Every Day's Different

People ask, 'What is it you actually do during the day?'  Well, it's hard to say because each week brings something new.  I guess I don't generally post spiritual experiences we have with members or investigators because  that seems pretty personal.  But we do have continual doors that are opened by the Lord for his work to go forward here. 

I also told my companion one day that a mission experience can sometimes make you feel totally bipolar!  Someone commits to come back to church - you're elated!  Sunday they don't show - you're deflated.  Up, down, up, down...  Luckily the 'ups' far outweigh the 'downs'.   And here are a few more of the sweet places and faces that filled our spirits this week:

Jennah continues to make such wonderful activities for any kids that come to the youth center.  August's theme was 'astronomy' in honor of the eclipse.

There was a contest to see who could make the most accurate constellation.

Ryan, a twelve year old, won.   It was such a fun, creative activity.

But the other winner was Dana, who had Grandpa Fred's undivided attention for an entire video game.   This sweet young lady would be reason enough for us to volunteer at the Youth Center each week.




And while we're on the subject of astronomy, we were part of the 'eclipse party' at The Little House.  It was really enjoyable. 

Even though we were only at about 82%, everyone enjoyed gathering for the 'event'.  Fred had borrowed a welder's mask, and even more fun were the colander reflections!

Then we all went inside to watch the bigger happenings closer to all of you on TV.  Most of our friends say they would gladly make the seven hour return trip home to replay the wonder of that moment. 









Here is an amazing lady we met in our monthly meeting of 'Friends of the Groveland Library' (FOGL).  She just completed a cross country cycling fete with her group in support of fighting MS...which she has!  She cycled from Oregon to Maine.  And her unassuming manner would never say it was any big accomplishment.  We are in awe.

And here's a sweet friend from our branch that I've grown fond of.  Judy's had a challenging year.  She's just finishing radiation treatments following her cancer surgery. 

She is also the daughter of Disney Legend Ken Anderson, who was one of Walt Disney's major animators and artistic directors (think 'American Tail', 'Pete's Dragon', 'The Aristocats', etc).  It's so fun to look around her house and see memorabilia from her dad's work.  And she's just as talented. 



I have to include a picture Fred saw posted the other day.  It's our wonderful British bungalow.  It has been home to ourselves, Elder and Sister Blunck, and Elder and Sister Bambrough. 

Remembering all the dinners, YSA gatherings, Home Evenings and 'baking days' with young members held there, it's hard to believe that it's finally the end of an era.  It was definitely a heaven-sent miracle to the mission.  I hope the next renters can still feel the spirit there. 

Here is our latest blessing - our new found friend Robert.  Unfortunately in this picture he had just come through a harrowing experience with some of Groveland's worse element.  I won't take time to tell his story except to say that sometimes you pray for people to be put in your grandchildren's way.  And sometimes, you find yourselves on the other side of that. 

This young man is bright, outgoing, and so enjoyable to cook for.  Did I mention he's also a member of the church?  Just sort of out on his own, deciding who he is.  Today, he, Elder Meese, and our great Sonora Elders are spending 'P-Day' together in Yosemite!  We pray for good things to come into his life. 

And those Elders I mentioned?  They don't come any better, more obedient or more effective than this trio!  They're the kind you'd love to keep on a 'permanent transfer'! 

I can't believe summer is already drawing to a close!  Our August marina pot luck was last week.  One more weekend and the lines of tourists will be gone. 

Most pine mountain residents would say that is just fine with them.  The tourist trade and renters keep Groveland alive, but everyone is always plenty ready to have their quiet little mountain town back in the Fall.

And, as my husband is always happy to find local, family owned restaurants that have great food, we found this one in Jamestown.  Not only great food, but the owner also has a great sense of humor - per the sign below...

And on that happy note, I'll close.  With this latest piece of advice passed on to us by several residents:  don't come too close to the deer this time of year.  If they have babies, they'll run at you and 'hoof you'!  So I now walk on the other side of the road if they're near.  And my husband?  Well...

*  sigh  *


We love you all.  Have a happy Labor Day.