary, this kind of missionary work isn't as fulfilling as doing missionary work with people. (But I will take it over knocking on doors anytime!)  We have heard from several sources that an assignment of "member and leader support", as ours is,  can be difficult.  Mostly this is true, as I have commented about previously, because there are no guidelines about what to do.  We have to decide how to keep ourselves effectively busy, and one constantly worries that his/her choices aren't the inspired ones.  Many times senior couples are assigned to more than one ward in this assignment, but here we are in a small branch.  I know this is where we are supposed to be, but some days are harder than others.  Just like every other missionary experience, I guess!
    On Monday, our preparation day, we drove to Montreal to the mission office.  Courtney had mailed us a package with 2 pairs of Paul's shoes that he forgot, and a ratty old skirt that is my favorite.  I like to wear it on Sundays and have been missing the old thing.  Anyway, while in Montreal we spent a couple  of hours in the old part of the city.  Hardly old as compared to Europe, but definitely has an old world feel to it.  I forgot to take pictures! But since we plan to return more than once I wasn't too upset about it.
     Yesterday was District training meeting.  The mission president recently asked that these be held in English, so I was looking forward to it.  However, a senior couple from this stake recently started their mission and since they speak only French, it was all in that language.  Another 90 minutes of straining to understand the gist of what was being said. I know, I know, this is good for me.  

Meaningful visits and other Activities

    We spent some time on the road this week.  Tuesday we traveled to Trois Rivieres (3 rivers), a city about an hour from here, for District Teaching (the old District Meeting).  Of course we took the Elders with us and enjoyed the Subway sandwich Elder Peterson bought for them afterwards (insert smiley face here).
    Yesterday after collecting the delivering the food boxes all morning, we drove to the stake center for a stake priesthood meeting.  We took a nice little (he is really short) man with us who speaks only French.  You all know how chatty Paul is , so it was a silent 90 minute ride each way.  My companion thought I should go and read in the car rather than stay at home. Not sure I needed to, but I did have some time to relax during the two-hour meeting.  The stake center is next door to the temple, and I would have gone if there had been a session--it closes at 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Paul said the meeting was very, very inspiring.  The stake has a goal of 1000 converts in the next two years.
   
    This week was highlighted by a wonderful visit we had with a a woman who hasn't been to church for some time (I am not sure just how long).  She has had some absolutely terrible health problems which have made her life a challenge. In the process of having brain surgery, facial paralysis and diabetes, to name a few, she has fallen away.  When I hear these stories I wonder if I would be strong enough in the same circumstances?  Her conversion story is nothing less than miraculous but I don't want to write about it until I have her permission. We spent an hour or so one evening at her home.  Perhaps the best part of it for me was that she wants to practice her english, which she speaks rather well (another tender mercy form Heavenly Father).   She came to church today and was warmly welcomed by the branch members.  She had a concern about not being able to stay for the full 3 hour block, and we assured her that we would take her home whenever she felt too ill to stay.  She lives about 25 minutes from the church and another member brought her; we took her home after Sunday School, then returned to the church.
    Paul was given a new calling today--he was called as the Branch Mission Leader.  The branch clerk had some challenges in entering the calling into "the system"  because we are not officially part of the branch--our records are still in our Virginia ward. This afternoon we went to try to visit a lady who had been taught back in 2010.  Malheureusement (it means 'sadly'--but I love this word!)  she had passed away.  We then spent several hours brainstorming on how to help the branch members become more successful in their missionary work.  Here is our fabulous white board:
       

      And here is the brochure which my talented husband compiled for the members.  Inside it has lists of ways to accomplish what Elder Eyring says in the quote on the front.  If you want to know what he says in English, you can go to the September 2012 issue of the Ensign. (I would put a link but I don't have Jaclyn here to tell me how to do that). And yes, I know it is out of focus.

    That's it for my entry for this week.  It might be a little boring for some, but hey, this is a record mostly for us, so sorry....  

Just when I had some hope

   Last Tuesday we were invited to dine at a member's home.  We have learned that here in Quebec (pronounced 'Kay-beck', by the way)  the term "souper" (pronounced 'soupay") is often used for dinner.  I think this is because, unlike France and other parts of Europe, the dinner meal is eaten early , around 5:30 or 6:00, and it does not take 3 hours.  This is helpful to our young missionaries who are asked to follow a strict time schedule.
   The dinner was very nice although they gave us portions fit for a 19-20 year old young man.  And, just as I was garnering some hope in my language progress, we were totally immersed in a family of fast-talking Quebecois speakers.  They had a son and daughter there as well as a boyfriend (or husband).  These dominated the conversation, which was fine, but I felt that I had dropped into some country where a completely unknown language was used.  I literally did not understand two words in the hour-long discourse.  Paul was little help.  Afterwards I asked him what he got out of what had been said and he determined they had lived in their house since 1864 (boy, they looked great !) and that this daughter may or may not be married to the young man who showed up half-way through the meal.  Another huge dose of humble pie.
   On Wednesday night we drove to Quebec City for a zone conference the following morning.  We took the two elders from our city with us and dropped them off at another missionary apartment.  Unfortunately, there was little communication ahead of time (surprise, surprise) between these two groups and we ended up waiting in the car for 40 minutes for the hosting missionaries to get home.
As they in French "Ca va."   We did enjoy the zone conference and the instruction given by the mission president.  So nice to be a listener and learner instead of a speaker and teacher!  President Patrick mentioned something in his teaching and then looked at Paul and said, "Elder Peterson, you have been a mission president, did you do it this way?"  So, the cat is now out of the bag, as they say.  We had hoped to keep this information quiet because of increased expectations, etc. etc.  Afterwards, in the car, the elders from our town said "So, Elder Peterson, in telling what you have done in the past, you conveniently forgot an important part."  He told them he didn't think that it was pertinent to what we are now doing.
    Today we went to a member's house and gathered several boxes of food to distribute to some of the more needy members of the branch. I can't remember if I wrote of this before, but the father of one of our members (the father is not a member) owns a grocery store in town.  Each week he allows someone from the branch to go and get boxes of food with expiring 'sell by' dates, which are then divided and distributed. Another branch member has been picking up the food for a long time now, and he has asked us to take over this responsibility.  What a nice service from the store owner and the member who has done all this for so long!
    Paul has designed a flyer for English class, which we are putting up around town wherever we can find a bulletin board.  I think it looks quite professional.  We are hoping for a good turnout when class begins in Sept.  Here is the flyer:

  We found that one business which had a bulletin board was none other than our favorite spot to get  ice cream.  We felt obligated this afternoon to purchase a couple of ice cream cones as a thank you for providing the bulletin board.

Poutine and other blessings

   Today we took the Elders to do their shopping and drop off their laundry.  Not sure if I wrote about this already, but there is a family who takes the laundry every Monday and does it for the young missionaries.  What a great act of service!  It is something I would never have thought of, but it saves the Elders time and money.  We then took them to the grocery store, and lunch.  Their car was impounded over a month ago because they were stopped for speeding ( only a few miles over the limit) but neither had an international driver's license.  Now they jokingly told us they are the only missionaries with an attorney.  Anyway, we provide rides for them when the weather is bad or time is an issue.  Today they asked to have us go eat at a famous little cafe where they sell Poutine. This is a dish unique to Quebec.  It consists of french fries, placed in a bowl with large chunks of soft, mild cheese, and a special gravy-like sauce poured over the top.  Paul and I ordered the "small" size to share and you can see below that it was huge--we didn't finish it.  It was quite tasty, but given the calories involved I am not sure we will eat it again.  I would prefer to enjoy my extra calories (as if I have any!) at the ice cream shop I mentioned earlier.

        ( Not sure what's up with my hair-it was windy outside and Paul's hairspray obviously works better than mine)

      Friday we attended a baptism at the branch.  It was a beautiful young woman who has been attending off and on for the last 8 years.  The branch turned out in great support, and it was a lovely event.  Afterwards  there was a pot luck (pronounced 'pote-look').  These people like to eat!  The next day was a fete called Le Ble D'Inde which literally means the 'wheat of Indian' where we had fresh corn on the cob (tons of it) along with hot dogs and fixings.  Then, yesterday, was branch conference and after the 3 hour block there was yet another pote-luck.  I brought two quiche but I don't know if they were any good because neither Paul nor I had a bite to eat until two hours later and by then only a bit of salad was left.  I decided that if I can't talk to anyone I can at least serve them by doing dishes, cleaning up, etc.  This community prides itself (almost to a fault) in being environmentally responsible which means no paper products--every dish and glass and all silverware must be washed and dried. By the end of the three days I am sure I washed or dried 400 dishes or more, but I am NOT complaining because at least I felt useful.
   Yesterday in Relief Society I nearly lost it, and by that I mean I nearly burst into tears because I could not understand anything that was being said. I was so frustrated and I allowed many negative thoughts to creep into my mind about why we were here.  And then, just at the end of the afternoon,  to reassure me, Heavenly Father prompted the stake president to ask us to talk with him privately.  He asked us about our church callings and leadership experience (Paul admitted he had been a mission president-something we had hoped to keep quiet). He then gave us the vision for this area and told us how grateful he was that we had been assigned here.  I again knew we were sent because we are needed; and I also know I must have lots to learn while here.  Now, we must figure out the "how"...

Innovative

    Here a couple of things that we have found different and probably better than at home in the U.S.  They sell milk in plastic bags, not cartons.  At first glance, this might sound really weird, but it actually is ingenious.  The sealed plastic bags fit nicely on the door of the refrigerator and you can fit triple the number in the same space.  To open, you place the bag in a smallish pitcher (easily available in the grocery stores), cut one end and then it can be poured out when you use it.  I will attach a picture.  One slight problem is that you must make sure the bag is completely inside the pitcher or the milk can come spilling out, as Dad found one morning.

    I already mentioned the motorized wheel chairs.  We believe most people use these instead of cars because they are electric and thus have less impact on the environment.  They also use bikes and roller blades.  Recycling is huge here--everything is recycled, and I even saw a large container inside the front door of a grocery store where one could bring there items.  We could learn to be better on this.

   Last night we discovered what may become the bane of my existence here-- a drive-through creamery with the best ice cream I have ever tasted!   I thought of you, Baylor, and how much you would enjoy this. The worst part is that it is only a minute away from our apartment, and since it is a drive-through and they offer sandwiches and soup as well as ice cream, we are assuming it is open even in the winter.
   Today I saw Paul using an innovative way to study the scriptures, so he wouldn't fall asleep.  As you young people may not realize, older individuals can fall asleep instantly when sitting, regardless of how much sleep they got the night before.  Here is solution to the problem:  

    Yesterday we visited with a member who was originally from France.  He is quite lonely as he is divorced and lives alone. He is older and is an artist.  He showed us some of his work, and he has some real talent.   Because he is French, Paul had little trouble conversing with him.  He talks fast so it was still difficult for me.  Then last night, we received a nice tender mercy when we went to visit a single sister who moved to the branch last month--she spoke very good English and we could visit with out restraint for 45 minutes!  

Tuesday again!

  We arrived in the mission one week ago today.  I carefully recorded this evening what we have done thus far to fulfill our assignment of growing the branch so it can become a ward.  It is going to be slow-going, I am afraid, but nothing worthwhile happens without effort.
    For preparation day, we thoroughly cleaned the apartment. It had been left very clean by the previous couple, but because it sat empty for two months it needed some attention.  I was happily surprised at the capabilities of my companion; he provided some elbow grease which made the job easier.  He's been holding out on me all these years!
   After completing our household tasks we went on a lovely walk part way around a little lake here in Victoriaville.  It was about 64 degrees with a slight breeze, which made for perfect walking weather.

     In the evening we went to the apartment of a sweet sister who is confined to a wheelchair.  Another single man attends, and mostly we read a chapter from the Book of Mormon and discuss it.  He is originally from France, and doesn't speak much English, but Sister Levesque speaks it quite well. When we first met her last week she spoke English to us.  At FHE, however, much of what she said was in the strongest Quebecois accent I have yet to hear.  I could barely discern a single word! Paul was of little help because there was a fan going in the room and that background noise was a disaster with his hearing deficit.  Despite all this, it was a nice evening and the Spirit was there.

   Today after studies we set out to try to see some less actives.  This entailed quite a bit of driving, and no one answered the door.  In the evening, however, we stopped by a member's home to drop off cookies, and they were very nice.  We also met with a man who was the former Young Men's president, but who has become less active.  The Elders had told us he had moved, but we confirmed he is still here. We can pass this on to the branch president so their records can be accurate. We didn't get into his home, but he was nice enough as he told us he wasn't interested. I think we will send him a note with a spiritual thought for the next few months.
  We then went on another walk, on another path through town.  There is a "fete" (a celebration) going on for a couple of weeks and a concert was in progress. Along the path we saw many of these:

    I think the government must pay for these for nearly everyone who wants one, handicapped or not, for we see them all over town.  They are legal on the sidewalks and people use them as transportation to the store, etc.  We find it a little humorous to see these tearing down the sidewalks and paths at break-neck speed.  

A silent Sabbath

     Yesterday we attended our first church meetings in the Victoriaville Branch.  There were about 65 people in attendance, so this is a substantial branch.  Interestingly, in France or Switzerland it would probably be a ward.  Perspective, perspective, I guess.
   Paul and I each bore our testimonies.  Mine was short, his was a bit longer for obvious reasons.  And speaking of my language deficit, I might as well admit that I understood at most 10% of what was said during the three hours.  I am beginning to recognize, however, the accent which is famous here.  I would have to say that it isn't pretty--the normally melodic French words are more sharp and have a definite "twang" to them.  However, most everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming.  Apparently the wife of the senior couple who preceded us did not speak any French when they arrived and by the time she left she was communicating quite understandably.  I needed to hear that because yesterday I felt very isolated; the term "warm body only" came to mind. My scripture app which shows me both the French and English side by side was a life saver during Sunday School, but I don't have anything similar for Relief Society. I tried to see which pictures were on the page in the manual which the teacher was using and turn to that page.  Didn't help me much, but at least I looked like I knew what was going on.
    In the afternoon Paul gave a plate of cookies to our upstairs neighbor.  When he answered his door, and Paul told them these were for him, he asked, "Why?"  Paul told him it was just because we are now neighbors. He looked pleasantly surprised.  Our thoughts are that we will not bring up anything about the church (Paul did tell him we were for 18 months to support the members of our church), and then later, when they are comfortable with us we will introduce some doctrine.  Now that I've used my signature chocolate chip cookie recipe, I will need to be more creative.
     We then drove out to the first counselor's home.  He and his wife live on a beautiful, small lake which is 30 minutes from town.  We had a nice visit (I mostly smiled silently) and then, just so we would remember we "aren't in Kansas anymore", the brother reminded us to look carefully for moose on the roads!
    Today is Preparation Day so I will try to write about it tonight.  Hopefully I will remember to take some pictures!

Our new digs

    We spent a nice evening at the mission home in Montreal with President and Sister Patrick and 5 of their 8 children.  One daughter leaves next week for the French Lyon Mission (our old mission!)  I can't imagine trying to do all the things mission president's wives need to do as well as manage a young family, but she is doing it, and doing it well, it seems.
    While meeting with the president, we learned more of where we would be living, and serving.  We have been assigned to Victoriaville, Quebec Province, a city of about 43,000, two hours drive north east of Montreal.  There is a small branch here and one set of Elders.  I must admit that for a few minutes I was disappointed that we will separated from the other senior couples;  we really are isolated enough that we probably won't be included in any preparation day activities.  We will have to drive to Quebec City to see anything of note for Victoriaville does not have much to offer culturally. It is a clean little town surrounded by farmland.   However, I know we have work to do and hopefully can strengthen the branch so that it can eventually become a ward.  We spent one depressing afternoon wondering what we could do with our time--then we decided that we should make cookies and deliver a plate to all the members of the ward council before Sunday.  I made about 80-90 chocolate chip cookies and we spent a day or so driving around to meet people.  Not many were home (because it is summer and a Saturday)  but those we met were just as nice as could be.  We also gave a plate to one of our neighbors who moved in the day after we did.
   The apartment is very, very nice and we can't complain about that.  Everyone we have met in stores, and other places has been friendly and helpful. And so far (since Wednesday) we have only had 2 torrential rainstorms.  I was told, however, that it is not unheard of to have  -50 degree temps a few times in the winter, which I cannot even fathom.  We went on a lovely walk this evening and it was coolish, but pleasant.  Of course, it is only August 3rd.
   Paul got his wish of being completely immersed in the French language.  For me it is a huge challenge.  I do not understand more than 3 words in any conversation so I have become the silent partner- not a role I take to easily. I know it is good for me in that I will eventually learn to speak some French, but so frustrating to have someone trying to carry on a conversation with me and me just standing there like a lump.  Tomorrow at church will be an adventure....
       

    After a Sabbath wrought with emotion as we said good-bye yet again to family and dear friends, we packed our car

and headed out today, Monday, July 29, 2013 to the northlands.

 We have had a nice day, and Paul actually agreed that we didn't need to push it.  We stopped for a few minutes at the monument which commemorates the restoration of the Melchizadek Priesthood in Oakland Township, NY,  formerly Harmony.  The church has plans to build a replica of the Isaac Hale home, and the small home where Joseph and Emma lived for a while.  The article I read said construction on a visitor's center and the other improvements were to begin this spring, but there was no sign of it.  The area could certainly use the economic boost which might come as church members came to visit this sacred spot.
    Tomorrow we will head further north to Montreal.  We have been told to expect at least an hour at the border as we are given our visas.  We will meet President Patrick, spend the night at the mission home, and hopefully be given our assignment. I admit I am experiencing a little anxiety as I contemplate trying to communicate in French.

     Our first day as a senior couple began with our check-in at the Missionary Training Center at 10:30 on Monday, July 22, 2013.  Those who were directing us where to park included a man who had been in Dad's home ward when he was a teenager--Melvin Kuhni.  He had to be at least 80 years old, and there he was out in the 95 degree heat, directing traffic.  I felt like a whimp.
     We were directed to park in a nearby parking place--we asked twice "Are you sure we can park here?"

 A little 10-year-old boy excitedly asked Dad if he was a General Authority, and could he shake his hand?  Dad admitted that he was just an ordinary senior missionary, but he would be glad to shake the little guy's hand anyway.  As a side note, later the grandmother of this little boy was put in our district and we had daily contact with her for the whole 5 days.  She told us that her grandson was very happy that Dad had been so nice to him.
    After checking in and being escorted to our room by two very helpful young missionaries, we were given a short orientation by a senior missionary couple assigned to be the MTC senior couple coordinators, Elder and Sister Thomas.  We were treated so nicely and really felt welcomed and appreciated for our decision to be missionaries.  We didn't get quite the VIP treatment we had received as mission president and wife, but almost.
   The rest of the afternoon was spent meeting with various people about immunizations, travel, and attending a meeting with the MTC presidency.  Here is one of my favorite quotes from that meeting:  Sister Roach, the wife of one of the counselors quoted Sister Marjorie Hinckley.  She said when it comes to our spouses, "Sometimes you have to lower your expectations."
    We were told that on Wednesdays, when the new young missionaries arrive between 1 and 3 p.m., one hundred cars pass the entrance every 15 minutes for the two hour period, dropping off a missionary! Amazing.
    The MTC rooms for senior couples have been re-done wince we were here seven years ago for language training.  They are really nice now.  We found it funny, however, that these are soaps they provided:

We could just imagine all the MTC employees being asked to bring in their travel soaps so they could supply each room.